Sunshine Coast indie/rock-roots act, Shen Panthers go through reinvention of sorts with the brand new funk-fuelled single, ‘Day By Day’, which is spurned on by the band’s high-energy live performance.

Driven by a bass line that mirrors a guitar riff, the new track punches hard with the drums, and reeks of late 80s/early 90s alt rock/funk.

‘Day By Day’ shifts away from the previous indie-reggae slickness that Shen Panthers have offered previously, and go head on in to some early FNM-meets-Chili Peppers dirty alt funk. The chicken-picking guitar shows the bass the way, with the thick, metallic bass tone taking the lead in to the groove. The middle section takes a page straight from ‘Blood Sugar Sex Magik’ with a fun funky stomp action. There’s still enough of the Shennies’ trademark sound in there, particularly with vocalist Tom Brackley’s distinct vocal delivery, and this track will likely be one a favourite in the band’s already pumped-up live performances.

Bassist Jack Kennerson explains why the band adopted a heavier, funkier sound for ‘Day By Day’.

“We try to make sure that none of our songs sound the same as the next. When we’re jamming we just let it flow and the more different the sound the better. This time around we definitely tapped into some of our heavier influences but we like to keep a weird mix of tunes in our catalogue,” he said.

Adding to this, vocalist Tom Brackley discusses the optimistic meaning behind the track.

“Lyrically the song is about realising where you’re at and having a go at moving forward - obviously taking it all day by day. Almost a bit like shit happens, don’t go down the rabbit hole, just keep having a crack,” said Tom.

The first half of 2022 saw Shen Panthers working hard to sharpen their unique sound and channel the band’s wide variety of influences, with each song aiming to have some sort of surprise element.

Having a well-earned break, Shen Panthers now have a new drummer to show off, in Alex Reichelt, who, in the words of guitarist Pat Preston, is ‘an absolute powerhouse of a drummer’ who has ‘really added a new element of skill and flair to our live sound’.

You’ll be able to catch the revised Shennies line-up, with the band announcing 3 of their biggest shows yet - first supporting Beddy Rays at Solbar on August 13th, followed by a slot at Summer Escape Festival at Nightquarter (featuring Caravana Sun, Hot Potato Band, Peach Fur and more) on September 3rd, and wrapping things up with a performance at Mo’s Desert Clubhouse in Burleigh Heads, in support of the venue’s 3rd Birthday.

‘Day By Day’ is out on all streaming platforms, so wrap your ears around the track now.

For tickets to the upcoming shows, head to Shen Panthers Facebook.