After a successful first overseas tour in May – when they played shows across the UK – Melbourne-based band Vermantics first release since their 'The Pictures You Paint' EP in July is the anthemic 'Mess'.
A fuzzy, angular guitar that chugs enthusiastically alongside chunky, flowing drumming that slaps and a distorted bassline that maintains a hectic rhythm, 'Mess' is a barrage of rock laced with alternative tones.
Gritty, grungy, angsty, moody, the song's intensity builds throughout, a throbbing hum matching the feeling of encroaching anxiety and the associated unease and agitation that comes with an uncertain future.
You'll want to thrash about, propelled by a cathartic release of pent-up emotions. There's a (early) Powderfinger meets Something For Kate sonic union with a QOSTA flavour comparison to be made as well.
Released last month, today scenestr is stoked to premiere the song's music video. Enjoy.
The video features a couple in an empty theatre, a tuxedo-wearing mannequin lovingly adored by his champagne-sipping, popcorn-eating lady companion as they watch the band perform on the stage in front of them.
After drawing no responses from her companion the lady finally loses it, embracing the song's chaotic energy and lyrical themes of being mislead by someone you trust, and the realisation that change only comes from within.
"'Mess' is about clarity and ownership – realising that the confusion, the pain, and the noise all come from within, and that the only way out is through your own strength," the band says, who consist of brothers Stefan (vocals/ guitar) and Daniel Fedele (bass), and cousin Julian Perrotta (drums).
"It captures the chaos of having your mind turned inside out – when someone gets deep under your skin, twists your thoughts, and leaves everything feeling like it's falling apart. The feeling of being brainwashed by a particular person, feeling like without listening, your life will fall apart."
'Mess' is the start of a busy summer as Vermantics harness the momentum they've galvanised so far into an even bigger 2026.
"We sat in the room discussing what to do next and this song just happened," adds the band discussing 'Mess'. "[We] wrote it in a very live room setting. We went back and forth with the demo until we felt it had the right vibe and captured energy."
