Karnivool

Karnivool is an alternative rock and progressive rock band formed in Perth, Australia, in 1996. Initially, the band focused on performing covers of bands like Carcass and Nirvana, with frontman Ian Kenny handling both guitar and vocals. The band's name originated from early descriptions by local fans who characterized them as "a bunch of clowns." Their musical style is characterized by progressive and alternative rock elements, often incorporating undertones of alternative metal. Key influences include Nirvana, Radiohead, Meshuggah, Pink Floyd, Tool, Soundgarden, and Carcass. Karnivool is recognized as a foundational act in the Australian progressive rock and metal scene, consistently delivering fresh material to their growing catalog.

In 1996, Ian Kenny recruited high school classmates Andrew Brown and Brett McKenzie to form a cover band. Around this time, the band's future bassist and lead guitarist were studying jazz guitar and drums at a conservatorium. By 1998, Andrew Goddard joined on bass, and the band began writing original material. Subsequently, Goddard moved to lead guitar, and Jon Stockman (bass) and Ray Hawking (percussion) replaced Brown and McKenzie. The band has since released several singles and two EPs, including Themata and their second album, Sound Awake.