As someone who started his career playing piano in Katoomba cafes, earning a spot among the line-up at this year's Blue Mountains Music Festival is a big moment for Justin Hunter.
"It's a bit of a dream come true; starting off on the streets and now playing on Saturday and Sunday [at the festival]. Any musician likes to think they can showcase their work to a home crowd and the festival is allowing me this. I cannot wait," he said.
Hunter will play two distinct sets at the festival - performing raw instrumental piano under his own name on Sunday and as part of the duo, Ema Flach, with musical collaborator Finbar Stuart on Saturday.
With its name inspired by Hunter's grandmother, Em Flach is a down-tempo hip-hop project he describes as "ambient and melodic". Hunter has performed under the Em Flach moniker in Japan and Scandinavia and is excited to bring it home to Katoomba.
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In fact, his Blue Mountains roots couldn't be stronger. Hunter was born in Katoomba Hospital and went to Katoomba High School. Although he has lived overseas, the lure of the Mountains has seen him make it his home again.
"I'm loving every moment I have here," he said.
Justin Hunter will perform at the Blue Mountains Music Festival on Sunday, March 15. Em Flach will perform on Saturday, March 14.
