Author: Lauren Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Get Your Groove On With Jackie Brown Jr

It’s easy for a case of midweek-itis to creep in early as we crawl towards the end of the year. Sydney indie rock-soul outfit Jackie Brown Jr has what it takes to put the pep in your step this Tuesday though. Their new EP Over Abroad is stellar, but I’ve especially warmed to the latest single “Really Wish You Were Here.” This feel-good track was inspired by the band being split up across the world through study exchanges and other overseas adventures.

“Rather than stifling our creativity, and stumping ourselves as a band, this has simply shaped the stories we tell in our music,” vocalist Maddy Mallis explained.

Nothing helps you shake off the responsibilities of day to day life like a gig. If it’s been too long since you’ve seen some live music, see Jackie Brown Jr all together in one place at one of their upcoming shows. Here are the remaining dates on their Over Abroad EP tour.

22 November 2018 – 5 Church St, Bellingen
23 November 2018 – Heya Bar, Brisbane
24 November 2018 – Sonic Sherpa Instore, Brisbane
24 November 2018 – Bohemian Beatfreaks Festival, Byron Bay Hinterlands
7 December 2018 – The Chippo Hotel, Sydney
9 December 2018 – The Cambridge Hotel, Newcastle
14 December 2018 – Park House Food & Liquor, Mona Vale

Image used with permission from Habit Music Company

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Thirsty Merc @ Lizotte’s, Newcastle – 16 November 2018

I first saw Thirsty Merc way back in 2004, when they supported Maroon 5 at the Gaelic Club. Incidentally Maroon 5 were bland, failing to excite me the way their debut album Songs About Jane did. I became an instant Thirsty Merc fan though. I’ve seen them countless times over the last 14 years, but I think last Friday’s show at Lizotte’s might just be the best.

Owen Campbell warmed up the stage, delivering a stellar set of swampy blues. Brian Lizotte had given him a big wrap before he stepped out, and he certainly lived up to that hype. Originals made up the bulk of his set, but they were so good that it didn’t matter that we couldn’t sing along. While the originals slayed, a cover of Van Morrison’s “Crazy Love” was a real highlight for those of us in the know. As I listened to Owen play I noticed there was none of the murmur that normally hums in a room while support acts play. I think most of us were as transfixed as I was on his set. Either that or they were just too busy filling their face with some of Lizotte’s legendary food.

I might not have used my voice much during Owen Campbell’s set, but I made up for it during Thirsty Merc’s. What a treat it was for long-time fans like me. “Undivided Love,” a personal favourite my husband and I can’t remember hearing live, came out early. Another favourite we never expect to hear, “Build A Bridge” was delivered with such passion. A crowd request for “Tommy and Krista” was another highlight. A slowed-down version of “My Completeness” revealed the tenderness of the lyrics. Not that there wasn’t anything for casual radio fans though. Thirsty Merc delivered hits like “In the Summertime” and “20 Good Reasons” with just as much gusto as the more obscure numbers.

I joked to my husband as we left that it’s almost as if the band had intel on exactly what he’d want to hear. A killer set takes you a long way towards a great show. But there was something more at play. Rai told us how much he loves Lizotte’s, so maybe the joy that comes from playing a favourite venue played a part. Perhaps the lads are simply enjoying playing a bit more now they’re not touring as relentlessly as they used to. Whatever the case, I’m so glad I caught the show. If you haven’t seen Thirsty Merc before or it’s been a while between shows, check them out on their Summer 2018 tour. Right now it seems they’re better than ever.

23 November 2018 – SS&A Club, Albury
24 November 2018 – Mulwala Ski Club, Mulwala
25 November 2018 – One Electric Day Festival, Werribee
30 November 2018 – O’Donoghues, Emu Plains
1 December 2018 – Bathurst RSL, Bathurst
7 December 2018 – Moruya Waterfront Hotel Motel, Moruya
14 December 2018 – Days of Summer, Chelsea Heights (with Daryl Braithwaite)
15 December 2018 – The Palms @ Crown Melbourne
Southbank (with Daryl Braithwaite)
28 December 2018 – Laurieton United Services Club, Laurieton
29 December 2018 – Moonee Beach Tavern, Moonee Beach
30 December 2018 – Coolangatta Hotel, Coolangatta
31 December 2018 – The Ville Resort-Casino, Townsville

Image source: Stephen Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Baby It’s Christmas” – David Campbell

I read somewhere recently that once Halloween is over, it’s time to embrace the festive season. I haven’t trimmed my tree yet, but I’m almost done with Christmas shopping (yes, I’m one of those stupid organised people) and I’ve been happily blasting David Campbell’s new holiday album, Baby It’s Christmas since its release a couple of weeks ago.

I honestly wonder why it’s taken so long for DC to release a Christmas album. His performances at the Melbourne Carols by Candlelight are among the show’s highlights each year. And I’ve always seen him as our answer to Michael Buble, an artist who regularly tops the Aussie charts each year with his own Christmas release. He’s got a similar old-school sensibility, with bucket loads of charisma and a smooth, effortless voice.

Baby It’s Christmas is a wonderful collection of seasonal favourites delivered flawlessly. Cheery opening track “Holly Jolly Christmas” sets the scene, putting a smile on your face before the swinging title track, “Baby It’s Christmas,” penned by our own Rick Price, kicks in. Originals are always a bit risky on a Christmas album, but this one already feels like a classic. Anyone who loved David’s Swing Sessions albums will appreciate the inclusion of classic material in a similar vein like Dean Martin’s “I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm” and Harry Connick Jnr’s “When My Heart Finds Christmas.” Most of the album keeps things light, with upbeat favourites like “Jingle Bells,” “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” and “It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year.” But purists will appreciate the inclusion of some traditional carols. Tracks like his gospel-inspired “Silent Night” and “O Come All Ye Faithful” let DC really showcase his vocal prowess.

I think Michael Buble’s Christmas album is getting a little tired after seven years. I think it’s about time his annual silly season stint at number one came to an end. Baby It’s Christmas is a worthy successor. It’s in stores and your favourite digital outlets now.

Image used with permission from Sony Music Australia

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Ross Henry Releases Dreamy New Single, “The Birds and The Breeze”

Sydney artist Ross Henry has blown me away with his fresh new single “The Birds and The Breeze.” It’s electronic pop, but Ross takes some risks here, with a unique melodic structure, ambient beats, and nature soundscapes carefully woven together to create something so original and irresistible.

Speaking of the track’s inspiration, Ross noted “You can hoard all the oxygen in the atmosphere, water in the oceans, write your name in the sky, build a pyramid or two. However, your name will fade over time. Life as it presents itself will transform and keep on rolling into many other embodiments, as it did long before the idea of ‘you’ came about. It’s all quite funny really. Running away from death has become a very serious style of living. Humour is a wonderful blessing”.

If you love this track, get along to Ross’ intimate single launch at Staves Brewery in Glebe on December 8.

Image used with permission from Good Intent

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

MAXON Stuns With “History”

MAXON has stolen my heart with her powerful new single “History.” It’s one of those tracks that just stops you in your tracks with the right combination of emotional lyrics and gut-wrenching vocals.

“I have done so much growing over the past two years and I think ‘History’ is simply a diary entry in a melody. This song is the first step I’ve ever taken towards bravery and self-acceptance,” MAXON reflected. “It’s long over-due and represents a major turning point in my life and I hope my career as well. I’m breaking free from a long standing history of self-doubt, inflicted upon me throughout my life, and I’m burning all those bridges behind me to focus on a productive future full of bravery and self-love. It’s extremely hard to live a full and happy life when a person you love is constantly putting you down. I’m learning to reflect those things now and accept everyone for who they are – because we don’t know what they’ve been through to get to that point. And in turn, accept myself and reward myself more for the progress I am making with my mental health.”

The clip, directed by MAXON and filmmaker Josh Mitchell-Frey, is also so special. Shot in the Australian bush, its single take provides an unflinching look at the raw emotion driving this stunning song.

MAXON will celebrate the release of “History” with a show for hometown music lovers at Melbourne’s Paris Cat Jazz on November 22.

“I’m really excited about the launch,” she confirmed. “I just feel better when I sing – doesn’t everyone? Music is the one thing that brings us all together – I have good friends Ruby Gill, NUSSY, Plazza, Eaglemont and Magnets joining me on the night, performing renditions of both songs from my catalogue and their own. It’s a two-hour show with an intermission and it’s going to be full of harmonies and empowering female pop music. I’m so excited to get stuck into rehearsals!”

If you’re in Melbourne next Thursday, make sure you check it out!

Image used with permission from On the Map PR

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Swipe Right For the Milkshakes: Australian Exclusive!

The Milkshakes are two high school friends from Bellingen living the dream. They’re based in Sydney and Berlin, but spend their time travelling around the globe seeking the best surf breaks, festival, and venues needing “a little bit of extra froth.” Somewhere in there they find time to make some music.

In keeping with their ethos of going their own way, The Milkshakes add some electro sounds to the roots genre, ensuring their sound is a little more modern than what came before. So it’s only fitting that they’ve delivered a love song for the ages with their latest single, “Love at First Swipe.” The song, which takes a light-hearted look at finding love in the time of Tinder, was produced in Sydney. The music video takes us to the streets of Berlin, but it’s making its Australian debut here on Sounds of Oz.

Hopefully it won’t be too long before we hear these digital-age romantics playing shows on home soil!

Image used with permission from The Milkshakes

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Canyon Songs” – Slow Fades

Slow Fades showcase a classic sound and songwriting skills with their new EP Canyon Songs.

This six-track EP is a new release out of Melbourne, but it wouldn’t surprise me if it was penned in Laurel Canyon in the 1970s. Did the guys from Slow Fades manage to time travel and rub shoulders with talents like Carole King, Neil Young, and the Eagles? I can’t confirm or deny it. References to Aussie icons like eucalyptus root this music here at home, but the classic blend of piano, drums, and jangly guitar gives these songs a great Americana feel.

Vocalist and key songwriter Ben Birchall has an easy vocal style which reminds me a little of Tom Petty or Bob Dylan. The lyrics too have a similar poetic appeal to those created by these artists. These “Canyon Songs” are full of those lines that you chew on, turning them over and marvelling at them before something equally as impressive catches your ear.

Six tracks doesn’t give us a lot of time to get to know Slow Fades, but this EP really serves as a great introduction. It’s got upbeat crowd pleasers like opening track “Leave the Canyon” and more subdued, introspective numbers like “Vikings.” “Fall, Fall, Fall” oozes regrets, while “My Damn Life” celebrates existence. It’s all about balance.

Canyon Songs feels a bit of a throwback, but that’s far from a bad thing. It’s available today. Slow Fades will play a hometown launch show at the Thornbury Theatre on November 25.

Image used with permission from RiSH Publicity

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Kid Fiction Releases Spellbinding New Single Ahead of Local Shows

Sydney-based producer and vocalist Kid Fiction grapples with the big issues on his latest track “What Defines You.” He creates a complex and beautiful soundscape here, the perfect backdrop for his pure, mesmerising voice. But it’s those lyrics that really elevate this number.

“‘What Defines You’ was like wrestling a gorilla,” he recalled. “It’s really big, the themes, the concept and production … it was actually quite intimidating. No place for half measures.”

Kid Fiction has been wowing crowds across the United Kingdom and Europe over the last few months, and he’s ready to do the same here. Catch him doing what he does best at the following shows.

30 November 2018 – Subsonic Music Festival, Monkerai Valley
7 December 2018 – Rael Haus, Newcastle
9 December 2018 – North Wollongong Hotel, Wollongong

Image used with permission from The Right Profile

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Dave Wells Releases Sublime New Single “Aching Hearts”

Dave Wells proves he really can’t put a foot wrong with the release of his latest single “Aching Hearts.” This is the third track released from the Hunter Valley singer-songwriter’s self-titled album, and it’s every bit as strong as the singles that came before. The poetic lyrics, the stellar vocals, the superb pop-rock sound; everything here is just as it should be.

Dave is currently playing shows all around the country on his The Run Free Tour.

“I always enjoy the intriguing challenge of making a connection with people through song,” he said of performing live. “There’s something about the tension in the room, our spirits gather as unsettled strangers, excited yet uneasy, unshackled from our daily storm. Somehow, music can tame this, and collectively we experience something unique and memorable.”

Catch Dave at the following shows.

16 November 2018 – The Aztec, Forster
17 November 2018 – Flow Bar, Old Bar
22 November 2018 – The Republic, Hobart
23 November 2018 – Willie Smith Brewery, Hobart
29 November 2018 – Smith’s Alternative, Canberra
7 December 2018 – Merri Creek Tavern, Melbourne
8 December 2018 – Hardy’s Bay Club, Hardy’s Bay

Image used with permission from Heapsaflash

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Ashley Iona Takes Control on “Leaving”

Ashley Iona wears her heart on her sleeve with her beautiful new single “Leaving.” She wrote the track about finding the courage to leave a bad relationship while living in Los Angeles.

“I wrote leaving when I knew I had to get out of a toxic relationship but the other person didn’t want it to end. I felt trapped and like I was fighting for what I wanted every day,” she recalled. “This song came out of that exhaustion and needing to find more strength. The opening lyrics, ‘Feels like I’m losing a battle’ was where I was started and by the end of the song I’ve found my feet again. Writing it helped me actually get there.”

You don’t want to trust such a personal song with just anyone, so Ashley co-produced the track herself, marking her first time in the producer’s chair.

“I’ve always hired a producer, but then felt like by the end of the process, I was negotiating for what I wanted,” she said. “I already knew how I wanted this song to sound, so I decided to ask Johnny [Romeo, her guitarist and co-producer] if he’d help me make it.”

She also worked closely with recent Sydney College of the Arts graduate Harry Klein on the clip.

“I had this image of being a dark space, so you could barely see me. The video is an intimate journey through that dark place.”

Ashley is currently studying speech pathology at the University of Sydney. If she keeps producing music of this quality, she’s not going to need that degree!