Q&A with Melbourne's Electrifying Punk, Rock & Roll outfit ‘The Exiles’

Subculture Blog Exclusive: Melbourne's Punk Rock Phenomenon, The Exiles, to Unleash "Get Down" on September 12, 2023

Brace yourselves for a seismic sonic explosion as Melbourne's electrifying punk, rock & roll outfit, The Exiles, prepares to drop their latest auditory masterpiece, "Get Down," on September 12th. Following the resounding triumph of their debut EP, "Mr. Dirty Martini," The Exiles persist in ensnaring hearts with their adrenaline-charged performances and boundary-pushing sound.

Conceived amidst the dimly lit recesses of a Miami discotheque basement in 2019, The Exiles emerged as the brainchild of vocalist/songwriter Josh Aubry and bassist/songwriter Tony Clay. Joined by the incendiary talents of guitarist Billy Watts, Nick Cornell, and drummer Oscar Linkson, this quintet embarked on a mission to birth the ultimate rock 'n roll powerhouse.

Over the course of the past three years, The Exiles have meticulously honed their unique auditory concoction, drawing inspiration from their Punk and Garage Rock roots while infusing a contemporary twist. "Mr. Dirty Martini," their inaugural release, not only showcased their eclectic musical influences but also garnered widespread acclaim from both adoring fans and discerning critics.

After their triumphant adventures, The Exiles made their triumphant return to their Melbourne home turf in 2022, setting ablaze sold-out audiences with their electrifying live exhibitions. Their live performances, renowned for their high-octane energy, dynamism, and sheer power, have left audiences clamoring for more.

Armed with the successes of their first double A-side singles, "Fade Away" / "Friday Night," and the EP "Mr. Dirty Martini," The Exiles are now poised to conquer the airwaves once more with their eagerly anticipated single, "Get Down." This cherished fan anthem, a staple of their live shows, is scheduled to make its grand debut on all major streaming platforms today.

"Get Down" embodies a whimsically introspective exploration of the art of avoiding the entanglements of love. Penned after a sojourn to the City of Angels, this track encapsulates the fervor of pursuing dreams without surrendering to domesticity. Serving as the lead single from The Exiles' forthcoming debut album, "Get Down" epitomizes the band's musical evolution while preserving their signature punk rock ethos.

Characterized as a mind-bending, avant-garde reinterpretation of love's desires on a sultry night out, "Get Down" masterfully fuses punk rock riffs with an electrifying twist, evoking the spirit of wild nights on the town. The song reverberates with the passion reminiscent of classic hits such as "Burning Love" and "Get Up Offa That Thing," all the while introducing a novel and captivating sonic landscape that underscores The Exiles' musical virtuosity.

"Get Down" offers a tantalizing glimpse into the impending debut LP, scheduled for an early 2024 release. As The Exiles persist in dismantling boundaries and pushing the envelope of their genre, fans can anticipate an explosive and indelible album that embodies the very soul of rock 'n roll. Stay tuned for the electrifying journey that awaits.

I caught up with The Exiles this afternoon to have a quick chat!

What is the meaning behind the band name The Exiles?

Just a bunch of washed up has-beens having another punt! 

How would you explain The Exiles to somebody that's never heard your music before?

Thumping bass, driving drums, tight guitars and some jibberish been preached at ya. 

I've been following your music for awhile, How is the new single 'Get Down' different from your last release?

Get down is very to the point. No smoke and mirrors. Just a balls to the wall punk rock track. It’s kicks down your door, Robs your house and leaves before you knew it was even there. 

What were you listening too collectively as a band when writing 'Get Down'?  

Grinder man, Elvis, Viagra Boys, Presets. 

Is there any underlying theme in the meaning behind 'Get Down'?

I Get down, I Get Up. It’s just about indecisiveness. 

Where can we catch you performing next?  

Cactus Bar, Thornbury. 20th Oct. You heard it first. 

If your music was a meal, what meal would it be?

Lobster. Looks elegant, but still just tastes like chicken. 

Who are 5 artists/bands from your local scene that you want more people to be across?

Cope and Drag, Running Hot, Dilemmas, Gee Casino and Arabella and the heist 

Any last words?

GET YO TIX

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheExilesHotel/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theexilesrock/?hl=en 

Triple J Unearthed: https://www.abc.net.au/triplejunearthed/artist/the-exiles/

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