South Australian alt-rock outfit Gernz returned earlier this month with their gritty new single, “Like a Dobberman.” Released on January 9, 2026, the track is a masterclass in “nu-grunge,” produced by Thomas Wilson on the edge of a dormant volcano in Mount Gambier. The single surges with fuzzy guitars and a vocal performance that balances vulnerability with defiance.
While the song seemingly describes a man and his dog, frontman Liam Brown explains a deeper meaning rooted in the isolation of the pandemic. Inspired by a friend who used drone photography and dog walking to cope with border closures, the “Dobberman” serves as a metaphor for both a literal companion and the weight of depression. With its trademark contrast of heavy themes and addictive, playful energy, “Like a Dobberman” is an essential addition to the modern Australian DIY punk scene.
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