Target’s Air Conditioner – Baterz – 037

Target’s Airconditioner is a good example of Baterz’ observational style of comedic songwriting. Apart from the ability of the lyrics to immediately transport you to a hot and sweaty bus ride, the whole thought process around writing a song about doing something so apparently inane as pretending you’re buying something just to hide from the heat got my immediate admiration. Add to that some subtly clever and unique arrangement and playing style, and that admiration just increased exponentially.

Baterz came to Adelaide in 1989 with his band “The Bedridden”, allegedly seeking warmer weather and cheaper rent. The Bedridden developed a cult following around Australia with a style referred to as comedic acoustic punk. Baterz also established himself as a solo artist in the late 90’s and released three singles… the Blue Single, the Red Single and the Yellow Single, and in 2000 released an album called “Out of Hell”. Apart from this song, he also recorded some other brilliantly witty songs like Goth, Darling, Pole Sitter, Zombie Girl, Giant Squids and Fifteen, and did some more serious stuff like “Morning After”.

Baterz was a haemophiliac and, as a young teen, was diagnosed with HIV which he had contracted via a contaminated blood transfusion. In 2002, his condition worsened and lesions were discovered in his brain, affecting his co-ordination and forcing him to give up performing. Baterz died in July 2002. Triple J, broadcast a tribute to Baterz and his music on their Artery program.

Unfortunately I never got to see Baterz or the Bedridden live, and I envy anyone who did.
http://baterz.com/
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