Melbourne five piece SMILE combine '90s pop and politics with stand out new track [Premiere]

29 September 2015, 09:45 | Written by Maya Rose Radcliffe

(Tracks)

(SMILE)

There’s an underlying political thunder rumbling through the clear SMILE skies. Quoting the Australian national anthem, the new track from the Melbourne band comes as a nod (or a headbutt) towards their native country’s response to the refugee crisis with the aptly-titled "Boundless Plains To Share”.

Twangs that are so '90s they could have been plucked from under the nails of Liz Phair initiate the song, whilst steady percussion and guitar layers follow in the most gorgeously melodic of fashions. The textured vocals are akin to Django Django, unfolding chant-like as though the lyrics could be as easily be sung by 10,000 people as they could be by five.

There are moments of dynamic, fire fuelling excitement and endless momentum, and it’s hard to avoid being engulfed entirely. Unsurprising when you think about it, SMILE are a seriously good band.

"Boundless Plains To Share" features on the band's forthcoming second album, Rhythm Method.

October

30 - 2 (November) - Highlands Music Festival, Australia [tickets]

November

27 - 29 - Paradise Music Festival, Australia, Lake Mountain Resort [tickets]