Author: Lauren Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Acclaimed Violinist Emma Beau Goes Solo

Gympie girl Emma Beau might be a new solo artist, but she delivers “Wild Heart” the first single from her forthcoming self-titled debut album with all the confidence of a seasoned professional.

She’s got no reason for nerves though. While she hasn’t played solo for very long she’s no stranger to crowds, spending the last five years as a violinist for artists like Kasey Chambers, Jon English, Sara Storer, and Shane Nicholson. It also seems plenty of people are behind her, which must do wonders for her confidence! Fans generously donated the $13,000 she needed to record this LP through a crowdfunding campaign.

“I’m so grateful to my crowdfunding team for making this album possible – they are my record label,” Emma gushed. “It’s always in the back of my mind when I make clips, music and do photoshoots … I want my fans to be part of every bit of the process and I think we’ve achieved that.”

The clip for her beautiful new single “Wild Heart” is close to her own heart, as it was shot around her hometown. The video was also directed and produced by local filmographer Jazmyn Smith.

“We shot the video in and around Gympie – the pine forests you see in the clip are exactly as I dreamt when I was writing ‘Wild Heart’ when I was in a Melbourne hotel room playing fiddle for Jon English,” she explained. “I was homesick and kept thinking about how I wanted to drive through the pines again – so here we are!”

Emma Beau’s self-titled album will be released early next year. Until then, give “Wild Heart” another listen!

Image used with permission from Rock This Country

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Listen Up Music: Songwriters’ Festival Celebrates Local Talent for Mental Health

Australia has produced some sensational songwriters over the years. Names like Vanda and Young, Don Walker, Paul Kelly, Missy Higgins, and Sia barely scratch the surface. Discover the next great songwriting talent at the Listen Up Music: Songwriters’ Festival.

Each year entrants create a song which spreads positive messages about mental health and suits the annual theme; in 2018 that theme is “I am here.” Three finalists have been chosen from each event in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney, along with three wildcard artists. The final 12 songwriters, are as follows (in alphabetical order):

  • Abbey Gardner – “War Child” (NSW)
  • Ben Leece – “Stuck To My Guns” (NSW)
  • Ben Stafford – “Breaking Point” (WA)
  • Chelsea Cullen – “Edge of Myself” (WA)
  • Jess Stillone – “Fall” (NSW)
  • Leonie Kingdom – “Night Terrors” (QLD)
  • Old Cities – “Again” (NSW)
  • Romisounds – “Inclination” (NSW)
  • Seb Mont – “Who I Am” (VIC)
  • SPENCER – “Another Girl” (NSW)
  • Sung Loh – “Someday” (VIC)
  • Talitha – “I’m Right Here” (QLD)

See all these talented acts perform their songs at the Listen Up Music: Songwriters’ Festival grand final at the Factory Floor in Marrickville on November 15. Listen Up Music Ambassador Mitch Garling will MC the night, which will be judged by an all-star panel featuring Alfie Arcuri, Imogen Clark, LANKS, and Socratis Otto. Tickets are on sale now from the Factory Theatre website. The event helps support R U OK Day, so it’s a great opportunity to support some up-and-coming talent and a great cause.

Image used with permission from Listen Up Music

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Teischa Wears Heart on Her Sleeve With “haunt me” Single

Aussie expat Teischa has just released her powerful new single “haunt me.” It’s an emotional sucker punch with layered electronic sounds and vulnerable, raw lyrics.

“’haunt me’ is about moving on and finding closure within yourself to let go of the lingering memory and feeling of a person once they are no longer in your life,” Teischa explained.

Based in Los Angeles since July, this Fremantle-born talent is taking more creative control over her work than ever before. She set up a small studio in Cypress Park where she’s been working with a creative community on the songs and sketches that will come together on an album next year. She also produced the music video and artwork for “haunt me” there.

“haunt me” is available on all your favourite streaming platforms now.

Image used with permission from Habit Music Company/Photo credit: Korey Waggoner

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Nathan Cavaleri @ The Rhythm Hut, Gosford – 4 November 2018

When Lizotte’s closed the doors of the “cubbyhouse” in Kincumber around three and a half years ago, I worried the Central Coast might start missing out on shows. I don’t mind driving up and down the Pacific Highway if I need to, but there’s something so lovely about seeing gigs close to home. Rather than missing out though, other venues have stepped up to fill the void. Laycock Street Theatre is securing more musicians, and Wyong’s built The Art House. These venues are wonderful, but they don’t quite have that welcoming, comforting quality a night out at Lizotte’s had. So last night I was thrilled to discover a venue that does: The Rhythm Hut.

I’ve been intending to visit this Gosford arts space for some time, but the stars never quite aligned. When I was offered a pair of tickets for the Nathan Cavaleri show last night, I couldn’t refuse. The Rhythm Hut isn’t like most music venues. You feel like you’re heading towards someone’s house for a backyard barbeque rather than performance space as you walk down the steps to its outdoor patio area bordered by succulents. Inside there are mismatched couches at the back and along the sides and pillows and beanbags around the front near the stage. One half of the bar is for drinks, like the local Six Strings beers and decent wine served in real glasses, while the other serves hearty dishes and desserts. Last night it was vegetarian or chicken paella and brownies, but I hear the menu changes depending on what the volunteers make.

That’s right: volunteers. The Rhythm Hut is a non-profit performance space. When it’s not hosting local and international musicians, there are open mic nights and drumming workshops. Everyone seems to know everyone, and even if you’re a newcomer you’ll feel you’re going home part of the community. The hosts encourage the audience to make new friends between acts. So it seemed totally natural that I got chatting to the gentleman next to me and his adorable long-haired chihuahua. He wasn’t even the only dog enjoying the music.

This unique space really was the perfect venue for this show. Support act Dylan Wright might have gotten swallowed up in a larger venue, but here you could have heard a pin drop as he delivered his spine-tingling folky tunes. His original songs were outstanding, but I couldn’t help smiling at his slowed-down take on Rick James’ “Super Freak.” I was excited to see Nathan, but I must admit I was a little disappointed when his set ended. I snapped up his EP so I can listen more. I’m an instant fan.

Nathan Cavaleri has been out of the spotlight in recent years, but when I was growing up he was a household name, the cute kid who had leukemia and a natural gift for the guitar. It’s a gift that has taken him all over the world and seen him share bills with BB King, Elton John, Robert Plant, and Jimmy Page, to name but a few. As you can imagine, now all grown-up Nathan has some stories to tell. While there were the superstar anecdotes, he wasn’t afraid to reveal more personal tales of his battles with anxiety, depression, and self-doubt.

The stories helped punctuate a set that was truly something special. With good mate Kenny by his side, Nathan left no doubt that the guitar skills he showcased as a kid on numerous TV shows haven’t gone anywhere. In fact, he might play even better now, combining his natural flair with a dirtier blues sensibility. Originals sat comfortable among tributes to his influences, including Ben Harper, Fleetwood Mac, and of course, the great BB King. They were played with such joy and the whole crowd responded, whether they were nodding their heads from their seats or dancing with wild abandon around the sides of the venue.

Last night Nathan Cavaleri put on one of those performances that just feels good for the soul. I can’t imagine a better venue for this show or to wrap up his “Demons” tour. It felt like a house party, one of those nights where someone has a guitar and starts to jam spontaneously. Except as we all know, Nathan is much handier with an axe than your average party guest.

Image source: Stephen Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Ian Moss Heading to Regional Venues for Acoustic Shows

I’m not sure why it’s taken me so long to listen to Ian Moss’ most recent album. He released the self-titled work in March, yet it’s taken me until now to give it a spin. I blame the lack of fanfare, but that’s kind of the way this unassuming Aussie artist prefers thing. If like me it passed you by, do yourself a favour and fire it up on your streaming service of choice. With bluesy tracks filled with melodic hooks and sublime guitar parts, it’s classic Mossy, just the way you like him.

Mossy will bring songs from the new album and all your old favourites to regional venues all around the country next year. Tickets are on sale now for all dates on the National Solo Intimate and Acoustic Regional Tour.

8 February 2019 – Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre, Nowra
9 February 2019 – Wagga Wagga Civic Centre, Wagga Wagga
22 February 2019 – Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre, Wangaratta
23 February 2019 – Paramount Theatre, Echuca
1 March 2019 – Goldfields Art Centre, Kalgoorlie
3 March 2019 – Albany Entertainment Centre, Albany
6 March 2019 – Queens Park Theatre, Geraldton
8 March 2019 – Fremantle Arts Centre, Fremantle
9 March 2019 – Bunbury Regional Entertainment Centre, Bunbury
15 March 2019 – Capital Theatre, Bendigo
16 March 2019 – Mildura Arts Centre, Mildura
20 March 2019 – Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre, Mount Gambier
22 March 2019 – Northern Festival Centre, Keith Michell Theatre, Port Pirie
23 March 2019 – Barossa Arts and Convention Centre, Barossa Valley
27 March 2019 – Redland Performing Arts Centre, Cleveland
29 March 2019 – Ipswich Civic Theatre, Ipswich
30 March 2019 – Empire Theatre, Heritage Bank Auditorium, Ipswich
3 April 2019 – Mackay Entertainment Centre, Mackay
5 April 2019 – Pilbeam Theatre, Rockhampton
6 April 2019 – Brolga Theatre, Maryborough
26 April 2019 – Laycock Street Theatre, Gosford
27 April 2019 – Cessnock Performing Arts Centre, Cessnock
3 May 2019 – SkyCity Darwin Concert Lawns, Darwin
4 May 2019 – Araluen Centre, Alice Springs

Image used with permission from Ferris Davies PRM/Photo credit: Daniel Boud

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Fanny Lumsden Declares War on Pride With New Single

Men’s mental and physical health is in the spotlight this month as blokes all around the country get hairy for Movember. Men’s health is something we don’t talk about enough, especially in Australia where so many have an attitude they must be stoic, no matter what comes. Fanny Lumsden challenges this notion in her new single “Real Men Don’t Cry (War on Pride),” the third track lifted from her number one ARIA country album Real Class Act.

The song is a poignant country ballad with some of the most stirring lyrics you’ll hear all year.

“Pride is a funny thing. It makes us stand up for things and it also makes us hide. However, it can become a wall that’s prevents us asking for help, telling people we love them, letting loved ones know we are not okay, we need a little support, a little help. It prevents us showing our vulnerability,” Fanny explained.

“So, I call a war on pride. That type. The type that’s preventing a father telling his son he has done a good job. The type that stops you asking for a hand. That prevents you from showing that vulnerability.”

Fanny is currently playing shows around the country on her Under Our Hills Hoist tour. Catch her at the following venues over the coming weeks.

3 November 2018 – Lonsdale Reserve, Mulwala
10 November 2018 – Private show, Canberra
11 November 2018 – Smiths Alternative Book Store, Canberra (@1 pm)
18 November 2018 – Private show, Thurgoona
22 November 2018 – The Newsagency, Camperdown
23 November 2018 – On the Beach Sessions @ Franks Wild Years, Thirroul
6 December 2018 – The Lost Ones, Ballarat
7 December 2018 – Royal Oak Hotel, Penolasa (FREE)
14 December 2018 – Sandigo Hall, Sandigo
15 December 2018 – Cudgewa Hall, Cudgewa

Image used with permission from Revolutions per Minute

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Jack Gray Ready to Hit the Big Time With “My Hands”

If Sunshine Coast teen Jack Gray isn’t already on your radar, prepare for all that to change. This talented singer-songwriter-producer is set to hit the big time with his irresistible new electronic-pop single “My Hands.”

Jack has spent the last year performing shows in the United Kingdom, Europe, the United States, and here at home. He’ll also join Dean Lewis and E^ST on one of the biggest Aussie tours of the summer.

With so much happening at just 19 years of age, expect big things to come from Jack Gray!

Image used with permission from Warner Music Australia

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Griefers” – As a Rival

Diamonds are created under pressure. It’s true in the world of science, but it’s often the case in the music industry too. A lesser band might have crumbled when challenged to complete 50 demos in a two-month period. But Melbourne punk rock act As a Rival thrived under the pressure, creating a rich collection of songs that honed their craft and helped them evolve their sound. Only the 12 best made it to their new album Griefers.

Having so many superb songs to select from ensures this album is one of absolute quality. No tracks feel like fillers. Every one is a stand out, from the bold opening track “Broken Compass” to the politically-charged closing number “Divide Us.” The anthemic single “What We Got” remains one of my favourite tracks, but it faces stiff competition from “Atom Bomb” and “Head in the Clouds.” Ask me next week after a few more listens and I might tell you I’m into something else, such is the quality of these tracks. Each one smacks you in the face with its frenetic drumming and big chunky guitar chords. They’re so insightfully written, with lyrics brought to life by the powerful vocals of frontman Pete Cerni.

Griefers is an album you just can’t ignore. It barely takes its foot off the pedal, whisking you along on a wild ride that you’ll want to take again and again. Forget about what you’ve heard about that Difficult Second Album Syndrome. As a Rival make it look easy here.

Griefers is available from your favourite digital retailers today.

Image used with permission from Collision Course

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“To Love You” – Glades

It seems like forever ago that Sydney band Glades burst onto the scene with their track “Drive.” Now two years later they’re showcasing their addictive electronic pop sound on their debut album To Love You.

“Nervous Energy” is the perfect introduction to this collection of songs, with lush electronic layering, powerful and emotional vocals, and a clap-along beat. Glades are so skilled at creating upbeat alt-pop ditties that put a smile on your face, whether they’re spreading positivity in a song like “Do Right” or dissing someone in “Not About You.” Tracks like “80 Miles” and “Neon Buzz” are real charmers, with the rebellious, romantic spirit that will take even the oldest listeners back to those heady days of first love.

Electronic sounds dominate To Love You, but as the songs become more intimate and subdued, so does Glades sound. The final two tracks, “Better Love” and “Through to You” are stripped back and organic, with pianos and gentle acoustic guitars replacing the special effects. They’re powerful reminders that Glades don’t need heavy production to make an impact.

To Love You has been a long time coming, but its release today has been worth waiting for. It’s perfect pop for the new millennium, with a fresh sound anchored by real heart. Glades will play the following shows to celebrate its release.

24 November 2018 – Corner Hotel, Melbourne
30 November 2018 – Jack Rabbit Slims, Perth
1 December 2018 – Jive, Adelaide
6 December 2018 – Metro Theatre, Sydney
7 December 2018 – Woolly Mammoth, Brisbane

Image used with permission from Warner Music Australia

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Get Ready for Ausmusic T-Shirt Day

Ausmusic T-Shirt Day is upon us, a day where we show off our favourite Aussie band T-shirts to raise awareness and funds for Support Act. This important charity supports musicians and music industry workers experiencing financial hardship and physical or mental health issues. Funds from this year’s event will expand Support Act’s Wellbeing Helpline.

On November 16, Ausmusic T-shirt Day, you’re invited to donate via the official website, snap a selfie wearing your favourite Australian band T-shirt, and share it on your socials using the hashtags #ausmusictshirtday, @supportact.

“The cool thing about the website is that it enables artists and music lovers to create teams so they can get their workplace, school or social media networks involved in the campaign,” said Support Act CEO Clive Miller. “It’s a really simple and fun way to raise funds for a great cause and we really hope that music fans across Australia can be our ambassadors and get their workplaces involved; and that artists can mobilise the support of their fans.”

Don’t have an Australian band T-shirt yet? I’d suggest you need to spend more time at merch counters! But Support Act has you covered, with specially commissioned band tees available through the Levi’s online store. Proceeds from the sale of these shirts go straight to Support Act.

Image used with permission from Ferris Davies PRM