Perth-based artist Peter Bibby’s new album, Drama King, is out today. 

The album, which is Peter’s fifth studio release, maintains his signature stylings that he describes as “inherently working class and wholeheartedly independent,” while introducing the world to a Peter Bibby with fresh eyes. 

“I had a lot of songs fitting this theme of like, shedding off an old layer and attempting to start anew, self reflection, frustration with my current situation,” Peter explains in an interview with Culture Cabinet, “So, the process was really choosing my favorite songs, and which ones fit together well in an album sense. The ‘concept’ of the album was born out of existing songs, rather than writing songs to fit the concept.” 

Drama King features twelve tracks, that take the listener on a grungy, gritty rock journey. Standout tracks include “Terracotta Brick,” one of the album’s singles, and “The One.” 

The album marks Peter’s return to music after four years since the release of Drama King’s predecessor, 2020’s Marge. In that time, Peter found himself at a turning point in life, and writing songs throughout that process. 

“My collection of songs was getting too large, I needed to record and release some of them into the wild. Recording music is also one of my very favorite things to do so I’ll jump at any opportunity to get into the studio.” 

Drama King also marks the first collaboration between Peter and producer Dan Luscombe, who’s best known for working with fellow Australian artists such as he Drones and Amyl and the Sniffers, and the album was mixed with White Denim’s Josh Block, a frequent collaborator with Leon Bridges. 

Such a big career milestone feels symbolic of the growth that Peter showcases in the album, that ultimately reflect a transition from a notorious party animal to a more self-aware and responsible human, and a journey to sobriety.

With a unique style, Peter Bibby manages to bring a fresh and honest approach to his music with such an innate sense of individuality that one would be hard pressed to find in another artist of late. 

Known for his genial personality and lively stage presence, Peter has taken the stage by storm, performing at various music festivals such as Laneway, Falls, All Points East, South by Southwest and South Africa’s Rocking the Daisies, on top of headlining his own shows (which will include a tour for Drama King). 

And therein lies where Peter Bibby is able to find the sweet spot of mastering his craft in songwriting, and connecting with listeners. 

“As an artist, I strive to make people laugh, reflect and if I’m lucky, inspire them to do something great,” he says. “In terms of the album, I hope it is good medicine for people’s brains, I hope people can relate to some of the topics I’ve dished up, and if they’re in a rut, maybe it can help them move forward to greener pastures.” 

You can stream Drama King below: