Melbourne surf-punk alchemists Hobsons Bay Coast Guard release the new single from their forthcoming third album. The band are launching the single at the Bergy Bandroom on May 3rd, and filming the show for a concert film.
Hobsons Bay Coast Guard remain at the forefront of genre-bending in Melbourne’s DIY scene, skillfully navigating the seas of psychedelic surf, punk, and experimental pop since their formation in 2017. Their uncompromising self-produced catalog reflects a dedication to the craft, capturing the creative energy and innovation that defines their sound.

With two full LPs already under their belt (Hobsons Bay Coast Guard – 2019, Tubular Swells – 2021) and their third, Weather Report (2025), knocking at the door, Hobsons Bay Coast Guard is committed to delivering full album experiences for dedicated listeners. With instrumentation full of surprise and audacity, and lyrics rich with movement and metaphor, every track feels like a colourful new scene of a larger play.

Their catalog features songs about the sea, songs about friendship and love – and on the upcoming new album – songs about natural disasters and their relation to the human experience. This immersive approach to music-making promises that each release is an odyssey, created for ears that crave the nuances of an artfully crafted concept record.

The latest single ‘Earthquake’ bristles with a nervous energy where twitchy rhythms, psychedelic harmonies and cascading melodies tumble forth as the band conjures up an infectious ramalama sound, like Parquet Courts covering a lost Beach Boys single.

“‘Earthquake’ was one of the easiest songs to write on the record,” reveals Erik Scerba. “We basically started with the name and some rolling drums, and the rest just kind of flowed out. Despite that, it took the longest to record and mix, and we must have done about fifty drum takes and grew a thousand new grey hairs. Even though it’s about a break-up, we wanted it to have a lighthearted and fun sound yet still destructive. This is one of our favourites to play live!”

The Hobsons’ live experience is no less unique. Abandoning the pretensions of the often long-faced and smug art world, the six-piece’s electrifying stage presence is about fun and only fun. Five voices join in Brian Wilson-esque harmonies layered over percussive rhythms and driving punk-like guitars. This infectious energy has earned them spots at big name festivals such as Big Sound, Loch Hart, Brunswick Music Festival, Grampians Music Festival, and Meadow, and twice at the iconic stage of the National Gallery of Victoria. Their touring schedule has taken them across most of Australia, winning over fans with their dynamic and captivating stage presence.

With the backing of their committed cult-following in their hometown of Melbourne, 2025 is set to see the band spread their surf-rock tentacles even further across Australia and beyond.