Wattmore have returned with their signature smirk and a bottle of something strong in “Romantic Side”, a raucous, twang-laced singalong that skewers dating culture with a wink and a wallop. The Brisbane-based duo, made up of brothers Aiden and Kai Boak, turned heads with their debut Circus Life in both country and punk circles. Now their “Romantic Side” is here to pour everyone another round.
From the first notes, the track lurches into life with a slithering string arrangement and thumping percussion. Then in comes the vocal — thick, swaggering, and endearingly rough-edged — like a bloke three drinks in and brimming with ironic wisdom. It’s charmingly off-kilter, like someone giving relationship advice they wouldn’t dare follow themselves.
The playful viciousness buried in the satire is typical of Wattmore as he mock dating culture’s shallow performances while sounding like they’re halfway in love with the chaos of it all. Lines hit with a sideways glance, a wink, and a bit of spit. But beneath the punk bravado, there’s precision. The production by Lindsay Waddington is as tight as a snare, and the band’s chemistry with the best of Australia’s country session players keeps things humming with polish without losing edge.
It’s a stomping, stumbling anthem. Wattmore’s “Romantic Side” is a sure joy that you will love listening to on repeat. Check it out on Spotify.
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Review by: Naomi Joan