The Dandys - “Gums”

Photo: T O M V U

Brisbane/Meanjin-based punk/alt-rock noise makers The Dandys have just released the blistering and gritty roller coaster ride known as “Gums.”

From the first few dirty guitar chords, we knew that this one was going to hit our indie-rock sweet-spot. Bass and drums soon toss in their hats, resulting in the kind of tune that would rattle the marquee of any urban rock club. We’re catching some major White Stripes vibes in the syncopation of the jacked-up, heavy-blues rhythm section, then, suddenly, the vocals begin and this fuel-injected jaunt is off like a rocket.

Once your body acclimates to the slow and steady verses, “Gums” kicks you in the teeth with a chorus that amps up the bpm, yet somehow maintains a firm grasp on an anthemic melody that is bound to bring you back for multiple listens. Over the course of the track, the sound remains completely raw and over-driven, including the vocals, and the whole thing comes across as the kind of song that simply begs to be experienced as it’s blasting from a stage.

We liked “Gums” so much that we took a peak at the band’s previous single, “Smile More,” and we were delighted to discover the versatility within their sound. “Smile More” briefly delivers a softer side to their musicianship, as well as a more heartfelt, emotional vocal delivery, complete with harmonies. The choruses, however, offer another glimpse into the heavier tones that also line the interior of “Gums” and, with that, The Dandys are definitely going to scratch your hard-to-reach indie-rock itch.

-HD