Category: Reviews

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

Jane Barnes Band @ The Art House, Darkinjung Country/Wyong – 12 May 2023

Jimmy Barnes was the first performer I ever saw live. I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve seen him since his Soul Deep tour in the early ‘90s, but it’s a lot. However, I’ve never seen a show quite like the one I watched on Friday night with the Jane Barnes Band.

Bek Jensen opened the show, as she did for close personal friend and Jane Barnes Band member Mahalia Barnes a couple of months ago. It was a shorter set this time and one that was over all too soon. She has such a beautiful, commanding voice and an incredible collection of song. Captivating an audience with originals as an emerging artist is no mean feat. She already had us mesmerised, but when Mahalia and the sublimely talented Karen Lee Andrews joined Bec near the end of the set we were in raptures. The combination of those three incredible voices in harmony was spectacular. Bec was also joined by her mum, Shauna Jensen, a legend in her own right. Watching them perform a song that they wrote together remotely during the pandemic lockdowns so close to Mother’s Day brought a little tear to my eye.

The Jane Barnes Band continued that celebration of family. Rest assured, this wasn’t a Jimmy Barnes show. All the members of the family took a turn at lead. Jane took some coaxing every time, but it was so sweet watching Jimmy’s encouragement. What a beautiful, supportive relationship they have. After watching Jackie take his turn at the mic, my mum whispered to me her surprise at the quality of his voice. Maybe we shouldn’t be so surprised given his genes, but I’d love to hear him sing a bit more. Mahalia is always flawless, and there’s a reason Jimmy is one of the most beloved singers in this country.

The thread of family ran through the songs that made up the setlist. Jimmy told us that Jane picked most of them, assuring us that he wouldn’t be singing songs by artists like The Carpenters otherwise. But that’s exactly what made this concert so fantastic. The song was peppered with a sprinkling of Jimmy’s hits. “Flesh and Blood” resonated just that little bit more after watching Jimmy with the people he loves most in this world. Watching Jimmy share lead vocals on “When Something is Wrong (With My Baby)” with Shauna Jensen, his former backing singer was so special. And I’ll never get tired of “Flame Trees.” But it was the songs I’ve never heard Jimmy tackle that really made this night so memorable. Tracks like “Bad Moon Rising,” “First Cut is the Deepest”, and “The Rose” (really!) were incredible. We even had a special guest bagpiper! Speaking of bagpipes, I had to take the tissues out again for “The Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond,” which Jimmy dedicated to his dearly departed friend, Jock Zonfrillo. Just beautiful.

Wyong was the first stop for the Jane Barnes Band and it was one hell of a debut. They insist things will probably go more smoothly as the tour progresses, but I can’t imagine this family ironing out all of the rough edges. That’s a very good thing. These shows let you spend time with an Aussie icon and his loved ones. They’re unfiltered and a whole lot of fun, along with being immensely talented. Here are the remaining dates on this run, but don’t worry if your city isn’t included. The fam is already talking about travelling around the country if these shows go well. If Wyong is any indication, we won’t have to wait too long for a national run.

20 May 2023 – Milton Theatre, Murramarang Country/Milton
21 May 2023 – Milton Theatre, Murramarang Country/Milton
28 May 2023 – Bowral Bowling Club, Gundungurra Country/Bowral
29 May 2023 – Bowral Bowling Club, Gundungurra Country/Bowral
1 June 2023 – Lizotte’s, Mulubinba/Lambton
2 June 2023 – Lizotte’s, Mulubinba/Lambton
10 June 2023 – Tallagandra Hill Winery, Ngunnawal and Wiradjuri Country/Gundaroo
11 June 2023 – Tallagandra Hill Winery, Ngunnawal and Wiradjuri Country/Gundaroo
18 June 2023 – Joan Theatre, Darug Country/Penrith

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

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“METADRAMATIC” – St. Humain

Ever since seeing Carly Rae Jepsen on Tuesday, I’ve been on a bit of a pop kick. As if on cue, I discovered METADRAMATIC, the fantastic new EP from St. Humain.

Singapore-born and Eora/Sydney based, St. Humain writes music with real heart. The sound is fresh, with electronic and R&B influences that give it a wider appeal. I found myself bopping along from the first note of “Wanna Talk.” It’s a real bop, but its lyrics about wanting to bridge the gap and impress someone as smoothly as a dream alter-ego really cut deep. That’s the genius of St. Humain. The songs are real earworms, but every one has a real heart behind it. St. Humain does upbeat numbers really well. The electro-groove and effortless falsetto of “Sick Sad Love Song” remind me of a modern Maroon 5 number. The danceability of “Momento” reminds me of a Dua Lipa cut.

While St. Humain knows how to start the party, he also creates some heartbreaking ballads. “Tastes Like You” and the closing number “Dial Tones” are intimate numbers, with the keys keeping St. Humain’s voice company.

Pop fans listen up. St. Humain is the real deal. His sophomore EP METADRAMATIC is out now.

Image used with permission from LPR Agency

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Carly Rae Jepsen @ Enmore Theatre, Eora/Newtown – 7 March 2023

In 2007, my husband and I started downloading episodes of Canadian Idol to fill the gap between Australian seasons. From the moment we saw Carly Rae Jepsen audition with her original song “Sweet Talker” (such a gutsy move back then!) we knew she was special. She finished in third place, but we never forgot her. Fast forward to 2011 and the release of “Call Me Maybe.” Suddenly she was the name on everyone’s lips, although later singles never broke through the way that monster track did. That’s a good thing for fans like me because it means we can see her in an intimate venue like the Enmore, where everyone is so passionate about this music.

At a stadium gig, there’s an expectation that bands will play the greatest hits. Red Hot Chilli Peppers were criticised for playing seven songs from their two 2022 albums in Eora/Sydney. Carly Rae played nine songs from her 2022 album The Loneliest Time. She even had the “audacity” to open with two of those new tracks. But the audience was singing right along with her, relishing in the opportunity to experience these songs live for the first time. I was one of them. That album is absolute fire.

While the incredible songs from The Loneliest Time took centre stage, I don’t think anyone walked away disappointed. I had a massive wish list in my head, and Carly Rae delivered just about every track on it. Songs like “Cut to the Feeling”, “Julien”, and “Your Type” didn’t crack the top 100, but listening to the enthusiastic reception they got you’d be forgiven for thinking they were every bit as big as “Call Me Maybe.” The energy of this crowd was incredible, and Carly Rae seemed to lap it up, grinning widely as she jumped around the stage, stopping to touch the hands of lucky fans in the first few rows. From my spot in the dress circle, I watched the crowd move as one, jumping around to the upbeat pop numbers. I almost wished I was down with them instead of dancing in my seat.

As Carly Rae left for an encore, I mentally checked my wish list and started to worry I’d miss out on a few songs, especially the beautiful “Go Find Yourself or Whatever.” I wasn’t sure this soft ballad would find a place in the party, but I needn’t have worried. First song of the encore, just as perfect as I imagined it might be. “Beach House” wasn’t on that wish list, but it probably should have been. Another new track, with some of the best lyrics exploring disaster dates that you’ll ever hear, it really brought back the energy in the room. Carly Rae closed out with “Cut to the Feeling,” another song on that long wish list that sent us home with the very best of vibes.

As I floated back to the train station, buzzing with adrenaline, I marvelled at how far Carly Rae had come. She always had something special as she strummed her guitar and delivered that original song in her Canadian Idol audition. She’s continued writing incredible songs, but she commands a stage now. She could do it in arenas and she deserves to have the fan base that sees her booking larger venues. But I feel so lucky to be able to see her in a much smaller space, at the peak of her powers. I’m sure getting just six hours of sleep will catch up with me at some point, but right now I’m still buzzing. Carly Rae Jepsen continues her So Nice tour with the following Aussie shows:

8 March 2023 – Enmore Theatre, Eora/Sydney
9 March 2023 – The Tivoli, Meeanjin/Brisbane
11-13 March 2023 – Golden Plains, Wadawarrung Country/Meredith
13 March 2023 – The Forum, Naarm/Melbourne
14 March 2023 – The Forum, Naarm/Melbourne

Image source: Stephen Katulka