Reetoxa is back with "HMAS CERBERUS," a strong new single that captures the raw spirit of 90s Australian rock while also sounding very modern. The song has a familiar bite, distorted edges, and driving rhythms, but it's the emotional weight behind the sound that really holds the release together. This is rock music that has something to say, and it isn't afraid to say it straight out.
The main idea of "HMAS CERBERUS" is to talk about drinking too much and the long-term effects on mental health of being in the military. The song was inspired by a moment of reflection in a Melbourne beer garden. It is based on the strange contrast of seeing all four seasons in one day, which is something that doesn't happen often when you're always traveling at sea. That realization starts a deeper conversation about PTSD, self-medication, and how service can leave a lasting mark long after the uniform comes off.
The song is based on the true story of Jason McKee's ten years of service in the navy and how those experiences still affect his life today. Instead of using drama to tell the story, Reetoxa chooses to be brutally honest and clear in a poetic way. The result feels real and unfiltered, showing both vulnerability and strength without ever feeling sorry for itself.
Even though "HMAS CERBERUS" deals with heavy subjects, it is still surprisingly uplifting. It's deep and thoughtful, but it also has a beat that makes you want to dance. This release is different because it strikes a good balance between depth and accessibility. The single is available on all major platforms and as a vinyl and CD through Bandcamp. It is a brave, original statement and a reminder that rock can still be fearless, thoughtful, and very human.