This episode features engaging conversations with Ben and P1 from the Atomic Mutant Goat Punk band, Goatzilla. From their musical influences to the challenges of recording during COVID-19, this blog post captures the essence of their journey.
Introduction
Welcome to another exciting episode of the ‘Unfiltered and Undiscovered’ podcast! In this episode, we dive deep into the Australian music scene with Ben and P1 from Goatzilla, an Atomic Mutant Goat Punk band from the Gold Coast. This blog post will take you through their musical journey, influences, and the challenges they faced while recording their latest album during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Meet the Band
Goatzilla is not your average punk band. They describe themselves as an Atomic Mutant Goat Punk band, a unique blend of various musical influences. Ben, originally from Sydney, and P1, a guitar enthusiast, share a deep love for 70s and 80s metal, punk, and classic Australian rock bands like ACDC and The Angels.
Ben’s Musical Journey
Ben’s introduction to music came early, thanks to his father, a sax player for Johnny O’Keefe. His love for rock music was ignited when he saw ACDC on Countdown. He bought his first guitar, a Les Paul copy, for $75 and never looked back. His journey took him from jazz to rock, and eventually to forming Goatzilla.
P1’s Path to Punk
Unlike Ben, P1 didn’t have musicians in his family. However, he was surrounded by cousins who were passionate about music. His early influences included Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, and Black Sabbath. P1’s love for ACDC’s ‘High Voltage Rock and Roll’ solidified his path in music. His journey led him to Goatzilla, where he found a perfect fit for his musical style.
The Recording Process
Recording during the COVID-19 pandemic presented unique challenges. Initially, the band tried recording in studios, but it didn’t work out. Mick, their drummer, set up a recording studio in his garage. The band members recorded their parts at home, using Focusrite interfaces and various software. Ben recorded his vocals at Serotonin Studios with Guy Cooper, a seasoned producer.
The Gear
P1 used a mix of valve heads through a Two Notes reactive load, Line6 Helix, and other gear to achieve the desired sound. The band emphasized the importance of performance over gear, focusing on capturing the energy and essence of their music.
The New Album: Alienation
Goatzilla’s latest album, ‘Alienation,’ reflects their diverse musical influences. The album features a mix of punk, rock, and metal, with face-melting guitar solos and energetic performances. The band released the first single, ‘Alien Nation,’ followed by ‘Secret Agent Man’ and ‘Go Down Hard.’
Themes and Lyrics
The band’s lyrics often reflect their unique sense of humor and love for storytelling. Songs like ‘Fight to Win’ and ‘Secret Agent Man’ showcase their ability to blend serious themes with a fun, punk-rock attitude.
Live Performances
Goatzilla is known for their high-energy live performances. Despite the challenges of losing his voice during a gig, Ben praised the band’s ability to deliver an amazing show. The band’s chemistry and professionalism shine through in every performance, making them a force to be reckoned with in the Australian music scene.
Conclusion
Goatzilla is a testament to the vibrant and diverse Australian music scene. Their journey, from their early influences to recording during a pandemic, showcases their resilience and passion for music. Whether you’re a fan of punk, rock, or metal, Goatzilla offers something for everyone. Stay tuned for their upcoming releases and catch them live for an unforgettable experience.
