Category: Reviews

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Call to Unknowns” – Little Quirks

Little Quirks have been releasing songs from their new EP Call to Unknowns since 2020. The pandemic had a way of slowing things down. But you know what they say about good things coming to those who wait. It’s been a long time coming, but Call to Unknowns is so very good.

The epic folk number “The Rain” opens the EP, showcasing the kind of theatre this Darkinjung Country/Central Coast band are capable of. This family band has matured so much since they began releasing music together in 2015, and this song celebrates their evolution. However, with stripped-back tracks like the new single “All My Friends are Birds” and the enchanting closing number “Underwater,” they show us that they haven’t strayed too far from their roots.

Whether they’re making a big noise or showing us the power of quiet moments, the beautiful harmony of their voices anchors Little Quirks’ music. It’s a beautiful sound that quite simply brings joy. I’ve loved hearing the singles, but the release of Call to Unknowns lets us soak up the magic of Little Quirks for a little longer. It’s out now. Fresh from an international tour, Little Quirks will play shows around the country, and some sneaky UK dates, in the coming months. Catch them anywhere you can:

9 September 2022 – Newkulele Festival @ Newcastle City Hall, Mulubinba/Newcastle
10 September 2022 – Brisbane Festival @ Milton Park, Turrbal Country/Milton (FREE)
16 September 2022 – Hoey Moey, Gumbaynggirr Country/Coffs Harbour
17 September 2022 – NightQuarter, Kabi Kabi Country/Sunshine Coast
18 September 2022 – Miami Marketta, Kombumerri Country/Gold Coast
23 September 2022 – Mojos, Walyalup/Fremantle
24 September 2022 – Good Day Sunshine Festival @ Barnard Park, Undalup/Busselton
3 October 2022 – The Craufurd Arms, Milton Keynes (with Bull)
8 October 2022 – Sneaky Pete’s, Edinburgh
17 October 2022 – Prince Albert, Brighton
12 November 2022 – The Factory Theatre, Eora/Sydney
18 November 2022 – Live at the Bundy, Wayput/Sale
19 November 2022 – Shotkickers, Naarm/Melbourne
19 November 2022 – Hinterland Music Festival @ Red Hill Recreation Reserve, Boonwurrung Country/Red Hill
27 November 2022 – Queenscliff Music Festival @ Princess Park, Wadawurrung Country/Queenscliff
20 January 2023 – Drifter’s Wharf, Darkinjung Country/Gosford
4 March 2023 – Nannup Festival, Wardandi and Bibbulmun Country/Nannup

Images used with permission from Revolutions per Minute

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Heartquakes” – Darcy Lane

When I heard Darcy Lane’s singles “Spines” and “Bored”, I couldn’t wait to hear more. Today my patience is rewarded with the release of Darcy’s incredible debut EP, Heartquakes.

If you’re already familiar with Darcy’s music, this EP is every bit as angsty, relatable, and catchy as you’d hope for. If you’re yet to discover her songs, this four-track release is a fantastic introduction. “Bad Together” kicks things off, an irresistible indie-pop track with dark lyrics of dysfunctional love that counterbalance the boppy beat. Lyrics like “Maybe love’s supposed to feel like you’re choking” are so powerful. “Bored” has lost none of its potency with time. Listening to it in the context of this EP reminds me just how incredible it is. “Harmless” is revealing and raw, with Darcy unafraid to share her deepest self. The electro beats give it a fun, fresh feel, but again its those lyrics that make the deepest impression. “Spines” rounds out the EP, bringing our journey through Darcy’s heart and mind over all too quickly.

Selfishly, I wish Heartquakes for longer. But by delivering just four tracks, Darcy keeps us wanting more. Like those three-minute pop songs or a delicious petit four, Darcy ensures what she presents here is incredibly strong. It’s short and bittersweet, but remember that you can always press play again.

Images used with permission from Good Intent

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Placid in the Rough” – Toby Mobbs

Through the years of writing this blog, I’ve realised that often the best albums aren’t the ones pushed by the big labels. Sure, there are some brilliant artists with that kind of backing, but our country is so rich in talent that often the real gems come from independent acts who release their music simply because they have something to say. Toby Mobbs, an unsigned independent singer-songwriter from Albury, is one of those acts. His debut album Placid in the Rough is likely to fly under the radar, but it deserves your time.

Toby describes himself as a pop-folk act, but that doesn’t quite tell the whole story. Placid in the Rough is such a diverse album. My own music taste is so eclectic, I can get bored if a record stays in the same place for too long but this album takes us on a journey, from solo tracks recorded in home studios to collaborations with other artists in professional studios. Yes, there are poppy, folky moments, but Toby has so much more to share with us. The opening number “Making Lemonade” has a rock edge which gets cranked up to 11 with the next track “Moments”. There’s a gentle country feel to “The River,” a duet with the fabulous Nick Keogh, and “Just One Thing”, which features Asha Bright. “A Mark to Remember” has a retro electronic vibe. Toby’s sound is a glorious symphony by the time the final track, “Will I Be Somebody Else?” rolls around.

I have a sneaking suspicion that these eight tracks barely scratch the surface. No genre that Toby plays with feels ill-fitting, which is a testament to his talent and confident songwriting. As a self-confessed word nerd, I really appreciate Toby’s introspective, yet relatable, lyrics. The unique collection of songs that makes up Placid in the Rough encourages repeat listens. I’ve returned to this album countless times this week, and I’m probably going to press play again once I finish writing this review. You should too.

If you like what you hear, you can catch Toby showcasing the music and stories behind these special songs at intimate venues around the country. After seeing so many “national” tours that skipped Darwin, Perth, and Hobart, he was determined to play every capital, and a few choice regional centres too. He’ll be joined by Nick Keogh and local artists at every show, including many who appear on Placid in the Rough. The tour kicks off in Toby’s hometown of Wiradjuri Country/Wagga Wagga next month.

5 October 2022 – The Curious Rabbit, Wiradjuri Country/Wagga Wagga
6 October 2022 – The Food Co-op Shop & Café, Ngambri/Canberra
7 October 2022 – Butchers Brew Bar, Eora/Sydney
9 October 2022 – Can You Keep A Secret?, Meeanjin/Brisbane
15 October 2022 – Happy Yess, Garramilla/Darwin
22 October 2022 – The 21st Amendment, Boorloo/Perth
26 October 2022 – Wheatsheaf Hotel, Tarndanya/Adelaide
28 October 2022 – Brunswick Artists’ Bar, Naarm/Melbourne
30 October 2022 – Pablo’s Cocktails And Dreams, Nipaluna/Hobart
6 November 2022 – The Goods Shed, Bungambrawatha/Albury-Wodonga

Images used with permission from Toby Mobbs; feature image credit: Trewbella Photography

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“I’M FUN!” – Ben Lee

The release of I’M FUN! comes nearly 30 years after Ben Lee hit the music scene with his punk-rock act Noise Addict. Those of us old enough to be there have watched him grow up in front of our eyes, evolving as an artist and a human. In his 14th solo release, Ben celebrates his status as an adult, husband, and father as only he can. His sound has mellowed along with the themes, taking cues from folk and Americana. However, as Ben shows, there’s nothing wrong with slowing down.

Ben’s never going to be the sort of artist who gets boring in his old age though. He might be happily coupled up, but with “My Adventure” he reminds us that union isn’t about “settling down.” He revels in his unconventional growth in “Crooked Tree” and reflects on how far he’s come in “Arsehole.” “Parents Get High” and “The Good Stuff” also see Ben reminiscing about the past. As someone who refuses to pigeonhole my musical tastes, “Like This or Like That” struck a real chord. Each song is a beautiful snapshot of Ben’s life, exquisitely written and delivered with plenty of charm.

This isn’t quite the album Ben wanted to make. He hoped to record it with a live band, but when the pandemic took hold, like so many of us, he pivoted and started collaborating remotely with long-time friends like Jon Brion and Money Mark and emerging artists like Shamir and Georgia Maq, “who are young and lit up with creative adrenalin.” Megan Washington, Zooey Deschanel, and Eric D Johnson also make appearances. Despite the star power behind it, this album remains intimate and personal. His superstar friends are simply part of the tapestry of Ben’s remarkable life which he honours here.

Listening to I’M FUN! feels like catching up with an old friend. You hear a few stories that help you get to know them better and you have a sensational time doing it. I’M FUN! is out now.

Images used with permission from Warner Music Australia

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Gang of Youths @ Qudos Bank Arena, Eora/Sydney – 6 August 2022

More than a few times I wished I wasn’t going to Saturday’s Gang of Youths show in Eora/Sydney. It’s not that I didn’t want to see the band – far from it. But I hate Qudos Bank Arena. It often seems too big and impersonal. I have to take three trains to get there and it’s a hassle. But I bought the tickets anyway. I cursed that decision when the band announced a show in Mulubinba/Newcastle, and again when they announced an intimate acoustic gig at the Enmore. I had another little grumble when I stacked it on the uneven ground outside the venue before I even got inside. But you know, sometimes I think the universe puts you exactly where you’re meant to be.

Gretta Ray herself remarked on how grateful she was that a rock act like Gang of Youths enlisted a pop act like her for their support act. It certainly seemed a strange choice on paper, but the crowd lapped up her performance, singing along to the hits and listening attentively to the ones they weren’t familiar with. I unfortunately missed most of her set, but I really enjoyed what I did catch. Her music has mostly passed me by, but it gets a little extra something watching her twirl around and own the stage. I got to admire her voice a little more without studio production. I think I’ll have to delve into her catalogue a little more.

Gretta impressed me, but I was more than ready to enjoy Gang of Youths. As they kicked off with “angel of 8th ave.” I realised how long it’s been since I’ve been to a big rock show. It was definitely pre-pandemic. I’ve missed that energy, the real fire that comes when a crowd feeds off that music and gives all the love back to the performers. David Le’aupepe is such an incredible frontman, dancing up a storm, singing like a dream, I couldn’t take my eyes off him. He seemed genuinely moved at the warm reception hometown fans delivered, and wanted to give back to us all whatever he could.

The set list leant heavily on their magnificent new album angel in realtime. After being so moved by that album, it was a bit jarring to hear it cut up for a show. I’d love to hear them play it in its entirety, in order, but that might be a concept for another time. For now, delivering those songs interspersed with the hits from Go Farther in Lightness kept the crowds happy. I loved hearing some of my favourites from that album, “What Can I Do When the Fire Goes Out?”, “The Heart is a Muscle,” and “The Deepest Sighs, The Frankest Shadows” with Dave sharing the lead vocals with Gretta Ray. The cover of Thin Lizzy’s “Boys are Back in Town” was the perfect nod to their Sydney return.

Angel in realtime. is such a powerful album and it gave the show some of its most poignant moments. You could hear a pin drop as Dave sat at the piano and played the gentle “brothers,” which he dedicated to his family in attendance. “Hand of god” was as close as I might get to a religious experience. “Goal of the century” is such an epic song, but Gang of Youths brought it to life without studio wizardry. What a way to close such a special show.

Gang of Youths’ music has taken them all over the world. Time away makes coming home so much sweeter. I might have begrudgingly dragged myself out to Qudos, but I am so thrilled I got to be part of the homecoming party. Gang of Youths’ tour continues in Melbourne on Friday night. There are limited tickets for the remaining shows on this tour:
12 August 2022 – Rod Laver Arena, Naarm/Melbourne (SOLD OUT)
13 August 2022 – Rod Laver Arena, Naarm/Melbourne
14 August 2022 – A More Perfect Union Festival @ MAC 2, Nipaluna/Hobart
16 August 2022 – Hunter Lounge, Wellington
17 August 2022 – Powerstation, Auckland
20 August 2022 – A More Perfect Union Festival @ Sandstone Point Hotel, Yarun/Sandstone Point
22 August 2022 – Enmore Theatre, Eora/Sydney (SOLD OUT)
2 September 2022 – Electric Picnic Festival @ Stradbally, Ireland
13 September 2022 – The Rave II @ Milwaukee
14 September 2022 – First Avenue – Mainroom @ Minneapolis
16 September 2022 – Delmar Hall @ Saint Louis
17 September 2022 – The Bottleneck @ Lawrence
19 September 2022 – Gothic Theatre @ Englewood
20 September 2022 – Urban Lounge @ Salt Lake City
22 September 2022 – Revolution Hall @ Portland
23 September 2022 – Rickshaw Theatre, Vancouver (SOLD OUT)
25 September 2022 – Neumos, Seattle
27 September 2022 – Ace Of Spades, Sacramento
28 September 2022 – The Ritz, San Jose
30 September 2022 – Ohana Fest, Dana Point
1 October 2022 – 24 Oxford, Las Vegas
25 October 2022 – Paradiso, Amsterdam, Netherlands
26 October 2022 – Gloria Theater, Cologne
28 October 2022 – Zoom Frankfurt, Frankfurt
30 October 2022 – Doornroosje, Nijmegen
31 October 2022 – De Oosterpoort, Groningen
2 November 2022 – Gruenspan, Hamburg
3 November 2022 – Kesselhaus, Berlin
6 November 2022 – AB – Ancienne Belgique, Brussels
7 November 2022 – Badaboum, Paris
9 & 10 November 2022 – Outernet, London
12 November 2022 – Academy, Manchester
13 November 2022 – The Academy, Dublin
15 November 2022 – Limelight, Belfast
17 November 2022 – The Leadmill, Sheffield
18 November 2022 – Rock City, Nottingham
20 November 2022 – Great Hall, Cardiff

Image source: Stephen Katulka

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Jagged Little Pill @ Theatre Royal, Eora/Sydney – 30 July 2021

Jagged Little Pill may be the greatest musical most people won’t see. The pandemic cut its original Broadway run heartbreakingly short. While it returned to New York’s Broadhurst Theatre, it closed soon after as America’s COVID-19 numbers picked up again. Here in Australia, the return season in Eora/Sydney is also being cut short as increasing case numbers become a concern. I feel pretty lucky I snuck in before the company pulls the plug. I bought tickets for the original run but transferred them when my husband ended up in hospital. Had I chosen a later date, it might not have happened.

It’s heartbreaking that we don’t all get more time with this musical, because it is so special. Featuring the songs of Alanis Morisette, you might be forgiven for thinking it’s just another jukebox musical. However, this piece is so much more. The songs are used so cleverly as a launchpad for a series of stories that are so relevant for the modern age. Through the Healy family and those close to them, the musical explores prescription drug addiction, sexual violence, sexuality, societal pressure, trauma, and healing. It’s heavy material and difficult to watch at times, but Diablo Cody’s witty book and the joyous energy of the cast balance it beautifully.

Speaking of the cast, I’m not sure I’ve ever seen such a solid group of performers. I admit, I was pretty skeptical when I heard Natalie Bassingthwaite had landed the plum role of MJ Healy. I’d seen her in theatrical productions before, but her roles in Rent and Footloose were nowhere as meaty as this one or as challenging vocally. But I can freely admit I was wrong. She was an absolute revelation. I didn’t know she had this performance in her. MJ is such a complex character, but she really rose to the occasion. I was also particularly impressed with the young actors. Emily Nkomo brought such a light and passion to Frankie. Bella is relatively small but pivotal, and Grace Miell was sensational in the role. A character like Nick could easily become wooden, but I thought Liam Head was excellent. People have raved about Maggie McKenna’s performance as Jo, but on the Saturday matinee Mo Lovegrove stepped into the role. Honestly, I think we lucked out. What an incredible talent they are. “You Oughta Know” and “Your House” are some of Alanis’ most challenging songs to nail in my opinion. Few can convey their messy emotions the way that Alanis can, but I was captivated by Mo’s take on these songs, not to mention their more subtle moments. The ensemble were also such incredible dancers and singers. There were no weak links. Just incredible.

Honestly, I haven’t stopped thinking about Jagged Little Pill since I left the theatre on Saturday. It’s truly special. You’ve got two weeks before it closes. The producers say they’re committed to bringing this story back to Australian stages in the future, but in these uncertain times, there’s no telling when that will be if it happens at all. So see it while you can. There are limited tickets for performances at the Theatre Royal to August 14.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Overrun” – Highline

Just a year on from releasing their EP Off Track, Eora/Sydney act Highline have followed it up with a brand new collection of music. Their latest offering Overrun shows a band that’s more mature, more confident, and more exciting.

Don’t get me wrong; I’ve been a fan since I heard “Staying Sane” last February. But it’s so thrilling to see how this band’s evolving. We got a taste when they dropped the single “Enough For You and Me” earlier this year, but it’s so exciting to see how it all comes together. The title track and EP opener “Overrun” really won me over. It had me from the gentle acoustic guitar opening, but it refuses to sit in that mellow space. It builds beautifully, morphing into an epic rock number complete with a guitar solo. Highline are equally comfortable delivering big rock numbers like “Enough For You and Me” and laidback tracks like “Here Now.” The EP showcases the breadth of their artistry and their impressive gift for songwriting. At just five songs it’s over all too quickly, but you can always hit the play button again.

Overrun is out now. Highline will kick off their first-ever run of interstate shows this weekend. Check them out at the following venues:

30 July 2022 – Cherry Bar, Naarm/Melbourne
12 August 2022 – Vinnie’s Dive, Kombumerri Country/Gold Coast
13 August 2022 – O’Skulligans, Meeanjin/Brisbane
20 August 2022 – LaLaLa’s, Woolyungah/Wollongong
26 August 2022 – Cambridge Side Bar, Mulubinba/Newcastle

Images used with permission from Peach & Sons

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“How to Grow a Sunflower Underwater” – Alex the Astronaut

Alex the Astronaut is one of the more unique voices in the Australian music industry. Queer, neurodivergent, the holder of degrees in maths and physics. Hers is the kind of voice we don’t often hear releasing music. That’s just one of the many reasons you should pay attention to her new album, How to Grow a Sunflower Underwater.

I think one of the best ways to learn about experiences different from our own is to hear people share their stories. This is such a personal album. “Octopus” explores her recent autism spectrum diagnosis. Songs like “Haunted” and “Airport” give snapshots of interactions with her parents, blind dates, and love interests. “Sick” is a deeply intimate exploration of the loss and grief process that often begins when the ones we love are clinging to life. “South London” is a nostalgic look at a childhood so removed from many Aussie upbringings. The closing song “Haircut” is about more than a typical trip to the salon; it’s a celebration of gender expression and authenticity.

Listening to these songs you start to understand that we have more similarities than differences. We may not have loved someone of the same gender, but we’ve loved so we understand those feelings of vulnerability and comfort. We might not be neurodivergent, but we’ve felt unsure of ourselves, like an outsider, so those songs make sense for us too. We might not know the people that mean so much to Alex the Astronaut, but we’ve got our own connections that these songs remind us of.

There’s also such a beautiful joy to this music. These songs tackle some really big, important, heavy themes, but they’re delivered with such heart and humour. This album is a celebration of life in all its messy, beautiful weirdness. Listening to it simply makes you feel good. And maybe that’s the biggest reason why you should give How to Grow a Sunflower Underwater a listen.

How to Grow a Sunflower Underwater is out today. Alex the Astronaut will embark on an Aussie tour, kicking off with an appearance at Splendour this weekend.

24 July 2022 – Splendour in the Grass, Bundjalung Nation/Byron Bay
11 August 2022 – Freo Social, Noongar/Perth
13 August 2022 – Darwin Festival, Garramilla/Darwin
18 August 2022 – Kambri at ANU, Ngunnawal Country/Canberra
19 August 2022 – City Recital Hall, Eora/Sydney
20 August 2022 – The Cambridge, Mulubinba/Newcastle
21 August 2022 – River Sounds, Gumbaynggirr Nation/Bellingen
27 August 2022 – The Triffid, Meeanjin/Brisbane
2 September 2022 – Tanks Arts Centre, Gimuy/Cairns
4 September 2022 – Springtime Festival, Kombumerri Country/Gold Coast
8 September 2022 – Corner Hotel, Naarm/Melbourne
9 September 2022 – Altar, Nipaluna/Hobart
10 September 2022 – Uni Bar, Kaurna Land/Adelaide

Images used with permission from Warner Music Australia; album cover: Giulia McGauran; main image: @jessgleeson

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Talk Talk” – The Faim

I wasn’t sure that I’d write a review for The Faim’s sophomore album Talk Talk. I’ve already raved about four singles, so how much more could I say? As I listened to this superb album, again and again, I realised I couldn’t let its release pass without saying something. It’s just that good.

I’ve mentioned it before but it bears repeating: The Faim are creating some of the best pop-rock anthems you’re going to hear. They’re somehow polished but full of heart, the kind of tracks that make you want to punch your fists in the air and sing along to those catchy choruses. After releasing so many fabulous songs, you might wonder what The Faim have left in the tank. But the other tracks are anything but filler. I discovered new favourites like “You (And My Addiction)” and the epic closer “ERA” which are every bit as good as those singles that came before. I remembered just how good those singles are too. I’ve heard tracks like “The Hills” and “Me Because of You” so many times since their release, but they’re showing no signs of fatigue.

If you already know how good The Faim are, Talk Talk is everything you hoped it would be. And if you’re yet to jump on the bandwagon, this album is the perfect introduction. Press play, turn up the volume, and enjoy it. Just don’t be surprised if you hit the play button a few more times before the day is through.

Talk Talk is out now. After delighting crowds in the United Kingdom and Europe, The Faim are about to set off on an Aussie tour with fellow Whadjuck/Perth act Bad Weather and Naarm/Melbourne band Terra.

15 July 2022 – Vision Studios, Boorloo/Perth (ALL AGES)
16 July 2022 – Jack Rabbit Slims, Boorloo/Perth
21 July 2022 – The Brightside, Meeanjin/Brisbane
22 July 2022 – Newcastle Hotel, Mulubimba/Newcastle
23 July 2022 – The Lansdowne Hotel, Eora/Sydney
24 July 2022 – La La La’s, Woolyungah/Wollongong
29 July 2022 – Transit Bar, Ngambri/Canberra
30 July 2022 – Evelyn Hotel, Naarm/Melbourne
31 July 2022 – Enigma Bar, Kaurna/Adelaide

Images used with permission from Good Intent; feature photo credit: Jake Crawford

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Generational” – Rya Park

Rya Park speaks to the heart of the millennial experience with her debut EP Generational. It’s a powerful collection of songs documenting the highs and lows of your 20s.

My 20s are far behind me, but I still connected to this material. It opens with the title track “Generational.” References to cigarettes, shit house parties, and drinking all night evoke a time of excess, being “way too young” to worry about what comes next. The next track “call it a year xo” starts by stripping away the beats. The opening verse leaves us with gentle piano chords and Rya’s voice, moments of quiet after the storm, moments to hear the darker voices that get drowned out in the crowds. “LONDON” may be my favourite song on the EP, a touching track about the power of friendship and the pain of keeping it alive when you’re separated by distance. With separation from lockdowns still fresh in all our minds, this song really resonates.

Most songs on this EP are tinged with sadness. However, “Everything We Want” is pure joy, a celebration of the love that Rya’s found with Kill Bell guitarist and photographer Nick Tam. Rya wrote “Silver Lining” several years ago, but it’s found the right home here. Generational is an EP that shines a light on life’s highs and lows. This song embodies that message, revealing Rya’s struggles with mental illness and her hope that there may be a silver lining to it all. It makes such a strong statement that it might have been the EP’s final track, but that honour was reserved for “I’ve Tried it ALL,” a powerful song co-written with Alex Lahey and Gordi. While it was a collaborative effort, it’s an incredibly personal song about Rya’s mental health journey.

“When I wrote this song I was barely sleeping and didn’t have the energy for the life I wanted to live,” she admitted. “I was embarrassed and ashamed to present a version of myself that deep down I didn’t recognise or resonate with. I remember saying in this session that I know what I want my music to really be about – the true parts of my life, the good the bad, the ugly, and the beautiful.”

Generational is a moving EP that puts Rya’s vocals and lyrics front and centre. She’s careful to avoid overproduction. The gentle beats ensure it feels contemporary, but they never steal focus. Every song is so strong in its own right. Together they capture a moment in time and an artist on the verge of greatness. Whether you’re living through your 20s right now or like me they’re a distant memory, I’m sure this EP will resonate with you.

Images used with permission from Hunger Digital