Adelaide’s own Down And Out have been on a relentless rise since forming in 2019. What began as the fallout from a metalcore project has transformed into one of the most exciting genre-blending outfits in the Australian alternative scene. Fronted by vocalist Luke Ganeo, the band has already carved their name with three EPs, a string of high-energy national tours, and collaborations with some of the biggest names in modern alternative music.
I recently caught up with Luke to talk about the band’s journey so far, the challenges of being an Aussie band on the road, the creative joy of collaboration, and where Down And Out are heading next with their latest single Guilty As Hell and a showcase slot at BIGSOUND 2025.
From Metalcore Roots to Pop-Punk Fire
Down And Out’s story kicks off in 2019, when Luke made the pivot from heavier music to chasing a more melody-driven sound. Those early demos quickly snowballed into a full band, and soon the group found themselves in Sydney with producer Stevie Knight (known for his work with RedHook and Stand Atlantic).
“Recording that first EP with Stevie was a huge moment,” Luke explained. “We spent about three weeks in Sydney, just living in the studio and figuring out who we were. That was the start of Down And Out really becoming a band.”
The Sound of Growth – Sunk Cost Fallacy
Fast forward to 2025 and the band has released three EPs, the most recent being Sunk Cost Fallacy, which dropped January 31. The EP sees the band lean into their diverse identity – a mix of pop-punk energy, hardcore bite, dance-punk swagger, and even acoustic emotion.
“It’s the hardest, most focused sound we’ve put out,” Luke shared. “We stopped worrying about fitting into one genre and just wrote songs that hit us emotionally. It’s all about big hooks and powerful choruses.”
Tracks like LEECH! and Heaven Hell bring the fire, while the title itself nods to the idea of pushing forward despite setbacks – a perfect reflection of the band’s relentless attitude.
Collabs That Count
One of the things setting Down And Out apart is their willingness to collaborate across scenes. The band has linked up with:
- Emmy Mack (RedHook) on Lost [In Exposure]
- Kellin Quinn (Sleeping With Sirens) on Four Leaf Clover
- As December Falls on Y U Gotta Do Me Like That
- Comatastic on Self Sabotage
“These collabs really happened through Stevie Knight, who has so many connections in the scene,” Luke explained. “Each one brought something totally different – whether it was Emmy’s intensity, Kellin’s melodic power, or As December Falls adding that UK flavour. It’s always about learning and pushing ourselves.”
The Grind of Touring in Australia
Like many Aussie acts, Down And Out have felt the reality of touring in such a massive country.
“The drives are brutal,” Luke laughed. “We used to do those 10-hour hauls, but now we’re flying more often so we can actually put on the best show when we get there. It takes a toll, but the energy from the crowds makes it worth it.”
And the crowds are showing up – from packed shows at the Low Life Basement Bar to sold-out rooms in Sydney and Melbourne.
New Single: Guilty As Hell
On August 27, 2025, the band dropped their latest single Guilty As Hell, recorded in Los Angeles. The track pushes their sound further and gives a taste of the fourth EP already in the works.
“It’s a track that really captures where we’re heading,” Luke said. “Bigger, sharper, and more confident than ever.”
Adelaide Scene & BIGSOUND 2025
Down And Out remain proudly tied to Adelaide’s buzzing live scene, where venues like Jive, UniBar, and The Cranka have nurtured countless bands. But now their sights are set on BIGSOUND 2025, where they’ll showcase alongside some of the best rising acts in the country.
“BIGSOUND is a huge opportunity,” Luke said. “It’s not just about the gig – it’s about meeting people, making connections, and hopefully opening doors to bigger tours and maybe even international opportunities. We’re ready.”
The Heart of It All
At the core of Down And Out’s story is Luke’s love of music itself. With influences ranging from The Beatles and Led Zeppelin to modern pop-punk and metalcore giants, his passion is now less about chasing the perfect final product and more about falling in love with the process.
“It’s about growth,” he reflected. “The collabs, the EPs, the tours – they’ve all taught us something. And now it feels like we’re only just getting started.”
What’s Next?
Down And Out will be headlining Low Life Basement Bar on September 12 for their Adelaide crowd, before heading to Melbourne and Sydney later in the year. They’re also part of a Punk Goes Disney night, showing their playful side.
Between a new EP in the works, fresh singles, and BIGSOUND on the horizon, the next chapter looks massive for one of Adelaide’s hardest-working bands.
Final Thoughts
Down And Out are proof that Adelaide’s scene is producing world-class acts ready to push beyond Australia’s shores. With Sunk Cost Fallacy showcasing their most refined sound yet, Guilty As Hell pointing towards the future, and a relentless drive to connect with fans, this band is poised for something special.
Catch them live, spin the records, and keep your eyes on their next moves – because Down And Out are just getting warmed up.
👉 Down And Out’s latest single “Guilty As Hell” is streaming now. Don’t miss their upcoming Adelaide headline at Low Life Basement Bar on September 12, and keep an eye out for their BIGSOUND 2025 showcase.
