Author: Lauren Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Ben Mastwyk Drops Original Country Single, “Actually”

Cosmic country act Ben Mastwyk has dropped his fabulous new single “Actually.” If ELO ever released a country track, it might sound a little like this.

“Performing is essential to my happiness, but it’s not always easy. Dressing up, standing out with flashy clothes and jewellery, gives me confidence and protects me from the dangers of the world. ‘Actually’ is a glimpse behind the armour of gold suits and rhinestones, reminding us that even the boldest of personas can be vulnerable,” Ben explained.

Ben is doing plenty of performing in the coming weeks. Here are all the places you can see him and his flashy clothes:

17 March 2023 – The Gem, Naarm/Melbourne
25 March 2023 – Union Hotel Newtown, Eora/Sydney
26 March 2023 – Grand Junction Hotel, The Junkyard, Minderibba/Maitland
1 April 2023 – Goulburn Valley Country Music Festival, Kanny-goopna/Shepparton

Image used with permission from Rock This Country

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

August River Band Impress With “Lemonade”

Meeanjin/Brisbane band August River Band has served up a delicious new single, “Lemonade.” With the band’s strong fiddle and minor acoustic guitar notes, I’m getting serious Dave Matthews Band vibes from this one. Trust me, that’s a really good thing.

The song explores the idea of making lemonade out of life giving you lemons through four characters: a barman, a spinster, a merchant, and a blacksmith. It’s a cool concept executed so perfectly by this inventive band.

This is August River’s first release since they dropped their debut album Thank You, Pain in 2020. Well worth the wait, it comes ahead of a new EP release later this year. They’ll play The Bearded Lady on March 24.

Image used with permission from Fox Hole Films

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Jordy Maxwell Releases Uplifting Folk Anthem, “Let Me Out”

Boorloo/Perth indie-folk act Jordy Maxwell will make your day better with his new single “Let Me Out.” It’s a textbook example of how you build a song. I love its gentle acoustic opening but really appreciate how it builds to this cathartic climax once the percussion and strings kick in.

“‘Let Me Out’ started as a phone recording and some seriously silly lyrics. After listening back, the chord progression and melody were kept, and the song evolved from a simple, sweet start, into a massive build-up and release,” Jordy explained. “With the help of the violins and drums, I wanted to create momentum in the back end of the song that inspires and motivates. The song is a journey of feeling so trapped in life, whether it be a location, a relationship, or work and eventually being able to release yourself from what’s dragging you away from what you love. It’s a song I hope can inspire people to make a change if they feel they need it in their life.”

Jordy will join fellow Aussie singer-songwriter Jack Botts on his national tour, which kicks off later this month in Tandanya/Adelaide.

31 March 2023 – Lion Arts Factory, Tandanya/Adelaide
1 April 2023 – The Rosemount, Boorloo/Perth
14 April 2023 – The Triffid, Meeanjin/Brisbane
15 April 2023 – Factory Theatre, Eora/Sydney
28 April 2023 – 170 Russell, Naarm/Melbourne

Image used with permission from Good Intent

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Feelings Worth Living For” – Jim Alxndr

Most of us enjoy good music every day. But truly great music? The kind of music that gets under your skin and into your heart and permeates every cell? That’s so much rarer. That’s the kind of music Jim Alxndr delivers on his new EP Feelings Worth Living For.

That title instantly struck me. It raises such expectations. You’d better evoke powerful emotions when you dare to give an EP a name like that. But from the moment the lush, layered vocals of the opening track “Sticks and Stones” kicked in, I thought he might just deliver on what he’s promised.

Naarm/Melbourne-based Jim is a talented producer who’s worked with the likes of Carly Rae Jepsen, Jack Garrett, and Paul Moody. It gives him a unique understanding of music that really shines through this recording. It sounds incredible, with rich vocal harmonies and electro-acoustic sound collages. The music wraps around exquisite lyrics. They’re introspective, yet somehow so relatable. I found myself moved time and time again. When the stunning closer “The Light” faded out, I had to take a few moments to compose myself. And then listen again.

“The songs on Feelings Worth Living For all feel like big, understanding hugs to me. Like the best friend you call at 2 am crying cause you know they’re gonna pick up and you know they’re gonna accept you no matter what you’re going through. Or the picture of your partner on your phone lock screen that you look at and can’t help but smile at,” Jim explained. “The songs seem to listen to my thoughts and give me back an understanding of our current existence – hence the name of the EP.”

Take some time to listen to Feelings Worth Living For. In a world where so much music seems disposable, this is one EP that will encourage you to keep coming back for more.

Images used with permission from beehive

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

LOSER Drop Rocking New Single “The More I Know” Ahead of East Coast Tour

I’ve been really impressed watching Stadium Dreams On a Bedroom Budget, the new EP from LOSER, unfold. In case you missed it, these local rockers have opted to drop a new track every few weeks, giving us time to sit with each one, rather than just dumping them all at once. You might think that four tracks in the project might be losing steam, but the latest cut, “The More I Know” might just be my favourite. It’s giving me serious Foo Fighters stadium vibes. Crank it up and you’ll hear what I mean.

“After lockdown it was hard to get back to regular programming, I lost faith in playing music and I was questioning whether I wanted to do it anymore. Craig and I sat down and punched this song out in a day,” explained the band’s frontman, Tim Maxwell. “The lyrics are the most meaningful on the EP. It’s about getting out of that rut and wanting to succeed more than ever after spending so much creative energy trying to make ends meet.”

This would be a great time to let you know that LOSER will tour the East Coast in May to celebrate the release of Stadium Dreams On a Bedroom Budget. While you’re at the shows, you may be lucky enough to score one of the limited edition signed clear 12” vinyls. LOSER will randomly draw a ticket holder’s name in the middle of each set to score one of these babies, which are the only physical merch available for this release.

“Call it crazy, call it genius, call it something in between – either way we thought this was the best and coolest way to share something special for this EP with our fans,” the band said. “It’s a gift to the people who come to see us live and hopefully a cool collectible in the future as we won’t ever be pressing this release again in its current form. We’re yet to know if our signatures will actually de-value the vinyl or not.”

If you want one, you’re just going to have to get to one of these gigs!

4 May 2023 – Oxford Arts Factory Gallery Bar, Eora/Sydney
5 May 2023 – Cambridge Sideroom, Mulubinba/Newcastle
6 May 2023 – Dicey Riley’s, Woolyungah/Wollongong (FREE)
11 May 2023 – Vinnie’s Dive Bar, Yugambeh Country/Gold Coast
12 May 2023 – Black Bear Lodge, Meeajin/Brisbane
13 May 2023 – Northcote Social Club, Naarm/Melbourne

Image used with permission from beehive; credit: Ian Laidlaw

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“METADRAMATIC” – St. Humain

Ever since seeing Carly Rae Jepsen on Tuesday, I’ve been on a bit of a pop kick. As if on cue, I discovered METADRAMATIC, the fantastic new EP from St. Humain.

Singapore-born and Eora/Sydney based, St. Humain writes music with real heart. The sound is fresh, with electronic and R&B influences that give it a wider appeal. I found myself bopping along from the first note of “Wanna Talk.” It’s a real bop, but its lyrics about wanting to bridge the gap and impress someone as smoothly as a dream alter-ego really cut deep. That’s the genius of St. Humain. The songs are real earworms, but every one has a real heart behind it. St. Humain does upbeat numbers really well. The electro-groove and effortless falsetto of “Sick Sad Love Song” remind me of a modern Maroon 5 number. The danceability of “Momento” reminds me of a Dua Lipa cut.

While St. Humain knows how to start the party, he also creates some heartbreaking ballads. “Tastes Like You” and the closing number “Dial Tones” are intimate numbers, with the keys keeping St. Humain’s voice company.

Pop fans listen up. St. Humain is the real deal. His sophomore EP METADRAMATIC is out now.

Image used with permission from LPR Agency

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Danika Wows With “FYA” Ahead of EP Release

Before releasing her debut EP, Down Love, tomorrow, Danika’s dropped one more single “FYA.” The third track lifted from the EP, this gorgeous track casts such a spell, I think I might be my favourite one yet. Listening to Danika’s voice joining with a 16-piece female choice as she turns her trauma into a triumphant song is so special.

“It’s about me saying I support you. A song of support for all women and all people. Not feeling alone and being silenced,” she explained.

Down Love, featuring “FYA” and “Coolshit Bullshit,” drops tomorrow. Don’t miss her when she plays some of Victoria’s hottest festivals real soon:

18 March 2023 – The Warrandyte Festival, Wurundjeri Country/Warrandyte (FREE All Ages)
8 April 2023 – Boogie Festival, Kulin Country/Tallarook

Image used with permission from This Much Talent

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

The Rookies Drop Stellar Single “On the Shoulders of Giants”

I don’t write about enough instrumental jazz. Not because I don’t like instrumental jazz, but there’s just not enough good stuff that comes my way. The Rookies buck that trend with their very cool new single “On the Shoulders of Giants.” Consider that your cue to organise an afternoon tea break and take a few minutes to submerse yourself into this one.

“On The Shoulders Of Giants’ is an ode to the wisdom of those who’ve come before us and a reminder that although things may appear bleak in the future, one only needs to look to the past to see just how far we have come thanks to the hard work of our elders,” the band explained. “Ideally, we should be inspired by their work and look at the view from the giants shoulders with a renewed sense of optimism that real change is possible even if we may not see it in our lifetimes – just like the parable of the man who plants trees of whose shade he will never sit, but he does so for the love of future generations that will enjoy the tree.”

“On the Shoulders of Giants” comes from The Rookies’ upcoming fourth album Feed the Fire, which drops on March 22. You can catch them every Wednesday night at Rooks Return in Ngár-go/Fitzroy from 8:30 pm.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Carly Rae Jepsen @ Enmore Theatre, Eora/Newtown – 7 March 2023

In 2007, my husband and I started downloading episodes of Canadian Idol to fill the gap between Australian seasons. From the moment we saw Carly Rae Jepsen audition with her original song “Sweet Talker” (such a gutsy move back then!) we knew she was special. She finished in third place, but we never forgot her. Fast forward to 2011 and the release of “Call Me Maybe.” Suddenly she was the name on everyone’s lips, although later singles never broke through the way that monster track did. That’s a good thing for fans like me because it means we can see her in an intimate venue like the Enmore, where everyone is so passionate about this music.

At a stadium gig, there’s an expectation that bands will play the greatest hits. Red Hot Chilli Peppers were criticised for playing seven songs from their two 2022 albums in Eora/Sydney. Carly Rae played nine songs from her 2022 album The Loneliest Time. She even had the “audacity” to open with two of those new tracks. But the audience was singing right along with her, relishing in the opportunity to experience these songs live for the first time. I was one of them. That album is absolute fire.

While the incredible songs from The Loneliest Time took centre stage, I don’t think anyone walked away disappointed. I had a massive wish list in my head, and Carly Rae delivered just about every track on it. Songs like “Cut to the Feeling”, “Julien”, and “Your Type” didn’t crack the top 100, but listening to the enthusiastic reception they got you’d be forgiven for thinking they were every bit as big as “Call Me Maybe.” The energy of this crowd was incredible, and Carly Rae seemed to lap it up, grinning widely as she jumped around the stage, stopping to touch the hands of lucky fans in the first few rows. From my spot in the dress circle, I watched the crowd move as one, jumping around to the upbeat pop numbers. I almost wished I was down with them instead of dancing in my seat.

As Carly Rae left for an encore, I mentally checked my wish list and started to worry I’d miss out on a few songs, especially the beautiful “Go Find Yourself or Whatever.” I wasn’t sure this soft ballad would find a place in the party, but I needn’t have worried. First song of the encore, just as perfect as I imagined it might be. “Beach House” wasn’t on that wish list, but it probably should have been. Another new track, with some of the best lyrics exploring disaster dates that you’ll ever hear, it really brought back the energy in the room. Carly Rae closed out with “Cut to the Feeling,” another song on that long wish list that sent us home with the very best of vibes.

As I floated back to the train station, buzzing with adrenaline, I marvelled at how far Carly Rae had come. She always had something special as she strummed her guitar and delivered that original song in her Canadian Idol audition. She’s continued writing incredible songs, but she commands a stage now. She could do it in arenas and she deserves to have the fan base that sees her booking larger venues. But I feel so lucky to be able to see her in a much smaller space, at the peak of her powers. I’m sure getting just six hours of sleep will catch up with me at some point, but right now I’m still buzzing. Carly Rae Jepsen continues her So Nice tour with the following Aussie shows:

8 March 2023 – Enmore Theatre, Eora/Sydney
9 March 2023 – The Tivoli, Meeanjin/Brisbane
11-13 March 2023 – Golden Plains, Wadawarrung Country/Meredith
13 March 2023 – The Forum, Naarm/Melbourne
14 March 2023 – The Forum, Naarm/Melbourne

Image source: Stephen Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Katie Noonan @ Avoca Beach Cinema, Darkinjung Country/Avoca Beach – 4 March 2023

If you hadn’t noticed, I’ve been busy. Really busy. After so many slow years, it seems like just about everyone is touring. And like any music addict, I’m powerless to say no. So even though I already had tickets to a matinee performance of “Come From Away” on Saturday, I found myself driving back to Darkinjung Country/Central Coast to catch Katie Noonan’s tribute to Joni Mitchell’s seminal album Blue.

I’d heard how good Melody Pool was from a friend who sees her perform regularly, but I’m not sure his praise really prepared me for her set. What a phenomenal vocalist she is. What a warm and engaging performer. She admitted that her songs tend to be a little dark, as they are often her way of processing her emotions during depressive episodes, but her beautiful voice lifts you up, ensuring the dark lyrics don’t get too heavy. To hold the audience in the palm of her hand with so many new songs is a real gift. I’d see her again in a heartbeat.

Every time I see Katie Noonan I see something new. It’s so exciting to watch her journey as an artist. When I saw her front George I was in my early 20s. A few years back I saw her making jazz-folk with Elixir. And on the weekend, she was celebrating one of the true legends of the music world, Joni Mitchell. It was something new again, but perhaps my favourite.

Firstly, there’s that music. Joni has a special place in my heart, and many of my favourites come from Blue. This album is like an old friend, and taking a journey through it with Katie and this attentive audience was a real joy. The audience is another tick. Katie said we could sing along, but I don’t think any of us wanted to break the spell Katie and her guitarist Jeremy Sawkins cast. You could hear a pin drop. Combine that with the intimate venue, a beautiful cinema with plush seating and such “good juju,” as Katie put it. But it all wouldn’t have mattered if not for Katie. I can’t imagine any other artists doing this music justice. Her voice is timeless and so special, able to swoop up high to Joni’s falsetto notes and wind around the intricate melodies with ease. She also understands these songs. She’s not just singing pretty words, she’s interpreting them. She chats easily with the crowd, sharing stories of Joni’s experiences at the time of writing and her own relationship with this music. If every person didn’t leave those theatre having learned something, I’d be surprised.

I appreciated that Katie played the album from start to finish. I’ve always believed artists have intent when they put an album together. It’s just as it should be. I also felt so treated that she didn’t quite stop there. “Big Yellow Taxi” gave us all the push we needed to sing, but not before Katie “auditioned” us and confirmed we were up to the task. After the singalong, it was so nice to take one last moment to appreciate Katie’s voice as she closed the show with “The Circle Game.”

As I stepped out of the theatre, I was so glad that I pushed myself to come, despite the fatigue that was starting to set in after so many shows. It was a truly special evening of music. If you’re a Katie fan or a Joni fan, make sure you don’t miss this tour. Here are all the remaining dates:

14 April 2023 – Blue Mountains Theatre and Community Hub, Dharug Country/Springwood
15 April 2023 – The Street Theatre, Ngunnawal Country/Canberra
16 April 2023 – Goulburn Performing Arts Centre, Burbong/Goulburn
10 May 2023 – Burrinja, Naarm/Melbourne
11 May 2023 – The Pig & Whistle, Bunurong Country/Main Ridge
12 May 2023 – The Thornbury Theatre, Naarm/Melbourne
13 May 2023 – Palais-Hepburn, Dja Dja Wurrung Country/Hepburn Springs
14 May 2023 – Governor Hindmarsh, Tartanya/Adelaide
18 May 2023 – Glasshouse Port Macquarie, Birpai Country/Port Macquarie
20 May 2023 – Brunswick Picture House, Bundjalung Country/Brunswick Heads
26 May 2023 – Freo.Social, Boorloo/Perth
27 May 2023 – Lyric’s Underground, Boorloo/Perth
1 June 2023 – Bendooley Estate Winery, Gundungurra Country/Berrima
2 June 2023 – Brighton Lakes Recreation & Golf Club, Eora/Sydney
3 June 2023 – Glen Street Theatre, Eora/Sydney
4 June 2023 – Qirkz in the Hunter, Wonnarua Country/Abermain
9 June 2023 – The Events Centre, Gubbi Gubbi Jinibara Country/Caloundra
10 June 2023 – The J, Gubbi Gubbi Country/Noosa
11 June 2023 – Redland Performing Arts Centre, Meeanjin/Brisbane
15 June 2023 – Brisbane Powerhouse, Meeanjin/Brisbane
17 June 2023 – Tanks Arts Centre, Gimuy Country/Cairns

Image used with permission from Revolutions per Minute; credit: Wilk