Category: Album Reviews

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“4PM in the Morning” – Felicity

Boorloo/Perth born, Nashville-based singer-songwriter Felicity blew me away with her recent single “I’ll Have What He’s Having.” Now that I’ve had an opportunity to listen to her sophomore EP 4PM in the Morning, I’ve discovered that was no fluke. It might be a little early to call it my favourite EP of the year, but it’s certainly a contender.

Felicity has such a strong voice, in every sense of the word. Her tone is incredible, unique and instantly identifiable. Her lyrics toe the line between personal and universally relatable. She’s quirky, but it’s no gimmick. She’s a true original, creating a space where listeners feel comfortable revelling in their own weirdness. I’m not sure I’ve felt this passionate about a female artist since I discovered Tori Amos and Alanis Morissette in the 90s. I’m aware of what a massive call that is, but honestly, Felicity is that good.

With 4PM in the Morning, Felicity shows listeners what a force she is. Its gentle acoustic opening promises sweetness and light, but Felicity quickly dispels those illusions with the caustic lyrics of “Bad Waste of Good Oxygen.” It’s very tongue-in-cheek, mostly, but incredibly cathartic, especially when those massive electric guitar riffs kick in. Felicity moves from taking aim at the wrong partner to herself with the single “I’ll Have What He’s Having.” If you didn’t listen already, here’s your reminder that this is one of the best songs you’ll hear all year.

After two upbeat indie pop numbers, Felicity shows a softer, more vulnerable side with “Half Sad.” This dreamy lo-fi ballad unfolds in a kind of anti-depressant haze, giving us a moment to catch our breath while connecting even more with this incredible artist. “Denver Airport” may be my favourite song on this EP. It’s a plaintive cry for love, no holds barred, totally stripped bare in the way someone can be only when they know they’ve got nothing left to lose. It’s so rare to hear someone so raw on a recording. Don’t be surprised if you’re wiping tears away by the end of this one.

“Carnivorous Butterflies” seems like a relatively subtle way to end such an impactful EP. But if you measure a song just by powerhouse vocals and big instrumentation, you’re missing the point. By stripping things back, Felicity lets her poetic lyrics shine. In case you missed it before, this track leaves no doubt that her songwriting is top notch.

I can’t say enough positive things about 4PM in the Morning. Just go listen. You can thank me later.

Images used with permission from beehive

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Spin the Wheel” – Lloyd & The Leftovers

You know what they say about the best things coming to those who wait? Fans have been waiting years for Walyalup/Fremantle act Lloyd & The Leftovers to drop their debut album, and now their patience has been rewarded with the release of Spin the Wheel.

This album is the very best of indie-folk/alt-country. People might use the term Americana to describe the sound, and it certainly sits neatly alongside music from artists like Nathan Rateliff, Jason Isbell, and Ryan Adams. But there’s also something distinctly Australian about the twang in Luke Giglia-Smith’s vocals and the stories he tells. Music this great isn’t meant to sit in a box though. It’s meant to be felt, experienced, embraced.

Many artists bring out their heavy hitters early, but I appreciate the way Lloyd & The Leftovers let this album creep up on listeners. The opening number “Fruit and Wine” is such a gentle summery song that you might miss its easy charm if you’re not listening closely. The band kicks things up with “Kaarta Koomba,” but even with this song they seem reluctant to show all their cards. For me, the album really hits its stride with the third track, “Listen to Invalidate.” There’s such a beautiful, quiet power about it. It took my breath away from the first listen, but still makes an impression on me. With “Something Rainproof,” the band again shows the power of stillness.

With “Breathe Says the Sign,” Lloyd & The Leftovers seem to turn the dial up a notch and embrace a full-band sound rather than performing like a solo act. For me, that’s when this act resonates most. The harmonies are exquisite and the instrumentation is layered enough to make an impact without overshadowing the exceptional songwriting. Quieter numbers like “Cowboy” and “Twice in a Day” never fade into the background because the rich instrumentation and beautiful backing vocals support Luke Giglia-Smith’s voice so superbly.

Lloyd & The Leftovers saves some of its biggest songs to the back end of this album. Singles “Tried It On Tuesday” and the title track lose none of their potency here.

Spin the Wheel offers such a rich, rewarding listening experience. Lloyd & The Leftovers make exceptional indie-folk music and deliver it with heart. From quiet introspective moments to crowd-pleasing upbeat numbers, this album has it all and then some.

Lloyd & The Leftovers will launch Spin the Wheel tonight at Clancy’s Fish Pub in Walyalup/Fremantle. Get your tickets now from OzTix.

Images used with permission from Kick Push PR

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“coming to terms with it all” – PRETTY BLEAK

It’s so satisfying watching a band come of age. With the release of their sophomore EP an introduction to a theme last year, I noted that Naarm/Melbourne-based band PRETTY BLEAK had dropped “their most cohesive and compelling body of work to date.” They continue their upward trajectory with their latest offering, coming to terms with it all.

“The EP serves to explore the difficulty of navigating interpersonal relationships on a societal scale, from the perspective of people for whom these things are rarely easy,” explained frontman Sam Thomas. “It details reckoning with obligation, perception, self-interest, betrayal, introspection, and resignation or inevitability through the lens of our own personal experiences, whether those be triumphs or catastrophic failures.”

They’re some heavy themes, but PRETTY BLEAK balance them with optimistic melodies that are bound to put a smile on your face. The atmospheric sounds of EP opener “i.need2” naturally lead into the upbeat banger, “behere.4u.” With its big brassy horns, lush synths, and ridiculously catchy chorus, it’s so much fun. “how ironic” has a similar energy, but when the music is so enjoyable you want to stay in that space. It reminds me a little of the music The Band CAMINO is making these days, an easy blend of indie rock and electropop that has you on your feet and begging for more.

In “with your friends,” PRETTY BLEAK lean more into that electronic sound to great effect. It’s such a different vibe, but one that helps give this EP some dynamics. I enjoy it, but not as much as that high-octane sound of “something’s wrong with me.” This the kind of music that PRETTY BLEAK excels at, a bold sound that’s pure joy paired with angsty lyrics that connect so easily our own insecurities.

The closing number “you can be the river” is a breathtaking change of pace. A piano ballad at its core, it sounds like nothing else on this EP. Its poetic lyrics are authentically romantic, and its orchestration is so richly layered. Every time I hear it, I have to take a moment to stop and absorb it.

And then, once I’ve felt all the feelings, I hit play again, because coming to terms with it all is that kind of EP. One that encourages repeat listens because it’s so catchy and likeable. PRETTY BLEAK have honed the sound they pivoted towards in an introduction to a theme beautifully. They also wrote, produced, and mixed this EP, which shows just how much they want to take ownership of their music. It’s a bold decision for a band so early in their career, but one that’s paid off.

coming to terms with it all is out now. Catch PRETTY BLEAK play these songs and more live at the following shows:

15 August 2025 – The Bergy Bandroom, Naarm/Melbourne (EP launch)
23 August 2025 – The Burdekin Hotel, Eora/Sydney (supporting A Swift Farewell)

Photo credit: Tom Thomas

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“O2” – Kevin Silvester

Naarm/Melbourne-based artist Kevin Silvester is making a splash today with the release of his bold debut EP, O2. With its high-octane fusion of pop and rock sounds and introspective lyrics, this release is impossible to ignore.

The opening track “I THINK I NEED THERAPY!” perfectly sets the scene. We’re exploring mental health with an upbeat pop-punk style song on track one? Why not?! It’s those kinds of bold moves that make O2 such an unforgettable listen. I can hear influences like The Veronicas and Avril Lavigne coming through loudly, but Kevin’s unique perspectives as a neurodivergent, queer artist and his fearless approach to songwriting ensure he’s got something new to say.

I immediately found myself bopping along to songs like “STRANGER” and “BAD OMEN” as this EP unfolded. Kevin barely takes his foot off the accelerator, but when he does for the epic ballads “FOOL’S GOLD” and “SLEEPWALKER” you start to appreciate the full breadth of his artistry. Something tells me there’s even more in the tank that we’re yet to see.

At eight tracks, O2 feels closer to an album than an EP, no matter what the press release says. But every track deserves its place here. Each one is a banger with a message, and that all might be more important than the format.

O2 is out now. To celebrate its release, Kevin Silvester will play his biggest headline show to date at The Toff in Town on July 18. During this theatrical, immersive experience, Kevin will play the EP in full, along with fan favourites and some surprises. “It’s going to be heartfelt, expressive, and just the right amount of unhinged,” Kevin promised. Tickets are on sale now from Moshtix.

Images used with permission from Tall Poppy MGMT

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Politics and Footy Tips” – Cardboard Cutouts

Cardboard Cutouts cement their reputation as one of the most exciting new rock acts in the country with the release of their debut album, Politics and Footy Tips. With raw lyrics, honest vocals, and an epic sound, this Jagera, Giabal, and Jarowair Country/Toowoomba-based band checks all the boxes, and then some.

I say and then some, because this is an album that keeps you on your toes. While the band’s name suggests one-dimensionality, they refuse to make a rock album by the numbers. The opening track “Dishy” sets that standard. Dishies and glassies are rarely rock song heroes, but these icons of Aussie pubs get their moment here. The gentle start, more country-folk than indie-rock, is also unexpected. Soon enough the band’s full throttle, but when they do let rip it’s so much more powerful for the contrast to the quiet moments before.

It’s another bold move to bring out singles “My Best Friend” and “Steer” so early in the album, but it speaks to Cardboard Cutout’s faith in these songs. What comes later is far from filler. While other tracks like “A Story of Numbers, Bottles & Anxiety” and the incredible closer “Better Voice” may be unfamiliar to listeners, they’re destined to become new favourites.

Cardboard Cutouts makes the best kind of rock music. There’s no veneer or bravado, just pure heart. They get real about topics like anxiety, self-doubt, self-acceptance, and perseverance, showing vulnerability that’s rare and beautiful. Whether they’re belting out a tune at 11 or stripping their sound back on a bittersweet ballad, listening to this music from Cardboard Cutouts is such a cathartic experience.

Politics and Footy Tips is a fantastic album from a band with such a bright future ahead of them. Cardboard Cutouts will support its release with headlining shows around the country starting in Meeanjin/Brisbane tonight.

27 June 2025 – The Brightside, Meeanjin/Brisbane
4 July 2025 – Vinnies Dive, Kurrungul/Gold Coast
11 July 2025 – The Presynct, Kabi Kabi Country/Nambour
12 July 2025 – The Tinana Hotel, Butchulla, Gubbi Gubbi and Wakka Wakka Country/Maryborough
19 July 2025 – Otherwise Bar, Bwgcolman Country/Townsville
25 July 2025 – The Retreat Hotel, Naarm/Melbourne
26 July 2025 – Twisted Lime, Nipaluna/Hobart
14 August 2025 – Moshpit Bar, Eora/Sydney
15 August 2025 – 15 Festival @ The Baso, Ngambri/Canberra
16 August 2025 – The Servo, Woolyungah/Wollongong
17 August 2025 – The Lass O’Gowrie Hotel, Mulubinba/Newcastle (FREE)

Main photo credit: Harrison Innes

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Hollow Threats” – A Swift Farewell

Eora/Sydney act A Swift Farewell show they’re a band unafraid to take risks with their latest release, Hollow Threats. This six-track EP sees them evolving from the pop-punk act we once knew to a grittier emo act.

Expanding their sound beyond the pop-punk genre has given A Swift Farewell more space for self-expression. Every song on Hollow Threats tells its own story of struggle. Through introspective lyrics, they tackle big topics like depression, betrayal, and coming out.

The sombre opener “I Never Wanted This…” establishes early that A Swift Farewell are doing things differently. It’s vocal-driven, with ambient synths and beats underscoring the words. The drums and guitars kick in with “Silence,” an anthemic, moody track that should have you punching your fists in the air by the time the chorus kicks in.

On such a personal EP, it’s interesting that two collaborations – “The Haunting” featuring Amariah and “Just Breathe” featuring Besties – take the central positions. Collaborating with other artists can take music in different directions, but these tracks work so cohesively with A Swift Farewell’s own creations.

“Hold Me Down” is a breakup anthem for the ages, pairing introspective lyrics with a soundscape punctuated by driving drums and acoustic guitars. It’s a unique blend, but it works so well. Most of these tracks hit hard, but A Swift Farewell take another left turn with the closer “Homeless.” It’s an incredible piano-led ballad that builds beautifully to an epic crescendo.

Individually A Swift Farewell’s tracks are so powerful, but together they’re an emotional onslaught. Hollow Threats often isn’t an easy listen, but it’s a cathartic one. Press play, turn it up, and appreciate this killer EP from one of Australia’s finest emerging acts.

Hollow Threats is out now. See A Swift Farewell at 2 Pizza 2 Planet Festival at Stay Gold in Naarm/Melbourne on August 9.

Photo credit: Max Pasalic

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Julie’s House” – Ama

After wowing me with her relatable pop songs for nearly a year, Ama has released her debut EP. Julie’s House is a gorgeous collection of coming-of-age songs that has really struck a chord with me.

It’s been a long time since I was caught in the throes of infatuation, but I don’t think those feelings ever leave you. Listening to Ama’s music brings back all the insecurities and heightened emotions we all experience as we’re trying to figure things out. Ama articulates them so beautifully, with songwriting that’s achingly honest. She’s also got an incredible knack for melody. These are some of the catchiest songs I’ve heard. I also love her voice, warm, pure, and emotive. She makes listening such a joy.

Julie’s House features some of Ama’s best singles including “Metro Girl” and “Bite.” They sit perfectly alongside undiscovered gems like the wistful closer “If i dated a guy” and the epic title track. This EP was inspired by Ama’s feelings for the same girl she met online, and it’s fascinating to learn about that relationship through this collection of songs.

Julie’s House is a fantastic EP from one of Australia’s best emerging pop acts. It’s out now on Spotify and all your favourite streaming services.

Image source: Ama’s website

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“To All The Ones That I Love” – Press Club

Naarm/Melbourne band Press Club maintain the rage with the release of their fourth album To All The Ones That I Love.

I’ve been listening all weekend and I must admit, I’m reluctant to switch gears from experiencing the music to writing my views down. Because this isn’t really music that needs intellectual analysis. They’re songs that you feel deep in those primal parts of yourself. This album appeals to my inner angsty teen, my frustrated artist, my introverted loner.

I’m not going to pretend that every song clicked with me, but that’s art, right? If the music pleases everyone, the band probably isn’t pushing enough boundaries. And when it does resonate, it can make you feel entirely seen.

Press Club recorded To All The Ones That I Love at their own studio in Western Naarm/Melbourne after writing the songs collaboratively over a few months. Guitarist Greg Rietwyk handled production and mixing duties before Kris Crummett (Closure in Moscow, Dune Rats, Currents) mastered it. That means that except for some final polishing, this is truly Press Club’s baby. The band said making this record was an incredibly fun, creative, and liberating experience, and you can hear all that in these songs. They’re defiant but jubilant, energetic and emotional. Calling out any one track feels unfair, because they all contribute to this fantastic body of work. Yes, even the ones that haven’t quite struck a chord with me.

To All The Ones That I Love is out now. Press Club will play one more local show before heading to the UK and Europe for their sixth tour. Don’t stress though Aussies; they’ll be home for more gigs from July which go on general sale tomorrow. You just know these songs will be even better experienced in a sweaty pit, so make sure you don’t miss Press Club wherever they are near you.

23 May 2025 – The Sound Doctor @ Anglesea Memorial Hall, Wathaurong Country/Anglesea
14 June 2025 – VERA, Groningen
15 June 2025 – Not Sorry Festival @ Cruise Recordstore, Hamburg
18 June 2025 – Neue Zukunft, Berlin
19 June 2025 – Bei Chez Heinz, Hannover
20 June 2025 – Luxor, Cologne
21 June 2025 – Molotow, Hamburg
22 June 2025 – Farewell Youth Fest @ Groovestation, Dresden
24 June 2025 – INmusic Festival @ Lake Jarun, Zagreb
26 June 2025 – TRIX, Antwerp
27 June 2025 – Jera on Air @ Zeilbergseweg, Ysselsteyn
28 June 2025 – Gleis 22, Munster
30 June 2025 – Im Wizeman, Stuttgart
1 July 2025 – Strom, Munich
3 July 2025 – Muk, Giessen
4 July 2025 – Rotown, Rotterdam
5 July 2025 – Fallig Open Air, Enkirch
8 July 2025 – Esquires, Bradford
9 July 2025 – Pink Room @ YES, Manchester
10 July 2025 – New Cross Inn, London
18 July 2025 – The Crown & Anchor, Tarntanya/Adelaide
19 July 2025 – Indian Ocean Hotel, Noongar Country/Scarborough
20 July 2025 – Mojo’s Bar, Walyalup/North Fremantle
25 July 2025 – Crowbar, Meeanjin/Brisbane
26 July 2025 – Vinnie’s Dive, Kombumerri Country/Southport
27 July 2025 – Bangalow Bowlo, Bangalla/Bangalow
31 July 2025 – La La La’s, Woolyungah/Wollongong
1 August 2025 – King Street Bandroom, Mulubinba/Newcastle
2 August 2025 – The Loft on Broadway, Eora/Sydney
8 August 2025 – Corner Hotel, Naarm/Melbourne

Album art: Matt Cochran
Main photo credit: Nick Manuell

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Forever is a Long Time” – Littlefair

Littlefair captured my heart with the release of “Happy” a couple of months ago. Now they’ve given us a little more enjoy with the release of their fabulous EP, Forever is a Long Time.

This release delivers everything I knew I loved about this band, and then some. Jessica Depiazzi is an irresistible frontwoman, but when I hear her harmonising with her sisters Kira (violin, percussion) and Mary (keys, guitar), and bandmate Jaik Rushan (bass, guitar), I get goosebumps. I am so glad their voices blend in every song. I loved the energy of “Happy” and found more of those clap-along melodies with “Jacket” and “Take Me Down,” which sees the band shaking things up and putting Jaik out front.

Forever is a Long Time shows that there’s more to this act than feelgood fun though. “Something to Miss” is a gentle, romantic ballad. And the final song, “Prescription,” which explores the complexities of watching someone you care about trapped in a toxic relationship, is so raw it bleeds. It makes a strong statement about this Western Australian band and the depth of their artistry.

Whatever music they’re making, the chemistry between the members of Littlefair is palpable. It makes listening to their music such a joy. Discover their EP Forever is a Long Time on your favourite streaming platform now. And if you’re local, catch them at their EP launch at Lyrics Underground in Wu-rut/Maylands on May 18.

Images used with permission from Blue Grey Pink

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Survival” – Harry Cleverdon

It feels like Harry Cleverdon’s album, Survival, has been a long time coming. He released an experimental psychedelic album under the moniker SonofHarry in 2023, but Survival is the first released under his own name. It’s also the first featuring the sweet country-folk-pop sound I’ve enjoyed from Harry since 2022. But you know what they say about good things coming to those who wait.

Now that it’s out in the world, I appreciate that Harry took his time. He’s still a young artist, but the experience and wisdom he’s gained through the last few years I’ve spent following his career shows. Songs like the incredibly catchy album opener “House of Cards” and the stirring title track, which you can listen to below, are among the best he’s released. I love the cheekiness of “Empty Bottles,” but I’m also glad Harry balances it with more vulnerable numbers like “Nothing For Myself” and “Superman (Late Night Trance).” He shows more of his heart with “The Best That I Can,” an earnest love song that’s sure to leave most listeners swooning.

There’s also an ease about Harry’s music that only comes with growing comfortable in your own skin. When so many new releases rely on heavy production, Survival comes as a breath of fresh air. Harry’s not afraid to buck the trends and get back to basics with his music. With acoustic, organic instrumentation in support, his sweet vocals are never overpowered. We can hear every lyric, which is such a blessing when the songs are so well-crafted. Listening to these tunes you get the sense that they’d sound the same live as they do on the recording. There’s no tricks or wizardry here, and the music is better for it.

Survival is the perfect showcase for Harry’s talents as a singer and songwriter. The songs are instantly accessible, but spend a little more time with them and know you’ll fall as deeply in love as I have. Stream it on your favourite platform now. You can also hear Harry and other fantastic Aussie country acts on my Spotify playlist, Sounds of Oz Loves Country.

Images used with permission from Lambing Flat Records