Clowns: Australian Punk Rock Provocateurs

Clowns are a relentless punk rock band hailing from Melbourne, Australia, known for their high-octane live shows and genre-blurring sound. The group has cemented its reputation through a prolific output of albums and relentless international touring, building a dedicated global following within the punk and alternative music scenes.

Early career

Formed in 2009, Clowns emerged from Melbourne's vibrant DIY punk and hardcore circuit. The band's early sound was rooted in fast, aggressive hardcore punk, which they showcased on their self-titled debut EP in 2010 and the following full-length album, I'm Not Right, in 2013.

These initial releases were primarily distributed through independent channels, establishing the band's raw, confrontational style and work ethic. This foundational period set the stage for their evolution and eventual signing to a prominent punk label.

Breakthrough

The band's breakthrough arrived with their 2015 sophomore album, Bad Blood, released on the esteemed punk label Fat Wreck Chords. This album marked a significant leap in songwriting, incorporating more melodic elements and rock'n'roll swagger while retaining their chaotic energy, which greatly expanded their audience.

Bad Blood received critical acclaim within punk circles and facilitated Clowns' first major tours across Europe and North America. The partnership with Fat Wreck Chords provided crucial distribution and support, solidifying their status as a leading force in modern punk.

Key tracks

Destroy The Evidence — This explosive track from Bad Blood became a live staple and perfectly encapsulates the band's transition into a more dynamic, hook-driven sound.

Freezing In The Sun — A standout from their 2017 album Lucid Again, this song showcases their ability to craft an anthemic, sing-along chorus without sacrificing punk intensity.

Like A Knife At A Gunfight — Featured on 2019's Nature/Nurture, this track highlights the band's increasingly sophisticated musicality and socio-political lyrical themes.

Bland Is The New Black — A scathing critique of conformity, this song from their 2022 album Endless demonstrates their continued relevance and razor-sharp commentary.

Following their breakthrough, Clowns continued to evolve, releasing Lucid Again in 2017 and Nature/Nurture in 2019. These albums saw the band incorporating elements of psychedelic rock, garage, and post-punk, pushing the boundaries of their genre. Their 2022 album, Endless, further refined this expansive approach, receiving praise for its ambitious scope and musical dexterity. The band is known for collaborations with fellow Australian musicians and has maintained a relentless touring schedule, performing at major festivals like Groezrock and Unify Gathering.

Fans of Clowns' aggressive yet melodic punk rock may also appreciate the work of similar Australian acts. The Chats deliver similarly energetic, no-frills garage punk anthems. Amyl and The Sniffers share a raw, explosive live energy and a rootsy punk rock spirit. Frenzal Rhomb offer a comparable blend of breakneck speed and sharp, witty lyricism that has defined Australian punk for decades.

The music of Clowns is a regular feature on alternative rock radio stations and dedicated punk rock streams across our network. Their high-energy tracks from albums like Bad Blood and Lucid Again are frequently spun on stations catering to listeners seeking intense, guitar-driven music with a melodic punch, ensuring their sound reaches passionate audiences worldwide.

You can discover the explosive punk rock of Clowns by tuning into the many independent music radio stations and online rock radio streams available right here on onairium.com. Listen for their essential tracks and latest releases as part of our curated rock and alternative programming.