Off the back of a busy 2023 Gold Coast four-piece, Pet Rhino (formerly Lamu) are kicking things off this year with a percussively powerful new single, ‘Growing Pains’. The single launches as a precursor to their forthcoming six-stop Australian tour, marking the band's debut in numerous cities across the country.
Recorded on the Gold Coast and mixed by Blake Malone (Amy Shark, Client Liason, Tia Gostellow, Peach Fur), and mastered by George Georgiadis (Hockey Dad, The Vanns, Pacific Avenue), this latest release highlights the band's adeptness in seamlessly melding their distinctive warm surf-rock sound with infectious percussion, vibrant riffs and powerful lyrics.
Lyrically, the track delves into the delicate balance of managing personal struggles while fostering connection within relationships.
“‘Growing Pains’ has themes of mental health, relationships and reassurance. It explores the feelings that accompany these and how each theme can put pressure on another. The lyrics really shine through the song, showing signs of commitment and doubt supported by melodies that are powerful at times but also soothing, similar to the roller coaster of emotions and tests of strength that is mental health in relationships.”
KAIRO SMITH, PET RHINO
Having spent the last 12 months coming down off the high of releasing their debut EP ‘19th Ave’, and supporting it with a plethora of live shows with acts live Ivey, Peach Fur & Sycco, Pet Rhino have got their headlights set on another big year in 2024, where they’ll embark on a six-date tour down the east coast of Australia.
“We are all so, so excited for the tour! It’ll be our first time in a lot of the cities along the way and interstate in Victoria. I organised this tour completely independently, and to do so as an artist of our size is something to be proud of. It's a lot of work, but once we’re on the road, it will definitely be worth it. ”
KAIRO SMITH, PET RHINO
With plenty of excitement in the band about going on tour, the prospect of playing ‘Growing Pains’ in front of a live audience is exciting the band just as much.
“‘Growing Pains’ is very fun to play. The guitar and bass moves around the drums nicely.The main pattern is very snare-dominant and is quite unique in that the kick falls on every second bar, providing the listener with something different than your standard 4/4 rock beat. The claps were a decision made while in the studio by our producers. When we were recording, the six of us stood in a circle clapping. It felt like we were back at school holding back the laughter, it was a big highlight of the day.”
NICK TAYLOR, PET RHINO
‘Growing Pains’ is the first of many singles that Pet Rhino have scheduled for release in 2024, giving their steadily growing fanbase plenty to look forward to!
PET RHINO - ‘GROWING PAINS’ TOUR
Friday 19 April - Elsewhere, Gold Coast QLD w/ Ferny Fairway
Saturday 27 April - Hoey Moey, Coffs Harbour NSW w/ Ferny Fairway
Saturday 4 May- Tomcat, Brisbane QLD w/ Ferny Fairway
Friday 10 May - Hamilton Station Hotel, Newcastle NSW Supporting Camino Gold
Sunday 12 May - North Gong Hotel, Sydney NSW
Saturday 25 May - The Tote Hotel, Melbourne VIC