Preatures: Australia's Indie Rock Powerhouse

The Preatures were an Australian indie rock band from Sydney, known for their sharp, guitar-driven pop and energetic live shows. Their major achievement was the 2014 album Blue Planet Eyes, which debuted in the top 10 on the ARIA Albums Chart and spawned the platinum-certified hit "Is This How You Feel?".

Early career

The band formed in Sydney in 2010, initially as a side project for members of other local groups. The core lineup solidified around vocalist Isabella Manfredi and guitarist Gideon Bensen, with Jack Moffitt on bass, Tom Champion on drums, and Luke Davison on guitar.

Their early sound blended garage rock with a distinct pop sensibility. They first gained attention with the 2012 EP Shaking Hands, which led to signing with major label Mercury Records Australia in 2013.

Breakthrough

The Preatures' breakthrough arrived in 2013 with the infectious single "Is This How You Feel?". The track became a national radio hit, winning the prestigious Vanda & Young Global Songwriting Competition that year.

This success set the stage for their debut album. Blue Planet Eyes was released in September 2014 to critical acclaim, peaking at number 6 on the ARIA chart and earning a nomination for the Australian Music Prize.

Key tracks

Is This How You Feel? — This funk-infused rock song was their commercial breakthrough, achieving platinum sales in Australia and winning a major songwriting award.

Somebody's Talking — A driving, anthemic single that showcased the band's knack for crafting powerful guitar pop hooks.

Two Tone Melody — This track highlighted Isabella Manfredi's confident vocal delivery and the band's sleek, 80s-inspired production style.

Girlhood — The lead single from their second album, it presented a more mature, synth-laden direction for the group.

Following their debut's success, The Preatures toured extensively internationally. They released their sophomore album, Girlhood, in 2017, which explored more personal themes and expanded their sonic palette with electronic elements.

Despite the momentum, the band announced an indefinite hiatus in early 2020. Members have since pursued solo projects, with Isabella Manfredi launching a successful independent career.

Fans of The Preatures' brand of catchy, guitar-based indie rock should also explore other Australian acts. San Cisco shares a similar youthful energy and knack for infectious pop melodies. The Rubens deliver a soulful, blues-tinged rock sound that resonates with the same audience. Gang Of Youths offer a more anthemic and emotionally charged take on Australian indie rock. Missy Higgins connects through powerful songwriting and a distinct Australian vocal presence, though in a more acoustic realm.

The music of The Preatures maintains a strong presence on radio formats that champion guitar-driven pop. Their hits are staples on alternative rock radio stations and Australian indie music rotations, keeping their sound alive for both nostalgic and new listeners.

You can hear the dynamic rock of The Preatures on various radio stations featured here on onairium.com. Tune in to discover their catalog and other great artists from the Australian indie scene through our curated online radio streams.