Category: Film Clips

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Joe Mungovan Shows He’s Got Balls With “Hurts”

Joe Mungovan takes the idea of suffering from art to the next level with his latest single “Hurts.” While the lyrics of this ultra-catchy indie-rock bop say “I love it when it hurts,” he might have reconsidered the notion after filming the video at Kiama Tennis Court. Take a look and you’ll see exactly what I mean!

“This was without question the most painful release I’ve ever made – and not in a deep, emotional, ‘artist suffers for his craft’ way,” Joe joked. “No. I mean actual, physical pain. I had this brilliant/stupid idea for the visual world: ‘What if I just… got hurt? Repeatedly?’ And, as always, my long-time collaborator and good mate Mikey Conlon laughed and said, ‘Yep. Love it. Let’s make it worse.’ So we did. Sometimes the best creative decisions are also the dumbest.”

So you’ve got to watch, if only so his efforts won’t be in vain! Fresh from supporting The Rubens last weekend, Joe will also play the following headlining shows to support the release of “Hurts.”

29 November 2025 – Becks, Kiaram-a/Kiama (FREE breakfast show from 9am, BYO chair)
30 November 2025 – Equium Social, Mulubimba/Newcastle (from 4 pm)
3 January 2026 – Freshwater Brewing Co, Garigal and Gayamaygal Country/Freshwater (FREE from 6pm)

Image used with permission from Luke Hammer MGMT

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Ellis King Impresses With “fitymi”

Naarm/Melbourne-based singer-songwriter Ellis King has blown me away with her latest single “fitymi.” Standing for “fake it till you make it,” “fitymi” is one of six songs Ellis wrote to process the end of her first long-term relationship. While it came from heartbreak, “fitymi” has a bright, piano pop sound that is bound to put a smile on your face.

“I’ve been trying to push myself to write about different things and also be a bit more reflective. After a big life event, like a breakup, you end up doing a lot of that,” Ellis said. “Thinking about yourself, the effort you put into your life, and where your energy really goes. For me, this song is about realising how much time I’ve spent putting on a face, holding it together, while actually struggling underneath – not wanting anyone to see me as anything other than a perfectly well put together person.”

Ellis will drop all of her breakup musings when she releases her EP Everything That Comes After on February 20.

Photo credit: Courtney King

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Floodlights Show Romantic Side With Latest Single, “Tricky”

Floodlights may be one of the most exciting acts you’re yet to hear about. Allow me to change all that and introduce you to their latest single “Tricky.” It’s an anthemic rock song that reminds me a bit of The Killers or Arcade Fire. It’s so polished, yet it doesn’t sacrifice the heart.

“It’s the first love song we’ve written” explained Floodlights’ frontman Louis Parsons, “Although it still sounds like us, we did want ‘Tricky’ to be something that felt new. We leant more on synth and rhythm to drive this track which helped to create that feeling of euphoria that comes from letting go of the past and embracing the future.”

After wowing crowds in the UK while supporting our own Amyl and the Sniffers, Floodlights are back home playing local gigs. They’re destined for stadiums, so make sure you take the opportunity to see them at these smaller venues while you still can.

27 November 2025 – King St, Mulubinba/Newcastle
28 November 2025 – BOMBIES @ Harbord Hotel, Kay-ye-my/Manly
29 November 2025 – Thirroul Music Festival @ Anita’s Theatre, Dharawal Country/Thirroul

Photo credit: Josh Sabini

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Bud Rokesky Releases Stunning Alt-Country Single, “Hey Now”

There’s a beautiful intimacy about the music Bud Rokesky’s making. As you listen to his voice, it’s easy to believe he’s speaking directly to you. I was wowed by his song “Newtown” back in April, and I’ve fallen in love all over again listening to his latest single “Hey Now.”

“’Hey Now’ is about the push and pull of love when it’s at its most fragile – those moments where you’re close in heart but far apart in every other way,” Bud explained. “I wanted it to carry the ache of trying to hold on when things feel out of your control, but still leave room for people to hear their own story in it.”

Bud’s press release mentions all of the amazing festivals and tours he’s been a part of, but what comes next is a bit of a mystery. When he’s making music this gorgeous though, I’m on the edge of my seat anticipating whatever comes next.

Photo credit: Marcus Coblyn

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Darcy Pilitz Wows Me With “Wishing Your Life Away”

I love discovering fantastic new artists in my own backyard. Darcy Pilitz is the latest musician from Darkinjung Country/Central Coast to wow me with his music. His latest single “Wishing Your Life Away” is a fantastic grungey pop-punk number in the vein of local acts like Dear Seattle and Slowly Slowly. Its stripped-back opening draws you in, ensuring you’re well on board when the guitar riffs amp up.

“This track really hones in on being in your 20s. Everything feels crazy and chaotic, people are having kids and buying houses, others are really just getting started on their own story,” Darcy explained. “It’s about working those shit jobs to try and make money to do the things you want. At it’s core, this song is about trying to be present and appreciate what you’ve achieved so far, before immediately trying to chase the next ‘thing’. Feels like a bit of a ‘note to self’ to remember what it’s all about and trying not to get caught up in the rush.”

I’m bummed to see I missed a couple of local gigs recently, but I’m determined to avoid repeating that mistake. If you feel the same way, make sure you give Darcy a follow on Instagram to stay in the loop.

Photo credit: Eddy Hill

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Tom Busby Builds Anticipation for Debut Solo Album With “In the Dark”

While I enjoyed his music with Busby Marou, I’ve been really excited watching Tom Busby’s solo journey. He’s dropped a string of singles, including “Waiting For Tomorrow” with Ben Kweller, but I think his latest release “In the Dark” is his best yet. It’s a beautiful ballad with one of the rawest and most powerful vocals I’ve heard in some time.

“In the Dark” comes from Tom’s solo album Rockhampton Hangover, which drops on February 20. He’s currently giving fans a taste of the new material on an East Coast tour.

“I just love being back on the road with this young band,” he enthused. “They are red hot and bring so much energy. Playing these intimate rooms feels special, the connection is real, and the storytelling is off the hook.”

Click the links for tickets to Tom’s remaining solo shows:

20 November 2025 – The Citadel, Bandjalang Country/Murwillumbah
21 November 2025 – Black Bear Lodge, Meeanjin/Brisbane
23 November 2025 – Mo’s Desert Clubhouse, Kombumerri Country/Gold Coast
28 November 2025 – Bellarine Estate, Bellawiyn/Bellarine
29 November 2025 – Shedshaker Taproom, Djandak/Castlemaine
30 November 2025 – The Retreat, Naarm/Melbourne

Photo credit: Maclay Heriot

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Morgan Evans Celebrates Hometown With Latest Single, Album

As a Novocastrian born and bred, I’m incredibly proud of the place I grew up and its musical exports. My heart is so full seeing hometown hero Morgan Evans taking the world by storm. His career might have taken him to Nashville, but his heart is never far from Mulubinba/Newcastle.

After recently signing a new deal with the Virgin Music Group, Morgan has just released his latest single “Beer Back Home,” which was no doubt inspired by boozy nights out at local haunts like The Del or Stag and Hunter. The single gives us our first taste of Morgan’s sophomore album Steel City, which drops on March 20.

“I’m stoked to partner with Virgin Music Group on this record,” Morgan said. “They’ve built a global team that gets Nashville, Europe, Australia, and they get me. The industry’s changing fast, but their model keeps artists in control, especially creatively. I couldn’t be prouder of this new music or more excited to share it with the world alongside the legends at VMG. Let’s go!”

Morgan will be back in the Steel City on February 14 for the Howlin’ Country Music Festival. He’ll also play Meatstock in Giabal and Jarowair Country/Toowoomba and Gunaikurnai/Gippsland in April before returning to the United States.

Image used with permission from Revolutions per Minute

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Talk Heavy Shows Softer Side With “Wedding Bands”

The punk genre isn’t known for its love songs, but Meeanjin/Brisbane band Talk Heavy aren’t afraid to buck the trends and show their vulnerable side. Their latest single “Wedding Bands” has got to be the sweetest emo track I’ve heard all year!

“It reflects on meeting someone, those early moments, and how they compare to where you are now, looking forward to the rest of your lives,” explained Talk Heavy’s frontman Matt Cochran. “Musically, it pulls influence from Rozwell Kid, Modern Baseball, Joyce Manor, and even Modest Mouse in the lead guitar. I think it tells a strong lyrical story from the daydream of the first verse, to the real-time moment of the second verse, into the realization of the outro.”

After recently inking a deal with local label Ninth Life Records, Talk Heavy are preparing to release a stack of fresh tracks in the coming months. Follow them on the socials to learn more about the tunes to come.

Photo credit: Joshua Redbeard

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Pacific Avenue Mark New Chapter With “Working Class Hero”

Pacific Avenue have taken their sound up a gear with their latest single “Working Class Hero.” With more intensity than their usual beachy fare, this is a proper indie rock anthem. Press play, turn up the volume, and enjoy this one.

“‘Working Class Hero’ serves as a tribute to our hometowns of Kiama and Gerringong (Wodi Wodi Country), and the hardworking people who keep them alive,” the band explained. “Growing up in small regional towns, we were shaped by a tight community where loyalty and perseverance ran deep. As we pursued music, moving away from home brought a sense of guilt—leaving behind family and friends. The song’s verses reflect the nostalgia of growing up with a close friend and the joys of small-town life, while the chorus explores the regret and longing of wondering if we’d made the right choice to leave. While we love being on the road and touring, part of us misses the integrity of actively contributing to a community. We aim to convey the heroism that often goes unnoticed, and hope this leaves viewers with a renewed appreciation for their own communities.”

“Working Class Hero” delivers our first taste of Pacific Avenue’s sophomore album, which should drop early next year.

Image used with permission from Varrasso PR

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Cheeky Leash Spread Sunshine With “Change”

After a few gloomy cold days, I’m happy to see some sunshine in my part of Australia in time for the weekend. It’s the perfect weather for hitting the beach, and the perfect time to blast “Change,” the latest single from Woolyungah/Wollongong quartet Cheeky Leash. It’s got such a fun, upbeat vibe, but tap into the lyrics and you’ll realise it’s a little deeper than you might think.

“The song ‘Change’ is rooted in the cost-of-living crisis and reflects how society has become so focused on getting ahead that we’ve lost a sense of connection with each other,” the band explained. “It’s a metaphor for transformation whether that’s personal growth, the evolving world, or even the band’s own musical development. There’s a nostalgic, coming-of-age film feel to the track and lyrically, it’s open to interpretation. Lines like ‘Still searching for change…’ play on the dual meanings of spare money and a deeper desire for societal change, making it resonate differently depending on the listener’s own experiences.”

Cheeky Leash will celebrate the release of “Change” with a whole stack of shows this November and December, including headlining performances and concerts supporting South Summit. Expect plenty of good vibes at the following gigs.

6 November 2025 – The Northern, Cavanbah/Byron Bay (FREE)
7 November 2025 – Elsewhere ‘Bespoke,’ Yugambeh Country/Gold Coast
8 November 2025 – Solbar, Gubbi Gubbi Country/Sunshine Coast
14 November 2025 – 170 Russell, Naarm/Melbourne (supporting South Summit)
15 November 2025 – Factory Theatre, Eora/Sydney (supporting South Summit)
16 November 2025 – Stag & Hunter, Mulubinba/Newcastle (FREE)
22 November 2025 – Felons Barrel Hall, Meeanjin/Brisbane (FREE)
23 November 2025 – Hotel Steyne Upstairs Beach Club, Gayamegal Country/Manly (FREE)
28 November 2025 – Dissent Cafe & Bar, Ngambri/Canberra
29 November 2025 – Marlin Hotel, Murramurrang Country/Ulladulla
5 December 2025 – La La La’s, Woolyungah/Wollongong
12 December 2025 – Gage Roads Brewery, Walyalup/Fremantle (FREE)

Photo credit: Tiarna Stahmer