“I just want it to be different, as a rival to everything that’s out there.” The origins of Melbourne’s As a Rival can be traced back to this line – one which, although originally intended as a throwaway line, has become a mission statement.
Two years in the making (one year writing the album, the next recording), By Design is the band’s debut album. Bodyjar’s Tom Read recorded and coproduced the album, while bandmates Shane Wakker and Grant Relf were only a phone call away from laying down drums and bass. The live lineup is different, with Kylie Groth taking on bass duties and Nathan Wheatley sitting pretty behind the kit.
The Eastern, Ballarat – March 19.
