If you’re anything like me, concerts take up a big chunk of your income. I relate hard to all those memes that go around insisting “I’m not rich because I go to a lot of concerts; just irresponsible.” Even when I vow to save money, it doesn’t take long before a new tour announcement makes me cave. And there is always, always at least one show on my Afterpay account.
I’ve figured out that resistance is futile. The best I can hope for is a great deal. So in that spirit, I wanted to let you know about some of Ticketek’s amazing Black Friday deals because sharing (or enabling) is caring, right?
Full disclosure, I earn a small commission on any of these offers you take up, but I promise it all goes back into funding more concerts which gives you more to read about here. So everybody wins! Some of the highlights of Ticketek’s Black Friday sale include:
Naarm/Melbourne-based singer-songwriter Ellis King has blown me away with her latest single “fitymi.” Standing for “fake it till you make it,” “fitymi” is one of six songs Ellis wrote to process the end of her first long-term relationship. While it came from heartbreak, “fitymi” has a bright, piano pop sound that is bound to put a smile on your face.
“I’ve been trying to push myself to write about different things and also be a bit more reflective. After a big life event, like a breakup, you end up doing a lot of that,” Ellis said. “Thinking about yourself, the effort you put into your life, and where your energy really goes. For me, this song is about realising how much time I’ve spent putting on a face, holding it together, while actually struggling underneath – not wanting anyone to see me as anything other than a perfectly well put together person.”
Ellis will drop all of her breakup musings when she releases her EP Everything That Comes After on February 20.
As you might have noticed, I see a lot of concerts. I adore them, but typically they come and go and I start looking forward to the next one. They rarely leave the sort of lasting impression that has me buzzing several days later. But most concerts are not like the shows Lenny Kravitz has been putting on around Australia. My thoughts are still a little scattered, and even though I consider myself a bit of a wordsmith I’m not sure I have the vocabulary to tell you just how good the Meeanjin/Brisbane show was. But you know I’m going to try.
Although I see a lot of shows, Friday night was my first time seeing Jet. When they were announced as supporting artists I wasn’t sure they’d be the right fit, but I’ll happily eat my words. Their straight-down-the-line brand of rock music was the ideal complement to Lenny’s own rock edge. I don’t think I realised just how many hits they had until they were strung back-to-back. While their discography is rich, a killer version of AC/DC’s “Long Way to the Top” had us all singing along. I couldn’t help thinking about AC/DC’s decision to remove it from their sets as Brian Johnson knew he could never measure up to Bon Scott’s vocals. If Acca Dacca are ever in the market for a new frontman, Nic Cester has the goods. Although I can’t imagine him ever slotting into someone else’s band when he’s created magic with his brother Chris and longtime pals Cameron Muncey and Mark Wilson. There’s such chemistry when they perform and a passion for their craft which shines through.
I just wish my photos did them justice. On arriving in Meeanjin/Brisbane I received an email stating personal cameras wouldn’t be permitted, although phone cameras would be fine. What a frustrating policy that really disadvantages anyone who isn’t close to the stage. The photos my pal Lisa has snapped are a lot better than the ones my Samsung takes, but nowhere near as good as I could have captured with my camera. On the plus side, it did ensure that I really took this show in and lived in the moment.
While I enjoyed Jet, Lenny took this show to a whole other level. One that I honestly wasn’t prepared for. He sent such a strong message with his opener “Bring It On,” from the album It Is Time For a Love Revolution. We weren’t just preparing for the love revolution; it was here with Lenny our leader. I didn’t think it was possible for someone to have so much swagger. In his purple snakeskin pants, denim jacket, and signature dreadlocks, he was every inch the rock star and far cooler than any 61-year-old has the right to be. He was also backed by one of the strongest bands I’ve ever heard. Longtime collaborators like guitarist Craig Ross have come together seamlessly with newer talents like bassist Wolf and drummer Jas Kayser.
Lenny delivered a set for all kinds of fans, the faithful who had waited patiently for his return and the casual listeners who appreciated the radio tunes. I was on my biggest Lenny kick in the early 2000s, so I was thrilled to hear underrated gems of the period like “Dig In” and “Stillness of Heart.” Although this tour was technically meant to promote Lenny’s new album, Blue Electric Light, he was humble enough to ask whether he could play some of the new material. I’d enjoyed the album, but it hadn’t stuck with me like many of his earlier releases. However, watching Lenny perform tracks like “TK421” and “Paralyzed” has given me a new appreciation for them.
Honestly though, Lenny could have sung the phone book and I would have been happy. His voice is so strong. He handled everything, from the hushed words of “Believe” to the falsetto notes of “It Ain’t Over ‘Til It’s Over,” with so much ease. He’s got serious musical chops, whether he’s on his signature electric guitar, bass, or keys. And then there’s that swagger. I have never witnessed such a sexy performance. His power is undeniable. I am so glad I saw Lenny with my best gal pal instead of my husband, because I knew she was getting just as much out of this performance as I was. He had us squirming in our seats, and loving every single second, when we weren’t on our feet.
I experienced plenty of lust, but also plenty of love. Lenny’s songs celebrate it while encouraging that love revolution. With Lenny out front leading us all in song, you start to believe it’s possible. That spirit of love culminated in the epic encore song, “Let Love Rule.” It’s ironic that it was in this magic moment that a “fan” decided to rip dreadlocks from Lenny’s head. Seriously girl, what were you thinking?! That behaviour is deplorable. It also shows Lenny’s consummate professionalism that I didn’t even realise it happened until I watched his reels the next day. What I saw in that moment was a man who wanted to connect with his audience taking a lap around the perimeter of the auditorium so he could get as close to as many people as possible. He took his time, saying hello, shaking hands, and encouraging us all to sing those three important words: Let Love Rule. It was beautiful, a lasting memory that capped off one of the greatest concerts I have ever attended.
Lenny assured us he’ll be back soon. I already can’t wait. Before that though, he’s got just three shows remaining on this Aussie tour. Trust me, you will want to catch him if you can.
Floodlights may be one of the most exciting acts you’re yet to hear about. Allow me to change all that and introduce you to their latest single “Tricky.” It’s an anthemic rock song that reminds me a bit of The Killers or Arcade Fire. It’s so polished, yet it doesn’t sacrifice the heart.
“It’s the first love song we’ve written” explained Floodlights’ frontman Louis Parsons, “Although it still sounds like us, we did want ‘Tricky’ to be something that felt new. We leant more on synth and rhythm to drive this track which helped to create that feeling of euphoria that comes from letting go of the past and embracing the future.”
After wowing crowds in the UK while supporting our own Amyl and the Sniffers, Floodlights are back home playing local gigs. They’re destined for stadiums, so make sure you take the opportunity to see them at these smaller venues while you still can.
Local singer-songwriter DINGO, the musical alias of Brandon Dodd, celebrates life on the road with his latest single “Nightwire.” You don’t have to live the life of a travelling musician to appreciate it though. I can imagine cranking this on my next road trip.
“I am so excited to be releasing my new song ‘Nightwire’ into the world,” DINGO said. “This song is so close to my heart and represents all the freedoms I love about living the life of a travelling musician. Produced by incredible engineer/producer Jordan Power [Powderfinger, The Living End, Lady Gaga, Bruce Springsteen], it’s such a thrill for me to be able to share this with everyone!”
“Nightwire” comes from DINGO’s sophomore album, which we should hear in the first half of 2026. He’ll preview songs from this release at his upcoming shows:
There’s a beautiful intimacy about the music Bud Rokesky’s making. As you listen to his voice, it’s easy to believe he’s speaking directly to you. I was wowed by his song “Newtown” back in April, and I’ve fallen in love all over again listening to his latest single “Hey Now.”
“’Hey Now’ is about the push and pull of love when it’s at its most fragile – those moments where you’re close in heart but far apart in every other way,” Bud explained. “I wanted it to carry the ache of trying to hold on when things feel out of your control, but still leave room for people to hear their own story in it.”
Bud’s press release mentions all of the amazing festivals and tours he’s been a part of, but what comes next is a bit of a mystery. When he’s making music this gorgeous though, I’m on the edge of my seat anticipating whatever comes next.
I love discovering fantastic new artists in my own backyard. Darcy Pilitz is the latest musician from Darkinjung Country/Central Coast to wow me with his music. His latest single “Wishing Your Life Away” is a fantastic grungey pop-punk number in the vein of local acts like Dear Seattle and Slowly Slowly. Its stripped-back opening draws you in, ensuring you’re well on board when the guitar riffs amp up.
“This track really hones in on being in your 20s. Everything feels crazy and chaotic, people are having kids and buying houses, others are really just getting started on their own story,” Darcy explained. “It’s about working those shit jobs to try and make money to do the things you want. At it’s core, this song is about trying to be present and appreciate what you’ve achieved so far, before immediately trying to chase the next ‘thing’. Feels like a bit of a ‘note to self’ to remember what it’s all about and trying not to get caught up in the rush.”
I’m bummed to see I missed a couple of local gigs recently, but I’m determined to avoid repeating that mistake. If you feel the same way, make sure you give Darcy a follow on Instagram to stay in the loop.
While I enjoyed his music with Busby Marou, I’ve been really excited watching Tom Busby’s solo journey. He’s dropped a string of singles, including “Waiting For Tomorrow” with Ben Kweller, but I think his latest release “In the Dark” is his best yet. It’s a beautiful ballad with one of the rawest and most powerful vocals I’ve heard in some time.
“In the Dark” comes from Tom’s solo album Rockhampton Hangover, which drops on February 20. He’s currently giving fans a taste of the new material on an East Coast tour.
“I just love being back on the road with this young band,” he enthused. “They are red hot and bring so much energy. Playing these intimate rooms feels special, the connection is real, and the storytelling is off the hook.”
Click the links for tickets to Tom’s remaining solo shows:
I’m heading off to Meeanjin/Brisbane this Thursday for a little holiday, but mentally I’m already gone. It’s pretty hard to focus on the nine-to-five when time away is looming, especially when Georgia Scarlett’s new track “Finding My Destination” is encouraging my wanderlust! It’s a beautiful country-pop track about embracing new experiences. I also love its warm, vibrant sound. Any time you feature banjo and harmonica, I’m smitten.
“For me, the song also mirrors this stage in my musical journey,” Georgia said. “Creating this album has been a process of discovering my sound and image as an emerging artist, finding myself in a very busy time of my life, and this is just the beginning.”
We’ll get to hear that album, called Rhythm of Life, on November 28. You can pre-order a vinyl copy from Suitcase Records. Georgia will celebrate its release with a performance at Rosewood Rocks, a free country music festival at Rosewood Hotel, on December 6.
This Friday, SoSo will release their long-awaited debut album So Much For Second Chances. Honestly, I can’t remember being so invested in an album launch in forever. This Eora/Sydney pop-punk act are creating some fantastic music, but there’s a little more to my excitement than that. This independent band is taking on the big guys and hoping to secure an ARIA # 1. It’s an ambitious plan for a little band, but if they pull it off they hope it’ll open doors and let them focus on their music full-time.
I’ve always been behind this band, and that’s not just lip service. I am one of the many Aussies who’ve pre-ordered a copy of this album because I want to see these battlers triumph. Every time they release new music, I’m convinced I’ve made the right decision. So let’s see if I can give you a nudge. Take a listen to their latest single “Something More.” What a banger!
“Essentially, it’s a reflection of where each of the band members is at – we each hold down careers to fund our dream of doing what we love for a living, which is making music,” explained SoSo’s frontman Rhys de Burgh. “Throwing everything we have into SoSo with the hope it’ll take off so we can escape the 9-5 jobs we despise, but deep down understanding that it might never happen for us.”
If you’re into this song as much as I am, head to SoSo’s website and pre-order a copy of So Much for Second Chances. It’ll cost you as little as a $1 for a digital download, which seems a small price to pay to see Taylor Swift dethroned. You can also score some sweet vinyl or a CD copy. There’s free shipping if you spend $69.95, so why not get a few copies for family and friends this Christmas? Get behind them Sounds of Oz readers!
