Last Dinosaurs release new tracks “Apxllo” and “Pink Flags” and unveil upcoming Wellnxss tour
Australian indie rock stalwarts Last Dinosaurs have embarked on a new phase in their musical journey, unveiling two tracks deeply intertwined with one of the most pivotal albums of their career. The band from Brisbane has recently released “Apxllo” and “Pink Flags”, offering a sneak peek into Wellnxss, a reimagined and re-recorded version of their acclaimed 2015 album, Wellness, set to hit shelves on February 13 through the independent Canadian label Nettwerk.
A decade ago, Wellness emerged as a significant moment for Last Dinosaurs. Following the breakout success of their debut record, In A Million Years, the album paved the way for the band’s transition as they navigated the expectations, pressures of the industry, and the demands of a burgeoning global career.
The decision to revisit Wellness through Wellnxss is not merely an anniversary celebration. It symbolizes Last Dinosaurs’ reclaiming of their artistic independence. By re-recording the entire album, Sean and Lachlan Caskey along with bassist Michael Sloane have taken charge of a body of work that has gained significance over time. Additionally, this project addresses the challenges faced by independent artists under long-term recording contracts.
The fresh release of Wellnxss features five unreleased songs from the same creative period, offering a comprehensive view that complements the original vision of Wellness.
The dual single release, comprising of the familiar “Apxllo” and the uncharted “Pink Flags”, showcases a blend of the known and the undiscovered. “Apxllo”, a perennial fan favorite, has evolved into a staple live performance track, resonating with audiences and accumulating millions of streams. On the flip side, “Pink Flags” emerged from the Wellness sessions as a hidden gem. Fueled by dynamic beats, ethereal guitars, and soaring choruses, this track sheds light on the band’s creative depth during that era.
The trajectory of Last Dinosaurs has been characterized by a gradual global expansion. Originating in 2007 with brothers Sean and Lachlan Caskey during their high school days at Brisbane State High, the band drew inspiration for their name from a song by Japanese outfit The Pillows, paying homage to their Japanese roots and early musical influences. Their initial breakthrough came through Triple J Unearthed, with their debut EP, Back From The Dead, and the song “Honolulu” gaining widespread airplay and access to premier Australian music festivals.
The release of their debut album, In A Million Years, in 2012, propelled Last Dinosaurs into the Australian Top 10 and paved the way for extensive tours across different continents. By the time Wellness hit the shelves in 2015, featuring hits like “Evie” and “Apollo”, Last Dinosaurs had firmly established themselves as a global touring sensation. This album not only charted on ARIA but also unveiled a more introspective and experimental facet of their musicality.
Subsequently, the band has undergone a continuous evolution. Yumeno Garden in 2018 and From Mexico With Love in 2022 showcased their self-produced creative evolution, with the latter influenced by Lachlan Caskey’s time in Mexico, marked by solitude and introspection. Their latest release, Kyoryu, in 2024 delved into cyberpunk themes, accompanied by EPs and manga series, reaffirming their commitment to immersive storytelling and world-building.
The unveiling of Wellnxss comes after a remarkable series of tours spanning across continents, affirming Last Dinosaurs’ stature as a formidable live act with a globally diverse fan base. As Wellness has matured into a fan favorite over time, previously overlooked tracks have found new life on stage, reshaping the band’s perception of the album.
With Wellnxss, Last Dinosaurs are not rewriting history, but rather reframing it, offering a more comprehensive and assured rendition of an album that shaped their musical identity. This release serves as a tribute to their journey so far and a pledge for the road ahead.
Wellnxss is slated for release on February 13 via Nettwerk.