Led by quirky songwriter/guitarist Mark Austin (New Zealand Composer),[1] the band was noted for its off-beat sound, energetic delivery and frenetic lyrics,[2] as found in such early songs as "Random Wellingtonian" and "Plastic Bag".
[3] From late 1981 to mid 1984 The Tin Syndrome was a popular live act in its home town of Wellington,[4] where its unique and complex arrangements[5] had an enduring influence on the local music scene.
[7] The group evolved from short-lived punk band Boots and Sneakers, formed by ex Hutt Valley schoolmates Mark Austin and Kevin McGill,[8] which played some gigs around Wellington in 1980 with Paul Sainsbury on drums.
When they brought in Peter Robinson (New Zealand Musician) (keyboards) and replaced their vocalist with a second guitarist, 16-year-old David Long, The Tin Syndrome was created, although it was a few more months before their eventual drummer, Malcolm Reid, was found.
[14]) The group was constantly developing its sound and the EP had captured a period when they were experimenting with a "particularly glossy aesthetic",[15] but by the time of its delayed release, they were no longer comfortable with the record or the video for "Street Song",[16] filmed in Dec '82, which had grabbed media attention.