Rowland S Howard started playing in teenage bands in late 70s Melbourne. Whilst still a callow youth he wrote Shivers, an undisputed classic, (quietly ignoring the fact that Rowland perhaps doesn't see it that way and approaches the song as if it was written by someone else.)

The song was recorded by his band The Boys Next Door who then mutated in to the Birthday Party, relocated to Europe where they waged a guerrilla campaign against the trivialities of the 80s, only to eventually turn their fire upon themselves and disintegrate mid-decade.

But it's a history Rowland would gleefully put a match to. With or without it Rowland S Howard would make tense, beautiful music, would deliver us his personal vision of the world, would create Pop Crimes.

Long-time faithful friends Mick Harvey (Bad Seeds co-founder who has played with Rowland for over 30 years now), JP Shilo (Hungry Ghosts) and producer Lindsay Gravina make for a formidable backline. Out front the guitar playing couldn't be any one else but Rowland S Howard and his weary, almost journalistic vocal delivery dispassionately sits amidst the often sweaty panic of the music, adding to the ill ease.

Rowland S Howard has carved a deep scar across the landscape of contemporary music. With the release of Pop Crimes that journey continues.

Also available on vinyl.