The Smith Street Band Reveals Recording Process in Behind-the-Scenes Clip

The Smith Street Band wrote songs for their new album Throw Me in the River in far-flung places including Winnipeg, Salt Lake City, London, New York, Calgary, and North Melbourne. But when it came to putting those tracks down, they looked to the solitude of the small Victorian town of Forrest.

Forrest has just 170 people, and many of them turned out to the local pub The Wonky Donkey to check out a surprise solo set from frontman Wil Wagner. On October 31, we’ll finally get to hear what they heard as Throw Me in the River hits stores. This video gives us a little sneak peek at the recording process.

I love the idea of escaping the hustle and bustle to record an album. They’ll be back in the thick of it in November though when they showcase Throw Me in the River at the following gigs.
19 November 2014 – Brisbane Hotel, Hobart (18+)
20 November 2014 –The Gov, Adelaide (Licensed All Ages)
21 November 2014 –The Hi-Fi, Brisbane (18+)
22 November 2014 –Manning Bar, Sydney (18+)
23 November 2014 – Zierholz @ UC, Canberra (18+)
28 November 2014 –Corner Hotel, Melbourne (18+)
29 November 2014 –Rosemount Hotel, Perth (18+)

Brittany Cairns Back with “Behind the Scenes”

All eyes are firmly on the new crop of The Voice contestants, but it’s worth noting that some of last year’s finalists are carving out credible careers away from the glare of the television cameras. One such talent is Brittany Cairns, who’s just released her new single “Behind the Scenes”.

If you’re a Taylor Swift fan, you’re going to love this. There are similar sweet vocals and the diary-style narrative recounting the optimism of young love feels very familiar. It’s pretty inoffensive stuff and it’s not likely to change the world, but that’s not a criticism. It takes real talent to create a song so accessible. Brittany’s had a little help from Rod Conley on that score, but she’s clearly got some songwriting chops. I’m looking forward to hearing more from Brittany when she releases her debut EP later this year.

Go Behind the Scenes with Barry Southgate on EP Artwork Shoot

When I posted Barry Southgate’s new song “Don’t You Think?” you all made it very clear that you liked what you heard. So I figured it was only fair that I gave you a little more of the man himself as we head towards the release of his debut EP Epitome.

This video takes you behind the scenes of the EP’s artwork shoot. The man behind the camera is Steven Taylor, who’s also worked with Bruno Mars, Ne-Yo, and John Mayer. Clearly he knows his stuff.

Make sure you watch it right through to the end to hear a little snippet of the EP!

Damien Leith Takes Us Behind the Scenes of "Forgive Forget" Video Shoot

I know there are plenty of Damien Leith fans out there so I figured I’d give you all a look behind the scenes of his latest video shoot for “Forgive Forget.”

Damien sounded especially proud of this song, which he co-wrote with Stuart Crichton (Pet Shop Boys, Kylie Minogue), when he spoke to me last September, and from what we hear of it here it’s easy to understand why. I also figure if you’ve got to make a film clip, doing it lying down is the way to go! That’s great work if you can get it.

“Forgive Forget” was released today, so you should hear it in full soon!