Wheezing new life and enjoyment into the current Australian heavy music climate, the arthritic riddled retirees known as GOPHER, have released their astonishing, must hear debut album ‘Tunnel Buddies’. Featuring the forever young looking and current world mahjong champion Ernie Bingo on vocals, and perpetually complimented by the effervescent ladies man Ned Smelly on guitars, they prove without a doubt that you are never too old to hail the horns and bang your head. Even if it is fused to your neck. GOPHER’s infectious debut album ‘Tunnel Buddies’ knits together a cohesive fusion of knee wobbling groovy grind, back breaking death/slam, slinky massaging synths, sedating sing along anthemic choruses, and most importantly FUN! Like a bit of diversity in your heavies and looking for something new to gnash your gums on? GOPHER, unlike Australia Post, delivers!
The Everblack Podcast sat down with Ned Smelly from GOPHER to talk about their debut album Tunnel Buddies, its wild “200-year” backstory, and their mission to bring fun back into heavy music. Ned dives into the band’s chaotic origins and how GOPHER blends grind, death metal, and synth-driven madness, while also picking out a few standout tracks and unpacking the story behind the album title. He also chats about their over-the-top videos, partying in Bali, and the plan to bring the chaos to Australia.
Watch/listen to the interview here:
To coincide the album’s release, is a brand spanking new single and video for their about to be shindig hit ‘Party In The Sky’. A tale of guitarist and scrabble shark Ned Smelly’s passion for guzzling grog on flights and expertly making the time whizz by. Ned states, ‘When you’re up in the air for hours on end and with only shitty modern-day entertainment on offer, what better way to kill the time than drinking the plane dry, charming the hosties and passing the fuck out. We’ve all got a plane face and my ancient wrinkly noggin is the best of ‘em! This splendid ditty kicks off with a catchy synth intro before launching into an all-out groove riff spread and then cleverly leading into an all-time party sing along anthem. Get your boarding pass and come ‘Party In The Sky’ with us’
Gopher debut album ‘Tunnel Buddies’ out now!
Stream & Orders: https://gopherit.
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/
