Monthly Archives: October 2025
Silphie ‘Si Tu’ (Official Video)
Jack Nolan Releases Single ‘Extraordinary’
Jack Nolan’s “Extraordinary” is a poignant reflection on a cherished, absent individual, born from lingering affection and regret. It explores unfulfilled plans and enduring memories. The song originated from an accomplished finger-picking guitar part, which then inspired an impeccable orchestral arrangement and a haunting piano melody, crafting a powerful statement. Recorded at Nashville’s Curb Studios with producer Justin Weaver, the process captured its raw vulnerability and sophisticated musicality. “Extraordinary” stands as a timeless masterclass in songwriting, showcasing Nolan’s signature ambiguous storytelling and universal themes of love, loss, and connection.
Jack Nolan was thinking, of that first moment, when songwriting suddenly felt possible, when the penny dropped. “In my mid-teens, sitting alone on my bed, acoustic guitar in hand, trying to get it all happening, when I realised – these greats I love, Dylan, Bowie, Pink Floyd et al are playing all the same chords I’m playing” he says nostalgically “I could do this too – It was one of those split seconds that can alter your life, floored by the possibilities, the potential of music.”
On Nolan’s new album, The Lonely Petunia, he went to find that boy again, to honour that moment, that subliminal decision with his acoustic guitar.
Recorded in Nashville, “The Lonely Petunia” marks the eighth solo album by the Sydneysider. This intimate acoustic journey showcases the artist’s signature lyrical depth. Lush strings and piano add depth and character to Jack’s trademark storytelling. The album was produced by Justin Weaver, an American musician and producer celebrated for his collaborations with, amongst others, Wynona Judd and The Chicks. Nolan describes Weaver as a musical comrade, highlighting the great working partnership that spans over five albums.
Based in Sydney, Jack has been performing and releasing music and albums since the mid-1990s. In addition to an eight-album solo catalogue, Jack also fronted the Kelly Gang, alongside Rick Grossman, bassist for the Divinyls and Hoodoo Gurus, and Midnight Oil drummer Rob Hirst and guitarist Martin Rotsey. Their 2004 album, “Looking for the Sun,” remains a hidden gem, featuring an incredible lineup of musicians that delivered passionate and energetic live performances of the time.
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The Sheyana Band Release Single ‘Forth Valley Blues’
Nestled by the bridge over Forth River, the iconic Forth Valley Blues Festival was born in 1997 in a picturesque little town called Forth on the North West Coast of Tasmania. It came into being due to a growing popularity for blues bands drawing huge crowds at The Forth Pub.
Forth Valley Blues Festival saw a local community working together to create an opportunity for local talent to share the stage with Australian & International legends. Having been invited to perform at the festival on 4 separate occasions the inspiration for this track came from the joy, the journey this exciting community event.
The Sheyana Band fuse Aussie Rhythm, Soul & Rock, Southern Country Pop, Americana inspired Roots & Blues with edgy Funk ’n’ Groove. Together they deliver passion, powerhouse vocals and brilliant musicianship, showcasing an extensive repertoire of golden hits and award winning originals. From the moment you hear the first song from the Sheyana Band, you will be impressed. This talented band, influenced by the classics, draw inspiration from their deep Tasmanian roots.
London born, Tasmanian based, singer-songwriter Sheyana has been hooked on music since her early childhood. The soulful Celtic/Sri Lankan storyteller is perfectly complimented by her stellar band, featuring Tassie’s finest musicians, with respected guitarist/vocalist Wayne Rand, seasoned, rock solid bassist Dan Jeffrey, and the mighty Leigh Hill on drums/vocals.
The Sheyana Band was honoured with the prestigious 2018 Chris Wilson Award for ‘Emerging Act of the Year’ from the Melbourne Blues Appreciation Society. Sheyana’s songwriting has scored national and international awards and previous and current singles have reached top 10 on the charts on YESFM Sri Lanka radio in 2015 & 2023.
Receiving national & international recognition & airplay, their captivating live shows have seen them share the stage with Australia’s finest including Mark Seymour & The Undertow, Ross Wilson & The Peaceniks, Joe Camelleri & The Black Sorrows, Deborah Conway, Hoodoo Gurus, Neil Finn, Meg Mac, Superjesus, Mojo Juju, Gang of Youths, Diesel, Renee Geyer, The Angels, Kevin Borich, Ian Moss, Bill Chambers & Fanny Lumsden.
October 2024 saw the band do an extensive tour of Sri Lanka and 2025 is looking very exciting with many Australian Festival performances in 2025/2026 already booked.
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The Stomp’n Ramblers Release Single ‘Kick’n Stones’
Kick’n Stones marks the third release from the Stomp’n Ramblers’ debut album. Riding a smooth, bluesy stomp, the track weaves together harmonica & slide guitar with its reflective message. A reminder that holding onto the past can weigh us down, and sometimes, the only way forward is to let go.
Quote “There’s always that one song that shows up just before you record an album — and you have to make the decision to let something else go. This was that song. We just had a solid session where things came together naturally, and we were feeling pretty positive. The lyrics came from a chance meeting years ago Stoney had with a guy in Brazil – when asked what he’d been up to, replied, ‘Not much, just kick’n stones’ – that simple phrase stuck, and it ended up fitting perfectly with feel of this track.”
The Stomp’n Ramblers is Owen Mancell on slide guitar/stomp box/vocals and Ryan Stone on harmonica. With a sound steeped in the raw spirit of Sonny Terry & Brownie McGhee, they draw influences from The Backsliders, RL Burnside and Muddy Waters to deliver an eclectic blend of vintage blues with contemporary storytelling.
Owen’s soulful voice brings a deep emotional edge to their music, carrying the weight and warmth of old-school blues with every note. Paired with Ryan’s electrifying harmonica work, the duo channels a sound that feels timeless and unique.
As seasoned performers on the live circuit, The Stomp’n Ramblers have shared stages with acclaimed acts like Sons of the East, 19 Twenty, and Nathan Cavaleri.
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