Discover Thandi Phoenix

I’ve had Thandi Phoenix’s debut self-titled EP on repeat today. It’s all such incredible music, but I’m most struck with the EP’s lone duet, “Again,” which sees her joining forces with Dan Caplen.

The song is a quiet moment in a collection of upbeat, sassy songs. It shows a more vulnerable side of this stellar local talent while reinforcing just how good her vocals are.

Take a listen to “Again,” then do yourself a favour and give the rest of the EP a listen. You will not regret it. And if you’re heading to Festival X in Sydney on November 30 or Melbourne on December 1, make sure you catch her doing her thing!

Rock Out With Press Club’s Newie, “Separate Houses”

Press Club can do no wrong in my eyes, or by my ears. Their energy and passion is absolutely infectious. Their lyrics are so relatable. In short, they’re bloody awesome. All of the things I love about them are showcased in their latest single “Separate Houses.”

The film clip was captured on the band’s recent UK and European tour. With guitarist Greg Rietwyk behind the camera, it takes you to Scotland, England, and continental Europe.

“Separate Houses” is the first track on Press Club’s recently-released sophomore album Wasted Energy. If you still haven’t got your ears around this one, what are you waiting for? Press Club are bringing punters songs from that album and some old favourites on their current tour. They’re in fine form, after recently wrapping up that UK and European tour, so make sure you catch them this time around.

8 November 2019 – The Gaso, Melbourne
9 November 2019 – Hobart Brewing Company, Hobart
15 November 2019 – Torquay Hotel, Torquay
16 November 2019 – The Westerport, San Remo
21 November 2019 – Lion Arts Factory, Adelaide
22 November 2019 – Pelly Bar, Frankston
29 November 2019 – Sooki Lounge, Belgrave
30 November 2019 – The Zoo, Brisbane
5 December 2019 – Dunsborough Hotel, Dunsborough
6 December 2019 – Lucy’s Love Shack, Perth

Image used with permission from Little Giant Agency; Photo credit: Ian Laidlaw

Timi Temple Releases First Love Song, “Quick Words, Long Trouble”

Most artists cut their eye teeth on love songs, but Timi Temple’s latest single “Quick Words, Long Trouble” is his first foray into this musical staple. Of course, in true Timi Temple style, it’s no sappy ode to romance. Instead it’s an eclectic track with psychedelic and Brit-Rock influences. Switch it on and strap yourself in for a ride that’s every bit as wild as falling in love!

“I’ve generally tried to avoid writing songs about love because I think it’s been rinsed enough times by other artists. However, this song was cathartic and therapeutic to me as it helped me through a long-term breakup,” Timi explained. “The phrase is something that my mother used to tell me, somewhat translated from Thai meaning ‘don’t do anything in heated anger because the repercussions will last forever.’ It’s served me well, but also probably lead to me not fighting for a salvageable relationship because I was too cautious with my words. The spoken word poem in the bridge of this song reflects this.”

Timi will play a string of dates around his home state and one special Queensland show supporting the single, starting tomorrow. Catch him at all the following venues in the coming weeks.

8 November 2019 – UNSW Roundhouse, Sydney
9 November 2019 – Slyfox, Newtown (supporting Wharves)
15 November 2019 – Kick the Scarf party @ Yullis Brewery, Surry Hills
21 November 2019 – Greaser Bar, Brisbane
29 November 2019 – Vic on the Park, Marrickville
1 December 2019 – North Gong Hotel, Wollongong
12 December 2019 – Marly Bar, Newtown
15 December 2019 – Good Pash Xmas Bash @ Marrickville Bowling Club, Marrickville

Image used with permission from Good Intent

Rich Delinquent Shows Creativity With Debut Single “Death Drive”

Melbourne’s Rich Delinquent shows he’s an artist not afraid to take risks with the release of his first single “Death Drive.” This is an emotional and evocative piece of electronic pop with powerful vocals and vulnerable lyrics. Listening to it, I really feel like Rich Delinquent has put his whole heart into this piece.

While the song is a stellar standalone work, the cinematic music video adds a whole other dimension to this exciting track. It shows the death and rebirth of Rich Delinquent as he leaves his previous identity behind and assumes a new artistic form.

Other artists might wait to drop the merch, but not Rich Delinquent. He’s just released a streetwear line which furthers the “Death Drive” narrative. With so many creative elements working together in harmony, Rich Delinquent shows he’s an artist to watch.

Image used with permission from Good Intent

Anseo Gives Me Chills With “Deadbeat”

Sydney singer-songwriter anseo has been playing cover gigs around New South Wales’ capital for some time, but with the release of his latest single “Deadbeat” he’s reminding us that he’s at his best when he’s playing his own music. This is such a strong song, with poetic lyrics and vocals that can seemingly do anything. I find myself thinking of artists like Matt Corby, Jeff Buckley, and D’Angelo as I let this track wash over me.

“Deadbeat” comes from anseo’s recently released sophomore EP Wilder Shades. While “Deadbeat” is the stand-out for me, it’s all worth a listen. Get your ears around it music lovers!

Max Quinn Faces Demons in “Live Again”

You might know Max Quinn as the guy who broke the Facebook algorithm recently by posting nothing but his own name. However, behind that surprisingly savvy social media mind, there’s a whole lot of talent.

“I broke down in the shower, thought that I was going to die” he sings in the opening of his new single “Live Again.” It’s a fairly confronting introduction, but one which sucks you in to his fantastic new song. The track explores mental health issues, with an understanding of the chaos and optimism that can come with battling anxiety and depression.

“There was a time in my life when I was basically living panic attack to panic attack,” he admitted. “‘Live Again’ is about the worst of those panic attacks; I was alone in the shower, and I was depressed, and scared, and it became all-encompassing.”

However, the story doesn’t end there. This track is a defiant fight against the demons, a battle cry that is determined things will get better.

“If you’re lucky, and if you give yourself time to heal, eventually you learn to manage. But you also have to make the choice to very consciously pursue the future, and if I have anything to impart in releasing this song, it’s that,” Max explained. “Things will get better, and in the meantime you have to try as hard as you can to keep on living.”

Max Quinn will play for hometown fans supporting Bugs at Crowbar on November 16 and supporting Vetty Vials at Sly Fox on December 13. He’ll announce more shows around the country soon.

Image used with permission from Deathproof PR; photo credit: Giulia McGauran

Taylah Carroll Releases Knock-Out New Single, “Sometimes Good People Do Bad Things”

Melbourne’s Taylah Carroll shows she’s not afraid to go dark with the release of her new single “Sometimes Good People Do Bad Things.” It’s a sultry, sombre song with haunting vocals and a sense of tension simmering just beneath the surface. It’ll get underneath your skin from the get-go, then refuse to let go until that final note has faded out. It’s more indie rock than her usual folky fare, and I like it.

Taylah will support Feelds at The Gasometer Hotel on November 14 as a warm-up to her single launch show at The Tote on November 22.

Image used with permission from This Much Talent

Get Reacquainted With E^ST

E^ST is reminding us all what a breath of fresh air she is with the release of her latest single “Talk Deep.” It’s an upbeat bop with relatable lyrics about relishing that early flush of connection you feel when you’re getting to know someone special.

“’Talk Deep’ is about having crazy chemistry with someone and not wanting to miss out on a single second of it,” she explained. “Who needs sleep anyway?”

“Talk Deep” gives us out first taste of E^ST’s debut album I’m Doing It. It won’t be released until next year, but expect to hear a few more tracks from it if you catch E^ST at NYE on the Hill at The Farm in Kernot.

Image used with permission from Warner Music Australia

El Cosgrove Brings Us “Honey”

Regional Queensland act El Cosgrove has charmed with her sweet new single “Honey.” It’s a real ear-pleaser thanks to El’s distinctive vocals and the warm blend of acoustic guitars and banjos. El recorded the track in the mountains of Bangalow, a setting which no doubt helped ground the song with the comforting feeling of home.

El has played major events including the Tamworth Country Music Festival and Gympie Muster and supported exciting acts including Brad Cox, Luke O’Shea, Davidson Brothers, Seleen McAlister and Liam Brew. Hopefully it won’t be too long before we see her headlining her own shows around the country. Until then, put this one on repeat!

Parker Wows Me With “Can’t Keep Waiting”

We often talk about musicians being artists, but few performers have the creativity running through their veins that Parker does. Her new single “Can’t Keep Waiting” gives you just a taste of what she can do.

This track really blew me away. There are hints of Massive Attack, Portishead, and Lana Del Rey in its lush sonic layers and haunting vocals. It’s the sort of song that sucks you in to a brand new world when you press play.

“’Can’t Keep Waiting’ is about gathering the courage to be honest with myself,” Parker explained. “It’s about letting go of all that is safe and familiar in life in order to evolve and grow,” explains Parker. “I believe it’s in the moments when we feel completely lost that we find the opportunity to discover something new about ourselves. Nothing is permanent, everything can change. Each moment we have the ability to create ourselves anew.”

Then there’s the video clip, which adds another dimension to “Can’t Keep Waiting.” Parker created it in collaboration with director and technology artist Jaymis Loveday and sculptor Briony Law. When such creative minds come together like this, you know it’s going to be impressive. The music video has already earned critical acclaim, winning Best Concept at Clipped Music Video Festival in Sydney, Best Music Video at the Los Angeles Film Awards, New York Film Awards and Top Shorts.

Parker has also just wrapped up her exhibition You, Me and that Other Thing at Launceston’s Sawtooth ARI gallery. Is there anything this woman can’t do?

Image used with permission from On the Map PR