Author: Lauren Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Andy Penkow Releases New Local Anthem, “Aussie Rain”

“Aussie Rain,” the latest single from 2023 Golden Guitar nominee Andy Penkow, is one of those truly great Australian songs. It’s heartfelt and honest, with lyrics that speak of local small towns and the characters in it.

“As a full-time musician, I get the amazing opportunity to travel across Australia and visit some pretty neat places”, Andy explained. “I first visited a small town in outback New South Wales called Coonabarabran a few years back and I felt an instant connection. There was something so special and unique about it. The people, the land, the history, the nighttime stars, it really moved me. ‘Aussie Rain’ is a love letter to the town, to thank them for being part of my journey as an artist, singer and songwriter”.

When Andy says he’s a full-time musician, he’s not kidding. He’d booked more than 100 shows this year and there’s more to come. Next year he plans to head overseas to play gigs abroad and release his fourth studio album. You can see Andy at one of these upcoming shows:

6 October 2023 – Romano’s Hotel, Wiradjuri Country/Wagga Wagga (with Alan Fletcher)
7 October 2023 – Dundallimal Homestead, Wiradjuri Country/Dubbo (with Alan Fletcher)
14 October 2023 – The Barn at Hibbards, Guruk/Port Macquarie (with TC Cassidy)
19 October 2023 – Metro Bakery, Berrin/Mount Gambier (with Anne Fraser)
20 October 2023 – Raidis Estate Coonawarra, Bindjali Country/Penola (with Anne Fraser)
21 October 2023 – Shotgun Willie’s, Tartanya/Adelaide
26 October 2023 – GPO Bendigo, Dja Dja Wurrung and Taungurung Country/Bendigo (with Alan Fletcher and Riley Catherall)
28 October 2023 – Brycee’s Tavern Café & Bar, Wurundjeri Country/Mooroolbark (with Alan Fletcher and Riley Catherall)
4 November 2023 – Sutton Forest Inn, Tharawal Country/Sutton Forest
8 December 2023 – The Ophir Hotel, Wiradjuri Country/Orange
9 December 2023 – Sutton Forest Inn, Tharawal Country/Sutton Forest
23 January 2024 – Capitol Theatre, Kamilaroi Country/Tamworth (with TC Cassidy and Donella)

Image used with permission from Red Rebel Music

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

SANNIA Releases Powerful Single “trigger”

SANNIA’s latest single “trigger” is the break-up anthem anyone nursing a broken heart needs right now. It’s an explosive indie-pop song that perfectly expresses the sudden pain an unexpected relationship breakdown can cause.

“This song basically wouldn’t leave me alone until I wrote it. I kept hearing the chorus round in circles in my head like some sort of nursery rhyme that never ended,” SANNIA explained. “I wanted to get the feeling of ‘suddenness’ and a jolt the way that a gunshot cuts through sound because that’s what this break up felt like. I wrote this song as a means of healing and I wasn’t even sure I’d ever release it but I’ve grown to really love it. If anything this song should come with a ‘don’t try this at home kids’ label slapped on it.”

“trigger” is the latest song lifted from SANNIA’s debut album James, which drops in November. She wowed me with “travelling” as well a couple of months ago, so I expect this album will be something special. If you live around Boon Wurrung Country/Mornington, you can get an early sneak peek when SANNIA plays the album in its entirety at Beleura House on October 13.

Image used with permission from GYRO PR

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

.jnr Brings the Rock Edge With “nervous”

I’m really digging the sonic journey that Eora/Sydney artist jnr. is taking us on with his music. The catchy pop vibes of his new single “nervous” are front and centre, but it’s a rock song at heart.

No doubt the influence of Daphnie (Alistair Hayes) as producer has helped jnr.’s evolution along. jnr. has taken care of production for most of his career, but collaborating with his good friend has brought a new voice to this music. Daphnie also plays drums while Max Jacobs of Loretta handles guitar duty in the live performance video, shot at Odd Assembly in Eora/Redfern.

.jnr will celebrate this new chapter of music when he debuts his new three-piece band to support Last Dinosaurs at the Factory Theatre on September 23.

Image used with permission from .jnr mgmt

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

King Ibis Playing WA Shows to Support “Patience” Single

Boorloo/Perth indie-pop band King Ibis are about to treat music lovers in their home state to a string of shows supporting the release of their latest single “Patience.” This track is the perfect slow-burner, a song that gently sneaks up on you until it’s right under your skin.

“‘Patience’ takes you through the confusion, frustration and rage of finding out a rumour had been circulated about you by someone you believed to be a friend. A plea to understand and be understood, the beginning attempts to open dialogue with the betrayer,” the band explains. “In a final roar of all-consuming anger, any patience that remained has been spent and the song draws to a moody, sultry close.”

King Ibis are proving to be one of WA’s top live acts after sharing stages with talents like Spacey Jane, Jebediah, Dulcie, Sly Withers, and heaps more. Catch them at the following shows:

22 September 2023 – The Bird, Boorloo/Perth
23 September 2023 – Settlers Tavern, Wooditchup/Margaret River
24 September 2023 – Bungalow Neighbourhood, Wooditchup/Margaret River
25 November 2023 – Balmy Nights @ Cannery Arts Centre, Kepa Kurl/Esperance

Image used with permission from Good Intent

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Sweet Temper Drop “Better Than You” Ahead of EP Launch

Naarm/Melbourne based neo-soul act Sweet Temper have blown me away with their latest single, “Better Than You.” It’s so sonically intricate, but an absolutely beautiful listen. It reminds me a little of the very best jazz. And Abbey Green’s voice is absolutely other-worldly. You know you want to press play.

“‘Better Than You’ is about the feeling of weightlessness and peace after walking away from a toxic relationship and realising you are better off,” the band explained. “It is about acknowledging that in order to see a manipulator for who they truly are, you need to step away and separate yourself from repeating the cycle of forgiveness that leads to repeatedly being deceived and hurt. It’s about the desperation of manipulators who cling to relationships, when they have a lot of control.”

“Better Than You” is from Sweet Temper’s upcoming debut EP. They’ll launch that release for hometown fans at Bar Open on September 29.

Image used with permission from Good Intent

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Vale Paul Woseen

I was rocked yesterday as the news of Paul Woseen’s death filtered through social media. As a kid from Newy, the Screaming Jets were one of those bands so important to my independence. I saw them every chance I got. I remember an under 18s gig at the Cambo, shows once I turned 18 at Toronto and Newcastle Workies. They were always the most physical gigs. People say teenage girls are intense, but it’s nothing like a bunch of blokes at a rock show. I was always front row centre, and I’d stand my ground. Elbowing any hands that tried to move mine from the barrier was my go-to move.

My favourite gig by far was this one, the free gig they played in Civic Park to celebrate the Newcastle Knights victory. The atmosphere was like nothing I’ve ever felt. We were all riding that high, whether we were drinking bevvies like the blokes on stage or not. I love that “Candle in the Wind” was the number one selling single for 1997 everywhere in the country, except for in Newcastle where the EP released after this show outsold it. Yes, if you’ve got eagle eyes, you’ll see 17-year-old me in my plaid Sportsgirl hat, front and centre.

Rest easy Paul. I love that like Dave, you were the one to keep the Jets legacy alive. I don’t know what happens to the band now, but I’m keeping the memories I have a little closer. I hope the Knights smash out a win for you today.

Image used with permission from Revolutions per Minute

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Independent Discover Volume 2” – Sounds on the Couch

The early days of the COVID-19 pandemic both isolated us, as we were stuck in our homes, and brought us closer together as a global community. We were all in the same boat, desperate for some connection, and relationships were formed and nurtured across the miles. Sounds on the Couch was just one of the exciting initiatives to come out of that time. Naarm/Melbourne-based singer-songwriter Karen Harding launched Sounds on the Couch in April 2020 to support and promote independent and emerging artists at home and around the world. Unlike so many pandemic initiatives, it’s still going strong. Sounds on the Couch recently launched its latest digital compilation, Independent Discovery Volume 2.

Independent Discovery Volume 2 celebrates and showcases the diverse range of talent uncovered by Sounds on the Couch. This album takes you on a rollercoaster ride, from the flirty country-pop of Sophia Petro’s “Rose Glow” to the hard rock of Flint.’s “Stop.” Along the way we’re treated to acoustic folk, new wave, blues, and everything in between. Most artists hail from Australia, but musicians from Belgium, the United States, and Germany are also represented. It’s so exciting listening to all these new voices coming together on this album.

Because it’s so eclectic, it might not all be to your taste. It definitely wasn’t mine. But that’s not a bad thing. Art is polarising. It’s not meant for everyone. But like me, I also hope you’ll find a few new favourites among these songs. Consider Independent Discovery Volume 2 a springboard for learning about excellent independent artists that may have otherwise gone under your radar.

Image used with permission from Rise Indie

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Darren Criss @ City Recital Hall, Eora/Sydney – 11 September 2023

Darren Criss is undeniably one of Glee’s true success stories. While some cast members have been taken too soon, had their legacies marred by scandals, or faded into obscurity, his star has continued to rise after Ryan Murphy’s teen musical juggernaut. He’s starred on Broadway, performed for President Barack Obama on his second inauguration, and earned an Emmy and a Golden Globe for his role in The Assassination of Gianni Versace. He’s released a couple of EPs of original material and a Christmas album to little fanfare, but you wouldn’t know it if you were anywhere near the City Recital Theatre on Monday night. The sold-out crowd gave him a rock star welcome, the kind reserved for chart-toppers. He repaid their kindness with one of the most entertaining nights of music I’ve experienced in a while.

I must admit, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from this show, but it certainly wasn’t Darren busting out a cover of Jet’s “Are You Gonna Be My Girl?”, then backing it up with The Pointer Sisters’ “I’m So Excited” to whip this already excited crowd into a frenzy. The high-energy numbers worked their magic, letting us all know we were in for a party.

The set was an eclectic one celebrating Darren’s career. But that career has been nothing if not eclectic. His original music never stays in the same space for too long. I must admit, I didn’t do my homework and immerse myself in it fully before the gig, but I’m making up for lost time now because I was so impressed. There was a little jazz, some acoustic folk, a dash of new wave, and some straight-up rock.

I discovered Darren through Glee, so I was thrilled to hear he still loves singing the songs from that program that really broke through. He gave songs like “Teenage Dream” and “Somewhere Only We Know” every bit as much enthusiasm as he did his originals, and we lapped it up. I was especially excited to hear him perform “Cough Syrup,” perhaps my favourite cover from his time on “Glee.” It was every bit as good as I hoped for.

My husband became a Darren Criss fan much earlier than me, when he stumbled on A Very Harry Potter Musical on YouTube. He fanboyed hard seeing StarKid alum Joey Richter and Lauren Lopez on back-up vocals, but things went to the next level when they brought us songs from that musical like “Granger Danger” and “Harry Freakin’ Potter”. He said to me later that to be in a space with so many people that share this very obscure musical passion was an experience like no other.

And then there were the real surprises. You could have knocked me down with a feather when I heard the unmistakeable opening notes of “Straight Lines” by our own Silverchair. His slowed-down version of Carole King’s “One Fine Day” was exquisite. And just when I thought I couldn’t love the show more, he played one of my very favourite songs, Ben Folds’ “The Luckiest.” Looking at the set lists, the first Sydney show was the only night this made an appearance. What a lucky audience we were.

I also feel lucky to have experienced Darren perform a show like this, in a theatre as small as the City Recital Hall. While he aspires to play the Opera House next time, he clearly relished the opportunity to connect with the audience that such an intimate room provides. It allowed him to compliment the snappy dresser a few rows from the front and chat to Jay, who was dragged along to the show by his enthusiastic girlfriend. Darren created one of the most inclusive spaces I’ve ever been in, where young and old and all colours of the rainbow flag are welcome. As I looked at the people around me as we made our way out of the theatre, I felt confident every one of them had as much fun as I did. And every one of them is likely to return when Darren inevitably plays the Opera House next time around.

Image source: own photos

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Happy Ever After” – MID CITY

MID CITY might be the next big Aussie success story. The Naarm/Melbourne outfit has been releasing music together since 2018, but they’ve taken their time in releasing an album. The wait was worth it. Happy Ever After is one of the best albums I’ve heard all year.

I’d already raved about the title track, which opens the album with a flourish. It’s the perfect introduction to this energetic rock act, but they’ve got a lot more in their arsenal. The tracks that follow hit just as hard, with powerful lyrics that pack an emotional punch that’s every bit the equal to those big guitar riffs and driving drums. MID CITY doesn’t take its foot off the throttle until the fourth track in, and even then we’re only shifting down a gear or two. This is an album that gets you moving, whether you’re punching your fist in the air or letting the sound take over your whole body. Not that MID CITY is all one note. While they love a big rock anthem, big ballads like “Someone Like You” and “Lover Again” will have you reaching for the cigarette lighter.

“Touring in Europe really informed what we wanted; playing some great festival stages and watching people react – or not – to the things we thought were important in creating the perfect hard-hitting banger,” the band explained. “What was surprising though, was the quieter side we found on some songs. We always wanted the album to be a little journey, not just a 170 bpm sweat fest, but we didn’t realise how satisfying it would be to create some songs with different tempos and feels. We’re really proud of the balance we found between bangers and more heartfelt quieter moments. Perhaps we’re maturing? I hope not.”

I found myself thinking of several big stadium acts as I listened to Happy Ever After. The Killers. Arctic Monkeys. Our own Gang of Youths and the Temper Trap. There’s a little of these bands in MID CITY, but there’s also a unique flavour that sets them apart. Just like those acts, I can picture MID CITY packing out stadiums all around the world. It’s already starting, with MID CITY playing dates in Europe and the United Kingdom next month. Expect those venues to be upgraded next time they travel. Until then, enjoy seeing the at the small spots while you can.

3 October 2023 – Galao, Stuttgart
4 October 2023 – Helios 37, Cologne
5 October 2023 – Pop Bar, Haldern
6 October 2023 – Molotow, Hamburg
8 October 2023 – Badehaus, Berlin
10 October 2023 – Nachtleben, Frankfurt
17 October 2023 – The Victoria Dalston, London
18 October 2023 – 33 Oldham Street, Manchester

Images used with permission from beehive; main image credit: Richard Clifford

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Wicked” @ Lyric Theatre, Eora/Sydney

I haven’t seen Wicked since it played at the Capitol Theatre in 2009. I remember enjoying it without falling totally in love with it. My husband was enamoured though, and my parents wished they’d seen it, so I found myself at the Lyric on the weekend ready to experience it all again. I wasn’t especially excited, but I reasoned enough time had passed that I was bound to have a good time.

I wondered how the latest cast could possibly match the talents of Jemma Rix and Lucy Durack, who perfectly inhabited the lead roles, or even stellar supporting players like Rob Mills and Bert Newton. I needn’t have worried about it though. This country has a habit of producing such incredible performers. I’d always thought Lucy Durack was the perfect Glinda, but Courtney Monsma is at the very least her equal. She made the role her own, playing up the character’s brattiness and bringing true heart when required. My husband always judges a Glinda by their performance of “Thank Goodness.” At its conclusion, he leaned over to me and told me she’d nailed it. Elphaba is such a demanding role, but I think Sheridan Adams was solid in it. I could hear a little strain as she tackled those stratospheric notes, but I wouldn’t be surprised if they become more effortless as the season progresses. Liam Head charmed as Fiyero, as any good Fiyero should do, and Todd McKenney made the most of every moment as The Wizard.

As the story played out, I found myself enjoying it more than I thought I might. Anticipating the twists and turns, the way the pieces would fall into place, was comforting. Rather than holding my breath as I did the first time around, I could take pleasure in what was around the corner. My familiarity with the songs saw me looking forward to my favourites, which were always performed so perfectly. My husband plays the soundtrack so often I’d forgotten how much richer these songs are with the rich visuals of the stage.

The Australian musical theatre scene has typically played it safe over recent years. With the notable exception of Hamilton, most major productions have been jukebox musicals, adaptations of Disney films, or shows that regularly grace our stages (I’m looking at you Hairspray). I’m relying on community theatre groups to bring me something new, but with 14 years passing since Wicked’s last showing this almost feels fresh. If you’ve never seen Wicked before, don’t sleep on this one. And if you have like me, this production certainly makes it worth a second look.

Wicked is at the Lyric Theatre in Eora/Sydney until December 30. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster.