Unlike [Indonesian Black Magic Ass Therapy]*, Perth rock troupe Usurper of Modern Medicine isn’t full of shit. Rather, this band brings an enjoyably blazed background buzz to the party that doesn’t lead to misinformation, ill health or death – except if one could die from too much chillbanging. I swear I almost did once; whilst in a spa watching the sun set. I had Walking on the Moon by the Police on repeat.
Don’t be fooled by the name, Usurper of Modern Medicine aren’t a Tool cover band.
Their debut full length record, Omniliberation sounds pretty familiar, taking its qualities, for instance, from fellow sandgropers Tame Impala and 2000s alternative Englanders, The Music. Not saying that’s a bad thing however – Usurper of Modern Medicine seems like they’re across their sound, with a forceful intent not really common amongst psychedelic or ‘experimental mind groove’ (their words) artists like them. In particular, songs like Hard Candy and A Jam for the Dying Sun have a strong catch and recognisable beat.
The boys have gained some recognition already, having won the Best Newcomer and Song of the Year (Dental Plan, which isn’t on Omniliberation) awards handed out by the Western Australian Music Industry, in 2011. They’ve also toured Australia extensively, as well as New Zealand and Japan, where they enjoyed the greatest of opportunities by participating in a Japanese game show. In addition, they’ve toured with fellow Canadian electronic experimenters Holy Fuck, and are apparently WA’s answer to them, according to their profile on Triple J’s Unearthed. I’ve never heard of Holy Fuck*, but I imagine that’s some pretty high praise.
Unfortunately, Usurper… etc. just finished a mini-tour of Australia last weekend, but you can still catch their grooves here whilst you take up knitting to pass the time until they’re back on the road. Head to their bandcamp at the link below to pick up a super deluxe 12″.
*IBMAT for short. Please note editorial may have changes what Nick originally wrote here.
FIND OUT MORE ON
▲ FACEBOOK ▲ BANDCAMP ▲WEBSITE
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