Category: Single Releases

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Left Cassette Impress With Debut Single “Two Left Shoes”

After gaining a solid reputation as one of the best emerging live acts in Meeanjin/Brisbane, Left Cassette has just dropped their fantastic debut single “Two Left Shoes.” It’s got all the youthful energy of a track from The Wombats or The Kooks in their heyday, and I’m here for it.

The band said “The track came together after many years of trial and error. Having had the track written in late 2021, Josh (Aldred, lead vocalist) workshopped the song to his then-punk rock band. When Left Cassette was formed in early 2024, the song was re-workshopped and we put our own spin on it. The song was originally written about being in a relationship that was always having its ups and downs. Not knowing whether you were in it for the long haul, or on your way out the door. The relationship got to a point where neither party knew who was at fault anymore. Both just entertaining the idea that things may not be perfect, but you’re too hung up on the other person to do anything about it. Just desperately holding on for the ride.”

Left Cassette will play in the second semi-finals of the Access All Areas Battle of the Bands comp at The Brithside tonight and a free gig at Greaser tomorrow night before they officially launch “Two Left Shoes” at Tomcat on August 24. They sold out a show at Tomcat earlier this year, so don’t expect to just get them on the door! Hopefully it won’t be too long before we see them gigging around the rest of the country. We can’t let the people of Brisvegas have all the fun!

Image used with permission from Good Intent

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Have a Good Day Drop Pop Bop, “Punch-Drunk in Love”

Wednesdays are much maligned, but WA act Have a Good Day are bringing the positivity with their dreamy new single “Punch-Drunk in Love.” I’ve fallen hard for this cool indie-pop number, and I’m sure you will too.

I love the way this song manages to strike the perfect balance between sounding modern and like an 80s throwback. The nostalgia is perfect for a track that celebrates youthful enthusiastic love, the kind that knocks you off your feet giving you no choice but to give in to it. A bit like this song really!

East Coasters will get the chance to see Have a Good Day when they play Towradgi Beach Hotel in Dharawal Country/Towradgi on September 6.

Image used with permission from Kick Push PR

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Zara Haines Drops Sensational New Pop Single “6 Figure Trigger”

After impressing me earlier this year with “The Blonde,” Zara Haines shows that was no fluke. Her latest release “6 Figure Trigger” is another outstanding pop song. This catchy little number explores all the complications of the dating game. Whether you’re in it or glad to be done with the scene, I know you’re going to relate to this one.

“’6 Figure Trigger’ was written for all different people to relate to … with a fun and catchy side, people can’t help but sing along!” Zara enthused. “It has been a fan favourite in listening sessions, so it was about time we let the world hear it!”

Zara’s Instagram profile says she’s writing new music right now, so it sounds like there’s a lot more in store. Give her a follow to learn all about it once it drops.

Image used with permission from Zara Haines

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

effie isobel Delivers Nostalgic Grunge Vibes With “Peach Heart”

Bubble grunge/dream pop is the kind of music I didn’t know that I didn’t need in my life until I heard effie isobel’s latest single “Peach Heart.” They remind me a little of 90s icons Julianna Hatfield and Mazzy Star, with their sweet voice and grungy sound brought to life with a vintage drum machine and radio box effects. The nostalgia is so fitting for this song which captures effie’s experiences chatting with close friends about their crushes.

“I noticed our conversations often gravitated toward talking about our crushes, people we want to kiss, people we have a friend-crush on or people we just generally think are beautiful,” effie reflected. “Observing this in conversation made me feel really warm and fuzzy. I couldn’t help but notice our conversations being fueled by appreciation for beauty and the incredibly human ache for connection.”

This song has grown immensely since effie penned it with a nylon string guitar on their bedroom floor. From those humble beginnings, effie worked with various collaborators to bring their vision to life. “Peach Heart” is such a fantastic follow-up to their debut single “Lip Balm,” I can’t wait to hear what comes next.

Image used with permission from Pretty Good Thanks

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Lucy Gallant Touring UK & Europe With “Devious” Single

British-born, Queensland-based singer-songwriter Lucy Gallant has just dropped her sultry new single “Devious.” It’s a cool, genre-blending track with elements of soul, pop, and trip-hop that explores the addictive nature of the wrong relationships that can feel oh so right.

“In recent years, I’ve navigated through profound losses and experiences that have deeply shaped my music. My new sound reflects how I’ve channeled these experiences into my songwriting,” Lucy explained. “Stepping into my own power, I’ve discovered a reservoir of confidence. Embracing the strength of my womanhood, I’ve conquered past fears. Now, I’m ready to declare to the world: here I am, crank up the volume and listen closely to my lyrics—I have a lot to say, and I’m not afraid to say it.”

Lucy is currently playing shows in the United Kingdom and Europe for the first time in four years. The intimate venues and festivals she’s playing provide the perfect opportunity to reconnect with her fans abroad. Don’t worry Australia; she won’t be gone for too long. We’ll see her back on her adopted home soil by November. Here are all Lucy’s announced dates.

1 August 2024 – Market House, Maidstone
3 August 2024 – House concert, North Norfolk District
16 August 2024 – Café Kultus, Grevenbroich
17 August 2024 – House concert, Osnabruck
25 August 2024 – House concert, Devon
28 August 2024 – Alte Utting, Munich
4 September 2024 – The Green Man Inn, Charroux
8 September 2024 – Musettes Festival, Pyla Sur Mer (FREE)
21 September 2024 – Briston Pavilion, Norfolk (Entry by donation)
22 September 2024 – The Flying Circus, Newark Upon Trent
27 September 2024 – Holmfirth Tavern, Holmfirth
28 September 2024 – House concert, Halesowen
16 November 2024 – Seven Sisters Festival, Taungurung and Wurundjeri Country/Glenaroua

Image used with permission from Lucy Gallant

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Bad Neighbour Drop “Heart Pumps Blood” Ahead of Album and Tour

2024 is shaping up to be a fantastic year for Meeanjin/Brisbane-based alt-rockers Bad Neighbour. They’ve already toured with American acts Hot Mulligan and Free Throw and just dropped a fantastic new single “Heart Pumps Blood.” That track gives us our latest taste of the band’s debut album Millions, which drops on September 20. But before that they’ll hit the road with another choice American act, Badflower.

“We’re incredibly excited to share this release with the world,” the band said in a press statement. “Writing this record was very cathartic for us and to have something palpable we can share with people is very special to us.”

If you want an early listen to some more new tunes, make sure you see Bad Neighbour supporting Badflower next month. Some shows have already sold out, and the others aren’t too far behind!

6 August 2024 – Lion Arts Factory, Tarntanya/Adelaide
8 August 2024 – Stay Gold, Naarm/Melbourne (SOLD OUT)
9 August 2024 – Stay Gold, Naarm/Melbourne
10 August 2024 – Oxford Art Factory, Eora/Sydney
11 August 2024 – The Brightside, Meeanjin/Brisbane (SOLD OUT)

Image used with permission from Bigmouth

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Saint Ergo Releases Sweet Soul Single “Falling So Hard”

Saint Ergo has really impressed me with her latest single “Falling So Hard.” It’s a cool soulful number that perfectly showcases her rich voice. I also love the lyrics which explore the idea of pushing forward with desires and attempting to pursue relationships in spite of taboos.

The soon-to-be-released music video for “Falling So Hard” celebrates all kinds of consensual relationship configurations, including many that seem taboo. As a transgender woman living with a disability, advocating for all kinds of people and creating safe, inclusive spaces for them is something Saint Ergo is so passionate about.

To that end, absolutely everyone is welcome when Saint Ergo launches “Falling So Hard” with two very special shows. Both venues are accessible for people with mobility aids and sensory challenges, with easy, wide access, separate sensory supportive spaces, and moderate sound levels. Tickets are available now for the following shows:

28 July 2024 – Tecoma Uniting Church, Wurundjeri Country/Tecoma
10 August 2024 – Black Spark Culture Centre, Wurundjeri Country/Northcote

Image used with permission from Tibi Agency

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Dane Tutty and Jen Buxton Team Up Again for “burning alive”

With the release of “burning alive,” Mulubinba/Newcastle singer-songwriters Dane Tutty and Jen Buxton have provided us with the final puzzle piece of their EP, if it all burns down. I’ve already covered previous tracks “church” and “i don’t want to do this forever” on Sounds of Oz, and this one is every bit as good.

“burning alive” sits sandwiched between the past singles on this EP, acting as a kind of bridge between them. I love the natural chemistry between Dane and Jen’s very different voices, the way her pure tones soften his hard edges. The lyrics, written from the perspective of someone battling mental health issues, are also so powerful.

“Myself and so many people around me are or have been affected hugely by these things (suicide and mental health), I couldn’t help writing about it,” Dane explained.

While Dane and Jen haven’t announced any shows together at this stage, they also haven’t ruled them out. Here’s hoping. Until then, wrap your ears around “burning alive,” then revisit the rest of their music on if it all burns down. And if you or anyone you know is struggling with the mental health issues “burning alive” explores, please reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or professional resource. Lifeline offers 24/7 support on 13 11 14.

Photo credit: Shades of Blue Media

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Alexander Biggs Casts a Spell With “don’t mean a thing”

Alexander Biggs is easing me into my working week with his gorgeous new single “don’t mean a thing.” I’ve long been a fan of his gentle folky music, and this latest track is no exception.

This track perfectly captures the melancholy that can wash over you when seemingly insignificant things seem to resonate a little more deeply with your head and heart than they should. No wonder Alexander’s received support from exciting acts like Julien Baker and Evan Dando. Check it out!

Image used with permission from Maths and Magic

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

ISHAN Shows His Star Power With “Supernova”

After impressing me a few months back with “My Mouth (la la la),” ISHAN has done it again with his latest single “Supernova.” It’s got a similar acoustic pop vibe that perfectly translates the simmering story of two people who cross that sometimes murky line separating platonic love and sexual attraction.

“‘Supernova’ is about a deep friendship shattered by passion,” explains ISHAN. “Reacting to an unexpected kiss and trying to figure out if your love for that person extends beyond the platonic is really difficult in a split second. The song explores the somewhat precarious and practically autonomous response ‘kiss her back now and unpack the consequences later’. It touches on the confusion and uncertainty of the moment in trying to determine what it is you really want and questions whether sacrificing a friendship is a risk worth taking in the pursuit of love.”

ISHAN has already had a big year selling out the Workers Club and playing Tenerife Festival and his first Eora/Sydney headlining show. I can’t wait to hear what’s next for this talented Naarm/Melbourne artist.

Photo credit: Ashlea Caygill