Australian Rock Legends The Church

Dreamy, atmospheric alternative rock is a genre that has captivated audiences for decades, and one band that has consistently pushed the boundaries of this sound is The Church. Formed in Sydney in 1980, the band has undergone several lineup changes over the years, but the core vision of bassist and singer Steve Kilbey has remained a constant driving force. The Church's origins date back to the mid-1970s, when Kilbey and guitarist Peter Koppes played together in Canberra, eventually forming the band in Sydney with drummer Nick Ward and guitarist Marty Willson-Piper.

The Church's debut album, Of Skins and Heart, was released in 1981 and delivered the radio hit The Unguarded Moment, but it was their 1988 album Starfish that marked a commercial peak, with the single Under the Milky Way reaching the US Hot 100 and winning an ARIA Award. The band's sound has evolved over the years, moving from new wave and neo-psychedelia towards a more dreamy, atmospheric alternative rock. This evolution is evident in their recent output, including their 26th studio album, The Hypnogogue, a science-fiction concept album released in 2023, and their upcoming album, Lacuna, due for release in late October 2026.

The Church's current lineup is a five-piece, featuring Steve Kilbey, Tim Powles, Ian Haug, Jeffrey Cain, and Ashley Naylor. This lineup has been praised for their live performances, which showcase the band's ability to craft intricate, atmospheric soundscapes. With a career spanning over four decades, The Church have established themselves as one of the most enduring and influential bands in Australian rock. Their music is characterized by the interplay of guitarists and the abstract lyrics of Steve Kilbey, creating a unique sound that has captivated audiences worldwide.

The Church will be performing at the Concorde 2 in Brighton on Monday, 2 November 2026. Tickets are with the button beside the article. The event has a 14+ age restriction, with under 16s required to be accompanied by an adult 18+ who will need to show ID and provide contact details. Both the under 16 and accompanying adult will need to wear a wristband while on the premises. With their upcoming performance, The Church are set to bring their unique sound to Brighton, offering fans a chance to experience their dreamy, atmospheric alternative rock live.

The Church's legacy is a testament to their enduring influence on the music scene. With their consistent output and innovative approach to their craft, they continue to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike. Their upcoming performance in Brighton is a rare opportunity to see a band that has been shaping the sound of alternative rock for over four decades.