Tag: East Coast tour

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Sam Fischer Kicks Off Aussie Tour Next Month

Sam Fischer’s homecoming tour is just around the corner. Now based in Los Angeles, there just aren’t enough opportunities to see this local success story in our backyard. He’s back on our shores to promote his fabulous debut album I Love You, Please Don’t Hate Me, which I’ve had on repeat for the last week on so.

If you haven’t already taken a listen, make sure you do. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a better pop album released in recent years. It features some fantastic collaborations with Demi Lovato, Meghan Trainor, and Amy Shark and some incredible solo material. The title track and “Watching My World Fall Apart” have become firm favourites for me.

You can almost guarantee that Sam won’t be playing such small intimate venues next time he’s in town. Take the opportunity to see him up close and personal while you can and snap up one of the last remaining tickets for these shows:

9 May 2024 – The Zoo, Meeanjin/Brisbane
10 May 2024 – Oxford Art Factory, Eora/Sydney
11 May 2024 – Howler, Naarm/Melbourne

Image used with permission from beehive

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

Fall In Love With Franjapan

I love falling down a musical rabbit hole. I intend on listening to a band’s current single, but end up devouring their entire back catalogue. The latest band to fire me up that way is Franjapan. Trust me, if your Hump Day is anything like mine, they’ll give you the pick-me-up you need to make it through. Sitting somewhere between The Strokes and Sam Fender, they make some of the catchiest rock music I’ve heard in some time. Take a listen to their new single “Lucy,” but don’t be surprised if like me you find yourself tuning in to the rest of their songs.

“The song was written about a night I had at a party,” explained the Naarm/Melbourne band’s guitarist and vocalist, Rhys Fraser-White. “It’s simply an observation of the activities or values that are ever-present in the youthful nightlife. I believe the essence of the song is an attempt to capture the lustful innocence of our youth before its impending end. A snapshot of a moment in time.”

“The guitar riff and chord progression came first. They’re heavily inspired by Sam Fender’s guitar playing (very tasty). We love Sam and his band. The verse lyrics followed shortly after. Once I had the riff and verse lyrics down, I showed Spencer [Ward, guitar/vocals] the song and we constructed a chorus and bridge in a matter of minutes. We brought the finished song to Dennis [Sehovic, guitar], Oli [Collins, drums], and Oscar [Macalpine, bass] who each added their own unique touches. The finished product is ‘Lucy’.”

Franjapan are currently touring the East Coast, headlining shows for the very first time. You can still catch them at the following gigs:
28 April 2023 – The Barrie, Eora/Sydney (FREE)
30 April 2023 – The North Gong Hotel, Dharawal Country/Wollongong (FREE)

Image used with permission from beehive; credit: Jontee Langton

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

DICE Drop “Stockholm” Single Ahead of EP Release and East Coast Tour

DICE have already sold out plenty of shows on their upcoming tour, but the release of their fabulous new single “Stockholm” should move the rest of those tickets. You know what to do. Press play and enjoy three minutes of exquisite surf rock. Then point your browser to snap up tickets to a show near you, if you haven’t already done so!

“Our latest single, ‘Stockholm’ is a Gen-Z take on the concept of Stockholm Syndrome. The track’s lyrics delve into the intrusive thoughts that arise when you feel trapped within a group of people whose morals and values don’t align with yours and you feel unable to escape the situation yet are forced to be around them,” the band explained. “The process of making this track felt a lot more thought out and perfected than our previous songs. The foundation for the track was made 6 months ago while touring however we continued to work and refine the song to really hone in on the cohesiveness of all the parts. Taking more influence from Brit-Pop we are finding our sound is maturing with each release all while learning that sometimes overthinking parts of a song can hinder our momentum.”

“Stockholm” gives us another taste of DICE’s sophomore EP Time Will Tell, which drops on May 4. You can count on the band playing songs from that release and old favourites at the following gigs:

11 May 2023 – Burleigh Bazaar, Yugambeh Country/Gold Coast (SELLING FAST)
12 May 2023 – Beach Hotel, Cavanbah/Byron Bay (FREE)
13 May 2023 – Spaced Out Festival, Meeanjin/Brisbane
17 May 2023 – La La Las, Dharawal Country/Wollongong (SOLD OUT)
18 May 2023 – Waywards, Eora/Sydney (SOLD OUT)
19 May 2023 – Waywards, Eora/Sydney (SOLD OUT)
20 May 2023 – Cambridge Hotel, Mulbinba/Newcastle (SOLD OUT)
25 May 2023 – Republic Bar, Nipaluna/Hobart
26 May 2023 – Corner Hotel, Naarm/Melbourne (SOLD OUT)
27 May 2023 – Crown & Anchor, Tartanya/Adelaide (SOLD OUT)
28 May 2023 – Crown & Anchor, Tartanya/Adelaide
10 June 2023 – The Rechabite, Boorloo/Perth

Image used with permission from beehive

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Reckless Coast Rock Out With “Gossip”

Given their name, you might expect Meeanjin/Brisbane band Reckless Coast to create laidback acoustic tunes to soundtrack your beach tunes. Press play on their latest track “Gossip” and in just a few seconds you’ll realise they’re not that band. Not even close. Reckless Coast can rock with the best of them, so strap yourself in and enjoy the ride.

“Gossip was written to cause pure chaos live,” said songwriter and frontman Jaeden Ogston. “I wanted an anarchic energy to the song, and I think we definitely delivered on that!”

“I can’t get enough of playing this song live,” added bassist India Raine. “Our energy goes full throttle and I love seeing the crowd’s uncontained response.”

Are you getting the idea that this band loves being on stage? Fresh from supporting Aussie rock icons The Poor, Reckless Coast will play shows along the East Coast next month. Here are all the dates you need:

3 March 2023 – The Espy, Euro Yuroke/St. Kilda (FREE)
4 March 2023 – Bad Decisions, Ngár-go/Fitzroy
16 March 2023 – Hamilton Station Hotel, Mulubinba/Newcastle (FREE)
17 March 2023 – Burdekin Hotel, Eora/Sydney
19 March 2023 – Last Rites, Yaegl/Yamba
31 March 2023 – Tomcat, Meeanjin/Brisbane

Image used with permission from Reyco Records; credit: Will Johnstone

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Good Lekker Drop New Bop, “Show I Care”

Good Lekker are bringing the summer vibes with their dancetastic new single “Show I Care.” It’s an absolute charmer which is sure to get your toes tapping, at the very least!

“I tried to keep the lyrics as simple as possible in ‘Show I Care’,” vocalist Joshua Fahy explained. “To an extent, I want listeners to be able to imbed their own meaning into the song, however they relate to it. Context is impossible to escape when writing, however. This song reflects me, in my mid-20s, unsure of what comes next in life. It’s about dragging others along for the ride while goals dissipate and past dreams begin to look foreign to yourself. It’s about the transience of friendship as everyone moves on to different stages of life and the difficulties of keeping in touch. It’s about trying to glue all these parts into a half-decent collage and loving what you make. Take your pick for what appeals to you.”

The Eora/Sydney band will hit the road this May with shows in all the East Coast capitals. May might seem like a long way off, but it’ll be here before you know it. Put these dates in your calendar so you don’t miss out!

20 May 2023 – Lady Hampshire, Eora/Sydney
26 May 2023 – The Workers Club, Naarm/Melbourne
27 May 2023 – O’Skulligans, Meeanjin/Brisbane

Image used with permission from Good Intent

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Waxflower Headlining East Coast EP Tour

After recently wowing crowds as the support act for Trophy Eyes, Waxflower are ready to headline their own shows. The Brisbane pop-punk act will showcase songs from their latest EP on The Tour of What Went Wrong which kicks off next week.

These guys are known for their high-energy shows and anthemic set lists that encourage you to sing along. While the shows celebrate their latest releases, you can expect plenty of your old favourites will also get a run.

The Sound of What Went Wrong EP is on all your favourite streaming services now. Get acquainted if you’re not already, because it’s chockful of bangers. Then get your tickets to one of the following gigs.

4 June 2022 – Waywards, Sydney
17 June 2022 – The Gasometer Hotel, Melbourne
18 June 2022 – Black Bear Lodge, Brisbane

Image used with permission from Habit Music Co.; credit: Mitch Lowe

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Anna Smyrk Brings Island Adventures to Life With “Benjamin”

After growing up on a Victorian lavender farm, Anna Smyrk has spread her wings in recent years, making her home in far-flung parts of the world including Cambodia, the Philippines, and the Solomon Islands. Her time in the Solomons inspired her latest song “Benjamin,” a folky fish-out-of-water tale about finding your peace far from home.

Anna recorded the track in a Central Victorian farmhouse with a host of old friends on mandolin, double bass, banjo, dobro, and her sister on backing vocals.

“It was definitely a family affair,” says Anna. “I just had a couple of weeks back home, so I pulled together friends that I’ve played with for years. It made the recording process really comfortable.”

“Benjamin” is the first track lifted from Anna’s sophomore EP, which tells more tales of her time spent abroad. It’s due for release in October, but you can hear a sneak peek at the shows she’s playing along the East Coast. Catch her at the following venues in the coming weeks.

24 April 2019 – Red Bar, Sydney
25-28 April 2019 – St Albans Folk Festival, St Albans
1 May 2019 – Scullion Sessions, The Stag & Hunter Hotel, Newcastle
5 May 2019 – The Folk Studio, Armidale
7 May 2019 – Cambus Wallace, Gold Coast
8 May 2019 – Can You Keep a Secret?, Brisbane
9 May 2019 – City Sounds, Brisbane
10 May 2019 – Dusty Attic, Lismore
14 June 2019 – Merri Creek Tavern, Melbourne

Image used with permission from Anna Smyrk

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Columbus Tour East Coast

Brisbane punk band Columbus have really impressed me with the heartfelt vocals and razor-sharp lyrics showcased on their new EP Home Remedy. It seems I’m not the only one, as the band has just signed a deal with North American booking agency The Agency Group, who represent guys like Less than Jake and Anti Flag.

But before the boys take off to the States, they’ll play some local shows along the East Coast. Entry is $10 for all gigs except for Toowoomba which is free.

17 April 2015 – Captain Cook Hotel, Sydney
18 April 2015 – Small Ballroom, Newcastle
23 April 2015 – The Workers Club, Melbourne
1 May 2015 – The Spotted Cow, Toowoomba (FREE)
9 May 2015 – The Foundry, Brisbane

Image used with permission from Habit Music Company

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Tempest Riding, Red Bee, and Let the Number be X Team Up for Massive Metal Tour

Three of Australia’s most exciting metal acts – Perth’s Tempest Rising, Sydney’s Red Bee, and Newcastle’s Let the Number be X – have joined forces for one massive East Coast tour this autumn. The acts will bust eardrums in the capitals and key regional centres this March and April.

Take a listen to this little sampler of their music, and if you like what you hear make sure you get along to the following shows. Let the Number Be X will have to miss the New South Wales shows, but Not Another Sequel, Just Another Prequel will do a fine job filling in. Tickets are just $10 at the door except for Penrith which is free!

19 March 2015 – Barwon Club, Geelong
20 March 2015 – The Music Man Megastore, Bendigo
21 March 2015 – The Worker’s Club, Melbourne
3 April 2015 – Bald Faced Stag, Sydney
4 April 2015 – Tattersalls, Penrith (FREE)
16 April 2015 – Currumbin Creek Hotel, Gold Coast
17 April 2015 – VIBE, Indoroopilly
18 April 2015- Chardons Corner Hotel, Brisbane