Lesser known to most outside of their native Australia, this hard punk quartet are no newbies. Playing with the likes of Cancer Bats to mclusky as well as headlining many of their own tours, they have gained a dedicated fan base. Built by moulding music and shows that bring a certain amusement and chaotic energy with them. Vocalist Drew Gardener regularly stripping down to just underwear and hang Ben Weinman-esque from any available inanimate object. Backed by a trio that won’t be sitting down quietly any time soon.
This record however lyrically explores the darker realms of life, getting older and how those rose-tinted lenses of youth begin to fade as the reality of life and change sets in. Drew’s gruff bear, twenty cigarettes a day vocals throughout deliver this realisation and the man social injustices with every ounce of energy and emotion in his bones. Straight off the bat single ‘Yeah, Coach’ is everything Totally Unicorn embodies. Dancably heavy and shout along lines, it is hard not to pine to be in the same room with the band throwing yourself around.
There are very few moments for breath as every track is as intense as the last. What really stands out the closer you listen is the extra spices and flavours that are added. ‘Tip Your Tinfoil Hat’ uses a terror inducing squeak or finger sliding guitar. ‘Old Mate’ has an almost twang of old western sounds. Topped off with tongue in cheek lyrics about being a ‘man’s man’ and prodding the 5G conspiracy theorists, it is a truly enjoyable listen.
All three musicians sonically pummel you. From the frenetic heartbeat of the drums, the anxiety inducing guitars to the deep bass sounds. ‘Weekday Warriors’ a top example of how each gets their moment to shine. Bass breakdowns, drum fills and a head bobbing riff, this is some of the best hardcore punk around.
You finally given a moment’s peace in the second half of the title track. One that could seem unexpected from an outfit like this. Drew wanting to ‘freeze time for everyone’ a call out to his bandmates and friends who had gone through a particularly rough time. A touching moment amongst the otherwise full-on record.
‘The Catch’ brings back the wanted headache of hard hitting, punchy rhythms and wailing guitar soon after. ‘Fri(ends)’ cracks not only the snare but your ear drums. More brutal personal realisation and sound accompanied by two highlights: a cowbell that we all need more of in heavy music and guest vocals from one pal that has stuck around, Jason Whalley of legendary skate punks Frenzal Rhomb.
The absolute highlight is tucked away as the penultimate track with ‘Trust Fund Glee’. Lyrics that take shot at the rich kids with secondhand wealth, gang vocals that encourage you to stand and channel your own rage. Rumbling rhythms, riffs that swing from hefty to hypnotic, monopoly references, the snarl of a person who wants to right these wrongs, this song has it all. Let’s hope one day they can bring this ‘glitterbomb’ chaos to our shores.
‘High Spirits//Low Life’ does exactly what it says on the tin, it’s fun, its dirty, it’s a jab at everything you hate about life, but it’s a reminder not to take yourself too seriously. Because if you cannot laugh at yourself and others occasionally, what’s the point?