Sampling wizards The Avalanches mine magic from old ads and obsolete tech
After making three classic Australian albums, The Avalanches return with a record exploring sounds from old computers, forgotten advertising and the power of nostalgia.
The Avalanches, an Australian music group, have a unique ability to transport listeners back in time through their use of old ads and obsolete technology in their music. Co-founder Robbie Chater shared with Double J that people often hear commercials from 30 years ago and it instantly transports them, even if they think they've forgotten the tune.
Their 2000s hit Since I Left You, constructed from thousands of obscure analogue samples, made them unlikely stars. Their new album, No Bad Memories, continues this tradition by mining sounds from outdated technology and advertising, including a reference to floppy disks from an 1980s ad. The album features a diverse cast of collaborators and samples from various sources, including Carly Simon's Make Me Feel Something, and references to hardware malfunctions and Windows error sounds.
The Avalanches aim to celebrate and critique consumer culture through their music, with lead single Together featuring electronic acts Nikki Nair, Jessy Lanza, and viral musician Prentiss. The group's meticulous attention to detail and obsession with advertising music was a key influence in creating No Bad Memories.
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