For an album that comes wrapped in artwork inspired by laundry detergent, Speed Week’s Weak Speed sounds anything but clean. It’s grimy, stained, and beautifully scuffed — like a once-white shirt that’s been through a dozen house parties, a basement gig, and a few emotional spin cycles. And while the title might suggest otherwise, Weak Speed doesn’t drag; it’s got the exact right RPM — 45, naturally — roaring forward with uncomplicated yet kickass riffs, sweat, and a knowing smirk.
Given that this Melbourne outfit includes members of Split System and The Brakes, the quality (and volume) shouldn’t surprise anyone. What does, though, is how much humor they pack into the noise. Written and recorded over four chaotic years — in basements, borrowed halls, and probably a few pubs — Weak Speed captures post-pandemic life, and a crumbling society with the bite of a hangover and the clarity of someone who’s laughing about it through grinded teeth.
It’s loud, it’s furious, it’s funny, and full of life — a record that scrubs down modern Australia’s mess while gleefully rolling around in the grime.
Weak Speed is out today on Endless Recordings (AU/NZ) and Erste Theke Tonträger (EU).