I'm not sure why this kiwi 4-piece isn't being touted as 'the next big thing'; the media seem to waste that cliché on hype acts who's longevity is doubtful. Betchadupa were only a name to me until the Flying Nun label's Under The Influence compilation set me straight and their two contributions became regular visitors to my stereo. The Brit-pop aspect of their sound seems to be slightly diminishing and the bands ability to punctuate their riffs with dynamics comes to the fore on Who's Coming Through The Window; a punchy, dirgy single with the Kiwis' trump card: a massive wailing chorus. But, as is so often the case, the real appeal of this EP must be the 4 b-sides recorded at The Metro in Sydney as Betchadupa supported Eskimo Joe; another act on the rise. These live recordings are the best I've heard for many moons. Apparently the lads were playing so well on their latest tour of Australia that a live recording was suggested, just to capture their brilliant form. A good mixture of their short career is on display including Move Over and an intense version of Supa Day that left me gob smacked. I hate to single anyone out on such a consistently impressive package, but anyone who's ever sung live should have a listen to the quality that is possible on stage. Both lead and backing vocals are strong. Then there's the chaotic but precise ending to Design; whoa, that is a f**ked up but beautiful last 8 bars. Obviously I like Who's Coming Through The Window but I'm more excited by the fact that Betchadupa keep getting better with each release. My advice: check out everything they've ever done.

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Tracklisting
1 WHO'S COMING THROUGH THE WINDOW
2 SUPA DAY
3 DESIGN
4 ELROY
5 MOVE OVER

Full listing of BETCHADUPA releases