An explosive debut from a band on the rise
Brisbane-based four-piece Bad Neighbour have proven themselves as a formidable force within the Australian rock and punk scenes this year, with their raucous sound, hard-hitting lyrics, and unrelenting energy. Their debut album, Millions, is a testament to their dedication, capturing the essence of their journey and offering a powerful snapshot of what they’re capable of. After a series of successful singles—like The Middle, which even found its place on Triple J’s Short.Fast.Loud—Bad Neighbour have carved out a space for themselves, merging hard rock, grunge, and pop-punk into a sound that feels both raw and refined.
From the first track, it’s clear that Millions is not just another debut album—it’s a statement. Opening with an explosive, high-octane introduction, Bad Neighbour wastes no time establishing the tone for what’s to come. The lyricism is powerful and evocative, immediately pulling you into the world of the band. It’s visceral, gritty, and deeply reflective of the tension that runs through their music. There’s a hunger in the way these songs are crafted—each track feels like a cathartic release, an invitation to let loose alongside them.
A standout element throughout the album is the band's rhythm section, which plays a pivotal role in giving their music that fast, hard, and sometimes surprisingly groovy sound. Bassist Liam Summer’s hard and heavy playing style is an essential component, creating an underlying pulse that drives the music forward. His use of distortion perfectly complements the raw energy of the guitar riffs, making each song feel like it could explode at any moment. It's a perfect marriage of precision and chaos, underscoring the band’s ability to blend technical proficiency with sheer, unbridled emotion.
The second track, Heart Pumps Blood, is where Bad Neighbour really starts to shine. The song is a rollercoaster of build-ups and breakdowns, and its relentless pace will have you gripping the edge of your seat. But what truly sets it apart is the vocal delivery. There’s a grit in the singer’s voice that matches the intensity of the music, a rawness that is hard to come by. It’s one of those tracks where you can feel the vocalist's passion, where each word feels like a punch to the gut. This energy doesn’t let up, either—the track races forward with a sense of urgency until it reaches its final note.
As Millions progresses, you’re taken on a journey through different sonic landscapes. One of the most compelling moments is Spills, which offers a slight deviation from the frantic pace of earlier tracks. The song adopts a mid-west emo style that instantly brings to mind the emotive melodies of bands like Taking Back Sunday. But don’t let these comparisons fool you—Bad Neighbour is carving out a sound that is entirely their own.
The melancholy in the vocals and the introspective lyricism strike a chord, evoking nostalgia while remaining full contemporary. It’s a beautiful, heavy-hearted moment on an album that doesn't shy away from emotional depth.
Bad Neighbour are a band that will leave you wanting more—and Millions is an album that demands to be heard.
★★★★
Then there’s In The Car, a track that stands as one of the album’s most intricate pieces. The lyricism is delicate and powerful in its simplicity. There’s a subtlety here that contrasts with the heavier moments of the album, but it doesn’t lose any of the emotional weight. In fact, it might be the most poignant track on the record, highlighting the band’s ability to write music that is both complex and accessible. It’s a powerful reminder of the vulnerability and tenderness that exists beneath the surface of all their explosive energy.
20,000 Knife Fights is another major highlight of Millions, and it’s no surprise that the song was featured on Triple J. This track is where everything comes together—it’s a perfect blend of the aggression, passion, and technical ability that defines the band’s sound. If you want to understand Bad Neighbour, this is the track I would point you to. It’s the kind of song that demands attention, with its fierce intensity and relentless drive. From the explosive guitar work to the gut-punching lyrics, it encapsulates everything that makes Bad Neighbour a band to watch.
As the album draws to a close with The Middle, I can’t help but feel a sense of satisfaction. The song brings the journey full circle, closing out an album that has been both cathartic and invigorating. It’s a perfect end point to Millions, encapsulating everything that makes this band so exciting. From its soaring hooks to its emotional weight, The Middle is a beautiful resolution to an album that leaves a lasting impression.
In many ways, Millions feels like a debut that comes with the weight of a band ready to take on the world. Bad Neighbour have crafted an album that not only showcases their versatility but also their passion for music. Each track is infused with energy, honesty, and a sense of purpose that makes it impossible not to be drawn in. The album is hard-hitting and relentlessly energetic, but it also has its quieter moments, revealing a depth that only makes the explosive moments feel even more powerful. If you haven’t yet listened to Bad Neighbour, Millions is the perfect introduction. And if you have, it’s clear that this is only the beginning.
