From SOUNDGARDEN to Shallow: ZAAC THOMPSON of NONBERK on Nature, Music, and The Band's Evolution

Interview by Angela Croudace
Brisbane-based alternative rock trio Nonberk have made waves in the
local scene since their formation in 2019. Led by frontman Zaac
Thompson, the band's sound channels heavy 90s grunge influences
like Soundgarden, Silverchair, and Alice In Chains. Their powerful
riffs and raw lyrics have earned them a dedicated following, with
each release bringing something fresh to the table.
In a candid interview, Zaac shared insights into Nonberk's journey,
creative process, and new single, Shallow, which captures their
evolving sound. The band's origin story goes back to Zaac's
university days, where he met drummer Sam Monk. Their shared love
for music soon brought bass player Kevin Boga into the fold, who
had been active in Brisbane's alternative rock scene. Despite
line-up changes and the challenges posed by the pandemic, Nonberk
found their groove during lockdowns, using the time to focus on
writing and refining their music.
Regarding the band's name, Zaac admits that coming up with
something unique was a challenge. "I wanted something
original—something you'd never forget," he says. Nonberk is a
made-up word, symbolising the band's unconventional approach to
music. For Zaac, it represents a "non stupid person" in a playful,
self-deprecating way, reflecting their experimental nature and
desire to push musical boundaries.
The band's latest album, Elements, marks a significant shift in
their sound. After a line-up change, Zaac swapped from bass to
guitar, influencing the new tracks' dynamics. The album's theme
draws inspiration from nature, with songs written in various
outdoor settings, from beaches to forests. Shallow, the first
single from the album, exemplifies this connection to nature. Zaac
explains that the song's flowing verses reflect the serenity of the
beach, while the deeper lyrical themes explore existential
questions about loss and the human experience.
Beyond his work with Nonberk, Zaac's musical influences span across
genres. From the hard-hitting riffs of Black Sabbath to the quirky
humour of Tenacious D, he draws inspiration from a wide range of
artists. "I try to pull influences from all kinds of music," he
says, mentioning his appreciation for jazz and classical music
alongside rock and metal.
Nonberk's music is marked by its emotional depth and sonic texture,
with collaborations like the one with cellist Nicholas Tam on their
album adding further richness to their sound.
With an album launch on the horizon and plans for a 5th-anniversary
edition of their debut album, Nonberk is poised for an exciting
year ahead. Zaac says, "It's all about challenging ourselves and
pushing our sound to new places." Keep an eye on them—Nonberk's
journey is only just beginning.

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