Ian Moss Heading to Regional Venues for Acoustic Shows

I’m not sure why it’s taken me so long to listen to Ian Moss’ most recent album. He released the self-titled work in March, yet it’s taken me until now to give it a spin. I blame the lack of fanfare, but that’s kind of the way this unassuming Aussie artist prefers thing. If like me it passed you by, do yourself a favour and fire it up on your streaming service of choice. With bluesy tracks filled with melodic hooks and sublime guitar parts, it’s classic Mossy, just the way you like him.

Mossy will bring songs from the new album and all your old favourites to regional venues all around the country next year. Tickets are on sale now for all dates on the National Solo Intimate and Acoustic Regional Tour.

8 February 2019 – Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre, Nowra
9 February 2019 – Wagga Wagga Civic Centre, Wagga Wagga
22 February 2019 – Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre, Wangaratta
23 February 2019 – Paramount Theatre, Echuca
1 March 2019 – Goldfields Art Centre, Kalgoorlie
3 March 2019 – Albany Entertainment Centre, Albany
6 March 2019 – Queens Park Theatre, Geraldton
8 March 2019 – Fremantle Arts Centre, Fremantle
9 March 2019 – Bunbury Regional Entertainment Centre, Bunbury
15 March 2019 – Capital Theatre, Bendigo
16 March 2019 – Mildura Arts Centre, Mildura
20 March 2019 – Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre, Mount Gambier
22 March 2019 – Northern Festival Centre, Keith Michell Theatre, Port Pirie
23 March 2019 – Barossa Arts and Convention Centre, Barossa Valley
27 March 2019 – Redland Performing Arts Centre, Cleveland
29 March 2019 – Ipswich Civic Theatre, Ipswich
30 March 2019 – Empire Theatre, Heritage Bank Auditorium, Ipswich
3 April 2019 – Mackay Entertainment Centre, Mackay
5 April 2019 – Pilbeam Theatre, Rockhampton
6 April 2019 – Brolga Theatre, Maryborough
26 April 2019 – Laycock Street Theatre, Gosford
27 April 2019 – Cessnock Performing Arts Centre, Cessnock
3 May 2019 – SkyCity Darwin Concert Lawns, Darwin
4 May 2019 – Araluen Centre, Alice Springs

Image used with permission from Ferris Davies PRM/Photo credit: Daniel Boud

Fanny Lumsden Declares War on Pride With New Single

Men’s mental and physical health is in the spotlight this month as blokes all around the country get hairy for Movember. Men’s health is something we don’t talk about enough, especially in Australia where so many have an attitude they must be stoic, no matter what comes. Fanny Lumsden challenges this notion in her new single “Real Men Don’t Cry (War on Pride),” the third track lifted from her number one ARIA country album Real Class Act.

The song is a poignant country ballad with some of the most stirring lyrics you’ll hear all year.

“Pride is a funny thing. It makes us stand up for things and it also makes us hide. However, it can become a wall that’s prevents us asking for help, telling people we love them, letting loved ones know we are not okay, we need a little support, a little help. It prevents us showing our vulnerability,” Fanny explained.

“So, I call a war on pride. That type. The type that’s preventing a father telling his son he has done a good job. The type that stops you asking for a hand. That prevents you from showing that vulnerability.”

Fanny is currently playing shows around the country on her Under Our Hills Hoist tour. Catch her at the following venues over the coming weeks.

3 November 2018 – Lonsdale Reserve, Mulwala
10 November 2018 – Private show, Canberra
11 November 2018 – Smiths Alternative Book Store, Canberra (@1 pm)
18 November 2018 – Private show, Thurgoona
22 November 2018 – The Newsagency, Camperdown
23 November 2018 – On the Beach Sessions @ Franks Wild Years, Thirroul
6 December 2018 – The Lost Ones, Ballarat
7 December 2018 – Royal Oak Hotel, Penolasa (FREE)
14 December 2018 – Sandigo Hall, Sandigo
15 December 2018 – Cudgewa Hall, Cudgewa

Image used with permission from Revolutions per Minute

“To Love You” – Glades

It seems like forever ago that Sydney band Glades burst onto the scene with their track “Drive.” Now two years later they’re showcasing their addictive electronic pop sound on their debut album To Love You.

“Nervous Energy” is the perfect introduction to this collection of songs, with lush electronic layering, powerful and emotional vocals, and a clap-along beat. Glades are so skilled at creating upbeat alt-pop ditties that put a smile on your face, whether they’re spreading positivity in a song like “Do Right” or dissing someone in “Not About You.” Tracks like “80 Miles” and “Neon Buzz” are real charmers, with the rebellious, romantic spirit that will take even the oldest listeners back to those heady days of first love.

Electronic sounds dominate To Love You, but as the songs become more intimate and subdued, so does Glades sound. The final two tracks, “Better Love” and “Through to You” are stripped back and organic, with pianos and gentle acoustic guitars replacing the special effects. They’re powerful reminders that Glades don’t need heavy production to make an impact.

To Love You has been a long time coming, but its release today has been worth waiting for. It’s perfect pop for the new millennium, with a fresh sound anchored by real heart. Glades will play the following shows to celebrate its release.

24 November 2018 – Corner Hotel, Melbourne
30 November 2018 – Jack Rabbit Slims, Perth
1 December 2018 – Jive, Adelaide
6 December 2018 – Metro Theatre, Sydney
7 December 2018 – Woolly Mammoth, Brisbane

Image used with permission from Warner Music Australia

“Atlas Shoulders” – Pierce Brothers

I’ve been waxing lyrical about the Pierce Brothers since 2014, waiting not so patiently for the Melbourne siblings to release their debut album. Those EPs just never felt long enough; I wanted something to really sink my teeth into. My patience has been rewarded with the release of Atlas Shoulders.

As a music fan, it’s only natural to want an album early, but there’s something to be said for Jack and Pat Pierce’s slow and steady approach. They’ve developed as artists, taking the time to get the balance right and create a sound that’s folky, yet bold, yet somehow never overproduced.

The first half of Atlas Shoulders is perfect road trip or BBQ music. A harsher critic might suggest its mellow vibes start to get a little samey, but I don’t think there’s anything wrong with laidback music that sounds this good. Songs like “Lovers Trip” and the single “Back End Roads” are so well crafted.

While I enjoyed the first portion of the album, it really picked up for me in the second half. All too often albums start feeling fatigued here, but this is where you’ll find some of Atlas Shoulders’ grittier material. The road trip has been marred by some arguments, the love stories are going sour. Mistakes were made, there are regrets. All that is fodder for some really powerful music. Songs like “Reckless Hearts and Restless Hands” and “Love You Broke” stop you in your tracks and stir your spirit. They wake you up and reinforce the true talent of this sibling duo. By the time you reach “Hold On,” there’s no doubt that the wait for the Pierce Brothers album has been worthwhile. Yes, they can create folky music that sounds good, but stay a little longer and you’ll hear some tracks that do more than delight the ear; they move every part of you.

Atlas Shoulders is in all good music stores today. The Pierce Brothers will play shows around the country to celebrate its release before supporting Rodriguez in February.

9 November 2018 – The Forum, Melbourne
16 November 2018 – Oxford Arts Factory, Sydney
17 November 2018 – The Zoo, Brisbane
9 February 2019 – Sirromet Wines, Mt Cotton (with Rodriguez, Xavier Rudd, Busby Marou, and Alice Skye)
16 February 2019 – Rochford Wines, Yarra Valley (with Rodriguez, Xavier Rudd, Busby Marou, and Alice Skye)
23 February 2019 – Peter Lehmann Wines, Barossa Valley (with Rodriguez, Xavier Rudd, Busby Marou, and Alice Skye)

Image used with permission from Warner Music Australia

Ivey Release Poppy Gem, “Won’t Be”

The rain might have been relentless in many parts of the country of late, but Gold Coast five-piece Ivey are bringing the sunshine with their feelgood new single “Won’t Be.” Lifted from their recently released EP Gorgeous, it’s a catchy piece of indie pop brilliance with real summer vibes.

“This song actually began from an ableton loop our drummer Matt had created. Drawn to the lead synth riff you hear at the start of the song, we started to construct a song around it,” the band explained. “What was resulted from that is one our most collaborative songwriting effort to date, and our first exploration into electronic music. ‘Won’t Be’ became a kind of anthem for the whole EP, theming topics of lost love, animosity and clarity.”

Ivey have supported acts like Ocean Alley and Cub Sport, but they’re ready to step into the spotlight with shows celebrating their recent EP release. Hear “Won’t Be” and other tracks from Gorgeous at the following shows.

26 October 2018 – Black Bear Lodge, Brisbane
2 November 2018 – West Thebarton Hotel, Adelaide (FREE)
3 November 2018 – Gasometer (Upstairs), Melbourne
8 December 2018 – Waywards, Sydney
9 December 2018 – North Gong Hotel, Wollongong (FREE)
22 December 2018 – End of Year Party Vol. 2, Gold Coast

Image used with permission from Beehive PR

Glades Drop Another Awesome Track Ahead of Album Release

Sydney electro-pop trio Glades has just dropped a killer new cut from their forthcoming debut album, their banging new single “Eyes Wide Shut.” The track comes with an awesome video shot in Los Angeles and directed by Grey Ghost.

“Eyes Wide Shut” is the fourth track lifted from Glades’ debut album To Love You, which will be released on November 2. Glades will celebrate its release with shows around the country at the following venues. Get your tickets while you can; I don’t think these guys will be playing venues as small as these forever!

24 November 2018 – Corner Hotel, Melbourne
30 November 2018 – Jack Rabbit Slims, Perth
1 December 2018 – Jive, Adelaide
6 December 2018 – Metro Theatre, Sydney
7 December 2018 – Woolly Mammoth, Brisbane

Image used with permission from Sony Music Australia

Harts Gets You Grooving With “Shake Ya Pants”

Expect to start shaking what your mama gave you when you wrap your ears around Harts’ funky new single “Shake Ya Pants.” It’s a fantastic slice of funk which is giving me serious Price vibes. Always a good thing.

“Shake Ya Pants is a light hearted and fun tune about being comfortable in your own skin. It’s kinda like a fun pep talk, encouraging somebody to be themselves when they may lack self confidence,” Harts explained. “I debuted an extended version of the track live for the audience at my Howler show back in July and they loved it. I’ve been looking forward to putting this out ever since!”

“Shake Ya Pants” is the latest track from Harts’ forthcoming album, which will be released later this year. Harts will be back in the country to celebrate its release with shows all around the country. With a bigger live band joining the Aussie talent on stage, you’ll want to wear your best dancing shoes to the following gigs.

2 November 2018 – The Fat Controller, Adelaide
3 November 2018 – Jack Rabbit Slims, Perth
16 November 2018 – Hotel Brunswick, Brunswick Heads (FREE)
17 November 2018 – The Triffid, Brisbane
22 November 2018 – Anu Bar, Canberra
23 November 2018 – The Factory Theatre, Sydney
24 November 2018 – The Cambridge, Newcastle
29 November 2018 – The Corner Hotel, Melbourne
30 November 2018 – Torquay Hotel, Torquay

Image used with permission from the A&R Department

Ryan Downey Strikes Gold Again With “No More Miracles”

Ryan Downey wowed me with his debut album Running this year. Now the Melbourne crooner got me swooning all over again with his new track “No More Miracles.” The song is a masterclass in restraint, a lesson in just how powerful a song with space to breathe can be. You don’t need slick production when you’re creating music this good.

“I’m finding the world a confusing and uneasy place right now, I don’t think I’m alone in that,” Ryan explained of the song’s inspiration. “This song is about looking for hope in what’s immediate and accessible and taking action, instead of waiting for confirmation or permission from some miraculous sign in our life/world.”

Fresh from supporting Sarah Blasko, Ryan is ready to play headliner once again at the following East Coast shows.

25 October 2018 – The Gasometer, Melbourne
27 October 2018 – New Hall, Pt Lonsdale
1 November 2018 – Golden Age Cinema, Sydney

Image used with permission from Remote Control Records

The Pierce Brothers Announce Headlining Shows for Debut Album

The Pierce Brothers are giving their loyal fans plenty of opportunities to see them live this summer. Not content with supporting Rodriguez at his Day on the Green Shows, the Melbourne folk-pop duo have announced a string of headlining shows to support their upcoming debut album, Atlas Shoulders.

The Pierce Brothers created the songs that would form Atlas Shoulders while traveling Australia, South Africa, America, and Europe over the last year. It touches on the experiences they’ve had on the road and pressing social issues, including the impact of depression and anxiety.

Atlas Shoulders is set for release on October 26. Order early to receive a special limited edition 7-inch vinyl copy of the current single “Back End Roads” and the dreamy album track B-side “Juno.”

These guys are in demand, so you won’t want to miss The Pierce Brothers while they’re back home for the following shows.

9 November 2018 – The Forum, Melbourne
16 November 2018 – Oxford Arts Factory, Sydney
17 November 2018 – The Zoo, Brisbane
9 February 2019 – Sirromet Wines, Mt Cotton (with Rodriguez, Xavier Rudd, Busby Marou, and Alice Skye)
16 February 2019 – Rochford Wines, Yarra Valley (with Rodriguez, Xavier Rudd, Busby Marou, and Alice Skye)
23 February 2019 – Peter Lehmann Wines, Barossa Valley (with Rodriguez, Xavier Rudd, Busby Marou, and Alice Skye)

Image used with permission from Warner Music Australia

Motor Ace Reunion Shows On the Way

The early 2000s were such a fertile time in Aussie music. As a young 20-something I had a limited income, so there were a bunch of great acts I didn’t see. It was also a pre-Spotify era. Kids, you don’t know how good you’ve got it, being able to listen to whatever album you want without investing money at your local Sanity or JB Hi-Fi. So at that time a few great Aussie acts invariably slipped through my net. Bands like Motor Ace. After hearing the band is touring the country again, I’m making up for lost time. I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve listened to Five Star Laundry since I got that tour announcement. What a great album that is.

Motor Ace’s forthcoming Five Star Reunion national tour celebrates the band’s 20-year anniversary. It seems plenty of music fans are hungry for it, because shows are already close to selling out, despite the gigs being around six months away. Don’t delay in snapping yours up if you’re ready for another helping of this beloved Aussie rock band.

29 March 2019 – The Gov, Adelaide (18+)
30 March 2019 – Capitol, Perth (18+)
5 April 2019 – Factory Theatre, Sydney (18+)
6 April 2019 – The Triffid, Brisbane (18+)
12 April 2019 – 170 Russell, Melbourne (18+)

Image used with permission from On the Map PR