Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Lyn Bowtell Releases Nostalgic New Single, “Cold Shiver”

Lyn Bowtell is back with “Cold Shiver,” a brand-new track that showcases a brand-new sound for this acclaimed singer-songwriter. I’ve always appreciated her superb lyrics, but her gentle country-folk music rarely grabbed me. This has much more of a ‘70s country-rock feel and I’m here for it.

The song came out of a Victorian songwriting retreat hosted by Carter Carter. Lyn worked on the song with Carmel Charlton, Elissa Parsons, Jenny Churchill, Lea Groves, Michelle Walker, and Melanie Gray. That’s a serious collaborative effort, but it’s paid off.

“We had a spare hour, so I threw it out there, ‘Let’s write something!’” Lyn said. “At first, they looked at me like I was mad, but we split into melody and lyric teams and just went for it. No pressure, no rules, just pure, spontaneous creativity. It was winter, and the working title was Cold Weather, but what we ended up with was something none of us could’ve written on our own.”

“We imagined a guy meeting a girl at a ski resort,” Lyn explained. “She was just after a bit of fun, but he fell harder than expected. There’s no bitterness in it, just a wistful kind of hope. That feeling when you remember someone and, out of nowhere, you get that chill… a cold shiver. It’s playful, nostalgic, and a fun to perform.”

Lyn is gearing up to release her next album Paper Cuts in the coming months. She’s got a stack of gigs coming up, including some shows to promote that album, so catch her anywhere you can.

12 July 2025 – North Tamworth Bowling Club, Calala/North Tamworth (with Luke O’Shea)
26 July 2025 – The Irish Club, Ngambri/Canberra (with Luke O’Shea)
27 July 2025 – Robertson Public House and Kitchen, Gundungurra Country/Robertson (with Luke O’Shea)
2 August 2025 – The Beer Shed, Dharawal Country/Campbelltown (album launch)
3 August 2025 – Flamingos, Mulubinba/Newcastle (album launch)
29 August 2025 – Crossroads Bar, Thubbo/Dubbo
30 August 2025 – The Agrestic Grocer, Wiradjuri Country/Orange
31 August 2025 – The Cordial Factory, Wiradjuri Country/Grenfell
24 October 2025 – Mantra Studio Kitchen & Bar, Wurundjeri Country/Yarraville
25 October 2025 – Noojee Hotel, Wurundjeri Country/Noojee
26 October 2025 – The Shed Theatre @ The Pig & Whistle, Bunurong Country/Main Ridge
18 November 2025 – Country Music Cruise to NZ, departs Eora/Sydney

Image used with permission from Bec Gracie Publicity

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Mister Co. and Renee Naccari Come Together For “Sippin'”

Naarm/Melbourne-based outfit Mister Co. have joined forces with alt-pop act Renee Naccari for a sublime new single, “Sippin’.” This soulful number is so dreamy. Just hit play and let it wash over you.

I’ve appreciated Renee’s previous releases, but hearing her voice combine with those velvety vocals from Mister Co. takes this song to another level. I also love all those cocktail allusions which bring this song about connection to chemistry to life.

“Sippin’” is the second single from Mister Co.’s genre-bending EP Homegrown, which will drop in the coming months. They’ll celebrate its release with a massive launch with Renee and other featured artists at The Corner Hotel in Quo-yung/Richmond on August 30.

Image used with permission from Cartel Australia

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Riley Pearce Releases New Indie-Folk Gem, “Good To Me Now”

As the sun finally makes its presence felt in New South Wales for the first time in what feels like forever, “Good To Me Now,” the latest single from Western Australian indie-folk act Riley Pearce, is exactly what I needed to hear. Its cool, chilled-out acoustic vibe is the perfect match for a weekend with clear skies.

“Music and its place in my life has shifted somewhat since becoming a father, as other things take priority, and I’ve morphed music to fit my life instead of the inverse… ‘Good To Me Now’ is a representation of these changing priorities,” Riley explained.

“Good To Me Now” comes from Riley’s next body of work. I’m not sure whether that will be an album or an EP, but I’m looking forward to hearing it!

Photo credit: Cedric Tang

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

ixaras Releases Bold New Banger, “This City”

Fresh from winning Good Intent’s Greater Good prize, talented Meeanjin/Brisbane-based teen ixaras has dropped her fantastic new single, “This City.” With a blend of percussion, didgeridoo, and synths, this track doesn’t sound like anything else. It’s a masterclass in what can happen when sonic risks pay off.

“‘This City’ is a portrait of self-reinvention in a world where survival demands transformation,” ixaras explained. “Inspired by the novel ‘Jekyll and Hyde,’ the song explores the psychological toll of killing off your past self to succeed. The refrain, ‘This City Knows My Name’, is manifestation, declaration, and lying all in one. It’s about the pursuit of ambition, acknowledging what parts of yourself you’ve sacrificed along the way, such as the paranoia of being perceived, a love letter to the version of you that had to disappear so the world would take notice.”

“This City” comes with a cool black and white music video shot in Eora/Sydney and directed by Mellow Minh.

“Ixara and I met a while back when I was out on tour with Skeggs — I instantly knew as soon as I heard her play, an exhilaration that I never heard before. So, as soon as I finished the leg, I dm’d her, wanting to work with her,” Mellow Minh said. “As manifestation has it, while in Vietnam she hit me with this track, and it blew my mind. I knew I wanted to make something out of it — the idea instantly came to mind, and we never looked back.”

If you’re not already over ixaras’ music, it’s time to take a deep dive on the streaming services. She’s definitely a local artist to watch.

Photo credit: Billy Zammit

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Lloyd & The Leftovers Blow Me Away With “Tried it on Tuesday”

If you love Americana folk music, I know you’re going to dig “Tried it on Tuesday,” the latest single from Walyalup/Fremantle act Lloyd & The Leftovers. It’s got such a classic sound, I can understand why these guys have received rave reviews after playing Nungarin and the City of Fremantle Winter Festivals.

I was initially drawn to Lloyd’s twangy vocals, the lush harmonies of the backing singers, and that beautiful, rich, organic instrumentation. But after a few listens I really started to tap into the lyrics. Yes, they’re brilliant too. It’s an honest love song about a relationship with a creative collaborator and all the challenges that come with it.

I’m so excited to hear more from Lloyd & The Leftovers. This song has certainly whetted my appetite for whatever comes next.

Photo credit: Paris Williams

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

GLVES Releases Bold New Bop, “Time”

First Nations artist GLVES is pushing the envelope with her stunning new single “Time.” It’s a cinematic alt-pop number that’s bound to stay with you long after you hear it.

At its core, this song is about connection. GLVES reflects on how being present is the most radical form of love we can give someone. It comes with an incredible film clip directed by Butchulla/Kamilaroi filmmaker Rhianna Malezer, choreographed by Ewamian, Cobble Cobble, Birri, and South Sea Islander artist Allirah Fisher, and produced by GLVES.

This is such an exciting release from GLVES and I can’t wait to hear more.

Photo credit: Jason Star

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Bootleg Rascal Release “Steppin” Ahead of UK and European Shows

Yugambeh Country/Gold Coast act Bootleg Rascal may be one of the country’s most consistent bands. You can always count on them for a good time, and their latest single “Steppin” is absolutely no exception. It sonically brings all the good vibes we expect from the band, but listen to those lyrics and you’ll realise this single is a little darker than those that came before. I’m not sure whether I’m experiencing a whole lot of new track energy or it really is their best, but I’m in love.

“‘Steppin’ is a raw and emotive cut that dives deep into themes of isolation, inner struggle, and resilience. It captures the feeling of being stuck in a cycle of self-blame and disconnection, while still holding onto a fierce sense of survival. Through the lyrics, the song reflects the battle between wanting to give up and finding the strength to endure, offering an honest portrayal of pain, anger, and the human instinct to keep moving forward even in the darkest moments.”

Bootleg Rascal will take this song global with shows in the United Kingdom and Europe. They’re also got a cheeky local gig before they depart. Wherever you are, take note of the dates near you!

7 June 2025 – Winter Wine Festival, Dharawal/Gerringong
28 June 2025 – Timboektoem, Wijk Aan Zee
29 June 2025 – Paradiso, Amsterdam
30 June 2025 – Hebebuehne, Hamburg
4 July 2025 – Stadtstrand, Dusseldorf
5 July 2025 – Milla, Munich
7 July 2025 – Hafenkneipe, Zurich
9 July 2025 – The Louisiana, Bristol
10 July 2025 – Dues Lodge, Bournemouth
11 July 2025 – O2 Academy, London
12 July 2025 – Watering Hole, Cornwall

Photo credit: Jared Hinz

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Shane Smith & The Saints Announce Maiden Aussie Tour

Texan alt-country-folk act Shane Smith & the Saints are heading to Australia for the first time to promote their latest album Norther. I’ve had this album on repeat today. It’s just so good. Shane Smith has got that sort of weathered, seasoned voice that demands you pay attention, and the musicality of his band is off the charts. If you love acts like Mumford & Sons and Nathaniel Rateliff & the Night Sweats, I know these guys will be right up your alley.

While they haven’t been to Australia before, they’ve spent the last decade on the road building a passionate fanbase and refining their sound. They’re playing tiny venues here, and you can almost guarantee that won’t be the case next time they visit us. Back home they’ve played legendary venues like the Ryman Auditorium and Red Rocks Amphitheater (which they sold out in just 36 hours). But they haven’t forgotten their roots.

“If you spend 10 years playing dive bars and small clubs almost every single night, and you go to the merch booth after every show and hang out with the fans until the staff literally kicks you out, you get to turn those fans into friends,” Shane Smith said. “That’s how we built this thing. We’ve done as many as 240 shows in a single year. We’ve worked so hard to get there, and that hard work has created a beautiful, meaningful audience.”

Here are those Aussie dates. Don’t let yourself sleep on them.

17 October 2025 – Groundwater Music Festival, Kombumerri Country/Broadbeach
18 October 2025 – Princess Theatre, Meeanjin/Brisbane
21 October 2025 – Factory Theatre, Eora/Sydney
22 October 2025 – Corner Hotel, Naarm/Melbourne

Image used with permission from Jo Corbett Publicity

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Fanning Dempsey National Park @ Civic Theatre, Mulubinba/Newcastle – 16 May 2025

The release of The Deluge by Fanning Dempsey National Park was one of the unexpected joys of 2024. The coming together of Bernard Fanning and Paul Dempsey, two of the country’s most respected singer-songwriters, on original ’80s-inspired music was heaven. So I was thrilled to see them bring this album to life, and so much more, at the Civic Theatre on Friday night.

Local singer-songwriter Jen Buxton warmed up the crowd with her incredible songs. To say she was unassuming was an understatement. She introduced herself only as Jen – I had to do a bit of Googling to figure out exactly who to follow on the socials! Her songs were punctuated by self-deprecating humour. But I was transfixed. Her lyrics were incredible, and her rich, seasoned voice drew me in. When you can captivate an audience with only an acoustic guitar, you’re doing something right.

The Fanning Dempsey National Park set was everything I’d hoped for and then some. Recording this music together seems to have reinvigorated these artists. From the title track that opened their show, they seemed in high spirits. Songs like “Strangers” and “Disconnect,” which both came early in the set, have such a party vibe and you could feel that energy coursing through the room.

It was a night for celebrating the music Bernard and Paul make together, but also one for looking back fondly on the past. Something for Kate’s biggest hits “Ramona Was a Waitress” and “Monsters,” Bernard’s smash “Wish You Well” and his Powderfinger anthem “Pick You Up” all made the set. The latter track was especially electric, so it’s a shame that the Civic security wouldn’t allow us to feel the music and enjoy a little dance. While we complied with their request to sit down then, they were powerless when the whole floor stood to enjoy a rousing cover of “Under Pressure.” What a time! It also gave me the opportunity to bend the rules and snap a few cheeky photos for you.  

While they didn’t make this set, I noticed that Fanning Dempsey National Park have dropped a few new tracks this year. Hopefully it’s a sign that this pairing may have a few more albums and tours left in them. But just in case they don’t. I’d urge you to see them while you can. Limited tickets are available for the remaining shows on Fanning Dempsey National Park’s regional tour.

22 May 2025 – Powerhouse, Jagera, Giabal and Jarowair Country/Toowoomba
23 May 2025 – Venue 114, Gubbi Gubbi Country/Sunshine Coast
24 May 2025 – HOTA, Yugambeh Country/Gold Coast

Photo credit: Lauren Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Clay Brown & the Trouble Round Town Release Impressive Debut Single, “All My Friends (Atrophy)”

In the modern age, when so much music is overcomplicated and overproduced, I appreciate the simple things more than ever. Honest lyrics that speak to me. Organic instruments. A great melody. Pure vocals that follow it, without runs or autotune. I’ve found all that and more in “All My Friends (Atrophy),” the debut alternative-folk single from Western Australian outfit Clay Brown & the Trouble Round Town.

This song immediately captured my attention with its classic acoustic guitar intro and opening lyric “All my friends are moving in a straight line while I’m spinning in time.” What a great line! “All My Friends (Atrophy)” goes on to celebrate the pals that help you through the hard times. It acknowledges the challenge of feeling out of step with your peers while paying homage to the people willing to support you until all feels right with the world.

From the single acoustic guitar at the beginning, the sound gradually builds. The introduction of more instruments echoes the song’s theme that if the right people are in your orbit, you’ll never truly be alone.

While “All My Friends (Atrophy)” is the first single from Clay Brown & The Trouble Round Town, he’s no stranger to the music scene. Over the last decade, Clay has built a reputation as one of the most versatile guitarists in Boorloo/Perth. Locals might know him from shoegaze outfit The Limbs, grunge act Filth Wizard, or jazz fusion act King Proteus. The Trouble Round Town are equally seasoned. Drummer Jess June played with Clay in Filth Wizard. Bassist Zoe Gol was a member of Single Cell Sharks, while lead guitarist Michael Menna is best known for his time in Art of Dysfunction.

The release of “All My Friends (Atrophy)” is just the start of an exciting musical chapter for Clay Brown & the Trouble Round Town. They’ll drop their debut EP later this year.

Image used with permission from Clay Brown & the Trouble Round Town