Category: Video

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Sidney Opens Up With “sliding doors”

‘90s romantic-comedy Sliding Doors is one of those movies that lives in my mind rent-free. The premise of a single decision completely changing the trajectory of your life is fascinating. It seems local singer-songwriter Sidney agrees, as the flick inspired her fantastic new indie-pop single, also called “sliding doors.”

“I was still holding onto the belief that if I just pushed hard enough, maybe it could still work. But sometimes, choosing one path is what shows you the truth about what you actually wanted,” Sidney explained. “With its light/dark contrast and undercurrent of emotional unrest, ‘sliding doors’ sonically captures the emotional tug-of-war at the heart of the EP, sitting right at the tipping point between fantasy and clarity.”

Sidney will release that EP on February 27. You can hear a couple more songs from that release, including previous singles “golden boy” and “what if it ends?” on your favourite streaming services.

Photo credit: Claire Warren

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Lucid Safari Impress With “Running”

If you’re feeling that midweek slump, take a moment to press play on “Running,” the latest track from Meeanjin/Brisbane-based rockers Lucid Safari. It’s such a fabulous feel-good track from a band that seem destined for big things.

“‘Running’ is about that ache you feel for someone you never really got the chance to know. It’s that unspoken connection that lingers, the one that got away before anything real could even start,” explained Lucid Safari’s lead singer, Daniel Lewis. “You’re replaying moments, chasing fragments and memories that never quite left you. Underneath the energy of the song, there’s a quiet kind of longing about how time moves on, people change, but some feelings just stay with you.”

Discovering “Running” has sent me down a little rabbit hole listening to all of the most recent Lucid Safari’s releases, and I am so impressed. Hopefully we hear plenty more these guys in 2026.

Image used with permission from Good Intent

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Charly Oakley Releases Pop Gem, “Against the Odds”

Charly Oakley has won my heart with their poppy new single “Against the Odds.” This is one of those special pop tracks that wears its heart on its sleeve. The combination of Charly’s relatable lyrics and gorgeous, warm voice is incredible.

Charly might be just starting their musical journey, but they’re already impressing the right people. They were signed to management under Sam Dainty and Paul Dainty AO, AM, which put them on the radar of Jonathan Daniel, founder of CRUSH MUSIC whose roster includes megastars like Miley Cyrus and Lorde. Jonathan introduced Charly to LA producer Xandy Berry, who’s worked with artists like Rihanna, Bon Iver, and Miley. Along with his long-time friend and collaborator Jordie Thomas, he helped bring Charly’s vision for “Against the Odds” to life. With all those heavy hitters on their side, you know we’ll be hearing a lot more from Charly Oakley.

Photo credit: Annabelle Bahuth

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