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Australian Crawl’s 1981 track “Oh No Not You Again” stands as a testament to the band’s unique blend of pop-rock sensibilities and coastal Australian narratives. Featured on their sophomore album, Sirocco, the song encapsulates the band’s signature sound and storytelling prowess.

Musical Style and Influence

“Oh No Not You Again” is a quintessential example of early 80s Australian pop-rock. The track is characterized by its upbeat tempo, catchy guitar riffs, and relatable lyrics that paint a vivid picture of youthful relationships and coastal life. The song’s narrative revolves around “two young lovers who lived on the coast,” with their relationship facing challenges as the man spends his nights “out on the town.”

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The band’s sound during this era drew comparisons to contemporaries like Men at Work and Cold Chisel, who similarly blended rock with distinctly Australian themes. The infectious energy and storytelling in “Oh No Not You Again” align it with tracks like Men at Work’s “Down Under” and Cold Chisel’s “Cheap Wine,” both of which capture facets of Australian life and culture.

Chart Performance and Reception

Released in November 1981, “Oh No Not You Again” was paired as a double A-side with “Lakeside.” The single reached number 58 on the Australian Kent Music Report Singles Chart in October 1981.

While it didn’t achieve the commercial heights of some of the band’s other hits, the song has remained a favorite among fans for its relatable lyrics and catchy melody.

Music Video Production

The music video for “Oh No Not You Again” captures the band’s energetic performance style. Set against a minimalist backdrop, the video focuses on the band’s on-stage presence, with lead vocals delivered by Guy McDonough, who also wrote the song. The straightforward visual approach complements the song’s narrative, allowing the music and lyrics to take center stage. The video serves as a time capsule of early 80s Australian rock aesthetics, highlighting the band’s charisma and the era’s production values.

Legacy and Influence

Over the years, “Oh No Not You Again” has maintained its place in Australian Crawl’s discography as a track that encapsulates the band’s essence. Its themes of youthful exuberance and the complexities of relationships resonate with listeners, making it a timeless piece. The song’s influence can be seen in the works of later Australian bands that blend storytelling with rock elements, such as The Go-Betweens and Hoodoo Gurus.

In 2005, James Reyne, the band’s lead vocalist, recorded an acoustic version of the song for his album And the Horse You Rode in On, offering a more subdued and introspective take on the original.

Conclusion

“Oh No Not You Again” remains a significant entry in Australian Crawl’s catalog, reflecting the band’s ability to craft engaging pop-rock tunes infused with authentic Australian narratives. Its blend of catchy melodies, relatable storytelling, and energetic performance continues to captivate listeners, securing its place in the annals of Australian rock history.