Australian quartet The Gnomes announce new EP, With A Gnome

Emerging from Melbourne’s vibrant music scene, The Gnomes are set to release their sophomore EP titled With A Gnome on 4 November 2026. This follow-up to their debut EP More, which launched earlier this year, marks an evolution in the band’s sonic identity and expands their international presence.

Formed by vocalist and guitarist Jay Millar, guitarist Ned Capp, bassist Olly Katsianis, and drummer Ethan Robins, The Gnomes have quickly built momentum through their energetic live performances and distinctive blend of rock influences. Their initial EP showcased a Merseybeat-inspired sound, but the upcoming With A Gnome promises to explore new musical territory.

The band recently shared two new tracks that provide a glimpse into their evolving style. The single “Batteries” diverges from their earlier work by combining elements of softness and intensity, featuring a raw, heavy guitar tone crafted using unconventional gear like a makeshift fuzz pedal. Contrastingly, the B-side “Anything You Need” channels garage rock energy, highlighting the group’s versatility and willingness to experiment within rock’s broad spectrum.

Production for With A Gnome was handled by Dec Mehrtens, guitarist of the Australian punk band Amyl and the Sniffers. Mehrtens brought a fresh perspective to the recording process, encouraging The Gnomes to reimagine their sound while maintaining their core attitude. His involvement underscores a collaborative spirit between prominent acts in Melbourne’s contemporary rock community.

The recording sessions also featured some unconventional moments that illustrate the band’s immersion in the local music ecosystem. Millar and Capp spent a night at their management’s studio, only to be evicted by the Sniffers during rehearsal. This encounter, which led to an impromptu meeting with Amy Taylor, the Sniffers’ frontwoman, became a creative catalyst as they wrote the lyrics and harmonies for “Batteries” in the early hours.

Earlier in 2026, The Gnomes made their UK debut, performing multiple shows at The Great Escape festival in Brighton and headlining dates in major cities including London, Glasgow, and Manchester. These appearances helped establish their footprint in the competitive European market and paved the way for their announced tour later this year.

The upcoming UK and European itinerary will see The Gnomes return in November, with performances scheduled at venues such as The Shacklewell Arms in London. This tour aims to build upon the buzz generated by their festival appearances and showcase material from With A Gnome live to a broader audience.

Details about the full tracklist of With A Gnome remain limited at this time, but the early releases signal a band intent on blending experimentation with their established rock foundation. As The Gnomes prepare to cement their international reputation, their commitment to authentic, gritty rock continues to resonate.

With a blend of evolving musical textures, strong production partnerships, and growing international engagements, The Gnomes are positioning themselves as a notable act within the contemporary Australian rock scene. Their trajectory from local beginnings to overseas tours and collaborative projects captures a band in dynamic progress.

Fans and new listeners alike can anticipate the release of With A Gnome as a defining chapter in The Gnomes’ career, one that reflects both growth and a deepening of their artistic vision.