Tag: Rome

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Vermantics Rock Our With “Rome”

Recent Universal Music signing Vermantics are making a splash with their latest single “Rome.” This is straight-up rock and roll delivered with confidence and plenty of heart. The Naarm/Melbourne band says the song draws influence from their Italian ancestry. The European capital acts as a metaphor for the emotional to-and-fro many people feel coming out of a relationship.

“Everyone has a place that they use to love, but it’s now ‘unliveable’. Wishful thinking doesn’t help. [confusing starts with satellites],” explained Damian Rustico, who plays guitar and keys. “The line ‘I don’t wanna be there is a plead that you want to be anywhere else, but you’re still drawn to those memories and places, even though you know she’s not thinking of you or feeling the same.”

Vermantics will headline two shows in the coming weeks to celebrate the release of “Rome”. Catch them at Penny’s Band Room in Naarm/Melbourne on July 29 or Low Life Bar in Kaurna Land/Adelaide on August 12.

Image used with permission from R&R Worldwide

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Rome” – Josh Pyke

Josh Pyke has kept us waiting five years for a new studio album, but I can’t imagine a better time for his latest collection of songs to enter the world. Rome is a welcome return for this acclaimed Australian singer-songwriter.

There’s a great nostalgia in these songs and a whole lot of love. Tracks like “Still We Carry On” and “You’re My Colour” conjure memories and speak of moments with family and friends. However, they also remind us that nothing lasts forever. Moments pass quickly, and while we hang onto the memories for a time, even they will fade as we do. That might seem bleak, but Josh suggests it can also encourage us to make the most of the time we have. Josh celebrates the passing of time in “Doubting Thomas,” encouraged that “Something good will come around again.” “Where Goes the Girl” is a tale of love lost that constantly reminds us that “It’s all over now,” yet the song still refuses to dwell. The sweet guitar melody and fond lyrics recall with tenderness that at least it happened.

Most Josh Pyke tracks are slow burners, but “I Thought We Were a River” has hit written all over it. Listening to this number, and singing along to those cheery “oo-ahh-oohs,” is an absolute joy. A brassy fanfare makes “Don’t Let It Wait” another song that’s bigger than many fans might expect. However, its message is so crucial, I appreciate the Beatles-esque symphony of sound driving it home. This album has more sonic flourishes than many of his earlier works, but the sound is considered. Everything is exactly where it’s meant to be, enhancing Josh’s message.

Josh’s unmistakable tone, introspective, wise lyrics, and warm, organic tunes feel like the musical equivalent of a big hug right now. They’re comforting, calming, and just what the world needs.

Rome will be released this Friday, August 28. At this stage, Josh still plans play his Fans First shows in October. All shows are for punters 18+:

1 October 2020 – Black Bear Lodge, Brisbane (SOLD OUT)
2 October 2020 – Old Museum, Brisbane (SOLD OUT)
8 October 2020 – The Toff, Melbourne
9 October 2020 – Volta, Ballarat
10 October 2020 – The Toff, Melbourne (SOLD OUT)
11 October 2020 – The Toff, Melbourne
15 October 2020 – Mojos, Fremantle
16 October 2020 – Mojos, Fremantle
17 October 2020 – Lion Arts Factory (Front Deck), Adelaide
28 October 2020 – Lansdowne Hotel, Sydney (SOLD OUT)
29 October 2020 – Lansdowne Hotel, Sydney
30 October 2020 – Lansdowne Hotel, Sydney (SOLD OUT)

Images used with permission from On the Map PR