Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Anywhere But Here” – Bully Hay

Bully Hay lays his heart bare with his sophomore album Anywhere But Here. At its core this is a break-up album, but describing it as such doesn’t quite convey all that makes this collection of songs one of the best you’ll hear this year.

After all, albums based around themes of love and loss are a dime a dozen. But few have the grittiness and soul of Bully Hay’s latest release. His voice soars on the opening rock anthems “Lovers Get High” and “If You Can’t Forgive Me, Forgive Yourself” before drawing you in with a heartbreaking acoustic rendition of Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill.” This song has seeped into the public consciousness since its feature in Stranger Things, but I promise you’ve never heard it quite like this. While I’ve appreciated versions from Placebo and Meg Myers, this has become the definitive cover for me. It’s one of three “acoustic versions” on this album, but these aren’t the only songs stripped back. Songs like “Trinkets and Coal” and the haunting closer “Here it Comes Again” are also gentle folk numbers that showcase Bully Hay’s impressive vocals and unfiltered lyrics. These quieter moments provide the perfect counterpoints to cathartic rock songs like “Another Lost Soldier” and “Talk Me Off the Edge.”

Anywhere But Here goes beyond the standard break-up album because it doesn’t wallow in that post-relationship limbo. Its powerful songs instead deal with moving forward any way you can, the struggle that comes from putting one foot in front of the other when the ground has collapsed from underneath you. It’s about surviving the fallout, resilience, and the human spirit.

Anywhere But Here is out now. Bully Hay will mark the release with the following Tasmanian shows:

4 April 2026 – The Pier, Lutruwita/Ulverstone
25 April 2026 – The Royal Oak Hotel, Letteremairrener Country/Launceston
26 April 2026 – Longley International Hotel, Nipaluna/Hobart
5 July 2026 – Festival of Voices, Nipaluna/Hobart

Images used with permission from Empire Music Promotions

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

MUKI Makes Magic With “Reflections”

If you’re like me and introspective acoustic guitar-driven music makes you weak at the knees, I know you’ll fall head over heels for “Reflections,” the latest track from Naarm/Melbourne-based singer-songwriter MUKI. This is indie folk-pop at its best, a chilled-out number that leads with vulnerability.

“This is a song I wrote soon after the lockdown, touching on identity issues,” MUKI recalled. “It takes us through a journey in which every single decision one makes defines the person they become. It’s the small decisions we make that shape who we become. When I look in the mirror, it’s hard not to wonder if I’d have been looking at the same person had I chosen a different life or path.”

Hometown fans can see MUKI launching his single tomorrow, March 19, at Lulie Tavern. It’s totally free, so make sure you get along and support him.

Photo credit: Hyunbin Shin

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Katie Noonan Teases New Album With “This Isn’t What I Signed Up For”

One of Australia’s most prolific artists, Katie Noonan is preparing to release her 30th studio album, Alone but all one, later this year. Her latest single “This Isn’t What I Signed Up For” gives us an early taste of the new music. This is such a beautiful song. Katie always sounds incredible, but the subtle piano and string arrangement really showcase her sumptuous vocals and bittersweet lyrics.

“This album is for anyone who’s gone through a life shift – not just separation, but grief, uncertainty, or quiet reinvention,” Katie explained. “It’s music for sitting with things. For remembering we’re not alone, even in solitude. It’s personal, but I hope it will resonate in a way that becomes collective.”

Katie will release Alone but all one on June 26. She’ll give us a little time to sit with the songs before embarking on an album tour around some of the country’s best theatres. Mark Wilkinson will join her at all shows except for the Eora/Sydney and Wooditup/Margaret River dates. Tickets are on sale now.

10 July 2026 – Old Museum @ Concert Hall, Meeanjin/Brisbane
11 July 2026 – Art Gallery of NSW, Eora/Sydney
12 July 2026 – Art Gallery of NSW, Eora/Sydney
16 July 2026 – The Rechabite, Boorloo/Perth
17 July 2026 – Camelot Arts Club, Whadjuk Noongar Country/Mosman Park
18 July 2026 – Miss Chow’s, Wooditup/Margaret River
30 July 2026 – The Gov, Tarntanya/Adelaide
1 August 2006 – Melbourne Recital Centre, Naarm/Melbourne

Photo credit: Cybele Malinowski

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Kaiyah Mercedes Rocks Out With “3 Month Blackout”

Kaiyah Mercedes recalls a whirlwind relationship in all its angsty glory with their latest track “3 Month Blackout.” It’s raw and unfiltered, the kind of indie pop-rock single that encourages you to grab your hairbrush and let loose. I love the way its structure mimics the aftermath of a relationship, with moments of quiet reflection juxtaposed with unbridled emotional outpourings.

The music video for “3 Month Blackout” sees Kaiyah and her band crash-landing on a desert island. While surviving outside civilisation isn’t easy, at least it’s far removed from messy emotional entanglements! Kaiyah created the clip in collaboration with Francis from District Down Under.

Kaiyah will celebrate the release of “3 Month Blackout” with a launch show at Bergy Bandroom in Bulleke-bek/Brunswick on March 29.

Photo credit: Mouk Media

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

The Whitlams with the Sydney Philharmonic Orchestra @ Civic Theatre, Mulubinba/Newcastle – 14 March 2026

I still rate a 2009 Whitlams concert with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra as one of the best shows I’ve ever seen, so when the band announced a run of dates with local orchestras I snapped up a couple of tickets, hoping to recapture the experience. Of course, concerts are like snowflakes, and one can never replicate another, but Saturday’s show with the Sydney Philharmonic Orchestra certainly had a magic that scratched the itch.

The Whitlams’ rich back catalogue keeps me coming back. It also ensures a symphony show makes so much sense. The set list leaned more towards their introspective numbers which might get lost at a rowdy pub gig. How incredible to hear all Charlie songs in order. How special to hear an extended version of “Out the Back,” complete with a five-minute orchestral interlude arranged by the late, great Peter Sculthorpe. How brilliant to hear the way strings elevated lesser-known tracks like “Fondness Makes the Heart Grow Absent” and “The Ease of the Midnight Visit.”

Not that this show totally sidestepped the hits. I’m sure Tim and his mates know they have an obligation to play “No Aphrodisiac” and “Blow Up the Pokies” at every show until the end of time. They always hit, but I took greater joy in the singles that I didn’t expect. “Thank You,” “Gough,” and “Sounds Like Louis Burdett” turned the Civic Theatre into party central. Just when we thought we couldn’t smile any wider, Tim said he’d try to play one that he hadn’t played this tour. It took a few notes to settle into the groove, but once he was there, “I Make Hamburgers” was just a joy.

I’ve seen Tim Freedman play countless times over the years, with The Whitlams, The Black Stump Band, solo, and the very best shows are always those where he can vibe with exceptionally talented musicians and an attentive audience. His joy jamming with other talents is palpable, and it takes familiar songs to another gear. His appreciation for fans who love what they do is evident, and he gives to them so selflessly. If you get a chance to see The Whitlams on their symphony run, do not hesitate. Tickets are on sale now via the links for the remaining shows.

10 April 2026 – Festival Theatre, Tarntanya/Adelaide (with the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra)
11 April 2026 – Festival Theatre, Tarntanya/Adelaide (with the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra)
2 May 2026 – Coliseum Theatre, Dharug Country/Rooty Hill (with the Sydney Philharmonic Orchestra)
8 May 2026 – Canberra Theatre, Ngambri/Canberra (with the Canberra Symphony Orchestra)
9 May 2026 – Canberra Theatre, Ngambri/Canberra (with the Canberra Symphony Orchestra)
6 June 2026 – Empire Theatre, Giabal and Jarowair Country/Toowoomba (with the Toowoomba Concert Orchestra)
13 June 2026 – Riverside Theatre, Boorloo/Perth (with the West Australian Symphony Orchestra)

Photo credit: Lauren Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Casey Barnes Soundtracks NRL With “Made For This”

I’ll admit, I’m still struggling to get back to earth after my amazing holiday. What’s really helped is footy season. It doesn’t hurt that my Eels smashed it this week! While settling in for the game, my ears pricked up hearing Casey Barnes’ new track, “Made For This.” What a belter of a song, perfect for the hard-hitting game I love!

“This song is about backing yourself when everything’s on the line,” Casey said. “It’s about coming back from adversity, not being afraid of the challenge, and using it as fuel.”

If you’re not already across it, there are plenty of opportunities to hear this song as Nine will use it on all their Thursday, Friday, and Sunday matches across the entire 30-week NRL season. You’ll also hear plenty more from Casey this year, as he’s got a new album scheduled for the middle of the year and some big festival appearances in the coming months. Catch him anywhere you can!

21 March 2026 – CMC Rocks Qld 2026 @ Willowbank Raceway, Tulmur/Ipswich
28 March 2026 – Echuca Country Music Festival @ Echuca Racecourse, Yorta Yorta Country/Echuca
18 April 2026 – Man from Snowy River Bush Festival, Jaitmathang, Dhudhuroa, Ngarigo, and Wolgal Country/Corryong
2 May 2026 – Stomping Groundz @ the Groundz, Dharawal Country/Dapto
15 August 2026 – Regfest Mildura @ Nowingi Place, Latje Latje Country/Mildura
12 September 2026 – Triple B Rodeo @ Caboolture, Kabultur Country/Caboolture
28 November 2026 – Launceston Country Music Festival @ Royal Park, Letteremairrener Country/Launceston

Image used with permission from Bec Gracie Publicity

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

The Superjesus Celebrate 25 Years of Jet Age With Aussie Tour

Sometimes you just need a little reminder of how good an album is. When sorting through my emails, my first thought when I saw news of Jet Age’s 25th anniversary was “Fuck off.” Twenty-five years; are you kidding me? My next thought was, “Let’s give it a listen.” Age hasn’t wearied this Superjesus album friends. There are the hits like “Over You” and “Gravity” of course, but really every track is a gem.

“We felt so much pressure going in to make Jet Age because of the success of Sumo and the departure of our founding member, guitarist Chris Tennent,” frontwoman Sarah McLeod recalled. “We needed to prove to ourselves that we could stand on our own two feet without him. As he was my writing partner I was terrified the magic pathway to creativity would be broken, but it was not broken at all, it was actually strengthened by fresh collaborations with new guitarist Tim Henwood.”

Trust me, fire up your favourite streaming platform and revisit this one to pump yourself up for Superjesus’ anniversary tour happening in the middle of the year.

“Playing for this tour feels like plugging straight into history,” said Superjesus drummer Ben Todd. “These songs still hit hard, and bringing Jet Age back to life night after night is going to be an absolute blast. We have the chance to honour a record that shaped so much of what the band is, while feeling how alive these songs still are after 25 years. See you on the road!”

The Art and The After will join the Superjesus for these special Jet Age anniversary gigs. Tickets are on sale now for all shows.

5 June 2026 – The Triffid, Meeanjin/Brisbane
6 June 2026 – Coolangatta Hotel, Dangan Bullen/Gold Coast
12 June 2026 – The Prince Bandroom, Euro-Yroke/St Kilda
13 June 2026 – Theatre Royal, Dja Dja Wurrung Country/Castlemaine
18 June 2026 – The River, Wooditjup/Margaret River
19 June 2026 – Freo Social, Walyalup/Fremantle
20 June 2026 – The Gov, Tarntanya/Adelaide
26 June 2026 – The Entrance Leagues Club, Darkinjung Country/Bateau Bay
27 June 2026 – The Factory Theatre, Bulanaming/Marrickville

Photo credit: Andrew Treadwell

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

From The Jam Announce Aussie Return

The Jam’s original bassist Bruce Foxton is keeping the cult British band’s music alive through his outfit From The Jam. And the band’s making its way Down Under for some big shows this July.

From The Jam features founding member and frontman Russell Hastings, who has played with Bruce since 2006. Mike Randon rounds out the trio who promise to deliver all The Jam’s biggest hits including “Town Called Malice” and “Going Underground.”

Find out why From The Jam routinely perform to sell-out crowds around the world when they hit Australia this winter. Tickets are on sale now.

1 July 2026 – The Astor, Boorloo/Perth
2 July 2026 – The Gov, Tarntanya/Adelaide
4 July 2026 – The Triffid, Meeanjin/Brisbane
5 July 2026 – Factory Theatre, Eora/Sydney
7 July 2026 – Corner Hotel, Naarm/Melbourne

Image used with permission from beehive

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Laura Frank Kicks Off Busy 2026 With “God Knows I Know” Release

A rising talent with a voice that belies her years, Laura Frank has knocked it out of the park with her latest single “God Knows I Know.” This uplifting country-pop anthem is the perfect showcase for her honest, compelling vocals. The song’s all about pushing forward, which is exactly what she’ll be doing this year. Laura created “God Knows I Know” with her partner and long-time collaborator Nick Morrissey.

“’God Knows I Know’ came together in a really honest season for us. We’d been touring heavily through regional Australia, living in close quarters, juggling music, family and everything in between,” she said. “The song started as a conversation — the kind you have late at night when you’re tired but thinking clearly. We wrote it simply, just the two of us, chasing the feeling rather than trying to be clever. When we took it into the studio, the goal was to protect that rawness. We built the production around the vocal rather than the other way around. If something felt like it was distracting from the lyric, it went. There wasn’t a big dramatic moment in the making of it — it was steady, intentional and collaborative. Everyone who played on it understood that restraint was important. The process felt grounded. No overthinking, no chasing trends — just serving the song and letting the emotion lead.”

“God Knows I Know” is the first of many Laura Frank singles we’ll hear this year leading up to the release of her new album in October. She’s currently in the middle of a 60-date tour across the country with Tom Curtain. Here are all the remaining dates:

13 March 2026 – Dandenong Ranges Pony Club, Bunurong Country/Mornington
14 March 2026 – Meeniyan Pony Club, Brataualung Country/Stony Creek
15 March 2026 – Sale Polocrosse Club, Wayput/Sale
20 March 2026 – Mansfield Showground, Beolite/Mansfield
21 March 2026 – Ballan Racecourse & Recreation Reserve, Wadawurrung and Wurundjeri Country/Ballan
22 March 2026 – Pony Club @ Barwon Heads Village Park, Koornoo/Barwon Heads
27 March 2026 – Colac Showgrounds, Kolakngat Country/Colac
28 March 2026 – Coleraine Showgrounds, Konongwootong Country/Coleraine
29 March 2026 – South East Field Days, Meintangk Country/Lucindale
3 April 2026 – Murray Bridge Riding Club, Pomberuk/Murray Bridge
4 April 2026 – Burra Burra Show, Ngadjuri Country/Burra
5 April 2026 – Melrose Showgrounds, Nukunu Country/Melrose
10 April 2026 – Kadina Showground, Narungga Country/Kadina
11 April 2026 – Waikerie, Weikari/Waikerie
12 April 2026 – Wasleys Oval, Kaurna Country/Wasleys

Image used with permission from beehive

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

LamBros. Wow Me With Soulful Single “You Won’t Call”

Nothing quite tickles my brain quite like good soul music. Give me emotive vocals and a deep groove and I’m yours. So I’m totally swooning over “You Won’t Call,” the latest track from Eora/Sydney sibling duo LamBros. If you’re into artists like Teddy Swims, Nathan Rateliff, and our own Teskey Brothers, I know you’ll vibe with this one.

“’You Won’t Call’ stemmed from our own experiences being led on and let down by someone important in your life,” explained Connor Lambrou, the duo’s lead vocalist, guitarist, and lyricist. “It comes from that sinking feeling that something is not right with your relationship, be it romantic or friendship. It comes from the internal conflict of loving someone while knowing deep down that they don’t feel the same way. Despite years of dedication, love, and patience, ‘You Won’t Call.’ Despite giving everything to keep this together, ‘You Won’t Call.’ Despite everything we’ve been through, ‘You Won’t Call.’ This is the essence of the song.”

Listening to this track, you know there’s no studio trickery going on behind the scenes. Connor and his brother Harry (drums, percussion, backing vocals) wrote, played all the instruments, produced, mixed, and mastered the track at their home studio. This music is so authentic and organic, so it’s bound to sound just as good live. Experience LamBros. for yourself at one of their upcoming free shows.

“Expect pure, unadulterated live music, and entertainment,” Connor said. “Our shows are an expression of ourselves in the purest way. We give everything on stage, and travel through genres and styles, telling stories and expressing ourselves through our own, and other artists’ music.”

13 March 2026 – Towradgi Beach Hotel, Dharawal Country/Towradgi (FREE – ALL AGES)
14 March 2026 – Dulcie’s Cottage, Djiringanj and Thaua Country/Merimbula (FREE – ALL AGES)
21 March 2026 – Pleasure Club, Eora/Sydney (FREE – 18+)

Image used with permission from On the Map PR