If there’s one thing Australian rockabilly punk legends, The Living End, know how to do, it’s deliver a belting tune. “Alfie”, their brand-spanking new single, is no exception.
Lyrically, it speaks to the different challenges now facing the music industry and the supporting elements that keep the industry functioning – roadies, venues, radio, and music itself. It’s no secret that COVID had a devastating, immediate impact on the arts, with live entertainment taking one of the biggest hits of all. Anyone who worked, as I did, in and around the music industry at that time could only watch on in helpless despair as livelihoods were shattered, and venues closed their doors – some never to open their doors again.
Touring in Australia has always been a challenge, it seems, with our relative geographic isolation globally, and the sheer enormity of the country in general, but post-pandemic it continues to take a hit. Travel costs, insurance…the cost of everything, really…continues to soar. In a world where it feels like we’re in a washing machine of chaos overload, it’s critical we don’t lose sight of how vital it is that we continue to champion and support music, especially local acts, from grassroots all the way up. The silence during the pandemic should never be forgotten.
It’s a hell of a message so cleverly wrapped up in TLE’s powerhouse sound. It’s catchy, bouncy, and addictive. Andy Strachan‘s drums combined with Scott Owen‘s bass lines drive it forward with a blistering tempo and energy. Add Chris Cheney‘s guitar and vocals to the mix, and it’s a high-speed injection of musical joy. It reminds me of everything that made me a TLE fan way back in the 90s when “Prisoner of Society” turned our heads, and why they’ll always be my favourite Australian band.
“Alfie” is a throwback to their roots, and it’s The Living End at their joyous and rousing best – anthemic, adrenaline-fuelled, glorious bloody rock and roll.
To celebrate the launch of the single, The Living End are playing two shows only.
Corner Hotel, Melbourne – Thursday May 15 (Sold Out)
Metro Theatre, Sydney – Friday May 16
A few remaining tickets available via thelivingend.com.au
Keep up todate with The Living End via Spotify, Apple Music, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube
Header image credit: Jacob McCann
