In the world of Split System, spit-covered mics are the norm, beer-soaked carpet a given, and noise complaints plentiful. Sonically, you can almost feel the cold garage floor they rehearse from, covered in Persian carpets and cigarette ash.
The renaissance of garage punk bands in the Australian underground music scene is a sign of the times, with Briggs’ vocals serving as a potent anti-venom. Recalling signature sounds from The Saints, Eddy Current Suppression Ring, and Radio Birdman, Split System pay homage to the greats while carving their own legacy.
“There's so many incredible young punk bands coming out of Australia, you know - especially down in Melbourne/Naarm, and you know, like, what the hell's going on?”
Split System’s newest 7” release features ‘On The Edge’, an anxious call-to-action best served in an underground bar with sweat running from your brow. The second track ‘On The Loose’ is the band after a lozenge and beer break. It drives by you like a wailing cop car, almost hitting you in the process.
The band’s latest full-length record, 2024’s Vol. 2 is a venue upgrade – Split System at their tightest yet most authentic. Their grit and signature rawness are galvanised with classic punk hooks and frenetic drumming. ‘Alone Again’ is a melodic and grungy odyssey. Throughout the LP, the guitars almost become a second voice, a devil on the shoulder.
Besides international education, the band has become Victoria’s biggest and best export. Sleeping on dog beds in the U.S., in psytrance communes in Italy, and living off twisted tea and cous-cous. Their overseas tour has been a hit – the world is fiending for a drag of Split System.
“They were just so mad for Australian punk music – they must not have any good music of their own.”
At a time where stock markets are crashing and a schooner is $12, Split System aren’t just a gust of fresh air, but a source of ventilation.
Words by Nick Hibbs