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Bodyjar
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Bodyjar are an Australian pop punk band which formed in 1990. They began performing under the name Bodyjar in 1994; their previous names included Damnation (1990–91) and Helium (1992–93). The latter group released an album, You Can't Hold Me Down, in October 1992. As Bodyjar their original line-up were Cameron Baines on vocals and guitar; Ben Petterson on vocals and guitar; Grant Relf on vocals and bass guitar; and Charles Zerafa on drums. In 1995 Ross Hetherington (ex-Bastard Squad, Swamp Rats) replaced Zerafa on drums. In 1999 Tom Read replaced Petterson on guitar and in 2004 Hetherington made way for Shane Wakker on drums.
Key Information
Bodyjar released six studio albums, Take a Look Inside (1994), Rimshot! (1996), No Touch Red (1998), How It Works (2000), Plastic Skies (2002) and Bodyjar (2005), before disbanding in September 2009. After a hiatus they reformed in March 2012, their next album, Role Model, appeared on 18 October 2013, together with corresponding tour dates.
History
[edit]1990–1993: Damnation and Helium
[edit]In 1990 future members of Bodyjar formed a rock group, Damnation, in Melbourne with Cameron Baines on guitar, Ben Petterson on guitar, Grant Relf on bass guitar and Charles Zerafa on drums.[1][2] Baines, Petterson and Relf had grown up in the same Melbourne suburb of Vermont and attended the same primary schools.[3] Damnation recorded two demos, Demo and Grow, before changing their name to Helium in 1992, as a pop punk group.[2][3] That group issued a demo, Bodyjar, in 1992 and followed with an album, You Can't Hold Me Down, on Shagpile Records in October that year.[3][4] It was co-produced by the band with Phil Rose (of Nursery Crimes) at Argenteuil Studios, Richmond. By 1994 Helium changed their name again, to Bodyjar, as a punk rock band.[5]
1994: Debut studio album, Take a Look Inside
[edit]Bodyjar line-up of Baines, Petterson, Relf and Zerafa recorded their studio album, Take a Look Inside, at Sing Sing Studios, Melbourne. It was co-produced by Bill Stevenson and Stephen Egerton (both from touring United States band, All) in March 1994.[3][6] In August 1994 they had their first gig, as Bodyjar, at the Great Britain Hotel, Richmond.[7] A five-track extended play, Time to Grow Up, was issued in that same month.[3] Take a Look Inside was released in September on Shagpile Records and distributed by Shock Records.[3][5][7] According to Howlspace website's Ed Nimmervoll "With the help of punk fanzines and all-ages gigs at pubs Bodyjar managed to build a formidable reputation despite grunge".[3] Also in 1994, they supported NOFX at the Prince of Wales in St. Kilda, with Wally Meanie's side project Even, and One Inch Punch (later Mid-Youth Crisis).
1995–1997: Rimshot! and No Touch Red
[edit]Charles Zerafa was replaced in 1995 by Ross Hetherington on drums – a former member of "hardcore punk outfits", Bastard Squad and Swamp Rats.[3] The group co-headlined a national tour with Pennywise and Blink-182 in December.[3][8] The band supported No Fun at All and Face to Face on tours of Japan (October 1995), Canada, Europe (March 1996) and then United States (April 1997).[3][5][9] On their European and US tours they promoted their next album, Rimshot! (February 1996).[3][9] It had been recorded in September 1995: the group co-produced with Kaj Dahlstrom (The Bo-Weevils, Nursery Crimes); with a US release on 3 September 1996.[10]
Bodyjar's third album, No Touch Red, was recorded the following year in Montreal over 12 days.
1998–2002 How it Works and Plastic Skies
[edit]Petterson left the band following the 1999 Big Day Out festival. Facing an impending breakup, the band added Read, formerly of 180 Discord, to the lineup. That year Bodyjar signed with EMI/Capitol, having completed a 33-song demo for their upcoming release. Though independent for the majority of their career, Bodyjar released two studio albums for EMI/Capitol in the early 2000s. The first album for the major label, How It Works, produced by Kalju Tonuma, reached the top 20 on the Australian ARIAnet albums chart in 2000 and achieved gold sales (35,000 copies). The album's first single, "Not the Same", was also featured in a Pepsi ad campaign and the video games Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 and MX Superfly.
After their second major label album, Plastic Skies, and the retrospective, Jarchives, featuring new and rare material, failed to build on the success of How It Works, Bodyjar returned to their former label, Shock Records.
2003–2009: Self-titled album and disbandment
[edit]They released a self-titled album in 2005 after Hetherington left the band in May 2004 while on tour with The Offspring. Hetherington was temporarily replaced for the remainder of the tour by Gordy Forman of Australian punk band Frenzal Rhomb. The role was then filled by Wakker, formerly of the band Channel 3, and he was named the group's permanent drummer later that year.
Despite having their commercial peak seemingly behind them, Bodyjar remained a major attraction on the all-ages circuit in Australia, and continued to tour and play festivals. Selections from their discography have also been repackaged and released for the American and Japanese markets, where they have consolidated live followings.
On 10 January 2008, the band said a new album "looks to be shaping up for late in the year". However, the band announced on 4 September 2009, they would be calling it quits after a farewell tour, which took place between October and December 2009.[11][12] The band reformed for a one-off gig in April 2011 to celebrate the Royal Artillery Hotel (The Arthouse) venue's last drinks calendar.
2012: reformation
[edit]Bodyjar reunited in March 2012 to perform No Touch Red in its entirety at Melbourne's Corner Hotel, together with former tour mates One Dollar Short, Antiskeptic and Game Over. Regarding the show, bassist Relf remarked, "When a good friend of Bodyjar's says they want to start a label and release one of your old albums on vinyl, you don't have to think too long or too hard about the response. No Touch Red kicked some arse back in the day and still holds its head up high all these years later, so I say let there be vinyl and a show to boot."[13]
2013–2016: Role Model
[edit]As of February 2013, Bodyjar has performed as a support act for various touring bands in Australia, such as The Descendents. Read explained in an October 2013 interview that, following the Descendents tour, the band had "a little bit of money in the bank" and decided to write and record for a new album: "we just thought let's write some songs and if they are good enough we can record them and if they're not then we can spend the money on beer I guess. But they turned out really well."[14]
Satisfied with their new songs, the band announced the release of a new record, Role Model, which is the first collection of new material in eight years. The first single, "Fairytales", premiered on 12 September 2013.[15] Prior to the release of Role Model, Read explained the motivation that underpinned the album:
... we had just finished the No Touch Red tour and I had a conversation with Grant about writing a fast kind of album like that, doing what we are good at and stop fucking around with slower songs and big rock riffs. Just do what comes natural and write for ourselves again. There is a lot of emphasis on having fun this time around, I think that has come through on the record. "Stop enjoying yourself and have some fun".[16]
Read also explained that Tom Larkin of New Zealand band Shihad produced the album at his own studios in Brunswick, Melbourne, Australia, and that the band referenced the sound production of the bands Refused, Foo Fighters and Starmarket for the recording process. Joey Cape, of Lagwagon, and Ahren Stringer, of The Amity Affliction, contributed vocals to the album, while a guitar solo was recorded by Stephen Egerton of Descendents.[16]
Bodyjar enlisted Australian independent music label UNFD to release Role Model on 18 October 2013, and bundle packages that included a skateboard deck, a T-shirt and a stubby holder were released. Baines hired Dutch design company ATTAK to create the artwork for the album.[16]
2017–present: Terra Firma and New Rituals
[edit]On 13 October 2017 the band released a new EP, Terra Firma on three vinyl colour-ways limited to 100 copies each.
Bodyjar were one of the first bands to return to live shows following Melbourne's COVID lockdown period. The band returned in January 2021 with a show at 170 Russell.
On 1 December 2021, Bodyjar announced their eighth studio album New Rituals, released on 4 February 2022; 9 years after their previous studio album Role Model. Recording of New Rituals took place throughout 2020 and 2021, a process which was heavily delayed by Melbourne's numerous COVID lockdowns.
On 17 September 2025 a new single Here Lies Caroline was released.[17]
Side projects
[edit]At the beginning of 2007, Baines and Wakker launched a side project called Cola Wars, a moniker that Baines has used for various projects since 1999—Mark Brunott (Automan, The Volume10, and Steelbirds) and Mikey Juler (ex-For Amusement Only) completed the lineup. The band have played under other pseudonyms, such as "Daughters of the Rich" and "William Shatner's Dacks".[citation needed]
Read's and Relf's side project is called Burn The City, which also involves a former member of Australian band One Dollar Short on drums.[14]
Personal lives
[edit]Shane Wakker is from the Victorian town of Moe. Cameron Baines's wedding to wife Regan occurred in late April 2012.[18][19]
Since 2016, Baines has operated Locality Store in Greensborough, which sells skateboards and equipment, music, and apparel.
Members
[edit]Current members
[edit]- Cameron Baines – guitars, lead vocals (1990–2009, 2012–present)
- Tom Read – guitars, backing and occasional lead vocals (1999–2009, 2012–present)
- Shane Wakker – drums, backing vocals (2004–2009, 2012–present)
- Nick Manuell – bass, backing vocals (2019–present)
Past members
[edit]- Ben Pettersson – guitars, lead vocals (1990–1999)
- Grant Relf – bass, backing vocals (1990–2009, 2012–2019)
- Charles Zerafa – drums (1990–1995)
- Ross Hetherington – drums (1995–2004)
Timeline
[edit]
Discography
[edit]Studio albums
[edit]| Title | Album details | Peak chart positions |
|---|---|---|
| AUS [20] | ||
| You Can't Hold Me Down (released by Helium) |
|
— |
| Take a Look Inside |
|
— |
| Rimshot! |
|
— |
| No Touch Red |
|
— |
| How It Works |
|
19 |
| Plastic Skies |
|
37 |
| Bodyjar |
|
47 |
| Role Model |
|
30 |
| New Rituals |
|
35 [21] |
Live albums
[edit]| Title | Album details |
|---|---|
| Is It Alive |
|
| The End Is Now |
|
Compilation albums
[edit]| Title | Album details |
|---|---|
| Singles and Stuff |
|
| Jarchives: 10 Years of Bodyjar |
|
| Time To Grow Up |
|
Extended plays
[edit]| Title | EP details |
|---|---|
| Time to Grow Up |
|
| Gee And Al / Do Not Do |
|
| Strange Harvest |
|
| You Got Me a Girls Bike You Idiot! |
|
| Terra Firma |
|
Singles
[edit]| Year | Title | Peak chart positions | Album |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUS[23] | |||
| 1994 | "Time To Grow Up" | – | Time To Grow Up |
| 1996 | "Glossy Books" | – | Rimshot |
| 1998 | "Remote Controller" | – | No Touch Red |
| "Return to Zero" | – | ||
| 1999 | "A Hazy Shade of Winter" | – | Singles and Stuff |
| 2000 | "Not the Same" | 69 | How It Works |
| "Fall to the Ground" | 56 | ||
| 2001 | "Feed It" | 60 | |
| "Five Minutes Away" | – | ||
| 2002 | "Is It a Lie" | 56 | Plastic Skies |
| "One in a Million" | 65 | ||
| "Feel Better" | – | ||
| 2003 | "Too Drunk to Drive" | – | |
| "17 Years" | – | Jarchives (10 Years of Bodyjar) | |
| 2005 | "Lights Out " | 78 | Bodyjar |
| 2013 | "Fairytales" | – | Role Model |
| "Hope Was Leaving"[24] | – | ||
| 2017 | "Terra Firma" | – | Terra Firma |
| 2020 | "Big Shot"[25] | – | New Rituals |
| 2021 | "Get Out Of My Head"[26] | – | |
| "Rain"[27] | – | ||
| 2025 | "Here lies Caroline"[17] | – | – |
References
[edit]- ^ Tauschke, Steve (7 November 2003). "From the Jarchives". The Age. Fairfax Media. Retrieved 9 July 2015.
- ^ a b Dillon, Charlotte. "Bodyjar – Music Biography". Allmusic. All Media Guide. Retrieved 9 July 2015.
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j k Nimmervoll, Ed. "Bodyjar". Howlspace – The Living History of Our Music. White Room Electronic Publishing Pty Ltd (Ed Nimmervoll). Archived from the original on 14 April 2002. Retrieved 9 July 2015.
- ^ Robinson, Brooke (2003). "An interview with Bodyjar". Australian Music Resource and Webzine. Oz Music Project. Archived from the original on 8 August 2004. Retrieved 9 July 2015.
- ^ a b c McFarlane, Ian (1999). "Encyclopedia entry for 'Bodyjar'". Encyclopedia of Australian Rock and Pop. St Leonards, NSW: Allen & Unwin. ISBN 1-86508-072-1. Archived from the original on 29 August 2002. Retrieved 9 July 2015.
- ^ "Take a Look Inside – Bodyjar | Credits". AllMusic. All Media Guide. Retrieved 9 July 2015.
- ^ a b Newstead, Al (28 May 2014). "Bodyjar Are Offering the Greatest VIP Ticket Bundle Ever". Tone Deaf. Nicholas Jones. Retrieved 9 July 2015.
- ^ "Looking Back on Pennywise's 1995 Australian Tour". Rest Assured. Rest Assured Zine. 27 March 2013. Archived from the original on 11 March 2015. Retrieved 9 July 2015.
- ^ a b "Bodyjar – Guest programmers". rage. Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). 9 September 2000. Archived from the original on 8 June 2017. Retrieved 9 July 2015.
- ^ "Rimshot! – Bodyjar | Credits". AllMusic. All Media Guide. Retrieved 11 July 2015. Note: producer's last name is given as "Dahlstrol".
- ^ [1] Archived 19 July 2011 at the Wayback Machine
- ^ Paul, Aubin (30 September 2009). "Bodyjar (Farewell Tour)". Punknews.org. Retrieved 12 October 2022.
- ^ [2][dead link]
- ^ a b Cassie Walker (23 October 2013). "Tom Read – Bodyjar (23/10/2013)". The 59th Sound. Archived from the original on 29 October 2013. Retrieved 24 October 2013.
- ^ "BODYJAR – Fairytales [Official Music Video]". YouTube. 11 September 2013. Archived from the original on 22 December 2021. Retrieved 12 October 2013.
- ^ a b c Bomber (13 October 2013). "On The Record – Bodyjar". Bombshellzine.com. Archived from the original on 16 October 2013. Retrieved 14 October 2013.
- ^ a b "HERE LIES CAROLINE - OUT NOW ON DIGITAL PLATFORMS". Facebook. 17 September 2025. Retrieved 9 July 2015.
- ^ "It's a Cola Wars wedding! Congrats Cam + Regan!! – with Cameron Baines, Mikey Juler, Mark Brunott and Shane Wakker". Cola Wars on Facebook. Facebook. 28 April 2012. Retrieved 24 October 2013.
- ^ "Bodyjar Pull Out Of Tonight's NOFX Show". 20 November 2014.
- ^ Top 50 peaks after 1988: "australian-charts.com – Discography Bodyjar". Hung Medien. Retrieved 28 February 2020.Kent, David (2006). Australian Chart Book (1993–2005). Turramurra, N.S.W.: Australian Chart Book, 2006. ISBN 0-646-45889-2.
- ^ "ARIA Top 50 Albums Chart". Australian Recording Industry Association. 14 February 2022. Retrieved 11 February 2022.
- ^ "Terra Firma (EP)". Apple Music. October 2017. Retrieved 28 February 2020.
- ^ Ryan, Gavin (2011). Australia's Music Charts 1988–2010. Mt. Martha, VIC, Australia: Moonlight Publishing.
- ^ Mike Hohnen (12 September 2013). "Bodyjar Announce New Album Role Model, Unveil New Video "Fairytales" – MusicFeeds". MusicFeeds. Retrieved 28 February 2020.
- ^ "Ummmm Bodyjar Released A New Song Called "Big Shot"". Wall of Sound. March 2020. Retrieved 9 February 2022.
- ^ "Get Out Of My Head – Rain [Official Music Video]". YouTube. 15 September 2021. Retrieved 9 February 2022.
- ^ "Bodyjar – Rain [Official Music Video]". YouTube. 1 December 2021. Retrieved 9 February 2022.
External links
[edit]- Official website
- Bodyjar discography at Discogs
| International | |
|---|---|
| National | |
| Artists | |
Bodyjar
View on Grokipediafrom Grokipedia
History
1990–1993: Formation as Damnation and Helium
Bodyjar originated in the Melbourne suburb of Mitcham in 1990, initially forming as the band Damnation. The founding lineup included Cameron Baines on vocals and guitar, Ben Petterson on vocals and guitar, Grant Relf on bass, and Charles Zerafa on drums. Drawing from the local punk and skateboarding culture, the group bonded over shared influences like the Descendents, Misfits, Ramones, and Metallica, often performing covers of these acts during their earliest shows. In 1992, Damnation changed its name to Helium to better reflect their evolving pop punk sound. Under this moniker, the band recorded and released their debut album, You Can't Hold Me Down, which captured their raw, energetic style and marked their first foray into original material. The album was produced locally and distributed within Melbourne's underground scene, helping to establish Helium's presence among punk enthusiasts.[5] During this period, Helium immersed themselves in Melbourne's vibrant suburban punk scene, playing gigs at venues like The Hull in Croydon, where they honed their live performance skills in front of small but dedicated crowds. Guitarist Ben Petterson later recalled these early shows, noting, "That was when we were playing at a place in Croydon called The Hull." These performances in local halls and clubs fostered connections within the community and laid the groundwork for their future development. In 1994, the band transitioned to the name Bodyjar, signaling a more permanent identity shift.1994–1997: Take a Look Inside and Rimshot!
In early 1994, the band officially adopted the name Bodyjar, marking a shift from their previous moniker Helium.[6] Their first performance under this name took place in August 1994 at the Great Britain Hotel in Richmond, Melbourne.[7] That same month, Bodyjar released their debut EP, Time to Grow Up!, on Shagpile Records, featuring tracks such as "Time to Grow Up," "Kitchen Knife," and "Deceive."[8] In March 1994, the core lineup of vocalist/guitarist Cameron Baines, guitarist Ben Petterson, bassist Grant Relf, and drummer Charles Zerafa recorded their debut album, Take a Look Inside, at Sing Sing Studios in Melbourne.[9] The sessions were produced by Bill Stevenson and Stephen Egerton of Descendents and All, whose involvement helped refine the band's raw skate punk sound.[10] The album was released in September 1994 through Shagpile Records, distributed by Shock Records, and included energetic tracks like "Do Not Do" and "Joker," establishing Bodyjar's presence in the Australian punk scene.[11] In 1995, Ross Hetherington (formerly of Bastard Squad and Swamp Rats) joined the band on drums, replacing Zerafa and solidifying the lineup for their next phase.[11] That September, Bodyjar returned to Sing Sing Studios to record their second album, Rimshot!, co-produced with Kaj Dahlstrom (of The Bo-Weevils and Nursery Crimes).[12] Released in February 1996 on Shagpile/Shock Records, the album showcased a maturing punk edge with standout tracks including "Glossy Books," "Don't Tell Me," and "Board!," though it did not chart commercially at the time.[11] Despite the lack of immediate chart success, Rimshot! helped cultivate a dedicated fanbase through its blend of fast-paced riffs and melodic hooks, reflecting influences from skate punk pioneers like Descendents. The album's promotion brought early international exposure, as Bodyjar toured Australia alongside Pennywise and Blink-182 during the 1996 Good Times Tour, sharing stages with the rising acts in cities like Brisbane and Sydney.[13] They extended their reach with European and U.S. tours in 1996–1997, supporting Rimshot! and building connections in the global punk community, including a U.S. release on Revelation Records in September 1996.[11]1998–2002: No Touch Red, How It Works, and Plastic Skies
In 1998, Bodyjar recorded their third studio album, No Touch Red, at Morin Heights Studios in Montreal, Canada, over a period of 12 days.[14] The album was produced by Jim Monroe and mixed at The Blasting Room in Fort Collins, Colorado, by Bill Stevenson and Stephen Egerton of The Descendents and Black Flag.[15] Released in February 1998 on the independent label Shagpile Records, No Touch Red built on the band's skate punk roots, contributing to their growing popularity within Australian punk and skateboarding scenes through high-energy tracks and relentless touring.[15] The album's raw production and themes of youthful rebellion resonated with fans, leading to sold-out shows in Australia and international dates in Japan, Singapore, and Thailand alongside acts like H2O.[16] Following the release, the band experienced a lineup change in 1999 when founding guitarist Ben Petterson departed after their performance at the Big Day Out festival.[11] Tom Read, formerly of 180 Discord, joined as the new guitarist, stabilizing the group as they transitioned to a major label.[17] That year, Bodyjar signed with EMI/Capitol Records, which provided broader distribution and resources for their next projects.[17] This deal marked a shift from independent releases, enabling wider exposure while maintaining their pop punk sound evolved from skate punk influences. The major-label debut, How It Works, arrived on August 21, 2000, produced by Kalju Tonuma at Sing Sing Studios in Melbourne.[18] The album peaked at number 19 on the ARIA Albums Chart and was certified gold by ARIA for sales exceeding 35,000 units in Australia.[19][20] Lead single "Not the Same" reached number 69 on the ARIA Singles Chart and gained significant traction in skate culture through its inclusion on the soundtrack for Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3, introducing the band to international gamers and boosting video game tie-in visibility.[21][22] Follow-up single "Fall to the Ground" charted at number 56 on the ARIA Singles Chart, further solidifying their domestic presence.[23] Plastic Skies, released on June 10, 2002, continued the collaboration with producer Kalju Tonuma at Sing Sing Studios.[24] It debuted at number 37 on the ARIA Albums Chart, reflecting sustained but slightly diminished commercial momentum compared to its predecessor.[25] Standout tracks like "Calling Every Blame" showcased the band's maturing songwriting, blending melodic hooks with punk aggression. During this era, Bodyjar's media profile grew through festival slots, including the 1999 Big Day Out and the 2002 Vans Warped Tour in Australia and the U.S., alongside national and international tours supporting Plastic Skies that packed venues and reinforced their status as a key player in the Australian punk scene.[26][27][11]2003–2009: Self-titled album and disbandment
In 2003, Bodyjar marked their tenth anniversary with the release of the compilation album Jarchives: 10 Years of Bodyjar on November 11 through EMI, featuring a collection of B-sides, rarities, and fan favorites from their catalog up to that point.[28] The album included tracks such as "17 Years" and a cover of Simon & Garfunkel's "A Hazy Shade of Winter," alongside contributions from earlier lineups, serving as a retrospective of the band's evolution from their punk roots.[29] The band's stability was disrupted in May 2004 when longtime drummer Ross Hetherington departed during a tour supporting The Offspring, citing personal reasons after a decade with the group.[30] Hetherington was temporarily replaced by Frenzal Rhomb's Gordy Stead for the remainder of the tour, but by August 2004, Bodyjar had recruited Shane Wakker as their permanent drummer, allowing the band to refocus on new material amid the transition.[31] This lineup change coincided with their exit from major label EMI, leading to a period of uncertainty as they navigated independent status. Bodyjar's self-titled sixth studio album, recorded with producer Richard Stolz, was released on September 12, 2005, through the independent label Shock Records in Australia.[32] The band described the project as emerging from a "long and kinda painful process," involving the loss of their drummer, record label, and management, but resulting in a raw, energetic collection honed during a writing retreat in Lorne, with standout tracks like "Call to Arms" and "Outside In" emphasizing themes of resilience and unity.[32] Following this, they captured their live intensity on the album Is It Alive, a double-disc set recorded at Sydney's Annandale Hotel and released on February 24, 2007, via Shock, featuring performances of classics such as "Sequel" and "Not the Same."[33] By the late 2000s, persistent challenges from extensive touring and the demands of operating as an independent act had taken a toll on the band, culminating in their announcement on September 4, 2009, that they would disband after a final farewell tour titled "The End Is Now."[34] The tour spanned October to December across Australia, with support from acts like The Hot Lies and Paper Arms, providing fans a last opportunity to see the group perform hits from their catalog.[35] It concluded with their final show on December 4, 2009, at Fowler's Live in Adelaide, marking the end of nearly two decades of activity.[36]2012: Reformation
After a three-year hiatus following their 2009 disbandment, Bodyjar reformed in March 2012, driven by persistent fan interest and opportunities to perform at major events. The band's official reunion was marked by their first post-hiatus show at the Corner Hotel in Melbourne on 31 March 2012, where they performed their 1998 album No Touch Red in its entirety to mark its approximate 15th anniversary, alongside select classics. This performance coincided with a limited vinyl re-release of the album, limited to 350 copies.[37][38] The reunion featured the core lineup of vocalist and guitarist Cameron Baines, guitarist Tom Read, bassist Grant Relf, and drummer Shane Wakker, all of whom had contributed to the band's mid-2000s output. The Melbourne gig sold out quickly, reflecting strong ongoing demand from fans, and was supported by reunited acts such as One Dollar Short and Antiskeptic. Buoyed by the enthusiastic reception, the band scheduled a second Melbourne performance the night before at The Esplanade Hotel in St Kilda on 30 March 2012.[39][40][41] Throughout the rest of 2012, Bodyjar expanded their activities with additional one-off shows across Australia, including sell-outs in Adelaide and a national tour of No Touch Red performances in cities like Brisbane, Sydney, and Newcastle. These appearances underscored a revitalized enthusiasm among the members, with Baines noting the joy of reconnecting with longtime supporters without pressure for new material at the time. The band emphasized enjoying the live energy and nostalgia, stating there were no immediate plans for recording a new album.[42][43][44]2013–2016: Role Model
Following their reformation, Bodyjar signed with the Australian independent label UNFD Records in 2013 to handle distribution for their anticipated comeback album. The band recorded Role Model with producer Tom Larkin of the New Zealand rock group Shihad, marking their first collaboration with him.[45] Released on October 18, 2013, the album debuted and peaked at number 30 on the ARIA Albums Chart.[46] The record featured guest vocal contributions from Joey Cape of Lagwagon and Ahren Stringer of The Amity Affliction.[47] To promote it, the band issued the lead single "Fairytales," which was made available as a free download alongside a music video.[48] Role Model showcased the band's signature pop-punk energy, blending fast-paced riffs with introspective lyrics on themes like personal growth and resilience. In support of the album, Bodyjar undertook an extensive Australian tour from late 2013 through 2014, encompassing headline shows and support slots for acts like Samiam during their 20th anniversary run.[49] The band maintained steady activity into 2016, appearing at festivals such as the inaugural City Limits event in Western Australia alongside Jebediah and Gyroscope, with no significant lineup changes during this period.2017–2025: Terra Firma, New Rituals, and recent developments
In 2017, Bodyjar released their EP Terra Firma on October 13 through We Are Unified, marking their return to recording after a four-year hiatus. The four-track effort featured high-energy pop punk songs such as "Burning It Down For Nothing," "Money Box," "Get It Right," and "Elon Musk," showcasing the band's signature fast-paced riffs and anthemic choruses.[50] This release helped reestablish their presence in the Australian punk scene following the 2013 album Role Model. By 2019, the band's lineup saw a significant change when founding bassist Grant Relf departed, with Nick Manuell stepping in on bass and backing vocals to maintain the group's momentum.[51] Manuell, a longtime collaborator in Melbourne's punk community, brought fresh energy to the rhythm section alongside drummer Shane Wakker and vocalists/guitarists Cameron Baines and Tom Read. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted Bodyjar's next project, as recording for their eighth studio album New Rituals spanned 2020 and 2021 but faced repeated delays due to Melbourne's extended lockdowns and restrictions.[51] Released on February 4, 2022, via their own Pile of Sand Records, the album captured the band's resilient spirit with tracks emphasizing themes of perseverance and nostalgia, ultimately peaking at number 35 on the ARIA Albums Chart.[52][53] In 2023, Bodyjar marked the 25th anniversary of their seminal 1998 album No Touch Red with a limited reissue on translucent red vinyl, pressed in just 150 copies exclusively for fans and collectors.[54] This special edition highlighted the enduring legacy of the record, which had solidified their place in Australian punk history. The band maintained a robust touring schedule through the mid-2020s, including a co-headlining anniversary run with Gyroscope in September 2023, where Bodyjar performed their full No Touch Red set and Gyroscope delivered Breed Obsession in its entirety.[55] They also made key festival appearances, such as at Froth & Fury in Adelaide on November 9, 2024, delivering a high-octane set of classics that energized the all-ages crowd.[56] In 2025, Bodyjar headlined Yours & Owls Festival in Wollongong on March 2 and Dansonfest in Canberra on April 26, further cementing their status as punk veterans.[57][58] That summer, they embarked on a European tour with Urethane and select dates featuring Angry Youth Elite, including shows in Germany such as Oberhausen on August 3.[59] On September 17, 2025, Bodyjar surprise-released the standalone digital single "Here Lies Caroline," a raw, introspective track that hinted at potential new material amid their ongoing activity.[60] This release, available across streaming platforms, underscored the band's continued evolution while staying true to their pop punk roots.Musical style and influences
Musical style
Bodyjar's musical style is rooted in pop punk with strong skate punk influences, characterized by fast tempos typically ranging from 160 to 200 beats per minute, infectious catchy melodies, gang vocals, and humorous lyrics addressing themes of youth, relationships, and rebellion.[61][62] The band's sound emphasizes high-energy performances, with dual guitars providing layered harmonies and riff-driven structures, complemented by prominent driving bass lines and rapid, intricate drumming that propels the tracks forward.[63][64] This core aesthetic delivers a blend of raw aggression and melodic accessibility, making their music ideal for mosh pits and sing-alongs. In their early 1990s work, such as the album Rimshot!, Bodyjar showcased a raw, unpolished energy infused with hardcore and metal riff influences, featuring razor-sharp guitars and thrashy elements that bordered on heavier genres while maintaining skate punk's speedy, rebellious spirit.[65] By the mid-2000s, the band's self-titled album represented a noticeable evolution toward more rock-oriented song structures, incorporating cleaner production techniques and deeper emotional introspection in the lyrics and arrangements, diverging somewhat from their initial punk ferocity.[65][32] Following their 2012 reformation, Bodyjar's style in the 2010s and 2020s, as heard on New Rituals, integrated mature thematic elements—reflecting personal growth and reflection—while preserving the driving punk ethos and melodic hooks of their earlier era, enhanced by polished production from Steve Evetts that amplifies the snarly vocals and dynamic instrumentation.[66][67][68]Influences
Bodyjar's formation and early sound were heavily shaped by the melodic punk pioneered by the Descendents, whose drummer Bill Stevenson and guitarist Stephen Egerton produced the band's 1998 album No Touch Red. Frontman Cameron Baines has described Stevenson as one of his childhood heroes, crediting the Descendents' blend of pop melodies and distorted guitars for inspiring the band's initial drive to form after Baines returned from a U.S. trip with their tape. This connection extended to the Descendents' side project All, as Egerton's production work reinforced Bodyjar's adoption of tight, harmonious punk structures.[69] The band also drew from Bad Religion's rapid, intellectually charged energy, particularly in crafting fast-paced openers that defined their edgier early tracks on albums like Take a Look Inside. NOFX's influence is evident in Bodyjar's melodic songwriting and humorous undertones, aligning with the California punk wave that informed their structures during the 1990s skate punk boom. In the broader skate punk scene, Pennywise and Face to Face impacted Bodyjar through shared touring partnerships and high-energy performances, with Face to Face specifically cited for influencing songs like "Petty Problems" on Role Model.[65] Fugazi provided a key inspiration for experimental guitar techniques, as Baines noted their single-key focus shaped tracks like "Sequel" on No Touch Red. The DIY ethos of The Clash further guided Bodyjar's independent approach to recording and touring, emphasizing self-reliance in the punk tradition. Their inclusion on the Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 2 soundtrack with "Not the Same" amplified ties to 1990s skate culture bands like Goldfinger, whose upbeat punk similarly captured the era's vibrant energy. Baines has highlighted the Australian punk scene, including Frenzal Rhomb, as a local influence, with frequent joint tours reinforcing shared melodic and irreverent elements.[65][70][68]Band members
Current members
Cameron Baines serves as Bodyjar's lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist, having co-founded the band in 1990 initially under the name Damnation alongside Ben Petterson in Melbourne, Australia. The group later adopted the names Helium before settling on Bodyjar in 1994, with Baines remaining the sole constant member throughout the band's history, including its disbandment in 2009 and reformation in 2012. As the frontman, he has driven much of the band's creative direction, contributing vocals and guitar across all studio albums from Take a Look Inside (1994) to New Rituals (2022).[69][64] Tom Read joined Bodyjar in 1999 as the lead guitarist, replacing co-founder Ben Petterson, and has since provided backing and occasional lead vocals alongside his guitar work. His tenure coincides with key releases such as How It Works (2000), where he began contributing significantly to songwriting and production, continuing through albums like Role Model (2013) and New Rituals (2022). Read's involvement has helped shape the band's pop punk sound, including co-production on later projects and guest appearances on other artists' tracks.[71][72][65] Shane Wakker has been Bodyjar's drummer since 2004, when he replaced Ross Hetherington, and delivers backing vocals during live performances and recordings. He first appeared on the band's self-titled album in 2005 and has been integral to subsequent efforts, including the reformation-era releases Role Model (2013), Terra Firma EP (2017), and New Rituals (2022), providing the driving rhythm section that supports the group's energetic punk rock style. Wakker's solid drumming has been praised for its tightness in maintaining the band's fast-paced sound.[32][73][74] Nick Manuell took over as bassist in 2019, succeeding founding member Grant Relf, and adds backing vocals to the lineup. Prior to joining Bodyjar, Manuell gained experience performing with bands like The Sinking Teeth and Hawaiian Islands, as well as on cruise ship tours with groups including Single Motive and Raging Hormones. His debut with the band came on New Rituals (2022), where he contributed to the bass lines that underpin the album's mature pop punk tracks, helping sustain the group's momentum into their fourth decade.[51][68][75]Former members
Bodyjar's former members played pivotal roles in the band's development from its origins in the early 1990s through its periods of growth, disbandment, and reformation. Ben Petterson co-founded the band and served as guitarist and vocalist from 1990 to 1999, contributing to its foundational punk rock sound. He performed on early cassette releases and albums including Take a Look Inside (1994), Rimshot! (1996), and No Touch Red (1998), where his dual role on guitar and vocals helped define the group's energetic, melodic style. Petterson departed in 1999, paving the way for Tom Read to join on guitar.[2][63][10][1] Charles Zerafa was the original drummer from 1990 to 1995, providing the rhythmic drive for the band's initial incarnation under names like Damnation and Helium. His contributions included early cassette demos such as Damnation/Helium and drums on the debut album Take a Look Inside (1994), before the lineup evolved. Zerafa left in 1995 and was succeeded by Ross Hetherington.[2][76] Ross Hetherington joined as drummer in 1995, replacing Zerafa, and stayed until 2004, spanning a key era of the band's rising popularity. He appeared on Rimshot! (1996), No Touch Red (1998), How It Works (2000), and Plastic Skies (2002), delivering fast-paced, intricate drumming that supported the group's shift toward more polished pop-punk arrangements. Hetherington departed in 2004, after which Shane Wakker took over on drums.[2][12][77] Grant Relf, a founding member, handled bass and backing vocals from 1990 to 2009 and rejoined from 2012 to 2019, making him one of the longest-tenured contributors across multiple phases. He played on virtually all major releases up to the Terra Firma EP (2017), including through the self-titled album (2005), disbandment, and reformation, offering consistent low-end support and vocal harmonies. Relf left in 2019 amid the band's ongoing activity.[2][51][63]Timeline
| Year/Period | Key Lineup Changes | Active Members |
|---|---|---|
| 1990–1994 (Pre-Bodyjar: Damnation/Helium/Jigsaw) | Formation of the band with original lineup. | Cameron Baines (guitar/vocals), Ben Petterson (guitar/vocals), Grant Relf (bass), Charles Zerafa (drums).[63][11] |
| 1994–1995 | Name change to Bodyjar; continued with original lineup until drum replacement. | Cameron Baines (guitar/vocals), Ben Petterson (guitar/vocals), Grant Relf (bass), Charles Zerafa (drums) until 1995.[2][78] |
| 1995–1999 | Ross Hetherington joins on drums, replacing Zerafa. | Cameron Baines (guitar/vocals), Ben Petterson (guitar/vocals), Grant Relf (bass), Ross Hetherington (drums).[78][65] |
| 1999–2004 | Tom Read joins on guitar, replacing Petterson after the 1999 Big Day Out festival. | Cameron Baines (guitar/vocals), Tom Read (guitar), Grant Relf (bass), Ross Hetherington (drums).[78][17] |
| 2004–2009 | Shane Wakker joins on drums, replacing Hetherington. | Cameron Baines (guitar/vocals), Tom Read (guitar), Grant Relf (bass), Shane Wakker (drums). Band disbands in 2009.[78][79] |
| 2009–2012 | Band hiatus/disbandment. | Inactive. |
| 2012–2019 | Reformation with previous lineup. | Cameron Baines (guitar/vocals), Tom Read (guitar), Grant Relf (bass), Shane Wakker (drums).[2][65] |
| 2019–present | Nick Manuell joins on bass, replacing Relf. | Cameron Baines (guitar/vocals), Tom Read (guitar), Nick Manuell (bass), Shane Wakker (drums).[51][64] |