Dunedin based band Before The Snooze have just released their 4 track debut EP That’s A Fact. A relative newcomer to the NZ music scene, the band formed in early 2018 producing a sound which has been described as indie guitar jangle. That’s exactly what this EP is, upbeat guitar jangle and snappy lyrics.
It doesn’t take long to get hooked into the catchy vibe of That’s A Fact, a buoyant punk rock sound with a tinge of pop maintain a grungy feeling which has a uniquely Kiwi flavour, reminiscent of The Dunedin Sound.
Stephen Hillman the lead vocalist and guitarist wrote most of the lyrics on this EP, with a bit of help from Alex Borg on Six Foot Underground, and Adam Binns on (Just Like A) Millionaire (Live in the Treehouse). Honest, clear and devoid of waffle the lyrics flow cohesively. They work well with the purposeful punchy sound the band has created. There appears to be depth to the vocals with added layers of backing vocals from the guys.
Before I continue, who exactly are the “guys”? Before The Snooze is Stephen Hillman – Rhythm Guitar, Vocals, Wes Jenkins – Lead Guitar, Backing Vocals, Adam Binns – Bass Guitar, Backing Vocals and Scott Turnbull – Drums, Backing Vocals. This four piece band has come together to create a strong alternative rock sound which I imagine transcends well into live gigs.
The Title track, That’s A Fact also has a psychedelic music video to accompany it which is pretty trippy.
This is a solid debut release, four clean well executed songs. My personal favourite track on That’s A Fact is When You Saw Me Looking Back At You (Alternate Version), this has a very catchy rhythm and really highlights how the lad's vocals complement each other.
A nice way to round up NZ Music Month for the year. I recommend having a listen.
A group of four 30 and 40 somethings, playing original jangle guitar songs.