Category: Tour Announcements

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Casey Barnes Releases “SHE DOES” Single Ahead of Album and Tour

Casey Barnes celebrates the love of his life, his wife Michelle, with his latest single “SHE DOES.” It’s an upbeat country-pop anthem sure to resonate with anyone who’s found their special someone.

“‘SHE DOES’ isn’t just another cliché country song… it’s really about something much deeper,” Casey said. “It’s about the person who still believes in you when you’re doubting yourself, who holds your world together when life gets chaotic, and who loves you even when you give them every reason not to. I think that’s something a lot of people will connect with.”

Casey co-wrote “this song”SHE DOES” in Nashville with acclaimed songwriters Jordan Dozzi, known for his work with Morgan Wallen and Post Malone, and Kyle Sturrock, who’s worked with Blake Shelton and Dierks Bentley. But don’t think Casey’s forgetting his roots. He’ll release his new album MADE FOR THIS on August 7, the same day he embarks on his largest national headline tour. There are more dates to come, but for now you can put these in your calendar!

7 August 2026 – Forth Pub, Tommeginne Country/Forth (FREE POP UP EVENT)
8 August 2026 – Miami Marketta, Yugambeh Country/Gold Coast
11 August 2026 – EKKA After Dark @ The Tivoli, Meeanjin/Brisbane
14 August 2026 – Hotel Esplanade, Naarm/Melbourne
15 August 2026 – Barwon Heads Hotel, Koornoo/Barwon Heads
4 September 2026 – Cairns Festival @ Tanks Art Centre, Gimuy/Cairns
5 September 2026 – Dalrymple Hotel, Gurrumbilbarra/Townsville
12 September 2026 – Triple B Rodeo Series @ Caboolture Showgrounds, Gubbi Gubbi and Duungidjawu Country/Caboolture
19 September 2026 – Country in the Backyard @ Penrith Panthers, Mooroo Murak/Penrith
3 October 2026 – Deni Ute Muster, Barapa Baraba, Wamba Wamba, and Perrepa Perrepa Country/Deniliquin
28 November 2026 – Launceston Country Music Festival @ Royal Park, Leterrermairrener Country/Launceston

Image used with permission from Casey Barnes

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Eric Hutchinson Announces Long-Awaited Aussie Return

Buoyed by its appearance on the final episode of Packed to the Rafters, “Rock and Roll” by Eric Hutchinson hit number one on the ARIA charts in April 2009. And since then, most of us haven’t thought about him. He hasn’t just faded away though. He’s released seven full-length studio albums and an EP and toured the States with Kelly Clarkson, Jason Mraz, Lawrence, Rachel Platten, and heaps more. And he’s coming back to Australia for the first time in 16 years this November.

“I honestly have no idea why I never came back to Australia, other than the fact that it’s super far away from New York City, where I live,” Eric admitted. “I’ve had so many folks reach out over the years and ask me to come play, but the timing never worked out until now. I can’t wait to reconnect with all the listeners after so many years. It’s gonna be special.”

The tour announcement prompted me to dig deep into Eric’s back catalogue, and I’m wondering why I never got into him sooner. He’s got a similar positive soul sensibility to some of my favourites like Allen Stone and St. Paul & The Broken Bones. It takes a lot to get me to a standing-room gig and I’m already seeing two shows that same week, but this tour’s intimate venues and acoustic sets is seriously tempting me. Then there’s the addition of Australian Idol winner Marshall Hamburger as support. Seriously tempted. If you are too, click the links below for some tickets.

19 November 2026 – Lefty’s Music Hall, Meeanjin/Brisbane
20 November 2026 – Northcote Social Club, Naarm/Melbourne
21 November 2026 – The Lansdowne, Eora/Sydney

Photo credit: Rosalind O’Connor

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Jessica Mauboy Drops Live Hoopla EP Ahead of Local Shows

Jessica Mauboy has just released a timely reminder of just what a firecracker she is on stage. Her latest digital EP Live at Mighty Hoopla Sydney features performances of four fan favourites captured at the massive LGBTQIA+ festival earlier this year.

“Mighty Hoopla was honestly one of the most fun and uplifting crowds I’ve ever played to,” Jessica said. “There was just so much love, freedom and happiness in the air, everyone completely letting go and living in the moment through music. We recorded the performance, and listening back afterwards, I kept feeling that same energy and connection. I really wanted to release this EP to capture that feeling and bottle up that moment so fans could experience it with me too.”

Jessica will be back on stages soon on her Story of Me tour. These intimate shows see Jess reflecting on her career through music and candid stories. These shows offer a much more personal experience than your typical gigs, so make sure you don’t miss them.

1 August 2026 – Concert Hall @ QPAC, Meeanjin/Brisbane
5 September 2026 – Odean, Nipaluna/Hobart
3 October 2026 – Canberra Theatre Centre, Ngambri/Canberra
30 October 2026 – Geelong Arts Centre, Wadawurrung/Geelong
14 November 2026 – Melbourne Recital Centre, Naarm/Melbourne

Image used with permission from Bronwyn Tasker PR

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Carl De Villa Shines Bright With Indie Pop Gem, “Good Enough”

If your working week needs a pick-me-up, look no further than “Good Enough,” the exciting new single from emerging non-binary independent act Carl De Villa. A sultry dance-pop track that celebrates knowing your own worth, this irresistible number is perfect for your weekend party playlist.

What struck me most about “Good Enough” is just how incredible Carl’s voice is. It captures you from the first notes. As a non-binary artist, they use it to full effect, unafraid to move from a femme falsetto to their more masc head voice to tell this story. Most artists seem more comfortable in one part of their register, but Carl executes “Good Enough” with such confidence no matter where their voice goes. There’s nowhere to hide with this song. The cool bassline sits in the background, ensuring those vocals are always front and centre.

One glance at Carl’s CV and you understand a little more about how they came to release a track like “Good Enough.” They impressed the judges on The Voice Australia in 2019 and earned acclaim playing Angel in Rent and Lola in Kinky Boots. They’ve also celebrated the music of incredible vocalists including Freddie Mercury, Prince, Bruno Mars, and George Michael through their covers shows.

So we know Carl can really sing. We know they have serious stage presence and theatricality. But with the release of “Good Enough,” we get to hear Carl’s story. Through their original music, we’re learning about the authentic artist beyond the voice and charisma. And I can’t wait to learn more with every new release.

“Good Enough” is available on all your favourite streaming platforms now. And if you need some inspiration for that party playlist, check out my Sounds of Oz Loves Pop playlist. It features “Good Enough” and some other choice tracks from Aussie artists including Budjerah, Sam Fischer, and Kita Alexander.

Carl De Villa also has several covers shows in the coming months. Here are all the places you can catch them perform:

8 August 2026 – New Sensation: A Tribute 2 INXS @ Camelot Lounge, Bulanaming/Marrickville
22 August 2026 – Honouring Prince: 10 Years On @ Lion Arts Factory, Tarntanya/Adelaide
5 September 2026 – Honouring George Michael: 10th Anniversary @ Liberty Hall, Eora/Sydney
17 October 2026 – Honouring Prince: 10 Years On @ Magnet House, Boorloo/Perth
6 November 2026 – Honouring George Michael: 10th Anniversary @ Max Watt’s Melbourne, Naarm/Melbourne
21 November 2026 – Honouring Prince: 10 Years On @ Studio The Venue, Auckland

Image used with permission from Carl De Villa

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Kevin Mitchell Celebrates 20 Years of Bob Evans’ “Suburban Songbook”

It’s hard to believe that Bob Evans’ Suburban Songbook turns 20 this year. Kevin Mitchell will celebrate the milestone by releasing a new anniversary edition of the album and playing it in full at intimate shows all around the country.

The news encouraged me to revisit Suburban Songbook. I’d honestly forgotten how good it is, full of understated gems delivered with such sincerity. The new edition, available digitally and on a limited edition “gold nugget” vinyl, features all of the studio tracks plus a stack of home demos including several songs you’ve never heard before.

“When I think back to going to Nashville in 2005 to make the record and the whole two years that followed the album’s release, it does feel like a whole other life almost,” Kevin said. “I was coming fresh out of 10 years with Jebediah and even though I had been working on the Bob Evans thing for a while, it was always a side project that was never very serious. But with Suburban Songbook things were getting much more serious, both creatively and professionally. I guess when I think back to that time, I see a someone who is still a kid but not for very much longer. It was very much a transitional time of my life. I feel way older now!”

The 20th anniversary edition of Suburban Songbook drops on September 4. You can preorder your copy now, either on its own or when you’re purchasing tickets to one of the upcoming shows. The anniversary tour kicks off in Kevin’s hometown of Boorloo/Perth the following day before hitting other capital cities around the country.

“I’m really excited to revisit this album and all the songs that kind of fell off the setlist over the years,” shares Bob. “For example, a song like “Don’t Walk Alone” is one that I barely ever played again once the album tour had finished but it is one of my favourite songs on the album. It’s just one that doesn’t translate well solo. I’ve assembled a really wonderful group of players for this tour and so recreating the album with a full band will be awesome. I’m also excited to see how the record still resonates with people after so long.”

Tickets for all the following shows, including the ticket and vinyl bundles, are available now via the links:

5 September 2026 – Rosemount Hotel, Boorloo/Perth
16 October 2026 – Howler, Naarm/Melbourne
22 October 2026 – Lion Arts Factory, Tarntanya/Adelaide
23 October 2026 – Crowbar, Meeanjin/Brisbane
24 October 2026 – Crowbar, Eora/Sydney

Photo credit: Sophie Howarth

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Ashanti Announces Aussie Return

Noughties R&B icon Ashanti is heading back to Australia this November. If you caught her on her 2022 tour, you know these shows shouldn’t be missed.

Ashanti is one of those artists with a body of work that’s much larger than you think. I’ve got down a bit of a Spotify rabbit hole and been surprised to realise just how many of her songs I know. “Always on Time,” “What’s Luv?” and “Foolish” are just three reasons these shows will go off.

“Australia and New Zealand has always shown me so much love, and I’m so excited to be coming back this coming fall for my ‘Rock Wit U’ tour!” Ashanti enthused. “The energy, the fans, the memories — it’s always so amazing. I can’t wait to Rock with you all! Australia and New Zealand get ready… we’re going to have a blast together!”

Tickets for Ashanti’s upcoming Aussie shows are on sale now from the links below:

9 November 2026 – Riverside Theatre, Boorloo/Perth
11 November 2026 – Fortitude Music Hall, Meeanjin/Brisbane
13 November 2026 – TikTok Arena, Eora/Sydney
14 November 2026 – Margaret Court Arena, Naarm/Melbourne

Image used with permission from beehive

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

MKTO Waste No Time Announcing Another Aussie Tour

MKTO clearly had a good time on our shores last year, because they’re heading back in September and extending their trip. During their first tour of Australia in 12 years, the American pop duo stuck to the major capitals, but this time around they’re playing more capitals, some regional centres, and even heading across the ditch to see our Kiwi cousins.

“We’re super excited to still be able to do shows with music we put out years ago,” MKTO enthused. “Even more excited to add New Zealand to this run as well as more cities in Australia. Places that showed us love from the very beginning. Can’t wait to see everybody and have a good time!”

You can guarantee you’ll hear “Classic,” plus a host of other pop gems, at the following shows:

3 September 2026 – Princess Theatre, Meeanjin/Brisbane
4 September 2026 – 170 Russell, Naarm/Melbourne
5 September 2026 – Lion Arts Factory, Tarntanya/Adelaide
6 September 2026 – Freo Social, Walyalup/Fremantle
10 September 2026 – Liberty Hall, Eora/Sydney
11 September 2026 – King St Bandroom, Mulubinba/Newcastle
13 September 2026 – The Studio, Auckland

Image used with permission from beehive

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Dingo Drops Seasonal Single “Autumn”

As the season’s chill sets in, it’s the perfect time to listen to “Autumn,” the latest single from local singer-songwriter and producer Dingo. His voice is so captivating. This song’s definitely snuck up on me, and now I can’t stop listening.

“The song was inspired by the changing of seasons and how that can relate to how we grow and change within a relationship,” Dingo shared. “It’s a love song that ultimately speaks to the way we can fall in love again and again like autumn leaves fall each year.”

“Autumn” comes from Dingo’s forthcoming album Nightwire, which he’ll release on October 9. He’ll barely have time to celebrate its launch, because he’s got shows scheduled with Adam Harvey and Ian Moss and Troy Cassar-Daley’s right through til mid-November. Make sure you arrive early enough for his set if you’re heading to any of these gigs.

22 May 2026 – The Centre, Mununjali/Beaudesert (supporting Adam Harvey)
23 May 2026 – Dag Pub & Motel, Jinibara and Turrbal Country/D’Aguilar (supporting Adam Harvey)
24 May 2026 – Kedron–Wavell, Meeanjin/Chermside (supporting Adam Harvey)
28 May 2026 – Morwell Hotel, Braiakaulung Country/Morwell (supporting Adam Harvey)
29 May 2026 – Hallam Hotel, Boonwurrung Country/Hallam (supporting Adam Harvey)
30 May 2026 – Gateway Hotel, Wadawurrung Country/Corio (supporting Adam Harvey)
5 June 2026 – Macksville Ex-Services Club, Gumbaynggirr Country/Macksville (supporting Adam Harvey)
6 June 2026 – Ballina RSL, Bullinah/Ballina (supporting Adam Harvey)
7 June 2026 – Coutts Crossing Hall, Daam Miirlarl/Coutts Crossing (supporting Adam Harvey)
12 June 2026 – Commercial Club, Bungambrawatha/Albury (supporting Adam Harvey)
13 June 2026 – Bathurst RSL, Dalman/Bathurst (supporting Adam Harvey)
14 June 2026 – Athenium Theatre, Wiradjuri Country/Junee (supporting Adam Harvey)
19 June 2026 – Avoca Beach Theatre, Darkinjung Country/Avoca Beach (supporting Adam Harvey)
20 June 2026 – The Beer Shed Brewing Co, Tharawal Country/Leumeah (supporting Adam Harvey)
26 June 2026 – Bligh Park Hotel, Dharug Country/South Windsor (supporting Adam Harvey)
27 June 2026 – The Oaks Hotel, Dharawal Country/Albion Park Rail (supporting Adam Harvey)
28 June 2026 – The Royal Hotel, Kuwinbiyan/Queanbeyan (supporting Adam Harvey)
27-30 August 2026 – Gympie Music Muster @ Amamoor State Forest, Gubbi Gubbi Country/Amamoor Creek
15 October 2026 – Events Centre @ Kings Theatre, Kal’owen-dha/Caloundra (supporting Ian Moss and Troy Cassar-Daley)
16 October 2026 – Twin Towns, Cooloon/Tweed Heads (supporting Ian Moss and Troy Cassar-Daley)
17 October 2026 – Saraton Theatre, Gumbin Gir/Grafton (supporting Ian Moss and Troy Cassar-Daley)
30 October 2026 – Commercial Club, Bungambrawatha/Albury (supporting Ian Moss and Troy Cassar-Daley)
31 October 2026 – Civic Theatre, Wiradjuri Country/Wagga Wagga (supporting Ian Moss and Troy Cassar-Daley)
6 November 2026 – Anita’s Theatre, Thurrural/Thirroul (supporting Ian Moss and Troy Cassar-Daley)
7 November 2026 – Blue Mountains Theatre & Community Centre, Dharug Country/Springwood (supporting Ian Moss and Troy Cassar-Daley)
12 November 2026 – The Art House, Darkinjung Country/Wyong (supporting Ian Moss and Troy Cassar-Daley)
13 November 2026 – Glasshouse, Guruk/Port Macquarie (supporting Ian Moss and Troy Cassar-Daley)

Image used with permission from Wildheart Publicity

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Morgan Joanel Makes Remarkable Return With “Undone”

Against all odds, Morgan Joanel is back making music and sounding better than ever. The recent release of “Undone” marks an exciting new chapter for the Western Australian powerhouse.

Longtime readers might remember me raving about Morgan’s music back in 2020. While she seemed to disappear from view, she was actually rehabilitating after a devastating car accident in 2021. She was lucky to survive the impact when the Uber she was travelling in was hit by another car at 144 km/h. It left her confined to a wheelchair, with a bleed on the brain and 13 broken bones. She was told that she may never walk again, and certainly wouldn’t perform on stage. But Morgan wouldn’t take no for an answer.

“Undone” is the perfect comeback song, rebellious and raw.

“’Undone’ is about the masks we wear, the dance between seduction and threat,” Morgan explained. “The first time I ever played it was on stage was opening for Anne-Marie, so it had a big bang of a first performance! Of all my songs, ‘Undone’ has had the longest road from writing it to a recorded release. But I think that’s the point. I wasn’t ready to release it until I could stand inside it properly and from a place of power. Now I can.”

The release of “Undone” coincides with Morgan’s shows around the country supporting British superstar Newton Faulkner. Now halfway through the tour, I hear that she’s killing it. But don’t just take my word for it. If you’re attending one of the remaining shows, make sure you arrive early enough for Morgan’s set:

21 April 2026 – Rosemount Hotel, Boorloo/Perth
22 April 2026 – Jive Bar, Tarntanya/Adelaide
24 April 2026 – The Northern, Cavanbah/Byron Bay
25 April 2026 – The Brightside, Meeanjin/Brisbane
26 April 2026 – Vinnie’s Dive Bar, Yugambeh Country/Gold Coast

Image used with permission from Priceless Media

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Larry Fleet Returning to Oz for Another Year OIder Shows

After visiting Australia for the first time last year, Larry Fleet is wasting no time returning to our shores. The soulful American country artist will be back on Aussie soil for shows this August to celebrate the February release of his fourth album, Another Year OIder.

“On my first trip to Australia last year, I honestly didn’t know what to expect or how everyone would react to my music, but before I was even off the stage I was already planning on coming back as soon as I could,” Larry enthused. “The Australian people made me feel at home with how engaged and a part of the show they were. Singing every lyric, it’s almost like they did their homework to not only make sure that they had a good time, but that we did as well. And if there’s one thing I learned, it’s that Australians know how to have a damn good time.”

Tickets for Larry’s tour went on sale this morning, so don’t waste too much time snapping up yours. Click the links below to get your hands on some!

25 August 2026 – Northcote Theatre, Naarm/Melbourne
26 August 2026 – Liberty Hall, Eora/Sydney
28 August 2026 – Gympie Music Muster @ Amamoor Creek State Forest, Gubbi Gubbi Country/Gympie
29 August 2026 – Fortitude Music Hall, Meeanjin/Brisbane

Photo credit: Matt Paskert