Demos from the West
2024 marks a return for trouble with normal, as they dive back into the creative process after a hiatus of many years.
The band spent the year writing and recording demo songs to get a feel for their new material, using a drum machine to lay down the beats. It was a stripped-back process, designed to focus on capturing the core of each track without over-complicating things.
The demo sessions allowed the band to hear how the songs fit together and explore new sonic ideas. These recordings helped refine the sound and direction they wanted to take moving forward.
From rocking the night away with “Are You Ready Now” to exploring deeper themes like self-doubt in “I’m Not Sure” and celebrating timeless beauty in “Near North,” this collection of songs tells the story of a band embracing the moment and their musical roots once more.
Expect infectious melodies and a sound that’s both nostalgic and fresh.
About Us
A new start
trouble with normal are a three-piece alt-indie band hailing from Ōtautahi / Christchurch, Aotearoa / New Zealand.
With guitar, bass, and drums driving their original sound, we create a dynamic mix of raw energy and melodic depth.
After taking a break for many years, the band is back in 2024 with a new drummer and a renewed hunger to play live and loud once again.
Yes, we are a “dad band” — and we’re proud of it.
We’ve got some years on us, sure, but age has only deepened our love for making music. Playing in a band isn’t just for the young — it’s for anyone who still feels that fire to plug in, crank it up, and let it rip.
Whether you’re 15 or 55, it’s never too early or too late to chase the joy of writing songs, jamming hard, and playing music you’d actually want to hear.
We’re proof that you can have jobs, kids, responsibilities — and still go out, make some noise, and have a bloody good time doing it.
Let’s go.
Latest news
trouble with normal
We are looking forward to playing with Radio On tomorrow night (21st June) at the darkroom. Get on your feet, it's time to dance. Let's
trouble with normal
We had a great evening at the Embankment Tavern Open Mic on Friday night. Thanks to everyone who came and to Wayne for having us
trouble with normal
A shot from us playing A Rolling Stone as part of Battleofthebands. Thanx to Chloe from Dranium.ZaniumPhotography for the picture
trouble with normal is attending an event.
Live at the Embankment Tavern – Open Mic Night Feature Band Friday Night from 7:30pm | Free Entry This week’s feature band is: trouble with
trouble with normal
We played A Rolling Stone on Wednesday, 9th April. Despite a few mechanical gremlins, we had a lot of fun.
Our Name
The band name “trouble with normal” is inspired by Bruce Cockburn’s 1983 album and song The Trouble with Normal. The song critiques societal complacency and the normalization of injustices, addressing issues like economic inequality, corporate greed, and political corruption. Today, Cockburn’s message feels as relevant as ever, reflecting ongoing challenges in modern society.
“It’ll all go back to normal if we put our nation first”
But the trouble with normal is it always gets worse
Upcoming Gigs
Join us as we perform live. Connect with fans, enjoy great music, and have a good time.
Let’s Go.
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Playing Live
