Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Alexander Biggs Drops Beautiful New Single, “Madeleine”

He might have just wrapped up some shows in the United States, but it doesn’t sound like Alexander Biggs is in any rush for the fast pace of that nation to influence his music. His latest single, “Madeleine,” is beautifully subdued, a mellow piece of acoustic folk that will help you keep calm even if the pressures of the working week are getting you down.

It’s got a gentle sound, but tune in to the lyrics and you’ll hear something a little darker than you might expect as they explore toxic relationships and the turmoil that comes with them. It’s a gorgeous single that is a real return to form for this talented Melbourne singer-songwriter. Locals can catch him at Longplay on December 7 and 15.

Image used with permission from Maths and Magic

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Rob Thomas – Sydney and Hunter Valley, 13 and 16 November 2019

Live music always makes my heart beat faster. However, there is one artist on the planet that takes my excitement to the next level: Rob Thomas. Whether he’s fronting Matchbox Twenty or playing solo, he is the performer who has the largest piece of my heart. His Chip Tooth Tour was a long time coming, nearly four years since his last Australian dates, so by the time last week rolled around I was more than ready.

One Rob Thomas show isn’t enough for me. I considered writing two reviews, one for Sydney and another for the Hunter Valley, but frankly the week passed in a whirlwind and now here I am, basking in the afterglow. Sydney was the perfect warm-up. First State Super Theatre strikes the right balance; it’s small enough to feel intimate but not so tiny that it can’t attract big acts for their only gigs in the NSW capital. The Hunter Valley show was part of the Day on the Green series. These events always seem so leisurely and relaxed, with so many good vibes. Sorry Sydney, but it also seemed to have the best crowd. Maybe I was just unlucky with seating in Sydney, but it was so nice to travel up the freeway to be amongst fans who seemed to care more about the music than making trips to the bar!

I’m glad that Daryl Braithwaite was the support act we doubled up on. I’ve made mention in the past of his voice fading, but I think he was in the best form I’ve seen in a while. You can still hear the limitations at time, but it’s a minor quibble from an artist who delivers so much. His set was packed with his Sherbet and solo hits, although an unexpected cover of The Kinks’ “All Day and All Of The Night” was a welcome addition in Sydney. What a shame the Hunter Valley security decided to try to make everyone sit down just before “The Horses.” Thank you, Daryl, for insisting it wouldn’t hurt us to rise to our feet for a couple of minutes! Staying seated for this unofficial anthem just wouldn’t have felt right!

The Hunter Valley’s extended line-up saw Russell Morris and Pete Murray joining us. I raved about Russell when I saw him at the same venue a couple of years ago and he was every bit as appealing this time around. His voice shows no sign of fatigue, impressive at the age of 71. He has so many hits to his name and they came thick and fast, rewarding those of us who arrived early enough to catch his set. He really deserved better than so many vacant seats. He was excellent.

I wish I could get as excited about Pete Murray, but for not the first time I just wasn’t feeling it. Ordinarily I can’t get enough of good-looking men who play guitars, but his songs never seem to get out of second gear for me. He performs them well, sounding virtually identical to the way he does in the studio, but I just can’t muster any kind of enthusiasm for them. Putting Pete after Daryl Braithwaite, who had me and so many of the folks around me, so fired up also seemed a bit cruel.

Whether I couldn’t wait for the support act to vacate the stage (sorry Pete) or I embraced their set (love your work Dazza!), I was primed for Rob Thomas. Opening with a new album track like “I Love It” was a risky move, but it was really the perfect introduction to Rob’s set; upbeat, engaging, and sexy as hell. It might have been called the Chip Tooth Tour, but Rob knows how to strike the right balance for serious fans and casual listeners. I would have liked to hear more from the new album, Chip Tooth Smile, but the four or five songs he played from it made space in the set for more songs from the back catalogue. The solo hits and Matchbox cuts came thick and fast, along with a smattering of lesser known songs for the diehards like me. I was thrilled to hear “Sunday Morning New York Blue,” an EP track, and fan favourite “Pieces” make the cut in the Hunter, while “Heaven Help Me” was an unexpected delight in Sydney. “Fire on the Mountain isn’t one of my favourite album tracks, but it really gets a new power on the stage. Adding Indigenous dancers to the mix in Sydney brought some extra gravitas.

Speaking of surprises, they don’t get much bigger than Andrew Farriss from INXS gracing the stage for a cover of “Never Tear Us Apart” in the Hunter. The chemistry between the longtime friends and the quality of this Aussie classic made it a real moment to remember. If you can’t get Santana out here for “Smooth,” then 10-year-old guitar prodigy Taj Farrant makes an impressive substitute.


It seems to me like Rob is aging in reverse. I think it’s the only reasonable explanation for his boundless energy. He put on a rock star performance, without the bells and whistles of so many modern rock shows. Without projections or pyrotechnics, the focus was squarely on the music and the way Rob delivered it. Most of his band has been with him since his first solo tour, and it shows. However, as much as I appreciate the big full-band numbers, it was the quieter, more reflective times in the set that really got me. I don’t mind saying that I found myself wiping away tears in acoustic performances of “Ever the Same” in Sydney and “Bent” in the Hunter. With an acoustic guitar and Rob’s voice, supported by a choir of enthusiastic fans, those songs were as raw as the emotions they stirred in me.

When you anticipate a tour as much as I did this one, it can sometimes be hard for the performer to meet your expectation. But I know Rob never lets me down. Like a fine wine, he only seems to get better with age. The dust may still be settling on my recent shows, but I’m already hanging out for the next tour. Rob Thomas plays Margaret Court Arena in Melbourne tonight before concluding the Chip Tooth Tour at Perth’s Kings Park on November 23.

Image source: Stephen Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Paul McDermott & Gatesy Go Solo – Laycock Street Theatre, Gosford – 12 November 2019

Paul McDermott and Stephen “Gatesy” Gates are Aussie comedy royalty. I’ve admired both their careers for so long. As a teenager I listened through headphones to Doug Anthony All-Stars music that I’d taped onto cassettes borrowed from friends. They were deliberately mislabelled because my parents forbade me from hearing such smut. Tripod were one of the first Aussie bands I introduced by comedy-loving American husband to. I have such fond memories of their respective musical outputs, so when I heard they were teaming up for a Laycock Street Theatre in Gosford, I snapped up tickets.

Normally when I buy tickets for a show, I have some idea what I’m going to get, but I was flying blind on this one. I expected laughs, and I got them. Music with blissful harmonies of course, check. But as for the material, I wasn’t quite sure. As it turns out, these shows are fresh as a daisy with brand new collaborative material. That might disappoint some fans of DAAS or Tripod, but I think the shows are better for it. I have such fond memories of hearing the songs from these acts in the original trios. I don’t need to hear them taken out of that environment. Some of that comedy material has also dated too. It’s much more fun today to hear songs about hot button issues like white male privilege and our current leader’s failings, for example.

This might be a fairly new musical collaboration for Paul and Gatesy, but their 18-year friendship has created a rapport that’s delightful to watch. They bickered and bantered, creating moments every bit as hilarious as the songs. Laycock Street Theatre is divided into two halves, perfectly setting up a Paul’s side versus Gatesy’s side dynamic. I’m not sure we ever determined whose side was better, but it was so much fun to play along.

It wasn’t all laughs though. Tragedy is always the flipside of comedy, something I was reminded of in the final numbers of the show. While the “The Marvellous Mr Me” was a side-splitting response to a particularly scathing phone call Paul received, the next song was a much more sombre take on the same criticism. I found myself dabbing at tears as Paul and Gatesy sang a beautiful number about a mutual friend who lost her life too soon. These poignant moments were unexpected, but that added to their potency.

With the fire threat looming, only a small crowd turned out for the show. What was already so intimate became moreso when Paul and Gatesy told us to head out to the foyer for the encore. Paul took his place atop tables and they played a few more numbers, unaided by microphones or amps. Paul insisted he doesn’t like to get too close to the people, but after witnessing this delight of a show, I’m not sure I believe him one bit.

Paul McDermott & Gatesy Go Solo will play the following venues next!

15 November 2019 – Orange Civic Theatre, Orange
22 November 2019 – Ballarat Civic Hall, Ballarat
23 & 24 November 2019 – Caravan Music Club, Bentleigh
24 November 2019 – Queenscliff Music Festival, Queenscliff
5 November 2019 – Canberra Theatre Centre, Canberra
6 November 2019 – Riverlinks Westside, Shepparton

Image source: own photo

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Anthony Callea Releases Brave New Single

Anthony Callea has come a long way since he took second place in just the second season of Australian Idol. Now 15 years on from his stint on reality TV, Anthony is forging a new musical path writing his own songs. His brand new single “What’s Wrong With Me?” is the perfect introduction to his new musical chapter.

“‘What’s Wrong With Me?’ is a deep and meaningful song for me,” Anthony explained. “It’s inherently personal but also a song that I think many will be able to relate to. Telling a story through music is in my DNA and when I close my eyes and get behind the mic, I feel like I am home. It’s an honour to share this song with Australia and the World. Self-discovery is a beautiful yet confronting and scary process, so I hope that when you hear this song, you connect with me and we share a moment together, a moment of honesty, purity and respect.”

“What’s Wrong With Me?” is a world away from catchy pop tunes like “Addicted to You.” It also shows more creativity and soul than the admittedly excellent cover albums he’s produced in recent years. Everyone loves a cover; it’s what endeared Anthony to us all those years ago after all. Releasing a song like this, a song that’s not just an original but one that’s so vulnerable is a real risk. But I think it’s one that could pay off.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

One Electric Day @ Cockatoo Island, Sydney – 9 November 2019

After six successful Victorian events, One Electric Day decided to share the love and go national. Sydney responded, snapping up so many tickets organisers moved the show to the picturesque Cockatoo Island. While arriving for that early morning ferry meant this Central Coast girl set off around 8am, the beautiful trip down the harbour helped me get into the spirit. What a magic spot Cockatoo Island is. It didn’t hurt that we were blessed with the kind of weather I rarely experience during outdoor concerts, with beautiful blue skies and mild temperatures. Absolutely perfect.

After playing MC, Taylor Sheridan strapped on his acoustic guitar for the first set of the day. I’ve seen talented singer-songwriter play at several Red Hot Summer shows and he always impresses. He played some stellar originals and just enough covers to keep the punters on side, although that was a real challenge when his set was broken into two parts. I’m not sure who thought it would be a good idea for him to play two sets, but as his second act wore on I could sense most of us were ready for the bigger names. It’s a shame, because he really is a talent.

No doubt some of my restlessness can be attributed to my excitement about seeing Southern Sons. I was just 14 when the Melbourne outfit disbanded, too young to go to the shows. Hearing they would play together again was all the incentive I needed to snap up tickets. After waiting a quarter of a century for this set, you can bet my expectations were high. Southern Sons did not let me down though. I knew Jack Jones was still in fine form, after catching him solo a few months back, but the chemistry he has with his band mates really elevated this set to the next level. What a treat to hear not just the singles but album cuts as well. Watching the gratitude on Jack’s face as he led us in a singalong of “Hold Me in Your Arms” was a highlight amongst a really special set. Can I put in an early request for a tour? The Southern Sons story doesn’t feel done.

Vanessa Amorosi also took me back to my youth, opening up with an abridged version of “Absolutely Everybody” before bringing us all the attitude of “Have a Look.” She doesn’t look or move like she’s aged a day. I marvelled at the way she could jump down off the speakers, mix with the crowd, then jump back up to continue her set. I tried to get up on my kitchen bench to clean my aircon recently and failed miserably. But I digress. Needless to say, Vanessa puts us all to shame. She might look like she’s still in her teens and she certainly doesn’t mind bringing us the hits, but her set wasn’t just about that early nostalgia. As I watched her perform, I realised just how many smashing singles she’s had over the years. She introduced us to a handful of new tracks from her recently released album Back to Love as well, proving that her best music may be yet to come.

I’ve got to admit, by the time Jon Stevens was ready to grace the stage, I felt spent. The early morning and time on my feet caught up with me and I retired to my chair. I might have left the party early though, because Jon Stevens’ set was the highlight for many. Delivering Noiseworks and INXS hits was always going to go down a treat with this crowd, who were soon spilling out over the standing room zone. He’s such a rock star too, with all the moves to keep an audience in the palm of his hand. A surprise appearance from former bandmate Steve Balbi was the icing on the top of a tasty musical cake.

Every time I see James Reyne perform I remember just how much I love him. His songs are absolutely flawless. He’s a really cool dude that does his thing with such professionalism and heart, without any real fuss or fanfare. He always treats us to a greatest hits set, yet it never feels forced or formulaic. It’s easy to forget he’s sung these songs countless times because he puts so much of himself in them. And what songs they are too. “Reckless,” “Errol,” “Hammerhead,” “Beautiful People,” “Slave,” I could go on. Every one an absolute winner.

Speaking of greatest hits, John Farnham closed the show the only way he can. With those songs and that voice that are exactly what people come to see. The love for one of Australia’s most iconic singers is palpable, and he gives it right back to the audience. The hits come thick and fast, keeping the energy at 11. He doesn’t even seem to mind playing “Sadie” these days. Personally I’d love to see him shake up the sets because after a few shows in recent years I’m starting to anticipate what he’ll do when and how. Still, predictability isn’t the worst thing in the world when what you do gets so much love. Nothing beats that singalong to “You’re The Voice” either!

Shuffling back onto the ferries to start the long journey back to the coast I felt exhausted; I’d been on the go for more than 14 hours at that point and knew I was still around three from getting to my front door. However, I also felt buoyed by the local talents I’d witnessed that day. I might have been there for one of the earliest bands, but there were no weak links. You’re coming back next year One Electric Day, right?

Image source: Stephen Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Bad Juju Rock Out With “Say It”

Melbourne rock act Bad Juju are giving me retro ’90 vibes with their grungy new single “Say It.” It’s all angst and heart, with powerful lyrics that touch on the turmoil of mental health issues and the importance of making self-healing a priority.

“The song is about standing up to someone you disagree with, but have never had the courage to go up against,” frontman Russell Holland explained. “It’s about having the courage to say no, by sticking to your guns and saying what you believe in.”

The clip, filmed by Jackson Wester, is also first-rate. With all the right ingredients coming together, I can’t wait to hear more from these guys.

Image used with permission from Habit Music Company

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Roar Like The Ocean” – Esimorp

Being a music blogger than bring a kind of exquisite torture sometimes. When I hear music I love, I want to share it with the world. Sometimes I can do that straight away, but on other occasions I have to sit on it, zipping my lips and biting my tongue until it’s time to chat about it publicly. Esimorp reached out to me in August with their debut album Roar Like The Ocean. I can scarcely remember what else I was doing in August, but I know I played that album a lot. I shared the stellar single “The Minutes” with you, but I couldn’t really tell you just how good the rest of the songs were, until now.

Roar Like The Ocean draws you in from the opening guitar strains of “As Long as the World Spins.” The track starts small and atmospheric before building to the kind of stadium rock that characterises this album. Just like attending one of the best rock gigs, listening to Roar Like The Ocean is a thrilling experience from start to finish. It’s one of those rare albums where I don’t feel tempted to skip over songs, even after multiple listens. There are no filler tracks, but I do have a soft spot for “Paris,” which swept me up in its relentless driving rhythm. The romance and optimism of “Nothing More” also makes me smile widely. It’s so impressive the way Esimorp can switch gears from a sweet song like that to something more atmospheric and brooding like the latest single “Ghost Town.” Many of their tracks could inspire a whole stadium to get on their feet, but they show they also understand the power of the understated through a track like “My Wreckage.” Roar Like The Ocean has so many twists and turns, but it never veers so far left that it loses the listener. Instead I found myself hanging on white-knuckled and enjoying the ride, so engaged and excited by everything that came next.

I’ve gone back to this album so many times over the last few months. Every time I did, I found myself thinking of acts like Coldplay and U2. Many of Esimorp’s songs have a similar confidence and anthemic nature about them, but while those big bands have gotten a little bland over the years, Esimorp has all the excitement and enthusiasm that comes with being relative newcomers. You can hear the passion for these lyrics and love for their craft in what they do, and that makes their music so easy to connect to.

Roar Like The Ocean finally drops on November 15. Find it on all your favorite digital platforms and stream the hell out of it. Actually, go nuts and buy yourself a copy. Esimorp are based in Hong Kong, but with an Aussie in their band hopefully we see them on our shores sooner rather than later.

Image used with permission from Esimorp

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Discover Thandi Phoenix

I’ve had Thandi Phoenix’s debut self-titled EP on repeat today. It’s all such incredible music, but I’m most struck with the EP’s lone duet, “Again,” which sees her joining forces with Dan Caplen.

The song is a quiet moment in a collection of upbeat, sassy songs. It shows a more vulnerable side of this stellar local talent while reinforcing just how good her vocals are.

Take a listen to “Again,” then do yourself a favour and give the rest of the EP a listen. You will not regret it. And if you’re heading to Festival X in Sydney on November 30 or Melbourne on December 1, make sure you catch her doing her thing!

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Rock Out With Press Club’s Newie, “Separate Houses”

Press Club can do no wrong in my eyes, or by my ears. Their energy and passion is absolutely infectious. Their lyrics are so relatable. In short, they’re bloody awesome. All of the things I love about them are showcased in their latest single “Separate Houses.”

The film clip was captured on the band’s recent UK and European tour. With guitarist Greg Rietwyk behind the camera, it takes you to Scotland, England, and continental Europe.

“Separate Houses” is the first track on Press Club’s recently-released sophomore album Wasted Energy. If you still haven’t got your ears around this one, what are you waiting for? Press Club are bringing punters songs from that album and some old favourites on their current tour. They’re in fine form, after recently wrapping up that UK and European tour, so make sure you catch them this time around.

8 November 2019 – The Gaso, Melbourne
9 November 2019 – Hobart Brewing Company, Hobart
15 November 2019 – Torquay Hotel, Torquay
16 November 2019 – The Westerport, San Remo
21 November 2019 – Lion Arts Factory, Adelaide
22 November 2019 – Pelly Bar, Frankston
29 November 2019 – Sooki Lounge, Belgrave
30 November 2019 – The Zoo, Brisbane
5 December 2019 – Dunsborough Hotel, Dunsborough
6 December 2019 – Lucy’s Love Shack, Perth

Image used with permission from Little Giant Agency; Photo credit: Ian Laidlaw

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Timi Temple Releases First Love Song, “Quick Words, Long Trouble”

Most artists cut their eye teeth on love songs, but Timi Temple’s latest single “Quick Words, Long Trouble” is his first foray into this musical staple. Of course, in true Timi Temple style, it’s no sappy ode to romance. Instead it’s an eclectic track with psychedelic and Brit-Rock influences. Switch it on and strap yourself in for a ride that’s every bit as wild as falling in love!

“I’ve generally tried to avoid writing songs about love because I think it’s been rinsed enough times by other artists. However, this song was cathartic and therapeutic to me as it helped me through a long-term breakup,” Timi explained. “The phrase is something that my mother used to tell me, somewhat translated from Thai meaning ‘don’t do anything in heated anger because the repercussions will last forever.’ It’s served me well, but also probably lead to me not fighting for a salvageable relationship because I was too cautious with my words. The spoken word poem in the bridge of this song reflects this.”

Timi will play a string of dates around his home state and one special Queensland show supporting the single, starting tomorrow. Catch him at all the following venues in the coming weeks.

8 November 2019 – UNSW Roundhouse, Sydney
9 November 2019 – Slyfox, Newtown (supporting Wharves)
15 November 2019 – Kick the Scarf party @ Yullis Brewery, Surry Hills
21 November 2019 – Greaser Bar, Brisbane
29 November 2019 – Vic on the Park, Marrickville
1 December 2019 – North Gong Hotel, Wollongong
12 December 2019 – Marly Bar, Newtown
15 December 2019 – Good Pash Xmas Bash @ Marrickville Bowling Club, Marrickville

Image used with permission from Good Intent