Naarm/Melbourne-based new wave/post-punk band Radio Free Alice have just released their latest single and music video ‘Johnny’ ahead of their second EP, ‘Polyester’, set for August 21. Excitedly, the band will embark on a national headline tour across Australia in August and September.
Formed in Eora/Sydney in 2020 before relocating to Naarm/Melbourne, the band consists of Noah Learmonth, Jules Paradiso, Michael Phillips, Lochie Dowd, and Maayan Barnatan. Their debut self-titled EP, released in 2023, was widely adored and is currently nominated for Best Independent Punk Album or EP at the upcoming AIR Awards. Our very own Arun Kendall covered an extensive review of the album here.
Newly released single, ‘Johnny’, features skittering synths, bass-driven melodies, and a touch of cello by vocalist Noah Learmonth. It tells the story of a young man who runs away from his strict religious family, capturing feelings of isolation and the struggle of growing up.
Having just returned from their first international tour, the upcoming EP will delve into the complexities of human relationships, set against a backdrop of post-punk soundscapes. The EP was recorded with Nao Anzai at Soundpark Studios and finished during the band’s travels across the UK and Europe. Recording locations varied from studios to tour vans and street corners in cities like London, Paris, and Dublin. The EP was mixed by Ewan Pearson, known for his work with Warpaint and M83, and mastered by Mikey Young of Eddy Current, aiming to capture the band’s dynamic live energy.
Having completed their first international tour, the band have now performed at festivals such as Rock For People, The Great Escape, Dot To Dot, and Live at Leeds, as well as supporting acts like The Snuts and Django Django. Their achievements also include showcases at Bigsound and SXSW Sydney, and a series of sold-out headline shows.
‘Polyester’ EP will be available on August 21, 2024.
POLYESTER EP TOUR DATES
Thu 15 Aug – Beach Hotel – Arakwal Country/Byron Bay, NSW
Sat 17 Aug – Tomcat – Meanjin/Brisbane, QLD
Fri 23 Aug – Lansdowne Hotel – Eora/Sydney, NSW
Sat 24 Aug – Bar Yuki – Yuin Country/Milton, NSW
Thu 29 Aug – The Night Cat – Naarm/Melbourne, VIC
Sat 31 Aug – Bridge Hotel – Dja Dja Wurrung/Castlemaine, VIC
Thu 5 Sep – Crown & Anchor – Kaurna/Adelaide, SA
Fri 6 Sep – Mojos – Boorloo/Perth, WA
Image credit: Jack Moran
