The Panics

The Panics specialize in a brand of widescreen indie rock that feels both intimately personal and geographically vast. Their sound is defined by Jae Laffer’s breathy, emotive vocals and a penchant for orchestral flourishes, particularly the use of trumpets and strings that elevate standard rock structures into something cinematic. It is music that captures the specific feeling of being in transit, whether that is moving between cities or moving between life stages.

What truly sets them apart is their ability to balance the grit of a Manchester-influenced indie band with the sun-drenched, dusty nostalgia of the Australian landscape. There is a warmth to their production that avoids the coldness of many 2000s contemporaries, opting instead for a rich, analog feel that makes every track sound like a rediscovered memory. Their songwriting often leans into the 'bittersweet,' finding beauty in the mundane and the melancholy.

For those new to the band, their ARIA-winning album Cruel Guards is the essential entry point. It perfectly encapsulates their transition from a scrappy Perth outfit to a sophisticated ensemble capable of writing anthems that don't need to shout to be heard. It is the ideal soundtrack for anyone who finds comfort in the quiet moments of a long journey.