Emerging from the dynamic alternative scene in Australia, Second Idol have unleashed their compelling debut album, 'Mongrel'. This isn’t just a collection of songs; it’s a fiercely intelligent and emotionally raw statement that immediately places the Sydney outfit amongst the most vital bands currently operating. Released digitally through Gloomshift Records and independently on 12” vinyl, the album is a testament to the power of self-defined rock music.
'Mongrel' is structured around the tension of existing between worlds, delving into what it means to find identity and belonging in a modern environment defined by isolation and division. With unflinching honesty, the record grapples with major contemporary themes including feminism, gender, postcolonialism, multiculturalism, and the familiar ache of heartbreak and imposter syndrome. It embraces and champions complexity and vulnerability, challenging the notion that a single, neat identity is possible—or even desirable. This dedication to purpose not only cements the band’s raw, post-punk sound but also reinforces the powerful values they stand for, which is exactly what a truly great rock album should achieve.
The band’s art and message are deeply informed by the diverse backgrounds of its members: Kate (Sri Lankan/Scottish), Sunny Josan (Palestinian/Indian), and Afeef Iqbal (Pakistani) are all second-generation Australians, with their cultural heritage, gender identities, and sexualities driving their unique creative vision. Second Idol are clearly carrying the heavy but exhilarating torch of innovators like Placebo, Sonic Youth, PJ Harvey, and Savages, channelling that same boldness and musical innovation into noise with genuine substance and bite.
The desire to present their debut as a tangible, 12-inch statement meant navigating the challenging world of crowdfunding. The process, as lead vocalist Kate describes, was fraught with self-doubt: “Running the crowdfunding campaign to help us press the record to vinyl was equally a nerve-wracking and an elating experience. There’s always that sense of self-doubt that arises that people don’t really care for your art, or that you don’t have an audience.” The resounding success of the campaign, which saw overwhelming support from fans both locally and internationally, quickly silenced those anxieties, proving a powerful connection had already been forged.
Recorded, mixed, and mastered by Clayton Segelov, with engineering by Angie Watson, at The Brain Studios in Sydney, the album’s sharp, heavy sound provides the perfect backdrop for its uncompromising lyrical content. 'Mongrel' is a ferocious, necessary listen from a band that refuses to soften their edges for anyone.
For more, be sure to connect with Second Idol on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
