We Have the Technology cover

We Have the Technology

Custard · 1997

50 min · 17 tracks · indie rock

A frantic blend of indie rock and punk energy that captures the chaotic spirit of the late '90s Australian music scene.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Memory Man — This track showcases Custard's signature blend of humor and melody, featuring a catchy chorus that encapsulates the band's quirky style.
  • →
    No Rock and Roll Record — A satirical commentary on the music industry, this track highlights the band's ability to mix self-deprecation with infectious hooks.
  • →
    Eight Years of Rock and Roll Has Completely Destroyed My Memory — Closing out the album, this track combines introspection with a humorous take on the toll of fame, making it a memorable finale.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

51 /100
Foothills
Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The album combines energetic punk influences with clever lyrics, reflecting its era while maintaining a distinct sound.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album maintains a high energy level with fast tempos and punk-influenced guitar riffs, while the second half introduces more varied arrangements.
  • Several tracks feature abrupt tempo changes, such as 'Piece of Shit', which shifts from a frenetic pace to a slower, more reflective section.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • frenetic bursts of energy
  • short tracks for quick hits
  • sardonic humor and chaos
  • for lively gatherings
  • ideal for restless listeners

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer lengthy, immersive pieces
  • seek polished, refined sounds

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in January 1997, We Have the Technology is Custard's fourth studio album, following their critically acclaimed debut, Gargantuan. At this point in their career, they were solidifying their presence in the Australian alternative rock landscape, known for their sharp wit and playful irreverence.
Stylistic neighbors
Supergrass· Pavement· Weezer

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • No Rock and Roll Record

    The moment shifts from cynicism about commercial success to an ironic embrace of personal authenticity.

    This transition deftly contrasts mainstream expectations with genuine artistic expression, showcasing Custard's unique voice in a saturated market.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Scared of Skill 1:24
  • 2 Memory Man 1:25
  • 3 Very Biased 2:32
  • 4 Anatomically Correct 2:43
  • 5 Hello Machine 2:45
  • 6 Totally Confused 3:13
  • 7 Piece of Shit 2:28
  • 8 Pinball Lez 2:22
  • 9 Sons and Daughters 2:49
  • 10 Nice Bird 3:01
  • 11 No Rock and Roll Record 2:48
  • 12 Sinatra Theory 2:54
  • 13 Schtum 3:50
  • 14 The Truth About Drugs 2:38
  • 15 Music Is Crap 3:08
  • 16 The Drum 3:42
  • 17 Eight Years of Rock and Roll Has Completely Destroyed My Memory 6:33

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata