Album Review: Dark Fair - Off Into My Head

Although Off Into My Head is only Dark Fair's debut album, they've been busily releasing EPs since 2012 and supporting bands like Sleater Kinney and Veruca Salt on their Aussie tours.

The comparisons are audible, but Dark Fair definitely lean more towards goth than riot grrrl, foregoing punk raucousness for a more measured, well-produced sound. They haven't lost energy in the process though, and Off Into My Head kicks off with a banger of a single - First Thing I Become - that brings The Breeders to mind.

Dark Fair have drawn inspiration from the '80s and '90s but their sound feels fresh, like they've nodded to their favourites but managed to avoid excessive nostalgia. Guitarist Ramona Moore's sound has a fuzzy, wall-of-noise quality that never overwhelms, but is satisfyingly big. When this combines with Ellie Dunn's solid rock drumming, the result is tight, catchy and made for head-bopping.

The second single off the album, Distance In The Line, is a definite highlight. With the aforementioned fuzzy riffs, a disco-punk drumbeat and hard-hitting lyrics about gun violence, it feels like Sonic Youth for a 2018 audience. Off Into My Head is a solid album that never loses steam and ends with a bang. Satisfying, good quality rock.