Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“METADRAMATIC” – St. Humain

Ever since seeing Carly Rae Jepsen on Tuesday, I’ve been on a bit of a pop kick. As if on cue, I discovered METADRAMATIC, the fantastic new EP from St. Humain.

Singapore-born and Eora/Sydney based, St. Humain writes music with real heart. The sound is fresh, with electronic and R&B influences that give it a wider appeal. I found myself bopping along from the first note of “Wanna Talk.” It’s a real bop, but its lyrics about wanting to bridge the gap and impress someone as smoothly as a dream alter-ego really cut deep. That’s the genius of St. Humain. The songs are real earworms, but every one has a real heart behind it. St. Humain does upbeat numbers really well. The electro-groove and effortless falsetto of “Sick Sad Love Song” remind me of a modern Maroon 5 number. The danceability of “Momento” reminds me of a Dua Lipa cut.

While St. Humain knows how to start the party, he also creates some heartbreaking ballads. “Tastes Like You” and the closing number “Dial Tones” are intimate numbers, with the keys keeping St. Humain’s voice company.

Pop fans listen up. St. Humain is the real deal. His sophomore EP METADRAMATIC is out now.

Image used with permission from LPR Agency

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Danika Wows With “FYA” Ahead of EP Release

Before releasing her debut EP, Down Love, tomorrow, Danika’s dropped one more single “FYA.” The third track lifted from the EP, this gorgeous track casts such a spell, I think I might be my favourite one yet. Listening to Danika’s voice joining with a 16-piece female choice as she turns her trauma into a triumphant song is so special.

“It’s about me saying I support you. A song of support for all women and all people. Not feeling alone and being silenced,” she explained.

Down Love, featuring “FYA” and “Coolshit Bullshit,” drops tomorrow. Don’t miss her when she plays some of Victoria’s hottest festivals real soon:

18 March 2023 – The Warrandyte Festival, Wurundjeri Country/Warrandyte (FREE All Ages)
8 April 2023 – Boogie Festival, Kulin Country/Tallarook

Image used with permission from This Much Talent

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

The Rookies Drop Stellar Single “On the Shoulders of Giants”

I don’t write about enough instrumental jazz. Not because I don’t like instrumental jazz, but there’s just not enough good stuff that comes my way. The Rookies buck that trend with their very cool new single “On the Shoulders of Giants.” Consider that your cue to organise an afternoon tea break and take a few minutes to submerse yourself into this one.

“On The Shoulders Of Giants’ is an ode to the wisdom of those who’ve come before us and a reminder that although things may appear bleak in the future, one only needs to look to the past to see just how far we have come thanks to the hard work of our elders,” the band explained. “Ideally, we should be inspired by their work and look at the view from the giants shoulders with a renewed sense of optimism that real change is possible even if we may not see it in our lifetimes – just like the parable of the man who plants trees of whose shade he will never sit, but he does so for the love of future generations that will enjoy the tree.”

“On the Shoulders of Giants” comes from The Rookies’ upcoming fourth album Feed the Fire, which drops on March 22. You can catch them every Wednesday night at Rooks Return in Ngár-go/Fitzroy from 8:30 pm.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Carly Rae Jepsen @ Enmore Theatre, Eora/Newtown – 7 March 2023

In 2007, my husband and I started downloading episodes of Canadian Idol to fill the gap between Australian seasons. From the moment we saw Carly Rae Jepsen audition with her original song “Sweet Talker” (such a gutsy move back then!) we knew she was special. She finished in third place, but we never forgot her. Fast forward to 2011 and the release of “Call Me Maybe.” Suddenly she was the name on everyone’s lips, although later singles never broke through the way that monster track did. That’s a good thing for fans like me because it means we can see her in an intimate venue like the Enmore, where everyone is so passionate about this music.

At a stadium gig, there’s an expectation that bands will play the greatest hits. Red Hot Chilli Peppers were criticised for playing seven songs from their two 2022 albums in Eora/Sydney. Carly Rae played nine songs from her 2022 album The Loneliest Time. She even had the “audacity” to open with two of those new tracks. But the audience was singing right along with her, relishing in the opportunity to experience these songs live for the first time. I was one of them. That album is absolute fire.

While the incredible songs from The Loneliest Time took centre stage, I don’t think anyone walked away disappointed. I had a massive wish list in my head, and Carly Rae delivered just about every track on it. Songs like “Cut to the Feeling”, “Julien”, and “Your Type” didn’t crack the top 100, but listening to the enthusiastic reception they got you’d be forgiven for thinking they were every bit as big as “Call Me Maybe.” The energy of this crowd was incredible, and Carly Rae seemed to lap it up, grinning widely as she jumped around the stage, stopping to touch the hands of lucky fans in the first few rows. From my spot in the dress circle, I watched the crowd move as one, jumping around to the upbeat pop numbers. I almost wished I was down with them instead of dancing in my seat.

As Carly Rae left for an encore, I mentally checked my wish list and started to worry I’d miss out on a few songs, especially the beautiful “Go Find Yourself or Whatever.” I wasn’t sure this soft ballad would find a place in the party, but I needn’t have worried. First song of the encore, just as perfect as I imagined it might be. “Beach House” wasn’t on that wish list, but it probably should have been. Another new track, with some of the best lyrics exploring disaster dates that you’ll ever hear, it really brought back the energy in the room. Carly Rae closed out with “Cut to the Feeling,” another song on that long wish list that sent us home with the very best of vibes.

As I floated back to the train station, buzzing with adrenaline, I marvelled at how far Carly Rae had come. She always had something special as she strummed her guitar and delivered that original song in her Canadian Idol audition. She’s continued writing incredible songs, but she commands a stage now. She could do it in arenas and she deserves to have the fan base that sees her booking larger venues. But I feel so lucky to be able to see her in a much smaller space, at the peak of her powers. I’m sure getting just six hours of sleep will catch up with me at some point, but right now I’m still buzzing. Carly Rae Jepsen continues her So Nice tour with the following Aussie shows:

8 March 2023 – Enmore Theatre, Eora/Sydney
9 March 2023 – The Tivoli, Meeanjin/Brisbane
11-13 March 2023 – Golden Plains, Wadawarrung Country/Meredith
13 March 2023 – The Forum, Naarm/Melbourne
14 March 2023 – The Forum, Naarm/Melbourne

Image source: Stephen Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Katie Noonan @ Avoca Beach Cinema, Darkinjung Country/Avoca Beach – 4 March 2023

If you hadn’t noticed, I’ve been busy. Really busy. After so many slow years, it seems like just about everyone is touring. And like any music addict, I’m powerless to say no. So even though I already had tickets to a matinee performance of “Come From Away” on Saturday, I found myself driving back to Darkinjung Country/Central Coast to catch Katie Noonan’s tribute to Joni Mitchell’s seminal album Blue.

I’d heard how good Melody Pool was from a friend who sees her perform regularly, but I’m not sure his praise really prepared me for her set. What a phenomenal vocalist she is. What a warm and engaging performer. She admitted that her songs tend to be a little dark, as they are often her way of processing her emotions during depressive episodes, but her beautiful voice lifts you up, ensuring the dark lyrics don’t get too heavy. To hold the audience in the palm of her hand with so many new songs is a real gift. I’d see her again in a heartbeat.

Every time I see Katie Noonan I see something new. It’s so exciting to watch her journey as an artist. When I saw her front George I was in my early 20s. A few years back I saw her making jazz-folk with Elixir. And on the weekend, she was celebrating one of the true legends of the music world, Joni Mitchell. It was something new again, but perhaps my favourite.

Firstly, there’s that music. Joni has a special place in my heart, and many of my favourites come from Blue. This album is like an old friend, and taking a journey through it with Katie and this attentive audience was a real joy. The audience is another tick. Katie said we could sing along, but I don’t think any of us wanted to break the spell Katie and her guitarist Jeremy Sawkins cast. You could hear a pin drop. Combine that with the intimate venue, a beautiful cinema with plush seating and such “good juju,” as Katie put it. But it all wouldn’t have mattered if not for Katie. I can’t imagine any other artists doing this music justice. Her voice is timeless and so special, able to swoop up high to Joni’s falsetto notes and wind around the intricate melodies with ease. She also understands these songs. She’s not just singing pretty words, she’s interpreting them. She chats easily with the crowd, sharing stories of Joni’s experiences at the time of writing and her own relationship with this music. If every person didn’t leave those theatre having learned something, I’d be surprised.

I appreciated that Katie played the album from start to finish. I’ve always believed artists have intent when they put an album together. It’s just as it should be. I also felt so treated that she didn’t quite stop there. “Big Yellow Taxi” gave us all the push we needed to sing, but not before Katie “auditioned” us and confirmed we were up to the task. After the singalong, it was so nice to take one last moment to appreciate Katie’s voice as she closed the show with “The Circle Game.”

As I stepped out of the theatre, I was so glad that I pushed myself to come, despite the fatigue that was starting to set in after so many shows. It was a truly special evening of music. If you’re a Katie fan or a Joni fan, make sure you don’t miss this tour. Here are all the remaining dates:

14 April 2023 – Blue Mountains Theatre and Community Hub, Dharug Country/Springwood
15 April 2023 – The Street Theatre, Ngunnawal Country/Canberra
16 April 2023 – Goulburn Performing Arts Centre, Burbong/Goulburn
10 May 2023 – Burrinja, Naarm/Melbourne
11 May 2023 – The Pig & Whistle, Bunurong Country/Main Ridge
12 May 2023 – The Thornbury Theatre, Naarm/Melbourne
13 May 2023 – Palais-Hepburn, Dja Dja Wurrung Country/Hepburn Springs
14 May 2023 – Governor Hindmarsh, Tartanya/Adelaide
18 May 2023 – Glasshouse Port Macquarie, Birpai Country/Port Macquarie
20 May 2023 – Brunswick Picture House, Bundjalung Country/Brunswick Heads
26 May 2023 – Freo.Social, Boorloo/Perth
27 May 2023 – Lyric’s Underground, Boorloo/Perth
1 June 2023 – Bendooley Estate Winery, Gundungurra Country/Berrima
2 June 2023 – Brighton Lakes Recreation & Golf Club, Eora/Sydney
3 June 2023 – Glen Street Theatre, Eora/Sydney
4 June 2023 – Qirkz in the Hunter, Wonnarua Country/Abermain
9 June 2023 – The Events Centre, Gubbi Gubbi Jinibara Country/Caloundra
10 June 2023 – The J, Gubbi Gubbi Country/Noosa
11 June 2023 – Redland Performing Arts Centre, Meeanjin/Brisbane
15 June 2023 – Brisbane Powerhouse, Meeanjin/Brisbane
17 June 2023 – Tanks Arts Centre, Gimuy Country/Cairns

Image used with permission from Revolutions per Minute; credit: Wilk

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Fingerless Drops Trippy New Track, “More to Come”

The press release for Fingerless’ new single “More to Come” describes the Meeajin/Brisbane act as a psych-folk-indie-rock group. It’s one of the more eclectic band descriptions I’ve read, but listening to this song it all makes perfect sense. It somehow reminds me of The Beatles, Suede, Pulp, and Powderfinger all at once. Playing with so many genres could get messy for a lesser act, but this song somehow works. It’s a love song with a difference, which rather than celebrating a relationship that will last a lifetime acknowledges uncertainty and that there is “more to come.”

The band recorded this single, and a few other tracks, at Black Box recording studio, where they worked with producer and recording/mixing engineer Jeff Lovejoy (resin Dogs, Sahara Beck) for the first time.

“We recorded these songs live, with vocal, percussion and acoustic guitar overdubs added later,” said Marc Cheeseman, Fingerless’ vocalist and guitarist. “We prefer to do it this way because that’s how we write the songs. It feels better, it’s more fun and it just makes sense. One really cool thing that happened during recording was getting to use the same 1950s mic stand that was used in the Baz Luhrmann Elvis film. Jeff worked on the film as a music equipment consultant and had some of the gear from the film at his studio while we were recording. So all the vocals from this single were done using that mic stand!”

Fingerless will launch the single for hometown fans at The Cave Inn on March 10.

Image used with permission from 4000 Records; credit: Jonny Pickvance

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Come From Away @ Civic Theatre, Mulubinba/Newcastle – 4 March 2023

My husband and I watched the pro-shot of Come From Away when it dropped on Apple+ in September 2021, 20 years since terrorists drove their planes into the Twin Towers and other aeroplanes en route to the United States were diverted to the small Newfoundland town of Gander. We instantly fell in love with this musical that managed to somehow find the balance between comedy and tragedy. It was so truly heartwarming that when it travelled to Mulubinba/Newcastle, we couldn’t wait to introduce my mother to it.

I must admit, I had my reservations though. The Apple+ pro-shot featured the original Broadway cast. Jenn Colella won Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle awards for her role, and arguably should have taken home the Tony. Could this Aussie cast possibly measure up? How could they convincingly bring us this American story that still resonates so deeply with the people of that country? As with Hamilton, I needn’t have worried. There was not one person in this production that wasn’t at the very least the equal of the Broadway cast. From the soul-stirring opening “Welcome to The Rock,” I found myself swept away again.

In fact, I think this time I was even more invested. While I knew the outcome, I found myself wiping away tears at a poignant moment that hadn’t made me weepy the first time around. While pro-shots are fabulous at drawing your attention to small details, seeing the show from the dress circle I could take it all in.

If like me, you’ve enjoyed the pro-shot of Come From Away, don’t make the mistake of thinking that you’ve already seen the show. You need to see this musical in person. And if you’re yet to discover Come From Away, there’s a reason why so many people rave about it. Do yourself a favour and check it out. Come From Away finishes its Mulubinba/Newcastle season today but will soon open at Her Majesty’s Theatre in Tartanya/Adelaide. It’ll then head to Boorloo/Perth’s Crown Theatre in May and Ngunnawal Country/Canberra in June.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Richard Marx @ NEX, Mulubinba/Newcastle – 1 March 2023

It’s very rare that I drag myself out to two midweek gigs. But when Richard Marx announced he was playing NEX in Mulubinba/Newcastle, I knew I had to get myself there. I’ve been seeing bands at the site once known as Newcastle Workies (and if you’re a local, forever known as the Workies) since my teenage years. They hosted Teenage Rampages when I was growing up, headlined by acts like Peter Andre and Teen Queens. There were standalone gigs from EYC and Goo Goo Dolls. Of course a lot has changed, and not just the acts. I haven’t been since the rebranding and refurbishment. It’s definitely more sophisticated these days, but it still seemed like an odd choice for the man who’s written more number one songs than anyone else.

Richard’s guitarist, who goes by the moniker Dandelion Head, opened up for him. Looking at a picture of Dandelion Head, you can probably imagine what he sounds like. Looking like he’s just finished teaching yoga classes at Byron Bay and probably smelling like patchouli, he admits that his songs are a bit “hippy-dippy.” It was a strange choice of opener, but Dandelion Head is undeniably talented. After a busy work day, I quite enjoyed chilling out and embracing his relaxed vibe.

You don’t chill out to Richard Marx. You cheer loudly. You sing along. You do whatever you want, according to Richard, because this is your show. He encourages photos and videos, insisting that he didn’t spend time putting product in his hair for people not to look at him. He even obliged a quick selfie with an opportunistic fan before insisting he had to get back to the show everyone had paid money for.

While Richard opened with a track from his new album Songwriter, he didn’t stray too far from the hits. Songs like “Take This Heart”, “Endless Summer Nights,” and “Angelia” came out early, delivered with the kind of passion that makes you forget he’s sung them for decades. If he’s becoming tired of them, it doesn’t show. A talented songwriter, “This I Promise You,” made famous by NSYNC and “Long Hot Summer”, cowritten with our own Keith Urban, also made the set.

In between songs, Richard chatted easily, cracking jokes and making us feel like we were just catching up with a friend. He’s such a generous performer who isn’t afraid to let his audience in. He introduces us to his sons during “When You Loved Me,” playing along with a video featuring their accompanying instrumentation and vocals. We get a further glimpse into his world when he plays “Front Row” in front of video featuring him relaxing with his dog and wife Daisy Fuentes.

It seemed like we’d already heard so many hits by the time the encore rolled around, but except for “Front Row,” this portion of the show was all about those massive numbers. “Hazard,” “Satisfied,” “Should’ve Known Better,” and the beautiful piano ballad “Right Here Waiting.” We sang along in raptures, so appreciative to share space with this talent. I’ve seen Richard Marx four times now, and I’ll probably go again, because it’s always a good time. Like a fine wine, he only seems to get better with age. He continues his Australian tour tonight in Eora/Sydney:

5 March 2023 – State Theatre, Eora/Sydney
7 March 2023 – Anita’s Theatre, Thurrural Country/Thirroul
8 March 2023 – Panthers World of Entertainment, Darug Country/Penrith
10 March 2023 – The Astor Theatre, Boorloo/Perth

Image source: Stephen Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Del Amitri @ Enmore Theatre, Eora/Newtown- 28 February 2023

I thought I’d missed out on the chance to see Scottish pop-rock act Del Amitri. They last toured Australia when I was around 10, and while they continue to gig around Europe I thought their days of international touring may be far behind them. I jumped on tickets when they finally announced an Aussie tour last year and felt fever-pitch excitement as I shuffled into the Enmore last Tuesday night.

Darren Middleton provided solid support, proving a capable frontman away from his Powderfinger bandmates. He could have taken the easy route and played at least one song from that massive Aussie act, but I appreciated his confidence in his solo skills. He’s such a gifted songwriter and he surrounds himself with quality musicians that help him bring them to life.

Looking at The Dels now, with graying hair and a few more wrinkles, you’re acutely aware of the passing of time. But then they play, and it’s as if no time has passed. Justin Currie’s voice sounds just as compelling as it ever did. While he and Iain Harvie are the only original members, the band sounds tight. Their songs have the power to transport you back to a simpler time, and I revelled in each and every one.

When you’re as good as Del Amitri, you don’t need to save big songs. “Always the Last to Know” was the fourth song of the night, “Kiss This Thing Goodbye” the sixth. I sang along to every word, although I missed the harmonica and banjo that drove the original recordings.

This wasn’t a nostalgia tour though. Songs from 2021 album Fatal Mistakes were scattered liberally through the set. From my privileged position in the dress circle, looking down on the front few rows, it seems the fans didn’t mind. They were there to hear all the old stuff back in the day, and they were thrilled to witness the new material they already knew well enough to sing along to.

They’re a band of few words, preferring to let the music do the talking. They seemed at ease on stage though, happy to share in this music with appreciative fans who helped them feel at home.

A generous five-song encore gave me some of my favourite moments of the show. Justin Currie took the lead on the stripped-back “Empty” and you could have heard a pin drop. It was a powerful, compelling performance that I’m going to remember for the rest of my life. “Be My Downfall” is my favourite Del Amitri song, and they saved it to the very end. I was starting to worry it wouldn’t make the set, as it didn’t crack the top 50 here in Australia, but it was so worth the wait. With house lights up and an audience singalong, I had chills.

I didn’t get back home until 1 am, which is some kind of lunacy in the middle of the week, but I was running on such post-gig adrenaline that I couldn’t sleep for hours. I can only hope the Dels had as much fun as I did. Maybe they won’t make us wait for another three decades before making a return visit.

Image source: Stephen Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Dande and the Lion Release Indie-Pop Treat, “Children of the Hour”

I love a happy-sad song. You know those ones that get you up and dancing, but are a lot darker than they first appear once you start listening to the lyrics. So “Children of the Hour,” the latest single from Eora/Sydney act Dande and the Lion, has everything I’m looking for. Rest assured, it will get you up off your seat and grooving along to the beat. But once you tap into the words, you’ll start to fully appreciate this gem.

‘Children of the Hour’ was inspired by a play I read by Lilian Hellman – ‘The Children’s Hour’ – that was later adapted into a film starring Audrey Hepburn and Shirley MacLaine,” explained vocalist Natassa Zoe. “Hellman’s story played a part in helping to initiate my songwriting process and I started to reflect on how this related to experiences in my own life at that time. ‘Children of the Hour’ centres around the push and pull within an intimate relationship; meeting someone who takes you completely off-guard and shakes up your world in a totally unexpected way. So much so, that you start creating excuses to see them, thinking about a future with them, yet despite all those feelings it never quite matches up, for whatever reason you’re both just out of touch.

“The song itself is about being playful in the moment, following the feeling rather than over-thinking things. Yet, despite this, the ‘hour’ never being quite right and ultimately leading to the endless wondering of how things might have been under different circumstances, in another time.”

Dande and the Lion are current touring around the East Coast to support this single’s release. Here are all their remaining dates:
3 March 2023 – Oriental Hotel, Mulubinba/Newcastle
25 March 2023 – The Jynx House @ Venue 114, Kabi Kabi and Jinibari Country/Sunshine Coast (supporting The VANNS)
5 April 2023 – Mumbo Jumbo’s, Darkinjung Country/Terrigal
14 April 2023 – Towradgi Beach Hotel, Dharawal Country/Towradgi
21 April 2023 – The Gum Ball, Wonnarua Country/Lower Belford
28 April 2023 – Kelly’s on King, Eora/Newtown

Image used with permission from beehive; credit: Saz Watson