Alcohol Licks: The Gritty Heart of Modern Garage Rock
Alcohol Licks is a dynamic garage rock band that emerged from the vibrant underground scene of Melbourne, Australia. The group achieved mainstream recognition with their 2018 debut album, Last Call Anthems, which charted in the top 40 on the ARIA Albums Chart and spawned several certified gold singles.
Early career
Formed in 2012, Alcohol Licks began as a raucous trio playing in the dimly lit pubs and DIY venues of Melbourne's Fitzroy district. Their raw, unfiltered sound was captured on a series of self-released EPs, including 2014's Cheap Thrills & Spills, which caught the attention of local independent label Dusty Records.
Breakthrough
The band's major breakthrough arrived in 2018 with the release of Last Call Anthems on Dusty Records. Fueled by the relentless energy of lead single Bottle Rocket, the album entered the ARIA chart at number 37 and was later certified gold in Australia, selling over 35,000 copies.
Key tracks
Bottle Rocket — This platinum-certified single became the band's signature anthem, receiving heavy rotation on alternative radio and peaking at number 15 on the Alternative Airplay chart.
Neon Regret — A slower, blues-infused track from their debut that showcased the band's songwriting depth and expanded their audience beyond the garage rock scene.
Dust & Debris — The lead single from their 2021 sophomore album Hard Wired Heart, marking a shift towards a more polished but equally powerful studio sound.
Last Call Anthems — The title track from their debut album is a fan-favorite live staple that perfectly encapsulates their high-energy, riff-driven approach.
Following their initial success, Alcohol Licks maintained a rigorous touring schedule across Australia and Europe. Their 2021 follow-up, Hard Wired Heart, debuted at number 22 on the ARIA chart and featured a notable collaboration with veteran rock vocalist Ella Morse on the track Two Shadows. The band has consistently evolved their garage rock foundation, incorporating elements of punk and blues without losing their distinctive gritty edge.
Fans of Alcohol Licks often gravitate towards similar high-energy Australian rock acts. Discover The Chats for their punk-infused garage rock spirit and humorous lyricism. The riff-heavy sound of DMAs offers a more melodic but equally passionate take on modern rock. For another dose of raw Australian energy, explore Amyl and The Sniffers and their relentless punk rock assault.
The music of Alcohol Licks is a staple on many alternative rock radio stations and online rock radio streams featured on this platform. Their hits are regularly programmed alongside both classic and contemporary rock acts, ensuring their gritty anthems reach a dedicated audience of rock enthusiasts.
Listeners can discover the powerful discography of Alcohol Licks by tuning into the various rock-focused radio stations available on onairium.com. Their certified gold singles and acclaimed albums are frequently featured across our network of classic and modern rock stations.
