Pre-sales have begun this week for Hockey Dad’s much awaited debut album, Boronia, which hits stores on August 12.
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In a perfect world the Windang surf-pop duo, Billy Fleming and Zach Stephenson, would have released the album in 2015 but were picked up by American label Kanine so wanted to “drop” the record at the same time in both countries.
They’ve resurrected some well known tunes from their touring circuit including their next single, “So Tired”, which was one of their songs written together.
Fleming, 20, and Stephenson, 21, are currently laying low at home for the next few weeks, chilling and checking the surf before the touring mill starts up again.
They were in the States the last time a big swell hit the Illawarra, but the forecast for Saturday is set to be pumping and the duo are excited.
“We’ve been missing that so much because we’ve been away … it was horrible,” Fleming said.
In August they’ll head to America and Canada before heading home for an Australian tour, including Wollongong’s Yours and Owls Festival in October.
Two bands they’re stoked to be on the Y&O lineup with are The Living End and The Sonics.
They credit 60’s garage rockers The Sonics for their early inspiration and say they know many bands who have also taken inspiration from their music.
Last year they were lucky enough to support Aussie three-piece The Living End when they toured Wollongong. They said it was a “little present” after signing with booking agent Village.
But generally they don’t have fan moments with other bands and get all googly eyed, Stephenson calling it “weird”.
“Just a tip of the hat kind of thing, acknowledge the presence and not get too crazy about it,” added Billy.
However one character they would be happy to give public adulation to is Michael Caton, aka Darryl Kerrigan from the 1997 film The Castle.
“It’s how we got the Dreamin EP title,” Fleming said.
The pair’s dream is to one day get the Australian actor to reprise his role as Kerrigan in one of their film clips.
On the flipside, the boys haven’t had any problems with crazed fans when out and about, Stephenson pointing out “most people just yell out ‘Hockey Dad!’ and keep walking”.
The first 70 pre-sale orders of their new album Boronia will score tickets to an exclusive all ages gig at Wollongong’s Music Farmers store.
For tour dates visit: http://hockeydad.bandcamp.com/