It feels a little hard to believe, but more than 30 years on since its release, iconic Aussie outfit The Clouds are set to celebrate the pearl anniversary of their acclaimed Penny Century record.
First released on the Red Eye label back in October of 1991, The Clouds’ debut album was a mesmerising piece of work. Hitting #23 on the Aussie charts and going Gold, it was a resonant collection of songs that showcased The Clouds as leaders of the local indie-rock scene.
Just last year, the record was ranked as the #151st greatest Aussie album of all time as part of Rolling Stone Australia’s annual special edition issue.
“Their debut is a triumph of precision songwriting and once-in-a-career musical chemistry,” wrote Cameron Adams in a retrospective piece on the record. “Most bands lack even one truly gifted songwriter—Clouds had two, Jodi Phillis and Tricia Young. The Pixies’ influence was evident with their spiky guitar work, turned up loud (it was the era of grunge), as was a nod to the Cocteau Twins’ otherworldliness.
“There was also the undeniable DNA of classic pop-rock—they loved Glen Campbell, as evident in the country-tinged melancholy of ‘Pocket’. The pair’s distinctive songwriting styles complemented each other, and the band’s not-so-secret weapon was how their voices blended together, adding extra harmony. ‘Hieronymus’ created a lush but sinister world before your ears. ‘Anthem’ went from lullaby to mosh pit in seconds, honouring that quiet/loud Pixies dynamic.”
Now, following a couple of years spent in stasis, The Clouds are once again hitting the road, this time taking their celebrated debut album to crowds around the country in celebration of its belated 30th anniversary.
Set to kick off in December in Brisbane, the classic lineup of the band – Jodi Phillis (Guitar/Vocals), Trish Young (Bass/Vocals), Dave Easton (Guitar) and Raphael Whittingham (Drums) – will perform Penny Century in full, alongside a special encore of classic hits.
The tour will also visit Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide, and Sydney in the following weeks, ensuring that fans of the beloved band and album will be well-served following a few years of musical desperation. Full tour and ticketing details are available below.
The Clouds – Penny Century 30th Anniversary Australian Tour
Saturday, December 3rd
The Triffid, Brisbane, QLD
Friday, December 9th
The Croxton, Melbourne, VIC
Saturday, December 10th
Rosemount Hotel, Perth, WA
Saturday, December 16th
The Gov, Adelaide, SA
Saturday, December 17th
Factory Theatre, Sydney, NSW
Tickets on sale from 10am, Monday, March 28th
Pre-sale begins at 10am, Friday, March 25th
