Almost two months on from the release of their killer debut album Boronia, Melbourne two-piece Hockey Dad graced The Foundry stage last Thursday to kick start the Aussie leg of their extensive album tour. With Horror My Friend in as supports, the night saw both bands showcasing their 2016 album achievements.

Adelaide rockers Horror My Friend jump straight into an impressive set. The energy created by this band of three is infectious, and it doesn’t take long for the crowds to gather and begin the unison head bob. Rolling through tracks, Horror My Friend remind us all how great genuine grunge rock can be. Their effortless charm on stage between songs keeps the crowd engaged throughout. Midway through the set, the bassist and guitarist swap instruments for track Easy Going, continuing this way for the remainder of the show. With a quick spiel about their debut LP Stay and Do Nothing, the boys fly through the set with ease, leaving us all enticed as to what’s to come for the band.

With the Foundry at maximum capacity, the crowd gets loud with a Violent Soho Covered in Chrome singalong in anticipation. As Hockey Dad make their way on stage and the tracks begin, so does the crowd surfing which remains throughout the entirety of the set, much to the bouncer’s disapproval. This is the first Australian tour for the duo since the release of their debut album, Boronia, and if the sold out shows aren’t proof enough, the singalongs give testament to the albums quality. Made up of Billy Fleming on drums and Zach Stephenson on guitar and vocals, Hockey Dad create the perfect atmosphere with their adventurous surf rock sound. The set highlights include Laura, We Can’t Have Them and I Need a Woman. As they wrap up the night with their EP track Beach House the boys are grateful for the turn out and promise to return to Brisbane soon.

- Isabelle Armstrong