Dumb Things - Self Help (2025)

Self Help, the third album by Dumb Things, is one of those low-key records that quietly sneaks up on you. Just listen to the first lines of the opening title track:
“Lately I’ve been working hard on my personality / Cos you got to keep it up, to keep it together ah ha / Been trying to find the time to put the work in / Yeah, I’ve been working out how to work it out.”
Both in words, sound, and delivery, it’s wonderfully David Berman-esque—darkly funny and emotionally gutting at the same time. It’s a memorable start, especially when they hit the chorus: “I’ve been reading self-help like I just can’t help myself.”

Hailing from Brisbane, Dumb Things sound unmistakably Australian in their laid-back jangle pop—they call it “hangover pop” themselves. One of the things that sets them apart is their multi-vocalist, multi-songwriter setup. Ever heard of a boat with four captains? Exactly. Usually, that ship sinks or vanishes without a trace. But Dumb Things make it work. The varied perspectives are a real asset, giving Self Help a dynamic quality where each track feels fresh.

Depending on where you’re coming from, you might hear shades of Dick Diver, Quivers, Pavement, or The Go-Betweens. There’s a bit of slacker indie rock, a whole lot of jangle, and even more pop—making Self Help an extremely likable, charming record.