The Externals

THE EXTERNALS RETURN WITH LATEST ALBUM ‘BACK ON THE CANS’ “They are truly unique! The Externals are the only original ‘Spec Ops’ rock band in the world.” The Externals return to Melbourne at the Tote Hotel in Collingwood on Saturday, May 30 after the success of their latest album, Back On The Cans. Externals released their new album, their seventh, 30 years after their first at the Leopold last September to a sell-out crowd of thrirsy punters. Just like the military unit of their origin - the elite SAS Regiment based in Perth, Western Australia - the band is edgy, steeped in mystique, and indefatigable. The band with its unique style, has a loyal following and get about their business with little fuss or fanfare, in the shadows. “We’re just a bunch of blokes who enjoy a beer, rock music, and each other’s company,” says vocalist/songwriter, Harry External. “Actually, I would say we are more of a small community, and all of us get along like a house on fire despite having been playing together for over 30 years”. Harry and co-founder Matt External started the band in 1991 and notwithstanding that both have served on some of the most elite teams and in the most dangerous environments in the world, they both rate their membership of the band as their favourite team. “Harry and I both love our rock music and over the journey, as we have met different musicians, we have invited them to play with us, members of the SAS and civilians alike.” Matt says. “Anyone who loves good Aussie indie rock essentially... Celibate Rifles, Cosmic Psychos, The Oils.” Between them the pair they have served on nearly two dozen combat deployments across 60 years of service. Indeed, it is not too much of a stretch to say this partnership is unique even in the realm of the Australian Defence Force. “Matt and I met for the first time on a ‘Resistance to Interrogation’ course in 1991,” Harry reminisces. “I had to get up and sing a song to the audience - I was naked with a pillowcase over my head and holding a toothbrush, and I sang the Hawthorn Football Club-song. It’s fair to say I nailed it” he says, “even Sinatra hasn’t played a gig like that one. “That is where the seed was first planted, I reckon, and since then I have written the songs and poured the beer, while Matt has built the relationships and managed the band. He is definitely the mature and grownup one of us both.” The Exteranls have just had a run of shows supporting the Cosmic Pyschos and Good Sniff on the East Coast. The Externals are fired up for another scorching sonic event. So make sure you brush off the sand and get a can in your hand for some action and adventure. The Externals ‘Back On The Cans’ with special guests TBA Saturday 30th May 2026 at The Tote in Collingwood Tickets available now