Forever Five: Bad//Dreems

Bad // Dreems: Pub rock poets, cultural excavators, unfiltered storytellers

Bad//Dreems were the first band we ever pressed exclusively at Waxx Lyrical, and for good reason—they’ve always stood apart. Not just for the power in their guitars or the bark in their delivery, but for their ability to carve out something deeply human beneath the grit. As they hit the road to celebrate 10 years of Dogs at Bay, it feels fitting to spotlight the records that helped shape their sound.

Each member has chosen one album for their Forever Five, revealing the breadth of influence behind the band’s literate, rough-edged identity. It’s a list as contradictory and compelling as their own music—tough but tender, classic yet curious, all grit with a deep emotional undertow.

Together, these choices sketch out a roadmap for the Bad//Dreems ethos: one foot in the pub, one hand on the pulse, and both eyes fixed on the uncomfortable truths of modern life.

LISTEN — BAD//DREEMS' FOREVER FIVE

A trio of tracks from each of the band's choices, plus an essential five tracks of their own.

ROWLAND S. HOWARD — TEENAGE SNUFF FILM (1999)

(chosen by Alex)

LISTEN

JOY DIVISION — UNKNOWN PLEASURES (1979)

(chosen by Miles)

LISTEN

RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE — EVIL EMPIRE (1996)

(chosen by Ali)

LISTEN

THE VELVET UNDERGROUND — WHITE LIGHT/WHITE HEAT (1968)

(chosen by Deon)

LISTEN

HTRK — MARRY ME TONIGHT (2009)

(chosen by Ben)

LISTEN