Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Siobhan Cotchin Does Country-Rock Right With “Fill My Cup”

I fell in love with Siobhan Cotchin’s brand of country-rock when I heard “Growing Pains” a couple of months ago. Now I’m even more enamoured with the release of the follow-up single “Fill My Cup.” If you ever thought music with a country bent wasn’t for you, this track might just change your mind.

“‘Fill My Cup’ is a song about being exhausted from life and wanting to know if there’s anything more than what we already have right now. It’s about my fear of not reaching my potential and trying to understand my place in the world,” Siobhan explained. “I have written a lot of songs about this existential dread that I think everyone feels and it really helps me cope with those thoughts. I’ve also always wanted to write a drinking song that goes a little deeper and more introspective, but is also fun and anthemic. This song is for anyone who feels a little lost and is struggling to find meaning in these insane times. It has been a crazy few years and I want people to know that they’re not alone.”

Siobhan is currently at BIGSOUND but she’ll be back in her home state of Western Australia soon enough Catch her anywhere you can!

6-8 September 2022 – BIGSOUND, Meeanjin/Brisbane
9 September 2022 – Green Door Wines, Dardanup/Henty (with Didirri)
10 September 2022 – Mojo’s Bar, Walyalup/Fremantle (single launch)
15 September 2022 – Rechabite Hall, Boorloo/Perth (with Bob Evans)
24 September 2022 – Good Day Sunshine Festival, Undalup/Busselton
28 September 2022 – Astor Theater, Boorloo/Perth (with The Whitlams)
29 September 2022 – Astor Theater, Boorloo/Perth (with The Whitlams)

Image used with permission from Beehive PR; credit: Duncan Wright

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Rock Out to Pacific Avenue’s New Track, “Leaving for London”

A song about the one that got away has never sounded as much fun as “Leaving for London”, the latest single from Pacific Avenue. Rather than mourning her loss, Pacific Avenue celebrates her freedom in this feel-good pop-rock track.

“‘Leaving For London’ is about loving and wanting to be with someone, but at the same time ensuring you’re doing what’s best for them, and understanding what makes them happiest, even if that means not being able to be with them. It’s about doing your best at supporting who you love, to become who they want to be.”

Pacific Avenue are busy bees, recently supporting Louis Tomlinson and currently on the road with Crooked Colours. They’ll also play Festival of the Sun later this year. Catch them at the following venues!

9 September 2022 – Margaret Court Arena, Naarm/Melbourne (with Crooked Colours)
10 September 2022 – Hordern Pavilion, Eora/Sydney (with Crooked Colours)
9 December 2022 – Festival of the Sun, Birpai/Port Macquarie
10 December 2022 – Festival of the Sun, Birpai/Port Macquarie

Image used with permission from Good Intent; credit: Charlie Hardy

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Feel the “Pain” With Mt. Nadir

We’ve all heard of musicians writing and recording songs online, but meeting and forming a band over the internet is a little rarer. However, that’s exactly how Queensland band Mt. Nadir got together. After listening to their debut single “Pain,” I reckon it’s going pretty well for them.

This track is a sucker punch of emotion. The vocals from frontperson Frankie Rosbrook are the perfect vehicle for those angsty lyrics.

“”Pain” is the break-up feeling, the dark and empty, the absence of a future that stays in your body a bit too long. Heaviest in quieter moments, it’s the deeply irrational, the ‘you & nobody’ could possibly understand the things I feel,” Frankie explained. “All though it may seem gloom, it also serves as a reminder that just as fast as these times can come on; just as fast they will pass. In a way, it provides an anthem for the common doubt and knowing that the darkness is a natural aspect of the human existence.”

Mt. Nadir recently launched the single in Meeanjin/Brisbane. Hopefully it’s not too long before they bring their show to the rest of the country. We’re ready!

Image used with permission from Footstomp Music

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Kyle Lionhart Releases Powerful Single “Lighthouse”

Singer-songwriter Kyle Lionhart will have you reaching for the tissues with his moving new single “Lighthouse”, a heartfelt song penned in the face of tragedy.

“I wrote “Lighthouse” with one of my best friends Paul Ruske, we wrote it as somewhat of an ode to our children. Paul lost his seven-year-old son to a brain tumour in 2017 and expressed to me once that one of the hardest parts of his son’s illness was not being able to protect him from it. This broke me; as a father I think one of our highest primitive callings is to protect & provide, the thought that this could be taken away from me, the thought that there were going to be a lot my boys will have to endure on their own and I won’t be able to guide and protect them from scares me more than almost anything in this life,” he explained. “This is where the song was born; in that emotion, in that fear of the unknown, in the realisation that much of life is out of our control. With this song we both wanted to express to our children that no matter what happens in this life, our love for them will travel further than just this physical realm.”

This song has totally broken me. It’s heartbreaking but so beautiful, a powerful message to special people left here and a reminder of those who aren’t. Listening to it on Father’s Day just gives it that extra bit of gravitas. If you’re lucky enough to have your dad still here, or you’re a dad with your own kids, perhaps it’ll inspire you to hug your loved ones a bit closer today.

Image used with permission from Revolutions per Minute

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Danika Drops Stunning New Single, “Coolshit Bullshit”

Naarm/Melbourne singer-songwriter Danika perfectly balances the dark with the light in her latest single, “Coolshit Bullshit.” If you’ve ever felt small around the people who are supposed to lift you up, this one’s for you.

“It’s kinda like a helium balloon floating away on its lonesome, this song is a little bit sad, and lonely, but with a really fun soundtrack,” Danika explained. “It’s about finally recognising and expressing your needs, and eventually leaving a situation that made you feel small and undervalued. Leaving the things you know can be very sad and lonely, even if it’s better for you, it’s far from easy.”

Danika kicks off her East Coast tour in Dja Dja Wurrung Country/Ballarat tonight. Catch her at the following venues.

2 September 2022 – Volta, Dja Dja Wurrung Country/Ballarat (with SNAFU and Sid ONeil)
9-11 September 2022 – Wonder Mountain Festival @ Tanswells Hotel, Baarmutha/Beechworth (with Andras, Mildlife, Claps, Glass Beams, Emma Volard and more)
15 September 2022 – Church 5, Gumbaynggirr Country/Bellingen
17 September 2022 – Bar Oppil, Eora/Sydney (with CINTA T)
18 September 2022 – Franks Wild Years, Dharawal Country/Thirroul (with Dow World + Surprise Guest)
23 September 2022 – Red Hill Hotel, Dja Dja Wurrung Country/Chewton (with Sid ONeil)
24 September 2022 – Tanswell Hotel, Baarmutha/Beechworth (with Sid ONeil)
25 September 2022 – The Wandi Pub, Wandiligong (FREE with Sid ONeil)
30 September 2022 – Barwon Club, Djilang/Geelong (with Final Final)
1 October 2022 – Railway Hotel, Dja Dja Wurrung, Taungurung and Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Country/Macedon (with Ella Thompson)
7 October 2022 – Shotkickers, Naarm/Melbourne (with Tomgirl and Sid ONeil)

Image used with permission from This Much Talent; credit: Bridgette Winten

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Heartquakes” – Darcy Lane

When I heard Darcy Lane’s singles “Spines” and “Bored”, I couldn’t wait to hear more. Today my patience is rewarded with the release of Darcy’s incredible debut EP, Heartquakes.

If you’re already familiar with Darcy’s music, this EP is every bit as angsty, relatable, and catchy as you’d hope for. If you’re yet to discover her songs, this four-track release is a fantastic introduction. “Bad Together” kicks things off, an irresistible indie-pop track with dark lyrics of dysfunctional love that counterbalance the boppy beat. Lyrics like “Maybe love’s supposed to feel like you’re choking” are so powerful. “Bored” has lost none of its potency with time. Listening to it in the context of this EP reminds me just how incredible it is. “Harmless” is revealing and raw, with Darcy unafraid to share her deepest self. The electro beats give it a fun, fresh feel, but again its those lyrics that make the deepest impression. “Spines” rounds out the EP, bringing our journey through Darcy’s heart and mind over all too quickly.

Selfishly, I wish Heartquakes for longer. But by delivering just four tracks, Darcy keeps us wanting more. Like those three-minute pop songs or a delicious petit four, Darcy ensures what she presents here is incredibly strong. It’s short and bittersweet, but remember that you can always press play again.

Images used with permission from Good Intent

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Placid in the Rough” – Toby Mobbs

Through the years of writing this blog, I’ve realised that often the best albums aren’t the ones pushed by the big labels. Sure, there are some brilliant artists with that kind of backing, but our country is so rich in talent that often the real gems come from independent acts who release their music simply because they have something to say. Toby Mobbs, an unsigned independent singer-songwriter from Albury, is one of those acts. His debut album Placid in the Rough is likely to fly under the radar, but it deserves your time.

Toby describes himself as a pop-folk act, but that doesn’t quite tell the whole story. Placid in the Rough is such a diverse album. My own music taste is so eclectic, I can get bored if a record stays in the same place for too long but this album takes us on a journey, from solo tracks recorded in home studios to collaborations with other artists in professional studios. Yes, there are poppy, folky moments, but Toby has so much more to share with us. The opening number “Making Lemonade” has a rock edge which gets cranked up to 11 with the next track “Moments”. There’s a gentle country feel to “The River,” a duet with the fabulous Nick Keogh, and “Just One Thing”, which features Asha Bright. “A Mark to Remember” has a retro electronic vibe. Toby’s sound is a glorious symphony by the time the final track, “Will I Be Somebody Else?” rolls around.

I have a sneaking suspicion that these eight tracks barely scratch the surface. No genre that Toby plays with feels ill-fitting, which is a testament to his talent and confident songwriting. As a self-confessed word nerd, I really appreciate Toby’s introspective, yet relatable, lyrics. The unique collection of songs that makes up Placid in the Rough encourages repeat listens. I’ve returned to this album countless times this week, and I’m probably going to press play again once I finish writing this review. You should too.

If you like what you hear, you can catch Toby showcasing the music and stories behind these special songs at intimate venues around the country. After seeing so many “national” tours that skipped Darwin, Perth, and Hobart, he was determined to play every capital, and a few choice regional centres too. He’ll be joined by Nick Keogh and local artists at every show, including many who appear on Placid in the Rough. The tour kicks off in Toby’s hometown of Wiradjuri Country/Wagga Wagga next month.

5 October 2022 – The Curious Rabbit, Wiradjuri Country/Wagga Wagga
6 October 2022 – The Food Co-op Shop & Café, Ngambri/Canberra
7 October 2022 – Butchers Brew Bar, Eora/Sydney
9 October 2022 – Can You Keep A Secret?, Meeanjin/Brisbane
15 October 2022 – Happy Yess, Garramilla/Darwin
22 October 2022 – The 21st Amendment, Boorloo/Perth
26 October 2022 – Wheatsheaf Hotel, Tarndanya/Adelaide
28 October 2022 – Brunswick Artists’ Bar, Naarm/Melbourne
30 October 2022 – Pablo’s Cocktails And Dreams, Nipaluna/Hobart
6 November 2022 – The Goods Shed, Bungambrawatha/Albury-Wodonga

Images used with permission from Toby Mobbs; feature image credit: Trewbella Photography

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Sunday Lemonade Releases Bubbly New Single “See You Sometime”

Sunday Lemonade have thoroughly charmed me with their folky new single, “See You Sometime.” It sounds effortlessly organic, like something that just came out of an impromptu jam session, but it’s been years in the making.

“Even after many one-way ticket purchases to leave behind everything that’s comfortable for the great unknown, closing a chapter never gets easier. This song has developed substantially over the years and has travelled with me since it was written while amidst backpacking and a snow season in Canada then eventually released as a heartbreak, soft-folk song for a solo project,” explained Loz, one half of the duo. “It was Tyson’s rock influence that really developed the other side of the story, creating an interesting contrast of sombre lyrics blended with the uplifting musicality giving that feeling of excitement for a new adventure.”

Loz and Tys always seem to be on the road, and the next few months are no exception. They’ll pack up their campervan-home and make pitstops along the East Coast to play the following dates.

16 September 2022 – The Cambridge, Mulubinba/Newcastle (with The Pierce Brothers)
17 September 2022 – The Shed, Boonwurrung Country/Main Ridge (with Shaun Kirk)
23 September 2022 – Beer DeLuxe, Bungambrawatha/Albury (with The Pierce Brothers)
24 September 2022 – The Corporate Moose, Latji Latji Country/Mildura
25 September 2022 – Overland Corner Hotel, Erawirung Country/Overland
30 September 2022 – The Corporate Moose, Latji Latji Country/Mildura
2 October 2022 – Floriade Festival, Ngunnawal Country/Canberra
14 October 2022 – Kangaroo Valley Folk Festival 2022, Wodi-Wodi Country/Kangaroo Valley
13 November 2022 – Peninsula Vinehop Festival 2022, Boonwurrung Country/Mount Martha

Image used with permission from Sandhill Records

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Harry Cleverdon Wows Me With “Just for a While”

I am absolutely swooning over “Just for a While” the gorgeous new single from Harry Cleverdon. The press release says Harry is a country singer-songwriter, but I definitely hear a little folk and pop influence in his sound. His voice and gentle acoustic sound have melted me. The lyrics, which celebrate living every moment, really resonate as the memories of lockdowns still loom large.

“’Just for a While’ was written during lockdown in 2020,” Harry said. “It’s about missing home or missing a loved one … it’s a sweet reminder of how important seemingly insignificant moments can be. It covers notes of sadness and depression due to a lack of familiarity in our upside-down world, while singing about happy memories. I wrote this during a phase of avolition that, I guess, was partially brought on by the lockdown at the time. I think most of us shared these emotions, and the promise of better times ahead and happy memories, was what got us through.”

Harry’s website says he plays a lot of corporate functions and weddings. His originals are so good that hopefully he can give those covers gigs away soon. He’s far too good to be stuck singing other people’s songs.

Image used with permission from Rock This Country

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Honey Nothings’ Start Your Week Right With “Talk to Me”

Mondays call for pick-me-ups like Eora/Sydney band Honey Nothings’ irresistible new single, “Talk To Me.” It’s got a classic 80s pop sound with bright synths and a chorus you’ll find yourself singing long after the track ends.

“‘Talk To Me’ is a song inspired by communication breakdowns; how assumptions and things left unsaid can lead to massive arguments and conflict,” explained the band’s guitarist and keyboard player, James Fuller. “I wrote the lyrics just after Christmas in 2020, during a particularly hard-hitting lockdown after some typical family tension. Pete [Longhurst, drums] and I did the first session at his parents’ place, springboarding off an ‘80s kind of synth hook he’d come up with. The track came together quickly thereafter, with ideas coming thick and fast. I found that the lyrics were starting to move further away from the original theme and towards a more romantic feeling, possibly inspired by the bittersweetness of the harmony and overall vibe of the track. After yet another lockdown was introduced in NSW, we finished off the track remotely via zoom. The icing on the 80s cake was a sax solo from Zac Olsen, which filled a massive gap we’d had since the beginning.

“This is our first single since our debut EP, which came out mid-2021. We’ve dealt with a bunch of setbacks in trying to gain momentum, from COVID to uni stuff to outright lack of motivation, but we feel like this release really captures the energy and passion we have for music, which we might’ve forgotten about a little over the past year.”

Honey Nothings will launch the single for hometown fans at Oxford Art Factory’s Gallery Bar this Friday, September 2. They’ve started your week right, why not end it with these guys?

Image used with permission from Good Intent