Sydney songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Dave Jenkins has unveiled the first taste of his exciting new, indie-rock project NOT A BOYS NAME.
'Hazard Perception Test' is the debut single from NOT A BOYS NAME and the first ever solo work for Dave. Written in one day, and with Dave playing and recording every single instrument, the anthemic track presents a bold opening statement.
As a producer, musician and songwriter Dave has worked with other Australian artists such as Daniel Johns, Vera Blue, Lisa Mitchell, Bertie Blackman, Alex Cameron and more. Now a solo artist in his own right, Dave is hoping NOT A BOYS NAME will allow him to step away from his previous work and be seen as its own project without being pigeonholed.
Under the moniker of NOT A BOYS NAME, Dave steps up as a strong contender for what could be one of the most exciting and unique projects in Australian indie rock this year.
Here we catch up with Dave to talk more about NOT A BOYS NAME and where he's heading next.
What did you want to achieve as NOT A BOYS NAME ?
Everything! This is the start of my life’s work. I want to put records out until forever.
It's an interesting band name; how did you come up with it and is there any significance to it?
I was looking for a way to escape my current definition. I didn’t want my name to dictate who I was musically.
How does the work you do as NOT A BOYS NAME compare sonically with your other projects?
The instincts are the same, but the sonics are very different. NOT A BOYS NAME is me doing what I want to do, the way I want to do it, and the way I want it to sound. It’s experimental and it’s unorthodox but it always ends up in the right place.
How has your sound and style developed since you first started?
I’ve been making demos at home since I was 12-years-old. Even back then I loved fuzzy guitars and experimental recordings. I haven’t always been a singer, but that’s the thing with solo projects... you have no choice.
Have you had much of a response to your first single 'Hazard Perception Test'?
It’s been incredible. People are really tuning into the frequencies that my brain is broadcasting. I feel like a telephone satellite on Christmas morning.
What do you have planned for your BIGSOUND shows?
Sparkles... and a sh.t-hot band.
With such short sets, what will you be doing to get the most out of these performances?
We’re doing a 30-song medley. Each song will go for one minute and we’re not stopping till we’re done.
What can audiences expect from your live shows?
Shiny costumes, harmonies, guitarmonies [sic], nice haircuts, a firm handshake and an honest smile.
What's coming next for NOT A BOYS NAME in 2018 and early 2019?
T-shirts, lunch-boxes, customised number plates and a debut album.