Universal Authors, a local Tāmaki Makaurau and Kirikiriroa based band, released a new single on the 28th of May, following up their 2020 EP Error 404. The EP, released in January, packs in a jammy summer sound, making for some reminiscent listening deep into the cold and dark exam period of first semester. The new single “Liquor License” keeps up some of that fun jazzy energy from the EP. However, it takes the listener away from the lightness of a beach day towards an exciting night of mischief. There’s heavy, tasty bass to draw you into the track and a roaring bit of guitar to carry you through, making for some pretty happy listening. Lyrically, there’s a clear Tāmaki influence, the chat instantly recognisable as something you might hear from mates.
It’s rare to have a brand new track evoke some kind of nostalgia but “Liquor License” sounds like it’s straight out of a coming-of-age flick. You’re pretty immediately thrown back to high school or early days at uni, where everything feels big and world-changing. It’s like something out of Ferris Bueller or Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging (that’s not a dig, there are some serious bops in that film). If you’re in the mood for running around with a lover, or giggling over a crush with some mates, then “Liquor License” should be queued for some sweet car listening or a little boogie.
“Kinda fresh, kinda fun.”
