Park Rd are finding their feet in Sydney with new album Boyhood

With their new album Boyhood out this Friday, Park Rd are entering a new era from their base in Sydney. We caught up with the band to talk about the move across the ditch, growing creatively, and intentionally defying masculine stereotypes.

You guys are now based in Sydney. How does the energy of a bigger city inspire your creativity and wider sense of purpose as a band?

We’ve definitely all been way out of our comfort zones which has been cool for creating. Out on the skinny branches is where the magic happens haha!

Do you think that being based in New Zealand could be limiting for artists in anyway?

I think it’s probably a size thing since NZ is quite a small country. I definitely think that NZ punches above it’s weight when it comes to music and many other things. For some genres, I think it makes sense to venture out of NZ as there's lots of bigger markets in other parts of the world.

How would you describe your sound to someone who has never heard of you?

I’d probably say, Alternative Pop and some Rock.

I love how your songs are so emotively honest, almost in a way that defies stereotypes around masculinity. Is this something you've intentionally pushed, or is it just naturally a thing?

I think we try to be honest with the music to how we feel and express ourselves in our lives. It also makes it a bit more exciting when I’m not trying to do the super masculine thing the whole time. There’s definitely times when it feels right but I’m also a pop music fan and love to have both sides.

Moving to Sydney is a pretty big step, clearly you guys are ambitious. What does success mean for you as a band?

I think for me, success means connecting to the people in front of us at shows and making music that feels meaningful, magical and fun to ourselves and the people who listen to our music. It would be incredible to be able to tour around the world and be able to choose to play shows that feel exciting.

When you look at Park Rd in five years from now, what do you hope people say you stood for as a band?

In 5 years, I hope PARK RD feels authentic, I hope PARK RD has helped other people live their lives. And I hope we’re playing stadiums, exciting shows and making beautiful music.