Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Gentleman” – Budjerah

The release of Budjerah’s long-awaited debut album Gentleman feels like a reintroduction to this talented artist. The shy indie-pop teen we met in 2020 appears utterly transformed with this polished pop release.

From front to back, Gentleman is an album of bangers. But you might expect that when you browse Budjerah’s collaborators. Some of the songwriters include Poo Bear, known for his work with Justin Bieber, Rob Lewis, who’s been Christina Aguilera’s music director for more than 20 years, and Philip Lawrence, who’s Bruno Mars primary creative partner. And if that wasn’t enough, he’s got a song penned by Diane Warren, one of the most acclaimed lyricists of all time who’s written chart toppers for Cher, Celine Dion, Aerosmith, and countless others. These are people who understand what it takes to write a hit.

Their tunes are total earworms, but they would fall flat if Budjerah didn’t bring such charisma and confidence to them. It’s probably easy to be confident when you’ve assembled the Justice League of songwriters though! But they’re not doing all the heavy lifting. Budjerah also enlisted Grammy Award-winning producer Om’Mas Keith, who’s worked with talents like Frank Ocean, Jay Z, and Erykah Badu. His involvement ensures that Gentleman feels sonically interesting, rather than a record that’s commercial but ultimately forgettable.

From the upbeat soul of the title track and opener, Gentleman had me hooked. It feels like a natural companion to the next track “Want You Back.” They’re such perfect pop that Budjerah probably could have released an album entirely in this vein and kept me happy. But rather than play it safe, he experiments with genre. “I Only Remember Your Name” has a deep reggae groove, “Sinner” is a gospel-tinged ballad, and “Lonely” is pure yacht rock. Through all the twists and turns, Budjerah’s undeniable vocals shine through.

Gentleman has been a long time coming for Budjerah fans, but I’m glad he took the time. This is a considered release, one that comes from an artist who knows who he is and is now ready to share that definitive debut statement with the world.

Gentleman is out now. Budjerah will take these songs around the East Coast on his The Gentleman Tour this October and November. Tickets are on sale now from the links below.

31 October 2026 – The Espy, Naarm/Melbourne (18+)
1 November 2026 – The Sound Doctor, Kuarka-dorla/Anglesea (ALL AGES)
7 November 2026 – Metro Social, Eora/Sydney (ALL AGES)
20 November 2026 – Miami Marketta, Yugambeh Country/Gold Coast (ALL AGES)
21 November 2026 – Triffid Beer Garden, Meeanjin/Brisbane (ALL AGES)

Main photo credit: Daniel Boud

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Melody Pool, Tanya Ransom, and Alexia Parenzee Headline Women Out West

While women are represented in increasing numbers, the music industry still feels like a bit of a boys’ club. There also aren’t nearly enough shows in regional Australia. Which is why Women Out West, a new tour from Always Good Nights, feels so revolutionary. It’s the first tour of this scale to employ women in every single role, both in the tour development and delivery. Melody Pool, Tanya Ransom, and Alexia Parenzee will headline the shows scheduled for regional towns across Western Australia this October and November.

The Women Out West tour will travel more than 6,000 kilometres across regional Western Australia, with stops along the way for the intimate performances, workshops, mentoring sessions, and community events. Organisers aim to shine a spotlight on the way women are helping to shape the country’s music industry while recognising the strength, creativity, and passion found in regional communities.

“Women Out West is about more than putting on great shows,” Always Good Nights director Kelsie Miller explained. “It’s about creating opportunities, building confidence and making sure women and girls in regional communities can see themselves reflected on stage and behind the scenes. We want young people to know there is a place for them in this industry, no matter where they live.”

Western Australians can see the Women Out West shows at the following venues:

2 October 2026 – Broome Historical Museum Gardens, Rubibi/Broome
3 October 2026 – Courthouse Gallery, Marapikurrinya/Port Hedland
8 October 2026 – Kestral Cafe, Gwoonwardu/Carnarvon
10 October 2026 – Little Leaf Cafe, Wurdimarlu/Kalbarri
11 October 2026 – 30 Knots Distillery, Jambinu/Geraldton
16 October 2026 – Badgingarra Community Centre, Noongar Country/Badgingarra
17 October 2026 – Suburban Vibes, Walyalup/Fremantle
23 October 2026 – Geovino, Korijekup/Harvey
24 October 2026 – The Little Theatre, Noongar Country/Eaton
30 October 2026 – The Chapel, Walgine/Witchcliffe
31 October 2026 – Pemberton Mill Hall, Noongar Country/Pemberton
1 November 2026 – Bridgetown Pottery Restaurant, Geegelup/Bridgetown

Image used with permission from Auxiliary Records

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Waiting for the Day: Artist Sessions” – Bachelor Girl

Twenty-eight years ago, Bachelor Girl released their debut album Waiting for the Day. It was a monster hit, spawning beloved singles like “Permission to Shine,” “Treat Me Good,” and “Buses and Trains.” And now, Bachelor Girl and some of their famous friends are revisiting that release with Waiting for the Day: Artist Sessions.

This album is absolutely stacked with talent. I’m talking Jessica Mauboy, Guy Sebastian, Darren Hayes, Delta Goodrem, S-tier Aussie acts. They help breathe new life into these songs, adding artistic flair that transforms them into something brand new. I appreciate the creativity and intent, even if I don’t always like the results. As a massive fan of the original album, some of the ultra-pop renditions fall a little flat for me. But when this album gets it right, it gets it so right. The rock edge of Suze DeMarchi on “Don’t Hold Back” and Jon Stevens on “This Must Be Love” play perfectly with Tania Doko’s iconic vocals. Michael Paynter proves why he’s one of the nation’s most in-demand singers when he joins Tania on “I Don’t Believe You.”

While the star power will encourage people to press play, it’s the core elements that made this album great the first time around that inspire repeat listens. Decades have passed, but the songs on Waiting for the Day are still so good. Tania Doko and James Roche created something so special with this album, and that legacy is celebrated here. It’s so fitting that Tania and James are the ones to deliver the title track and final number. While the star cameos are fun, the founding members of Bachelor Girl still shine so brightly without them.

Whether you look back on this album with nostalgia like I do or you’re new to the songs and lured by the stars, Waiting for the Day: Artist Sessions is an exciting release. It’s not as flawless as the original, but there are some real moments of brilliance here.

Waiting for the Day: Artist Sessions is out today. Bachelor Girl will support its release with the following shows:

8 August 2026 – Brunswick Ballroom, Bulleke-bek/Brunswick (18+ – SOLD OUT)
23 August 2026 – The Triffid, Meeanjin/Brisbane (18+)
28 August 2026 – The Gov, Tarntanya/Adelaide (18+)
4 September 2026 – Cube 37 @ Frankston Arts Centre, Monmar/Frankston (ALL AGES – u15s with adult)
5 September 2026 – Sounds of Rock Rockhampton @ Victoria Park, Darumbal Country/Wandal
10 October 2026 – Savannah in the Round, Muluridji Country/Mareeba
18 October 2026 – Factory Theatre, Bulanaming/Marrickville (18+)

Photo credit: Jess Macc

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Lottie McLeod Releases Cute New Single, “Wednesdays at the Waterloo”

As a regular at Wednesday pub trivia, I feel a real affinity with “Wednesdays at the Waterloo,” the latest single from Lottie McLeod. This cute indie-pop track tells a relatable story of losing at pub trivia because of an unspoken crush on a teammate.

“Wednesdays at the Waterloo” comes from Lottie’s forthcoming EP, The Boathouse, which drops on September 25. Hear more material from that EP at one of her upcoming shows.

29 August 2026 – Miami Marketta, Yugambeh Country/Gold Coast (supporting Pierce Brothers)
30 August 2026 – The Triffid Garden, Meeanjin/Brisbane (supporting Pierce Brothers)
11 September 2026 – Brisbane Winter Sessions Raise The Roof Vol. 3 @ Black Bear Lodge, Meeanjin/Brisbane
8 October 2026 – Hibernian House, Eora/Sydney (ALL AGES)
9 October 2026 – Nighthawkes, Naarm/Melbourne
10 October 2026 – Season Three Space @ Echo & Bounce, Meeanjin/Brisbane (ALL AGES)

Photo credit: Carrie McLeod

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Ella Fence Serves Up “Bravado” and Aussie Dates

Already a live favourite, Ella Fence is now sharing her song “Bravado” with the world. It’s such an indie alt-pop banger. While the press release calls it a queer anthem, I expect it’s going to resonate with anyone who loves their pop music a little left of centre.

The release of “Bravado” kicks off a massive second half of 2026 for Ella. She’s supporting The Beefs on their upcoming Great Rarier Beef tour and playing a stack of festivals. She’ll also perform as lead vocalist in the large-scale live music and roller-skating production Roller Coaster, which is part of the Darwin Festival. And somewhere in there she’ll also find time to release some more music! Strap in Ella Fence fans because the new few months will be big! Mark these dates in your concert calendar!

14-16 August 2026 – Roller Coaster @ Mararra Indoor Stadium, Garramilla/Darwin
29 August 2026 – Full Tilt Festival @ Mo’s Desert Clubhouse, Yugambeh Country/Gold Coast
5 September 2026 – Tweed Museum Street Party, Cooloon/Tweed Heads (FREE)
25 September 2026 – Northcote Social Club, Naarm/Melbourne (supporting The Beefs)
26 September 2026 – Heaps Normal Health Club, Eora/Sydney (supporting The Beefs)
27 September 2026 – The Brightside, Meeanjin/Brisbane (supporting The Beefs)
4 October 2026 – BLEACH Festival @ HOTA Lake Precinct, Yugambeh Country/Gold Coast (FREE)

Photo credit: @simonegormanclark

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Vale Glenn A. Baker

I’m not sure you can be an Australian music fan without feeling the loss of Glenn A. Baker today. A giant of the industry, he passed away at age 74 after a period of illness.

For me, Glenn A. Baker was the guy on the telly with a seemingly encyclopaedic knowledge of music. As a kid, I’d watch him on the Today Show, Mornings with Kerri-Anne, The Bert Newton Show, and countless others and marvel at his insight and enthusiasm. When I got a bit older, I attended several concerts where Glenn was in the audience. You would hear a hush as he passed, a kind of reverence as people whispered, “That’s Glenn A. Baker.”

Reading the tributes today taught me so much about all of the incredible things he did. I knew he championed artists, but I didn’t realise that he began managing the band that would become Ol’ 55 while he was working as a media adviser of the NSW Postmaster-General’s Department. I didn’t know he recruited Wilbur Wilde and Frankie J. Holden, or that he co-wrote some of their songs. That band might never have achieved their immense chart success without him. I didn’t know he co-established local record label Raven Records, or that he was a partner in Timewarp Records. I wasn’t aware that he served as the editor of Billboard magazine for more than 20 years. I think I’ll have to track down some of his more than 17 books.

Glenn A. Baker was a man who did so much for the local music industry, and he will be sorely missed.

Photo credit: Eva Rinaldi Photography @ Wikimedia Commons

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Asha Jefferies Drops Hot New Single, “Cool Guy”

Asha Jefferies has taken my breath away with her latest single “Cool Guy.” It’s such a raw, delicate indie-pop ballad, the perfect showcase for her introspective lyrics and angelic voice.

“This song wrote itself very quickly after my first trip to New York,” Asha recalled. “Listening back, I realised I am more often than not, in denial when I’m longing for something or someone. I guess it’s a classic story of unrequited love – yearning feels heavier, more punishing and unproductive when it’s not reciprocated. And it sucks; I’d really like to pretend to be the cool guy if possible.”

“Cool Guy” is the latest track lifted from Asha’s next album Desire is an Angel, which we’ll hear on October 2. You can preorder your vinyl copy and T-shirts now through Sound Merch.

Photo credit: Meg Siejka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Slowly Slowly Join Alex Lahey For “Lets Go Out”

I am always a big believer in finding the right song at the right time. For most people, Alex Lahey’s rerecorded version of “Lets Go Out” featuring Slowly Slowly would just make them long for the weekend. But Wednesday is my pub trivia night, so this one will definitely soundtrack my day! Even if you’re not looking forward to a few bevvies this evening, I know you’ll appreciate the way Slowly Slowly complement Alex on this track.

“When I asked Slowly Slowly to be a part of the rerecording of ‘Let’s Go Out’, I told them I wanted ‘the full Slowly treatment,’ Alex said. “And, boy, did they deliver! I think Slowly are one of the greatest Australian bands of all time and it’s such an honour to have them involved in this recording produced by none other than Ben Stewart himself.”

Ben was equally effusive in his praise of Alex, noting “Working with Alex was a breeze – it was like we had always been in a band together or something! I loved being a part of the effortless recreations of these sentimental and adored songs – the hardest part was trying to honour the originals, but I think we got to a place where they hold their own in a new light.”
This new version of “Lets Go Out” features on B-Grade University (Reunion Edition), a reimagining of Alex’s breakthrough EP. She’s hitting all the major capitals to promote it, so get your tickets now.

20 August 2026 – The Triffid, Meeanjin/Brisbane
21 August 2026 – Corner Hotel, Naarm/Melbourne
22 August 2026 – Manning Bar, Eora/Sydney
28 August 2026 – The Rosemount Hotel, Boorloo/Perth
29 August 2026 – Jive, Tarntanya/Adelaide

Photo credit: Seannie Bryan

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

The Vernons Release Rebellious Rocker, “Don’t Give a Damn If You Don’t Believe Me”

Yugambeh Country/Gold Coast rockers The Vernons have got me grooving with their latest track “Don’t Give a Damn If You Don’t Believe Me.” This one has a cool, dirty blues vibe to it that reminds me of The Black Keys meets Cage the Elephant.

“Born from the sting of being doubted by someone whose support should have been unwavering, the track transforms betrayal into a fierce declaration of self-belief,” The Vernons said. Raw, raucous guitars collide with deliberate moments of silence, creating a dynamic push and pull that lingers long after the final note.”

“Don’t Give a Damn If You Don’t Believe Me” is the latest tune lifted from The Vernons’ forthcoming album Strike Out Again, which drops on August 12. Hear them play tunes from that album and some old favourites at The Long Sunset. It hits Ugarapul and Yuggera Country/Boonah from October 31 to November 2.

Photo credit: Charli Burrows

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

ANUJA and Daniel J Farthing Join Forces For “Wild Love”

Naarm/Melbourne-based singer-songwriters ANUJA and Daniel J Farthing have teamed up for a gorgeous new single, “Wild Love.” There’s a beautiful tenderness about this indie-folk ballad. It’s sweet without being saccharine, so honest and endearing. If you love music from Vance Joy and Hozier, expect to fall hard for this one.

ANUJA met Daniel at a Real Songwriters of Melbourne (RSOM) networking evening and immediately began planning to create music together. As they bounced between their home studios, their friendship flourished as they connected on their shared passion for songwriting. It’s that passion that makes “Wild Love” so good. While they sound great, this track wouldn’t have nearly the same impact without those powerful lyrics about processing the end of a relationship.

“Wild Love” is out today on all your favourite streaming services.

Image used with permission from ANUJA