Dunedin has always been home to an avant-garde version of the New Wave sound that came out of the punk rock explosion of the 1970s. This seems to have continued unabated through the decades, and now I find Saurian. These four guys are unique.

I’ve reviewed their previous single, and while I loved that one I am delighted to discover this follow up is entirely unlike its predecessor. Gobstopper is a more gutter-punk growl, a street-mix anthem of frustration, disdain and exasperation with where this world is going – or not going, as the case may be.

A sharp, guttural guitar and a menacing, grumbling bass back up an angry, unsubdued vocal performance that projects an underlying volcanic kick-back that’s coming any day now. This is how true rebel punk should make you feel. Recorded by producer Steve Harrop and engineer Tom Havard at Kurow’s Sublime Studios, this is a coherent assault that puts me in mind of The Stooges at their meanest, sleaziest best.

They surprise with a more prog/glam guitar piece, which gleefully fits itself in with a devil may care freedom that I loved. This fused with that pushy, threatening rhythm section, and a glorious vocal make this a high standard for adherents to the “Dunedin Sound” to follow. A unique band that delivers well.

This is the kind of song for the live venue. It’ll go down well in the car, or at a very lively house party. Get into this band, and get to their shows. Follow their socials for more info on that. Saurian is worth your support.