Real-Life Lovebirds Rowena Wise & Didirri Making Beautiful Music Together

Few things excite me more musically than a really good duet. A song that comes from the heart with two voices that seem to join together effortlessly. The chemistry between two talented artists who’ve created something beautiful together is palpable as you listen to the song unfold. Now those top tier duets are rare, but “No Cure For Love,” the latest track from Rowena Wise and Didirri, is definitely one of them. We shouldn’t be surprised these talents have chemistry though, because away from music they’re a real-life couple.

“‘No Cure for Love’ was written in the wake of realising our love can be a double-edged sword. We’ve been in a relationship for 8 years, and turbulence is inevitable with anything that lasts a long time,” they admitted. “During a phase of smoking weed and arguments, we could not see eye to eye. It was confusing when we’ve known each other so deeply and for so long, only to arrive at the feeling that we’re complete strangers. In those moments we considered whether the bond that tied us together was becoming too much to bear. The words ‘I’m too much for you’ and ‘you’re going to leave me one day’ were carelessly spoken, like a self-fulfilling prophecy waiting to happen. This song captures those moments where we have crumbled, said hurtful things, and had to look at our options. We came out of that chapter ready to face the challenge of our love, realising we can only love and respect each other if we do this for ourselves first. We can’t take each other (and ourselves) for granted if we want to be companions in this long journey together.”

The song comes with a beautiful video that Didirri directed and edited, which was mostly shot on 8mm black and white film. It uses Shibari knotwork as a metaphor for the simultaneous pleasure and restrictive discomfort that long-term relationships can bring.

“We were stripped bare and tied up for the final shot of the clip, embracing a new phase of creativity by exploring body positivity in both our artistic expressions. We were supported by an incredible crew which made the challenge fun to undertake,” they said.

Rowena and Didirri work so beautifully together, so I’m thrilled it doesn’t end here. They’re going to warm up your winter with 11 shows that will see them performing side by side around the country. Get onto it, because these gigs are bound are bound to be amazing.

26 June 2025 – Lefty’s Music Hall, Meeanjin/Brisbane
27 June 2025 – Eltham Hotel, Wurundjeri-Willam Country/Eltham
4 July 2025 – The Lansdowne Hotel, Eora/Sydney
TBC – Gunditjmara/Warrnambool
11 July 2025 – Jive, Tarntanya/Adelaide
19 July 2025 – Howler, Naarm/Melbourne
25 July 2025 – Altar Bar, Nipaluna/Hobart
26 July 2025 – Royal Oak Hotel, Kanamaluka Country/Launceston
1 August 2025 – Settlers Tavern, Wooditchup/Margaret River
2 August 2025 – Mojo’s Bar, Walyalup/North Fremantle
9 August 2025 – Old Stone Hall, Baarmutha/Beechworth

Photo credit: Nick McKinlay

Brad Cox Releases New Rock Anthem, “I’m a Boxer”

Listening to Brad Cox’s latest single “I’m a Boxer,” I think he just might be Australia’s answer to Bruce Springsteen. I know that’s a massive call, but listening to the way his music has evolved and the ease with which he creates rock-infused anthems that speak for the common man definitely makes me think of The Boss.

And just like Bruce, world domination seems to be on the cards for Brad. He recently played some massive shows in the United Kingdom and Europe and signed deals with Ground Control Touring and ATC Live, some of the biggest booking agencies in North America and the UK/Europe respectively.

“I feel like I’ve finally solidified my place in the Australian music scene and just getting started at the same time,” Brad said. “UK and Europe are quickly becoming places I’m going to invest a lot of time into. We loved that tour.”

Thankfully we’ve got him in Australia a little longer. Next up Brad will head to Cavanbah/Byron Bay for Bluesfest on April 18.

Photo credit: Rocket Weijers

Shanleigh Rose Shows Her Strength With “We’re Not Friends”

There’s more than a little touch of old school Taylor Swift in “We’re Not Friends,” the latest single from Shanleigh Rose. But we all miss old school Taylor music, right? That sweet country delivery mixed with all the sass of a woman scorned never gets old.

“Often, people think they can treat you carelessly and have the audacity to try and call you a friend afterwards. In my case, this someone was an ex,’ Shanleigh said. “I’ve learnt that self-respect and knowing what’s best for you are so much more important than letting your emotions allow the wrong kind of people to stay in your life.”

Amen! Shanleigh said she hopes the song will empower others to recognise their self-worth and move on from the wrong people.

It sounds like she’s definitely moving on to bigger and better things as she’ll play a couple of cool country festivals in the coming months. If you’re heading to these events, make sure you show Shanleigh some support.

11-14 April 2025 – Big Country Campout @ Riverwood Downs, Guringai Country/Monkerai
3-5 May 2025 – May’kn Music Festival, Goomeri Bush Camp, Wakka Wakka Country/Goomeri (call 0492 340 783 for tickets)

Image used with permission from Music 2 Media

FLORUL Enlists The Talents of Mona Kaia For Hot New Single, “LEAVE”

Walyalup/Fremantle-based indie electronic producer FLORUL has teamed up with Boorloo/Perth based vocalist Mona Kaia for a fresh new single, “LEAVE”. I love the way that Mona’s distinct, soulful vocals cut through FLORUL’s epic electro soundscape. Their combination is undeniable and the chemistry between them really elevates this track.

“I wanted ‘LEAVE’ to feel massive and cinematic while keeping that raw energy that makes you want to move,” FLORUL explained. “It’s the perfect introduction to what’s coming next.”

What’s coming next is FLORUL’s sophomore EP, featuring “LEAVE” which we’ll hear later this year.

Image used with permission from FLORUL

Jade Gibson Drops Beautiful New Country Song, “Bygones”

Jade Gibson wears her heart on her sleeve with her beautiful new single “Bygones.” Cowritten with Oscar Dawson and her producer Josh Hannan, this deeply personal track explores the bitterness that lingers after growing up in a broken family.

Jade has a string of shows coming up in country New South Wales and Victoria. Catch her anywhere you can.

27 April 2025 – Red Feet Wines, Taungurung, Yorta Yorta, Pangerang, Minjambuta, Duduroa, and Jaitmathang Country/King Valley
30 May 2025 – Barooga Sports Club, Yorta Yorta Country/Barooga
8 June 2025 – All Saints Estate, Whroo Country/Wahgunyah
13 June 2025 – SS&A, Bungambrawatha/Albury

Image used with permission from Rock This Country

Harrison Storm & Emily Rink Join Forces For “Call Me When You Get In”

Harrison Storm has teamed up with Emily Rink for a spine-tingling new single “Call Me When You Get In.” It explores the journey through grief on the path to healing that’s necessary when recovering from a relationship breakdown.

“The writing of this song came together in a very beautiful and easy way,” Harrison recalled. “It was one of those sessions where we were able to get vulnerable quite quickly. We shared some personal stories and I started playing around with some simple chords. Emily’s melodies started flowing effortlessly as she’s incredibly talented and we both sat back to let the emotional melodies inform the story of the song.

Harrison said the song went to another level when they began working with producer Matt Corby.

“It was so perfect and exciting to work with Matt Corby on this one for production. He brought such immediate soul and heart to this song. The days Emily and I spent in the studio with him were unforgettable and very creative.”

Harrison is currently touring the country with Canadian indie-folk act Wild Rivers. If you’ve got a ticket, make sure you arrive early enough for his set.

21 March 2025 – Prince Ballroom, Naarm/Melbourne (SOLD OUT)
22 March 2025 – Manning Bar, Eora/Sydney (SOLD OUT)
23 March 2025 – Manning Bar, Eora/Sydney

On July 5, Emily will play Winter One-Derland at The Station SC in Kabi Kabi Country/Birtinya.

Photo credit: Ain Raadik

EDIE Releases Angsty New Track, “Bleed”

If you’re into the angsty pop of artists like Olivia Rodrigo and Hayley Williams, you’ll love our own EDIE and her latest track “Bleed.” It’s got a fun synth vibe, but tap into the lyrics and you’ll discover that this song has teeth.

“Bleed explores my frustration and anguish to modern dating,” EDIE said. “It seems like no one wants to commit and only wants to lead you on in these long, drawn-out, awful situationships!”

“Bleed” comes with a fantastically dark video that’s not for the faint of heart. Don’t say that I didn’t warn you!

Next up EDIE will play Neon Festival, a free event designed for 15- to 25-year-olds. See it at Manning Community Hall in Boorloo/Manning from 6 pm on April 11.

Photo credit: Stephanie Senior

Joan & Giants Drop “Still Breathing” Ahead of Naarm/Melbourne Move

I’m convinced that everything Joan & The Giants touches turns to gold. “Still Breathing,” their first release for 2025, is another fabulous indie-rock track from this Aussie trio. Born from a jam session, this heartfelt release packs a serious emotional punch.

“The lyrics really speak about an inner war, trying to fight for the people you once were but knowing you have to let it all go – ‘But some things are best kept in the past, and I know we weren’t built to last’,” explained the band’s frontwoman, Grace Newton-Wordsworth.

2025 is set to be a massive year for Joan & The Giants as they prepare to say goodbye to their home in Boorloo/Perth and base themselves in Naarm/Melbourne. They’ve already played their first international shows at SXSW, but they’ll be back on home soil for a string of shows soon, including a big WA farewell. If you live there, make sure you give them the send off that they deserve!

21 March 2025 – Metropolis, Walyalup/Fremantle (supporting Lake Street Dive)
17 April 2025 – Red Earth Arts Festival, Ngarluma Country/Karratha
3 May 2025 – Farewell WA Show @ The Bird, Boorloo/Perth

Image used with permission from Kick Push PR

Bonita Habils Releases Evocative New Single, “Underdressed”

Naarm/Melbourne-based singer-songwriter Bonita Habils has got underneath my skin with her haunting new single “Underdressed.” It’s a different kind of pop song, with its dark, brooding instrumentation directly contrasting with Bonita’s ethereal voice.

“It’s about a situationship, when you want more than the other person is willing to give,” she explained.

Fans can catch Bonita at Rawkus Live this Sunday, March 23. This all-ages event kicks off at 1 pm at Soundbar in Bunurong Country/Capel Sound. Tickets are on sale now from Oztix.

Image used with permission from Tonika Habils

Angus Legg Releases Powerful Folk Single, “Two Birthdays”

Naarm/Melbourne singer-songwriter Angus Legg gives us an insight into his inner child with his intimate new single “Two Birthdays.” Exploring his feelings as a child of divorce, its poignant lyrics and Angus’ gorgeous vocals really hit home.

“’Two Birthdays’ is for children of divorce, often a forgotten topic and trauma, sadly because it’s all too common,” he said. Creating this track was not only a delve into the depths of my own experience, but it felt like an emotive and direct way to frame one of the most difficult conversations any adult has to have and child has to respond to. I remember after writing this song I cried for a good twenty minutes. I cry when I write most of my music, that’s how I know it’s good, and there were puddles for ‘Two Birthdays’.”

The production of fellow Melburnian artist and close friend San Joseph, known for his work with Peach PRC and Chris Sebastian, helped bring out the best in “Two Birthdays.”

“San Joseph is a creative well, the depths of which I fortunately get to bear the fruits of,” Angus added. “The devil is in the detail, there are countless moments throughout Two Birthday’s’ infrastructure worth paying careful attention. He marries this with creating a perfect bed for the emotion and sonicity of the story, which creates an effortless space for the message of the music. He’s also my best pal, so we had a blast throughout the process.”

You’ll find “Two Birthdays” along with some other fantastic local folk music on my Spotify playlist, Sounds of Oz Loves Folk. Give it a listen and follow to hear all the latest music from outstanding artists like Angus.

Photo credit: @Bonncreative