This Friday, May 30 CIVIC will release their third album, Chrome Dipped, via ATO Records. Ahead of the release, the band have announced an Australian tour. Known for their raw, adrenaline-fueled sound, CIVIC pushes beyond the boundaries of their ’70s Australian punk roots on the LP, marking a bold shift into new sonic territory while retaining their sharp intensity. Guitarist Lewis Hodgson sums it up best: “We’ve always stuck to the rules, doing Australian punk rock properly. But after touring the world, we realized—you can really do whatever the fuck you want.”
The album explores themes of loss and grief following the death of frontman Jim McCullough’s mother, as well as broader existential reflection. Ultimately, Chrome Dipped is about casting off old shells—both musically and emotionally—and finding meaning in the messiness of evolution.
Ahead of the release of Chrome Dipped this Friday, CIVIC frontman Jim McCullough spoke to Australian Musician editor Greg Phillips about the creation of the album, touring and more.
NEW SINGLE ‘THE FOOL’ OUT TODAY
Today they share the final single ahead of the album, “The Fool.” The band say “’The Fool’ is a nihilistic death march about dreamers and idiots. A jangley pagan punk song meant to provoke the senses. It recalls the story of the fool and what’s behind the 1000 yard stare.”
Watch the video for The Fool here
CIVIC have previously shared “The Hogg” which Flood Magazine called “a buffet of riffage” and Chrome Dipped title track which saw support from Stereogum, Brooklyn Vegan, Northern Transmissions, among others. Brooklyn Vegan also included the LP in their “50 Albums We’re Anticipating for Spring 2025” feature calling it “…a breakout from the bare-bones sound they had on their first two records.”
Renowned for their live show, CIVIC are currently stateside playing fan favorites and new songs off Chrome Dipped across North America. They kicked off the run at Punk Rock Bowling and Music Festival last weekend and have upcoming shows in among other markets, Seattle, Los Angeles, New York City and Toronto. Next they head to The UK and Europe, before returning home to Australia for their Chrome Dipped tour in September.
CIVIC – CHOME DIPPED AUSTRALIAN TOUR
with special guests, Coldwave
Thu 4 Sept – Gold Coast, Mo’s Desert Clubhouse
Fri 5 Sept- Brisbane, The Brightside
Sat 6 Sept– Sydney, Oxford Art Factory
Fri 12 Sept- Adelaide, Ed Castle
Sat 13 Sept- Melbourne, The Croxton
Tickets available from: https://www.civicivic.com/