Tag: Dylan Wright

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Half a World Away” – Dylan Wright

My review of Dylan Wright’s EP, Half a World Away, has been a long time coming. I intended to write it before I left for New Zealand, but time got away. And then I had my car accident, and I started to wonder whether it was even relevant anymore given that this EP dropped in October. But then I started to think about it, and I didn’t want you guys to miss it, especially considering Dylan has just been named as Tina Arena’s support on her upcoming tour.

This isn’t your typical post-Idol release. It’s better than that. There are no covers. There’s not even his winner’s single. It’s just fantastic, original music that really showcases who Dylan is. His words, his voice.

The opening track “Little Lost” is the perfect introduction to this collection of songs. It’s warm and stripped back, anchored by Dylan’s vocals and acoustic guitar. Its classic sound makes me hungry for road trips. He takes things up a notch with “All I Need, a darker song driven by yearning and heart. There’s a similar vibe to “Back to You.” We didn’t see this brooding side on Idol, but gritty tracks like these provide great contrast to the lighter moments. “Mess of a Man” may be my favourite song on this EP. It’s so raw and honest. At a time when we still expect men to be so strong, it’s refreshing to hear one share their broken parts. Dylan’s love for his family was well-documented through his Idol journey, so it’s only fitting that he shares a little of his joy surrounding that with us too. “Old Oak Tree” is such a beautiful, uplifting song about legacy and tradition, a celebration of the best parts of the human experience. The gospel-tinged title track shows us a different sound, one that hints that Dylan has more to share in the future.

Recording an EP, with six quality tracks, is a smart choice. Dylan could have taken more time and released an album, but dropping Half a World Away instead capitalises on his moment in the sun, ensuring we get to really know him and don’t forget him like so many people who’ve taken the Idol crown in the past. Could he be the one to reverse that Idol trend? It’s too early to say, but I really hope so. As I mentioned, Dylan will tour Australia with Tina Arena next year. Presale tickets are available now for the following shows ahead of tomorrow’s general sale:

27 April 2025 – Riverside Theatre, Boorloo/Perth
29 April 2025 – State Theatre, Eora/Sydney
30 April 2025 – State Theatre, Eora/Sydney
4 May 2025 – Evan Theatre, Mulgoa Country/Penrith
6 May 2025 – Civic Theatre, Mulubinba/Newcastle
8 May 2025 – Palais Theatre, Euro-Yroke/St Kilda
9 May 2025 – Palais Theatre, Euro-Yroke/St Kilda
17 May 2025 – Munro Martin Parklands, Gimuy/Cairns
20 May 2025 – Queensland Performing Arts Centre, Meeanjin/Brisbane
21 May 2025 – Queensland Performing Arts Centre, Meeanjin/Brisbane
23 May 2025 – The Star, Yugambeh Country/Gold Coast
30 May 2025 – Her Majesty’s Theatre, Tarntanya/Adelaide

Images used with permission from Sony Music Australia; main photo credit: Marissa Mills

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Dylan Wright Wins Australian Idol

Massive congratulations to Dylan Wright, the nation’s newest Australian Idol. I must admit, I got pretty excited when I saw Dylan walk into the first night of auditions. It might have been the country’s first introduction to Dylan’s music, but long-time readers will be no stranger to Dylan’s talent.

I took the photo above way back in 2018, when he supported Nathan Cavaleri at the Rhythm Hut in Darkinjung Country/Gosford. I was so impressed that I bought his EP, The Long Way Home. Then in 2020, I covered his single “Passing Through” here on Sounds of Oz. It’s been so exciting to see Australia discover what we already knew at Sounds of Oz, that Dylan is the real deal. It’s so thrilling to know the nation has chosen an Idol with a wealth of original material who can really use this platform and launch a successful career.

I’ve also been really excited to see Idol return to it’s former glory this year. The talent has been stellar. I would have been thrilled for most of the top 12 to take the crown. But I’ve also appreciated the format tweaks that have allowed us to see more of the artists than in previous years. Even those eliminated early sang for us more than those who won in previous years, because we heard them through the audition process, group numbers, and eliminations. I’ve always said for artists to have successful careers after any of these reality contests, we need to see them enough times to understand who they are and fall in love with them.

I remember when Idol returned and people said the nation didn’t need another singing contest. Honestly though, I do think we need a singing contest like this, especially when there are so few opportunities for artists to show what they can do on live TV. That goes for both the new talents and more established artists. Unless you’re reading a blog like mine, you probably wouldn’t know Jess Mauboy and Delta Goodrem had new releases. When it’s done right, Australian Idol is good for the country’s music industry. I’m so glad to see it back to its best, and with such a worthy winner. Way to go Dylan!

Image source: own photo

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Dylan Wright’s Latest Song “Passing Through” Resonates

Dylan Wright started writing his latest single in 2016, “Passing Through” when Donald Trump won the American election and the world seemed so chaotic. Four years later, there’s even more turbulence and unrest. As Victorians are in lockdown and the rest of Australia nervously watches COVID-19 cases climb, this track’s lyrics hit hard.

“The song talks about the world as we know it crumbling down around us but that there is a light within all of us that will get us through our darkest days, even though we may not think we’ll be able to get through as first,” Dylan explained. “Unfortunately, there have been many disasters and tragedies over the past couple of years since I wrote ‘Passing Through’ and that light still does shine out from us in those moments.”

Gigs are few and far between these days, but Dylan recently managed shows in Sydney and Mudgee. Follow his Facebook page for news of any upcoming gigs as they’re announced.

Image used with permission from Revolutions per Minute

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Nathan Cavaleri @ The Rhythm Hut, Gosford – 4 November 2018

When Lizotte’s closed the doors of the “cubbyhouse” in Kincumber around three and a half years ago, I worried the Central Coast might start missing out on shows. I don’t mind driving up and down the Pacific Highway if I need to, but there’s something so lovely about seeing gigs close to home. Rather than missing out though, other venues have stepped up to fill the void. Laycock Street Theatre is securing more musicians, and Wyong’s built The Art House. These venues are wonderful, but they don’t quite have that welcoming, comforting quality a night out at Lizotte’s had. So last night I was thrilled to discover a venue that does: The Rhythm Hut.

I’ve been intending to visit this Gosford arts space for some time, but the stars never quite aligned. When I was offered a pair of tickets for the Nathan Cavaleri show last night, I couldn’t refuse. The Rhythm Hut isn’t like most music venues. You feel like you’re heading towards someone’s house for a backyard barbeque rather than performance space as you walk down the steps to its outdoor patio area bordered by succulents. Inside there are mismatched couches at the back and along the sides and pillows and beanbags around the front near the stage. One half of the bar is for drinks, like the local Six Strings beers and decent wine served in real glasses, while the other serves hearty dishes and desserts. Last night it was vegetarian or chicken paella and brownies, but I hear the menu changes depending on what the volunteers make.

That’s right: volunteers. The Rhythm Hut is a non-profit performance space. When it’s not hosting local and international musicians, there are open mic nights and drumming workshops. Everyone seems to know everyone, and even if you’re a newcomer you’ll feel you’re going home part of the community. The hosts encourage the audience to make new friends between acts. So it seemed totally natural that I got chatting to the gentleman next to me and his adorable long-haired chihuahua. He wasn’t even the only dog enjoying the music.

This unique space really was the perfect venue for this show. Support act Dylan Wright might have gotten swallowed up in a larger venue, but here you could have heard a pin drop as he delivered his spine-tingling folky tunes. His original songs were outstanding, but I couldn’t help smiling at his slowed-down take on Rick James’ “Super Freak.” I was excited to see Nathan, but I must admit I was a little disappointed when his set ended. I snapped up his EP so I can listen more. I’m an instant fan.

Nathan Cavaleri has been out of the spotlight in recent years, but when I was growing up he was a household name, the cute kid who had leukemia and a natural gift for the guitar. It’s a gift that has taken him all over the world and seen him share bills with BB King, Elton John, Robert Plant, and Jimmy Page, to name but a few. As you can imagine, now all grown-up Nathan has some stories to tell. While there were the superstar anecdotes, he wasn’t afraid to reveal more personal tales of his battles with anxiety, depression, and self-doubt.

The stories helped punctuate a set that was truly something special. With good mate Kenny by his side, Nathan left no doubt that the guitar skills he showcased as a kid on numerous TV shows haven’t gone anywhere. In fact, he might play even better now, combining his natural flair with a dirtier blues sensibility. Originals sat comfortable among tributes to his influences, including Ben Harper, Fleetwood Mac, and of course, the great BB King. They were played with such joy and the whole crowd responded, whether they were nodding their heads from their seats or dancing with wild abandon around the sides of the venue.

Last night Nathan Cavaleri put on one of those performances that just feels good for the soul. I can’t imagine a better venue for this show or to wrap up his “Demons” tour. It felt like a house party, one of those nights where someone has a guitar and starts to jam spontaneously. Except as we all know, Nathan is much handier with an axe than your average party guest.

Image source: own photos