Boy & Bear Frontman Dave Hosking Tells Us About Their Sixth Studio Album
Aussie icons
By Natalie McGowan | 30th October 2025With a career kickstarted by triple j Unearthed in 2009, this multi-ARIA award-winning five-piece have spent over a decade crafting their signature indie-folk-rock sound. Just in time for their appearance at The Long Sunset festival, frontman Dave Hosking talks to us about their soon-to-be-released sixth studio album.
You’ve just released two singles and are teasing more music on the way — can you tell us about what’s to come?
I think we’ve made a really fun and interesting pop record. We all bring our own musical tastes and influences, but it feels like this time we’ve really managed to tie them all together to create something that feels both cohesive and unique.
What was your creative process like this time around compared to previous albums?
I think the biggest change is just how we are working together. It feels like we are in a real state of flow now. Everyone chips in when needed but also knows when to get out of the way. It’s more collaborative than it’s ever been.
Are there any key concepts or themes that shaped the new record?
For me, at least, the themes of a record only really become apparent halfway through the writing. In reflecting on our songs, I started to pick up on themes of getting older and the pros and cons that come with that. Change is inevitable, but often with it comes opportunities to grow. Maybe on a bigger level, the record is about embracing this — embracing self-growth whilst also letting go of our past selves.
Looking back on your music over the years, how do you feel your sound has evolved, especially with this new release on its way?
I actually feel like this record has drawn sonic influence from our whole catalogue. We’ve blended synths and banjos, acoustic instruments and drum machines, etc. In the past, we’ve purposely moved away from certain instruments and sonics, but this time round we embraced all of it.
Were there particular genres, artists, or even non-musical influences that inspired the direction of your new work?
I think we’ll always be inspired by vintage pop music. We’re very much influenced by bands of the ’70s, but by no means have we just parked ourselves there this time round. Everyone has been inspired by a variety of artists and genres, so I think amongst the five of us it’s quite varied.
Boy & Bear has been together for over a decade now. What’s been the key to keeping the band dynamic strong?
We’re just lucky we like each other, ha. We really do get along. It’s taken some work over the years, but we communicate well and have plenty of respect for each other, so I think that’s what’s kept us in good stead.
If you could send one piece of advice back to your younger selves when you were just starting out, what would it be?
Pace yourself. Play the long game. Never stop writing new songs, and look after yourself on the road. It’s not a race to the top.
Do you have a pre-show ritual as a band before stepping on stage?
I personally like to scout the stage and watch a bit of the support act. We all like to be together about an hour out from show time. It just helps you get in the zone.
You’ll be playing The Long Sunset in November. What can fans expect from your set at The Long Sunset?
Well, we’ll be playing the new songs! It’s been a long time since we had new material to play, so that’s exciting for us. We will, of course, be playing the classics too.
Are there any artists you’re especially excited to watch at The Long Sunset?
Vera Blue, I reckon. She’s a weapon — such a mighty voice and writes beautiful pop songs. That’ll be great!
Music festivals often become core memories for the audience — do you have a festival performance or experience that stands out for you?
We’ve been lucky enough to play main stage at a heap of festivals over the years, but the one that stands out is our first show at Splendour in the Grass. We were on a side stage and had no idea whether anyone was going to come. We ended up jamming the tent and played to over 5,000 people. It was mind-blowing and a very special experience. I’ll never forget that.
Catch Boy & Bear’s performance at QLD Music Trails’ The Long Sunset on Saturday, 1 November. Tickets are available here.
