Massappeal | History of the Band
Raw Appeal: Charting the Rise of Australian Hardcore in the 80s
Formation and Early Years
Massappeal's journey began in early 1985 in Sydney, Australia, at the hands of Brett Curotta (guitar) and Randy Reimann (vocals), who together with Darren Gilmour on drums and Kevin McCrear on bass, set the foundation for what would become a seminal hardcore band. The group's formation marked the convergence of punk tempos and metal guitar riffs, crafting a distinctive sound that set them apart in the Australian music scene.
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Musical Style and Evolution
Initially influenced by the hardcore punk sounds of the US and UK, Massappeal was also inspired by early seventies prog and heavy rock bands like Black Sabbath and King Crimson, as well as the desert sludge of acts like Kyuss and Sleep. This eclectic mix of influences allowed them to forge a unique sound that combined intense hardcore elements with the complexity of prog rock and the heaviness of metal.
Discography and Notable 80s Albums
Nobody Likes a Thinker (1986): Massappeal's debut album, released by Waterfront Records, was a groundbreaking entry into the hardcore punk scene. It earned critical acclaim for its raw energy and innovative sound, securing the number 1 spot on the Australian indie charts. This album set the stage for Massappeal's rise, showcasing their ability to blend breakneck punk tempos with heavy metal guitar riffs.
Jazz (1989): With their follow-up album, Massappeal continued to push musical boundaries. Released by Waterfront Records, *Jazz* saw the band exploring more complex arrangements and incorporating dynamic shifts in their sound. This album was well-received for its intensity and experimentation, further establishing Massappeal as key players in the evolution of punk music.
Throughout their career in the 1980s, Massappeal's work was characterized by their willingness to experiment and challenge the conventions of punk and metal. Their albums received positive reviews for their innovation and energy, contributing significantly to their development and reputation as pioneers of the Australian hardcore punk scene.
Influence and Legacy
In the aftermath of Massappeal's disbandment in 1994, various members embarked on new musical ventures. Sean Fonti moved on to form Caligula, showcasing his ability to continue impacting the music scene beyond his time with Massappeal. Additionally, Dave Ross and Kevin McCrear teamed up again in the Sydney-based outfit Bob, demonstrating the enduring collaborations and creative synergy between former band members.
Their approach to music, characterized by intense energy, complex arrangements, and an innovative merging of genres, has been a source of inspiration for musicians and bands navigating the realms of punk, metal, and beyond. The legacy of Massappeal is embedded in the evolution of these genres, reflecting their role as trailblazers in the dynamic and diverse world of music.
Massappeal's tenure during the 1980s and early 1990s represents a significant chapter in the story of Australian music. Through their unique blend of hardcore punk, metal, and progressive rock, they not only carved a niche for themselves but also challenged the boundaries of what punk music could be. Their albums Nobody Likes a Thinker and Jazz stand as testaments to their innovative spirit and enduring influence on the genres they inhabited. Massappeal's story is indeed a pivotal piece of the larger puzzle that is the history of 80s and early 90s music, showcasing the vibrant and experimental spirit that defined the era.
Sources
Wikipedia
Discogs
Spirit of Metal
HISTORY OF AUSTRALIAN MUSIC FROM 1960 UNTIL 2000