Category: Album Reviews

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Girlhood” – Hayley Marsten

Australia’s female country artists are releasing some incredible music at the moment. Just days after discovering Sammy White’s fantastic debut album Dirty Laundry, I’m getting swept up in Hayley Marsten’s sophomore album Girlhood.

Dramatic strings introduce us to the opening track “Getting Better”, indicating that this is no ordinary country song, or country album. Hayley has always had crossover appeal and she continues playing with genre here. While country sounds anchor the album, “Getting Better” has a classic rock feel made for long drives. The synth sounds of the next track “Drowning Myself” give it more of a pop feel. And then she delivers “Teen Movie,” a tender country ballad with lyrics that reference ‘80s cinematic legend John Hughes. I was once a shy teen who spent too much time hoping for my own Jake Ryan or a friend like Ferris Bueller to make my life more exciting, this one really resonated with me.

From rock to pop to pure country in just three tracks. Hayley Marsten isn’t an artist who likes to stand still. She’s a smart musician, adept at identifying the right sound to tell her stories. She turns up the energy for songs of strength like “I Am a Rich Man” and “I’m Fine, Thanks”. But then she can slow things down for more poignant moments, ensuring we catch every lyric of incredible, intimate songs like “I Knew the Pain” and “My Body Was Not My Own.”

I love Girlhood for similar reasons that I love Dirty Laundry. Both albums unfold like diaries, telling the stories of the strong women at their centre. There are light moments of cheeky humour and darker moments that reveal anger, pain, and loss. In the case of Hayley, her latest release shows a natural evolution. Her debut Spectacular Heartbreak was excellent, but I think Girlhood is even better. Take a listen and check her out on one of the remaining shows on her Girlhood tour, which continues tomorrow night.

23 June 2023 – Low 302, Eora/Sydney
24 June 2023 – The Servo Bar, Dharawal and Dhurga Country/Port Kembla
31 August 2023 – Oodies Café, Taribelang Bunda, Gooreng Gooreng, Gurang, and Bailai Country/Bundaberg

Images used with permission from Revolutions per Minute

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Dirty Laundry” – Sammy White

I’m not interested in artists with a lot of polish. I want to know about the good, the bad, and the ugly. I want it raw and real. And that’s exactly why Dirty Laundry, the debut album from country singer-songwriter Sammy White, is so appealing.

As the title of her album suggests, Sammy isn’t afraid to tell it like it is. This is a confessional body of work with songs that touch on Sammy’s sense of self and her relationships, especially with fellow country artist Brad Cox. He guests on the romantic ballad “Love on the Line,” which touches on the challenges of sustaining a relationship as travelling musicians. Songs celebrating the strong women in regional areas like “Country as Cow Shit”, “Diamonds and Dolly”, and “You Sound Like Me” are bound to resonate with her fans. However, you don’t need to be from the country, or even a fan of country music, to appreciate this music. I really related to the picture of a peaceful, uncomplicated love she draws in “Countryside.” “I’ll Do Me, You Do You,” the beautiful ballad of acceptance featuring Brad Butcher which closes the album, is another stunning song.

Listening to Dirty Laundry, it’s difficult to believe that Sammy was nominated for New Talent of the Year at the 2022 Golden Guitar Awards. Just a year on she sounds so seasoned, confident in her vocals and her message. This album paints a picture of a performer who knows herself and is unafraid to share that with the world. It’s refreshing and so exciting to hear. Dirty Laundry is out now. Sammy is currently supporting Brad Cox on his Australian tour, so make sure you get there early if you’ve got tickets to the remaining shows:

22 June 2023 – The Cambridge Hotel, Mulubinba/Newcastle
23 June 2023 – Manning Bar, Eora/Sydney
24 June 2023 – Anita’s Theatre, Thurraral Country/Thirroul

Images used with permission from Sammy White

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Bed and Breakfast” – King of Spain

It feels like far too long ago that we were introduced to King of Spain’s debut single “Ferrol.” If they left you wanting more too, wrap your ears around Bed and Breakfast, the band’s first EP.

Each track takes us to another European city. We’re veering off the beaten path here. We take visit “Ferrol,” a Spanish city, for the party. “Grabovac”, named after the Croatian city, is a smooth operator, skilled in the art of seduction. “Newburg” is a little psychedelic, so perhaps it’s the part of the European vacation where we experiment with some mushrooms. But what a trip is it. “Saint Pol” brings us back to earth with its deep-seated groove.

The press release mentions Allen Stone, and I can certainly hear similarities in the old-school sensibility and Peter White’s effortlessly soulful vocals. But I can also hear a little classic Hall & Oates coming through. And then there’s that thing you just can’t put your finger on that sets King of Spain apart. At just four tracks, Bed and Breakfast still isn’t enough to satisfy me. But it’s a delicious serve of funk and soul that’s certainly whetting my appetite for more from this Tartanya/Adelaide act.

Images used with permission from Big Oak Records

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Learning Futures” EP – Franjapan

From the moment Franjapan count us in to “Showtime” and those bouncy guitar notes kick in, you know you’re in for a good time. The opening track to Learning Futures, the band’s first studio EP, it sets the scene for this joyous collection of songs.

“Stonewall” is another indie-rock banger, the kind of song that makes you want to jump around and punch your fist in the air. I loved “Lucy” on its release, and its appeal hasn’t faded. It’s a bit more romantic than the songs that came before, a Sam Fender-esque song that would sound perfect turned up loud as you take on the open road. “Awake on my Eyes” is the EP’s most poignant moment, a gentle guitar ballad with beautiful harmonies and tender lyrics. Just what you thought you had Franjapan figured out, this song proves they’re much more than just a party band. Closing number “Choo Choo” is the perfect closer, an anthemic number that I can imagine hearing in stadiums. Give it time.

Franjapan road-tested these songs in the live arena and were thrilled at the enthusiastic response they got from audiences. Sometimes things get lost in translation, with studio versions failing to match the energy of the live arena. I haven’t seen Franjapan live, yet, but I do know these songs are buzzing. And they make me want to see them live, which is a pretty good result in my books. I’ll have to wait a while, but if you’re in Naarm/Melbourne you can see Franjapan launching Learning Futures at The Espy on June 16.

Images used with permission from beehive; main image credit: Jontee Langton

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Last of Your Kind” – The VANNS

Through The Walls, the debut album from The VANNS, was my favourite release of 2019. I still have it on regular rotation. This Aussie rock band set such a high bar from the jump that I wondered whether they could ever come close with album number two. I found myself getting my hopes up with each brilliant single release. Now that Last of Your Kind is out in the world, I can emphatically say it’s every bit as good as The VANNS’ debut. In fact, it might even be better.

I was hooked from the first shimmery notes of the title track. Then Jimmy Vann’s warm, easy vocals kicked in, followed by the drums, and everything felt so right. There’s a familiarity about The VANNS’ music. Their sound is instantly recognisable, accessible, yet it never feels formulaic. Every song is a banger. They do anthemic rock music so well. The energy stays up with the singles “Haunted” and “Ever” following the album’s title track. But The VANNS have a sensitive side too. Ballads like “Silhouette” and the stunning closer “Collide” provide poignant moments that let us catch our breath. This album has been a long time coming, with some singles like “Red Light” and “Feels Good Now” dating back to 2021, yet it sounds so cohesive. In taking their time to release another LP, The VANNS have got it so right.

With the release of Last of Your Kind, The VANNS’ prove that their exceptional debut album was no fluke. They’re simply one of the best bands in the country. Press play and hit repeat, because you’ll want to listen to Last of Your Kind again and again. The VANNS’ are just about the embark on some instores and shows to support the new album’s release. Tickets to the gigs are limited, so pounce on any that you can get your hands on!

19 May 2023 – Greville Records, Naarm/Melbourne (1 pm)
19 May 2023 – The Espy, Naarm/Melbourne
20 May 2023 – Crosstalk Records, Eora/Sydney (1 pm)
20 May 2023 – Oxford Art Factory, Eora/Sydney
21 May 2023 – Music Farmers, Woolyungah/Wollongong (3 pm)
21 May 2023 – La La La’s, Woolyungah/Wollongong
24 May 2023 – Sonic Sherpa, Meeanjin/Brisbane (6 pm)
25 May 2023 – The Zoo, Meeanjin/Brisbane
27 May 2023 – The Jynx House @ Your Mates Brewing Co., Kabi Kabi and Jinibara Country/Sunshine Coast
16 June 2023 – San Fran, Wellington
17 June 2023 – The Tuning Fork, Auckland
21 July 2023 – Splendour in the Grass, Ngarindjin / North Byron Parklands

Images used with permission from beehive; main photo credit: Senor Friday

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Self-Titled EP – Oscar LaDell

Singer, songwriter, and guitarist Oscar LaDell brings a world of experience to his self-titled debut solo release. With just four tracks he shows he’s an artist with an old soul who refuses to be pigeonholed.

Now based in Naarm/Melbourne, Oscar was born in Denver Colorado. He moved to Purakaunui in the South of Aotearoa/New Zealand before relocating here. You can hear all those influences in this music. Opening track “Somber Land” has a cool blues vibe. I can imagine it sitting neatly on the soundtrack of a modern Western noir movie. The gospel-esque choir intro of follow-up track “Summer Rain” signals a musical left turn. It’s a spiritual, soulful number which, like the song before it, feels classic. “Loving You” is every bit as romantic as its title suggests. It’s gentler and more vulnerable than the songs that came before it. With a sound that’s a little more stripped back, Oscar’s voice and lyrics draw you in. “Falling For You” brings the EP home with its irresistible groove.

With his commanding vocals, Oscar LaDell could sing the phone book. I also found myself relishing his guitar playing, appreciating the way his skill with this instrument elevated every track. But this EP shows he’s got more than that voice and gift with the guitar on his side. There’s a deep understanding of music, of genres, of how to craft songs that impact the soul and spirit. It’s the perfect introduction to his tunes, and a great sign of what’s to come. For more of Oscar’s music, check him out at one of his upcoming gigs:

19 May 2023 – Beneath Drivers Lane, Naarm/Melbourne (supporting Louis King & The Liars Klub)
20 May 2023 – The BEAST, Naarm/Melbourne (FREE – with Cherry Factory and Ella Lewis)
25 May 2023 – The Drunken Poet, Naarm/Melbourne
25 November 2023 – The Blues Train, Wadawarrung Country/Queenscliff

Image via Oscar LaDell EPK

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“It Looks Better Than It Sounds” – Two Times Shy

I raved about Two Times Shy’s single “Tearing Up Inside” a couple of months ago. Now it’s found a home with the Meeanjin/Brisbane band’s debut EP. Don’t let its tounge-in-cheek name, It Looks Better Than It Sounds, fool you. These lads are playing coy, because it sounds fabulous.

Proving that there’s still life in the pop-punk genre, Two Times Shy come out swinging. Every song sounds like an instant classic. If you’re feeling a little relationship angst, tracks like the bold opener “Lonely” and “You and I” will strike a nerve. They’re all fantastic, with big guitar chords, singable choruses, and bold drums driving them along.

But for me “I’m Ready This Time” is the standout. From the opening acoustic guitar, you realise this is the song that breaks the formula. The pop-punk formula works well, don’t get me wrong, but this is the song that hints that this band offers a lot more than that. Its lyrics are truly vulnerable. It’s a real revelation. We also see their tender side with an acoustic cut of “Tearing Up Inside,” which really brings out the emotion behind this pop-punk smash.

There’s a reason these guys are on the radar of international tastemakers like idobi Radio. They’re bloody good. It Looks Better Than It Sounds is out now. Two Times Shy will launch the EP for hometown fans at Tomcat on April 14.

Images used with permission from Ruckus PR; main image credit: Gabi Rankine Creative

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Between Tonight & Tomorrow” – Matt Joe Gow

It’s taken more than four years for Matt Joe Gow to release the follow-up to his last acclaimed album Break, Rattle and Roll. It’s been time well-spent though, with Matt showcasing some of the most accomplished songs of his career in his latest album, Between Tonight & Tomorrow.

When you have such accomplished songs in your arsenal, they don’t need bells and whistles. Organic arrangements ensure the lyrics shine. Songs feel like they’re captured in the moment, with instrumentalists and backing vocalists joining Matt for a jam.

I already raved about the singles, “’Til My Whole Heart Bursts”, “Sweet Collapse,” and the title track, but every song here is so strong. They’re introspective, with lyrics that explore weighty subjects like our memories, the loss of loved ones, and rebirth, but the jangly guitars and Matt’s easy, reassuring voice ensure the sound never gets too heavy. I found new favourites, like the captivating opener “Shipwreck,” the poetic “Go Ahead, Celebrate,” and the poignant closer, “Closing In.” But everything here is so good. This is Americana at its finest.

I was so impressed with Break, Rattle and Roll, but Matt Joe Gow has raised the bar even higher with Between Tonight & Tomorrow. It’s a masterclass in songwriting and proof positive that when you craft quality songs, less is more.

Between Tonight & Tomorrow is out now. Matt Joe Gow is currently touring the album around the country. Catch him at one of these venues near you:

26 March 2023 – Memo Music Hall, Naarm/Melbourne (matinee album launch)
31 March 2023 – Palais-Hepburn, Dja Dja Wurrung Country/Hepburn Springs (with The Dead Leaves)
2 April 2023 – Hydrant Food Hall, Wadawurrung and Dja Dja Wurrung Country/Ballarat
7 April 2023 – Baroque Room, Dharug and Gundungurra Country/Katoomba (with The Dead Leaves)
8 April 2023 – Stag & Hunter, Mulubinba/Newcastle (with The Dead Leaves)
9 April 2023 – Hiway Enmore, Eora/Sydney (with The Dead Leaves)
15 April 2023 – Sandy Point Centre, Gunaikurnai Country/Sandy Point (with The Dead Leaves)
21 April 2023 – Star Hotel, Dhudhuroa/Yackandandah (with The Dead Leaves)
22 April 2023 – Mt Beauty Festival, Dhudhuroa and Yaitmathang Country/Mt Beauty (with The Dead Leaves)
25 April 2023 – Arrowtown Festival, Otago

Images used with permission from Matt Joe Gow

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Lust for Love” – Mother Culture

Leave your expectations at the door and discover Mother Culture’s sophomore EP, Lust for Love. The Naarm/Melbourne duo plays with genre to deliver a collection of songs that keep you guessing.

While most EPs set the foundation with their opening number, Mother Culture ease you in to this EP. “The Lesson I Can’t Seem to Learn” is a gentle acoustic folk ditty, which makes the big guitar chords of the next track “Fall On My Face” a real surprise. These guys know how to rock, whether it’s with this contemporary sound or the more vintage, psychedelic sounds of follow-up track “The Girl With the Doja Cat Tattoo.” Mother Culture really deliver something for everyone here. It’s all so much fun and never boring. “Dive” is classic country, with a driving acoustic guitar reminiscent of a Johnny Cash tune. “Should She Stay” is an upbeat pop-rocker with an irresistible hook you’ll find yourself humming for days. The EP closes out with the title track, a beautiful piano ballad that shows once and for all that Mother Culture are true musical chameleons.

The left turns of Lust for Love might be jarring for some listeners, but as someone with eclectic tastes I think they’re a lot of fun. With these six songs, Mother Culture prove they’re a band that refuses to be pigeonholed. Strap yourself in and enjoy the ride. Mother Culture will launch their EP at the Evelyn Hotel in Ngár-go/Fitzroy on March 25.

Images used with permission from Mother Culture

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Feelings Worth Living For” – Jim Alxndr

Most of us enjoy good music every day. But truly great music? The kind of music that gets under your skin and into your heart and permeates every cell? That’s so much rarer. That’s the kind of music Jim Alxndr delivers on his new EP Feelings Worth Living For.

That title instantly struck me. It raises such expectations. You’d better evoke powerful emotions when you dare to give an EP a name like that. But from the moment the lush, layered vocals of the opening track “Sticks and Stones” kicked in, I thought he might just deliver on what he’s promised.

Naarm/Melbourne-based Jim is a talented producer who’s worked with the likes of Carly Rae Jepsen, Jack Garrett, and Paul Moody. It gives him a unique understanding of music that really shines through this recording. It sounds incredible, with rich vocal harmonies and electro-acoustic sound collages. The music wraps around exquisite lyrics. They’re introspective, yet somehow so relatable. I found myself moved time and time again. When the stunning closer “The Light” faded out, I had to take a few moments to compose myself. And then listen again.

“The songs on Feelings Worth Living For all feel like big, understanding hugs to me. Like the best friend you call at 2 am crying cause you know they’re gonna pick up and you know they’re gonna accept you no matter what you’re going through. Or the picture of your partner on your phone lock screen that you look at and can’t help but smile at,” Jim explained. “The songs seem to listen to my thoughts and give me back an understanding of our current existence – hence the name of the EP.”

Take some time to listen to Feelings Worth Living For. In a world where so much music seems disposable, this is one EP that will encourage you to keep coming back for more.

Images used with permission from beehive