Mental as Anything

Mental as Anything occupies a unique space in the Australian musical canon, bridging the gap between the raw energy of the pub-rock circuit and the sophisticated irony of the art-school new wave movement. Formed in Sydney in 1976 by art students, the band maintained a strong visual identity throughout their career, with members like Reg Mombassa becoming equally famous for their graphic design work.

Their sound identity is built on tight, melodic pop-rock structures, often featuring prominent keyboards and harmonica alongside traditional guitar-driven arrangements. Unlike many of their contemporaries who sought international stardom through grandiosity, Mental as Anything leaned into a specifically Australian suburban aesthetic, characterized by dry humor and a rejection of rock-star posturing. Their critical consensus highlights their role as pioneers of the music video format in Australia and their remarkable consistency as songwriters, with four members contributing hits. They remain culturally significant as the quintessential 'good-time' band that possessed a hidden depth of lyrical sophistication.