Horace Bones
Horace Bones were inspired by Leopold Von Sacher-Masoch’s 1870 novel, Venus In Furs, Sex Beast is delirious with sexual desperation and perversion. An unashamed chronicle of pure masochism, both in music and lyrics, it constantly builds, releases and builds again giving each listener no chance in hell to come up for air. Recorded in a blacked out shed on the outskirts of Northcote, you can literally hear the sweat dripping from their bones as the band deliver their most concise effort yet. Classic Australian guitars, pulsing drums, filthy bass and a voice shouting everything you wish you could. Having successfully staked their claim as one of the most savage live bands in Melbourne, Horace Bones will now be taking their ravenous live show all across this big brown land this coming May on their ‘Sex Beast National Tour’. Lead singer Oisin answers a few questions for Hi Fi Way: The Pop Chronicles.
How’s the tour going so far?
It’s been good times so far. We’ve played a few new places to new faces which is always a treat.
Are you saving the best for last in Adelaide?
Oh yes undoubtedly. Adelaide deserves the best. It’s not a huge tour so by the time we get there we’ll be thoroughly limbered up but not burnt out.
What was your reaction to playing the final mix of Sex Beast back for the first time?Honestly, relieved. On this one we experimented with new recording techniques before recording our album. We played to tape instead of digitally and we did it inside a small backyard shed instead of our mate’s studio. We’re really happy with the results. I always knew it was a belter but i’m proud that it sounds authentically us
What was the biggest thing you learnt from recording this single?
That we’ve reached a stage where we know what we want and know how to get it. The recording process can be really daunting at first and when you start a band it can take a while to figure out what you are. we haven’t completely sussed it but we’re close.
How would you describe the Horace Bones sound?
I like that we occupy a unique space, though it might give us less of a wide appeal. We’re difficult because we’re heavy especially in mood but don’t really fit with the “heavy” bands and we don’t fit with the party punk’s either. I think when people hear us, especially live, they’re reaction is “what the fuck?”. Hopefully.
Do you think the location where you recorded the album had any influence?
Certainly. it was hot, sweaty and intense. The shed was only big enough for one of us to be in there at a time. So we’d go in, belt out our takes then fall out wearing half the clothes we entered in. Bloody perfect really.
Did everything go to plan in the studio?
As i said, it was an experiment so there wasn’t exactly a plan. It was more about hoping it sounded good. in that respect it worked.
Any plans for a vinyl release?
I’d love to but its bloody expensive. I’d say definitely for the album though. We just need people to buy tickets to our shows and pick up a t-shirt cause it all goes towards our next release.
What’s the plan beyond this tour?
We’re well on our way to writing the album so after the tour is dusted, we’ll be focusing on polishing the songs, getting away for a while to record, release the thing and tour extensively.
Interview by Rob Lyon
Catch Horace Bones on the following dates…
