Album Review: Hockey Dad - Boronia

Lush production values, emotional complexity and refinement aren't elements you associate with surf rock, but Hockey Dad, hailing from Windang in Wollongong, challenge that — and have turned in a handsome debut record as evidence.

Boronia is a ripping album, boasting songwriting chops and production know-how usually found in bands with far more experience. Surf rock is a genre known for its energy and positivity, and it's fantastic that they've championed its core attitude and aesthetic while hoisting it up head and shoulders above others in terms of quality and accessibility.

I Need A Woman is a jangly wonder, a long lost doo wop song slathered with guitars and a chunky back beat. It's engaging, catchy and thanks to a smart mix has plenty of depth. It invites you in and it gives you room to breathe (garage often has a bludgeoning effect, whereas Hockey Dad's approach is more subtle and congenial).

Dylan's Place is a valiant attempt at real atmosphere. It has a chugging DIIV-like quality that is executed well and breaks up an admittedly repetitive tone late in the album. It fades into Two Forever, a dreamy Beach House homage that has surprising emotional impact. Closing instrumental Grange caps off a great album on a wistful note, eyes firmly on the horizon, looking for the next set to roll in.

Boronia is an ambitious record that really nails the upbeat vibe of the best surf rock and combines that with exciting ability and panache, and points to a band poised for great things.