Review: 'Chomping at the bit' - GIMMY

Photo by Sofia Grimoldi

Shortly before Christmas last year, I was scrolling through Instagram when an ad caught my attention, as they often do. This one however, had an ear-worm of a guitar riff layered with equally as catchy vocals. That ad was for GIMMY's single 'Darlin', where have u been?' - and I've been hooked on them ever since.

The 4 piece outfit hailing from New South Wales is the brainchild of artist, lead singer and guitarist, Gemma Owens, whose honest and relatable lyrics have launched her and the band into the Australian spotlight. Their 2024 debut album - 'Things Look Different Now' - was featured in Rolling Stone (AUS/NZ), along side a whole host of other media outlets and radio play, with one station describing it as 'easily among the most accomplished Australian records of the year'.

'Chomping at the bit' is the latest offering coming from their EP - 'Labour of Love' - due for release on 27th February 2026, and is simply a feast for the ears.

Moving away from the heavier punk sound of their previous single, this track is a beautiful blend of indie rock guitars and folk inspired vocal flurries. For me, it's like The Strokes and The Smiths got together in the studio with Crystal Fighters and let loose.

I'm completely addicted to their sound, loud and in your face in one breath, then giving you a warm hug in the next. You can tell they're drawing on so many influences from across the musical spectrum, I hear the UK Punk scene in some tracks, and others I'll hear a softer, Surf-Rock/Ballad type sound. I can't wait until they announce an international tour, because judging from the gallery on their website, their shows look LIVELY.

I can't talk about them without mentioning how great their music videos are too. Each one is dripping in its own unique filter of nostaligia. They're light-hearted, and often funny in places, but still convey the message of each song perfectly, a true testament to the artistic roots that Gemma has.

'Chomping at the bit' is out on all the usual spots for streaming, and the EP can be pre-ordered now through their website, or through various international outlets depending on where you're based. For the UK, that'll be Rough Trade.

Keep up to date with all things GIMMY on the links below;

Instagram: @_g.i.m.m.y_

Youtube: @GIMMYband

Bandcamp: https://gimmy.bandcamp.com/music