Gut Health, an emerging force from the Naarm/Melbourne underground, has been making waves in the music scene since their debut in 2022. The band’s sound is a nostalgic nod to the New Wave/No Wave era with a post-punk edge, and their latest single, ‘Juvenile Retention‘, showcases their dynamic, bass-infused style that explores the emotional complexities of moving beyond a life phase.
The track is set against a synth-drenched backdrop, filled with catchy hooks that draw listeners into a world of introspection. ‘Juvenile Retention’ delves into the disruptive impact of reminiscing about past moments, creating a landscape that mirrors the mental disarray caused by revisiting memories. The band’s ability to craft an immersive auditory experience is evident in the interplay of the bass and synth elements, creating a mood that captures the tension between stability and chaos.
Gut Health’s lyricist and vocalist, Athina Uh oh, provides insight into the profound themes that shape their songwriting. They explain, “I like using the profound impact of power and energy exchange on oneself in my songwriting – moving and unmoving, soft versus stiff, sadism and softness.” They draw inspiration from a range of experiences, from kink terms like “bastinado” to the memory of baking banana bread in the countryside with the mention of “baking soda“.
‘Juvenile Retention’ is part of a trilogy of singles released by Gut Health this year, following ‘The Recipe‘ and ‘Uh oh‘ All three tracks are featured on the band’s upcoming 7″, Gut Health Singles ’23, released via the DIY advocates Marthouse Records. The trilogy showcases the band’s versatility and ability to navigate various musical landscapes while maintaining a cohesive and compelling narrative.
Gut Health has not only made waves in the studio but has also captivated audiences with their audacious art-punk live performances. They have shared stages with globally renowned acts such as Otoboke Beaver, The Black Lips, and Mudhoney. Locally, they’ve graced platforms with revered figures like RVG, Cash Savage and the Last Drinks, and Body Type, solidifying their place in the diverse tapestry of the post-punk scene.
The band’s ascent continues as they announce a national tour support slot with Queens of the Stone Age, following a successful showcase at SXSW. This recognition from established acts is a testament to Gut Health’s growing influence and their ability to stand out in the competitive music landscape.
In conclusion, Gut Health’s latest single, ‘Juvenile Retention,’ is a testament to their ability to blend nostalgic influences with a contemporary sound, creating an auditory experience that is both introspective and danceable. With their Electric Party Chrome Girl EP under their belt, a trilogy of singles and an upcoming 7″ release, Gut Health is a band to watch, and as described by many, they are simply cool as hell.
Upcoming GUT HEALTH Shows:
Fri, 24 Nov: Meredith Warm Up at The John Curtin, VIC, with Tongue Dissolver, It Thing, and DJ Daddy. Final Tickets available.
Wed, 29 Nov: Always Live Sound Box at Arts Centre Melbourne. Free entry.
Fri, 8 – Sun, 10 Dec: Meredith Music Festival, VIC. Sold Out.
Sat, 10 Feb: Red Hill Auditorium, Perth, with QOTSA + Pond.
Tue, 13 Feb: The Drive, Adelaide, with QOTSA + Pond.
Fri, 16 Feb: MONA Lawns, Hobart, with QOTSA + Pond.
Sun, 18 Feb: Look Out Festival at Torquay Common, VIC, with QOTSA, The Chats, Spiderbait, Pond.
Sat, 24 Feb: Look Out Festival at Broadwater Parklands, Southport QLD, with QOTSA, The Chats, Spiderbait, Pond.
Mon, 19 Feb: Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Melbourne, with QOTSA + Pond.
Wed, 21 Feb: Hordern Pavilion, Sydney, with QOTSA + Pond.
Sun, 25 Feb: The Fortitude Music Hall, Brisbane, with QOTSA + Pond.
Mon, 26 Feb: The Fortitude Music Hall, Brisbane, with QOTSA + Pond.
Image credit: Celeste De Clario
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