Interview: The Jungle Giants

The Jungle Giants Are Still Chasing Joy, and They're Just Getting Started
‍After more than a decade together, The Jungle Giants have become one of Australia's most enduring indie bands. While many groups struggle to maintain momentum over the years, the Brisbane-born outfit continues to evolve, embracing new sounds while staying true to the songwriting that has always been at the heart of their music. Ahead of the band's upcoming New Zealand tour, Radio BurgerFuel caught up with frontman Sam Hales to chat about growing up surrounded by music, the discipline behind his songwriting, and why their latest record, Experience Feels Like Joy, is the most honest work the band has ever released.

‍For Hales, music was always part of everyday life. Raised by his Irish mother, his childhood soundtrack was filled with traditional Irish music, particularly Riverdance, which sparked his first musical obsession with the flute. "I grew up with Michael Flatley on the TV all the time," he says. "Music was absolutely everywhere." His talent quickly became obvious. As a young flute player, Hales entered competitions and even began winning prize money. "My mum was a single parent, so she loved that I was bringing home a couple of grand from competitions." It became his first taste of music as something more than just a hobby.

"I heard Bon Iver and did exactly what I'd done with the flute. I just practised constantly." While still at school, Hales already knew he wanted to start a serious band. Rather than simply playing with friends, he actively searched for musicians who shared the same dedication. "I was taking it really seriously," he explains. "I was looking for people who had the same relationship with music that I did." One future bandmate, Andrew, stood out immediately after Hales saw him playing original songs at a party. "I asked what he was playing, and he said they were his own songs. I knew straight away I wanted him in the band." "It's pretty insane. We've been in this band for more than half of our lives."

The story behind The Jungle Giants' name is far less calculated than fans might expect. After recording their debut EP, the mastering engineer called asking for the band's name so the CDs could be printed. "He said if I didn't decide that day, it'd cost me another day's work, and I didn't have the money." With only a handful of names saved in his phone, Hales made a snap decision. "One option was The Bears in the Attic, which is terrible," he laughs. "The other was Pity Party, but that already existed. Then there was The Jungle Giants. So I just picked it." Looking back, he has no regrets. "I've always thought the music gives the name its meaning."

Unlike many collaborative bands, The Jungle Giants have always operated with clearly defined responsibilities. Hales has remained the band's sole songwriter and producer since the beginning, something he believes has helped their longevity. "In a band, it's a democracy, but having really clear roles is important." "I've always been the songwriter, and everyone supports each other in their respective roles." That structure has allowed the group to avoid many of the creative conflicts that often derail bands.

Rather than waiting for inspiration to strike, Hales treats songwriting like a full-time job. Every weekday begins with exercise before heading into the studio for a writing schedule inspired by Ernest Hemingway's creative routine. From 9am until midday, he focuses exclusively on brand-new ideas. "I'll start something, and when I get stuck, I don't force it. I move on to another new idea." After lunch, he returns to older ideas with fresh ears. The process removes pressure and allows songs to evolve naturally. "Sometimes I'll hear something I wrote the day before and think, 'I don't even remember writing that.' That becomes the inspiration for the next idea." Only once the melody feels right does he begin adding lyrics, drawing from extensive notes stored in his phone.

Over the years, The Jungle Giants have experimented with indie rock, dance music, electronic production and pop influences. For Hales, those changes have never been about chasing trends. "They're always a reflection of whatever music I'm obsessed with at the time." If he is listening to drum and bass, those influences naturally find their way into his own songs. More recently, Experience Feels Like Joy introduced 90s dance influences alongside orchestral arrangements. "I'd never make music just because it seems like the smart career move. I have to genuinely love the music I'm making." Each new record means learning new techniques, adapting their live show and continually challenging themselves as musicians.

While Hales is proud of the band's latest record musically, he says the biggest change came lyrically. Previously, he often relied on metaphor to disguise personal experiences. This time, he deliberately chose vulnerability. "I really wanted to stop hiding behind metaphors." "I realised it's actually freeing to just be honest." That openness has changed not only the songwriting itself but also the way he talks about the music. "I've found a freedom in being more transparent." Not surprisingly, Experience Feels Like Joy is currently his favourite Jungle Giants release.

With tours across New Zealand, North America and beyond, The Jungle Giants have built a loyal international following. One place continues to surprise them every time they visit. "Mexico City is incredible," Hales says. "People care so deeply about music. They'll meet us after shows, recommend artists, and just want to share what they love." Despite the growing venues and expanding fanbase, the band has not lost its appreciation for touring. "We genuinely love travelling." Food is almost as important as the concerts. "We'll go to Boston for a certain meal, Chicago for deep-dish pizza. Every city has something we're excited about."

Fans heading along to the New Zealand shows can expect much more than a standard album tour. For the first time, the band worked with musical director Michael Del Sarto to completely rethink the live show. Songs have been restructured, transitions redesigned and older fan favourites have returned to the setlist. "We wanted people who love the new record to have an amazing experience, but also give long-time fans some surprises." Alongside updated visuals, lighting and stage production, Hales says it is the most ambitious Jungle Giants show yet.

Quick Fire
‍Current favourite song in the car? "What a Fool Believes" by The Doobie Brothers.
Artist on repeat? Bon Iver.
One thing you cannot perform without? "A pre-show margarita."
Dream collaborator? The Deerhunter.

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Fire or Backfire?
‍Pickles in burgers? Fire.
Crocs? Fire.
Karaoke? Fire.
Acoustic performances? Fire.
Festivals? Fire.
Singing in the shower? Fire.
Pineapple on pizza? Fire.
Bare feet in the supermarket? "Backfire. Put your shoes on. Put the dogs away."

As Radio BurgerFuel always asks its guests, Hales was challenged to design his own dream burger. His creation? A beef patty topped with Szechuan chilli honey and fresh wombok salad, inspired by Asian flavours. The name came just as quickly. The Spicy Rizz.

Check out The Jungle Giants newest music HERE and stay up to date with them HERE.

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