Vocoder have been together for three years, initially gaining notoriety in the Wellington, New Zealand scene for their energetic, scissor-kicking, instrument-trashing live style. They have rapidly evolved into a tight three-piece with a sound that has been variously described as "surf-inspired alt rock with huge lashings of eighties new-wave pop", "post-punk" and "wall-of-sound pop".

"Fizzing like the Buzzcocks on a caffeine high, Vocoder have energy and scissor-kicks to burn." Real Groove Magazine, January/February 2003

"full of clever rhythms and undeniably catchy choruses ) . fierce pop salutes with a fuzzed-out '76 punk core ) . the best bits will hit you like a train on subsequent listens" SplendidZine (US), April 2003