The Moods (Australian band)
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1965 in Melbourne, Australia |
| Headquarters | Melbourne , Australia |
| Products | Music singles ("Cos of You", "Rum Drunk") |
The Moods were a garage rock ensemble originating from Melbourne, Australia, active during the 1960s. They emerged as one of Melbourne's leading bands and produced two singles under His Master's Voice, notably "Rum Drunk," which has since achieved status as a garage rock staple. Multiple tracks by the group have been featured on various compilation albums.
History
Established in Melbourne in 1965, The Moods initially consisted of Kevin Fraser on lead vocals, John Livi handling lead guitar, Mick Hamilton on rhythm guitar, Peter Noss playing bass, and Carl Savona on drums. John Livi's early musical inspiration stemmed from instrumental acts like the Shadows, but after encountering "I Want to Hold Your Hand" by the Beatles, he gravitated toward British rock influences. His brother Bernie Livi introduced him to musicians intent on forming a Beatles-inspired band, culminating in the creation of The Moods. Under the management of Peter Raphael, the group secured steady performances at local mod venues, enhancing their visibility. Due to disputes over his long hairstyle, Livi left school and pursued business studies while remaining active with the band.
In 1966, following the easing of Australian regulations and currency changes, The Moods capitalized on manager Raphael's position as head of advertising for the emerging music publication Go Set, which extensively promoted the band. They signed with His Master's Voice and issued their first single, "Cos of You" backed with "Say Hello to Me." Although it did not achieve national chart success, DJ Stan Rofe commended the release and forecasted The Moods as Australia's premier group after the Easy Beats relocated to England. The band maintained a rigorous schedule with nightly Melbourne performances, tours across Adelaide and Sydney, television appearances on shows like Go!! and Kommotion, and served as an opening act for the Rolling Stones during their 1966 Australian tour. During this period, bassist Peter Noss was succeeded by Ian Ferguson.
Their follow-up single included "Rum Drunk," portraying the lifestyle of a drunken troublemaker, paired with "I Love You So" on the B-side; both tracks were recorded at Bill Armstrong’s Telefil Studios. Similar to their debut, this release did not chart nationally, resulting in their contract termination with His Master's Voice. In 1966 Mick Hamilton departed for The Vibrants; John Livi exited in 1967, and shortly thereafter the band disbanded.
Following the breakup, bassist Ian Ferguson joined Running, Jumping, Standing Still before moving on to Carson. Drummer Carl Savona became part of Brigade, which released two singles through Astor Records. Paul Anderson participated in the cabaret group City Stompers and also recorded under Astor. Despite his musical talent, John Livi left the industry entirely. Mick Hamilton pursued an international career as a session guitarist and formed the rockabilly group The Mighty Guys. In 2002, he issued a solo album titled Alone at Last, characterized by country and folk influences, and collaborated on numerous other projects.
Over time, The Moods have earned appreciation among garage rock aficionados. Music historian Dean Mittlehousen identified them as a standout act from that period. Their song "Rum Drunk" has been included in compilations such as Down Under Nuggets: Original Australian Artyfacts 1965–1967 by Festival Records and releases from Ugly Things via Raven Records. "Cos of You" appears on Devil's Children, Volume 2, while "Say Hello to Me" is featured on Oz Beat Frenzy, Volume 1. Critic Ian D. Marks referred to "Rum Drunk" as "an angst-ridden masterpiece" and a revered garage classic. Guitarist Mick Hamilton expressed gratitude for their enduring influence and recognition.
Membership
- Kevin Fraser – lead vocals
- John Livi – lead guitar
- Mick Hamilton – rhythm guitar
- Peter Noss – bass guitar
- Carl Savona – drums
- Ian Ferguson – bass guitar
Discography
- "Cos of You" backed with "Say Hello to Me" (His Master's Voice EA-4747, released March 1966)
- "Rum Drunk" backed with "I Love You so" (His Master's Voice EA-4768, released June 1966)