In an exclusive interview with Alexis Petridis, we discuss the latest album from Amyl and the Sniffers, the Australian punk band renowned for their loud, brash sound. Their new album, “Cartoon Darkness,” initially seems like more of the same from the band—complete with an eye-catching cover featuring lead singer Amy Taylor flaunting her figure. However, as listeners dive deeper, they discover new layers and themes that reflect the band’s evolution amidst their rising fame.
“It’s almost shocking when an acoustic guitar makes an appearance nine tracks in,” Petridis notes. “Up until that point, we’ve been taken on a wild ride through their punk roots, laden with the spirit of their Australian upbringing. Their previous tracks like ‘Blowjobs’ and ‘Gacked on Anger’ have been downright unapologetic in their straightforwardness, almost dismissing nuance in favor of raw energy.”
Discussing their success, Petridis shares his impressions of Taylor’s vocal prowess, likening her style to that of Poly Styrene from X-Ray Spex, but with a distinct Australian twist. “They’re on the precipice of something substantial,” he says. “With sold-out shows, including multiple nights at London’s prestigious Roundhouse and an added date at Alexandra Palace, it’s clear that they’re capturing a wider audience.”
Petridis highlights the album’s opener, “Jerkin’,” which is packed with a one-chord riff and a blunt opening line: “You’re an arsehole.” It raises eyebrows not only for its aggressive sound but also for its explicit visual narrative. “The accompanying video is so explicit that you can only access it by confirming you’re over 18,” he remarks, recognizing the cheeky contrast between their raw antics and the emerging depth in their music.
As the discussion transitions to the album’s lyrical content, Petridis notes a subtle shift. “The lyrics now critique their fame, almost throwing it back at their detractors like a sharp-tongued rapper,” he explains. Songs like “Do It Do It” highlight the pressures of mainstream recognition, while “Tiny Bikini” reveals Taylor’s inner conflict about her performance persona.
“Interestingly, ‘Tiny Bikini’ embodies a playful yet potent sound, showcasing their evolution under veteran producer Nick Launay,” he continues. “Tracks like ‘Bailing on Me’ and ‘Big Dreams’ delve into a more melodic realm, revealing a thoughtful approach that wasn’t present in their earlier work. It suggests they’ve recognized the creative limitations they’ve set for themselves and are keen to explore new possibilities without losing their essence.”
While recognizing these musical developments, Petridis emphasizes that the band’s signature punk ethos remains intact. “Despite the evolution, the core sound of Amyl and the Sniffers prevails,” he states. “Even as they address issues around their success and the world around them, it’s clear this album is designed not just to reflect on their journey but to propel them forward.”
He concludes, “Ultimately, ‘Cartoon Darkness’ is about embracing their success while confronting the realities around them. It’s a crucial moment for the band—one that promises to shape their future.”
