Arks Up

About the album

Melbourne fourpiece Dick Diver have only been at it for less than a year, but already have the hallmarks of a modern classic. There's something in their combination of widescreen Australian sweep, 70s New York punk edge and scratchy 90s indie rock that transcends influences to become truly rare and exciting.

Maybe it’s the dual songwriting of guitarists Alastair McKay and Rupert Edwards, which lobs Dick Diver up alongside Go-Betweens heroes Forster & McLennan. Or perhaps it’s the epic but non-ridiculous guitar solos they trade off, with faint echoes of Television or Yo La Tengo. It could be the punk credentials of bassist Al Montfort (UV Race, Straightjacket Nation) that give the band some extra heft, or even the laconic drumming and casual harmonies of Steph Hughes (ex-Children Collide). Whatever it is, Dick Diver are definitely making an big impression.

Their debut release is the Arks Up EP, part of a new Chapter Music series that pairs a vinyl single and a CD with bonus tracks. It kicks off with instant classic Walk For Room, one minute and 57 seconds of pure lazy pop magic, followed by the eerie Keys and the genius songwriting of Tender Years.  The CD adds three extra tracks for a perfect introduction to one of Australia’s most instantly engaging young bands.