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Red Temples Deliver Emotional Catharsis and Indie Rock Mastery on New EP ‘World Askew’

Perth indie-rock five-piece Red Temples return with their highly anticipated six-track EP World Askew, delivering a powerful blend of nostalgic storytelling, dynamic musicianship, and emotional depth that firmly cements them as one of Australia’s rising indie rock forces.

Opening with the toe-tapping energy of Tilt, the EP wastes no time showcasing the band’s knack for infectious hooks and layered arrangements. Previously released singles like Water from the Stars (a Top 5 finisher in WAM’s Song of the Year Rock Category) and Medicine Man sit seamlessly alongside new tracks, creating a cohesive sonic journey that ebbs and flows with heartfelt lyricism and expansive soundscapes.

One of the standout moments comes with Bad Apples, a singalong anthem brimming with energy and an irresistible chorus destined for festival stages. In contrast, Fall Back Plan offers a more introspective journey, beginning with gentle, reflective tones before evolving into a rich, emotionally-charged climax—highlighting the band’s ability to take listeners on a ride through sound and sentiment. Closing track Money Trees leaves a lasting impression with its ultra-catchy rock vibes and soaring melodies, perfectly encapsulating Red Temples’ signature style.

READ MORE: Jad Pinnone Shares 5 Musical Influences Behind His Unique Indie-Folk Sound

“World Askew for us, not only represents the 3 and a half year journey we’ve taken from starting this band – literally as an excuse to drink some beers and make some noise on a Tuesday night. But it also represents what each of us have been going through in our own lives, over that time. 

The juggle and struggles of (mid) life; family, work, kids, divorce, money, sickness, paired with the constant stream of media telling you the world is on fire, juxtaposed against living comfortably in one of the nicest places on earth in the best time ever to be alive. I think its sending us all (not just the band) searching for simple times from days gone by. Times that seemed easier and sweeter by design. 

These ideas have seeped their way into every song on the EP, each in different ways, but we did notice the trend and feel some solace in the fact we are all having the same feelings, so hopefully it resonates with a few others who might be feeling the same things too.” Red Temples.

Produced, mixed, and mastered by Sam Pettit at Fatback Studios, World Askew is a testament to Red Temples’ growth over their three-and-a-half-year journey. Themes of midlife challenges, societal pressures, and a yearning for simpler times give the record a relatable and poignant edge, resonating deeply with listeners navigating their own complexities.

Red Temples have not only defined their sound with World Askew but delivered one of the more compelling indie rock releases this year, an EP as timeless as it is timely.

Written by John Zebra