Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“coming to terms with it all” – PRETTY BLEAK

It’s so satisfying watching a band come of age. With the release of their sophomore EP an introduction to a theme last year, I noted that Naarm/Melbourne-based band PRETTY BLEAK had dropped “their most cohesive and compelling body of work to date.” They continue their upward trajectory with their latest offering, coming to terms with it all.

“The EP serves to explore the difficulty of navigating interpersonal relationships on a societal scale, from the perspective of people for whom these things are rarely easy,” explained frontman Sam Thomas. “It details reckoning with obligation, perception, self-interest, betrayal, introspection, and resignation or inevitability through the lens of our own personal experiences, whether those be triumphs or catastrophic failures.”

They’re some heavy themes, but PRETTY BLEAK balance them with optimistic melodies that are bound to put a smile on your face. The atmospheric sounds of EP opener “i.need2” naturally lead into the upbeat banger, “behere.4u.” With its big brassy horns, lush synths, and ridiculously catchy chorus, it’s so much fun. “how ironic” has a similar energy, but when the music is so enjoyable you want to stay in that space. It reminds me a little of the music The Band CAMINO is making these days, an easy blend of indie rock and electropop that has you on your feet and begging for more.

In “with your friends,” PRETTY BLEAK lean more into that electronic sound to great effect. It’s such a different vibe, but one that helps give this EP some dynamics. I enjoy it, but not as much as that high-octane sound of “something’s wrong with me.” This the kind of music that PRETTY BLEAK excels at, a bold sound that’s pure joy paired with angsty lyrics that connect so easily our own insecurities.

The closing number “you can be the river” is a breathtaking change of pace. A piano ballad at its core, it sounds like nothing else on this EP. Its poetic lyrics are authentically romantic, and its orchestration is so richly layered. Every time I hear it, I have to take a moment to stop and absorb it.

And then, once I’ve felt all the feelings, I hit play again, because coming to terms with it all is that kind of EP. One that encourages repeat listens because it’s so catchy and likeable. PRETTY BLEAK have honed the sound they pivoted towards in an introduction to a theme beautifully. They also wrote, produced, and mixed this EP, which shows just how much they want to take ownership of their music. It’s a bold decision for a band so early in their career, but one that’s paid off.

coming to terms with it all is out now. Catch PRETTY BLEAK play these songs and more live at the following shows:

15 August 2025 – The Bergy Bandroom, Naarm/Melbourne (EP launch)
23 August 2025 – The Burdekin Hotel, Eora/Sydney (supporting A Swift Farewell)

Photo credit: Tom Thomas

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Sunny Luwe Spreads Sunshine With “Blue Skies”

The weekend is upon us so I figured it was time for some feel-good music. “Blue Skies,” the latest single from three-time QLD Music Award finalist Sunny Luwe, certainly fits the bill. An anthem for moving on from a bad place with positivity, it’s infectiously joyous. So whether you’re feeling those weekend vibes or need a pick-me-up, I know this one will have you smiling.

Sunny said that “Blues Skies” was inspired by the burnout she felt after releasing her debut album.
“I realised I had started chasing external gratification from likes, streams, validation, rather than staying connected to why I create music in the first place,” she explained.

“Blues Skies” comes from Sunny’s next album Feeling Good, which we’ll hear on October 10. She’s got plenty of free gigs coming up which might just give you a chance to hear some more new material. Catch her at the following venues this month.

8 August 2025 – Beach Hotel, Bundjalung Country/Byron Bay (from 8 pm)
9 August 2025 – Distillery Road Market, Yuggera Country/Eagleby (from 6 pm)
10 August 2025 – QPAC for Clancestry, Meeanjin/Brisbane (from 5 pm – with Keely and Birren)
17 August 2025 – The Triffid, Meeanjin/Brisbane (from 3 pm – with Hazel Mei)
24 August 2025 – Chevron Island Street Party, Kurrungul/Surfers Paradise (from 2 pm)

Photo credit: Alisha Todd

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

ALEIA Gets Vulnerable With “Pretty When I Cry”

ALEIA’s got me right in the feels with her beautiful new single “Pretty When I Cry.” It’s a heartbreaking indie folk/pop ballad about being in the wrong relationship. Don’t be surprised if you get a bit choked up listening to ALEIA’s confessional lyrics and heartfelt vocals.

“’Pretty When I Cry’ was written about the desperation of clinging to the belief someone has your best interests at heart when they don’t,” she said. “When you have tell yourself a lie until you trust it as the truth, even when all the sign suggest otherwise.”

ALEIA’s impressed me with two cracking singles this year, and I hear she’s not done yet. Follow her on the socials to learn more about the musical she’ll release in the coming months.

Photo credit: EDIE

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Joel Andrew B Releases Indie-Folk Charmer, “Something Between You and I”

Joel Andrew B has given me goosebumps with his new solo single, “Something Between You and I.” It’s just the sort of acoustic folk that I love when it’s done right. I give that caveat, because when you don’t have the heart that Joel Andrew B delivers this type of music can easily become sleepy. No one is nodding off listening to this one though!

This is such a departure from the music Joel makes as part of his band, Sixth Avenue. While they’re an emo punk outfit, Joel’s solo material is optimistic and a little more chilled. But what’s the point of going solo if you’re just going to make the same kind of music, right? I love this direction for him and can’t wait to hear more.

Photo credit: Robin Bottrell

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

The Long Sunset Hits Queensland This October

We might be shivering through winter now, but festival season will be here before you know it. One of the first cabs off the rank is The Long Sunset, whose bumper 2025 line-up features Boy & Bear, Gretta Ray, Vera Blue, The Buoys, Jem Cassar-Daley, and heaps more.

The music is the key drawcard, but there’s plenty more to recommend. Think the very best local food, all-ages entertainment, and sweet golden hour vibes.

The Long Sunset hits Ugarapul Country/Boonah in the Scenic Rim from October 31 to November 2. It’s just over an hour from Meeanjin/Brisbane and Yugambeh Country/Gold Coast, so it’s ideal for day trips. However, I recommend making a weekend of it and soaking up the atmosphere at the on-site campground. Tickets are on sale now from QLD Music Trails.

Photo credit: Justin Higuchi @ Wikimedia Commons

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

In Good Hands Release Powerful New Single “Integrity”

Dharug Country/North-Western Sydney band In Good Hands put their heart and soul into their latest indie rock single “Integrity.” You can really hear the emotion in Jack Kenyon’s vocals, which add gravity to the introspective lyrics.

“Integrity is a song about questioning whether or not the decisions you are making at any one time are in line with the morals that you were taught as a child and by other people you respect,” the band explained. “It’s a song about checking yourself, and letting your actions speak rather than your words.”

In Good Hands will officially launch “Integrity” with a hometown show at The Chippo Hotel on August 9. Tickets are on sale now from Oztix.

Image used with permission from Abbey Gardner

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Cordovas Touring Australia for First Time

When I hear someone is touring Australia and I’m not familiar with their work, I love taking a deep dive and discovering what they’re all about. My latest discovery is Cordovas, a Nashville band that produces what the press release calls cosmic Americana. It’s a pretty off-the-wall description, but once you listen, it all makes sense. It’s a little Southern rock, but these guys push the envelope too much for it to sit neatly in that box. It’s incredibly cool.

Take a listen to their four albums and get yourself across their music, if you aren’t already. Cordovas have built a devoted fanbase in the US and Europe for their outstanding live shows, and they’re bound to do the same in Australia. If there’s any justice, they’ll be moving on to bigger venues next time, so see them up close and personal while you can!

2 October 2025 – Enmore Hotel, Eora/Enmore (FREE)
3 & 4 October 2025 – Dashville Skyline Festival, Wonnarua Country/Lower Belford
6 October 2025 – Stag & Hunter, Mulubinba/Newcastle
8 October 2025 – Tumut River Brewing Co, Wiradjuri Country/Tumut
9 October 2025 – Bridge Hotel, Dja Dja Wurrung Country/Castlemaine
10 October 2025 – Barwon Club, Djilang/Geelong
11 October 2025 – Out On The Weekend Festival @ Seaworks, Koort-Boork-Boork/Williamstown
12 October 2025 – Shotkickers, Naarm/Melbourne

Image used with permission from Jo Corbett Publicity

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Start Your Saturday Right With Mondo Freaks’ “Won’t You Decide”

For a fresh new track with an old school flavour, check out “Won’t You Decide,” the latest release from Naarm/Melbourne 10-piece Mondo Freaks. It sits somewhere around that funk-soul realm popularised by Luther Vandross, George Benson, and Teddy Pendergrass with its silky smooth vocals and addictive groove that just won’t quit.

Mondo Freaks was formed by in-demand session musos Luke Hodgson on bass and Graeme Pogson on drums. On vocals you hear Aaron Mendoza, who also plays keys in Mondo Freaks. He’s one of five vocalists in the band, so they’re always going to keep you guessing.

“Luke came around and we quickly found ourselves locking in together. I distinctly remember as I sung the pre-chorus idea, a quiet ‘Yes!’ slowly whispered from behind. Luke and I were onto something,” Aaron recalled. “‘Won’t You Decide’ is a sensitive song but it makes you wanna dance at the same time. I love those kinds of songs! To be honest, it was the impetus that led to a burst of creativity for me. Ultimately resulting in co-writing more material for the album. An opportunity I will forever be grateful for.”

“Won’t You Decide” comes from Mondo Freaks’ self-titled debut album, which drops on October 17. Click the link to order your limited-edition vinyl copy.

Image used with permission from Revolutions per Minute PR

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Holy Basil Pays Tribute to Music That Made Her With “Lovechild of the Greatest”

Maybe it’s the musical theatre nerd in me, but I love hearing music with a bit of drama. Something bold, something unapologetically marching to the beat of its own drum. So I was thrilled to wrap my ears around “Lovechild of the Greatest,” the latest track from genre-bending Yugambeh Country/Gold Coast talent Holy Basil. This song came about during a period of deep creative reinvention for Holy Basil. It’s brave, fearless, and so much fun.

“This track is about me re-inventing myself into my truest form. That person is the Lovechild of Kate Bush and David Bowie. They’re two of my greatest inspirations and creative guides, so this song is also a small homage to them,” Holy Basil said.

If this it what comes when Holy Basil reinvents herself, I can’t wait to hear more as she steps forward into this new musical chapter.

Image used with permission from Holy Basil

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

MAXON Impresses With “18”

Gloomy winter weather has well and truly set in, but I’ve got a big smile on my face after listening to “18,” the latest single from Boonwurrung Country/Mornington Peninsula artist MAXON. Closing my eyes, it transported me to a road trip, somewhere warmer, somewhere far from the 9-to-5 grind, somewhere with endless possibilities. While listening is a joy, make sure you don’t miss the insightful lyrics.

“When you’re 18, all you want is to be a little older,” Max said. “And when you’re older, the industry wants you to be 18 again. I wanted to write this to remind myself – and anyone who needs to hear it – that age is nothing, and music is everything.”

While MAXON’s talents are front and centre, “18” is really a community effort. It features Mia Dyson on guitar and backing vocals, and a choir of locals including Kerryn Fields, Mathilde Anne, and Cousin Leonard.

“18” is the first single from MAXON’s debut album Talking With Strangers, which we should hear early next year.

Photo credit: Heaps Stoked Productions