Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Hold Yourself Down” – Dear Willow

Sunshine Coast artist Dear Willow creates music with a folky core and rock edge. In just four tracks, her EP Hold Yourself Down makes a big impression.

Her stunning lyrics are what made the biggest impression on me. They’re laced with emotion, confessional and clever. The songs feel a little like diary entries come to life. Opening track “Hold” is a show of strength, of gaining control of a relationship that’s veering off the rails. Current single “I Was Young” is a powerful rumination on personal growth and the power of coming into your own. “The City” is a delicate observation about the anonymity of urban life. “North of Winter” might be my favourite song on the album, a poetic reflection on a lost love.

As I listened to Dear Willow’s songs, I found myself thinking of singer-songwriters I loved growing up like Jann Arden and Lisa Loeb. Just like those women who captured my heart in those difficult teenage years, what Dear Willow does isn’t flashy or particularly complex. But there’s nothing wrong with music that’s straightforward in delivery when it moves your soul. Nothing wrong with it at all.

Hold Yourself Down is out now. Dear Willow will play a series of shows in her home state to support its release.

20 September 2018 – Tomcat, Brisbane
5 October 2018 – Solbar, Sunshine Coast
6 October 2018 – The Spring Soirée, Samford
19 October 2018 – Solbar, Sunshine Coast

Image used with permission from Firestarter Music

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Bec Sandrige Releases Wild New Single, “Animal”

Bec Sandridge is giving me serious retro vibes in the best possible way with her new single “Animal.” The synth-drenched track has an edgy pop sensibility with stellar vocals that skirt dangerously close to the edge.

Bec describes the track as “the only true(ish) love song I’ve ever written.”

“Occasionally I resort to sort of weaponising my emotions which this song is probably a testament of. I felt out of control in love with an ex (now partner) and I needed to be okay with that and somewhat confess that in this song.”

Bec will play a bunch of shows over the next couple of months to celebrate the release of “Animal.” Catch her at the following gigs.

11 October 2018 – 107 Projects, Sydney
12 October 2018 – UC Refectory, Canberra
19 October 2018 – Schoolhouse Studios, Collingwood
24 November 2018 – Shakafest, Gold Coast

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Death & Taxes” – Gareth Leach

Gareth Leach hails from Echuca, but you wouldn’t know it listening to his new album Death & Taxes. His music feels like it comes from America’s Wild West. It’s country that veers to the left of centre, with a darkness that permeates every track.

The title track, “Death & Taxes,” sets the scene, with his lyrics about rubbing shoulders with the devil and spending time in a bottle. This is outlaw music, gritty, bluesy, deliciously rough and raw. The single “Turn Back Jimmy Creek” is a rollicking ode to the life of a travelling musician.

While the first two songs feel almost like Gareth is playing a role, “Better or Worse?” feels like it comes from a really personal place. Its emotional delivery leaves a big impression. It marks an emotional turning point for the album, with the following tracks like “Drink You Goodnight” and the unsettlingly nostalgic “Wayward Son” strip away the bravado. On the final track, “Raise Up Our Guns,” so much is stripped away that we’re left with just the bare bones, Gareth’s voice and an acoustic guitar. It’s simple but so effective. I enjoyed the album’s early tracks, but the back end is where stuff really gets interesting.

While Gareth’s voice and incredible songs are front and centre, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the extraordinary talents featured on this album. From the fantastic Gretta Ziller on backing vocals to Anthony McCormack on banjo and Shane Reilly on the pedal steel guitar, they help create the distinctive sound that sets this album apart.

At just eight tracks and a run-time of not even half an hour, my only complaint would be that Death & Taxes feels too short. But it’s a case of quality over quantity here folks. There’s something to be said for an artist that leaves you wanting more.

Death & Taxes is out now.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

John Butler Trio Drops New Single Ahead of Album & Aussie Tour

With just a fortnight until their highly-anticipated new album Home hits stores and with an Aussie tour just announced, it’s the perfect time to introduce you to John Butler Trio’s latest single “Just Call.”

This is the kind of track that reminds you of everything you love about John Butler Trio. It’s super catchy, with its jangly guitar and simple melody, and it’s full of heart. You honestly don’t need any more than that.

“’Just Call’ is an earnest love song I’ve had for 13 years which I was finally able to finish in these sessions,” John explained. “This is the story of how I found my best friend and partner, out in a small town in the middle of nowhere, in a world of 7 billion people.”

John Butler Trio’s forthcoming Aussie tour is bound to be something special, with a host of talented musicians joining John and the lads for these gigs. Think Missy Higgins, Stella Donnelly, The Teskey Brothers, Dan Sultan, The Waifs, and more. Line-ups will vary throughout the tour, just to keep crowds on their toes.

Tickets for the Coming Home Australian Tour shows go on sale at noon on Friday, September 21. Home hits stores on September 28.

25 January 2019 – Wignalls Winery, Albany (with Missy Higgins and Carla Geneve)
27 January 2019 Leeuwin Estate, Margaret River (with Missy Higgins and Carla Geneve)
1 February 2019 – Kings Park and Botanic Garden, Perth (with Stella Donnelly)
7 February 2019 – Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Melbourne (with Missy Higgins and Stella Donnelly)
9 February 2019 – A Day on the Green @ All Saints Estate, Rutherglen (with Missy Higgins, Stella Donnelly, and Dan Sultan)
10 February 2019 – Stage 88, Canberra (with Missy Higgins, Stella Donnelly, and The Waifs)
14 February 2019 – Sydney Opera House Forecourt, Sydney
16 February 2019 – A Day on the Green @ Bimbadgen, Hunter Valley (with Missy Higgins, Stella Donnelly, and Dan Sultan)
17 February 2019 – Park Beach Reserve, Coffs Harbour (with Missy Higgins, Stella Donnelly, and The Teskey Brothers)
20 February 2019 – Moncrieff Theatre, Bundaberg (with Stella Donnelly)
21 February 2019 – The Great Western, Rockhampton (with Stella Donnelly)
22 February 2019 – The Riverstage Brisbane (Guests TBA)
23 February 2019 – Tolosa Park, Hobart (with Missy Higgins, Stella Donnelly, and Baker Boy)

Image used with permission from Roundhouse Entertainment

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Late Grandmother Inspires Rich Latimer’s Latest Single, “Sweet September”

Byron Bay’s Rich Latimer has just dropped his emotional new folk single, “Sweet September,” the latest from his forthcoming album Dreamer, due for release next year.

The track recalls the last words Rich’s late grandmother ever said to him: “Everyone’s time must come.” Rich spent his days and nights by her bedside in her final days, looking after her as she’d done so often during his life. In his song “Sweet September,” Rich explores the deep interconnection we feel to the ones we love, the notion that we’re never alone, even when we’re making our final journey.

Rich is more than just a singer-songwriter though. He’s the brains behind musical awareness shows, which visit high schools and help teenagers feel connected and supported during this challenging time of their lives. Inspired by his brother, who miraculously survived after a car crash put him into a coma for three months, these live concerts truly change lives. Rich was also named one of the top marketers in the world by Facebook. When he’s not playing his original songs, he’s running a successful digital marketing agency.

A man of many talents, Rich Latimer is certainly someone to put on your radar.

Image used with permission from The A&R Department

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Sam Carmody Continues Winning Ways With “Shadow in the Dream”

Darwin-based singer-songwriter Sam Carmody has just dropped his new EP Shadow in the Dream and its title track. And if you love classic Aussie acts like Crowded House and The Go-Betweens, it’ll be right up your alley.

I’ve already waxed lyrical about the previous two singles: “The Sea Has Risen” and “Sharks.” The newie is every bit their equal, with jangly guitars and haunting vocals from Sam. There’s a dreamy quality about this ode to lost love that’s really gotten underneath my skin.

With his EP out now, hopefully it’s not too long before Sam packs his bags and plays some shows around the country.

Image used with permission from Firestarter Music

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Drought Breakers Help Farmers With Rocking “Rain” Cover

Indigenous musician Scott Darlow has enlisted a few of his famous mates for a cracking cover of Dragon’s “Rain” to help Aussie farmers in this time of need. And what talented mates they are. Sarah McLeod, Adam Brand, Jack Jones, and Todd Hunter all lend their talents to this smash single under the supergroup name Drought Breakers.

All money raised from sales and streams of “Rain” will benefit the Buy a Bale Project. Let’s get behind this one Aussies. This single surely deserves a place at the top of the ARIA charts.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

The Screaming Jets Rocking All Around This Summer

If you missed The Screaming Jets touring with Boom Crash Opera recently, you’re in luck. Newcastle’s favourite sons have just announced summer shows to promote their brilliant covers album, Gotcha Covered.

Fans can look forward to plenty of their favourite Jets tracks along with tracks from the Gotcha Covered album, as well as a few surprises to keep them on their toes. In plain words, these shows are going to go off. Melbourne rockers Palace of the King will support on all shows, but there are a few other guest artists on selected dates.

7 December 2018 – O’Donoghues, Emu Plains
8 December 2018 – Central Hotel, Shellharbour
14 December 2018 – The Factory Theatre, Marrickville (with The Poor)
15 December 2018 – The Cambridge Hotel, Newcastle
21 December 2018 – The Governor Hindmarsh, Adelaide
22 December 2018 – Corner Hotel, Melbourne
28 December 2018 – Kingscliffe Beach Hotel, Kingscliff (with The Poor and Clam Sandwich)
29 December 2018 – Aussie World, Sunshine Coast (with The Poor and Clam Sandwich)
4 January 2018 – Wyong Leagues, Wyong
5 January 2018 – Laurieton United Services, Laurieton
11 January 2018 – Matthew Flinders Hotel, Chadstone
12 January 2018 – York on Lilydale, Mt Evelyn
17 January 2018 – Shoalbay Country Club, Shoalbay
18 January 2018 – The Bridge Hotel, Rozelle
19 January 2018 – Pittwater RSL, Pittwater

Image used with permission from Revolutions per Minute

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Leon Bridges Announces Aussie Return

Leon Bridges is no stranger to our shores, but this morning was really the first time I’ve taken some time to listen to what he’s all about. Better late that never right? As he prepares to make his fourth trip to our country, I slipped on his latest album, Good Thing. I’ve got to say, I’m impressed.

Blending old-school soul vibes with fresh flavours is no easy feat, but Leon gets the balance right here. If the way these songs sound on the album is any indication, Aussie fans are in for one hell of a show.

Leon will get support from fellow American, Noah Kahan, on all shows. We went wild for his track “Hurt Somebody,” turning it platinum, so I’m sure plenty of music lovers will appreciate seeing more from him at these shows.

Tickets for Leon Bridges shows go on sale today at 11 am. Ticketek are selling for Sydney and Ticketmaster are handling Melbourne and Brisbane.

14 January 2019 – Palais Theatre, Melbourne
17 January 2019 – Hordern Pavilion, Sydney
19 January 2019 – The Tivoli, Brisbane

Image used with permission from Chugg Entertainment

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Graace Gets Honest With “Last Night” Single

Sydney singer-songwriter Graace lays it all bare with her stunning new single “Last Night.” It’s an intimate piano ballad which confessional lyrics that are so relatable.

“‘Last Night’ came together while sitting at my piano one night,” she explained. “I realised I’d been writing about the same situation for years but with different people. I was managing to recreate the same scenarios in other relationships because I wasn’t fully in love with myself before committing to somebody else.”

Graace is one of Sony Music Australia’s latest signings. Company chairman and CEO Denis Handlin says “Graace is an extremely talented and unique songwriter and artist who has an incredibly fresh and exciting sound.”

Sony Music Australia will release Graace’s debut EP, Self Sabotage, on October 26.

Image used with permission from Sony Music Australia