Cosmic Psychos - Blokes You Can Trust

Cosmic Psychos - Blokes You Can Trust is an engaging and informative 2013 music documentary that provides an in-depth look at one of Australia's most iconic underground punk bands, the Cosmic Psychos. This rockumentary, loaded with the band’s distinctive blend of humor, raw energy, and uncompromising spirit, features appearances by Raymond Ahn, Steve Albini, and Mark Arm, and is directed by Matt Weston.

At the heart of the film is the band's uncompromising frontman, Ross Knight, a former shearer, and semi-professional footballer turned music maestro. Knight’s larger-than-life personality, combined with his authentic rural Australia slave-to-the-grind charm, is a prominent facet of the film. He demonstrates that his band is not just involved in the music scene for glamourous indulgences but carries a deep passion and commitment for the music they create.

The film extensively profiles the band's journey that started three decades ago in the 1980s, their struggle for recognition, and their eventual recognition as an influential act in the international punk scene. It encapsulates Cosmic Psychos’ rugged blend of punk, rock, and a workman-like ethos that made them influential figures in the world of punk and grunge. Far from the glamorous lives led by many rock stars, these working-class musicians made their grind in the sparse farmlands of Australia, sharing an unfiltered peek into the life and hard work of a band that has often flown under the radar.

One of the main highlights of the film is commentary from prominent figures in the rock scene who praise and acknowledge the influence that Cosmic Psychos had on their careers. The documentary includes interviews with the likes of Butch Vig, producer of Nirvana’s Nevermind album, Eddie Vedder of Pearl Jam, and Mudhoney’s Mark Arm. These contributions provide valuable insights into the band’s influence on global punk rock and grunge music.

Moreover, there are contributions from the elusive Steve Albini, an American musician and record producer, who provides detailed perspectives about the band's influence. Albini's admiration for the band, combined with his music production expertise, lends credence to Cosmic Psychos' place in the history of punk rock. Raymond Ahn of Hard-Ons also makes an appearance, going a long way in outlining the band's cultural impact and influence on Australian independent music.

Furnished with behind-the-scenes footage, the documentary gives viewers unparalleled access into the life of the band, their recording process, hectic touring schedule, and the challenges they faced. At times raw, touching, and always head-bangingly engaging, the film provides an authentic insight into the lives of Cosmic Psychos as they maintain their love for music amidst the trials and tribulations of life.

Cosmic Psychos - Blokes You Can Trust also effectively captures the band's impactful stage performances, making viewers feel like they're right there in the heart of the mosh pit. The performances are eye-opening for fans and allow newcomers to understand why the band attracted such a dedicated following, even if their brand of music wasn't commercially mainstream.

Furthermore, the film is not just about the music but explores the unique personality traits of each band member, providing a fascinating character study. From dealing with personal tragedies to overcoming addictions, the band members' back-stories are delving into, adding a human element to the hard-rocking exterior that fans see on stage.

One does not need to be a fan of the Cosmic Psychos or even familiar with their music to be moved by this film. It's an intimate portrayal of the iron-will determination required to continue pursuing art one loves passionately while showing the humanity that can exist in even the most chaotic of music scenes.

Overall, Cosmic Psychos - Blokes You Can Trust is a must-watch, not only for fans of punk and grunge music but also for those interested in a heartfelt, astonishing story about persistence, passion, and the power of music. It’s an extraordinary tribute to the band that has had a profound influence on the music scene and proves that Cosmic Psychos are indeed blokes you can trust to deliver prolific and essential punk rock.