Brining their sound to Lein in March 2025, Condenser, Wellington’s punk rock stalwarts, have been unleashing sonic assaults and kicking against the pricks since 1980. This trio, composed of James on drums, PJ on bass, and Nigel on guitar, delivers a raw and energetic performance that harks back to the genre’s incendiary origins. But Condenser isn't just a band; it's a culmination of
Wellington's rich punk history. James, Nigel, and PJ are all veterans of the scene,
having cut their teeth in noted Wellington bands including Condemned Sector, Neoteric
Tribesmen, Columbian Necktie and Compos Mentis. These groups, active in the early
days of punk, were instrumental in shaping the Wellington sound and fostering a spirit of
rebellion that continues to resonate.
Their sets are a potent mix of classic covers and blistering originals, drawing inspiration
from the titans of punk and post-punk. Expect a tightly packed set featuring the raw
energy of the Buzzcocks, the infectious hooks of the Ramones, the dark intensity of Joy
Division, the chaotic brilliance of The Damned, the angular rhythms of The Fall, the
art-punk experimentation of Wire, and the sheer rebellious power of the Sex Pistols.
Condenser's music isn't just a performance; it's a living history lesson, connecting the
dots between Wellington's punk past and its present. The experience gained in their
wild youth has coalesced in Condenser, creating a potent force that keeps the flame of
punk rock burning bright in Aotearoa.
Support band details coming soon.
