Pierce Brothers Release Uplifting New Single, “Kanko”

With all that’s going on in the world at the moment, the soothing folk sounds of the Pierce Brothers is just what the doctor ordered. Their most recent single “Kanko” is full of light and optimism, gentle acoustic guitars, and those unmistakable harmonies.

Of course, releasing a new tune in the time of COVID-19 isn’t easy. They’d planned to film a music video in New Zealand around the time of Jack’s wedding, but the pandemic put pause on both of those plans. Instead the video features footage from the duo’s trips around the world.

“We had big plans on making a little trip while we were in New Zealand and getting some of the beautiful landscapes and mountains as a feature, but then we had to cancel it all, so we had to improvise,” Pat recalled.

“The song is about holding on and knowing that those times will come again so we used the footage from tours we’ve done over the last few years, and filmed new stuff in our little home studio, with a cast and crew of just the two of us. I think it reinforces that feeling, that we will get through all this, that this isolation won’t be forever, and we can always make do!”

“Kanko” is the first track lifted from the Pierce Brothers’ new album. They’ll release new singles right up to its November release.

Image used with permission from On the Map PR

Bad Juju Releases Powerful Rock Track, “Disappoint”

Bad Juju is back in a big way with an epic new single, “Disappoint.” The track is an emotional ode to loss, with Russell Holland’s powerful vocals front and centre.

“’Disappoint’ is about a friend I lost who I made music with, and continuing the dreams we shared together,” he explained.

Like so many bands, Bad Juju can’t get out and promote this release with the usual shows. Until you can get to the gig, why not support this Melbourne powerhouse and purchase some merch? Bad Juju sells a range of T-shirts online, including a long-sleeve tee that’s perfect for this cooler weather.

Image used with permission from Habit Music Co

Get Your Groove On to Lyphe’s New Single, “Pollux”

Perth singer-songwriter Lyphe has me grooving through the end of the workday with his latest track “Pollux.” It’s a slick piece of indie-pop with retro synths, a bopping bassline, and a really interesting lyrical perspective. Lyphe has flipped the script here, bringing some empathy and emotion into the aftermath of a one-night stand.

“I wrote the song about being on the other side of a one-night stand. Having previously been the person who cuts off contact after spending the night with someone I wrote this from the point of view of the person who gets cut off,” he admitted.

Lyphe began his career as a DJ, but this track shows he’s got a real knack for crafting quality original tunes. No doubt we’ll see him filling dancefloors once the COVID-19 pandemic passes.

Image used with permission from the A&R Department

Paradise Club Releases Uplifting New Single “All You Got”

Adelaide act Paradise Club is just about to unleash its self-titled debut album. But before the LP drops on July 17, there’s time for one more single. “All You Got” is just the sort of dreamy feelgood pop track most of us need to elevate our Monday. Just take a listen to those glistening guitars and saturated synths and see if you don’t feel like you can keep powering on, just like frontman Gere Fuss did during the hard time that inspired this song.

“At the end of 2018 I learnt about some family stuff that was going on. At the start of 2019 a close friend passed away. A month later my dog died. It was one of the worst times of my life but I learnt a lot from what had happened,” he explained. “The song is about that period of my life, how I should never take the time I have with people for granted, and how thankful I am to have a supportive network of family and friends. It’s fucked up how certain things can make you feel helpless and isolated, yet how resilient and understanding of the world you can become.”

COVID might have put a hold on so much of the music industry, but knowing there’s more superb indie-pop like this tune to look forward to is definitely helping me look forward to the future!

Image used with permission from Deathproof PR

Chris Tamwoy Rerecords “Kulba Yaday” With Original Artist, Christine Anu

Up-and-coming singer-songwriter Chris Tamwoy has joined living treasure Christine Anu for a beautiful new version of her song “Kulba Yaday.” I must admit, I wasn’t familiar with the original but I’m glad it’s on my radar now. It’s such a calming, soul-nourishing track. Listen out for backing vocals from another emerging artist, Tania-Rose Gibuma.

“Kulba Yaday” means “old talk” in Christine’s mother language, Kalaw Kawaw Ya. The song takes the listener through a journey of the traditions and culture of the people of Torres Strait.

“Kulba Yaday is one of my personal favourites,” Chris explained. “I come from a very big family that are music lovers and majority of them play instruments and sing songs. In this case, Kulba Yaday has always been a ‘go to’ song to sing and jam along to.

“Torres Strait language is a vital part of growing up; it’s what paints our identity as First Nations Australians. The conversations I have with my old people, old people being my Elders, are generally focused on preparing me for the challenges that lie ahead. ‘Kulba Yaday’, meaning ‘old talk’ by ‘Kulba Mabaygal’ meaning ‘old people’ is the foundation to our life. The ‘old talk’ contains messages of wisdom and understanding to assist us in the future to become better men and women. It holds the answers to questions that we will ask ourselves later down the track.”

When Christine heard Chris wanted to record the song, she jumped at the chance to help out. She’s a real fan, calling him an artist who “should be celebrated for an individuality, his uniqueness.” Like Christine, I think we’ll be hearing a lot more from Chris Tamwoy.

Image used with permission from Revolutions per Minute

SoSo Releases Stand-Out Second Single, “(Shit) Love Story”

I was a big fan of SoSo’s debut single “Henry Lawson Jive,” so I’m thrilled to see the lads back with “(Shit) Love Story.” There’s no second single syndrome here. Just like their first effort, this track with brimming with energy. It’s got an epic sound, full of angst and big guitars.

“About 6-7 years ago I was in a relationship with someone that I saw myself being with for a lifetime. When she ended it out of nowhere, it did some serious damage emotionally, some of which I’m still dealing with,” lead vocalist and songwriter Rhys de Burgh explained of the song’s inspiration. It’s about me coming to terms with what happened and trying to figure out why the hell I’m still so caught up on something from so long ago (hence the ‘sorry, just a shit love story’ lyric). The end of the track is a bit of a resolve – me beginning to understand that she’s a different person now. I’ve grown over the years whereas, she’s stayed the same and whatever we were originally never would or could be again.”

Until they can get back on stage and launch these singles properly, SoSo has been livestreaming some shows via Facebook. Give the SoSo Facebook page a follow to see the next one!

Image used with permission from Good Intent

Delta Goodrem Slays With New Single “Keep Climbing”

I’m not sure we’ve ever needed music from perfect sweet angel Delta Goodrem more than we do right now. Her latest single “Keep Climbing” is the ideal inspirational torch ballad for the times, complete with a gospel choir.

Delta let her fans hear it first during one of her Bunkerdown Sessions before unleashing it on all your favourite digital platforms. The sessions are a way of connecting to her fans and inspiring them to move forward, just like this song tries to do.

“I’d like this song to remind people to not be afraid to find the strength when they feel stuck between where they are and where they want to go. To find that part in you to keep climbing and to continue to believe that it will lead you to that next moment in your life,” she explained.

The next installment of the Bunkerdown Sessions goes live on Delta’s Facebook page tonight at 6:30 pm AEST. Give her a follow and check it out!

Caravana Sun’s Ant Beard Launches Caspia

Caravana Sun bassist and vocalist Ant Beard has gone solo with a brand new musical project Caspia. His debut single under the new moniker is “Alone,” a track penned pre-pandemic but so perfect for these crazy times we’re still living in. The song’s vulnerable lyrics explore our need for human connection and a deeper understanding of ourselves.

“We knew we had to write and record this song true to its meaning,” Ant explained about his creative process with producer Joel Quartermain. “From the exposed and honest lyrics, delicate piano parts to the reckless electronic chorus, ‘Alone’ doesn’t hold back and I love that. Songwriting for me has always been the pursuit to understand myself and my relationship with the world. My passion for deep and heartfelt conversation pours out into my sound as each word falls through the piano, drifting off into some analogue synth line.”

Ant said he was influenced sonically by German composer Nils Frahm, but his music has also drawn comparisons to James Blake and Rufus du Sol. If you like any of that, I think “Alone” will be right up your alley.

Washington Releases Quirky Pop Banger, “Dark Parts”

There’s not a lot we can depend on right now. One thing you can count on is that Washington’s music will always be left of centre, yet always hit the mark. Her latest single “Dark Parts” is a pop song written in 7/8 time for goodness sakes, but somehow it makes total sense.

The track celebrates those honest relationships where people can be all parts of themselves. It’s a song that takes more than a few left turns, so strap yourself in and enjoy the ride. The very cool lyric video features Washington’s own art.

“Dark Parts” gives us our first taste of all the new music Washington has in store for us this year. She’ll release a new album later this year, her first since 2014. You know what they say about good things coming to those who wait!

Tobi Tobi Transports Listeners With “Cast Away”

I’ve got goosebumps listening to “Cast Away,” the latest single from Melbourne act Tobi Tobi. It’s got an ethereal dreamlike quality that transports listeners away from the harsh realities of life to a much calmer, more beautiful place. With the world in chaos and borders closed, I think that musical escapism is just what so many of us need right now.

This is only Tobi Tobi’s second single, but their previous act Private Life did amazing things including supporting Garbage and Sticky Fingers. With beautiful songs like this in their arsenal, I can only imagine this new incarnation will go a long way.

Image used with permission from the A & R Department