Bad Dreems: Badlands

Badlands is a short, fast exploration of isolation, paranoia, and frustration. Named after Adelaide’s Northern Suburbs, it captures a feeling of isolation and boredom. With lyrics like ‘I’m too old for anything new’ (‘Too Old’), Badlands is apathetic without being defeatist or depressing. Bad//Dreem’s sound is undeniably Australian, something that is captured in part by lyrics like ‘This heat’s a bitch’ (‘Chills’). Opening track ‘Chills’ features jangling guitar and a sing-along final verse of ‘la-la-la-la-lah’. Voocalist Ben Mawre’s vocals are dripping with reverb on ‘Hoping For’, a song which is as shimmery as it is grungy. It suggests hope (believe it or not), with Mawre singing, ‘I feel like I can change.’ ‘Home Life’ is decidedly more punk-influenced, with rapid-fire drums and screaming vocals. It is angry and fast, but still polished and catchy. The songs are short, and the lyrics are simple. Badlands is a frank journey through a phase of life, and it's a fun ride. -Kathy Pollock