Australian four-piece Quivers set out across the North American, Australian and European continents this year in support of their latest album, the emotionally devastating and casually catchy Oyster Cuts. Band members Bella Quinlan, Sam Nicholson, Michael Panton and Holly Thomas meld jangle pop, heartland rock and more on the LP, which was released in August of this year via Merge Records. From the compassionate chorus of “Apparition” to the ‘80s-inflected synth-pop grooves of the title track, Oyster Cuts may be one of the most slept on albums of the year.
That is, unless you’re one of the lucky people who caught Quivers on their whistle-stop tour of three continents. That sort of grueling pace will teach you some vital lessons, so the Melbourne group have generously shared their top touring tips with Paste, along with Kevin Kohl’s photos of Quivers’ adventures on the road.
1. Stay hydrated
2. Sometimes dance to stretch your arms and legs
3. Stay in the loop with phones
4. Be serious, this is serious, Mum
5. Be your own boss
6. Play with Razor Braids in NYC, they rule
7. Eat everything once
8. Prep that merch table well
9. Take a Kevin with you to be your Van Daddy. He also took the photos you are looking at right now
10. Sell merch cos streaming ain’t gonna pay you squat
11. Play with Dim Wizard in Baltimore, or DC, or anywhere you can
12. Clean those dead bugs off the windscreen, keep a tight ship
13. Remember to breathe in that nature
14. Exercise helps, too—basketball, soccer, whatever you like
15. We like basketball, but choose what works for you
16. Sweat during the shows, but don’t sweat the small stuff
17. Party on sometimes, but keep your voice happy with warm ups. Straws aren’t just for milkshakes!