Author: Lauren Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Last of Your Kind” – The VANNS

Through The Walls, the debut album from The VANNS, was my favourite release of 2019. I still have it on regular rotation. This Aussie rock band set such a high bar from the jump that I wondered whether they could ever come close with album number two. I found myself getting my hopes up with each brilliant single release. Now that Last of Your Kind is out in the world, I can emphatically say it’s every bit as good as The VANNS’ debut. In fact, it might even be better.

I was hooked from the first shimmery notes of the title track. Then Jimmy Vann’s warm, easy vocals kicked in, followed by the drums, and everything felt so right. There’s a familiarity about The VANNS’ music. Their sound is instantly recognisable, accessible, yet it never feels formulaic. Every song is a banger. They do anthemic rock music so well. The energy stays up with the singles “Haunted” and “Ever” following the album’s title track. But The VANNS have a sensitive side too. Ballads like “Silhouette” and the stunning closer “Collide” provide poignant moments that let us catch our breath. This album has been a long time coming, with some singles like “Red Light” and “Feels Good Now” dating back to 2021, yet it sounds so cohesive. In taking their time to release another LP, The VANNS have got it so right.

With the release of Last of Your Kind, The VANNS’ prove that their exceptional debut album was no fluke. They’re simply one of the best bands in the country. Press play and hit repeat, because you’ll want to listen to Last of Your Kind again and again. The VANNS’ are just about the embark on some instores and shows to support the new album’s release. Tickets to the gigs are limited, so pounce on any that you can get your hands on!

19 May 2023 – Greville Records, Naarm/Melbourne (1 pm)
19 May 2023 – The Espy, Naarm/Melbourne
20 May 2023 – Crosstalk Records, Eora/Sydney (1 pm)
20 May 2023 – Oxford Art Factory, Eora/Sydney
21 May 2023 – Music Farmers, Woolyungah/Wollongong (3 pm)
21 May 2023 – La La La’s, Woolyungah/Wollongong
24 May 2023 – Sonic Sherpa, Meeanjin/Brisbane (6 pm)
25 May 2023 – The Zoo, Meeanjin/Brisbane
27 May 2023 – The Jynx House @ Your Mates Brewing Co., Kabi Kabi and Jinibara Country/Sunshine Coast
16 June 2023 – San Fran, Wellington
17 June 2023 – The Tuning Fork, Auckland
21 July 2023 – Splendour in the Grass, Ngarindjin / North Byron Parklands

Images used with permission from beehive; main photo credit: Senor Friday

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Self-Titled EP – Oscar LaDell

Singer, songwriter, and guitarist Oscar LaDell brings a world of experience to his self-titled debut solo release. With just four tracks he shows he’s an artist with an old soul who refuses to be pigeonholed.

Now based in Naarm/Melbourne, Oscar was born in Denver Colorado. He moved to Purakaunui in the South of Aotearoa/New Zealand before relocating here. You can hear all those influences in this music. Opening track “Somber Land” has a cool blues vibe. I can imagine it sitting neatly on the soundtrack of a modern Western noir movie. The gospel-esque choir intro of follow-up track “Summer Rain” signals a musical left turn. It’s a spiritual, soulful number which, like the song before it, feels classic. “Loving You” is every bit as romantic as its title suggests. It’s gentler and more vulnerable than the songs that came before it. With a sound that’s a little more stripped back, Oscar’s voice and lyrics draw you in. “Falling For You” brings the EP home with its irresistible groove.

With his commanding vocals, Oscar LaDell could sing the phone book. I also found myself relishing his guitar playing, appreciating the way his skill with this instrument elevated every track. But this EP shows he’s got more than that voice and gift with the guitar on his side. There’s a deep understanding of music, of genres, of how to craft songs that impact the soul and spirit. It’s the perfect introduction to his tunes, and a great sign of what’s to come. For more of Oscar’s music, check him out at one of his upcoming gigs:

19 May 2023 – Beneath Drivers Lane, Naarm/Melbourne (supporting Louis King & The Liars Klub)
20 May 2023 – The BEAST, Naarm/Melbourne (FREE – with Cherry Factory and Ella Lewis)
25 May 2023 – The Drunken Poet, Naarm/Melbourne
25 November 2023 – The Blues Train, Wadawarrung Country/Queenscliff

Image via Oscar LaDell EPK

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Jane Barnes Band @ The Art House, Darkinjung Country/Wyong – 12 May 2023

Jimmy Barnes was the first performer I ever saw live. I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve seen him since his Soul Deep tour in the early ‘90s, but it’s a lot. However, I’ve never seen a show quite like the one I watched on Friday night with the Jane Barnes Band.

Bek Jensen opened the show, as she did for close personal friend and Jane Barnes Band member Mahalia Barnes a couple of months ago. It was a shorter set this time and one that was over all too soon. She has such a beautiful, commanding voice and an incredible collection of song. Captivating an audience with originals as an emerging artist is no mean feat. She already had us mesmerised, but when Mahalia and the sublimely talented Karen Lee Andrews joined Bec near the end of the set we were in raptures. The combination of those three incredible voices in harmony was spectacular. Bec was also joined by her mum, Shauna Jensen, a legend in her own right. Watching them perform a song that they wrote together remotely during the pandemic lockdowns so close to Mother’s Day brought a little tear to my eye.

The Jane Barnes Band continued that celebration of family. Rest assured, this wasn’t a Jimmy Barnes show. All the members of the family took a turn at lead. Jane took some coaxing every time, but it was so sweet watching Jimmy’s encouragement. What a beautiful, supportive relationship they have. After watching Jackie take his turn at the mic, my mum whispered to me her surprise at the quality of his voice. Maybe we shouldn’t be so surprised given his genes, but I’d love to hear him sing a bit more. Mahalia is always flawless, and there’s a reason Jimmy is one of the most beloved singers in this country.

The thread of family ran through the songs that made up the setlist. Jimmy told us that Jane picked most of them, assuring us that he wouldn’t be singing songs by artists like The Carpenters otherwise. But that’s exactly what made this concert so fantastic. The song was peppered with a sprinkling of Jimmy’s hits. “Flesh and Blood” resonated just that little bit more after watching Jimmy with the people he loves most in this world. Watching Jimmy share lead vocals on “When Something is Wrong (With My Baby)” with Shauna Jensen, his former backing singer was so special. And I’ll never get tired of “Flame Trees.” But it was the songs I’ve never heard Jimmy tackle that really made this night so memorable. Tracks like “Bad Moon Rising,” “First Cut is the Deepest”, and “The Rose” (really!) were incredible. We even had a special guest bagpiper! Speaking of bagpipes, I had to take the tissues out again for “The Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond,” which Jimmy dedicated to his dearly departed friend, Jock Zonfrillo. Just beautiful.

Wyong was the first stop for the Jane Barnes Band and it was one hell of a debut. They insist things will probably go more smoothly as the tour progresses, but I can’t imagine this family ironing out all of the rough edges. That’s a very good thing. These shows let you spend time with an Aussie icon and his loved ones. They’re unfiltered and a whole lot of fun, along with being immensely talented. Here are the remaining dates on this run, but don’t worry if your city isn’t included. The fam is already talking about travelling around the country if these shows go well. If Wyong is any indication, we won’t have to wait too long for a national run.

20 May 2023 – Milton Theatre, Murramarang Country/Milton
21 May 2023 – Milton Theatre, Murramarang Country/Milton
28 May 2023 – Bowral Bowling Club, Gundungurra Country/Bowral
29 May 2023 – Bowral Bowling Club, Gundungurra Country/Bowral
1 June 2023 – Lizotte’s, Mulubinba/Lambton
2 June 2023 – Lizotte’s, Mulubinba/Lambton
10 June 2023 – Tallagandra Hill Winery, Ngunnawal and Wiradjuri Country/Gundaroo
11 June 2023 – Tallagandra Hill Winery, Ngunnawal and Wiradjuri Country/Gundaroo
18 June 2023 – Joan Theatre, Darug Country/Penrith

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

PENI PARKER Delivers Breathtaking Single, “Disrupt”

Clocking in at just over two and a half minutes, “Disrupt”, the latest track from Eora/Sydney alt-rock act PENI PARKER packs a real punch. With its vulnerable, introspective lyrics and anthemic chorus, listening is a truly cathartic experience. Like so many of the great rock songs, PENI channelled her own personal pain into this one.

“2022 was objectively a terrible year for me,” she admitted. “It was just waves of heartbreak; just when I thought it couldn’t get worse, 2022 stabbed me in the back a few times for good measure while I was down. It really had me doubting myself. I couldn’t intellectualise it all, so I used the EP to channel some of that hurt, playing a lot off those broken-down anti-hero themes to go with my comic.

“’Disrupt’ particularly was a sore spot. I teared up writing it. Hearing the first mix and performing it hits just as hard. I was in such a dark space that I just used the bridge as a cathartic release and to remind myself of my worth. Unlike a physical wound, there’s no straightforward ‘broken to fixed’ route with mental health. It’s a spectrum from being anxious and wholly overwhelmed to just coping and absolutely thriving. We all have a whole lot of in-between moments and direction changes along the way. ‘Disrupt’ runs back & forth through these moments, just like when you catch yourself overthinking.”

PENI Parker won the 2022 Greater Good initiative, which lets exceptional emerging artists use Good Intent’s Artist Services pro-bono and provides a $4,000 cash grant and goodies from partners including Studios 301, Make Merchandise, and Billy Zammit. With this initiative’s support, we can expect to hear a lot more from PENI PARKER.

Image used with permission from Good Intent

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

The Splints Drop Feelgood New Single “I Just Wanna Know”

Meeanjin/Brisbane band The Splints have put a spring in my step with their addictive new single “I Just Wanna Know.” Its fun Brit-pop vibe is reminiscent of The Kooks and The Wombats, and I’m here for it.

The Splints will officially launch “I Just Wanna Know” for hometown fans at Black Bear Lodge on May 20. They’ll also play the venue’s Battle of the Bands on July 26.

Image used with permission from Peach & Sons

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

The Kid LAROI Pays Tribute To Fallen Friends With “WHERE DOES YOUR SPIRIT GO?”

We know The Kid LAROI for his upbeat bangers, but he’s showing us a softer side on his latest single “WHERE DOES YOUR SPIRIT GO?” It’s a heartfelt piano ballad dedicated to the memory of lost friends including Juice WRLD and Saiko.

“It’s about loss, grieving and dealing with the thoughts and emotions that come with that,” he explained on his Instagram page. “I pray for all of you who are going through something similar currently and I hope this helps you feel a little less alone in all of it”.

The Kid LAROI is preparing to tour the United States to support Lil Baby. If you’re in the States, you can catch him at the following shows:

28 July 2023 – Moody Center, Austin (supporting Lil Baby)
29 July 2023 – American Airlines Center, Dallas (supporting Lil Baby)
1 August 2023 – Footprint Center, Phoenix (supporting Lil Baby)
2 August 2023 – Pechanga Arena, San Diego (supporting Lil Baby)
6 August 2023 – Oakland Arena and RingCentral Coliseum, Oakland (supporting Lil Baby)
9 August 2023 – Golden 1 Center, Sacramento (supporting Lil Baby)
12 August 2023 – Climate Pledge Arena, Seattle (supporting Lil Baby)
14 August 2023 – Vivint Arena, Salt Lake City (supporting Lil Baby)
15 August 2023 – Ball Arena, Denver (supporting Lil Baby)
23 August 2023 – Little Caesars Arena, Detroit (supporting Lil Baby)
24 August 2023 – United Center, Chicago (supporting Lil Baby)
26 August 2023 – Nationwide Arena, Columbus (supporting Lil Baby)
31 August 2023 – Capital One Arena, Washington (supporting Lil Baby)
2 September 2023 – TD Garden, Boston (supporting Lil Baby)
3 September 2023 – CFG Bank Arena Baltimore (supporting Lil Baby)
5 September 2023 – PPG Paints Arena, Pittsburgh (supporting Lil Baby)
6 September 2023 – Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis (supporting Lil Baby)
7 September 2023 – FedExForum, Memphis (supporting Lil Baby)
8 September 2023 – KFC Yum! Center, Louisville (supporting Lil Baby)
9 September 2023 – Bridgestone Arena, Nashville (supporting Lil Baby)
11 September 2023 – PNC Arena, Raleigh (supporting Lil Baby)
12 September 2023 – Spectrum Center, Charlotte (supporting Lil Baby)
15 September 2023 – Amalie Arena, Tampa (supporting Lil Baby)
16 September 2023 – VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, Jacksonville (supporting Lil Baby)
19 September 2023 – Smoothie King Center, New Orleans (supporting Lil Baby)
22 September 2023 – FLA Live Arena, Sunrise (supporting Lil Baby)

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Belle Haven Drop “Grimace” Single, Touring With RedHook

If you’re catching RedHook this month, make sure you get there early enough for Belle Haven’s set. If their nostalgic new single “Grimace” is an indicator, you won’t want to miss it. The song explores the insecurity and uncertainty that comes from working in the music industry.

“It is a brutal yet brilliant world to work in, and it takes a certain amount of resilience to be a part of sometimes which is something I think we’ve struggled with over the years.” explained vocalist David De La Hoz. “There’s a sort of irony to this song; we are more excited than ever to be releasing this music.”

If you haven’t got tickets for the Postcard From a Living Hell tour yet, what are you waiting for? Here are all the remaining dates for these massive shows featuring RedHook, Belle Haven, Bad Love, and Grenade Jumper.

11 May 2023 – Prince of Wales Hotel, Goomburrup/Bunbury
12 May 2023 – Amplifier, Boorloo/Perth
13 May 2023 – Enigma Bar, Tandanya/Adelaide
19 May 2023 – UC Hub, Ngunnawal/Canberra
20 May 2023 – The Corner Hotel, Naarm/Melbourne
25 May 2023 – La La La’s, Dharawal/Wollongong
26 May 2023 – The Cambridge, Mulumbinba/Newcastle
27 May 2023 – Crowbar, Eora/Sydney

Image used with permission from Bigmouth PR; credit: Oversimplified Complications

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Bobi Andonov’s Viral Song “War is Love” Now an Official Single

Bobi Andonov’s new track “War is Love” has already gone viral with more than 8 million views on YouTube and 4 million views on TikTok, but it’s finally getting an official release. If you’re not already across it, you’ll want to listen to this beautiful ballad.

Bobi’s got a musical theatre background (he played Young Simba in The Lion King in Naarm/Melbourne and Shanghai), and that definitely comes through in this track. It’s unashamedly emotional and so powerful. Not bad for a song penned when he was just 18. Rest assured, this young talent is going places.

Image used with permission from Warner Music Australia; credit: Michelle Grace Hunder

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

FANGZ Drop Powerful Punk Single, “Fine Without You”

On a very Monday-feeling Monday, there’s nothing like some punk rock to reflect all that angst. Enter FANGZ with their latest single “Fine Without You.” It’s raucously raw with some insightful lyrics inspired by frontman Joshua Cottreau’s battle against his inner demons.

“‘Fine Without You’ is about overcoming addiction. The lyrics allude to a love song, but it’s really about falling down a hole and climbing back out to overcome it all,” he admitted. “In late 2022, I almost threw everything away that was good in my life. Fortunately, I had a great network of family and friends who supported me throughout the ordeal. I was very lucky to get the outcome I did, and it’s made me appreciate the things I take for granted every day. Sometimes you need to hit rock bottom, to become the best version of yourself.”

FANGZ have some big shows coming up. They’ll support American hard-rockers He Is Legend at Crowbar in Eora/Sydney on 19 May before officially launching “Fine Without You” at Tomcat in Meeanjin/Brisbane on 17 June. At the launch you can get a limited edition 7” split vinyl featuring the FANGZ song and “From His Eyes,” the latest release from Lunchtime, who are also on the bill.

Image used with permission from Good Intent

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Ocean Alley, Django Django, and More Join Wanderer Festival

With a brand-new lineup announcement this morning, this year’s Wanderer Festival is shaping up to be one of the hottest tickets in town. Ocean Alley, Django Django, Thelma Plum, and Gomez’s Ben Ottewell and Ian Ball are among the artists just announced. They join previously revealed acts including Spiderbait, Lisa Mitchell, Melbourne Ska Orchestra, and The Jungle Giants.

“I’m thrilled with how Wanderer is shaping up this year. We’re curating a really strong program consistent with what Wanderer is all about. It is diverse in every sense and includes plenty of well-known favourites as well as amazing new talent,” confirmed the festival’s organiser, Simon Daly. “We are really proud to be delivering such a world-class event in the Sapphire Coast. It is really rewarding creating something so equally loved by both the local community as well as travellers coming from all over Australia for an unforgettable experience in this stunning part of the world.”

Wanderer Festival hits Yuin Country/Pambula Beach from September 29 to October 1. Tickets range from $50 and $320 and are available now through the Wanderer Festival website.

Image used with permission from beehive; credit: David Rogers Photography