The Clean: A Lo-Fi Odyssey Through New Zealand's Indie Scene
The Clean, a pioneering New Zealand band, has left an indelible mark on the indie music landscape, influencing acts like Pavement, Yo La Tengo, and Guided By Voices. Their journey began in the late 1970s, with a unique blend of lo-fi DIY spirit and the sound of west coast psychedelia, Velvet Underground, and post-punk. This article delves into the band's evolution, highlighting their most notable works and the impact they've had on the music industry.
Point That Thing Somewhere Else: A Groundbreaking EP
The band's debut EP, 'Boodle Boodle Boodle', introduced the world to their signature sound. The title track, 'Point That Thing Somewhere Else', is a scorching bass line from Peter Gutteridge, recorded in a hall and hitting the New Zealand charts. This EP marked a turning point for New Zealand music, not only for Flying Nun Records but also for independent music in the country and internationally. The song's eclectic mix of surf, proto-punk, and drone, along with Hamish Kilgour's exceptional drumming, showcases the band's early prowess.
Slug Song: A Musical Odyssey
The Clean's second EP, 'Great Sounds Great, Good Sounds Good, So-so Sounds So-so, Bad Sounds Bad, Rotten Sounds Rotten', is a testament to their creativity. 'Slug Song' stands out with its dinky chimney organ riff and hypnotic build-up, featuring a Dylanesque lyric and a cautionary message. This EP, recorded in a cramped house, showcases the band's ability to create captivating music in unconventional settings.
Franz Kafka at the Zoo: A Literary Odyssey
'Unknown Country', the band's 1996 album, is a departure from their earlier work. 'Franz Kafka at the Zoo' is a standout track, with its beguiling atmosphere and literary lyrics. The song's spoken-word narrative, featuring Franz Kafka alongside Hansel and Gretel, Karl Marx, and Dostoevsky, is a unique blend of whimsy and introspection. The song's sparse piano and languid bass line create a dreamlike quality, making it a fan favorite.
Secret Place: A Bittersweet Journey
'Modern Rock', the band's second studio album, introduced new sonic textures. 'Secret Place' is a bittersweet song, written by Robert Scott after a dream. The song's organ-led melody and Scott's distinctively plaintive vocals create a bright tonal uplift, conveying a sense of hope and reflection. The album's pastoral delicacy and use of hammered dulcimer, cello, viola, and mandolin add to its unique charm.
Diamond Shine: A Professional sheen
The band's first studio album, 'Vehicle', received praise for its endearing buoyancy. 'Diamond Shine' is a shimmering acid-tinged gem, showcasing the band's conscious rejection of precision. The song's professional sheen, engineered by Alan Moulder, retains the band's DIY spirit. David Kilgour's guitar stylings and Scott's vocal interjections create a harmonious trio, demonstrating their musical synergy.
Quickstep: A Live Odyssey
'Quickstep' is a live recording that captures the band's energy as a formidable live act. The song's mangled Stooges-like rhythm and unwavering death disco bass line showcase their confidence and instinctive dynamics. The live performance at Auckland's Rumba Bar in 1982 is a testament to their live prowess, engaging an enthusiastic audience.
Getting Older: A Pop Odyssey
'Getting Older' is a chaotic pop song with a Spector-like sound. The song's intro, featuring squalling guitars and crashing drums, sets the tone for its taunting vocals and cheerful lyrics. The music video, directed by Ronnie van Hout, adds a slapstick element, making it a memorable visual experience. The song's dissonance and celebratory trumpet blasts create a unique blend of pop and experimental music.
Beatnik: An Absurdist Odyssey
'Beatnik' is an absurdist anthem, recalling the garage rock classic '96 Tears'. The song's nonsensical lines and callouts, along with the band's goofy music video, create a playful atmosphere. David Kilgour's west coast cool persona in the video adds to the song's charm, showcasing the band's love for west coast psychedelia.
I'm in Love With These Times: A Collaborative Odyssey
'I'm in Love With These Times' by Bailter Space is a collaboration with Hamish Kilgour. The song's clanging motorik beat and janky piano create a sardonic atmosphere. The lyrics, with their imagery of shiny cars and parking fines, reflect a critical perspective on modern life. The song's influence on Flying Nun's compilation and Roger Shepherd's memoir highlights its cultural impact.
Anything Could Happen: A Country Odyssey
'Anything Could Happen' has a laid-back countryfied swagger, inspired by the chord reference to Dunedin punk band the Enemy. The song's gently uplifting chorus and imagery of junkyards and highways create a coming-of-age narrative. The music video, featuring David Kilgour's Dylan-like persona, adds to the song's charm. The song's influence on Grant Robertson's memoir showcases its enduring appeal.
In conclusion, The Clean's journey is a testament to their creativity, innovation, and influence. Their lo-fi DIY spirit, combined with their unique blend of musical styles, has left an indelible mark on the indie music scene. From their groundbreaking EPs to their atmospheric albums, The Clean continues to inspire and captivate audiences, solidifying their place as one of the most influential bands in New Zealand's music history.
