The three-piece rockers will be showcasing their talents at Melbourne’s Cherry Bar this April.
Since 2011 Melbourne’s grunge scene has witnessed rise and now the release of their first EP - produced by Lindsay Gravina at Birdland studios – will be unveiled on Friday 19 April. Their debut single ‘Bed of Dolls’ received airplay across Australia and now their dirty, distorted guitar sound rising to the next level.
With Danielle Whalebone’s sultry vocals evoking the likes L7, PJ Harvey, and Garbage’s Shirley Manson overlaid on to her fuzzy guitar riffs it’s a return to the early 90s grunge scene with vigour. The Breeders, Magic Dirt, The Superjesus are identifiable - whether as inspiration or reminiscence - perhaps even Pixies with a fuller blast of guitars.
‘Defiance’ starts simply but grows and growls to a steady quaking romp. Dave Megarda’s bass rumbles on with nice touches before the choruses. Drummer Tom Wright does go over-the-top but manages to match the heights of Whalebone’s fuzzy guitar with well-placed cymbal smashes.
The modern take on grunge gets more of an exploration with ‘Paper Crown’ and Animal Hand’s tightness is evident from Wright’s changing beats. The rhythm is solid and the marriage of guitar, bass and drums is reminiscent of Soundgarden - thankfully without the strained vocals.
The pick of the bunch is definitely the Matt Johnson cover ‘This Is The Day’ - it’s got passion and emotion by the bucket load. The rhythm is less rigid and allows for guitar layering without getting besieged by arrogance. Deep warbling bass notes are the perfect foil for the vocals - which have an eerie, murmuring undertones comparable The Kills and Bat For Lashes. The song concludes by fading away with “This is the day your day will surely change” - an apt quote for what will happen when you hear Animal Hands.
‘Bed Of Dolls’ rounds off the EP nicely just in case you missed it the first time. Downbeat and blurry chords that pick up after the second chorus only to fall back down to their hazy beginnings. The final minute highlights Whalebone’s affecting vocals. This initial offering doesn’t give too much away; a teaser that publicizes their style and forceful sound.
Animal Hands are an unadulterated grungy outburst with weighty guitar hooks and melodic, softly sung vocals that will have fans flocking. The production of this EP shows these DIY rockers have great potential - hopefully they’ll be able to carry on down their chosen musical path.
Tickets for The Cherry Bar gig are available on the door. They'll be supported by Vinal Riot and Claws & Organs - doors open at 8pm.
Check www.animalhands.net and their Facebook page for more info.
