"Hoodoo Gurus" has been added to your list of bookmarked artists
close
Hoodoo Gurus
Biography
Like most bands, Australia's Hoodoo Gurus were largely the product of their influences; unlike most bands, however, the Hoodoos channelled their insipration from the vast entirety of the American pop cultural landscape, drawing on such disparate sources as B-movies, bad sitcoms, and junk food -- in tandem with the usual suspects like garage rock, power pop, and surf -- to create a distinctly kitschy and catchy sound.

Formed in Sydney in 1981, Le Hoodoo Gurus (as they were originally dubbed) were led by singer/songwriter Dave Faulkner, who along with drummer James Baker previously served as a member of the short-lived Perth punk unit the Victims (best known for the autobiographical single "Television Addict"). Ex-Scientist Rod Radalj and Kimble Rendall rounded out the group's initial line-up, and their unique sound (three guitars, no bass) -- along with Faulkner's infectious songs -- quickly earned them a record deal. After issuing the 1982 debut single "Leilani," both Radalj and Rendall quit, and were replaced by former Super-K guitarist Brad Sheppard and bassist Clyde Bramley.

In 1983, the Hoodoo Gurus (having dropped the French article) recorded their excellent debut record Stoneage Romeos; dedicated to luminaries like F-Troop's Larry Storch and Green Acres' pig Arnold Ziffel, the album offered such trash-pop treats as the single "I Want You Back," In the Echo Chamber" and "I Was a Kamikaze Pilot.
Selected Discography
report abuse