General News
18 February, 2024
Local Band Blackboard Jungle Releases EP
After decades of rocking stages across the Wimmera and South West Victoria, local band Blackboard Jungle has made a triumphant return with the release of their latest EP on Sunday, February 4th, 2024.
After decades of rocking stages across the Wimmera and South West Victoria, local band Blackboard Jungle has made a triumphant return with the release of their latest EP on Sunday, February 4th, 2024.
Originally formed in 1988 during their late teens, Blackboard Jungle quickly became a staple in the regional music scene, gracing pubs, clubs, and festivals such as the Kannamaroo in Horsham and Ararat’s JailHouse Rock Festival. Describing their music as Rock n Roll with Roots, the band, led by original members Chris ‘Squizzy’ Taylor and Cam Ballinger, reminisces about their early days, where they played over 107 shows in just two years.
Despite several lineup changes over the years, Blackboard Jungle remained a force to be reckoned with until their disbandment in 1999. However, an invitation to perform at the 2020 60 Years of Rock event saw the original members reunite, reigniting their passion for music.
Now, with the classic lineup of Chris ‘Squizzy’ Taylor on guitar and lead vocals, Cam Ballinger on stand-up drums, and Squizzy’s son TJ Taylor on double bass and electric bass, Blackboard Jungle has been delighting audiences across the Wimmera Mallee and beyond, with shows reaching as far as Rochester.
Throughout the years since their reunion, the band has continued to write and perform original songs, drawing inspiration from people and events to create music that resonates with audiences on multiple levels.
Blackboard Jungle's latest venture, the EP entitled "Blackboard Jungle Live at the Lounge," has made a significant impact within its first 48 hours of release. Available on popular platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube, the EP was expertly recorded and mixed by Horsham natives Sam and Kane King, with mastering handled by Clayton Pearson, also previously from Horsham. This collaborative effort ensures that the EP authentically captures the essence of Blackboard Jungle's dynamic live performances. Within a week of its release, the EP garnered over 1000 streams, reflecting the band's enduring popularity and the enthusiastic reception of their latest musical offering.
Looking ahead, the future looks bright for Blackboard Jungle, with more live shows on the horizon, including a headline slot at this year's Wood Wine and Roses Festival in Haywood later this month. Additionally, the band has plans to release a full-length album, much to the anticipation of their loyal fanbase.
As they continue to write the next chapter of their storied career, Blackboard Jungle remains a testament to the enduring power of rock and roll, proving that age is no barrier to making great music and captivating audiences.