Album Reviews – Sounds of Oz

Posted on 29/03/202529/03/2025 by Lauren Katulka

“Survival” – Harry Cleverdon

It feels like Harry Cleverdon’s album, Survival, has been a long time coming. He released an experimental psychedelic album under the moniker SonofHarry in 2023, but Survival is the first released under his own name. It’s also the first featuring the sweet country-folk-pop sound I’ve enjoyed from Harry since 2022. But you know what they say about good things coming to those who wait.

Now that it’s out in the world, I appreciate that Harry took his time. He’s still a young artist, but the experience and wisdom he’s gained through the last few years I’ve spent following his career shows. Songs like the incredibly catchy album opener “House of Cards” and the stirring title track, which you can listen to below, are among the best he’s released. I love the cheekiness of “Empty Bottles,” but I’m also glad Harry balances it with more vulnerable numbers like “Nothing For Myself” and “Superman (Late Night Trance).” He shows more of his heart with “The Best That I Can,” an earnest love song that’s sure to leave most listeners swooning.

There’s also an ease about Harry’s music that only comes with growing comfortable in your own skin. When so many new releases rely on heavy production, Survival comes as a breath of fresh air. Harry’s not afraid to buck the trends and get back to basics with his music. With acoustic, organic instrumentation in support, his sweet vocals are never overpowered. We can hear every lyric, which is such a blessing when the songs are so well-crafted. Listening to these tunes you get the sense that they’d sound the same live as they do on the recording. There’s no tricks or wizardry here, and the music is better for it.

Survival is the perfect showcase for Harry’s talents as a singer and songwriter. The songs are instantly accessible, but spend a little more time with them and know you’ll fall as deeply in love as I have. Stream it on your favourite platform now. You can also hear Harry and other fantastic Aussie country acts on my Spotify playlist, Sounds of Oz Loves Country.

Images used with permission from Lambing Flat Records

Posted on 16/03/202517/03/2025 by Lauren Katulka

“New Love” – Ziggy Alberts

Ziggy Alberts has crammed an awful lot into his 14 years in the music industry. He’s won APRA Awards, racked up more than a billion streams, and played shows all over the world. While others may be daunted through their journey, it seems like nothing phases Ziggy. His signature chill shines through his recently released seventh album, New Love.

I’ve always appreciated Ziggy’s music, but this collection of songs is the first I’ve really taken into my heart. I think it’s the focus on relationships and romance that resonates most. Easy love songs make up the bulk of the music here, and they’re beautiful. It’s refreshing to hear songs about love that’s uncomplicated and without drama. As a 40-something who’s spent decades with the one man, songs like “I’m With You” and “Confessions”. And even if your personal life looks different, hearing the heartfelt lyrics delivered with such emotional sincerity brings comfort.

Ziggy punctuates his beautiful music with philosophical insights that might sound naff coming from someone else. But coming from this Kabi Kabi and Jinibara Country/Sunshine Coast-raised talent, it just makes sense.

New Love is such an enjoyable listen. Its songs are mellow and gentle, without sharp edges. Ziggy’s voice and the strum of his acoustic guitar will soothe you. Great art doesn’t always need to challenge the listener or the status quo. Sometimes, as is the case with this album, simply making listeners feel good is enough.

New Love is out now. Ziggy is playing plenty of shows around Australia and beyond to support its release but tickets are selling out fast, so get yours while you can.

Main photo credit: Janneke Storm

Posted on 14/03/202514/03/2025 by Lauren Katulka

“memory lane” – Sienna Tenn

Sienna Tenn casts a spell with her beautiful debut EP, memory lane. This seven-song collection provides a glimpse into the talents of this Meeanjin/Brisbane talent who isn’t afraid to do it all.

On memory lane, we see Sienna taking full control of her artistry. She’s the singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer. Everything you hear is a realisation of her vision. She seems to trust it completely, taking sonic risks that other artists may not attempt in their first outing. I appreciate that Sienna doesn’t play it safe.

I knew I was listening to something unique from the dreamy opening track, “reverie.” This gentle pop lullaby beautifully showcases her voice and gift for creating lush soundscapes. The ambient vibes continue in the title track “memory lane.” I think it’s the EP’s strongest song, with compelling lyrics that encourage listeners to take a trip back to the past with Sienna. The next tracks “it’s always you,” “should’ve been mine,” and “attached” take a similarly nostalgic tone with wistful lyrics that reveal yearning for a relationship long gone. “lilac love” is a beautiful goodbye to the past. Again I was struck by the lyrics which draw an intimate picture of the relationship even as Sienna wishes her former flame well. It naturally brings us to the present for the closing track, “these are the moments.” Sienna and her listeners aren’t spending time in the past any more. The yearning is gone, replaced with an acceptance. The loss still lingers, but that’s okay. It’s a beautiful place to end the story.

memory lane is an impressive debut EP from Sienna Tenn. It’s not as polished as many pop recordings, but I appreciate listening to music without the veneer. Slick production can sound pleasing to the ear, but we should experience music with much more than that. Press play and engage your heart instead.

Images used with permission from Sienna Tenn

Posted on 14/03/202514/03/2025 by Lauren Katulka

“Ruin & Repair” – The Audreys

It’s been 11 long years since The Audreys’ released their fourth album ‘Til My Tears Roll Away. After the death of founding member and guitarist Tristan Goodall in 2022, many wondered whether that album would be their last. But now the patience of fans has been rewarded with a beautiful new album, Ruin & Repair.

This release builds on the promise of two stellar singles, “Second Hand Boots” and “Beatles V Stones.” Both songs tell the story of love stories that are as flawed as they are important, destined to end but life-changing while they last. There are many more songs of imperfect love here. “Subterranean,” with its evocative lyrics painting the picture of an all-consuming relationship, drew me in. “Sober” is also stunning, a heartbreaking ballad that charts how an overreliance on alcohol can undermine a connection. Songs like “Beyond Compare” and “Norfolk Island Pine” bring some balance with their stories of love that feels healthier and steadier, at least for a while.

The Audreys excel at creating delicate folk songs, but this album sees them taking a few risks too. “To Want To Be Loved” shows an irresistible rock edge that reminds me of The Cranberries or Cowboy Junkies. “Seen The Last of You” is a simmering, sultry blues number bound to get underneath your skin.

No matter the genre, Taasha Coates voice anchors this music. It’s so warm and compelling, the perfect foil for the uber-talented musicians she surrounds herself with.

The release of Ruin & Repair marks the start of a new chapter for The Audreys. While this band will be forever changed by the loss of Tristan, this album shows they’re still a creative force capable of releasing some beautiful music. Take the time to get to know it this weekend, then make sure you get your tickets for one of their upcoming shows.

28 March 2025 – Lyrics Underground, Boorloo/Perth (18+)
29 March 2025 – Mojos, Walyalup/Fremantle (18+)
4 April 2025 – Imperial Hotel, Ngumundi/Eumundi (18+)
5 April 2025 – Old Museum (Studio), Meeanjin/Brisbane (18+)
6 April 2025 – Wallaby Hotel, Yugambeh Country/Gold Coast (18+)
10 April 2025 – Camelot Lounge, Eora/Sydney (18+)
11 April 2025 – Street Theatre, Ngambri/Canberra (18+)
12 April 2025 – Milton Theatre, Yuin Country/Milton (18+)
13 April 2025 – Avoca Theatre, Darkinjung Country/Avoca Beach (ALL AGES)
24 April 2025 – Sooki Lounge, Wurundjeri Country/Belgrave (18+)
25 April 2025 – Brunswick Ballroom, Bulleke-bek /Brunswick (18+)
26 April 2025 – Memo Music Hall, Euro Yuroke/St Kilda (18+)
16 May 2025 – Quirkz, Wonnarua Country/Abermain (18+)
17 May 2025 – Brass Monkey, Kurranulla/Cronulla (18+)
18 May 2025 – Heritage Hotel, Wodi Wodi Country/Bulli (18+)
22 May 2025 – The Royal Oak, Letteremairrener Country/Launceston (18+)
23 May 2025 – Mount Gnomon Farm, Larapuna/Penguin (ALL AGES)
24 May 2025 – Craigie Knowe Vineyard, Palawa Country/Cranbrook (18+)
25 May 2025 – Republic Bar, Nipaluna/Hobart (18+)
7 June 2025 – The Gov, Tarntanya/Adelaide (18+)
29 August 2025 – Gympie Muster, Gimpi-Gimpi/Gympie (ALL AGES)
26 October 2025 – Nimbin Roots Festival, Bundjalung/Nimbin (ALL AGES)

Images used with permission from On the Map PR

Posted on 21/02/202528/02/2025 by Lauren Katulka

“Hote’ Hote'” – Charles Maimarosia

Proving that music really is the universal language, Charles Maimarosia has captured my heart with his sophomore album Hote’ Hote’. Born in the Solomon Islands and now based in Naarm/Melbourne, Charles celebrates his Are’ Are’ roots with this special collection of songs.

From the bold native drums of album opener “Parani O’o,” this album makes one thing clear: this isn’t like anything else you’ll hear 2025. That might be a bold statement to make in February, but I can make it confidently knowing that it’s such a rare gem.

As a word nerd, I tend to listen to albums listening for lyrics I can connect with. I couldn’t do that here, as Hote’ Hote’ is recorded entirely Are’ Are’. That approach forced me to listen to the music in a different way than I’m used to. Are’ Are’ is such a beautiful Melanesian language, it becomes almost like another instrument on these recordings. They combine with guitars and traditional Melanesian panpipes to tell stories that you might not understand, but you certainly feel. The stirring “Nanaratana Hu’ A Kurmauri” uplifted me. Laidback “Na A’ Ma Si’ O” transported me to the beaches of Charles’ original island home. “Roropau,” a traditional Are’ Are’ lullaby, soothed me. Individually these songs are beautiful, but listen to the way they weave together and you get a sense of the culture that Charles honours so beautifully.

“The album explores themes of voyaging, family, love, and cultural preservation,” he explained. “It celebrates the beauty of the Pacific, the strength of community, and the stories of my ancestors. It’s also a call for unity and respect across all cultures and generations. And also my own journey from small Pi Pi Su village in Malatia Solomon Islands to Australia and touring the world following and sharing My culture and music from the age of 17.”

Hote’ Hote’ probably isn’t like anything you’ve heard before, but that’s a good thing. Open your ears and heart and let yourself be transported away by this release. Hote’ Hote’ is out now. Charles will bring this music to the masses at the following shows:

21 February 2025 – Wauchope Arts Hall, Birrpai Country/Wauchope
22 February 2025 – Red Rattler, Bulanaming/Marrickville
23 February 2025 – Smith’s Alternative, Ngambri/Canberra
3 May 2025 – Theatre Royal, Dja Dja Wurrung Country/Castlemaine (supporting Ruth Moody)

Images used with permission from On the Map PR

Posted on 14/02/202511/02/2025 by Lauren Katulka

“Lessons in Love” – Thndo

It’s no coincidence that Thndo’s released her new album Lessons in Love this Valentine’s Day. While the day might be a Hallmark holiday, it’s also the perfect time to discover this diverse collection of “love songs.”

I put the term in quotes because most songs aren’t love songs in the traditional sense. While they all touch on relationships, they’re not formulaic or overly saccharine. Thndo bares her heart here, exploring the emotions that come when you open yourself up to someone. There’s excitement over infatuation, but also trepidation over being vulnerable. Love comes in all forms, so it’s only fitting that Thndo touches on motherhood with songs like “Another Day” and the incredible closer, “Purpose.” The struggles in relationships are celebrated as part of the story rather than sugar-coated. While Thndo’s not afraid to show the scars, this is ultimately an uplifting collection of songs that offers hope that love can conquer all.

These are songs of real substance, so I wanted to celebrate that first before I mention Thndo’s voice. It’s important to stress that her talent goes much deeper than her vocal chops. But of course, I also have to mention Thndo’s voice. It’s simply one of the best in the country. It can truly do anything, from the upbeat grooves of “Along the Way” and “Bedroom Eyes” to the cinematic ballad “Holding On.” But I love it best in pared back numbers like “Another Day” and “Given Time.” When you strip the music back, there’s nowhere to hide. If there were any imperfections, we’d hear them. There are none. Thndo’s rich, soulful voice is simply incredible.

I liked Lessons in Love from the first spin, but after a few listens I feel deeply in love with it. Press play and let it find its way into your heart this Valentine’s Day. You can see Thndo performing selected songs from Lessons in Love at the following venues:

14 February 2025 – A Valentine’s Affair @ Jazz Lab, Bulleke-bek/Brunswick
22 February 2025 – Under the Stars @ Packer Park, Bunurong and Wurundjeri Country/Carnegie (FREE)
16 April 2025 – Northcote Theatre, Naarm/Melbourne (supporting BJ the Chicago Kid)
27 June 2025 – Karralyka Theatre, Wurundjeri Country/Ringwood

Main photo credit: She is Aphrodite

Posted on 07/02/202507/02/2025 by Lauren Katulka

“Stay With the Horses” – Alexander Biggs

Fiercely independent, Alexander Biggs is an artist who plays by his own rules. His music doesn’t sound like anything on the radio. He takes his time releasing it, waiting five years after hitting my radar before unleashing his debut album Hit or Miss and another four years before following it up. But today, we get the opportunity to hear his sophomore effort Stay With the Horses.

Of course, when you’re self-recording, self-producing, and independently releasing your music as Alexander does, you have time. To experience life and find inspiration, to experiment with lyrics and sounds, to get it just right. I hear the benefit of time in these songs. They embody the elements that drew me to Alexander’s music years ago. The hushed vocals have such a quiet power, drawing in the listener and creating intimacy. The lyrics are beautiful, poetic, and authentic. The melodies are simple, allowing us to hear the words that Alexander almost whispers.

But don’t think Alexander’s simply delivered more of the same here. This is everything I love about his music, but better. The melodies seem more approachable and a little catchier. You’re still not going to belt out these songs at karaoke, but you might find yourself humming them unexpectedly. His songwriting has evolved too. I found myself marvelling at his way with words, admiring phrases that hit my ears and heart. Alexander has elevated his music without alienating his fans here. That can be a delicate balance, but he achieves it with these songs.

Stay With the Horses is a really special album. It’s music that matters from an artist that isn’t afraid to buck trends or reveal their heart. Listen to it on your favourite streaming services now or purchase a limited edition vinyl copy here.

Images used with permission from Maths and Magic

Posted on 03/02/202510/02/2025 by Lauren Katulka

“Some Good Songs … Done Badly” – Brave Mistakes

I love a good cover version. Covers have become a bit of a dirty word over the years, something reserved for karaoke nights or reality singing shows on commercial networks. But interpreting a beloved song and making it your own takes a real skill. So while the title gave me some trepidation, I was excited to discover Brave Mistakes new EP, Some Good Songs … Done Badly.

Brave Mistakes are a DIY band from Tarntanya/Adelaide. That city has always been a rich breeding ground for talent, giving birth to acts like Cold Chisel, The Angels, and Masters Apprentices. There’s an energy about these bands that I hear echoed in Brave Mistakes. The songs on this EP are pretty raw and unfiltered, but what’s more rock and roll than that?

This EP definitely has some good songs, as its title suggests, and while the delivery’s probably not what you’re used to it’s far from bad. Actually it’s pretty amazing. Brave Mistakes have made some really clever song selections here. Frontman Garrett R. Cooper has a rich, resonant voice that lends itself perfectly to these diverse numbers. Darker material like Chris Isaak’s haunting “Wicked Game” and Iggy Pop’s tortured “Candy” are natural fits. But Brave Mistakes brings out the yearning in Elvis Presley’s “Heartbreak Hotel.” This is no slick, matinee idol performance; it’s much more interesting. Their version of “Who Do You Love?” reminds me a lot more of The Doors’ sexy take than Bo Diddley’s rockabilly original. Brave Mistakes take their biggest left-turn with the closer, “Be My Baby.” I’ve never heard a male-fronted band deliver this Ronettes’ hit, let alone one that’s so unpolished. But there’s a retro charm about Brave Mistakes that makes this work too.

Leave your preconceptions at the door. Brave Mistakes don’t sound like so many other rock outfits that record their music in high-end studios with acclaimed producers. They’re doing it their way, and that’s a big part of their appeal. Some Good Songs … Done Badly is out now. Brave Mistakes will play the following festivals in the coming weeks:

8 February 2025 – High Fever Festival @ Three Brothers Arms Hotel, Kangowirranilla/Macclesfield
1 March 2025 – Pirate Life Brewing 10th Birthday @ Pirate Life Brewing, Yartapuulti/Port Adelaide (SOLD OUT)

Posted on 30/01/202530/01/2025 by Lauren Katulka

“Forgiving Spree” – Slowly Slowly

With Forgiving Spree, Slowly Slowly proves the old adage that quality is always better than quantity. Its nine tracks spanning will take you just a little over half an hour to listen to, but I guarantee you’ll be thinking about them long after the final note.

It’s no coincidence that Slowly Slowly released five singles from this album before its launch. It opens with the title track before moving on to “Gimme the Wrench” and “How Are You Mine?”, all so catchy and crowd-pleasing. You might expect a dip in energy as Slowly Slowly move on to those album tracks, but in all honesty, any song on this album might have served as a single. This is an album that sees Slowly Slowly leaning into their pop sensibilities, unafraid to take inspiration from more commercial influences like John Farnham and Bruce Springsteen. There are more love songs than gritty anthems here. Most songs encourage listeners to sing along, but with the closer “Born Free,” Slowly Slowly shows they have what it takes to silence you. It’s such an epic ballad, stripped back and vulnerable until its dramatic musical and emotional crescendo.

Forgiving Spree is Slowly Slowly’s fifth album and their most accomplished. It sees them taking well-educated musical risks that always land, yet still surprise listeners. They’re stretching themselves musically and proving that just maybe, they can do it all.

Forgiving Spree is out now. Slowly Slowly will celebrate their new release with shows in Europe, the United Kingdom, and here at home over the coming months. Get your tickets now because they’re bound to sell out.

6-9 February 2025 – Party in The Paddock Festival @ Quercus Park, Kanamaluka/Launceston
28 February – 2 March 2025 – Feastival Falls Creek, Jaithmathang Country/Falls Creek
1-2 March 2025 – Yours and Owls Festival, Woolyungah/Wollongong
9 March 2025 – Limestone Coast Beer & BBQ Fest, Berrin/Mount Gambier
14 March 2025 – Academy 2, Dublin
16 March 2025 – Cat House, Glasgow
18 March 2025 – Key Club, Leeds
19 March 2025 – Deaf Institute, Manchester
20 March 2025 – Hare & Hounds, Birmingham
22 March 2025 – Camden Assembly, London
24 March 2025 – AB Club, Brussels
26 March 2025 – Supersonic, Paris (FREE)
27 March 2025 – Rotown, Rotterdam
29 March 2025 – Artheatre, Cologne
30 March 2025 – Badehaus, Berlin
4 April 2025 – Astor Theatre, Boorloo/Perth
5 April 2025 – Hindley Street Music Hall, Tarntanya/Adelaide
6 April 2025 – King Street Bandroom, Mulubinba/Newcastle
10 April 2025 – Fortitude Music Hall, Meeanjin/Brisbane
11 April 2025 – Enmore Theatre, Eora/Sydney
12 April 2025 – Margaret Court Arena, Naarm/Melbourne

Main photo credit: Marcus Coblyn

Posted on 29/01/202529/01/2025 by Lauren Katulka

“TOY” – Dear Seattle

Dear Seattle aren’t playing around with their latest album TOY. The band’s third studio album is packed with stellar rock tunes that will have you singing along in no time.

The album takes off with “Nothing’s Stopping Me Now,” an upbeat, feel-good banger that perfectly sets the tone for this release. Dear Seattle have a knack for creating big, anthemic earworms. Frontman Brae Fisher’s vocals have this raw, authentically Australian quality that encourages listeners to join in. The hooky guitar riffs are infectious. High-energy numbers are the band’s specialty and tracks like “Courtney Love” and “Sungazer” are some of the band’s best. The band doesn’t keep its foot flat to the floor though. Dear Seattle ensures this rock album never feels one note when it slows down the tempo for more introspective numbers like “Evergreen” and “Counting Hours.”

While Dear Seattle’s Like a Version cover of “The Special Two” is a lot of fun, it doesn’t quite gel with all this incredible original music. It’s a shame this bonus track couldn’t be delivered like the bonus tracks on old CDs, after an extended silence that let us digest this excellent album first.

The release of TOY feels like Dear Seattle have come full circle. This album saw them reunite with Fletcher Matthews, who produced their debut EP in 2017. This time they’re coming together with years of stage and studio experience under their belt. Dear Seattle have matured without losing that raw Aussie charm that first endeared them to punters. This fresh batch of songs are instantly accessible, but I feel I’m going to love them even more once I memorise all those lyrics and can sing along at top note.

TOY is available now on vinyl, CD, and streaming platforms.

Main photo credit: Charlie Hardy