Street Legal Take Debut EP ‘Bruxism’ On Tour
Loveable Adelaide outfit Street Legal have released debut EP Bruxism which is a four-track journey through brooding synth pop and restless new wave energy. Featuring 2024 single Cardio and upcoming focus track No Gods! No Masters! No Doorlists! No Bouncers!, Bruxism pulses with the tension of anxiety and insomnia, captured through blood-pumping drum machines, haunting synth sequences and Australiana-tinged vocals. Front man Matt Hayward tells Hi Fi Way more about the EP and tour.
Congrats on the release of your debut EP! Tell us a bit about the band’s journey so far.
Thank you! Bruxism is our first big release after a couple of stand alone singles. We spent a lot of time working on the tracks last year at Interim and collaborating with Hugo in getting just them right. The songs serve as a cohesive statement, capturing where we’re at in this moment.
For those who don’t know, what does the EP’s title Bruxism mean?
Over the past few years I realised I’d been grinding my teeth in my sleep at night. I couldn’t understand for the life of me why I kept waking up feeling like I’d been suckerpunched in the mouth. Then after some gentle prodding and light psychoanalysis I realised it was a side effect of anxiety and holding in all this everyday stress of the world. Because it feels a little tense at the moment, right?
The EP came together with an all star cast of people like Matt Schultz (The Empty Threats/Twine) and Hugo Nicolson (Radiohead, Father John Misty). What was it like working with this team on the EP?Working with Matt was an absolute pleasure. They created an environment where the songs could evolve organically, allowing us to explore unexpected sonic avenues and cul-de-sacs. We specifically sought out Hugo because of his extensive studio work with both influential and emerging artists. His guidance was invaluable—he challenged us to take full ownership of our sound, pushing us to refine and elevate our creative vision.
What are three songs you’d put on a ‘Street Legal Inspo’ Playlist?
My three picks would be Midnight Oil’s Minutes to Midnight from Red Sails in the Sunset—arguably one of the most relevant songs for today’s political climate. I’d also choose Party Dozen’s Coup De Gronk from their latest album, Crime In Australia, it resonates with me due to its moody, skronky textures. It’s giving Snowtown. And finally, Lola Young’s Messy—because, at my core, I’m a pop devotee, and there’s nothing quite like a sharp, well-written kiss-off anthem.
Any of your songs that have become a favourite for fans at live shows?
People seem to really enjoy our upcoming single No Gods! No Masters! No Doorlists! No Bouncers! quite a bit – maybe it’s the pathos in the lyrics or the driving bass line in the song. Modern Ruins has become a different fan favourite due to its slower pace… it’s probably the closest song we have to a ballad on the books at the moment.
You’ve just announced a huge national tour! Any places in particular you’re looking forward to playing?
We’re really looking forward to heading to Newcastle and Sydney for the first time! There’s a great little indie scene in Newcastle that I’ve been following online – seems like there’s a really strong sense of community that reminds me a lot of Adelaide. Can’t wait to head back to Melbourne again also!
Interview By Dean Valentino
Catch Street Legal on the following dates…
