We recently sat down with the guys over at Bangalley for a chat about them and what’s to come!
Here’s how it went
Bangalley, the latest indie surf-rock sensation hailing from Sydney’s Northern Beaches, is carving out a unique space in Australia’s vibrant music scene. Formed on Gadigal Land, the band is made up of four close-knit friends—Xavier, Milo, Aiden, and Kai—who channel their collective experiences and creative energy into crafting authentic and soul-stirring music. Their sound, a blend of indie rock with a touch of surf, reflects both their personal growth and the inspirations they draw from the diverse world of music.
The origins of Bangalley are rooted in the simple yet profound musical influences from their parents, combined with the genre explorations shared by their siblings. Growing up surrounded by music, the members found their own way to express their experiences through sound. The band's formation was almost serendipitous, with Xavier and Milo meeting at pre-school, Aiden joining the group in primary school, and Kai completing the lineup in high school. It’s clear that this brotherhood, rooted in years of friendship, plays a huge part in their cohesive and energetic performances.
Since emerging in 2022, Bangalley has quickly gained attention, supporting high-profile Australian bands like Marvell, Satin Cali, and The Grogans. Their ability to connect with audiences has made them a favourite in the live music scene, where their charm and dynamic stage presence shine. They have developed a reputation for delivering high-energy shows that welcome all walks of life to enjoy the unifying power of live music.
When asked about their musical inspirations, Bangalley cites a range of iconic Australian acts such as Ocean Alley, Lime Cordiale, The Rions, Edgecliff, and Skegss. More recently, the band has drawn influence from emerging acts like Le Shiv, Royel Otis, and Rum Jungle. These influences blend effortlessly into Bangalley’s unique sound, which has evolved since the early days of their songwriting journey. Initially, their compositions were simple, driven by basic riffs. However, as they continued to experience live performances and broaden their musical tastes, their writing matured, incorporating more intricate structures and deeper emotional layers.
The band’s creative process is anything but formulaic. Each song usually begins with one member bringing an idea, which then gets shaped through collaboration and jamming. This open and dynamic approach allows their music to evolve organically, often taking inspiration from songs or sounds that members have on repeat. Their writing process reflects the band’s commitment to creating authentic music, built from both personal experiences and collective creativity.
Bangalley’s debut single, “For Molly,” was a milestone for the band. It marked the culmination of their hard work and the beginning of what promises to be a promising career. But while the excitement of releasing new music is palpable, the band remains grounded, acknowledging that the journey is still in its early stages. With plans to release two more tracks in the coming months and continued efforts to grow their fan base through live performances, Bangalley is taking things step by step, always with an eye on the future.
Live performances hold a special place for Bangalley, and the band members cite some unforgettable gigs, such as their appearance at the Northern Composure Grand Finals and a recent show at Avalon RSL. These moments of high-energy connection with their audience fuel their passion for performing. However, like any band, not every gig has been perfect. A local gig at a local bowlo, where the band may have had a little too much to drink, stands out as a humbling experience, reminding them of the importance of balance and focus.
The band members have also expressed a deep respect for artists who capture the crowd’s attention from the moment they step on stage. The advice of Andrew Klippel, manager of Royel Otis, resonates with them: the first 13 seconds of a song are crucial to grabbing the audience’s attention. They’ve taken this advice to heart, ensuring that their music delivers a strong first impression every time.
Looking ahead, Bangalley has big plans. They’re excited about the future, with new music ready to be shared with fans and many gigs in the works. Their dream collaborations with bands like Spacey Jane, The Rions, and Ocean Alley could soon become a reality, further propelling their journey. But above all, the band remains focused on one goal: to connect with their fans and grow together through the shared experience of live music.
While they’re optimistic about the future, Bangalley also recognizes the challenges of the modern music industry, particularly the competitive nature of the internet age. The ease of sharing music online has led to a surge in new artists, making it harder to stand out. But for Bangalley, the key is to stay true to their own journey, creating the music they love while staying connected with their fans.
In an era where the music business is increasingly dominated by digital platforms, the importance of live music remains central to Bangalley’s ethos. The band hopes to see more investment in promoting live music and supporting smaller acts who often have to pour their own resources into their craft without the recognition they deserve. For now, Bangalley is focused on building their presence, one show at a time, and continuing to share their infectious energy with everyone they encounter.
As Bangalley steps into the future, their passion for music and their bond as a band will undoubtedly carry them to new heights. Fans can expect a steady stream of fresh music, captivating performances, and the unwavering enthusiasm that defines Bangalley. The journey is just beginning, and the best is yet to come.