Category: Album Reviews

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

“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

“Sunsoli” – Sunsoli

Rebranding after eight years performing together is a risky move. But that’s exactly what Darkinjung Country/Central Coast act The Sea Gypsies did when they became Sunsoli earlier this year. Risky or not, the move seems to have revitalised this band who with the release of their self-titled album prove they’re making some of the best music of their career.

Sunsoli says their music is inspired by the sun and its ever-present influence on our lives. I can hear that inspiration in these new tunes. The album opens with “Some Kind of Light,” an atmospheric slow burner. It’s a moment of calm stillness before the energetic single “Time and Place” kicks in. “Wayward” brings more good vibes. I can imagine blasting these songs on my next road trip. There’s a beautiful freedom about them, and their driving beats are sure to keep me energised as the road stretches out ahead of me. Love songs with an easy groove like “Dancing Slowly,” featuring gorgeous guest vocals from Ashrae, and “Sunlight” are real charmers. It’s unclear whether the central relationships will be summer flings or something more, but they’re so much fun that it barely matters. Most of this album feels fresh, so the ‘80s nostalgia of “In the Middle” comes as a little bit of a curveball. I never mind a throwback when it’s done this well though. “Where We Left Off” is a beautiful love letter to the fans, a celebration of this band, no matter what they’re called. Closing track “Colours” is such a powerful love song, heartfelt without a hint of schmaltz, an anthemic number that I can already tell will be even better live. What a way to end this excellent album.

I’ve always liked the music the band made as the Sea Gypsies but the tracks I loved in their back catalogue were a bit rarer. However, I’m in love with this album. Every song is a stand-out. It’s everything I liked about the Sea Gypsies but better. I was skeptical about the band’s decision to rebrand so far into their career, but if it’s inspired them to make great music like this I’m all for it. Sunsoli’s debut album is out today. Their East Coast album launch tour starts Friday. Limited tickets are still available for these shows.

15 September 2023 – La La La’s, Woolyungah/Wollongong (with Brandon Duff & Georgia-Jean)
16 September 2023 – Live at the Polo, Ngambri/Canberra (with Kopasetic & Eden Plenty)
6 October 2023 – Barwon Club, Djilang/Geelong (with This Way North & Gabby Steel)
8 October 2023 – Northcote Social Club, Naarm/Melbourne (with This Way North & Anna Smyrk)
27 October 2023 – Sol Bar, Kabi Kabi and Jinibara Country/Maroochydore (with Flaskas & Sundaze)
29 October 2023 – Lefty’s, Meeanjin/Brisbane (with Flaskas & Tjaka)
11 November 2023 – The Lansdowne, Eora/Sydney (with The Toothpicks & Southwest Corduroy)
25 November 2023 – Drifters Wharf, Darkinjung Country/Gosford (with Tyrants & Tiali)
1 December 2023 – The Federal, Baligin/Bellingen

Listen on Apple Music

Image used with permission from beehive; main image credit: Jordan Cortti

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“The Pleasure Pit” – Tiali

Tiali wowed me with their single “Icicles” late last year. It was so raw and personal, I couldn’t wait to hear more. They deliver and then some with their debut EP The Pleasure Pit, a collection of intimate songs that pack a real punch.

The opening track “Jigsaw” is bold and grungy, making sure you know this EP, and in fact this artist, are not to be ignored. Tiali makes their presence felt, whether they’re rocking out or stripping things back. Their lyrics are honest, often brutally so, and you can feel Tiali’s emotions bubbling just under the surface in every line they deliver. Songs like “What Kind of Man,” which calls out toxic masculinity, and “Icicles,” the album’s commanding closer, make for a powerful listening experience.

Speaking of the album’s inspiration, Tiali noted that “The Pleasure Pit is a place we all know. It’s the place we go to indulge, to ease our pain. It’s drugs, alcohol, sex, cigarettes, junk food, love. It brings you comfort, an escape, a high … until it doesn’t. The void that sucks you in, the detachment from reality, the noise that silences your mind, the chaos that momentarily calms you.”

I can imagine these songs bringing a similar comfort to people who hear them. They’re unflinchingly real, powerful and painful, but in sharing these stories Tiali reminds listeners going through their own struggles that they’re not alone. The Pleasure Pit is an exciting, brave first EP from an artist who no doubt has a massive future ahead.

If you like what you hear, catch Tiali at one of their upcoming shows:
9 September 2023 – Long Jetty Hotel, Darkinjung Country/Long Jetty
15 September 2023 – Low302, Eora/Surry Hills
22 September 2023 – The Lady Hampshire, Eora/Camperdown (supporting Packing Dhaka)
25 November 2023 – Drifters Wharf, Darkinjung Country/Gosford (supporting Sunsoli)
10 December 2023 – Let the Good Times Roll Festival @ Memorial Park, Darkinjung Country/The Entrance

Images used with permission from Sony Music Australia

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Fortress” – KEZRA

People speak a lot of teen angst, but I think for many people their 20s are more tumultuous. It’s a time when you’re expected to be an adult, but you’re still trying to figure so much out. You have more freedom than you did in your teen years, but that gives you so much more space to make mistakes. You might grow from those mistakes, but they can also sting. Music can be a salvation during those challenging years, both for artists and their listeners. That time might be far behind me, but I can’t resist music that explores an artist’s coming of age. KEZRA’s new EP Fortress is a beautiful collection of songs that charts her personal journey of self-discovery.

“The EP is all about navigating through my crazy twenties, in failures, loss, heartache, hope, new love, and finding my strength between all of that,” she said. “Working with my producer, Mark (Zito), helped all the songs tie together with this theme of nostalgia in reflection of my early 20s, with the old tape-recording sounds and distorted electric guitars. I feel this EP represents myself as the artist I am today, just a girl who loves to write poppy chorus hooks and heart-breaking melodies with a guitar in hand.”

The songs unfold like the pages of a diary, with KEZRA’s confessional lyrics and emotional vocals sharing snapshots of her recent experiences. We open on the title track, a song of strength and vulnerability that introduces the EP so beautifully. The singles “Back Home” and “Insane” come next, one quiet and reflective, the other a breezy indie pop bop about a perfectly imperfect relationship. The EP takes another left turn with “Morning.” Like “Back Home” it draws you in with its gentle opening and poignant lyrics, then builds to a sonic and emotional crescendo that makes it one of the most memorable songs on Fortress. “With You,” a gorgeous acoustic love song with some of the most poetic lyrics on the EP is a beautiful closer. It’s the kind of song that leaves you still, processing for a few moments before you feel ready to rejoin the world.

Fortress is such a wonderful EP. If you’re navigating your 20s, I know KEZRA’s songs will strike a chord with you. And if like me they’re behind you, they’ll make you a little nostalgic for a time gone by. If you love what you hear, make sure to see KEZRA at Bar Open in Naarm/Melbourne on September 22.

Images used with permission from Good Intent

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“All These Walls” – Gretta Ziller

When Gretta Ziller released her sophomore album Judas Tree, she declared “I don’t want to do the same thing twice.” She stays true to her resolve with the release of her third album All These Walls, an eclectic collection of songs that challenge our perceptions of the alt-country genre.

Gretta might have been nominated for a Golden Guitar, but she’s so different from so many of the artists who make their names at Tamworth. As with her last album she plays with genre, dabbling in pop, soul, blues, and roots. She lays her feelings bare with stunning country ballads like “Dear Damascus” and “Golden Days, encourages us to dance along with bops like “Ain’t Even Your Lover” and “St Louis”, and makes us pause to take in every note of poignant soul-stirrers like “Here I Am” and “Who Knows.” While the album takes us on a sonic journey, Gretta’s beautiful warm voice and knack for storytelling are ever-present forces that unite the material. You always feel like you’re in good hands as you listen, no matter the twists and turns.

I’ve been listening to All These Walls for the last week or so, and honestly, I enjoy it more with every listen. Every song stands up in its own right, but together they beautifully reflect an artist exploring her space in the world, her relationships with others and herself. All These Walls is out today. Gretta Ziller is currently touring, playing mostly acoustic solo shows that really allow her to connect with her audience and the audience to connect with these songs. You can still catch her at the following gigs:

25 August 2023 – The Noojee Hotel, Wurundjeri Country/Noojee
26 August 2023 – George Lane, Euro Yuroke/St Kilda
27 August 2023 – Bayview Country Arts Club, Bunurong Country/Bittern
19-23 September 2023 – Americana Fest, Nashville
29 September 2023 – Deni Ute Muster, Barababaraba Country/Deniliquin
16 November 2023 – Qirks, Wanaruah Country/Kurri Kurri
17 November 2023 – Wingham House, Birrbay Country/Wingham
19 November 2023 – Can You Keep a Secret, Meeanjin/Brisbane
1 December 2023 – The Palais, Dja Dja Wurrung Country/Hepburn Springs
26 January 2024 – Moonshiners, Kamilaroi/Tamworth

Images used with permission from On the Map PR; main image credit: Noah Sole

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Rivers Run Dry” – Ian Moss

Rivers Run Dry is Ian Moss’ eighth studio album, but he shows no signs of slowing down. In fact, he might be making the best music of his career.

I’ve already celebrated the singles “Nullarbor Plain” and “Rivers Run Dry,” but this album has so much more to offer. The information on Mossy’s website states “The song selection for Ian Moss’ new album, Rivers Run Dry, was simple. No matter the style or genre, just finding good songs was the goal.” That’s what he delivers here. 12 good songs. No, scratch that, 12 great songs. And yes, as those online comments suggest, there are some unexpected ones among them. “Open Your Eyes” is a funk-forward track that wouldn’t sound out of place in a hot ‘70s disco. “Bury Me,” a duet with Kasey Chambers, is earthy and rootsy. The heavenly voices of a gospel choir make listening to “What Can I Do” a spiritual experience. And I definitely didn’t expect him to close out this album of incredible originals with a Stevie Wonder cover.

River Runs Dry is an album that keeps you guessing, but it’s also one that proves Mossy really can do it all. His voice is maturing like a fine wine and his guitar licks are always on point. He’s an absolute pro who’s made me excited about his music all over again with this album.

Ian Moss will wrap up his full-band shows tonight, but if you missed out don’t worry. He’ll be back in a couple of months with some acoustic gigs. Here are all the dates you need:

18 August 2023 – The Regal Theatre, Boorloo/Perth
23-28 August 2023 – Stranded in the Whitsundays, Ngaro Country/Whitsundays
21 October 2023 – Glasshouse Theatre, Guruk/Port Macquarie
27 October 2023 – Lighthouse Theatre, Gunditjmara Country/Warrnambool
28 October 2023 – Hamilton Performing Arts Centre, Gunditjmara, Tjapwurong, and Bunganditj Country/Hamilton
3 November 2023 – Albury Entertainment Centre, Bungambrawatha Country/Albury
4 November 2023 – The Capital Theatre, Dja Dja Wurrung and Taungurung Country/Bendigo
10 November 2023 – Airlie Beach Festival of Music, Ngaro Country/Airlie Beach
18 November 2023 – This is Livin Fest, Kabi Country/Rainbow Beach
25 November 2023 – Queenscliff Music Festival, Wadawarrung Country/Queenscliff
8 December 2023 – Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre, Bpangerang Country/Wangaratta
9 December 2023 – Swan Hill Town Hall, Matakupaat/Swan Hill
15 December 2023 – The Wedge, Wayput/Sale
16 December 2023 – Gippsland Performing Arts Centre, Gunaikurnai Country/Traralgon
25 January 2024 – Longyard Hotel, Kamilaroi Country/Tamworth


Images used with permission from Ferris Davies PRM; main image credit: Robert Hambling

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Tales of the Yeti” – South Summit

South Summit are one of the most consistent and criminally underappreciated bands in the country at the moment. If this Western Australian act isn’t on your radar yet, their latest EP Tales of the Yeti is bound to make you sit up and take notice.

This EP shows a real evolution for the band as they play with different genres and sounds. They’ve always had a cool surf sound, but I’ve never heard them leaning into reggae as much as they do in the opening track “I Feel It.” The good vibes continue with “Sidelines,” a straight up indie-rock charmer that I can imagine blasting on my next road trip, and “Just Like You” a sunshine-infused gem that will have you singing along with its infectious chorus. I can imagine tracks like “Tuned In” and “Dreaming” going off at the live shows. They’re a little more anthemic and epic, with big chords and defiant lyrics. “Fallen Friend” is such a strong closer, with powerful, poignant lyrics that speak straight to the heart.

What a journey Tales of the Yeti takes listeners on. With six songs, it’s a little longer than most EPs, but I still find myself wanting more. Like when you have a really amazing main meal, and although it’s totally satisfying you can’t resist peeking at the dessert menu to see how good that’ll be. If you’re digging this EP too, make sure you get to one of South Summit’s headlining shows in Australia or New Zealand this November. They’re also playing the Odyssea – Headland Music & Arts Journey festival this weekend.

19 August 2023 – Odyssea – Hedland Music & Arts Journey, Marapikurrinya/Port Headland
2 November 2023 – La La La’s, Woolyungah/Wollongong
3 November 2023 – The Lansdowne, Eora/Sydney
4 November 2023 – Howler, Naarm/Melbourne
10 November 2023 – The Brightside, Meeanjin/Brisbane
11 November 2023 – The Northern, Cavanbah/Byron Bay
17 November 2023 – Whammy Bar, Auckland
18 November 2023 – The Loons, Christchurch
19 November 2023 – Meow, Wellington
24 November 2023 – The Rosemount, Boorloo/Perth


Images used with permission from beehive; main image credit: Mark Francesca

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Duets” – Kevin Borich

I had pretty high expectations for Kevin Borich’s new album Duets the moment I looked over the track listing. It should come as no surprise that his Aussie guitar icon had no problem recruiting some top talent for this release. But you might still be surprised how good this album is.

Kevin is one of the nation’s best singer-songwriters, so I expected the original songs would be top-notch. He’s also one of our best guitarists, so I knew the tracks would sound good. He’s not the best vocalist in a classic sense, but his voice is full of character. And he’s partnered up with some excellent vocalists, including Baby Animals frontwoman Suze Demarchi, who has one of the best rock voices in the business, and Angela Fabian, who made such an impression on me a few years ago on The Voice Australia.

What I didn’t quite expect was the energy that leaps from this album. You can almost hear how much fun Kevin and his pals are having in the studio. It’s also so diverse that you’re never going to get bored. “Wrapped in Rock,” with Suze Demarchi and the politically charged “Soapbox Bitchin’” with Angry Anderson rock hard. “I’m Together,” with Ella Hooper, is a sweet love song that sounds like it could have come from a Cole Porter musical. “There is a Road,” with another Party Boys bandmate Swanee, takes us straight to church. As someone who grew up on the Eagles, I have such a soft spot for “The Fires,” featuring Kevin’s old Party Boys bandmate and Eagles guitarist Joe Walsh. “Straight From My Heart,” with fellow guitar legend Ian Moss, is another standout. And that’s to say nothing of the fantastic tunes recorded with Joe Camilleri, Tim Rogers, and Leo Sayer.

With such an impressive list of guest artists on its side, most Aussie music fans will want to give Kevin Borich’s Duets at least one listen. But don’t be surprised if, like me, you find yourself pressing play time and time again.

Images used with permission from SGC Media

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Sad King Billy” – Sad King Billy

After honing his craft with Western Australian bands like Old Blood and the Southern River Band, Julian Peet is striking out on his own. Recording under the moniker Sad King Billy, he’s just dropped his self-titled debut. This diverse collection of songs serves as the perfect introduction, or perhaps reintroduction, to this talented artist.

The opening track “Bad Man” drew me in with its chilled guitar groove and poetic lyrics. I’m such a sucker for a great turn of phrase. But this is just the start of the journey. Sad King Billy doesn’t like to keep us in the same place too long. He plays with genres, keeping us guessing with every track. “Lately” starts like a simmering rock song but explodes with a psychedelic guitar crescendo. “Every Part of Us” is one of the most exquisite acoustic guitar ballads you’re likely to hear. I found myself on the edge of my seat, wondering what Sad King Billy would serve up next. “Don’t Come Back” has the cool country-inspired rock feel of a Tom Petty track. “Runneth” has a dark, bluesy feel that is so compelling. The album’s closing numbers, “The People Forgotten” and “Ode to a Dying Race”, are every bit as epic as their titles suggest. They’re the kind of experimental numbers you used to hear on classic albums from bands like Pink Floyd and Yes. It’s the sort of music you don’t hear these days. It’s too long for radio play and too polarising for audiences. I admire the bravery of leaving the listener with these final impressions.

Sad King Billy’s debut is an eclectic album, but that’s a great part of its charm. His compelling vocals and stellar songwriting stamp are ever present, ensuring that no matter what genre he plays with, it feels right. With so many twists and turns, you might not like it all, but I guarantee something will resonate with you. Take a listen.

Main image credit: Emelia Peet