Category: Reviews

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“coming to terms with it all” – PRETTY BLEAK

It’s so satisfying watching a band come of age. With the release of their sophomore EP an introduction to a theme last year, I noted that Naarm/Melbourne-based band PRETTY BLEAK had dropped “their most cohesive and compelling body of work to date.” They continue their upward trajectory with their latest offering, coming to terms with it all.

“The EP serves to explore the difficulty of navigating interpersonal relationships on a societal scale, from the perspective of people for whom these things are rarely easy,” explained frontman Sam Thomas. “It details reckoning with obligation, perception, self-interest, betrayal, introspection, and resignation or inevitability through the lens of our own personal experiences, whether those be triumphs or catastrophic failures.”

They’re some heavy themes, but PRETTY BLEAK balance them with optimistic melodies that are bound to put a smile on your face. The atmospheric sounds of EP opener “i.need2” naturally lead into the upbeat banger, “behere.4u.” With its big brassy horns, lush synths, and ridiculously catchy chorus, it’s so much fun. “how ironic” has a similar energy, but when the music is so enjoyable you want to stay in that space. It reminds me a little of the music The Band CAMINO is making these days, an easy blend of indie rock and electropop that has you on your feet and begging for more.

In “with your friends,” PRETTY BLEAK lean more into that electronic sound to great effect. It’s such a different vibe, but one that helps give this EP some dynamics. I enjoy it, but not as much as that high-octane sound of “something’s wrong with me.” This the kind of music that PRETTY BLEAK excels at, a bold sound that’s pure joy paired with angsty lyrics that connect so easily our own insecurities.

The closing number “you can be the river” is a breathtaking change of pace. A piano ballad at its core, it sounds like nothing else on this EP. Its poetic lyrics are authentically romantic, and its orchestration is so richly layered. Every time I hear it, I have to take a moment to stop and absorb it.

And then, once I’ve felt all the feelings, I hit play again, because coming to terms with it all is that kind of EP. One that encourages repeat listens because it’s so catchy and likeable. PRETTY BLEAK have honed the sound they pivoted towards in an introduction to a theme beautifully. They also wrote, produced, and mixed this EP, which shows just how much they want to take ownership of their music. It’s a bold decision for a band so early in their career, but one that’s paid off.

coming to terms with it all is out now. Catch PRETTY BLEAK play these songs and more live at the following shows:

15 August 2025 – The Bergy Bandroom, Naarm/Melbourne (EP launch)
23 August 2025 – The Burdekin Hotel, Eora/Sydney (supporting A Swift Farewell)

Photo credit: Tom Thomas

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“O2” – Kevin Silvester

Naarm/Melbourne-based artist Kevin Silvester is making a splash today with the release of his bold debut EP, O2. With its high-octane fusion of pop and rock sounds and introspective lyrics, this release is impossible to ignore.

The opening track “I THINK I NEED THERAPY!” perfectly sets the scene. We’re exploring mental health with an upbeat pop-punk style song on track one? Why not?! It’s those kinds of bold moves that make O2 such an unforgettable listen. I can hear influences like The Veronicas and Avril Lavigne coming through loudly, but Kevin’s unique perspectives as a neurodivergent, queer artist and his fearless approach to songwriting ensure he’s got something new to say.

I immediately found myself bopping along to songs like “STRANGER” and “BAD OMEN” as this EP unfolded. Kevin barely takes his foot off the accelerator, but when he does for the epic ballads “FOOL’S GOLD” and “SLEEPWALKER” you start to appreciate the full breadth of his artistry. Something tells me there’s even more in the tank that we’re yet to see.

At eight tracks, O2 feels closer to an album than an EP, no matter what the press release says. But every track deserves its place here. Each one is a banger with a message, and that all might be more important than the format.

O2 is out now. To celebrate its release, Kevin Silvester will play his biggest headline show to date at The Toff in Town on July 18. During this theatrical, immersive experience, Kevin will play the EP in full, along with fan favourites and some surprises. “It’s going to be heartfelt, expressive, and just the right amount of unhinged,” Kevin promised. Tickets are on sale now from Moshtix.

Images used with permission from Tall Poppy MGMT

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Politics and Footy Tips” – Cardboard Cutouts

Cardboard Cutouts cement their reputation as one of the most exciting new rock acts in the country with the release of their debut album, Politics and Footy Tips. With raw lyrics, honest vocals, and an epic sound, this Jagera, Giabal, and Jarowair Country/Toowoomba-based band checks all the boxes, and then some.

I say and then some, because this is an album that keeps you on your toes. While the band’s name suggests one-dimensionality, they refuse to make a rock album by the numbers. The opening track “Dishy” sets that standard. Dishies and glassies are rarely rock song heroes, but these icons of Aussie pubs get their moment here. The gentle start, more country-folk than indie-rock, is also unexpected. Soon enough the band’s full throttle, but when they do let rip it’s so much more powerful for the contrast to the quiet moments before.

It’s another bold move to bring out singles “My Best Friend” and “Steer” so early in the album, but it speaks to Cardboard Cutout’s faith in these songs. What comes later is far from filler. While other tracks like “A Story of Numbers, Bottles & Anxiety” and the incredible closer “Better Voice” may be unfamiliar to listeners, they’re destined to become new favourites.

Cardboard Cutouts makes the best kind of rock music. There’s no veneer or bravado, just pure heart. They get real about topics like anxiety, self-doubt, self-acceptance, and perseverance, showing vulnerability that’s rare and beautiful. Whether they’re belting out a tune at 11 or stripping their sound back on a bittersweet ballad, listening to this music from Cardboard Cutouts is such a cathartic experience.

Politics and Footy Tips is a fantastic album from a band with such a bright future ahead of them. Cardboard Cutouts will support its release with headlining shows around the country starting in Meeanjin/Brisbane tonight.

27 June 2025 – The Brightside, Meeanjin/Brisbane
4 July 2025 – Vinnies Dive, Kurrungul/Gold Coast
11 July 2025 – The Presynct, Kabi Kabi Country/Nambour
12 July 2025 – The Tinana Hotel, Butchulla, Gubbi Gubbi and Wakka Wakka Country/Maryborough
19 July 2025 – Otherwise Bar, Bwgcolman Country/Townsville
25 July 2025 – The Retreat Hotel, Naarm/Melbourne
26 July 2025 – Twisted Lime, Nipaluna/Hobart
14 August 2025 – Moshpit Bar, Eora/Sydney
15 August 2025 – 15 Festival @ The Baso, Ngambri/Canberra
16 August 2025 – The Servo, Woolyungah/Wollongong
17 August 2025 – The Lass O’Gowrie Hotel, Mulubinba/Newcastle (FREE)

Main photo credit: Harrison Innes

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Hollow Threats” – A Swift Farewell

Eora/Sydney act A Swift Farewell show they’re a band unafraid to take risks with their latest release, Hollow Threats. This six-track EP sees them evolving from the pop-punk act we once knew to a grittier emo act.

Expanding their sound beyond the pop-punk genre has given A Swift Farewell more space for self-expression. Every song on Hollow Threats tells its own story of struggle. Through introspective lyrics, they tackle big topics like depression, betrayal, and coming out.

The sombre opener “I Never Wanted This…” establishes early that A Swift Farewell are doing things differently. It’s vocal-driven, with ambient synths and beats underscoring the words. The drums and guitars kick in with “Silence,” an anthemic, moody track that should have you punching your fists in the air by the time the chorus kicks in.

On such a personal EP, it’s interesting that two collaborations – “The Haunting” featuring Amariah and “Just Breathe” featuring Besties – take the central positions. Collaborating with other artists can take music in different directions, but these tracks work so cohesively with A Swift Farewell’s own creations.

“Hold Me Down” is a breakup anthem for the ages, pairing introspective lyrics with a soundscape punctuated by driving drums and acoustic guitars. It’s a unique blend, but it works so well. Most of these tracks hit hard, but A Swift Farewell take another left turn with the closer “Homeless.” It’s an incredible piano-led ballad that builds beautifully to an epic crescendo.

Individually A Swift Farewell’s tracks are so powerful, but together they’re an emotional onslaught. Hollow Threats often isn’t an easy listen, but it’s a cathartic one. Press play, turn it up, and appreciate this killer EP from one of Australia’s finest emerging acts.

Hollow Threats is out now. See A Swift Farewell at 2 Pizza 2 Planet Festival at Stay Gold in Naarm/Melbourne on August 9.

Photo credit: Max Pasalic

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Anthony Callea & Tim Campbell’s The Songs of Elton John and George Michael @ Civic Theatre, Mulubinba/Newcastle – 31 May 2025

The first time I saw Anthony Callea, he was performing the songs of George Michael at Taronga Zoo. I was so impressed that I’ve seen him several more times over the years. So it was a bit of a full-circle moment to catch him at the Civic Theatre on Saturday night reprising those George Michael classics. This time around though, the show’s gotten a bit bigger with the addition of Anthony’s husband Tim Campbell and some Elton John classics. It all added up to a hell of a lot of fun.

If you’ve ever watched Tim and Anthony’s social media videos, you’d know this show was always going to be pretty loose. The laughs came thick and fast as the pair chatted to the audience like they were old friends. Tim even bowed to the crowd’s peer pressure and did a shooey, much to Anthony’s disgust.

But while there was plenty of time for jokes, these guys know how to switch gears. Although they can be irreverant, they’re serious about music and the artists they pay homage to. Separately, emotional songs like “Kissing a Fool,” “Father Figure,” “Daniel,” and “Your Song” were so powerful. But then watching them together, harmonising so beautifully on tracks like “Jesus to a Child” and “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” was pure magic. The show’s sombre moments were balanced beautifully with Elton and George’s many dance hits. Getting on my feet to groove along to “Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting” and a Wham! medley was so much fun. Anthony and Tim surround themselves with such quality talent, so I was thrilled to see long-serving backing vocalist Susie Ahern and Rocky Loprevite get moments out front for “I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me)” and “As.”

Anthony and Tim’s The Songs of Elton John and George Michael show delivered exactly what it promised. It was a celebration of classic hits delivered by two talents who are as funny as they are fantastic singers. With George already passed and Elton hanging up his microphone, we are so lucky to have Anthony and Tim celebrating their legacy. Limited tickets are available for their remaining shows, so get on them!

6 June 2025 – Mandurah Performing Arts Centre, Mandjoogoordap/Mandurah (SOLD OUT)
7 June 2025 – Astor Theatre, Boorloo/Perth (SOLD OUT)
14 June 2025 – The Events Centre, Gubbi Gubbi Country/Caloundra (matinee)
14 June 2025 – The Events Centre, Gubbi Gubbi Country/Caloundra (evening)
19 June 2025 – Frankston Arts Centre, Monmar/Frankston (SOLD OUT)
21 June 2025 – EVAN Theatre, Mulgoa/Penrith (SOLD OUT)
27 June 2025 – The Pilbeam Theatre, Darumbal/Rockhampton
28 June 2025 – Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre, Yuwibara Country/Mackay

Photo credit: Lauren Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Fanning Dempsey National Park @ Civic Theatre, Mulubinba/Newcastle – 16 May 2025

The release of The Deluge by Fanning Dempsey National Park was one of the unexpected joys of 2024. The coming together of Bernard Fanning and Paul Dempsey, two of the country’s most respected singer-songwriters, on original ’80s-inspired music was heaven. So I was thrilled to see them bring this album to life, and so much more, at the Civic Theatre on Friday night.

Local singer-songwriter Jen Buxton warmed up the crowd with her incredible songs. To say she was unassuming was an understatement. She introduced herself only as Jen – I had to do a bit of Googling to figure out exactly who to follow on the socials! Her songs were punctuated by self-deprecating humour. But I was transfixed. Her lyrics were incredible, and her rich, seasoned voice drew me in. When you can captivate an audience with only an acoustic guitar, you’re doing something right.

The Fanning Dempsey National Park set was everything I’d hoped for and then some. Recording this music together seems to have reinvigorated these artists. From the title track that opened their show, they seemed in high spirits. Songs like “Strangers” and “Disconnect,” which both came early in the set, have such a party vibe and you could feel that energy coursing through the room.

It was a night for celebrating the music Bernard and Paul make together, but also one for looking back fondly on the past. Something for Kate’s biggest hits “Ramona Was a Waitress” and “Monsters,” Bernard’s smash “Wish You Well” and his Powderfinger anthem “Pick You Up” all made the set. The latter track was especially electric, so it’s a shame that the Civic security wouldn’t allow us to feel the music and enjoy a little dance. While we complied with their request to sit down then, they were powerless when the whole floor stood to enjoy a rousing cover of “Under Pressure.” What a time! It also gave me the opportunity to bend the rules and snap a few cheeky photos for you.  

While they didn’t make this set, I noticed that Fanning Dempsey National Park have dropped a few new tracks this year. Hopefully it’s a sign that this pairing may have a few more albums and tours left in them. But just in case they don’t. I’d urge you to see them while you can. Limited tickets are available for the remaining shows on Fanning Dempsey National Park’s regional tour.

22 May 2025 – Powerhouse, Jagera, Giabal and Jarowair Country/Toowoomba
23 May 2025 – Venue 114, Gubbi Gubbi Country/Sunshine Coast
24 May 2025 – HOTA, Yugambeh Country/Gold Coast

Photo credit: Lauren Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Julie’s House” – Ama

After wowing me with her relatable pop songs for nearly a year, Ama has released her debut EP. Julie’s House is a gorgeous collection of coming-of-age songs that has really struck a chord with me.

It’s been a long time since I was caught in the throes of infatuation, but I don’t think those feelings ever leave you. Listening to Ama’s music brings back all the insecurities and heightened emotions we all experience as we’re trying to figure things out. Ama articulates them so beautifully, with songwriting that’s achingly honest. She’s also got an incredible knack for melody. These are some of the catchiest songs I’ve heard. I also love her voice, warm, pure, and emotive. She makes listening such a joy.

Julie’s House features some of Ama’s best singles including “Metro Girl” and “Bite.” They sit perfectly alongside undiscovered gems like the wistful closer “If i dated a guy” and the epic title track. This EP was inspired by Ama’s feelings for the same girl she met online, and it’s fascinating to learn about that relationship through this collection of songs.

Julie’s House is a fantastic EP from one of Australia’s best emerging pop acts. It’s out now on Spotify and all your favourite streaming services.

Image source: Ama’s website

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“To All The Ones That I Love” – Press Club

Naarm/Melbourne band Press Club maintain the rage with the release of their fourth album To All The Ones That I Love.

I’ve been listening all weekend and I must admit, I’m reluctant to switch gears from experiencing the music to writing my views down. Because this isn’t really music that needs intellectual analysis. They’re songs that you feel deep in those primal parts of yourself. This album appeals to my inner angsty teen, my frustrated artist, my introverted loner.

I’m not going to pretend that every song clicked with me, but that’s art, right? If the music pleases everyone, the band probably isn’t pushing enough boundaries. And when it does resonate, it can make you feel entirely seen.

Press Club recorded To All The Ones That I Love at their own studio in Western Naarm/Melbourne after writing the songs collaboratively over a few months. Guitarist Greg Rietwyk handled production and mixing duties before Kris Crummett (Closure in Moscow, Dune Rats, Currents) mastered it. That means that except for some final polishing, this is truly Press Club’s baby. The band said making this record was an incredibly fun, creative, and liberating experience, and you can hear all that in these songs. They’re defiant but jubilant, energetic and emotional. Calling out any one track feels unfair, because they all contribute to this fantastic body of work. Yes, even the ones that haven’t quite struck a chord with me.

To All The Ones That I Love is out now. Press Club will play one more local show before heading to the UK and Europe for their sixth tour. Don’t stress though Aussies; they’ll be home for more gigs from July which go on general sale tomorrow. You just know these songs will be even better experienced in a sweaty pit, so make sure you don’t miss Press Club wherever they are near you.

23 May 2025 – The Sound Doctor @ Anglesea Memorial Hall, Wathaurong Country/Anglesea
14 June 2025 – VERA, Groningen
15 June 2025 – Not Sorry Festival @ Cruise Recordstore, Hamburg
18 June 2025 – Neue Zukunft, Berlin
19 June 2025 – Bei Chez Heinz, Hannover
20 June 2025 – Luxor, Cologne
21 June 2025 – Molotow, Hamburg
22 June 2025 – Farewell Youth Fest @ Groovestation, Dresden
24 June 2025 – INmusic Festival @ Lake Jarun, Zagreb
26 June 2025 – TRIX, Antwerp
27 June 2025 – Jera on Air @ Zeilbergseweg, Ysselsteyn
28 June 2025 – Gleis 22, Munster
30 June 2025 – Im Wizeman, Stuttgart
1 July 2025 – Strom, Munich
3 July 2025 – Muk, Giessen
4 July 2025 – Rotown, Rotterdam
5 July 2025 – Fallig Open Air, Enkirch
8 July 2025 – Esquires, Bradford
9 July 2025 – Pink Room @ YES, Manchester
10 July 2025 – New Cross Inn, London
18 July 2025 – The Crown & Anchor, Tarntanya/Adelaide
19 July 2025 – Indian Ocean Hotel, Noongar Country/Scarborough
20 July 2025 – Mojo’s Bar, Walyalup/North Fremantle
25 July 2025 – Crowbar, Meeanjin/Brisbane
26 July 2025 – Vinnie’s Dive, Kombumerri Country/Southport
27 July 2025 – Bangalow Bowlo, Bangalla/Bangalow
31 July 2025 – La La La’s, Woolyungah/Wollongong
1 August 2025 – King Street Bandroom, Mulubinba/Newcastle
2 August 2025 – The Loft on Broadway, Eora/Sydney
8 August 2025 – Corner Hotel, Naarm/Melbourne

Album art: Matt Cochran
Main photo credit: Nick Manuell

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Les Miserables: The Arena Spectacular @ ICC Theatre, Eora/Sydney – 1 May 2025

10 years after the first time I saw Les Miserables on stage, I was keen to take it all in again at Les Miserables: The Arena Spectacular, a production celebrating 40 years of this revered musical. I mentioned last time I saw Les Mis that it’s much more my husband’s thing than mine. While I love musical theatre, my favourites are much more contemporary and a little less depressing. But I was psyched to see West End icons Alfie Boe and Michael Ball in the flesh. What a rare opportunity. They, and the rest of this stacked cast, did not disappoint.

That cast is really the most outstanding thing about this production. I knew Alfie and Michael would be incredible, but honestly they surpassed my expectations. Often you see people perform after decades in the business and wish you’d have seen them in their heyday, but these guys remain at the top of their game. Their vocals are simply incredible. Their intimate knowledge of the characters is evident in their performances. Their years of collaborating give them the sort of chemistry you rarely see at shows that throw together a bunch of stars. I’m sure the alternate Jean Valjean and Javert are incredible too, but I’m so glad I made a point to see these artists bringing their most beloved characters to life.

Alfie and Michael are the stars, as any artists with their storied careers, or indeed any Jean Valjean and Javert, should be, but they’re supported beautifully by the rest of this talented ensemble. Rachelle Ann Go’s Fantine drew me in with her warmth, poise, and passion. Beatrice Penny-Toure has the most angelic voice I think I’ve heard. She was perfectly cast as Cosette, and by the time he delivered a heartbreaking rendition of “Empty Chairs at Empty Tables” I was sold on Jac Yarrow’s Marius. James D. Gish is my newest theatre crush. I have a long history of falling for Enjolras and he embodied everything about this character that makes me swoon. I’d initially feared Matt Lucas may be stunt casting, but what an exceptional job he does as Thenardier. I love that this production gives him space to play with the role. Helen Walsh as Madame Thenardier reminded me that getting the alternate isn’t always a bad thing. I was really looking forward to seeing Marina Prior sink her teeth into a bawdier role than I’m used to, but Helen was exceptional.

The ICC is much larger than the Capitol Theatre, where I saw Les Mis all those years ago, but this production fills it. The massive set really helps you feel like you’re on the frontline of the French Revolution. The use of sound effects and lights brought the battle to life beautifully.

Sadly my husband’s eagerness to catch a train home meant that we missed the finale, where cast members from the original Australian production graced the stage. I can’t quite believe it. What an opportunity gone begging. But I refuse to let it take the lustre off what was a really special night of music, even for someone like me who isn’t a big Les Mis fan.

After completing its Eora/Sydney run, Les Miserables: The Arena Spectacular will head to Rod Laver Arena in Naarm/Melbourne and the Brisbane Entertainment Centre in Meeanjin/Brisbane. Good tickets are still available across the season. Trust me musical theatre fans; you don’t want to sleep on this one.

Photo credit: Lauren Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Forever is a Long Time” – Littlefair

Littlefair captured my heart with the release of “Happy” a couple of months ago. Now they’ve given us a little more enjoy with the release of their fabulous EP, Forever is a Long Time.

This release delivers everything I knew I loved about this band, and then some. Jessica Depiazzi is an irresistible frontwoman, but when I hear her harmonising with her sisters Kira (violin, percussion) and Mary (keys, guitar), and bandmate Jaik Rushan (bass, guitar), I get goosebumps. I am so glad their voices blend in every song. I loved the energy of “Happy” and found more of those clap-along melodies with “Jacket” and “Take Me Down,” which sees the band shaking things up and putting Jaik out front.

Forever is a Long Time shows that there’s more to this act than feelgood fun though. “Something to Miss” is a gentle, romantic ballad. And the final song, “Prescription,” which explores the complexities of watching someone you care about trapped in a toxic relationship, is so raw it bleeds. It makes a strong statement about this Western Australian band and the depth of their artistry.

Whatever music they’re making, the chemistry between the members of Littlefair is palpable. It makes listening to their music such a joy. Discover their EP Forever is a Long Time on your favourite streaming platform now. And if you’re local, catch them at their EP launch at Lyrics Underground in Wu-rut/Maylands on May 18.

Images used with permission from Blue Grey Pink