In a music scene as dynamic as Sydney's, bands often rise and fall with the tide of trends. Yet, for over a decade, Gostwyck has defied the odds, evolving their sound while staying true to their passion for storytelling. Founded by Matt and a group of talented musicians— Jono, Will, Joe, Elliot, and Gus—Gostwyck has built a reputation for their eclectic and evolving sound, drawing from folk-rock roots and moving into more nostalgic, anthem- driven music. With each release, the band has taken listeners on a journey through personal and emotional transformation.
Exploring Growth: From "It’s All A Dream" to "Can We Be Strangers"
Gostwyck’s debut album, It’s All A Dream, established the band’s folk-rock roots. The record dove into themes of childhood, growth, and change, carried by pop sensibilities that resonated with fans. Reflecting Matt’s personal experience of geographic and emotional shifts, the album captured the essence of moving away from who you used to be.
Their follow-up album, Can We Be Strangers, marked a significant departure. This record was darker and heavier, mirroring the themes of personal and relational breakdown. With each track, the band explored the aftermath of loss and the challenge of finding which parts of yourself can be salvaged when everything feels uncertain. This shift in tone allowed Gostwyck to explore the boundaries of their sound while maintaining a strong connection with their listeners.
Nostalgia and the Influence of Semisonic, The Verve, and Vampire Weekend
As Gostwyck progressed into their third record, the band embraced a sound that felt deeply nostalgic. The newly released single, Hollywood, epitomizes this shift. Drawing on the music they loved growing up, the band finds themselves blending their earlier folk influences with sounds reminiscent of Semisonic, Counting Crows, and Vampire Weekend. Matt shared that this evolution was natural—embracing the music they admired in their youth has reignited their creative spark and shaped their latest work.
Gostwyck’s ability to adapt and grow while staying connected to their roots is evident in the influences they’ve incorporated over the years. From the melancholic stylings of The Cure to the emotionally charged energy of Gang of Youths, Gostwyck's sound is a diverse tapestry of inspiration.
Songwriting as a Personal Journey
The songwriting process for Matt and Gostwyck changed dramatically after a pivotal trip overseas in 2016. A chance encounter with Nick Cave’s discography during his travels sparked a wave of inspiration, leading Matt to craft new songs in the margins of a novel. This creative burst resulted in tracks that would go on to define Gostwyck’s identity. Even today, this trip remains a cornerstone of Matt’s songwriting approach, a tool for capturing raw emotions and authentic stories.
Several tracks from that period went on to become defining moments for the band, earning regular radio play on Triple J and FBI. Gostwyck’s music videos even found a home on iconic Australian shows like Rage, and the band has enjoyed the honor of supporting some of their own musical idols.
Conclusion
As Gostwyck continues to evolve and push the boundaries of their sound, the future holds endless possibilities. Their decade-long journey is a testament to perseverance, creative freedom, and the power of storytelling through music. With every record, the band taps into new emotions, exploring the themes that resonate most deeply with their lives and their audience. As they gear up for their next release, Matt’s advice to emerging artists is simple: “Stick it out. Creativity takes time, but the journey is worth it.” Fans can look forward to more boundary-pushing music from Gostwyck in the near future.
