Forty years. Four decades. It’s a mammoth chapter in any music career, but in the volatile world of punk rock, it’s virtually unheard of.
Irrepressible architects of the ’90s punk explosion, The Offspring are still firing on all cylinders. Far from mellowing out, lead guitarist Kevin ‘Noodles’ Wasserman says the band is the best they’ve ever sounded. Following a 30-second sell-out of their Melbourne show last November, the group are geared up to unleash their Supercharged tour on Australian audiences next month.
Dialing in from his Huntington Beach abode, a veritable museum of electric guitars adorning the wall behind him, Noodles beams at the mention of Australia. “It’s such a fun vibe; we love coming,” he says. “You guys have a wicked sense of humour. You love to take the piss. Plus, tons of energy. It feels similar to the US, only funnier and maybe a little smarter.”
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Prior to their Australian debut at Big Day Out in 1995, Noodles credits the band’s soundtracking of surf and skate videos for cultivating such a loyal following down under. A testament to this came in November last year, when their ‘one-night-only’ show at the Forum sold out in a mere 30 seconds.
Formed in 1984, the key to the band’s enduring appeal remains a mystery even to Noodles. But their infectious passion for the craft is an indisputable driving force. “I really don’t know how it still relates with audiences all these years later,” he laughs. “I’m so lucky that I get to go out and play with my friends for a living. I love the music. I think that has to be it.”
Outspoken fans of the Australian punk subgenre, Noodles shouts out Amyl and the Sniffers, The Chats and Pist Idiots among some of The Offspring’s favourites. “We just got to play with [Amyl and the Sniffers] in Brazil. They were incredible,” he says. “I would’ve loved to grab a couple beers with them. Huge fans.”
Once deemed commercially dead, punk rock has seen a vibrant resurgence in recent years. Reflecting on its presence across the industry, Noodles is unsurprised by the revival.
“I think it’s just really good music that appeals to young people trying to find their way in the world,” he says. “That’s what punk rock did for me. It helped me learn my own voice.”
Initially struggling to find their place within the hardcore scene, The Offspring, with the likes of Sublime and Bad Religion, existed on the fringes. Eventually, the group embraced their unique sound – a blend of hardcore pun and catchy hooks with a sharp satirical edge.
With their 1994 debut album Smash, the band soon shot to international fame, playing a crucial role in bringing punk rock to mainstream audiences.
Over 11 albums and various lineup changes, The Offspring has consistently evolved both on stage and in the studio. Recorded with longtime producer Bob Rock, their 2024 release – Supercharged – cements the band’s refusal to coast.
Described by frontman Dexter Holland as “pure energy from start to finish”, the record features inventive takes on hardcore and pop-punk with their signature mix of “aggressive yet melodic” riffs.
Lyrically, the album offers earnest and uplifting moments alongside a healthy dose of the socio-political satire that listeners know and love. Tracks like Looking Out For Number One mock the rise of ecocentrism, Come To Brazil anthems a popular meme, while Truth in Fiction delves into the culture of disinformation.
“There’s so much information out there that it’s just wrong,” Noodles says.
“Some people push misinformation purposefully to either get themselves clout, more followers, more clicks, more votes. It’s really kind of a crazy world.”
The Offspring has made a concerted effort to sharpen both their technical skills and live shows in recent years – a culmination of pandemic boredom and new additions to the band. Noodles credits newest members Brandon Pertzborn on drums and multi-instrumentalist Jonah Nimoy for injecting a fresh dynamic.
“We’re tighter and more solid,” he says. “Jonah has added a lot to us. He’s elevated my playing. I joke about him being my guitar teacher, but it’s kind of true. Then Brandon is young and energetic…We laugh all the time, just crack each other up. It’s a good time to be in this band.”
Looking ahead, Noodles affirms The Offspring has no intention of slowing down. While he playfully dismisses the idea of a rap album, Noodles says the band is keen to continue its exploration of new sonic textures and production techniques. When asked to pinpoint the indelible thread that anchors the band’s sound, all merit is directed to Holland’s songwriting. “I like when he steps out of his comfort zone,” Noodles says.
“He’s done that more and more as we’ve progressed. There are certain sensibilities he has that make any song we do, even if we put horns to it, sound like an Offspring song.”
The Supercharged Tour will be supported by the band’s long-time friends and Canadian rock heroes, Simple Plan. “Super nice guys,” Noodles says. “They’re poppy punk, but when you see them play live, those guys rock.”
After four decades, The Offspring remain hungry, passionate and brimming with excitement to showcase what Noodles describes as the band’s best iteration to date. “It feels like we’re just getting warmed up,” he grins. “We want to keep this going and see how far we can take it.”
The Offspring are playing at Rod Laver Arena on 7 and 8 May. Tickets here.
