Releasing Expectations

Auckland-based band Cut Off Your Hands are described as a “vicious and vibrant foursome” and frontman Nick Johnston, “the new Iggy Pop of the New Zealand pop-punk pioneers” on a British news website. The band discuss the UK release of their latest single ‘Expectations’, their musical influences (including the Buzzcocks, Sonic Youth and Bailterspace) and making music in New Zealand. Johnston thinks the local scene is influenced positively by the lack of industry. “Bands are formed in New Zealand for the sake of creating something the individuals are turned on by, as opposed to kids in London desiring to be the next Razorlight on the cover of a glossy mag. It’s naive and pure and idealistic, but at least it’s rooted in substance, rather than commerce and fashion.” Cut Off Your Hands’ debut album, You & I was recorded this year.