P>Until earlier this week I hadn’t heard of The Chuffs. When I was assigned to review
their gig on Thursday night at the Basement in Belconnen, I did my research. The band has
been around since late 2003. Earlier this year Drummer James Alderman, and lead guitarist
Danny Roberts joined singer and guitarist Glenn Elliot and bassist Pat O’Connor, completing the
current line up.
I was pleased to read that The Chuff’s list of influences included many of my own favorite
bands, including Black Sabbath, Radio Birdman and Faith No More. After listening to some audio
samples, I was more than keen to check them out. Also on the bill were Penguin,
Schlauncher and Australian Kingswood Factory.
When I arrived at the venue, I was surprised at how empty the place seemed. By the time
the band hit the stage however, the room had started to fill. I got the feeling that the bulk of
the crowd were friends of one or more of the bands, there to support their mates. This gave
the venue a cosy and friendly atmosphere. It also allowed me to find a good seat with a nice
view of the stage.
The set started with a bang; they had mine and the crowd’s attention. Lead singer Glenn,
who bares a slight resemblance a young Iggy Pop, looked right at home on stage with a
microphone and guitar. His stage presence filled the room. This is not a band that just yells
and bashes their way through their set. Each song was as powerful as the next. Their sound
has been described as dirty, loud and rough, but ready, and I have to agree. For me, songs like
‘Gravel Rash Blooz’, ‘2 Be or Not’ and ‘Big Man’ are reminiscent of bands such as Queens of
the Stone Age and Kyuss. James’ drumming skills were impressive and the band as
a whole put a lot of energy into the set.
I would love to see The Chuffs progress and really get themselves out there for the rest of
Australia to see. They are deserving of the attention. Word on the street is the band have got
themselves a new Tarago. Sound’s like they’re on their way…
The Chuffs debut EP The Cleancut Young Go Getters Go to Hell is available now
through their website, www.thechuffs.com.
