Talk2Me

Released 13th April 2017

Growing up as a kid In the 90’s you had to be living under a rock to have never heard of Auckland band Push Push. After their array of hits including, Trippin’ which reached number one on the new Zealand charts in 1992 and front man Mikey Havoc’s career transition onto late night television. Push Push is back in 2017 with the release of their long-awaited EP Talk2Me.

I didn’t really know what to expect after 20 years, in my mind these guys were New Zealand’s answer to Twisted Sister, never the less I prowled Spotify and dove into the title track Talk2Me.

Turbocharged with gas pedal pushing riffs, with a twist of country rock presented in the form of cowbell and tambourines to even things out. A fresh take on all fronts and unexpected, this song is the definitive single from the EP.

Turns out the real surprises are hidden behind all that though as we are taken into a, cooler, slightly damper area apply titled Change. Fast forward yet rewound the bass lines walk us into a trap of sultry vocals held nicely by a pounding tribal beat. A breath of fresh air the ear and probably my favourite track from the release.

Slowing things down a bit, the next track Desert Road winds us up into a powerful rock ballad with an awesome display of guitar and vocal work, really captured by the producer. Staking their name on it, Push Push are still doing so even after this long hiatus.

The final track Doosh takes another turn with a Beastie Boys feel to it, the hard rock guitar in this song will keep the head banging all the way through. The layered vocal tracks provide a party like atmosphere that transforms the song into a heavy hitting, rock stomper.

A fast come back indeed, with age comes wisdom and there is no doubt that these guys haven’t changed one bit. I’m going to need to go out and get myself a hard copy of this one though, the car stereo is in need of some premium driving music.

5 stars – Matt Mutinous

Spotify Link