Beans’ third album, Boots N Cats, released in March 2024, marks a significant evolution in their sound, showcasing a deep dive into rhythm-centric compositions. Frontman Matt Blach, also known for his drumming with The Murlocs, envisioned this project as a drum-based album, stating, “I’ve always wanted to make a drum-based album, dedicated to the beat first and then everything else follows.”
The album’s title, a nod to the onomatopoeic beatboxing phrase “boots and cats,” reflects its percussive foundation. Blach’s approach during the COVID-19 lockdown involved building a home studio and crafting the album entirely on his own, yet he maintained the essence of the band’s synergy by writing parts that honor his long-time bandmates’ styles.
‘Boots N Cats’ traverses a landscape rich in psychedelic grooves, funk rhythms, and garage rock energy. Tracks like “Groove” deliver exactly what the title suggests, with guitar, bass, and circular keys creating an infectious rhythm. Instrumentals such as “Kookaburra” and “Siamese Blundstone” highlight Blach’s intricate drum work and the album’s rhythmic focus.
The album’s influences are diverse, drawing inspiration from artists like James Brown, The Meters, and Deep Purple, while maintaining a unique sound that aligns with the Australian psychedelic scene. This blend results in a collection of tracks that are both nostalgic and innovative, offering listeners a fresh take on familiar genres.
The album touches on themes of introspection and existential contemplation, with songs like “Haunted” exploring the fear of failure, encapsulated in the chorus, “I’m haunted by the fear of failure.” However, the primary focus remains on the music’s rhythmic and instrumental elements, creating an immersive listening experience.
‘Boots N Cats’ is a testament to Beans’ growth as a band, successfully experimenting with new sounds and structures while staying true to their psychedelic roots. It’s an album that invites listeners to lose themselves in its grooves and reflects the creative resilience of artists during challenging times.