Richard Moffat [pictured right] is manager of Way Over There, a small Melbourne-based independent music programming operation representing local venues and national Australian music festivals. He is appearing at One Movement For Music Perth as a panelist; click here to download the Independent Times conference program.

Richard, what’s your favourite song this week?

‘Let’s Go Surfing’, the debut single by The Drums. [embedded below] They’re a new US band channelling the Beach Boys, but also include slight elements of Vampire Weekend and The Shins. Should be huge in 2010.

What do you hope to gain from the One Movement Festival and Conference?

Always love being in WA! There’s many good people heading there and something in the water (musically speaking). So keen to see new local talent!

Which artists’ showcase sets are you most looking forward to watching?

The Beards are a classic act – one of the most fun live experiences you can have.

Also keen to see Philadelphia Grand Jury and Tijuana Cartel, who have good records out now.

One Movement’s tagline is “Artist, Industry, Fan United”. What do you think needs to change in order to unite the music industry with its artists and fans?

I think the future is for all songs to be available free online, effectively legitimizing downloading, but charging users for music via internet fees that then get channelled back to artists and record companies. Easy as pie!

The idea that people are breaking the law by finding music online and listening to it or sharing it with friends is ridiculous. I hope those days end soon.