Category: News

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

New Justice Records Showcases Artists in Sydney

While most record companies try to keep the public riff raff out of their industry functions, New Justice Records are inviting fans to attend their Sydney Showcase weekend next month.

New Justice Records will bring their roster of artists to the music industry, media, and fans over two big nights at the Agincourt Hotel. On July 2 Resists the Thought, As Silence Breaks, and Recoil will take the stage at the hotel’s Blink Nightclub. The following night it’s time for Sienna Skies, The Bride, Town Hall Steps, and Envy Parade to do their thing at Trash. As the shows are held in licensed venues, remember that they’re only for music fans aged 18 and older.

Tickets cost $12 on the door, but I’ll let you in on a little secret. If you drop the name of New Justice Records or one of the bands playing you’ll get in for only eight bucks. The first 100 paying punters through the door each night will also take home a New Justice Records label sampler CD.

Image used with permission from AAA Entertainment

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Trinity Scores Role in Jason Derulo Music Video

The girls from Melbourne group Trinity seem to be doing everything right. They’ve just headed to Los Angeles where they will appear in Jason Derulo’s next music video.

Apparently the opportunity arose while the girls were recording their debut album in Los Angeles. There they worked with superstar choreographer Mo’at, who introduced Yianna, Sammy, and Stephanie to the R’n’B singer.

There’s a lot of hype surrounding these girls, who also recently recorded a song “Ever ‘n Ever” with legendary crooner Englebert Humperdinck. It might be a little early to start calling them our answer to the Pussycat Dolls, but they’re definitely making all the right connections.

Image used with permission from Repertoire Publicity

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Angus & Julia Stone Outsell the Rest with “Down the Way”

We all knew Angus & Julia Stone’s latest album Down the Way was selling truckloads, but what you might not realise is that the album is this year’s highest selling local release.

The disc has notched up platinum sales since it debuted at number one in March, a position it held for two consecutive weeks. Several months after its release, it’s just reentered the top ten.

With the duo such hot property at the moment, it’s no wonder that extra shows have been added to their upcoming tour. Here’s the revised schedule; if you still haven’t organized your tickets I suggest doing so ASAP!

18 August 2010 – Moncreif Theatre, Bundaberg
19 August 2010 – Pilbeam Theatre, Rockhampton
20 August 2010 – Andergrove Tavern, Mackay
21 August 2010 – Dalrymple Hotel, Townsville
22 August 2010 – Botanic Gardens, Cairns
25 August 2010 – Civic Theatre, Newcastle
26 August 2010 – Enmore Theatre, Sydney (SOLD OUT)
27 August 2010 – Enmore Theatre, Sydney (NEW SHOW)
1 September 2010 – Llewellyn Hall ANU, Canberra
2 September 2010 – University Hall, Wollongong
3 September 2010 – Grandstand Hall @ Showgrounds, Hobart
4 September 2010 – The Saloon, Launceston
8 September 2010 – Palais Theatre, Melbourne (NEW SHOW)
9 September 2010 – Palais Theatre, Melbourne (SOLD OUT)
10 September 2010 – Palais Theatre, Melbourne (SOLD OUT)
11 September 2010 – Town Hall, Meeniyan (SOLD OUT)
12 September 2010 – Town Hall, Meeniyan (SOLD OUT)
17 September 2010 – Thebarton Theatre, Adelaide
18 September 2010 – Fremantle Arts Centre, Perth
24 September 2010 – Tivoli Theatre, Brisbane (NEW SHOW)
25 September 2010 – Tivoli Theatre, Brisbane (SOLD OUT)
26 September 2010 – Tivoli Theatre, Brisbane (SOLD OUT)

Image used with permission from Original Matters

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Help Feed Homeless Dogs with Pedigree Adoption Drive

I wanted to take a short break from chatting about music to mention another topic that’s dear to my heart. You might have noticed the Pedigree Adoption Drive banner in my sidebar. I was always of the opinion that it’d be a great cause to support, but I was also acutely aware than my cat Gizmo would never tolerate us adding a pup to the mix. I also rent, so getting a dog approved would be a bit of a long shot.

But as the banner reminds us, even if we can’t adopt a dog we can help the brand make a difference. Clicking on the banner will take you through to the Pedigree Adoption Drive’s Facebook page. Show that you “like” it and Pedigree will donate a bowl of food to a homeless dog. It’s a really simple thing we can all do to help out dogs that need it. While you’re at the Facebook page you can also make a special Pedigree version of your profile pic to help spread the word. If you can resist those sad puppy eyes you’re a stronger person than me!

Image source: Claudia Meyer @ Stock.xchng

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Bacardi Express Photo Exhibition to Open in Sydney

The Bacardi Express has been one of the most exciting concert events of the year to date. Now you can relive all the fun of the tour with an exhibition of rare photographs set to open in Sydney.

New small bar and art space Doctor Pong in Darlinghurst will host the event this July. The exhibition lets you see what this year’s stars La Roux, Art vs Science, Yves Klein Blue, Miami Horror, Cassette Kids, and past acts including Groove Armada, British India, and Van She got up to on board and on stage. All shots were captured by Kent Matthews, one of Australia’s most promising new photographers.

The free exhibition will run from July 1 on Tuesdays to Sundays 6 pm til late. You can expect to enjoy plenty of great music photography, and Bacardi beverages to sweeten the deal. If you’re a Facebook user you can also receive exclusive offers and updates by “liking” the Bacardi Express Facebook page.

Image source: Lauren Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Awesome Indie Music Sounds Like Brisbane

A host of Brisbane independent record labels have banded together to promote the Queensland capital’s flourishing DIY music scene through the Sounds like Brisbane campaign.

Brisbane is a musical melting pot which gave birth to legendary acts like Regurgitator, The Saints, The Go-Betweens, Powderfinger, Savage Garden, and Tex Perkins. It’s also home to new artists I Heart Hiroshima, Yves Klein Blue, Dead Letter Circus, and heaps more.

“There’s no doubting that right now Brisbane’s indie labels are the engine room of the local music scene and the contribution they make should be celebrated and supported,” explained project coordinator Craig Spann. “Despite the fact these labels are often a one or two-person operation, they are ensuring the Brisbane builds on its reputation as one of the world’s most exciting music cities.”

Sounds Like Brisbane will celebrate its official launch on June 18 with a free all-ages show in the Brisbane CBD. Local indie acts including Blowhard, Texas Tea, Carry Nation, Fushia, Halfway, My Fiction, Nova Scotia, The Rational Academy, and The Optimen will play on two stages housed in Burnett Lane and Island Court.

To learn more about Sounds Like Brisbane check out the website. It profiles the city’s indie labels and musicians, and will feature stacks of exclusive content over the coming months.

Image used with permission from Stephen Green Consulting

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Flicks Sign Record Deal Ahead of Queensland Tour

The lads from Flicks have signed a deal with Difrnt Music/Spitfire Music ahead of this week’s Queensland tour. The label is home to such massive Aussie artists as COG and The Angels.

“We are absolutely thrilled to be looking forward to presenting Flicks’ music to you,” says Spitfire Music.

The record deal should see Flicks delivering even more energetic sets as their travel around their home state on their Hayley single tour. Here are details of all the shows, including the new date and venue for the Brisbane gig.

2 June 2010 – Charters Towers PCYC, Charters Towers (All Ages)
3 June 2010 – CWA Hall, Cairns (All Ages)
4 June 2010 – Townsville PCYC, Townsville (All Ages)
5 June 2010 – Andergrove Community Hall, Mackay (All Ages)
6 June 2010 – Emerald PCYC, Emerald (All Ages)
11 June 2010 – Walter Reid Centre, Rockhampton (All Ages)
12 June 2010 – Gladstone PCYC, Gladstone (All Ages)
13 June 2010 – Bundaberg PCYC, Bundaberg (All Ages)
17 June 2010 – The Powerhouse, Maryborough (All Ages)
18 June 2010 – Club Envy, Sunshine Coast (18+)
19 June 2010 – Civic Centre, Gympie (All Ages)
20 June 2010 – Blackbox Theatre, Nambour (All Ages)
27 June 2010 – Fort, Brisbane (All Ages)

Image used with permission from AAA Entertainment

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Chelsea J Gibson and Earl Cole Join Forces for Natalie and Nat King Cole Tribute Show

Studio Portrait Of Nat 'King' Cole

Following their sell out Moulin Rouge show in April, Chelsea J Gibson and Earl Cole are reuniting for a tribute to the music of Nat King Cole and his daughter Natalie.

Nat King Cole is one of the world’s most enduring jazz and swing figures. Despite leaving us in 1965, his musical legacy lives on. Earl has performed his Nat King Cole tribute overseas, and now Perth is lucky enough to see it. His set will draw on Nat’s early music from his trio days right through to the end of his career.

Meanwhile Chelsea will touch on Natalie Cole’s early soul career and her more recent jazz and pop tunes. We can also expect to enjoy a number of duets, including the number one hit “Unforgettable.”

Chelsea J Gibson and Earl Cole will play Perth’s Bouchon Bistro on June 30. Tickets cost $110 and include a gourmet three-course dinner. Group discounts are available for tables of six or more. Seating is strictly limited, so call (08) 9387 3898 to reserve your place.

EDIT: This show sold out in just 24 hours! To meet the demand Earl and Chelsea have announced one more “Unforgettable” tribute show for July 1. There’s not likely to be a third, so make sure you get your tickets quickly!

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

APRA Award Nominations Announced

The nominations are in for this year’s Australasian Performing Right Association (APRA) Awards, and it looks like newcomers could take home many of this year’s gongs.

The Temper Trap, Lisa Mitchell, and the lads from Empire of the Sun will be hoping to snare their first awards at the ceremony on June 21.

Here are all the nominations, and my fearless and probably completely incorrect predictions!

Breakthrough Songwriter of the Year

  • Temper Trap
  • Empire of the Sun
  • Jessica Mauboy
  • Daniel Merriweather
  • Lisa Mitchell

Prediction: I’m picking Lisa Mitchell purely out of sentimentality. She’s shown such promise at such an early age, and I’d love to see it rewarded.

Most Played Australian Work

  • “Been Waiting” – Jessica Mauboy (Jessica Mauboy/Israel Cruz/Craig Hardy)
  • “Foreign Land” – Eskimo Joe (Stuart MacLeod/Joel Quartermain/Steve Parkin/Kav Temperley)
  • “Hey Boys and Girls (Truth of the World part 2)” – Evermore (Jon Hume/Daniel Hume)
  • “Raise The Alarm” – The Living End (Chris Cheney)
  • “She’s a Genius” – Jet (Chris Cester)

Prediction: “Foreign Land” seemed to be everywhere last year, yet I still didn’t seem to get sick of it. It’s my pick.

International Work of the Year

  • “Gives You Hell” – All American Rejects (Tyson Ritter/Nick Wheeler
  • “Love Story” – Taylor Swift
  • “Second Chance” – Shinedown (Dave Bassett/Brent Smith)
  • “Sober” – Pink (Floyd Hills/Alecia Moore/Kara Dioguardi/Marcella Araica)
  • “You Found Me” – The Fray (Joseph King/Isaac Slade)

Prediction: It’s hard to pick against Taylor Swift, but purely based on the song I’m going to tip The Fray for an upset.

Continue reading “APRA Award Nominations Announced” →

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Aussie Musicians Dueting It For The Kids in Sydney

Sydney’s State Theatre will host the charity concert Dueting It For The Kids on August 9.

As the title suggests, the show will feature a veritable who’s who of the Australian music and theatre industry coming together for some unlikely duets. We’re talking about Paulini  joining Leo Sayer for his smash hit “You Make Me Feel Like Dancing,” Jon Stevens and Shannon Noll busting out “Dancing in the Streets,” and Tom Burlinson and Georgie Parker taking on Nat King Cole’s “Unforgettable.”

Tickets to the show will be available through Ticketmaster for $99 from May 31. All monies raised will benefit The Australian Children’s Music Foundation, an organization which looks to inspire local disadvantaged and indigenous young people through music.