Tentacles of Nostalgia: Liposuction's 'Octopussy' EP Debut
Photo by Amy Jones (@amyjones.jpg)
Brisbane's Liposuction makes a great entrance onto the scene with their debut EP, "Octopussy," a vibrant and eclectic collection of indie rock tracks that bring back a nostalgic indie/punk-pop flavor from the days of female fronted, fishnetted and neon attitudes. This five-track release is a fun and energetic adventure, expertly produced by the band's frontwoman, Sunday Hunter, who also takes the reins on vocals, guitar, synthesizer, and songwriting. The rhythm section is brought to life with impressive prowess by Shannon Kilcoyne on bass guitar and James Hurwood on drums.
"Octopussy" seamlessly blends new material with familiar favorites, including the previously released singles "She Hz," "Boring Residue," and "Pour Some Dollars On Me." The EP kicks off with its playful and infectious title track, "Octopussy," a whimsical tribute to the wonderful fantasy of living life like an octopus. The song's catchy melody and energetic rhythm sets the lively tone for the rest of the EP.
Art: Lix North
"Boring Residue" takes a hooky and tentative turn, with seductive and suggestive lyrics that linger in your head. The refrain, "You will be dripping in a boring residue," is an earworm that burrows its way in, while the song's fuzzy, glitchy, and gritty riffs create an immersive sonic landscape that sound design addicts will love.
The EP moves on with "Pour Some Dollars On Me," a fun and upbeat celebration of pleasure and indulgence (where did that go, 80s?), before delving into the raw emotional depths of "Hell Hole," a powerful exploration of mental health struggles. "Guns Blazing" serves as a defiant feminist anthem, challenging stereotypes and celebrating strength, while "She Hz" closes out the EP with some suspenseful melodies and dark, heavy driving riffs. It stands out the most on this record and induces that emotion that drags my heart back to the decade of decadence.
I love Liposuction's ability to infuse modern production with a nostalgic sound, creating a unique blend that feels both familiar and fresh. The band's chemistry is palpable throughout the EP, with each member contributing their distinct flair to the overall sound. Sunday Hunter's versatile vocals effortlessly transition from punk-inspired growls to the melodic, perfectly complementing dynamic instrumentation.
This is an album with crisp, punchy drums, thick bass lines, and layered guitar working together to create a rich sound. The strategic use of synthesizers adds depth and texture, enhancing the nostalgic feel without overwhelming the organic elements of the music.
"Octopussy" is a lively debut from Liposuction, showcasing the kind of "fun" in music I haven't seen in a long time. With dynamic production, engaging songwriting, and impressive musicianship, this EP is a very effective introduction to a band that is poised to kindle a vibe a lot of us miss. As Liposuction continues to evolve and refine their sound, they have the potential to become a significant force in the indie rock scene, bridging the gap between nostalgia and contemporary musical sensibilities. Definitely check them out.
Photo: Amy Jones
