Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Enjoy the Sweet Soul Sounds of Sayah’s “Fruit”

Sayah’s latest single “Fruit” is a sassy slice of soulful pop bound to resonate with anyone struggling to move on from their ex. She says the track is about those times “When you’ve got an insane connection with someone but you know they’re not good for you, so you try everything to move on including seeing new people. But no matter what, they’re always on your mind and it’s so freaking annoying! At the same time, you also kinda love it. Ughhh the confusion!”

You might not know her name yet, but chances are you already know Sayah’s voice. She has performed as a feature vocalist for Peking Duk, Cosmo’s Midnight, and Set Mo. She’s also provided backing vocals for acts including Safia, Thandi Phoenix, and KLP. However, over the last two years she’s also focused on her own writing and recording.

Sayah has several upcoming dates, including a headlining show at the Oxford Art Factory and sets with Cosmo’s Midnight.

18 April 2021 – Yours & Owls, Wollongong (with Cosmo’s Midnight)
13 May 2021 – Oxford Art Factory, Sydney
13 August 2021 – Fresh Produce, Townsville (with Cosmo’s Midnight)
27 August 2021 – Fresh Produce, Maitland (with Cosmo’s Midnight)
3 September 2021 – Fresh Produce, Coolangatta (with Cosmo’s Midnight)
10 September 2021 – Fresh Produce, Hobart (with Cosmo’s Midnight)
17 September 2021 – Fresh Produce, Canberra (with Cosmo’s Midnight)
24 September 2021 – Fresh Produce, Bendigo (with Cosmo’s Midnight)
1 October 2021 – Fresh Produce, Adelaide (with Cosmo’s Midnight)
27 December 2021 – Wildlands, Brisbane (with Cosmo’s Midnight)

Image used with permission from Beehive PR; credit: Ashley Lim

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Hamilton @ Lyric Theatre, Sydney – 10 April 2021

Like so many Australians I spent my 2020 birthday in total lockdown. The cruise I’d booked was cancelled. My best friend who insisted she’d be happy to sit in my place and drink wine couldn’t cross the border. For the first time ever there was no special meal out, just me and my husband. It was sucky, like so much of 2020, but one of the things that made the year brighter was the release of Hamilton on Disney+. As I watched and rewatched, unpacking and analysing it as I hadn’t done with a piece of work since high school English, it became my favourite musical. So when I heard it would make its Australian debut around my 2021 birthday, I knew how I wanted to celebrate my latest turn around the sun.

I wondered though, could the Australian production of Hamilton possibly meet my lofty expectations? I’d fallen in love with the Broadway cast, many of whom took home Tonys for their performances. Matching them was always going to be a tall order, but we should be proud of our talent here at home. Many of the Hamilton principals aren’t well-known … yet. But I believe this cast has many stars of the future. Lin-Manuel Miranda created Hamilton, so while his singing voice was never the strongest I couldn’t imagine anyone else understanding the role of Alexander in quite the same way. But Jason Arrow stepped into those massive shoes as if they were tailormade for him. Chloe Zuel was the perfect Eliza and Lyndon Watts a nuanced Aaron Burr. Matu Ngaropo brought the right amount of gravitas to George Washington and while I love Daveed Diggs, I think Victory Ndukwe did an even better job of separating the personalities of Lafayette and Thomas Jefferson.

If like me you were wondering whether the local cast could possibly keep pace with the rapid-fire rhymes, don’t stress. They’ve got this. Add in those incredible songs, beautiful costumes and staging, and you’ve got all the ingredients for a memorable time at the theatre.

If you’ve seen the Disney+ pro shot, you may wonder whether you need to see Hamilton in person. There’s an electricity about being in “the room where it happens” though. While I fell in love with Hamilton on my couch, I wouldn’t have given up the experience of witnessing it in person for the world. While I appreciate the way that the cameras guided my gaze at home, being able to take in the whole stage at any time and catch the movements that might have been off-frame made me fall in love with this musical even more. Nothing could replace the feeling of sitting with a crowd of theatregoers (100% capacity now, if you please), then standing with them to deliver the standing ovation this production so richly deserved.

As I glanced down my row, I was pleased to see my whole family joining me in that standing O. Even my father who was dreading the performance because he hates “rap crap.” There may be no higher praise than that. Hamilton is at Sydney’s Lyric Theatre until November 14. Tickets are on sale now from Ticketmaster.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Rock Out to Sly Withers’ Latest Tune, “Clarkson”

Perth indie-rock act Sly Withers have dropped an epic new single ahead of their Aussie tour. “Clarkson” is just what the doctor ordered, with an anthemic, singalong chorus and bold, chunky guitars. Crank up the volume, press play, and enjoy this one.

“Clarkson” comes from Sly Withers’ new album Gardens, which is scheduled for a June 11 release. Expect to hear a few more tracks at the following shows. Note that most have already sold out, but there are a few tickets remaining for the rest if you’re quick!

6 May 2021 – Jive, Adelaide (SOLD OUT)
7 May 2021 – Rosemount Hotel, Perth (SOLD OUT)
8 May 2021 – The River, Margaret River
13 May 2021 – Newcastle Hotel, Newcastle (SOLD OUT)
14 May 2021 – Crowbar, Sydney (SOLD OUT)
15 May 2021 – UC Hub, Canberra
20 May 2021 – Vinnie’s Dive Bar, Gold Coast (SOLD OUT)
21 May 2021 – The Brightside, Brisbane (SOLD OUT)
22 May 2021 – Solbar, Maroochydore (SOLD OUT)
27 May 2021 – Altar Bar, Hobart (SOLD OUT)
28 May 2021 – Barwon Club, Geelong
29 May 2021 – Howler, Melbourne (SOLD OUT)

Image used with permission from Deathproof PR

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Teen Sensation Paulina Drops New Single “Lonely Drives”

At just 16 years old, Brisbane singer-songwriter Paulina has managed to really make her mark on the music industry. She’s already been a finalist in the International Songwriting Competition and seen her music featured on Spotify’s Chill Tracks playlist and ABC Brisbane. Now with the release of her gorgeous new single “Lonely Drives,” you can bet she’ll hit even greater heights.

The first thing that struck me listening to this song is the maturity in her voice. Her tone is so rich and resonant, it’s a joy to listen to. Zeroing in on those lyrics which explore themes of anxiety and the importance of mindfulness, I understand why her songwriting has been celebrated. Unlike so many teen artists, Paulina again shows maturity beyond her years.

“’Lonely Drives’ addresses how cruel your mind can be sometimes, how anxious and upset you can often feel and how mad you can be at the world for things not going the preferred or ‘right’ way,” Paulina explained. “However, this song then also expresses the true beauty of simply going on drives, alone. Being alone, is the most beautiful thing you can do, to sit with and acknowledge your feelings, but also to then let go of them and look forward to what’s next in life, in this case, letting yourself go and driving wherever you truly desire.”

“Lonely Drives” is out now. Look out for the music video which will drop in the next couple of weeks.

Image used with permission from Good Intent

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

THE RIOT Speak Out for the Marginalised with “See it Believe it”

The murder of George Floyd and subsequent protests around the world shone a light on the systemic racism BIPOC face every day. Brisbane trio THE RIOT give voice to the frustration many of us still feel with their latest single “See it Believe it.” The band’s Triple J Unearthed profile calls THE RIOT a rock band, but this single refuses to sit neatly in that box. With rap and hardcore influences, this is an anthem for the marginalised.

The press release insists “See it Believe it” isn’t a protest song in the traditional sense. It also notes that while BIPOC were at the front of the band’s minds, it’s for all persecuted people, including the LGBTQIA+ community, underpaid workers, women who feel diminished by society, and anyone who’s ever felt unseen. The song is accompanied by a music video directed by Xinger Xanger (aka Jordan Kirk).

“The music video captures the final feeling that ties this song together as a whole,” said frontman JD. “Jordan instantly shared the same vision as us and was able to portray it in a way we could have only wished for.”

It might seem strange to release a song like “See it Believe it” now, eight months after the events that sparked its creation. However, that’s no accident. The band’s message is clear: suffering is ongoing and something we should all keep at the front of our mind long after people stop using the hashtags.

THE RIOT will launch “See it Believe it” at Mo’s Desert Clubhouse in Burleigh Heads on April 23.

Image used with permission from Island Records Australia

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

LT Ushers In New Era With “Hold Ya”

Hump Days are hard, but Cairns singer-songwriter LT has you covered with her uplifting new pop single, “Hold Ya.” This track is so good for the soul, with a sweet melody and angelic vocals from LT. If you’re struggling to make it to lunchtime, this song can give you at least a few minutes of joy.

“’Hold Ya’ was written during a pretty turbulent time,” LT explained. “It’s a story about two people in love, however through the struggles they’ve endured they begin to drift apart. Neither of them want to leave, but both of them are desperately seeking reassurance that the other wants them to in fact stay and it turns out they both do.”

The song has a beautiful nostalgic quality, so it’s only fitting that the film clip is set at her local roller-skating rink. LT was full of praise for her collaborator, emerging filmmaker and fellow Cairns artist Chelsey Johnston.

“Chelsey had the beautiful idea of capturing moments of connection between people. Mothers and daughters, best friends and lovers all connecting in different ways. She messed around with the speed of the track during the filming process, which really signified to me the changes of pace we all experience in any relationship. Relationships change, move, disappear and reinvent themselves all the time and our life can be quite tough if we don’t allow them to do that. Sometimes you’ve got to try harder, and sometimes you have to let go. We chose to film at the Cairns Roller Skating Rink as it’s dear to the community and holds so many memories and stories of connection within its 1980s decor.”

Like many of us, LT simplified her life last year. For her, that meant rebranding herself from using her full name Leanne Tennant professionally to the catchier LT.

“I rarely ever get called by my full name, and I really felt that after such a complicated year it was time to simplify my life and go by the name most know me by and start 2021 with a fresh outlook. LT feels so right to me,” she said.

After taking time for quiet in 2020, LT is thrilled to get back in front of music lovers. Queenslanders can catch her at the following upcoming shows.

17 April 2021 – Bearded Lady, Brisbane (supporting Roz Pappalardo)
22 April 2021 – Brother Jenkins, Cairns (supporting Roz Pappalardo)
1 & 2 May 2021 – Sunshine Sounds Festival, Eumundi

Image used with permission from On the Map PR; credit: Bridie Jane Eagen

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Melbourne Live Legends Cannon Making Music Together

Melbourne trio Cannon are back with a rocking new track “Light in the Fog” which takes me right back to the turn of the century. This one hooked me in from that single guitar note. It’s moody and dirty, with a nod to artists like Kasabian and Primal Scream. Its nostalgia makes it sound instantly familiar from the first listen, an instant classic.

“‘Light in the Fog’ is a song inspired by absurdist philosophy, and the tension between a desire to find meaning for our existence where no such meaning exists,” explained frontman Mitch McIvor. “‘Fog’ is about making the most of any situation and seeing beauty within darkness, and doing so despite a lack of ‘true meaning’ being attached to our being.”

Perhaps it’s no surprise that this song sounds like a bit of a throwback because Cannon were a permanent fixture on the live music scene in the mid-2000s. They played with bands like The Black Keys, Tenacious D, JET, You Am I, and Dallas Crane before they went their separate ways and worked on other projects. However, a desire to catch up over a few beers led to jamming which led them to remember just how much fun they have making music together.

There’s more where this came from, with Cannon preparing to release their long overdue debut album Connexion on June 4.

Image used with permission from This Much Talent

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Habits of Honesty” – Talitha

Great music has no age limit. Simply looking at the promo pictures of Gold Coast artist Talitha, with her glittery eye makeup and rainbow-coloured hair, told me she wasn’t making music targeted at women in their 40s. And yet I can’t stop listening to her latest EP Habits of Honesty.

Right now my life is in a very different point to Talitha’s. It’s been a long time since I’ve wanted to lash out at former fling as she does in the opening track “Embarrassed to know ya.” Yet the brutal sassiness is so much fun that this number hooked me instantly. While this song reveals Talitha’s darker side the rest of the EP is frothy and fun. “The good ones” is such a beautiful ode to those thick-and-thin friendships. The belief in bonds that stand the test of time continues in “I choose you.” While this sweet love song celebrates the no, it also looks to the future, a time when Talitha and her love won’t be “trainwrecks.” “New Year’s” is the ideal way to end this joyous EP. It paints such a vivid scene of the best kind of party, surrounded by great company, with drinks in hand and a crowded dancefloor. My memories of those kinds of nights are fast fading, but this song brings it all back in glorious technicolour.

I can imagine Habits of Honesty striking a real chord with teens and twentysomethings. This album is clearly written for them, and they’ll lap up those synthy sounds, cool beats, and relatable lyrics. It might not resonate in the same way for the older crowd, but it’s still ridiculously catchy pop music. And you’re never too old for that. Habits of Honesty is the first release in a three-part album written, performed, and co-produced by Talitha. I love how this journey’s started and can’t wait to hear what comes next.

Images used with permission from the A&R Department

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Caravãna Sun Release New Video for “Stella” Single

Caravãna Sun have just dropped the video for their most recent single “Stella,” reminding all of us just how good this song is. This is one of those tracks that’s really grown on me since its release. I always enjoyed it, but over time I’ve come to really appreciate its upbeat vibe and deeply personal lyrics. It’s easy to miss the message when you’re grooving along, but once you tap into it listening to this song becomes so much more rewarding.

Caravãna Sun frontman Ant Beard said he was inspired to write the song after a close friend suffered a miscarriage. The song looked to celebrate the joy, excitement and positive energy this unborn life had brought to the world before their passing.

“‘Stella’ was written as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there’s always a shift that goes on inside of people. A changing of perspective or a lens on the life we’d never seen through before,” he explained. “I wanted to remind my friend that even though they’d never get the chance to hold their baby, there’d been a monumental shift in them. A light I’d never seen before; energy behind every word, that spoke with such deep empath and true authentic excitement for what this new life meant to them.”

Ant decided to keep the track a secret right up to the day the band stepped into the studio. Changing the approach brought a new spontaneous energy to the song which I think really works.

“Normally, we’d work on our parts in pre-production and be very prepared, but there was something different about this song. Some quiet voice, that wanted to put everyone on the spot and see how they’d relate and what they’d play after hearing it for the first time,” he said. “It created an energy in the studio that was beyond special and turned the song into something truly greater than the sum of its parts.”

Catch Caravãna Sun at one of their upcoming shows:

10 April 2021 – Great Lakes Paddocks, Wootton
30 April 2021 – Divers Tavern, Broome
1 May 2021 – Divers Tavern, Broome

Image used with permission from Guerilla Music Promotions

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Johnny Manuel Shows His Funky Side With “Lost in the Music”

During his time on The Voice, Johnny Manuel showed he could belt out a ballad with the best one. I fell in love with his voice but really hoped we’d see a little more diversity from him through the competition. Now that he’s paving his own way as a solo artist, he’s answering my prayers. His latest single “Lost in the Music” is a floor filler with a soulful groove and infectious hook. It’s a different sound from Johnny, but with those silky vocals front and centre I think the fans will dig this.

“’Lost In The Music’ is really about finding your way back to love and having fun while you do I,” he explained. “When we were creating this song, we started talking about how complicated relationships can become but if you learn to let go you find out that it can be simple.”

This track is the first of many Johnny plans to release this year. He’ll also strut his stuff with two gigs in June. Catch him at Sydney’s Oxford Art Factory on June 18 or Melbourne’s The Toff on June 25.