By John Redmond
The Tremors, one of Seoul’s most popular expat punk bands are to launch their debut CD at Club DGBD in Hongdae along with a string of special guests on Dec. 18 starting at 10:30 p.m.
Formed some three years back by vocalist guitarist and songwriter Matt Randel following his retirement from a sporting career that led him to Korea, The Tremors have released the much anticipated “Loving You Loathing You” EP.
For years, The Tremors were a staple at Ole Stompers in Itaewon ― in the early days the house stage substituting as a rehearsal studio ― before branching out to play gigs at other local venues, the student neighborhood of Hongdae and lately national tours.
Following the recruitment of drummer/vocalist Mike Mayhem, access to a space on Yongsan military post became the rehearsal room of choice where a great deal of the material on the CD was perfected.
Around this time the band also made one of many appearances at a battle of the bands.
Following a hectic string of live performances the band had written enough material to lay down tracks at Bubblegum studios and set about capturing the raw live sound in a state of the art recording environment. The sound engineering staff showed keen interest in the bands unique approach to recording.
The EP comprises a blend of early Tremors favorites such as “Lets Ride,” the driving “Enemies” and signature tune “We Are the Tremors” plus new material including opener “Skin City” showcasing Mayhem’s double kick drum work.
The current lineup, including Gavin Donohoe on bass and vocals, has been touring the peninsula for the most of this year and look set to go from strength to strength.
For the CD launch The Tremors have included their favorite bands from the punk/indie scene including Seoul City Suicides, First Round Heroes, Artificial Human #28 and Captain Bootbois.
The cost of the event is 10,000 won and includes a free CD.
To get to Club DGBD, leave from exit No. 1 at Sangsu Station (line 6) and head up towards Hongik University. Walk past the alley where Club FF is and at the next intersection turn left. Down that street (you'll pass Tin Pan Alley), keep going straight, you'll see a convenience store on the left, Club DGBD is on the opposite corner on the left.