Gut Health [Stiletto]

A Post-Punk Punch in the Gut (Health)

Despite the growing influence of The Algorithm™on my waking and non-waking thoughts (my dreams now feel like curated 10-second clips on where to find the best almond croissant in Brighton), it recently delivered something very worthwhile: Melbourne-based band Gut Health’s latest single, "Stiletto". The track itself is an explosive blend of post-punk, packed with bass-driven energy and rebelliousness, with clear inspiration from Warpaint’s sprawling jams and the subversive tightness of riot grrrl bands like Bikini Kill and Le Tigre. There is a jarring post-punk narrative with a raw edge in the vein of Gang of Four but with the anarchic drive of The Raincoats. You can also hear shades of Young Marble Giants in the song’s clean, minimalist guitar lines.

As the track progresses, jazzy brass elements punctuate like buzzing mosquitos, adding chaotic stabs that warp alongside fluctuating guitar jangles. The unconventional jazz component really reminds me of the soundtrack from the first season of Fleabag, which I recently re-watched (and loved even more for the 10th time around). Fun fact: Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s sister composed the scores for both seasons—what a talented family!

Lyrically, "Stiletto" is bold and non-conformist, with lines like: "We totally hit the surf before concrete." They reference Gil Scott-Heron’s famous "The revolution will not be televised" with a different spin: "The revolution is telephonised." Maybe a critique of our modern-day dependence on digital culture, a constant black mirror in our pockets.

It would be easy to lump Gut Health in with other Aussie punk exports like Amyl and the Sniffers, but they bring a subtler, more refined edge to their post-punk sound. The attitude is there, but with a twist that makes their music feel totally fresh. 

In the video for "Stiletto," lead singer Athina Uh Oh sports a black and red bob à la Saffron from Republica (see my piece on The Women of Britpop for more 90s inspiration), as they circle a banked track in slow-motion. Although the performance in the video is relatively restrained, you can feel the intensity brewing beneath the surface—it gives a strong sense of the force they'd bring to live shows.

"Stiletto" is the title track from Gut Health’s upcoming album, scheduled for release in October. If this single is any indication, the album promises to be a thrilling ride through bass-heavy grooves, sharp commentary, and post-punk nostalgia. 

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What do you think of Gut Health?