Teak Feature

We here at NeuFutur do not get many Australian bands sending us material for coverage; despite possessing millions upon millions of citizens, this continent seems to be particularly barren when it comes to bands that possess the fire to become something bigger than mainstays at their local bar or venue.

However, we received material from TEAK, a band from down under, and were stunned at their fresh yet familiar approach to rock music. TEAK is comprised of two vocalists – Steve (guitars) and Aaron (lead guitar), drums (Greg) and bass (Mark). Despite only being around a short time (as bands go), TEAK possesses a maturity to their sound that few extant bands do. With shifting styles, sounds, and approaches present on each of their compositions, it is not surprising that fans will be just as eagerly anticipating later album tracks just as they did when they first put the band’s disc into their players.

While TEAK comes out with their own unique approach to rock, they possess enough skill and ability to provide something to anyone that is lucky enough to listen. Greg’s drums, for example do not merely keep time – they resound loudly and punctuate each track in exciting ways. Where the bass in many bands gets mixed into oblivion, Mark’s mastery of the four-stringed beast creates a fullness that is rarely heard in current rock music. The vocals on their self-titled disc take on a panoply of tempos and influences, touching upon Silverchair, The Beatles, and even Lollipop as the band continues to make a name for themselves.

Keep an eye out for these guys, as I have no doubt in my mind that they will make it to American shores, whether it be through the radio waves or on a nationwide tour. Just to hear a track like “Drunk & Obscene” or “Binders & Grinders” will show exactly what I mean; the intricate arrangements, passionate singing, and the interplay between the two sides of the band will be more than enough to make a believer out of a listener.

To purchase their latest disc, meander over to http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/teak1 or to the iTunes store and pick up a copy. If you are in Australia (or will be in the next few months), check out TEAK live on April 16th at the Village Green Hotel in Mulgrave. For their online presence, give http://www.ourstage.com/profile/teakaustralia a whirl. Check our other coverage of TEAK to gain a little more appreciation for what it is that they do.