Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Spike Fuck Makes Surprise Comeback

Naarm/Melbourne-based creative Spike Fuck is back with his new single “All By Myself,” his first released via legendary New York label Sacred Bones Records. It comes ten years after he pioneered his sound with the Smackwave EP, then disappeared without a trace. Spike gives no explanation for his absence, although there were rumours he might have traded in the spotlight for years in monastic solitude or perhaps relapsed. All the speculation just makes his return more iconic.

Speaking on the release of “All By Myself,” Spike says “If someone asks ‘What does it mean?’ We’ve done the job. As society has abandoned mythologies, we must create our own… that sounds trite and I’m not quite sure how to defend that statement really. We’re not existentialists. In any case, we also live in a completely schizophrenic society in this sense, so the idea to create a story of a war hero/criminal undergoing an absurdist spiritual transformation seemed almost obligatory. Purgatorial musings, heaven and hell, redemption, fantasy, a mushroom that talks, so on and so forth.

“People understand truth through analogy, moreover, parables. We sought to create something about redemption, forgiveness, faith, hope, and charity that is available to whomever seeks it. I may not be the most reliable narrator, I admit that freely, yet the fantasy of it all is healthy. So is a dose of whimsy or even a small dash of grand delusion. So this video, along with the entire record, is a series of clues, a collection of pieces of evidence… Hopefully this video raises more questions than it answers.”

“All By Myself” is the lead single from Spike’s debut album evidence, which drops on October 2. He’ll celebrate the release with a massive tour. It kicks off in Australia on release day, then travels to the United Kingdom and Europe.

2 October 2026 – Oxford Art Factory, Eora/Sydney
3 October 2026 – Crowbar, Meeanjin/Brisbane
4 October 2026 – Yours & Owls Festival @ Flagstaff Hill, Woolyungah/Wollongong
9 October 2026 – Wyola Club, Walyalup/Fremantle
10 October 2026 – Jive, Tarntanya/Adelaide
17 October 2026 – Thornbury Theatre, Naarm/Melbourne
23 & 24 October 2026 – Left of the Dial @ Eendrachtsplein, Rotterdam
27 October 2026 – Cactus Club, Bruges (with Personal Trainer)
29 October 2026 – The Croft, Bristol
30 October 2026 – Hallamshire Hotel, Sheffield
31 October 2026 – Zerox, Newcastle Upon Tyne
1 November 2026 – The Hug & Pint, Glasgow
3 November 2026 – The Old Abbey Taphouse, Manchester
4 November 2026 – Oporto, Leeds
6 November 2026 – The Dome, London
7 November 2026 – Illion Plus, Athens
8 November 2026 – Eightball Club, Thessaloniki
10 November 2026 – Cafe Kotur, Skopje
11 November 2026 – Vintage Industrial Bar, Zagreb
12 November 2026 – Milla, Munich
15 November 2026 – Urban Spree, Berlin
16 November 2026 – Molotow Top Ten Bar, Hamburg
17 November 2026 – Klub RE, Krakow
18 November 2026 – Barrak Club, Ostrava
20 November 2026 – Freakout Club, Bologna
24 November 2026 – Whelan’s, Dublin
27 November 2026 – Le Hasard Ludique, Paris
29 November 2026 – Paradiso (Upstairs), Amsterdam

Photo credit: Dylan Marriott

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Blake Appelqvist Breaks the Mould With “IKYLT”

I love a track that steps outside the box and keeps me guessing. Making real art requires taking some risks, and that’s exactly what Blake Appelqvist does with their latest single “IKYLT.” While it’s definitely pop music, it’s a world away from the formulaic tracks that dominate the genre.

“I wanted to make something that felt emotionally honest, like that moment where you’re deciding whether to leave or stay a little longer,” Blake explained. “’IKYLT’ is about those rare situations where someone sees a version of you that usually stays hidden — and how intense that can feel with someone you’ve only just met.”

The time signature for “IKYLT” is unpredictable, its structure complex. Just when you think you have it figured out, there’s another sonic curveball. Yet every twist and turn pays off to create a surprising yet satisfying listening experience. “IKYLT” is streaming everywhere right now.

Image used with permission from Blake Appelqvist

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Sleep Theory Announce Long-Awaited Aussie Tour

Memphis hard rock act Sleep Theory burst onto the music scene in 2019, and then COVID-19 happened. Any plans for world domination got put on hold, until now. With one album and a couple of EPs under their belts, they’re finally heading our way, and they’re bringing fellow American band RIVALS along for the ride.

I must admit, while I was aware of Sleep Theory I wasn’t across their music before this announcement. But that’s taken me down a bit of a rabbit hole. The hard rock tag doesn’t really do them justice because their music really blurs genre lines. It’s so melodic and hooky, with pop and R&B influences that really set them apart.

They’re going to tear the roof off the venues they’re playing next February. Many venues have already been upgraded, but I still can’t see tickets lasting into the New Year. Get them while you can music lovers!

6 February 2026 – Metropolis, Walyalup/Fremantle
10 February 2026 – The Gov, Tarntanya/Adelaide
12 February 2026 – Festival Hall, Naarm/Melbourne
13 February 2026 – Metro Theatre, Eora/Sydney (SOLD OUT)
15 February 2026 – The Tivoli, Meeanjin/Brisbane

Image used with permission from Bigmouth PR

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

IamSnap Drops Powerful Mental Health Anthem “Last Round” Feat. Lydia Caesar

Kamilaroi Country/Tamworth-based hip hop artist IamSnap has reunited with frequent guest vocalist Lydia Caesar for an incredible new single, “Last Round.” Hot on the heels of their previous collaborations “Lifer” and “Alive,” this song is a powerful pop anthem born from Iamsnap’s own battles with depression and anxiety.

On paper, these talents make an unlikely pair. Iamsnap’s gritty rapping is so different from the big soulful vocals Lydia brings to “Last Round.” But I love the way their contrasting tones and energies play together. You can also hear their chemistry, that special sauce that comes when artists have worked together long enough to truly understand one another.

IamSnap’s lyrics show a wicked sense of humour, but he doesn’t shy away from the challenges that come with mental illness, the procrastinating, the self-doubt, the creative paralysis that can make achieving goals seem insurmountable. But rather than dwell in that dark place, Iamsnap remains defiant, determined to keep fighting. Lydia’s soaring vocals embody that sentiment. So while the voices of IamSnap and Lydia are so different, we need them both to tell this story.

Roughly one in five Aussies have struggled with their mental health, yet talking about mental illness still feels taboo. And when relatively few people talk about it, it’s little wonder that so many battling mental health issues feel so alone. That makes tracks like “Last Round,” which give voice to the battles so many of us face, so important. It’s streaming now. If you’re concerned about your mental health, remember free support is always available through Lifeline (13 11 14) and Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636).  

Image used with permission from Shannon Elliott

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Saralyn Bares Her Soul On “Goldline”

I’ve always been impressed by the way that country singer-songwriter Saralyn wears her heart on her sleeve and encourages listeners to step into her world. But she’s never been quite as open as with her new single “Goldline,” a moving new ballad from her debut EP.

“‘Goldline’ is the most personal song I’ve ever written,” Saralyn shared. “As I was creating my debut EP, I found myself reflecting on the moments that have shaped me. The loss, the love, the heartbreak, the healing, and the hope that carried me through it all. The song begins with the loss of my sister and grows into a reflection on every challenge I’ve faced since.”

“Goldline” is the emotional centrepiece and title track of Saralyn’s debut EP, which she’ll release on August 28. You can preorder a signed CD copy from Saralyn’s website. She’s also announced a stack of shows to support the EP’s release which take us right through to the New Year.

22 August 2026 – The Oaks, Dharawal Country/Albion Park (Trailblazer: The Lainey Wilson Tribute Show)
28 August 2026 – Shoal Bay Country Club, Worimi Country/Shoal Bay (Trailblazer: The Lainey Wilson Tribute Show)
18 September 2026 – Chattahoochee Joe’s Honky Tonk, Meeanjin/Brisbane
19 September 2026 – Tonic Lounge & Bar, Giabal Country/Toowoomba
3 October 2026 – Panthers, Guruk/Port Macquarie
17 October 2026 – Going Country Music Festival @ Muswellbrook Showground, Bimboorien/Muswellbrook
23 October 2026 – Big Little Brewing, Darkinjung Country/Gosford
7 November 2026 – Boots on the Harbour Cruise, Sydney/Eora (with Viper Creek Band – SOLD OUT)
13 November 2026 – Saddler’s Creek Winery, Wonnarua Country/Pokolbin
15 November 2026 – The Old George and Dragon, Illulaung/East Maitland
28 November 2026 – The Paterson Courthouse Hotel, Wonnarua and Worimi Country/Paterson
21 January 2027 – The Press Basement Bar, Kamilaroi Country/Tamworth (supporting Angela Rose)

Image used with permission from Wildheart Publicity

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Windwaker Impress With “closer” Ahead of New Album and Tour

I’ll admit, I don’t cover a lot of music from metalcore acts like Windwaker because they typically rock just a little hard for my taste. However, I always make a point of listening because I never know when something outside my preferred genres will spark joy. I’m so glad I stay open-minded, because if I didn’t I’d miss gems like their latest single “closer.” It comes from Windwaker’s forthcoming third album, smile, you’re on camera, which they say is their best record yet.

“smile, you’re on camera is undeniably our best and most focused collection of songs to date,” Windwaker enthused. “We learned so much making this record together, and we’re incredibly proud of what it’s become. It opens the door to who we are, and offers a glimpse into our world through the highs and the lows. It’s the most personal and honest Windwaker has ever been.”

smile, you’re on camera drops on October 23 and you can preorder a vinyl or CD copy right now. To celebrate its release, Windwaker will travel around the country playing some massive shows with US band The Pretty Wild and local up-and-comers RinRin and DREGG. Then they’ll fly overseas for more gigs in the United States, Europe, and the United Kingdom. Tickets for all those shows are on sale now from the links below.

30 October 2026 – Magnet House, Boorloo/Perth
1 November 2026 – The Gov, Tarntanya/Adelaide
2 November 2026 – Northcote Theatre, Naarm/Melbourne
5 November 2026 – Metro Theatre, Eora/Sydney
6 November 2026 – King St, Mulubinba/Newcastle
7 November 2026 – The Tivoli, Meeanjin/Brisbane
11 November 2026 – MGM Music Hall @ Fenway, Boston (supporting Beartooth)
12 November 2026 – Hammerstein Ballroom @ Manhattan Center, New York City (supporting Beartooth)
13 November 2026 – Franklin Music Hall, Philadelphia (supporting Beartooth)
15 November 2026 – The Theatre @ MGM National Harbor, National Harbor (supporting Beartooth)
16 November 2026 – Electric City, Buffalo (supporting Don Broco)
18 November 2026 – Stage AE, Pittsburgh (supporting Beartooth)
20 November 2026 – Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom, Chicago (supporting Beartooth)
21 November 2026 – Myth Live, St. Paul (supporting Beartooth)
22 November 2026 – Steelhouse Omaha, Omaha (supporting Beartooth)
24 November 2026 – The Intersection – Elevation, Grand Rapids (supporting Don Broco)
25 November 2026 – Hi-fi Indy & Hi-fi Annex, Indianapolis (supporting Don Broco)
27 November 2026 – Delmar Hall, St. Louis (supporting Don Broco)
28 November 2026 – The Truth, Nashville (supporting Beartooth)
29 November 2026 – Coca-Cola Roxy, Atlanta (supporting Beartooth)
1 December 2026 – The Fillmore Charlotte, Charlotte (supporting Beartooth)
2 December 2026 – The Refinery, Charleston (supporting Beartooth)
4 December 2026 – The St. Augustine Amphitheatre, St. Augustine (supporting Beartooth)
5 December 2026 – War Memorial Auditorium, Fort Lauderdale (supporting Beartooth)
7 December 2026 – BG’s Lounge @ The Fillmore New Orleans, New Orleans (supporting Beartooth)
9 December 2026 – Austin City Limits Live at the Moody Theatre, Austin (supporting Beartooth)
10 December 2026 – South Side Ballroom, Dallas (supporting Beartooth)
12 December 2026 – Fillmore Auditorium, Denver (supporting Beartooth)
13 December 2026 – The Union in Salt Lake, Salt Lake City (supporting Beartooth)
15 December 2026 – Revel, Albuquerque (supporting Beartooth)
16 December 2026 – Arizona Financial Theatre, Arizona (supporting Beartooth)
18 December 2026 – Hollywood Palladium, Los Angeles (supporting Beartooth)
19 December 2026 – Hard Rock Live Sacramento, Wheatland (supporting Beartooth)
3 February 2027 – Elysee Montmartre, Paris (supporting Bury Tomorrow)
4 February 2027 – Hamburg Sporthalle, Hamburg (supporting Bury Tomorrow)
5 February 2027 – TivoliVredenburg, Utrecht (supporting Bury Tomorrow)
6 February 2027 – Haus Auensee, Leipzig (supporting Bury Tomorrow)
7 February 2027 – Columbiahalle, Berlin (supporting Bury Tomorrow)
10 February 2027 – Gasometer, Vienna (supporting Bury Tomorrow)
11 February 2027 – Zenith @ die Kulturhalle, Munich (supporting Bury Tomorrow)
12 February 2027 – Schlachthof Wiesbaden, Wiesbaden (supporting Bury Tomorrow)
13 February 2027 – Palladium, Cologne (supporting Bury Tomorrow)
14 February 2027 – Ancienne Belgique, Brussels (supporting Bury Tomorrow)
18 February 2027 – Galvanizers Yard, Glasgow (supporting Bury Tomorrow)
19 February 2027 – Nottingham Rock City, Nottingham (supporting Bury Tomorrow)
20 February 2027 – O2 Academy Brixton, Brixton (supporting Bury Tomorrow)

Image used with permission from Bigmouth PR

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“The Man You Remember” – Milina Mihic

Icy August weather calls for comforting music that wraps around you like a blanket. Eora/Sydney-based singer-songwriter Milina Mihic delivers the perfect soundtrack for the season with her debut EP The Man You Remember.

I fell for this collection of songs from the moment I heard Milina’s sublime vocals on the opening track, fittingly titled “Winter.” Her voice is so beautiful and compelling. It’s delicate, almost fragile in quiet moments, but capable of real emotional intensity as the music swells. Her tone’s warm, inviting. It draws you in and encourages you to stay in the songs and listen to what she has to share.

“Winter” is the first of six special songs featured on The Man You Remember. This EP’s been four years in the making and it shows. Not only is each song exceptional, but they’re infused with the sort of insights that can only come with time. There are moments of uncertainty mixed with real clarity as Milina explores themes of love, loss, and identity. While powerful as individual tracks, I love the way they come together to capture Milina’s coming-of-age journey from her teens to early twenties. Even though the lyrics are very personal, the universal themes help them resonate.

The Man You Remember has really cast a spell on me. Every time the final notes of the title track fade out, I find myself pressing play for another listen. Each time I catch new lyrics and sonic moments that move me. Take a little time out to discover The Man You Remember on your favourite streaming service.

Main photo credit: Niko Pirounakis

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Gentleman” – Budjerah

The release of Budjerah’s long-awaited debut album Gentleman feels like a reintroduction to this talented artist. The shy indie-pop teen we met in 2020 appears utterly transformed with this polished pop release.

From front to back, Gentleman is an album of bangers. But you might expect that when you browse Budjerah’s collaborators. Some of the songwriters include Poo Bear, known for his work with Justin Bieber, Rob Lewis, who’s been Christina Aguilera’s music director for more than 20 years, and Philip Lawrence, who’s Bruno Mars primary creative partner. And if that wasn’t enough, he’s got a song penned by Diane Warren, one of the most acclaimed lyricists of all time who’s written chart toppers for Cher, Celine Dion, Aerosmith, and countless others. These are people who understand what it takes to write a hit.

Their tunes are total earworms, but they would fall flat if Budjerah didn’t bring such charisma and confidence to them. It’s probably easy to be confident when you’ve assembled the Justice League of songwriters though! But they’re not doing all the heavy lifting. Budjerah also enlisted Grammy Award-winning producer Om’Mas Keith, who’s worked with talents like Frank Ocean, Jay Z, and Erykah Badu. His involvement ensures that Gentleman feels sonically interesting, rather than a record that’s commercial but ultimately forgettable.

From the upbeat soul of the title track and opener, Gentleman had me hooked. It feels like a natural companion to the next track “Want You Back.” They’re such perfect pop that Budjerah probably could have released an album entirely in this vein and kept me happy. But rather than play it safe, he experiments with genre. “I Only Remember Your Name” has a deep reggae groove, “Sinner” is a gospel-tinged ballad, and “Lonely” is pure yacht rock. Through all the twists and turns, Budjerah’s undeniable vocals shine through.

Gentleman has been a long time coming for Budjerah fans, but I’m glad he took the time. This is a considered release, one that comes from an artist who knows who he is and is now ready to share that definitive debut statement with the world.

Gentleman is out now. Budjerah will take these songs around the East Coast on his The Gentleman Tour this October and November. Tickets are on sale now from the links below.

31 October 2026 – The Espy, Naarm/Melbourne (18+)
1 November 2026 – The Sound Doctor, Kuarka-dorla/Anglesea (ALL AGES)
7 November 2026 – Metro Social, Eora/Sydney (ALL AGES)
20 November 2026 – Miami Marketta, Yugambeh Country/Gold Coast (ALL AGES)
21 November 2026 – Triffid Beer Garden, Meeanjin/Brisbane (ALL AGES)

Main photo credit: Daniel Boud

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Melody Pool, Tanya Ransom, and Alexia Parenzee Headline Women Out West

While women are represented in increasing numbers, the music industry still feels like a bit of a boys’ club. There also aren’t nearly enough shows in regional Australia. Which is why Women Out West, a new tour from Always Good Nights, feels so revolutionary. It’s the first tour of this scale to employ women in every single role, both in the tour development and delivery. Melody Pool, Tanya Ransom, and Alexia Parenzee will headline the shows scheduled for regional towns across Western Australia this October and November.

The Women Out West tour will travel more than 6,000 kilometres across regional Western Australia, with stops along the way for the intimate performances, workshops, mentoring sessions, and community events. Organisers aim to shine a spotlight on the way women are helping to shape the country’s music industry while recognising the strength, creativity, and passion found in regional communities.

“Women Out West is about more than putting on great shows,” Always Good Nights director Kelsie Miller explained. “It’s about creating opportunities, building confidence and making sure women and girls in regional communities can see themselves reflected on stage and behind the scenes. We want young people to know there is a place for them in this industry, no matter where they live.”

Western Australians can see the Women Out West shows at the following venues:

2 October 2026 – Broome Historical Museum Gardens, Rubibi/Broome
3 October 2026 – Courthouse Gallery, Marapikurrinya/Port Hedland
8 October 2026 – Kestral Cafe, Gwoonwardu/Carnarvon
10 October 2026 – Little Leaf Cafe, Wurdimarlu/Kalbarri
11 October 2026 – 30 Knots Distillery, Jambinu/Geraldton
16 October 2026 – Badgingarra Community Centre, Noongar Country/Badgingarra
17 October 2026 – Suburban Vibes, Walyalup/Fremantle
23 October 2026 – Geovino, Korijekup/Harvey
24 October 2026 – The Little Theatre, Noongar Country/Eaton
30 October 2026 – The Chapel, Walgine/Witchcliffe
31 October 2026 – Pemberton Mill Hall, Noongar Country/Pemberton
1 November 2026 – Bridgetown Pottery Restaurant, Geegelup/Bridgetown

Image used with permission from Auxiliary Records

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Waiting for the Day: Artist Sessions” – Bachelor Girl

Twenty-eight years ago, Bachelor Girl released their debut album Waiting for the Day. It was a monster hit, spawning beloved singles like “Permission to Shine,” “Treat Me Good,” and “Buses and Trains.” And now, Bachelor Girl and some of their famous friends are revisiting that release with Waiting for the Day: Artist Sessions.

This album is absolutely stacked with talent. I’m talking Jessica Mauboy, Guy Sebastian, Darren Hayes, Delta Goodrem, S-tier Aussie acts. They help breathe new life into these songs, adding artistic flair that transforms them into something brand new. I appreciate the creativity and intent, even if I don’t always like the results. As a massive fan of the original album, some of the ultra-pop renditions fall a little flat for me. But when this album gets it right, it gets it so right. The rock edge of Suze DeMarchi on “Don’t Hold Back” and Jon Stevens on “This Must Be Love” play perfectly with Tania Doko’s iconic vocals. Michael Paynter proves why he’s one of the nation’s most in-demand singers when he joins Tania on “I Don’t Believe You.”

While the star power will encourage people to press play, it’s the core elements that made this album great the first time around that inspire repeat listens. Decades have passed, but the songs on Waiting for the Day are still so good. Tania Doko and James Roche created something so special with this album, and that legacy is celebrated here. It’s so fitting that Tania and James are the ones to deliver the title track and final number. While the star cameos are fun, the founding members of Bachelor Girl still shine so brightly without them.

Whether you look back on this album with nostalgia like I do or you’re new to the songs and lured by the stars, Waiting for the Day: Artist Sessions is an exciting release. It’s not as flawless as the original, but there are some real moments of brilliance here.

Waiting for the Day: Artist Sessions is out today. Bachelor Girl will support its release with the following shows:

8 August 2026 – Brunswick Ballroom, Bulleke-bek/Brunswick (18+ – SOLD OUT)
23 August 2026 – The Triffid, Meeanjin/Brisbane (18+)
28 August 2026 – The Gov, Tarntanya/Adelaide (18+)
4 September 2026 – Cube 37 @ Frankston Arts Centre, Monmar/Frankston (ALL AGES – u15s with adult)
5 September 2026 – Sounds of Rock Rockhampton @ Victoria Park, Darumbal Country/Wandal
10 October 2026 – Savannah in the Round, Muluridji Country/Mareeba
18 October 2026 – Factory Theatre, Bulanaming/Marrickville (18+)

Photo credit: Jess Macc