Geelong

Geelong: Where the Groovy Gets Real

Geelong, a city on the coast of Victoria, Australia, has a rich musical history that’s as diverse and vibrant as its seaside location. From the surf rock sounds of the 60s to the indie-pop of the present day, Geelong has always been a breeding ground for musical talent.

Early Days: The Dawn of the Groovy

The 1960s saw Geelong embraced by the surf rock wave, with bands like The Atlantics and The Masters Apprentices riding the crest. These bands, known for their energetic tunes and catchy lyrics, captured the spirit of the era, making Geelong a hotbed of musical activity.

One funny fact about The Masters Apprentices involves their frontman, Glenn Shorrock. He was so dedicated to his music that he even used to sleep in a recording studio during rehearsals! Talk about dedication, even if it probably meant some pretty strange dreams.

The 70s: Punk Rock and Beyond

The 1970s saw a shift in musical landscape, with punk rock taking center stage. Bands like The Angels and The Birthday Party emerged from Geelong, injecting a raw energy and rebellious spirit into the scene.

The Birthday Party, known for their dark and intense performances, were notorious for their stage antics. One particularly memorable incident involved their lead singer, Nick Cave, smashing a microphone on stage during a gig. It’s safe to say they were not known for their gentle stage presence!

The 80s: New Wave and the Rise of the Independents

The 80s saw the emergence of new wave and indie bands, like The Go-Betweens and The Triffids, who brought a fresh and sophisticated sound to Geelong’s musical scene.

The Go-Betweens, with their clever lyrics and catchy melodies, managed to achieve international success. One funny fact about them involves their song “Streets of Your Town,” which was actually written as a satirical take on a song by their rivals, The Birthday Party!

The 90s and Beyond: Modern Music and the Indie Spirit

The 90s and beyond saw Geelong embrace a wide range of musical styles, from grunge and alternative to indie pop and electronica. Bands like The Drones, The Grates, and The Living End emerged from the city, injecting new life into the Australian music scene.

The Living End, known for their energetic live shows and infectious punk-rock melodies, even landed a cameo in the iconic Australian film “Muriel’s Wedding”! Their music became synonymous with the film’s energetic and quirky atmosphere.

Geelong: A City of Groovy

Today, Geelong continues to be a hub for musical talent, with a thriving independent music scene. With its unique mix of history, culture, and talent, Geelong’s musical legacy remains strong, reminding us that the spirit of the groovy lives on, whether it be the surf rock of the 60s or the indie-pop of today.