Ninety Nine (Go For Broke)

The song "Ninety Nine (Go For Broke)" by The Angels is a hard-hitting track from their 2024 album Ninety Nine, serving as the lead single and a bold statement on societal inequality. According to singer Nick Norton, who co-wrote the song with bassist Sam Brewster, the lyrics reflect the frustration of the 99 percent who "have to accept our lot" while the one percent "take the lion’s share." This commentary on wealth disparity resonates with the band’s raw, rebellious energy, channeling their classic Aussie rock sound into a modern critique. The song’s creation was marked by spontaneity, as guitarist John Brewster noted in a press release, explaining that the band recorded ideas as they came, resulting in a track that feels both immediate and timeless. Clocking in at just 2 minutes and 45 seconds, the song wastes no time delivering its message with blistering riffs and Norton’s commanding vocals, which some fans have compared to the nasal stylings of the band’s former frontman, Doc Neeson.

Another layer of intrigue comes from the album’s artwork, which ties into the song’s vibe. The cover features an old phone box, a nod to guitarist Rick Brewster’s quirky hobby of collecting them. This visual choice complements the song’s gritty, nostalgic edge, evoking a sense of rebellion rooted in the past yet relevant today. The track was released alongside the band’s 50 Not Out Tour, celebrating their 50th anniversary, and its debut at St Kilda’s Prince Bandroom in June 2024 doubled as an album launch party. Fans on The Angels’ Facebook page have shared stories of the song’s live impact, with one describing it as “a punch to the gut that had the whole crowd roaring.” The song’s raw energy and social bite make it a standout in the band’s extensive catalog, proving they’re still a force in rock.

The Angels began in 1973 in Adelaide, Australia, when singer Doc Neeson and guitarist Rick Brewster formed an acoustic covers group called the Moonshine Jug and String Band while at university. The duo, soon joined by Rick’s brother John Brewster on guitar, shifted to a harder, electric sound, renaming themselves the Keystone Angels by 1974. Their big break came in 1976 when AC/DC’s Angus Young and Bon Scott discovered them, leading to their debut single, “Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again,” which became a hit. By 1977, they had dropped “Keystone” and released their self-titled debut album as The Angels, kicking off a string of successful records like Face to Face and No Exit. Known for their raucous live shows and pub rock roots, they toured with acts like AC/DC and The Kinks, carving out a reputation as one of Australia’s most enduring bands. Over the decades, lineup changes—including Neeson’s departure in 2011 and the addition of current singer Nick Norton—haven’t dulled their edge, as evidenced by their 2024 output.

You can keep up with The Angels on their official website for tour dates, merch, and news. They’re active on social media, sharing updates and behind-the-scenes content on their Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts. Fans have built a strong community online, with groups like the The Angels (Australian Band) Fan Group on Facebook, where Zoo Freaks and other devotees swap stories, rare photos, and concert experiences. While no major fan-run websites stand out, the band’s official channels and fan groups offer plenty of ways to dive into their world and connect with fellow supporters of their music.