Mental As Anything’s Enduring Legacy: From Art School Roots to Global Anthems
The story of Mental As Anything is a uniquely Australian one, a tale of art students stumbling into pop stardom and, decades later, finding their music unexpectedly embraced by a fresh generation – and a Scottish football club. The recent release of the documentary Live It Up: The Mental As Anything Story, coupled with a national tour featuring Reg Mombassa and Peter O’Doherty, highlights the band’s remarkable resilience and enduring appeal.
The Unlikely Rise of a Pop Phenomenon
Formed in 1976 in Sydney, Mental As Anything quickly gained a following with their quirky blend of pop, rock, and art-school sensibilities. Their early gigs at the Unicorn Hotel in Paddington became legendary, attracting a devoted fanbase. The band’s initial success came with releases on the Regular Records label, founded by Martin Fabinyi and Cameron Allen, with their first hit, “The Nips Are Getting Bigger.” They went on to achieve an impressive 24 Top 40 entries in Australia – a record unmatched by many Australian artists.
“Live It Up” and the Scottish Connection
While successful in Australia, it was the 1985 hit “Live It Up” that propelled Mental As Anything to international attention, particularly after being adopted as an anthem by Rangers Football Club fans in Scotland. The song’s unexpected resurgence in the UK charts decades later, fueled by the passionate support of the Rangers supporters, demonstrates the power of fan culture and the enduring appeal of a catchy tune. This phenomenon, highlighted in recent reports, underscores how music can transcend geographical boundaries and become deeply embedded in cultural identity.
Navigating Success, Challenges, and Lineup Changes
The band’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. A move to Sony Records in 1985 and the influence of producer Richard Gottehrer led to a shift in sound, incorporating more electronic elements. This creative direction, while commercially successful, caused friction within the band, particularly with members Dave Twohill and Peter O’Doherty, who felt their contributions were diminished. Internal tensions, coupled with personal struggles and legal battles – including a successful unfair dismissal case brought by drummer Dave Twohill – led to lineup changes and periods of inactivity.
A Legacy Reclaimed: The Documentary and New Tour
The documentary Live It Up: The Mental As Anything Story, released in Australian cinemas on March 5th, offers a comprehensive look at the band’s history, from their humble beginnings to their international success and the challenges they faced along the way. The film’s release spurred Mombassa and O’Doherty to embark on a national tour, bringing a new iteration of the band to audiences across Australia. The current lineup includes Simon Rudston-Brown, Shannon Stitt, and Declan O’Doherty, Peter’s son, ensuring the band’s sound remains authentic while embracing a new generation of musicians.
The Future of Australian Music and Band Legacies
Mental As Anything’s story offers valuable lessons for contemporary Australian musicians. The band’s ability to adapt, persevere through challenges, and maintain a connection with their fanbase is a testament to their artistic vision and resilience. The recent success of “Live It Up” in the UK also highlights the potential for Australian music to find new audiences through unexpected channels, such as sports fandom and viral trends.
The Role of Documentary Films in Preserving Musical History
Documentaries like Live It Up play a crucial role in preserving the history of Australian music and introducing it to new audiences. These films provide a platform for artists to share their stories, reflect on their careers, and connect with fans on a deeper level. The success of Matthew Walker’s previous music documentary, I’m Wanita, demonstrates the growing appetite for compelling stories about Australian musicians.
The Impact of Fan Culture on Music Popularity
The Rangers FC fan base’s adoption of “Live It Up” is a prime example of how fan culture can significantly impact a song’s popularity and longevity. This phenomenon underscores the importance of building strong relationships with fans and creating music that resonates with their passions and identities. Social media and online communities have further amplified the power of fan culture, allowing fans to connect with artists and each other in new and meaningful ways.
FAQ
Q: Who are the current members of Mental As Anything?
A: The current lineup features Reg Mombassa, Peter O’Doherty, Simon Rudston-Brown, Shannon Stitt, and Declan O’Doherty.
Q: Where can I notice the documentary Live It Up: The Mental As Anything Story?
A: The documentary is currently showing in Australian cinemas.
Q: What is the significance of “Live It Up” to Rangers FC fans?
A: Rangers FC fans adopted “Live It Up” as an anthem, leading to its resurgence in the UK charts.
Q: What challenges did Mental As Anything face during their career?
A: The band faced challenges including creative differences, lineup changes, legal battles, and personal struggles.
Did you know? Mental As Anything’s early success was built on a foundation of art-school creativity and a DIY ethos, which set them apart from many of their contemporaries.
Pro Tip: Explore the band’s discography beyond “Live It Up” to discover a wealth of quirky and innovative Australian pop music.
Stay updated with Mental As Anything’s tour dates and news here.
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