Today, Bugs share their highly anticipated fourth album ‘HEAD NOISE’. Touching on themes of self-critique, reflection, and growth, the record is a vulnerable, mature departure from the classic Bugs sound, while still paying homage to their foundations as a band.
Across their adored catalogue, Bugs have demonstrated a natural ability to move from vulnerable, heart-on-sleeve writing to tongue-in-cheek, lighthearted moments. While ‘HEAD NOISE’ poses philosophical and existential questions and leans into softer, more textured moments sonically, long-time fans will be glad to know their playful spark still finds a home in their new music, most evident on the joyfully silly album closer Birds, the satirical critique of the manosphere on Andrew Tate, and the subtle rock organ in Heaven. Ultimately, the four years spent together working on the record have led the band to a reflective body of work full of experimentation and expansion, and one they are incredibly proud of.
“It feels to us like a truly fitting representation of the things we all love about music,” says vocalist and guitarist Connor Brooker. “Most importantly we’re proud of the fact that despite time inevitably posing us with changes and challenges, we’re still essentially just three mates that love hanging out and creating music together. That’s what this whole thing is about for us. The fact that we get to share that love with people who care about what we do is fulfilling beyond belief and we appreciate that support endlessly. We don’t take any of it for granted these days.”
In September, Bugs will return to the stage for two SOLD OUT shows to celebrate the record at Brisbane’s Crowbar – a venue that has been a core part of the band’s history over the years. Announced last week following new music, and with a stacked list of special guests, demand was high and both shows sold out in a matter of days.
“We couldn’t be more excited to get out and play some shows together again,” says Connor. “It’s basically just an excuse to hang out with each other and the broader Bugs community. Celebrate the new, reminisce on the old and make some lasting memories together. We don’t know when or if we’ll ever get the opportunity to do it again.”
Joining Bugs for the first show is Ball Park Music’s Sam Cromack, as well as local acts Supernew and Dirty Harry. The Saturday show will see Brisbane’s Talk Heavy and VOIID take to the stage alongside Melbourne singer-songwriter Suzi, plus a special DJ set from Dune Rats.
The shows mark Bugs’ first live performances since October’s Saving A Bug’s Life fundraiser show for bassist Jordan Brunoli, who was diagnosed with Stage 4 Colorectal Cancer last year. With a strong show of support from Brisbane’s tight-knit community of music lovers, fans, family, and friends alike, Bugs headlined a SOLD OUT Tivoli joined by mates Dear Seattle, Beddy Rays, Sly Withers, Hope D, The Buoys, TOWNS, RAAVE TAPES, and many more.
Reflecting on the past year, and the album process, Jordan says “After a year’s worth of treatment, there are no more viable medical options for me and I have begun to enter the final chapters of my life. That’s why the release of ‘HEAD NOISE’ means so much to me. The two year writing and recording journey somehow encapsulates so many moods, wins, losses and melancholic discussions…throughout all of which I could count on the fact that I was doing what I love, with those who have my back.”
Over the past ten years, Bugs have moved into the hearts of music lovers across the country with their bright and tender pop rock songs and joyful, community-driven live shows. Australia rallied behind their debut album ‘Self Help’ (2019), voting bouncy hit single Seriously into triple j’s Hottest 200 list. Their ever-iconic Like A Version cover of Mallrat’s Charlie broke into the Hottest 100 the following year at #91, and came in at #25 in 2023’s Hottest 100 Like A Versions of all time. From SOLD OUT hometown shows and national tours, to playing Falls Festival and supporting Australian legends Grinspoon on their mammoth ‘Chemical Hearts’ run in 2019, Bugs have become firmly woven into the fabric of Australia’s beloved music scene.
‘HEAD NOISE’ Album Release Shows
Thursday 10th September – Crowbar Brisbane, QLD
w/ Sam Cromack – Supernew – Dirty Harry *SOLD OUT*
Saturday 12th September – Crowbar Brisbane, QLD
w/ Dune Rats DJs – Suzi – Talk Heavy – VOIID *SOLD OUT*
With thanks to Crowd Favourite
Discover more from Good Call Live
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
