Alcotomic

Alcotomic formed in Melbourne, Australia in February 1996 after singer John Freeman Baxter parted ways with local outfit Holocene and teamed up with drummer Andy Strachan and bassist Denny Brereton. Across three EPs, the band built a strong national presence, earning critical accolades, television appearances, and dozens of Australian tours. In 2001, Alcotomic stepped back for an extended break. During this hiatus, Freeman Baxter and guitarist Paul Inglis went on to form Top‑20 act Prettymess, while Strachan joined The Living End. Two decades later, Alcotomic has returned with renewed energy and a revitalised lineup featuring Jay Pinfold (Juke Kartel). The band recorded ten new tracks, mixed by Mark Rains (Rival Sons, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club) at Station Studios in Los Angeles. Released in August 2025, the band’s debut album 8 SECOND EMPIRE — featuring the singles Seventeen, Bridges and Sunshine received glowing acclaim: “Soaring harmonies and a chorus that would light wet firewood.” — Backseat Mafia. “Perfect Australian indie‑rock power‑pop from the reformed Alcotomic. This one's going to be on repeat for us.” — The Point Music News. Alcotomic’s ability to channel the melodic brilliance of ’70s icons like Big Star, while filtering it through the punch and immediacy of ’90s contemporaries such as You Am I, Ash, and Weezer, highlights the timeless quality of Freeman Baxter’s songwriting and the band’s continued relevance in 2025. 8 SECOND EMPIRE out now.