Radium Dolls and the Punk Spirit of Aussie Rock
by Daniel Finn
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Are they really punk?
Radium Dolls don’t fit the usual mould. They don’t shout politics or wear the uniform. But their energy? That’s pure punk. No frills, no polish, just noise and attitude.
Formed in Brisbane in 2022, they came together from different parts of Queensland; Forster, the Sunshine Coast, and far north Queensland. Their debut EP, All Doll’d Up, dropped in 2023, followed by their album Legal Speed in 2024. The sound is a raw, unfiltered blend of garage rock, punk, and folk-punk influences. Every song sounds like it’s seconds from falling apart, and that’s the thrill.
They’ve played venues like The Zoo in Brisbane and the Evelyn Hotel in Melbourne, bringing their chaotic energy to every stage. Their live shows are a testament to their commitment, they give everything, every time.
People love Radium Dolls because they remind us of the early days of Aussie rock, they play with that same reckless joy that made Australian rock what it was in the first place. They channel the spirit of The Saints, Radio Birdman, and Cosmic Psychos, that lineage of Australian bands who didn’t chase radio play, they chased chaos.
So, are they really punk? Maybe not in the traditional sense. But in spirit? Absolutely.
Also, I’ve made a playlist of other exciting Aussie acts I’m enjoying.