Goldfish Smarts - Borrowed Books - Second Hand Stories From The Beaches & Beyond (2025) Hi-Res

Goldfish Smarts, the Northern Beaches alt-indie-surf-rock outfit, are back with a new album and a fresh single that captures the soul of their hometown. Due for release on Friday, November 7, 2025, "Borrowed Books - Second Hand Stories From The Beaches & Beyond", is a collection of short stories told through the age-old (or old age?) medium of rock songs. There’s songs about places, people, experiences, relationships - and a few that defy explanation. From straight-up rock to acoustic ballads, groove-laden swayers, and blues inspired mongrels, the album spans genres as freely as it spans emotions.

The second single, Neighbourhood 2095, released Friday, October 10, 2025 is a mellow, acoustic-led tribute to the band’s beachside suburb of Manly and some of the characters and locations that make it unique. With lyrics that evoke ferry rides, weekend bustle, and quiet weekday charm, the song paints a portrait of place and people, not always happy, but always real.

“Phil’s had the lyrics for ages,” says guitarist and songwriter Michael Pilz. “We tried a bunch of musical ideas over the years, but nothing stuck—until one day it just clicked. The stories were too good not to get right.”

"Borrowed Books..." was recorded at Brookvale’s HouseFox Studios with the legend that is Ryan Miller behind the controls. “Two weeks in a proper studio felt like such a luxury,” says drummer Stu Freeman. “We even got time to experiment a bit with Ringo-style tea towels on the drums.”
The album showcases songwriting contributions from all six members, including new bassist Wally Brown. Mixed by Michael Pilz

Formed in 2018, Goldfish Smarts are six Northern Beaches teenagers hiding in 50+ year old bodies. Their energetic live shows and cult following prove that the best years are far from behind them.