Category: Tours

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“people just do good things sometimes” – Pinkish Blu

In the darkest times, music can lift us up. Today was supposed to be the last day of the Greater Sydney lockdown, but as that date approached I think most of us knew we were headed for more of the same. For me, knowing that Adelaide band Pinkish Blu were dropping their sophomore EP people just do good things sometimes, was the silver lining. I’ve been listening to an advance copy for the last couple of weeks and I’m thrilled that now everyone gets the opportunity, perhaps when they need it most.

I raved about the singles “Backward” and “Start a Band” on their release, so I’m thrilled to wrap my ears around more of Pinkish Blu’s music. Opening track “Old Blue” starts like a modern lullaby, gently drawing us in until the beat drops. It’s such a clever song, with its contrasting movements taking us on enough twists and turns to remind us that Pinkish Blu are no ordinary indie-pop band. Their synth-heavy sound reminds me of international bands like LANY, The 1975, and The Band CAMINO, but there’s a special something that sets them apart.

The remaining songs go down easy. I was reminded just how much I love the singles, yet impressed that the unreleased tracks are every bit as strong. The twists and turns continue as we move from the upbeat banger, “Backward” to the more intimate ballad “Over Me.” Initially “Cop Cars” seemed like a strange choice a closing track, but the more I listened to this subtle ballad, the more it won my heart. And besides, more often than not I find myself hitting play and starting this EP all over again.

Pinkish Blu make the kind of happy-sad songs that I want to hear right now. Their lyrics explore some tough themes but they’re wrapped up in these perfect pop sounds that balance the darkness with light. people just do good things sometimes is out now. The band will play the following shows this October to support its release.

1 October 2021 – The Leadbeater, Melbourne
2 October 2021 – Oxford Art Factory, Sydney
9 October 2021 – The Lab, Adelaide

Image used with permission from Beehive PR: feature image credit Noah Sutherland

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Archie Roach Celebrates Emerging Indigenous Talent With New Online Series

Living treasure Archie Roach is opening his heart and home for a brand new webseries, Kitchen Table Yarns. The series sees Archie chatting with up-and-coming First Nations artists about their songs, communities, and language.

“When I started off in music nobody had much of a clue about who I was and what I was writing about,” Archie explained. ”I was considered a curiosity. Yarning at my kitchen table with these young artists will help people understand who they are and give them another platform to promote their music. The kitchen table has always been a place of inspiration for me. It’s a place where I’ve written most of my songs, drank many cups of tea, ate meals, played music whilst my children ran around making plenty of noise. It represents family, community and love. We thought it would be a great idea to have a YouTube series and conversation at the kitchen table. It’s important their voices are heard so they don’t have to go through what I went through. They are our future and when the time comes for us older singer-songwriters to finish up we know it’s in good hands.”

Unlike so many people his age, Archie is an old hand at producing online content. When 2020 wiped out what was meant to be his final national tour, he launched a YouTube series celebrating the songs from Charcoal Lane to connect with his audience.

The first two episodes of his new 12-part series, featuring Allara Briggs Patterson and Marlon X Rulla, drop on Archie’s YouTube channel on August 4 and 18. We’ll get a new episode on the first Wednesday of every month after that.

Archie also plans to get out on the road again next week. Tickets are on sale now for his Tell Me Why tour.

16 July 2021 – Her Majesty’s Theatre, Adelaide
6 August 2021 – Archie Roach in Conversation at Byron Writers Festival, Byron Bay
7 August 2021 – Norpa, Lismore
8 August 2021 – Saraton Theatre, Grafton
11 August 2021 – Jetty Memorial Theatre, Coffs Harbour
12 August 2021 – Glasshouse Theatre, Port Macquarie
13 August 2021 – City Hall, Newcastle
14 August 2021 – Anita’s Theatre, Thirroul
17 August 2021 – Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre, Bathurst
18 August 2021 – Dubbo Regional Theatre & Convention Centre, Dubbo
12 December 2021 – Perth Concert Hall, Perth

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Sophisticated Dingo Releases Anthem for the Working Week, “Day in the Life”

Getting over the hurdle of Hump Day is hard, but Sophisticated Dingo are here to wake you up with their latest single “Day in the Life.” These guys have always been bold, but their latest track is a real shock to the system. It’s surf-punk turned up to 11 with relatable lyrics about surviving the daily grind.

“I was not enjoying my job, and with time this fed into my wider life that I found myself not enjoying as a whole,” explained frontman Lewis Matte of the song’s inspiration. “At first, I didn’t accept that work was causing me grief, and I’d block out the idea that I was unhappy at all. After a lot of self-reflection and some time in therapy, I came to realise that my job was making me unhappy and this was affecting my overall enjoyment of life. Making the choice to start looking for a new job, and then eventually landing a new role was a really empowering moment.”

“If I could go back and give my younger self one piece of advice, it would be to take the time to think about what you want to do, research how to get the opportunity to do it, and try it out before committing your life to it. This is more important than doing what anyone else thinks you ‘should’ do.”

Despite the threat of COVID still looming large, Sophisticated Dingo have been kicking goals in 2021, playing six sold-out shows in their hometown of Melbourne. The rest of East Coast will get to see why they’re so beloved when they go on the road in a couple of months’ time. Catch them at the following shows:

4 September 2021 – O’Skulligans, Brisbane
16 September 2021 – Sideways, Canberra (FREE)
17 September 2021 – The Chippendale Hotel, Sydney
18 September 2021 – Dicey Rileys, Wollongong (FREE)
1 October 2021 – The Tote Hotel, Melbourne
8 October 2021 – Amplifier Bar, Perth

Image used with permission from Habit Music Co.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Sunset Sounds Announce Amazing Bill for Hunter Valley and Mornington Shows

With all of New South Wales either under stay-at-home orders or facing other restrictions and Victoria still smarting from countless lockdowns, I think we could all do with something to look forward to. Thank god for the team, from Sunset Sounds who promise to bring great music to outdoor venues in both states this summer.

The line-up is stacked with Kasey Chambers, Pete Murray, Xavier Rudd, Ben Lee, and Josh Pyke all on the bill. Expect laidback vibes and a whole lot of fun, with music scheduled from the afternoon through the evening.

“I’m stoked to join the lineup for Sunset Sounds festival on Wonnarua Country (Hunter Valley) and to share some new music on stage. It’s an exciting time for people, a time to reset, a time for gratitude, a time to remember how lucky we are that we can celebrate life, love, music etc so freely in this magical country that we get to call home. And it’s been a very long time since I’ve been to the Mornington Peninsula and I’m stoked to be traveling there for Sunset Sounds festival. This is gonna be special day on magical Bunurong country, let’s light it up!! Can’t wait!” said Xavier Rudd.

Sunset Sounds hits Roche Estate in the Hunter Valley on November 20 before travelling to Hastings Foreshore Reserve in the Mornington Peninsula on November 28. Tickets for both shows are available now through Ticketek. These will be COVID-safe, over 18s shows. If organisers need to postpone, all ticket holders can transfer their tickets to the new date or claim a full refund.

Image used with permission from On the Map PR

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Matt Joe Gow and Ben Mastwyk Prepare for Victorian Tour

Victoria, I am jealous of you right now. Not only are you probably in one of the safest places in Australia right now while I’m in lockdown, but two of my favourite artists, Matt Joe Gow and Ben Mastwyk, have teamed up for shows near you. Yes, as I’m awaiting the imminent cancellation of all my upcoming events, you guys have these two high-quality acts coming your way.

The gigs will showcase their unique takes on Americana music. Most dates are acoustic, but the Brunswick Ballroom show will see Matt reunite with his band The Dead Leaves while Ben plays as a trio. Catch these acclaimed artists doing what they do best at the following shows:

2 July 2021 – Music On The Hill, Red Hill
11 July 2021 – Brunswick Ballroom, Brunswick
16 July 2021 – Macedon Railway Hotel, Macedon
18 July 2021 – Archies Creek Hotel, Archies Creek
24 July 2021 – Major Tom’s, Kyneton
25 July 2021 – Bittern House Concert, Bittern
30 July 2021 – Saints & Sailors, Portarlington
31 July 2021 – Pistol Pete’s, Geelong

Image used with permission from Matt Joe Gow

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

MAXON Drops Stunning New Single, “Best Shot”

Melbourne singer-songwriter MAXON speaks for anyone who’s ever felt the weight of societal pressure with her latest single “Best Shot.” She was inspired to write the track after a conversation with her family about pursuing a career in psychology because she’d given music her “best shot.”

The lyrics are so powerful and the song’s simple instrumentation ensures they really shine through. I also love MAXON’s voice, so rich and dripping with gravitas.

MAXON will play a string of shows in her hometown to celebrate the release. Discover more of her music at the following venues:

8 July 2021 – Small Time, Brunswick (to be streamed live on Facebook)
24 October 2021 – Sooki Lounge, Melbourne (supporting Alexis Naylor)
31 October 2021 – Swamplands Bar, Melbourne (supporting Alexis Naylor)

Image used with permission from GYRO PR

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Bootleg Rascal and Saint Lane Team Up For “All About You”

You know when some of our best and brightest join forces, magic is bound to happen. Bootleg Rascal and Saint Lane’s new collaboration, “All About You,” had me from the first note. The cool, catchy track is just what you need to take you to the weekend.

“’All About You’ is the first Bootleg Rascal song entirely produced by Jim and myself. As we’ve spent more time off the road than ever before, we’ve shifted our attention to being more hands-on in the studio,” said Bootleg Rascal frontman, Carlos Lara. “The song itself is about love in the modern era, and how technology plays an integral role into shaping our behaviours and the way we interact with one another.” he continues.

Bootleg Rascal will play two shows in Queensland in the coming months. Will Gold Coast-based rapper Saint Lane join them at any of the shows? I guess you’ll just have to head along to find out!

Image used with permission from Good Intent

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Fall Head Over Heels for Buttered’s New Single, “Love”

As days of the week go, Mondays aren’t very sexy. Usually. But like me, you might just change your mind once you wrap your ears around “Love,” the super-smooth new single from Gold Coast duo Buttered. This one takes me right back to the ‘90s, when slow jams from acts like Boyz II Men, Jodeci, and Dru Hill were in regular rotation on my stereo.

“Love blends groove and emotion leaving the listener feeling elevated. “Love” is about the beginning of true commitment. The excitement and possibilities that come with creating a life with someone. It’s also about how that feeling translates universally. The shape and size of our love in every part of our lives colour and intensifies everything we are,” Buttered explained. “The classic Wurlitzer drives through the entire song accompanying the strong vocal hooks and delicate guitar parts. Picture yourself dancing softly with your partner reminiscing on many years of joy. That’s how the listener will feel at the end of this track. good luck getting it out of your head!”

You’ll get the chance to dance along to their music in person soon, with Buttered heading out on a single tour next month. Catch them at the following venues this July:

2 July 2021 – Solbar, Maroochydore
15 July 2021 – The Bearded Lady, Brisbane
16 July 2021 – Miami Marketta, Gold Coast
30 July 2021 – The Northern, Byron Bay

Image used with permission from GD FRNDS

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Hurricane Fall Get Crossover Country Sound So Right With “Another One More Time”

Hurricane Fall were formed in Tamworth, but with a move to Newcastle they seem to be embracing a crossover-country sound. Their latest track “Another One More Time” is sure to appeal to people who love blasting Keith Urban and Morgan Evans.

“Another One More Time is a song about the undeniable connection that simmers below the subconscious,” explained the band’s singer and bass player, Pepper Deroy, “until the catalytic combination of booze and loneliness bring on an explosion of emotion that has you reaching for the phone … just one more time …”

If you think it sounds good in the studio, just wait until you see these guys live. They pride themselves on performing, and after recently playing regional New South Wales they show no signs of slowing down. Catch them on the stages of the following festivals in the coming months.

2 July 2021 – Hats Off to Country @ West Tamworth Leagues Club, Tamworth
3 July 2021 – Bush to Bay Festival @ Bay Central Tavern, Hervey Bay
27 August 2021 – Gympie Music Muster @ Amamoor Creek State Forest, Gympie
1 & 2 October 2021 – Deni Ute Muster, Deniliquin
3 October 2021 – VDMFest Rock Edge Country Music Festival @ Showgrounds, Biloela
15 October 2021 – Wingham Akoostik Music Festival @ Wingham Showgrounds, Wingham
16 October 2021 – Country by the River @ Sturt Reserve, Murray Bridge

Image used with permission from Wildheart Publicity

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Casey Barnes Announces More Tour Dates to Support Smash Single

You might remember me writing about Casey Barnes’ single “Come Turn Me On” back in March. Since then, the song has blown up. It’s number one on every country music chart in Australia, it’s been number one for four weeks on the country airplay chart, and it’s in the top 40 for all genres on iTunes. This is Casey’s third number one single in the last 12 months. No wonder he’s the most played country artist on mainstream radio and the number one independent artist in the country.

But he’s not one to rest on his laurels. Along with already announced appearances at the Gympie Music Muster and Savannah in the Round, Casey’s announced a stack more shows. He’s also bringing along some talented friends, including Josh Setterfield, The Buckleys, Rachael Fahim, and Taylor Moss. If you didn’t catch him last time he toured the country, or you’re just keen for another go round, here are all the dates you need.

19 June 2021 – Hamilton Hotel, Brisbane
25 June 2021 – The Red Hot Country Festival @ Nightquarter, Sunshine Coast
26 June 2021 – Miami Marketta, Gold Coast
3 July 2021 – Leichhardt Hotel, Rockhampton
9 July 2021 – Paddington RSL, Sydney
10 July 2021 – Country to the Coast Festival, Gosford
16 July 2021 – Dalrymple Hotel, Townsville
17 July 2021 – Edge Hill Tavern, Cairns
26 and 27 August 2021 – Gympie Music Muster, Gympie
1 October 2021 – Savannah in the Round, Mareeba
31 October 2021 – Goulburn Valley Country Music Festival, Shepparton

Image used with permission from Sue Mac Media