Total Control’s two albums, 2011’s Henge Beat and 2014’s Typical System, are available again for the first time since 2018.

Melbourne’s Total Control were active between 2008 and 2017, with members going on to play in Station Model Violence and Terry.  During this time, they released two full lengths as well as a myriad of EPs.  Their distinctive blend of propulsive, synth fuelled post-punk, languidly hallucinogenic drones, and subtly contagious anthems is not one shaped by an immediate sonic congruity, yet it is handled with a quite remarkable dexterity.  It is a seam that has, perhaps, been more widely explored in recent years.  However, rarely has it been done so with the sheer verve of these pioneers.

Indeed, it would be wholly wrong though to merely sideline these albums to those that they have subsequently influenced.  They still pack the same vibrant punch they delivered when first released.  Henge Beat unfurls like a fevered dream with a decidedly futuristic sheen.  And while Typical System is still bathed in this same languor, it more assertively explores to powerful effect the 1980s’ new wave influences (Flesh War still gets me every time) that flared during its predecessor.