Category: Releases

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

James C. Atkins Releases Inspiring Sophomore Single, “Brighter Skies”

As the dust settles on 2024, we’re all looking ahead to what this new year might bring. My Facebook feed is flooded with friends making resolutions to enhance their lives, but I’d prefer to trust the journey and see where things land. In that spirit, I want to introduce you to “Brighter Skies,” the latest track from Naarm/Melbourne singer-songwriter, James C. Atkins.

“It’s more about looking for your own path, hearing and seeing what other people have gone through, and realising maybe that’s not for me,” James explained. “It’s based on my experiences and those around me, which I think makes it relatable. I think a lot of people long for something more, something different and that, at its core, is what the song is about. It’s written about someone who longs for ‘brighter skies’ and they’re not going to stop searching until they get it and it’s about the wandering soul who longs for something more and isn’t scared to go out on their own and find it.”

This is only James’s second single and one that shows that he has a bright future ahead.

Image used with permission from Bec Gracie Publicity

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Pacific Avenue Release New Summer Anthem, “Lucy”

Pacific Avenue have served up a summery delight with the latest track “Lucy”. It’s a feelgood exploration of infatuation and longing with a catchy chorus that compels you to clap along.

“The concept of Lucy represents the idea that everyone has their own version of ‘Lucy’ — someone or something they hold dear,” the band explained. “Love takes many forms, and beauty is ultimately defined by the one who sees it. This song was recorded at a studio in Highland Park, Los Angeles and is called ‘The Hobby Shop’; it’s a little hole in the wall studio that has some really beautiful gear. It was our first time recording overseas and something we’ve all dreamed of since we started the band.”

Pacific Avenue are making the most of the warm weather with some choice festival spots and solo dates in the coming week. Catch them at following gigs that are sure to brighten up your summer holidays.

4 January 2025 – Good Gumnuts Festival @ Agriplex, Pataway/Burnie
9 January 2025 – Froth Craft Bunbrewery, Wardandi Noongar Country/Bunbury
10 January 2025 – The River, Wooditchup/Margaret River
11 January 2025 – Amplifier Bar, Boorloo/Perth
16 January 2025 – Volta, Ballaarat/Ballarat
17 January 2025 – Torquay Hotel, Waddawurrung Country/Torquay
18 January 2025 – Pier Bandroom, Monmar/Frankston
31 January 2025 – UC Hub, Ngambri/Canberra
6 February 2025 – Highfield Caringbah, Kumbainggar Country/Caringbah

Image used with permission from Good Intent

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Stem Steller Show Off Their “Electrical Moves”

Boorloo/Perth act Stem Steller have me grooving alone to their latest single “Electrical Moves.” It’s a psychedelic-tinged earworm that absolutely oozes soul.

“This song aims to capture the raw, vast, and spectacular experience we had when a group of us attended the Wave Rock Music Festival in 2023,” explained Stem Steller’s frontman Bevyn Tarboton. “Being in the desert, listening to the creativity in soundscapes paired with the visuals of lighting and landscape, was an inspiring experience that fuelled our desire to create a song incorporating those elements, allowing our listeners to access a similar experience sonically.”

Stem Steller and getting into the post-Christmas spirit with a big sale on their merch bundles. If you want to treat yourself, head to their online store.

Image used with permission from Blue Grey Pink

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Piper Butcher Releases Beautiful Love Song, “Through the Night”

If you’re lucky to go through life with a partner, there are moments that you find yourself reflecting on that bond. I’ve been doing that a lot lately as I recover from my car accident. While I’m able to do more every day, I rely on him to cook meals, help me dress and shower, drive me to medical appointments, and so much more. I hate losing my independence and I’m so grateful for the way that he stepped up. It’s changed our relationship, although thankfully that’s only temporary, but it’s encouraged me to reflect on the way he loves me so unconditionally. While no doubt Piper Butcher got to thinking about her own relationship under different circumstances, her latest single “Through the Night” has really resonated with me.

“This song is loving someone wholly and purely; the admiration of the smallest details, the flush in your cheeks when they say your name, and the grounded calm you feel whenever you hear their voice,” the 2023 Australian Idol finalist said.

Piper has been on the road since mid July, but she’s got a couple more shows in her busy schedule. Catch her at the following gigs in the next few weeks:

28 December 2024 – NOT New Years Eve @ Great Lakes Paddocks, Worimi Country/Wootton
4 January 2025 – Avoca Beach Theatre, Darkinjung Country/Avoca Beach (supporting Jack Jones)

Image used with permission from Kick Push PR

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Alexander Biggs Releases Introspective New Single, “I Used to Know What I Wanted”

After the frantic pace of Christmas, I’m looking for gentle music that can help me calm down. Alexander Biggs delivers the perfect mellow sounds with his latest single “I used to know what I wanted.” It’s a bittersweet track which encapsulates the mixed feelings of realising a dream, only to question whether it was all worth it.

“I used to know what I wanted” is the latest track lifted from Alexander’s sophomore album Stay with the Horses. Listen out for the album, which sees Alexander navigating emotional peaks and valleys during a period of relentless change, when it’s released on February 7. If you love what you hear, you can pre-order a limited-edition blue vinyl copy from Impressed Records.

Image used with permission from Maths and Magic

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Heartlocker Release Rocking Debut, “Heartlock”

I absolutely love kick-arse female-fronted acts like Meeanjin/Brisbane band Heartlocker. They’re making a splash with their debut single “Heartlock,” a gritty pop-rock track about toxic relationships. So hit that play button, crank up the volume, and enjoy!

“I wrote ‘Heartlock’ during a time of self-discovery,” Heartlocker’s lead singer Tyra explained. “It’s about the barriers we build around our hearts and the courage it takes to put yourself first. I hope it empowers others to find the strength to leave relationships that do not serve them.”

Heartlocker regularly plays shows around their hometown. Next up they’ll share the stage with The Vine and Takeover at Tomcat on January 5. Doors open at 8 pm for an 8:30 start.

Image used with permission from Heartlocker

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Merry Christmas from Sounds of Oz!

Merry Christmas Sounds of Oz readers! I haven’t posted any Christmas music so far because honestly I’m a bit hard to please. I hate when songs feel like crash grabs. I hold my Christmas tunes to exactly the same standards as any other music. And as you all know, if it’s not good I just don’t share it. But I couldn’t let December 25 go by without sharing the best original Christmas song I’ve heard this year, “christmas doesn’t feel the same without you” by Carla Wehbe.

“‘christmas doesn’t feel the same without you’ is really just about missing somebody at Christmas,” she said. “This time of year is really happy and magical for most people, but for a lot of people it’s actually quite a sad or lonely and isolating time, and this song is about that side of Christmas.”

I hope that all my readers feel loved and supported this Christmas. Whether you’re around family or chosen family or you’re spending the day alone, I hope you can carve out some time to be happy. Even just for a few moments listening to this song. I wish you all the very best for the holiday season.

Image used with permission from Warner Music Australia

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

ARCHIE Cap Off a Big Year with “So Far Away From Me”

Ngunnawal Country/Canberra quartet ARCHIE have had a massive year releasing their debut EP playing alongside local legends like BENEE, San Cisco, and the Reubens. They show why there’s such hot property on their latest single, “So Far Away From Me.” It’s a cool indie rock track which reflects on the toll distance takes on relationships with loved ones.

“’So Far Away From Me’ is a song about how distance changes the relationships you have with the people you leave behind,” vocalist Grant Simpson said. “Sometimes you don’t recognise the value of a relationship until you are removed from it.”

After a big 2024, ARCHIE seem to be setting the stage for an even better 2025. Bring it on!

Photo credit: Murray Farrell

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Sarah Mary Chadwick Releases Incredible Single, “Nothing Was The Same, After The Bar Burnt Down”

“Nothing Was The Same, After The Bar Burnt Down” the latest single by Sarah Mary Chadwick, hit me like a punch to the gut. It’s got such a quiet emotional power. I recommend taking a moment to properly listen, without distractions, because this track deserves your full attention.

Sarah Mary says the single is “An allegorical story about the loss of a village’s local watering hole to a bewildering fire. With respect to Tarkovsky, ‘Trouble Is A Lonesome Town’, Chekov, ‘Dogville’ and Flannery O’Connor.

“Tentatively and in a little bit of awe celebrating my one-year sobriety. It’s been maybe the most challenging thing I’ve ever done and difficult in ways that blindsided me completely, but also so full of new joys and SO MUCH MUSIC.

“Today I’m grateful for my music, and for my friends who I love and who made this year possible with their support. I’m grateful for friends filling my life with what I love best, singing and music. I’m grateful for all the wonderful chats with new and old friends that I now remember.

“I’m grateful to be here. Some people don’t stick around very long, and in the song, I remember. I remember them. But yunno, I’m still here. To live, and to remember.”

I know this song and it’s deep in meaning my resume may resonate with some of my readers, especially at this time of year when alcohol flows so freely. If you’re one of them, I hope that listening may bring you some comfort.

Image used with permission from Rice is Nice Records

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Harry Fitzgerald Makes a Comeback With “Talk it Out”

Harry Fitzgerald is showing his one to watch after the release of his sublime new pop song “Talk it Out”. It’s an irresistibly catchy tune with a funky bass line that will have you grooving from the get-go. Unlike so many pop songs, it’s also got something to say. Make sure you listen to those lyrics which Harry said explore his experiences of “choosing silence over communication to avoid conflict.”

“‘Talk It Out’ is a song that really taps into some of my more avoidant tendencies, both in relationships and in dealing with my own emotions,” he admitted. “It’s about how, sometimes, I’d rather just keep quiet and keep the peace instead of risking a confrontation that might stir things up. There’s a kind of fear that comes with the idea of speaking up, especially when it feels like what you say might cause a rift, or when you start believing that the other person’s feelings are more important than your own discomfort.”

This track is the first song Harry’s released since 2020, and what a way to come back. Hopefully he won’t leave us waiting too long for the next release.

Photo credit: Ale Trinchero