EP Review: SWELBOW – "Cash, Drugs, Honey"
I was recently lucky enough to receive a sneak peek of ‘Cash, Drugs, Honey’, the unreleased EP from Mandurah-based three-piece SWELBOW. As someone deeply connected to the Perth music scene, I was eager to hear how these guys would stamp their own identity on it, and I must say, I was not disappointed. The EP, which consists of five tracks, showcases a tight fusion of punk energy and a sense of fun that is present throughout the band’s work.
From the very first listen, it was clear that the band has honed their sound with an impressive level of skill. The fast-paced rhythms and tasty guitar tones immediately pulled me in, but it’s the balance of raw energy with carefully crafted musicianship that really won me over. Each track feels effortlessly cohesive, with the styles blending seamlessly from one song to the next. The instrumentation stays true to the band’s punk roots while leaving room for creative exploration.
The way SWELBOW integrates their lyrics with the instrumental side of their music stands out as well. The themes throughout the EP are bold and unapologetic, yet the lyrics manage to maintain a level of cleverness that keeps them from feeling overly brash or one-dimensional. There's a true sense of artistry in the way these songs were put together, reflecting both the band's love for punk and their unique voice in the Perth music scene.
One track that really resonated with me was "No One Likes You," which comes toward the end of the EP. The combination of melody and lyrics really captured what I think this band is aiming for in their sound. There's something about this track that feels like it could be their breakout moment—a powerful reflection of their potential as a band. The lyrics are sharp, the melody is infectious, and the overall vibe is something I’m excited to see gain traction. I have a strong feeling this song could be a hit in the future, and it’s definitely the standout of the EP for me.
As much as I enjoyed listening to this EP on my own, I can't help but think how well it would translate in a live setting. The energy in these tracks feels ready to explode on stage, and I’m excited to see how they’ll come to life in front of an audience. With such a strong foundation, I have no doubt that ‘Cash, Drugs, Honey’ will resonate with fans and become a major part of SWELBOW’s live shows.
All in all, this EP solidifies SWELBOW’s place in the Perth scene, and I’m eager to see what they do next. They’ve got the punk spirit, the chops, and the creativity to stand out, and I think we’re going to hear a lot more from them in the future.