Melbourne’s post-punk resurgence has found another compelling voice in The Halves. Originally formed in Brisbane before relocating south to Naarm, the four-piece have unveiled Trackstar, the first taste of a sophomore EP that sees the band trading introspection for confrontation, pushing their emotionally charged sound into heavier and more volatile territory.
Since emerging with their self-titled debut EP, The Halves have occupied the space where jagged post-punk urgency collides with soaring indie rock melody. Their songs have always balanced abrasion with release, but Trackstar suggests a band no longer content to simply explore emotional uncertainty. Instead, they embrace it, delivering a sharper, darker and more uncompromising statement.
Built on muscular guitars, simmering tension and explosive dynamics, Trackstar reinforces the chemistry between Tim Hardy, Chris White, Sam Sanders and Rory Watkins. The band’s knack for marrying raw emotional weight with melodic immediacy continues to distinguish them within Australia’s increasingly crowded alternative landscape.
That intensity has become the hallmark of their live performances. Translating their tightly wound songwriting into physical, cathartic shows, The Halves have steadily earned a reputation as one of Melbourne’s most exciting emerging guitar bands, sharing stages with Full Flower Moon Band, The Velvet Club and Select All while attracting support from triple j and RAGE.
The forthcoming EP promises a significant step forward, expanding on the foundations laid by their debut while embracing a more aggressive and emotionally volatile sound. Rather than softening their edges, The Halves lean further into the friction between vulnerability and aggression, creating songs that feel equally combustible and deeply human.
With a sophomore EP, national touring plans and an increasingly commanding live reputation, 2026 is shaping up as a breakthrough year for the quartet. If Trackstar is any indication, The Halves are emerging as one of the most compelling young bands in Australia’s flourishing post-punk scene.
THE HALVES AUSTRALIAN TOUR 2026
Friday 17 July
Black Bear Lodge, Brisbane
Friday 24 July
The Burdekin, Sydney
Saturday 25 July
Dicey Riley’s, Wollongong
Friday 7 August
The Tote Upstairs, Melbourne
Go HERE for tickets.
