Author: Lauren Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

King Stingray Celebrate “Best Bits” Release With Regional Tour

King Stingray are bringing all the good vibes with their latest single, “Best Bits.”

“‘Best Bits’ is a song about all the best parts of life all poured into one moment”, the band explained. “Inspired by a particular moment in time, a particular day that had all the right ingredients. It’s about those ripper-of-a-day type moments, those warm days in the sunshine with your mates, with your family or a loved one. The memorable days that just seem to stick with you. It’s about simple living in a complex digital world, and although it can be hard to articulate in just a few words, a feeling that is so massive and profound. Sometimes all the best bits of life are already all around us! Yo manymak!”

King Stingray will be making more memories when they play shows through regional Australia in July and August with Jem Cassar-Daley warming up the crowds. Then they’re off to the United States to support King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizzard. Exciting times ahead for one of the Territory’s finest acts.

18 July 2024 – Theatre Royal, Dja Dja Wurrung Country/Castlemaine
19 July 2024 – Pier Bandroom, Kulin Country/Frankston
20 July 2024 – Torquay Hotel, Wadawurrung Country/Torquay
21 July 2024 – Whalers Hotel, Peek Woorroong Country/Warrnambool
8 August 2024 – Beach Hotel, Cavanbah/Byron Bay
9 August 2024 – Miami Marketta, Yugambah Country/Gold Coast
10 August 2024 – Solbar, Kabi Kabi and Jinibara Country/Maroochydore
14 August 2024 – Hoey Moey, Gumbaynggirr Country/Coffs Harbour
15 August 2024 – King Street Bandroom, Mulubinba/Newcastle
16 August 2024 – Waves, Woolyungah/Wollongong
17 August 2024 – UC Hub, Ngambri/Canberra
31 August 2024 – East Arnhem Live @ Hindle Oval, Yolŋu Country/Nhulunbuy (FREE)
2 November 2024 – The Rady Shell @ Jacobs Park, San Diego (with King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard)
9 November 2024 – Arizona Financial Theatre, Phoenix (with King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard)
15 November 2024 – Germania Insurance Amphitheater, Austin (with King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard)
16 November 2024 – White Oak Music Hall, Houston (with King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard)
19 November 2024 – Fox Theatre, Atlanta (with King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard)

Photo credit: Maclay Heriot

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

SUÉ Keeps It Real With “Supa”

Chilean-Aussie R&B act SUÉ has dropped his smoother-than smooth new single “SUPA.” It’s got such a great groove, but make sure you pay attention to the lyrics which explore the everyday struggles of living with anxiety.

“I was working all sorts of jobs and doing things that weren’t who I really was. It didn’t feel right to be working and doing things in areas that really weren’t the truthfulness of myself. Constantly feeling like belong to something bigger. Is that my ego or my purpose talking?” SUÉ asked. “I hope this song connects to the everyday life of any individual listening to the song. Knowing that that feeling of misplacement lives within us all, and that you are not alone.”

There’s more new music from SUÉ to come when he releases his EP in late July.

Image used with permission from Stimulated Media & SYS

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Worm Girlz Release Stunning New Single “Not My Body”

We know Worm Girlz as the fierce punk rock act who’ve released bangers like “Dirt” and “Cool Girl.” But they’re showing a much more vulnerable side with their latest track “Not My Body.” It’s such a brave, beautiful ballad that lays bare a lot of the insecurities the members of this incredible band have felt in their skin.

“’Not My Body’ is an emotional outburst induced by the impossible standards placed on body image,” lead vocalist Lauren explained. “It encapsulates the personal experiences of Worm Girlz and the sensation of experiencing both body dysmorphia and gender dysphoria.”

I already considered myself a worm girl after listening to the band’s other singles, but this latest release has taken my love to a whole new level. This is a band with so much to say, who creates such an inclusive community and safe spaces wherever they go. That’s special. That’s powerful.

Worm Girlz will bring their special magic to West End Girls Winter Edition at The Bearded Lady in Meeanjin/Brisbane on July 13. If you’re in the area, you won’t want to miss it.

Photo credit: Tayla Lauren

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Brandon Poletti Releases Gorgeous New Single, “Move Away”

If you need a little soothing this Thursday afternoon, look no further. “Move Away,” the latest single from Boorloo/Perth act Brandon Poletti, is the cure for whatever’s ailing you. His voice has such a beautiful weathered warmth to it, and the song’s chill vibes are exactly what you need as your working day’s winding down.

“Move Away reflects on the weight of the past and the fleeting nature of time,” Brandon explained. “It’s about a person who feels stuck in a town that no longer feels like home, they grapple with a sense of disillusionment and longing for change. The song captures the essence of their desire to break free from the confines of their current life, contemplating leaving town, pursuing a new job, and perhaps even adopting a new identity.”

Spotify’s already added “Move Away” to its Coffee + Chill playlist. I’m not suggesting this song’s best enjoyed with coffee, but I’m not saying you should deny yourself a cup while you listen either! Brandon will play the following shows in the coming months:

22 June 2024 – Honky Tonk Blues, Walyalup/Fremantle
5 July 2024 – The Vault Restaurant, Noongar Country/Kalamunda
19 July 2024 – Honky Tonk Blues, Walyalup/Fremantle
10 August 2024 – Honky Tonk Blues, Walyalup/Fremantle
30 August 2024 – Honky Tonk Blues, Walyalup/Fremantle

Photo credit: Jaime Dacheff

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

The Sunday Estate Release Brilliant New Single, “London in October”

Eora/Sydney-based indie act The Sunday Estate have just dropped their latest single “London in October,” and it’s exactly the pick-me-up your midweek needs. It’s got a really upbeat vibe, but tap into those lyrics and you’ll hear the fun sound masks some pretty deep heartache.

“This tries to capture the chaotic and turbulent spirit of a long-term relationship breakup – all the tiny ways your life would change, and how dichotic the decision can feel,” explained lead vocalist Conor O’Reilly. “Do you delete photos you had of them online? Do you get to keep shared friends? Whose narrative will everyone believe? Did you make the right call? Was it all a waste of time?”

The Sunday Estate had a massive 2023, playing 18 dates with The Rions and gigs with Yard Act and British India. They’re currently on the road again supporting the release of “London in October.” Catch them headlining one of the following shows:

28 June 2024 – Gasometer (upstairs), Naarm/Melbourne
26 July 2024 – Oxford Art Factory (Gallery), Eora/Sydney
3 August 2024 – Velvet Underground, Tarntanya/Adelaide

Photo credit: Hannah Badorrek

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Club Broadway @ Tumbalong Park, Eora/Sydney – 10 June 2024

Attending a Club Broadway event has been on my bucket list for a while. As an unashamed theatre nerd, the thought of coming together with other theatre nerds, singing along to showtunes while I danced like nobody’s watching always seemed like some kind of heaven. But as someone who remains a little COVID-cautious, I couldn’t quite bring myself to attend one of the indoor club events. I couldn’t believe it when they announced a free outdoor event for Vivid, which unfortunately clashed with last week’s Jason Singh show. But then the rains came down, the event was washed out, and the stars aligned with a rescheduled show. Last night I was off to my first ever Club Broadway event!

It was every bit as glorious as I hoped for. The generous space in Tumbalong Park meant that my husband and I could find a little bit of room away from the throng, while others could make connections with like-minded folk near the stage. An overture of musical hits psyched up the crowd before the appearance of Carmen Geddit doing her best Tracy Turnblad to “Good Morning Baltimore” from Hairspray. DJ Dan Murphy was a generous host, warm and welcoming to the Club Broadway veterans and newcomers alike. We were encouraged to sing and dance, to Shazam songs we weren’t familiar with and relish the ones we were. The set was a celebration of Broadway, from classic musicals to newer smashes like Hamilton and Wicked. Every 15 minutes or so, guest performers would treat us to a “show”. I relished every moment of Coco Jumbo’s “Circle of Life,” Minnie Cooper’s, “Singing in the Rain”, and Erin Clare’s “Part of Your World.” The mix of local drag queens and theatre royalty was perfect.

I must say, at my age I doubted whether I could last the three hours on my feet. However, even though there were seats available not far from us, my husband and I were never even tempted to sit down. We were having far too much singing and dancing. I’ll forever remember him playing Alexander Hamilton to my Angelica in “Satisfied,” belting like Idina to “Defying Gravity,” and shaking and shimmying until our vocals were severely compromised during “You Can’t Stop the Beat.” I loved DJ Dan’s costume changes and props. His enormous flag brought the right amount of gravitas to “Do You Hear the People Sing,” while his sequined nun’s outfit worked double-duty for “Do-Re-Mi” and “I Will Follow Him.”

While I’m not sure when I’ll get to another Club Broadway event, I know it won’t be my last. I can only hope it won’t be too long before they take the show outdoors again! Until then, you can enjoy the Club Broadway experience at one of the following shows:

16 June 2024 – Casey’s Farewell @ Universal, Eora/Sydney
29 June 2024 – Wonderland, Meeanjin/Brisbane
6 July 2024 – Chasers, Naarm/Melbourne
20 July 2024 – A Winters Ball @ Ivy, Eora/Sydney
27 July 2024 – The Court, Boorloo/Perth
31 August 2024 – Mary’s Poppin, Tarntanya/Adelaide

Image source: own photo

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Ama Releases Fantastic New Single, “How to Fall in Love”

Ama’s giving me all the feels with her latest alt-pop track, “How to Fall in Love.” It’s such a relatable love song that perfectly expresses those heady early days of infatuation.

The lyrics are so spot on that I was impressed to read on Ama’s Instagram that it’s the first love song she ever wrote. The track also speaks to the intimacy people can develop online, because it was inspired by a girl that Ama hadn’t met in person. I’m not sure whether it worked out or not, but she got an amazing song from the experience!

Image source: Ama’s website

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Alana Wilkinson Pays Tribute to Her Grandmother With “Shine Through”

If you’ve ever lost a loved one to dementia, you might need the tissues for Alana Wilkinson’s latest single “Shine Through”. It’s a beautiful snapshot of moments she spent with her grandmother through the years, the lessons she learned along the way, and the ties that bound them together.

“My grandmother was a complete legend and we shared a really special connection,” Alana said. “No matter how old I got, we played piano together, baked, danced, made puppets and painted pictures.”

Alana’s preparing to release an album and tour the country to support it. Until then, I’ll have this song on repeat. It’s gorgeous.

Photo credit: Claudia Sangiorgi Dalimore

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

RADIO FREE ALICE Release Cool Retro Single “2010”

You’d be forgiven for mistaking “2010”, the latest single from Naarm/Melbourne-based band RADIO FREE ALICE, for a long-lost recording from The Cure or New Order. It’s got such a cool retro vibe that will transport you right back to those angsty new wave bands of decades past. Rather than shying away from their influences, the band are proud to pay tribute to the acts that have made a mark on the song’s sound.

“We’ve been playing the song live for almost a year now. Musically we were influenced by early The Cure and The Smiths.,” they said. “The song focuses on the instrumentation rather than the vocals more than any other track on the EP. It’s the first and only song we have with a pretty much totally instrumental chorus.”

RADIO FREE ALICE are currently making waves in the United Kingdom and Europe. If you’re living abroad, you can catch them at one of the following shows.

7 June 2024 – Broadcast, Glasgow
8 June 2024 – Sneaky Pete’s, Edinburgh
13 June 2024 – Supersonic, Paris (FREE)
15 June 2024 – Rock for People Festival, Hradec Klavove
18 June 2024 – The Social (Form Showcase Night), London

Photo credit: Madeleine Purdy

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Fanning Dempsey National Park’s “Disconnect” is Brilliant

I know I’m a bit late to the party, but have we all listened to Fanning Dempsey National Park’s debut single “Disconnect” yet? The brainchild of Bernard Fanning and Paul Dempsey, I thought this new act was likely to be good, but I didn’t quite prepare myself for how good. Clearly, because otherwise I absolutely would have listened sooner! I’m going to be bold and say it might just be better than anything either of them have released before.

“We agreed straight away there’s no point doing something together if it’s going to be what people think it’s going to be,” Paul explained. “It’s not the two of us with acoustic guitars singing campfire songs.”

Bernard says “Disconnect” is about “The idea of having to walk away from something that you love because it’s become unmanageable. ‘Disconnect’ always had a lot of ‘serious moonlight’ energy, right from its beginnings. The swapping lead vocal plays with the idea of connecting and disconnecting by juxtaposing the confidence/ indecision with each consecutive line. We originally wanted to use sax on everything. After we roughly finished a demo we’d say, ‘What else does it need?’ The answer was inevitably more sax.”

That fantastic saxophone comes courtesy of Ron Dziubla, one of the world’s best session musicians. If that name doesn’t mean anything to you, just take a look at some of the music he’s played on. Tracks from Chris Isaak, Ricky Martin, Christina Aguilera, George Benson, The Crystal Method, and heaps more.

This is just a taster of all the exciting stuff in store for Fanning Dempsey National Park. They’ll release an album, The Deluge, on August 2, which I can’t wait to hear after playing this single obsessively (seriously, I’ve played nothing else since I started writing this article). They’re also heading around the country playing capital city shows in intimate theatres. Tickets are on sale now and probably won’t last long once everyone hears this track!

11 October 2024 – The Fortitude Music Hall, Meeanjin/Brisbane
12 October 2024 – Enmore Theatre, Eora/Sydney
18 October 2024 – Hindley Street Music Hall, Tarntanya/Adelaide
19 October 2024 – Forum, Naarm/Melbourne (SOLD OUT)
20 October 2024 – Forum, Naarm/Melbourne
1 November 2024 – Astor Theatre, Boorloo/Perth

Photo credit: Cybele Malinowski