Adult School: The Post-Punk Resurgence of Australian Indie Rock
Adult School is an Australian indie rock band known for their sharp, danceable post-punk revival sound. Formed in Melbourne in 2016, the group gained significant attention with their 2021 debut album, which charted on the ARIA Albums Chart and received critical acclaim across independent music publications.
Early career
The core of Adult School came together when vocalist/guitarist Liam Vance and bassist Sasha Reed met at a university music workshop in 2015. They solidified their lineup with drummer Felix Choi in early 2016, quickly becoming a staple of Melbourne's vibrant inner-city live scene. Their self-released 2017 EP, "Lecture Hall," caught the ear of local tastemaker label Dot Dash Recordings, which signed the band later that year.
Breakthrough
The band's breakthrough arrived in 2021 with the release of their debut LP, "Passing Marks," on Dot Dash. The album entered the ARIA Albums Chart at number 42, a strong showing for an independent guitar act. Fueled by relentless touring and supportive community radio play, the lead single achieved gold certification in Australia, cementing their status as a new force in the genre.
Key tracks
Detention — This lead single from "Passing Marks" became an alternative radio hit and the band's first certified gold record.
Night Class — A fan favorite known for its driving bassline and cynical lyrics, it is a cornerstone of their live performances.
Field Trip — This track showcases the band's more expansive, melodic side and received regular rotation on Triple J.
Final Exam — Featured in several popular streaming service indie playlists, this song significantly expanded their international listener base.
Following their debut success, Adult School spent 2022 and 2023 on extensive national and international tours, including support slots for larger acts. They returned to the studio in late 2023 to work on their anticipated second album, with production handled by Burke Reid, known for his work with other Australian guitar bands.
Their music draws clear inspiration from the angular rhythms of early post-punk, filtered through a modern indie rock lens. For listeners who enjoy Adult School, similar artists featured on our site include Gang Of Youths for their anthemic rock energy. The Chats share a similarly irreverent Australian spirit, though with a punkier edge. Total Control explores a darker, more synth-driven side of the post-punk revival. Rolling Blackouts Coastal Fever offer comparable jangly guitar interplay and melodic sophistication.
The music of Adult School is regularly featured on a variety of alternative rock radio stations and independent music radio stations available through our network. Their tracks are programmed alongside both established and emerging guitar acts, fitting perfectly on playlists focused on new wave and post-punk inspired rock.
You can hear Adult School and discover their catalog of sharp indie rock on the radio stations featured on onairium.com. Tune in to our curated alternative and rock stations to catch their essential tracks and follow their evolving sound.
