Central Coast band Stupid Baby are emerging as one of Australia's brightest alternative acts fusing elements of post-hardcore, noise rock and post punk for a feral blend that's still hyper polished.
Together since 2019, the trio of Jake Dobson, Eli Milojkovic and Will Glencross have steadily released a number of singles – including 'Feline' (2020) and 'Swiss Army Wife' (2021) – drawing influences from the like of IDLES, The Melvins, and Parquet Courts.With 2023 so far not seeing any new music from Stupid Baby, tomorrow (8 December) that changes with the group's very first double single 'Don't Panic / All Is Well'.
A swirl of manic, sludgy, abrasive garage rock, 'Don't Panic' kicks along at a hectic pace, at other times slowing to crawl like a stumbling drunk, morphing from art-rock aesthetics to doom-infused post punk before returning to the DIY grimy feels that'll have you releasing a guttural Rick Flair "wooooo!".
The song oscillates between these contending sounds, the band managing to draw together the diverse tones to create a cohesive noise monster that highlights Stupid Boy's musical chops that has them destined for bigger stages.
'All Is Well' is a grungier, post-hardcore belter that leans heavily into the melodic post-punk tones to create a sweet-sour effect that'll induce cathartic sing-alongs when played live.
It's another example of the talent the group possess and showcases why Stupid Baby have already shared stages with the likes of Everclear, The Chats, Pist Idiots, Skegss, Ocean Alley, Polish Club, and WAAX.
Ahead of its release tomorrow, scenestr is amped to premiere 'Don't Panic / All Is Well' today. Enjoy.
"'Don't Panic' was recorded with our long-time collaborator and unofficial member Simon Dobson at Lakehouse Audio here on the Central Coast," the group's guitarist Will says. "We are lucky to have the opportunity to work with someone who lets us hyper-focus on small details and try different ideas.
"Don't Panic' is the first time we have recorded live in the room as a three-piece with no click track and then gone back for over-dubs and sound effects. Have a close listen and you can hear small references and samples that are used on other tracks like 'Geezer'."
While 2023 has mostly been devoid of new music from Stupid Baby, they've remained busy performing live regularly. They'll sign off for the year with a final, home-town show as part of Rolling Sets music festival this weekend (9 December), joining Ocean Alley, Spacey Jane, The Jungle Giants and a stack more.
"This year we get to take part in the annual Rolling Sets for the third time running," Will adds.
"Having such a quality event is a big deal for the Coast where we have a huge pool of talent, but not as many outlets for its expression compared to the nearby big cities. Be sure to get down early and catch our good mates Voider."
