New track a message of hope

Seal Prince and the Roof Rats release new track, Head Up Heart Out. (Michaela McHugh)

Geelong-based folk rockers Seal Prince and the Roof Rats have released their latest single Head Up Heart Out.

The new track, recorded live by Dave Steel (Weddings, Parties, Anything; Archie Roach), is now available on streaming platforms and YouTube, with the latter accompanied by a film clip captured during the recording.

Head Up Heart Out features a funky, coastal vibe, with core members Lachie Chomley (vocals, guitar), Josh Docker (guitar, backing vocals), Martin Cyster (bass) and Tom Allen (drums) joined by a horn section consisting of Ruby Lou (alto sax) and Max Koriagin (trombone).

The band’s primary songwriter Lachie Chomley said the song’s uplifting lyrics were inspired by a letter he began writing as a gesture of support to a troubled friend.

“I wanted to write an uplifting anthem that acknowledged the struggles of the times that we’re currently living in, but also pointed towards the hope that remains and the things that we do have in our control to live well within our means,” Chomley said.

He said the essence of Seal Prince and the Roof Rats was connection, both with the land we live on and the people in our community.

“We (the band) exist in the realm of cultural repair, or cultural transformation… We can see a need for change in these times into a way of being that’s more connected with the earth and has a much lighter impact on the Earth and that facilitates connection in community as well.

“We see music as being a really potent vessel that can carry a really powerful message that people can engage with in a really positive way and feel inspired to see change in their community and in their lives.”