Album Reviews – Sounds of Oz

Posted on 27/02/202622/02/2026 by Lauren Katulka

“what if it ends?” – Sidney

I’ve championed Sidney’s music for years, so I made sure to write a review of her brand new EP what if it ends? before I left for my overseas trip. New on all your favourite streaming platforms today, it’s a poignant exploration of love and loss with the title question at its core.

The single “sliding doors” opens the EP with its jubilant chorus and upbeat indie-pop feel. While it was inspired by the fictional romance movie, as you move from this track to the songs that follow, you realise Sidney’s drawing from her own experiences in this collection. They’re so real, so raw, that anyone who’s ever loved and lost hard will relate. “Long haul” is another fantastic single, but it hits a little bit harder with its lyrics exploring the reluctance to let an established relationship slip through the fingers.

We’re getting deeper, in preparation for “golden boy.” This beautiful, bittersweet ballad kills me. I rarely recount lyrics, but the lines “Can we just make out until it’s over? Can we just keep on holding our breath? ‘cause that way we’re both distracted and we won’t see how this ends” have my heart. We stay in the quiet a little longer with “the difference.” Its dreamy, melancholy feel reminds me so much of Mazzy Star’s “Fade Into You.” If your heart wasn’t already split open, the deep yearning of “anything” might get you there. Sidney’s vocals, which seem to move effortlessly from breathy falsetto to powerhouse full voice, have never sounded better. Sidney brings the energy back up with the EP’s title track. Feeling a little like a bookend for “sliding doors,” it really is the perfect closer with a feel-good vibe that softens the blow of those sucker-punch lyrics.

Emotionally honest, beautifully real, and always compelling, what if it ends? is out now.

Image used with permission from Nettwerk Music Group

Posted on 20/12/202520/12/2025 by Lauren Katulka

“WHAT IS AND WHAT ISN’T” – ixaras

If you’ve been following this blog for a while, I don’t need to tell you how good ixaras is. I’ve been following her career since before she dropped her stellar debut EP full lover fake friends. I loved her early material, but I’m thrilled to see how she’s evolving with every release. She recently released her sophomore EP WHAT IS AND WHAT ISN’T which serves as a timely reminder of the superb rock music she’s making.

I’ve already written about four of the six tracks, so there’s not a lot I haven’t already said. You know these tracks are solid, brimming with all the energy and angst that you hope to hear from an artist still in their teens. I can also report that the two “new to me” songs are every bit as good as the tracks previously released. There are no fillers. In fact, the defiant closer “CAUGHT UP” has become a new favourite.

ixaras’s music is just so relatable. I might be more than twice her age, but I get it. I feel this music down to my bones. Perhaps that’s because ixaras has such a strong sense of self. She certainly has more figured out than I did at her age!

“I know who I am, and who I am not. Even if you know what’s real nobody can fully know what is and what isn’t. This body of work is a release of my fears, insecurities, lessons and truth that I had to learn while navigating these past couple years,” she explained. “I had to kill part of myself to make this EP because not only was I deeply scared to be ambitious, but living in Australia there is a secret shame for wanting to succeed. This music is not only a mantra for those who want to have control of their own life, but it’s me letting go of the past and shedding old skin to make space for what I have planned for the future.”

Whether you’re already a fan like me or you’re new to ixaras’s music, take a listen to WHAT IS AND WHAT ISN’T. This fantastic EP is on all your favourite streaming platforms right now. And if you like what you hear, make sure you get along to one of her January shows.

10 January 2026 – The Loft, Eora/Sydney
11 January 2026 – The Leadbeater, Naarm/Melbourne
18 January 2026 – The Brightside, Meeanjin/Brisbane
23 January 2026 – The Y HQ, Boorloo/Perth
24 January 2026 – Lion Arts Factory, Tarntanya/Adelaide

Images used with permission from G.Y.R.O Group

Posted on 18/12/202518/12/2025 by Lauren Katulka

“2 Cents Journal” – Favourite Kid

Meeanjin/Brisbane-based sibling trio Favourite Kid have won me over with the wit and wisdom of their debut album 2 Cents Journal. As the album’s name implies, this outfit’s songs deliver honest and unfiltered points of view. In the wrong hands some of these songs could come across as preachy, but Favourite Kid has a warm, gentle touch and humour that made me lap up their insights.

Sonically, 2 Cents Journal refuses to sit neatly into any genre box. Favourite Kid’s sound is built on a solid foundation of pop, country, and folk-rock, but I hear a little reggae in there too. Whatever genre they’re playing in, they have a knack for crafting irresistible melodies that elevate their relatable lyrics and balance some heavy themes. The breezy ukelele of “Uncomfy” and the brutally honest words of “I Fucked Up” really put a smile on my face. Ordinarily I’d be irked at the repetition of “Feel Like Shit,” (albeit reworked as “Feel Like Shite” with a guest rap from The Lyrical), but it’s such a gem I would have hit play again anyway.

Lead vocalist and songwriter Ethan said he wrote these songs to make sense of the world around him. “While we can’t control everything in life, it’s important to take time to notice how we’re feeling. Writing these songs has helped me through some difficult times with my own mental health, and I hope they can influence others’ minds to rest a little easier. This album is all about my neurodiverse experiences of learning to deal with anxiety in a world where it can seem like you always have to feel amazing and compare yourself to others.”

2 Cents Journal shows its heart openly, lifting listeners up and giving them food for thought. The more I listen, the more I find lyrics that resonate with me. It’s sweet without being saccharine, a joy from start to finish. It’s available now on all your favourite streaming services.

Photo credit: Leeroy Todd

Posted on 13/11/202517/11/2025 by Lauren Katulka

“Unfurling” – Malaika Mfalme

When I first discovered Malaika Mfalme’s music, they were creating songs processing their grief. Their debut album Yasmin was a tribute to their late partner and an exploration of the emotions that loss triggered. It was a challenging listen, but a beautiful one. Now several years have passed and Malaika has released Unfurling, a collection of songs that reflect on their path to healing.

“Unfurling is that quiet moment when you realise you’ve survived, and you’re finally beginning to bloom again,” Malaika explained. “The word itself makes me think of plants, of finally opening after all the mess and heartbreak, realising that the waiting was actually growth.”

The opener, “Cobblestones,” is a breathtaking spoken word piece which sets the scene, explaining how Malaika needed to leave Sydney (Eora) and all the heavy emotions he felt there and travel to Germany’s capital. It naturally leads us into the EP’s first single, “Berlin,” which Malaika penned during their time in the European city. “Smoke” is another stunning spoken word piece, part letter, part poetry. “Thirteen” is bittersweet and nostalgic, giving glimpses into friendships past, the ghosts they leave behind, and the patterns we seem destined to repeat. Another gorgeous poem, “Grace,” precedes the stunning final track, “The History of Me and You.” This perfect closer honours the quiet moments shared with loved ones and the scars and stories from the past that make us who we are going forward.

Unfurling is another truly special offering from Malaika Mfalme. Through sharing their poems and songs, they share their heart. While we meet them in a place that’s not quite as raw this time around, these warm, folky tracks are every bit as moving and authentic. Set aside 18 minutes of quiet to listen to them, really listen to them, taking in the words and the way they make you feel.

Unfurling is out now. Malaika will support its release with the following shows in the coming weeks.

28 November 2025 – The Red Rattler, Eora/Sydney
29 November 2025 – The People’s Blockade Protestival @ Camp Shortland, Mulubinba/Newcastle
5 December 2025 – Smith’s Alternative, Ngambri/Canberra
6 December 2025 – Kindred Side Room, Woiwurrung and Boonwurrung Country/Footscray

Images used with permission from Hunger Digital

Posted on 05/11/202505/11/2025 by Lauren Katulka

“Bad Dreams” – Fool Nelson

On a Hump Day that’s feeling more challenging than most, Fool Nelson’s Bad Dreams EP is delivering the sonic shot in the arm I need. If you’re struggling this morning or you just want to enjoy some stellar indie-rock music, take a listen.

The title track is an explosive opener which sets the tone for the rest of this six-track EP. The music is relentless, with a furious energy which almost seems at odds with Tom Broadbent’s easy vocals. I’m not sure why the unlikely blend works, but it does.

Fool Nelson barely takes their foot off the accelerator. The brief atmospheric “Interlude” gives listeners a little time to catch their breath before the energy amps up again with “Forget It” and “Big Shot.” This is big stadium rock music made all the more impressive when you realise it’s created by a trio. I’m not quite sure how three people achieve such a massive sound, but I’m so glad they do. By the time the final note of the closer “Don’t Feel Right” faded away I was invigorated, and so ready to listen again. It’s that kind of EP.

Bad Dreams is out now. Fool Nelson are currently playing shows around the country to support its release. They’ll also head to the United Kingdom and Europe next May, so stay tuned for those dates if you’re living abroad. It’s only a matter of time before they graduate to large venues befitting their massive sound, so take the opportunity to enjoy them in these intimate settings while you still can.

7 November 2025 – Port Beach Brewery, Walyalup/North Fremantle
27 November 2025 – Solbar, Muru-kutchi/Maroochydore (supporting DICE)
28 November 2025 – Hotel Brunswick, Brunswick Heads (supporting DICE)
29 November 2025 – Rolling Sets @ Ebenezer Park, Gugay/Tweed Heads
5 December 2025 – Harbord Hotel, Garigal/Freshwater
6 December 2025 – Rolling Sets @ Memorial Park, Karagi/The Entrance

Image used with permission from Good Intent

Posted on 31/10/202531/10/2025 by Lauren Katulka

“Rollin’ Stone” – Roosta and Tim Roose

There’s a certain magic that happens when blood relatives make music together. We often hear it when siblings collaborate, but partnerships between parents and their offspring are much rarer and potentially more interesting. With natural chemistry and a shared love of music, Roosta and his son Tim Roose deliver their exciting new EP Rollin’ Stone.

Although he’s much younger, Tim Roose has more recording experience under his belt after releasing his debut EP Polarity just a few months ago. At 59 years young, Rollin’ Stone is Roosta’s first EP but you would know it to listen to him. His voice has a seasoned quality that reflects his life experience. Roosta also wrote every song on the EP, so there’s an authenticity to his delivery that only comes when an artist shares their story. Tim Roose is more than just a supporting player though. His incredible guitar skills elevate every song on Rollin’ Stone. Each one gives Tim the space to really showcase his talents with impressive solos and prominent riffs.

I was instantly captivated by the opening track “Bitumen to Gravel.” With guest vocals from Chelsea J Gibson, this blues-rock number has an irresistible deep groove. Much like the proverbial rolling stone, this EP refuses to stay in just one place. There’s a little country in the stripped back “Down by the Riverbed,” a little psychedelic rock with “Deadwood,” even a little soul and gospel in the final track “I’ll Be Gone.” With Chelsea making her return, it’s the ideal closer for this eclectic, yet satisfying EP.

Rollin’ Stone is out now. Take a listen on your favourite streaming service.

Posted on 23/10/202523/10/2025 by Lauren Katulka

“The Significance of Time” – Tanya Ransom

From the moment I heard Tanya Ransom’s vocals open her new album The Significance of Time, I knew I was in good hands. This is her third full-length studio album and one that’s likely to fly under the radar. You won’t find it on the major streaming services, and its songs are unlikely to gain airplay on mainstream radio. But it’s so good that it’s worth the investment.

It seems fitting that Tanya has kept The Significance of Time away from the streaming services, because listening to it feels like a throwback. I was never tempted to skip or shuffle tracks, preferring instead to hear them in the order Tanya intended. I’ve heard this album countless times over the last week, with the sort of focus I used to feel when I’d purchase music as a teenager. There was no streaming then, so I’d listen to one album on repeat until I could afford the next. There’s no heavy-handed production either, just good songs presented without bells or whistles. I was reminded of classic acts like Fleetwood Mac and Tom Petty as I listened. Tanya has a similar lack of pretence, a way of making music that seems so organic and honest.

Every song on The Significance of Time is a standout. Tanya has refined her signature sound, a blend of folk, alt-country, and Americana that serves as the perfect vehicle for her stellar songwriting. “Winter Song,” “Traffic Lights,” and the fitting closer, “The Light at the End” hit me hard, but ask me for my favourites next week and I may have different answers. It’s that kind of album.

The Significance of Time is available via Tanya’s Bandcamp page as a digital download, CD, or vinyl. She’s currently on tour to support its release. Catch her at one of the following venues around the country.

23 October 2025 – Wesley Anne, Wurunjeri-willam/Northcote (with Adele Oliver and Misty Harlowe)
24 October 2025 – Shedshaker Brewing, Djandak/Castlemaine (FREE- with Adele Oliver)
31 October 2025 – Hybrid Warehouse, Walyalup/Fremantle (Trio show with Adele Oliver)
7-9 November 2025 – Blues At Bridgetown, Geegelup/Bridgetown
29 November 2025 – Good Day Sunshine Festival @ Gloucester Park, Wooditjup/Margaret River
5 December 2025 – Denmark Arts House, Kwoorabup/Denmark (with Tracey Barnett)
6 December 2025 – Wilson Brewing Co, Kinjarling/Albany (FREE – with Tracey Barnett)

Images used with permission from Tanya Ransom Music

Posted on 21/10/202523/10/2025 by Lauren Katulka

“Paper Cuts” – Lyn Bowtell

If the buzz surrounding the Australian premiere of The Golden Bachelor has taught it’s anything, it’s that Aussies want to hear from people who’ve lived a life. The Taylor Swifts and Sabrina Carpenters of the world might dominate the charts, but there’s perhaps a more important place for releases from seasoned talents like Lyn Bowtell. At almost 50, Lyn is sharing some of her most personal stories with the release of Paper Cuts.

The album’s name is so telling. Some say paper cuts are the worst kind. They sting while the rest of the world barely notices. But they heal, and you keep moving forward. In that spirit, Paper Cuts explores themes of pain and resilience.

Lyn eases us into the gritty stuff with the fun single “Cold Shiver” and uplifting blues number “I’m Here.” But by the time her Bella sisters Kate Ballyntyne and Karen O’Shea join her for “I Don’t Want to Stay,” she starts peeling back the layers. Lyn wraps some of the hardest-hitting words in upbeat music. The ukulele in “Small” feels playful, but its lyrics exploring insecurities are so vulnerable and relatable. “Scene of the Crime” has a cool country-rock feel, but it tells a powerful personal story drawn from Lyn’s own experiences of domestic violence, coercive control, and alcoholism. Paper Cuts also has some beautiful quiet moments, including the piano ballad “Ordinary” and the uplifting acoustic “Ride.”

There seems to be so much of Lyn in this album that it’s interesting that the final track, “Paper Cut,” is the only one with a solo songwriting credit. However, when talking about “Scene of the Crime” she explained that the song was too raw and personal to finish alone. I imagine many of the tracks had a similar songwriting journey. Lyn’s collaborators have helped her create an album which shares so much wisdom and makes a profound emotional impact.

Paper Cuts is out now. Lyn is currently on tour to support its release. See her anywhere you can.

Images used with permission from Bec Gracie Publicity

Posted on 09/10/202510/10/2025 by Lauren Katulka

“Stonewater” – New Delica

Naarm/Melbourne funk-rock act New Delica are stretching their artistry with the release of their third album, Stonewater. It’s an exciting 12-song collection that will have you coming back for more.

The opening track “Steady” sets the tone for this genre-bending record. A collaboration with Aussie-born, Berlin-based producer and DJ Holo, the electronic beat drops before a bluesy harmonica joins in. It’s such an interesting fusion; I’m not sure it should work, but it does. Single “Dreamin’” follows, a straight-up groovefest which calls to mind classic 70s disco and the slick contemporary sounds of Daft Punk.

Stonewater continues taking exciting genre twists and turns as it unfolds. “Count Me Out” and “Love in Vain” are blues-rock bangers, “Down to the River” is spine-tingling and seductive with an epic, cinematic quality, and there’s such a laidback charm to the romantic “All I Know.” “Call Me Tonight” is another unexpected collaboration, this time with local folk singer Yours, Georgina. Her sweet voice is such a gorgeous contrast to Pat Coyle’s roughened, masculine tone. The way they play against each other so beautifully brings this country-folk duet to life.

The title track, a piano ballad brings this album to a gentle close. It’s not the place I expect to land given the upbeat openers, but it’s still so satisfying. New Delica kept me guessing, right up to the end. Rather than being disconcerted though, I felt exhilarated by the way New Delica refused to stay in any particular lane. Their sound is dynamic and their talent undeniable, no matter what genres they’re playing with.

Stonewater is out now. New Delica will celebrate its release with an official launch for hometown fans at the Brunswick Ballroom on October 17.

Images used with permission from New Delica

Posted on 08/10/202508/10/2025 by Lauren Katulka

“Evacuate” – Lines of Conviction

Undalup/Busselton rockers Lines of Conviction have given some of their live favourites the studio treatment with the release of their EP, Evacuate. If you’re new to this West Coast band, these five tracks are the perfect introduction.

Capturing the energy of a live performance can be challenging, but the fire behind Lines of Conviction translates beautifully. My speakers may not be a patch on the ones that usually blast out their music, but I still found myself bobbing my head along to opening track “Go My Way.” Lines of Conviction turns the dial up a notch with one of their most requested numbers, “San Miguel.” Every rock act should have a good drinking song in their repertoire, and this is one of the best I’ve heard in some time.

The EP takes a left turn with “The Words You Said.” Featuring the beautiful guest vocals of Sofia Watt, it shows these Aussie rockers have a gentler, more romantic side. If an Aussie ever fronted the Gin Blossoms, their music might sound a little something like this. We get just a glimpse of the softness before Lines of Conviction put the foot back on the floor to bring Evacuate home. “Back to My Place” and the title track are two more rock belters that leave no doubt this band is the real deal. They’re a quintessential Aussie rock act, singing songs for battlers in an accent we recognise as our own. Evacuate doesn’t sound slick as some major label releases do, but it sounds authentic, and I think that’s much more important.

Evacuate is out now on all your favourite streaming services.

Images used with permission from Lines of Conviction