Thursday August 15, 2024
JEFF LANG (with John Butler) ’Seek High’ (Single)
Acclaimed Australian guitarist, 3-time ARIA winner, singer-songwriter and producer, Jeff Lang, today releases the first single from his forthcoming album. Seek High with John Butler is the brand-new song lifted from the forthcoming album, More Life, which will be released on Friday 13th September.
The Australian roots visionary has held an extraordinary career spanning three decades, over 32 albums, three ARIA Awards, a book (now in its second printing) and inclusion in the National Film and Sound Archives. His recordings and live performances have moved audiences across the globe from Japan to Geelong. New Delhi to Newcastle. His work, while based in the “roots” genre transcends and defies categorisation as evidenced in the diversity of the upcoming album, More Life.
More Life is the culmination of a few years of work, beginning with the concept of an album of songs co-written by Lang and some of his favourite artists.
Says Jeff Lang “Seek High is the first single from my new album More Life, a duet with my friend John Butler. John and I wrote this song together a few years back when I was first thinking about putting together what ended up being the More Life album, and we sat on the song until things started coming together for this project before we recorded it. I really enjoyed discovering how our two voices blended in harmony, as well as contrasting when singing on our own sections.
He then went on to say “Instrumentally, Seek High features John playing amplified banjo alongside my electric lap steel, which we recorded together with my lead vocal, live off the floor at Head Gap Studios alongside the hypnotic groove of Danny McKenna on drums. John then added his vocals, a synth bass part and I put on a bass part of my own, using a Danelectro longhorn bass. Having two different types of bass made for some effective shifts in the feel of the track between sections, sometimes moving from the bass guitar to the synth bass or vice-versa, eventually having them both at once when the track started building up steam.”
Not content with merely(!) supplying the perfect balance of moodiness and propulsion in the song’s groove on the drums, Danny McKenna also created the video for this song using a “flipbook” type of computer animation technique.
The album More Life features songs Jeff Lang co-wrote and performed with: John Butler, Liz Stringer, Don Walker, Fred Leone, Kerri Simpson, William Crighton, Suzannah Espie, Hat Fitz & Cara and Asin Khan Langa, and includes guest appearances from Bassekou Kouyate and Debashish Bhattacharya.
More life comes as both a CD and a deluxe double gatefold vinyl album with artwork by iconic US cartoonist, Jim Woodring.
BUY/STREAM ‘SEEK HIGH’ & PRE-ORDER ALBUM HERE
SEEK HIGH VIDEO AVAILABLE HERE
NATIONAL TOUR DATES 2024
Thurs 12 Sep – Adelaide Guitar Festival SA
w/ band and guests William Crighton,
Hat Fitz & Cara Robinson & Kerri Simpson
Thurs 10 Oct – Rechabite, Perth WA
w/ band and guests John Butler & William Crighton,
Fri 11 Oct – Royal Oak, Launceston TAS
w/ band and guest William Crighton,
Sat 12 Oct – Palais Theatre, Franklin TAS
w/ band and guest William Crighton,
Sun 13 Oct – Brunswick Ballroom, Brunswick VIC
w/ band and guests William Crighton, Suzannah Espie & Kerri Simpson
Fri 25 Oct – Street Theatre, Canberra ACT
w/ band and guest William Crighton,
Sat 26 Oct – Badlands Brewery, Orange NSW
w/ guest William Crighton
Fri 1 Nov – Wauchope Arts Hall, Wauchope NSW
w/ guest William Crighton
Sat 2 Nov – Eltham Hotel, Eltham NSW
w/ band and guest William Crighton
Sun 3 Nov – Bone Idol, Toowoomba QLD
w/ band and guest William Crighton
Thurs 7 Nov – The Junkyard. Mailand NSW
w/ band and guest William Crighton
Fri 8 & Sat 9 Nov The Vanguard, Newtown NSW
w/ band and guest William Crighton
Sun 10 Nov – Fillmores, Kiama NSW
w/ guest William Crighton
Wed 13 Nov – Banshees, Ipswich QLD
w/ guest William Crighton
Thurs 14 Nov – Lefty’s Music Hall, Brisbane QLD
w/ band and guest William Crighton
Fri 15 Nov – The Imperial, Eumundi QLD
w/ band and guest William Crighton
Sat 16 Nov – Tom Atkin Hall, Tugun QLD
w/ band and guest William Crighton
Sun 17 Nov – The Tanks, Cairns QLD
w/ band and guest William Crighton
Fri 22 Nov – The Music Lounge, Wollongong NSW
w/ band and guest William Crighton
Sat 23 Nov – Mangrove Mountain Hall, NSW
w/ band and guest William Crighton
Sun 24 Nov – Memorial Hall, Bellingen NSW
w/ band and guest William Crighton
Fri 29 Nov – Northern Arts Hotel, Castlemaine VIC
w/ guest Suzannah Espie
Sat 30 Nov – Baroque Room, Katoomba NSW
w/ band and guest William Crighton
Sun 1 Dec – Dangar Island Bowlo, Dangar island NSW
w/ band and guest William Crighton
PEPPERCREEK REVIVAL: ‘Train I’m On’ (Single)
‘Train I’m On’ is the new single from Melbourne based outfit PepperCreek Revival, who have brought in renowned singer-songwriter Kelly Auty to front their latest project.
Featuring an incredibly talented band of experienced musicians, PepperCreek Revival came together to explore new ideas and create a new look & sound, delving into all the nooks & crannies of Folk, Country, Blues & Rock with lap steel, mandolin, acoustic & electric guitars. Drawing their influences from artists such as Aretha Franklin, Iris Dement, Lindi Ortega, Yola, Chuck Berry, Emmylou Harris and Robert Plant and Alison Krauss, PepperCreek Revival move seamlessly from slide guitar drenched country to mandolin and acoustic guitar ballads, to dancing rock ‘n roll.
‘Train I’m On’ was written by Auty, with music by Leigh Douglas (Boris) Conley and is a song about change and moving on. The old hometown’s full of memories that can’t be cleared whilst living there, so it’s time to go. Buy the ticket and step out of your known world because staying still is not an option when life needs a shakeup and your ‘heart’s drumming in time to the rhythm of the steel and the cymbals crack on the rail.’ ‘Train I’m On’ speaks to anyone who has felt the need to get away from everything to clear their heart and mind and get a new perspective on their life. That’s been most of us at some point in time.
PepperCreek Revival with Kelly Auty’s album is due out in Nov 2024, exclusively through Bandcamp.
STREAM ‘TRAIN I’M ON’ https://peppercreekrevival.bandcamp.com/
CHECK OUT THE VIDEO FOR ‘TRAIN I’M ON’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xzf_-EyhGCg
MORE ABOUT PEPPERCREEK REVIVAL
PepperCreek Revival is a collective of renowned Melbourne musicians, put together by 2022 Blues Music Victoria Hall of Fame inductee and award winning producer / bass player Barry Hills who wanted to explore a new and innovative approach. Hill’s idea was to form a hand-picked group of experienced and talented session players who could adapt their playing styles to suit any musical style artist, both with live performance & in the studio. The group consists of three award winning musicians: Brian Fraser on lap steel, electric and acoustic guitars, vocals; Roland Kretschmer on electric and acoustic guitars, mandolin, banjo, Dobro, ukulele, vocals; and drummer and vocalist Nick Carrafa. With two recording sessions already completed, the opportunity to work with multiple award-winning singer/songwriter Kelly Auty, who was looking for a new musical direction, was the perfect choice for the band’s next project.
As Hills says “PepperCreek Revival was born with a non-genre name to play roots, blues, alt. country, folk and rock. PCR is now a team of seasoned musicians and has a unique sound with up to10 guitars on stage to complement each song with the soaring vocals of Kelly.”
To date, PepperCreek Revival have soft-released a 5 track EP in November 2023 with a video for one track ‘Falling’ – a reworking of an original co-written by Auty. The band plan to release their first album late in 2024, with recording taking place at Woodstock Studios in Balaclava.
STREAM ‘TRAIN I’M ON’ https://peppercreekrevival.bandcamp.com/
LIAM McALARY ‘Into The Sun’ (Single)
Into The Sun’ is based on the Greek legend of Icarus; the man who flew too close to the sun. Icarus did not heed the warnings and his wax wings melted in the heat of the sun. Falling from the sky, Icarus drowned in the ocean.
The imagery of the song resonates throughout the lyrics. Weaving in the metaphor of Icarus, Liam uses the lyrics to reference his experiences in chasing his music career, ignoring the naysayers, trying not to dwell on past mistakes, and keep moving forward.
‘Into the Sun’ is an upbeat alternative country song with a strong beat, catchy chorus and tremendous instrumentation. STREAM HERE
ABOUT LIAM McALARY
Liam is a singer songwriter and has been playing and performing music for over 30 years. He is a vocalist and multi instrumentalist, playing guitar, trumpet, and ukulele. Growing up in the Blue Mountains, he played in numerous bands, and has had success with original music played on FBi Radio and Triple J. He has also been fortunate to travel and perform at various venues on the East Coast of Australia.
As a writer, Liam focuses on his lyrics and ensures that each song is unique and has meaning. He draws inspiration from various artists & writers including Bernard Fanning, City & Colour, and Noel Gallagher. Liam’s music is honest and real, forming from his own personal experiences and friendships.
Liam is also a well known musical act for children, writing and performing as ‘Yeah Nah’. Liam has released two children’s albums which have been featured on ABC Kids Listen and Kinderling Radio. Liam currently lives in Port Macquarie, on the Mid North Coast of NSW, with his wife and young daughter. https://www.facebook.com/LiamMcAlaryMusic?_rdr
GIA DARCY ‘Nice Things’ (Single)
Exploring the heady spectrum of emotions that come with starting a new relationship, Sydney’s Gia Darcy’s new single ‘Nice Things’ is a prime example of how good pop music can truly nourish. Following a string of impressive singles to date , ‘Nice Things’ is a beautiful addition to Gia’s body of work; ultimately leading to the release of her anticipated EP project, Crash Test.
Across the record’s as-released singles, ‘Make Me Wanna’, ‘Next Life’ and ‘Crash Test’, Gia has established herself as a dynamic fresh voice – ‘Nice Things’ further cements Gia’s place as one to watch. Recording the song with collaborator Liam Quinn (Ruel, Keith Urban, Rita Ora, Peach PRC) in Sydney, Gia created the ‘Nice Things’ demo in Los Angeles with producer Alex Koste (Go-Jo) and songwriter Emma Lov (Demi Lovato, Cheat Codes).
“’Nice Things’ is about the excitement and uncertainty of a new relationship. That intense feeling of wanting to dive in but feeling scared because of past heartbreak. It’s all about the struggle between self-sabotage and letting yourself be happy with someone special.” GIA DARCY
Gia describes the process of working with Emma and Alex as being a cathartic process; putting herself out there in the lyrics may have been nerve-wracking, but having the support and encouragement of the team in LA, and then with Liam in Sydney, made the process a beautiful one. The song itself, upbeat and sweetly nostalgic, leans into those butterfly feelings of having a new crush – something any listener can relate to.
“The vibe of ‘Nice Things’ is fun and upbeat, with a nostalgic touch that reminds me of having a crush as a kid. It’s got an energetic, feel-good sound that makes you want to dance and relive those fluttery, early relationship moments!” GIA DARCY
2023 proved a touchstone year for Gia Darcy, with more music fans and industry becoming introduced to her charismatic stage presence that more than matches up to what can be heard on record. During this year, she continued to develop a strong live show supporting the likes of Azure, while also appearing at the inaugural SXSW Sydney in October. Receiving strong support from community radio and triple j Unearthed, it was evident early that Gia Darcy was just getting started on a wonderful journey.
The release of music so far this year has shown how momentum has continued to generate for Gia, with continued support from tastemakers building. Streaming support for Gia’s catalogue has also built, with over 25k monthly listeners on Spotify, the audience for this pop force has evolved alongside her vision; ‘Crash Test’, released in July, landing Gia editorial playlist support via Spotify’s New Music Friday AU/NZ and Pop ‘n Fresh lists.
To celebrate the release of the Crash Test EP, Gia will be touring NSW in October.
GIA DARCY ‘CRASH TEST’ EP TOUR
October 9 House of Strings, Mumbo Jumbo’s Darkinjung/Terrigal
October 10 The Hamilton Station Awabakal/Newcastle
October 11 TBH Friday’s, Towradgi Beach Hotel Dharawal/Wollongong
November 2 Trocadero Room Eora/Sydney
‘Nice Things’ is out Wednesday August 14th
Gia Darcy: Official Website | triple j Unearthed | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Tiktok
RA RA VIPER ‘Howler’ (Single) ‘Big Speak’ (Album out November 1)
Perth indie outfit Ra Ra Viper have returned with their thumping new track, ‘Howler’ is a rowdy, raucous ride reflecting on fractured relationships with a heaving bassline and irresistible beat. LISTEN TO ‘HOWLER’ HERE
Their latest single started in their Hammy Hill garage as a shameless, slightly dad-rock sounding song. Through leaning into obnoxious instrumental hits, clanging up the guitar tones and some good old fashion yelling, ‘Howler’ quickly took on a distinct feeling of frustrated tonal anger.
Lyrics started to flow, a feeling of personal anger knowing that what you want is bad and arguably toxic, yet you are selfishly willing to make things work through the primitive urge to connect and love someone.
The band comment “’Howler’ in a big way is the prime jewel in trying to create a sound that is darker, and more destructive. This song promises to be our most hard hitting, with a lot more guts.”
Today the five-piece share their debut album Big Speak is set for release on Friday November 1 and includes previous releases 4AM Child & Shark which was added to rotation at triple j and triple j Unearthed.
Recorded at Debaser Studio and produced by Andy Lawson (Noah Dillon, Fool Nelson, and Verge Collection) the band delved deep into their creative process.
Drawing inspiration from the raw energy of Fontaines D.C. and IDLES, they crafted a sound that is darker, more brutal, and hauntingly beautiful. The result is an evolution in their music, blending visceral emotion with a captivating sonic experience.
Big Speak offers a darker yet playful and introspective view of life. The tracks symbolize emotional existence in the modern world, treating everyday encounters as opportunities to learn and appreciate the moments that remind us we are truly alive.
On the release of their debut album, the band reflect “Knowing that this opportunity might not come again, we’ve poured immense blood, sweat, and emotion into this album over the last seven months. We are incredibly proud and happy to have created something that not only captures this unique period in all of our lives but does so in a way that will have a lasting, positive impact”
To celebrate the release, the band are hitting the road for a national tour this November heading to Fremantle, Melbourne, Adelaide, Sydney and Brisbane.
RA RA VIPER BIG SPEAK NATIONAL TOUR
TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE
NOVEMBER 1 | FREMANTLE METROS, FREMANTLE
NOVEMBER 15 | THE NIGHT CAT, MELBOURNE
NOVEMBER 16 | JIVE, ADELAIDE
NOVEMBER 28 | OXFORD ART FACTORY, SYDNEY
NOVEMBER 29 | THE BRIGHTSIDE, BRISBANE
LISTEN TO ‘HOWLER’ HERE
DEBUT ALBUM BIG SPEAK OUT FRIDAY NOVEMBER 1
PRE-SAVE ALBUM HERE
NATIONAL ALBUM TOUR THIS NOVEMBER
TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE
GET SOCIAL WITH RA RA VIPER WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE | SPOTIFY
THIS WAY NORTH ‘Don’t Need A Reason’ (Single)
This Way North release ‘Don’t Need a Reason’ their 4th single from their debut album ‘Punching Underwater’. Produced by award winning artists Ainslie Wills and Jono Steer, this track blends the best of This Way North’s eclectic writing style, stunning harmonies and impeccable groove.
Written by drummer Cat Leahy, ‘Don’t Need a Reason’ addresses the universal theme of having anxiety for no particular reason. Restlessly searching for the cause as to what the problem is can be all consuming, when we’re often just wired that way.
Sometimes you just gotta feel your feelings, let them pass and move through you. Writing this song in itself was cathartic for Cat and allowed her to feel a little better at “being ok with not knowing”.
The musicality in this song is an ode to Jungalwalla and Leahy’s abilities with their instruments and vocals. With deep pocket bass and drums to ethereal guitars and vocals in the choruses and a build up of gentle beauty in the bridge, this track wraps you up in a big warm hug just when you need it most. STREAM HERE
NATIONAL TOUR DATES
23 AUG – Live at the Polo, Canberra ACT w/ Kopasetic
24 AUG – Bootleggers, Newtown Sydney NSW w/ Monstress
25 AUG – The Fun Haus – Gosford, NSW w/ Bek Jensen
21 SEP – Under Western Skies Festival, Dubbo NSW
*MORE SHOWS TO BE ANNOUNCED
Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Spotify
KIAN ‘Wake Up, You’re Falling’ (Album out November 1)
Melbourne based artist, KIAN announces his debut album, Wake Up, You’re Falling, set for release on November 1st. He also reveals his latest single, “ULTRAVIOLET,” a track that encapsulates his bold new direction with a punk-infused, poetic edge.
Collaborating with producers Pip Norman and Rob Amoruso, KIAN has embraced a newfound freedom in recording his debut album which features 12 genre-fusing tracks and promises an exhilarating ride through his sonic evolution. From dreamy indie melodies to high-energy pop-punk anthems, Wake Up, You’re Falling keeps listeners on their toes with its eclectic mix of sounds. “Even though people spend their whole lives trying to maintain control, control doesn’t really exist. This album is about me trying to live in the now, which is hard sometimes. I have to remind myself to embrace the moment, embrace the fall,” KIAN says.
Before KIAN even began crafting the songs for his debut album, he knew exactly what it would be called. “That was the first thing I came up with before I even made any of the songs. I was just like, I want to make an album and I want it to be titled this,” he reflects. The title, Wake Up, You’re Falling, is both a nod to a quirky personal experience—jolting awake in the middle of sleep—and a deeper, symbolic representation of life’s unpredictable nature and the illusion of control.
Following on from recent tracks “REGRETS”, “TRY HARD” and “THE WAY”, latest single “ULTRAVIOLET” is an exploration of seeing beyond the surface, with KIAN lyrically probing the deeper truths beneath appearances. He explains, “When I think about ultraviolet light, when you shine it on something you see things you can’t see with your eyes. And I think that’s a cool thing to use as a metaphor – trying to see things for more than what they appear to be, or even seeing things for what they are.”
WATCH THE OFFICIAL VIDEO FOR ‘ULTRAVIOLET’ HERE:
ABOUT KIAN
A little over five years ago, 22-year-old KIAN burst onto the scene as he sung the hook for Baker Boy’s “Cloud 9”. Fast-forward to 2023, and KIAN has been impossible to hold down. Releasing the 4x Platinum certified, ARIA Top 20 hit “Waiting” as the lead single from his debut EP ‘Bliss’, he’s since nabbed multiple APRA Awards, become a two-time ARIA nominee, toured internationally, collaborated on Duckwrth’s “Quick”, and released 2020 singles “Every Hour” and “Sunbeam”.
His last EP ‘Shine’ which was released in 2022 was produced by Willie Tafa (ONEFOUR, Ariana Grande, Baker Boy), and enlisted the talents of artists such as Jerome Farah and members of hip-hop outfit 1300, KIAN carving out a body of work that showcases a musician hitting his creative stride, while embracing his own personal and professional maturity. KIAN’s evolution is evident in his debut album, ‘Wake Up, You’re Falling’, a testament to his growth as an artist and his commitment to pushing creative boundaries. With influences ranging from The Smashing Pumpkins and The Pixies to Bon Iver, KIAN’s latest work promises a fresh, dynamic listening experience.
KIAN’S DEBUT ALBUM ‘WAKE UP, YOU’RE FALLING’ OUT NOVEMBER 1 PRE-ORDER HERE NOW
DVRKWORLD ‘Apraxia’ (Single)
Dvrkworld, the emerging shoegaze-psych-rock band from Launceston, Tasmania, is thrilled to announce the release of their highly anticipated new single, “Apraxia.” This single marks the third release from their forthcoming EP, set to captivate audiences with its evocative soundscapes and introspective lyrics.
“Apraxia” is a powerful exploration of emotional struggle and the haunting impact of past traumas. The song’s introspective lyrics, penned by Mary Shannon (Meres) and Drew Farrant-Jayet, capture the essence of moving past emotional barriers and the desire for healing and resolution. With evocative imagery and a blend of shoegaze, psych-rock, grunge, and dream pop elements, “Apraxia” takes listeners on a journey through the complexities of human emotions and experiences.
Watch the Film Clip HERE
The band, consisting of Mary Shannon (Meres) on vocals, Drew Farrant-Jayet on guitar, Shawn Arnold (Teens) on drums, and Ryan Unger (Murray Darling) on guitar, has crafted a sound that is both mesmerising and unique. Influenced by legendary acts like My Bloody Valentine and Slowdive, Dvrkworld continues to push the boundaries of their genre, delivering music that resonates deeply with their audience.
In “Apraxia,” listeners will find a poignant narrative of internal conflict and the longing for peace. The song’s lush soundscapes and introspective lyrics make it a standout track that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
“The song “Apraxia” delves into the complexities of self-expression and the emotional aftermath of trauma. Through evocative lyrics, it explores the struggle to communicate authentically in the face of inner turmoil and neurological barriers. Themes of acute resentment and the haunting effects of past experiences are highlighted, depicting a journey of detachment and longing for inner peace. Ultimately, “Apraxia” is a narrative of resilience and the quest for healing, inviting listeners to embrace their vulnerabilities and find solace in stillness and self-acceptance.”
The single was recorded in the idyllic setting of Lilydale, Tasmania, by band members Mary, Drew, and Shawn, with mixing by Hobart’s own Spiro Noutsatos of Silver Fleet Ships. Renowned Mikey Young, known for his involvement with Eddy Current Suppression Ring and Total Control, brings his mastering expertise to the track.
Although Dvrkworld will not be performing live shows at this time due to Mary and Drew’s travels in South America, the band is excited to reunite in early 2025 for the full release of their EP. They plan to celebrate with a series of live performances, sharing their latest work with fans and marking this significant milestone in their musical journey.
“Apraxia” will be available on all major streaming platforms on the 14th of August. For more information on Dvrkworld, upcoming releases, and future shows, visit the Band’s Website or follow them on social media: Instagram, Facebook and Youtube.
‘APRAXIA’ OUT NOW
FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE
HONNE ‘Say That You Will What For Me’ (Single)
London’s soulful art-pop duo HONNE, comprised of Andy Clutterbuck and James Hatcher, release ‘Say That You Will Wait For Me’, featuring the rising 22-year-old UK based artist Liang Lawrence. This track is the final preview from their highly anticipated new album OUCH, set for release on Friday 6 September via Smile More Recordings / AWAL Recordings.
‘Say That You Will Wait For Me’ exemplifies HONNE’s talent for crafting warm and deeply intimate electronic art-pop that has connected with so many worldwide. Liang Lawrence, whose debut EP ‘letters to myself’ racked up over 1 million streams within weeks of its August 2023 release, delivers vocals that beautifully complement Andy Clutterbuck’s delicate style as they explore the theme of longing for and missing someone. Reflecting on the track, Clutterbuck shares, “‘Say That You Will Wait For Me’ is a familiar subject matter for us. It’s about going away and missing the heck out of someone. This song really touches a nerve however, as now I’m a parent, it’s doubly hard to say goodbye and to leave. It’s also heartbreaking to leave your kid behind as when you say goodbye you know they don’t understand that you aren’t coming home that evening. ‘Say That You Will Wait For Me’ is my way of saying please say you’ll remember me when I get back home.”
HONNE – Say That You Will Wait For Me feat. Liang Lawrence (Official Video) FEAT. LIANG LAWRENCE – LISTEN/WATCH THE VIDEO HERE
Deep down HONNE has always been about two people, and the friendship between them. Sure, the UK alt-pop duo have reached incredible heights – from those initial humble recording sessions in Bow, East London they’ve notched up more than three billion streams, selling more than 210,000 tickets for their live shows. But alongside this, it’s been a story of growth, maturity, and kinship. On their enchanting new album – the playfully titled OUCH – James Hatcher and Andy Clutterbuck are ready to tap back into their foundations and realise the kind of melodic effervescence and heart-tugging songwriting that only HONNE can provide.
EDIE ‘unsaid’ (EP)
Bringing her bold, fiery and unapologetic main character energy, Perth/Boorloo-based artist EDIE stars in the center of her episodic EP ‘unsaid’, out now.
Stream ‘unsaid’ EP
EDIE’s personality-packed tracks have made waves with her single releases in 2024 drawing in praise and attention from Rolling Stone, Tone Deaf, Triple J, Music Feeds, Pilerats and so much more. With her edgy blend of indie pop and grim imagery, this EP flows with a specific kind of feminine energy. With emotional peaks and valleys, gut-punch lyrics and humourous ones, ‘unsaid’ is made up in the format of a femme-led monster-of-the-week show. EDIE speaks about her debut EP:
“This body of work explores all the things unsaid and all the things I never got to say. It deals with heartbreak, anger, and sadness, covering all the stages of grief over a breakup. It’s a personal glimpse into my own journal where I overshare with brutal honesty.”
The album begins with the ‘Intro’, a short but haunting organ solo, a vampiric and moody opening to the album which is quickly contrasted with the whimsical ‘lalala’ and sharp wit of ‘Lie To Me’. With a soft voice and cutting lyrics, the listener is immediately introduced to EDIE’s character.
This kickass persona is only built up with the next song, ‘Villain’, a cool revenge ballad about coping with the ghouls of her past built on catchy guitar riffs and bubbling up energy.
Then, her character is fleshed out, dispelling notions about traditional femininity and shaking off centuries of expectations of acting like a ‘Cool Girl’. This song is catchy and cutting, calling into question external perceptions of the singer.
The final song on this EP is a soft finale with acoustic guitar, piano, and softer vocals– ‘Forget Me’ is a low moment and a lament on the transience of connection.
Follow EDIE Spotify | Apple Music | Youtube Facebook | Instagram | TikTok
DAWSON ‘More than I bargained for’ (Single)
Dawson returns when the world needs him most, bringing to the table charming ambient, indie jams with ‘More than I bargained For’ and its B-side ‘If I could read you, would I want to?’, both available now. Stream ‘More than I bargained for’ & B-Side
Dawson has become known for his talent for composition, as well as his flair for singing and songwriting shining through in his own independent works. His flair has led him all over, with two national tours under his belt as well as shared stage with legends like Broods, Emma Louise, Vera Blue, Japanese Wallpaper, Asta, Thelma Plum, Bob Moses, Andy Bull, Wafia, and Boo Seeka.
This duo of songs let Dawson’s talent for composition shine through, balancing a modern electronic sound with a retrocore indie-alt charm. ‘More than I bargained for’ shows off Dawson’s skill at composition with instruments, as heavy drums and sweet guitar come together with rich vocals to form an ambient, emotional soundscape. It plays on themes of apathy, discontent, and repetition in a relationship. Dawson states:
“‘More than I bargained for’ is a song about feelings of apathy and discontent in a relationship, like no matter what you try you always end up in the same place. It’s also about not knowing whether these feelings are a result of something changing within yourself or someone else.”
Its b-side is the yin to its yang. ‘If I could read you, would I want to?’ is a carefully sculpted, sci-fi, electronic daze with sparkling synth, delving into arguments and how difficult it can be to speak your mind without hurting someone else.
Follow Dawson Spotify | Apple Music | Instagram | Triple J Unearthed | Soundcloud | Youtube
STEVE SMYTH ‘Petrolhead’ (Single)
Australian-born, Barcelona-based singer/songwriter Steve Smyth introduces his latest single, “Petrol head,” Set for release on August 15th. “Petrolhead” emerges as a meditation on embracing the fleeting nature of existence while finding solace in the continuity of the natural world, contrasting the temporary with the eternal. This release represents a return to the wild.
“In ‘Petrolhead,’ I delve into the transient nature of our existence and the unique path of a musician. It’s about breaking free from confinements and venturing into the unknown. The song narrates a pause in the journey, a moment of connection with the earth where I lay my troubles by a river, choosing not to cross but to coexist. This track is a testament to life’s fleeting moments and the liberation found in embracing the wild, running towards a life lived fully and fearlessly.”
Smyth carefully selects the timing of his music releases to align with moments of significance. Rather than following norms, he chooses dates that resonate with his personal experiences and the themes of his work__
Past releases have coincided with Valentine’s Day, New Year’s Eve, and now August 15th, in the heart of the European summer. These choices reflect his desire to mark occasions of reflection, celebration, or transition, making each release a meaningful event for himself and his listeners.
Accompanying the release is a visually captivating video shot between Mallorca and Australia, directed by Ari Seg and Smyth. It evokes the laid-back essence of summer, showcasing a mix of “dolce far niente” — the sweet art of doing nothing — The scenes weave together imagery of a car ride, the sea shore, and an impromptu dance floor, with the Mediterranean island’s natural beauty and Australia’s raw landscapes, it is a surreal exploration of carefree moments.
“Creating the ‘Petrolhead’ video with Steve was an incredible experience. We wanted to evoke the spirit of summer and the feeling of liberation that comes with it. We chose Mallorca and Australia for their natural beauty and raw energy, which perfectly complements the song’s themes of transience and serenity. The synergy between our artistic visions made this project truly special.” – Ari Seg
“Petrolhead” serves as an exciting preview to Smyth’s upcoming vinyl EP “Matches,” slated for release in October 2024. This unique vinyl will feature “Matches” on one side and the previously released “Blood” on the other, offering a dual experience of Smyth’s evolving musical landscape.
About Steve Smyth
Steve Smyth is an Australian singer-songwriter hailing from Sydney, known for his rich, soulful voice and eclectic musical style. Influenced by a wide range of genres, including indie folk, rock, and blues, Smyth’s music reflects his diverse tastes and experiences. He began playing guitar and performing at a young age, developing a unique sound that blends raw emotion with poignant storytelling.
Throughout his career, Smyth has been an avid traveler, drawing inspiration from his journeys across Australia and Europe. His debut album, Release, came out in 2011 and was followed by the critically acclaimed Exits in 2014. These albums highlight Smyth’s ability to weave intricate stories through his music, capturing the essence of human experiences and emotions.
Since moving to Europe around 2016, Smyth has made a significant mark by recording new material and honing his craft. He has notably recorded music in unconventional spaces, such as a cathedral in Barcelona, seeking to capture the authenticity and rawness of his live performances. His recent work includes the EP Blood, which showcases his continued exploration of deeply personal and evocative themes.
Since relocating to Barcelona, Steve Smyth has expanded his creative pursuits by establishing a craft and woodwork design studio called ‘Myth Studio.’ He has crafted bespoke pieces for prominent clients and events, including Louis Vuitton, Desigual, Masa Vins, Soho House Barcelona, Primavera Sound, and Barcelona 080 Fashion Week. The studio allows Smyth to extend his artistic expression beyond music, merging his musical passion with his unique design skills.
As he continues to write, record, and perform, Smyth remains a beacon for those who find solace in the deep, resonant truths of a song.
STEVE SMYTH ‘PETROLHEAD’ OUT NOW EVERYWHERE LISTEN
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FANGZ ‘Same Old Story’ (Single) Announce 24 Hour East Coast Tour
Eora/Sydney-based punk rock quintet FANGZ have announced they’ll be attempting an Australian East Coast capital city tour in one day, to support the release of their infectious single ‘Same Old Story’ – produced by Tim Maxwell (LOSER) and mixed by Jonathan Gardner (Front End Loader, Grinspoon). Click to stream ‘Same Old Story’
Taking cues from the likes of Jimmy Eat World, Billy Talent and FIDLAR, ‘Same Old Story’ is an invigorating tip of the hat to skate-infused punk rock. Opening with a wall of hook-laden guitars, the track briskly transitions into its emotively charged verses, before seamlessly gliding into a sombre pre-chorus; aptly enriching the gravity of its explosive sing-a-long chorus.
Frontman Josh Cottreau touches on the meaning of the track: “‘Same Old Story’ is about living authentically and unapologetically following your dreams. Recognising a chance for change or a new beginning, and overcoming the doubts and obstacles to go after what you truly want. If you’ve ever taken a leap of faith and embraced the unknown it will resonate with you.”
Also accompanying the track is news that the group will set out to complete an East Coast tour of free entry shows in one day. On August 31, FANGZ perform at Cherry Bar in Naarm/Melbourne at 1am, followed by a hometown show at Bootleggers in Eora/Sydney at 1pm, and finishing off at Greaser in Meanjin/Brisbane at 10.30pm.
Since their 2019 inception, FANGZ have released three EP’s ‘For Nothing’ (2019), ‘But No Thanks’ (2020), ‘Falling Is Pretty Normal’ (2022), and a slew of singles, which received strong support from the likes of triple j, triple j Unearthed, Triple M, Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Metal Hammer (UK), Loudwire (USA), Classic Rock (UK), Metal Injection (USA), Louder Sound (UK), NME, Pilerats, The Guardian, MANIACS, and many more.
They’ve traversed the country multiple times selling out headline shows, performing at festivals and sharing stages with the likes of FIDLAR (USA), Pennywise (USA), RedHook, Comeback Kid (CAN), He Is Legend (USA) and Gyroscope.
The group have also launched their very own line of hot sauce ‘Fang us Some Sauce’, an annually curated festival ‘FANGZstock’, and hold the Guinness world record for the most hard-boiled eggs eaten in one sitting by front man Josh Cottreau (143 eggs in three minutes and ten seconds).
Coming into 2024, the quintet have recently completed a run of headline shows and national tours with The Bennies and Cancer Bats (CAN), and announced they’ll be performing at Froth & Fury in Tandanya/Adelaide, alongside the likes of Northlane, Thy Art Is Murder and Fear Factory (USA). They also recently released a pair of tracks ‘Wasting Time’ and ‘Nothing To Lose’, which were warmly embraced by Spotify, Apple Music, triple j, plus a slew of community radio and blogs.
‘Same Old Story’ is available worldwide now
FANGZ UPCOMING SHOWS
SAT 31 AUG | CHERRY BAR, NAARM/MELBOURNE VIC
SAT 31 AUG | BOOTLEGGERS, EORA/SYDNEY NSW
SAT 31 AUG | GREASER, MEANJIN/BRISBANE QLD
SAT 9 NOV | FROTH & FURY AT HARTS MILL, TANDANYA/ADELAIDE SA
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