The Angels: Did You Know?
The Angels: Fun Facts & Lesser-Known Stories About Australia's Legendary Rock Band
The Angels, an Australian rock band that emerged in the 1970s, are well-known for their powerful guitar riffs and iconic anthems like Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again. However, behind the loud music and rebellious lyrics, there are some fascinating facts and stories that even die-hard fans might not know. Let's take a journey through some of the untold tales of this legendary band.
1. The Band's Surprising Folk Origins
Before becoming the hard-rocking band we know today, The Angels actually began as a folk duo. In the early 1970s, founding members Rick and John Brewster, along with lead singer Doc Neeson, formed an acoustic folk group called Moonshine Jug & String Band. They played traditional folk and bluegrass music, performing with instruments like the washboard and kazoo!
It wasn’t until 1974 that the band transformed into The Angels we know today, shifting from jug band music to hard-hitting rock 'n' roll. This transition is a testament to their versatility and musical evolution, paving the way for their success in Australia’s rock scene.
2. The Infamous Chant of "Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again"
The song Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again has a special place in Australian music history — but it’s not just because of the song itself. During live performances, fans added an unofficial, expletive-filled chant after the line Am I ever gonna see your face again — responding with No way, get fed, f* off!*.
What’s remarkable is that The Angels had nothing to do with creating the chant. It started as a spontaneous crowd response, and over time it became a ritual at concerts, spreading across Australia. Even the band was surprised, but they embraced it, recognizing how it made their live shows even more electric.
3. Doc Neeson's Theatrical Influence
Doc Neeson, the band’s charismatic lead singer, was more than just a rock frontman. He had a background in drama, which heavily influenced The Angels’ performances. He studied at Flinders University in Adelaide, where he honed his acting skills, and he brought a theatrical intensity to their shows. His larger-than-life presence on stage, combined with his commanding voice, made each performance feel like a dramatic, high-energy experience.
Neeson’s dramatic flair extended to his songwriting as well. He had a knack for crafting lyrics that told stories, often dark or mysterious, adding depth to The Angels' raw rock sound.
4. Opening for AC/DC and Their Shared History
The Angels’ rise to fame was intertwined with another iconic Australian rock band: AC/DC. In 1976, The Angels opened for AC/DC during their Australian tour, which helped propel the band into the national spotlight. The two bands shared a mutual respect, and AC/DC’s Angus Young once commented that The Angels were one of the best live bands he’d ever seen.
Interestingly, The Angels almost followed AC/DC’s footsteps onto the international stage. Their early manager, George Young (Angus and Malcolm Young’s older brother), tried to push them into the U.S. market. While they had success in Australia, their international breakthrough didn’t quite reach AC/DC’s heights.
5. The Brewster Brothers' Musical Legacy
Rick and John Brewster, the founding members and driving forces behind The Angels, come from a family with a deep musical heritage. Their father was a violinist with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, and their mother was an accomplished classical pianist. This classical background gave the Brewster brothers a solid musical foundation, which they later channeled into rock music.
Their ability to craft catchy guitar riffs and create complex harmonies can be traced back to their upbringing in a musically rich environment. The blending of classical music sensibilities with hard rock energy helped shape The Angels' distinctive sound.
6. Doc Neeson’s Near-Death Experience
In the early 1990s, Doc Neeson experienced a life-changing event that nearly ended his career. In 1999, while the band was touring, Neeson was involved in a serious car accident that left him with neck and back injuries. He had to undergo intensive rehabilitation and took a long break from performing.
Many thought his career was over, but Neeson’s determination and passion for music brought him back to the stage. His return was a testament to his resilience, and his later performances were filled with the same intensity that had defined his career.
7. The Angels' Influence on Australian Rock
While The Angels may not have achieved the same global fame as some of their peers, their influence on Australian rock cannot be overstated. They helped define the pub rock scene in Australia, paving the way for bands like Cold Chisel, Midnight Oil, and INXS. Their raw energy, powerful live performances, and ability to connect with audiences left an indelible mark on the country’s music culture.
Their songs continue to resonate with new generations of rock fans, and their legacy as one of Australia’s most iconic rock bands is secure.
The Angels' journey from a jug band to rock legends is filled with unexpected twists, theatrical influences, and a unique connection with their fans. Their ability to evolve, their iconic live shows, and the unforgettable anthems they created ensure that The Angels will forever be a cornerstone of Australian rock music. Whether it’s the roar of the crowd or the scream of electric guitars, The Angels have left a lasting impact on the world of music.
One of The Angels' most meaningful and iconic lines comes from their song Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again:
"Am I ever gonna see your face again?"
While this lyric is simple on the surface, it resonates deeply with themes of loss, longing, and separation. The emotional weight of the line reflects the universal experience of missing someone and the uncertainty of ever reconnecting. Though the song took on a life of its own with the infamous crowd chant, the original line carries a poignant sentiment, making it one of the most memorable and meaningful lyrics in The Angels' discography.