Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Tempus Sun Shines Brightly With “Gold”

It’s a gloomy day here in New South Wales. But the music of Tempus Sun has brightened my morning. I’ve been streaming the band’s debut EP and just loving their fantastic piano pop sound. It realises all the promise I heard in the single “Owls” a couple of months ago.

While I still love that track, I think the new single “Gold” is just that little bit better. It’s got a fantastic anthemic quality; this one will lift you up and stir your emotions.

The band’s keyboardist Grant Hardisty seems pretty chuffed with it too, commenting “The track is about exactly what the title suggests, moments of euphoria and bliss that just want to be relived again and again. It’s remembering those unparalleled happy moments with that golden tinge of nostalgia that can make you forget all your worries and stresses in a hazy daydream. It’s those summer nights that last with a sense of timelessness, a reflection upon a memory that you’d give anything to revisit, those times with friends that extend from a couple of hours to an entire day. It’s also about love with a slightly bitter twist, but it’s equally about light, warmth and all things Gold.”

To celebrate the EP’s release, Tempus Sun will make a quick trip around the East Coast later this month. Catch them at the following venues.

25 August 2017 – The Milk Factory, Brisbane
26 August 2017 – Brighton Up Bar, Sydney
1 September 2017 – The Evelyn Hotel, Melbourne

Image used with permission from On the Map PR

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Backroads” – Ollie Brown

I need to ease myself into a Monday. It takes some gentle prodding to get me going. I’ve found just what I need though with Ollie Brown’s beautiful new EP Backroads.

Honestly I can’t tell you how many times I’ve listened to it this morning. There are just four tracks, so the number is probably quite high. I just know that whenever the last song, “Don’t Call,” fades out I’m ready to do it all again.

Backroads has got such a lovely folk-Americana feel to it. Think acoustic guitars, slide guitars, and easy vocals. It goes down so easily. “Backroads,” the title track and current single, gives you a little taste of what I’m talking about.

It’s such a great song, but in my opinion it’s not even the best the EP has to offer. For me that honour goes to “Blame It On the Moon,” the perfect road trip soundtrack with its driving beat and singalong chorus. Or perhaps “Halfway Home,” with its poetic lyrics and gentle piano. Either way, Sydney-based Ollie has created some really special songs on this EP which he says “is the most open and honest” he’s ever been.

Ollie Brown releases Backroads on October 8.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Kiwi Soul Superstar Louis Baker Announces Aussie Shows

Louis Baker might not be a household name here, but he’s soul royalty across the ditch. Australia will get the chance to discover why when this Kiwi sensation plays some Aussie shows next month to support the release of his smooth new single “Addict.”

This track goes down so easily. Louis’ voice is incredible, and he builds the song beautifully. Doesn’t it give you chills?

Louis Baker will play intimate shows with a full band when he touches down in Oz. Catch him at Melbourne’s Grace Darling Hotel on September 20 or Sydney’s Oxford Art Factory (Gallery Bar) on September 21.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Patrick Wilson’s “Nobody” is Something Special

If you love your alt-country with a soulful flavour, you’re going to adore Patrick Wilson’s new single “Nobody.” This ridiculously catchy song is the first single lifted from Patrick’s forthcoming EP, Anywhere With a Rooftop.

It strikes the right balance between being brand new and so timeless and familiar. You could slip this song on when you’re getting together with your parents and there’d be no complaints, yet it doesn’t feel at all dated.

“It’s a familiar sound driven by horns and heavenly harmonies, my new single ‘Nobody’ celebrates the jubilation love can bring someone.” Patrick explained in the press release.

Patrick will launch “Nobody” for hometown fans at The Post Office Hotel in Coburg on August 27. Doors open at 4 pm, so don’t be late!

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Live at the Sydney Opera House” – Kate Miller-Heidke

I see a lot of shows, but the ones at the Sydney Opera House backed by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra are always the most special. I’ve seen several over the years by diverse artists like Ben Folds, Conchita Wurst, and most recently Praying for Time, a star-studded tribute to David Campbell. On those nights I wish I often wish I could freeze the moment, because the music I’m listening to is invariably that good. Kate Miller-Heidke has in a way, releasing her new album Live at the Sydney Opera House today.

Kate Miller-Heidke has always been one of Australia’s most special performers. She has the voice of an angel, a quirky sense of humour, such talent for songwriting and composing. All that is showcased here with a set that celebrates the breadth of her artistry. The big singles like “Words,” “Caught In the Crowd?” “Can’t Shake It,” and the closer, “Last Day on Earth” are all here of course, reminding us just how much we loved them when they were on the charts. “O Vertigo,” the title track of her fourth album and one of my favourite songs from Kate, is a masterclass in vocal technique. Tracks like “You’ve Underestimated Me, Dude” and “Are You Fucking Kidding Me?” are every bit as biting as they should be. I was also thrilled to hear a few songs from The Rabbits, an opera Kate composed for children, made the cut.

Kate’s voice is perfectly on point through this album, but it’s the contributions of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra that take her songs to the next level. Her music is already dramatic, and the swell of the orchestra gives it that extra degree of gravitas. I’d heard most of the songs on this album before, but this album made me appreciate them that much more.

As someone who wasn’t at this show, I’m so glad Kate Miller-Heidke has chosen to share it with fans around the country. If you were there, this album makes the perfect souvenir of what was clearly a special night.

Image used with permission from Revolutions per Minute

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Alexander Biggs Releases Gorgeous New Single “Figure It Out”

Melbourne muso Alexander Biggs hasn’t even released his first EP yet, and already he’s generating major buzz here and abroad. His first singles “Tidal Wave” and “Out In the Dark” received airplay on BBC Radio 1 and KCRW, helping the tracks generate more than 1.5 million streams on Spotify and enter the viral charts in the United States and United Kingdom. His winning streak is set to continue with the release of his newie, “Figure It Out.”

This song has such a great mellow vibe to it. It’s the ideal soundtrack for car trips through country areas and backyard BBQs.

“I was facing a lot of conflict in my life,” Alexander said of the songwriting process. “But the song came out of a place of hopefulness, which is a bit different for me – I’m normally a lot more cynical. It came from a place of understanding that everything will pass. Negative things will come, but they’ll be gone soon – and you’ll ‘figure it out’, so to speak.”

“Figure It Out” is the latest cut from Alexander’s EP, Still You Sharpen Your Teeth, due out on September 15. He’ll promote the EP’s release with the following local shows.

5-8 September 2017 – BIGSOUND, Brisbane
7 October 2017 – The Toff, Melbourne
21 October 2017 – Brighton Up Bar, Sydney

Image used with permission from Sony Music Australia

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Rock Out With Alex Lahey’s New Single This Weekend

If you’re like most Aussies, you’re probably getting psyched about the weekend. I’m working both days, so I feel none of your joy. According to Alex Lahey, I shouldn’t let that get to me though. Whether you’re out having fun or still stuck at your desk, Alex Lahey’s fun new single “Every Day’s The Weekend” is brilliant escapism.

The track comes from Alex’s debut full length album I Love You Like a Brother. She’s celebrating its release with the following shows all around the country. Her gigs in May sold out, and I don’t expect this run to be any different. Get your tickets now before they’re gone!

4 October 2017 – 48 Watt St, Newcastle
6 October 2017 – OAF, Sydney
7 October 2017 – The Zoo, Brisbane
11 October 2017 – Karova Lounge, Ballarat
12 October 2017 – Workers Club, Geelong
13 October 2017 – Fat Controller, Adelaide
14 October 2017 – Republic Bar, Hobart
18 October 2017 – Corner Hotel, Melbourne
19 October 2017 – Rosemount, Perth
20 October 2017 – Mojos, Fremantle

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Get Into CHVNGES

Damon Koolstra and Cameron Davies are both accomplished musicians in their own right, but when they come together as CHVNGES, magic happens. The Brisbane duo’s new single “Mischief Managed” is a masterclass in restraint. It simmers along with a great groove that had me dancing in my office chair.

“We just like writing in whatever style we are vibing out on and hopefully my voice and our songwriting makes it somewhat cohesive,” says Damon. “I’ve always liked how a pop artist can record a pure pop song but then release something stripped back or from left field.”

The duo formed CHVNGES with a goal to see just what two men can create without barriers.

“We know what we are capable of, the question is will other people be into it?” adds Cam. “The answer to that question doesn’t matter to us either way; having people support something you are passionate about is always a good feeling.”

I’m into it. How about you?

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Citizen Kay Playing Almost Everywhere to Promote New Album

Citizen Kay is giving fans plenty of opportunities to hear the tracks from his upcoming album Belly of the Beast live. As if touring with Illy wasn’t enough, he’s also announced a string of headlining shows to celebrate the album’s August 25 release.

The Canberra-based rapper should excite fans of old-school party hip-hop with the way he blends genres, mixing slick rhymes with soul, funk, and jazz influences. While I loved his earlier EP Demokracy, Citizen Kay hasn’t rested on his laurels.

“A lot of time was spent choosing my words, and how I wanted things to be said,” he says of the writing process of writing Belly of the Beast. “I challenged myself more, as a wordsmith and poet on this album”

Hear the single “These Kicks” and other cuts from Belly of the Beast at the following shows.

25 August 2017 – Kay St, Traralgon (with Illy)
26 August 2017 – The Pier, Frankston (with Illy)
1 September 2017 – Odeon, Hobart (with Illy)
2 September 2017 – Club 54, Launceston (with Illy)
21 September 2017 – Wool Exchange, Geelong (with Illy)
22 September 2017 –Whalers, Warnambool (with Illy)
23 September 2017 – Shadows, Mt Gambier (with Illy)
28 & 29 September 2017 – Cambridge Hotel, Newcastle (with Illy)
30 September 2017 – Sweaty Palms @ Proud Mary’s, Erina
6 October 2017 – Rolling Stone Live Lodge @ Lansdowne Hotel, Sydney
7 October 2017 – Northcote Social Club, Melbourne
13 October 2017 – Rocket Bar, Adelaide
14 October 2017 – The Transit Bar, Canberra
19 October 2017 – The Foundry, Brisbane
20 October 2017 – Amplifier Bar, Perth
3 November 2017 – Panthers, Port Macquarie (with Illy)
4 November 2017 – Hoey Moey, Coffs Harbour (with Illy)
10 November 2017 – Home Tavern, Wagga Wagga (with Illy)
11 November 2017 – Area Hotel, Griffith (with Illy)
24 November 2017 – SSA Club, Albury (with Illy)

Image used with permission from Deathproof PR

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Beautiful: A Tribute to Carole King” – Various Artists

With the stage musical Beautiful opening in Sydney next month, it seems Australia is falling in love with Carole King all over again. Carole King covers were sung at the recent Helpmann Awards, and now we have the release of Beautiful: A Tribute to Carole King, featuring some of the best-known names in the Aussie music industry.

Covers albums like this are always a bit uneven. Invariably some performances shine brighter than others. Sometimes treatments are right on the money, and other times they can leave you just a little cold. However, when you’re working with the music of someone as talented as Carole, you’re already ahead of the game in my opinion.

This album probably has more standout performances than the average album of its type. It starts with Esther Hannaford’s performance of “Beautiful,” a track that reminds you exactly why she scored the coveted lead in the stage production. There’s an earthiness about her voice that’s so reminiscent of Carole’s own unique tone. It was only a few months ago that Vika Bull was performing the songs of Tapestry live, so it’s unsurprising that her versions of “(You Make Me Feel Like A) Natural Woman” and “The Loco-Motion” (which also features her sister Linda), are first class. Dami Im, ever the consummate professional, delivers a knock-out blow with “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow,” capturing the love and uncertainty in those lyrics beautifully. I haven’t heard much from Jack Jones and Stan Walker in recent years, but their versions of “No Easy Way Down” and “Way Over Yonder” respectively reminded me how much I’ve always loved what they do. Excellent.

Not every cut is a hit though. As I listened to Guy Sebastian’s version of “You’ve Got a Friend” I was reminded how much I enjoy James Taylor’s more introspective take. There’s just a little too much going on here for my taste. But keep in mind, I’m in the minority of people who prefer Carole King’s version of “(You Make Me Feel Like A) Natural Woman” to Aretha Franklin’s. There’s no denying the man can sing. Ditto the boys from Human Nature, who are among the best male vocalists this country has produced. However, their take on “One Fine Day” takes the song’s already kitschy vibe to the extreme. It’s lost its heart somewhere in the treatment and it’s a real shame. “I Feel The Earth Move” just feels like the wrong song for Samantha Jade. I’m not sure what I would have given her, but with such strong instrumentation her delicate voice gets a little lost.

It’s not a perfect homage to Carole King, but there are some really special moments on Beautiful: A Tribute to Carole King. It also serves as a timely reminder just how good Carole’s music is.

Beautiful: A Tribute to Carole King is in stores now.