Noiseworks are a cultural pop rock Australian phenomena and emblematic of a particular home-grown and enigmatic stadium rock in the eighties – even us indie kids respected the fact that Noisework produced the most magnificent power rock anthems of the era, with an indelible ear for melody and a thunderous guitar attack and dynamism that was unmatched. Overseas success was muted – in a sense Noiseworks were overshadowed by INXS at the time – but they certainly produced some memorable hits (including ‘No Lies’, ‘Take Me Back’ and ‘Touch’). While constituent members (particularly singer Jon Stevens and bass player Steve Balbi) went on to other creative pastures, Noiseworks were left in that decade. Until now. Incredibly they have just released their first single after a 30 years absence along with news of an album and tour.
‘Heart And Soul’, augmented by strings and piano, is pure cinema: dramatic and sweeping sounds with Stevens’s vocals as powerful as ever. It is euphoric pop with a steely spine, complete with the musical tropes of an eighties genetic code, but nonetheless just as energising and anthemic as the band ever was. Stevens says of the track:
Coming back after 30 years with new music and seeing the level of excitement that we have had from our Noiseworks fans has been a really powerful experience for us. Heart & Soul shows where we are now while also giving a nod to the sounds that make us Noiseworks.
The accompanying video is a simple but immersive performance piece, with the band showing off a dynamism and camaraderie that is infectious:
The single can be downloaded and streamed here, and is the first single off Noiseworks newly announced album due out in October 2022. Yes, there is a poignant sense of nostalgia to hear bands like this back in action, but at the same time, Noiseworks show that with music, creativity, passion and joy have no use by date.
Noiseworks will join a stellar lineup of local and international acts for One Electric Day 22/23 Festival Season beginning on the 5th of November, 2022 at Victor Harbor, SA.
