Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Bossa Nova Baby” – Juliana Areias

I love hearing all kinds of music, so when Perth-based Brazilian jazz singer Juliana Areias sent me her first original album, Bossa Nova Baby, I was thrilled to dive right in.

It’s interesting listening to an album that’s almost exclusively in Portuguese, the universal language of bossa nova. I’m ordinarily a person that clings on to lyrics. Without that, I had to stop and think about how the music made me feel.

That evolved for me the more I listened to Bossa Nova Baby. I found myself enjoying the songs, which made me shake my hips and tap my toes. However, there was a little voice in my head saying “Gee it’s a little loungey.”

It’s a criticism we’ve heard countless times on those musical reality shows. Artists are told that they don’t want to sound like a lounge act, and we all accept this as being universally true. But the more I found myself enjoying these songs, I wondered whether loungey really is all that bad.

Juliana transported me to a lounge in an exotic holiday destination. As I listened to her songs I imagined myself sipping a cocktail, watching her and a brass band play as all of my troubles melted away. Upbeat tracks like “Missão” and “Maré Cheia” make me want to salsa around my lounge room. However, with tracks like “Inocência,” Juliana wears her heart on her sleeve. I wasn’t sure quite what she was singing about, but the sadness the song conveyed came through despite the language barrier. I also loved the vibe of the only English-language song “Night in Takapuna.” Its flute is such a beautiful accompaniment for Juliana’s pure voice.

Bossa Nova Baby might be a little loungey, but I’d be happy to visit any lounge where Juliana Areias played.

Image source: Juliana Areias Soundcloud page

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Alyx Dennison Rises from the Ashes of kyü

Sydney duo kyü were gone far too quickly, so I was thrilled to hear that one half of the pair, Alyx Dennison, is forging a career as a solo artist. She gives us a taste of what’s to come with her charming new single “Jewels are Just Lumps.” It’s got elements of traditional country and folk in it, but it feels so fresh. The lyrics are just heartbreaking. Wonderful stuff.

“Jewels are Just Lumps” comes from Alyx’s self-titled debut album, which will hit stores on March 27.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

The Eagles @ Qantas Credit Union Arena, Sydney – 2 March 2015

As The Eagles get ready to kick off their New Zealand shows, I figured it was high time that I found a moment to look back at their Sydney gig last Monday. Before I started to write I thought I should look back on the review I wrote of their 2010 gig. I remarked on some of the same things I found myself marvelling at four years later: the effortless harmonies, the timeless quality of the songs, and the way that age has not wearied these talented musicians.

You might expect that without a new studio album release since 2007, the show would be pretty much the same as it was years ago. However, the History of the Eagles moniker gave it a new complexion which I really loved. I’ve always believed that the real beauty of a live show is the opportunity to learn more about the songs and to hear the stories of the artist. If I just wanted to hear the songs, I’d stay home and listen to a CD. While some hecklers didn’t seem to warm to The Eagles’ ruminations, I lapped up every minute of the coolest history lesson of my life. The show started out with just Glenn Frey and Don Henley, the way the band began, playing “Saturday Night” on acoustic guitars. This was just one of the lesser known tracks that made sense in this concert format.

Before long Glenn and Don were joined by founding member Bernie Leadon (who wasn’t present last tour), Timothy B. Schmidt, and Joe Walsh. The simple acoustic numbers gradually gave way to stirring electric full band performances, and songs from the vault gave way to radio staples. I was raised on The Eagles, so I knew most of the songs and was thrilled to hear the ones I never expected. “Doolin’-Dalton” and the reprise of “Desperado” were great surprises, although that’s to take nothing away from the songs I’d suspected would make the list. The Eagles have so many songs that you can never take anything for granted after all. “Already Gone” had me punching my fists in the air, Timothy B. Schmidt’s vocals in “I Can’t Tell You Why” blew me away all over again, and “Life in the Fast Lane” really rocked.

I did miss the solo Henley and Frey songs we were treated to last time, but when a band of 60-year-olds play until 11:30 it’s hard to be too critical. The decision to keep Joe Walsh’s solo shining moment, “Rocky Mountain Way,” in the second encore was enough to make amends. I couldn’t help but rise to my feet in appreciation when they closed with “Desperado.”

I loved the Eagles last time, but in sharing their history the Eagles created a show that was even more appealing this time around. I have no idea how long guys in their mid-60s can keep on doing this, but I’ll keep on fronting up so long as they do!

Image source: Wikimedia

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Melbourne’s Best Free Concert Series

The gigs at Etihad Stadium and Rod Laver Arena might cost a small fortune, but Melbourne also offers some fabulous free shows. Treat yourself to some fabulous tunes on a budget at these free Melbourne concert series.

Fed Square Live: Free Tunes at Federation Square

Photo by Gagascat via Trover.com

Enjoy some of Melbourne’s best up-and-coming acts unplugged at Federation Square as part of Fed Square Live. This free concert series runs from early November to late March every year, with the current season wrapping up on March 26. Shows run from 5:30 to 7:30pm every Thursday, which makes them perfect for an after-work pick-me-up. Tourists will also find the events ideally located near many Melbourne hotels, including The Westin Melbourne and Citigate Melbourne.

Sunset Series: Free Alternative Music at Sundown

If your tastes veer towards the alternative, then the annual Sunset Series is for you. The free cultural event takes over Fitzroy Garden’s Stage Lawn in the second and third weekend of January. The 2015 line-up was awesome, with acclaimed local quartet APES, South American Roots band Madre Monte, and genre-bending five-piece The Tiger and Me all taking the stage. Bring a picnic or grab a bite to eat from the growing fleet of food trucks during the 2016 season.

Sidney Myer Free Concerts: Free Nights with MSO

The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra brings culture to the masses with its Sidney Myer Free Concerts in the Myer Music Bowl. Presented in conjunction with the University of Melbourne, these themed events feature timeless music performed by one of the most celebrated symphonies in Australia. There are typically three shows in February every year. They usually kick off at 7pm, but are so popular that it’s worth being there when gates open at 4.

Winter Music in the Valley: Essendon Symphony Orchestra’s Winter Warmers

The Essendon Symphony Orchestra believes that free concert series shouldn’t be restricted to the warmer weather. Its Winter Music in the Valley concert series brings classical music to a range of historic suburban Melbourne venues during the cooler months. This year’s series will be held every Sunday from June 15 to July 6. It kicks off at St Martin de Porres in Avondale Heights before travelling to St George’s in Travancore, followed by St John’s Uniting Church in Essendon. The ESO will play the final Winter Music in the Valley concert at Moonee Ponds’ Clocktower Centre.

Fairfield Amphitheatre Summer Concert Series: Free Entertainment Outside the CDB

If you feel like getting out of the hustle and bustle of innercity Melbourne, head to suburban Fairfield for the Fairfield Amphitheatre Summer Concert Series. Shows run from 5pm to 7:30 pm every Sunday in February, so they’re ideally suited to families. Each gig features a range of world music acts who will take you on an aural journey from Eastern Africa to the American South. The Fairfield Ampitheatre is an easy five-minute walk from Fairfield Station. The train trip from Melbourne to Fairfield takes just 16 minutes.

This post was written as part of the #HipmunkCityLove project. Which free shows do you love in Melbourne?

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Jerrico Say Thanks to Fans with New Album & Single

Melbourne rockers Jericco are preparing to release their brand new album Machine Made the Animal on March 13, thanks to their loyal fans. Supporters donated a massive $10,500 through Pozible to help fund the album’s release. Jerrico are offering a free download of their new single “Animal” via Soundcloud and Triple J Unearthed to thank them for their generosity.

No doubt those same fans will turn out in their droves when Jerrico kick off their national tour next month.

26 April 2015 – The Rosemount Hotel, Perth
14 May 2015 – Rad Bar, Wollongong
15 May 2015 – Cambridge Hotel, Newcastle
16 May 2015 – The Bald Faced Stag, Sydney
23 May 2015 – Enigma Bar, Adelaide
29 May 2015 – Crowbar, Brisbane
5 Jun 2015 – The Prince Bandroom, Melbourne

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Brad Butcher to Tour “Jamestown”

Brad Butcher earned a place in the new songwriter category of the APRA awards with his single “Believer” late last year. Now he’s set to show everyone he’s no one-trick pony with the release of his sophomore album Jamestown.

Brad was a kid raised on classic music who spent his nights writing songs on a second-hand guitar. He loved music but listened to his head rather than his heart and pursued a career as a cabinetmaker. He later began working in the coal mines, which left plenty of time for him to focus on his true passion. Yet he kept his songs to himself for more than a decade, privately honing his craft until he released his self-titled debut album in 2012.

The recording of Jamestown took him to Shorefire Recording Studios in New Jersey. It was cut live over just seven days with musicians who’ve played with Paul McCartney, Ryan Adams, and Sheryl Crow. Most songs were recorded in the first or second take, creating that sort of spontaneous organic energy we rarely hear on studio albums any more.

That approach means that you know Brad’s going to be able to reproduce this stuff on stage. You can see for yourself when he tours the album through autumn. Jamestown will be release on March 27, the day the tour commences.

27 March 2015 – Lefty’s Old Time Music Hall, Brisbane
28 March 2015 – Currumbin Creek Tavern, Gold Coast
29 March 2015 – TAPS, Mooloolooba
9 April 2015 – 12 Bar Blue, Cairns
23 April 2015 – Frankies Pizza by the Slice, Sydney
24 April 2015 – Goulburn Club, Goulburn
25 April 2015 – Smiths Alternative, Canberra
7 May 2015 – The Grace Darling, Melbourne
8 May 2015 – Babushka Bar, Ballarat
21 May 2015 – Grace Emily, Adelaide
22 May 2015 – The Singing Gallery, McLaren Vale
23 May 2015 – Royal Oak Hotel, Launceston
24 May 2015 – The Homestead, Hobart

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Mass Sky Raid Rock with “Enemy”

Queensland rockers Mass Sky Raid are ready to release their brand new single, the epic anthem “Enemy.” I love the soaring vocals on the track and those big hooky guitar riffs. It gets an official release on Thursday, but you can wrap your ears around it here.

If you love what you hear, make sure you catch Mass Sky Raid when they tour the song along the East Coast this month.

13 March 2015 – The Coolangatta Hotel, Gold Coast
19 March 2015 – New Globe Theatre, Brisbane
26 March 2015 – Worker’s Club, Melbourne
27 March 2015 – Studio Six, Sutherland
28 March 2015 – Factory Floor, Sydney

Image used with permission from Collision Course PR

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Through the Forest” – Benny Walker

I was captivated by Benny Walker when I heard his single “The Fool” a few weeks ago. Now that I’ve had the chance to listen to his latest album Through the Forest in its entirety I’m completely enamoured.

The title track is such a stunning introduction to this album. It feels epic and important, forcing you to sit up and pay attention. The following track, “Time,” sees the album settling into a gentler groove yet Benny somehow does that without losing intensity. It feels so seasoned, remarkably so for just his second album. Every song is exquisite and expertly crafted, so it’s so hard to pick favourites. But I loved the soulful sexiness of “Don’t Cut Me Down,” with its brassy instrumentation and Benny’s effortless falsetto. “No Refunds,” a song of longing for a love gone wrong, nearly brought me to tears.

They just don’t make music like this anymore. Through the Forest reminded me of a great album from an artist the calibre of Bruce Springsteen, The Eagles, or Tom Petty. It has such a cool blend of rock, country, blues, and folk. My only complaint is that at just nine songs, it felt over far too soon.

Through the Forest is released on March 6 through Black Murphy Records. Remember that Benny’s supporting the album with the following shows.

7 March 2015 – Moama Bowling Club, Moama
13 March 2015 – Twilight at Taronga Zoo, Sydney (supporting Dan Sultan)
27 March 2015 – Darwin Railway Club, Darwin
28 March 2015 – The Arnhem Club, Nhulunbuy
9 April 2015 – Skukum Lounge @ The Junk Bar, Brisbane
10 April 2015 – Thornbury Theatre, Melbourne
12 April 2015 – Newtown Social Club, Sydney
18 April 2015 – Suttons House of Music, Ballarat
19 April 2015 – The Wheatsheaf Hotel, Adelaide
24-26 April 2015 – Mount Beauty Music Festival, Mount Beauty
1 May 2015 – Beaches Hotel, Thirroul
3 May 2015 – Rhythm Hut, Gosford
6 May 2015 – Mothers Milk, Sawtell
10 May 2015 – Redcliffe On the Murray, Pinjarra

Image used with permission from Chrissie Vincent Publicity

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Monarchy on my Radar with “Dancing in the Corner”

I had high hopes for Monarchy when I spotted the Wordsworth quote at the start of their music video for new single “Dancing in the Corner.” Thankfully this song lives up that very early promise.

Apparently Monarchy released their debut album way back in 2011 but they somehow slipped under my radar. Perhaps that’s because these Aussie expats were focusing their promotional efforts in the international market instead of here in Oz. Over the last five years they’ve headlined shows in the US, UK, Spain, Germany, France, and Russia and played massive festivals like Coachella, The Big Chill, and Melt.

Better late than never though, right? “Dancing in the Corner” comes from Monarchy’s brand new album ABNOCTO, which hits stores on March 13.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Miami Horror Release Single from Album Number 2

Miami Horror look set to prove that they’re no one-trick ponies with the release of their highly anticipated sophomore album All Possible Futures. They’ve just released the lead single “Love Like Mine” and it’s a wonderful feel-good slice on 80s-inspired electronica.

The album is the first the band recorded since relocating to Los Angeles, and if the single’s any indication it was the right musical move.

“We wanted to move to LA for inspiration and influence more than anything,” explained Miami Horror’s producer Ben Plant. “It helped us to experiment and find our own sound. If you look at a lot of the alternative electronica and dance music coming out of LA it definitely has a feel – we love the weirdness and sunshine. It has been a strong influence on many of our favourite records from the 60s-80s and we wanted to allow it to influence this record.”

All Possible Futures will be released on April 24 on CD and limited-edition vinyl, but you can get in early and pre-order it here.

Image used with permission from Remote Control Records