Indie Rock from Streetlights

From the northern suburbs of Perth, Western Australia, indie rock outfit Streetlights have built their sound on friendship, family and the thrill of chasing moments that feel too good to last. Starting out as a group of schoolmates jamming together, they’ve since become one of the city’s most exciting homegrown bands. Featuring the talents of brothers John and Pearse Topliss, cousins Ethan Gosatti and Tony Menegola, and “Bass man” Brad Watson, their natural chemistry has shaped a superb output both on and off stage.

Streetlights first arrived on the scene in 2021 and quickly made an impression within Perth’s indie music sphere. Over time, their music has developed into an exciting fusion of jangly guitars, slick synths and what fans and critics alike have dubbed the “tightest rhythm section in the West.” Their sound nods to classic indie pop while keeping a lively energy that allows them to explore various areas of their shared sonic vision. From the singalong sparkle of their anthem “Murray Street” to the punchier edge of their debut EP Bad Actors in 2024, Streetlights’ catalogue is equally diverse and memorable.

The band’s rise has seen them support acts like DICE, Surf Trash, The Stamps and Death by Denim, earning spins from triple j and critical acclaim along the way as well as playing multiple sold-out shows across Perth. Their cover of Tears for Fears’ “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” earlier this year showcased both their knack for revitalising nostalgic classics and their flair for infectious energy.

Now they bring us their latest single titled “What’s Your Name Again?,” a song which shows just how far Streetlights have come in crafting songs that deliver emotional impact while still lighting up the dancefloor. Celebrated with a launch at Lyrics Underground in Maylands, “What’s Your Name Again?” distills that instant spark of connection that catches you off guard on a morning bus or train and vanishes just as suddenly.

Commenting on the release, John Toplis shares, “You’re catching the bus and someone hops on and goes to sit directly across from you. You lock eyes and BAM! – you’ve fallen in love with a complete stranger, only for them to get off at the next stop.”

It’s a story of infatuation in motion, of love at first sight before reality sets in, framed in an uptempo indie rock setting that’s catchy and energising in equal measure. With twanging guitars, bright synths and expressive vocal performance, the track swells from its tender beginnings into a euphoric chorus that’s guaranteed to stick with listeners. Set up by the crunch of guitar rhythms, intricate lead notes glide in as the rustle of driving drums injects a bouncy energy.

Lead singer John Toplis enters with compelling vocal leads, spinning hook-focused melodic leads carrying storytelling lyricism, forming an anthemic slice of pop-focused indie rock. It’s an epic jam that puts the wide appeal of the band’s songwriting on full display, brought to life by their stellar performance talent to deliver a charming indie outing that’s sure to win over fans around the world.

Listen to What’s Your Name Again? below

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