Author: Lauren Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

EGOISM Release Stellar New Single “What Are We Doing?”

Sydney dream pop duo EGOISM continue their winnings ways with the release of “What Are We Doing?” The song is brand new but it’s already zoomed to number two on Hype Machine’s 10 most-posted artists chart and gained airplay on Triple J. With its poignant lyrics and epic chorus, it’s not hard to see why it’s receiving so much love.

“This song is literally about making music with each other; but really it’s about letting out all the little worries you keep to yourself, and then taking a deep breath and realising ‘you and I, we don’t know what the fuck that we’re doing with this’. It can apply to our entire relationship, and to any relationship between two people really,” explained one half of the super-duo, Olive Rush.

Fresh from acclaimed appearances at BigSound, EGOISM will play some hometown shows this month. Catch Olive and Scout Eastment supporting Girlpool at the Lansdowne Hotel on September 15 or at Step Aside at the Roundhouse on September 26.

Image used with permission from The Right Profile

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Boom Crash Opera Join Machinations for Anniversary Tour

Hearing that Boom Crash Opera are heading back on the road with original lead singer Dale Ryder to celebrate the 30th anniversary of their breakthrough album These Here Are Crazy Times, several thoughts went through my head. Firstly, I was shocked it’s that old. I’ve been giving it another listen this morning with the news, and that album hasn’t aged a day, unlike so many records of the ‘80s. And perhaps the term records.

Then I thought how good these shows are going to be. These Here Are Crazy Times could be a best of album, with hits like “Onionskin,” “The Best Thing,” and “Dancing in the Storm” all featured. And Dale Ryder is back with the band. While I have mad respect for Andrew de Silva, he’s always felt a little like a fill-in for this act in my mind. Did I mention Machinations are on the bill too?

Relive all your ‘80s memories and make some new ones at the following shows.

1 November 2019 – The Gov, Adelaide
8 November 2019 – Southport RSL, Southport
9 November 2019 – Hamilton Hotel, Hamilton
15 & 16 November 2019 – Bridge Hotel, Rozelle
17 November 2019 – Cambridge Hotel, Newcastle West
22 November 2019 – Yarraville Club, Yarraville
23 November 2019 – Memo Music Hall, St Kilda

Image used with permission from Revolutions per Minute

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Dami Im @ The Art House, Wyong – 6 September 2019

Since opening just three years ago, The Art House has attracted a steady stream of talent to the Central Coast and the region is much better for it. I might not have ventured out on a stormy, windy Friday night if I had to travel all the way to Newcastle or Sydney for entertainment, but knowing this modern venue was just a short trip up the freeway inspired me to shake off my fatigue and chill and see Dami Im live.

I even arrived early enough for the support act, Brittany Maggs. The theatre’s “no photos” policy means I don’t have a shot, so you’ll just have to take my word for it. She has all the makings of the next pop princess, flawless good looks and a delicate but pitch-perfect voice. With her guitarist H playing over a backing track, the performance felt a smidge karaoke but her catchy songs are strong. Even the oldies keeping company with me in the theatre box said they were impressed, even though they clearly weren’t the intended demographic of Brittany’s upbeat tunes.

Dami was the one we were all there to see though. She arrived looking every inch the superstar with a sparkly jumpsuit and flaming red hair. Then she opens her mouth and nothing else matters. Her voice is undeniable, just as clear and strong as it is on records and her TV stints. There’s no trickery here; what you see is what you get with Dami. And that’s a large part of her charm.

Dami might have been in the public eye for five years now, but she’s retained the quiet humbleness that endeared her to X Factor audiences. She takes time to ask the audience if she can play new songs and seems genuinely shocked when they are well received. She’s so thankful of the support of her fans that she promises souvenir towels to anyone who shows her they’ve pre-ordered her amazing new single, “Crying Underwater.” She encourages us to break that no photos policy and whip out our phones for selfies during one song. She joins us too, wanting to capture her appreciative audience as much as they want to take photos of her.

Dami has evolved greatly as an artist since she took the X Factor title. She released the prerequisite pop material early in her career, but that has given way in recent years to jazzy tunes and introspective piano ballads. The different ends of her catalogue don’t always marry naturally. However, I appreciate that she wants to cater for those fans who have supported her from the beginning, even as her musical journey takes her in new directions.

Dami Im’s Dreamer tour continues winding its way around regional Australia for the next couple of months. Limited tickets are still available for the following shows.

27 September 2019 – The Palms at Crown Melbourne, Southbank
28 September 2019 – Wendouree Centre for Performing Arts, Wendouree
4 October 2019 – Lighthouse Theatre, Warrnambool
5 October 2019 – Horsham Town Hall, Horsham
6 October 2019 – Capital Theatre, Bendigo
19 October 2019 – The Tivoli, Brisbane
24 October 2019 – The Metro, Sydney
25 October 2019 – Nelson Bay Diggers, Nelson Bay
26 October 2019 – Belmont 16s, Belmont
14 November 2019 – Albany Entertainment Centre, Albany
15 November 2019 – Mandurah Performing Arts Centre, Mandurah
16 November 2019 – Astor, Perth

Image source: own photo

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Esimorp Here to Rock You With “The Minutes”

With Sydney’s Paul Roth on bass joining two Americans and a Hong Konger making fantastic music in Hong Kong, alternative rock band Esimorp is a truly international affair. They might also just be the best band you’ve never heard of.

Their debut album Roar Like the Ocean will hit digital platforms around the world on November 15, but the lads are whetting our appetite with the stellar new single “The Minutes.” It’s like Coldplay on steroids, with haunting vocals and an irresistible energy. Look out for my album review in the coming months, but until then wrap your ears around this track. You will not be disappointed.

Image used with permission from Esimorp

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Client Liaison Release “The Real Thing” Music Video Ahead of Aussie Tour

Client Liaison have just dropped the video for their fab new single “The Real Thing,’ and it’s the perfect release for your weekend. If this doesn’t have you dancing around in anticipation of all the fun you’ll have tonight, I don’t know what will.

It’s also the perfect time to remind you Client Liaison are bringing their party to venues all around the country next month. Some shows have already sold out, so if you’re keen make sure you jump on the remaining tickets.

17 October 2019 – Grand Hotel, Mornington (SOLD OUT)
18 October 2019 – Torquay Hotel, Torquay (SOLD OUT)
19 October 2019 – The Forum Theatre, Melbourne
24 October 2019 – Uni Bar, Wollongong
25 October 2019 – Cambridge Hotel, Newcastle
26 October 2019 – Enmore Theatre, Sydney
31 October 2019 – The Gov, Adelaide
1 November 2019 – Dunsborough Tavern, Dunsborough
2 November 2019 – Metropolis, Fremantle
7 November 2019 – The Wharf Tavern, Mooloolaba
8 November 2019 – Kingscliff Beach Hotel, Kingscliff
9 November 2019 – The Tivoli, Brisbane

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Don’t Miss Out on The Run’s Soulful New Single

Melbourne indie-pop act The Run have released their sublime new single “Missing Out On.” It starts small, with just the vocals from Connor Morel and a gentle electric guitar keeping his voice company, but builds to a soulful crescendo. I couldn’t help thinking of Sam Smith as I listened to this track’s awesome falsetto notes.

“This year has been our best one yet with people really loving what we’re doing and really wanting new material from us,” the band explained. “‘Missing Out On’ is our way of giving back and thanking people for their reception to our music.”

If you love what they do, get to The Run’s single launch at The Gasometer in Melbourne on September 12.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Maddy Jane Releases Superb New Song, “Something Old and Something New”

Tasmania’s Maddy Jane has captured my heart with her relatable new single “Something Old and Something New.” This charmer should resonate with anyone who’s fallen for someone at the wrong time. Let’s face it, who hasn’t been there?

“‘Something Old And Something New’ is about meeting someone when you’re not looking for a relationship and all the conflicting thoughts that come out of that situation,” she explained. “I think there’s an outdated assumption that women always want a relationship and this song’s basically like, we can not want it just as much as the boys.”

“Something Old and Something New” comes from Maddy Jane’s debut album, which is due out early next year. Until then, she’s playing a string of launch parties to celebrate the single’s release. Catch her at the following gigs.

2 November 2019 – Til the Wheels Fall Off, Launceston
8 November 2019 – Yah Yah’s, Melbourne
9 November 2019 – Forum, Melbourne (supporting Spiderbait)
16 November 2019 – Vic on the Park, Sydney (FREE)
5 December 2019 – Prom in the Gong @ Unibar, Wollongong

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Little Quirks Release Stellar Single Ahead of New EP

Central Coast family band Little Quirks have just released their latest pop-folk charmer, “Life Wouldn’t Be.” The song will have you tapping your toe in time to the music and marvelling at the harmonies from sisters Abbey and Mia Toole and their cousin Jaymi Toole. This crowd-pleaser is the first track lifted from Little Quirks’ forthcoming EP Cover My Eyes, and it has me excited about what is to come.

Little Quirks are packing up the tour bus and hitting the East Coast this October and November to celebrate the EP’s release. This marks the first time the teens will headline shows in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney, so get out show your support. Catch them at the following coastal venues later this year.

5 October 2019 – Dashville Festival, Lower Belford
11 October 2019 – OAF Gallery Bar, Sydney
12 October 2019 – Junk Bar, Brisbane
2 November 2019 – The Espy, Melbourne
3 November 2019 – Lost Lands Festival, Werribee

Image used with permission from Ditto Music; photo credit: Al Parkinson

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Three Oh Three” – Oly Sherman

Oly Sherman captured my heart with the release of his single “Bones” in May. Now with the release of his debut EP Three Oh Three, I’ve fallen even harder for the music of this Sydney-based singer-songwriter. Take a listen and I’m sure you will too.

It might not be love at first note though, but some of the best relationships take time to develop. “Reykjavik” is an interesting choice for an opening track. It’s a beautiful, atmospheric instrumental, but it doesn’t have the melodic hooks to really draw the listener in. Persevere with this release though, because Three Oh Three really kicks in with the next track, “Noir (No Love Any More),” a gorgeous melancholy piece of pop rock that wears its heart on its sleeve.

Oly isn’t an artist who’s afraid to bear his soul. There’s such longing in “House on the Hill,” which only amplifies with every plaintive expression of the song’s title. “Pain-Free Melody” captures the loss and defiance that so often comes with a break-up so beautifully. I love its jazzy feel. It might just be my favourite on this EP.

After so much sadness, “Bones,” is such sweet relief, an upbeat optimistic pop-rock number that sweeps you up and takes you to a much more positive place. Title track “Three Oh Three” continues the good vibes, ensuring we finish with a smile on our faces. These two final songs really feel like companion pieces, the kind of tracks you’d turn up on the stereo if you were setting out on a road trip and leaving the real world behind for a while.

Oly will play a string of shows around his hometown to celebrate Three Oh Three’s release. Sydneysiders, check him out at one of the following events.

6 September 2019 – The Lansdowne, Sydney (Supporting Slum Sociable)
7 September 2019 – Golden Age Cinema, Sydney (Supporting Liquid Time)
12 September 2019 – Lord Gladstone, Sydney
27 September 2019 – Coogee Bay, Coogee
5 October 2019 – Yulli’s Brews, Alexandria
16 October 2019 – Lazybones, Sydney
26 October 2019 – Low 302, Sydney
6 November 2019 – Museum of Contemporary Art, Sydney

Image used with permission from Beehive PR

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Long Way From Hill Street” – Mercury Sun

Mercury Sun burst onto the music scene in 2013. After releasing a pair of celebrated EPs, the Brisbane indie rock act are finally ready to drop their first full-length album, Long Way From Hill Street, and after giving it a listen I know fans will think it’s worth the wait. This is a good honest rock record that wears its heart on its sleeve. All the right ingredients are here, from powerful vocals to hooky guitar riffs.

The title gives you an inkling what you are in for. This is such a nostalgic album, both lyrically and sonically. It’s no coincidence the band opens the album with “Come of Age,” a song which addresses the transition from angsty teen to adult in control. There are similar themes of looking back and moving forward on the next track, “Just Like Hollywood.” The line “Day by day my youth is growing old on me” really resonates. In “Stumbling,” Mercury Sun looks at revisiting a relationship, in the next track “All My Friends” the band recalls their visions for the future through the lens of youth.

Most songs from Long Way From Hill Street don’t just cover similar thematic ground. They have a similar anthemic rock quality feel to them. Perhaps a more critical listener might call them samey, but I think Mercury Sun has simply found its voice. It does make the gentle closer, aptly titled “Hill Street,” seem a little place, even if looks back fondly on the past like so many of this album’s tracks do. However, this song also hints at a band that might just have a little more range than this album suggests.

For now though, I’m pretty happy to relive my youth and rock out with this one. Brisbane locals can do it in person when Mercury Sun launch Long Way From Hill Street at Tomcat on its release date, September 6. The band will also play Toowoomba’s Carnival of Flowers on September 21.