Author: Lauren Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Brilliant Benjamin Booker Announces Bluesfest Sideshows

I must admit, I meant to write about Benjamin Booker’s Bluesfest sideshows yesterday but I fell down the Spotify rabbit hole with his music instead. Writing about him fell low down my priority list as I relished the opportunity to listen to his gritty blend of soul and blues.

If you want to know what Benjamin is all about, wrap your ears around this live version of Witness, the title track from his 2017 album. A socially charged anthem exploring the racial tensions facing the United States, it’s just one of many wonderful tracks I listened to yesterday.

Whether you’re a fan or, like me, you’ve just discovered his brilliance, you won’t want to miss these shows. See him at Sydney’s Factory Theatre on March 29 or Melbourne’s Corner Hotel on March 31.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Get to Know Jeremy Romeo


Townsville singer-songwriter Jeremy Romeo has charmed me with his new latest single “All You’re Meant to Be.” Its release has been some time in the making, as Jeremy penned it in 2012, but this radio-friendly pop-rock tune is worth the wait.

“’All You’re Meant to Be’ is something I’ve had in the works for the last three or four years now. I actually wrote the title track back in 2012 when I was going through a tough time emotionally, financially and physically. I was down in the dumps but I came to a crossroads where I felt that I had two options, I could sit in my room and feel sorry for myself or I could get out in the world and make positive changes, so that’s exactly what I did,” he explained.

“Every song on this EP is really a different phase of my life along the footpath of this journey I have been on the last couple of years. It’s a kind of reminder to myself that no matter how hard life gets, look at where I was then and how far I’ve come. I feel that a lot of people will resonate with that also.”

We’ll get to hear the rest of those songs when the All You’re Meant to Be EP drops on February 9.

Image used with permission from The A & R Department

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Paddy McHugh Tackles Suicide In “Down to Sydney” Single

Paddy McHugh pulls no punches with his latest single “Down to Sydney.” From the first few lines you’re hooked, wondering where this hard-hitting country-rock track will take you.

“Suicide rates in Australia are high, too high, especially for young men in rural areas. ‘Down to Sydney’ is a story that has no doubt played out many times in every small town across the country,” Paddy explained. “In the song however, the protagonist finds another way out … I guess I want people to realise that there are alternatives and there is hope even in the most unlikely places.”

“Down to Sydney” comes from Paddy’s 2017 album City Bound Trains. His Down to Sydney tour kicks off tonight in Maitland and travels around New South Wales.

18 January 2018 – Junkyard Hotel, Maitland
19-21 January 2018 – Illawarra Folk Festival, Illawarra
21 January 2018 – Midnight Special Newtown
22 January 2018 – Americana in the Park, Tamworth
25 January 2018 – Cake & Cordial Sessions, Tamworth
26 January 2018 – DAG Sheepstation, Nundle

Image used with permission from Universal Music Australia

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

The Studio in the City Becomes Homesurgery Recordings

Since its inception in 2007, The Studio in the City has played host to some of the country’s finest musicians, engineers, and producers. The Brunswick studio helmed by celebrated producer and Shihad member Tom Larkin has had a hand in the success of some of the nation’s most acclaimed albums including releases from Calling All Cars, The Getaway Plan, Young and the Restless, and Villainy. While there’s a touch of nostalgia in the air, the studio is also looking forward with a brand new name, Homesurgery Recordings.

“I founded the studios in 2007 when I happened upon a project studio for long term rent – I moved a ramshackle amount of equipment in there and began work straight away on the debut album for a band called Young & Restless,” Tom explained. “That record went on to win a J award for Unearthed Album Of The Year.”

This new chapter is sure to be a bright one for Homesurgery Recordings, which has recently upgraded its API 1608 console. Despite the new technology and name, Homesurgery Recordings remains committed to helping artists realise their creative vision in a comfortable and relaxed environment.

Visit the Homesurgery Recordings website to learn more the studio.

Image used with permission from Beehive PR

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Down & Out Team Up With Nick Thompson For Debut Single “Horizon”

In the tradition of Simple Plan and All Time Low comes Brisbane’s own Down & Out. This pop-punk group has just released its debut single “Horizon,” but it seems the lads have already found a fan in Nick Thompson, the frontman of American pop-punk band Hit the Lights, who features on the new track.

The song isn’t perfect by any means. But while it lacks polish, there’s something irresistible about it. I found myself tapping my toes as I listened, then hitting play again for another go round.
“The song is all about those endless nights out as a band” said singer/songwriter Andy. “We’ve had some crazy times and wanted the video to flow from that feeling, from the road trip, to heading out… and playing in the hotel room” added guitarist Mark.

Pop-punk might not be enjoying its time in the sun at the moment, but you shouldn’t expect these boys from Bayside to change any time soon.

“We have always been pretty true to our music and our tastes. We were always pop/punk and will always be,” said Mark. “When the other bands moved from pop/punk to emo, we were doing pop/punk. Then the same bands did a screamo album, we were still doing pop/punk. It’s either admirable …or stupid”.

“I tried playing in different bands with different styles, but pop punk was what felt like home,” added Andy.

You can tune in to more of Down & Out’s pop-punk tunes when they launch their single and EP for hometown fans. Catch them at Ric’s on January 20 for the single launch and at The Zoo on February 2 for the EP release show.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Let’s Talk Monday” – Ayla

Australia seems full of strong female voices at the moment, from the commercial acts like Jessica Mauboy and Dami Im to more alternative artists like Montaigne and Camp Cope. Ayla is another name we can add to the list. She’d impressed me with her singles, but I feel I’ve got a deeper appreciation of her music on listening to her new EP Let’s Talk Monday.

The first track, “Shallow End,” drew me in immediately. It’s such a strong start, with soaring vocals and driving drums. “Like the Other Kids” speaks to anyone who’s felt they didn’t fit in. The next track “Cry Honey Cry” is smouldering and oh so cool.

After some big, bold numbers, the delicate “Used Furniture” helps give Let’s Talk Monday some balance. This delicate portrait of a relationship may be my favourite song on the album. It’s just exquisite. “Porcelain Doll” is a powerful song about the struggle of moving on. The lyrics are so on point here. “Too Cool for June” is such a beautiful way to end the EP, a bittersweet tale of resignation of lost love, wistful but wise.

There’s a quiet power about what Ayla does. Her tone is so rich, pure and haunting. I could listen to her sing the phone book, but the personal, intimate songs on this EP are much better than that. She bares her soul through this collection of songs, and that makes her work so compelling.

Let’s Talk Monday is out now. Ayla is currently launching it with shows around the country. You can see her at Melbourne’s Penny Black on January 19 or Sydney’s OAF Gallery Bar on January 20.


Image used with permission from Mucho Bravado

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Camp Cope Bust Glass Ceiling With Opera House Video for “The Opener”

After selling out two shows as part of Vivid LIVE, Melbourne’s Camp Cope returned to the Sydney Opera House to film the music video for their searing new single “The Opener.” The track is a passionate critique of the band’s experiences of being women trying to make their mark on the music industry.

Camp Cope continues to break down barriers, not just for their social commentary but also for their achievements. In filming their new clip they became the first punk band and first band with only female members to film a music video at the Sydney Opera House.

Camp Cope are touring the country in March to support the March 2 release of their album How to Socialise & Make Friends. With America’s Chastity Belt in support, tickets are selling fast. Limited tickets are still available for most shows, so get yours from your closest venue soon.

14 March 2018 – Republic Bar, Hobart
15 March 2018 – Thornbury Theatre, Melbourne
16 March 2018 – – Thornbury Theatre, Melbourne (SOLD OUT)
17 March 2018 – Tivoli Theatre, Brisbane
20 March 2018 – Jive, Adelaide (SOLD OUT)
21 March 2018 – Basement, Canberra
22 March 2018 – Heritage Hotel, Bulli
23 March 2018 – The Metro, Sydney (All Ages)

Image used with permission from Super Duper

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Karen Lee Andrews Leaves Miss Murphy Behind For “Higher” Release

It’s hard to believe it’s been five years since we first met Miss Murphy on The Voice. Since then the season two standout has shrugged off her moniker and started releasing music under her own name, Karen Lee Andrews.

The name might be unfamiliar right now, but her soulful voice is unmistakable. I wish I could share her new track “Higher,” the first from her new EP Far From Paradise, with you in its entirety because it’s such a great track. It’s got a classic soul meets blues meets rock feel that makes me think of Janis Joplin, albeit with a smoother, huskier delivery. See what I mean in this song snippet.

Far From Paradise is released next month. If there’s more tracks like this on it, I can’t wait to hear it.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Missy Lancaster Drops Steamy New Single “Heatwave”

Missy Lancaster’s new album Piece of Me doesn’t drop until next Friday, but you can hear a sneak peek with the release of her sexy, summery new single “Heatwave.”

This is the perfect county-pop song for the season, with sensual lyrics, a great groove, and on point lyrics from the Picton singer-songwriter.

Expect to hear a lot more from Missy this year, who is currently featured on Spotify’s Fresh Country playlist and part of the sold-out CMC Rocks Qld Festival.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Acclaimed Vegas Act Bring Bee Gees Show to Oz

The Bee Gees were one of Australia’s greatest musical exports, but with the deaths of Robin and Maurice Gibb, if you didn’t see them at the height of their fame you’ve missed your chance. However, you can still enjoy the next best thing, with news the Australian Bee Gees Show is heading Down Under this autumn.

The Australian Bee Gees Show has been wowing crowds for seven years in Las Vegas, during which time it’s played more than 2250 performances and recently earned the title of the Best Tribute Show on the strip in the Las Vegas Review Journal.

This is no token Aussie tour, with plenty of regional dates in the mix. Celebrate the legacy and songs of the Bee Gees at the following shows.

13 April 2018 – Araluen Arts Centre, Alice Springs
14 April 2018 – Skycity Casino, Darwin
19 April 2018 – Mandurah Performing Arts Centre, Mandurah
20 April 2018 – Bunbury Regional Entertainment Centre, Bunbury
21 April 2018 – Crown, Perth
22 April 2018 – Albany Entertainment Centre, Albany
26 April 2018 – Bathurst Panthers, Bathurst
27 April 2018 – Top Of The Cross, Canberra
28 April 2018 – Belmont 16s, Belmont
29 April 2018 – Anita’s Theatre, Thirroul
1 May 2018 – Civic Theatre, Orange
3 May 2018 – Blue Mountains Theatre, Springwood
4 May 2018 – Dee Why RSL, Dee Why
5 May 2018 – Wenty Leagues, Wentworthville
6 May 2018 – Norths, North Sydney
9-12 August 2018 – Reef Casino, Cairns
15 August 2018 – Brolga Theatre, Maryborough
16 August 2018 – Redland Performing Arts Centre, Redland
17 August 2018 – The Events Centre, Caloundra
18 August 2018 – The Star, Gold Coast
19 August 2018 – Star Court Theatre, Lismore
22 August 2018 – Glasshouse, Port Macquarie
23 August 2018 – Cessnock Performing Arts Centre, Cessnock
24 August 2018 – Revesby Workers Club, Revesby
25 August 2018 – The Juniors, Randwick
26 August 2018 – Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre, Shoalhaven
29 August 2018 – Lighthouse Theatre, Warrnambool
30 August 2018 – Wendouree Performing Arts Centre, Wendouree
31 August 2018 – The Palms At Crown, Melbourne
1 September 2018 – Drum Theatre, Dandenong
2 September 2018 – The Cube, Wodonga

Image used with permission from AAA Entertainment