Central Australian rock outfit Mulga Bore Hard Rock have released their third single, “Heavy Rain”, via Community Music. The track follows the band’s previous singles “Young Men” and “Sweet Home Mulga Bore”, and continues their blend of classic rock influence and local storytelling.
Buy/Stream “Heavy Rain” HERE.
“Heavy Rain” was written in response to a thunderstorm that struck lead vocalist Alvin Manfong’s home last December. The song incorporates a field recording of the storm itself, layered with guitars and lyrics that reflect both the chaos and stillness of the event. Speaking on the experience, Manfong said, “My legs were shaking, kids were screaming, parents were like ‘Shhhhh, stay quiet’. So I had to get my guitar out… and this feeling started coming on about the rain.”
The release follows a breakout year for the Akaye band. Earlier in 2024, they performed at Golden Plains alongside PJ Harvey and Fontaines D.C., appeared at Port Fairy Folk Festival, and headlined a show at The Tote. Their track “Sweet Home Mulga Bore” received support from stations including Double J, triple j Unearthed, FBi Radio, 2SER, RTR FM and SYN FM.
Mulga Bore Hard Rock comprises six members aged between 15 and 20: Alvin Manfong (Thunder Child – vocals/guitar), Kirklen Bird (Desert Demon – bass/vocals), Aiden Manfong (Desert Dingo – drums), Niara Tilmouth (Queen of Hearts – vocals/tambourine), Tryell Bird (Star Boy – guitar/vocals), and Talvin Bird (Black Diamond – bass).
Despite their age, the group has already earned national attention. They supported KISS on the band’s final Australian tour stop, having not yet released a single. Their performance drew praise from the headliners themselves and helped secure the band’s growing reputation. More recently, they were highlighted as one of Double J’s standout acts at Bigsound, and performed at SXSW Sydney.
MULGA BORE HARD ROCK – TOUR DATES
Sunday 29 July – Jump Inn Jams, Akaye/Mulga Bore NT
Friday 1 August – PM Show @ Garma Festival, Gulkula NT
Sunday 3 August – AM Show @ Garma Festival, Gulkula NT
Wednesday 6 August – Katherine Beat, Katherine NT
Friday 8 August – Darwin Festival, Darwin Railway Club, Darwin/Garamilla NT
Saturday 9 August – Bagot Community NT
Tickets HERE.
