Substandard played around christchurch nz for a couple of years round 2001-2002.
They were a sonically inspired 3 piece building hypnotic grooves with drum and bass and layering melodic washes of guitar over the top. They didn't have space for vocals after that so they remained instrumental.
They released 2 independent eps with spectacular handmade packaging.
In November 2002 the band released the global research systems album on Failsafe Records.
The Album was recorded With Rob Mayes at Avalanche Studios over a three month period.
SUBSTANDARD -Global Research Systems - 054CD
Debut full-length album from this 3 piece sonic guitar instrumental band. Soundscapes and groove-based tracks shine in this stunning album, 10 slices of hook laden mood-inducing rock.
“The band mine similar territory to the likes of Bailter Space, HDU, Subliminals etc – it's all about textures. But the young Christchurch three-piece have their own take on the sonic soundscape, and strangely, while they don't have any lyrics, their songs seem more emotional than the likes of HDU. Well recorded and stylishly packaged this is a great disc, and captures a band that knows exactly what it's doing”.
Nick Gormack- Christchurch Press (November 2002 Release on CD)
The band played a few more shows after the release of the album but because their music inspired listening more than drinking bar owners were not so keen to have them play even though they attracted a good crowd not many people drank at their gigs.
in 2004 Band leader Danny migrated to Syddney Australia where he pursued photography. He is now resident in Melbourne and alludes to producing music again.
