A two track rock n' roll banger with a healthy nod to little Richard & Bo Diddley.
My favourite thing about Australian punk and pub rock is that it is unequivocally Australian. Whether it’s due to lyrics, accentuation or imagery, there is such a homily quality for Australian listeners and an intriguing quality for international listeners.
For instance, it’s not uncommon to hear American blokes like ‘The Boss’ or Tom Cochrane singing songs about their car. That’s just what men do.
What is slightly more uncommon, is coming across the lyrics, “Oh yeah, I’ve got the keys to the Monaro babe; it’s time to fuckin’ ride.” That is a line that is as representative of Australian culture as “our home is girth by sea” is.
And that’s where Melbourne’s Grindhouse comes in with their 7″ Ramma Damma/City High, out in conjunction with Tuff Cuff records.
The sample that opens ‘Ramma Damma’ feels like a homage to Aus-punk hidden gems like The Powder Monkeys ‘Smashed On Your Knee’. Whilst it’s impressive guitar lead gives off a unique eerie sound that almost feels like a synth, Mick ‘Two Fingers’ Simpson’s high pitched vocal screams find their place somewhere in between the vocal style between Amy Taylor and Shirley Strachan.
‘City High’ adds more of a guitar based rock approach akin to acts like ‘The Hard On’s’. The riff fuelled track’s shining point is really on show with Neil Matthew’s drum work. Although he is largely sticking to a pocket, some of his fills really boost the overall sound of the song and help to fuel the pub rock number.
Considering it’s a two-track release, Grindhouse has released an absolute doozy. It’ll be sure to get you amped for their newest full length which is in the works.
You can find the release on Bandcamp here or head to Tuff Cuff Records.
