Gold Coast alt-rocker MERCHNTS. bursts onto the scene today with a fearless debut album that refuses to play by the rules.
‘NEVER GOING TO FIT IN’ is the hard-hitting, genre-blurring brainchild of drummer-turned-frontman Liam Chapman – a DIY artist who’s traded sticks for centre stage to deliver a raw, rebellious and wildly relatable sonic journey. Packed with punk energy, nu-metal grit and a vulnerable edge, this isn’t just a debut – it’s a statement.
Liam Michel-Robert Chapman is an Australian/French Musician hailing from the city of Gold Coast. Despite coming from no musical background, he still went on to make a name for himself in the underground music scene as Liam The Drummer after working with a wide range of acts across the SEQ region. His most notable performances have been alongside acts such as PRCHR. (F.K.A We All Drive), The Hitmen, Bobby and Angus Holmes (of Australian Idol 2023), Bligh, Bella Paton, Dracula’s Cabaret, Harry J Hart, and various other tribute/cover bands.
Even though Liam was more recognisable behind a drum kit, he always took an interest in various art forms such as music, film and digital design, which led him to conduct his own experimental alternative rock music project – MERCHNTS.
Over the course of 4 years, Liam has collaborated with many talented musicians across the Gold Coast to hop into the studio and record a 9-track mixtape/album where each song provides a unique energy with confronting, yet fun and thought-provoking lyrics while still remaining engaging and inclusive to bang your head to.
‘NEVER GOING TO FIT IN’ contains notable sounds from many genres such as rock, hip hop, nu metal, and punk, with recognisable influence from artists such as YUNGBLUD, Grandson, KoRn, Linkin Park, and Deftones. This record is a reflection of how difficult it can be to fit in with society in your late teens and early 20s and find your tribe with a fun and edgy twist.
The record includes 2 music videos, 4 lyric videos, 1 featured artist (Nikk Jacobs of Hanlon School of Music) and plenty of themes and settings which may be familiar to Gold Coast locals. The record features their recently released lead single HEY KID, LOOK ALIVE as well as heavy-hitting anthems HOLD A GRUDGE, PRETTY BOY, HOLLYWOOD, and their poetic emo epilogue END OF JULY (lonely) featuring Nikk Jacobs.
“Realistically, MERCHNTS. is still in it’s infant years and I’m happy to keep evolving and trying new things, sounds and styles – just as long as we can keep things interesting” says Liam.
‘NEVER GOING TO FIT IN’ is available NOW globally on all streaming platforms
