Sunburnt Country Music

Bud Rokesky on his outstanding second album, Dusk

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 23:31:29 GMT

Bud Rokesky is a singer-songwriter from Brisbane who released his first album, Outsider, in 2023, and if you’re a fan of that album you’ve probably never stopped listening to it, because there’s such richness in it. Then he embarked on a project in 2024 to release two singles a month, and released an album’s worth of material. Now he has a new album, Dusk, with all-new songs – none of them from the 2024 project – and he has given us another LP to fall in love with.

In between those releases he’s been touring, both his own shows and playing supports for other artists. Rokesky on stage is light in his banter and commanding in his performance. And what really stops everyone in their tracks, on the recordings and in the performances, is his voice and this sense that it comes from the deepest well, but that the well isn’t a place of darkness so much as understanding of the vagaries of being human.

This is not music that you can put on in the background and expect to not be drawn into. That’s because Bud Rokesky is here to break your heart and hold a mirror up to your foibles, and challenge you to go with him as he charts the human experience. That’s an artist who rewards close listening, repeated listening, attention, and a willingness to go with him on the road to …

Well, where is that road going to? From my perspective it’s a road to meaning, in a spiritual sense. Rokesky is an artist who inspires that sort of response. If you listen to this album – really listen – you’ll find him on that road and you’ll discover that he’s made it easy for you to go with him. That voice and all it embodies will carry you along. You can find this in just one song, too. If you listen.

So he’s not background music. He’s foreground and will always be. An artist striving for excellence and finding it. If you want music that you don’t have to pay attention to, there’s plenty of that. Bud Rokesky is not making it. He’s making music for people who really love music, who are seekers in many senses of that word; people who love language and the subtleties of the singing voice and who want to be moved by art. It’s a calling; a vocation. We’re lucky that he’s sharing it with us, and I was lucky to have the chance to talk to him about it in this new interview.

Dusk is out now through Warner Music Australia

Listen to Dusk on Apple Music

Listen to Dusk on Spotify

Bud Rokesky on YouTube

BUD ROKESKY AUSTRALIAN TOUR

Tickets are on sale now HERE

Friday 1 May - Bootleggers, Sydney NSW *

Saturday 2 May - Meatstock Fest, Sydney NSW

Sunday 3 May - Full Throttle Ranch, Buttai Valley NSW

Friday 8 May - Shotkickers, Melbourne VIC ^

Saturday 9 May - Shiraz Republic, Cornella VIC

Sunday 10 May - Royal Mail Hotel, Birregurra VIC

Friday 22 May - Junk Bar, Brisbane QLD #

* with supports from Lady Lyon & CJ Stranger

^ with supports from Rupert Bullard & Bad Traffic

# with supports from Hayley Marsten & Jarith Hughes

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The triumphant return of Beccy Cole with her album Through the Haze

Sun, 05 Apr 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Sunburnt Country Music began in earnest – under another title – in late 2011, but its roots were in 2003, when I was in a country music covers band and we played the Tamworth Country Music Festival. One of the songs in our set list – possibly the only Australian song, come to think of it – was ‘Lazy Bones’ by Beccy Cole. It first appeared on her second album, Wild at Heart, released in 2001. It would go on to become a staple of her live set with its extended coda containing a tale – based on truth – that would change each time. ‘Lazy Bones’ live was the essence of Cole’s brilliance as an artist: her facility with language, her tongue-in-cheek self-awareness and attention to detail that, combined, could generate songs both comedic and sincere that would become beloved.

‘Lazy Bones’ was my introduction to Australian country music, and I would go on to inhale Cole’s albums, then those of artists who were associated with her. From there, a whole world opened up and eventually it led to me covering Australian country music, which is what you’re seeing and reading here. In other words: no Beccy Cole, no Sunburnt Country Music.

‘Lazy Bones’ has been retired from the live set but Cole’s brilliance is, thankfully, still very much present, and evident on her latest album, Through the Haze. Born of hard times, which she talks about in our interview – conducted in person at ABC headquarters in Sydney, on the day of the album’s release – it features eleven songs written by Cole alone, and one with Lyn Bowtell, along with a 20th anniversary edition of ‘Poster Girl’, a signature song.

Through the Haze is Cole returning to herself, as we also talk about, and offering hard-won wisdom along with the wit that is so much a part of her songwriting as well as her live performance. She has always been unflinching with herself and with us; she offers her heart and her experiences and makes it clear that we can take them or leave them, but she’d really rather we take them because, through the haze of everything that’s happened to her, we’re the reason she keeps going.

Old fans of Cole’s will love this album. I hope she finds many new fans too. She deserves to, because she’s an icon who doesn’t stand there demanding we polish her marbled feet. She keeps showing up, making music, getting better all the time, thereby encouraging us to do the same.

Through the Haze is out now through ABC Music. Beccy Cole has announced some album launch shows, with more to follow, and I really do recommend you see her live, where she is in her absolute element:

May 7 - Lazybones Lounge, Sydney NSW

May 8 - Full Throttle Ranch, Buttai,

Newcastle NSW

May 9 - The Baroque Room, Katoomba NSW

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Savanah Solomon finds her ‘Someday Somewhere’

Sat, 04 Apr 2026 06:41:41 GMT

Savanah Solomon is a singer-songwriter from Western Australia who has released the singles 'Magnolia' and 'I Don't Know You Anymore', as well as the 2023 EP Where the River Meets the Sea. Her latest single is 'Someday Somewhere', and it is a warm, hopeful song with more than a few great lines in it.

The song was written a couple of years ago, during a period of involuntary limbo. Solomon had just found out she'd secured a fly-in fly-out job, but the start date was months away. With no income, no momentum and a lot of waiting, she turned to pen and paper. What emerged was something close to a personal mantra – a song about sensitivity as a strength, about humour as a survival tool, and about trusting that good things come to those who keep showing up.

One line in particular lands with the elegance of something that sounds obvious only after someone else has said it: Worry is a waste of the imagination.

'Someday Somewhere' was produced by Josh Dyson at Villa Studios in Western Australia; Dyson also plays bass in Solomon's live band and contributes much of the instrumentation on her recordings. The video, directed by Emma Smart, was filmed near Solomon's home and features Solomon riding her father's red lawnmower down golden roadside fields, dressed in a blue op-shop jacket that she'd bought two years earlier with no specific plan, just a feeling it would come in handy. It is, as intended, an exercise in pure joy.

Watch the video: https://youtu.be/xizjqiA020o?si=2mkWASRCYi5BocA-

Since releasing 'Magnolia' last year, Solomon has expanded her reach considerably, supporting Kingswood in Albany, playing Melbourne's Newport Folk Festival (to which she's returning in June), and completing a run of shows in Esperance and Nannup.

An album is on the horizon – a blues and folk-leaning collection focused on storytelling – though Solomon is letting it develop at its own pace. More singles are in progress in the meantime.

‘Someday Somewhere’ is out now.

Listen to Savanah Solomon on Apple Music

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Rising star Camille Trail writes us a ‘Postcard’

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Camille Trail released her debut album River of Sins in 2021 and the EP Magic Trick in 2024. She is known for her thoughtful, articulate and often unflinching lyrics, delivered in a warm, distinctive voice. Her new single 'Postcard' marks a deliberate shift in direction while still being distinctively her.

After a big 2024 that included a UK tour and appearances at Folk Alliance in the United States, Trail spent last year recharging and writing. Personal changes fed into creative ones, and she found herself drawn toward something different – brighter, more energetic, more fun.

‘I love writing my vulnerable, sad songs,’ she says in this new interview, ‘but most of my songs are sad and vulnerable, and it was exhausting. Every night I just wanted to have fun, dance on stage.’

Her latest single, 'Postcard', was written and recorded with producer Garrett Kato across three days in the studio, emerging on the final day when Trail arrived with a verse idea she'd developed the night before. It's not a country tune – but I’m never that strict about such things, especially when I’ve covered an artist before for their country music and I’m interested in whatever they do next.

Instead of being country, ‘Postcard’ is an upbeat, indie-pop flavoured track with the characteristic Camille Trail sleight of hand: there’s a melody that makes you want to move, then you notice that the lyrics are doing something more searching. ‘I'm scared to be alone’ sits in the middle of what sounds, on first listen, like a carefree summer song.

‘I'm such a sucker for juxtaposition,’ says Trail. ‘That's the whole metaphor of life.’

Trail grew up on a farm in Queensland and still keeps cattle – an arrangement that has, on more than one occasion, served as emergency music funding (as she says: ‘I’ll sell a cow’). That grounding in the physical world informs how she writes: melodies come first, words follow in something close to stream of consciousness, often arriving most freely in the car.

Two further songs recorded with Kato are due for release later this year, both in the same fresh, forward-facing direction as 'Postcard'.

‘Postcard’ is out now.

Listen to Camille Trail on Apple Music

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Dylan Wright on a Golden start to the year and ‘Those Nights’

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 07:47:55 GMT

Dylan Wright has two musical identities that most fans will know about – as a solo artist and as one half of Golden Guitar-winning duo Sons of Atticus – and, as it turns out, a third. But more on that in a moment ... Wright’s new solo single is 'Those Nights', and he has announced an extensive Songs & Stories tour running through New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and the ACT from the start of May.

The Golden Guitar, won at this year's Tamworth Country Music Festival for the track ‘Born to Roam’ with Sons of Atticus bandmate Matt Joyce, was for Bluegrass Recording of the Year. It came after seven years of the duo writing and performing together across the breadth of country's traditions.

‘We write music however we feel,’ Wright says. ‘Whatever's coming.’

And a new bluegrass recording is already in the works, as Wright tells me in this new interview. He also talks about his third musical identity: as a member of breathe., an electronic project with over 100 million streams and 850,000 monthly listeners, which recently sold out its first live shows in Turkey and toured Europe. Wright has been part of that project for a decade. ‘It's my darker, moodier self,’ he says.

Wright’s latest solo single, 'Those Nights', was written in December 2023 and initially shelved when he won Australian Idol in 2024, one of around fifty songs he’s written that have been waiting for the right moment. It's a warm, nostalgic late-summer single and Wright’s vocal, as ever, lures us in and keeps us there. His talent and adaptability as singer means that there’s always something new to find in his songs, and ‘Those Nights’ offers another aspect to musicality.

‘Those Nights’ kicks off the release of between twenty and thirty songs that the prolific northern New South Wales artist has planned for release across all of his projects this year. Everything, he says, is mapped out twelve to eighteen months in advance.

In amongst those releases is the Songs & Stories tour, which will see Wright performing entirely alone – just him and a guitar – for the first time. He’ll be playing songs spanning his whole career, from busking days to the present, with the stories behind them. Venues include the Brass Monkey in Cronulla, where he first played at sixteen, the Stag and Hunter in Newcastle, Brunswick Picture House in Brunswick Heads, and Odessa at Levers in Victoria.

As ever, it was a pleasure to talk to Wright – he’s always thoughtful and interesting, an artist with a sense of the bigger picture who is also interested in the details.

‘Those Nights’ is out now through Sony Music Australia.

Listen to Dylan Wright on Apple Music

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Tom Busby goes solo for his Rockhampton Hangover

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Tom Busby is well known to Australian music fans as one half of beloved duo Busby Maru. That duo remains very much a going concern, but Busby has now released his first solo album – the warm and deeply personal Rockhampton Hangover.

Busby grew up in the Queensland town of Rockhampton, and after two decades of relentless touring and recording with Busby Marou, he and bandmate Jeremy Marou made a deliberate decision to stop saying yes to everything. Part of Busby's break involved returning home to help run the family business after his father's death. It was, he reflects, exactly the kind of enforced stillness his subconscious had been waiting for.

‘It's really gutsy,’ he says of the album during our interview. ‘It's raw. It's vulnerable. I'm not trying to impress anyone.’

The record was produced by Ben Kweller in Texas, a collaboration that began over Zoom and deepened into genuine friendship before a note was recorded. When Kweller asked to produce the album, Busby initially declined – he was supposed to be spending more time at home. But his wife's response was to suggest pulling the kids out of school, loading everyone into the car and driving Route 66 to a ranch in Texas for two months. They did exactly that.

Two of the album's songs – including 'Stalemate', which features Busby’s children's voices – were recorded on an iPhone in his living room and appear on the album exactly as Kweller received them, with the band wrapped around the original vocal demos.

The album moves from 'Cyclone', an opener about the disorientation of going solo, through songs about Busby’s father ('Waiting for Tomorrow') and his wife ('Crazy'), to the closing celebration of 'Nothing Will Ever Be the Same'. It is, as Busby describes it, less a polished statement than a journal entry – one that happens to rhyme. Busby Marou fans may notice a shift in register, but the warmth that has always defined Tom Busby’s work is present throughout.

Since returning from Texas, Busby, his wife and their four children have committed to a new way of living: full-time in a caravan, touring the country doing The Great Aussie Lap, a series of intimate solo shows. Busby Marou festival dates will be woven in alongside.

Rockhampton Hangover is out now.

Listen to Rockhampton Hangover on Apple Music

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Lindsay Waddington pays tribute to a great in latest single ‘Something of a Privilege’

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 21:29:27 GMT

Lindsay Waddington has a career spanning more than three decades as a singer, songwriter, producer and renowned instrumentalist. He has released thirteen solo albums, won a Golden Guitar, and built a YouTube channel with almost nineteen million views. His latest release, 'Something of a Privilege', is a tribute to Australian music legend John Williamson.

The song began as a birthday present. When Williamson turned 80, Waddington – who has become close to Williamson over the past seven or eight years, and they’ve recorded together at Waddington’s studio in Queensland – sat down and wrote him a song.

‘What do you give a bloke who's achieved everything? I’ll write him a song,’ he says in this new interview.

Waddington sent the song to Williamson, then spent four anxious hours waiting for a response. When Williamson finally called, he was moved – and told Waddington the song was too good to save for his funeral! With the family's blessing, Waddington decided to release it, directing all proceeds to Williamson's Variety Bash car and the children it supports.

Brendan Radford, with whom Waddington won the 2020 Golden Guitar for Instrumental of the Year, features on the track – a pairing that has become a natural creative partnership. The two spend at least a day a week in the studio together, and Radford's contribution, Waddington says, simply made the song better.

The release sits alongside a remarkably busy creative operation. Waddington's studio has become a hub for Australian country music, with artists including John Williamson, Brian Cadd, Russell Morris and emerging talent William Alexander all recording there. Waddington’s YouTube channel – built largely around studio sessions and instrumental performances – has attracted a global following, with viewers from Ukraine, the Philippines and Japan.

As Waddington notes, ‘There's no language barrier with instrumentals – if you can come up with tones and sounds they like to hear, that could be it.’

His eldest daughter, Madison, handles the videography and editing; the whole enterprise has become a family operation.

A further collaboration is already in the works: a song called 'Talking to a Drover', on which Williamson has contributed harmonies after hearing a work-in-progress version during a studio visit. An instrumental release is also planned for later in 2026. For an artist who admits he can sometimes deprioritise his own music in favour of others', there is clearly no shortage of things worth making.

‘Something of a Privilege’ is out now.

Listen to Lindsay Waddington on Apple Music

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If you haven’t heard of Two Tone Pony … you have now!

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Two Tone Pony are a five-piece country rock band from the Central Coast of New South Wales. They released the album Born on the Road in 2024 and their brand new single is 'You Haven't Heard of Me Yet'.

When I interviewed Two Tone Pony founding member David Kirkpatrick, he said that the song had its origins in, of all places, a ski lodge in the New South Wales Snowy Mountains when someone, noticing the conversation had turned to music, looked him up and down and asked, ‘Tell me, what do you do again?’

When it come to music, it’s more like what hasn’t Kirkpatrick done. The son of country music legends Slim Dusty and Joy McKean, he grew up travelling Australia, surrounded by music, and it’s never left him.

Rather than bristle at that ski-lodge question, though, he filed it away.

‘As a songwriter you're always looking for a hook,’ he says in this chat. ‘Something you can hang a song on.’

'You Haven't Heard of Me Yet' is Two Tone Pony’s first single since their first album, Born on the Road, which was released in 2024. Kirkpatrick says that it was a first album still finding its sound. As it happens, there’s been a significant change in the band since, with founding member Ian Rhodes stepping down and new member Brandon Smith joining them. Smith brings fiddle, mandolin, lap steel and banjo to the line-up, providing what Kirkpatrick calls ‘the missing link’ for the country-rock sound he had always been after.

The video for ‘You Haven’t Heard of Me Yet’ was filmed at the Hardy's Bay Club on the Central Coast of New South Wales – the band's home venue – and directed by Jeremy Minette of Eyes and Ears Creative, who has made all of their clips. It follows Kirkpatrick walking into the bar looking, as he puts it, like ‘a Beverly Hillbilly’ with a battered 1962 guitar case that belonged to Joy McKean and has travelled around Australia.

The single was produced by Rod McCormack, who helmed Born on the Road, and two more singles are already recorded, with live shows and at least one festival appearance planned for the second half of 2026.

‘You Haven't Heard of Me Yet’ is out now.

Listen to ‘You Haven't Heard of Me Yet’ on Apple Music

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Sunburnt Country Music news - 15 March 2026

Sun, 15 Mar 2026 06:24:16 GMT

**NB on the audio quality: I record this news on video then strip out the audio track. It's not always optimal quality but I'd rather bring you this than nothing at all**

Mentioned in this instalment:

William Alexander - ‘Heart of a Drover’

Beccy Cole - new album Through the Haze

Melanie Dyer - ‘Golden Girl’

Tori Forsyth - ‘I’m Not God’

Matt Joe Gow - two dates at Kew Courthouse on 21 March (evening show sold out)

Felicity Urquhart & Josh Cunningham — new album Everything Around You

Amy Sheppard & The Wolfe Brothers - ‘Fool Outta Me’

Briana Dinsdale - ‘Never Love Again’

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Clancy Pye on the best things about ‘My Hometown’

Sun, 15 Mar 2026 01:20:16 GMT

Clancy Pye is an artist from the Central West of New South Wales who has released several memorable singles, including 'Hey Mama' and 'Days Like This'. Her latest is 'My Hometown'.

Pye grew up in Oberon, a town of around 3000 people, half an hour from Bathurst in New South Wales. Oberon has no traffic lights, one main street and, as she notes in the song, a part-time cop, a detail that says so much and which we discuss in this new interview.

‘Most things got sorted out in the community themselves,’ Pye explains about the part-time cop. ‘People looked after one another.’

That capacity to compress a whole social world into a single precise image is central to what makes 'My Hometown' work and to what makes Pye a songwriter capable of evoking place, people and emotions so well, as she has done consistently over the course of her releases.

‘My Hometown’ emerged during the pandemic years, when Pye wrote around 150 songs. Its catalyst was personal: her parents had just sold the family farm, the only home she'd ever known, and she found herself making more trips back to Oberon, feeling a particular pull of gratitude and loss.

The chorus came quickly. The verses took twelve months and somewhere between fifteen and twenty drafts. ‘I really wanted to go a little bit underneath the surface of what makes little towns like Oberon tick,’ she says. She wanted to write something specific enough to feel true, but open enough that listeners from any small town could find themselves in it, and she has succeeded beautifully at that.

The production was handled by Sean Rudd in Sydney, with Pye's brother Mickey – a guitarist and the founder of a music academy in Bathurst with over 300 current students – contributing a signature guitar riff that runs throughout the track. Drummer Pete Drummond of Dragon also plays on the track.

'My Hometown' is the fifth single from Pye's forthcoming debut album, which is due for release later this year, including a CD edition.

Alongside her own music, Pye has spent the past two years performing with Tania Kernaghan and Jason Owen as part of their Let Your Love Flow tour, travelling through New South Wales, Queensland and Western Australia. She also works as a physiotherapist – a background that, she admits, gives her a particular perspective on the physical demands of life as a touring musician, and we talk about that too. It’s always a great pleasure to interview Clancy Pye, and this time was no exception.

‘My Hometown’ is out now.

Listen to ‘My Hometown’ on Apple Music

Listen to ‘My Hometown’ on Spotify

Listen to ‘My Hometown’ on YouTube

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Jake Davey on life, fatherhood, work and ‘Workin’ On Me’

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Jake Davey is a multi-talented artist – a singer, songwriter, producer, videographer and photographer. He has released several infectious country-pop singles and the latest is 'Workin' On Me'.

Since releasing his last single, Davey's life has changed considerably. He and his wife, Grace, are now parents to a son, Dalton, a development which is particularly significant given that a spinal cord injury in 2023 left doctors telling Davey he was unlikely to walk again, let alone have children.

‘Grace literally walked into the studio and was like, “Baby”,' Davey recalls in this new interview. ‘And I was like, what do you mean?’ That moment was the spark for 'Workin' On Me', a song about wanting to show up as the best possible version of himself – for Grace, and for Dalton.

‘I wanted to write a song about growing up in the right ways,’ Davey says, ‘admitting that I've had moments where I was selfish, and that's fine. This was my surrender to being the best version of me.’

The song was written in Nashville with Dakota Striplin and Charles Walker at Ronnie Dunn's publishing house, part of a trip that yielded eight to twelve songs in total (so we know there are more songs in the works). Davey produced it himself, though he's candid about the particular challenge that presents.

‘Having ultimate control over your music is a dangerous thing because you're never done,’ he says. But, as he tells me, a quote he encountered during the process helped: perfectionism is procrastination disguising itself as progress. The strong reception for the song has come in the wake of a great start to the year, with Davey’s fourth consecutive sold-out show at Moonshiners Honky Tonk Bar during the Tamworth Country Music Festival.

‘Workin’ On Me’ is accompanied by a video that Davey made with longtime collaborator Jackson James. It features Davey's family, including a notably relaxed Dalton, who slept through most of the shoot! With more singles already in the works and a headline hometown show on the cards for later in 2026, Davey is already looking ahead, and that includes his packed schedule as a producer and videographer.

Listen to ‘Workin’ On Me’ on Apple Music

Listen to ‘Workin’ On Me’ on Spotify

See the video for ‘Workin’ On Me’ on YouTube

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Sunburnt Country Music news - 27 February 2026

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 00:19:18 GMT

Mentioned in this episode:

Kelly Brouhaha - 'This Is All For You'

Amber Lawrence - 'That’s Cowgirl To Me'

Charlotte Le Lievre - ‘I Yearn To Love Someone’

Tom Busby - Rockhampton Hangover- interview coming up

Brooke McClymont and Adam Eckersley - ‘Now I've Said It’

Felicity Urquhart & Josh Cunningham - New Frontier EP

Sara Berki - ‘Where I'll Be (For Adeline)’

Interviews coming up:

Jake Davey

Clancy Pye

David Kirkpatrick of Two Tone Pony

Lindsay Waddington

Dylan Wright

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Melinda Schneider on her heartfelt new album Tender

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 07:49:07 GMT

Melinda Schneider first appeared on stage at the age of three and on a recording at the age of eight. Since then she has released fifteen albums and won six Golden Guitars. She runs her own label, Mpower Records, she's a keynote speaker and much more besides. Her latest album, Tender, is a moving collection of songs.

There is a particular kind of courage required to make an album like Tender. Schneider has spent decades as one of Australian country music's most celebrated performers – six Golden Guitars, fifteen albums, a career that began before most people's memories form. But she is candid about the fact that much of that work was made while she was privately struggling. ‘I was putting on a happy face in public and then being in a lot of pain privately,’ she says. The depression she experienced in 2018 became, in her telling, a turning point: the moment she stopped what she calls ‘the impersonation of perfect’.

Tender is the album that reflects what came after. Most of the songs were written in the last decade, during what Schneider describes as the happiest and most peaceful period of her life – since meeting her husband, Mark Gable, and since becoming a mother. The result is a collection that moves between vulnerability and warmth, grief and gratitude, with Schneider's voice carrying each shift with complete conviction.

The title track is a duet with Diesel, a pairing Schneider chose deliberately, looking for someone ‘respectful of women’ and emotionally present enough to meet the song where it lives. A duet with Gable also appears on the album, a song she wrote only months after they got together.

The album was shaped by Schneider's instincts alone. As the founder of her own label, the creative decisions – which songs made the cut, how the album opens and closes – were entirely hers. It begins with the upbeat, Americana-inflected 'Open Up' and ends with 'Story of My Life', a song she first wrote 22 years ago that now sounds, she says, like a different person singing it – freer, more at ease.

Alongside the album, Schneider exhibited a series of eleven paintings, one for each song, a practice she took up during the pandemic that has since become a weekly meditation. The Tender tour is currently under way, with New South Wales and Victoria dates already announced and more to follow later in the year.

Tender is out now.

Listen to Tender on Apple Music

Listen to Tender on Spotify

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Faith Williams on her ‘Holy Grail’ and forthcoming album

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 02:34:11 GMT

Faith Williams is an artist from the Central Coast of New South Wales who last year released an outstanding debut EP, Queen of Hearts. She is now set to release her first album later this year, and the first single from it is 'Holy Grail'.

When Queen of Hearts arrived in early 2025, Williams released it independently and, as she says in this new interview, ‘I didn't have a lot of knowledge into the industry at all. I was fairly green.’ In the year since, she has quietly accumulated the kind of experience that can't be taught: festival appearances she didn't expect, a New Songwriter of the Year win at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, radio play on ABC Country, and – just recently – being added to the playlist at Triple J, nearly a year to the day after the EP's release.

That growth is also evident in her approach to the new album, which was recorded in September at Rabbit Hole Studio with producer Brandon Dodd, who also helmed Queen of Hearts. Eleven tracks were laid down in three days — an efficiency Williams credits to arriving with her songs fully formed and a clear sense of what she wanted. The album features one co-write, 'Black Fire', written with Millie Mills at a songwriting retreat run by Lyn Bowtell — otherwise the writing is entirely her own.

The lead single, 'Holy Grail', is a love song that deliberately resists the conventions of the genre. Williams describes it as being about ‘choosing real over ritual’ – the kind of love that doesn't need to be dressed up or explained. It's also an example of what makes her writing distinctive: she's drawn to stories and characters, to the specific detail that opens into something universal. Her song 'Dear August', about the loss of a pregnancy, has that quality; so does 'Joe', which she traces back to a mental image of a stranger at a bus stop, telling their life to someone they'll never see again.

At the time of recording, Williams was in the last trimester of pregnancy, due at the end of March. She plans to take a few months off before returning to gigging, with an album launch and a return to Tamworth pencilled in for later in the year. I was hugely impressed by Queen of Hearts when it released, so needless to say I’m excited to hear the album, and to see Williams release a wider audience, as she deserves.

Listen to ‘Holy Grail’ on Apple Music

Listen to ‘Holy Grail’ on Spotify

Listen to ‘Holy Grail’ on YouTube

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Sunburnt Country Music news - 15 February 2026

Sun, 15 Feb 2026 03:44:34 GMT

Mentioned in this episode:

Max Jackson – new album Dangerous in Denim

Brooke McClymont and Adam Eckersley – new single ‘Now I’ve Said It’

Morgan Evans - ‘Steel Town’

Saralyn – ‘Cowgirl Blues’ - THIS TRACK PLAYS AT THE END OF THE EPISODE

Jo Page – ‘When We Knew Nothing’

Jasmine Sparkes – ‘You’ve Got Time to Kiss Me’

Jake Whittaker - ‘Boots On’

Tour news:

Sara Storer, Shane Nicholson and Shane Howard - For the Sake of the Song. Limited shows in New South Wales, Victoria and the ACT in May.

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ALBUM REVIEW: The Hardest Thing by Catherine Britt

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 22:00:00 GMT

ALBUM REVIEW: The Hardest Thing by Catherine Britt

This is the audio version of the review (and an addition to the types of content available on the podcast). If you'd like to read it instead, you can find it on Substack or the website.

The Hardest Thing is out now through Red Rebel Music/MGM Distribution.

Listen on Apple Music

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Sunburnt Country Music news - 8 February 2026

Sun, 08 Feb 2026 04:04:39 GMT

🎵 COUNTRY MUSIC NEWS ROUNDUP 🎵

Six BIG new releases you need to know about:

KINGSWOOD - the new track ‘Highway Signs’ is out from this hard-working country-rock band. They’ll have a new album later this year and no doubt you can catch them from the road this year.

WICKER SUITE released ‘Younger Me’ ft. Ashleigh Dallas—a heartfelt anthem about mental health & self-compassion. Catch them on tour through QLD, NSW, VIC & NZ!

BECCY COLE announces first solo album in 7 years! Through The Haze arrives 13 March (vinyl 27 March). Raw, honest storytelling exploring heartbreak, healing & resilience. New single ‘The Gardener & The Flower’ out now.

BUD ROKESKY announces his second album Dusk (out on 8 April) + Australian tour in May. New single ’45’ is out now.

TYLA RODRIGUES has a new EP, Hold On Tight, out now + major festival slots at CMC Rocks and more later this year. She’s also just had her first Golden Guitar nomination. Full album coming later in 2026!

FAITH WILLIAMS - impressive new single ‘Holy Grail’ from her forthcoming debut album. She released the excellent EP Queen of Hearts last year.

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Christina Lacy from The Paper Kites on their outstanding new album

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Melbourne five-piece The Paper Kites formed in 2009, and released their first album, States, in 2013. They have spent several years touring the world and their music has been streamed over two billion times. They have a new album, their seventh, If You Go There, I Hope You Find It, and recently I spoke to keyboard player/ guitarist/ vocalist Christina Lacy about it.

Ahead of the album, three singles were released: ‘Change Of The Wind’, ‘Shake Off The Rain’, ‘Every Town’ and ‘When The Lavender Blooms’. The first of these has a video which refers to the story of how the album was named, and I asked Lacy about this during the interview.

Lacy, who is a founding member of the band, also talks about how The Paper Kites came to write and record – and name – the album, and we discuss how she balances her creative life with motherhood, and the importance of carving out ‘time to be creative and time to be inspired’, as she puts it – and I love that she made that distinction!

Lacy was generous with her insights and it was clear, talking to her, that the band has lost none of its passion for making music together.

The Paper Kites play Twilight at Taronga in Sydney on Friday 6 February and will tour the United Kingdom, Ireland, Europe and Scandinavia in February and March before joining Bernard Fanning in Brisbane on 15 March. They will then tour the USA and Canada. All details are on their website.

If You Go There, I Hope You Find It is out now through Sony Music Australia.

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KYARNA on her lyrical Lost Soul Love Letters

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Titles of books, albums (or EPs), movies – any creative work – can be hard to come up with, as they need to do so much work, especially in an age when we make very quick decisions about what is going to win our attention. A title needs to not just capture our interest but convey the experience of reading that book, listening to that album, watching that movie as concisely and effectively as possible.

The debut EP from KYARNA, a folk-country artist from the Yuin Nation on the far south coast of New South Wales, is called Lost Soul Love Letters. It’s such an evocative title, prompting us to wonder: Who is the lost soul? Who are the love letters for? Happily I was able to ask KYARNA these questions, and also talk to her about each of the six tracks on this EP, which more than lives up to the promise of its title. (This interview was recorded in late 2025, so when KYARNA mentions ‘this year’, it’s 2026 she’s referring to.)

From the first track, ‘Meet in Love’, we know we’re in for stories that are going to take hold of us and which are probably going to be bittersweet, in that they may make us smile in recognition – or cry for the same reason. There is quite a story behind this song, and each of the songs that follow it. KYARNA recorded the EP with producer Matt Fell in Tasmania, and there’s a story there too. I’ll let you find that out from her in this interview.

KYARNA has many more songs – we talk about the prolific nature of her songwriting – so it will be fascinating to see what she decides to record next. These six songs will keep you going for a while, because they are rich in story and meaning, but, of course, a fan always wants more!

A note on the sound: we had some wi-fi glitches in the first half. I edited out some but you’ll hear a little bit of it.

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Bianca Joulianou gets herself into a ‘Bad Routine’

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 22:00:00 GMT

Earlier this year Sydney artist Bianca Joulianou released the single ‘Gambling Man’, which was based on a story that’s very close to her. We had a chat about that at the time and also talked about Joulianou’s gig schedule. She’s been busier since then, opening for Australian Idol winner Dylan Wright as well as Shannon Noll, Diesel and The Wet Whistles. That’s in addition to playing regular spots at venues such as Jolene’s in Sydney’s CBD and with Out West Country, which is a Sydney-based events company.

Joulianou’s latest single is the very catchy ‘Bad Routine’, which is about wanting to break free of something – such as a relationship – but being pulled back into bad habits. It was produced by Jake Davey, who is himself recording and releasing music, and he plays on ‘Bad Routine’ as well. As they recorded two songs, another single is in the pipeline for release in 2026.

In this new interview about ‘Bad Routine’, I asked Joulianou if she has any bad routines of her own – you’ll have to watch or listen to it to find out what she said – but it’s probably fair to say that she’s mostly in good routines, given she fits her music career in and around full-time work as a mental health support worker.

Joulianou is heading to the Tamworth Country Musical Festival in January and has a few shows lined up, including at the popular Riverside Stage, and she’s making plans for more writing – especially co-writing – next year. And she’s open to writing with anyone, so if you’re keen to write with her, you can find her on her socials!

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Chloe Marks on what’s ‘Cheaper Than Therapy’ in her big new single with band The Mayhem

Sun, 21 Dec 2025 22:00:00 GMT

Before this year started, Brisbane outfit Chloe Marks & The Mayhem had not released any songs, although Marks herself has released music with duo Scotch & Cider, and as a solo artist. She also plays in other people’s bands as well as performing regularly with The Mayhem, as she’s been doing since 2023.

The band’s first single was ‘Carolina’, released at the end of February this year, and since then they’ve released ‘Skip September’ – for which Marks and I had a chat – and ‘Porch Light’. Now with the release of fourth single ‘Cheaper Than Therapy’, it emerges that these four songs form a story arc, with ‘Cheaper Than Therapy’ putting the full stop on that tale. Each song is different to the others, but the thread is there when you listen to them back to back.

In my previous interview with Marks I talked to her about her fascinating creative life, which includes photography and extreme sports, so you can head to that if you’d like to find out more. In this chat I concentrated on the brace of singles, with a focus on ‘Cheaper Than Therapy’, which has the refrain ‘When I get stoned I talk to God’. Marks and I talked about belief systems and what does and doesn’t get mentioned in public, or even to friends and family. As she says, the song has ‘opened up a strange but wonderful conversation within the band’.

All four songs were produced by Michael Muchow, and Marks has new material that will see her heading back into the studio in 2026. That studio time will be slotted in around her performance schedule, and that of The Mayhem, which includes dates at the 2026 Tamworth Country Music Festival (see below). They’re also playing on New Year’s Eve at Chattahoochee Joe’s, one of the homes of country music in Brisbane.

See Chloe Marks & The Mayhem live:

Wednesday Dec 31 – Chattahoochee Joes – Brisbane QLD

Friday Jan 16, 2026 – Tamworth CMF – Tudor

Hotel – Tamworth NSW

Saturday Jan 17, 2026 – Tamworth CMF –

Tudor Hotel – Tamworth NSW

Sunday Jan 18, 2026 – Tamworth CMF – Joe

Maguires – Tamworth NSW

Tuesday Jan 20, 2026 - Tamworth CMF – Joe

Maguires – Tamworth NSW

Listen to Chloe Marks & The Mayhem on Apple Music

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Watch the official music video for ‘Cheaper Than Therapy’ on YouTube

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Robbie Mortimer charts his path through creativity and country music

Sat, 20 Dec 2025 22:00:00 GMT

When you’re talking with Australian country music artists, Robbie Mortimer’s name comes up a lot, whether it’s as a festival performer or a co-writer – several artists work with him either to write songs from scratch or to enhance songs that already exist, even in part.

He’s the youngest of five brothers who grew up in the Central West of New South Wales, and perhaps negotiating with four siblings led to him being able to work well in a collaborative environment. Or maybe it was growing up in an NRL family, and having team sports as the default. That same environment also introduced him to poetry – his father writes it – as well as country living, which has influenced the stories he tells, and hard work.

Mortimer has several irons in the fire, for himself and with others – but, as he says in this new interview, he’s used to ‘squeezing absolutely everything out of a 24-hour day’. He says his father and brothers are wired the same way: ‘all gas, no brakes’. That ability to make the most of time and opportunities is married with Mortimer’s creative drive, which he has in spades. And it is a creative drive more than a drive for success because, he's discovered, ‘Everything I’ve done for the artistry of it has gone really, really well’, whereas anything he’s created while trying to replicate the success of something else has not fired the way he’s hoped.

Mortimer has released several singles this year, the latest of which is ‘The World Keeps Turning’, to go with the ones he released last year – pretty much an album’s worth across that time, but he’s looking ahead to what’s new and what’s next.

This is a long conversation because there was a lot to chat about – as there would be, given his work rate! There is much more to come from Robbie Mortimer, so this chat is by way of closing out a big year and looking ahead to an even bigger one in 2026.

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Brook Chivell on making guitars, singing the blues and ‘Like a Country Girl’

Sat, 20 Dec 2025 02:57:57 GMT

Each time I organise an interview with a country music artist there is an impetus for it – usually, as you’d expect, a new release, either single or album. I do my research and write questions accordingly, but I do not go into any interview with an expectation of where the conversation will go because expectations tend to become pre-set limitations, and there’s a danger of missing out on something interesting if those limitations are in place.

So it was that when I started chatting to Brook Chivell, an artist based in south-east Queensland, the reason for the chat was his latest single, ‘Like a Country Girl’ but the first part of the conversation was about guitars. For one thing, all his guitars are tuned to E flat. For another, he’s been building his own guitars. If you’re not interested in talking about guitars, well, maybe skip the first ten minutes. But I tend to like asking questions about the technical parts of being a musician because it’s really interesting to hear about other people’s work.

We also chat about the burgeoning country music scene in south-east Queensland, the blues songs Chivell has been recording and releasing … and, of course, about ‘Like a Country Girl’, which is a song for the girls who start the dance floor at a gig – the ones, says, Chivell, who can shift the mood of a show in a very positive direction.

I also ask Chivell about co-writing, which he’s done a bit – so it seems as if he likes doing it. His answer was surprising, and led to him talking about his writing process in general.

Listen to Brook Chivell on Apple Music

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Roo Arcus on the experiences that made The Man I Am

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 22:00:00 GMT

Roo Arcus became a singer unintentionally – he didn’t know he could sing until he was somewhat strong-armed into it in a group setting. The cattle farmer from the Southern Tablelands of New South Wales has been on the land all of his life and spent his formative years listening to what he calls ‘the golden era’ of country music.

Arcus spends a lot of time in the United States of America where he’s asked, ‘How can you talk like an Aussie and sing like a Texan?’ His singing voice developed, he says, due to what he was listening to and singing along to when he was younger.

His first album was called Station Boy and it’s not available on streaming services, although the albums since are – including his fifth, The Man I Am, which was created in the wake of a devastating fire on his property, which destroyed not only farm vehicles and equipment but instruments and his children’s belongings. (This is captured in the song ‘Just an Old Shed’ on the album.)

The recording of the album in Texas was booked, however, and Arcus pressed ahead with it despite not having all the songs ready. What emerged was, perhaps, the truest expression of where he was in his life because he didn’t have time to think about it much or try to edit himself. The resulting album is not raw so much as honest, and Arcus too is honest about the impact of that time in this interview.

We also talk about his longtime affection for the US, where he travels several times a year, and especially for Texas, which is his second home.

Even after three decades in music, Arcus says he still feels like ‘a cattleman that sings … I don’t know how I ended up in this business.’ While that may be true, he’s stayed in it because he writes songs that reflect his experiences and they connect with people, as does his voice, and you’ll find out all about the development of both in this chat.

Listen to The Man I Am on Apple Music

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Laura T Davis reclaims her power on ‘Not Your Fault’

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 22:00:00 GMT

‘Songs can become our best friend. And sometimes songs can save a life.’

Laura T Davis, a singer-songwriter from northern New South Wales, says this a fair way into our interview. The reason for the interview was her latest single, ‘Not Your Fault’, and the story behind that song is that Davis is a victim-survivor of extreme sexual violence perpetrated upon her in her teens. So when she talks about songs saving a life, she’s talking about what songs have meant to her and also what writing this song has done for her.

We talk at length about this part of her story, in particular, and also the other parts of her life, such as her beloved animals – horses and dogs – who are, she says, ‘part of my healing’. We talk about her musical background, being classically trained in piano and voice, and the time she spent performing for hours each day on ships on Sydney Harbour. About how, she says, there is a calling for music in her heart.

Davis released a single in 2020 called ‘Make It Till Christmas’, which was partly about how people on the land will hold on – to make it to Christmas, for example. It was inspired by what she saw around her, in the region she lives in, which is also an area that has been so badly affected by floods. By these acts of God that have been visited upon the residents. Acts that are not their fault any more than what happened to Davis was hers.

‘You have to tell yourself it’s not your fault,’ she says of the realisation she came to after years spent in the aftermath of the violence done to her. ‘You have to forgive yourself … That was the catalyst for this [song]. It was probably the only way that I could heal ... I didn’t want to suffer in silence any more.’

Davis is no longer suffering in silence but she is also incredibly self-aware and articulate about what it has taken for her to arrive at the place where she could not only write this song but record it and release it. For anyone who has been through a similar experience – and I sincerely hope you have not – I believe her story will give you heart. For anyone who has not, I hope you will listen to her with an open heart. That’s what she is offering to the world, when we have no right to expect it of her.

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Jo Page on ‘Fire in His Eyes’ and her creative fire

Sun, 14 Dec 2025 01:28:37 GMT

Each interview I do is, obviously, different because each artist is different – they have unique backgrounds, sounds and stories. Some of them turn out to be packed with lots of interesting elements – subjects I could have pursued for much longer conversations, except I’m mindful of trying to keep the chats relatively short and focused on music.

This interview with Jo Page, a country music artist from Port Lincoln in South Australia, was one of those. I start off asking Page about Port Lincoln – which is Australia’s seafood capital, which I didn’t previously know. Page also mentions that she won Port Lincoln’s Got Talent as part of Tunarama at the age of 20 – and, well, I had to ask her about something called Tunarama! You’ll have to watch/listen to find out what she said …

Page has been performing live since that time, although, as she says, at school she was ‘always the nerdy choir chick that would give up lunchtimes to do music stuff’. But it was the competition which led to her being introduced to a local producer with whom she formed a duo and then a band. She has only recently started writing songs, however, because she only started playing guitar three years ago. Now she’s written hundreds – as she says, you need to write a lot in order to find the gems – and one of those is ‘Fire In His Eyes’, which she wrote with Kevin Bennett and recorded with Matt Fell at Wilder in Tasmania. The character in the song, says Page in the interview, is based on how she envisages her grandfather, who was a cowboy – and there’s more to it but, again, you’ll need to watch/listen to find out!

Page is pursuing her music while also being a frontline domestic violence worker and mental health advocate. We talk about how she takes care of her own mental health, and a lot more besides. Maybe next time I’ll get to pursue those other subjects in more detail, but I certainly enjoyed this chat and hope you do too.

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Tom Nethersole and Kye Arnot on their haunting, unforgettable ‘Holiday Spirit’

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 22:00:00 GMT

Earlier this year Melbourne-based singer-songwriter Tom Nethersole released a country single, ‘Ardmona Rd’. I hadn’t heard of Nethersole before that – his previous releases were mainly pop songs – but I loved the song and therefore was happy to chat to him about it. It was a great pleasure to interview him, so when he told me that he had a new folk-tinged song, ‘Holiday Spirit’, written and recorded with fellow Victorian Kye Arnot, of course I wanted to talk to them both.

Arnot has developed quite a following on TikTok, and we talk about that aspect of being an artist these days, as well as his single ‘Common Things’. Nethersole has also released an EP, Father, Son & the space in between, since we last spoke and it’s been on high rotation for me, because he has a certain way with melody and words so that his songs don’t let you go.

‘Holiday Spirit’ is no exception. It’s an ode to loved ones lost, and how that loss affects what is supposedly a festive season. In our interview Nethersole and Arnot talk about how they came to write together, and how the recording worked – and they reveal that there is, in fact, another recorded version of the song in existence, which frankly I would very much like to hear!

While there is nothing at all country-music about ‘Holiday Spirit’, one of the benefits of Sunburnt Country Music being an independent enterprise, and me being the only person here, is that I can cover what I like if I think it’s worth telling you about. I value your time and attention, and this enterprise keeps growing – across multiple platforms – because of it. These two artists are special, I think, and they’ve made something special together. I hope you enjoy meeting them, and listening to their song.

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Saralyn on her time on The Voice, her new single and chasing dreams

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 09:00:00 GMT

Last year singer-songwriter Saralyn won the Mothertone Gympie Muster Talent Search, which was a terrific achievement – but she was also working on something else significant at the same time, and it wasn’t until this year that we found out what it was.

Auditioning on the hit TV show The Voice, Saralyn turned the chair of judge Ronan Keating and joined his team. Although she didn’t make it through to the finals, she cherishes the experience, as she told me in this recent interview. It turned out she applied for the show two years ago and wasn’t selected to audition; this time around she was approached instead, and it was, she says, the right time. She has in competitions from a young age, and performing in festivals for several years. The Voice offered something that allowed her to deepen her already extensive experience.

Now Saralyn has released her version of ‘If Tomorrow Never Comes’, a song written by Garth Brooks and very popularly covered by Keating. It’s a song that is tied to and emblematic of her time on The Voice, and now she has her own unique version of it.

It was clear during our chat that Saralyn was invigorated and motivated by her experience on The Voice, ready to step even more fully into her creative life, which has included some really lovely singles, such as ‘White Butterfly’. If you hadn’t heard of her before The Voice, there are some great songs to catch up on – and, no doubt, to look forward to.

Watch the video for ‘If Tomorrow Never Comes’ on YouTube

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Ruby McGrath-Lester from Team Love on new album Now Things Ain’t Coloured Rose

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 05:05:47 GMT

Team Love are a six-piece alt-country and folk band (full list of members below) from Victoria who released their first album during the pandemic. Since then lead singer and songwriter Ruby McGrath-Lester and partner/bandmate Shaun Stolk have become parents, so they’ve had a little bit on their plate. But as I found out when I chatted with McGrath-Lester recently, they have been writing songs – and there were around two dozen which were candidates for their second album, the recently released Now Things Ain’t Coloured Rose.

The band worked up all of the songs before making a decision on which to record, and the resulting eleven songs are in part McGrath-Lester showing us some fairly tender parts of herself. Being vulnerable in art usually requires not only a commitment but a leap of faith for the artist, and part of what’s great about these songs is that in acknowledging that there are some things that aren’t ‘ideal’ (depending on how that is defined), she’s not going to change them. There’s a comfort in that for the listener – a reassurance that, no, we don’t all have to fix ourselves all the time. Because maybe we actually don’t need fixing – we just don’t to be more self-accepting.

The band’s tenth anniversary is looming, and there may well be some live shows in honour of it, so keep an eye on the band’s socials for news of upcoming gigs.

And a note on the audio: towards the end my wi-fi connection became unstable (as Zoom likes to say) so I had to cut the part where I’m attempting to say goodbye to Ruby!

Team Love are:

Ruby McGrath-Lester (vocals, acoustic guitar)

Ruby Cattell (violin, vocals)

Monique Bricknell (keys, vocals)

Shaun Stolk (guitars, vocals)

Paddy McGrath-Lester (drums, vocals, guitars, percussion, mandolin)

Tom Thomas (bass, additional keys)

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Courtney Keil on ‘Friends for Life’ … and Christmas cheer

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 05:54:03 GMT

Country-pop artist Courtney Keil started her musical life in Melbourne and now lives on the Central Coast of New South Wales, where she is an integral member of what has long been an established country music community (which includes Lyn Bowtell, Kasey Chambers, Felicity Urquhart and Josh Cunningham, and previously Beccy Cole and Shane Nicholson) and which now has more venues opening and, therefore, more opportunities for artists to perform.

In our chat about her latest single, ‘Friends for Life’, I asked Keil about what’s happening with music on the coast, and we talked about the organisation Central Coast Music and Arts, which I was very pleased to learn about! We also talked about Keil’s other musical project, the duo The Midnight Black, and her next album, which she’s working towards.

‘Friends for Life’ was recorded in Nashville, with Keil’s longtime producer Rod McCormack – who, along with his wife, Gina Jeffreys, is also an important part of that coast country community. The song was written with McCormack and Sally Barris, with whom Keil has written before, and it’s all about honouring friendships – and as Keil mentions, given she had a rocky start to this year, her friends have been a great support. We also talk about her decision to record in Nashville – and it transpires it’s been five years in the making …

This interview was recorded towards the start of November, and Keil already had her Christmas tree up, so of course I had to ask her about that – and it turns out she will be performing on Christmas Eve at The Entrance, so if you’re in the area make sure to pack your picnic rug and get along! And she’ll be appearing at the Tamworth Country Music Festival on 18 January at the show That’s Where the Faith Comes In – tickets available here.

It's always great to chat to Courtney Keil – this interview was no exception – and if it’s your introduction to her, I hope you enjoy it and the song!

Listen to ‘Friends for Life’ on Apple Music

Listen to ‘Friends for Life’ on Spotify

YouTube

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Tom Mac on his ‘Nomadic’, adventurous life in music

Sat, 06 Dec 2025 07:17:02 GMT

Tom Mac is a country music artist from south-east Queensland who has extensive experience as both a performing and recording artist, whose story – as I found out during this interview – has many strands to it, all of them weaving together to form the artist who is now releasing the songs he’s always wanted to bring to people, including his latest single, ‘Nomadic’.

Mac was in his car when we spoke, with his guitar, Maton ECW80 cutaway, in the back seat, so I decided to start the conversation there, and he certainly had some stories to tell about it! However, Mac’s first instrument was piano, which he started playing at eight, encouraged by his mother, who was a primary school music teacher who also introduced him into musicals at school, including Grease and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat. The experience in musicals stands him in very good stead as a performer today, in large part because of the singing involved and the confidence to do it. As he says, ‘A lot of people can sing, they just don’t know that they can.’

By his late teens, though, Mac wanted to play Bruce Springsteen and Bon Jovi – and also play an instrument that was of his own choosing. And ‘Stairway to Heaven’ was the first song he learned to play on guitar.

Mac started playing gigs – lots of gigs – and developed his repertoire of covers, before moving into original music, and his experiences there were not straightforward. He released music in a genre other than country music, under a different name, but it wasn’t the direction he really wanted to be in. It’s only in the last couple of years that he’s started releasing country songs, and the latest of those is ‘Nomadic’, which started life as a riff Mac heard on social media – performed by a busker in Byron Bay – and became a song inspired by some of the many adventures he’s had, travelling around Australia and performing.

Listen to ‘Nomadic’ on Apple Music

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Sandy Louise on storytelling, community and ‘Tears in the Driveway’

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 08:27:25 GMT

Newcastle, NSW artist Sandy Louise started her musical life on flute and picked up guitar at the age of eighteen, which is also when she started writing songs – and songwriting has become a passion of hers.

Influenced by Kasey Chambers, The Cranberries and Alanis Morissette, Sandy has been writing songs ever since and is now an integral member of the Australian Songwriters Association (ASA), acting as the regional coordinator in her area. In that capacity she organises open-mic nights – and it was at a different open-mic night that she met Bill Chambers, father of Kasey.

Chambers subsequently became Sandy’s producer and is the co-writer of her latest single, ‘Tears in the Driveway’. Inspired by what actually happened at the end of a visit by Sandy to her sister in South Australia, it’s about leaving behind love ones and how we manage that distance when those we hold dear are so far away.

Sandy has released four albums, and she’s currently working towards a fifth. She runs her musical life in tandem with full-time work and family life. Although it can be hard to fit creativity in and around those sorts of demands, it was clear during our interview that the music side of her life is not negotiable.

If you’re in the Newcastle area and would like to participate in one of the open-mic nights run by Sandy, she talks about those in the interview. You can also go to the ASA website.

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Olive Mae on the amazing family story behind new single ‘El Caballo Blanco’

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 22:00:00 GMT

Australians of a certain age who grew up in certain locations will remember El Caballo Blanco. It was a show featuring dancing white horses – hence the name – and as I grew up in Sydney, one of two Australian sites for El Caballo Blanco, I remember the TV ad, despite the fact I was only allowed to watch half an hour of television a day. That’s how effective the marketing machine of Western Australian artist Olive Mae’s grandfather was. Her grandfather was a remarkable entrepreneur who founded several businesses apart from El Caballo Blanco. He died before Mae was born but, intrigued by his story, she wrote a song about it with esteemed artist Gretta Ziller, and has now released the single, entitled ‘El Caballo Blanco’, which was produced by Matt Fell.

Mae met Ziller at one of the SHE Songwriting Retreats run by Lyn Bowtell – you can find Bowtell talking about these in my recent interviews with her (as referenced by Mae in our own interview!) – but they didn’t write the song until later.

Mae then went on to attend the Academy of Country Music – of which Bowtell is the director – and found it a valuable experience, not least because she is in WA and, as she says, while there several country music artists in that state, they’re all spread out, and Academy is an opportunity to form connections with other artists.

The first time I interviewed Mae, a little while ago now, I found her a hoot and the experience was repeated this time. She’s also a really thoughtful and interesting artist, and it sounds like there are more songs on the near horizon, so stay tuned for more great stories from Olive Mae.

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Sara Berki on songs, storytelling and her new EP Outrun

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 22:41:46 GMT

If Sydney-area country music artist Sara Berki had only released her EP In the Neon earlier in the year, played her first headline tour – which was a two-set affair – as well as major festivals, and the NRLW Grand Final, as well as two Golden Guitar nominations (for New Talent and Female Artist of the Year) that would be a year in which she could put her feet up by now and have earnt a rest. Instead, she has just released another EP, Outrun, which is moving and memorable, offering a different musical treatment to In the Neon although still very much complementary to it.

When we spoke about the EP, I wanted to ask about individual songs, as they cannot be taken as a group. The single, ‘Porch Light’, which was released first, has quite a story behind it, as Berki tells me in this interview. ‘Happy House’ needed a separate conversation – you will understand why when you watch or listen to the interview – and the title track felt like an origin story, so it was great to discover the context for it. The last two tracks, ‘Lily of the Valley’ and ‘Heaven & Hell’, see Berki in storyteller mode.

Berki wrote four of the tracks alone – which is how she has mostly worked – and ‘Lily of the Valley’ with Nashville songwriters Brand Hood and Billy Montana. Since her first single she’s always demonstrated that she’s an exceptional songwriter; this EP is her taking those skills and adding (even more) courage as she shows us more of herself, telling more of her story.

Although I’ve interviewed Berki several times, there’s always more to discover, and so it was in this conversation too.

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Tate Cole takes us down Whiskey River for his debut single

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 04:59:33 GMT

Tate Cole grew up on a small family farm in south-east Queensland, heavily involved in the rodeo scene from a young age, following the lead of his father. At the same time as he was taking his chances on horses and cattle, he was developing his musical talents. His mother encouraged him and his brother to learn piano even before they’d started school, and while he was still in primary school Cole asked if he could learn guitar.

Growing up, he heard country tunes in the family car on the long drives that will be familiar to anyone who has lived in or spent time in the country, and he would sing along – so those songs shaped his taste as well as his voice. Once he started to write music of his own, he found that he has ‘a tendency to write sad lyrics to upbeat songs’, and that was how his first single, ‘Purgatory’, came to be.

His second single is ‘Whiskey River’, penned by Cole with Kane Vincent and Cody Walker (contacts he made through the Academy of Country Music), whom he’s known for a couple of years, in a serendipitous fashion, and produced by Jared Adlam, who also works with James Johnston, amongst others.

Cole plays regularly in Brisbane, and you can find the dates on his website. And a note about the sound in this interview: there were some wifi issues in the second half, so you’ll hear a slight delay in his responses. I could edit it out but, hey, I tend to like these conversations to be presented to you as they happened.

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Mak & Shar on the New Problems of their new album

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 07:39:17 GMT

Mak & Shar are a duo and they are also brothers. They have been making music together since childhood, as two-thirds of Brothers3, and also pursued music and musical studies individually. So they have already achieved a lot, and they’ve also been through a lot, which we have discussed in previous interviews and they elaborate on it in this one.

Their debut album together is called New Problems but both the song and the album are uplifting – the new problems are not big problems. As Shar says during the interview, ‘With our family, I don’t think you’re allowed to be really upset too often’ – and when you learn the context for that, and know what the brothers have experienced, this statement is all the more extraordinary.

They could so easily make music that is heavy, and no one would question that. Instead they choose to pursue open heartedness and joy – and making music together, despite naysayers. As Mak says, ‘It’s really important to look at the positives in life and keep on grinding.’

The latest single from New Problems is ‘Simple Things’, written with Robbie Mortimer, and I ask each of them about the simple things that bring them joy – and they have great answers for that. I also ask Mak about ‘Amara’s Song’, which was written for his eldest daughter at the time she was an only child … He now has another daughter, so obviously needs to write a song for her!

Each time I’ve interviewed Mak and Shar I have very much enjoyed how they interact with each other – because they genuinely like each other, quite apart from being brothers – and admired how they have made a commitment to continuing to make music together, and the processes they follow to do that. They are musical artists to their cores, and I think that shines through in this chat.

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Andrew Swift on his Lucky Stars and big, meaningful year

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 22:00:00 GMT

As the saying goes, luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity. Three-time Golden Guitar winner Andrew Swift has named his latest album Lucky Stars, and it’s his document of the last few years in his life, which have been full of personal and professional opportunity – and the album itself is testament to the ‘preparation’ part of the equation.

Swift is an accomplished and astute songwriter who also loves live performance, honing his sound and his instinct on the road to ensure he presents his audience with an album that is not only memorable but clear in its communication. The themes of the album are set with opening track ‘Nothing Better’, and consolidated throughout.

Swift is currently on the road and has shows and festivals booked through until March next year (dates below) and no doubt beyond. He’s also recently been to Canada, as he’s signed with a Canadian management company. In this interview we talk about that decision, as well as the newest Swift: his daughter, Valentine, for whom he and partner Simone Sordello wrote and recorded a song that appears on the album.

Given everything going on in his life, Swift might be forgiven for not having time to be aware of all the good things in life, but it’s clear in this conversation that he means what he says in the album title: he counts his lucky stars. And he also takes them on the road, and into songs, for others to enjoy.

SEE ANDREW SWIFT LIVE

21st November - St Andrews Hotel - St Andrews VIC

22nd November - Bellarine Estate - Bellarine VIC

23rd November - Kindred Bandroom - Footscray VIC

24th January - Blazes Showroom - Tamworth Country Music Festival NSW

5th February - Mt Gambier Bowls Club - Mt Gambier SA

6th February - Wheatsheaf Hotel - Adelaide SA

7th February - Quorn Hall - Quorn SA

8th February - Murray Delta Juke Joint - Goolwa SA

14th February - Boyup Brook Country Music Muster - Boyup Brook WA

28th March - Echuca Country Music Festival - Echuca VIC

Tickets on sale now and available via www.andrewswift.com.au

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Fanny Lumsden on her new national tour and so much more

Sun, 16 Nov 2025 20:09:30 GMT

There will never not be a lot for me to talk to Fanny Lumsden about. The two-time ARIA and multiple Golden Guitar-winning singer, songwriter, videographer, tour specialist and joy bringer from the Upper Murray region of New South Wales has a full life that has this year seen her tour the United Kingdom and Ireland, supported Paul Kelly on his European and Australian tours, record new songs and release the single ‘Look At Me Now’ and its accompanying video, which features moments from Lumsden’s whole career and was made by her husband, bandmate and collaborator, Dan Stanley Freeman. This is combined with raising two children, being a mentor for others in the music industry and general and specific fabulousness.

So this is not a quick chat that I had with Lumsden. I’ve been a fan since her debut EP – which I mention in this interview – and that was for her music first. Lumsden is a fantastic songwriter, telling stories that are evocative, inspiring and also relatable. It was her songs I loved first – and then I started seeing her play live.

The live enterprise that is Fanny Lumsden and her band, the Prawnstars, has taken her around Australia multiple times, building her audience through the Country Halls Tours, as well as to the Glastonbury Festival, which in turn spurred her UK tours. Her upcoming Australian capital cities tour is the reason for this interview but it’s by far the only topic we cover.

I will say this, though: I will never be unbiased on the subject of Lumsden, her music and her shows. She is one of the most powerful forces for good in the Australian culture, leading by example and excellence, always pushing herself to create work that is more exciting, more insightful, more uplifting, more entertaining. For a fan, what could be more exciting? So that’s why I go to every single show she puts on in my home town (Sydney) and I encourage you to see her play live too. There will be laughter and playfulness and unexpected moments – and always, always there will be the songs and the harmonies and the excellent band. The dates to see Fanny Lumsden live are listed below.

Tickets available at https://www.fannylumsden.net/tourdates

Friday February 6 - Rosemount Hotel, Perth, WA

Saturday February 7 - Lion Arts Centre, Adelaide, SA

Friday February 13 - Thornbury Theatre, Melbourne, Vic

Saturday February 14 - The Triffid, Brisbane, Qld

Friday February 20 - Factory Theatre, Sydney, NSW

Saturday February 21 - UC Hub, Canberra, ACT

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Wade Forster on storytelling, giving 110% and gooseneck parties

Sat, 15 Nov 2025 00:42:10 GMT

‘Lyrics first. Lyrics always first. I’m a lyrics guy beyond anything.’

Wade Forster says this early on in our interview about his latest album, Gooseneck Party, and what then followed was a discussion about his songwriting process – he writes almost exclusively on his own. He mentions that in the last two or three years he’s written upwards of 70 or 80 songs on his own, and the tracks on the album are ‘just twenty-two of the better ones.’

Forster has rich material to draw from. As he says in this chat, ‘I’ve lived a hell of a life … I’ve got a lot of stories from a lot of different towns.’ He’s had a variety of jobs, from fridge mechanic to rodeo rider and a lot else in between. He also mentions in the interview that he gives 110% to his shows because he knows what it’s like to save up money to go to a show, and he wants to make sure his audience has a great experience accordingly. Having seem him play live I can attest that this is a case. Forster is a showman, and one with substance.

This was my first time interviewing Forster and I didn’t know what to expect. What I found was a thoughtful, well-rounded artist who puts a lot of time and attention into making his songs the best they can be, then curating the best selection for the album or show, not only to tell the whole story he wants to tell but to create something unique and memorable for his audience. It was a thoroughly enjoyable and interesting conversation, and I hope you find it the same!

SEE WADE FORSTER LIVE

Nov 15 – Townsville, Otherwise QLD

Nov 20 – Geelong, Barwon Club VIC

Nov 21 – Melbourne, Howler VIC SOLD OUT

Nov 22 – Adelaide, Jive SA SOLD OUT

Nov 27 – Katoomba, Baroque Bar NSW

Nov 28 – Sydney, The Lansdowne NSW

Jan 19 – Tamworth, The Longyard NSW

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James Johnston on his landmark second album, WHERE YOU’LL FIND ME

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 05:30:54 GMT

Since multiple award-winning and -nominated country music artist James Johnston started releasing singles, I’ve interviewed him several times. Although we’d met in person none of those interviews have been in person before now, and it was wonderful to have the chance to chat to Johnston about his second album, WHERE YOU’LL FIND ME, the follow-up to his smash-hit debut RAISED LIKE THAT. Because we filmed this in person and I don’t have a whiz-bang multi-camera studio, you’ll see only him on camera – although I did have nice microphones on us both!

There have already been several hit singles from WHERE YOU’LL FIND ME, including ‘Hell Boy’ and ‘Good For Me’, but as with RAISED LIKE THAT Johnston held some things back for the album. In the sixteen tracks we hear his stories, yes, but my impression was that this album seems more structured around themes, such as loyalty, love, dedication to family, appreciation of friends, hard work and very much not taking anything for granted. I put this to Johnston in the interview, and you can watch/listen to hear his response!

Johnston wrote dozens of songs before he recorded his first single, and his dedication not only to creating but to editing his output means that his albums are curated to offer an experience to the listener. Even a song that looks like a party song from the outside – such as ‘I Oughta Know Better’- offers details that build a world, rather than relying on cliché.

There’s also a special song called ‘Can I Keep Talking to You’, which I saw Johnston perform live ahead of the album release and immediately noted. It was lovely to hear the story behind that too.

I’ve never been shy about my admiration of Johnston, who not only has the talent and application but professionalism to match. His rapid rise was many years in the making, and he has consolidated the success of his first releases with a second album that will deepen his connection with fans, and no doubt bring in new fans too.

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Loretta Miller on her lifetime of creativity and debut solo album

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 02:58:11 GMT

While Loretta Miller has extensive experience in both recorded and live music, as the frontwoman of Melbourne band JAZZPARTY amongst other things, she hasn’t released country music before – so this is the first time I’ve interviewed her, and it was to talk about her debut album, Loretta.

This turned out to be a long conversation because Miller has had such an interesting life, growing up in a family of musical artists (including her aunt, Lisa Miller) and painters, that there was a lot to talk about. What became clear is that Miller takes chances – in music, in life – and is prepared to risk something not working out, which has had the effect of her having rich, varied experiences. Her world view is expansive – a case of ‘what else is out there?’ not ‘I am satisfied with what’s in here’ – and whether that is the reason why she takes chances or is a result of it, the effect is the same: she has a big life and she embraces all of it.

We do talk about the album, of course, which includes great songs like ‘Dog’ and ‘Passenger Side’, and about why she is drawn to country music as a style and genre (hint: she grew up with it). If you’re watching this interview rather than listening to it you’ll see the light around me fading, but there’s really no good time to say ‘I’m just going to put a light on’ so I went with it – Miller is the focus, after all, and it’s worth listening to this entire chat to find out more about her.

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Ella Powell on latest single ‘Passerby’ and exciting new direction

Sat, 25 Oct 2025 05:54:55 GMT

Central Coast country music singer-songwriter Ella Powell began this year as a Grand Finalist in the prestigious Toyota Star Maker competition, with the final held during the Tamworth Country Music Festival. It was no surprise that Powell had this recognition: since she began releasing music in 2020 she has stood out for her songwriting as well as her vocals.

Last year she collected her releases in an EP, The End of the Beginning, marking the end of that chapter and the start of a new one. This next phase has begun with the single, ‘Passerby’, which we talk about in this new interview. The song is about feeling like you’ve been left behind, that life is passing you by even as you hold onto your dreams. Musically it’s a shift in direction while lyrically it is true to Powell’s intelligent, emotionally astute writing.

The song was written with Ben Horsley, who was also the producer. Powell has often written on her own in the past but is evolving her songwriting practice along with her sound, writing with new people as well as having some songs co-written with Horsley in the vault.

I always look forward to Powell’s new songs, as well as the opportunity to talk to her about them, as she’s an exciting young artist who has already achieved so much. She had a great beginning, and this next part of her life as an artist is already off to a wonderful start.

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Jade Gibson on daydreaming in poetry and what makes for the ‘Perfect Crime’

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 22:00:00 GMT

Victorian country-pop artist Jade Gibson has a knack for creating infectious country-pop tunes and she has performed them in all sorts of places, from festival stages to pubs. Next year she’ll be on stage at CMC Rocks. And no doubt her latest single, ‘Perfect Crime’, would be on the set list.

Written with the song’s producer, Ben Horsley, and Nashville-based songwriter Ava Suppelsa, the song is about ghosting – the ‘perfect crime’. The first song Gibson recorded with Horsley was ‘Technicolour’. As she describes in this new interview, it marked a turning point – she let go of some of the pressure she’d put on herself to achieve certain goals, and she has now been achieving some of those very goals.

That doesn’t mean she hasn’t had challenges and knockbacks, and we talk about those too, as well as about her experience at Nashville Song Hubs, where she wrote ‘Bygones’, her single released earlier this year. We go into the rather tough story behind that song too.

Gibson’s Instagram bio says ‘daydreaming in poetry’, and we talk about that, and several other things, including her pushing herself outside her comfort zone – and I offer some unsolicited ‘writer therapy’!

Please note that I had a cold when this was recorded, so my voice sounds bad! I can’t believe Jade even understood me. Thanks to her for persevering.

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Country-rock duo Benson Manor on the power of talking things out

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 22:00:00 GMT

The members of Queensland country-rock duo Benson Manor, Chris Knight and Phil Behrens, have been performing together for over two decades but have only recently started to release original music, first with ‘Dirty Weekend’ and now with ‘Let’s Talk’, a song about the power of talking out problems rather than leaving them festering inside.

I had no idea what to expect when interviewing the pair, as they only have the two songs out so I hadn’t interviewed them before, but this chat was a hoot and a half. It was clear to see why they’ve managed to stay on good terms for so long – they make each other laugh, which would invariably help with the long hours needed to rehearse for live shows, especially when they now live in different parts of Queensland.

Our chat takes in the way they met, why they’re playing country rock, and why they started writing and recording music. They each have plenty of other things to do in their lives, but playing music together has clearly taken priority for a long time, and that suggests that there is an important ingredient to what they’re doing: fun.

Having said that, ‘Let’s Talk’ is a serious song with an intention to prompt people to talk about what’s troubling them, and it was inspired by what Knight and Behrens were seeing around them.

A note on the audio: firstly, I had a cold at the time so my voice is scratchy, and there were some wifi issues for Phil, and about halfway through a volume issue for Chris – but we persevered!

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Trinity Woodhouse on her moving new single ‘Pills’

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 22:00:00 GMT

Trinity Woodhouse started singing at a very young age. As she tells me in our recent interview, she was playing every sport imaginable and singing while doing it – including while swimming which, as she says, takes some doing! When she was eight her parents suggested she have some vocal lessons, although she didn’t agree to them until she was eleven. She started performing at twelve, and took up guitar initially so she wouldn’t fidget on stage – but she fell in love with it.

She attended her first Tamworth Country Music Festival at the age of thirteen and by the following year was attending the Junior Academy of Country Music. Seven years later she attended the Senior Academy. Her first single, ‘Bouquet’, was released in 2020. There have been three since, ‘Don’t You Know’ and ‘Colourblind’, and the latest, ‘Pills’.

‘Pills’ is an audacious song lyrically because Woodhouse is sharing her mental health story, and while authenticity is a hallmark of country music there are, of course, some subjects that are very hard to talk about – or sing about. The way Woodhouse’s vocal sounds in the song is also part of the story – and I asked her if this had something to do with the fact that she’s recorded with the producer, Josh Schuberth, several times now. (You’ll have to watch or listen to the interview to find out what she says.)

This is a story about the power of music in so many ways – both for Woodhouse and for the audience, in that we can receive these stories in song and take them into our own lives. No doubt ‘Pills’ will have a great impact on many people who hear it, and so will Woodhouse’s story.

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Sally Jane on learning to stand on Two Feet

Sun, 19 Oct 2025 22:39:49 GMT

Sally Jane is an emerging country music artist from Serpentine in Western Australia who started singing in early childhood – often in paddocks, as she told me in this interview! – and who has already played in many venues and around the country. Indeed, she has crossed the Nullarbor Plain eleven times to play the east coast of Australia.

Last year Sally released two singles, one of which was ‘Bombs & Bullets’, written and recorded with Luke O’Shea. The song is about the military, and I asked Sally about this. Her father was in the Royal Australian Navy for over two decades, and that has influenced Sally’s interest in telling stories about the military. (She said he is now her ‘dadager’ – and she means this lovingly!) The song was written at the Dag Sheep Station in Nundle, NSW – one of many great songs that have emerged from the songwriting retreat held there – and her attendance there has a special story attached, which she tells me in the interview.

This year Sally Jane has released a new single, ‘Two Feet’. The song is about her as a young adult learning to stand on her own two feet. She has very supportive parents, as she tells me, but also wants to be able to do things for herself and figure out how to make her way in the world. While she certainly seems more than capable, I appreciated her perspective on what it’s like to be a young person today.

A big part of making her way in the world is making her way with her music, and as she has already released some lovely songs and is dedicated to continuing to improve her craft, play more, connect with more people, there are no doubt other great stories to come. I had a lovely time chatting to Sally Jane – she’s one of those young people who make you believe that humanity is in good hands.

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Jasmine Sparkes on taking the musical journey down Sparkes Road

Sat, 18 Oct 2025 22:51:22 GMT

The latest single from Central Coast NSW artist Jasmine Sparkes is ‘Sparkes Road’ – based on a real Sparks Road that she travels often, the spelling has been altered slightly to reflect the metaphorical and literal journey Sparkes has taken through her musical life, which began with learning piano in childhood and takes in classical training and musical theatre.

Growing up on the land, and still passionate about living in the country today, Sparkes balances her live schedule – travelling to and from her home, down country roads – with her burgeoning songwriting and recording activities. ‘Sparkes Road’ is her third song, following ‘Country to Coast’ and ‘6 Dinners’.

In this wide-ranging conversation we cover not only the songs but Sparkes’s interesting and unusual upbringing – her late father was the Australian radio presenter and television personality Ken Sparkes, and Jasmine spent time at the Channel Nine TV studios while growing up. Her father gave her a wholistic perspective on music, she says, and he would appreciate her being a country music artist, since that genre focuses on storytelling.

We also talk about the different facets of her live shows, which include her in-demand country covers band. Being an entertainer, Sparkes says, is about keeping people happy, and she clearly loves her work.

Increasingly Sparkes plans to balance the original music with the covers, so the three singles are just the start – and it was great to find out about everything that has taken her down Sparkes Road.

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Corey Colum on his long-awaited new album Patience

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 22:38:14 GMT

Corey Colum emerged into the Australian country music scene in 2009, when he won the Telstra Road to Tamworth competition. He released his debut self-titled album in 2012 – and then we didn’t hear from him for a good long while.

Colum didn’t step away from music so much as releasing music. He’s still been very much playing, and writing. But he also had some other – rather important – things to do like raising a family, and just living life. Colum has a variety of skills in addition to his musical prowess – he’s worked as a truck driver and machine operator, and he’s also a plumber. So while he hasn’t been idle, he’s also looked for the balance in life that has seen him move to Onslow in Western Australia, and it’s this place that inspired his latest single, ‘Get Livin’’ from his second album, Patience, which is out now.

Patience is a portrait of a balanced, interesting life, and includes the song ‘Reasons’, written with Drew McAlister, as well as the title track, which probably speaks for itself! The songs on the album are in the country-rock genre and while they’re the sorts of songs you could cheerfully play at a summer barbecue, they’re also worth a closer listen as Colum gives us those pointers towards how we can, well, get livin’. It’s easy to hear in Colum’s voice on these tracks that he is right where he wants to be, and that also makes for easy listening.

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Lyn Bowtell on her magical, moving new album Paper Cut

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 22:00:00 GMT

It’s fair to say that Lyn Bowtell is a doyenne of Australian music, and not only because she’s the director of the Academy of Country Music, overseeing the Junior Academy each July and Senior Academy each January and everything in between – although that would be qualification enough. So it is that but it is also this: she has this glorious voice that can prompt tears and break hearts in one phrase, and she writes these songs that speak straight to whomever is listening, and when she delivers the lyrics in that glorious voice they’re somehow more devastating or more uplifting or whatever her intention is, they are more. She’s also a wonderful multi-instrumentalist. And she’s funny on stage, to the point of bending an audience member double with laughter. There is no one like her, which is another reason for that doyenne status.

Thus there is no one better qualified than Bowtell, really, to be in charge of her own music – that is, to be the producer of her own songs. So it’s past high time that she took charge of an album, and she has done that with her latest, Paper Cuts, which she produced with her partner and collaborator Damon Morton. In our latest interview we talk about why she hasn’t produced before and what the experience was like.

We also talk about some of the songs on the album, especially the latest single, ‘Scene of the Crime’, which is about violence directed at Bowtell and is also her way of working through it. If I tell you that I saw her play it live several weeks before it was released and she cried, and the audience cried with her, then we gave her a standing ovation, you’ll have a sense of the power of that song. But all of Bowtell’s songs are powerful because they come from this place of deep musicality and pure connection. It is a joy to have a new album from her, and also to speak to her about it. And she is really something live, so do try to catch one of her shows if you can – you’ll find them here and also below.

Listen to Paper Cuts on Apple Music

https://apple.co/42JwYLf

Listen to Paper Cuts on Spotify

https://open.spotify.com/album/5SLdYH1fi3ij8iRwes9dmK?si=jF5j7vIBTyK6SWkNqR0E9w

LYN BOWTELL TOUR DATES 2025

Friday, October 24: Mantra - Yarraville, Victoria

Saturday, October 25: Noojee Hotel, Noojee, Victoria

Sunday, October 26: The Shed Theatre @ The Pig & Whistle, Main Ridge, Victoria

Saturday, November 1: Trinity Sessions, Clarence Park, South Australia

Sunday, November 2: Walloway Farm, Walloway South Australia

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Aleyce Simmonds on her Mighty Mighty Love of music and life

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 23:45:42 GMT

During this interview with Tamworth-based country music artist Aleyce Simmonds you’ll occasionally hear her talking to her young daughter, Georgia, who was nearby during the chat, and, towards the end, her husband. I could have edited out these lines, but for what reason? To pretend that Simmonds wasn’t at home, doing the interview near her garden, with the setting sun and birds nearby and her beloved child at her feet? This is life – it is her life – and she has gone through great challenges to build it. Her experiences, her triumphs, her grief, her determination, all go into her artistry as well as into that life. So it was a fitting context for our conversation about the twentieth-anniversary release of her hit single ‘Mighty Mighty Love’.

Simmonds has rerecorded this track, which 20 years ago became the most played country song on commercial radio in Australian history and changed her life forever by opening up opportunities to the young artist she then was. We talk about what happened at that time, and what’s happened since, and about the new recording.

We also talk about her involvement with the Academy of Country Music, where she’s been an integral part of the Junior course for several years. At her Tamworth Country Music Festival show on 18 January at the Tamworth Hotel, Junior Course students that she mentored in July this year will open the show. Five dollars from every ticket to her Tamworth Country Music Festival show will be donated to CanAssist, and we talk about why she has chosen CanAssist.

‘Mighty Mighty Love’ is the title of Simmonds’s song but it could also be a statement about how she lives – fully immersed, not shying away from emotions even when they’re hard, and open hearted. You can hear all of that in the recording and also in this interview.

Tickets for Aleyce Simmonds at TCMF can be bought here.

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Michael Carpenter on The Start of Being

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 22:00:00 GMT

The first time I interviewed Sydney singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer Michael Carpenter, I found out how he organises his time so well (hint: it’s a simple to-do list and actually remembering to look at it), although I also think he marries that organisation with a sense of living in constant creative flow. The output of his own music, whether that’s solo, with The April Family or with the Banks Brothers (with whom he’s won several Golden Guitars), would be enough to keep him occupied year round, but he also fits in production for many other artists. He has also this year released a new solo album, The Start of Being.

The last time Carpenter released a solo album it was in 2016, and the genre was power pop (in which he is a specialist). He thought he wouldn’t release solo music again, so part of our conversation in this recent interview is about why that changed and also how his music has changed. Because he’s been so involved with country music for the past decade, in his musical projects and as a producer, it’s influenced the solo work – although the power pop is still there, and we have a brief digression into Canadian East Coast power pop, of which I’m also a fan.

If I were to stand back from Carpenter’s work and try to offer one focused perspective on it, I’d say that he leads with his heart then applies his brain and the skills therein to expressing what’s in that heart. In other words: if he doesn’t feel it, he doesn’t do it. It’s the feeling that imbues his songs with an irresistible warmth, and his singing voice is part of that. It’s well suited to pop and also offers something different to country, and above all it delivers the melodies that he’s so very good at writing.

As ever, he’s a very interesting man to chat to and I hope you enjoy our conversation.

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Hazel on the new Hazel & the Thief album Wildflowers in Concrete

Sun, 12 Oct 2025 22:00:00 GMT

Many musical artists immerse themselves in their work, embracing many facets of it, sometimes as singing or instrument teachers, or writing songs for other artists to perform, making videos or producing. Victorian artist Hazel – who performs with her band, The Thief – runs a popular venue, The Pig & Whistle in Main Ridge, scheduling more than 100 shows a year, which in and of itself would be enough to keep her quite occupied! So she is a vital part of the live music community in Victoria and, by extension, Australia.

While looking after that side of her musical life, she has also studied music, and is writing, recording and performing her own songs. This year she also attended the Academy of Country Music in Tamworth.

Hazel recently released her debut album, Wildflowers in Concrete. Produced by Matt Fell, it has themes of a love of nature, figuring out how to be with others, a strong sense of community, care and regard for others. While these are Hazel’s stories, they have much to offer others, and while this is her debut album, it is the work of a developed artist who has a clear sense of the stories she wants to tell. This has no doubt come about because she has found herself in challenging situations, which she talks about in this interview, and music has been her way of navigating through and past them. For many people who not only create but love music as listeners, this is a reminder of the power even one song has to provide reassurance or refuge, to motivate and inspire. Hazel is herself inspiring, and I hope you enjoy listening to or watching this interview with her.

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Kaitlyn Thomas on boots, guitars and ‘Mississippi Lies’

Sat, 11 Oct 2025 23:52:30 GMT

‘Everything is a song. Life is a song. Books are a song.’

That’s what Victoria-born Queensland resident Kaitlyn Thomas told me when I asked about her songwriting process in our recent chat about her latest single, ‘Mississippi Lies’, which she recorded with in-demand Gold Coast producer Jared Adlam. Thomas was talking about how she’d had the title of the song in a songbook for a while and brought it to life with other songwriters at a SHE Songwriting Retreat run by Lyn Bowtell. And to find out more about the song you’ll need to watch/listen to the interview!

Our conversation didn’t start where I’d planned as when Thomas appeared on screen I could see guitars and boots behind her, so I started to ask about those. (She has a boot sponsor who is mentioned – there was no other way for her to explain how she came to have those turquoise boots! – but this is not a sponsored post.) That led to us talking about costume and guitar selection, so there’s a bit of that before we get into what Thomas has been up to this year, which includes being a Toyota Star Maker Grand Finalist and a finalist in the Gympie Muster Mothertone Talent Search.

Thomas is always vivacious and candid in our interviews. She’s been releasing music since she was child – and went to the Junior Academy of Country Music before later attending Senior Academy – so music is very much part of her fibre. And so is fun, in that she clearly loves what she does and makes the most of it. She takes the work seriously and herself not so much. That makes for easy conversation with depth, and that’s what you’ll find in this interview.

Listen to ‘Mississippi Lies’ on Apple Music

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Emily Joy on her life in music and new single ‘Give Me a Shot or Two’

Sat, 11 Oct 2025 01:00:00 GMT

While I enjoy interviewing artists for the second, third or fourth (sometimes more!) time, it’s always lovely to meet someone new and find out about their life in music. Emily Joy is a country-pop artist from Western Australia whom I knew had studied music extensively, but there’s only so much you can glean from research online – which is at least one of the reasons why it’s good to have these in-depth chats. In this interview, which was prompted by the release of her latest single ‘Give Me a Shot or Two’, Joy talks about how she played violin from the age of a seven and lasted a decade with it even though, as she said, she ‘made the violin cry’! But that early training stood her in great stead as she learnt to sing then picked up guitar.

What followed was time studying at WAAPA (Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts), Berklee College of Music and the Academy of Country Music in Tamworth. She released her first single, ‘Barricade’, in 2016 then a self-titled EP in 2016.

A change in her circumstances – namely, the end of a relationship which also meant losing her guitarist and business partner – saw her taking a break from music and then, as she told me, feeling anxious about releasing music again. She kept writing, though, which means she has songs in the bank. And last year Joy released her first new music in eight years, the single ‘A Little Part of Me’.

This year she has returned with ‘Give Me a Shot or Two’, a song about taking a shot at love. And while the song can more than speak for itself, Joy has also undertaken some audacious activities in support of it, including playing at traffic lights in between them turning red and going green! So of course I had to ask her about that.

Joy is still young but she has the steadiness that comes from an artist who has spent time finding out who they are and what they want to convey. It was great to get to know her in this interview and I hope you enjoy it too.

Listen to Emily Joy on Apple Music

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Kaylee Bell on her powerful path to Cowboy Up

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 02:35:43 GMT

Early on in my interview with award-winning, chart-topping country music artist Kaylee Bell, I discovered that she has a background in sport – this was not something I’d found in my research but I always like exploring this angle when it comes up with musical artists because to me, at least, there are commonalities in both pursuits. Both require an understanding that most of one’s time will be spent in preparation: practising, practising, practising for the moments of performance (sporting competitions are also performances in their own way, as are recording sessions). That in turn implies a tolerance for the mundane things that go into playing sport or being a musical artist – the admin of it all, whether that’s getting to a sports ground or concert venue, warming up, setting up, packing down. And it also means being prepared to chase something that is elusive, whether it’s a goal, a victory, audience response or a hit song.

Seen in that context, it is no surprise that Bell – who grew up in Aotearoa New Zealand and spent several years in Australia – has been so successful, because she essentially has been and keeps training to be the best she can be in her chosen endeavour. That absolutely does not mean, however, that the success she has built on with release after release, tour after tour, is a foregone conclusion. She can have all the talent in the world and apply herself diligently to making something of it, but so often there needs to be a little bit of magic.

The magic comes from being prepared to embrace the frailty and joy of being human, and in the case of a musical artist, also being prepared to offer that back to the audience. Bell has had great triumphs, such as winning the 2023 Global Artist Of The Year at the CMA Awards in Nashville, and great challenges, with her health in particular, including during her recent pregnancy. Frailty and joy is in ‘Heartbeat’, the final track of her new album, Cowboy Up, and they’re both there to find in the seven other tracks on this impressive, memorable album. I thoroughly enjoyed speaking to her about the album and hope you enjoy listening to or watching the interview.

Kaylee Bell will be performing at Tailem Bend Classic and Strummingbird Festival in Australia at the end of this month, then touring New Zealand. Details at: https://kayleebellmusic.com/pages/tour

Cowboy Up is out now through Sony Music Australia.

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Brad Cox on the many facets of Endemic Intelligence in Multiple Dimensions

Sun, 05 Oct 2025 00:46:20 GMT

It can never be said that Jindabyne local now Queensland resident Brad Cox has rested on his laurels. From his debut self-titled album, released in 2018, through second album My Mind’s Projection in 2020 and Acresin 2023, he has evolved his sound while building his audience, often through touring his own shows and playing festivals. His voice is big, and so are the stories and themes in his songs.

Cox has never been an artist who has lived by the maxim ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’. It may be fair to say that he is, indeed, an artist who sets out to break things, musically speaking, because that will create change, and he wants to pursue that change and see where it leads him.

That may well be how he arrived at his latest album, Endemic Intelligence in Multiple Dimensions. From the second track, ‘Sunset Psalm’, which is preceded by a short instrumental track, in which he sings ‘I saw the light and I’m running’, we are off and running towards the light he is holding up, leading us into and through that musical change he is pursuing.

There are tracks on this album that are very much not country music and still also very much Brad Cox, as we discuss in this new interview. There are others that are country music but not in the way anyone else could make it. That’s because Cox has a clear sense of the songs he wants to write and record and release, and he has the talent to back that up. Which is not to say that he works alone – in one part of this interview he talks about the role A&R from his label, Warner Music Australia, played in the formation of the album. He also has a red-hot band (as anyone who has seen him play live can attest). But it all stems from him and the extent to which he is prepared to move through those multiple dimensions of potential, and of his artistry, to find not only what works but what is necessary and strong and right.

There is audacity in pursuing the creative path you want as opposed to what may work better for others, because you need to hold your nerve. And holding one’s nerve takes more courage than ever appears to the naked eye. When there’s an audience, and radio stations, and a record company waiting to see what you come up with, it would be normal to waver. But if Cox ever wavered in making this album, there’s no sign of it. This is a panoramic, brightly hued work, and we’re all the better for it. It was, therefore, wonderful to have the chance to talk to him about it. And as he says towards the end of the chat: ‘I’m very thankful for all of it – the ebbs, the flows, the highs, the lows. It’s all about experience.’

Endemic Intelligence in Multiple Dimensions is out now through Warner Music Australia.

Listen to Endemic Intelligence in Multiple Dimensions on Apple Music

https://apple.co/4nAzHz5

Listen to Endemic Intelligence in Multiple Dimensions on Spotify

https://open.spotify.com/album/1N2LHCJgUEy8GzXItAuNKg?si=pXYX7Wm3QxmM3AhW-dbFyw

[PHOTO CREDIT: ROCKET WEIJERS]

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Sara Berki is In the Neon for Ridin’ Hearts

Sat, 04 Oct 2025 01:09:32 GMT

Sara Berki is a country music artist from the greater Sydney area who impressed audiences from her very first single, ‘Fallin’ Off the Heartline’, and has kept releasing songs that not only consolidate those early impressions but shift her as an artist into new territory while also being identifiably her sound, as evidenced on her recent second EP, In the Neon.

Berki performed at the inaugural Ridin’ Hearts festival in 2023 and this year she returns as the festival goes to Sydney Showgrounds at Homebush on Saturday 25 October and Caribbean Gardens in Melbourne on 25 October. Berki appears alongside Australians Briana Dinsdale, Lewis Love, Lane Pittman, and Ridin’ Starts winner Ruby Jane, and Americans Megan Moroney, Nate Smith, Avery Anna, Waylon Wyatt and Karley Scott Collins.

Berki is such a versatile live performer that she will no doubt win more fans at the festival. We talk about her plans for her set and about her live performance generally – having seen her play live earlier this year on a couple of occasions, each quite different, as well as in 2022 in Tamworth, I know what a great live performer she is, able to adapt to venue and audience, and to being a front woman or playing solo acoustic.

Ahead of Ridin’ Hearts I caught up with Berki about what it’s like to return to the festival as well as her other big performance this month: singing at the NRLW final on 5 October. As I discovered, she is from an NRL family and absolutely loves the sport, so there couldn’t be a more perfect pairing of artist and event.

For all the information about Ridin’ Hearts, go to https://www.ridinhearts.com

[PHOTO CREDIT: GRACIE STEINDL]

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Jake Davey has ‘Got It All’ with new country pop hit

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 23:11:56 GMT

Jake Davey is one of those multi-talented artists who must have an incredibly well-organised diary because he moves so regularly between making videos and producing music for other artists as well as writing and recording his own songs, and playing live. Two years ago, however, it seemed there was little prospect of any of that when Davey was given a diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome, which meant he was told he may not walk again or have children.

‘I think everyone gets knocked down in life,’ he says in our new interview, ‘but it’s how you get back up and how many times you get back up. That’s definitely what I felt when it happened to me and [I thought], Okay – this isn’t going to define who I am. I can let it, but I’m not going to.’

Davey also says that he would have been recording music and writing and doing other things in a wheelchair – but his determination and the work he’s done and continues to do has meant he doesn’t need to.

‘You can try and hold me down,’ he says, laughing, ‘but it’s not going to work out too well.’

This is context for the song that Davey has just released, ‘Got It All’, which is a feel-good anthem that is about embracing and celebrating what you have. And context does matter: this song is anchored in his lived experience. The video clip, filmed by his good friend Jackson James, backs up the message in the song (and I did have a question about why Davey didn’t make his own video!) and was made when James was visiting from his new home in Nashville for Davey’s wedding.

Davey may have to put his activities on pause or, at least, slow for a little while as he’s due to become a father soon. No doubt his song will take on new meaning, and he will likely take on fatherhood the way he’s taken on every other endeavour – and he’ll keep making music while he’s doing it.

Watch the video on YouTube

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Brad Christmas of Copperline on ‘Sleepwalking’ through the days

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Copperline are a four-piece alt-country band fronted by Brad Christmas, who is also an in-demand musician who has played with acts such as Boney M and Steve Kilbey in between writing songs and also writing books – his first book for young people, Saltwater Boy, has had award acclaim and Christmas is now at work on his second.

Copperline’s new single, ‘Sleepwalking’, was produced by Shane Nicholson, with whom they have worked on their two albums thus far. Nicholson is now working out of a studio in Melbourne where he shares space with Damian Cafarella and Clint Wilson, so it was interesting to find out about that in the interview!

‘Sleepwalking’ is Copperline’s first release since 2022’s ‘Lucinda’, from their second album Borrowed, Broken & Blue, written for Christmas’s late daughter. It achieved chart success and won Ballad of the Year at the 2023 Australian Songwriters Association Awards, one of five nominations the band has had for those particular awards.

I’ve had a few chats with Christmas now, so you’ll hear some familiarity – plus we both live in Sydney and have seen each other at gigs. I also work in book publishing by day and therefore have quite an interest in his parallel life as an author, so there’s some discussion of that in this interview.

Copperline have two shows left this year before they head to Tamworth in January:

Saturday 4th October – Tourist Hotel, Queanbeyan NSW

Sunday 30th November – Link and Pin, Woy Woy NSW

Listen to ‘Sleepwalking’ on Apple Music

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Brooke Schubert on her powerful debut album, After Midnight

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Brooke Schubert is a country rock artist living in Brisbane, Queensland. She is in a musical lineage that includes her great-grandmother, Iris Atkinson, who was the first woman in Australia to produce a vinyl recording, her aunt Karyn, an opera singer, and her mother, Susan, who performed at the first Gympie Muster and was also a professional golfer.

Both music and sport have been prominent in Schubert’s life – she has represented Queensland in hockey and swimming, and has also been performing most of her life and releasing music since 2013. She now has a debut album, After Midnight, and at the time we spoke she was fresh from performing at the Gympie Muster. It was at the Muster, at the age of ten, that Schubert sang on stage for the first time, so it was a special place for her to return to with her album.

The album draws on a range of her musical influences and also contains a song written by family friend Graeme Connors, which was recorded in the wake of a heartbreaking event that affected Schubert deeply – something we can hear in her vocal. Schubert’s voice is a glorious instrument and the variety of songs on After Midnight gives her the opportunity to use it to full effect. Her passion for music is apparent in these songs, and also in conversation – she lives and breathes music.

Schubert has played live in all sorts of venues and continues to do so regularly in Brisbane. She’s also going to take her new album on the road in Queensland in October – you can find details of those shows and her Brisbane gigs at https://brookeschubert.com/pages/shows-1

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Tom Curtain hits the road with ‘Here’s to You’

Sun, 14 Sep 2025 08:49:00 GMT

Each time I interview Tom Curtain I learn something new, which is probably not surprising, given the scope of his life: running the Katherine Outback Experience in the dry season, at his home in the Northern Territory, then taking it literally on the road during the wet season, with horses and dogs and humans in tow. This is all while he writes, records and releases music, and is involved with organisations Dolly’s Dream and Farm Angels.

The reason for this latest conversation was his latest single ‘Here’s to You’, the title track of his new album, which he recorded with Laura Frank, who is part of Curtain’s tour. We talked about how Frank came to join the tour a couple of years ago, and why she and Curtain recorded the song together (Frank also made the video, with partner Nick Morrissey, who is also on tour with Curtain). Then I asked Curtain about his work with Dolly’s Dream and Farm Angels, and that’s when I discovered another element of his life: how he also takes on young people who need a break, to work with him in Katherine. He believes in giving horses, dogs and people a second chance, and has folded that into the enterprise he now runs. This is not something he advertises, but it’s work that has an impact.

Curtain is certainly someone who makes the most of every single day of his life, and his songs reflect a life well lived, and lived on the land, and he has found fans all across Australia because of them. He’ll be playing those songs on tour, which kicks off in October. Tickets on sale now and available via: https://www.tomcurtain.com.au/all-tours/heres-to-you-tour/

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Mitchell Steele on his epic life and statement debut single

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 23:00:00 GMT

The only time I have seen Mitchell Steele perform live was over a decade ago, upstairs at the Tudor Hotel in Tamworth during the Country Music Festival. Clearly it made an impression because I remember it clearly: the crowd in that hot room in January, his voice, the way he held our attention, and how he did not shy away from what was a very close audience connection in that space.

He did not release music at that time. Occasionally I would wonder what had happened to him and if he would resurface in the country music space. Then I saw that he was at this year’s Senior Academy of Country Music and that was the signal that he was back. Then I heard he was working on music and that a single was on its way, and I was, at the very least, curious as to what it might be.

When I finally heard the single, ‘Worn Out West’, it was worth waiting for. A decade worth waiting for? Yes. Steele’s voice is wonderful, and so is the story in this song, which he wrote with Kasey Chambers and Brandon Dodd and which they produced, as they did Steele’s album, which does not yet have a release date but suffice to say that there’s a good chance it too will be worth the wait.

I interviewed Steele about the song and his story, and he has had – still has – quite the life. He grew up in a musical family, on the land, working hard as country people have to because it’s a seven-day-a-week job, being on the land. He left school at fifteen to become a stockman, then found work in music on the Gold Coast. He’s mostly been moving between music and the land, between inland and seaside, since.

Steele is fully engaged in all parts of his life, and it is always a privilege to speak to someone who is passionate about what they do. It was clear to me – as it will hopefully be to you when you watch or listen to the interview – that in the years since I saw him perform in Tamworth he’s been forming himself as an artist, understanding both himself and the world better, and figuring out what sort of artist he wants to be. That’s why this one song is so good. That’s why the album is likely to be great.

I hope you enjoy getting to know Mitchell Steele in this chat. I certainly did!

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Bad Debts on their debut album Under Kalimna Skies

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Something is in the water in the Victorian town of Castlemaine, in an artistic sense. That’s the impression I had from talking to Al Carr and Pete Daly, two of the four members of Castlemaine band Bad Debts. Carr, Daly and the two other members, Mitch Dillon and Al Stanley, are locals whose proximity has led to the creation of an endeavour that none of them was really seeking or expecting.

As I found out when interviewing them about Bad Debts’ debut album, Under Kalimna Skies, Carr and Daly met because they have children going to the same school, not through music circles, although Carr has released three solo albums, amongst other things, and Daly was previously in Melbourne band Blueriver. The collaboration began as the two of them jamming together, then added Dillon and Stanley, who have also been creating music (separately) for years.

‘We were kind of having a bit of fun,’ Carr says, ‘then it got serious all of a sudden!’

It got serious in the form of 13 songs, with the writing shared amongst Carr, Daly and Dillon, making one album, recorded in Castlemaine, and it’s remained serious because, as I found out, they are already well into making their second album.

Part of what I found so interesting about the conversation is that Carr and Daly were well established in their lives at the time they met and became friends. The easier path would have been for Carr to keep making his music and not take up Carr’s suggestion that they jam in his shed. He wasn’t looking for a new musical enterprise.

All four men, however, have embraced newness and the result is a whole body of work that wouldn’t have existed without each of them taking the sort of chance that seems effortless when you’re in your twenties and somehow so much harder when you have kids at school and homes to run. They probably don’t think of it as inspiring but it is – if nothing else, it’s a reminder that if we don’t take chances we never find out what may come of them, whom we may meet and what we may create. Bad Debts turned out to be a safe bet, and they intend to keep backing it.

A note on the audio: sometimes Daly’s wifi dropped out, so things were a little patchy. But that’s podcasting in real life and not in a studio! Occasionally the internet goes wonky.

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Christie Lamb tells the truth about new album Dare

Sun, 31 Aug 2025 09:05:49 GMT

If you’ve ever seen Christie Lamb play live you’ll know just how compelling a musical presence she is, with her powerful vocals and inherent musicality. She’s played in all sorts of places, from private events to arena tours, and each step of her career has seen her develop further as an artist. Her artistry has also been developed through tertiary studies, and music is now part of who she is.

Lamb’s latest album, Dare, is the natural follow-up to Truth from 2022, and also an evolution in sound and storytelling. As Lamb is now a mother to Charlotte, with husband and longtime musical collaborator Jonathan English, the new album reflects the family side of her life as well as the fact that motherhood has not meant that she wants to stay home all the time. She’s a working artist, with the atypical lifestyle that brings, and she her songs reflect her reality as well as being relatable to anyone not only balancing work and family life but looking for meaning in both.

Some of the songs on the album were, she tells me during this interview, developed with specific themes in mind while others developed organically. ‘You kind of let the song dictate to you in a way,’ she says, ‘whether it's from a title or a concept or just a feel of a song.’

Lamb clearly approaches the creative process with an open mind and sense of adventure. As she says, ‘Dare to suck. Throw ideas out there [even] if it sounds cheesy or you think it's a bit cringe.’ It’s safe to say, however, that none of the songs on Dare are even remotely cringe! They are, in fact, incredibly earwormy, and you will find yourself being kept company by them, in a great way, for a long time to come.

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Jason Resch: from pop song success to the country talk of the town

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Jason Resch was introduced to Australian country music audiences as a member of country-pop four-piece Darlinghurst, who topped charts and won awards for their songs including ‘Pretty Doesn’t Make You Good’.

Resch’s life in music started well before then, however: on a toy piano in childhood, as he told me during our interview, before he moved on to other instruments. He played in a band from the age of thirteen until he was seventeen, and that led directly to him leaving Australia to move to the United Kingdom at the age of eighteen, to write songs for production company Xenomania. He has written songs for Kylie Minogue and Pet Shop Boys, with his songs achieving chart success around the world.

After the UK, Resch moved to Nashville for a while, mainly to write songs, and because he was drawn to country music.

Given his background we talked quite a lot about songwriting, and Resch mentioned how he doesn’t want to write ‘sugar rush songs’ which feel good initially but don’t have lasting impact – I hadn’t heard the concept expressed like that before, and it’s memorable! We then talked in depth about his songwriting, including the fact that he writes daily. And he means daily – as he said in the chat, he tried to take a holiday once!

After years of writing for others, and for Darlinghurst, Resch is now releasing his first solo single, the immediately infectious ‘Talk of the Town’, which he wrote with Michael Paynter and Michael DeLorenzis of MSquared in Melbourne, who also produced the track. Hopefully it will be the first of many solo songs.

Resch was so interesting to talk to, partly for the history of his career and also because of the detail about songwriting. I hope you find him just as interesting to listen to!

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Chloe Marks on her dynamic career and her latest single with The Mayhem

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Chloe Marks grew up in Innisfail in Far North Queensland and she now lives in Brisbane. She has been releasing music in various guises since 2015 and now, as Chloe Marks & The Mayhem, she has released two singles this year. The latest is ‘Skip September’.

It was clear during our interview that Marks is an artist who tends to say ‘yes’ to things – and also clear that those yeses have taken her to incredibly interesting places, including the life she has now, creating music and engaged in several different music communities. It takes courage to say yes, not knowing if it will be the right decision, so my impression of her is that she is courageous, and inspiring accordingly.

Marks taught herself guitar at the age of eight and that was the accelerant on what was clearly a burgeoning musical talent that took off in her teenage years, when she joined marching and jazz bands, then began singing.

Studying a Bachelor of Music at university in Brisbane, Marks focused on performance and production, and gained practical experience in recording studios. These are skills she still applies, although not as frequently as she would like, as she tells me in this interview.

Marks formed the blues rock band Scotch and Cider in 2013, going on to rediscover country music through a bandmate, which is what has led her to release music in the country genre, including ‘Skip September’. Apart from her own bands, Marks plays drums for other artists. She’s also released music as a solo artist.

This full embrace of a musical life includes songwriting, and Marks has written over 400 songs. In this conversation we discuss her (longhand) songwriting process along with her other creative endeavours, which include extreme sports photography.

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Mack & Cook are right on time with ‘Time Goes By’

Sun, 17 Aug 2025 01:51:39 GMT

Mack & Cook are Lizzie Mack and Murray Cook are two members of The Soul Movers, who have released several albums and are festival favourites. They are now creating music as a duo and recently released their first single, the slow burn ‘Time Goes By’.

What goes into this single is the experience of two of Australia’s most established and respected musical artists. Murray Cook is a founding member of The Wiggles, and a passionate music fan – I have seen at gigs of various types around Sydney, and can attest that he has eclectic taste – who continues to evolve what he’s offering as an artist.

Lizzie Mack is a singer with a phenomenal instrument, a gutsy, warm voice that has graced soul and blues songs and is now very well suited to country music.

This interview was a chance to not only talk to them about their history as collaborators, including the story of the Soul Movers, but to find out about their lives in music in general. I could not, of course, have ignored Cook’s involvement with The Wiggles and it was fascinating to find out about their work practices and ethic, and also not hard to see that Cook is still working consistently at his craft, as is Cook, who is just as interesting!

The song ‘Time Goes By’ is about having a lot more to give as people and artists – there is, of course, a cultural focus on young artists, but certainly the audience for any genre is not entirely composed of young people, and those who have lived longer lives tend to have more stories to tell. That is definitely the case with Mack & Cook, and hopefully they’ll continue to bring those stories to us.

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Sarah Catania moves into the Front Row

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Sarah Catania is a singer-songwriter from Melbourne who released her first single, ‘Venus and Mars’, in 2022 and she’s been steadily releasing singles since then, the latest being the anthemic ‘Front Row’.

A graduate of the CMAA Academy of Country Music, Catania not only made connections with other Academy graduates but returned this year as an intern, an intensive position that also gave her the opportunity to meet Heath Milner, with whom she wrote ‘Front Row’. The song is about having the self-belief to move into the ‘front row’.

‘I've always been quite a confident being,’ she says. ‘So I think “Front Row” kind of embodies those traits that I have as well … I wanted something that could be like a hype song for the girlies because they're the songs that I really am drawn to. And I like putting on in the morning, make myself feel good, get the day started on the right foot.’

Catania has been playing live regularly over the past few years, and her voice has evolved along with her songs.

‘Everything changes all the time,’ she says. ‘Even if I'll watch a video of me performing last year compared to now, I feel like I've changed heaps. It's like this never-ending evolvement and development, which is cool … I can't be anything except myself. I think I'm way too loud and outspoken. If I was trying to fit a mould, you'd know, you could tell.’

Catania currently manages quite a packed schedule – with the aid of a colour-coded Google Calendar, which we discuss! Along with the making of the song and other things, including the video for the song, which features a surprise leading man.

Catania will be performing at the Gympie Muster pre-muster event on 23 August and you’ll also find her at Bridge Hotel in Werribee this Friday, 15 August. She’s also working on a new single release.

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Elly McK on her emotional new single ‘Hold On’ and tour with band The Unbelievers

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 09:03:55 GMT

When I saw Melbourne band Elly McK & The Unbelievers play in Sydney last year, it was one of the most entertaining shows I’d ever attended. The band had this groove between them that meant they could fly free within the structures of their songs, and it was evident that they all really liked each other. That is such a great treat for a live music fan, to see the artists having fun, looking like they could play all night if they were allowed to.

The songs have to be there, of course, in order to provide the band with that foundation that allows creativity to flow, and in this new interview Elly and I talk about the songwriting process in the band, which starts with her but invariably involves the other members, Sam Price on drums, Jordy Hickey on double bass, and Monty Price on guitar.

We spoke in depth about live performance and what it means to Elly and the band, and also how it was affected during the pandemic – because although some of us may think that’s all in the past and we should leave it there, for Melburnian musicians it cause a seismic shift in not only their daily lives but their art and how they practise it. Musical acts disbanded or changed shape, and Elly McK & The Unbelievers was a result of that. Their new single ‘Hold On’ was, as Elly tells me in the interview, written during that time and recently recorded live in studio, with an emotional vocal.

If you’re in Newcastle, Kiama or Sydney you can hear that single live and I recommend you do so! As the saying goes, do yourself a favour.

Tour dates:

14 August – Coal & Cedar, Newcastle

15 August – Butcher’s Brew, Dulwich Hill (Sydney)

16 August – Kiama Bowls Club

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Chelsea Berman on the journey to Like Me Better

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Central Coast, NSW artist Chelsea Berman released her debut EP, Better Than Ever, in 2018 and since then she’s been steadily releasing catchy country-pop tunes and some heartbreakers too, since as ‘Your Call’ from 2020 (which has a standout vocal and lyric). Her second EP, Can You Just Not, was released in 2021. Now her third, Like Me Better, is out in the world and it’s a six-song cycle that starts with ‘Twenty Something’ and the mixed-up expectations and emotions of that time of life, moving through the devastation of ‘Hurt Like This?’ and on towards the final, and title, track.

It was clear on first listening that there was an arc to these songs and I was interested to talk to Berman about it, and also mindful that the subject matter in ‘Hurt Like This?’, in particular, deserved a conversation if she was up for it. It can’t have been easy for her to talk about but I thank her for discussing it, as the song – and, perhaps, what she has to say about it – will no doubt touch many people.

Our interview mainly takes the form of going through track by track, as I wanted to find out the story behind each song, and although this isn’t an album it feels like a definitive work for Berman, marking both the end of one part of her life and the start of another.

Artists often draw on their own lives for songs (or any art form), which is as it should be: the stories and emotions are right there. Not all artists can make those stories connect with others, and it’s that connection which gives them power. Berman has created six songs that are authentic to her life and which also connect with listeners. That connection also requires courage on the part of the artist, because once they set out to make it they don’t know if it will work – if the audience will be there for them. The audience should be there for Berman with this EP, and her back catalogue, because she deserves them to be.

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Liam Maihi on new single ‘Whiskey and You’ and embracing music

Sun, 03 Aug 2025 00:42:26 GMT

The night before I was due to interview Liam Maihi, who was a Grand Finalist in The Voice Australia before taking time away from music to raise his young family, I was was watching a TikTok Live hosted by Nathan Lamont. Every now and again Nathan will host these lives and bring in musicians to talk, mainly, about their craft and also play a few songs. This live also turned into a songwriting session as Liam offered a new song idea and asked for some input. At one point Nathan invited me to join the live as a guest, but mainly I was a passenger! And I was also, of course, gathering intel for the interview … It was a serendipitous encounter for, while I’d already done some research, being able to see Liam sing on the live gave me a better understanding of him as an artist.

When we spoke the next evening, therefore, it was within the context of me having an appreciation of his voice as well as his collaborative nature, and you’ll hear us talk a little about that in the interview. We also talk about the break he took from music after his success on The Voice and how he came to write and record his new single, ‘Whiskey and You’.

We talk about Maihi’s cowriting with Robbie Mortimer, amongst others, and how he is clearly now within a community of artists that are not only creating songs together but supporting each other. It was an aspect of his artistry that might have emerged in the conversation anyway, but I’d also seen in on the Tiktok Live. Maihi might be new to audiences but he’s clearly not new to the musicians he’s now in community with. Those associations promise much – and once you watch this interview and hear Maihi’s song (if you haven’t already), you’ll be looking forward with impatience to what he makes next.

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Coral Renee on her devilish new single

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 00:30:58 GMT

Coral Renee is a 19-year-old singer-songwriter from New South Wales who is already a graduate of the CMAA Junior Academy and of the Talent Development Project. She was a Top 5 Finalist in 2TM Discovered 2025 and last year won the open section in the Australian National Busking Championship Heats at The Entrance. She has released several singles and the latest is 'The Devil Wears Cowgirl Boots'.

One of the things I love about Australian country music is that artists can emerge at any age, and that there are several young artists who are so accomplished and astute, as well as passionate about music. Coral is one of those: deeply musical and also aware of all the elements that go into a modern music career, including how to create an individual identity that is not only recognisable to fans but which can connect with them.

Her single ‘The Devil Wears Cowgirl Boots’ is a progression, as it should be for an emerging artist, and she has committed to the world of the song in the video too. It was great to chat to her about her music and her artistry, and to find out about what’s coming up, including a possible EP release and some festival appearances.

This may well be your first encounter with Coral Renee, so I hope you enjoy getting to know her as much as I did.

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Eloise Rayner on her heart-centred new song

Sat, 26 Jul 2025 23:00:00 GMT

The last time I spoke to Eloise Rayner – around the time she released the song ‘Can You Still Feel Me Loving You’ – she was living in Sydney. Now she has a new song and a new home state: Queensland, where she has moved for her work as a speech pathologist.

Her new single is ‘There Goes My Heart’ and it is like a gentle counterpart to ‘Can You Still Feel Me Loving You’, with whimsy soaked through it. Rayner is a dedicated songwriter, participating in a weekly Zoom writing session. In this interview she says of her writing:

‘I do use it like a journal a lot of the time to just write out those feelings. But, you know, I also sometimes don't write from my own experience and I write from a concept …I guess my lyrics is like where my heart is with songwriting. They capture emotions that are maybe a bit harder to talk about, or emotions that you haven't realised you felt until you've heard that song.’

Matters of the heart have been a theme of not only these two solo singles but her very first single, which was the light-hearted ‘Fallin’ for a Cowboy’, recorded with good friend Zara Lindeman. The songs are just part of her creative output, though, as we discuss – although music is her priority.

Rayner has embraced life in the rural community where she now lives, saying it’s provided opportunities for her music career, including performing at events and connecting with other musicians. Although there may be something that brings her south again: her producer, Simon Johnson at Hillbilly Hut, is located much closer to Sydney! Hopefully there are some tunes banked, waiting for release, to add to her impressive singles released to date.

Listen to Eloise Rayner on Apple Music

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Ryan Mead returns to Australia and a hectic show schedule

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Ryan Mead is a singer, songwriter, guitarist, and former marching band member from the Sutherland Shire in Sydney. He released his debut single, ‘Tangled Up in Wranglers’, last year and was playing a lot in his home town.

Then he moved to Boston, where he attends Berklee College of Music, and that has led to him playing festivals in the US, and playing a lot in general. Live music is Mead’s natural habitat, and he is great at it – so happily he is now back in Australia for a few weeks and playing a tonne of shows, several of which are at Jolene’s in Sydney’s CBD, where he was a regular before he went overseas. He’ll also be heading to Queensland for a handful of dates.

It was great to have a chat to Mead about what his first year at Berklee has been like, and about those US festival appearances, as well as his plans for his home shows. He is a highly entertaining live performer and will be performing in various permutations while he’s here: solo, in a duo and with his band (which features his dad on drums). Each show is evidence of Mead’s joy in playing live as well as his determination to put on a great show for the audience – so I’m planning to see him play more than once while he’s back!

To see his full run of dates, go to https://ryanmeadmusic.com/shows

Listen to ‘Tangled Up in Wranglers’ on Apple Music

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Taylor Sheridan on ‘Stories’, music and family

Sun, 20 Jul 2025 23:00:00 GMT

When I interview an artist for the first time I have no idea how it will go. I do my research, I prepare my questions, and then I hope for the best. Primarily I hope that they will have a good experience so, by extension, the listener or viewer does, and maybe that person will then want to seek out the artist’s music or go and see them play live*. Once the interview starts, I never follow my questions to the letter; I follow the conversation instead. And one of the most interesting conversations I’ve ever had was with Taylor Sheridan.

Sheridan has already had a rich and varied life as a musician which includes releasing his first album, Troubadour, last year, and it continues with the release of his new single, ‘Stories’. He’s also been on tour with Jimmy Barnes, and that’s after spending five years as a member of the band Taxiride. So his musical life alone would have been interesting but there was so much more to talk about.

My opening question about his upbringing in rural Victoria led very quickly to insights into how he formed and what interests him as an artist. When he was a child his father was seriously ill, and instead of that sinking the family it led to the pursuit of a dream, and in that early example – of watching his father determine to follow the road that might have been otherwise not taken – we can see how Sheridan might have come to commit himself to the never-always-smooth creative life. His single, ‘Stories’, gives us a good sense of that life and hopefully there will be more songs soon.

This chat went for longer than I expected, and could have gone for longer still except it was nighttime and Sheridan has a young child and I figured he probably had things to do, like sleep! Hopefully there will be the chance to talk to him again soon.

Listen to ‘Stories’ on Apple Music

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Sara Storer is Worth Your Love, and worth her weight in gold

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 23:00:00 GMT

When Sara Storer released her single ‘Under Darwin Stars’ last year it was lyrically within the pantheon of her work – wonderful details that created a world and a story told from the heart – and musically moved things along, as did its successor, ‘Layers’.

I spoke with Storer for both releases and in the ‘Layers’ interview she mentioned that some people thought she didn’t ‘want it’ enough – didn’t want a music career as much as others did – because she had taken time to raise her four boys and, well, live life. That subject emerges in her song ‘Sing Her Heart Out’ from new album Worth Your Love, and in it Storer reaches straight out of the song and into your heart – as she always does, and as she does with each song on this album that is about the colour and darkness and joy of being alive.

There is no other artist in Australian music – in any country’s music – like Sara Storer, and while that can be said of other artists, there’s a certain magic to her songs which makes her special. Some of the clues to that are in her upbringing, which we speak about in this new interview. Mostly it’s just her and that creative flow that is so much a part of her life that she’s now an exhibiting painter. She is curious and thoughtful and always learning, always trying new things as an artist. That makes for a great experience for a listener – and for an interviewer, because there’s never a dull moment!

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Troy Kemp to set the Night on Fire with McAlister Kemp Tamworth show

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 02:00:00 GMT

While they’re not currently releasing new music, McAlister Kemp remain one of the most popular acts in Australian country music, renowned for their blend of high-energy country rock with great vocals from both Troy Kemp and Drew McAlister, and songs that touch on a range of subjects that people can relate to, meaning they take those songs into their own lives.

So fans are abuzz with the news that the pair are to play a show on 22 January at the 2026 Tamworth Country Music Festival at one of the festival’s favourite venues, Blazes at West Tamworth Leagues Club (full details below). The show is called Night on Fire, after one of their songs, and it promises to be just that.

Kemp now lives in Nashville, and when we spoke recently he filled me in on the story of how he came to move there – during the pandemic, no less – and how it’s going for him. And the interview came during what might be the last quiet time in Kemp’s life, because his wife is due to give birth to their first child any day! Suffice to say he is beyond excited about the arrival of his daughter, who will be accompanying Dad to Tamworth in January.

It's been a while since I’ve had the chance to interview Kemp and he was, as ever, great to talk to. And I may or may not tried to cajole him into recording more duets with female singers, an artform I believe he excels at (for reasons I state). Of course, duets with McAlister are baked into the McAlister Kemp sound, and thankfully there will be plenty of those in January.

Tickets are on sale now for what promises to be an absolute festival must-see and a night on fire to remember!

McAlister Kemp | Night on Fire

Thursday, 22 January 2026, 8.30 p.m.

Blazes Showroom, West Tamworth Leagues Club

Tickets available from Wests: https://wtlc.com.au/event/mcalister-kemp/

Cost: $50 Adult, $30 Child

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New releases 13 July 2025

Sun, 13 Jul 2025 08:44:11 GMT

Every now and again - when I have time - I like to put together an episode with new tracks I'd like to bring to your attention, and embed those songs in this podcast episode. So I hope you enjoy listening to the following tracks:

Roo Arcus – ‘Lonesome for the Lone Star State’

Loren Ryan – ‘BOUNTY’

Jay Santilli – ‘Rewind’

The Kunins – ‘One Way Flight’

Nathan May – ‘Darwin Son’

Brooke Schubert – ‘What Next’

The Pleasures – ‘Was it Something I Said?’

Lyn Bowtell ft Kate Ballantyne and Karen O'Shea – ‘I Don’t Wanna Say’

Nathan Lamont – ‘What Comes After’

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INTERVIEW: Switching on with Sweet Talk and their panoramic new album

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Sweet Talk are a six-piece band from Melbourne who combine passion for their craft with a phenomenal work ethic, mixed with camaraderie and curiosity, to create songs that aren’t definably one genre but which could be described, fundamentally, as highly entertaining. Their debut album, Switch On, is a vibe – a cool, entrancing vibe that draws listeners in and keeps them there.

Lead guitarist Soren Walker and fellow guitarist David Turner are the co-founders, co-songwriters and heart of the band, and I’ve interviewed them together before, so it was great to have the chance to talk to them as a duo again to find out more behind this collection of songs, several of which have been released as singles.

There is a lot more to discover on the album, though, with several songs addressing the vagaries of life as a musician – and, more broadly, what it means to decide to commit oneself to a creative path.

Sweet Talk took their time creating this album because, as they say in the interview, it’s their first record and they didn’t want to rush it – they were making it for themselves. They worked with producer Robert Ellis, and there’s a great story about how that came about – you’ll have to watch/listen to the interview to find out what it is!

Switch On is an embodiment of the high standards the members of Sweet Talk hold themselves to, and which have taken them to festival stages and on tour, most recently supporting Red Clay Strays. They are certainly building momentum, a welcome consequence of the work and dedication and talent that has gone into their music.

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Amber Lawrence on ‘Comeback Queens’ and Deni dreams

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Amber Lawrence is one of the busiest Australian country music artists working today and the reason why could be summed up simply: she’s excellent at what she does. That would really simplify things, though, because the ‘excellent’ and ‘what she does’ parts have history and work and application and talent behind them.

Since the start of her career, over twenty years ago, Lawrence has been a notable songwriter, combining story detail and emotion to create songs that resonate with all sorts of people. Her latest single is ‘Comeback Queens’, which was written with Melanie Dyer, and the detail of it is what makes the fun of it so effective – and fun is the dominant emotion in this song, which is one of the things we discuss in this new interview.

These days Lawrence is also a touring artist with an extensive schedule that has taken her around the country for the past year or so, playing towns and cities and all sorts of venues. Just as her songs appeal to people of all ages, so do her shows – and that’s not even including her children’s shows, which contain songs from her Kid’s Gone Country albums.

One of the biggest live commitments she has coming up is as the host of this year’s Deni Ute Muster, which is taking place in Deniliquin, NSW, from 3 to 4 October. Details at https://www.deniutemuster.com.au. We also have a chat about what that involves, and also about past Denis.

Before that there’s a range of shows to play and new music to plan, working with her longtime producer Stuart Stuart. Lawrence’s previous album, Living for the Highlights, was released in 2022, so fans – including this one – will be keen for more new music. Lawrence isn’t making a comeback, because she’s never been away, but ‘Comeback Queens’ is a fitting way to lead us towards the music to come. And it was, as ever, great to catch up with her ahead of a big second half of the year.

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Jenny Mitchell on the magic of her fourth album, Forest House

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Where do you start with an artist like Jenny Mitchell? That is, how does one start writing about her? If I were to listen to all the tips and tricks for SEO and engagement and whatnot, I’d run this piece through AI and ask it to incorporate keywords. For a little while I tried to make this Sunburnt Country Music content SEO-friendly because that’s what a person is supposed to do these days, but it took longer than writing it the old-fashioned way and it wasn’t fun to do and it had no heart and what I’m really in the business of here – what the artists I cover are in the business of too – is heart. And soul. And stories. And magic.

Magic is where we should start with Jenny Mitchell. The Aotearoa New Zealand-born and raised country-folk artist has produced three albums of it – The Old Oak, Wildfires and Tug of War – and now adds a fourth, Forest House, that was named after the place where it was created, and that’s a story she tells me in this interview in which we also talk about her lengthy Australian tour with Kasey Chambers; about her musical father and sisters; about creating a song for her mother that appears on the album. About Mitchell being the den mother to her band as they assembled in the forest house. Or, as I see it, Mitchell creating the circumstances for this glorious album to arise.

Magic is not so much baked into Forest House as it is part of Mitchell’s fabric. Her voice – that voice! – comes from a place beyond this planet and her songs are right there to meet it. Anyone who has seen her perform live knows that she is an extraordinary artist who is both ethereal and grounded. That’s what comes across on Forest House too – there’s the growly, gutsy part of her and the part that floats above and around us all.

Magic is what AI can’t make. This piece of writing may not be magic – it’s not actually designed to be – but AI didn’t make it because I couldn’t possibly tell you what I want to tell you about Jenny Mitchell if I used AI for it. AI certainly can’t make her music. It can’t be her live on stage. If you need an anti-AI argument just go to her upcoming shows and you’ll see it there onstage. Yes, that’s a little bit of promotion for those shows. I can do that because I’m in charge of this piece of writing, and this platform, and I’ve interviewed Mitchell again – we’ve had a few chats now – because you should know about her if you don’t already, and you should really go and see her live. Right after you’ve listened to Forest House on repeat. Because magic is invisible and intangible yet it makes life so much better, and she has it.

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Katie Brooke on digging in and creating her second album Relentless

Sun, 22 Jun 2025 23:00:00 GMT

When I spoke to northern New South Wales artist Katie Brooke about her single ‘Can’t Fake That’ she described it as being inspired by some people who fall into the ‘big hat, no cattle’ category. Country born and raised, and now living back on the land after a few years spent in Tamworth, Brooke was in a position to assess both the size of hat and the amount of cattle, and she did it with a wry smile.

Those bona fides, however, are still in effect and in evidence on her second album, Relentless, which she recorded with longtime collaborator Rusty Crook. And it’s not just the bona fides belonging to her life on the land but her life as an artist Brooke is qualified to sing about being relentless, and how that’s required when you decide to be an artist.

The title track came about after she had a period of doubt. She then learnt to trust her instincts and the result is an album that is about living with heart, holding your nerve and staying connected to the things you care about.

In doing this Brooke has cultivated her own sound, which we discuss in this interview. As she says, ‘I think I really needed to find that space that's just mine, and I feel like hopefully this record has achieved that.’

We also talk about what happened to her and her loved ones during the floods in Lismore, NSW, from which the town is still recovering, and captured in the song ‘Higher Ground’.

Relentless is an experience rich in story and emotion. In the course of our chat Brooke said she hopes to create ‘a heart-led legacy’, and there can be few goals more worth pursuing. This album is part of the legacy, for her and for anyone who takes it to their own heart.

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Dynamic country-pop artist Jacynta’lee on new single ‘That’s Alright’ and EP plans

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 22:45:01 GMT

Jacynta’lee is a country-pop artist from Far North Queensland who released her debut single in 2021 and has released several songs since. In our recent interview, to chat about her latest single, ‘That’s Alright’, Jacynta’lee talked about working with in-demand Melbourne producing pair MSquared – Michael Delorenzis and Michael Paynter – on the track.

The song was inspired, says Jacynta’lee, by a personal experience where someone commented on her tomboyish behaviour, leading her to write a song about self-acceptance and the importance of not changing for others. The experience of writing it with MSquared was so positive that while she used to prefer to write solo, Jacynta’lee is now a convert to co-writes.

Growing up in a musical family – her mother is a vocal coach – Jacynta'lee taught herself to play guitar at age 12. Of her early exposure to country music through her parents’ record collection, she says:

‘I ended up just falling in love with it. And I've also ended up falling in love with songwriting because of that. I love the songs where you can paint a picture in your head.’

At age 16 Jacynta’lee attended Camerata, as the Junior Academy of Country Music was then known, on a scholarship after the original recipient, Nathan Lamont, had to decline it!

Of the continuing influence of that Camerata experience on her life and music, Jacynta’lee says, ‘I think just being surrounded by music for … two weeks with people that are aspiring to do what you're doing at such an impressionable age – they're lifelong connections, I think.’

Looking ahead to the rest of the year, Jacynta’lee has plans to release an EP and she also has several big events coming up. With her high-energy country-pop sound and fantastic voice, she is sure to win even more fans at shows and with her new music.

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Tanya Ransom on her Winter Song and upcoming album

Sun, 15 Jun 2025 05:58:36 GMT

Tanya Ransom is an alt-country artist from the west coast of Australia, with over 15 years of experience on the Australian touring circuit, two independent albums and an EP. She has a third album, The Significance of Time, due for release sometime soon – date tbc – and from it has the new single ‘Winter Song’.

This interview was recorded in February, as Ransom was planning to release the album earlier in the year, but as is the way of things with releases – and life in general! – plans changed. So you may hear some dates mentioned that are now past, but the conversation is still relevant and will only whet your appetite for the album, which is a truly lovely piece of work.

A big part of the impact of Ransom’s music is her voice, which I loved when I heard her 2017 album The Art of Departing and through the releases since. There is a quality to it that’s hard to explain but which I think has something to do with the places she is prepared to go to, within herself, as an artist.

As Ransom writes about the human condition – in big themes and small details – this conversation delves into some of the reasons why, and we look at some of the songs in detail. We also talk about Ransom’s background as an artist as well as her career, which has included a 2021 EP with the memorable title Breakdown to Breakthrough.

You can preorder The Significance of Time on Bandcamp.

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Amber Kenny on her Beautiful Scars and triumphant album release

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 06:24:44 GMT

Amber Kenny is from the Southern Highlands of New South Wales, where she lives on a farm with her family, horses and cherished Maton guitar.

I first saw Kenny perform in Tamworth during the 2024 Country Music Festival, appearing at the album launch for her 3 Birds & the Truth bandmate Jo Caseley (the third Bird is Beth Lucas), and knew she had plans to release music, but nothing appeared for the rest of that year. The reason why is something Kenny raises early in our interview to talk about her new album, Beautiful Scars, which is out now on vinyl, CD and via Bandcamp (the title single – and earlier singles – are available on streaming services now). I asked her what the beautiful scars might be and she offered the answer with vulnerability and complete transparency, and I acknowledge the responsibility in receiving it.

The story that Kenny tells of the album’s creation is one of creative commitment and perseverance and, above all, love of music. She is an artist who is fully immersed in the world around her and documents her experiences in song. We talk about the songs as well as her formation as an artist, including her formative time at the CMAA Academy of Country Music. I’m sure you will find Kenny as interesting as I did, and hope you will then seek out her music.

Amber Kenny plays regularly, especially around the Southern Highlands, and you can see her gig schedule at https://amberkennymusic.com.au

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James Keith on his new music, new outlook and big plans

Sun, 01 Jun 2025 01:37:52 GMT

‘You’ve just got to love what you do and really believe in what you’re doing for yourself, and if you do that, that’s where your fulfilment comes from.’

Sydney-based, Orange-raised country-rock artist James Keith says that at a certain point in our latest interview, and it was clear that it wasn’t just words to him, especially as we talked in detail about the changes he’s made in his life over recent months. Keith is by no means a practitioner of toxic positivity – he’s come to this view of life by working on himself and making changes – and it was great to have the chance to find out how those changes have taken effect.

One way was in his being named a 2025 Toyota Star Maker Grand Finalist, and we talked about the competition. We also spoke about his single, ‘She Don’t, his work with producer Matt Fell as he starts to put together his next album (after releasing Life is Good Today last year), and his upcoming song releases.

In between writing, recording and performing, Keith also runs a business in Sydney, and he was on the premises as we chatted, so it seemed logical to ask him a bit about that too.

We end by talking about Tony Robbins, whose work has had a profound influence on Keith. Robbins is (in)famous for having people walk over hot coals at his seminars. Has James Keith done it? You’ll have to watch/listen to find out …

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Country-pop artist Bianca Joulianou on heartfelt new single 'Gambling Man'

Mon, 26 May 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Bianca Joulianou is an artist from Sydney who released her first single, ‘Fool’, in 2022. Since then she has been performing live, sharing stages with artists such as Dylan Wright and Shannon Noll. She has a new single, ‘Gambling Man’, which contains a story close to her life and heart.

Joulianou began performing about five years ago, at a small pub in western Sydney, after teaching herself guitar to accompany her singing. Despite not coming from a musical family, their father's love for country music played a role in shaping their musical tastes.

As Joulianou told me in our recent interview, she began writing songs at the age of 16; the loss of her grandfather prompted her to be vulnerable in her songs and she hasn’t resiled from it since. ‘Gambling Man’ is an example of this, as it draws on her partner's past struggles with gambling and is a story of resilience and redemption.

‘I kind of wanted to write something that I could sing to him,’ says Jouliaou, ‘and he would be like, wow, look at what we've done. Look at what we've done together. This was our journey, and you've just written a song about it.’

By day Joulianou is a mental health support worker, and she has found inspiration for her songs in that work. And once she has an idea for a song, it’s all-encompassing.

‘When an idea comes to my head,’ she says, ‘I'm there all day … I can't move. I don't get hungry, I don't get thirsty. I'm just there, just writing.’

Joulianou performs as often as she can in and around Sydney, and you can next find her on 7 June 2025 at the Forever 21 Hoedown Throwdown in Picton, headlined by Missy Lancaster. Tickets available here.

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New frontiers for country duo Sons of Atticus

Wed, 21 May 2025 00:01:18 GMT

So here’s the truth about being an amateur music journo with a demanding full-time job: sometimes I just don’t have time to publish things when I should. With all the best will in the world, I don’t have time to make the assets, create the video file, create the audio file, write the accompanying text and do the clips, then publish across several platforms so that I can publish the interview close to recording date.

This is why my interview with Sons of Atticus is coming to you after they’ve released their new single, ‘Be Set Free’ – which is relevant because in this interview they announce that they’ll have a new single. But, hey, maybe that means I’m right on time? Now you don’t have to wait for the single!

In case you don’t know them, Sons of Atticus are two musicians named Matt Joyce and Dylan Wright. According to their Instagram bio they are ‘just a couple buddies trying to make country music’ – and it’s safe to say they are succeeding. They released the album Jacks Motel in 2021, the EP Cedar Creek in 2023, and this year they released the single, ‘Tennessee Tipsy’, and of course they now have the new one.

I last interviewed them as a pair two years ago; I interviewed Wright last year after he won Australian Idol. At the time he told me that Joyce would be joining him on his post-Idol tour as he couldn’t imagine doing it without him. That’s because these two have been making music together for years now and their bond is incredibly solid, as you’ll see in this interview and also hear in their music. There is an ease in their songs which shows – rather than tells – how they work together. Wright’s voice, all warmth and strength, works with Joyce’s guitar, with its vigour and freshness.

The way music is created is always mysterious, in that you could break down a song or album to components and offer them to someone else and a completely different work would emerge. There’s magic to it, both live and recorded. Sons of Atticus clearly had that magic within their duo when I first spoke to them and they have it still. Given all the change that Idol has brought to both of them, that’s harder to achieve than it looks from the outside. My sense as to why is because it always comes back to the music: that’s what brought them together, it’s what they love to do together, and they’re still only gathering steam. So the track ahead will be well worth us all following.

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Chloe Styler: Crafting authentic music and visuals in the modern country-pop landscape

Thu, 15 May 2025 23:00:00 GMT

When Gold Coast country-pop artist Chloe Styler released her debut single, ‘When Your Light Burns’, in 2018, I was so taken with it that I wrote a piece about it. That year Styler was a grand finalist in the 39th Annual Toyota Star Maker competition. She had already attended the Junior and Senior Academy of Country Music, so the trajectory to Star Maker was not surprising – the Academy is a professional development organisation with few peers in Australian music. So the quality of that first single shouldn’t have been a surprise but, still, it was impressive.

What became noticeable as Styler released successive singles ‘Patient Heart’ and ‘Sweden’ was that the first wasn’t a fluke – and also that she was developing an aesthetic for her cover art. This aesthetic evolved as she continued to release singles and her EPs, Side A (2022) and Side B (2023). As did her songwriting: with the release of the single ‘Hometownless’ in 2023 she signified that she was prepared to explore a certain whimsy with language, and the aesthetic went in tandem with that.

Why am I mentioning the aesthetic? Because it’s part of Styler’s artistry, and we have spoken before about her interest in costume (for stage) and clothes (for videos and photos) and how she is consciously developing that aesthetic, often with the help of her sister, Amy, who is her photographer and videographer. In an era where the visual branding of an artist is more important than ever, it is smart of her to pay attention to this and it works because it’s authentic to her.

Styler has been awarded for her music, taking home Breakout Artist of the Year at the 2024 Gold Coast Music Awards, and she is very much focused on developing as a songwriter and performer, spending time in Nashville for both.

So I was interested to have a longer chat with her than usual, because she is intelligent and thoughtful and it was a good chance to delve deeper into her artistry. Therefore this is a ‘deep dive’ interview, the second I’ve done (the first was with Nathan Lamont), and Styler and I also spoke about her latest single, ‘Love in a Bubble’.

I’m fascinated to see where she goes next in her music and her life – the progression has been so strong till now, and she has put everything in place for that to continue.

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Delilah Rose on songs, spirituality and ‘Sophia’

Thu, 08 May 2025 08:00:00 GMT

I’m fairly sure that Brisbane-based country-rock-blues artist Delilah Rose is incapable of being uninteresting. We have spoken before – around the time of the release of her album Moxie – and she was clearly passionate about not only making art but connecting with others who are doing the same. And, indeed, about creating a community for that – which is what led her to start The Song Café in Brisbane, which is still going strong at The Cave Inn in Woolloongabba each month and features four songwriters in the round.

Delilah grew up on the land in the Western Australian wheat belt and has only recently relocated to the east coast. We started off talking about where the good coffee is in Brisbane, then moved on to discussing the genesis of her latest single, ‘Sophia’, which is an exploration of faith, individuality, and the divine feminine. Her spirituality has now definitely evolved away from the religion she was brought up in, and the song captures how she has developed her own sense of faith.

In some ways this interview documents a quest, and the quest narrative is an archetype, which is fitting, given that it was Delilah’s interest in the divine feminine that led her along a life and creative path that has resulted in this song and the album she is planning to follow it.

Indeed, it documents more than one quest: an artist in search of the divine, and of herself, and of a community. Where Delilah differs to some who seek, she sets out to find and applies herself to the finding. The seeking is not the point, of course – we can all say we seek. Committing to the quest and seeing it through is noble and inspiring, and that’s what I find her to be.

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Family trees & country keys: Savanah Solomon's emotional journey through 'Magnolias'

Mon, 05 May 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Savanah Solomon’s first musical foray was as the frontwoman for country-rock band Savanah and the Strays; the band released an album which saw them become finalists in the West Australian Country Music Awards. After four years Solomon went solo, releasing the EP Where the River Meets the Sea in 2023.

Solomon then took a break from music and she has now returned in style, with the single ‘Magnolias’, which was inspired partly by the movie Steel Magnolias (which stars Dolly Parton, amongst others) and by her grandmother, Helen Sturgeon.

‘I just love the sentiment of a steel magnolia,’ says Solomon in our interview. ‘They're as tough as steel, but they're as beautiful as these magnolias.’

When we spoke it became clear quickly that Solomon is herself quite a force; she is passionately creative and curious about the world, combining her musical life with her work as a grader operator at a remote ore mine, her FIFO work schedule allowing her to commit blocks of time to music.

‘I'm always trying to live my best life because we've only got this one wild life, so why not?’ she says.

Songwriting is at the core of Solomon’s creative life – ‘I take great pride in my songwriting’ she says ‘That's like my huge passion. If I could just get paid to do that all the time, I would just write songs.’

She understands too the impact her creative work can have.

‘You really don't realise how many people you're touching as an artist,’ she says. ‘There could be someone having a really bad day, and they might just flick it on and hear my song, and it might just give them that spark for the day to keep on going.’

There is every chance that ‘Magnolias’ will be that song for many people, and Solomon’s previous releases are also worth exploring. It was a pleasure to talk to this talented artist who has quite a story to tell, in song and in this interview.

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New releases - 4 May 2025

Sun, 04 May 2025 11:40:20 GMT

Tracks mentioned in this episode:

Kirsty Lee Akers – ‘Marlboro Man’

Two-time Golden Guitar winner Kirsty Lee Akers returns with ‘Marlboro Man’, co-written in Nashville with Hall of Fame songwriter Byron Hill. The track explores the bittersweet nature of falling for someone who ultimately doesn't stay. Kirsty produced the song alongside Paul Bain, with background vocals by Melody Pool. Her previous release was ‘Girls Are Why the West is Wild’.

Ruby Shay – ‘Our Blue Home’

Central Coast NSW artist Ruby Shay releases ‘Our Blue Home’, the final single from her debut album Hitch a Ride. The song, a live favourite at her shows, explores the ups and downs of long-term relationships with humour and warmth. Ruby has been making waves since her first single ‘Sinner’ in late 2023 with her band The Red Horse.

Jimbo Stokes – ‘Made Up Mine’

Scone’s Jimbo Stokes, known for his opera-trained vocals, delivers ‘Made Up Mine’, a track with attitude that addresses the frustration of mixed messages in relationships. Co-written with Phil Barton and produced by Jacky McCormack, this follows his highest-streaming single ‘Hold On Let’s Go’ and a sold-out Tamworth Country Music Festival show earlier this year.

Piper Butcher – ‘Start of Something’

Newcastle artist Piper Butcher releases ‘Start of Something’, the title track from her second EP. The single blends 70s country rock with modern storytelling elements, and was co-produced by Kasey Chambers and Brandon Dodd at Rabbit Hole Recording Studios.

Loren Ryan – ‘LIL BIT KNTRY’

Loren Ryan's new single ‘LIL BIT KNTRY’ tackles the question ‘What even is Country Music?’ With nods to Beyonce’s recent country album, the track features acoustic guitar, banjo, and a 90s energy reminiscent of Shania Twain and The Chicks. It was written with Michael DeLorenzis of MSquared in Melbourne.

Josie – ‘Nothin’ Without Truckin’’

Following her breakout hit ‘Freight Man’ (5+ million TikTok views), Josie returns with ‘Nothin’ Without Truckin’’, a tribute to Australia's truck drivers. Inspired by her childhood around road trains and recent natural disasters in North Queensland, the song highlights the essential role of truckers. It was produced by Michael Paynter and Michael Delorenzis of MSquared.

Hazel & The Thief – ‘Willing To Try’

Alt-country act Hazel & The Thief present ‘Willing To Try’, a rock ballad about feeling unseen and unheard in relationships. Written by vocalist Hazel and produced by award-winning Matt Fell, the track features Ollie Thorpe on lead guitar. The single paves the way for a series of releases leading to a full album later this year.

Sweet Talk – ‘Stoned in Texas, Queensland’

Melbourne six-piece southern-boogie band Sweet Talk have announced their debut album Switch On (May 23) and released the single ‘Stoned in Texas, Queensland’. Known for their 70s grooves and improvised jams, the band has performed at major festivals including Bluesfest, where Kasey Chambers joined them onstage. They’re on tour with American act Red Clay Strays in May.

Savanah Solomon – ‘Magnolias’

Recent winner of Emerging Artist of the Year at the 2024 Western Australian Country Music Awards, Savanah Solomon has released the single ‘Magnolias’. The alt-country track pays tribute to the strong women in Solomon’s family, particularly her grandmother, and draws inspiration from the film Steel Magnolias.

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Scarlet’s Way show their hand with ‘House of Cards’

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Perth duo Scarlet’s Way – whose members are Katey Gabel (vocals) and Shayne Savic (guitar) – are one of the busiest acts in music, not just in their home town but, as I found out during our recent interview, on the high seas too! Not to mention at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, where they spent several days this year performing as well as cementing connections made at previous festivals.

Their travel came in handy for their latest EP, Scarlet’s Way 3, as they wrote the songs while driving across the Nullarbor Plain. The EP was then recorded at their home studio. You’ll only hear those songs, though, if you buy a physical copy of the EP – and that’s a decision we discuss in this chat.

Just as I was wrapping up the interview – or thought I was – I spotted a word on Gabel’s T-shirt that intrigued me. It turned out the slogan on the top was ‘I run on insulin and Diet Coke’. Figuring she wouldn’t have that on a T-shirt unless she was, in all likelihood, a diabetic, I asked her about it, and this led to Gabel talking about how she has managed her type 1 diabetes over her time as a performer. I’ve interviewed Scarlet’s Way before but we’ve never spoken about that, and it adds an important dimension to the band’s story.

So in case you need an incentive to watch/listen to the end … I very much hope you stick around for that story!

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Turning pain into melody: Chloe Swannell's unexpected journey behind new single 'Loves' a Lil' Bit

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 23:00:00 GMT

When I saw on the Instagram page of Central West NSW artist Chloe Swannell that she was playing a bass – something that I hadn’t noticed her playing before – I decided to ask her about it when we had an interview for her latest single, ‘Loves’ a Lil’ Bit’. There was no way to know the story that would unfold about what led to her learning that instrument in what has to be record time, nor the other stories that would come from asking her about it.

In short: Swannell has had – and continues to have – a life full of rural danger (in this case, a serious hand injury caused by a horse) that is also rich in both creating and teaching music. She learnt the bass quickly because she had to; her ability to do so arose from the fact that she’s a seriously accomplished musician.

Swannell’s passion for music is evident in the music she’s released, including her latest single, ‘Loves’ a Lil’ Bit’, which is about the different ways to love.

‘We all sat there,’ says Swannell about writing with her producer Tarquin Halls-Corbett, ‘and we went around the room and we wrote down what we loved. And for me it's my favourite farm boots. It's watching a man in a suit come down the aisle, waiting for his bride on a wedding day. For Tarquin, it's hanging around the campfire with me and [band mate] Izzy.

‘So we wrote all these things down and we just worked them into the song. And that's what it's about. It's just about what we love. And we hope that you can find what you love in that as well.’

You’ll find out more about Swannell’s music – including her teaching of it – in the chat, and also find out more about her fascinating life. She is clearly not a woman who is deterred by difficulties, driven as she is by her love for music and, fundamentally, making the most of each day.

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Soul-stirring stories: Ruby Shay's powerhouse voice brings personal tales to life on Hitch a Ride

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 09:01:12 GMT

Ruby Shay is an artist from the Central Coast of New South Wales who was impressive out of the gate when she released her debut single, ‘Sinner’, in late 2023. Since then she’s kept impressing, and her new album Hitch a Ride is a moving collection of songs about life and how we forge our way through it.

I first interviewed Shay at the time of the release of ‘Sinner’ and she was so interesting to talk to. Her singing voice is a great embodiment of her personality: rich, layered, direct, uncompromising in the ways that matter. When she sings, you feel that you are really seeing her through song – she is not hiding anything. And, also, she has lived through so much that has brought her to have this voice that commands attention.

That voice is married with the array of stories on Hitch a Ride, which were written either by her or by her bandmate in The Red Horse, Shaun Wilson. In our recent interview, Shay talks about how she and Wilson came to choose which songs would be included on the album, and how the songs he wrote seem so much like they would be songs of hers.

This is a conversation with an artist who is technically emerging yet feels emerged – even established, because she knows herself so well that she has arrived in this first album as a complete artist who is at the beginning of what she can share with the world. What you will see and hear in the interview is what’s on the album: a woman with a life that has yielded stories of good and bad times, of shifting sands and learning to stand firm. She’s such a fascinating artist and I so look forward to seeing what she comes up with next.

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Rory Phillips on his Anzac Day single ‘Dear Mum and Dad’

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Rory Phillips is still in his teens and has been playing on festival stages since he was seven. He is a graduate of the CMAA Academy of Country Music and has also been an intern there. He plays with the Bushwackers, he’s been in Sara Storer’s band, and that’s really the tip of the iceberg of his achievements, which include releasing the singles ‘The Truth’ and ‘Because Boys’. He now has a new single, ‘Dear Mum and Dad’.

‘Dear Mum and Dad’ was written at the CMAA Academy of Country Music in Tamworth, as a collaboration with student Andrew Scharf, who had the original idea, mentor Jayne Denham, and Alan Caswell. It was produced by Bushwacker co-founder Roger Corbett at The Valley Studio, and features the voice of fellow Bushwacker Dobe Newton OAM, co-writer of the anthem ‘I Am Australian’ (which last year was released in a Youth Collaboration version, featuring Rory’s vocals). It’s a song about war and sacrifice, released in time for Anzac Day 2025.

Rory is one of the busiest humans around – of any age – yet he found time to film a music video for the song and we talk about the making of it, including the uniform he wears in it. We also speak about his work at the Academy, as well as touring with Sara Storer, and how he’s fitting in his musical life around uni studies. He’s been passionate about music since he was very young, and if anything that passion has only grown as he’s developed more skills and had more experience. He may be young but his sense of service to music is inspirational.

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Watch the video for ‘Dear Mum and Dad’ on YouTube

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Vixens of Fall on their spirited new single

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 12:29:59 GMT

Vixens of Fall are a sister trio from south-east Queensland who released their debut album, Magick in the Chaos, in 2023. While their sibling harmonies are undeniably a big part of their appeal, the Vixens - Nina, Wren and LuLu – also have great, heart-tugging songs that convey their story and what they hold dear (‘The Long Game’, ‘Crooked Crown’), and others that are hugely entertaining while also offering a story.

They’re also gathering a large following, often through festival performances. At the time we spoke for this interview, they had not long returned from the massive CMC Rocks festival in Queensland, so of course I asked them about it – and about several upcoming appearances, including how they prepare for festivals.

The Vixens are a close unit, and that closeness is part of their strength in the studio and on stage. They understand how to work together as siblings, and the push and pull that come with that. So it’s perhaps no surprise that they formed a bond with The Buckleys, another sibling band, which led to the writing of ‘Sinkin’ Spirits’, the latest song from Vixens of Fall. We talked about how they met The Buckleys and came to work with them, and the story behind the song.

It was an absolute pleasure to talk to these vivacious sisters again – our first interview in a while. It’s a long chat because there was a long to chat about! But they will entertain you, just as they do with their music.

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Tom Nethersole takes us on a country-pop trip to Ardmona Rd

Sun, 13 Apr 2025 22:30:07 GMT

When interviewing an artist for the first time, I have no expectations about how things will go. I have my questions prepared, and that means that there will be some sort of conversation, even if it’s brief. While it’s possible – usually likely – to have a sense of how the interview may go within a couple of minutes, I always leave room for it to change and for the conversation to open up.

So there was room there for Melbourne artist Tom Nethersole to range when I interviewed him for the first time recently. And range he – we – did. Nethersole was an absolute pleasure to talk to – open, thoughtful, gracious and with so many interesting things to say about life and music, including his mental health advocacy and how he has become increasingly vulnerable with his songwriting.

The reason I haven’t interviewed Nethersole before is because he hasn’t released anything in the country music genre before. A pop artist, he has performed at festivals such as Midsumma’s Pride Street Party, Rockhampton River Festival and Always Live. He’s also the creator of his own music videos, and has collaborated with fashion brands such as House of Campbell, Silk Laundry, Van Heusen, and Mimco.

Nethersole’s new single, ‘Ardmona Rd’, was, it turns out, not meant to be a country-pop single. He went into the studio with the makings of it and its country sound evolved during the recording. As Nethersole grew up in the country, outside of Shepparton in Victoria, that seems appropriate.

‘Ardmona Rd’ is gloriously heartfelt and uplifting – a love song that is about the grandest of romantic gestures: showing the loved one the places and people that are most meaningful to you. In the case of this song, that is taking them home to Ardmona Road.

Nethersole says that the song is 'deeply personal but also relatable, especially for queer listeners who are searching for that fairytale moment we don’t always see reflected in music.’ We talk about that, and a lot more, and I hope you enjoy meeting Tom Nethersole as much as I did.

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Every track has a tale: Linc Phelps reveals the heart of Faith & Sweat

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 23:00:00 GMT

**Contains the track 'Country Singer' from Faith & Sweat**

Linc Phelps hails from the country music centre of Gympie in Queensland and he has just released his debut album, Faith & Sweat, which has already produced four chart-topping singles.

The album has been a long time coming for Phelps, who has practised what he preaches in the album’s title by putting in a lot of sweat over the years to develop his music to the point where he’s ready to release this album, keeping faith in his craft all the while.

As he says, ‘There is so much in this life that's worth aspiring to and worth chasing.’

The album was produced by fellow Queenslander Gavin Carfoot, who co-wrote some of the tracks, and in fact the album was an all-Queensland affair, as it was mixed by Gold Coast resident Jared Adlam. It contains collaborations with The Wolfe Brothers on ‘Sing a Little Louder’ and Melody Moko on ‘Dear Mind’.

Faith & Sweat is a set of origin stories for Phelps, although there are still more left unrecorded and unreleased. Perhaps the most impactful story on the album is the one he wrote in memory of his daughter Denver Grace – the last track on the album, ‘Green Valley’.

In this interview we talk about ‘Green Valley’ as well as other songs on the album, and about Phelps’s rich life in music, which encompasses not only recording and performing but working with emerging artists at Song Muster and elsewhere. That faith and sweat has culminated in an album that is both meaningful and entertaining, a reward for the listener who wants a deeper layer of story to connect with while also tapping their toes in time to the music.

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Felicity Urquhart & Josh Cunningham discuss their uplifting new single ‘Joy Roller’

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 08:05:04 GMT

Felicity Urquhart and Josh Cunningham won three Golden Guitar Awards for their most recent album, Birdsong, but that is far from the extent of their award winning, as at last count I believe they have a bajillion – the technical term – between them for their separate endeavours. They have been touring constantly over the past couple of years and they have a brand new song, ‘Joy Roller’.

Joy is what Urquhart and Cunningham bring to people, so this seems fitting. Having seen them play live several times, it is certainly what they offer to audiences, mainly because it’s what they embody on stage. Urquhart has had a flourishing solo career, and two albums with Kevin Bennett and Lyn Bowtell as Bennett Bowtell & Urquhart, and Cunningham is a member of beloved trio The Waifs.

So they were experts before they ever united in music and in life to create something that is different to their other endeavours, because they have allowed it to take its own shape. From their first album, The Song Club, there has never been a sense that they have forced anything to do with this joint enterprise. Which doesn’t mean it’s so easy that it comes without work. It’s work they are both prepared to do, though, which is why they can create new music at a stiff pace while also touring and raising two children (who have their own musical enterprise, The Meadows).

‘Joy Roller’ is the first single from the album Urquhart and Cunningham are working on – not yet fully recorded – and once more sounds like they are riding creative currents together. They really are the best kind of musical treat: accomplished, self-aware, big-hearted and able to create melodically lovely, lyrically inspiring songs. Let’s hope they keep this kind of joy rolling for as long as possible.

See Felicity Urquhart and Josh Cunningham live:

Monday 28th April – _QLD Music Trails: Ballads & Bush Yarns – _Cunnamulla, QLD

Saturday 12th - Sunday 13th July – _Mullum Roots Festival – _Mullumbimby, NSW

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New releases 23 March 2025

Sun, 23 Mar 2025 06:42:41 GMT

**NB: I called the Vixens of Fall single ‘Sinkin’ Ships’ instead of ‘Sinkin’ Spirits’ but I’d already tried to record the episode so many times that I ran out of time to do it again!

Songs covered - audio included:

Brad Cox – ‘I’m a Boxer’

The Buckleys - 'See Your Folks Again'

Vixens of Fall - 'Sinkin' Spirits'

Roger Knox - 'Prison Wall'

Mentions:

McCusker Gill - 'Holy Rose Hotel'

Olivia Foy - 'Cruise Control'

Listen to all the March new releases on the Sunburnt Country Music Spotify playlist.

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Deep Dive: Nathan Lamont

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 11:02:57 GMT

A few weeks ago I interviewed Nathan Lamont, a three-time Star Maker Grand Finalist from Wagga Wagga, NSW whose popularity is growing both on streaming and as a performer, about his latest country-pop release, ‘Bigger Things’. I’ve interviewed Nathan a few times and it’s always been a great pleasure to talk to him – plus each time it seemed to be longer than the time before! Fluid conversation is never a given, but he’s always made it easy to interview him, hence why the chats get longer.

However, there tend to be limits to what can be discussed in an interview tied to a release – we focus on the music, with good reason, even when the artist has an extraordinary story to tell. I knew Nathan did have such a story and after that ‘Bigger Things’ interview we discussed doing a much longer interview in which he could go into detail. It wasn’t necessarily an easy decision – at the start of this new interview he says he feels vulnerable even though he wants to talk – but in sharing his story he hopes to help others who may have had similar experiences.

While this chat isn’t about a specific release, it relates to music in that every artist is partly forged by their experiences, and from my perspective great artists let that happen. They don’t stand in the way of being themselves. They may hesitate at times, and wonder if they should really show everyone else who they are, but ultimately they do show us. The singing voice in particular tells us a lot. We can hear when the singer wants to truly connect, and that connection has to come from a deep place, and I heard that from the start in Nathan’s songs.

March the 22nd is Nathan’s birthday, as he told me during the interview, and I wanted to post the interview in time for it to honour the work he has done to even be in the world, let alone becoming someone who strives to create joyful experiences for others. We spoke for over two hours and every minute of that is worth your time to find out more about him. And the name of this mini series of interviews – if there turn out to be more – was one that he suggested: ‘Deep Dive’. So, I hope you find the first Deep Dive interview to be as compelling as I did, and I thank Nathan for showing up with his history and his whole heart, and for having the courage to do so.

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Adele Oliver on Home and Heartbreak

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 07:34:05 GMT

I’ve spoken to Broome, WA artist Adele Oliver about her singles ‘Wiley Blue’ and ‘Angel’ and each time found her thoughtful and interesting and offering a unique perspective on making music. This was no different with our latest chat, for her EP To Home & Heartbreak, which collects previous releases and contains the new single ‘Home Tonight’.

Oliver is currently away from home, touring Western Australia, and when I spoke to her she was about to play the Nannup Music Festival, and she was in the local library – which seemed appropriate, given the richness of stories in her songs. We spoke about her trip to the Tamworth Country Music Festival – always a big commitment for a WA artist – and about the town of Fitzroy Crossing, where she was living when she wrote ‘Home Tonight’, as well as her decision to go on the road for several months.

If you’d like to see Adele Oliver live, she’s in the Perth area next week, with other dates to follow:

Mar 27 Kidogo House, Fremantle WA

Mar 30 The Moon, Perth WA

Apr 4 Settler’s House, York WA

Apr 5 Wessy on the Green, Westonia WA

April 12 Carnarvon Hotel, Carnarvon WA

Apr 13 Whalebone brewing, Exmouth WA

Apr 28 Northwest Brewing, Karratha WA

May 2 Divers Tavern, Broome WA

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KEZRA on her first country single ‘Another Life’

Sat, 15 Mar 2025 23:56:35 GMT

Melbourne artist KEZRA has established a career in indie pop that has seen her releasing the EP Fortress in 2023 and singles leading up to that, which all had airplay on triple j and community radio. She’s appeared in Atwood Magazine (USA), Backseat Mafia (UK/AUS), Pilerats, Music Feeds, The Music, The AU Review, Forte Mag, Eat This Music and AAA Backstage, and her music videos have also seen support from MTV Upload.

KEZRA’s pop releases revealed her facility for writing great hooks as well as her fantastic voice – and now she’s taken those talents into country music, with the release of the single ‘Another Life’ (which comes with a big earworm warning). The song is about meeting someone you connect with but aren’t destined to be with, and while that set-up has hints of sadness baked in, the song is ultimately uplifting.

It was a pleasure to chat to KEZRA about the song, and much more, including her musical background, and to find out what drew her towards country music for this release.

I’m sure you’ll enjoy meeting KEZRA via this interview, if you weren’t aware of her before, and let’s hope it’s not her last foray into this genre. Mind you, I haven’t been able to stop listening to ‘Another Life’ so it’s entirely possibly I’ll still be listening to it when she releases her next song …

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Up-and-coming artist Hayden Phillis on his new single ‘Lies’

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 22:00:00 GMT

**LIsten to 'Lies' after the interview**

My first encounter with emerging Sydney artist Hayden Phillis was at the Junior Academy of Country Music in Tamworth, NSW, in July 2023. I was invited to talk to the students about interview skills and asked if I would interview a student, or students, on the spot. Hayden was the only student who volunteered! And he was great at it. It turned out that was his first interview, ever – because he told me so when I interviewed him again this year after the release of his second single, ‘Lies’.

‘Lies’was the result of Hayden workshopping ideas with mentor Kevin Welch, and it was co-written with Michelle Cashman. As he told me, ‘I really love being able to find new people who I don't know or I haven't co-written with before and learn a bit more about them and their music.’

Hayden has returned to Academy twice since 2023, including this year for his first stint at Senior Academy, so we talked about the impact Academy has had on his life, as well as about ‘Lies’ and other things he’s been up to. He’s a talented and committed musician and singer-songwriter who has not wasted any time releasing original music – his first single, ‘Broken Angel’, was released last year – despite being not long out of school. As he says in the interview, ‘I do like to try and throw myself into things like that and put my best foot forward and try and learn what I can.’

Hayden is certainly an artist to watch – someone with a completely open mind about creative projects, curious as to what’s possible and very much enjoying every moment of it. As he says, ‘I find you get special moments within each of the little things... when different projects you're working on or different performances you're doing really come together.’

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Tori Darke and Jay Santilli get into Trouble

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 22:00:00 GMT

Tori Darke and Jay Santilli have their own, distinct careers in country music - Santilli with her moving, emotional songs that saw her become a 2024 Star Maker Grand Finalist, and Darke with her high-energy country pop that has seen her make an impression on The Voice and elsewhere. They now have a song together, ‘Trouble’, and it’s one that makes the most of their respective vocal talents and offers a party song with substance.

Recently I spoke with them about how their friendship developed and how they turned it into a songwriting then recording collaboration. It’s clear that they have great respect for each other, which is no doubt one of the reasons why their first release together is so strong. We also talked about them working with producers MSquared and how that experience pushed them both as artists, in a good way. We also chatted about the music video for ‘Trouble’, which not only looks like fun but, as it turns out, was fun to make too.

Darke is on tour with her The Voice co-star Brad Butcher (dates below) and Santilli also has some shows coming up – including one in Rome!

Tori Darke tour dates

Friday 28th March - Old Bundy Tavern – Bundaberg, QLD (w/ Brad Butcher)

Saturday 29th March - Junction Cafe – Toondoon, QLD (w/ Brad Butcher)

Sunday 30th March - Great Western hotel – Rockhampton, QLD (w/ Brad Butcher)

Friday 4th April - Metropolitan Hotel – Mackay, QLD (w/ Brad Butcher)

Saturday 5th April - Mansfield Hotel – Townsville, QLD (w/ Brad Butcher)

Thursday 10th April - The Brass Monkey – Cronulla, NSW (w/ Brad Butcher)

Friday 11th April - Django Bar – Marrickville, NSW (w/ Brad Butcher)

Saturday 12th April - The Beer Shed – Leumeah, NSW (w/ Brad Butcher)

Sunday 13th April - The Royal Hotel Queanbeyan – Queanbeyan, NSW (w/ Brad Butcher)

Saturday 28th June - Country Fest – Bloomsbury, QLD

Saturday 23rd August - Gympie Music Muster - Amamoor State Forest, QLD

Jay Santilli tour dates

Friday 4th April – Melbourne Muster (Pre-Muster) – Scoresby, VIC

Saturday 10th May – Country Gals Festival – Shepparton, VIC

Sunday 15th June – Sweat & Dust Country Festival – Rome, Italy

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New releases 7 March 2025

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 09:32:42 GMT

These are all the songs mentioned in the podcast with a link to YouTube to listen to the song/watch the video.

For the full show notes, go to the Sunburnt Country Music website.

Chloe Marks & The Mayhem – ‘Carolina’: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p98dAX3c67I

Ben Mastwyk – ‘All the Songs I Wrote’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=69cdGS7mo7c

Abbie Ferris – ‘Don’t Cha Dare!’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LX9-wzSW4i4

Max Jackson – ‘Grass’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GPXk7Swy_I0

Dear Tommie – ‘A Man, Written by a Woman’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dLwG9kr-CPw

Minor Gold – ‘Way to the Sun’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PuVoTQXI4d4

Felicity Urquhart & Josh Cunningham – ‘Joy Roller’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PT6AXfCaor4

KEZRA – ‘Another Life’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b1LbpPUWaEY

Cassidy-Rae – ‘You Make Me’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtw_YS1BLEc

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Clancy Pye talks about Days Like This

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 07:41:20 GMT

**Listen to the end to hear the song 'Days Like This'**

The first time I interviewed Central West NSW artist Clancy Pye we covered her extensive musical background, which began in childhood and involved playing in a family band – The Party Pyes (still one of the best band names ever!) – and gigging throughout her teenage years. It’s safe to say that Pye has been living and breathing music most of her life, and it shows in the songs she has released so far, including the hit ‘Heaven Can’t Wait’.

That song has great emotional resonance, and it’s clear Pye is not afraid of tough topics, as evidenced by her latest single, ‘Days Like This’, which was sparked by realising that there are children going to their first day of school who may be missing a parent.

Delving further into Pye’s life and experiences, we talked about her work as a physiotherapist, and it’s clear that it’s had a big influence on how she sees the world and how much sensitivity she has towards other people and what they’re going through. This enables her to be able to take a big topic such as the one she addresses in this song and have the skills necessary to find an elegant way to write about it when there are only so many verses and a chorus in which to contain her story and message.

‘Days Like This’ will get you from the first verse, so be ready. It also comes with a powerful music video, which you can see here.

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Gracie Jean on new EP Having & Longing

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 22:00:00 GMT

When I first interviewed Sydney folk/alt-country artist Gracie Jean, it was in 2022 and she had released her debut album, Romance is Bad. Since then she’s had momentous changes in her life, including the death of her mother.

Grief and how one survives it – and survives the what-ifs that come with it – is the bedrock of Gracie’s new EP, Having & Longing. As she is upfront about that – and I take my cues from the artists in terms of what they’re prepared to discuss – it seemed like the most appropriate place to start our conversation about the EP. So we do. There is no preamble to it, just to let you know.

The substance of this EP is there in its title. Sometimes it seems that longing is out of fashion – that we should be striving and attaining instead. Longing suggests limbo – yearning for something that may never materialise. Grief is a form of longing, and so is wanting a life that takes a certain shape, and Gracie addresses that too.

This is an EP for those who are not afraid to open up the veins of life and see what’s coursing there, aware that it might be dark and murky but they want to know anyway. There is so much sweetness on it too. It’s impossible not to be moved by an artist who wants so much that is going to be always out of reach, and also wants things which may yet transpire and she’s putting them on the record, literally.

I appreciate Gracie Jean’s honesty in this interview and hope you find as much substance in it as I did, as a way of providing context for Having & Longing.

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Nathan Lamont moves on to Bigger Things

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 21:57:10 GMT

Nathan Lamont is from Wagga Wagga in New South Wales and since 2023 he has been releasing unforgettable country-pop songs, starting with ‘Drink You Up’. His latest single is ‘Bigger Things’, on which he worked with producers Msquared for the first tie. Its release comes after his first headline show at the Tamworth Country Music Festival in January. That show was the culmination of years of having a dream about doing that very thing, and we talk about the significance of it to him.

Lamont has been performing live since childhood, and was twice a Toyota Star Maker Grand Finalist before taking a break from music. Over the past couple of years he became a Grand Finalist once more, and established new songwriting and producing collaborations that have led to the creation of consistently great songs.

That sort of artistry does not come from a void, which is why it’s always so interesting to talk to artists about their backgrounds, and each time Lamont and I speak there is more to talk about, as it becomes increasingly clear that the music he’s making now is the result of the years of work he put in before it, starting with his involvement in his local country music club in the Riverina, facilitated by his stepmother Milly. This conversation is a long one, but aren’t long podcast episodes the thing these days?

Lamont has some shows coming up, including A Night in Nashville in Orange, which is now sold out, and a return to the Karijini Experience in Western Australia, which will be a very different affair (details below). He’s also looking ahead to what’s possible this year, and if the trajectory continues the year will, at the very least, bring more fantastic songs.

See Nathan Lamont live

March 1st – Country Music Night - Glenorie RSL – Glenorie, NSW

March 15th – A Night In Nashville – Orange Showgrounds - Orange, NSW

April 11th – 12th – Karijini Experience – Karijini National Park - Karijini, WA

April 29th – The Beer Shed – Campbelltown, NSW (w/ Alex Mather)

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Aleyce Simmonds on things she's learned

Sun, 23 Feb 2025 05:17:37 GMT

**Listen to the end to hear the single 'Things I've Learned'

Aleyce Simmonds was the first Australian artist I interviewed when I started what became Sunburnt Country Music in late 2011. Back then it was called Jolene The Country Music Blog because I didn’t know what else to call it and I also thought no one would read it anyway, so the name didn’t matter.

The blog became a regular thing for me after I was very ill in July 2011 – and if you want to hear that story you can listen to the latest episode of Tori Forsyth’s podcast In the Thick of It, as I talk about it there. I’d done a fair bit of interviewing by that time, of musicians in Canada when I lived there, and of a variety of people at the Seven Network when I worked there. That didn’t mean I was great at it, so Aleyce got a very early version of Interviewer Me. And it was also Interviewer Me in a vulnerable state, as I was still recovering. Writing about Australian country music, doing those interviews, would become a way to not only come back to myself but leap ahead.

I’m sharing this story as a way of introducing this interview with Aleyce about her latest single, ‘Things I’ve Learned’, because in our interview Aleyce shares her story of being gravely unwell while pregnant with her daughter, Georgia. So unwell that she wrote the song for Georgia in case she wasn’t around any more to tell it.

Aleyce was so brave telling this story. What she has to say is not only the story behind the song but the story of what it takes to survive something you aren’t sure you’ll survive, then to emerge and create art that offers great meaning to others. It goes without saying that the artist who made this song is not the same one I interviewed fourteen years ago – of course she’s not. But she’s also not the artist she was two years ago. She has not only been forged in the greatest fire of her life but forged herself and emerged a warrior with armour that is made not of steel but of dreams and hopes and determination. All that is there to hear in the song, and in this interview too.

Aleyce also has some very interesting things to say about the changes in the music industry since she released her single ‘Mighty, Mighty Love’ twenty years ago, as well as pursuing her career while managing serious health conditions. A lot of ground is covered, and Aleyce was so generous with her insights. This is the story of what it means to persist – to insist, actually, on having an artistic life, a creative life, amidst enormous challenges. As she says, ‘This music life is so much more than getting out there and singing songs. It's about making people feel … We put whatever is going on in our lives behind us, and get out there and be brave.’ I thank her so much for sharing her story with me, and with you.

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New releases 22 February 2025

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 23:52:18 GMT

Below you'll find links to the videos for songs mentioned in this podcast.

For the cumulative February New Releases playlist - which contains these songs and more - go to Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5uoiJET1DCVyTnVVE5pKKn?si=b0fa79e66f9d4724

Nathan Lamont – ‘Bigger Things’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C6uCIi84t7A

The Wolfe Brothers & Lee Kernaghan – ‘Country Is Coming to Town’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kc1nowUJejs

Amy Sheppard – ‘Mr Mistake’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V2c0QfgUCz0

Denvah – Valentine’s Day https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XBFW_hyBx3U

Genevieve Chadwick – ‘Wildfire’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SUfBWd-f6Sg

Michael Carpenter – ‘If Tomorrow Was Today’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Et5ZDS9EVUc

Shara Rose – ‘All I Want’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RRgVx7siIy0

Tori Darke & Jay Santilli - 'Trouble' https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ga8brJIgfk

Clancy Pye - 'Days Like This' https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QJgHUgTvHis

Sons of Atticus - 'Tennessee Tipsy' https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hbJe0Wxv8Cw

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Lyn Bowtell and her bittersweet 'Paper Cut'

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 22:00:00 GMT

**Listen to the end to hear the single 'Paper Cut'**

There really aren’t enough superlatives to describe Lyn Bowtell as a singer, songwriter, performing artist, teacher, mentor and human. Anyone who has seen her perform live never forgets the experience of hearing her sing for the first time and every time. Nor do they forget how funny she is! Bowtell creates an experience for her audiences and everyone leaves her shows uplifted and entertained.

Her recorded music also has that effect, as she moves from heartbreaking songs like ‘The Willow Tree’ on her 2014 album Heart of Sorrow to the I-know-better-now take on life in ‘I Won’t Do That Again’ from her 2022 Golden Guitar-winning album Wiser. Both of those albums were produced by the esteemed Shane Nicholson, but for her latest single, ‘Paper Cut’, Bowtell has stepped behind the desk to take on the role of producing, alongside her partner Damon Morton.

‘Paper Cut’ has Bowtell’s trademark ability to capture poignancy in song. She is an observer of the strengths and frailties of being human, and able to document them not only through lyrics but in her vocal delivery. There is always a sense that Bowtell is acutely aware that life has challenges - and she’s there to make them better by sharing her artistry. She does that too through her role as Director of the Academy of Country Music in Tamworth, where she has shepherded Junior and Senior Academy students through some of the most formative times of their lives.

It is always an honour to interview Bowtell, who I refer to as a national treasure because I mean it. How lucky we are to have her in our backyard, to be proximate to such excellence. How lucky was I to be able to chat to her about music and life and songwriting and producing, and many other things in this interview. I hope you enjoy it.

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Pete Denahy is Travellin' Still

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 02:00:51 GMT

Pete Denahy is an artist with many facets. Some know him mostly for his comedic songs, such as ‘Sort of Dunno Nothin’ and ‘Looking at My Phone’, which I tend to think of as succinct, lyrically elegant takes on communication and social interaction (or lack thereof) because they’re so well done that they seem like they could have been easy for him to write.

Denahy also writes non-comedic songs and he’s just as good at those. And he is known as a preeminent fiddle player – he’s won three of his five Golden Guitars with the fiddle – and as an MC of events such as Star Maker at the Tamworth Country Music Festival. He has five albums, and a new single, ‘Photos on Your Phone’.

He was also, for several years, a member of Slim Dusty’s band. As a thirteen-year-old he saw Slim play; twelve years later he was in the band, and although Slim is gone now the band plays on. Travellin’ Still is the name of the show that Slim’s band members have put together and successfully taken on the road in two states, and it now travels to Queensland [dates below].

This was the first opportunity I’ve had to interview Denahy and the chat is a long one – he’s an interesting fella! We cover his career from the time he decided at a young age that he wanted to be a country singer to his latest single and the tour he’s about to embark on. Just as entertaining in an interview as on stage, I hope you enjoy listening to or watching this.

TRAVELLIN’ STILL dates:

Wednesday, 26 February - Brothers Sports Club, Bundaberg

Thursday, 27 February - Kingaroy Town Hall

Friday, 28 February - Majestic Theatre, Pomona

Saturday, 1 March - Old Museum Theatre, Brisbane

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Faith Williams: Queen of Hearts, and of debut EP releases

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 22:00:00 GMT

**Listen to the end to hear 'Dear August' from the EP Queen of Hearts**

When I first heard Queen of Hearts, the debut EP from Central Coast, NSW singer-songwriter Faith Williams, I wondered why I hadn’t heard of her before. It was because not a single had been released before the EP, so at least I hadn’t missed anything – but it was such a surprise to listen to the first, and title, track and hear this voice in it: vulnerable and also strong, and singing stories that seemed like they may be about her, or maybe not, and that mystery was part of the intrigue.

The EP was produced by Brandon Dodd at The Rabbit Hole, also on the Central Coast, and when I interviewed Williams recently we talked about how she came to work with Dodd, and have both Kasey and Bill Chambers appear on the EP. Mostly we talk about those stories that have made it onto these songs, including the one in the last track, which was finished during recording.

Williams is a tremendous talent, with hopefully many songs in front of her. And she’s already received an accolade, in the form of a CCMA New Songwriter of the Year award, presented during this year’s Tamworth Country Music Festival, which was Williams’s first as a performer. It should be the first of many awards, and festivals, for this emerging artist who sounds like she has emerged fully formed.

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Andrew Swift has found Nothing Better

Sat, 08 Feb 2025 22:00:00 GMT

**Listen to the end to hear the single 'Nothing Better'**

Victorian artist Andrew Swift won his first two Golden Guitars for his first album, Call Out for the Cavalry, and his most recent was in 2023 for Male Artist of the Year. Cavalry was the first of his three albums to go to number 1 on the ARIA charts.

Swift’s new single, ‘Nothing Better’, follows on from ‘Fumes and Fireworks’, which he released last year with Amber Lawrence, along with ‘This Is Us Here’ and ‘Hot Damn (It’s Been a Minute)’. It was written at the APRA Melbourne - Nashville SongHubs sessions in Nashville, Tennessee, and was the creation of Swift, Lindsay Rimes and Tyler James Bellinger.

During our recent chat Swift talked about the rather intensive process of those SongHubs sessions and how ‘Nothing Better’ was the last song he wrote there. It is an expression of gratitude for life as he’s living it now, with his partner Simone and new baby on the way. Simone makes an appearance in the music video for the song, which was created by Jeremy Minett of Eyes and Ears Creative.

‘Nothing Better’ was produced by Matt Fell, with whom Swift has worked on all three of his albums. He mentions that he has about half an album recorded with Fell, and will be working to find time to record the rest, amongst the arrival of the baby and his current five-state tour (dates below). Swift loves playing live and his tour schedule attests to that love of the road – and he’ll also be appearing at two festivals in August, on Norfolk Island and at Gympie.

Tour dates:

Sunday 23rd February - TumbaFest, Tumbarumba NSW

Friday 28th February - Altar Bar, Hobart TAS

Saturday 1st March - Little Sisters General Store, TAS

Sunday 2nd March - Wilder, Gowrie Park TAS

Friday 21st March - Commercial Hotel, South Morang VIC

Saturday 22nd March - RegFest, Horsham VIC

Friday 4th April - The Duke of George, Fremantle WA

Saturday 5th April - Gatsby’s Skyline, Manjimup WA

Saturday 12th April - Arcobar, Heatherton VIC

Tuesday 29th April – Oodies Café, Bundaberg QLD

Wednesday 30th April - Oodies Cafe, Bundaberg QLD – SOLD OUT

Thursday 1st May - Oodies Cafe, Bundaberg QLD – SOLD OUT

3-10th August - Tunes In The Tropics, Norfolk Island

28-31st August - Gympie Music Muster, Gympie QLD

**Tickets on sale now and available via www.andrewswift.com.au/tour

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New releases 5 February 2025

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 11:26:21 GMT

Well, my intention to release episodes of this 'new releases podcast' on a weekly basis went out the window immediately. So at least I'm setting low expectations! And I did come back for another episode. These are the singles released since the last episode that I reckon are worthy of closer attention - and you can listen to the songs within the episode.

Faith Williams – ‘Queen of Hearts’ [NB explicit content - one word]

Tom Curtain – ‘Just Give it a Crack’

Katelann Maree – ‘Australia My Home’

Jen Mize – ‘Neon & Nothin’ Else’

Andrew Swift – ‘Nothing Better’

Rachael Fahim – ‘Good Luck’

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The Seasons of Andrea Robertson

Sun, 02 Feb 2025 22:00:00 GMT

Andrea Robertson is a singer-songwriter from the Geelong area in Victoria who released her latest album, Seasons, in 2024. She is also the founder of Americana on the Bellarine, a one-day festival which will be held on the Bellarine Peninsula, near Geelong, on 22 February this year.

We had a wide-ranging chat about her development as an artist, which started when Robertson was very young, influenced by the musical environment she grew up in.

‘I've just always loved singing,’ she says. ‘As a kid I was the youngest of three girls and music was very much a part of our house.’

Seasons was originally planned as a four-volume release, although it was affected by the pandemic, during which Robertson’s songwriting suffered.

‘I think I wrote a lot of music,’ she says, ‘but just lyrically I'd really dried up so it sort of just started filtering in again.’

After she started writing again, what emerged was a full-bodied work that is about life and love in all their complexities.

Something else that suffered during the pandemic was Americana on the Bellarine – the inaugural festival was due to take place in 2020. Now that it’s well underway, it has developed a reputation for bringing the finest Americana artists to the Geelong area. This year it’s headlined by Matt Joe Gow & The Dead Leaves, and features Robertson and her band, Jasmin Adria and Mojo Corner.

‘I wanted to keep it small. I didn't want it to grow too big. I felt like just keeping it as a nice, intimate, micro festival.’

The festival takes place at the Potato Shed in Drysdale. Tickets are available here.

The interview is a long one but that’s because Robertson has such a rich musical life that there was a lot to talk about. Her dedication to music, to performance, to the musical community, is impressive and inspiring. And if you’re in Victoria on 22 February, you can see it in person.

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James Johnston on new single 'Hell Boy' and Tamworth show

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 22:34:05 GMT

From the first interview I did with James Johnston, a little over three years ago, it was clear he had put in the time to learn his craft as a songwriter and a performer, writing dozens of songs before even recording one, and playing at any venue that would have him even if he was just playing to bar staff. It took years, and his patience meant that when he started releasing songs he knew who he was, what the songs were about, and who they were for.

As a live performer he is the same, embodying confidence without arrogance, engaging wholeheartedly with the audience, giving them songs that mean something and are also entertaining. This was most starkly clear when I saw him play support for Kip Moore in Sydney yesterday at a large venue, the ICC, where it seemed like everyone knew the words to Johnston's songs and he looked like he was having the time of his life on stage.

All of that experience and that thought – and thoughtfulness – turns up in Johnston’s recorded songs. His debut album, RAISED LIKE THAT, was a full-spectrum offering of stories, and while some songs were serious they were all entertaining. Entertainment is at the core of who he is as an artist but it simply would not be effective without that intention and thought behind it.

Which brings us to his new single, ‘HELL BOY’, released today, 23 January 2025, which is a song to his sons and about embracing life. It is released just after Johnston has travelled on foot from Armidale to Tamworth to raise money for Ronald McDonald House, Tamworth and ahead of his show at Tamworth Town Hall. Johnston and I spoke about all of that and it was, as ever, great to catch up with him.

If you miss James Johnston in Tamworth you can see him on the following dates:

APRIL 5: MELBOURNE MUSTER, Caribbean Park VIC

MAY 3: QLD MUSIC TRAILS - OUTBACK SOUNDS, Charleville QLD

JUNE 27: COUNTRY FEST, Bloomsbury QLD

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New releases 19 January 2025

Sun, 19 Jan 2025 11:16:54 GMT

Songs mentioned in this episode – with links to listen/watch

Lyn Bowtell – ‘Paper Cut’

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9YLu7Naws1E

Kasey Chambers ft Shane Nicholson – ‘The Divorce Song’

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cafdtL4Sa88

Jenny Mitchell – ‘Square & Plain’

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ls-0mQyVOeE

Aleyce Simmonds – ‘Things I’ve Learned’

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LccnUJp_2Xw

Wade Forster with Max Jackson – ‘Denim’

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JilD6V32_kA

Piper Rodrigues – ‘Heartbrakes’

https://open.spotify.com/track/0r3cJRKEc3UzXujwNk2MBt?si=902cf4fad1de4e94

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The Kunins on their enchanting new album Waiting for Lily

Sun, 05 Jan 2025 22:00:00 GMT

**Stay tuned to the end to listen to 'Birdwatcher' from Waiting fror Lily**

There’s something to be said for family harmonies. Anyone who has heard Fanny Lumsden sing live (or recorded) with her brother Tom, or who is rapt in the voices of The McClymonts, or a fan of The Buckleys, will appreciate that there’s a particular magic when family members sing together.

Ken Kunin is an American musical artist who moved to Australia several years ago; he has several albums behind him as a solo artist and with the band Davis Waits, and now he makes music with his daughter Lily Maia as The Kunins. While the musical acts mentioned above all feature siblings, The Kunins’ album Waiting for Lily proves that parent-child harmonies can be just as enchanting.

Waiting for Lily is their second album – and actually the second released in 2024. The first was self-titled and was, says Ken, a process of defining what our sound actually is.’ The decision to focus on a more acoustic arrangement came from their live performances, which emphasised simplicity and connection.

‘The first album was so multi-layered with genres; we realised that an acoustic setup really conveyed what we wanted in a song,’ Ken adds.

Lily Maia echoes this sentiment, noting, ‘When you listen to the music, it feels like you’re in the room. You’re just a part of the music that’s being created.’

The Power of Live Performance

Live performance is the key for both Kunins, and performing isn’t merely about showcasing their talents; it’s about genuine connection with the audience. ‘Music is meant to be shared,’ as Lily Maia states. Ken adds, ‘Playing live is definitely an important part of what we do … It’s fun to show what you’ve been working on with the people around you.’

Together, they create a space where listeners can engage with the music authentically. Ken explains, ‘I like the idea of renting out halls where you control the bill. It’s about creating the culture we want to bring without the distractions of a bar or a venue.’

Writing and Collaborating as a Duo

In their creative process, Ken and Lily Maia often write songs individually, before merging their ideas during arrangements. ‘Sometimes we disagree,’ Ken admits, ‘but we often seem to come to the same conclusion.’ Their aligned music tastes help to guide their decision-making.

While still young, Lily Maia has been writing songs for several years, and likes to push boundaries with each song. ‘When I was about 14 or 15, I started writing songs that were actually decent,’ she shares. Since then, her craft has evolved significantly, reflecting both her individuality and her shared experiences with her father.

Upcoming Projects

Releasing two albums in 2024 did not tire out The Kunins – to the contrary, they have plans for more projects. ‘We’ve been throwing around ideas for electric records and possibly Nashville,’ Ken says.

Meanwhile they will continue doing what they love best: performing live together, at shows in their home town of Brisbane.

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PepperCreek Revival on their debut album and long musical histories

Sun, 22 Dec 2024 22:00:21 GMT

What happens when you combine the talents and experience of 2022 Blues Music Victoria Hall of Fame inductee and award winning producer / bass player Barry Hills, three other award-winning musicians in the forms of Brian Fraser on lap steel, electric and acoustic guitars, vocals; Roland Kretschmer on electric and acoustic guitars, mandolin, banjo, Dobro, ukulele, vocals; and drummer and vocalist Nick Carrafa, and multiple award-winning singer/songwriter Kelly Auty? This is, of course, a leading question because the answer is, as the title of this post may suggest, PepperCreek Revival! But it was also the most efficient way to introduce the calibre of players who are on this self-titled debut album which is anything but the work of beginners.

Recently I spoke to Hills and Auty and while I wanted to find out about the band I was also keen to ask them about their individual musical histories, and it’s worth watching or listening to the interview for these alone, as they have such rich stories.

PepperCreek Revival was Hills’s idea and the nine songs that are on the album are the result of the band creating the music then taking it to Auty, who writes the lyrics then sings lead vocals. Like Hills, Auty’s background is in the blues, yet her voice is versatile and more than suits the country, folk, roots and rock styles of these songs (as well as some blues).

Given the musicians in PepperCreek Revival, this is definitely an album for music aficionados; it is also an album for those who want songs that reflect life and love, challenges and joys – which is all of us, really.

Listen to the album here: https://peppercreekrevival.com/music-video

Buy the CD here: https://peppercreekrevival.com/shop

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Lullaby of a Breaking Heart: Rose Zita Falko's musical journey

Sat, 21 Dec 2024 22:00:32 GMT

**Listen to the end to hear the song 'Lullaby of a Breaking Heart'

After releasing the EP Original Son in 2018, Victorian artist Rose Zita Falko found herself in an enforced break from recording and releasing music due to the pandemic and all the upheaval it wrought. In 2022 she released the single ‘The Plan’ (which is a heartbreaker itself) and actually had another song up her sleeve – but it has only come into the world now.

‘Lullaby of a Broken Heart’ is an exceptional piece of work – as its title suggests, it has a gentle rhythm but that is overlaid with Falko’s irresistible vocal that, even if it did not intone the words ‘breaking heart’, captures the feeling of it.

The song originated from a recording on Falko’s phone, a sonic improvisation that had been tucked away for years which she happened to find one day. She collaborated with her mother to refine the lyrics and structure, and the result is an unforgettable song.

Voice is at the centre of Falko’s work – apart from her original music, she teaches singing and is a stage performer. So it’s no surprise to learn that singing has been at the core of her life from a very young age. Indeed, she sang before she could talk. She also comes from a rich musical heritage, with her grandmother hosting a radio show that spanned genres from classical opera to Welsh folk music and gospel.

While the singing voice may come from the ether, and talent is impossible to define – or capture – in talking to Falko it became clear that there is a powerful inevitability to her life in music. It was there before she was born, through the generations before, and it’s been in her from the start. She wouldn’t be able to hold back its tide even if she tried, and thankfully for us she goes with it – and hopefully shall continue to do so for years to come.

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Explore Jack Nolan's latest album, Songs for Hemingway

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 22:00:00 GMT

Jack Nolan is a Sydney singer and songwriter who has a storied music career which began in the 1990s – back when Sydney had a plethora of live venues around the city and audiences to go with them – has included six solo albums and one LP with The Kelly Gang in 2004.

Nolan’s latest album is Songs for Hemingway, which includes the single ‘Mother of All Storms’, which had its premiere on Sunburnt Country Music earlier this year. It’s a tour de force of a song and the album delivered on its promise. The album contains tracks that are elegantly haunting, like ‘Tofino’, and some which are muscular. There is at all times a sense that Nolan pays attention – to life, to songs, to creating in general.

Songs for Hemingway was made with Nashville-based collaborator/multi-instrumentalist/producer Justin Weaver (The Chicks, Wynonna Judd) and Nolan had only instruction for Weaver: no electric instruments were to be used on the record.

In this interview Nolan talks about working with Weaver, and about how he came to name the album for the late Ernest Hemingway. Nolan was inspired by Hemingway’s novel The Old Man and the Sea and the idea of being ‘too far out’ that it evoked – along with pushing one’s limits. Nolan is certainly not an artist who can be said to have rested on his laurels, given that during our chat it became clear that he approaches his craft, and music generally, with an open mind and a curiosity to explore what is possible, which is how it has been since his childhood, when older friends introduced him to the guitar and the joy of playing simple chords and songs.

Although the album is newly released Nolan is working on new music, as he now has time and capacity to do so. It’s almost as if the momentum that ‘Mother of All Storms’ introduced has carried on, and will keep carrying him into projected releases in 2025. But there’s still time to savour Songs for Hemingway and it is, indeed, a perfect album for slow summer afternoons when there’s a little more time to stop and pay attention, perhaps in the way Nolan does himself.

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New album 'Home Fires': A deep dive with Small Town Romance

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 22:00:35 GMT

The first time I interviewed Flora Smith and James Arneman, the members of Small Town Romance, I learnt a lot about their respective musical backgrounds and we also spoke about making music videos, which is Arneman’s specialty. Partners in life as well as music, the pair both grew up around instruments and performance. In Arneman’s case it was as part of an Australian country music dynasty, as the son of Anne Kirkpatrick and grandson of Joy McKean and Slim Dusty. Smith’s path was different but no less interesting and musical.

The pair have different yet complementary sensibilities, which is part of what makes their songs so appealing: they know how to work with, not against, each other and they both want to make the best possible music they can. And there’s a lot of wonderful music on their new album, Home Fires, which is cool in the indefinable way that cool is: you know it when you hear it, and it’s both reassuring and unsettling and familiar and new all at once.

Home Fires was released in August but we weren’t able to chat until recently, and I relished the chance to ask this talented – and highly entertaining! – pair about the songs on it. We also talked about a Christmas show which has come and gone, because I wasn’t able to publish this interview in time. But they will be at the Cygnet Folk Festival in Tasmania on 10 January and the Tamworth Country Music Festival later that month, and if their live performances are even half as good as the record they will be special. This is music that comes from deep knowledge of the craft that does not bind these artists but, rather, sets them free.

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Brittany Elise: ‘Hi, It’s Me’, all the way from Nashville

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 22:00:16 GMT

Although I’ve interviewed Brittany Elise before, we didn’t meet in person until September this year and it was in Nashville, where the native Queenslander has been spending time writing, recording and performing. It was not only lovely to meet her but she was so generous with her insider tips about the best places to find live music in the city that is full of options for that.

From her first album, 2019’s Something More, Brittany established that she’s a country music artist with melodic sensibilities that lean towards pop and a take on songwriting that is uniquely hers and which leads to songs that have a great little quirk or kick or detail that keeps you going back to them over and over.

That continued on her 2022 album Just Be, which opened with the single ‘Feel the Fire’, which was all about creativity and how irresistible its fire can be.

Since then Brittany has released several new singles, including ‘Lucky’ and ‘Girl in the Mirror’. Her latest is ‘Hi, It’s Me’, which is a mission statement that sprang from a particularly challenging time in her life. Brittany was a committed and successful athlete with state and national titles, and aspirations to go further, when an injury left her in danger of not even being able to walk properly again. She had to change her perception of and plans for the future, and that’s when she started to commit to music.

In the years since then she’s proved as dedicated to her musical career as she was to sport, and ‘Hi, It’s Me’ is a statement of that dedication and a declaration of dreams that just happen to come true. It’s an anthem that others can find themselves in – so if you’re ready to be your own cheerleader, this is the song for you!

Brittany Elise is touring Queensland and also heading for the 2025 Tamworth Country Music Festival. The dates are available at https://brittanyelisemusic.com

Watch the video for ‘Hi, It’s Me’

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Rising star Chloe Styler on ‘Little Lady’ and her big plans

Sat, 14 Dec 2024 06:33:48 GMT

One of the benefits of being able to interview an artist more than once is that I can not only hear from them about the new things they’re up to but start to see connections between things they might have been doing a while ago and where that activity and those ideas have led them.

Gold Coast rising star Chloe Styler has had a big year, taking home Breakout Artist of the Year at the Gold Coast Music Awards, charting in the CountryTown Hot 50 airplay charts and appearing in CMT’s Top 10, along with Spotify playlists ‘Fresh Country’ and ‘All New Country’. She’s also toured with Nik Kershaw and Go West, Shannon Noll and Karise Eden. This is on top of spending time in Nashville to write and record.

While it might look like a lot has happened ostensibly out of the blue, Styler has been working consistently and diligently over the past few years to create music that has an identifiable and unique style. It is country pop with whimsy and self-awareness, tender and heartfelt.

Style has also crafted a visual presence through her videos and stage attire that make her immediately recognisable.

‘I've really tried to focus on developing a strong visual identity for my music,’ Styler explains in the interview, then adds that working with her sister Amy on her videos in particular ‘has been invaluable in that process, as she has such a great eye for capturing the essence of my sound and style.’

There can be a notion that creativity just happens, that being creative means going with the flow so therefore planning and judicious assessment of your activities aren’t creative. But creativity can’t flow like a river without riverbanks to guide it and contain it, and it’s impossible to build a career without scaffolding. Styler – whether by instinct or design – knows this, and happily has the academic qualifications to support it. By putting those structures in place she can, indeed, make the most of her creative practice, and that’s what we see and hear in the music she releases.

Her latest single is ‘Little Lady’, and the lyric is delivered literally and ironically in the song. It’s about the fear of failure, which, Styler says, ‘eats her up’.

The video was made by Styler in northern New South Wales with Amy, with whom she has collaborated before.

‘Having my sister behind the camera just makes me feel so at ease,’ Styler explains. ‘We can communicate on a level that no one else can, and it allows me to really let my guard down and focus on the performance.’

So we see here too that Styler has the structure in place to let her creativity flourish, and as she continues to create music and build her profile, it will be fascinating to watch.

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Billie Rose: Slaying ghosts, making killer songs

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 22:00:07 GMT

Over the past couple of years Queensland artist Billie Rose has been releasing alluring, swirling, sometimes mystical singles including ‘Can’t Bring Back the Dead’ and ‘Black Dress’. Her latest is ‘Slaying Ghosts’ and it’s also the name of the EP that captures those single releases and marks the conclusion of that creative chapter in her life.

Themes unintentionally emerged amongst the tracks, give that the others are ‘Heartbreak Subway Train’ and ‘Label Me a Killer’ – themes of darkness and death (as ‘subway’ could be seen to suggest darkness) that are only reinforced by Billie’s voice with its lightness and clarity that suggest she is telling these stories from a perspective of distance and self-awareness.

Part of the function of art is to help the audience manage times in their own lives that they may see reflected in the art itself; part of the role – and sacrifice – of the artist is to be prepared to pour their experiences into their work so that others may benefit from it. In being willing to work with darkness, Billie gives her audience the chance to also move towards light, as she has by creating these songs.

Billie worked with her regular producer Garret Kato on the new track, and the pair drew inspiration from Nirvana for the production of the song, which she wrote with regular collaborator Peta-Cherae.

In this interview we talk about both of those long-term associations and the benefits of working with collaborators you know well. Billie is also frank about the challenges of being an independent artist, and how she is committed to her art all the same. This is something that artists around Australia can do no doubt relate to: working in small territory, releasing music into a market that is flooded with music from overseas, trying to mark amongst it all. Her dedication to her craft, her persistence in showing up for her music, are inspiring, especially since what that is funnelled into is the work itself: making the best songs possible, then working to take them to as many people as possible.

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Shara Rose: Finding her way and landing on her feet

Sun, 08 Dec 2024 22:00:36 GMT

Shara Rose is an all round entertainer who is not only a singer and songwriter, but a dancer as well. And as a result of all those skills, she is in demand, touring with Jason Owen, and Tania Kernaghan, and opening for Tones and I. She has also been releasing heartfelt country pop songs and the latest is ‘Finding My Way’.

As she says in our interview, Shara was determined to release four songs this year, and she has done that, the other three being ‘Purpose in the Process’, ‘Falling’ and ‘Heart on Her Sleeve’. That’s in between her touring commitments and Dance the Night Away, the show she created and took on tour. And even then she still has a ‘day job’ as an exercise physiologist, to which she brings her experience and perspective as a performing artist.

The first time we spoke, a few months ago, I was impressed with Shara’s determination to make the most of her opportunities despite some debilitating health problems, and since then she has taken on even more creative endeavours. In talking to her it’s clear that she couldn’t leave any other way because she is passionate about music and performance, as well as connecting with audiences.

Her latest single, ‘Finding My Way’, is a personal story and a mission statement of sorts, and it’s no doubt a reminder that as much as she seems to have very much found the path that is best for her, she can also remind herself that she is, as the refrain goes, ‘happy, free and beautiful and finding my way’.

It is upbeat and motivational, where ‘Purpose in the Process’ was much more contemplative. Yet both that song and ‘Finding My Way’ are an acknowledgement that the work of coming into being – as a person, as an artist – is never complete.

Working as an independent artist, Shara Rose has built a team around her to help her achieve her goals and is working towards them mindfully and purposefully. Given what she’s achieved this year alone, it will be worth following her next year to see what she can bring into being.

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Tammy Moxon on her new single ‘What Am I To Do’

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 22:02:44 GMT

Some songs arrive quickly; others take years to gestate, waiting for the songwriter to find the right moment to bring them fully to life. For her latest album, Fighting Chance, Townsville artist Tammy Moxon wrote several new songs, but in the case of her new single, ‘What Am I To Do’, she discovered a song she wrote a decade before, in the wake of her first break-up, in some old notebooks.

As we discuss in this new interview, the song was quite different then. Under the stewardship of producer Shane Nicholson, however, it became an up-tempo number that embodies Moxon’s love of Patsy Cline, on whose music Moxon was raised, which gives it an old-school swing and turns what could be a song of disappointment and frustration into something far more hopeful.

In this way the song matches Moxon’s own outlook on life and music. While there is darkness on Fighting Chance, overall it is an album about finding out who you are and setting out to have the life you want and deserve. Moxon has put in the work to create that life and it is clear that music plays a huge role in that.

Moxon recorded the album around lockdowns – with Nicholson in New South Wales, this was not straightforward – and also around her full schedule as a performing artist in Townsville. She plays several gigs a week, often of several sets each, and that’s not only because she’s in demand but because Townsville has the venues to support that much live music. So we chatted about that as well – especially about the fact that her career as a live performer was in doubt for a while. Moxon had problems with her vocal cords, eventually diagnosed as reflux and granulomas. Happily she has learnt to manage these conditions now, and she’s back to full performing strength.

So if you’re in Townsville you’ll no doubt find her performing most weeks of the year – apart from one week in January next year when she will be playing at the Tamworth Country Music Festival on these dates:

20th January – Tamworth Services Club – Tamworth, NSW (w/ Midwest Molly & Cameron Cusack)

20th January – Tamworth Shopping World – Tamworth, NSW

21st January – The Welders Dog – Tamworth, NSW

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Sibling duo Mak & Shar on their latest single ‘Untamed Heart’ and creative partnership

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 08:15:25 GMT

After releasing their singles ‘Best Thing’ and ‘Leap of Faith’ earlier this year, brothers Mak & Shar have done what they most love to do: made new music, and this time, with new single ‘Untamed Heart’, they are paying tribute to their late father, who died when they were young.

‘Dad was a performer,’ they say. ‘He played Dodger in Lionel Bart's Oliver when he was younger, on the West End of London, which is really, really cool. So he was a performer and a musician and he played guitar. And I remember actually not that long ago, it's probably two years ago, we found … a little notebook and it had all of these chords and lyrics written on it. And it was just songs that he'd written. And then also with that was this record of just him singing with a guitar and these songs that he'd written.’

Clearly music is in the brothers’ lineage – indeed, as Brothers 3, with third brother Tayzin, they grew up as performers themselves, and each has followed separately yet complementary musical paths since. They each have a Bachelor of Music; Shar has toured in musical theatre productions and Mak is a producer, with the production of the duo’s songs ultimately in his hands.

The brothers work closely together on their songs, although no two are created in the same way. They have a form of push-and-pull that means they bring out the best in each other, and that’s as true in an interview as it is in the creation of music. They are thoughtful and interesting, and it’s a pleasure to talk to two people who have a high regard for each other and who can speak articulately about their work.

Mak & Shar’s love for their craft is as strong as their respect for each other, and ultimately they want the same thing: to make great songs. In ‘Untamed Heart’ they not only have a song that honours their father but also that lineage he gave them, with no doubt much more to come.

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Country music icon Sara Storer on her powerful new anthem ‘Layers’

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 22:01:51 GMT

Here’s the thing about 22-time Golden Guitar winner Sara Storer: she is both a country music icon – and she has been since she released her debut album, Buffalo Bill, in 2000 and impressed audiences with her unique stories and clear-eyed view of humanity – and she’s an artist who is constantly in search of the next turn in the creative road, not so much restless with what she’s achieved but curious about what else is out there to be captured in song (or, as is the case for her now, in paintings). Interviewing her, as I’ve now done several times, there is absolutely no sense that resting on her laurels has ever been an option. Life is too interesting, she is too inherently creative, for that to happen.

Storer’s last solo album was Raindance in 2019; in 2023 she released SToReR with brother Greg and they won a Golden Guitar for their song ‘Dust Kid’. Earlier this year came her latest solo single, ‘Under Darwin Stars’, which captured what she loves about her Top End home. Now she has a new song, ‘Layers’, which has quite a different story and is the reason for our latest interview.

As an interviewee Storer is a delight, that curiosity of hers making her vibrant and funny, and she’s also self-aware in a way that makes her a great artist: able to draw on her own experiences to inspire or enhance a story, also able to step back when she needs to. In ‘Layers’ she takes on the persona of a teenage girl living in the digital age, when social media piles on the pressure. The song arose from Storer’s conversations with friends and family members who shared their concerns about the impact of social media on their girls.

‘I just wrote down what I thought and I just wanted to come back to the chorus and make sure it was a very positive message,’ she explains. That chorus encourages listeners to look beyond the surface and see the unique, beautiful, and perfect individual beneath the ‘layers’.

‘I just wanted to sing for the girls and I want you in that moment to just go, hey, you know, let's think about who we are underneath all these layers. We're one of a kind, we're unique, we're perfect, we're beautiful.’

As the parent of four school-age boys, Storer certainly has a perspective on the challenges facing young people, and she hopes that her music can provide a source of encouragement and empowerment. That comes through in the interview as well, when Storer reinforces the message for the young people who may hear her song: ‘You are unique. You're beautiful, you're you. And believe in yourself, because we do.’

Part of Storer’s power as an artist is that she also believes in herself and her work – and that conviction allows the audience to go with her, because we know she won’t let us down. And she’ll take us there with humour, because while she takes her work seriously, she doesn’t take herself too seriously. It’s part of the reason why she’s always so entertaining to talk to and, hopefully, for you to listen to or watch.

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Laura Frank: On the Road with ‘We Won’t Stop Runnin’’

Sat, 23 Nov 2024 22:02:01 GMT

Laura Frank is a multifaceted artist – singer, songwriter, performer videographer and much more besides – who lives in Queensland’s Scenic Rim area when she’s not on the road with Tom Curtain and his Katherine Outback Experience. Curtain’s tour goes for several months across the wet season (so he’s not in the Northern Territory then) so Frank was on the road when we spoke recently about her latest single, ‘We Won’t Stop Runnin’’ as well as the music video she made for the single with Nick Morrissey, her partner and collaborator.

The song was inspired by experiences within Frank and Morrissey’s relationship, and was a live favourite that Frank then decided to record with her regular producer Jordan Power. The video captures the energy of the song and was made on the couple’s property before they set out on tour. Frank regularly makes her own videos, so there’s quite an archive on YouTube to explore.

We also discuss the touring life – which involves Frank’s animals coming along to join Curtain’s – and it turns out Frank is doing a lot more than performing as Curtain’s opening act: she’s taking photos and video of the show, then working to post them on social media. It’s turned the Outback Experience tour into an all-day-and-night event, but it seems like Frank wouldn’t have it any other way.

Frank’s commitment to living a creative life is motivating and inspiring, partly because it’s clear she thinks that no task is too big or too small to attempt, and that if she’s interested in something she will pursue it without wanting to know where it might get her. Curiosity and passion underpin all her endeavours, and especially her music, so it’s great to learn that she has recorded more than one song with Power, which means there will be another single along in due course.

Meanwhile, she’ll be on the road with Curtain for a while, and you can find those dates on her website: https://www.laurafrank.com.au

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Adele Oliver unveils new single ‘Angel’

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 22:02:35 GMT

Well before the release of her previous single, ‘Wiley Blue’, Adele Oliver had established herself in the music scene in the beautiful Western Australian coastal town of Broome, playing her own shows and supporting touring artists. After the release of that single she supported Troy Cassar-Daley on his recent national tour, and we talk about that in this new interview, along with her latest single, ‘Angel’.

‘That song in one afternoon, I think, came out,’ says Oliver of the song. ‘It was one of those ones where I [thought], okay, this one's ready to come out now.’

‘Angel’ is about Oliver finding herself unwittingly placed on a pedestal in a relationship, then held to standards that the man in question was not holding himself to. And even though the song flowed out of her, she wasn’t happy with the second verse and changed it once she was in the studio with producer James Newhouse, who is based in Bunbury, WA.

‘Angel’ is a song that is tinged with regret, not in the lyrics but in the way it’s sung, and we also talk about the decisions Oliver made as a singer while recording.

Oliver is an artist in tune with the outer, natural world and her inner life, and she works with them both to create music, having learnt to not get in the way of her creativity when it’s happening.

‘Songs all come about so differently,’ she says. ‘They'll all find their way to you. Sometimes it is sitting down and going, I have this thing I want to say and I'm going to say it like this. But I really love the times when they land on you and you feel like you're a bit of a vessel in that moment. Or it's your subconscious ruminating over something that is now ready to be talked about. It kind of feels a bit magical in a way.’

Oliver is also passionate about the environment, especially the beautiful Kimberley area close to home. By day she’s a support worker, and that combined with her connection to the world around her bespeaks an artist who has an expansive worldview and one who strives for connection, drawing inspiration from the perspectives of others and weaving them into her songwriting.

Oliver has been recording other tracks with producer Newhouse and an EP is on the horizon. In the meantime she has plans to head for the Tamworth Country Music Festival in January, and no doubt to pop up on Broome’s stages as well.

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Suzie So Blue: From childhood cornet to a cornucopia of instruments and creativity

Sun, 17 Nov 2024 07:50:24 GMT

No two interviews are the same and if I haven’t interviewed an artist before I never know quite what to expect, even though I do my research. There was absolutely no evidence in my research on Melbourne artist Suzie So Blue – who has new singles ‘Bend’ and ‘Fall in Love’ – that indicated quite what an amazing life in music she’s had since her childhood. From playing cornet in polka and Czech folk bands with her father and sister to flute in high school (because it was more portable) to stringed instruments in bossa nova bands in Canberra (because you can’t sing and play flute at the same time) to the world she inhabits now in Melbourne, she lives and breathes music.

Suzie’s creative life doesn’t begin and end with music, though: she’s also a well-established fashion designer with her label SZN. This part of her story did not emerge until towards the end of our conversation, which took in a range of subjects including taking up space and claiming the right to perform, to her first forays into songwriting.

Recently Suzie released two singles at once. ‘Bend’ was inspired by a conversation she had with a Japanese friend while on a trip to Japan, where they discussed the manipulation of nature and the idea of bending like a tree in the wind. This resonated with Suzie's own journey as an artist, navigating the challenges and sacrifices that come with pursuing a creative path. The other single, ‘Fall in Love’, was written with a friend and drew on their shared experiences and conversations about past relationships.

Suzie’s musical influences are vast, as her background suggests, from the blues and country she grew up listening to, to the reggae, funk, and soul that have shaped her soulful vocals and playing style.

It was also clear from our chat that Suzie loves playing live, and she gigs regularly around Melbourne. Her next show is Spring Acoustica at Wesley Anne in Northcote, Vic., on 24 November. Tickets available here.

I could have asked Suzie many more questions as it felt almost like I was only at the tip of her creative iceberg, but hopefully there will be more songs soon, and perhaps the chance to chat again with this inspiring artist.

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Adam Harvey: 17 albums young and heading out on tour

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 22:02:59 GMT

With an impressive nine Golden Guitar awards and over half a million albums sold, Adam Harvey is one of Australia’s most successful, and beloved, country music stars, and even if all you ever did is see Harvey play live, you’d understand why: he is a great entertainer, a superlative singer, and a performing artist who always gives the impression that there’s nowhere else he’d rather be.

In this new interview to mark the release of his seventeenth album, Let the Song Take You Home, we talk about his new tour with its impressive group of support acts as well, including Jenny Mitchell and Chloe Styler.

‘There's so much doom and gloom out there in the world. People just want to have a good time and sing along and let their hair down and maybe have a laugh and just escape all the doom and gloom out there for a few hours,’ Harvey says about his attitude towards performing.

The songs on the new album take in a gamut of human experience and also feature Harvey’s trademark sense of humour. There’s a slight departure in sound, though, with a more mellow and emotional tone which Harvey attributes this to the influence of the album's producer, Luke Wootten, who pushed him to explore new creative avenues and refine his storytelling. It was his first time working with Wootten after producing his last few albums himself.

Of particular significance on the album is the song ‘Remember Me’, a poignant tribute to Harvey’s mother's battle with dementia as well as a powerful example of his songwriting prowess. Harvey now has a role as an ambassador for Dementia Australia, helping to bring awareness to this condition that affects so many.

Given that he’s now made quite a lot of albums, when asked what keeps him going his drive is clear: he loves writing songs and making music.

We also talk about the Tamworth Country Music Festival, coming up in January, where Harvey has become a fixture. The energy and camaraderie of the event, along with the opportunity to collaborate with fellow artists, make these shows some of his most cherished performances.

As ever, Harvey was a treat to interview just as he is to listen to on the album and live. Never once has there ever been a sense that he takes anything in his musical life for granted, and we can hear that in his songs: he wants to make the best album he can for listeners, not just for himself. He wants to make it worth our while to spend time with his songs – and in a venue, if you’re seeing him live – and he does, always.

Upcoming tour dates:

Nov 14 - Morwell Hotel, Morwell +

Nov 15 - York On Lilydale, Mount Evelyn +

Nov 16 - Gateway Hotel, Corio +

Nov 22 - The Centre, Beaudesert #

Nov 23 - Racehorse Hotel, Ipswich #

Nov 24 - Kedron Wavell Services Club, Chermside #

Nov 29 - Civic Theatre, Wagga Wagga +

Nov 30 - Street Theatre, Canberra +

For 2025 dates go to https://www.adamharvey.com.au/tour

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All About the International Songwriting Competition

Sat, 09 Nov 2024 22:12:46 GMT

Jim Morgan is an Australian who has been resident in the United States for several years and who for most of those years has overseen the operations of the International Songwriting Competition and the Unsigned Only Music Competition.

Morgan hails from Canberra, where he first discovered his passion for music as a drummer. After venturing to the United States he worked with the Boston Music Awards and the Nemo Music Conference, then at the fledgling International Songwriting Competition (ISC). As Morgan explains in this interview, the decision to relocate the ISC from Boston to Nashville was a strategic one, driven by the city's thriving music scene and the collaborative nature of the songwriting community.

‘When I first came to Nashville over 20 years ago,’ he says, ‘my impression was probably like a lot of people, which is Nashville is just country music. And it wasn't the case even back then when I first started, but now it's not like that at all. And Nashville's moniker is Music City. It's not Country Music City, it's Music City.’

The introduction of the Unsigned Only Music Competition, a spin-off from the ISC, was a response to the growing need to provide a platform for unsigned artists. Morgan emphasizes the importance of recognising and supporting these emerging talents, as the music industry landscape continues to evolve, with artists increasingly taking control of their own careers.

The ISC has several high-profile judges, including Reba McEntire, Mariah Carey and Tom Waits, and Morgan shares insights into the reasons why those judges not only want to be involved but often return year after year.

For emerging artists, Morgan offers valuable advice on selecting the right songs to enter, emphasising the importance of showcasing one's best work and not being limited by the age or recency of the composition. He also underscores the benefits of competing, as it allows artists to gauge their music against industry standards and potentially open doors to new opportunities, such as publishing deals, film and TV placements, and even record label signings.

‘Anything that we can do to help get more recognitions to those artists is definitely something that is a benefit to us and a benefit to the artists,’ he says.

It became clear during the conversation that Morgan has never lost the thrill of discovering exceptional new talent through the competition – he remains a music fan, which itself is a testament to the talents and efforts of the songwriters who enter these competitions.

Hopefully this interview offers valuable insights – and some tips! – for songwriters and artists hoping to enter either competition. You can find more information on how to enter at the links below.

https://www.songwritingcompetition.com

https://www.unsignedonly.com

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Sara Berki on new single, new signing, 2025 tour announcement

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 22:02:16 GMT

When Sara Berki released her debut single, ‘Fallin’ Off the Heartline’, it was clear she was an artist with great songwriting talent and the voice to deliver those songs in an unforgettable way. Since then she’s been on impressive journey which has now led to her signing with Warner Music Australia and releasing ‘twice’, her first single with that label, as well as announcing a tour in 2025.

It’s not always the case that great talent is rewarded with attention and accolades, so it’s heartening to see Berki taking these steps towards bigger audiences – and, more than anything, new songs. Her songs have been how she shows us who she is, and how she lets us into her world, and no doubt it’s the songs that will create new and bigger opportunities for her as time goes on.

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Kaitlyn Thomas: A dynamic voice in Australian country music

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 22:04:30 GMT

Kaitlyn Thomas is one of the most dynamic artists in Australian country music, with songs that are musically rich as well as entertaining and powerfully delivered. Her latest example of this is the single ‘Hell of a Long Time’, which she wrote with Troy Kemp, and MSquared – Michael Paynter and Michael DeLorenzis. The song was written during the pandemic, and it captures the essence of catching up with friends and celebrating life's moments. It was a collaboration Thomas relished, although she is just as comfortable writing alone.

‘I love the collaboration and working with people because it makes songwriting fun,’ she says. ‘And I love songwriting for me, as an artist, but also as a creative person … but I also love writing and getting ideas from other people because it just bounces. It's just awesome.’

Thomas has written with others during songwriting retreats, such as the SHE retreat run by the legend that is Lyn Bowtell, and the Dag Sheep Station, and says such retreats have been instrumental in her creative growth. Thomas reveals that they can be an emotional experience for her, as she taps into her vulnerability and allows her personal stories to pour out through her lyrics.

Thomas started recording music before she was even in her teens, and accordingly has a keen sense of what is recorded in the studio. She connects deeply with the feeling and emotion of the song before stepping into the studio, and the energy of the production team helps to shape her vocal performance. She has been working with that team, MSquared, for a while.

‘The energy in the room with those two incredible legends is outstanding. And they're vibing, therefore you're vibing. And this song was definitely, definitely a vibe.’

Thomas’s vocal influences are diverse, ranging from the powerhouse vocals of Pat Benatar and Linda Ronstadt to Sheryl Crow, The McClymonts and Lainey Wilson. As she teaches singing she also sometimes finds she has to unlearn what she knows when she goes to record.

‘Paynter says to me … “you need to turn the singing teacher off. Not every note needs to be perfect. The imperfection is what makes the songs great.”’

It seems to be working, because Thomas gives each of her songs their own identity, and brings the listener into the story because she connects with it so deeply. No doubt she will keep that connection as she plays live over the next little while, and heading into the Tamworth Country Music Festival. As a graduate of both the junior and senior Academy of Country Music, Thomas is very familiar with the country music capital, so you’ll find her there in January. In the meantime, you can get to know her and her music through this interview.

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‘Home Town’ heartbreak and Nashville highs: An interview with Will Day

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 22:02:42 GMT

I sat down with country-rock artist Will Day to discuss his recent single ‘Home Town’, his experiences writing and recording in Nashville, and the unique joys of being a festival performer. [NB: He’s since released the single ‘My Kinda Crowd’ – it took me longer than usual to post this interview due to the fact that, well, this is a solo operation and sometimes I can’t keep up!]

Day, who hails from south-east Queensland, has been making waves in the country music scene with his blend of country rock and heartfelt storytelling. His recent trip to Nashville proved to be a pivotal moment, both professionally and creatively.

‘It's been a goal of mine to get to Nashville for quite a few years,’ Day shares. ‘I wanted to go as an artist and songwriter.’

Day is the Head of Music at JMC Academy and travelled to Tennessee to present a paper at the International Country Music Conference, exploring the changing landscape of Australian country music production and its place in the international market. He stayed on for another week to do some co-writing and perform.

‘I wrote “Home Town” and I squeezed in six co-writes in about five days,’ he says. ‘I got to play a show on Broadway, which was absolutely awesome.’

‘Home Town’ is a breakup song, written with Bill DiLuigi and Scott Barrier, and it’s a slower tempo than a lot of Day’s songs.

‘I didn't think I was going to write any ballads over there at all because I don't write that many ballads anymore,’ Day says, although the finish product belies this. ‘But we had this song, and I just said, “You know, I really like this song. I want to release it.”’

He then took the song to producer Jared Adlam, and the result is a song that showcases Day’s voice capturing the emotional essence of the track.

Beyond the studio, Day is a seasoned festival performer. At the time we spoke he was gearing up for the Groundwater Country Music Festival on the Gold Coast, which has now happened but, hey, I left it in the interview because it was part of the conversation and it’s still interesting to hear Day talk about playing festivals which have, he says, taught him the importance of stagecraft and connecting with the audience.

‘If you signify to the audience when you walk on stage that you are there and you're comfortable and you're happy and you're going to have fun, then the audience relaxes,’ he says.

One special audience will be aboard Day’s upcoming Christmas Cruise on the Brisbane River on 9 November, where he'll be hosting a line-up of special guest artists and raising funds for a local charity.

Day is also looking ahead to a new album, the successor to his debut LP Countrified, which he released in 2021. While working on that, he’ll also be playing live, which is pretty much his natural habitat. You can catch him live at the following shows:

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Dylan Wright's inspiring journey from Sons of Atticus to winning Australian Idol

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 22:02:59 GMT

Dylan Wright is one half of the country duo Sons of Atticus, along with Matt Joyce, and after appearing at this year’s Tamworth Country Music Festival Wright went quickly on to appear in Australian Idol – and then to win it. He released a half-EP, Half a World Away Pt 1, a few weeks ago and now the full EP is out, along with the single ‘Mess of a Man’.

The songs on the EP have the heart so evident in the work of Sons of Atticus married with Wright’s outstanding vocal capabilities, which he developed considerably during Idol, as we discuss in this interview. The music team behind the scenes pushed him to really explore the meaning and emotion behind each song, which led to a noticeable evolution in his songwriting too, which means Wright now feels more confident in exploring a wider vocal range and infusing his music with greater personal significance.

The songs on Half a World Away were written in the intense aftermath of Idol; the introspective and honest nature of the lyrics reflects Wright’s journey of navigating his newfound success, family responsibilities, and a renewed sense of faith (which I particularly wanted to ask him about).

During the chat Wright also candidly shares his experiences navigating the intense pressures and demands of Idol. Despite being an experienced performer, he was surprised by the sheer intensity of the show, and he had to quickly adapt to the technical aspects of live TV performance, including remembering lyrics and using his voice to its fullest potential.

We talk too about his long-standing friendship and musical partnership with Joyce, and how that has been a source of support throughout Wright’s whirlwind experiences during and since Idol. The duo is currently embarking on a 30-date regional tour, with Wright’s hometown show in Cronulla already sold out.

When I interviewed Sons of Atticus quite a while ago now, Wright and Joyce were easy to talk to and so interesting, and Wright on his own was just the same. I hope you enjoy watching or listening to this chat, and even though I only saw a little bit of Sons of Atticus at Tamworth the Wright-Joyce live proposition is a fantastic one – so show dates are below in case you’re able to get along.

See Dylan Wright live:

FRI 15 NOV – THE CHARLES HOTEL, NORTH PERTH

Tickets

*Adam Brand support

SAT 16 NOV – YELLOWFIELDS, VALLEY TAVERN NABAWA

SUN 17 NOV – RAVENSWOOD HOTEL, RAVENSWOOD

Tickets

*Adam Brand support

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Rusty Pickups: Making ‘pirate country’ and keeping donkeys at bay

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 22:04:02 GMT

Rusty Pickups are a four-piece ensemble from Queensland's Darling Downs with members Michael Cook, Lee Fielding, Ayden Roberts and Waylon Katz, who each have a different musical background and found their way not only to each other but to a musical identity that takes advantage of their differences and has led to something uniquely theirs. And that is fun – and fun is certainly what I had when interviewing frontman Michael Cook, known as Cookie, who shares the band's journey, their approach to creating music, and the joys and challenges of being a working musician.

From the braying of donkeys and the bleating of sheep outside Cookie’s home studio, affectionately dubbed Possum Studios, to the occasional crow that needed to be shooed away, the band has learned to roll with the punches and let the unexpected moments become part of their creative process.

‘It's almost chaos,’ Cookie explains, ‘and you get to watch it up close and go, “I can't do any of this.” And I'm just loving watching, and I'll just sit in the middle and jangle along. That's my thing. So I consider myself lucky in that regard.’

This willingness to embrace the unpredictable has led Rusty Pickups to a refreshing approach to their music. Rather than trying to fit into a specific genre or chase trends, the band has chosen to simply create the songs they love, drawing from the diverse musical backgrounds and experiences of its members.

‘We just kind of went, you know what? We got our own studio. We're old. Who cares? We're just going to do whatever we want,’ says Cookie. ‘So now we pick the songs that we want to do and we go, how can we best serve this song?’

This authenticity has resonated with their audiences, as the band has found themselves playing at festivals and venues that span the spectrum of country music, including a huge run of shows at this year’s Tamworth Country Music Festival.

Rusty Pickups’ ability to seamlessly transition between these different musical worlds is a testament to their commitment to staying true to themselves. But the band's journey hasn't been without its challenges. The gruelling schedule of Tamworth, where they played almost 24 hours of music over nine days, tested their friendships and physical endurance. However, Cookie reflects that the experience ultimately led to a necessary break and a renewed focus on what they truly want to create.

‘We got back into the studio and we started thinking, what do we want to do different? Which is, it's always hard to just see what you want to do that's different to what you're doing if you're still doing the first one,’ he explains.

Part of what they’ve done since then is create their latest single, ‘Mister Mary Read’, which is in the pirate country genre – something Cookie may have come up with … The song has an intriguing backstory and it is completely different to its single predecessor, ‘Goddamn Sunday’. And you can hear all about that in this interview!

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Wren Bellette on her very much alive album This Love Will Die

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 22:02:34 GMT

Wren Bellette spent over a decade in bands, including Adelaide Americana outfit The Heggarties, and is now a solo artist, releasing her rich album This Love Will Die a few weeks ago.

The album’s strength comes from Bellette’s willingness to be open about her experiences – which include heartbreak – and her experience as an artist, using her voice as an instrument to convey extra layers of meaning in her lyrics.

While Bellette acknowledges that her songs are fundamentally her own, she also recognises the invaluable contributions of the musicians she works with. Our interview explores the balance between the songwriter's vision and the collaborative process, where ideas are shared, arrangements are refined, and the final product emerges as a blend of individual and collective creativity. This output was not planned but evolved organically as Bellette recorded songs during the pandemic.

The album's title, This Love Will Die, may initially appear gloomy, but Bellette reveals that it represents a deeper, more optimistic message. The title track serves as a reflection on the universal experience of heartbreak and the understanding that even the most painful of loves will eventually pass, paving the way for personal growth and healing.

Bellette also speaks candidly about the challenges of moving from being in a band to being a solo artist and exposing her personal narratives through her songwriting, a process that required her to overcome her initial hesitation and embrace the vulnerability inherent in going solo.

It was a great pleasure to speak to Bellette, who has much to say of interest about songwriting and craft – and especially the value of the editorial process in writing. She also discusses her journey of moving from writing in the third person to being more willing to write about her own experiences, which she sees as an important part of being a songwriter, using music as a way to be honest and speak to the listener's experiences.

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Elly McK talks new single ‘The Wind Up’ and East Coast tour

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 22:04:52 GMT

Elly McK & The Unbelievers are an alt-country band from Melbourne who released the single 'Bones' earlier this year and, before that, the single 'Down on Your Luck'. They are embarking on a tour of New South Wales and Victoria in support of their new single 'The Wind Up'.

McK explains that ‘The Wind Up’ is about the decision to make a change, whether it's in a relationship, a job, or any other significant part of one's life. She shared that the song reflects her own experiences of wrestling with difficult choices and the resolve required to see them through.

‘This is a song that I can apply to on various situations across my life,’ she says. ‘The song is written in the context of a relationship winding up, but it could also be a job winding up or a friendship or something that means a lot to you. That decision is a difficult one, and it takes time, but once it's made, there's no going back.’

The song's structure and Ellie's emotive delivery suggest a certain reluctance to fully commit to the ‘windup’, which McK acknowledges.

‘I think there is an element of convincing yourself,’ she says. ‘Convincing myself that this is the decision that's being made. And then what comes is another story, another song.’

‘The Wind Up’ marks the first co-write for McK, who collaborated with the band's drummer, Sam Price. In our interview McK shares that she doesn't typically go into a co-writing session with the intention of finishing a song, but rather sees it as a creative process where the end result is unknown.

‘I really enjoy that creation process and then the collaboration process as just a process of whatever happens,’ McK says. ‘I haven't done a whole lot of co-writes, a lot of my other singles I'd written by myself, and they come as almost fairly complete songs. But this was the first one that I've done with Sam, and there's going to be lots more.’

McK’s work as a singer-songwriter was not always on the card.

‘I was terrified of singing,’ she says. ‘Right up until my mid-thirties, I was a bass player. I played in hard rock bands as a younger person, and always wanted to sing and was so scared, and I just made a decision, I'm not going to be scared of it anymore, and started doing it. Singing is now my life. Everything I do is singing. I couldn't imagine that life I had before singing.’

With her band The Unbelievers – which also includes Jordy Hickey on double bass and Monty Price on guitar – McK is embarking on an extensive tour of New South Wales and Victoria, which she describes as a huge undertaking for the band, taking in shows in Sydney, regional Victoria, and Melbourne, booked through to the end of the year.

McK is excited to take ‘The Wind Up’ and the band's other singles on the road, knowing that the songs will continue to evolve through the live performance process.

‘I love the evolution of the song,’ she says. ‘Some of my songs I've written sitting on my couch playing ukulele and an idea comes up, and then they become this bigger thing. And then the process doesn't stop once the song starts being played live. It's always changing.’

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Born on the Road: David Kirkpatrick from Two Tone Pony

Sat, 05 Oct 2024 22:02:02 GMT

Two Tone Pony is a five-piece band with an extensive musical lineage. With Greg Richardson on drums, Graham Puglisi on bass, Ian Rhodes on mandolin, harmonica and guitar, and Glenn Wiley on keys, it was founded by David Kirkpatrick, who was named after his father – who was otherwise known as Slim Dusty. The title of Two Tone Pony’s debut album, Born on the Road, is taken from the song of the same name which describes Kirkpatrick’s own entry into the world, as his phenomenal mother, the late Joy McKean, gave birth while she and Slim were on tour.

Not only was Kirkpatrick born on the road, he grew up on it for the first few years of his life, instilling in him a sense of adventure and a curiosity about the world that would later manifest in his diverse pursuits, from medicine to diving and beyond.

Navigating the Music Industry

Despite his famous lineage, Kirkpatrick’s journey into music was not without its challenges, which we cover in this interview. He recalls facing teasing and even physical altercations from those who didn't understand his parents' unconventional career path. However, this only served to toughen him up, preparing him for the rigors of the music industry.

Embracing Curiosity and Research

Kirkpatrick’s approach to songwriting is deeply rooted in his innate curiosity and desire to get the details right. Drawing inspiration from his mother's meticulous research methods, he ensures that his lyrics are grounded in factual accuracy, whether it's exploring the history of the steam trading route on the Murray-Darling or channelling community spirit during a natural disaster.

The Thrill of Live Performance

As a performer, he embraces the element of risk and danger that comes with live music, a trait he attributes to his upbringing. In our interview he speaks passionately about the exhilaration of a song taking off, the trust and camaraderie within his band, and the importance of valuing the hard work and dedication that goes into creating art.

Born on the Road: The Album

The album Born on the Road serves as a reflection of Kirkpatrick’s life experiences, with themes of movement, adventure, and the human spirit woven throughout the lyrics. Songs like ‘Slow Lane’ and ‘Stormy Weather’ offer glimpses into his personal life and relationships, while tracks like ‘The Flood’ demonstrate his ability to capture the essence of community resilience.

As with the first time I interviewed him, Kirkpatrick is incredibly interesting to chat to – in fact, his family background is only the jumping-off point for a life that has been rich in experiences and human connection, and these are evident in the songs on Born on the Road.

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Exploring the heartfelt journey of Matt Ward's new album The Long Way Home

Sat, 28 Sep 2024 23:03:11 GMT

Matt Ward is a South Australian singer and songwriter who has released two albums that have reached #1 on the ARIA Country chart, Heartland and If I Was in Dallas Tonight. His latest album is the deeply personal and introspective The Long Way Home, released through Ward's own label, Heartland Music Australia.

The eight-song collection is a testament to the profound experiences that have shaped his life in over the past year or so. Ward's music has always been rooted in the rich tapestry of the Australian landscape and the human stories that unfold within it. However, The Long Way Home takes this connection to a deeper level, weaving themes of safety, home, and emotional connection throughout the album.

‘I write from a point of experience and a point of expressing my emotions and feelings,’ Ward explains in our chat. ‘And stories of other people that I've come across.’

The album's creation was influenced by Ward's move to the regional town of Clarendon, South Australia and time spent writing in the temperate forests of Tasmania.

One of the standout tracks, ‘Found You a Valley’, is a heartfelt tribute to Ward's beloved companion, his dog Shooter. The song's lyrics beautifully capture the way animals can open our hearts and provide a sense of comfort and connection.

‘Shooter probably started to open and soften up my heart a little bit,’ Ward shares. ‘It was probably an avenue towards then finding home and feeling a little bit more settled in my life as well.’

Ward's deep connection to the natural world is evident throughout the album, with songs like ‘Petrichor’ and ‘Find You a Valley’ reflecting his background as an ecologist and ornithologist. He explains how this grounding in the natural world allows him to switch between the technical and the creative, finding inspiration in the sights and sounds around him.

The album's final track, ‘Holding On to You’, is a poignant collaboration with Jeff Gibson, inspired by Ward's sister and brother-in-law's loss of their young son. The song's emotional weight is palpable, as Ward grapples with the complexities of grief and the power of human resilience.

‘Songwriting, for me, is a process of processing an emotion,’ Ward reflects. ‘And also, I think, for audiences, it's having the songs there to listen to can be the help.’

As Ward prepares to take the stage at the Groundwater Country Music Festival, which takes place from 18 to 20 October on the Gold Coast, he is eager to share the new album with audiences. With a six-piece band in tow, he promises a high-energy and polished performance, showcasing both fan favourites and tracks from The Long Way Home.

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James Johnston on new single 'Blame' and exciting career news

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 01:00:24 GMT

James Johnston is a two-time Golden Guitar winner who has amassed an impressive 75 million streams for his anthemic songs, which include ‘Raised Like That’ and ‘Country Boys’, both of which appear on his 2023 debut album, Raised Like That.

From my first interview with Johnston it was clear that he had taken his time to develop his craft, and art, as a performer and songwriter. He’d played in bars and pubs even if only the bar staff were present; he spent time in Nashville writing dozens of songs without recording anything.

Then Johnston returned to Australia and started to put things in place, releasing one hit single after another, winning awards and headlining a show at the biggest venue in Tamworth before even releasing one album. When Raised Like That came out it topped the charts, and Johnston’s fan base grew. He did all of this as an independent artist.

Now Johnston has a new single, ‘Blame’, and a new record label, Warner Music Australia. In this interview – our fourth – we talk about the song, which features the vocal Johnston recorded on the demo, as, he says, ‘There was just some magic, and we tried messing with it and something got lost. It was just one of those songs.’

We also chat about his decision to sign with a label, and about his upcoming shows supporting Kip Moore. Plus he’s soon to travel to South Africa, to play the Cape Town Country Festival and in between all of that he’ll pop up at Savannah in the Round (dates listed below).

So there’s a busy time ahead for Johnston, but he will no doubt relish the pace – after taking his time to establish his foundations, he can now build on them solidly and quickly, and produce the sort of entertaining, often layered and thoughtful music that keeps his fans coming back for more.

SEPTEMBER 28: Kip Moore Tour Support – Sydney

OCTOBER 3: Kip Moore Tour Support – Melbourne

OCTOBER 12-13: Savannah In The Round, Mareeba Cairns Hinterland

OCTOBER 13: Kip Moore Tour Support – Brisbane

OCTOBER 26 - 27: Cape Town Country Festival – South Africa

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Storyteller, performer, dream weaver Lisa De Angelis on her new single 'Wildwood'

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 23:05:52 GMT

Lisa De Angelis grew up in Sydney and now lives in Brisbane, where she makes cowboy music for city slickers. She is a multifaceted artist who seamlessly blends her talents as a songwriter, performer, and storyteller. She’s also a dream to interview, giving thoughtful, interesting and often funny answers, so I hope you enjoy listening to this conversation as much as I enjoyed having it.

The reason for the chat was the release of her new single, ‘Wildwood (Time to Grow Up), and De Angelis opens up about the lessons she learned from a long-distance relationship, and how that experience has shaped her growth and maturity as a person and an artist. She also talks about working with partner Paul Bain on the production (he also plays drums and production on the track) and with musicians Michael Moko (guitars, banjo, mandolin), Gabi Louise (fiddle) and Sonic Edwards (bass).

One of the standout aspects of De Angelis’s artistry is her ability to craft stories that resonate deeply with her audience. Drawing inspiration from her time as a tour guide, where she mastered the art of engaging and captivating audiences, De Angelis brings the same level of energy and authenticity to her live shows. She speaks of the importance of creating an ‘experience’ for her audience, rather than simply performing a set of songs.

As a songwriter De Angelis reveals that she often doesn't fully understand the meaning behind her own lyrics until the creative process is complete. This organic and intuitive approach allows her to tap into deeper emotional wells, resulting in poignant and relatable songs that explore the complexities of relationships, growth, and self-discovery.

De Angelis’s journey as a performer has been marked by both personal and professional challenges, including a significant hearing loss in one ear. Rather than letting these obstacles deter her, however, she has embraced them as part of the tapestry of her creative expression, seamlessly weaving them into her live performances.

In the interview De Angelis speaks of the magic that can be created in the live performance setting. She believes in the intrinsic connection between performer and audience, and her commitment to leaving her audience feeling uplifted and empowered is inspiring.

As De Angelis prepares to release her upcoming album, fans can look forward to more captivating stories, heartfelt lyrics, and electrifying live performances.

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Ella Powell: From teenage songwriting to The End of the Beginning

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 23:05:29 GMT

Ella Powell has a habit of writing and recording truly lovely songs, including the singles ‘Along the Way’, ‘Country Love’ and ‘Paper Town’. She’s now collecting these singles in an EP, The End of the Beginning, to mark this creative part of her life.

In this interview Powell shares insights into her artistic evolution, the joys and challenges of collaboration, and the lessons she's learned as an emerging independent artist.

The Storytelling Essence of Ella Powell's Music

Powell’s songs have always been deeply personal, drawing from her own life experiences and emotions.

‘I love that all my songs, they do tell a story,’ she explains. ‘They're all from personal experiences, and I've sort of been able to draw on my early life in my teen years because all these songs were written in my teenage years.’

This intimate connection with her music is evident in the way she approaches the songwriting process, always striving to capture the essence of her personal journey.

The Journey of Collaboration

While Powell initially found it challenging to collaborate, she has since embraced the joys of working with other artists.

‘I think it's just fun,’ she says. ‘You just throw ideas out and it's just with so many people, it's just, you know, non-judgmental. Throw it out there, see what sticks and just bouncing ideas off because the way someone else looks at it is totally different to the way you do.’

This collaborative spirit has allowed Powell to explore new creative avenues and push the boundaries of her songwriting.

Navigating the Challenges of an Independent Artist

As an independent artist, Powell has had to navigate the complexities of the music industry, from understanding the technical aspects of releasing music to the ever-evolving landscape of social media, emphasising the importance of maintaining a realistic perspective and staying true to her artistic vision.

The End of the Beginning and the Road Ahead

With the release of The End of the Beginning EP, Powell is marking a new phase in her creative journey. She explains that the songs on the EP reflect a personal and musical evolution, as she has grown both as an artist and as an individual. As she prepares to enter the studio and share new music, Powell’s excitement and passion for her craft are palpable, promising an even more captivating chapter in her artistic odyssey.

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Discovering the Honky Tonk Dreams of Dave Kent

Sun, 01 Sep 2024 23:05:02 GMT

Dave Kent is a singer-songwriter from the south-west of Western Australia who cut his musical teeth in punk and in Margaret River. He has released the singles ’80 Proof’ and ‘Country Music’ and his third single is ‘Honky Tonk Dreams’.

The Beginnings of a Musical Journey

Kent’s musical roots can be traced back to his childhood, where he was exposed to the The Beatles and classical music during family road trips. It was the discovery of the iconic British band Oasis, however, that truly ignited his love for music. As he grew older, Kent’s musical tastes evolved, and he found himself drawn to the soulful melodies of country music, particularly the works of artists like Zach Bryan and Alan Jackson.

Navigating the Margaret River Music Scene

Growing up in the picturesque town of Margaret River, Kent has been a fixture in the local music scene, playing in a variety of bands across different genres, from punk rock to jazz. The town's vibrant live music venues, such as Settlers Tavern and Clancy's, have provided him with ample opportunities to hone his craft and connect with fellow musicians.

The Honky Tonk Dream Takes Shape

Kent’s music took a significant turn when he began to explore his passion for country music and songwriting. His latest single, ‘Honky Tonk Dreams’, showcases his ability to blend his unique perspective with the classic sounds of the genre, as he navigates the distance between his hometown and the country music mecca of Nashville.

Collaborations and Connections

Kent’s musical endeavours have led him to forge valuable connections within the Australian country music scene. His work with acclaimed producers and musicians such as James Neuhausen, Michel Rose, and Gabi Louise has helped to shape the polished and engaging sound of his singles ‘80 Proof’ and ‘Country Music’.

Looking Ahead

As Kent continues to explore his honky tonk dreams, he has his sights set on expanding his reach beyond the borders of Western Australia. With upcoming performances at the Ekka in Brisbane as well as plans to visit Tamworth in the new year, Kent is poised to share his unique brand of country music with audiences across the country.

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Braydin Good and the story behind his new single ‘Honest’

Sat, 31 Aug 2024 23:26:33 GMT

In this insightful interview, I talk with rising Sydney-based artist Braydin Good to discuss his musical journey, the inspiration behind his latest single ‘Honest’, and his experiences playing live in Sydney.

Good’s love for music was ignited at a young age, with his father teaching him to sing and play guitar in early childhood, with Good recording his first song in his dad's friend's studio before he even reached the age of five - although he hopes that recording never sees the light of day! Growing up, he was immersed in a musical household, with his father playing local shows and Good soaking up influences like Matchbox Twenty and John Mayer.

While Goood was passionate about music from a young age, he actually steered away from it a bit during his high school years, instead focussing on his basketball pursuits. However, when the pandemic hit and shut down his sporting activities, Good rediscovered his love for songwriting and guitar. He then began playing open mic nights in the town of Griffith, honing his craft and building up the confidence to perform his own original material.

Good’s songwriting talents emerged with the release of his first single, ‘She Ain't You’, earlier this year. But it's his latest single, ‘Honest’ that really showcases his emotional depth as a lyricist. Written about the aftermath of a break-up (and produced by Alex Mather), Good poured his heart into the track, delivering a vocal performance that is both vulnerable and powerful. When discussing the recording process, Good reveals that it only took a few takes to capture the raw emotion he wanted to convey. As an artist, he finds it easy to reconnect with those feelings when performing the song live, knowing he's telling his own story rather than someone else's.

We also talk about one of Good’s favourite venues to play: The Beer Shed in Sydney, which he praises for its supportive and attentive country music crowds, as the listening-room atmosphere allows the music to truly shine.

As Good looks to the future, he's already hard at work on new music, with plans to release another single later this year. In the meantime, he’s playing regularly around Sydney so audiences will find him there.

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Dean Weston: A musical journey from childhood to country rock

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 23:25:18 GMT

Dean Weston, an artist hailing from the central coast of New South Wales, has had a remarkable musical journey that has spanned decades. His lifelong passion for music began in childhood, when he and his sister received their first guitars for Christmas.

As a young musician, Weston found inspiration in the music of his parents' record collection, which included the likes of Elvis Presley, The Beatles, Fleetwood Mac, and Neil Diamond.

‘There were always records playing in the house,’ he says, ‘and the story is that they told me that the records were playing when I was a baby.’

Weston and his sister, along with a neighbour who played drums, formed their own little band as children, describing their homemade setup with biscuit tins and wooden spoons.

The influence of iconic artists like Pink Floyd and Eric Clapton would later shape Weston's guitar playing and songwriting style.

‘When I think about being a guitarist, I think of David Gilmour and Eric Clapton,’ he shares. ‘I used to watch the videos as well, not just listening to the albums, you watch them play and there's some guitarists that you just go, “I like this. I just like the way he plays."’

Weston's songwriting prowess blossomed during his university years, when he admits he spent more time writing music than completing his assignments. After a brief hiatus from music, Weston found himself in a covers band, where he met a female vocalist who would become his creative partner. This became a fruitful collaboration, with Weston and his partner co-writing songs and performing together.

It was during this time that Weston began to gravitate towards the country rock genre, finding it a better fit for his songwriting style. ‘It's a very song and guitar orientated genre,’ he explains, ‘whereas the rock side, the popular rock side doesn't seem to be filling that void.’

Weston's latest release, the EP Giving All I Have, features the single ‘It's Easy’, which has evolved from its Fleetwood Mac-inspired origins to its current upbeat, radio-friendly sound, is a testament to Weston's collaborative spirit and the guidance of his producer, Peter Stevenson.

As Weston looks to the future, he is excited to continue his musical journey, with plans to record more original material and bring his live performances to larger stages.

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Adele Oliver and the wild ride of 'Wiley Blue'

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 23:03:53 GMT

Adele Oliver grew up in the wheatbelt of Western Australia and now lives in Broome. She grew up partly in the adrenaline-fuelled world of car racing and her favourite sport now is rodeo – and it led to the creation of her latest single, ‘Wiley Blue’. The song's origins lie in a chance encounter with a bull of the same name, which was ridden at a rodeo by her partner at the time. In the song Oliver weaves the narrative of the bull ride into a metaphor for a relationship, capturing the intensity and fleeting nature of both.

‘I wanted to capture that experience and the feeling of standing there on the other side of the rail watching him completely, heart stopped, time standing still … But then I also wanted to go a little bit further and to capture what that meant to him and what rodeo means for so many people that are in that world.’

Oliver’s own musical journey has been a winding path, from her early days of harmonising in the back seat of the car to her discovery of the power of songwriting in high school. The influence of Australian artists like Missy Higgins, Kasey Chambers, and The Waifs can be heard in the development of her vocal style and storytelling abilities.

‘It has been a steady journey for me in that each year I do more and more and more, and I start to realise that this music is not just a passion and a fulfilling aspect of my life, but something that I have to do. Because I notice when it starts to get put to the side, I start to question a lot more about life around me.’

During our interview Oliver talked about her unconventional entry into the music industry, as her health promotion degree led her to a job in Fitzroy Crossing that ultimately ignited her passion for music and its healing properties. This experience equipped her with invaluable skills, from sound engineering to running live events, which she now brings to her own musical endeavours. These are skills she now brings to her recorded and live music in the vibrant community she calls home.

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Capturing precious moments: Saralyn’s heartwarming music and new single ‘I Hope That You'll Remember’

Sun, 25 Aug 2024 23:03:19 GMT

Saralyn is a singer and songwriter from the Hunter Valley in New South Wales who released her first single last year in the wake of attending a songwriting retreat at Kasey Chambers’s Rabbit Hole Studio. Since then Saralyn has consistently released lovely singles, and consolidated her impact by just winning the 2024 Mother Tone Talent Search at the Gympie Music Muster.

It was clear from speaking to Saralyn that she takes nothing for granted, in life and in music, and that she makes the most of any time she has to write and perform. This open-hearted joy in her art is infectious, and her songs are infused with it, making for rich listening experiences that are as musically satisfying as they are heartwarming.

In this interview Saralyn’s passion for all aspects of her art shines through, as she shares her journey from early school talent shows to her current collaborations with her sister, Angela Rose, with whom she wrote her latest single ‘I Hope That You’ll Remember’. The sibling duo's creative partnership is a testament to the power of family support and the magic that can arise when two artistic minds come together.

The bittersweet sentiment of watching her children grow up is beautifully woven into the lyrics for Saralyn’s song, capturing the universal longing to preserve those fleeting, precious moments. Listeners are sure to be enchanted by the warmth and authenticity that radiates from both the song and the accompanying music video, which was made by Jake Davey.

As a mother of two young children, Saralyn has had to balance her music career with her family responsibilities. In this interview she also discusses the importance of carving out dedicated creative time, as well as allowing inspiration to strike spontaneously.

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Lucy Parle: Rising country music star and 'Best of Me' single success

Sat, 24 Aug 2024 23:02:39 GMT

At 21 years of age Lucy Parle has already released an EP and several singles. She took out first place in the teen category of the International Songwriting Competition in 2020 and was named a standout performer in Triple J's Unearthed High in 2020 and 2021. In this interview, we delve into Parle’s beginnings in the EP course at Palm Studios to her recent successes, including her latest single, ‘Best of Me’.

Parle’s love for country music has been a constant throughout her life, with influences ranging from Kasey Chambers to Taylor Swift. During the interview she reveals how her voice and artistry have naturally gravitated towards the country genre, where she feels most authentically herself.

Country music star Gina Jeffreys and her Tuesday night songwriting group have been instrumental in Parle’s growth as a songwriter. Joining this community of seasoned professionals as a 14-year-old was a daunting yet transformative experience, pushing her to develop her craft and confidence in the collaborative environment fostered by Jeffreys and her husband, Rod McCormack. It’s also led to Parle’s single ‘Best of Me’, which she wrote with McCormack and Sam Gay.

Parle also made a video for ‘Best of Me’ with Golden Guitar winning videographer (and artist) Duncan Toombs, shot on the bustling streets of Sydney and featuring Parle’s beloved dog, Charlie. We talk about the video and Parle’s passion for animal welfare.

As Parle looks ahead, she reveals plans for a forthcoming album, set to be released in the middle of next year, while also performing live on the Central Coast of New South Wales, where she lives, with venues like the Avoca Beach Theatre among her favourite performance spaces.

Parle has worked diligently to develop her craft alongside esteemed professionals, in turn becoming a songwriting teacher and approaching it all with humility and passion. There is no doubt that ‘Best of Me’ is just the start of her bringing her best to the world of country music.

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‘Next Heartbeat’: Sandee Facy's poignant musical tribute

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 23:03:32 GMT

Originally from Michigan in the USA, singer, songwriter and performer Sandee Facy now lives in Melbourne. Her musical journey is one of passion, perseverance, and profound personal experiences.

Facy’s musical roots run deep, as I discovered during our recent interview, in which she recounts her early days training as a mezzo-soprano at the prestigious Interlochen School of Music in Michigan. This rigorous training laid the foundation for her powerful and emotive vocal delivery.

Growing up in a household filled with diverse musical influences, from country legends like Dolly Parton and Linda Ronstadt to classic rock, Facy’s musical tastes were shaped by her older brother, whom she describes as a ‘rock star’. This eclectic upbringing instilled in her a deep appreciation for storytelling through song, a quality that has become a hallmark of her own songwriting.

It wasn't until later in life that Facy discovered her true calling as a songwriter. Inspired by the loss of a dear friend's daughter, she penned her first original song, ‘Hummingbird’, which she shared with her friend’s family. Their overwhelmingly positive response encouraged Facy to embrace her newfound passion, and since then, she has released eleven original songs.

Perhaps her most poignant creation is her latest single, ‘Next Heartbeat’, which was inspired by the love letters her father, a World War II airman, wrote to her mother during his training and service. As Facy recounts, her father would write her mother a letter every single day, signing each one with the promise, ‘Your next heartbeat is me’. Facy wrote ‘Next Heartbeat’ with her regular collaborator Michael Saleta.

Looking ahead, Facy is excited about the prospect of showcasing her original songs live, both with her band Last Tram Home and in intimate acoustic settings. It was fascinating to talk to her about her live experiences, in particular, as she has such great insight into performance.

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Melanie Dyer: Unveiling the story behind 'Had to Be There' and her east coast tour

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 22:56:08 GMT

Melanie Dyer is a rising star in Australian country music, captivating audiences with her irresistible blend of country and pop. In a recent interview, she opened up about her creative process, the inspiration behind her latest single ‘Had to Be There’, and the exciting plans for her upcoming East Coast tour.

Dyer's musical journey has been marked by a series of accolades, including Golden Guitar nominations and an APRA Professional Development Award, all of which have contributed to her growing fanbase across the country.

Her single ‘Had to Be There’ gives its name to her upcoming tour, and she shared the story behind the track.

‘It stemmed from me not being able to explain a funny story and me being like, “You had to be there”. And then it just evolved into more of a relationship in the song, but it's able to be fleshed out in different ways to different people, for their had-to-be-there moments.’

We also talk about Dyer as a co-writer for other artists – and the breadth of her work as such can be found in the Spotify playlist she made just for her co-writes. Of co-writing she says, ‘It’s great because I can avoid all my emotions and just tap into someone else's!’

It will be Dyer’s songs for herself, however, that will be on the set list for her upcoming tour. Says Dyer, ‘It's just going to be myself and my partner, Jackson. We're doing it as a duo format, but with a twist. You think of duo acoustic and you think it's just going to be like a couple of guitars or whatever. But this is actually a fully fleshed-out show and it's got other elements that are layered in there … it's quite a big show, even though it's able to be performed in intimate venues.’

Dyer’s craft as a songwriter is at the core of everything she does, and the reason why her songs can be adapted to any sort of performance – including the Gympie Music Muster, where she plays on 25 August to kick off her tour. The rest of the dates are here – grab your tickets to see this masterful artist at work.

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Luke O'Shea beats a Different Drum

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 23:05:34 GMT

Luke O’Shea has won 16 Golden Guitars for his albums and his videos, including the single ‘South East Queensland’from his album Different Drum.

In this interview, we delve into the stories, inspirations, and creative processes that have shaped his acclaimed albums and live performances. O’Shea’s music is a testament to his dedication to the craft of storytelling through song, from the poignant ‘South East Queensland’, to ‘Next Best Thing’ (with Ashleigh Dallas) to the nostalgic ‘South Beach Strip’, O’Shea has a remarkable ability to create epic narratives that also feel close to the listener.

The latest single from the album is ‘Dharawal’, which O’Shea has said is the song that means the most to him on Different Drum. It’s about the country that means the most to him, where he grew up in southern Sydney, and his determination to find out more about its history and also how to live harmoniously with it.

We discuss the album, including his decision to release it on CD last year and only just recently on streaming platforms. We also talk about live performance. Anyone who has seen O’Shea live knows that each show is a unique experience, and that’s partly because of the rich catalogue of songs he draws from and also his decision to create ‘maximum joy’, as he calls it, each time he plays live. His shows are not about a single, predetermined experience, but rather a constant state of flow and openness to the moment. This willingness to embrace the unexpected and the collaborative spirit that permeates his live shows is what makes O'Shea's performances so engaging and memorable.

Happily, you can see him live at the Gympie Music Muster on 22 to 25 August, as well as at the Tamworth Country Music Festival next year, and in the meantime at:

Qirkz in the Hunter (NSW), with Ashleigh Dallas, on 7 September

The Beer Shed (NSW), with Medicine Wheel, on 25 October

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Billie-Jo Porter howls at the moon and heads out on tour

Sat, 17 Aug 2024 23:04:09 GMT

Singer-songwriter Billie-Jo Porter was a 2022 Toyota Star Maker Grand Finalist and she released her self-titled debut albumlast year. She now has a brand-new single, ‘Howl at the Moon’, which is all about the liberating power of embracing our primal instincts.

Our conversation begins with the inspiration behind ‘Howl at the Moon’ as Porter recounts a serendipitous moment at a twilight show, where she was mesmerised by the rising moon and encouraged the audience to let out a collective howl. We talk a bit about literally and metaphorically howling at the moon and why it’s good for everyone to do it every now and again (if not often!), so if you see Porter play live, prepare to let loose …

To record the song Porter once more worked with acclaimed producer Shane Nicholson, and we talked about why she likes working with him – and the other people she enjoys working with: co-writers.

Porter has a background in karate as well as being a regular yoga practitioner, and these experiences contribute to her holistic approach to artistry, helping her channel her energy and emotions into her music.

Shortly Porter will be playing at the Gympie Music Muster and she’s also already announced her show for the 2025 Tamworth Country Music Festival. Upcoming show details can be found below, and no doubt once you see/hear Porter talking about her music, and about creativity and life in general, you’ll want to get along to enjoy the full-body and full-bodied experience of seeing her live.

Thursday 22nd August – _Gympie Music Muster – _Amaoor Creek, QLD

Sunday 15th September – _Junkyard – _Newcastle, NSW (w/ Clint Wilson)

Saturday 21st September – _Frankie Mae - Tweed Heads, NSW

Sunday 29th September – _Crown Hotel - Grafton, NSW

Tuesday 23rd January – _Moonshiners Honky Tonk - Tamworth, NSW

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Kirsty Lee Akers returns to the Gympie Muster, with Rhinestoned

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 01:11:35 GMT

Kirsty Lee Akers is the only artist in history to have won three of the major prizes in Australian country music - Toyota Star Maker, Telstra Road to Tamworth, and a Golden Guitar - and she’s done it with a combination of great songs and high-energy live performance. Her most recent album, Wild, took the #1 spot on the ARIA Country chart, it was the fourth highest-selling country record in 2022 and received two Golden Guitar nominations. Kirsty also launched a new band, Rhinestoned, and she’s performing at the Gympie Music Muster with that band as well as under her own name. Her first Gympie was at the age of 13, when she was in a talent quest, and she’s returned as a performer several times since.

Growing up in a musical family, Akers was immersed in the world of country music from a young age and started performing at the age of three. Her mother and aunts were avid competitors in the local talent quest circuit, and Akers followed in their footsteps.

This experience of competitions helped her hone her skills as a performer, leading to her winning the Telstra Road to Tamworth at the age of 16. One of the prizes was a trip to Nashville, where Akers began her songwriting life. She’s written many songs since, and returned to Nashville several times.

In addition to songwriting, singing and performance, Akers has produced her last two albums, Wild and Under My Skin, and there’s no doubt that the knowledge and skills she has been developing since that very early start are the reason why she has accomplished so much.

Moving away from music, Akers and her husband, Jesse, appeared in a season of the popular TV show The Block, and they are now also making music together in the trio Rhinestoned, with the third member being Akers’s longtime guitarist Dan Ebbels.

The story of the formation of Rhinestone is unexpected, as Akers is frank about the reasons behind it, as she is about every facet of her career that we discussed. It’s a long conversation and it could have gone for much longer because she has such a rich career and background that there is a lot to talk about. What came across throughout the interview is her passion for music and her determination to connect with others through music. It is clearly in every fibre of her being, so intrinsic to who she is that she seems to exist almost permanently in creative flow. It was so interesting to talk to her, and I hope you find our chat interesting too.

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'Love Still Has Something' for Ashleigh Dallas

Sun, 11 Aug 2024 23:03:30 GMT

Ashleigh Dallas has won five Golden Guitars and that’s because she is an artist of considerable talents as a singer, songwriter and musician. It’s those same talents that see her invited to perform in festivals such as Red Country in the Pilbara, where she’s just visited, and the Gympie Music Muster, which is coming up in late August. She’ll be taking her new single, ‘Love Still Has Something’.

Recorded in her father Brett's studio, ‘Love Still Has Something’ delves into Dallas's experiences with anxiety and depression. While recording the song she tapped into the raw emotions she felt when first writing the song during the pandemic, as she recounted during our recent interview.

‘I really wanted to tap into the heart and the sentiment of these lyrics,’ Dallas says. ‘I remember that feeling when I first finished it, writing it in this home space, and I wanted to capture that in the studio.’

The song's layered production, featuring Dallas's evocative fiddle playing, further enhances the emotional depth of the lyrics.

‘It's really purposely layered because the topic of this song is quite layered, and we, as humans, are layered,’ says Dallas. ‘Young 18-year-old Ash used to say it was about a friend of a friend, whereas now I would look down the barrel and say, “Love Still Has Something” exists because I wasn't okay. I was struggling with my mental health.’

This openness has been transformative, fostering deeper connections with her family, partner, and creative team. ‘It's been really great now that I think I'm in a place where it does start conversations with my parents, with my partner, my friends and family, and even my band,’ she says.

Dallas now nurtures the next generation of country music artists through her involvement with the Academy of Country Music. As both a graduate and now the assistant director, she is passionate about creating a supportive environment where young artists can authentically explore their craft and find their voice.

‘It's really lovely to be a part of it,’ she reflects. ‘Even though you might be tired and life is busy and you travel and you come in and you go, “Okay, shift gears. And we're here now.” It's just really refreshing being around that energy.’

Dallas herself has a knack of reinvigorating her audiences, bringing her whole heart and considerable skills to her performances, as she will at the Muster from 22 to 25 August.

For more about Ashleigh Dallas: https://ashleighdallas.com.au/

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Brad Butcher goes from East of Everything to the Gympie Muster and beyond

Sun, 11 Aug 2024 02:26:54 GMT

Brad Butcher is a two-time Golden Guitar winner from the central Queensland coast who has released five albums – the latest being East of Everything – and one compilation, Storyteller. He writes with clarity and insight about life and love and family, and has a habit of creating unforgettable songs. He’s about to take some of those songs to the Gympie Music Muster in late August.

In this interview Butcher reflects on his early days as a ‘green, naive songwriter’, and shares how he found his storytelling voice and developed his singing voice. Since he’s been studying a Bachelor of Music, Butcher has embraced the creative potential of technology which has also allowed him to refine his approach, giving him greater control and flexibility.

In East of Everything, Butcher decided that instead of making a ‘sad sack album’ he would instead focus on positivity, because, as he says, ‘the future’s bright’. The album is, accordingly, expansive in scope and uplifting in outlook (read my review here).

After first appearing at the Gympie Music Muster in 2013, Butcher prepares to return to the Amanpoor State Forest for this year’s festival, which runs from 22 to 25 August, where he will reconnect with old fans who have long appreciated his craft and his way of connecting with them, and no doubt to make new ones who will discover that his songs have knack of getting a hook in you and never letting go.

In addition to his live performances and degree studies, Butcher is recording new material, soon to give us more of the songs that are all about ‘conversations and complications’ (listen to the interview for that discussion!).

For more about Brad Butcher: https://bradbutcher.com/

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Helen Townsend on new album Take It or Leave It

Sat, 03 Aug 2024 00:43:52 GMT

Helen Townsend is an artist from Fremantle in Western Australia whose music is a fusion of roots-rock, blues, country, and folk. With her band the Wayward Hearts she’s on tour in New South Wales, Western Australia and Victoria throughout August and September, with her new album, Take It or Leave It, released on 2 August.

Townsend's musical life began at the age of 40, although she had long been keeping a journal and writing poetry. Songwriting came as a natural evolution, and Townsend’s songs reflect her personal experiences as well as seeking to understand or assist others.

It became clear during our conversation that Townsend is deeply connected to and appreciative of her musical community. Take It or Leave It is the result of collaborations with other songwriters – although most songs were written by Townsend alone – and the musicians in the Wayward Hearts. Townsend takes none of it for granted and although she says she’s a ‘love junkie’ she seems more like a heart, soul and truth seeker, and this is what she brings to her songs.

See Helen Townsend and the Wayward Hearts live:

Saturday, 3 August | Gasoline Pony, Marrickville *

Saturday, 3 August | The Merton Hotel, Rozelle *

Sunday, 4 August | The Camden Hotel, Camden

Wednesday, 7 August | The Midnight Special (duo show), Newtown *

Saturday, 10 August | Wild West Weekender, Burlington Hotel, Bunbury, WA

Thursday, 15 August | Freo Social, Fremantle, WA

Saturday, 17 August | Coolgardie Rodeo, Coolgardie, WA

Friday, 6 September | The River Hotel, Margaret River, WA

Saturday, 7 September | Nannup Brewery, Nannup, WA *

Friday, 13 September | The Eastern Hotel, Ballarat, Vic

Saturday, 14 September | The Gem, Collingwood, Vic *

Sunday, 15 September | The Lomond Hotel, Brunswick, Vic

*Free entry

For more on Helen Townsend: https://helentownsendmusic.com/

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Linc Phelps gives a Hundred Percent with his new single

Sun, 28 Jul 2024 23:04:03 GMT

Born and raised in Gympie in Queensland, Linc Phelps released his debut EP in 2022 and since then the single ‘Sing a Little Louder’, which came out earlier this year. His latest single is ‘Hundred Percent’.

Growing up Phelps was immersed in the music of Australian artists such as Graeme Connors, John Williamson, and Colin Buchanan, then subsequently gravitated towards American country stars like Brooks & Dunn, Reba McEntire, Clint Black, and Diamond Rio. He picked up guitar at ten years of age and by fourteen was playing local gigs, adding talent quests and Camerata (as the Junior Academy of Country Music was called at the time), where he studied alongside Ashleigh Dallas, amongst others.

While he began as a solo songwriter, recently Phelps has embraced co-writing, with fruitful results – he wrote ‘Hundred Percent’ with Gavin Carfoot, one of several they’ve created together. Phelps says that the song represents a reminder to keep chasing your passion and giving it your all, even when times get tough. Certainly he has committed himself to chasing his passion for music, with an album on the horizon.

Phelps will be appearing at this year’s Gympie Music Muster on 22 August, and it’s far from being his first appearance, as he started competing in the Muster talent quest around the age of eleven. He’ll also be playing at Oodies in Bundaberg on 7 November.

For more about Linc Phelps: https://www.lincphelps.com/

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Holly Arrowsmith on her rich new album Blue Dreams

Sat, 27 Jul 2024 23:02:52 GMT

Born in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and raised on the South Island of Aotearoa New Zealand, Holly Arrowsmith released the album A Dawn to Remember in 2018. She has won several awards for her songwriting, including most recently the APRA Amcos NZ Country Song of the Year for ‘Desert Dove’, which is a single from her sublime new album Blue Dreams, which was released on 26 July.

Our wide-ranging conversation covered Arrowsmith’s songwriting process, musical influences and touring. She shared insightful perspectives on crafting personal yet universal songs, the importance of connection through music, and finding inspiration in poetry and the natural world. We also discussed specific tracks from Blue Dreams, including ‘Something Small’ and ‘Womb of Venus’, as well as ‘Neon Bright’, which she has described as a danceable song about depression.

Arrowsmith is frank about the experiences that have led to the creation of particular songs, and it is clear from our conversation as well as her music just how thoughtful and insightful a songwriter she is, quite apart from being a wonderful singer who delivers her lyrics straight to the heart of the listener.

Arrowsmith has shared stages with CW Stoneking, Marlon Williams and Tami Neilson, and performed at SXSW in 2020, and she’s headlining her own tour in Australia and New Zealand in support of Blue Dreams. The album is available on vinyl and CD, as well as on streaming platforms

ALL TICKETS AVAILABLE THROUGH THIS LINK: https://linktr.ee/holly_arrowsmith

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AUSTRALIA

17 August - Castlemaine, VIC - the Taproom

18 - August - Melbourne, VIC Wesley Anne

AOTEAROA

12 October - Christchurch, Saint Michael and All Angels with Jessie Shanks

27 October - Wellington, Meow with Michaela Tempers

2 November - Auckland, Tuning Fork with Arahi

3 November - Waiheke Island, Artworks Theatre with Marmalade

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Jen Mize: singer, songwriter, producer, mentor, collaborator | 'My Buzz'

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 23:04:48 GMT

Jen Mize is a singer, a songwriter, a producer, a mentor and a great collaborator, having created music with her band The Rough N’ Tumble as well as writing songs with other artists in addition to releasing solo music. Her latest solo song is ‘My Buzz’.

‘I wrote “My Buzz” after realising I can sometimes be a total Debbie Downer when I'm talking to people,' says Mize. ;The song calls me out for always wanting to discuss depressing things instead of just having fun.’

This interview is a long one but here’s the thing: Mize is funny and smart and thoughtful and one doesn’t rush through a chat with a person like that, because as soon as she’s offered one nugget of gold it’s reasonable to expect another one. That’s because Mize’s energy is expansive as well as inclusive, so it never feels like there won’t be gold. And that’s also how she creates music, with that voice that expands to fill spaces in your heart and mind, while wrapping itself around you at the same time.

That expansiveness also takes in other artists: at the time we spoke, Mize was not long returned from The Song Muster in Gympie, where she taught songwriting and practised collaboration, as is her wont.

‘I focus on writing new songs, recording a lot, and collaborating with other inspiring artists,’ explains Mize. ‘That keeps me energised and in a musical zone.’

We talked about that, about her band The Rough n’ Tumble, and about her first tattoo. So settle in and enjoy listening to Jen Mize just as much as I did.

For more about Jen Mize: https://www.jenmizemusic.com/

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Nathan May's 'Love From Me': a musical tribute to family history

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 23:02:12 GMT

Nathan May has been a musician since childhood and over the past couple of years has been releasing singles such as ‘Fix It Up’ and ‘It’s Gotta Start Somewhere’ that showcase his wonderful voice as well as his storytelling. In 2019 he won the award for Young Aboriginal Artist of Year in 2019 and in 2022 he won the Creative Young Achiever.

May’s latest single is ‘Love From Me’, which tells the story of his great-grandparents – his great-grandfather arrived in Australia from England to work on the Ghan railway line and met his great-grandmother, an Arabana woman from Marree in South Australia. They went on to have 13 children at a time when their relationship faced, as May says in our recent interview, judgement from both sides.

The song was written with beloved singer-songwriter Kevin Bennett and features a guitar solo from the great Troy Cassar-Daley. It was produced by James Gillard, who has worked with May on all of his singles.

In the interview May talks about the story behind the song as well as his experience of co-writing and how his perspective on it has changed – he used to be, he says, protective of his music and unsure of how collaboration would turn out, but now he loves working that way and just wants to do more of it.

That shift says much about how May opens himself up to new experiences and ways of telling his stories, and is no doubt part of why he’s found himself touring Europe lately and also performing in Hawaii. If you’re heading to the Gympie Music Muster between 22 and 25 August you’ll be able to see him there.

For more about Nathan May: https://linktr.ee/nathanmaymusic

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Patsy and Dave: a new name and 'Dream Vacation' to go with it

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 23:04:47 GMT

Patsy and Dave are Patsy Doop and Dave Baird and they used to be known as The Long and the Short of It. Their 15-year collaboration – writing, recording performing music together – has resulted in albums, the latest of which was Midnight Choir. As Patsy and Dave they have a brand new single, ‘Dream Vacation’.

They first met by chance at a local tavern where Patsy was impressed by Dave's singing voice and asked him to sing a spur-of-the-moment duet. The experience made them realise their musical chemistry, which led them to start writing songs together.

These days, Patsy and Dave split their time between touring and working in their personal recording studio built with the help of producer Kenny Royster.

In our recent chat, Patsy and Dave talked about their creative process, their new album set for release in September, the story behind ‘Dream Vacation’ and the music video that accompanies it, as well as their busy performing schedule. It is clear that after 15 years the duo is stronger than ever, with their new name and new music to go with it, their clear passion for what they do matched by their drive and dedication.

For more about Patsy & Dave: https://patsyanddave.com.au/

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Courtney Keil: 'Worn In' to her life in music, but never worn out

Sat, 13 Jul 2024 23:02:27 GMT

Courtney Keil released her debut album The Good Kind last year and since then the singles ‘All About You’, ‘Nothin’ Like a Sure Bet’ and her latest, ‘Worn In’, which she recorded with Gina Jeffreys. From her first single, 'I Just Wanna Hold You', Keil has marked herself as an engaging country-pop artist with a knack for creating memorable songs, and 'the latest is no'Worn In' is no different.

Courtney first met Jeffreys and her husband, producer Rod McCormack, in early 2020, right before the pandemic hit. She connected instantly with Jeffreys and McCormack went on to produce The Good Kind. Now they've all worked together again on 'Worn In'.

‘Worn In’ was written by Keil with her regular collaborators Sam Gay and Templeton Thompson. It wasn’t written as a duet but Keil has said that, ‘The more I came back to the song, I couldn't help but hear a strong female duet voice on it. The beautiful Gina Jeffreys, who of course is my mentor and dear friend agreed to collaborate with me on the track.’

In addition to writing and performing, Keil teaches singing at Jeffreys’s music academy, where she works with aspiring vocalists of all ages and skill levels. And on a personal note, Keil recently became engaged to during a sweet surprise proposal, and is also looking forward to welcoming a Golden Retriever puppy.

We spoke about the meaning behind ‘Worn In’, about Keil’s decision to go all-in with music in 2020, as well her personal news and upcoming performance at the Gympie Music Muster on 22 August as well as her own headline show at Gosford RSL (NSW) on 20 September.

For more about Courtney Keil: https://www.courtneykeil.com/

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Right on the Money: Kayla Mahon on her debut album

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 23:04:20 GMT

Kayla Mahon is a singer, songwriter, instrumentalist, music teacher and nurse from the South Island of Aotearoa New Zealand who has released music in the duo The Heartleys and as a solo artist she’s been releasing singles steadily since last year, including 'Love's Got a Witness' and 'Little Man'. She now has an album - her first solo record - called Right on the Money.

The creation and release of the album are the fulfilment of Mahon’s lifelong dream of releasing original music that authentically represents her artistry. Right on the Money showcase's Mahon’s songwriting skills across a range of styles, from traditional country to rock-infused country anthems.

In conversation Mahon is as authentic and heartfelt as her songs, and our conversation covered her motivation to return to music after taking time to focus on motherhood; how teaching music and mentoring other artists of all ages keeps her engaged with the local music community; the very personal stories behind emotional tracks like ‘Angels Biding Time’ and ‘Home on the Vinyl’; balancing music aspirations with family life and her nursing career, and her goals to perform the new album live as much as possible and reach new audiences.

For more on Kayla Mahon: https://www.kaylamahon.com/

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Sam Snape talks 'Old Dog, Old Ute, Old Hat'

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 23:03:38 GMT

Sam Snape is a singer and songwriter from the Northern Tablelands of New South Wales. He grew up immersed in country music and learned to play guitar by ear at a young age. Although his musical journey has had starts and stops, over the past six years Snape has been performing at various venues and events in his home area, and earlier this year he appeared on Australian Idol.

During the course of our conversation Snape talked about the influence of his cousin Anthony on his music career, including co-writing and introducing Snape to his producer, Michael Carpenter. The collaborations led to the release of Snape’s first single, ‘My Country Song’, and his latest, ‘Old Dog, Old Ute, Old Hat’.

In between writing, recording and performing, Snape works on a family property and raises four young children with his wife. Although work and family life keep him well occupied, it’s clear that he is determined to keep making time for music, influenced by the music he grew up with and which, as he said, was about his life. In turn he makes songs that capture real life, just as ‘Old Dog, Old Ute, Old Hat’ does.

For more about Sam Snape: https://www.facebook.com/samsnapeartist/

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Nathan Lamont is calling shotgun in his new country-pop single

Sat, 06 Jul 2024 23:02:46 GMT

In releasing 'I'm Calling Shotgun', his third anthemic country-pop single - with its video clip garnering thousands of views in a short space of time - Wagga Wagga (NSW) artist Nathan Lamont continues the rise he started with his debut single, 'Drink You Up’, last year.

'Drink You Up' it was hardly the work of a beginner but of an artist who had taken his time to develop the sound he wanted and to figure out the stories he wanted to tell with his music. Not long afterwards he was in the Toyota Star Maker Grand Final and releasing his second single, 'Skin to Skin'.

The three singles show what a phenomenal singer Lamont is, as anyone who has seen him live can also attest, but the vocal chops would mean little if he didn't have the songs to go with them. In this interview about 'I'm Calling Shotgun' we talk about his writing process for the song as well as his philosophy in general about his music, and because he's willing to delve into the nitty-gritty of making a song it's a chance to talk about the end-to-end vision he has for each song so that it can reach audiences as he intends and as they need.

We also talk about Lamont's collaboration with Robbie Mortimer on other songs and with Jeremy Minett on the clip for 'I'm Calling Shotgun', as well as his upcoming hometown show at Tilly's in Wagga on 12 July - tickets here.

For more on Nathan Lamont: https://linktr.ee/nathanlamontofficial

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Eloise Rayner: From collaboration to solo debut with 'Can You Still Feel Me Loving You?'

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 23:05:48 GMT

Eloise Rayner is a singer and songwriter from Sydney who last year released the song ‘Fallin’ for a Cowboy’ with Zara Lindeman after the pair met at the Academy of Country Music. Rayner now has a single of her own and on her own to release, ‘Can You Still Feel Me Loving You?’.

During our recent interview Rayner revealed that she first thought up the initial melody and chorus lyrics for her new song during a dream - and that she has a habit of dreaming snippets of songs which she wakes up and records in her phone. Rayner took the song to producer Simon Johnson, who also produced 'her previous hit collaboration 'Fallin' for a Cowboy'.

Although this is Rayner's first solo single, she has been actively writing for a while, participating in Gina Jeffreys's weekly writing co-sessions which include Kylie Gale (who I called Kylie Ryan - sorry, Kylie!) and Max Jackson. She's also received vocal coaching from Lyn Bowtell, the Director of the Academy.

Rayner's dedication to developing herself as a singer and songwriter while staying true to the music that shaped her - including that of Missy Higgins and Kasey Chambers - has resulted in a mature, emotional song in 'Can You Still Feel Me Loving You?' and indicates that there will be more rich music to come from this rising star.

During the interview Rayner mentions a Spotify playlist she has created, 'songs that stole my heart' - it's a great playlist and you can find it here.

For more about Eloise Rayner: https://linktr.ee/eloiserayner

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The Beauty & Truth of Michael Waugh

Sun, 30 Jun 2024 23:02:39 GMT

Michael Waugh is an award-winning singer and songwriter from Victoria who has released four albums since 2015, the last being The Cast. Since then Michael has been releasing outstanding singles, including ‘We Are Here’ and ‘Fix Me’. The latest single is the title track to his new album, Beauty & Truth, which absolutely lives up to its title.

In this in-depth conversation Waugh traces the arc of creating the album from the first track, ‘We Are Here’, to the last, ‘To Be Alive’, and talks about working with his longtime producer, Shane Nicholson, to bring both the beauty and the truth of his work to audiences.

The songs on the album document Waugh’s determination to be truthful to himself as well as the love story that was unfolding around the time it is written. Waugh has always written from the heart, and sought to unearth and examine what it means to be human, and never more poignantly than on Beauty & Truth. Part of his humanity - and humanity in general - is the role of art, of music in his case, and there is a lot on this album about music as well.

For more about Michael Waugh: https://www.michaelwaugh.com.au/

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Hoot N' Holler with Ruby Jane

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 23:02:00 GMT

Ruby Jane is a singer and songwriter originally from Victoria, now resident in Queensland, who started singing at a young age and taught herself to play guitar during lockdown in 2020. She also holds a Diploma of Music and Certificate III in Music Performance.

Ruby is a graduate of the Academy of Country Music and has released several songs over the past few months. The latest single, ‘Hoot N’ Holler’, was written with Jen Mize at the Song Muster - part of the Gympie Muster - and later recorded in Pomona in Queensland. The recording was a high-energy session that is reflected in the way the song turned out, as well as in the video - which led to the artists getting matching tattoos!

Ruby was delightful to interview and she is just getting started with her music, with plenty more songs written and waiting for the opportunity to record. In the meantime she’ll focus on playing live and immersing herself in music as much as she can.

For more about Ruby Jane: https://www.rubyjanemusic.com/

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The Smith & Western Jury check in to Hotel Texas

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 23:02:33 GMT

The Smith & Western Jury is an alt-country duo from Melbourne with members Sam Lombardi and Simon Torcasio. They formed in 2018 and since then have been releasing singles, and are now releasing their impressive debut album, Hotel Texas.

Lombardi and Torcasio after years of playing in different bands – Lombardi in pop rock groups and Torcasio in punk bands. After being inspired by a country covers band they saw perform, they decided to combine their talents and form The Smith & Western Jury.

They began writing a number of songs together – especially when Melbourne’s rolling lockdowns meant there was not much else they could do apart from write songs – and ultimately decided to properly launch their band and record their debut EP. However, soon afterwards, Lombardi began suffering from debilitating vestibular migraines that caused vertigo, dizziness and other symptoms which made performing very difficult.

The condition does not resolve over time, so Lombardi made the decision to persevere, travelling with Torcasio to, appropriately, Texas to record Hotel Texas, an accomplished, rich and rewarding collection of songs. Although they have enough songs to make several more albums, as I discovered when we spoke.

For more on The Smith & Western Jury: https://thesmithandwesternjury.com/home

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Raechel Whitchurch's emotional journey: from grief to hope through music

Sat, 22 Jun 2024 23:02:34 GMT

A note on the audio quality: Raechel lives in a country town in New South Wales and noted before the start of recording that her audio may be patchy, as it can be in the bush. While she’s understandable throughout, you will hear some ‘glitchy’ noises in places.

Raechel Whitchurch’s first album, Finally Clear, debuted at #1 in the ARIA Country Music chart and later went on to have Golden Guitar nominations. Her latest album, What a Time to Be Alive, debuted at #4 in the overall ARIA Australian albums chart. As with Finally Clear, it is a tour de force of heartfelt songwriting and wonderful musicality. Since its release Raechel has played launched shows and been to New Zealand with Fanny Lumsden, so there’s been a fair bit going on.

In our interview talked about the deeply personal inspiration behind the album – especially its title track – as well as her songwriting process, managing imposter syndrome, and balancing her music career with motherhood.

The title track holds special meaning for Raechel as she wrote it just months after the death of a child she was carrying. By candidly sharing the grief she felt in the aftermath, she hopes to help others know they aren't alone in difficult times. She wrote the song originally for herself, not intending it to be on the album, but it has gone on to provide other women with the opportunity to tell her their story. We spend a bit of time talking about this song, and about death and how it’s not a comfortable subject, and the impact the song has had. And we talk about the other songs on the album too, one of which was written years ago and reworked for this release.

For more about Raechel Whitchurch: https://www.raechelwhitchurch.com/

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Chloe Styler reads a room in Nashville

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 23:03:04 GMT

Chloe Styler is a singer and songwriter from south-east Queensland who has developed a unique country-pop sound that features great melodies and often wistful, always thoughtful lyrics about life and love and the choices we make in both. Already this year she has opened for Gladys Knight, Nik Kershaw and Go West, and Shannon Noll, and released the singles ‘Time Bomb’ and ‘Twenty Five’. Her latest single is ‘Read a Room’, which she wrote in Nashville with Lauren McLamb and Phil Barton.

Styler was in Nashville at the time we spoke for this interview. It’s a city she first visited in her teens and wish she dreamed of returning to so she could the very thing she’s been doing there: making music. She made her CMA Fest debut there in 2021, and ‘Read a Room’ was recorded there with producer Luke Wooten, one of three songs she tracked with him.

We talked about that, as well as the visualiser made by Styler’s sister Amy to accompany ‘Read a Room’; about the importance of dress and costume in artistry, Styler’s degrees in journalism and business management, and a few more subjects. The fact that Styler has made her teenage dream a reality is no accident: she has applied herself diligently to becoming a musical artist, and combines her flair for melody and love of language to make memorable country-pop songs that offer earworms for the casual listener and very satisfying, meaningful experiences for the close observer.

For more about Chloe Styler: https://www.chloestyler.com/

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Briana Dinsdale on Nashville adventures and 'Whiskey Worked That Way'

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 23:03:58 GMT

Briana Dinsdale is a singer-songwriter from south-east Queensland who is a recent graduate of the Academy of Country Music and who released her debut album, Beginnings, in 2021. Since then she’s released some irresistible country pop songs, including last year’s ‘Chasing Boys’.

Dinsdale's latest single is ‘Whiskey Worked That Way’, which she wrote with Robbie Mortimer, Chloe Styler and Jen Mize, and as with all of Dinsdale's songs it seems to head one way but goes into other and that new direction is always welcome. The accompanying music video also doesn't go where you think it will go.

We talked about both song and video, and how she came to make the song in Nashville with father-and-son team Michael and Caleb Flanders during an intense week of writing and recording. Three tracks came out of those sessions, including the single.

We also discussed Dinsdale's songwriting process, including how she values collaboration and the way co-writing sessions open her up creatively, and she is as engaging and interesting as ever. She'll be taking 'Whiskey Worked That Way' to stages at Lasso Country Music Festival in July and Gympie Music Muster in August (both in Queensland), accompanied by her band, which includes her sister, Ashlyn.

For more about Briana Dinsdale: https://brianadinsdale.com/

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Sweet Talk and some Real Good Cookin'

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 23:02:07 GMT

Listening to Sweet Talk in 2022 and the single ‘Warm Love’ last year, and I spoke to brothers Tane and Soren Walker about it at that time.

Since then Sweet Talk have carved up the Tamworth Country Music Festival and played Bluesfest, where Kasey Chambers joined them on stage. They released the single ‘Lovin’ Myself’, a collaboration with Andy Golledge and have a new single of their own, ‘Real Good Cookin’’, which was the subject of this interview with band co-founders Soren Walker and David Turner.

The night before the interview the band had had a particularly creative jam session - they hold these sessions weekly, but this one had produced new music and in speaking about it Turner and Walker show us the strength of the connection and collaboration within the band, and also their own bond which has lasted for a quarter of a century.

This interview also shows a reason why I love finding out the stories behind musical artists and the music they make: the energy that is in Sweet Talk's music - the ease and groove of it - comes partly from the connection that is clear between these two band members. It's not something that can be manufactured but it is something that can be made through work and consistency and intention, and a listener can hear it in recorded music and see it in the live setting.

So this talk with Sweet Talk is ostensibly about 'Real Good Cookin'' but it's also about how art is made, and how you can only arrive at trusting in magic happening when you lay the groundwork for it.

For more about Sweet Talk: https://www.sweettalkmusic.com.au/

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Shanleigh Rose on 'Ricochet', Sisyphus and songwriting

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 23:06:50 GMT

Shanleigh Rose is a singer-songwriter from Queensland's Sunshine Coast who has released several catchy country-pop singles and won the 2023 Gympie Muster Junior Talent Search as well as being a Top 10 Finalist in the Groundwater Country Music Festival KIX Start Competition.

Last year Rose attended the Junior Academy of Country Music and the Dag Sheep Station Songwriting Retreat, and in this interview she talks about both as well as her musical background, influences, songwriting process and that new single 'Ricochet', which she wrote with her brother, Riordan, who brought in references to Greek mythology and also created the cover art.

Rose has been surrounded by music from a young age and lives in a musical household; influenced by Taylor Swift, Kasey Chambers and Troy Cassar-Daley, amongst others, she creates songs with memorable melodies and relatable themes, and knows how to use her lovely singing voice to great effect. We talked about all of that and more [shownotes below if you'd like the shorthand version].

For more on Shanleigh Rose: https://linktr.ee/ShanleighRose

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Andy Golledge: On tour and in brilliant form

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 23:00:44 GMT

The first I knew of Andy Golledge was seeing him in the 2019 SBS series Robbie Hood. He had the role of Robbie’s dad and he played guitar and sang, and his music was an integral part of the show, which remains one of my favourite anythings and always will (and it’s still available to stream on SBS).

At the time I couldn’t believe I hadn’t heard of Golledge, but research revealed that he hadn’t released recorded music. Thankfully, in early 2020 he released the EP Namoi. But then, of course, everything stopped.

As I told him in this interview, he was the first artist I saw performing a lockdown show online, and I’ve seen him play in various incarnations since - with his bandmate Caitlin Harnett in an acoustic setting, as well as with his band in toto in different venues. Every time, in whichever way, it has been a standout gig. He is an exceptional live performer, so I relished the opportunity to talk to him about performance and about the tour he’s currently on (dates here), as well as about Robbie Hood.

At a certain point in our chat Golledge said, ‘I think the important thing about live music is danger … I love doing it. And I think more people should implement danger in their music.’

Danger is, indeed, what I had perceived in his performances but what’s so interesting about him as a live performer is that the danger comes within a structure that he has carefully created over the course of years, so what the audience experiences is this sense that anything could happen, and probably will, and he’s completely in charge of it. It’s both thrilling and reassuring at the same time.

If you go and see Golledge live at one of these shows, you can expect that - and I’ve seen him live enough times to know it’s consistent - and also expect that it will be a show you won’t ever forget.

Oh, and to establish his pedigree: his first album, Strength of a Queen (2022), won Best Independent Country Album/EP at the AIR Awards 2023 and was also nominated for Best Country Album at the 2022 ARIA Awards and Best Alternative Country Album at the 2023 Golden Guitars. His latest album, Young, Dumb & Wild, was released this year and both consolidates the first album and moves his work along musically.

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Adam Harvey on new single 'It's Gettin' Late', touring with Beccy Cole and what motivates him now

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 01:47:06 GMT

Adam Harvey is the winner of 9 Golden Guitars and untold numbers of fans, with over half a million albums sold across several albums, including The Great Country Songbooks with Troy Cassar-Daley and Beccy Cole, and he will have a new album out later in the year.

In this interview Harvey touches on the story behind his catchy new single ‘It’s Gettin’ Late’, written with hit songwriter David Lee Murphy; it turns out it was inspired by a neighbour who may not have been able to take a hint …

Harvey recalls his first cowriting session with Murphy, when he was nervous at first; the two songwriters then established a fruitful creative relationship over time. Harvey also talks about upcoming tour dates with longtime collaborator Beccy Cole on the road this June, and touches on connecting with fans, touring life, finding motivation through setting new challenges, supporting emerging talents like his daughter Layla, and simply appreciating his longevity in Australian country music.

For more on Adam Harvey, including tour dates, go to: https://adamharvey.com.au/

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Abigail Wighton on her new EP, soon, and tour

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 23:02:51 GMT

Abigail Wighton is a folk-influenced singer-songwriter from Sydney who released the EP interwoven in 2019. In recent months she has released the singles ‘letter’ and ‘if you let me’ from her new EP soon. She’s also supported Fanny Lumsden at her Sydney show and played in the National Folk Festival.

In our recent interview Wighton talked about her musical journey, from an unlikely start writing songs for the funerals of her pet mice to studying music at university and releasing her debut EP Interwoven in 2019. She also talks about dealing with performance anxiety earlier in her career.

Wighton’s new EP soon features songs written during her early 20s, including the title track which she first penned in 2018. She explains how returning to these songs several years later to finally record them felt like ‘diving back into old diary pages’ and forced her to reconnect with that period of her musical and personal development. The result is a collection of songs in which Wighton allows herself to be vulnerable and, through that, opens herself up to connection with the listener, all the while letting them know they are in safe hands.

Wighton will be playing a string of EP launch shows starting in June at venues in Sydney, Wollongong, the Blue Mountains, Southern Highlands (NSW), and NSW Central West.

For more on Abigail Wighton, including tour dates: https://www.abigailwighton.com.au/

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Tammy Moxon on her heartfelt new album, Fighting Chance

Sun, 02 Jun 2024 23:02:09 GMT

Tammy Moxon lives in Townsville, Far North Queensland, where she performs live regularly. She released the album Drive Me Sane in 2019 and has been steadily releasing singles leading up to her latest album, Fighting Chance, which was recorded with producer Shane Nicholson in just three days, in and around lockdown travel restrictions.

As on Drive Me Sane, Moxon shows herself to be a thoughtful songwriter who is prepared to be vulnerable not to unburden herself but to share something with the listener. There is so much heart in these songs and in Moxon's performance of them.

Moxon got an early start in music, participating in competitions from the age of 8, and her father was her vocal coach from around the same age - he is also now her co-writer, having contributed to two songs on Fighting Chance, including 'Barfly Blues', on which Bill Chambers contributes vocals.

In our recent interview Moxon talks about her progression as a songwriter and artist from Drive Me Sane and about why she enjoys making albums rather than releasing singles only; we chatted about the thriving live music scene in Townsville, and how she maintains her packed schedule of gigs.

For more about Tammy Moxon: https://www.tammymoxon.com/

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Brooke Taylor finds that There's Magic in Mistakes

Mon, 27 May 2024 23:03:54 GMT

**Mild language warning**

Brooke Taylor is an alt-country singer, songwriter and guitarist from Melbourne who released her debut album It’s the Little Things in 2020. Her second album, There’s Magic in Mistakes, is not long out in the world. It is by turns pragmatic and joyful, wry and compassionate, and at its core is Taylor's inherent ability to entertain and be present in her music.

As I found out when Taylor and I spoke recently, several songs on the album came together quickly, and others emerged more organically through experimentation. And not all songs are new: 'A Thousand Kisses' predates It's the Little Things. Taylor worked with producer Damian Cafarella, who also produced her first album, and her band The Poison Spitting Gin Queens.

We also talked about her new project The Deserters, in which she collaborates with fellow Melburnian Delsinki, with an album potentially slated for release by end of this year.

Taylor's vim, vigour and verve were as evident in our conversation as they are on her album; she is a creative force surely making magic, whether it's from mistakes or simply from embracing music as her path and conjuring as she goes along it.

For more about Brooke Taylor: https://www.brooketaylormusic.com.au/

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Mak & Shar are onto the Best Thing

Sat, 25 May 2024 23:03:38 GMT

Mak & Shar are brothers from Mudgee in New South Wales who released their debut single together in 2022 - but this was far from their first release as they were members of the band Brothers3 and as such played 12 Tamworth Country Music Festivals and appeared on X Factor in 2016. They released the single ‘Leap of Faith’ earlier this year and now have a new single, ‘Best Thing’ (watch the music video here).

During our recent interview the brothers talked about their writing and recording process - in which Mak takes the production lead and Shar the writing - and their easy collaborative dynamic was clear. They have been passionate about music since childhood and have not only maintained it but found new ways to create music together through this duo.

For more on Mak & Shar: https://www.makandshar.com/

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Katie Brooke can't fake that

Mon, 20 May 2024 23:02:45 GMT

released a self-titled EP in 2020 and her debut album, Sticks, Stones and Stories, in 2022. Late last year she released the single ‘Too Far Down’ and her latest single is ‘Can’t Fake That’.

‘Can’t Fake That’ is Brooke’s tribute to women of the land, with a lighthearted feeling that was achieved by Brooke and her producer, Rusty Crook, by deciding to re-record the song after realising their first version wasn’t quite right.

Brooke lives on the land and draws inspiration from it; she also makes it clear in our chat that connection with other people is her primary driver in creating music, and this is something she pursues with passion.

We also have a little bit to say about Mercury Retrograde … for those who believe, or not!

For more about Katie Brooke: https://www.katiebrookemusic.com/

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Jayne Denham and his dynamite Moonshine

Sun, 19 May 2024 23:02:39 GMT

Jayne Denham was nominated for a Golden Guitar in 2022 for her last album, Wanted, and she returns now with Moonshine, which is an irrepressible force of an album that features Jayne’s amazing vocal power.

Whereas Wanted had a spaghetti western theme, Denham chose the Prohibition era as the creative inspiration for Moonshine. Working with her Nashville-based producer Brian White, she carefully selected songs that would not only work individually but contribute to the whole vision of the album. These included a cover of George Strait's 'Poison', as Denham explained when we spoke recently.

The latest single is the emotional 'Lovin' a Wild Thing', which was originally written for a male vocalist. Vocal collaborators on the album include Colt Ford on the title track and Hurricane Fall on 'Are You Ready for This'.

The track 'Risk it All' reflects Denham's decision to launch an Australian tour, which she is currently on (tour dates below) - and having seen her live I can see it is a low-risk decision to attend as she is an incredible live performer. We discussed the decisions she makes that feed into the powerful live experience, as well as the making of Moonshine.

See Jayne Denham live

Jun. 7, 2024 - Freemasons Hotel Molong

Jun. 15, 2024 - Barra & Boots Music Festival Lake Proserpine in the Whitsundays

Jun. 21, 2024 - Moonshiners Tamworth

Jul 5, 2024 - Astor Hotel Goulburn

Jul. 6, 2024 - Oaks Hotel Albion Park Rail

Aug. 23, 2024 - Camden Hotel

Sept. 27, 2024 - Texas QLD Country Music Festival 2024

Oct. 26, 2024 - Mandurah Country Music Festival

For more about Jayne Denham: https://www.jaynedenham.com/

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Jay Santilli takes the 'Long Way Home'

Mon, 13 May 2024 23:08:15 GMT

Melbourne singer and songwriter Jay Santilli has been immersed in music since childhood, listening to classic country artists on the radio growing up, begging her parents for a keyboard at age 10 and learning saxophone then guitar. She formed a band with friends and would go on to take part in such competitions as the (now-defunct) Telstra Road to Tamworth contest. This year she was a Grand Finalist in the Toyota Star Maker competition.

The path to being a musician has not, however, been straightforward – nor has been the pursuit of her other dream, motherhood.

Santilli’s new single ‘Long Way Home’ tells of pursuing dreams even when they seem impossible. It is emotional and inspiring, and Santilli has a lot more on the way this year, with plans to release one single a month. When we spoke recently Santilli’s love for her artform and her generous spirit and open heart were evident, making the chat just as inspiring as the song.

For more about Jay Santilli: https://jaysantilli.com/

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Troy Cassar-Daley: Between the Fires

Sat, 11 May 2024 23:25:25 GMT

When reviewing Troy Cassar-Daley’s last album, The World Today (2021), I compared him to Orpheus, going to the Underworld in search of his wife, Eurydice, who had been taken there by Hades. But after going into the darkness to find what he was looking for then turning back at the point of rescue only to see Eurydice disappear – as the myth has it – Cassar-Daley as Orpheus turned his face forwards and stepped into the light, as complicated as the path ahead was.

‘Troy Cassar-Daley has long been a beacon in our culture,’ I wrote then, ‘for his songs and the way he delivers them. With this album he takes on not mythic status, because he’s still with us, but he becomes, perhaps, a warrior for the people. Out of his darkness we can find light, and the only thing left to say to him is “thank you”.’

That album remains as one of its creator’s very best, and a classic by many measures. It seemed unlikely that he could better it, for how would he find a deeper well to draw on, how much further could he go into the darkness and, to balance, how much light would he discover on his return? The answer has arrived in the form of his new album, Between the Fires, which is an epic work of love, loss, water, fire and smoke, of country and connection, written almost entirely by Cassar-Daley alone in the wake of the death of his mother, then recorded in her home.

The depth of Cassar-Daley’s sorrow is soaked into this album, as is his resolution to find light once again. He growls, he rails, he ponders the past and looks to construct a future that may not have included his wife, Laurel, as they went through a separation around the same time, which is also part of the fabric of this album. Most of all, though, he pays tribute to his mother, and we are shown – more than we are told – how much of a man she helped to make him. For the work done there is his too, and the unforgettable resolution of the album, ‘Moving On’, is his alone.

There is a verse in the Vijnana Bhairava Tantra, a revealed text of Kashmir Shaivism, that goes:

Live continuously for a few days in the meditation,

‘I am immersed in the flame,

The flame of life, the flame of love, the flame of time.

The universal fire flows through me.’

Step into that fire fully, wholeheartedly,

Starting with the toe of the left foot –

And then surrendering everywhere.

Only the not-self, which doesn’t exist anyway,

Is burned.

(Verse 29, translation by Lorin Roche)

Between the Fires documents Troy Cassar-Daley’s burning of the not-self and consequent revelation of the self. Through the fire of grief and change we are able to see the man as he is now and was always meant to be. There is so much bravery required to step into this flame and to go on afterwards, let alone present what remains to the world.

For more about Troy Cassar-Daley: https://troycassardaley.com.au/

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Hana & Jessie-Lee's Bad Habits say what they mean

Mon, 06 May 2024 23:03:26 GMT

Hana & Jessie-Lee’s Bad Habits are a Melbourne duo who released their debut album, Southlands, in 2017 and have just released their latest album, the gloriously entertaining and thought-provoking Say What You Mean.

The longtime friends and collaborators started their performing life in punk bands over a decade ago in their hometown of Adelaide before forming Hana & Jessie-Lee’s Bad Habits, with Hana on vocals and Jessie-Lee on guitar, in 2014. The catalyst was a batch of country-tinged songs written by Hana. Jessie-Lee helped flesh out arrangements, and they then played a month-long residency at Adelaide's Crown & Anchor Hotel to cement the new formation.

Over the next few years, Hana and Jessie-Lee continued evolving their sound while playing live extensively. It was the isolation of pandemic lockdowns that inspired Hana to write a new collection of songs which have now become Say What You Mean.

In this interview we talked about their creative collaboration, their musical influences and songwriting process – and what bad habits might have prompted the band name.

For more about Hana & Jessie-Lee's Bad Habits: https://hanaandjessielee.com/

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Tori Forsyth on her mesmerising new album All We Have is Who We Are

Sun, 05 May 2024 00:00:46 GMT

Tori Forsyth released her Golden Guitar-nominated debut album Dawn of the Dark in 2018 then followed it up with rock album Provlépseis in 2021. She now has a new country music album, All We Have is Who We Are.

The album was created after Forsyth decided that if she didn’t love the process of making music, she’d walk away. Around the same time the pandemic led to her once more living on the land, where she found herself grounded, both literally and creatively. The combination freed her to make an album that not only allowed her to tap back into the joy that initially drew her to music but which sounds like it.

On All We Have is Who We Are Forsyth is by turns earthy and ethereal, wild and circumspect, thoughtful and unconstrained. The album is a story arc that documents how she arrived at where she is - how all she has is who she is. And our conversation about it was as rich, interesting and inspiring as the album itself.

Forsyth has some live dates coming up, and having seen her place a showcase in Sydney last year I can attest that she is very much worth seeing live.

MAY 17 SYDNEY - THE VANGUARD - Tickets

w. Chloe Gill, Piper Butcher

MAY 18 NEWCASTLE - STAG AND HUNTER - Tickets

w. Chloe Gill

MAY 23 MELBOURNE - THE TOTE - Tickets

w. Jay Santilli

MAY 26 SUNSHINE COAST - SOL BAR - Tickets

w. Piper Rodrigues and Tyla Piper Rodrigues

For more about Tori Forsyth: https://www.toriforsyth.com/

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Matt Joe Gow & Kerryn Fields release their stunning album, I Remember You

Thu, 02 May 2024 23:01:00 GMT

The Matt Joe Gow & Kerryn Fields project falls into the category of ‘high risk’: two artists with solo careers that have seen them win audiences, acclaim and awards, with potentially nothing to gain from a collaboration. After all, if something ain’t broke, why fix it?

What they have fixed on, though, is interesting and compelling work that draws on their individual talents and strengths to make something new and different to what they have created individually. What was apparent on their singles ‘Your Heart of Gold’, ‘Love Ya Like I Can’ and ‘No Trace’ is now evident on their album, I Remember You: they have brought their talents and strengths as artists and openness – vulnerabilities, if you prefer – as individuals and created something unique, rich and stunning.

The collaboration has required them both to set aside any expectations they have for their solo work and start afresh with each other. It could only have worked if they did not demand any more of the other than they demanded of themselves. The proof is in the ten tracks on the album, each different to each other just as Joe Gow and Fields are different to each other, but united in the common cause of telling a story of life, loss and love, of what home means and where to find it.

Throughout these songs the duo also provide proof, over and over again, that for as much as they have great strengths as songwriters they are also extraordinary singers. Listen no further than to Joe Gow on ‘Carry On’ and Fields on ‘Here I’ll Be’ for that proof, but you’ll want to listen to it all, over and over again, and find yourself entranced.

So, in the end, this high-risk project is, in fact, high-risk and high-reward – the reward being for them as the creators and us as the listeners. And I spoke to them both about the project in this interview.

https://mattjoegowmusic.com/

https://www.kerrynfields.com/

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Jade Gibson on finding love 'Down the Road'

Wed, 01 May 2024 23:03:34 GMT

Jade Gibson is a singer and songwriter from Victoria who was a Grand Finalist in Toyota Star Maker in 2022 and has played at several large festivals. In 2019 her debut EP The Great Unknown went to number 1 on the iTunes Country chart and she has released several successful singles since. Her brand new single is ‘Down the Road’.

The song holds special meaning for Gibson as it's her first song inspired by her partner of five years, whom she met when she was 21 even though they grew up 20 minutes apart in regional Victoria. The song captures a feeling of love coming when you least expect it, and was recorded with Melbourne production duo MSquared, who she has worked closely with over the past two years. The music video was made by Jake Davey and features Home and Away star Kyle Shilling.

Gibson has been a performer from a young age, playing local pubs and rodeos at 14 before getting discovered at a small gig and being asked to play B&S balls. She also spent time in Nashville before returning to Australia at the start of the pandemic. Gibson is an astute artist who is constantly working on her craft, and it was a pleasure to talk to her about all of this and more.

For more information on Jade Gibson: https://jadegibson.com/

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Kylie Gale on new single 'Nobody Knows Me Like You'

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 23:03:44 GMT

Kylie Gale is a singer-songwriter from New South Wales who released the EP Upside in 2021. While working as a teacher and raising four children, Gale has carved out time to nurture her songwriting craft. This dedication led to the 2021 release of her debut EP Upside.

Gale’s musical talents first emerged in primary school, where she began guitar lessons. However, it wasn’t until high school when her music teacher encouraged her to take voice lessons that she discovered her love of singing. As her children have grown up, Gale has been able to invest more time into songwriting.

Her latest single is the deeply personal single ‘Nobody Knows Me Like You Do’, written with in-demand co-writer Billie-Jo Porter and recorded with producer Simon Johnson at Hillbilly Hut. The song explores the understanding and support Gale shares with her husband of 22 years. And Gale has plans to release more singles leading up to a full album in 2024.

During our recent chat Gale’s passion for and perseverance in music while balancing life’s other responsibilities were clear – and inspirational as we spoke about her musical influences, creative process, and hopes for the future.

For more information on Kylie Gale: https://www.kyliegale.com/

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Valley Road talk about their outstanding debut album

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 23:03:59 GMT

Rebecca Jane Howell and Marty Mckenna are friends from Central Victoria who have been singing together for over a decade. Rebecca honed her instinct for harmony through years spent in the Australian Girls Choir and Marty grew up singing to the sheep on his family farm, with his dad, where he still tends the flock to this day.

As Valley Road the duo released their wonderful self-titled debut album towards the end of last year. It was produced by Rod McCormack after Valley Road were awarded the Troubadour Foundation prize.

Whether live or recorded, Howell and Mckenna have a synergy as writers and performers in a partnership of true equals. Each knows how to support each other in song, and accordingly bring out the best in each other. The result is songs that are elegant, nuanced and strong, covering the whole of life from birth to death, and love for the natural world.

For more information about Valley Road: https://valleyroadduo.com.au/

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Cassidy-Rae on 'Fangirl', fangirling and four-hour shows

Sun, 28 Apr 2024 23:02:51 GMT

Known for her powerful vocals and catchy melodies, Cassidy-Rae recently returned to Australian shores after a stint performing four-hour shows on cruise ships - shows at which she had her own fangirls. She's also very much a fangirl of other artists, so she is perfectly qualified to write and release her latest single, 'Fangirl'.

During our recent interview, Cassidy-Rae offers a glimpse into her high-energy performances and the immersive nature of her shows as well as her creative process, which includes collaborating with producers MSquared in Melbourne to make 'Fangirl' and her other recent single, 'One More Song'.

Looking ahead, Cassidy-Rae previews plans to launch a national tour in Australia and promises that there are more new tunes coming down the pipeline.

For more about Cassidy-Rae: https://cassidy-rae.com/

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Emma Donovan on landmark new album Til My Song is Done

Sat, 27 Apr 2024 23:02:53 GMT

Emma Donovan is well known to Australian audiences from her bands Emma Donovan and The Putbacks (which I managed to call The Pushbacks in the introduction to this interview) as well as the Stiff Gins, and from the Black Arm Band. Her music ranges from soul to reggae to R&B and gospel, yet country music has been there from the start and she now has a new country album, Til My Song is Done. The album is broad in scope, and underscored by love and change. Donovan's voice is a wonder, piercing the heart of any listener.

Donovan has been singing since childhood, influenced by country artists like Tammy Wynette, Loretta Lynn, and Dolly Parton. Her grandparents would bring cassettes when they visited, instilling in Donovan a love of classic country that stays with her. Her mother and five uncles performed together, and - as I found out during our recent chat - Donovan has quite the history of childhood talent quests ...

For more about Emma Donovan, including upcoming live dates: https://www.emmadonovan.com/

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Jacob Vincent on his powerful new single 'What Would I Say'

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 23:02:37 GMT

Brisbane-based singer-songwriter Jacob Vincent has just released his new single 'What Would I Say', just in time for Anzac Day, and the first single from his upcoming debut album, produced by Shane Nicholson and due for release in 2025. The song had its genesis at the DAG Songwriting Retreat in Nundle, NSW, where Vincent met poet Colin Defries. It pays tribute to diggers and their service, with a new take on this subject.

Vincent grew up in a musical family in Tasmania - with his grandfather a member of The Singing Kettles - and developed a passion for songwriting and performing from a young age. He released his debut EP, Cold & Blue, in 2020. In 2022 he was crowned Best of the Buskers at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, and last year he was a Grand Finalist in the prestigious Toyota Star Maker competition. This year he returned to play a sold-out show with Kelly Cork at The Press.

We talked about Vincent’s family background, and his years as a competitive swimmer and how that might have had an impact on his development as an artist. Vincent is a thoughtful and articulate with songs to match and a voice that brings his powerful stories to life.

For more on Jacob Vincent: https://www.instagram.com/jacob_vincent/

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Watch Your Step around Piper Rodrigues

Sun, 21 Apr 2024 23:02:00 GMT

Piper Rodrigues started 2024 as a Toyota Star Maker Grand Finalist, in the wake of releasing her popular 2023 single 'Exit Wound'. Originally from Newcastle, NSW, she now calls Brisbane home and her latest single is 'Watch Your Step', co-written with Hayley Marsten.

Rodrigues was bitten by the music bug early on, taking singing lessons from age 7 and performing for her mother's hair salon clients as a child. She wrote her first song at age 13 and really hit her stride at 15 when she started teaching herself guitar and writing prolifically. Early influences included country legends like Dolly Parton and Taylor Swift as well as artists like Bonnie Raitt and Stevie Nicks.

During our recent chat Rodrigues shared funny stories from her life that inspired the lighthearted vibe of 'Watch Your Step', as well as tidbits about her creative process, organising gigs, and her dreams for the future.

Fans can catch Piper live playing festivals like Texas Country Music Fest later this year. She gave us a sneak preview that even more new music is on the horizon as she prepares to record again soon and continue evolving her signature country/pop fusion sound.

For more about Piper Rodrigues: linktr.ee/hiheyitspiper

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Bud Rokesky on his far-reaching new Volumes project

Sat, 20 Apr 2024 23:02:43 GMT

Bud Rokesky is a singer and songwriter from Queensland who released his wonderful debut album, Outsider, last year. Since then he’s been on the road quite a bit, playing support slots for C.W. Stoneking, Deacon Blue, Meg Washington, Tim Rogers and Matt Corby as well as appearing at Gympie Music Muster, Woodford, Dashville Skyline, Groundwater, Queenscliff Music Festival, Tamworth Country Music Festival, Port Fairy Folk Festival, and Out On The Weekend.

As powerful as Rokesky is on recordings, he is a live performer of rare impact, and a big part of that is his voice, which emerges from a deeper well when he's on stage. It is live performance that has motivated a shift in direction for his releases this year: the 'Volumes project', for which he's releasing two new songs a month, as an A side and a B side. The latest volume is 02 and the tracks are ‘Newtown’ and ‘Oars’.

Bud Rokesky is on the road supporting Brad Cox over the next few months. Find the tour dates at: https://www.budrokesky.com/live

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Chloe Swannell on her new single 'Unchained'

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 23:02:31 GMT

Chloe Swannell is a singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from Oberon in the central west of New South Wales who released her first single, ‘Strange Love’, last year. She has just released her second, ‘Unchained’.

In our recent interview Swannell tells the story behind 'Unchained' and talks about working with producer Tarquin Halls-Corbett, her songwriting process, her musical background - she plays guitar, bass, drums and banjo - and teaching music for ten years. She also reveals which sort of tradie she is on the side ... and talks about her planned EP release.

For more about Chloe Swannell: https://www.facebook.com/ChloeSwannellMusic/

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Josie opens the doors to 'Our Place'

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 23:02:28 GMT

Josie is a country music dynamo from Far North Queensland who kicked off the year with a busy Tamworth Country Music Festival. She has released the very popular singles ‘Down Here’ and ‘Freight Man’. Her latest single is ‘Our Place’.

'If anyone has been to a party at my parents' place, you’d know we don’t muck around when it comes to having a bit of fun, cooking up mean feeds, and letting your hair down no matter the occasion,' says Josie.

'Dad cookin’ up a storm is no word of a lie,' she says, referring to a line in the song, 'briskets and top notch bush snags galore. Mum is always cranking the tunes maybe a little too loud … and the whole family would just about invite every man and his dog out for a cheeky beer that would always turn into 2am campfire jam sessions surrounded by empties.'

Josie and I had a chat about 'Our Place', as well as the success of 'Freight Man', the time she stirred up controversy amongst truckers, and what she has planned.

For more about Josie: https://linktr.ee/josieofficiall

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Jemma Beech goes in search of a Four Leaf Clover

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 23:03:49 GMT

Jemma Beech is a singer-songwriter from New South Wales who has released the album That’s Just Me along with several cracking singles, including ‘You Fool’ and ‘If I Can’t Wear Boots’. She was also a Grand Finalist in this year's Toyota Star Maker competition.

Beech's latest single is ‘Four Leaf Clover’, which was inspired by a trip she made to her ancestral homeland, Ireland. Surrounded by music and stories, Beech was inspired to create a song that signals a shift in direction from her previous releases, and which has also led to her wanting to return. She is full of vigour and passion for her craft and keen to see where her music takes her - and her audience.

For more about Jemma Beech: https://www.jemmabeechmusic.com/

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Olive Mae hits the road to 'Wait & See'

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 23:05:08 GMT

Olive Mae is a folk/country singer-songwriter from the south-west of Western Australia who released her debut single, ‘Give Me Something’, in 2022. Last year she released the single 'Hit the Road' and her latest single is ‘Wait & See’ - both of them will appear on her EP due for release later this year.

Mae has been a musician for most of her life, learning instruments from a young age and playing in a band in adulthood before taking a break to raise her children. She's now back writing and releasing music, and playing music - including up and down the east coast of Australia over the past few months, culminating in her first visit to the Tamworth Country Music Festival. We had a chat about all of that.

For more about Olive Mae: linktr.ee/olivemaemusic

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Sara Storer on enchanting new single 'Under Darwin Stars'

Sun, 07 Apr 2024 07:52:12 GMT

Sara Storer has won 22 Golden Guitar awards, her most recent being this year for the song ‘Dust Kids’ released with her brother Greg as Storer, from their self-titled album. On her own Storer has released five studio albums, all of which have been fan and award favourites. Her brand new song is ‘Under Darwin Stars’ and Sara is working towards a new album.

Storer is far too young to be called a legend yet there is something legendary about her songwriting and her success with it. The qualities that she brings to her music are also present when she is interviewed: she is present, real, open-hearted, funny, down-to-earth and pragmatic. They're some of the reasons why it's always a treat to interview her; some of the others are that she tells great stories, is effortlessly interesting and entertaining, and that it is always, and always will be, a privilege to talk to an artist this accomplished and esteemed.

For more about Sara Storer: https://www.sarastorer.com.au/

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Robbie Mortimer on dynamic new single 'Blow the Speakers'

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 22:03:39 GMT

Robbie Mortimer grew up in the central west of New South Wales as one of five brothers in a sporting family. He would go on to be a professional sportsman before returning to his home area and becoming a teacher and mentor, all while creating music. His first album, the pop-leaning 200 Years Too Late, was released in 2021. He has a brand new song, ‘Blow the Speakers’, and it’s as hi-octane as it sounds.

Mortimer and producer Jared Adlam captured the energy of Mortimer's live sound in the song, and if you'd like to see Mortimer live you can see the dates below. Mortimer and I had a chat recently about his development as a songwriter and artist, his passion for live performance and his plans for the future.

See Robbie Mortimer live:

Friday 5th April - Way Out West Festival - Winton, QLD

Saturday 20th April - Stock Route Festival - Dubbo, NSW

Sunday 28th April - Carnival of Cups - Goulburn, NSW

Saturday 8th June - PBR Monster Energy Tour – Brisbane Ent. Centre - Brisbane, QLD

Saturday 22nd June - PBR Monster Energy Tour – Newcastle Ent. Centre - Newcastle, NSW

Saturday 13th July - PBR Monster Energy Tour – Cairns Convention Centre - Cairns, QLD

Saturday 28th September - Heart Of The Hunter Festival - Tocal, NSW

Saturday 26th October - PBR Monster Energy Tour – Equine & Livestock Centre - Tamworth, NSW

Saturday 2nd November - PBR Monster Energy Tour – Townsville Ent. Centre - Townsville, QLD

For more about Robbie Mortimer: https://www.robbiemortimer.com/

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Cass Hopetoun on new music, motherhood and 'To Be a Lady'

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 22:06:40 GMT

Cass Hopetoun released her debut album, Not Your Typical Bride, in 2022 and was nominated for the Golden Guitar for Best New Talent, which was her second nomination for that category. In fact, she’s had three Golden Guitar nominations in total.

Since releasing the album Hopetoun has become a mother and, with husband Blake Dantier, released the single ‘Some Things Never Get Old’. Her latest single is ‘To Be a Lady’, written with Dantier and Sarah Buckley, and produced by Dantier. On Not Your Typical Bride Hopetoun established herself as a performer and writer with range and perspicacity, and 'To Be a Lady' is at one in the lineage of the album and indicates that Hopetoun is only gathering strength as an artist.

We talked about the song, creative life and motherhood, and what's next for this talented singer-songwriter.

For more about Cass Hopetoun: https://www.casshopetoun.com.au/

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Ryan Mead gets Tangled Up in Wranglers

Sun, 31 Mar 2024 22:02:44 GMT

Ryan Mead is a singer-songwriter from the Sutherland Shire in Sydney who may be 18 years of age but he’s already racked up a few musical credits, including the Talent Development Project last year. He has just released his debut single, ‘Tangled Up in Wranglers’, and a warning: the song is kinda addictive, so once you start listening you may find yourself hitting 'play' a few more times.

Mead's first instrument was drums, which he's been playing from a young age, before he added guitar and voice to his repertoire. He is soon to depart Australian shores to attend Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts. Before then you can catch him playing various locations in Sydney CBD and the Shire. The full list of shows can be round on his website.

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Tony Kennelly on new single 'Sunday in the Sun'

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 22:02:47 GMT

Tony Kennelly is an artist from picturesque Port Macquarie on the mid north coast of NSW who has released two albums, Hittin’ the Wall and Battlegrounds. He has a new single, ‘Sunday in the Sun’, which is just right for helping us hold on to summer days even as we have passed the equinox.

Kennelly has been performing live for many years, including a busy stint in Sydney in his younger years when he was working by day and gigging by night. He has some great stories to tell, including the one about the origins of 'Sunday in the Sun', which involves a large group of friends and an even larger zest for life.

For more on Tony Kennelly: https://www.tonykennellymusic.com/

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Kerryn Fields - folk singer, magician, empress

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 22:02:19 GMT

Kerryn Fields is a singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from Aotearoa New Zealand, now living on our shores. She won the Music Victoria Best Folk Work award in 2022 for her second album, Water, which followed acclaim for her first album, Rascal. In recent months she's released two singles with Matt Joe Gow, ahead of an album release.

Fields's latest solo release is the EP The Folk Singer, which she released around the time she travelled to the USA to perform at Folk Alliance. The EP features all new tracks and was recorded live and acoustic. It documents Fields's path through life, and great difficulties, to become the magical, majestic artist she is today - and if you've ever seen her play live you'll know what I mean. In our recent interview she spoke movingly about the stories behind the songs on the EP and gave great insights into the artist she has become.

For more on Kerryn Fields: https://www.kerrynfields.com/

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Nathan Lamont on 'Skin to Skin', Star Maker, songwriting and more

Sun, 24 Mar 2024 22:02:00 GMT

Last year Wagga Wagga, NSW resident Nathan Lamont released his debut single ‘Drink You Up’, then he was named a Grand Finalist in this year’s Toyota Star Maker competition, the second time he’s been a grand finalist. He recently appeared on the single ‘My Favourite Summer’ with Loren Ryan and has a new single of his own, ‘Skin to Skin’.

At this year's Tamworth Country Music Festival, Lamont shared a stage with Ryan at the latter's headline show at Moonshiner's and demonstrated just why his star is on the rise. We spoke about that show, as well as so much more when we chatted recently. And I'm not even going to pretend to be objective: Lamont is one of my favourite singers and seeing him play live only confirmed what I'd suspected, that he is an artist with so much to offer audiences and music as a whole.

For more about Nathan Lamont: linktr.ee/nathanlamontofficial

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Jake Whittaker on latest single 'Shoey'

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 22:02:23 GMT

Jake Whittaker hails from south-east Queensland. Earlier this year he appeared in the Tamworth Country Music Festival as a Grand Finalist in the Star Maker competition, and no doubt getting up to other things. He has released several singles to date. The fourth and latest is 'Shoey'.

'Shoey' was written with Gavin Carfoot and produced by Whittaker's regular produced, Jared Adlam.

'I’m partial to a good shoey,' Whittaker admits. 'Audiences can be guaranteed of at least one at every gig, and I’ve never been sick from one.'

We had a chat about Whittaker's ongoing collaboration with Adlam as well as the writing of 'Shoey' and his plans over the new few months, which include the arrival of his first child.

For more about Jake Whittaker: https://www.jakewhittaker.com.au/

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The rough and tumble and might and majesty of Jen Mize

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 22:02:20 GMT

Jen Mize moved to Australia from the United States a few years ago and that has been to Australia’s benefit, as this extraordinary performer has released two solo albums and one in collaboration with Mark Sholtez, called Twilight on the Trail.

Last year she released an eponymous album with her relatively new band, the eight-piece Jen Mize and the Rough n’ Tumble. Their latest single is ‘Hail Mary’.

Mize is a complete artist, steeped in musicality from a young age, able to bring her acuity and understanding of instruments to the instrument of her voice, which is one of the most impressive in the land. The Rough n' Tumble has given her the opportunity to collaborate in a new way and explore different parts of her range as a singer and songwriter. It was fascinating to talk to her about all of it.

For more about Jen Mize: https://www.jenmizemusic.com/

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Kora Naughton returns with 'Head in the Sand'

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 22:03:06 GMT

New South Wales singer-songwriter Kora Naughton released her first album, Nineteen, at 19 years of age and since then she has been a Toyota Star Maker Grand Finalist and released three more singles, the latest of which is the very catchy 'Head in the Sand'. Indeed, Naughton has quite a knack for writing catchy songs, which we talked about recently.

Naughton released 'Head in the Sand' after a period away from releasing music, after recognising that she was burning out due to various demands, as well as having had spinal surgery. She talks about this, and about her plans for new music, in our interview.

For more about Kora Naughton: https://www.koranaughton.com.au/

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Keely Ellen on her debut single, 'Red Head'

Sun, 17 Mar 2024 22:03:30 GMT

Keely Ellen is a singer and songwriter from Bundaberg in Queensland who has just released her debut single, ‘Red Head’, written with Nashville-based Australian artist Katrina Burgoyne. She attended the Junior Academy of Country Music and has performed at various festivals including Tamworth and Lighthouse Country Music festivals, and she is still only 17 years of age.

When we spoke recently I found out how Keely came to write 'Red Head' and all about her musical life since childhood.

For more about Keely Ellen: https://keelyellenmusic.squarespace.com/

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Jake Davey and his 'Second Chance'

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 22:01:50 GMT

Jake Davey is a singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from the mid north coast of New South Wales who has released several country pop singles since 2019 and played many festivals. He was a Grand Finalist in Toyota Star Maker in 2022.

Davey has several other jobs as well, including producer and videographer. But everything he did come to a halt several months ago when he suffered a spinal cord injury. He thought he may not walk again, yet he was onstage, performing, during the recent Tamworth Country Music Festival.

His latest single, 'Second Chance', acknowledges both his experience and the perspective he's put it in. And Davey is not only back making music - he's back doing everything else too. So we talked about that, and his music, and his plans for further releases.

For more about Jake Davey: https://www.jakedaveymusic.com/

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Clancy Pye on new single 'Drink About' and album plans

Sat, 02 Mar 2024 23:58:00 GMT

Clancy Pye is a singer and songwriter from the central west of New South Wales who has twice been a Toyota Star Maker Grand Finalist. She released an EP in 2020 and the single ‘Feels Like Home’ last year. Her latest single is ‘Drink About’.

'When I was writing this song, it was the idea of catching up with someone you haven't seen in a while and having a lot to talk about andinevitably,a lot of things to drink about,' says Pye of the inspiration behind the song.

When we spoke recently it became clear very quickly that music is soaked into Pye's marrow - she grew up in an intensely musical household and has been performing from a young age. She's also been songwriting up a storm over the past few years and is working towards an album release. We talked about that, and a lot more besides.

For more about Clancy Pye: https://www.clancypye.com.au/

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Finnian Johnson is Doing Well

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 22:01:55 GMT

Finnian Johnson was a Grand Finalist in the 2023 Toyota Star Maker competition and in the 2023 NAB Talent Search at the Gympie Music Muster. He reached the top 12 in season 11 of TV show The Voice, and he’s also been touring the country. Last year he released the singles ‘July’ and ‘Dishonest’. His latest single is ‘I’m Doing Well’.

'“I’m Doing Well" is the most special song I’ve ever written, coming straight from my heart for anyone to connect with,' says Johnson of the song he wrote with Golden Guitar-winning songwriters Brooke McClymont and Adam Eckersley.

Johnson also toured with McClymont and Eckersley last year. We talked about that, the song, competitions and several other things.

For more about Finnian Johnson: https://linktr.ee/finnianjohnson

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Baeden Faint on his 'Hometown Fantasy'

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 22:01:28 GMT

Baeden Faint was born in South Australia and currently calls the NSW town of Cobar home. He has just released his debut single, ‘Hometown Fantasy’.

'This song is essentially me reminiscing on past relationships where it seemed everything was laid out. Ready for the white picket fence and kids,' says Faint. 'But also, that it was like having blinders on, as to whether it was a good thing or not. I wrote this song like a lot of other songs - with a bottle port, smoking alone late at night, with too much time for thinking.'

Faint has an interesting background that includes a black belt in karate and a broken hand (or two!), which is not at all convenient for a guitarist. I knew there were some stories there and he was prepared to share them.

For more about Baeden Faint: linktr.ee/baedenfaintwakefield

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Ashleigh Dallas tells her 'Secondhand Stories' first hand

Sun, 25 Feb 2024 04:36:30 GMT

Ashleigh Dallas is a five-time Golden Guitar winner who has released five studio albums, winning the Golden Guitar for Traditional Country Album of the Year for her latest album, In the Moment. She is also an ambassador for the Dolly Parton Imagination Library.

Dallas's latest single is 'Secondhand Stories', which was written during a DAG Songwriting Retreat with Natasha Soonchild and Margaret Anne King. 'This came from a morning we spent talking about what it’s like when you get out and see things,' says Dallas. 'We were talking about when you have awesome experiences, we have all had someone tell us how lucky we are to experience that.

'It’s all about not living your life through someone else’s pictures and Instagram posts, don’t live your life through a secondhand story; get out and do it yourself.'

I've interviewed Dallas several times, and our chats tend to be long because there's always a lot to chat about! And it's always interesting and inspiring, because she can't help but be those things. So settle in for lots of heart, humour and insight from this talented Tamworth native.

For more about Ashleigh Dallas: https://ashleighdallas.com.au/

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Kayla Mahon on new single 'Little Man' and album plans

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 22:01:14 GMT

Kayla Mahon is an artist from Gore on the South Island of Aotearoa New Zealand who was the winner of the coveted 2000 and 2008 New Zealand Overall Gold Guitar Award. She was also one half of country music duo The Heartleys, releasing two albums. Last year she released the single ‘Love’s Got a Witness’ and now she has a new song, ‘Little Man’, both of them taken from her forthcoming album.

'I hope this song encourages listeners to embrace motherhood, with all the challenges and moments you wouldn’t change the world for,' Mahon says, 'and soak up the love that children give, and the qualities that children constantly display for us. This is a song that reminds us to cherish every moment.'

Mahon and I spoke about the song, and her upcoming album, about balancing motherhood with art, and the music she's producing with her daughter and seven nieces. She has created a life that is rich in meaning and music, and it was so interesting to find out about it.

For more about Kayla Mahon: https://www.kaylamahon.com/

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Mackenzie Lee on new single 'Let My Love Drown'

Sun, 18 Feb 2024 03:31:35 GMT

Mackenzie Lee is an artist from the Hunter Valley of New South Wales who last year attended the Junior Academy of Country Music. She has released two EPs, one self-titled and the other entitled Sometimes I Wonder, and now has a new single, 'Let My Love Drown'.

Lee was also the winner of the inaugural Macca's Golden Gig Talent Quest at the 2022 Tamworth Country Music Festival and the 2023 ICMA Patti McKinnon Encouragement Award and Today's Country 94one 'Brand New Star' award.

At only 17 years of age Lee has already been a highly productive artist, with the talent and drive to go further - so there's more to come from this up-and-coming singer-songwriter, as I found out during our recent chat.

For more about Mackenzie Lee: linktr.ee/MackenzieLeeMusic

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Courtney Keil is All About You

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 22:06:38 GMT

Courtney Keil is an artist from the Central Coast of New South Wales who released her debut album, The Good Kind, last year and who has just had an action-packed Tamworth Country Music Festival. She has a brand new single, ‘All About You’, which is It is another toe-tapper to add to the collection of Courtney Keil ear worms along with ‘Hummingbird’ and ‘I Just Wanna Hold You’.

'We set out to write an anthemic, feel-good song,' says Keil of 'All About You'. 'As songwriters it’s often naturally easier to write slower heartbreak songs so we wanted to focus on the love I have in my life and how it makes me feel.'

Keil was award Best Female Vocal at the People's Choice Awards in Tamworth, and she has some exciting shows coming up.

For more about Courtney Keil: https://www.courtneykeil.com/

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Felicity Urquhart & Josh Cunningham and their golden Birdsong

Sun, 11 Feb 2024 00:22:48 GMT

Felicity Urquhart has recorded several albums and EPs as a solo artist and as a member of Bennett Bowtell and Urquhart, winning 13 Golden Guitars along the way. She was also the host of Saturday Night Country for several years. Josh Cunningham is a founding member of The Waifs, who have released 10 albums over three decades and won multiple ARIA awards.

Together Felicity and Josh released the album The Song Club in 2021 and last year they released Birdsong, which has just won three Golden Guitar awards, including Traditional Country Album of the Year.

This pairing is a rare one: two individuals who are exceptional at what they do joining to create something that is different and in which they revel. On stage it is clear how much they love performing together; that regard for each other is evident in their recorded music as well. They write, sing, play and perform from the heart, straight to the hearts of their audience, and thus it is that their particular birdsong takes flight.

For more about Felicity Urquhart: https://www.felicityurquhart.com/

For more about Josh Cunningham: https://joshcunningham.com/

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Matt Joe Gow on new album The Woodshed Sessions

Sat, 03 Feb 2024 22:00:33 GMT

Matt Joe Gow is a New Zealand-born Melbourne resident who has released four albums, the most recent of which was last year’s Between Tonight & Tomorrow, which won the Music Victoria award for Best Country Album, as did its predecessor, Break Rattle and Roll. Recently Joe Gow released a reprise version of the title song, and he’s also been collaborating with Kerryn Fields on a forthcoming album. However, in this new interview we talked about his new acoustic album, The Woodshed Sessions, recorded late last year, which he also produced, so we delve into the production aspects of the album as well as the songs and recording.

It's the first acoustic album made by Joe Gow with his Dead Leaves bandmates Andrew Pollock and Katya Harris, and it was initially released as a video recording late last year. Joe Gow's albums tend to not put his voice at the forefront but there is nowhere else for it to be on this album, and that is to the listener's benefit - as much as we tend to laud the 'songwriter' part of singer-songwriter, the singing part is equally important and Joe Gow is a wonderful singer, with a warm tone that turns commanding when required and handles a range of emotions so that it's a proper partner for his lyrics.

The Woodshed Sessions will be released on 9 February and can be preordered on Bandcamp

Matt Joe Gow and the Dead Leaves play George Lane, St Kilda, Vic. on 10 February - tickets

For more on Matt Joe Gow: https://mattjoegowmusic.com/

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Al Carr and his Right Dereliction

Sun, 21 Jan 2024 02:36:34 GMT

Hailing from Melbourne, Al Carr is an alt-country singer and songwriter with rock leanings who played in bands in Sydney in the 1990s before he relocated south in 2006 and started his solo career thereafter. He released a self-titled EP in 2013 then albums in 2017 and 2021. His latest album is The Right Dereliction.

Says Carr of the album, 'Each song on this release is tinged with a sense of hopefulness whilst recounting stories, characters and personalities who are struggling through a moment in time,"explains Carr. "With this batch of songs I wanted to get inside the head of a character living through a small town drama and balance the lyrics almost like a confessional of sorts. The verses offering up the dilemma and the choruses providing the redemption.'

Towards the end of 2023 I spoke to Carr about the album - there were a few wifi issues during this interview so it's taken me a little longer than usual to post it, plus if you watch the video of it you'll see me on screen for longer than usual as Zoom did not switch back to Carr. Therefore, you get to witness me practising 'neutral facial expression' as the wifi cut in and out.

For more on Al Carr: https://www.alcarr.com.au/

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The Buckleys go Too Fast towards Tamworth

Sat, 20 Jan 2024 01:05:18 GMT

The Buckleys are a band of siblings Sarah, Molly and Lachlan from northern New South Wales who released their debut album Daydream in 2020 and the EP Take it as it Comes in 2022. Last year they released the single ‘Wondering’ and this year ‘Too Fast’.

Says Sarah of the song, 'we really wanted to put a fresh, new, country twist on those 1960s romantic bops. I’m so obsessed with that era in music, especially with melody. It’s influenced me in a lot of ways. "Too Fast" is about slowing down and enjoying the moment in a world where we're always so eager to move on to the next thing. It's about appreciating where you are right here and right now.'

In addition to creating infectious, memorable recorded music to the world, The Buckleys are also one of the greatest live acts you could ever hope to see - it's always hard to put the experience of a gig into words because so much of it is about the moment, the energy and the dynamics in the room, but I've tried, and also tried to ask them to describe what they do when I spoke to them not long before they headed to the 2024 Tamworth Country Music Festival. Their sibling dynamic has something to do with it, but not all, and I hope you enjoy watching or listening to this talented trio talk about the music they make together.

For more about The Buckleys: https://www.thebuckleys.net/

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Delilah Rose brings her Moxie to The Song Cafe

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 22:00:51 GMT

Delilah Rose is an artist originally from Western Australia, now resident in Queensland, who released the album Moxie in 2022; the latest - and last - single from the album is 'Jack's House'. As Delilah Rose and the Gunslingers she released the EP Good Grief! in 2018. She is also the host of The Song Café and of Australian Songwriting Retreats.

The next instalment of The Song Café takes place at The Cave Inn in the Brisbane suburb of Woolloongabba on 25 January 2024 at 7 p.m. and is a First Nations focused event featuring Sue Ray, Aunty Maggie Walsh and Georgia Llewellyn. You can buy tickets here.

Rose also runs the Crap Song Club as an extension of Australian Songwriting Retreats and the next one starts on 31 January - more details here. On top of all of that she writes songs and runs a household with young children, and mentors other artists, and has an expansive view of creativity and creative practice. It was so interesting to talk to her.

For more on Delilah Rose: https://delilahrosemusic.com/home

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Darlinghurst are Unapologetic in their powerful new direction

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 03:02:14 GMT

Darlinghurst is a Golden Guitar Award-winning act from Melbourne. Originally a four piece, it was announced in December 2023 that they were moving forward into 2024 as a duo comprising original members Cassie Leopold and Pagan Newman, and they have a great new single, ‘Unapologetic’.

'"Unapologetic"’s message is this – by all means, listen to other people’s opinions, but don’t disregard your own. Don’t be afraid to disappoint if you don’t meet others’ expectations,' Leopold has said of the track. 'Unapologetically know your own worth; fight for it if you must. Success comes in the lonely hours, and it can be awfully lonely when it feels like it’s you alone against the world, but sometimes you just have to trust your gut and jump.'

I spoke to Newman about the song, and about her longstanding friendship and collaboration with Leopold, plus their upcoming shows at the 2024 Tamworth Country Music Festival. She lives and breathes music, and is passionate about the band's new direction, as you'll find out.

For more about Darlinghurst: https://www.darlinghurst-band.com/

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The Sunshine State of Good Will Remedy

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 21:37:12 GMT

Good Will Remedy are a four-piece alt-country band from Brisbane with members Will Lebihan, Mitch Reid, Dave Newman and Rob Penman. They have released six albums and played over 1000 shows since 2018. The latest is Sunshine State.

The title of the new album is 'more a state of mind than location,' says songwriter, singer and bassist Will Lebihan. 'The title track is an anthem to all things good and positive - oh and Queensland of course!'

Lebihan wrote most of these songs during and following the COVID period: 'I'm fortunate to be able to write and do some basic demos at home, and that certainly helped me refine the songs a lot more this time around. The other guys also had the ability to record some of their parts and send them back to me which was really great fun.'

Recently I spoke to Lebihan about the album, the band's history, and his own rich musical history, and found an artist who is not only highly productive but curious and passionate about his craft.

For more about Good Will Remedy: https://goodwillremedy.com/

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The musical world of Michael Carpenter

Sat, 13 Jan 2024 22:00:03 GMT

Michael Carpenter is a singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer who has several musical projects on the go at any one time. Michael Carpenter and the Banks Brothers have released 3 albums and an EP and have two nominations in the 2024 Golden Guitar awards. Michael Carpenter and the CRC (Country Rock Collective) have released three singles. And that is, really, just the tip of the proverbial iceberg when it comes to Carpenter's work.

This interview was a great opportunity to find out how Carpenter manages all the different aspects of his musical world, which involved talking about organisation and how it's essential to productivity. In the process he had many interesting things to say about creativity and how he sees it and works with it. In general he was fascinating to talk to so hopefully you find him just as interesting to listen to.

For more on Michael Carpenter: https://www.mcarp.com/

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The Lyrical Life of Graeme Connors

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 22:00:04 GMT

Graeme Connors has been a musical artist for over 40 years and released 20 albums, as well as winning a few awards along the way. He has not only written songs for his own recordings but for other artists as well, including the late Slim Dusty. Those songs are now collected in a new book, My Lyrical Life.

Connors has had - and continues to have - such an interesting musical life that there was much to ask him about, and his perspective on songwriting and his role as a songwriter was fascinating. We also spoke about the process of putting the book together, and his upcoming shows at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, which will be quite different to each other - details and links below.

Sunday, January 21: Capitol Theatre, Tamworth NSW –The Songwriter… 50 Years On - Tickets

Friday, January 26: Tamworth Town Hall, Tamworth NSW – The Performer… 50 Years On - Tickets

For more on Graeme Connors: https://graemeconnors.com/

To buy My Lyrical Life: https://graemeconnors.com/product/graeme-connors-my-lyrical-life/

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Henry Wagons: singer, songwriter, dynamo

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 22:00:46 GMT

*mild language warning*

Henry Wagons is known to many as the host of Tower of Song on Double J and to many others as the head honcho of the band Wagons as well as a solo artist. His latest album is South of Everywhere and it was recently nominated for an ARIA award.

Wagons is also one of the most dynamic live performers anywhere, of any time - never not completely entertaining, regardless of song or venue, small audience or large. When I interviewed him not long before Christmas it was a great opportunity to talk about the art and craft of his performances, and he gave fascinating insight into that as well as his development as a musician and songwriter, and his recent UK tour. There's also some discussion about tennis because we're both tennis players - but sport is relevant to music too!

Wagons is playing the Tamworth Country Music Festival with Lachlan Bryan on 25 January 2024 at 2.30 p.m. - tickets here. He's heading back to the UK and Ireland in late February and March.

For more on Henry Wagons: https://www.wagonsmusic.com/

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Kingswood and the world of G.C. Townes

Sun, 07 Jan 2024 02:00:27 GMT

Melbourne four-piece band Kingswood - whose members are Alexander Laska, Fergus Linacre, Josh Koop and Jack Davies - released the country-rock album Home early in 2023 then followed it with bluegrass album The Tale of G.C. Townes. In and around these releases they played over 100 shows across Australia, and they are heading to the Tamworth Country Music Festival in January 2024 (details below along with other dates).

Just before Christmas I spoke to founding member Fergus Linacre about the contemporaneous recording of Home and The Tale of G.C. Townes and about the world of Townes the character, as well as delving into the history of the band and their massive touring schedule.

See Kingswood live:

Thursday 25 January Tamworth Hotel Tamworth Tickets

Friday 2 February Alice Springs Brewing Company Alice Springs Tickets

Saturday 3 February Mayberry Darwin Tickets

Friday 9 February All Seasons Hotel Bendigo Tickets

Saturday 10 February Wool Exchange Geelong Tickets

For more about Kingswood: https://www.kingswoodband.com/

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Bonnie Kellett and her 'Bare Feet' in summer

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 04:54:16 GMT

Singer, songwriter, guitarist and fiddle player Bonnie Kellett is one of the busiest live performers in Australia, between solo performances and touring with Amber Lawrence. But in 2023 she also found time to release her debut album, Hidden Spirit, and a completely new single, ‘Bare Feet’.

Having seen Kellett play several times in 2023, with Amber Lawrence and under her own steam, and when we spoke late last year I was keen to find out more about her and discovered just how rich her background in music and performance is. It was a very interesting conversation and I'm sure you'll enjoy getting to know Kellett better, as I did.

(My tripod fell over twice during the interview - out of hundreds of interviews it's ever happened before - and the second time I managed to not set it up again properly, so you'll see the top of my computer for the last few minutes.)

For more about Bonnie Kellett: https://www.bonniekellett.com/

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Ruby Shay on her fascinating, winding path to 'Sinner'

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 23:51:37 GMT

When 'Sinner', the debut single from Central Coast (NSW) artist Ruby Shay - featuring her band The Red Horse - was released in October 2023 it was immediately clear that Shay is an artist with power and presence. Her voice is rich and captivating, layered with so much emotion and compassion that it was obvious in that song she had much to say and one song was never going to contain it all.

Having now heard her second single, 'When They Call Me', due for release in early 2024, it's clear that impression was not misplaced. Interviewing Shay recently gave me the opportunity to find out more about this singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist and we were quickly in the territory of life, death, art and inspiration. Shay brings her whole self - light and dark, shades in between, past, future and present - to her music and I loved talking to her about it all.

For more about Ruby Shay: https://www.instagram.com/rubyshaymusic/

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Route 33 on their summer anthem, 'Summer You'

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 22:00:47 GMT

Jock Barnes and Trent McArdle both grew up in South-east Queensland and met through sport. One afternoon a decade ago they jammed together, and as Route 33 they have played together ever since. They’ve released two albums: The Switch in 2017 and Coro Drive in 2019.

They now have a new single, ‘Summer You’, a pop-country anthem that was produced by Matthew Copley. It marks a new songwriting era for the pair, who wrote the song together, and they have plenty of plans for the future, as I discovered when we spoke recently.

For more about Route 33: https://www.facebook.com/route33entertainment/

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Shyanne Irwin is where she wants to be

Sat, 16 Dec 2023 22:39:24 GMT

Shyanne Irwin is a singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who grew up in the Hunter region of New South Wales and currently lives in Newcastle. She released the album Out of This Town last year and has a brand new single, ‘Where I Want to Be’.

'Last year was my first year of living away from home and studying at uni, so this song has all the feelings of loneliness and sadness of moving away,' says Irwin. 'It’s all about leaving behind familiar faces and the memories of a small town to pursue my dreams in the city and how I navigated that change. Despite the feelings of loneliness, it’s also got a feeling of purpose and determination because I know I’m where I should be for my future.'

Irwin is a multi-instrumentalist as well as a singer and songwriter, and it became clear during our recent chat that she is passionate about and devoted to music, and to sharing it with others.

For more about Shyanne Irwin: https://shyanneirwin.com.au/

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Jo Caseley and the heart in her Heartstrings

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 22:00:02 GMT

Jo Caseley is a singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from the Southern Highlands of New South Wales who recently released her moving third album, High on Heartstrings. It’s been a big year because she also attended the Academy of Country Music in Tamworth at the start of the year.

In this interview Caseley talks honestly about the challenges of finding time for a creative life amidst marriage, motherhood, running a household and running a business. She also talks about the songs she hasn't released, and what's ahead at the 2024 Tamworth Country Music Festival.

For more on Jo Caseley: https://www.jocaseley.com/

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Zac Cross on new single 'Too Far Gone'

Sun, 10 Dec 2023 22:00:12 GMT

Zac Cross Band are a four-piece from Rockhampton in Queensland with members Zac Cross (lead vocals, guitar), Lachlan Plant (lead guitar, backing vocals), Joe O'Shaughnessy (bass) and Bailey Connor (percussion). They released the EP Times Like These last year and have an album in the works.

Their new single is ‘Too Far Gone’, which was initiated by Connor. 'Bailey was constantly sending me lyrics,’ recalls Cross. 'They all had a similar sentiment in that feeling of missing someone. The feeling just straight up sucks. So, we wanted to make a song that tells a story of a fresh love and those first-

time feelings that you experience with someone new.'

Recently I spoke to Zac Cross about the song, the formation of the band, and about his own songwriting process, which comes from a place of authenticity and a willingness to connect with an audience.

For more on Zac Cross Band: https://www.zaccrossband.com/

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Les Thomas on new album All My Friends are Superstars

Sun, 10 Dec 2023 00:01:08 GMT

Les Thomas is a Naarm/Melbourne born and based singer and songwriter whose his first album, Survivor’s Tale, was released in 2013. His latest album, All My Friends are Superstars, was released this year. His songs are thoughtful, compassionate and vivid evocations of daily life, and they are just as impactful performed live as on the record.

Thomas also runs the website Unpaved, which documents the music scene in his home town, and has a background in journalism. When we spoke recently he had lots of interesting things to say about songwriting, community and activism. It was a great pleasure to interview him.

For more on Les Thomas: https://lesthomasmusic.com/

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Katie Brooke uplifts with 'Too Far Down'

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 23:00:27 GMT

Katie Brooke grew up on the land and - after time away, including some years in Tamworth - has returned to live on the land in the Northern Rivers district of New South Wales. She released a self-titled EP in 2020 and her debut album, Sticks, Stones and Stories, last year. She now has a really lovely new single, ‘Too Far Down’, which is actually a song about standing up for oneself.

'“Too Far Down" is a vulnerable song,' Brooke says. 'It speaks of comparison and the temptation to stray from your path, abandoning yourself in attempt to seek approval or personal gain.'

We spoke recently about the song, the album and Brooke's musical life - as well as some of the more esoteric parts of creativity.

For more about Katie Brooke: https://www.katiebrookemusic.com/

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Denvah on doing a lot with 'Do Without'

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 22:00:31 GMT

Denvah is a singer and songwriter from central Queensland who has had a big 2023 and the year isn’t over yet. She was the winner of the 2023 Gympie Music Muster Talent Search, a 2023 Toyota Star Maker Grand Finalist and has just been named the winner of the Groundwater Kix Start competition. She released an EP in 2020 and there have been other singles since. Her latest is ‘Do Without’.

The song is, says Denvah, 'the result of me stopping and comprehending all that had happened, almost as if the song was a diary entry. The writing process for this song happened quickly, for I feel the lyrics consist of all the things I never said, so it spilled out from my head to paper rather fast.'

We talked about the new song, and other songs, and also about Denvah's experiences with those prestigious competitions.

More about Denvah: https://www.denvah.com/

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James Johnston on being Raised Like That

Sun, 19 Nov 2023 22:00:00 GMT

James Johnston’s debut album RAISED LIKE THAT made history as Australia’s largest debut country album. It has reached #1 on the ARIA Top 20 Australian Albums (All Genres) and the #1 on the ARIA Top 20 Australian Country Albums. Johnston has spent over 115 consecutive weeks in the Top 20 of the Country Hot 50 National airplay chart, amassed over 55 million global streams, delivered six #1 airplay hits, received two Golden Guitar awards (from six nominations) and played many festivals.

I first interviewed Johnston towards the end of 2021, with the interview published in January 2022, and the trajectory of his career has been absolutely no surprise. Johnston worked diligently at honing his performance and songwriting skills for years before he recorded and released even one song. Since those first singles he's also become expert at social media, something we discussed in relation to his single 'Same Songs'. This latest interview is the fourth time we've spoken, and this time it's about the album, which is a magnum opus from an artist who is only just beginning. In this chat Johnston talks about how being 'raised like that' was the theme for not just that first single but the album itself. We also spoke about his current tour.

For more about James Johnston: https://jamesjohnston.com/

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Corey Legge on 'Friday Nights', European tour and new album

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 22:00:47 GMT

Originally from Bega in New South Wales, Corey Legge now lives in Wollongong. He’s a prolific songwriter, releasing three albums in quick succession and now anticipating a fourth, produced by Nash Chambers. Legge's latest single is ‘Friday Nights’.

It would be easy to say Legge is a prolific songwriter, given his output, but it's probably more correct to say that he's a committed one, because that word more accurately reflects his consistency and work ethic, balancing other work with his music, never resting on his laurels.

This year he’s also done some touring in the Netherlands, Germany and Belgium, and we talk about that as well as 'Friday Nights' and the upcoming album.

For more about Corey Legge: https://www.coreylegge.com/

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Shara Rose on four-chord songs, stagecraft and so much more

Sun, 12 Nov 2023 19:18:59 GMT

Shara Rose is a singer, songwriter and professional dancer, so music is in all aspects of her life. Originally from Perth, she now lives in New South Wales. This year she’s been on tour with Jason Owen and Tania Kernaghan, and she’s been releasing singles, ‘Coming Home’ and the latest, ‘Four Chord Song’.

Shara and I had a long conversation because she has many interesting and insightful things to say, apart stagecraft and performance, songwriting and music in general. We also spoke at length about her song 'Hold On' and what inspired it: her experiences with endometriosis. I appreciated her candour about the difficulties this condition has presented her with as a performance and no doubt others will appreciate having their experiences acknowledged simply by her talking about them, given that endometriosis is a chronic condition that affects many women yet it's not talked about as openly as it should be.

For more about Shara Rose: https://www.shararosemusic.com/

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John Spence on new single 'Burning Sky'

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 22:00:30 GMT

John Spence was a member of the 1990s band The Fargone Beauties, which turned rock songs into bluegrass songs and whose members included James Gillard of The Flood. Since then John has worked behind the scenes in the music industry but he's now back behind the microphone with the songs 'Burning Sky' and '(Everybody Wants to be a) Winner'.

'Burning Sky' is the story of young friends who undertake an adventure to the far west in search of mining work. 'The idea was to dedicate a year or so of hard labour to build a cash reserve to set them up for later endeavours,' says Spence. 'But ongoing droughts and tough economic conditions bring about the demise of the town and its industry, forcing some hard decisions about whether to pursue their outback dream, or head back to the city. It is not an entirely fictional story, and based on the ongoing challenges of remote communities in ever deteriorating harsh environments.'

Spence has had a fascinating career that has now brought him back to original music. It was great to have the chance to find out more about all of it, including the story of how The Fargone Beauties came to be.

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Kayla Mahon is a witness to love

Sat, 04 Nov 2023 22:00:34 GMT

Kayla Mahon is an artist from Gore on the South Island of Aotearoa New Zealand who was the winner of the coveted 2000 and 2008 New Zealand Overall Gold Guitar Award. She was also one half of country music duo The Heartleys, releasing two albums. This year she has been working on a new solo album and from it comes the new single ‘Love’s Got a Witness’.

'This song was inspired by one of my best friends who was out dating,' says Mahon. 'My friend had met someone pretty special and she wasn’t sure what was happening, she had never been in love before. Seeing her light up when she talked about him, and sharing her feelings of butterflies I could see in no time she would be falling in love. It was so gorgeous to witness something so magical for her. If you have been lucky enough to fall in love, let this song take down memory lane.'

Mahon and I talked about the song and her rich family musical history, which continues through the youngest generations.

For more about Kayla Mahon: https://www.kaylamahon.com/

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Nathan Lamont on 'Drink You Up'

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 22:00:24 GMT

Nathan Lamont grew up around Wagga Wagga in New South Wales and has been a performer for several years, appearing on television show The Voice twice, as well as twice being a Toyota Star Maker Grand Finalist, and for good reason: Lamont is a wonderful singer. He has now released a country-pop single, 'Drink You Up’.

The Wiradjuri man forged his musical path from a young age, despite some obstacles, including going in and out of foster care. It was his stepmother Millie who brought him into country music, as she was the president of the Leeton Country Music Association.

Lamont says of his songs, 'I try to write music that is uplifting or positive, I struggle to tap into my struggles as it unravels too many unaddressed things from the past.' New single 'Drink You Up' is a glorious tribute to Lamont's wife, and I asked him about that and many other things when we chatted recently.

For more on Nathan Lamont: linktr.ee/nathanlamontofficial

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Jimbo Stokes and his 'Same Damn Walls'

Sat, 28 Oct 2023 22:00:46 GMT

Jimbo Stokes grew up on the land near Tamworth in New South Wales and spent the first part of his working life in the corporate world in Sydney before moving back to the New England region, where he now works in the arts. He released his exceptional debut single, 'Atlas', last year then followed it with 'Headed Country'.

His latest single is 'Same Damn Walls', which - like his first two singles - has elements of his personal story in it and was produced by Rod McCormack. All three singles have shown Stokes to be an artist with a clear vision of the stories he wishes to tell and the skills to bring them to audiences clearly and appropriately to each song. His training as an operatic tenor has no doubt helped with his delivery, but it all stems from his desire to be authentic as an artist. Stokes is working on an EP, and we talked about that, his songwriting and more.

More about Jimbo Stokes: https://jimbostokes.com/

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Kiara Rodrigues on new single 'Ain't Your Rehab'

Sun, 22 Oct 2023 22:00:00 GMT

Kiara Rodrigues grew up in Far North Queensland and she now lives in New South Wales. Over the past few months she’s released the singles ‘High School Reunion’ and ‘Message in a Bottle’. Her latest single is the powerful ‘Ain’t Your Rehab’.

Says Rodrigues: 'I wrote this song thinking about how sometimes we go into relationships thinking we can fix someone and put them back together again. That can often come at the price of our own wellbeing, and its inevitably unachievable.'

We talked about the new song and Rodrigues's plans for her EP, which will be released before the end of the year. She is a songwriter with a talent for writing memorable melodies and covering relatable subjects with a fresh perspective, which means you never know what to expect from her songs - in a good way. It was great to have the chance to talk to her again.

For more about Kiara Rodrigues: https://www.kiararodriguesmusic.com/

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Mikhail Laxton on his impressive debut album

Sat, 21 Oct 2023 22:00:00 GMT

Mikhail Laxton is a singer-songwriter from the KuKu Yalanji tribe in Mossman, Far North Queensland, who now calls the province of Ontario in Canada home. Laxton's music has influences of Americana, country, folk rock and blues and all of those are present on his excellent self-titled debut album. There's a range of stories and moods on this album; what the songs have in common is that they're irresistible.

Laxton and I had a wide-ranging conversation when we spoke recently, talking about how songwriting helped him manage depression, what it was like to embark on a career in a different country, and the Rabbitohs. And given that many years ago I did a stint on Canadian university radio and a street-press music magazine, I relished the chance to find out what was happening in the Canadian music scene, of which Laxton is now a part. Hopefully he'll return to home shores at some point, though, so we have a chance to see him play these wonderful songs live and experience the passionate entertainer who is so evident on the album.

For more about Mikhail Laxton: https://mikhaillaxton.com/

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Josie on her new single, 'Freight Man'

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 22:00:45 GMT

North Queensland artist Josie released her debut single, ‘Down Here’, earlier this year and it’s had over 140 000 streams already. Her latest single is ‘Freight Man’, which she wrote with multiple Golden Guitar winner Travis Collins. The song is a tribute to her truck-driving father, and it was recorded with producers MSquared.

'"Freight Man" struck a chord with them, they knew it had to be one of the songs we recorded,' says Josie. 'The vocal recording for this song was way different to "Down Here", I sang through the entire song top to bottom three times, and that was it. This song’s performance just came so naturally filled with passion and emotion, which made the recording process for this one so easy.'

During our recent chat Josie talked about the song as well as the significant health challenges she has had to manage in order to pursue her music dreams. She was a delight to talk to, as she was the first time I interviewed her.

For more about Josie: linktr.ee/josieofficiall

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Sweet Talk and their 'Warm Love'

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 22:00:43 GMT

Sweet Talk are a six-piece band from Melbourne who released an EP last year and now have a brand new single, ‘Warm Love’. Two of the six members are brothers Tane and Soren Walker, who talked to me about the formation of the band and about the song - and also about their musical bond. It is immediately evident how much regard they have for each other as humans and musicians, and that set the tone for the rest of the interview. At the risk of sounding outrageously twee, their affection for each other matches the title of the song. They were an absolute pleasure to talk to.

'Warm Love' has a video clip - which you can see below - and you can see Sweet Talk live on the following dates:

27th October – Bridge Hotel – Castlemaine, VIC

28th October – The Eastern Hotel – Ballarat, VIC

29th October – The Barwon Club – South Geelong, VIC

3rd November – Music on the Hill – Main Ridge, VIC

4th November – Archies Creek Hotel – Archies Creek, VIC

10th – 12th November – Blues at Bridgetown – Bridgetown, WA

For more about Sweet Talk: https://www.sweettalkmusic.com.au/

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Matt Joe Gow & Kerryn Fields and the art and flow of collaboration

Sat, 14 Oct 2023 22:57:38 GMT

Matt Joe Gow and Kerryn Fields are compatriots from Aotearoa New Zealand who both live in Melbourne. As individuals they have both released albums, Joe Gow with his fourth album, Between Tonight & Tomorrow released earlier this year, Fields with her second album, Water, in 2021. Now they are collaborators, releasing the single ‘Your Heart of Gold’ earlier this year and with a new single, ‘Love Ya Like I Can’, and an accompanying tour (dates below).

For two strong individual performers with their own interests and identities, a flowing, fruitful collaboration isn't a foregone conclusion. In this interview Joe Gow and Fields not only talk about but demonstrate why theirs works, not as a sum that is greater than its parts but a different entity that is at once formed yet shifting. Their first two releases - so different to each other yet complementary - indicate that whatever they shift to next, it will be inherently worth listening to.

See Matt Joe Gow & Kerryn Fields live:

Oct 16 – Brunswick Ballroom, Wurundjeri (Melbourne) VIC **

Oct 18 - The Great Club, Gadigal (Sydney) NSW **

Oct 19 – El Horses, Dharawal (Nowra) NSW

Oct 20 – Kangaroo Valley Folk Festival, Wodi Wodi NSW

Oct 21 – Bootleggers, Dharug/Gundungurra (Katoomba) NSW

Oct 22 – Petersham Bowls Club, Gadigal (Sydney) NSW

Nov 10 – Odessa at Leavers Hotel, Dja Dja Wurrung (Crewswick) VIC

Nov 11 – House on The Hill, Wurundjeri (Melbourne) VIC

Nov 18 – The Junk Bar, Meanjin (Brisbane) QLD

Nov 25 – Marysville Music Festival, Taungurung (Marysville) VIC

** Supporting Melissa Carper & Summer Dean

For more about Matt Joe Gow: https://mattjoegowmusic.com/

For more about Kerryn Fields: https://www.kerrynfields.com/

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Jeremy Edwards and his Ghosts

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 23:45:49 GMT

Jeremy Edwards is a singer and songwriter from Thirroul in New South Wales who has performed with his band, Dust Radio, as well as releasing music under his own name. Ghosts is his latest album and it is a collection of songs that are poignant, sometimes bittersweet and ultimately hopeful.

Edwards made Ghosts with a cohort of friends and collaborators. '2021-22 was a prolific time for me regarding writing and collaboration,' he says. 'Being able to create through this period was such a gift and was often with dear friends who I admire greatly, friends with who I’ve shared much joy and sadness in the last years.'

When Edwards and I spoke recently we talked about that joy and sadness, about his musical life and all sorts of other things.

For more about Jeremy Edwards: https://jeremyedwards.au/

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Benny Elder on Longing for Change

Sat, 07 Oct 2023 00:29:57 GMT

Benny Elder is a singer and songwriter from Brisbane who has released several singles, the latest of which are 'Longing for Change' and 'She's Still Blowin' in the Wind'.

Elder says of 'Longing for Change' that it 'is for everyone out there that works themselves to the bone chasing big dreams, and a life they think is going to make them happy. It’s coming to the realisation that enjoying the journey is the most important part of the process, and trying to slow down and observe what’s around them before it’s gone is the secret to fulfilment.'

While music is Elder's present, and he is fully immersed in it,

it wasn't his past: he's a mechanical engineer by trade, and I asked him about that as well as his songwriting and singing.

For more about Benny Elder: linktr.ee/_bennyelder

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Jon from J.V. Rail on 'Enough for Me'

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 22:00:40 GMT

J.V. Rail are a four-piece alt-country band from Western Australia who have released several singles over the past couple of years, the latest of which is ‘Enough for Me’.

Says the band of their new song, 'In a world of show, greed and constant need for attention, "Enough For Me" is the antithesis it seems many need reminding of. Simple, small town country life with its simple pleasures that mean the most. Fun, friends and family. It tells the stories of hard-working people hitting the weekend. A cold drink, Friday night football, clean wheels and good company. What more do you need?'

Recently I spoke to Jon Veitch (the J.V. of J.V. Rail) about how the band came together, how it was named and what lies ahead.

For more on J.V. Rail: https://www.instagram.com/jvrail/

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Angus Gill on departures and Departure & Arrival

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 22:00:23 GMT

Angus Gill is a Golden Guitar winning singer, songwriter, musician and producer who always has one interesting project or another on the go. His latest is the album Departure & Arrival, recorded with Seasons of Change, who also appeared on his album 3 Minute Movies. Across all of his music Gill is a thoughtful, observant songwriter who excels at selecting details of life which become stories in his songs.

Gill is in the middle of planning a departure of his own, to Nashville, Tennessee. For a prolific songwriter and songwriting collaborator, it's a natural destination. Before then, though, he is looking ahead to the 2024 Tamworth Country Music Festival, where he'll play two shows, on 21 and 26 January.

For more about Angus Gill: https://angusgill.com.au/

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Katelann Maree on songs, faith and dedication

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 23:00:54 GMT

Katelann Maree is a singer and songwriter from Miles in Queensland who released her debut EP, the bittersweet Different Kind of High, in 2021. She is an artist who is dedicated to improving as a performer and songwriter and open to learning all the time, attending the Academy of Country Music as well as the Gympie Song Muster, where she has collaborated with other writers including Linc Phelps and Amy Ryan, with whom she wrote her latest single, 'Let Him Go'

Katelann Maree has plans to record and release more songs - when she finds the time amongst a full life that includes two children, running her own business and other responsibilities. In the meantime her recorded music gives us an insight into her life and hopes for the future.

For more about Katelann Maree: https://www.facebook.com/katelannmareemusic/

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Jazmyn's Garden keeps getting greener

Sat, 23 Sep 2023 23:00:52 GMT

Jazmyn is a photographer, music video creator and designer from south-east Queensland. She is also a singer and songwriter who has released her debut EP, Garden, which is full of heart and soul and lovely melodies.

The title track was the first single from the EP, followed by 'Mother' and new single 'Lay Your Guns Down', for which Jazmyn has - appropriately, given the other work she does - made a stunning video. Final tracks 'God and I' and 'Keep Getting Greener' round out a five-track package that has been a long time in the making, given Jazmyn's enduring passion for music.

We discussed Jazmyn's musical background, the new single and its video, and much more - for anyone looking to be inspired by someone who lives in constant creative flow, it's well worth your time.

For more about Jazmyn: https://www.jazmynproduces.com/

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Blake Dantier and Cass Hopetoun on 'Some Things Never Get Old'

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 23:02:55 GMT

Cass Hopetoun and Blake Dantier both released debut albums in 2022, Hopetoun with Not Your Typical Bride and Dantier with Dry Season, and both found themselves nominated for the 2023 Golden Guitar for New Talent of the Year. In the past year they also got married and became parents, so there's been a lot going on.

While it may seem natural for the pair to record together, they've only now released their first duet ‘Some Things Never Get Old’. It was produced by Dantier and Simon Johnson, who worked together on Dry Season, and mixed by Matt Fell, who produced Not Your Typical Bride. It's a dream team for a song that's all about appreciating moments and memories.

We spoke recently about 'Some Things Never Get Old' as well as songwriting process and those competing Golden Guitar nominations.

For more about Cass Hopetoun: https://www.casshopetoun.com.au/

For more about Blake Dantier: https://blakedantier.com.au/

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Andy Penkow and his Aussie Rain

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 23:00:34 GMT

Andy Penkow released his second album, Love, Lies & Dirty Dishes, last year and and received a Golden Guitar nomination for Bush Ballad of the year. He has already released some brand new music this year, the singles 'Driving You Home' and his latest, ‘Aussie Rain'.

‘As a full time musician, I get the amazing opportunity to travel across Australia and visit some pretty neat places,’ Penkow explains. ‘I first visited a small town in outback New South Wales called Coonabarabran a few years back and I felt an instant connection. There was something so special and unique about it. The people, the land, the history, the nighttime stars, it really moved me. “Aussie Rain” is a love letter to the town, to thank them for being part of my journey as an artist, singer and songwriter.’

Recently I spoke to Penkow about the song and its video, as well as his travels to Nashville and Canada, as well as what music means to him.

For more about Andy Penkow: https://www.andypenkow.com/

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Small Town Romance keep the Home Fires burning

Sat, 16 Sep 2023 23:00:12 GMT

Small Town Romance is a duo from Melbourne whose members are Flora Smith and Jim Arneman. After releasing their self-titled debut album in 2016 they released the single ‘I Don’t Believe You’ in 2020. Their latest single is the enchanting ‘Home Fires’, taken from their forthcoming second album.

Both Smith and Arneman have rich musical backgrounds. Arneman is a part of a grand Australian country music lineage: his mother, Anne Kirkpatrick, is the daughter of Slim Dusty and Joy McKean and a cherished artist in her own right. Smith too has taken a fascinating path through playing, writing and performing music, as I discovered when I talked to them both recently.

Arneman is also a filmmaker who not only created the documentary 2020 Slim & I but makes the video clips for Small Town Romance, and we spoke about that too.

For more about Small Town Romance: https://www.smalltownromance.com.au/

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Matt Malone on new album For the Term of My Natural Life

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 23:13:20 GMT

When starting an interview, even with artists I've interviewed before, I have no expectations about which direction the conversation may take. Part of the fun and fascination of interviewing is the not-knowing: anything can happen, and it is always going to be interesting.

Before interviewing Victorian artist Matt Malone I knew that in For the Term of My Natural Life, his third LP, he'd produced an album full of epic mini-tales (perhaps that's a contradiction in terms, but it fits here) and thought there would be a story there about, well, storytelling. The interview moved away from music fairly quickly but came back to it, and over its course Malone was indeed fascinating to talk to. The interview could have gone much longer but attention spans being what they are, we kept it under half an hour, so you then have time to go and listen to his album.

For more about Matt Malone: https://mattmaloneandtheholyspirits.bandcamp.com/album/for-the-term-of-my-natural-life

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Zara Lindeman & Eloise Rayner are Fallin' for a Cowboy

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 23:00:22 GMT

Eloise Rayner is a singer-songwriter from Sydney and Zara Lindeman is a singer-songwriter from the Riverina region of New South Wales. They attended the Academy of Country Music together and have recorded a new song, 'Fallin' for a Cowboy'.

It was great to talk to this talented pair about how they came to write together and what they have planned, and how they work together given the geographic distance between them. The interview was done on the day they recorded their single, so the experience was very fresh in their minds.

For more about Zara Lindeman: https://www.facebook.com/zaralindemanmusic/

For more about Eloise Rayner: https://www.instagram.com/eloiseraynermusic/

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Gotta Get to Know Camille Trail

Sun, 10 Sep 2023 23:00:19 GMT

Camille Trail is a Queensland artist who was nominated for a Golden Guitar for Best New Talent after releasing her impressive debut album, River of Sins, in 2021. The album was top 5 in the ARIA Country chart and also led to a Queensland Music Award nomination.

Since then Trail has played at Folk Alliance at Kansas City and released a new song, ‘Gotta Get to Know You’. When she wrote the song, says Trail, ‘my long-term partner and I had split up and it was that moment where … what do I do now? I moved to a whole new place, I got new friends, new hobbies, completely started over. Everything is new and different and exciting now and I wanted the music to reflect that as well.'

Trail is a powerful singer-songwriter and her new song is further proof of that. It was a pleasure to speak to her recently about that and find out what she's been up to lately.

For more about Camille Trail: https://www.camilletrail.com/

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One song brings Kaylens Rain back

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 23:00:00 GMT

Kaylens Rain was formed by siblings Glen Harrison and Kaylee Stewart. They released two albums of great country pop, In Our Blood in 2016 and Found in 2018, then took a long break to focus on their young families. Kaylens Rain have now returned with Stewart's husband, Joel, as a member and a new song called, appropriately, ‘One Song Brings You Back’.

The song was originally pitched to the band in 2018 by Nashville-based writers Brett Rutledge and Jessica Campbell Waterman. 'We instantly fell in love with the ideals and meanings these words had for each of us at the time,' says the band. 'In collaboration with Brett and Jessica, we were able to rework the lyrics to tell our own story and added it to our live set. After spending the last few years raising our young families, it was a matter of finding the right time to release music again.

I spoke to Harrison about the song, about playing music with his sister, and more besides.

For more about Kaylens Rain: https://www.kaylensrain.com/

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Felicity Dowd and her Honeycomb & Glue

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 23:00:26 GMT

Felicity Dowd is a singer-songwriter from the south coast of New South Wales and CMAA Academy of Country Music graduate who released her first single, ‘Blue Skies’, last year. Her latest song is the quite lovely ‘Honeycomb & Glue’.

'This song has seemed to connect well with so many different people. It’s about the couples that don’t make sense on paper, they’re a bit abrasive, but no matter what, they’re strong relationships and stick together through thick and thin,' says Dowd of her single.

'They support each other through hard times. This can also relate to families, and all those connections that can last through as many different circumstances as possible - that’s a beautiful thing. I think of this as a mature love song because they’re stuck in love. The song is also very Australian.'

Dowd spends a lot of her time on the road, living in a caravan while studying at university and playing gigs. It was such a treat to talk to her recently and find out more about this talented, inspiring artist.

For more about Felicity Dowd: https://www.felicitydowd.com.au/

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Tammy Moxon gets Comfy

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 23:00:33 GMT

Tammy Moxon released the album Drive Me Sane in 2019 then the brand new single ‘Fighting Chance’ earlier this year. At the same time as writing and recording music she keeps up a brisk performing pace in her hometown of Townsville in Queensland.

Moxon now has a great new follow-up single, ‘Comfy’. 'It was the first song I wrote in that three months of the initial pandemic shutdown,' says Moxon. 'I was determined to write a happy love song ... The definition of "comfy" according to me – the state of contentment in a relationship. Knowing, without a doubt, that your partner is right for you. Feeling like you can be yourself in his presence and still get butterflies.'

Moxon and I had a chance to chat about 'Comfy' and quite a few other things.

For more about Tammy Moxon: https://www.tammymoxon.com/

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Luke O'Shea finds the Next Best Thing

Mon, 04 Sep 2023 23:00:30 GMT

Luke O’Shea has won a lot of Golden Guitars – sixteen – and two of those were won this year for the song ‘South East Queensland’ and its video, which O'Shea co-directed with Jay Seeney. The last time O'Shea won a Golden Guitar for a video it was only last year, for ‘Long Way round’, performed with Ashleigh Dallas and the video also co-directed with Seeney.

O'Shea has now reunited with Dallas for the single ‘Next Best Thing’, which is also the title of his forthcoming album. They are a fantastic pair, bringing joy and depth to their joint projects, as they do to their solo work. O'Shea is always interesting to talk to and this time we talked about 'Next Best Thing', making music videos, songwriting and more.

For more about Luke O'Shea: https://lukeoshea.com/

See Luke O'Shea at Kangaroo Valley Folk Festival (NSW) - https://www.kangaroovalleyfolkfestival.com.au/tickets

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The two sides of the story of The Pleasures

Sat, 02 Sep 2023 23:53:17 GMT

Catherine Britt and Lachlan Bryan have so many awards and nominations between them that you'd be reading for a while if they were listed, but suffice to say they are two of the most eminent singer-songwriters in Australian music and luckily for us they decided to work together as The Pleasures.

They have released several singles, including 'Every Story Has Two Sides, and have now released their debut album. It is called The Beginning of the End but hopefully it is just the start for this pair, who have brought their formidable talents, skills and experience to this project along with considerable respect for each other and an openness to whatever their collaboration may bring. And it has brought a singular album that is full of fire, reflection, melancholy and momentum.

I spoke to Britt and Bryan about it recently, and what a fascinating chat it was - an insight into the process of bringing this magnificent album to life.

For more about The Pleasures: https://thepleasuresmusic.com/

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There's Something About Brittany Elise

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 11:27:45 GMT

This year Queensland artist Brittany Elise has been named a finalist at the Independent Country Music Awards for Female Artist of the Year and Album of the Year, and she has recently returned from performing at CMA Fest in Nashville. Last year she was a Grand Finalist in the Toyota Star Maker competition and released her second album, Just Be. She has just released a brand new song, ‘Something About This Town’.

'I wrote this song about all the beautiful small-town people in sunny Queensland where I live, who have always believed in me. I also took inspiration from the people and places I have visited on tour and finished with the feelings I felt whilst living in Nashville, Tennessee,' says Brittany Elise of the song.

We talked about the new song and Brittany Elise's four months in Nashville, where she played CMA Fest, as well as her songwriting.

For more about Brittany Elise, including tour dates, go to: https://brittanyelisemusic.com/

Listen to 'Something About This Town' on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3YZzVnU

Listen to 'Something About This Town' on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1UxAKBAttPaTJFHUoELrQa?si=U4hPp75SQqqAPPsEmLAMFA

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Chloe Styler on her Side B

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 23:00:00 GMT

A few months ago country-pop artist Chloe Styler released the EP Side A, always with the intention of releasing Side B, which she now has. Side B is more introspective in tone that its sister release, with first track and current single 'Hometownless' leading listeners deep into Styler's heart.

'These five songs mark the end of a six-year chapter of my life, and to be honest, I’m really looking forward to leaving these memories in the past,' says Styler.

In between her A and B Sides Styler played at CMA Fest in Nashville, which was far from the first festival she's played as she's appeared at Falls Festival, Gympie Muster, Deni Ute Muster and Groundwater.

She is also not resting on her laurels, as I found out when we spoke recently, as she is already working on new music.

For more about Chloe Styler: https://www.chloestyler.com/

Listen to Side B on Apple Music: https://apple.co/45QD3ou

Listen to Side B on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/0IqgLQnE3JCcNmdj71B1Oi?si=emqTuQQFRwaZV0rInwNDLg

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Matt Joe Gow on his remarkable reprise of 'Between Tonight & Tomorrow'

Sat, 26 Aug 2023 23:01:00 GMT

Earlier this year Matt Joe Gow released his fourth album, the excellent Between Tonight & Tomorrow, then he set out on a tour of his homeland, Aotearoa New Zealand with compatriot Kerryn Fields and they released the song ‘Your Heart of Gold’. There will be more releases from the pair but Joe Gow has also returned to the title track of his album and with longtime collaborator Andrew Pollock recorded a different, remarkable version of it, after a strong audience response to the song as he has toured it in Australia and New Zealand.

The reprise version of 'Between Tonight & Tomorrow' is the single from the EP Closer to Tomorrow, which also features electronic remixes of the song, suggested by sound engineer Chris Elliott. Joe Gow and I had a chat about this project recently - and while an interview wouldn't usually focus on one song alone, if ever a song deserved it, this is the one.

For more about Matt Joe Gow: https://mattjoegowmusic.com/

Listen to Closer to Tomorrow on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3YVP8WX

Listen to Closer to Tomorrow on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/1dHmenNYjzlW0IfMxNEA2i?si=r6aCFgnHSdOx4hLC49pn7g

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Chris Carrapetta on new album Nothing Left to Lose

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 23:01:34 GMT

Chris Carrapetta is an alt-country artist from Sydney who released the EP I’m Not a Stranger last year and recently released the album Nothing Left to Lose, which contains the singles 'This is Not the End' and 'Golden Mile', and showcases Carrapetta's soaring vocals.

'The title Nothing Left to Lose is mostly about expressing the idea that once you get to a certain point in your life where you stop caring so much about what people think about you and who you are, it’s about feeling comfortable in who you are in your own skin and feeling less that you have to try hard to fit in or be someone you are not,' says Carrapetta.

We spoke about the album recently, and delved into Carrapetta's musical past.

For more about Chris Carrapetta: https://www.chriscarrapetta.com/

Listen to Nothing Left to Lose on Apple Music: https://apple.co/47Gh8Su

Listen to Nothing Left to Lose on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/3gQb3tphgnTBZmrKU7EFPy?si=GO8ntXhXQjGSARjJNgjvIg

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TC Cassidy is Alive Again

Tue, 22 Aug 2023 23:00:52 GMT

TC Cassidy released the album Travelling Heart last year after a long absence from country music (and we talked prior to its release). It was nominated for a Golden Guitar for Traditional Country Album of the Year, which was quite the comeback. And the theme of a comeback is also present in TC’s latest single, ‘Alive Again’.

Once again Cassidy recorded with Angus Gill, who produced Travelling Heart. 'We were talking about what to record next when Angus mentioned this song that he wrote with Alan Mackey, Tim James and Rivers Rutherford,' says Cassidy.

The song was born in 1976 when Mackey was working with TV show Countdown. 'Alan started writing the song, but then shared the concept with Angus (decades later), and they co-wrote it with Tim James who has written for Chris Stapleton and Rivers Rutherford who wrote 'When I Get Where I’m Going" for Brad Paisley and Dolly Parton,' says Cassidy.

The theme of 'alive again' has special resonance for Cassidy who has, as I discovered in our latest interview, overcome considerable challenges in order to be able to embrace music again.

For more about TC Cassidy: https://www.tccassidy.net/

Listen to 'Alive Again' on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3KR6fUh

Listen to 'Alive Again' on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/1VWrQSrvdXdINdU10CukfF?si=a3b64d357b964373

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Jade Holland on the wild in her

Sat, 19 Aug 2023 23:00:26 GMT

Jade Holland has released two albums, Dream Wild and Leather & Les Paul, and followed them last year with the completely infectious single ‘Oh My Heart’. She now has a new single, ‘Wild in Me’, which is captivating in a different way.

The song was written by Holland with Alys Ffion, and is, says Holland, 'a story about how sometimes we carry our heartbreaks through to the next relationship and don’t really notice that they are holding us back from finding "the one".' But, says Holland, 'Jade says: 'Once you meet "the one", finally those heartbreaks all seem to disappear. It makes way for this new found love in your life and those small pieces of you that were being held back, have now been embraced by this new human who loves you for exactly all that you are.'

During our chat Holland talked candidly about the writing and recording of 'Wild in Me' as well as other aspects of her life as an artist and how she embraces not only the wild in her but the wild life of creativity.

For more about Jade Holland: https://jadeholland.com/

Listen to Jade Holland on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3KLmoKK

Listen to Jade Holland on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0fHLzgaigV23z0vU2cji3h?si=YzkbcA53T5Oki3lxiaNgcA

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Megan Baragry on 'Me and Carrie'

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 23:00:00 GMT

Megan Baragry is a singer and songwriter from Goulburn in New South Wales who released her first single, ‘How Can I Not’, last year and has recently released her second, ‘Me and Carrie’. The song was inspired by Carrie Underwood, and almost didn't happen after Baragry had early doubts, as I discovered when we chatted recently.

And during the course of our chat I learned that Baragry is also inspired by Australian artist Amber Lawrence, who invited her on stage when she was eleven years old and sparked the musical fire in her. Baragry will be supporting Lawrence at her show in Goulburn on 13 October.

For more about Megan Baragry: https://www.facebook.com/megan.baragry.3/

Listen to Megan Baragry on Apple Music: https://apple.co/45eeWQA

Listen to Megan Baragry on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7E4mFRLVGB8SR84LVwLAFR?si=VqQDnZCvQ1ygwHvlekuOug

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Clint Wilson brings California to country on LA

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 23:00:00 GMT

Melburnian Clint Wilson released his debut album Dark Water in 2018. Another Death in the Family followed in 2020, reaching number 12 on ARIA Australian Country Charts and number 2 on the iTunes Country Albums Chart.

For his third album, LA, Wilson left Australia to record in California - as the album's title suggests - although this came about mostly through happenstance. While the country music influences are still there in Wilson's music the location of the recording has had a sonic influence on the songs, which have a different - one might say sunnier - tone than those of his previous albums. We talked about that, and other things, in our recent interview.

For more about Clint Wilson: https://www.clintwilsonmusic.com/

Listen to LA on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3OvPPBD

Listen to LA on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/4g9bl0pHWcK6o9L64XvBMa?si=9sS2ifORQ3K7cmvLUZ_8Rg

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Interview with Jessica Luxx

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 23:00:56 GMT

Jessica Luxx is a country/folk singer from regional South Australia who released her debut single, ‘Heavy Lifting’, last year. She has a new single, ‘The Temple’, ready for release soon. We talked about her music, of course, and the conversation also took an unexpectedly esoteric route ... but it all comes back to music in the end.

Luxx is a passionate artist who loves live performance, and on 18 August she will play at the Wheatsheaf Hotel in Adelaide for the Ramblin’ (Winter) Moon Revue with her band, which features Tom Kneebone (The Audreys, Max Savage), Jamie Harrison (John Schumann), Robin Anthony (Pocket String Quartet, Goanna) and Travis Demsey (The Living End).

More about Jessica Luxx: https://jessicaluxx.com/

Listen to Jessica Luxx on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3rZBWEa

Listen to Jessica Luxx on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5bxVJyEMC9991UI7RBwO9b?si=KhacBSO6RpyUhW0mPa9t9g

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The sun rises on Fanny Lumsden's Hey Dawn

Sat, 05 Aug 2023 23:00:28 GMT

There is a saying, 'A rising tide lifts all boats', and it's probably been used too much, or maybe I've heard it a lot lately, but it has another use and that is to in part describe Fanny Lumsden, eight-time Golden Guitar winner, ARIA winner, singer, songwriter, bandleader, video maker from the Upper Murray region of New South Wales. And that is because Lumsden is a rising tide.

Through her commitment to excellence in writing and making songs, in live shows, in music videos - in general a commitment to making great art - she inspires and encourages others to make their art. Through her Country Halls Tours she takes music to rural communities that may rarely, if ever, have musical artists come to play and that helps those communities feel connected and acknowledged - and also just helps them have a great evening's entertainment.

All the rivers of Lumsden’s creativity - to continue the water-based references - flow towards her recorded music, and her fourth album, Hey Dawn, is out now. It is also her fourth work of excellence in a row, and another reason why she's a rising tide: she keeps setting the bar for herself higher, and she keeps going over it. Everyone benefits from that, especially the listening public. I'm a fan for a reason and make no attempt to be impartial in covering Lumsden’s music, so it was an honour to talk to her about Hey Dawn recently.

For more about Fanny Lumsden: https://www.fannylumsden.net/

Listen to Hey Dawn on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3KoGslN

Listen to Hey Dawn on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/4OZpg10qc1BvbIq6xvVF9w?si=LQFYYlj8QKydIBaCKHk-Sw

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Nathan Seeckts creates a rare and beautiful new album

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 23:01:12 GMT

Nathan Seeckts is a singer and songwriter from Geelong in Victoria who released his first album, The Heart of the City, in 2019. He has been releasing some great singles over the past few months and they can be found on his new album, the richly layered, life-affirming Something Rare and Beautiful.

Seeckts has said of the album: 'I was at a stage where personally things were heading in a more positive direction and I really wanted to capture that feeling of hope in the songs and when we laid everything down in the studio.

'I became acutely aware of all the rare and beautiful moments rushing by us that we often take for granted in our lives and also the thousands of rare and beautiful elements of ourselves as human beings.'

It was a great pleasure to talk to Seeckts recently about the album and the stories behind it.

For more about Nathan Seeckts: https://www.nathanseeckts.com/

Listen to Something Rare and Beautiful on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/0qAdIxPe0bL9klDACbQJUw?si=oPEYdog5SKaa8TnN-Ekjgg

Listen to Something Rare and Beautiful on Apple Music: https://apple.co/43SI0eR

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Interview with Sari Abbott

Sat, 29 Jul 2023 04:57:12 GMT

Sari Abbott lives on the beautiful Sunshine Coast in Queensland, where she plays regularly. She was a finalist in this year’s Toyota Star Maker and has won or placed in several other competitions.

Her latest single is ‘Feels Like Home’, which was added to ABC Country, ABC's Grass Roots program and Australian Country Radio, and has had airplay on KIX Country, ABC Sunshine Coast, Sea FM, Zinc FM, and has enjoyed several weeks on the AMRAP Regional Chart.

The single was started at a musical festival and finished at a Song Culture workshop at Queensland University of Technology, where Abbott worked on it with James Johnston, Jared Adlam and Nolan Lynne.

Abbott will soon be playing at another festival, as she is a finalist in the 2023 Gympie Music Muster Talent Search.

We talked about the song, and plenty more, in our recent chat.

For more about Sari Abbott: https://sariabbottmusic.com.au/

Listen to Sari Abbott on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3q6iULP

Listen to Sari Abbott on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/23fxO7nqQTw4TY0O6N4wB4?si=gA_6SOVNQ1GmrtKoKxMgkw

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There's only Upside for Billie-Jo Porter

Sun, 23 Jul 2023 22:34:57 GMT

Billie-Jo Porter was a Grand Finalist in the 2022 Toyota Star Maker and has been steadily releasing singles over the past few months, including 'Upside'. Recently she released her self-titled debut album, which is a ray of musical sunshine.

Says Porter of the album, 'As I geared up to record my album, I couldn't help but wonder - what if this was my only shot at leaving a musical mark on the world? I quickly realised that I wanted to have fun, spread happiness and infuse some pure joy into people's lives! So, I decided to ditch the heartbreak tunes, the "you did me wrong" tracks, and the "screw you" songs.'

The result is a joyous experience for the listener that also gives us an insight into what Porter must be like to see live - and she has dates coming up listed below.

See Billie-Jo Porter live [all dates 2023]:

Friday 1st September - Hoey Moey, Coffs Harbour - NSW

Sunday 3rd September - Seaview Tavern, Woolgoolga - NSW

Sunday 10th September - Monthly Hit Of Country, Grafton - NSW

Sunday 17th September - Coramba Hotel, Coramba - NSW

For more about Billie-Jo Porter: https://www.billiejoporter.com/

Listen to Billie-Jo Porter on Apple Music: https://apple.co/44UKGd0

Listen to 'Billie-Jo Porter on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/1zUGtJKVnqknBO0dDsRCOC?si=sPcG6fx1RzmRxUD-57WvIg

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Josie is up and away with 'Down Here'

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 22:59:52 GMT

Josie is an artist from Queensland who has just released her first single, 'Down Here', although she's already had a long involvement in country music, attended the Junior Academy of Country Music, as a finalist in the 2019 Gympie Music Muster talent search and reaching the Top 10 of the 2022 Groundwater KIX Start competition.

Says Josie of creating 'Down Here', 'I took to streaming services to have a geez at what the top country artists are singing about. I noticed a trend amongst them. They all seemed to have an insatiable thirst for singing about American places and themes. I wanted to show the world that I'm more than just a mimic. I'm a genuine storyteller who can achieve that coveted mainstream sound without having to pretend I've got a deep-rooted connection to every nook and cranny of the good ol' U.S. of A.'

Josie has created an infectious song that depicts many aspects of the wide brown land, and she was also great to talk to in our recent interview - thoroughly interesting and entertaining.

For more about Josie: https://linktr.ee/josieofficiall

Listen to 'Down Here' on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3K7CZrQ

Listen to 'Down Here' on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/0FC44XRBIHsLBg32HpFHTL?si=gS30IMfIQzCMFMAvBeGlfA

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Nothin's Gonna Stop Tom Curtain

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 23:00:14 GMT

Living and working mainly in Katherine, NT, singer and songwriter Tom Curtain has been playing musical instruments since childhood and writing songs for almost as long. He won Golden Guitars in 2018 for his song ‘Never Never Land’, which was on his third album, Territory Time. He released his fourth album, We’re Still Here, in 2019 and his fifth, Nothin’s Gonna Stop Us, last year. Says Curtain of the album, 'There’re some funny upbeat songs, some serious ones that describe the life out here in the bush and a few really heartfelt songs that is new territory for me but I think they will strike a chord with fans.'

Curtain also runs the Katherine Outback Experience, which was awarded Gold and Silver in 2021 and 2022 respectively for the Best Tourist Attraction at the Australia Tourism Awards. He also takes it on the road several months of the year and will be doing so again from October this year.

We spoke about his music and his other ventures (and adventures). Curtain leads a busy, fascinating life and it was so interesting to hear about it. There's the occasional glitch in the recording - internet connections not always being stable things - but if you persevere you'll no doubt find as much gold from Curtain in our conversation as I did.

More about Tom Curtain: https://www.tomcurtain.com.au/

Listen to Nothin's Gonna Stop Us on Apple Music: https://apple.co/44sgJ47

Listen to Nothin's Gonna Stop Us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/7pCI1kdc7TP2KQxvfVv4MC?si=I6Iz-RCsSOmu_nVpPnMcpw

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Interview with Cassie Leopold of Darlinghurst

Sat, 15 Jul 2023 00:20:02 GMT

Darlinghurst are a four-piece band each of whose members has an extensive background in music. When they combined their talents they immediately captured listener attention and chart success. They released their self-titled album in 2021 and won the Golden Guitar for New Talent of the Year in 2022. Their latest single is 'Pretty Doesn't Make You Good'.

Recently I spoke to singer Cassie Leopold, who said of the single, 'Trying to escape what the world sells: "what success should look like" is a narrative that continues and one that has a much further reach than ever before. Our personal internal dialogue, self-deprecating, body loathing struggle is real, and this system is deeply unconscious, yet faithfully repeated.'

See Darlinghurst live:

Friday 11 August - Sooki Lounge, Belgrave - VIC

Saturday 9 August - The Beer Shed, Sydney - NSW

Friday 3 November - SS&A Club, Albury - VIC

Saturday 4 November - Molesworth Blue Grass & Country Music Festival - VIC

December 1-8 - Crusin’ Country

For more about Darlinghurst: https://www.darlinghurst-band.com/

Listen to Darlinghurst on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3PXB8JL

Listen to Darlinghurst on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3OjwjBrXRtZtqqmrjc9RYA?si=Nns9xeIcR4i8T5_MhpEFHQ

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Travis Collins goes for more on Any Less, Anymore

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 23:00:58 GMT

Travis Collins has released seven studio albums and one acoustic album of his last record, Wreck Me. He has had number 1 albums and won eight Golden Guitar awards and is one of the most dynamic live performers you’ll ever see. He now has a new album, Any Less Anymore, which debuted at #3 in the ARIA album charts, #2 in Australian artists and #1 on the country chart.

The album was created during the enforced time off the road brought about by the pandemic, when Collins could essentially no longer do his job. It is a life-affirming album that also showcases Collins's tremendous ability to entertain, and we spoke about it recently.

More about Travis Collins: https://www.traviscollins.com.au/

Listen to Any Less, Anymore on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3XNBm8k

Listen to Any Less, Anymore on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/7kzmnHQbgOfSfAl5oYw0w5?si=FuAEwIWVQN6X1BsoWU0hRg

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Charlie Fittler is alive and kicking on his Dying Breed

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 23:00:54 GMT

Charlie Fittler played his first TCMF at the age of 13 and attended the Academy of Country Music in 2018. He’s just released his debut EP, Dying Breed, which is a collection of four original songs and one Slim Dusty cover. Fittler lives and works on the land and brings this experience to his country music, which is a testament to how much he has developed his craft from a young age.

Fittler is joined on the EP by highly regarded musicians such as Jeff McCormack, Rod Motley and Mick Albeck, and the EP was produced by Bill Chambers. While all that experience in the studio obviously enhances the recording, the songs and Fittler's voice are the stars on this EP.

For more about Charlie Fittler: https://charliefittler.com.au/

Listen to Dying Breed on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3JMUf5x

Listen to Dying Breed on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/2lCFeVMLwSQeM2IOXFgOZ2?si=4TXfAUi-TlOPdDAL3VZfeg

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Hayley Marsten and her triumphant Girlhood

Tue, 04 Jul 2023 23:00:39 GMT

Sometimes an artist finds themselves in the middle of a cultural moment, in the right place at the right time. Sometimes that moment is on its way to being movement. Sometimes the artist helps create the movement. With her second album, Girlhood, Hayley Marsten has created something that is both moment and movement, and an excellent piece of work as well. It is about self-conception and misconception, about power and powerlessness and the fortitude forged by both. Mostly it’s a great ball of wondrousness, a collection of infectious songs and mostly not country music but because Marsten has come from the country lineage I’m not resisting the opportunity to cover it. Nor was I going to refuse the opportunity to talk to her about it.

For those new to her music, Hayley Marsten released her first EP, Lonestar, in 2017 and her debut album, Spectacular Heartbreak, in 2019. That album would garner several award nominations, including for the Golden Guitar for Alt Country Album of the Year. Girlhood was preceded by singles including ‘Drowning Myself’ and ‘I Am a Rich Man’, and produced by Dan Sugars, Kieran Stevenson, Michael Muchow and Cody McWaters. Marsten will be back on the road touring it later this year.

More about Hayley Marsten: https://www.hayleymarsten.com/

Listen to Girlhood on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3r9x3Id

Listen to Girlhood on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/3tfDLxTgUs4Kty1pFj1IXW?si=FbWjgezmSLqyv0XjAJuYBQ

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Shane Nicholson is Living in (More) Colour live

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 23:00:24 GMT

Shane Nicholson has released 11 studio albums and 1 compilation of B-sides, won 3 ARIA awards and 16 Golden Guitars. His most recent album, Living in Colour, won the Golden Guitar for Album Of The Year as well as Alternative Country Album Of The Year, and the single 'And You Will Have Your Way' won Single Of The Year and APRA Song Of The Year awards. Living in Colour was also Nicholson's seventh consecutive ARIA-nominated album.

Nicholson is also one of Australia’s most in-demand producers and he is now embarking on a new tour, Living in (More) Colour, which will cover his 25 years in song - you can find the dates below.

I never take for granted the opportunity to interview Nicholson because, as noted elsewhere on Sunburnt Country Music, this whole enterprise likely wouldn't exist without his music. Twelve years ago this week, in fact, his music kept me from dropping off the perch in a very practical way and it was while I was recovering that I started writing about Australian country music (you can find that story on the website). So I'll always say 'yes' to talking to him for that reason - and also because he is a titan in Australian music and has lots of interesting things to say. Plus he’s a great storyteller and you can be in the audience for his stories, and stories in song, on this new tour.

Shane Nicholson live dates:

July 6 - Camelot Lounge, Marrickville NSW

July 7 - Qirkz In The Hunter, Abermain NSW

July 8 - The Press Basement Bar, Tamworth NSW

July 14 - Trinity Sessions, Adelaide SA

July 15 - Murray Delta Juke Joint, Goolwa SA

July 20 - Live In The Lyre, Upwey VIC

July 21 - Live In The Glen, Glengarry VIC

July 22 - Memo Music Hall, St Kilda VIC

July 28 - Smith’s Alternative, Canberra ACT

July 29 - Milton Theatre, Milton NSW

August 10 - Music Lounge, Wollongong NSW

August 11 - The Venue, Bowral NSW

August 25 - Brass Monkey, Cronulla NSW

August 26 - Lizottes, Newcastle NSW

More about Shane Nicholson: https://shanenicholson.com/

Listen to Shane Nicholson on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3XCc0dl

Listen to Shane Nicholson on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2VGE8KFAYM3yE0qOsDGf6t?si=ID4a39btRzeu-Qyy1zDsFQ

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Brooke McClymont & Adam Eckersley are right on track ...

Sun, 02 Jul 2023 01:16:47 GMT

Brooke McClymont is one third of top-selling, award-winning Australian country music trio The McClymonts who have over five #1 ARIA Country Albums, 40 million streams, two ARIA Awards and fifteen Golden Guitar Awards. Adam Eckersley has won five Golden Guitar Awards and with The Adam Eckersley Band released two high-charting albums. Adam has also won awards for his songwriting.

Together Brooke and Adam released their first album in 2018 and earlier this year won three Golden Guitars for singles off their brand new album Up, Down & Sideways, which is a glorious package of, as the title suggests, ups and downs but also joy and celebration. They sound like they're having fun on the album, and that makes for a wonderful listening experience that carries on into their live shows.

It was also lots of fun talking to them recently about the creation of the album, those live shows and other things. **mild language warning**

More about Brooke and Adam: https://www.brookeandadam.com/

Listen to Up, Down & Sideways on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3NDsUDM

Listen to Up, Down & Sideways on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/5wEvYYwZUu3PPFnGZZVDgJ?si=XWSAzoHdRp2h04CF1Xki6w

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Interview with Mel Lukin

Sat, 01 Jul 2023 06:51:51 GMT

Mel Lukin released her first EP in 1999 and in recent years has released some lovely country-pop singles, including ‘Caught Up in a Dream’. Earlier this year she released the song ‘One Way Ticket’ and her latest single is 'Look Up', which is an inspiring song that exhorts us to take in and appreciate the world around us.

'I wrote this song with talented songwriter, Nolan Wynne, in May of last year,' says Lukin. 'We sat down together and just started chatting about life as you do when starting the writing process. He has young girls also, and we shared common experiences and concerns which made writing this song so fulfilling. I had the title "Look Up" and the concept for a quite a while, and Nolan and I rounded it out together and created the song "Look Up". Currently, kids and teens hardly engage in face-to-face conversations, and is is crucial for us to help our youth in redirecting their attention towards the real world. Together, let’s encourage our young people to “Look Up”. This song means so much to me personally and it’s my honest to date.'

We spoke about the single and about Lukin's varied and fascinating career in music.

More about Mel Lukin: https://www.melissalukin.com/

Listen to Mel Lukin on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3raVQvy

Listen to Mel Lukin on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0di5dnBv4GqF8pqvDVjEi5?si=xG8PAXn0ShSmYJKYHsgrgQ

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Interview with Lisa De Angelis

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 23:00:43 GMT

Described as, 'A reformed thrill-seeker with stories so weird and wild they beggar belief', Brisbane-based artist Lisa De Angelis is the creator of sultry, intriguing country music songs that included last year's 'Hunger Pains'.

Her latest single is 'My Sister's Blue Suitcase', and it provides the latest evidence that De Angelis is a performer of captivating powers, as anyone who has seen her play live can attest. She is an artist dedicated to creating pieces of magic, whether recorded or on stage, and it is difficult not to be enchanted. This all comes after a very trying time as De Angelis has had to learn how to adapt to a change in how she experiences sound in the world - a challenge for anyone, let alone a musician.

Interviewing De Angelis is as entertaining as seeing her play, and she has lots of great stories to tell.

More about Lisa De Angelis: https://www.iamlisadeangelis.com/

Listen to Lisa De Angelis on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3NNDMk4

Listen to Lisa De Angelis on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/65Vbqlfd3K4hBmqPmC839t?si=aMMZ7ZN3ReeWDDYH0Wox7w

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Caitlyn Shadbolt blooms on her new album

Sat, 24 Jun 2023 23:00:50 GMT

Caitlyn Shadbolt has just released her third studio album, the irresistible Bloom & Surrender, which is a tale in two halves. Says Shadbolt of the concept behind the album: 'For the most part, I’m a happy-go-lucky, country-loving, small town girl. But like everyone, I also have a side that is reflective and introverted. I really wanted to share both sides of me, but was unsure how best to deliver it. So here we are, with two ‘sides’, sharing the extroverted and introverted side of me!'

Bloom & Surrender follows Shadbolt's 2020 album Stages, but she first came to public attention on The X Factor in 2014. Shadbolt is an accomplished songwriter as performer, and her excellent country-pop sensibilities are on display on her new album. We spoke recently about her new songs.

More about Caitlyn Shadbolt: https://www.caitlynshadbolt.com/

Listen to Bloom & Surrender on Apple Music: https://apple.co/43T8ePa

Listen to Bloom & Surrender on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/5FW3FwReSPdFC5fVANPqqe?si=PXwg1fpETk23pCZXsOSf5g

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Claudia Tripp on why she's Never Drinking Again

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 23:36:22 GMT

Claudia Tripp is an artist from Perth in Western Australia who was a Grand Finalist in this year’s Toyota Star Maker competition. She released the single ‘I Only Miss You When I’m Drunk’ late last year and now has a new single, ‘I’m Never Drinking Again’.

Says Tripp of the song, which she wrote with Rachael Fahim and MSquared: '"I'm Never Drinking Again" was a song title idea I held with me for a long time, loving that it's been said by almost everyone. When I brought the song to Rachael and MSquared, this song gained a whole new life. True, raw heartbreak can manifest itself into the things you love and hurt you all over again. I've been there; I've tasted a drink, heard a song, had something I used to love hit me like a ton of bricks in the wake of a heartbreak.

'I hope anyone who relates to this song is comforted by this; in the same we say this phrase hungover on a Monday morning, and then find ourselves having a beverage the following weekend, one day you'll be able to love and enjoy those painful things without that person, no matter how much you think "I'm Never Drinking Again".'

Tripp and I caught up recently to talk about the song, her Star Maker experiences, and her plans for the future.

More on Claudia Tripp: https://www.claudiatripp.com.au/

Listen to Claudia Tripp on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3NpKOdf

Listen to Claudia Tripp on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5I0T6nRUCHMYv7zytK5zPB?si=RvaVdR33TXeOYv73V9MnoQ

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Interview with Steph Wood

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 23:00:35 GMT

Steph Wood is a singer-songwriter from Sydney who recently released her self-titled debut EP, which is a collection of five songs that are heartfelt, sometimes sad, and all memorable. While Wood has been singing for most of her life she has only recently started performing and recording, and she has wholeheartedly embraced songwriting, gaining formal qualifications.

Wood and I spoke recently about what songwriting means to her, and also what it's like trying to find gigs in a city where venues are hard to come by.

More about Steph Wood: https://linktr.ee/stephwoood

Listen to Steph Wood on Apple Music: https://apple.co/449c9qY

Listen to Steph Wood on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0JHnWPp8aS0OQQHDWJ2xIM?si=ubMSNJI7SmWnCcA1RLuvaA

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Interview with Jackson James

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 23:00:31 GMT

Jackson James has an extensive background in the music industry. As an artist he's opened for Rick Price, Diesel, Melanie Dyer and Caitlyn Shadbolt. As a writer he co-wrote the songs 'One More Kiss' and 'Never See Me Cry' by Hudson Rose; he also produced both songs and made the music videos.

Now James has released his own single, ‘Get Around to It’. James says, 'This song started from a guitar riff that came to me one day on the way out the door. I later sat down with my partner/co-writer Melanie Dyer, and we talked about wishing for more hours in the day to get around to all the things that often get pushed aside when you re living a busy life.'

At the time we spoke he was in Nashville preparing to play with Dyer at CMA Fest, and when they return to Australia they're off to the Big Red Bash.

More about Jackson James: http://www.jacksonjames.com.au/

Listen to Jackson James on Apple Music: https://apple.co/42I1N09

Listen to Jackson James on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7eznUN0qicxJvFOBLg9LeA?si=gMEZ5yr7S6OekbPEloqxZQ

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Tyla Rodrigues goes Way Out West

Sun, 18 Jun 2023 01:21:52 GMT

Tyla Rodrigues released the single ‘All She Is’ last year and since then she’s been busy appearing at festivals and touring Queensland. She has a brand new, and rather haunting, single called ‘Way Out West’. As I discovered when we spoke recently, Rodrigues approached the writing of this song differently to previous songs, and it was great to have the opportunity to find out more about her process.

Rodrigues has an exciting few months ahead, appearing at Groundwater Country Music Festival on the Gold Coast with her band. Other dates are listed below.

More about Tyla Rodrigues: http://www.tylarodrigues.com.au/

Listen to Tyla Rodrigues on Apple Music: https://apple.co/42M2Trx

Listen to Tyla Rodrigues on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5SwnYxaLFxCb2LQ7Kl7JAV?si=OFqQbS__SdmMt-kHTsbciQ

See Tyla live:

Friday 23rd June

Lefty’s Music Hall

Brisbane QLD

Thursday 10th – Saturday 12th August

The Overlander Hotel

(Rodeo Week)

Mount Isa QLD

Friday 20th October – Sunday 22nd October

Groundwater Country Music Festival

Gold Coast QLD

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Jo Caseley has a Special way with songs

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 23:00:00 GMT

Jo Caseley is a singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from the Southern Highlands of New South Wales who cut her teeth busking on the streets of Sydney's Kings Cross. She also has an extensive background as a writer, having studied journalism; she is not only a skilled storyteller but one who is passionate about music and connecting with people through it.

Caseley has released two albums, Dusty Dirt Track and Albany; she attended the Academy of Country Music in Tamworth earlier this year. Her latest single is 'Special', which followed the lovely 'Houseless Never Homeless', and there are more releases on the horizon.

More about Jo Caseley: https://www.jocaseley.com/

Listen to Jo Caseley on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3JAr3yL

Listen to Jo Caseley on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6dX0wCdS5fXSNeP0tEoGOK?si=yS9ffm5vTZqQciNk368XLw

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Tammy Moxon and her Fighting Chance

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 00:48:16 GMT

Tammy Moxon is an artist from Townsville in Queensland who released her debut album, Drive Me Sane, in 2019. She intended to go back to the studio in 2020 but, of course, all those sorts of plans were derailed, but it was worth waiting for her new single, 'Fighting Chance', with the promise of more songs to come.

During our recent interview I discovered all sorts of interesting things about Moxon, including how many hundreds of songs are in her repertoire for gigs, and some of the more interesting places she's played. She is an artist for whom art has been a matter of life and death, literally, and she is courageous in talking about this. There is surely more to discover about Moxon, and as she releases more music over the coming months we will hopefully find that out.

More about Tammy Moxon: https://www.tammymoxon.com/

Listen to 'Fighting Chance' on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3P7fLVX

Listen to Tammy Moxon on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7oi727ZzPVqpqpNN2RQ4SJ?si=qrd0pirNSEWPidinWe2Jow

More Australian country music interviews, as well as playlists and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Mark Moldre and his Nambucca Fables

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 23:00:45 GMT

Mark Moldre is a singer-songwriter from northern New South Wales. He fronted four-piece band Hitchcock’s Regret for a seven-year period and recorded his first solo release in 2009. His previous album was 2019's Fever Dreams.

Moldre's latest album is Nambucca Fables, which combines melodic Americana and indie pop-rock. It is a moving, often dreamlike exploration of grief - specifically, Moldre's grief after his mother died. She grew up in Nambucca Heads, NSW, and it is to this place and his memories of it that he turned to inspire the new album.

More about Mark Moldre: https://markmoldre.com/

Listen to Nambucca Fables on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3OPc0o9

Listen to Nambucca Fables on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/4K8kk5rnEOWo4dJbu7oq8v?si=SUMqPbWlQ7uJc7GKA6eg-w

More Australian country music interviews, as well as playlists and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Nathan May is starting somewhere

Sat, 03 Jun 2023 23:00:24 GMT

Nathan May is an Arabana, Yawuru and Marridjabin man who grew up in the Northern Territory and who is now living on Kaurna country in South Australia. Last year he released the single 'Fix It Up' and it became immediately clear that he is an artist of great talent and subtle power.

May has now released the unforgettable single 'It's Gotta Start Somewhere'. 'I wanted to write a song about my grandmother and how she grew up,' says May of the song, which he wrote with Luke O'Shea and James Gillard. 'My great-grandfather is a white man from overseas and my great grandmother was an Aboriginal woman born in a creek - my great grandfather did not allow Aboriginal culture in the house, and it was not allowed to be taught to the kids.'

From that family history comes a song in which each line is a story, and consolidation of May as an artist to watch. It was a pleasure to talk to him again about the new song and the other songs he's working on.

More about Nathan May: https://linktr.ee/nathanmaymusic

Listen to Nathan May on Apple Music: https://apple.co/45Ie7jD

Listen to Nathan May on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1MSZWYELfRVbVsRH9I8HdT?si=AzMy6RcwRQ-gEdTHiOAIeQ

More Australian country music interviews, as well as playlists and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Interview with Watty Thompson

Tue, 30 May 2023 23:00:49 GMT

Watty Thompson is an artist from the Ottway Ranges in Victoria and he has just released his self-titled debut album, which is an epic collection of songs that dig deeply into the trenches of life and which are ultimately life-affirming.

From writing about and appreciating the natural world in 'City to Run' and 'The Beauty That Surrounds Ya' to honouring the end of a life in 'Mountain Sage' and 'Coming Home', Thompson is clearly a songwriter who is open to everything around him and finds a way to bring the fullness of his experiences into song. It's an emotional album, and an enriching listening experience, and it was great to have the chance to ask him about it.

More about Watty Thompson: https://www.wattythompson.com/

Listen to Watty Thompson on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3C3ggJe

Listen to Watty Thompson on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/2nlZs6shm9m46OTyLaGl52?si=11Yam80MQy-LvRg9iOwtoQ

More Australian country music interviews, as well as playlists and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Hayley Jensen brings it on

Tue, 23 May 2023 23:00:07 GMT

Sydney-based artist Hayley Jensen is one of Australia’s most powerful live performers, with a range and dynamism honed since childhood, although she first came to public attention on Australian Idol several years ago. Since then she has released three studio albums, the latest of which was Breakin' Hearts in 2021, and she has twice been nominated for the Golden Guitar for Female Artist of the Year.

Jensen has a brand new single, ‘Bring it On’, and if you need a song to motivate you to do just about anything, this is the one. 'We’ve all felt undervalued, underestimated and taken advantage of at some point in our lives,' Jensen has said of the song. 'Just as we’ve all had self-doubt & questioned our worth. "Bring it On" is an empowering anthem about standing up for yourself and finding the strength to fight for the life you deserve. I really hope this song inspires others to do just that!'

To find out more about the song I spoke to Jensen recently, and our conversation also covered stagecraft, about which she had many fascinating things to say, and Jensen's development as a performing artist.

More about Hayley Jensen: https://www.hayleyjensen.net/

Listen to Hayley Jensen on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3OtuIS6

Listen to Hayley Jensen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2pYmedjA9VyTosPNO3OaTi?si=fas8XPYERza5jTCM9HU4Dw

More Australian country music interviews, as well as playlists and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Interview with Kaitlyn Thomas

Sat, 20 May 2023 06:05:24 GMT

Kaitlyn Thomas has been a singer and songwriter from a young age, and her first single, ‘I Wish’, was released in 2011. Since then Kaitlyn has honed her country-rock and pop sound and taken it all the way to our TV screens, appearing on the 2023 season of Australian Idol. Her latest single is the anthemic ‘Pretty Little Thing’, which came about, she says, 'after being told I don't fit the mould and what is typically expected as a female artist. I wanted to write about embracing who I am and female empowerment.'

We talk about the song, Idol and many more things besides, because Thomas is great fun to talk to as well as being interesting, and above all passionate and knowledgeable about music.

More about Kaitlyn Thomas: https://www.kaitlynthomasofficial.com/

Listen to Kaitlyn Thomas on Apple Music: https://apple.co/45lF3p1

Listen to Kaitlyn Thomas on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4bgeZZHRLzODQZ8b5DoYuo?si=yoWqSn6ATZy6W0z0ab_Ang

More Australian country music interviews, as well as playlists and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Interview with Ben Mastwyk

Mon, 15 May 2023 23:00:01 GMT

Ben Mastwyk is the ringmaster of his band The Millions and the creator of three albums, the latest of which, Livin’ on Gold Street, was released in 2021. Mastwyk's music is thrillingly entertaining while also being lyrically thoughtful, proof that an artist can be dedicated to putting on a great show - even in recorded form - while also being interested in the structure and integrity of the songs. Or, indeed, proving that those things are intrinsically related.

Mastwyk's new single released in March is called ‘Actually’ and it is a cosmic country trip that’s taking him all the way to two shows in South Australia in May 2023. Those shows are listed below and tickets are available at https://sixteenhandshigh.com

BEN MASTWYK & HIS MILLIONS (Melb)

HILLSBOROUGH (Bris)

BENNETT & CO. (Adl)

plus, Special Mystery Guest

FRIDAY 26 MAY - The Wheatsheaf Hotel, Adelaide, doors 7 p.m.

SATURDAY 27 MAY - Three Brothers Arms, Macclesfield, doors 2 p.m.

More about Ben Mastwyk: https://www.benmastwyk.com/

Listen to Ben Mastwyk on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3M1ZgHL

Listen to Ben Mastwyk on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4J6Xy1loJviGDmhoWfqkH2?si=_QQDOFZ3SyudrurKqfxi7Q

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Interview with Maddie Cail

Sun, 14 May 2023 00:50:43 GMT

Maddie Cail is Gold Coast singer-songwriter who is a relative newcomer to the country music scene, releasing songs such as 'Look At You Now' and 'Good Girl Gone Bad' over the past couple of years. But she has galloped - pun completely intended - in with a great new song, 'Giddy Up', that is all about taking chances and getting on with things, even if that means accepting that something hasn't turned out the way you want it to.

Cail is also a primary school teacher who, as I found out when we spoke recently, uses music as a teaching tool - which sometimes has her confused with the music teacher! It was a delight to talk to her and find out more about her songs as well as her plans for the next little while.

More about Maddie Cail: https://maddiecail.net/

Listen to Maddie Cail on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3nWRWFc

Listen to Maddie Cail on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1BKgoE8u1DSJQfRxLNPnwd?si=_YohXi9cSqCGFax8chy2PQ

More Australian country music interviews, as well as playlists and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Interview with Brooke Schubert

Mon, 08 May 2023 23:00:02 GMT

Brooke Schubert is an artist from Queensland who recently had two different singles released - one on her own, 'New Kids in Town', and another, 'Simple Things' with Route 33. It's not the first time Schubert has collaborated in recent times, as she released 'Simple Then' with Will Day in 2021.

Schubert will be familiar to Australian TV audiences too as she has appeared on The Voice and Australian Idol, and also seems to have a good handle on TikTok! These were vehicles for Schubert to share her longstanding passion for and dedication to music with audiences, and that passion is infectious and inspiring. With new great singles already behind her this year, and more to come, she is bringing that passion to fans old and new.

More about Brooke Schubert: https://brookeschubert.com/

Listen to Brooke Schubert on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3VEmXKB

Listen to Brooke Schubert on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/37AhJFVvcLzRvWWHaHOrlq?si=0FHW2oW1QX-VpsdB6e9szA

More Australian country music interviews, as well as playlists and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Brad Cox on his new album Acres

Sat, 06 May 2023 23:00:40 GMT

Since Brad Cox first came to our attention in 2018 he has released two studio albums and an acoustic album, and had multiple nominations for awards including Golden Guitars, ARIA and APRA. His first, self-titled album was released in 2018 and showed the breadth of Cox's songwriting skills. His second album, My Mind's Projection, was released in 2020. The acoustic album What's Your Favourite Country Song? was released in 2021.

Once the world shut down Cox was landlocked and he set to creating new music. Singles 'What Brought You Back', 'Single Life' and 'Last Time Last' were released in 2022. Now Cox has released third studio album, Acres, and is now heading out on the road to bring the songs to his devoted fans. Just before Acres was released we talked about that album, the fans and more.

[NB: mild language warning]

More about Brad Cox: https://www.iambradcox.com/

Listen to Acres on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3nzAGWy

Listen to Acres on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/7i5lVXY0ro1Y94G6AqlS2e?si=6ovXCJDwSmGCanVNtirdcA

More Australian country music interviews, as well as playlists and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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LEO and the perfect pandemic song

Fri, 05 May 2023 23:00:40 GMT

LEO is a singer-songwriter of alt-country and folk-influenced songs who travels the east coast of Australia playing her music. In 2021 she released an EP in 2021 and a lovely Christmas single, ‘North Star’. Last year she released an acoustic album that contains what just may be the perfect pandemic song, 'Refund'. It's appropriate because the album sprang from lockdowns when LEO was unable to work - as she made her living as a working musician - and going through intense personal changes.

The album covers heartbreak and renewal, hope and despair and acceptance, delivered with power and subtlety, so it was great to have a chance to talk to LEO about how she became an artist and the writing of the album.

More about LEO: https://leo-o-music.bandcamp.com/album/leo

Physical signed album booklet - https://py.pl/BGzHQ

Digital copy - https://py.pl/9AhhmqWYUnZ

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Interview with Bradley Christmas from Copperline

Mon, 01 May 2023 23:00:29 GMT

Copperline are a four-piece band from Sydney and the Blue Mountains who released their second album, Borrowed, Broken and Blue, last year. One of the songs from that album, ‘Lucinda’, has been streamed over 150 000 times on Spotify alone, and their songs have been finalists for the International Songwriting Competition, Tamworth Songwriters Association and Australian Songwriters Association.

The band has been on the road already this year, playing the Tamworth Country Music Festival main stage for the first time, amongst other venues. And singer Bradley Christmas has had another gig at the same time: newly published author. Copperline's latest single is the fierce ‘Gabriel’, which is a provocative tale for modern times, and I spoke to Christmas recently about the song, the album and his book.

More about Copperline: https://copperline.bandcamp.com/

Listen to Copperline on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3Nof2Px

Listen to Copperline on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/2Lmdj1jSSlMAvGYcOJyJef?si=WZNwpNHgQ_us-nCaB0M4Jw

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Interview with Matt Joe Gow

Sat, 29 Apr 2023 23:00:29 GMT

The second track on Aotearoa/NZ-born Melbourne resident Matt Joe Gow's fourth album, Between Tonight and Tomorrow, released a few weeks ago, is ''Til My Whole Heart Bursts' and there is a sense on this album that Gow has not only committed his whole heart but been prepared to show it to his listeners. It is an album of joys and sorrows and all the layers of human experience in between, in which the title serves the function of metaphor: we exist in this liminal space between tonight and tomorrow, between what is and what's possible. It's also literal, and therefore practical, and the songs on this album give us guidance on how to be in this world, as all great art does.

Gow is a singer and songwriter of considerable experience, and he also produces and writes work for others. Right now he's touring New Zealand with compatriot Kerryn Fields, but before he left we had a chance to talk about Between Tonight and Tomorrow, and other things.

More on Matt Joe Gow: https://mattjoegowmusic.com/

Listen to Between Tonight and Tomorrow on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3n59zm4

Listen to Between Tonight and Tomorrow on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/2Cp9soDZbLeswqTEfiXH6S?si=vOUcw7wsR8iYeBCBJkrnnw

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Felicity Urquhart and Josh Cunningham and their 'Unsteady' excellence

Tue, 25 Apr 2023 23:00:28 GMT

Josh Cunningham is a founding member of The Waifs, who have released 10 albums over three decades and won multiple ARIA awards.

Together Felicity and Josh released the album The Song Club in 2021 and it was nominated for an ARIA and four Golden Guitars, and won the AIR Award for best independent country album. Since then they’ve released the single ‘Bogswamp’ and their latest song is ‘Unsteady (Ever Since You’re Gone)’. As was evident on their album, while Felicity and Josh separately create wonderful music, together they are different and just as special.

More about Felicity Urquhart: https://www.felicityurquhart.com/

More about Josh Cunningham: https://joshcunningham.com/

Listen to 'Unsteady' on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3ArjKnO

Listen to 'Unsteady' on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/4OAj7vt8UTXxx0Ku0VPcTv?si=1ebh-OlzR_yEyEBLQ2_2fQ

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Lily Grace follows her road

Sun, 23 Apr 2023 23:00:09 GMT

Lily Grace released her first single, 'Annie June', in 2021 and in collaboration with James Blundell. She followed that with 'Sixteen Wishes' and last year 'The Two of Us Meet', which has had over one million streams on Spotify alone. Her latest single is 'Follow My Road' and it's fair to say Lily has been following her own road in creating infectious country pop - and taking it all the way to Nashville, where she's currently based.

More about Lily Grace: https://lilygracelive.com/

Listen to Lily Grace on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3N2YhZQ

Listen to Lily Grace on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/36C2hXqhxu8S68awyDaGQD?si=QICgdL1kTcecpHqj5UDOeg

More Australian country music interviews and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Interview with David Kirkpatrick of Two Tone Pony

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 23:17:37 GMT

Two Tone Pony formed in 2018 with five members who all have extensive musical experience, and they started gigging in 2021. Last year they went into the studio to record some songs with producer Rod McCormack and now their first single, ‘A Life Well Lived’, has been released.

David Kirkpatrick is a founding member of the band, but it is far from being his first foray into music: as the song of Slim Dusty and Joy McKean, Kirkpatrick grew up on the road, learning what it takes to not just create meaningful, entertaining songs but bring them to people. Quite apart from that he's led - and leads - a fascinating life, so it was a great pleasure to talk to him about that, and about how Two Tone Pony came to be and the music they're making. It's a long chat but worth the time because Kirkpatrick has so many great stories to share.

More about Two Tone Pony: https://www.twotonepony.com/

Listen to 'A Life Well Lived' on Apple Music: https://apple.co/445sm1c

Listen to 'A Life Well Lived' on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/2RYIpaGYsiF8mORplIIVRN

More Australian country music interviews and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Interview with James Keith

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 23:00:05 GMT

While James Keith now lives on the northern beaches of Sydney, he grew up on the land - but his connection to country music did not start there. It's a relatively recent passion, as I found out the first time we chatted, and one he has fully committed to, releasing his debut country rock single, 'Life is Good Today', last year.

Keith has now released a new single, 'Say I Do'. It shows a more romantic side of his songwriting, and is also another step on the road towards his debut album release in the months ahead. Ahead of that, he is throwing himself into playing shows and enjoying every single moment of them, as we talked about recently.

More about James Keith: https://www.jameskeith.au/

Listen to 'Say I Do' on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3GNwBUW

Listen to 'Say I Do' on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/5YTd5snH7QjgyYCFjzTzKT

You can watch our chat on YouTube, or listen in Soundcloud or on the podcast.

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Interview with Michael Cook from Rusty Pickups

Sun, 16 Apr 2023 02:24:44 GMT

Rusty Pickups is a four-piece band from Toowoomba in Queensland that evolved from an earlier honkytonk project into the more bluegrassy outfit they are today. They recently played at the Tamworth Country Music Festival after a turn at the Gympie Music Muster, and they have plans to range far and wide to other festivals.

The band has released several singles over the past few months and their EP will soon be available on streaming services, although fans seeing them play live can buy a CD. Recently I chatted to Michael Cook - Cookie, as he's known - about the band's origins, what they're up to this year and what the music scene is like in Toowoomba.

More on Rusty Pickups: https://www.rustypickups.com.au/

Listen to Rusty Pickups on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3MMrIPH

Listen to Rusty Pickups on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/31xuhHiS7hbSN59eZExlCv

More Australian country music interviews and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Interview with Laura Frank

Sat, 15 Apr 2023 07:32:29 GMT

Over the past few years Laura Frank has released several singles in the country rock/pop genre that have revealed different parts of her story - as well as showcasing her vocal skills - building a portrait of an artist who is steadily gaining fans and recognition. She won the People's Choice Award for Most Promising Future Star at this year's Tamworth Country Music Festival, and now she's released the single 'Days Gone By', which is not about wistful reminiscence but, rather, reflection on lessons learned.

Frank has a multitude of skills and creative endeavours, including building her own house - which we discuss in this interview and she's also started a new production company, Orange Schmorange. In short, there aren't many aspects of creativity that she's not involved in, and that makes her both interesting and inspiring.

More about Laura Frank: https://www.laurafrank.com.au/

Listen to 'Days Gone By' on Apple Music: https://apple.co/43xn7Hh

Listen to 'Days Gone By' on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/48udXY73A4bxk1ULTAAgCo

More Australian country music interviews and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Angus Gill plots a Departure and Arrival

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 23:00:31 GMT

Angus Gill is a Golden Guitar winner as well as a nominee many times over, four this year alone as an artist and one as a producer. He releases music as a solo artist and also collaborates with others. In 2020 he released the album 3 Minute Movies with the band Seasons of Change, who work with Paul Kelly. Now there’s a new single for Angus and Seasons of Change, called ‘Departure & Arrival’, and Angus is about to tour extensively around Australia (scroll down for tour dates).

Gill is a creator in constant motion, and not just on the road - it was great to have a chance to talk about his songwriting process, his various projects and what inspires him as an artist.

For more about Angus Gill: https://angusgill.com.au/

Listen to 'Departure & Arrival' on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3zUPrWd

Listen to 'Departure & Arrival' on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/6A2BFhuBVsXTIfI7Qw7TgU

More Australian country music interviews and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Matt Cornell goes to Church

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 23:00:44 GMT

Queensland artist Matt Cornell has had long associations with several other Australian performers - he's played with Richard Clapton and Shannon Noll, and in The Baby Animals - but perhaps none has been as strong and long-lasting as that with country-rock star Adam Brand. Cornell has been part of Brand's band and worked as his musical director for several years - but they have never recorded a song together until now.

The title of that song, 'Our Church', comes from something that the pair established during lockdowns that upended their lives because, for the first time in years, they weren't able to play shows. For Cornell, who usually plays dozens of gigs a year, it was a fundamental and unwelcome change, and he needed his friends - that's where 'church' came from, as Cornell describes in our recent chat. Cornell knows first hand about the power of talking about what's on your mind, and of friendships.

More about Matt Cornell: https://www.facebook.com/mattcornellmusic/

Listen to 'Our Church' on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3GqRLrF

Listen to 'Our Church' on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/1Y4dvnpSu7lLWnM571HWJV

More Australian country music interviews and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Interview with Blake O'Connor

Sun, 09 Apr 2023 02:00:42 GMT

Blake O’Connor was the 2019 Toyota Star Maker winner and that year released his first album, Everything I Feel. He has now released his second album, Finding Light, which is as uplifting as the title suggests. O'Connor collaborated with other songwriters, including Sinead Burgess, but there is a clear through-line that is all his, and it's true to the album's title, even when there are moments of darkness within some of the songs.

O'Connor is about to head to Nashville for a few months after playing some dates in Australia, and we caught up before he left these shores.

More about Blake O'Connor: https://www.blakeconnor.com/

Listen to Finding Light on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3moQoD5

Listen to Finding Light on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/0aPyjPOp8pq8D3YUPOSGVV

More Australian country music interviews and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Interview with Matt Ward, April 2023

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 23:00:29 GMT

It doesn't seem like that long ago that Adelaide singer-songwriter Matt Ward released his last album, If I Was in Dallas Tonight, but he has already released a brand new song, 'Nobody Told Me'. Ward actually took a break after the album, not writing or recording, but he has returned to both with vigour and is looking ahead to his new album, due for release later this year.

We spoke recently about what he's been up to and what's ahead. I also threw in a question about his dog, Shooter, because, well, when a dog has his own Instagram account, he becomes a personality in his own right!

More about Matt Ward: https://www.mattwardmusic.com/

Listen to 'Nobody Told Me' on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3m9pjUs

Listen to 'Nobody Told Me' on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/3xUAZiLw9BGuTtWlNdHEuz

More Australian country music interviews and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Interview with Jayne Denham

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 23:00:54 GMT

Anyone who has heard a Jayne Denham song won't soon forget it, because Denham never fails to impress. With her powerhouse voice and boundless energy - which she brings to her live shows as well - Denham inhabits her songs, bringing them to vivid life for fans. That was the case on her Golden Guitar-nominated album Wanted, released in 2021, and it's also the case on her new single, 'Moonshine'.

Teaming up with American country-rap artist Colt Ford, Denham delivers the perfect follow-up to the wild western Wanted, and recently filmed the music video with him. It's the first release in what is set to be a busy 2023 for Denham, and we spoke about that and a lot more recently.

More on Jayne Denham: https://jaynedenham.com/

Listen to 'Moonshine' on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3Gbvkql

Listen to 'Moonshine' on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/47xmWxy4WIl1YDtWRO6AvT

More Australian country music interviews and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Interview with Jason McDaniel

Sun, 02 Apr 2023 23:00:01 GMT

Harley-Davidson motorcycles are famous all over the world, and beloved by many - including Melbourne artist Jason McDaniel. McDaniel has an extensive and fascinating musical history, which we discussed the first time I interviewed him, and after a long hiatus from music he released the single 'A Tall Glass of Country & a Shot of Rock 'n' Roll' last year.

McDaniel's latest single is 'Harley Ride', which was born during Victoria's long lockdown, when riding a motorbike - or anything - further than five kilometres was nothing but a dream. It celebrates not just Harleys but the experience of riding them, and has already been embraced by fellow riders, as McDaniel details in our latest chat.

More about Jason McDaniel: https://www.jasonmcdaniel.com.au/

Listen to 'Harley Ride' on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3zngYzu

Listen to 'Harley Ride' on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/4bkoOZPS3JwULvGdoTB1jn

More Australian country music interviews and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Interview with Raechel Whitchurch

Sat, 01 Apr 2023 23:00:37 GMT

When Parkes, NSW singer-songwriter Raechel Whitchurch released her first new single since her Golden Guitar-nominated debut album Finally Clear, its title came as surprise. That's because it's called 'I'm Not Cool', and anyone who is even a casual observer of Whitchurch's work and life would disagree with that assessment.

Whitchurch grew up as a performing musician in a family band, then, after starting her own family, started releasing music as a solo artist. The result was the wonderful Finally Clear. This was done while running the booking agency Sure Thing and touring even while about to give birth. We talked about all of that recently and, as with the first time I interviewed Whitchurch, there was a lot to talk about. That's because Whitchurch's life is as rich, and cool, as her music.

More about Raechel Whitchurch: https://www.raechelwhitchurch.com/

Listen to 'I'm Not Cool' on Apple Music: https://apple.co/40vVRXw

Listen to 'I'm Not Cool' on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/4TGBx5ZyRdPXGYJPK5KsRR

More Australian country music interviews and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Interview with Suzy J

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 22:00:59 GMT

Suzy J is a creative powerhouse from Melbourne who is passionate about performing as well as songwriting - and her talents in the talent have been recognised lately with three of her songs making the top 30 in the Pop/ Country/ Ballad categories in the 2021 Australian Songwriters Association songwriting competition.

Suzy's latest single is called 'With You' and it's perfect for audiences who love country-pop. It will no doubt soon be joined by songs Suzy plans to write on her next trip to Nashville, which has already proved to be fertile ground for her songwriting pen. We talked about Nashville trips, songwriting and her latest single, 'With You'.

More about Suzy J: https://suzyjmusic.com/

Listen to Suzy J on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3G4KSfA

Listen to Suzy J on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6ZIwb0CPGeAkDAmUZ5Efjw

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Interview with Brooke Harvey

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 22:00:46 GMT

There is a high level of skill needed to release a debut single that makes a huge impact, and New South Wales singer-songwriter Brooke Harvey did that with her first single, 'Southern Sky'. And she has done it again with her new single, 'Little Bird', which features guest vocals from Kasey Chambers.

While 'Little Bird' is no doubt having an impact on listeners, Harvey is looking ahead to the release of her album. Given the events of the past few years, she has needed to be patient - but there is no time limit on heartfelt, impactful songwriting and a singer as powerful as Harvey. We talked recently about the album to come and the songs already released.

More on Brooke Harvey: https://brookeharveymusic.com/

Listen to 'Little Bird' on Apple Music: https://apple.co/40vD2Uk

Listen to 'Little Bird' on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/5teV2HNQkCHaMvjxVBxQLc

More Australian country music interviews and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Interview with Jake Whittaker

Sat, 25 Mar 2023 22:00:38 GMT

Jake Whittaker has been a musician for quite a while, but for most of that time he was not performing country music. Whittaker has an extensive background in funk, blues and soul but his heart has long been in country - and he has now released his first country music single, 'Round Here'. Whittaker's range of influences can be heard in the song, which is about escaping the rat race and reconnecting to the country.

While 'Round Here' is his only release to date, Whittaker found himself co-writing with Matt Cornell and Adam Brand on their latest release, 'Our Church', and we talk about that as well as 'Round Here'.

More on Jake Whittaker: https://www.jakewhittaker.com.au/

Listen to 'Round Here' on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3LQWJl7

Listen to 'Round Here' on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1qNMPH0kNJPsFvHhTqKipC

More Australian country music interviews and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Interview with Brook Chivell

Sat, 25 Mar 2023 04:19:10 GMT

Originally from Melbourne, now resident in south-east Queensland, Brook Chivell has been wowing country music audiences for several years with his high-energy live show. Before the pandemic he released the album Fearless Rider, which spawned several singles, including 'Hot Country Girl'.

Chivell waited out the pandemic, as artists had to do, but in the process discovered a wellspring of creativity that has led to the first of several new songs. His latest single is 'Put 'Em Up' and we spoke about it recently.

More about Brook Chivell: http://www.brookchivellofficial.com/

Listen to 'Put 'Em Up' on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3nml34k

Listen to 'Put 'Em Up' on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/6uY7ClpufEJ30NG85SGXga

More Australian country music interviews and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Interview with Briana Dinsdale - March 2023

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 22:00:23 GMT

The last time I spoke to Queensland artist Briana Dinsdale she had found out she was the recipient of the Keith Urban Scholarship to the Academy of Country Music in Tamworth, NSW. Dinsdale is not only a great performer but a songwriter with a particular - and interesting - slant on the world, which means her songs always offer something unexpected and wonderful. Sometimes it's a bit of sass, sometimes it's a story that doesn't head where you think it will. And Hinsdale's latest single, 'Chasing Boys', has both of those qualities in spades.

We caught up recently to talk about 'Chasing Boys' as well as Dinsdale's time at the Academy earlier this year - and ended it discussing the Harry Styles concert she was about to attend, so there's a little bit of Harry content in this interview and it was, as it was the last time we spoke, great to talk to her.

More about Briana Dinsdale: https://brianadinsdale.com/

Listen to 'Chasing Boys' on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3JQTRn6

Listen to 'Chasing Boys' on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/17xsFTjBiz2QZvcZOchoer

More Australian country music interviews and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Interview with Kiara Rodrigues - March 2023

Sun, 19 Mar 2023 22:00:23 GMT

ydney singer-songwriter Kiara Rodrigues released the upbeat single 'High School Reunion' last year then found out she was to be a Grand Finalist at Toyota Star Maker during the 2023 Tamworth Country Music Festival. Ahead of the competition she released the single 'Message in a Bottle', written with Nashville-based Australian artist Katrina Burgoyne.

Where 'High School Reunion' is about moving on from the past, 'Message in a Bottle' is about dwelling on heartbreak, but what the songs have in common is Rodrigues's song craft and great country-pop sound. It was a pleasure to chat to her recently about the new song, Star Maker, and her plans for the year ahead.

More about Kiara Rodrigues: https://www.kiararodriguesmusic.com/

Listen to Kiara Rodrigues on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3Toej1L

Listen to Kiara Rodrigues on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6fbXvs8ey8MIcaWJV3Psmu

More Australian country music interviews and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Interview with Sarah Catania, March 2023

Sat, 18 Mar 2023 22:00:49 GMT

Melbourne artist Sarah Catania has had a busy start to 2023, kicking off with attendance at the Academy of Country Music in January then releasing her new song 'Little She Knows', the follow-up to her debut single 'Venus and Mars'. Catania is an independent artist who has thrown herself into the creative and business sides of music, including writing with artists such as Lyn Bowtell, and with her 'Little She Knows' co-writers Jake Austen and Luke Sinclair. It was great to catch up with her again and hear about her plans for this year.

More about Sarah Catania: https://www.facebook.com/sarahcataniamusic/

Listen to 'Little She Knows' on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3JM0uab

Listen to 'Little Show Knows' on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4WDwvewFY9xpyVtCGVxrqf

More Australian country music interviews and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Interview with Jax Tonic, March 2023

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 22:15:46 GMT

Jax Tonic may be from the northern beaches of Sydney but with family routes in the Central West of New South Wales he has long felt connected to the land. His latest single, 'Country Boy', pays tribute to those who live and work on the land and also brings audiences a second single from Tonic after his first, 'On the Front Foot', was released last year. We caught up recently to talk about country life and country music.

More about Jax Tonic: https://www.jaxtonic.com/

Listen to Jax Tonic on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3Ttmslp

Listen to Jax Tonic on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5eXsOFn9O7A2F47j7ooaG0

More Australian country music interviews and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Interview with The Mezcaltones

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 22:00:31 GMT

Given the hectic schedule six-piece Sydney band The Mezcaltones had at this year's Tamworth Country Music Festival, you'd think they'd want to have a little lie-down before they launch into any new projects. Instead they have gone right back to their busy gig schedule and launched a new album, their fourth, Agavé Soirée, which captures the band's dynamic live sound and will no doubt be a welcome souvenir for their many devoted fans, some of whom make sure they see them in Tamworth every year. And I know this because I've known them for years - Neralita and I used to be in a band together, and I've seen The Mezcaltones play countless times.

So that's the context for this interview with Neralita and lead singer Col Padre, in which we probably all seem a little more familiar with each other than usual. But I haven't seen The Mezcaltones play live that many times because I feel an obligation - I do it because they are very, very good and always entertaining.

More about The Mezcaltones: https://the-mezcaltones.com/

Listen to The Mezcaltones on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3JzUEsc

Listen to The Mezcaltones on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7zVI2vohwBoaiDyl8DDzm9

More Australian country music interviews and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Interview with Ashleigh Dallas - March 2023

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 22:00:40 GMT

Last year Tamworth-based artist Ashleigh Dallas won two Golden Guitars, including one for Female Artist of the Year, and this year she took home the GG for Traditional Country Album of the Year for her fifth album, In the Moment. When I interviewed Dallas last year she mentioned she was working on new music, and she meant it: her new single 'Take a Minute' is not taken from In the Moment because it is the first single of her next project.

I've interviewed Dallas several times over the past year and while there's a chance our chats threaten to turn into their own talk show, it's because she's so interesting and inspiring to talk to. Dallas is one of the most creative people you'll encounter, and one who appreciates how fundamental creativity is to her life while also treating it like it's the most everyday thing in her life. So I'll always take the chance to chat to her and find out what she's been up - and what's coming next.

More about Ashleigh Dallas: https://ashleighdallas.com.au/

Listen to 'Take a Minute' on Apple Music: https://apple.co/42avnMw

Listen to 'Take a Minute' on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/5zIwKhIK9WLrFbd6qgWdJN

More Australian country music interviews and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Interview with Josie Laver

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 23:00:57 GMT

Country music, as its name suggests, tends to have something to do with the country. In its modern form the singers and songwriters of country music may not live on the land but instead inhabit the genre by making storytelling the focus of their work, as stories have long been at the core of country music. Josie Laver is an artist from both strands. In her debut album, Ride This Lullaby, she tells stories that cover a range of experiences and emotions, and some of those are drawn from her experiences living and working on the land near Boorowa, New South Wales.

In my recent chat with Laver we discussed the peculiarly pandemic-era origins of the album, how she came to music - and the Academy of Country Music - and the many parts of her life that she has brought to it.

More about Josie Laver: https://www.facebook.com/laverjosephine

Listen to Ride This Lullaby on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3JcVj1E

Listen to Ride This Lullaby on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/5YwgH8CNZvcZReBrYNgLib

More Australian country music interviews and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Interview with Bud Rokesky

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 23:00:55 GMT

Every music lover has those moments when they hear an album for the first time and know it's going to be with them for a long time - and even when they're not playing it they're thinking about it. Outsider, the debut album from Queensland singer-songwriter Bud Rokesky, is likely to be that kind of album for many a music lover. Rokesky has a compelling singing voice, and that's part of it, but he is also expert at creating stories within songs that hook the listener in and won't let them go. It was, therefore, wonderful to have an opportunity to talk to Rokesky about the creation of Outsider.

More about Bud Rokesky: https://www.budrokesky.com/

Listen to Outsider on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/6USFzLPgypeulskHsV78mo

Listen to Outsider on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3L3XIy2

More Australian country music interviews and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Interview with Ingrid Mae

Sun, 05 Mar 2023 22:00:00 GMT

In 2019 Sydney artist Ingrid Mae released the album Holy Smoke and she had plans to release a second album a little sooner than 2023 but, as we know, things happened in those intervening years. But great music is welcome at any time and Mae has greeted an album that is passionate and sassy, as well as serious in parts. It may be called Closing Time but no doubt it will open up Mae's music to new fans. In talking to Mae about the album it also became clear that she is an intensely creative person who finds opportunities to make things - not just music - every day.

More about Ingrid Mae: www.facebook.com/ingridmaemusic

Listen to Closing Time on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3IWDLGB

Listen to Closing Time on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/0toz3PlHeOwv87BXhOfYnF

More Australian country music interviews and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Interview with Will Day, March 2023

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 22:00:00 GMT

Before the pandemic Queensland artist Will Day was regularly on the road, playing gigs in various states; since the world has started reopening he's found himself on festival stages, off the back of several successful singles, including the latest, 'Always a Girl'. It's always a pleasure to interview Will and this time we spoke about the new single and what he has coming up this year.

More about Will Day: https://willday.com.au/

Listen to Will Day on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3ZNoNd8

Listen to Will Day on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6eUZAV9XRJh0Tzn7EGYJcw

More Australian country music interviews and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Interview with Duncan Toombs

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 22:00:43 GMT

In between being one of the most in-demand musicians and music video makers in the country, Duncan Toombs found time to make his first album, Steel on Steel. It's a record of Toombs's life, the things that matter to him and those he holds close to his heart, as well as an opportunity for Toombs to demonstrate just why he's so popular with other artists, with his golden vocals and excellent musicianship. And country music fans agree: on release the album went to number 1 on the ARIA Australian Country Albums Chart and number 2 on the ARIA Australian Albums Chart, and it has returned to that number 1 spot since. Toombs and I spoke recently about the album and his headline show at the Tamworth Country Music Festival.

More about Duncan Toombs: https://duncantoombs.com/

Listen to Steel on Steel on Apple Music: https://apple.co/41PrYT8

Listen to Steel on Steel on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/6cZJzkkc6oFzQWmI10Cof8

More Australian country music interviews and reviews: https://sunburntcountrymusic.com/

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Interview with Rory Phillips

Sun, 26 Feb 2023 22:00:07 GMT

Rory Phillips is from the Tumut region in New South Wales and first released music when he was barely double digits in age. The EP Cars and Guitars came out in 2017 and although Phillips and I disagreed about this, it makes for great listening. In 2020 he released the powerful single 'The Truth', which was a plea to adults to take the future seriously. His latest single, 'Because Boys', looks at what it's like to be a teenage boy now. It's clear that Phillips doesn't resile from writing songs about serious subjects, and he has the skill to create tracks that are as engaging as they are thought-provoking. And although he's still a teenager he's an experienced musician, so we had quite a bit to talk about.

More on Rory Phillips: https://www.roryphillips.com.au/

Listen to Rory Phillips on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3STImOq

Listen to Rory Phillips on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3uPs3d6fyXToc5vHqeimZv

You can watch our chat on YouTube, or listen in Soundcloud or on the podcast.

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Interview with Courtney Keil, February 2023

Sat, 25 Feb 2023 22:00:00 GMT

Central Coast, NSW-based singer-songwriter Courtney Keil released her first single, 'I Just Wanna Hold You', in 2020 and despite the challenges of that time she garnered accolades and won fans for her uplifting country-pop sound. Several singles followed, each different to the last, and they demonstrated Keil's musical range. Now those singles, and new songs, are contained in Keil's debut album, The Good Kind. It's an album that entertains and also has meaning, by turns moving and upbeat, and we spoke about it recently.

More about Courtney Keil: https://www.courtneykeil.com/

Listen to The Good Kind on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3ZIlmEn

Listen to The Good Kind on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/6YSpPeacuklzGLc814KzQM

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Interview with Jazmyn

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 22:00:35 GMT

Queensland artist Jazmyn is the living definition of 'multi-talented': under the banner Jazmyn Produces she makes music videos for other artists, she's a photographer, she works in branding and all sorts of other things. It seems logical, therefore, that she would expand into releasing music herself - and it's also surprising that it hasn't happened before, given how creative she is. Her debut single is 'Garden' and it is a joyous anthem of life and creation that affirms the path Jazmyn has taken into the artistic garden of her own.

More about Jazmyn: https://msha.ke/jazmynproduces#links-1

Listen to 'Garden' on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3kPGOIT

Listen to 'Garden' on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/1A70zvUnFivAcCqEG6Cc3r?highlight=spotify:track:7MkLtP3HwFHWvGcKeiEzHR

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Interview with SToReR

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 22:00:10 GMT

Sara Storer is the winner of 21 Golden Guitar awards; her latest album is 2019's Raindance. Her brother Greg has joined her onstage for years, and released his own album, Backwater, in 2010. As solo artists the siblings have quite different sounds, but what they have in common is excellence in songwriting and a commitment to bringing those songs to people. They now have a joint project, and an album: the eponymous SToReR. The last track on the album is 'This Music's For You' and all the way through this rich, satisfying musical journey of an album if does indeed feel as if Sara and Greg are writing music just for us, the audience who is going to cherish their stories and their senses of wonder and humour. It was terrific to talk to them both recently, and they are also on the road - details at www.sarastorer.com.au

Listen to SToReR on Apple Music: https://apple.co/3SQSasJ

Listen to SToReR on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/3dw73GC2XJiphYPKPxSoyj

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Interview with Melody Moko

Sun, 19 Feb 2023 22:00:58 GMT

Melody Moko released her first album, The Wreckage, in 2017 and followed with Two Kids and a Radio in 2021, winning a Golden Guitar for Best New Talent to go with the fans she had already made supporting artists like Fanny Lumsden then headlining her own shows. Through those two albums Moko established herself as a songwriter with gravitas and a captivating singer. Her third album, Suburban Dream, has just been released and it continues Moko's commitment to being an unflinching examiner of her own life and of human life, as well as someone who can write and deliver great melodies. Before we started recording this interview I told Moko that there would be no frippery and we'd go straight to the marrow of her album, and Moko was as insightful and interesting as her work suggests. (NB: Around the 16-minute mark there was a break when someone knocked on my door, so there's a slight repetition of subject matter after we started recording again.)

More about Melody Moko: https://www.melodymoko.com/

Listen to Suburban Dream on Apple Music: https://apple.co/41SMqm4

Listen to Suburban Dream on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/2oBuE8MVLcVXc4Oy0bxYxz

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Interview with Lyn Bowtell

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 22:00:00 GMT

Lyn Bowtell is one of the most beloved artists in Australian music, let alone Australian country music, and that is with very good reason: she is an exceptional artist, collaborator, mentor and leader within the industry. Those who have been captivated by her voice will forever be fans, and those who have been taught by her or had access to her knowledge and experience can only benefit from them. Bowtell won her tenth Golden Guitar award this year when her latest album, Wiser, was named Best Contemporary Country Album. That came after she had directed the Academy of Country Music through its 2023 term ahead of the Tamworth Country Music Festival and ahead of Bowtell going on the road. I'm not even going to pretend to not be a huge fan of Bowtell and her music, and that's reflected in this interview.

More about Lyn Bowtell: https://lynbowtell.com/

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Interview with Amber McIntosh

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 22:00:35 GMT

Cairns, Queensland artist Amber McIntosh has released several powerful country pop singles over the past couple of years, starting with 'Painted Me Grey'. The latest is 'Wasted'. The song was inspired by Patsy Cline's iconic 'Crazy' and its title takes on two meanings in the lyrics. McIntosh's voice is full of regret and positivity all at once, and it's an intriguing mix, so it was great to have the opportunity to talk to her about the song and her musical background.

Amber McIntosh on Instagram: @ambermcintoshmusic

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Interview with Jamie Lindsay, February 2023

Sun, 12 Feb 2023 22:00:39 GMT

Although Central Coast, NSW singer-songwriter Jamie Lindsay grew up listening to country music, there was a time in his life when he veered away from it, thinking it was no longer the right music for him. Over the past few years, though, he has embraced his musical origins and now honours them with his new single, 'The is Who I Am'. Lindsay is always interesting to talk to about the many facets of being an independent artist and producer, and this interview was no exception.

More about Jamie Lindsay: https://jamielindsaymusic.com/

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Interview with Alan Fletcher, February 2023

Sat, 11 Feb 2023 22:00:34 GMT

In June last year Alan Fletcher released the EP Dispatches not long after he'd enjoyed playing his first shows at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, supported by his producers Lachlan Bryan and Damian Cafarella. It was the association with Bryan and Cafarella which led, somewhat organically, to the creation of Fletcher's new album, The Point, and those two men, with other members of The Wildes, will support Fletcher on his upcoming UK tour. When Fletcher released Dispatches he thought his days playing Dr Karl Kennedy on Neighbours were coming to an end, as the series was cancelled; now he's fitting in music around acting as Neighbours is back in business. Before that, though, he has those UK tour dates, and we talked about those and other things.

More about Alan Fletcher: https://alanfletcher.net/

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Interview with Cassidy-Rae, February 2023

Tue, 07 Feb 2023 22:00:04 GMT

Sydney-based singer-songwriter Cassidy-Rae has started the year with her next chapter: that is, the single 'The Next Chapter'. As with her previous singles, 'The Next Chapter' strikes the balance of being entertaining and thoughtful. Cassidy-Rae has just returned from a busy Tamworth Country Music Festival and we spoke about that, as well as her plans for the chapters beyond this one. And even though I've interviewed Cassidy-Rae several times now, it's always fun finding out what she's up to!

More about Cassidy-Rae: https://cassidy-rae.com/

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Interview with Charlie Fittler

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 22:00:56 GMT

One of the many great things about the Tamworth Country Music Festival is that it affords festival goers the chance to discover new artists of all ages, either busking or playing their own gigs or at someone else's. That's how I first saw the now 19-year-old Charlie Fittler when he was quite a few years younger than that, and I was impressed by his talent and also how much he clearly enjoyed playing music. Having released one single a few years ago, Fittler is now on the cusp of releasing his debut EP, with the first single, 'Dying Breed', out in the world. We spoke recently and Fittler is still enjoying music as much, if not more, than he did, amongst other things in his busy life.

More about Charlie Fittler: https://charliefittler.com.au/

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Interview with Max Jackson

Sun, 29 Jan 2023 03:03:39 GMT

Around three years ago Max Jackson released her debut album, Life of the Party, which was an outstanding collection of country-pop songs, and she has now released a new EP, Out Here. What happened in the interim was that Jackson won the 2022 Toyota Star Maker competition, announced during the delayed Tamworth Country Music Festival in April last year. Since then Jackson has, as the title of her lead single from the EP suggests, runnin', making the most of the opportunities that have come her way thanks to Star Maker and planning for life beyond it too. When we spoke recently I didn't even pretend not to be a fangirl, but for good reason: Life of the Party is one of my favourite albums, and it's been wonderful to see Jackson receive recognition for her skills and talents.

More about Max Jackson: https://maxjackson.com.au/

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Interview with Kerryn Fields

Sat, 17 Dec 2022 22:00:58 GMT

Melbourne-based, Aotearoa New Zealand-raised Kerryn Fields recently released the single and video 'Until You' - it's a love song that is also an example of the joy to be found on the album it comes from, Water. As the album's title suggests, Fields is interested in the elements - earth, water, fire, air, ether - and while her songs are not necessarily focused on them she certainly incorporates them in such a way that the album is infused with the natural world and her delight in it, even as it addresses heartbreak and displacement. Recently I spoke to Fields about the influences in her songwriting, about her wonderful voice and other things.

More about Kerryn Fields: https://www.kerrynfields.com/

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Interview with Loren Ryan

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 22:00:33 GMT

At the Toyota Star Marker Grand Final at this year's Tamworth Country Music Festival in April, Loren Ryan took the stage as one of the ten finalists. She's local to the Tamworth area so the very loud cheers could have been for that when she took the stage - but after she finished the reception was undoubtedly for her performance, which was impressive and impassioned. Ryan did not win that night but she has achieved something few artists do in being selected again as a Grand Finalist, so she'll perform at next year's TCMF. Ryan is already focused on that performance, but she has also been recording and has released the country-pop single 'Bounce Back', so we spoke about that, about her fan-favourite version of Cold Chisel's 'Flame Trees' and her work translating songs into and writing in her language, Gamilaraay.

More about Loren Ryan: https://www.facebook.com/LorenRyanMusic/

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Interview with Matt Cornell, December 2022

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 22:00:56 GMT

A few weeks ago I interviewed Matt Cornell about the 2023 Country on Keppel festival, for which he is a key artist. At the time he had laryngitis so we couldn't talk for long, but given Cornell's extensive CV - member of the Baby Animals, of Golden Guitar-nominated duo Cornell & Carr, and music director for Adam Brand for many years - there was more to talk about. So when he released 'Stick Around' (although I call it 'Sticking Around' in the intro - #fail), his first solo single in several years, it was a good opportunity to find out more about his lifelong love of and working life in music.

More on Matt Cornell: www.mattcornellmusic.com.au

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Interview with Scarlet's Way

Sun, 11 Dec 2022 22:00:36 GMT

Perth, WA duo Scarlet's Way is made up of singer Katey Gabel and guitarist Shayne Savic. Their musical backgrounds are different but their influences are broad and shared, and these have resulted in a powerhouse rock/blues/country sound that has been documented on the 2017 EP Open Road and now on the single 'Doin' it for Love'. Gabel and Savic write together and perform in various permutations apart from Scarlet's Way, and it all adds up to an intensely musical life. We talked about the new single, their writing process and other things.

More about Scarlet's Way: https://www.scarletswaymusic.com/

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Interview with Chloe Styler

Sat, 10 Dec 2022 22:00:25 GMT

Chloe Styler is an artist with impeccable country-pop instincts and the songs to show it, having previously released singles 'When Your Light Burns', 'Patient Heart' and 'Sweden' between 2018 and 2020. She has now released a seven-track EP, Side A, with five irresistible originals and acoustic versions of two of those songs. As I discovered when we spoke recently, it's taken some time for Side A to find its way into the world - not only because the pandemic delayed it but because of how time away from performance affected her. Quite apart from being a great artist, Styler is a thoughtful, interesting person to interview, as you'll see.

Interview with Chloe Styler: https://www.chloestyler.com/

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Interview with James Keith

Sat, 10 Dec 2022 07:27:41 GMT

At a certain point in my recent interview with Sydney-based artist James Keith about his new single, 'Life is Good Today', he said, 'You've only got one life - you've got to have a crack.' Keith has not only had a crack at music but thrown himself into it with passion and commitment, having played live for years even while working full time as a sportsman. 'Life is Good Today' is his first single, taken from his forthcoming album, and it's also his mission statement - this is a man who makes the most of every opportunity and determines to enjoy it as he does.

More about James Keith: www.jameskeith.au

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Interview with Ashleigh Dallas, December 2022

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 22:00:37 GMT

Tamworth local Ashleigh Dallas won the 2022 Golden Guitar for Female Artist of the Year and she will be attending the 2023 awards as a four-time nominee: for Female Artist of the Year once more, as well as Vocal Collaboration of the Year for 'Let the Girls Sing' with Kirsty Lee Akers and Amber Lawrence, and Toyota Album of the Year and Traditional Country Album of the Year for her album In the Moment. So it's fair to say that Dallas is a golden girl, which also makes it fitting that the latest single taken from In the Moment is its last track, the joyous 'Sunshine'. It was, indeed, a joy to talk to Dallas again about this song, and we spoke just after she'd returned from a songwriting camp at the Dag Sheep Station in Nundle so there's a bit of chat about that too. We always have a lot to talk about so this interview is a long one, but Dallas is always interesting and inspiring.

More about Ashleigh Dallas: https://ashleighdallas.com.au/

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Interview with Brendan McMahon

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 03:13:05 GMT

Although we're meant to be past the worst of the pandemic and all the change is has wrought, that hasn't necessarily meant that everything is back to normal and hunky-dory. People are tired - perhaps a little fed up - and given what's been going on that's understandable. Yet part of what makes musicians, in particular, such an important part of every culture and now more so than ever is their ability to capture an experience, a memory, a place or a time so succinctly and convey it in a way that we can all have a few minutes of respite or joy or escapism - whatever the song brings. Victorian artist Brendan McMahon has created such an experience with his new single, 'New Country Morning', which is not taken from his 2022 album ... as the Road Unfolds as McMahon has been writing so many songs that he has already moved on from that album. 'New Country Morning' is optimistic and celebratory, and just the antidote we need to that tired, fed-up feeling. We talked recently about the song and what else is coming up for him.

More about Brendan McMahon: https://www.brendanmcm.com/

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Interview with Angus Gill

Sat, 03 Dec 2022 22:00:55 GMT

Christmas songs aren't for everyone, of course - not everyone celebrates that particular holiday. And even those who do may not turn on the Christmas tunes until at least Christmas Eve. But 2022 Golden Guitar winner - and four-time 2023 Golden Guitar nominee - Angus Gill makes a persuasive case for cranking up the Christmas music well in advance of 25 December with his new EP, The Gilly Season. Gill is one of the most prolific and entertaining singer-songwriters at work in Australian country music, and he also knows his music history, so he knew that creating a Christmas EP would mean coming up with something that hadn't been done before but which could immediately take its place alongside the canon of Australian carols as well as Mariah Carey. And, listener, he's cracked it (Christmas pun slightly intended) - for it is hard to resist a set of songs that begins with the line 'When you hear Bublé in the IGA ...' - at least, it is for this interviewer. It was great fun to talk to the man himself recently to find out all about The Gilly Season.

More about Angus Gill: https://angusgill.com.au/

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Interview with Jemma Beech

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 22:00:54 GMT

Jemma Beech is a singer-songwriter now living in the Hunter Valley region of New South Wales but for a while she lived in the Pilbara region of Western Australia, driving hours to play gigs in between driving dump trucks in the mines. Her experiences there shaped her as a performer and a songwriter, and since the 2018 release of her debut album That's Just Me she has been working on new music. Her latest single is the light-hearted 'You Fool', a sweetly self-deprecating take on a love song, and we spoke about that - and about dump trucks.

More about Jemma Beech: https://www.jemmabeech.com.au/

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Interview with Jade Holland

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 22:00:00 GMT

When an artist loves what they do, you tend to hear it in the music - and from the sound of Jade Holland's new song, 'Oh My Heart', she really loves what she does. It's an infectious song that features Holland's powerful yet smooth vocals, turning a tale of heartbreak into an upbeat track that is a great successor to her previous single, 'Summertime, Sunshine and You'. The songs indicated a more pop direction to Holland's country music - her two albums have leaned more towards country rock - and it's one that suits her. Speaking to Holland recently it became clear that she does indeed love what she does and that the only way is up for this great entertainer.

More about Jade Holland: https://jadeholland.com/

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Interview with Ella Powell

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 22:00:10 GMT

Singer-songwriter Ella Powell lives on the Central Coast of New South Wales yet her music is taking her further afield - spending time on the road, which is no doubt inspiration enough for her new single, 'Drive', which has arrived just in time for the Australian summer when other people will be on road trips and looking for just the right music to play. As with previous singles such as 'Paper Town' and 'Along the Away', 'Drive' is melodically rewarding and instantly memorable. Powell has had a busy year releasing those other singles, and once 2023 begins she'll have a packed schedule once more, playing at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, releasing music, and finding new fans. We spoke recently about 'Drive' and her plans for next year.

More about Ella Powell: https://www.ellapowell.com/

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Interview with Jason McDaniel

Sat, 26 Nov 2022 23:33:56 GMT

Melbourne/Naarm singer-songwriter Jason McDaniel has spent much of his life immersed in music, whether writing and performing his own or playing in bands with esteemed musicians such as Charley Boyter. However, McDaniel took a long break between releasing originals - his first album Man in the Black Hat came out in 1995 and it wasn't until last year that he released a second, Honky Tonk Life. He now has a new song, 'Tall Glass of Country and a Shot of Rock n Roll', and we spoke recently about that and his extensive musical experience.

More about Jason McDaniel: https://www.jasonmcdaniel.com.au/

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Interview with Jax Tonic

Tue, 22 Nov 2022 22:00:15 GMT

Several years ago Sydney singer-songwriter Jax Tonic played live at a relentless pace, before taking a break from music. That break has now led him to record and release his debut single, 'On the Front Foot', which was inspired by his first meeting with his wife. Tonic has rediscovered his love of performing live and now, with his original songs to add to his set, is back on the front foot of his music, as we spoke about recently.

More on Jax Tonic: https://www.jaxtonic.com/

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Interview with Mandy Hawkes

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 22:00:24 GMT

Mandy Hawkes is a singer-songwriter from the Northern Rivers district of New South Wales who plays in a country-folk style and released the EP The Water Was Deep in 2017. Since then she has released three unforgettable singles, 'They Say Love', 'We Were Just Kids' and her latest, 'Black Dog'. Hawkes has a background rich in text and music, and a desire to explore, through her music, the question of what it means to be on this earth, and to make sense of it. Her songs reflect this thoughtfulness and, as her heart is fully in then, connect movingly with the listener. We spoke recently about the breadth of her life in music and about her new single.

More on Mandy Hawkes: https://www.mandyhawkes.com/

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Interview with Sarah Catania

Sun, 20 Nov 2022 22:00:01 GMT

Melbourne/Naarm singer-songwriter Sarah Catania recently released her debut single, 'Venus and Mars', although it's something she's been working towards for a while, performing regularly in her home town (when lockdowns allow), working on her songwriting craft as much as possible and undertaking studies in Music Performance. It was a pleasure to chat to this passionate, dynamic artist whose first song promises many great releases to come.

More on Sarah Catania: https://sarahcatania.square.site/

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Interview with Emily Grace Taylor

Sat, 19 Nov 2022 22:00:20 GMT

In July Emily Grace Taylor released her debut country music single 'Till the Day' - but it was by no means her debut as a recording artist: as San Mei she has released many indie-rock singles and EPs. But country music has always been in Taylor's life and her experience as a songwriter, musician and singer has led to her creating a wonderful new country single, 'On My Way to You'. We spoke recently about her life in music, her path to country music and what's ahead for her as an artist.

More on Emily Grace Taylor: https://www.emilygracetaylor.com/

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Interview with JD Reynolds

Sat, 19 Nov 2022 03:23:54 GMT

JD Reynolds is a country music artist who has set out to capture audience attention with her high-energy singles, including 'Whatever' and 'Rebound', and she has continued that trend with her new single, '8 Seconds'. That timeframe will be familiar to anyone who knows anything about the perilous sport of bull riding - and in this song Reynolds sets out to tell the story of the bull riders from another perspective: that of the loved ones who fear for them each time they ride. She told me the story behind the song, and about her lifelong love of music, when we spoke recently.

More on JD Reynolds: https://www.jdreynoldsofficial.com/

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Interview with Ella & Sienna

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 22:00:38 GMT

South Australian sister duo Ella & Sienna released their new single, 'The City in July', in late October and saw it swiftly added to Apple Music's Aussie Country playlist. Their two previous singles, 'Next to Mine' and 'Saved' received widespread radio airplay and high rotation on ABC Country Radio. The sisters' finely honed country-pop instincts come not only from the music they listen to - which includes Taylor Swift - but their commitment to developing their own playing, singing and songwriting. We spoke recently about 'The City in July' and, of course, I had to throw in a question about Taylor Swift's Midnights.

For more about Ella & Sienna: https://ellaandsiennamusic.com/

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Interview with Amy Sheppard

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 22:00:11 GMT

When an artist in any field - music, writing, visual arts - is hugely successful in one genre or strand of their work, it is undoubtedly a risk to shift to something new. Creatively it may not turn out the same way, and the audience may not go with you. Amy Sheppard is a member of the chart-topping Australian band Sheppard and this year she has released a solo EP, Nothing But Wild, which is an instantly memorable collection of country pop songs which prove that her instincts about great songwriting and performance carry over from one genre to another - and fans agree, with the songs from Nothing But Wild racking up hundreds of thousands of streams. Recently we spoke about songwriting and country music and the pandemic delay of Nothing But Wild, amongst other things.

More about Amy Sheppard: www.amysheppardofficial.com

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Interview with Michelle Cashman

Sun, 13 Nov 2022 22:00:17 GMT

Since March 2020 musicians have navigated their way through the relentless changes in the industry, often finding different ways of doing things than they were used to before and sometimes sticking with those. In the case of South Coast (NSW) singer-songwriter Michelle Cashman, the pandemic and its lockdowns coincided with her release of new music at a time when there were no shows possible to support it. Instead she created a community of listeners on Patreon. She's now released a wonderful acoustic album, Grace, and part of our recent discussion covered the role that community has played in the creation of Grace, and how they have supported her generally. That's in addition to talking about her life in music overall.

More about Michelle Cashman: www.michellecashman.com

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Interview with Sons of Atticus

Sat, 12 Nov 2022 22:00:27 GMT

Dylan Wright and Matt Joyce are Sons of Atticus, a duo who cannot be said to based in any one place as its members now live in different places. But as anyone who sees them play live knows, this does not affect their musical affinity one bit. Sons of Atticus released the album Jacks Motel in 2021, single 'Sad Songs' earlier this year and 'Sore Eyes' recently. We spoke recently about how they came to play music together, about the band's name and their new song, and it would be hard to find a pair easier or more enjoyable to interview.

More on Sons of Atticus: https://linktr.ee/sonsofatticus

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Interview with Claudia Tripp

Sat, 12 Nov 2022 01:25:04 GMT

Western Australian singer-songwriter Claudia Tripp has been releasing pop and country pop songs for several years. Her 2020 single ‘Attention’ charted at number 2 on the iTunes Country Chart and was nominated for WAM (Western Australian Music) Country Song of the Year. She performs regularly in Perth, and has a clear passion for her craft. Her latest single is 'I Only Miss You When I'm Drunk' - given the term 'drunk dialling' was invited in the current era, it's likely to be a song that a lot of people relate to, and it was clear when talking to Tripp that she is interested in creating songs that connect with people and which are also highly entertaining.

More about Claudia Tripp: https://www.facebook.com/claudiatrippmusic/

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Interview with Jimbo Stokes

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 22:00:18 GMT

Jimbo Stokes is a singer-songwriter from the Hunter New England region of New South Wales who grew up near Tamworth and, therefore, quite aware of the country music that would take over the town every January. His mother, the late Bronwyn Stokes OAM, was a highly regarded GP and his debut single, 'Atlas', is about her - a moving tribute from a grieving son, and a powerful introduction to Stokes's singing and songwriting. Stokes's background is not in music, but his life is now in the arts, including as a visual artist. We spoke about this, and about the song.

More on Jimbo Stokes: linktr.ee/jimby.boy

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Interview with Darren Colston

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 22:00:00 GMT

New South Welshman Darren Colston rehas released several albums and in 2019 the single 'I Saw You Smile Today'. He's released three singles in 2022, the latest of which is 'Nothing I Can Do', which is a song born of heartbreak. In previous singles 'Old Town' and 'Hello Riverina' Colston sings vividly about rural life, demonstrating his ability to chart exterior as well as interior landscapes. We spoke recently about his life in music and his new music.

More about Darren Colston: https://darrencolston.com/

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Interview with Matt Ward

Sun, 30 Oct 2022 21:38:45 GMT

Last year South Australian singer-songwriter Matt Ward released his second album, If I Was in Dallas Tonight, the successor to 2019's Heartland. The album is a collection of vivid stories and memorable experiences, with Ward's wry perspective on the human condition making for songs that are relatable as well as entertaining. We spoke about the album and his 'Too Drunk to Two Step', as well as his musical background and other things.

More about Matt Ward: https://www.mattwardmusic.com/

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Interview with Rachael Fahim

Sat, 29 Oct 2022 22:00:46 GMT

In 2019 Rachael Fahim released her debut album, Iconic, and that's a great word to describe the status she's working towards as a country-pop artist. With her impressive vocals and ability to deliver memorable songs that also entertain, Fahim has the knack of knowing not only what audiences what but what they need: entertainment that also has layers of meaning for those who want them. Fahim's most recent single is 'City Girls in the Country' and we spoke about that, about the idea of who is 'allowed' to make country music and other things.

More about Rachael Fahim: https://www.rachaelfahim.com/

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Interview with Aurelle Brunjes

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 22:00:29 GMT

Aurelle Brunjes is an artist from Dimbulah, FNQ, who has been performing for several years in her local area then made the decision to record her own music. She released her debut single, 'Magpie', last year and whose latest release is 'Stumbling', which is partly about her experience of living with Ménière's disease, which causes vertigo, amongst other things, and also about the nature of modern life. We spoke recently about all of her singles, her inspirations, and her musical background.

More on Aurelle Brunjes: https://www.facebook.com/RelleBrunjesMusic/

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Interview with Matt Cornell

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 22:00:00 GMT

Matt Cornell has several roles within Australian country music: solo artist, musical director and band member for Adam Brand, one half of Cornell and Carr - and recurring artist at the Country on Keppel festival. While the festival on Queensland's Great Keppel Island was cancelled this year, there are plans to bring it back with a vengeance in 2023, and Cornell will make several appearances. We spoke recently about the festival and his legendary 80s show, and other things.

Information for Country on Keppel: https://greatkeppelislandhideaway.com.au/events/country-on-keppel-14th-16th-july-2023/

More about Matt Cornell: www.mattcornellmusic.com.au

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Interview with Danny Phegan

Sun, 23 Oct 2022 22:00:57 GMT

Last time I spoke to The Voice alumnus and Walla Walla (NSW) resident Danny Phegan it was about his song 'The Halfway Hotel'. Phegan has a full life, with several businesses and interests, and children as well, so there was lots to talk about. So much that there wasn't enough time, so it was great to have the chance to talk to him again about his new song 'The Fight Song' and to find out what he's been up to lately, including playing a few festivals.

More about Danny Phegan: www.facebook.com/dannypheganofficial/

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Interview with Sara Berki

Sat, 22 Oct 2022 22:58:30 GMT

Southern Highlands (NSW) singer-songwriter Sara Berki released an impressive debut single, 'Fallin Off the Heartline', earlier this year and announced herself as a great talent to watch. She has more than backed up that promise with her second single, 'Good Enough', and has been taking her music to audiences around the country as the support act on the recent McAlister Kemp tour. Berki has plenty more to come on the music and performance front, and we spoke recently about that.

More on Sara Berki: linktr.ee/saraberkimusic

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Interview with Nathan May

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 21:00:46 GMT

Arabana man Nathan May lives on Kaurna country in South Australia, where he performs regularly in local venues and also connects with songwriters and musicians around the country - his latest single, 'Fix It Up', was co-written by Colin Buchanan, produced by James Gillard and features guitar and banjo by Rod McCormack. The song has an interesting history, as I found out when talking to May recently - at least as interesting as his personal history and his ongoing dedication to music.

More about Nathan May: https://nathanmaymusic.bandcamp.com/

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Interview with Storer

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 22:15:01 GMT

The name Storer is familiar to many Australian country music fans, and beloved too. That's because Sara Storer has created and released so many memorable, special songs over the course of her seven albums, starting with Chasing Buffalo in 2000 and most recently with Raindance in 2019. Her brother Greg has been part of Sara's live show for much of that time, and released his own outstanding album, Backwater, in 2010. The siblings have now formed Storer together, along with other family members, and their debut single under this name is 'Show Me'. When I interviewed them recently I found out about their musical upbringing and their new work together. It was an absolute treat to talk to them both.

Storer tour dates in 2023: https://www.sarastorer.com.au/

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Interview with Jamie Lindsay

Sun, 16 Oct 2022 19:47:23 GMT

One of the advantages of now conducting interviews on video is that there's more opportunity for conversation to flow, and for artists to talk in detail about their work - over the phone, without the ability to properly converse, it can be hard to know how far to take a certain subject as I can't gauge if the interviewee is interested in it. That means we might often not have strayed too far from the initial subject of the interview. Interviewing Central Coast (NSW) artist Jamie Lindsay for the second time, about his new single 'Bring on the Summertime', meant being able to find out a lot more about his long career as a performing artist who plays dozens of times a year - about what that entails, how to sustain it, and how to maintain passion for your work. We did also talk about the new song and about songwriting, but for anyone who is interested in the detail of being a working musician, this is a must-watch/must-listen.

More about Jamie Lindsay: https://jamielindsaymusic.com/

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Interview with Catherine Traicos

Sun, 16 Oct 2022 04:12:05 GMT

Western Australian artist Catherine Traicos draws musical influences from a range of genres, including the classical music of her original training, and produces music that while not easily categorised can be classified as music that connects to both the heart and head of the listener. There is thoughtfulness and joy in Traicos's songs, and the title of her latest EP, Choose Your Own Light, leaves open the possibility that the EP itself may be that light. It also nods to Traicos's commitment as an artist to leave room for the listener to find themselves in her songs - and there is much to discover on this EP. When we spoke recently we talked about that classical music of the past as well as the creation of the EP in the present.

More about Catherine Traicos: https://catherinetraicos.com/

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Interview with Billie Rose

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 21:10:13 GMT

Queensland artist Billie Rose released an impressive debut EP, Company with Regret, in 2020, and this year she has released two equally noticeable singles, 'Black Dress' and 'Label Me a Killer'. Each of them has an interesting backstory, which we talked about in this interview, along with Billie's experiences playing live from quite a young age, her attendance at the Academy of Country Music and her songwriting process.

More about Billie Rose: billierosemusic.com

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Interview with Riley Catherall

Tue, 11 Oct 2022 21:07:54 GMT

Last year Melbourne-based, Canberra-raised singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Riley Catherall released a wonderful album, When I Go. Since then he's been on tour with Lachlan Bryan & the Wildes, in Australia and overseas. Catherall could easily have kept rolling out singles from When I Go while that was going on; instead, he recorded and has released a completely new song, 'Bark at the Moon'. It's a song that came about very quickly, as I learnt when we spoke recently.

More about Riley Catherall: https://rileycatherall.com/

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Interview with Ashleigh Dallas

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 20:41:14 GMT

After winning two Golden Guitars earlier this year, one for Female Artist of the Year, Tamworth-based singer-songwriter Ashleigh Dallas has released her thoughtful, powerful fifth album In the Moment. In some ways it is a record of Dallas's diligence in her life and work: to do her best, to make the most of each day. In others it's simply a joyous listening experience, and a continuation of what fans have already loved about Dallas's work - her rich songwriting and heartfelt delivery of her songs. In this interview Dallas is generous with her insights into those songs and her songwriting process, and, as ever, a delight to chat to.

More about Ashleigh Dallas: https://ashleighdallas.com.au/

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Interview with Freya Josephine Hollick

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 06:38:46 GMT

Freya Josephine Hollick is a singer-songwriter from Victoria who has a distinct and distinctive identity within Australian country music. Her musical style has been described as cosmic country but that is merely a label for something that is definitely country music yet absolutely her music: an embrace of the structure of country as a pathway to greater creativity. Hollick writes songs that work on macro and micro scales, and nowhere is that better displayed than on her new album, The Real World, which is both a manifesto and an offering of love. Several singles from the album have already been released; the album itself will be available on 30 September 2022. I relished the opportunity to talk to Hollick about her inspirations and influences – of all sorts – for this exceptional album.

More about Freya Josephine Hollick: http://www.freyajosephinehollick.com/

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Interview with Allan Cameron

Sun, 09 Oct 2022 21:22:40 GMT

Allan Cameron's career in music includes time spent playing with Keith Urban before the latter relocated to the USA, and recent membership of SaltbushSix, which included members of Urban's earlier band. Cameron hasn't released much music under his own name but that is now starting to change, and the recent release of the song 'Father's Eyes' shows him to be a nuanced and sensitive songwriter with a willingness and ability to connect with audiences. It was so interesting to talk to him recently and find out about his life in music.

More about Allan Cameron: http://www.allancameron.com/

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Interview with Luke O'Shea

Sat, 08 Oct 2022 22:34:09 GMT

There's a particular power to the music of Sydney-based singer-songwriter Luke O'Shea that has been acknowledged by multiple Golden Guitar Awards as well as by the longevity of his career over five albums and countless shows. Australian audiences love O'Shea's way of telling stories and imparting information with humour and pathos and respect for his subjects, and no doubt they will love his new album, Next Big Thing, when it is released in January 2023. 'South East Queensland' is O'Shea's first single from that album and we spoke about that recently, as well as other songs and other things.

More about Luke O'Shea: https://lukeoshea.com/

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Interview with James Johnston

Sat, 08 Oct 2022 22:33:34 GMT

James Johnston has released a handful of singles and is already an unqualified success, with over 350 000 monthly listeners on Spotify and festival appearances and other shows lined up. He's also become a master of social media, using TikTok, in particular, to great effect - so much so that his recent single, 'Same Songs', came about entirely because of social media. The song was written and recorded with Kaylee Bell, but it was also a collaboration with both of their social media followings. When I spoke to James recently I wanted to find out more about this, because it heralds his openness to not only new collaborations but new ideas. This is part of his difference as an artist and, no doubt, why audiences are embracing him so much.

More about James Johnston: https://jamesjohnston.com/

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Interview with Kelly Brouhaha

Sat, 08 Oct 2022 05:36:41 GMT

The latest single from Kelly Brouhaha is ‘Poets, Troubadours & Me’, but as I put to her when we spoke recently, that title implies that she is not a poet or troubadour – when she most decidedly is both, and more. Anyone who has seen Brouhaha perform will know the power of her words and her performance, and how adept she is at conjuring magic in a set, as well as on a recording, as she did in her most recent album, Unplugged. Brouhaha takes that magic on the road, permanently, as she lives on the road – we discuss that, and more.

For more about Kelly Brouhaha: https://www.kellybrouhaha.com.au/

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Interview with Matt Scullion

Sat, 08 Oct 2022 04:50:15 GMT

Matt Scullion is a singer and a songwriter whose most recent album is Aussie As Vol. II. His songs are not, however, confined to his albums as he’s one of Australian country music’s most prolific songwriters and in-demand co-writers – his name constantly pops up on credits. In the case of his latest single ‘From the Ashes’, taken from Aussie As Vol. II, his co-writer was Col Finley, who himself has an extensive musical history. Finley recorded the song with Scullion, and was meant to join him for this interview but unfortunately couldn’t make it at the last minute. So I decided to take the opportunity to ask Scullion about his songwriting, and he had some fascinating things to say that are relevant for songwriters new and established.

More about Matt Scullion: http://mattscullionmusic.com/

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Interview with Amber Lawrence

Sat, 08 Oct 2022 04:40:22 GMT

Amber Lawrence is an artist from Sydney who has five Golden Guitars and has just released her seventh studio album, Living for the Highlights, and it’s safe to say that she is one of those artists who consistently produces music that is worth listening to. What’s also safe to say is that Living for the Highlights is one of the most thoughtful and sometimes magical responses to the world we’ve all lived in over the past two and a bit years. When we spoke recently about her new album I wanted to take a different approach: song by song. It’s a longer-than-normal interview but Lawrence generously gave many insights into the writing of the album and the stories behind the songs. This is a record of a leading artist at work, and worth the time.

More about Amber Lawrence: https://www.amberlawrence.com.au/

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