Melbourne six-piece Mangelwurzel is set to release their long-awaited debut LP Gary independently on Friday, February 26, along with latest single 'I.O.U.' and the announcement of national tour dates kicking off in their hometown at Northcote Social Club. Tomatrax caught up with Cosi, lead singer of the band, to ask a few questions.
How did the band form?
Bands form when people get snagged on each other like fishes on a hook; usually due to mutual friends and a shared interest in music and hooliganism.
Where did the name Mangelwurzel come from?
It's a German word for a crappy root vegetable you only eat during famine brought to our attention by Tom Robbins the author of Jitterbug Perfume.
You are about to release your debut album, what's it like to have it finished?
It feels like it's been a long time coming.
Was 'Gary' named after anyone in-particular?
Perhaps. The name Gary is losing popularity, it's just so uncool.
What was the inspiration behind the album's front cover?
Well Cosi made some erotic little plasticine people and Loretta made some great little plasticine cats together in the garden. Sometimes it's best not to overthink these things.
You're known for your exciting and unpredictable shows, how do you work out what you will do in your shows?
We usually work it out in rehearsal. Every little detail is pre planned, even Cosima's stage banter is written out for her. We are actually all session musicians masquerading as indie art punks.
You've been described as the weirdest band around, do you think what you do is weird?
Not at all because we have been doing it so long. There are heaps weirder bands, you'll find them if you dig deep in the underbelly.
What do you have planned once the album is out?
Go on a tour round oz!
Upcoming Shows
Jan 28th - South Melb Market, Melbourne
February 7th - St Kilda Festival - Live and Local week
February 14th - St Kilda Festival - Live and Local stage
Gary Album Tour Dates
February 26th - Album Launch Show - Northcote Social Club, Melbourne
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March 12th - Newtown Social Club, Sydney
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March 18th - The Foundry, Brisbane
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March 19th - Sol Bar, Sunshine Coast
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31st March - Crown And Anchor, Adelaide
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April 1st - Babushka Bar, Perth
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