Melbourne-based duo Milk Bar Gang has been making waves in the music scene since its formation in 2021 during the infamous Melbourne Covid Lockdowns. Comprising Felix Chapple on keyboards, guitars, and digital audio workstation (DAW), and Bianca Cao on vocals, art, and dance, the duo’s unique blend of talents brings a fresh and captivating sound to their music.
Felix Chapple, a seasoned musician who has played keyboards, organ, and piano with various Melbourne bands and musicians, brings his wealth of experience to the table. Having performed with notable acts such as Shamus Goble, Ted Cleaver, and Frente, among others, Chapple’s musical prowess shines through in Milk Bar Gang’s compositions.
Bianca Cao, originally from Beijing, adds a unique perspective to the duo. With a background in dance performance and visual art, Cao’s artistic sensibilities shape the creative direction of Milk Bar Gang, resulting in a visually stunning and sonically captivating experience.
In June 2022, Milk Bar Gang unveiled their debut 4-track EP, aptly titled “Open.” This collection of songs showcases the duo’s versatility and eclectic musical styles. Each track on the EP delves into a different theme, collectively touching on the complexities of contemporary society and personal experiences.
The EP opens with “Ozzie Ostriches Dream,” a thought-provoking piece that presents a gentle critique of consumerism as a means of denial and escape. The layered textures and sounds in this track captivate the listener, drawing them into Milk Bar Gang’s sonic landscape. “Love is Sick” takes a more intense approach, exposing the corruption of intimacy within contemporary culture. This fierce portrayal sheds light on the complexities of modern relationships and challenges societal norms, urging listeners to reflect on their own experiences.
“What You Seemed” offers a more introspective narrative, exploring personal loss and the emotions that accompany it. Milk Bar Gang’s ability to convey raw emotions through their music is evident in this track, providing a heartfelt connection with listeners. Closing the EP is “Angelica Luna,” a poetic tribute to nature. Through mesmerizing melodies and evocative lyrics, Milk Bar Gang invites listeners to appreciate the beauty of the natural world and find solace within it.
“Open” as a whole showcases Milk Bar Gang’s talent for creating immersive musical experiences. The duo’s use of layered textures and sounds, combined with thought-provoking lyrics, provides a captivating sonic journey for listeners. Milk Bar Gang’s EP, “Open,” serves as a testament to the duo’s ability to merge their unique backgrounds and artistic talents into a cohesive musical expression. Through their exploration of contemporary culture and personal reflection, Milk Bar Gang invites listeners to delve deeper into the complexities of the world we live in and embrace the power of openness and vulnerability.
Milk Bar Gang’s use of garage band in the recording, mixing, and mastering of the EP adds an element of rawness and authenticity to their music. This DIY approach allows them to capture the essence of their sound and create a sense of intimacy between the listener and the music. The lyrics throughout the EP carry a profound message, touching on themes of alienation in a consumer society. Milk Bar Gang’s desire to provoke thought and stimulate introspection is evident in their lyrics, providing a deeper layer of meaning to their songs.
One of the strengths of Milk Bar Gang is their ability to create intricate layers of textures and sounds. The carefully crafted instrumentation and arrangements within each track create a sonic tapestry that engages the senses and keeps listeners captivated from start to finish. “Open” as a whole is a testament to Milk Bar Gang’s artistic vision and their desire to push boundaries. The EP invites listeners to explore the complexities of contemporary culture while providing a space for personal reflection and introspection. It is a sonic journey that resonates with listeners on multiple levels, evoking emotions and challenging societal norms.
As Milk Bar Gang continues to grow and evolve, their dedication to their craft and their willingness to explore new musical territories is evident. With their debut EP “Open,” they have made a bold statement and laid the foundation for what promises to be an exciting musical journey.
Milk Bar Gang’s “Open” EP is a testament to the power of artistic expression and the ability of music to transcend boundaries. Through their unique blend of talents, the duo has crafted a collection of songs that invites listeners to open their minds, explore their emotions, and embrace the beauty and complexity of the world around them.
Ozzie Ostriches Dream
Love is Sick
What you seemed
Angelina Luna
ABOUT THE DUO:
Milk Bar Gang formed in 2021 during the infamous Melbourne Covid Lockdowns. Confined to their living room Felix Chapple (Keyboards, Guitars, DAW) and Bianca Cao (Vocals, Art, Dance) began writing, rehearsing and recording songs for a new music project.
Felix has played keyboards, organ and piano with many different Melbourne bands and musicians. Performing with the likes of Shamus Goble, Ted Cleaver, Duncan Foster, Meloncholiflowers, Frente, The Beach Chromers and numerous other live acts.
Bianca from Beijing is new to the Melbourne music scene, with a background in Dance performance and visual art.
In June 2022 Milk Bar Gang released their debut 4 track EP “Open”. The songs on the EP are a mixed representation of musical styles. The themes of Open touch on alienation in a consumer society. Recorded, mixed and mastered on garage band Milk Bar Gang seek to intrigue with the layering of textures and sounds.
Milk Bar Gang have also self produced 4 accompanying videos to go with the tracks on their debut EP Open. The videos showcase the bands visual style and wry take on life.
Milk Bar Gang’s next project is a new single and video to be released later in the year.
Milk Bar Gang bring all these creative elements into their art both aurally and visually.
There is no pigeon hole for Milk Bar Gang’s eclectic stylings, influences range from Sparks and Bowie to early eighties new wave to anything and everything . Just like in a Milk Bar!
