New Song Obsession: “I Promise” by Casey Barnes

Casey Barnes didn’t quite find his feet during his stint on the last series of Australian Idol, but there was something incredibly likable about this guy. So I was thrilled to see Casey pop up on Video Hits yesterday with the film clip for his new single “I Promise.” While I found him a bit imitative on his show, here he’s found his own voice. This is just the sort of mellow guitar driven music that I love, and I can’t wait to hear more of it. The track comes from Casey’s EP Red Lion Motel, which is available now through iTunes and Casey Barnes’ website.

Jonesez Announces “Be That Guy” Shows Ahead of Album Release

A couple of months ago I introduced you to Jonesez, the new solo venture of ex-Horsell Common member Mark Stewart. If you liked what you heard then, you’ll be thrilled to know his debut album Betty’s Soup isn’t too far away.

Our first taste is “Be That Guy,” the first single and the second of Jonesez’ “Basement Videos.” is Look out for Tahlia Shaw of Fuzz Phantoms making a guest appearance on drums!

Betty’s Soup won’t hit stores until August 6, but you can get a sneak peek at the new material when Jonesez performs the following shows.

16 June 2010 – Bar 32 (Gangbusters), Canberra
18 June 2010 – The Sandringham Hotel, Newtown
25 June 2010 – The Birmingham, Fitzroy

New Song Obsession: “All Four Seasons” by Mark Sholtez

Mark Sholtez has done it again with his new single “All Four Seasons.” Just as his last single quickly won my heart, this track and its accompanying video leave me feeling positively giddy.

“I often hint in my lyrics at the idea that women are complicated and confusing creatures,” Mark explained. “I wanted this song to be celebration of that complexity and unpredictability.”

He’s definitely achieved that; the song has some of the most perceptive lyrics I’ve ever heard, and the clip has some of the cutest animals. It’s a winner on all fronts!

“All Four Seasons” comes from Mark’s album The Distance Between Two Truths, which will hit stores on July 9.

Queen Ifrica Joins Blue King Brown for “Women’s Revolution”

Blue King Brown are back with their new single “Women’s Revolution,” a collaboration with respected Jamaican chart topper Queen Ifrica. Reflecting the heritage of both acts, its dynamic film clip was shot in Kingston and Melbourne.

“The song draws inspiration from the day-to-day female leaders in our world,” explained lead singer Natalie Pa’apa’a. “It also identifies and reinforces the philosophy that the best way to effect change in communities of developing nations is to educate, support and encourage the young female population, as they are most commonly the ones who grow up to be the anchors and teachers within their families and extended community. Queen Ifrica is one of Jamaica’s most gifted female artists and it has been incredible to have her collaborate with Blue King Brown. Feel it!”

“Women’s Revolution” will be available as a digital download from June 11. The song and video will be bundled together on iTunes for the special price of $1.69. “Women’s Revolution” comes from Blue King Brown’s sophomore album Worldwize, which will be in stores on August 20. The album’s release coincides with the band’s support slot on John Butler Trio’s April Uprising tour.

New Song Obsession: “All These Things” by Darren Hanlon

It’s a rare and beautiful thing when music charms you, but after catching Darren Hanlon’s newie “All These Things” on Rage this morning I was well and truly charmed. Despite being a blogger with a decent vocabulary, charming seems like the very best adjective to describe this song and accompanying music video. The quirky lyrics, the choreographed dance routines, the musical ninjas; it’s all just gorgeous!

Aston Does Rihanna’s “Rude Boy” Like You’ve Never Heard it Before

Sydney classical outfit Aston have been adding a touch of class to The Matty Johns Show each week. If you haven’t caught their reinterpretations of modern pop and rock songs, check out this reimagining of Rihanna’s “Rude Boy.” I’m not a fan of the original, or of classical music generally, yet I love this. If you do too, make sure you visit Aston’s YouTube page, where you can see more clips and vote for the song you want them to take on next!

Dead Letter Circus’ Big New Music Video

Brisbane band Dead Letter Circus have unleashed the video for their single “Big,” the first from their debut album This Is the Warning. I am love with this clip; it’s taking the music video back to its artistic roots. It’s a bit of a trip, and I love being taken on that ride. What a welcome change from all those uninspired film clips with tedious live footage!

Chemical Transport Get Down, Down With a Panda

Chemical Transport has unleashed the film clip for their debut single “Down, Down.” This song was one of my favourites from their We’re Not Alone EP, and with the addition of that panda it’s even cooler. Check it out, and if you like what you hear make sure you catch the band playing the following shows next month.

3 June 2010 – Hot Damn! @ Spectrum, Sydney
22 June 2010 – The Excelsior, Surry Hills

Thirsty Merc Strip Back New Track “Mousetrap Heart”

The album’s still some time away, but this video from Thirsty Merc’s forthcoming release Mousetrap Heart has me wanting more. The classic grooves and quirky lyrics of the title track seem like a bit of a return for the Aussie lads, although even in this raw mode I can tell we’re in for something a bit slicker. That should come as no surprise as the Aussies are currently in Los Angeles working with producer Matt Wallace, the man behind Maroon 5’s sound. I can definitely hear his influence in this hooky tune. More please!