Paraquay

Charming the Naarm/Melbourne underground rock scene, Paraquay (pronounced para-key) have cemented themselves as one of the city's most electrifying new acts. Combining pop sensibility with raucous presentation, introspective lyrics and a tinge of awkwardness, the band capture the voice of an overwhelmed generation.

Following their sold out debut headliner at Wrangler Studios, Paraquay have shared the stage with the likes of Hockey Dad, RVG, Bones and Jones, Good Sniff and Mainland Break (US) at venues across Melbourne and the Surf Coast.

Their debut album Here For Your Pleasure, released in June 2023, is an honest representation of an anxious teenager flung into adulthood. Songwriter and vocalist Gus Walker’s ruminative lyrics detail fears surrounding loss and subsequent growth, from friendships to first loves and ill family.

With tracks ‘Rat’ and ‘Sydney Monorail’, this fragility is exchanged for grit - but Paraquay punch the heartbreak down your throat with ‘Harder For Myself’, out now. As one of the last singles from their upcoming album 'Avalon to Avalon', out July 25, 'Harder For Myself' marks a sonic shift in Paraquay's energy.

Maintaining their gusto-fuelled delivery and maximalist approach, the collective show a greater apprehension towards relationships within their circle, lingering on reflection rather than running into the void. With a symbolic heel on his throat, Gus Walker’s lyricism moves from pensiveness into potent clarity.

Birthed while struggling to stay afloat amongst a rapidly shifting world, their upcoming sophomore album Avalon to Avalon is a testament to the tender heart of the group. More declarative and certain than ever, Paraquay continue to cut their teeth with no apologies, promising nothing short of high octane eccentricity.

“Paraquay are still in their infancy as a band, but considering how hard they’ve hit the ground running, it’s almost a guarantee that they are a name you’ll be hearing a lot more of in future”
Forte Mag’s Alex Callan, 2023