There’s many a reason why Australia loves Incubus so much, and much of that affection can be seen encapsulated in their exclusive pre-album launch, held at Le Panic in Kings Cross. So excited by their upcoming release, singer/model Brandon Boyd and guitar-whiz Mike Eizenger personally flew down to attend the bash themselves, a move which is increasingly rare in the music industry. Having surrendered phones, cameras and any possible recording equipment at the door (Damn, I thought my 8-track was so well concealed), I was ushered into the club, where media and record execs milled about, eating bruschetta and pizza while Incubus classics blared over the speakers. From Smash Hits to SonyBMG and everywhere in between, this was the party to be at if you wanted to meet some very official people, like, say, Sony CEO Dennis Handlin.

Suddenly the lights dimmed, and Incubus’ lovely PR lady took the stage, to treat us to a screening of a video showing Incubus’ progression in the Australian charts since inception. It was especially gratifying to Morning View, my favourite, having scored such a high place on the ARIA charts.Mike and Brandon then entered the stage, looking every part the rock stars; with battered Converse, frayed shirts and an extreme distaste for all the flashing photographers milling about. But once the formalities were over, they began to relax, opening up about recording the album, what to compare it’s sound to and how, in Brandon’s words “This is the closest we’ve ever gotten to sounding like Incubus for me.” With that they were whisked away again as the crowd watched the video for the incendiary (and cheekily titled) debut single Anna Molly, which was pretty freaking awesome, but then, so are most of their releases.

Soon after the lights came back on and the revelling continued, as the album was played in its’ entirety exclusively for us. This author’s impression? Well, trying to eliminate the bias that usually comes with reviewing one’s favourite band, Light Grenades is truly exceptional. Heavier tracks echoed earlier releases like the under-exposed S.C.I.E.N.C.E, while they maintained their Cali-rock beach vibe which propelled them to stardom on other cuts. As the CD finished, Brandon and Mike returned to have photos with fans and chill with their audience, again, a very non-rockstar, but well-recieved move. In all, it was a fantastic night put on by one of the best bands of the last 10 years. I’m eagerly anticipating Light Grenades’ release.