There is one band in Australia that captures the nation’s love of beer, cigarettes and pub food. They are The Chats, a three-piece band from the Sunshine Coast in Queensland who have exploded onto the scene with their tongue and cheek lyrics and heavy rock sound. With songs like “Smoko”, “Pub Feed” and “VB Anthem”, they have captured the hearts of every punter, occa and yobbo across the country. The hilarious band has a distinct rock style to match their over the top Australian music, borrowing from rockabilly, punk and surf rock, naming the Cosmic Psychos as a key influence. Made up of guitarist Josh Price, drummer Matt Boggis and lead singer Eamon Sandwith, who sports ‘speed-dealer’ sunglasses and a flowing red mullet, they have released two EPs in their short career, with 2019 seeing a national tour and hit single “Identity Theft”.

Backyard Opera sat down with guitarist Josh to discuss what the defining features of the Chats were.

“Beer and having a good time,” he answered.

Whether its performing at the Crow Bar in Sydney, tearing it down at the Triffid in Brisbane, or relaxing at their local, the Coolum Beach Bowls Club, the Chats and the pub go hand in hand. Josh explained that because so many punters are there to either have a drink, get some dinner or put on some bets, a performance needs to win them over. In order to win them over, the Chats have become relatable, channelling the thoughts and aspirations of the average punter into their music. Part of what allows the Chats to tap into these nuanced parts of Australian culture is their down to earth background. Before they were in the band, Josh used to wash cars “for a buck or two”, while Eamon was a “checkout chick” at Coles and Matt was a lifeguard. As a result, their music is on the surface about funny little things that amuse the band, but reflects their deeper Anglo-Aussie culture.

“I always try and write about the experiences and little things,” explained Josh. “Like “Pub Feed”, it’s something everyone enjoys but no one really brags on about and “Mum Stole My Darts”, it happens. It just comes to my head sometimes and things that sort of piss you off a little, I like to write songs about.”

Their next track, which they hoped to release by the end of 2019, is titled “The Clap”. Josh assured me that this one was not autobiographical like the others. Looking ahead to 2020, the Chats are getting out of the pub and into the wild world of music festivals. Scheduled to play at the Laneway Festival in Brisbane on the 1st February and in Sydney on the 2nd February, they are excited to play with friends Pist Idiots and Ocean Alley. Josh himself is especially “stoked” to see King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard, who have reputation for great live shows. He explained that they always love to go out and catch some bands play at festivals while enjoying the unique attractions that only festivals have. Josh states the best festival attire he’s seen was between a Steve Irwin outfit and a large cigarette costume. Having played only a handful of festivals, they believe there is are some essential factors that go into making a great set.

“The band playing good,” Josh laughed. “That’s not a guarantee for us. The crowd’s always a big part of it too. Everyone’s having a good time. Everyone’s going out of their way a bit more. Everyone’s in a festive sort of mood. That’s when it’s the best.

Be sure to catch the Chats, along with many other great artists, next February at St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival. For more information visit here: https://lanewayfestival.com/