Hockey Dad announces EP “The Clip” featuring new single “All Hat No Cattle”
Australian surf-rock duo Hockey Dad has released their latest single, All Hat No Cattle, along with the announcement of their upcoming EP, The Clip, set to be independently released on September 12.
This marks a new era for the band as they venture into full independence, a departure from their previous label affiliations, showcasing their evolution and growth as one of Australia’s prominent modern rock exports.
After the success of their album Rebuild Repeat in 2024, Hockey Dad’s new EP, The Clip, revisits their DIY roots, infusing the raw energy of their early days with the refined songwriting that has defined their career. The EP comprises six tracks that blend their signature skate-punk sound with melodic sensibilities present in their previous studio albums.
The lead single, All Hat No Cattle, captures a blend of indie-rock swagger with a touch of satire and introspection. Inspired by a larger-than-life cowboy encountered at a service station, the song explores themes of identity and authenticity. It reflects on the band’s journey, with lyrics that may allude to a personal critique of aligning with a genre like country music, despite being an Australian native.
Musically, All Hat No Cattle draws from Hockey Dad’s skate-punk roots, with surf-inspired guitar riffs and dynamic percussion reminiscent of their earlier releases, while also embracing a forward-thinking approach. The track pays homage to their beginnings while looking towards the future with a fresh perspective.
Formed in 2013 in Windang, New South Wales, Hockey Dad consists of childhood friends Zach Stephenson and Billy Fleming, who bonded over their shared love for surf, skate, and garage rock. Their music has resonated with audiences in Australia and beyond, drawing comparisons to classic surf rock and contemporary indie-punk bands.
With a discography that includes albums like Boronia, Blend Inn, Brain Candy, and Rebuild Repeat, Hockey Dad has solidified their position as a global rock act, earning over 100 million streams worldwide. Collaborations with industry veterans like John Goodmanson and Alex Burnett uphold their unique blend of DIY spirit and international appeal.
The Clip EP not only marks a return to Hockey Dad’s independent roots but also showcases the duo’s artistic growth and camaraderie, forged through years of making music together. All Hat No Cattle serves as a teaser for the EP, hinting at a collection that balances nostalgia with innovation, staying true to the essence of their sound.
As Hockey Dad aptly puts it, The Clip is a reflection of their musical journey so far, maintaining an organic approach to songwriting while embracing new creative directions. With a dedicated fan base and a string of successful releases, the band’s future looks promising, promising new heights in their musical journey.