FOR most people, a pair of socks is simply something to wear, but for local musician and karaoke host Angus “Just Gus” Brennan, it became the unlikely inspiration for his latest single, a short film and another step towards the release of his debut EP.
The quirky new track, Sock Song, perfectly captures Brennan’s playful approach to songwriting, transforming everyday observations into catchy tunes designed to bring people together.
“It really varies depending on how the creativity hits me,” he said.
“For Sock Song, I was given a pair of really cool socks by a friend. The next day I woke up and made a short film about this pair of socks.
“Towards the end of the video, I get locked up, and in order to get out of jail, I had to write a song about socks. The people voted for it, so I did.”
While the concept might sound delightfully ridiculous, it reflects the light-hearted creativity that has become Brennan’s trademark.
Creating memorable choruses is no accident. Years spent hosting karaoke nights have given him a unique understanding of what makes people sing along.
“I’m so immersed in music and I’ve become really attuned to what gets people involved,” he said.
“I know what it takes to make a catchy chorus and what I really want is to create anthems that bring people together.
“I want people to be able to get the song after the first couple of listens, if not the first listen. If my songs get stuck in your head, then my job is complete.”
For Brennan, the music has always been about far more than clever lyrics or catchy hooks.
“The thing I love most is the people and the community,” he said.
“Music is this powerful thing. People have problems and worries, but as soon as a good song comes on they can forget about those things for a while. It can be really healing.”
That enthusiasm will culminate in the release of his debut EP, I’m Having a Great Time, due in August.
“A lot of people ask if it’s sarcastic,” he said.
“It’s not. When I’m writing music, recording music and performing music, I’m genuinely having a great time.
“My hope is that if people listen from start to finish, they’ll be having a great time as well.”
Before the EP arrives, Brennan is hoping to release You Can’t Park There next month, before taking the songs to the stage with a live band featuring musicians he has met through the region’s thriving local music community.
Whether the inspiration comes from an unusual pair of socks, an illegally parked car or another unexpected moment in everyday life, Brennan’s mission remains the same: create songs that make people smile, sing along and leave humming the chorus long after the music stops.
