We all need a little sad girl music every now and again, right? If you agree, wrap your ears around The Five Stages of Grief, the gorgeous new EP from Joan & The Giants.
This is a really personal collection of songs which explores the end of the nine-year relationship between frontwoman Gracie Newton-Wordsworth and the band’s former guitarist Aaron Birch. Gracie wrote some songs on her own and some songs with Aaron as they attempted to process their feelings.
Gracie isn’t afraid to lay her emotions bare here. The lyrics are raw, revealing sorrow, anger, and eventual acceptance and she moves through the grief of her relationship breakdown. Bandmates Riley Sutto and Liam Olsen take on gentle supporting roles, ensuring Gracie’s lyrics and voice shine brightest.
The Five Stages of Grief is a powerful snapshot of a relationship breakdown and what comes next. It’s out now. Thankfully Joan & The Giants have plenty to look forward to with sold-out shows supporting The Fray and their own headline tour on the horizon.
18 September 2025 – The Espy Gershwin, Euro-Yroke/St Kilda
27 September 2025 – Vic on the Park, Eora/Sydney (FREE)
Photo credit: Britney Long