Recently, I had the chance to sit down with It’s Acrylic, a band that I stumbled upon while casually surfing the web. One click on a sponsored ad, and suddenly I was introduced to their electrifying alt-rock sound. What started as a curious click quickly turned into a deep dive into their music, their story, and the creative minds behind the band. It was clear that there was much more to this Brisbane-based group than just another sponsored post—there was raw talent, emotion, and a sound that demanded attention.
Exploring the Sonic Evolution of It’s Acrylic: Brisbane's Alt-Rock Powerhouse
Since their formation in 2018, Brisbane’s It’s Acrylic has evolved from a group of music students into one of the city's most dynamic and exciting alt-rock bands. Their journey, filled with heavy themes of loss, depression, and hope, is not just reflected in their music but embodied in their live performances, where they transform catharsis into energy.
At the heart of the band is frontman Tay, whose personal lyrics draw from the rawest aspects of human emotion, and Harry, the band's guitarist, producer, and manager, who ensures their sonic vision becomes a reality. Together with bassist Cale, drummer Trevor, and their shared experiences of navigating life’s ups and downs, the band delivers an electrifying fusion of alt-rock intensity and vulnerability.
A Sound Shaped by Influences and Life’s Challenges
Tay's introduction to music came at an early age, where the emotional resonance of Ed Sheeran’s A-Team was a defining moment. "I remember hearing A-Team for the first time at like 10 or whatever and really just recognising that I liked something properly for the first time," Tay shares. The song struck a chord, marking the beginning of Tay’s connection to music.
For Harry, it was Metallica's Live S&M DVD that ignited his passion for contemporary music. “I was playing piano at the time with an interest in film music, but definitely listening to the Black Album and Master of Puppets was a different feeling for sure and got me into playing guitar," he recalls. This early exposure to progressive metal laid the foundation for Harry’s intricate approach to songwriting and production, guiding the band's sound as it evolved.
From a Music Degree to a Band of mates
It’s Acrylic’s beginnings trace back to their shared experience in a music degree program. All but one member were in the same cohort, while Trevor, the drummer, was a few years their senior. The connection and collaboration blossomed over time, with their shared experiences laying the groundwork for the music they now create together. Despite the band’s academic background, it’s the personal and emotional connections between the members that are the true backbone of their music.
A Sound That Grows and Evolves
From the outset, It’s Acrylic’s sound has been deeply influenced by the emotional intensity of bands like Paramore, Sorority Noise, and PUP. In their early years, their music leaned heavily into emo, but over time, they’ve refined their approach. “We’ve gotten better at integrating some of our more disparate influences into what we do,” Tay says, noting how the band has become more cohesive and self-aware in their sound.
For Harry, the shift in the band's music also coincides with a greater sense of musical freedom. “We’ve learned how to use heaviness and some aspects of metal and electronic music in a very fulfilling way,” he explains. Bands like Pool Kids, Sleep Token, and Paramore are now major influences, and It’s Acrylic's latest work reflects a more intricate, dynamic approach to alt-rock, with layers of electronic elements and a richer, more textured production.
Creative Struggles and the Joy of Music
Despite their success, the journey hasn’t been without its struggles. For Tay, the weight of personal loss and mental health challenges has been a constant theme in his songwriting. “Honestly a little bit depressed, December is a very difficult month for me,” he admits, showing the vulnerability that permeates his lyrics. Harry, on the other hand, has had to balance the demands of being a producer with the creative needs of the band, leading to some burnout. “This year I’m learning how to be a working producer and artist at the same time,” he shares, acknowledging the challenge of maintaining creative energy after long studio sessions working on other artists' projects.
Despite the difficulties, both band members agree that making music remains their ultimate passion, and the payoff is evident in their performances. “Our last headliner was a really special one,” Harry reflects, “it was a test of everything we’ve worked for over the last year and it all just went so smooth.” The sold-out shows are a testament to their ability to connect with their fans, creating a sense of shared experience, whether through moments of joy or cathartic release.
The Live Experience: Energy and Vulnerability
When it comes to live shows, Tay’s stage presence is nothing short of electric. He credits a pivotal moment in his education for shaping his approach to performing. “Seamus Kirkpatrick was our performance tutor for our final year and is entirely behind my stage presence,” he says. “He said something along the lines of ‘just entirely give in to the music on stage,’ and until then I’d really just been standing behind a mic stand with my hands in my pockets.” Now, Tay’s performances are infused with energy and authenticity, as he brings raw emotion to every song.
In contrast, Harry has learned to navigate the delicate balance between performing and being in tune with his artistic self. "I think the storytelling of people like Will Wagner and Hozier is something I try to stay conscious of,” he says, admiring their ability to be vulnerable between songs. As a guitarist and producer, his focus is also on crafting a sonic environment that enhances the emotional experience for the audience.
What’s Next for It’s Acrylic?
Looking forward, It’s Acrylic has big plans for their fans. “Got lots more music on the way and some really cool YouTube stuff that we’ve wanted to share for a long time,” Harry teases, ensuring that there’s plenty more to come from the band. As they continue to evolve their sound and build on their experiences, their fans can expect a continued commitment to making authentic, powerful music.
For Tay, the connection to their fans remains at the forefront. "If our fans like our music because they relate to what I’m singing about, then the one message would be ‘you have no reason to hate yourself!’” It’s Acrylic is not just about creating music—they’re about creating a space where people can find solace, catharsis, and camaraderie.
The Future of Alt-Rock in Brisbane
With their evolving sound, heartfelt lyrics, and dedication to their craft, It’s Acrylic is poised to make waves in the alt-rock scene. While they draw from a diverse set of influences, they have carved out a space that feels distinctly their own. Their ability to balance emotional depth with musical complexity makes them one of Brisbane’s most exciting acts, and with a solid fanbase and more music on the horizon, It’s Acrylic’s future looks incredibly bright.
Stay tuned for their next move, and if you haven’t already, be sure to follow them on their social media platforms for all the latest updates, music releases, and behind-the-scenes content. The journey is far from over, and with It’s Acrylic, the best is yet to come.
