After the success of their latest album Back On The Cans, The Externals will return to WA for shows at the Leopold Hotel in Bicton on Friday, May 2, and The River in Margaret River on Saturday, May 3.
The rock band launched their new album in September 2024 at the Leopold – their seventh, 30 years after their first release – to a crowd of electrified punters who simply wanted more.
The Externals exude an unmatchable raw edge. Over the past few decades, the four-piece have curated a distinct style that has cultivated a devoted following. “We’re just a bunch of blokes who enjoy a beer, rock music, and each other’s company,” says lead vocalist Harry External.
The band was formed in Swanbourne in 1991 by Harry External, Matt External, Scotty External, and Shane External, who are all former members of the SAS Regiment based in Perth, Western Australia.
“Matt and I met for the first time on a ‘Resistance to Interrogation’ course in 1991,” Harry reminisces. “I had to get up and sing a song to the audience – I was naked with a pillowcase over my head and holding a toothbrush, and I sang the Hawthorn Football Club song. It’s fair to say I nailed it,” he says, “Even Sinatra hasn’t played a gig like that one.”
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With influences from Australian rock acts such as The Celibate Rifles, Midnight Oil, and the Cosmic Psychos, The Externals combine Aussie beach culture and gritty guitar rock with a touch of the ‘Seattle’ sound, as heard in bands like Mudhoney, Pearl Jam, and Soundgarden.
In 1996, The Externals toured the East Coast playing at Homebake and supporting bands such as Cosmic Psychos, The Celibate Rifles, Hellmenn, and Front End Loader. 1997 saw another line-up change with Tony King departing and Killian Albrecht, a WA conservatorium-trained musician, joining the band on lead guitar.
But this May, The Externals are warmed up and ready for another scorching slew of shows in the west.
THE EXTERNALS
BACK ON THE CANS TOUR
with special guests Black Buzzard
Friday, May 2nd, Leopold Hotel, Bicton – Tickets via Oztix
The River in Margaret River on Saturday, May 3 – Tickets via Oztix
This piece of content has been assisted by the Australian Government through Music Australia and Creative Australia, its
arts funding and advisory body
