In a scene buzzing with digital noise and genre-blurring experimentation, BADTAB emerges as a breath of raw, analog-infused air. With a love for soul, psychedelia, and everything a little bit offbeat, this band is carving out a space of their own. Where imperfection is the magic and community is everything.
What’s on BADTAB’s Playlist?
Right now, they’re vibing to a mix as eclectic as their sound: Mt Kimbie, Jessica Pratt, Sly & the Family Stone, LCD Soundsystem, Linda Perhacs, and Joni Mitchell. It’s a playlist that flows like a river of soul, with strange textures and a pure heart, the kind of music that makes you feel something without even knowing why.
Creative Inspirations
“We’re inspired by everything that’s warm and tasty to our ears,” they say. Instrumentally, the band draws from spiritual jazz, hip hop, dry psychedelic rock, and 70s soul. Their creative compass always points toward experimentation and expression.
The Sound of BADTAB
Genre-wise, they call it Neo-Psych, a lovechild of many genres and eras. Their sound has been shaped by artists like Tame Impala, Unknown Mortal Orchestra, Crumb, Sly and the Family Stone, Connan Mockasin, and King Krule. Their songwriting is driven by life itself, whatever they’re feeling or laughing about in the moment.
Advice for Up-and-Coming Creatives
Their biggest tip? DIY. Download a DAW. Learn an instrument. Figure out how to mix your own tracks. “Don’t let music marketing scare you off; find ways to make it creative.” And the best advice they ever received? “Finish the song even if it’s not great. People want someone who can finish a house, not just build a wall.”
The Passion Behind the Project
Music has been a constant thread throughout their lives, something worth sacrificing for. Most of them started young, either picking up instruments, making beats on GarageBand at the library, or falling into internet rabbit holes of SoundCloud discoveries. University brought some of them together, and from there, the creative fire grew. They say the most challenging part of their journey has been Mental health. It’s a reminder that behind every euphoric chorus or tight live set, there’s a real struggle and strength. They’re not trying to change the world with their art. “Just have fun with your friends and make music.” But if there’s one takeaway, they hope people get from their work? “Keep experimenting. Don’t take yourself too seriously.” It’s about connection. They meet, drink black coffee, catch up, and check in on how they’re feeling. Then they jam, sometimes writing, sometimes recording for hours. It’s organic, unforced, and always rooted in friendship. There’s a lot of love for their upcoming track Sally, with members also giving nods to past songs like Honey Lasts Forever, Control, Blorgin, and Try. Their proudest moment? A standout performance on Radioactive, a moment of clarity, energy, and shared accomplishment. When burnout hits, they step away. “Read a book, do some exercise, avoid your phone.” And when creativity flows again, they remember: “Things don’t gotta be perfect. Imperfections are fire.”
Stage Rituals and Fan Favourites
Before shows, they gather and ask each other what they want to bring to the stage. Then they do a group hand stack and shout “BADTAB” on three. “It’s a little corny, but it gets the spirits up.” Their favorite songs to perform live? No No, Sally, and XOLLAB. Their most memorable show? “The first Eyegum gig of the year. We played with Treeman, and it was a blast.”
Looking Ahead
BADTAB is stepping back from live shows to focus on their next record, aiming for a more organic, 70s-inspired, and less grand sound. Still psychedelic, but with a warmer, more classic vibe. They’re also dreaming of playing more festivals and possibly making a move overseas. The goal? Keep growing, keep experimenting, and keep making music that feels like them. They leave us with just a smile and a wish for their listeners to “enjoy the next record and have a nice day.” Sometimes, that’s all you need.
