Category: Album Reviews

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“What Rhymes With Christmas?” – Teeny Tiny Stevies

I said I was going to highlight some Christmas music. You were warned. If you’re not ready to go full-Mariah yet, the Teeny Tiny Stevies’ new EP What Rhymes With Christmas? might be the release to ease you into the festive season.

I know, I know, I’m not in the Teeny Tiny Stevies’ core demographic. I’m definitely not a kid, and I don’t have any around me. I don’t have to listen to “children’s music.” I’ve resisted previous Teeny Tiny Stevies releases because I’ve already learned those important lessons about sharing, using sunscreen, and sleeping through the night. But Christmas is a season that brings out the inner child in us all, so these songs are a little more accessible than their standard fare.

This EP is full of really lovely folky music. It makes such a change from hearing the big divas and crooners that dominate Christmas playlists. Some might say it’s the ideal summer music. That’s what we need for an Aussie Christmas. Speaking of, it’s still so refreshing to hear musicians singing about our unique experiences of Christmas. There are references to Paul Kelly music, cicadas, the heat, and even biscuits. No cookies here!

“As songwriters, we feel so lucky to be welcomed into families’ homes via our Teeny Tiny Stevies catalogue, and while we’re privileged enough to be there it feels like the right time to add our local voice to the mix of mostly international Christmas classics,” Beth and Byll Stephens explained.

“Like most Australians, while enjoying the classic Christmas carols on offer, there is this weird disconnect when we’re singing along to songs about roasting chestnuts & snow men. It was a satisfying challenge, when writing these new songs, to ask ourselves ‘what does it feel like and sound like at MY Christmas right here at home’. ”

“I also like the idea of Christmas songs that aren’t completely about Christmas, for example ‘All I Want For Christmas Is You’ is actually a love song, and ‘How to Make Gravy’ is the story of a family, I mean they are about Christmas but there’s another narrative. And we’ve honed in on that idea with ‘Three’. ”

Teeny Tiny Stevies are a children’s act, and I know that little ones will embrace these songs that tell real Aussie Christmas stories. But I encourage all of the adults out there to give What Rhymes With Christmas? a listen too. Like me, you might be pleasantly surprised.

If you’re still searching for the perfect present for little ones in your lives, how about some Teeny Tiny Stevies tickets? They’re taking their How to Be Creative tour all over the country in the New Year.

6 January 2023 – Albury Entertainment Centre, Bungambrawatha/Albury
7 January 2023 – Civic Theatre Auditorium, Wiradjuri Country/Wagga Wagga
8 January 2023 – Canberra Theatre Playhouse, Ngunnawal Country/Canberra
13 January 2023 – HOTA Lakeside Room, Yugambeh Country/Gold Coast
14 January 2023 – Old Museum Concert Hall, Meeajin/Brisbane
15 January 2023 – Armitage Centre @ Empire Theatre, Jagera, Giabal and Jarowair Country/Toowoomba
17 January 2023 – Events Centre Playhouse, Kabi Country/Caloundra
19 January 2023 – Walter Reid Cultural Centre, Darumbal Country/Rockhampton
20 January 2023 – MECC, Yuwibara Country/Mackay
22 January 2023 – Tanks Arts Centre, Gimuy/Cairns
27 January 2023 – Dunstan Playhouse, Tarntanya/Adelaide
28 January 2023 – Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre, Boandik Country/Mt Gambier
3 February 2023 – Port Cygnet Cannery, Melukerdee and Lyluequonny Country/Cygnet
4 February 2023 – Earl Arts Centre, Therrernotepanner, Leterrermairrener and Panniher Country/Launceston
5 February 2023 – Theatre Royal, Nipaluna/Hobart
12 February 2023 – Live at the Bowl @ Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Naarm/Melbourne
4 March 2023 – Twilight at Taronga @ Taronga Zoo, Eora/Sydney

Images used with permission from Revolutions per Minute

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Georgia Maq Live at the Sydney Opera House” – Georgia Maq

I’ve always appreciated Georgia Maq’s work, whether she’s fronting punk act Camp Cope or playing solo. However, my love for her music has deepened after hearing her new Live at Sydney Opera House EP. It’s a beautiful recording featuring five tracks recorded at her Vivid show in the Opera House’s Utzon Room last year.

The Utzon Room is a small, intimate space, perfect for stripping music back. We hear Georgia on piano, backed only with strings. In doing so, we hear her music in a new way. While her solo material has always been a little quieter and more introspective than her work with Camp Cope, I found I could appreciate it even more without the layered electronic sounds. This is simplicity at its finest. Georgia’s voice shines with such simple accompaniment, encouraging you to listen to her lyrics, to her stories.

While her own stories dominate, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention her stunning cover of Regina Spektor’s “Samson” which closes this EP. I’ve always loved this song. Regina set the bar so high, but Georgia’s version is equally beautiful. I’m so glad I got the chance to hear it on this EP.

Georgia Maq Live at the Sydney Opera House is out now.

Images used with permission from Our Golden Friend; main image photo by Jess Gleeson + design by Sebi White

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“The Silence of You” – Kyle Lionhart

I knew before pressing play that I was going to love Kyle Lionhart’s sophomore album The Silence of You. I’d already fawned over the singles “Chemical Heart” and “Lighthouse,” highlighting Kyle’s personal lyrics and heartfelt delivery. But I wasn’t prepared for just how much this collection of songs would move me.

When you release a few exceptional singles, they often become the highlights of the album. That’s not the case here. Every song is a standout, a powerful and personal revelation. Perhaps the pandemic has something to do with that. With the exception of “Locked to Towns,” penned during the songwriting sessions for his debut album, Kyle wrote every song during lockdown.

While we were all reflective while stuck in our homes, the period was especially telling for Kyle. Near the end of 2019, after more than six years of constant touring, he started feeling like pursuing his career came at the expense of his most important relationships. When the pandemic forced him to take a break from the road the following year, it was time to start working on those relationships and himself. These songs stemmed from that period of self-reflection; they’re powerful, sometimes confronting, and always authentic. Kyle admits that he cried every day in the studio singing these songs; that emotion really comes through. You can hear it in his voice, but make sure you listen to those lyrics to really understand the powerful experiences and feelings that shaped these songs.

While these songs deal with some heavy themes, The Silence of You isn’t a dark album. Kyle’s voice has a beautiful warmth that lifts you up as you listen. There’s also an undercurrent of optimism that brings lightness to the material. This album celebrates human connection and love. While that exists, we can never stay down for too long. Kyle will play shows in the new year to support the album’s release.

20 January 2023 – Milk Bar, Boorloo/Perth
21 January 2023 – Jive, Tarntanya/Adelaide
27 January 2023 – The Factory Theatre, Eora/Sydney
28 January 2023 – Corner Hotel, Naarm/Melbourne
3 February 2023 – Mos Desert Clubhouse, Yugambeh Country/Gold Coast
4 February 2023 – The Zoo, Meeanjin/Brisbane
10 February 2023 – Solbar, Kabi Kabi and Jinibara Country/Sunshine Coast
11 February 2023 – The Northern, Cavanbah/Byron Bay

Images used with permission from Revolutions per Minute

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“For Wise People Who Appreciate Quality” – Sick Visor

As if they understood just how challenging Thursdays can be, Naarm/Melbourne indie-punk duo Sick Visor have dropped their debut EP For Wise People Who Appreciate Quality, and yes, it’s every bit as fabulous as its title. In fact, it’s an absolute joy.

Indie-punk and joy don’t often go hand in hand, but this isn’t your average collection of punk songs. There’s the energy, driving drums, and big chords we associate with the genre, but these songs are more about celebrating life than complaining about what’s wrong with it. I’m not sure I’ve ever related more to a punk song than the opening track, “Happy Pessimistic People Person Introvert”. “My Legs Feel Good In My Pants” reminds us all to appreciate the now and all its little wins. Want more positivity? “Love is Free” brings it in spades. Not that Sick Visor view the world totally through rose-coloured glasses. “Shit for Brains” is a self-deprecating anthem for musos all too aware of their shortcomings. “Sticky Tape” rounds out the EP. If ever a song was the equivalent of a big warm hug, this is it. Again, it embraces the flaws, reminding us that while we might be holding ourselves together with sticky tape, we’re far from the only ones.

After supporting the likes of Bugs and TOWNS in Melbourne, Sick Visor have announced some headlining gigs to support today’s release of For Wise People Who Appreciate Quality. Catch them at one of the following shows:

25 November 2022 – Greaser Bar, Brisbane (FREE)
2 December 2022 – Penny’s, Naarm/Melbourne (FREE)
3 December 2022 – Simple Cider, Nipaluna/Hobart (supporting the Sleepyheads)
5 December 2022 – MONA Lawns, Nipaluna/Hobart


Images used with permission from Habit Music Co; main image credit: Nick Manuell

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Jacob Fitzgerald & The Electric City” – Jacob Fitzgerald

I must admit, I listened to Jacob Fitzgerald’s new EP, Jacob Fitzgerald & The Electric City, more out of my own interest than any serious desire to write up a review. I’ve already fawned over three of the EP’s six tracks, so what more would I have to say? There’s probably a point where continuing to praise an artist gets boring, but once I listened to this EP I knew I’d have to put my fingers to the keyboard and get typing.

Jacob had already shown incredible diversity, delivering rock swag with his song “Muse,” then showing his softer side with softer, more pop-influenced tracks “The Long Way Home” and “Shame on You.” The EP delivers more pieces of the Jacob Fitzgerald puzzle. The opening track and current single “My Girl” reminds me a little of “Jessie’s Girl,” both thematically and in terms of its instant radio-friendly appeal. “The Electric City” is a brooding synth-driven number that has me thinking of classic 80s tunes from Don Henley and Tears for Fears. It’s really cool. After the bravado of “Muse,” the vulnerability he shows in “Peter Pan” is even more striking.

Jacob Fitzgerald & The Electric City shows Jacob is such a multi-faceted artist with plenty to show us. Something tells me that while this EP is diverse, something tells me there’s plenty more to come. That’s exciting. Jacob is about the embark on the shows in the major capitals supporting Loose Bricks. Rest assured, you want to turn up early enough for his set.

25 November 2022 – Black Bear Lodge, Meeanjin/Brisbane
26 November 2022 – Hiway Enmore, Eora/Sydney
16 December 2022 – Crown and Anchor, Tandanya/Adelaide
17 December 2022 – The Workers Club, Naarm/Melbourne

Images used with permission from Good Intent

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Fearless” – Is MAN KIND

Most of the time the music that is polished within an inch of its life. In some cases, it might be too polished. I can be refreshing to hear something that’s a little rawer and less refined. I think that’s one of the reasons I’m really enjoying Fearless, the debut EP from Yugambeh Country/Gold Coast outfit Is MAN KIND.

I must admit, it took me a couple of songs to get on board. But by the time the nostalgic “1984” kicked in, I was a fan. This is really music of a different time, old school rock that doesn’t need the bells and whistles. I can’t imagine many bands recording a track like “Super Sexy Satisfaction,” which is every bit as wild as it sounds, but it’s delivered with so much swagger that you can’t help but like it. Closing number “The Impossible Dream” is a big gospel-rock ballad that’s just so much fun.

Listening to these songs, you get the sense that Is MAN KIND are just a few blokes who make music because they enjoy it. They’d probably be more at home at your local pub than an arena, but there’s a real honest charm about that. If I ever saw them in my local, I’d definitely buy them a beer or two. Leave your expectations at the door and I think Fearless might just win you over too. As you might imagine, is MAN KIND have some gigs coming up. Get yourself along to one of the following shows, because I’m sure it’ll be a good time.

27 November 2022 – Last Night on Earth, Yugambeh Country/Gold Coast (Free album launch)
11 December 2022 – Hotel Brunswick, Durring/Brunswick Heads
17 December 2022 – Xmas Cheers ‘n’ Beers @ Madocke Beer Brewing Company, Yugambeh Country/Gold Coast
5 February 2023 – Hotel Brunswick, Durring/Brunswick Heads

Images used with permission from Footstomp Music

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“BIG!” – Betty Who

It’s an exciting time for pop music, and women are front and centre of the revolution. Taylor Swift has just broken all records with Midnights. I can’t stop listening to Carly Rae Jepsen’s newie, The Loneliest Time. Another artist who deserves to be in the conversation is Betty Who. The Australian-American pop trailblazer recently dropped her latest album BIG!, which is her most personal and probably her best to date.

I must admit, I came to this album a little reluctantly. I’ve been bingeing the other two big pop releases, and I expected this one to fall short. But Betty had me from the title track. It’s the perfect opener, a nostalgic pop ballad that unashamedly introduces and celebrates all 6-foot, two-inches of Betty. “WEEKEND” turns up the energy with more ‘80s vibes and fun, flirty lyrics. Betty Who is a master at crafting these feel-good pop bangers. Listening to songs like “BLOW OUT MY CANDLE” and “SHE CAN DANCE” is a pure delight. They’re great fun, but tap into those introspective lyrics and I guarantee you’ll fall a little more in love. These are songs of strength, celebrations of the human spirit and embracing all parts of yourself.

While I enjoyed the upbeat moments, the quieter songs really made me fall in love with this album. “SOMEONE ELSE” slows the beats down and reveals the vulnerability that comes with opening your heart to another human being. The closing song “GROWN UPS GROW APART” is so stripped back and raw. Its quiet power draws you in, encouraging you to listen to its poignant lyrics. It’s such a special song, and the perfect way to end this album.

Like many of you I imagine, I didn’t know much about Betty Who beyond her big covers of “I Love You Always Forever” and the Queer Eye theme. BIG! shows Betty Who is so much more than that. She’s an incredible songwriter who has really floored me with this record. I understand it’s hard to tear yourself away from the new Taylor Swift and Carly Rae records, but I promise it’s worth giving BIG! a listen.

Images used with permission from Good Intent

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Machines of Love & Grace” – Kav Temperley

I was a casual Eskimo Joe fan. I’d sing along to “To The Sea” or “Black Fingernails, Red Wine” as enthusiastically as any Aussie, but I wouldn’t buy the albums or see the band live. Then in 2018, Kav Temperley dropped his first solo album, All Your Devotion, and I felt I finally understood what all the fuss was about. I bought the vinyl, I went to a gig, and I named that album my favourite of the year. With Ben Lee and Amy Shark releasing incredible music in the same year, it was no mean feat. So understandably, I had some pretty high expectations for Kav’s new solo effort, Machines of Love & Grace.

This album has been two and a half years in the making. The global pandemic had a way of slowing down so many things, including this release. However, like a good cheese or red wine, a little time leading up to the finished product is far from a bad thing.

“Machines Of Love & Grace started its life in the very first week of COVID,” he explained. “Myself and my wife had just returned from the US and then one day later the whole entire world shut down. At the same time, I also came down with a mystery virus that was too early in the pandemic to test for COVID. So while everyone went into lockdown, I began to isolate myself in my bedroom only talking to my family through a small crack in the bedroom window.”

Without the distractions of the outside world, Kav could focus on the lyrics, producing some of the best-written songs of his career. As someone who fell so deeply for the songs on his debut, I don’t say that flippantly. Kav tackles some big stuff here. The opening track “Emergency in D Minor” ruminates on self-isolation. The title track was inspired by the screen addiction so many of us experience, not just during lockdown but through the modern age. The most recent single “Last of the Wine” paints a portrait of alcoholism and domestic violence. “The Fence” touches on anti-vaxxers and the environment. Machines of Love & Grace is a weighty album, but Kav’s knack for creating catchy melodies ensures it doesn’t feel too heavy. It makes you think, but also encourages you to keep listening.

Coming out of a time of isolation, the choice collaborations feel even more poignant. Kav teams up with some of Western Australia’s best musicians: John Butler, Katy Steele, and Siobhan Cotchin. Hearing their voices combine and the energy in their connections is a beautiful thing.

Machines of Love & Grace is an incredible follow-up to All Your Devotion. I’m falling just a little more in love with every listen. Kav plans on touring this album with shows in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth. Check his website for show details and tickets from 10am on Tuesday October 25.

Images used with permission from On the Map PR; main image credit: Jarrad Levy

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Me & You” – Joan & The Giants

After waxing lyrical about Joan & The Giants’ singles “The Weekend” and “Home Song,” I wasn’t sure what I’d have to say about the band’s debut EP Me & You. That’s two of the five songs after all. But now this beautiful EP is out in the world, I knew I had to find the words and put this band back on your radar.

Listening to “The Weekend” opening the EP reminded me just how much I love what this band does. If you somehow missed the single on its release, I know it’s going to hook you in. “Slow Motion” is a slow burner, in the best possible way, a gentle love song that captures the headiness of finding someone you spark with so beautifully. “Hardest Part” is a beautiful piano ballad. Its minimalist instrumentation ensures you focus in on the powerful lyrics and Grace Newton-Wordsworth’s stunning voice. “Home Song” brings us back to the familiar before the EP ends with “Centerfold.” We’ve all heard so many love songs that avoid using specifics to ensure they relate to the reader. I love that Joan & The Giants get specific, with references to Tim Burton characters and swimming lessons. The details bring the love story of Grace and her bandmate Aaron Birch to life in technicolour. It’s such a beautiful way to end this special EP.

The beauty of an EP is that it lets you sit in the band’s music for a little longer than a single. The singles felt all too fleeting, like a cool breeze on a summer’s day that hit you for a moment before moving on. The EP wraps you up in a warm hug, staying with you for as long as you need the comfort. And if that’s not quite long enough, you can always press play.

Images used with permission from Kick Push PR

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Get Better” – Old Mervs

If The Wombats and The Vanns had a baby, they might sound a little something like Old Mervs. Coming out of Western Australia, Dave House & Henry Carrington-Jones are leading the surf-rock renaissance with a sound that’s much bigger and more addictive than any duo has the right to create. With the release of their debut EP Get Better today, it’s time for the nation to realise just how good these guys are.

I’ve spent a solid week just listening to this EP and I still can’t get enough. These songs are so good, with self-reflective lyrics fuelled by the lads finishing high school and figuring our what comes next coupled with a big rock sound that goes down easy. They’re accessible and irresistibly catchy, hooking you from the opening drum notes of “Where I Go”. I found myself singing along with the choruses from the get go, and when the final guitar chords of the slow-burning closer “How I Met Your Mother” faded away I couldn’t wait to press play again. All these songs were new to me, but before long they felt like old friends. It feels mean to single any out because they’re all new favourites. And besides, this music is better felt and experienced than analysed. Just turn it on and turn that volume up.

Get Better is out now. Do yourself a favour and get around it, because it’s stellar.

Images used with permission from beehive