Month: October 2008

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Australian Idols Do Rolling Stones

This week our Australian Idols took on songs from British rock gods The Rolling Stones. We knew the tunes would be killer, but could our talent show hopefuls rise to the challenge? Read on to find out!

Wes Carr opened the show with a blistering performance of “Jumpin Jack Flash.” It was flawless, from the raspy rock vocals to the Mick Jagger strut. He is such a consistent performer, yet he’s never plateaued. What a great way to start the show!

Roshani Priddis was up next with “Wild Horses.” The comments from the judges weren’t exactly glowing, but I was mesmerised. There’s a sincerity and a vulnerability about Roshani that just draws you in. I loved this simple arrangement and her emotive, yet restrained, delivery. The chorus could have done with a little more desperate emotion in fitting with the lyrics, but I still really enjoyed this.

Luke Dickens was right in the pocket with his take on “Honky Tonk Women.” This bluesy Stones classic was the perfect choice for Luke’s rough and ready voice. He’s performing more confidently week after week, and it’s a joy to see this rough diamond developing. Guys like Luke are what Australian Idol is all about.

This week Teale Jakubenko was back to his best with “You Can’t Always Get What You Want.” He stripped it bare and this really allowed his vocal skills and musical talent to shine through. I’m a sucker for a good guitar boy, so this was right up my alley.

I was a bit nervous when Chrislyn Hamilton admitted that she didn’t know much about the Rolling Stones, but I didn’t need to be. Chrislyn shines when she inhabits a sassy space, so “Get Off My Cloud” was the perfect choice. I remember seasons past where people tripped up over the themes they were unfamiliar with, but this current crop handle it like pros!

It might be the high of just watching it, but I think Mark Spano’s version of “Angie” could be the performance of the season. I was excited about seeing him play the acoustic guitar. I was excited about seeing him sing my favourite Stones song of all time. And it all came together with such raw masculine intensity. Brilliant stuff!

What a fantastic show! It only gets harder to pick the bottom three, let alone the person who’s going to go! I usually put forward my thoughts, but I just don’t know! What do you think?

Image source: SpreePIX Berlin @ Flickr

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Lenka – Lenka

I recently told you how I am in love with Lenka’s new single, “The Show.” But I couldn’t stop there. I needed to know whether this girl was the next big thing, or a one-song sensation. After giving her self-titled solo album a thorough listen, I’m predicting big things from this Aussie ex-pat.

If you love “The Show,” chances are you’re going to love this recording. This hot single gives a great indication of what you’re in for with this recording. Lenka’s sugary sweet vocals are the perfect match for her light, breezy melodies. This is an album of joy, a whimsical collection of songs which is instantly accessible.

That’s not to suggest that Lenka is all sunshine and rainbows. Songs like “Anything I’m Not” and “Trouble Is a Friend” aren’t afraid to explore the darker side of life. But Lenka’s ethereal vocals and indie pop sensibilities ensure the record never gets bogged down by negativity.

The result is the perfect antidote for whatever ails you. It’s an album full of colour and sweetness, which gets richer and more satisfying with every listen.

Image source: Amazon

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Natalie Bassingthwaighte’s Single Cover Revealed!

Music fans have been hanging out for Natalie Bassingthwaighte’s solo music since she split from the Rogue Traders. “Alive” is all over radio at the moment, and the single will hit stores soon. But if you can’t wait that long, here’s a look at the artwork!

Nat Bass looks smoking in that simple shift dress, but the girl could probably wear a potato sack and work it!

This hot single hits stores on November!

Image used with permission from Sony Music Australia

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Tony Hadley and Paul Young @ Wests Leagues Club, Newcastle – 22 October 2008

Last night I achieved a childhood dream. I saw Tony Hadley and Paul Young in concert.

Some of my younger readers might be asking “Who?” For their benefit, here’s a history lesson. I was lucky enough to be born in the 1980s. In this glorious decade Paul Young and Tony Hadley topped the charts, Paul with his solo career and Tony as lead singer of Spandau Ballet. These days they’re a bit older, a little heavier, but Paul and Tony are still delivering those hits to their faithful fans.

The show opened with both 80s icons taking the stage for a surprise duet of the Don Henley classic “Boys of Summer.” I was so overwhelmed with seeing both men on stage at once I immediately dug my camera out of my bag. Apparently it didn’t realise what a significant musical moment this was, because it refused to play. I couldn’t believe it. I would love to have a photo to show you, but it just wasn’t to be.

My despair at the camera situation faded though once Tony left the stage to allow Paul to shine in the spotlight. He took us down memory lane early with “Love of the Common People.” Poor Paul’s voice isn’t a patch on what it used to be, but we were happy to sing along loudly and make up for his vocal flaws. He was certainly energetic though, and no one could accuse him of failing to entertain.

After a few solo moments Tony returned to join Paul in his smash hit “Senza Uno Donna.” Then it was Paul’s time to rest while Tony belted out some Spandau Ballet classics. Unlike Paul, Tony was in fine voice. When I was busy swooning over him as a girl I don’t think I realised exactly how well he sings. And for the record, despite the extra kilos he’s gained, Tony Hadley still makes me swoon!

The night continued in much the same vein, with solo hits interspersed with some memorable covers and duets. It was an inspired format which kept the energy levels up and everyone in the room engaged. These guys know they are able to tour today because they had some massive hits twenty years ago. They’re appreciative of their fans’ loyalty, so they’re happy to play the classics the supporters love.

The 80s wasn’t about particularly deep music, but what it lacked in messages it made up for in fun. I had a ball dancing with the other adoring girls up the front, singing along to every word of songs like “Come Back and Stay” and “Gold.”

But what I will remember most about last night is that I heard my favorite song in the world live. That song is “True.” Yes it’s overplayed and overblown, but seeing Tony perform it right there in front of me was something I’ll never forget.

After the show Tony and Paul decided to again thank the fans for their devotion by sticking around for autographs and photos. Again, I cursed my petulant camera. So I don’t have the photo to prove I met my childhood heroes, but I do have this concert ticket. And I have the memory of Tony wrapping me up in a cuddle and kissing me on the cheek!

Tomorrow I will go back to being a serious music journalist. But right now I’m happy to just be a gushing 80s music fan.

Image source: own photo  

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Q & A With Ben Wever from mrben

Life’s exciting for the members of Sydney rock outfit mrben. They’ve just finished work on their album Night & Day, and they’re preparing to unleash it at a massive show at the Annandale Hotel next month. Lead singer-songwriter Ben Wever took time out of his busy schedule to tell me more about the band, their live shows, and why we’ll fall in love with their album.

I’ve read that you have a unique style of music and songwriting. How would you describe it? 
mrben’s sound is very modern, all original and would be classed as commercial, melodic rock. A little aggressive, dark at times yet full of colour throughout. Strong lyrics, powerful melodies and interesting timing signatures is our forte.

You’ve played in different bands for the last ten years. What have you found in mrben that was missing in those other outfits?
What was always missing in the other bands that we have all played in is structure, control, focus and leadership. We have all played in bands before just to play music for our selves, or to an audience of some description, but over time we realised that we were not “all” on the same page. Too many chefs can spoil the broth also, with no one really driving the ship we were kind of left to make it up as we went. Now, we have much more drive, passion for the industry and strive to be very successful. With much stronger lyrics, a real genre specific focus that has modern approaches to the songwriting fuelled by old school influences. We are very proud of what has been produced on this album

I hear mrben has been doing some gigs around Sydney lately. What do you think of the local scene?
The Sydney scene as we know it, and have known it for many years has gone through the major shrinking phases to now more of an independent scene and has put us in the right place right now. We very much understand how hard it is to stand out and be noticed, we all can sometimes predict the outcome of a gig weeks before it happens due to knowing the venue, accepting that the booking agent and or promoter is not doing much for us and if you don’t bring your own crowd “every time” then your chances of getting another gig with these people, venues etc is very slim. Without having airplay behind you and or some serious marketing dollars, it’s very hard to have great gigs time after time. In summary, the scene is still strong, the support is getting weaker.

What’s your favorite venue to play and why?
Let’s face it: bad restaurant, no customers, bad location, same result, middle of winter on a School night, even worse, so, we love the Annandale Hotel, The Bridge Hotel for example. Why? Because they are established venues that attract people to it due their reputation and location, not too mention the fact that if it’s a known venue than people assume straight away that you must be a good band to get a gig there. Having said that, if the room is full of the right people and if the band is performing well with a decent P.A system, then the smaller venues can be just as effective or even sometimes a much better intimate vibe for all.

Continue reading “Q & A With Ben Wever from mrben” →

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Natalie Imbruglia Readies New Release

It’s been some time since we’ve heard any new music from Natalie Imbruglia. Sure, there were a couple of bonus tracks on her greatest hits album in 2007, but I’m talking about a brand new release. Thankfully, one is on the horizon.

A lot has happened since the Aussie expat released Counting Down the Days. Nat’s split with her husband Daniel Johns, and she says she’s even mellowed a bit in her old age. It should make this album an interesting listen!

“This record I wanted to be more light-hearted,” Natalie wrote on her website.

“It reflects how I’m feeling now. I’ve chilled out a lot. Maybe it’s just my age. I don’t take it all as seriously as I used to and I don’t feel I have to prove myself anymore.”

Another drawcard for the yet to be titled release is Natalie’s work with Dave A. Stewart. She’s collaborated with the Eurythmics singer-songwriter on several tracks, and I can’t wait to hear them!

Natalie Imbruglia’s fourth album will be released in the UK next March, with the rest of the world to follow.

Image source: Barry Peele/Wikimedia Commons

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

The Galvatrons Tour Crazy!

No one can accuse the lads from The Galvatrons of being lazy. They’ve just returned from Europe where they toured the festival circuit, and they’re set to take off again supporting Def Leppard and Cheap Trick around Oz. But that’s not all. They’re also embarking on their own headline tour at the same time!

The Robots are Cool tour will take in capital cities and regional centres along the East Coast throughout October and November. Some nights they’re doing shows in completely different cities – you’ve got to admire that kind of dedication!

Get out and show your support at the following shows!

23 October 2008 – NUSA Rocks @ Bar on the Hill, Newcastle University
24 October 2008 – Roi Bar, Albury
25 October 2008 – The Commercial Hotel, Benalla
1 November 2008 – Mojo’s, Perth
7 November 2008 – The Annandale Hotel, Sydney
8 November 2008 – Djerriwarrh Festival, Melton
13 November 2008 – Wollongong University
20 November 2008 – The Globe Theatre, Brisbane
21 November 2008 – The Hard Rock Café, Gold Coast
22 November 2008 – The Sands Tavern, Sunshine Coast
23 November 2008 – The Great Northern Hotel, Byron Bay
27 November 2008 – Adelaide Uni Bar on the Hill
28 November 2008 – The Gershwin Room, Melbourne
29 November 2008 – Foreshore Festival, Canberra

Image source: Newscom

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Sophie Paterson Leaves Australian Idol

The Idol journey has come to an end for Sophie Paterson.

The folk singer gave a solid performance of “Papa Was a Rolling Stone,” but it wasn’t enough to keep her out of the bottom three. She was in good company though, with Teale Jakubenko and Mark Spano by her side. But ultimately luck wasn’t on Sophie’s side. I’m not exactly sure why she failed to connect with the public, but her frequent appearances in the bottom three lead me to believe that’s why her number came up tonight.

It’s a real shame. Sophie captivated me from the start, and I’ll miss her performances. I would have loved to see what she could bring to next week’s Rolling Stones theme. If Channel Ten can get Mick and the boys to fly in to be guest mentors I’ll be really impressed.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Gabriella Cilmi Sweeps the ARIA Awards

Teen sensation Gabriella Cilmi capped off a meteoric rise to the top at last night’s ARIA Awards, taking home all six of the awards she was nominated for.

The 17-year-old Melbournian was named best female artist, and breakthrough artist for her single “Sweet About Me” and breakthrough artist – album for Lessons to be Learned. Gabriella’s debut single was also judged the year’s highest selling single, and single of the year. The album Lessons to be Learned was named best pop release.

Gabriella looked stunning in metallic gold and bronze dresses, and she performed brilliantly, but I don’t think she’ll win any awards for public speaking.

“It’s actually really cool to be here in a room full of people who kind of inspire me and make music too, so you know, yeah,” Gabriella jabbered in one of her excruciating acceptance speeches.

“I’d like to say thank you again to my mum and my dad who kind of let me travel across the other side of the world to make a record, and um, yeah, cool, thank you!”

International pop star Pink was billed as the night’s showstopper, but honestly I thought her performance of “So What” was pretty average. She might have run around a lot and projected a lot of energy, but it was at the sacrifice of the vocals.

For me Pink was outshone by Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu, who delivered an exquisite song from his award-winning album Gurrumul. The album took home the titles of best world music album and best independent album, and quite rightly so. His music transcends language, forcing you to focus on the melody and passion of his words. This simplicity and sheer beauty was a welcome antidote to Pink’s posturing.

Sydney electro duo The Presets bagged a hat-trick. They were named best group, while their album Apocalypso was named best dance release and album of the year.

Nick Cave was a surprise winner, named as best male artist. Less surprising was the fact that he didn’t show up to collect the gong.

Delta Goodrem was another no-show, although she did record a message thanking us for making her self-titled third record the highest-selling album of the year.

Two folks were thrilled to be there were Kasey Chambers and Shane Nicholson. The husband and wife team couldn’t be happier for their collaboration Rattlin’ Bones to be named best country release.

The Living End, The Panics, The Audreys, Silverchair and Powderfinger, and comedian Shaun Micallef also took home awards on the Australian music industry’s night of nights.

Image source: Newscom

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Australian Idols Do Motown

This week the Australian Idols had the perfect platform to shine. It was Motown week: a theme that gave everyone the chance to wrap their vocals around some of the world’s greatest songs. And with Guy Sebastian sitting in as special guest judge and mentor they couldn’t go wrong! Or could they? So who rose to the challenge? Read on to find out!

Mark Spano was up first with “You Keep Me Hangin’ On.” I was a bit nervous about this, predominantly because I hate the song. It doesn’t matter who does it: The Supremes, Kim Wilde, Human Nature … I’ve hated every version I’ve heard. But I didn’t completely hate this. While he looked a little awkward doing the Motown dance moves, I was thrilled Mark embraced the theme and gave it his everything. It could have done with a little more life, but it was a solid start.

Sophie Paterson was up next with “Papa Was a Rolling Stone.” Again, this isn’t one of my favourite songs, but I really admired the attitude she gave it. It allowed us to see that sassy side which has been dormant for a little while, and I found that really enjoyable.

Luke Dickens channeled all the energy he felt from the birth of his new son into his performance of “My Girl.” Now I’m convinced I must be hormonal, because this gave me tears. It wasn’t the best performance. There were definitely pitchy moments. But the emotion behind it tipped me over the edge. It was awesome to see Luke trying something new and exploring his sensitive side.

Teale Jakubenko took on “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” this week. Vocally, he nailed it. But for me it was total cheese. I felt like I was watching something from a cruise ship. I was surprised no one called him on it, because for me it was cringeworthy. I was waiting for him to wink knowingly at the camera. I still like him a whole lot, but this just didn’t work for me unless I closed my eyes.

Chrislyn Hamilton told us all to “Get Ready” with the Temptations classic. It even scored a touchdown from Guy! I absolutely loved this. It was the first star performance of the night. It had so much energy and attitude, and we were all happy to go along with her for the ride. This was just so much fun.

Initially I felt Wes Carr copped out by choosing “If I Were a Carpenter.” Yes The Four Tops recorded it, but so many others had and I just knew Wes wouldn’t take the Motown route with it. But then he sang, and I just didn’t care. It was just so good, so sincere, so heartfelt. So what if he didn’t bring us Motown? He brought us a damn good rendition of a wonderful song.

I was so excited when I heard Roshani Priddis was singing “Reflections.” But sometimes hearing the spoilers can be a bad thing. Sometimes I think it can make you expect too much. I absolutely love that song, but it just didn’t work for me. There were flashes of brilliance, but I’m used to a whole song of brilliance from Ms Priddis.

It’s getting harder and harder to pick who’s going home, but I think either Teale or Sophie’s run might have come to an end. They’re serial offenders in the bottom three, and you just have to wonder how long they can keep on hanging in there.

Image source: Sunrise.seven @ Flickr