Marching Orders

Marching Orders

Marching Orders are a punk and street punk group from Melbourne, Australia. The band is conceived in 2002, records a three-track demo, and the original lineup disbands before it plays live. After a hiatus, the group is reformed with Al on vocals, Chris on drums, Ben on guitar and Ander on bass. After six months of songwriting and rehearsal, Phil joins on lead guitar and the line-up is further established.

Releases and recording

This line-up releases the independent six-track Last Drinks EP in 2005. In 2006, the band contributes two songs to a split 7-inch with Canada’s Alternate Action on Longshot Records. In early 2010, it releases the album Days Gone By, which includes 14 new tracks.

Line-up changes and activity

After the 2005 and 2006 releases, Ander leaves the band. Doug then joins on rhythm guitar, while Ben moves to bass duties. The group plays in America in 2008 and later looks toward a possible European tour in 2010 and 2011.

Style and influences

Marching Orders’ sound combines pub rock with traditional Oi! stylings. It is also described as drawing on Australian pub rock, the pioneers of Oi! and street punk, and the members’ experience in punk, rockabilly and hardcore bands. Reviewers compare the band with Menace and On File. The group describes its approach as street-level rock and roll.