Band of The Month: August 2023

In the world of rock music, there are a few bands that have the ability to grab your attention from the very first note. One such band is DZ Deathrays. Hailing from Australia, this dynamic duo has been creating waves in the music scene since their formation in 2008. With their raw energy, blistering guitar riffs, and infectious hooks, DZ Deathrays have earned a reputation as a force to be reckoned with. This blog post delves into the rise of DZ Deathrays and explores what makes them so special.

DZ Deathrays, consisting of Shane Parsons on vocals and guitar, and Simon Ridley on drums, started their musical journey in Brisbane, Australia. The two childhood friends began playing together in various punk and hardcore bands before finally forming DZ Deathrays. Drawing inspiration from bands like The Bronx and The Hives, they set out to create a sound that was loud, aggressive, and impossible to ignore.

In 2012, DZ Deathrays released their debut album, "Bloodstreams." The album was an instant hit, garnering critical acclaim and earning the band a devoted fanbase. Songs like "No Sleep", "Cops Capacity", and "Dollar Chills" showcased their unique blend of punk, rock, and grunge, while their energetic live performances solidified their reputation as an electrifying live act. "Bloodstreams" catapulted DZ Deathrays into the spotlight and set the stage for their future endeavors.

With the success of their debut album, DZ Deathrays embarked on a journey that would take them across the globe. They played sold-out shows in Australia, Europe, and the United States, leaving a trail of exhilarated fans in their wake. Their explosive live performances became the stuff of legend, with Parsons and Ridley effortlessly generating enough energy to power an entire stadium.

Following the success of "Bloodstreams," DZ Deathrays wasted no time in releasing their sophomore album, "Black Rat," in 2014. This album saw the band broadening their musical horizons and experimenting with new sounds and influences. From the infectious grooves of "Reflective Skull" to the anthemic choruses of "Fixations," "Black Rat" showcased the band's growth and maturity as musicians. The album received widespread critical acclaim, cementing DZ Deathrays' status as a band not afraid to push boundaries.

In 2018, DZ Deathrays welcomed touring guitarist Lachlan Ewbank into the band during the recording of their album "Bloody Lovely." Ewbank's addition injected new energy into the group's dynamic, adding fresh perspective and enhancing their live performances. His contributions to the album brought a unique flavor to DZ Deathrays' sound, highlighting their ability to collaborate and evolve as a collective.

DZ Deathrays continued their musical journey with a double release: "Positive Rising: Part 1" in 2019 and "Positive Rising: Part 2" in 2021. These albums showcased the band's growth and experimentation while staying true to their high-energy rock roots. Tracks like "IN-TO-IT" and "Still No Change" from "Positive Rising: Part 1" and "Fired Up" and "All Or Nothing" from "Positive Rising: Part 2" exemplify the band's ability to create catchy, anthemic songs that resonate with their fans.

In 2023, DZ Deathrays released their album "R.I.F.F," showcasing their raw and unfiltered sound. The EP features tracks like "Tuff Luck," "King B," and "Paranoid". These songs exemplify the band's ability to create hard-hitting, high-energy rock music, leaving listeners craving more.

As DZ Deathrays continue to evolve and push the boundaries of their music, fans eagerly await their upcoming projects. Their electrifying live performances and ability to captivate audiences are a testament to their talent and dedication. With an unwavering work ethic and a passion for their craft, DZ Deathrays are poised for even greater success in the future.

Be sure to tune in around 9am and 5pm to hear one of their tracks.  Follow them on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter, and pick up their new album on Bandcamp.