Tag Archives: country

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Bec Taylor and the Lyrebirds Release Single ‘Even Smaller Parts’

Following the radio success of ‘Irresistible’ — which was picked up by multiple programs on ABC Country, including Edge of Country — Bec Taylor and the Lyrebirds return with ‘Even Smaller Parts’, a deeply introspective country ballad that leans into vulnerability and emotional reckoning. 

Written by Bec Taylor and Sam McNair, the song turns inward, examining what it means to love again after damage. Anchored by rich acoustic instrumentation and a restrained, spacious arrangement, it centres on a voice that is both guarded and searching — someone who knows the cost of heartbreak, yet remains quietly open to connection. 

“It’s a song about what’s left after the storm — and whether you can trust someone with the pieces.” 

Bec Taylor and the Lyrebirds are a Canberra-based Australian alt-country pop collective, crafting uplifting, heartfelt songs that blend earthy folk textures with bright melodic hooks. Led by multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter Bec Taylor, the band has carved out a distinctive space in the independent folk scene with a sound that feels both timeless and immediate: part wistful campfire confession, part irresistible sing-along. 

Since their formation, Bec Taylor and the Lyrebirds have brought their magnetic live energy to stages across Sydney, Melbourne and the South Coast NSW, and have appeared at much-loved festivals including Major’s Creek Folk Festival, Kangaroo Valley Folk Festival and Dam Good Time Folk Festival. They’ve supported artists such as Troy Cassar-Daley, Little Quirks and Sarah McLeod, building a reputation for warm, engaging performances and finely tuned musicianship.  

Bec’s broader musical journey spans multiple projects and genres, including collaborations with the Wiggles’ adult band Unusual Commoners, national touring with Regurgitator, and support slots for The Darkness among others. She has also performed at major Australian festivals including Groovin’ The Moo, Woodford Folk Festival and the National Folk Festival. 

UPCOMING TOUR DATES

  Thursday 21 May – 7pm Smiths Alternative, ACT w/ Dan Musil

  Friday 29 May – 5-7pm The Wharf @ Ulverstone, North Tasmania w/ Sparrowgrass

  Saturday 13 June – 7pm Gasoline Pony, Marrickville, Sydney w/ Bower

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Jack Nolan Releases Album ‘The Lonely Petunia’

JACK NOLAN
 Will be Ross M Fear’s featured artist on
Alive 90.5 fm Australian Spectrum Show
9pm Tuesday 28 October 2025
featuring his latest album “The Lonely Petunia”.

“Jack Nolan’s music features mysterious and shimmering chords that unite his sound with that of the Americana genre, once quaintly described as ‘Darlinghurst Country’, uniting elements of folk, country, rock ‘n’ roll and ambient atmospheres” – Ross M Fear

“Nolan’s strength lies in his ability to craft songs that are both intimate and universal, music that asks the listener to feel, to consider, and to linger in the quiet aftermath” – Audrey Songvilay
https://amnplify.com.au/portfolio-items/jack-nolan-the-lonely-petunia-album-review-17th-october-2025/?portfolioCats=12711

“This is an album of quiet contemplation, introspection, supple, subtle, full of air and light as Nolan ponders the interstices of life, love and loss, as well as odd moments of doubt and even repentance, as he ponders “the Other”, who should be there… but isn’t” – Michael George Smith

Jack Nolan’s eighth solo album, The Lonely Petunia, sees him return to the childhood spark that ignited his musical journey. Recorded in Nashville and co-produced with long-time comrade Justin Weaver, this intimate acoustic collection showcases Nolan’s signature lyrical depth.

Though primarily acoustic, subtle piano and string arrangements on select tracks weave through his evocative storytelling, creating an ethereal yet tender sound. Despite American influences, the album’s heart remains firmly rooted in Nolan’s Australian upbringing—from Bondi’s beaches to the vibrant rhythms of Sydney Harbour. The Lonely Petunia is a solitary yet tender reflection, honouring music’s profound possibilities.

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.

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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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.

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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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Jack Nolan Releases Single ‘Craw’

Jack Nolan’s “Craw” is a potent critique of political hypocrisy (“one rule for us, one rule for them”). Its minor-key acoustic swing and upright piano evoke a raw, barroom feel. Nolan’s lyrics, “Run the rabbit / Run the preacher / Run the whore / Run the sirens / Run the law / It gets in my craw,” convey deep frustration with systemic injustice. Recorded at Nashville’s Curb Studios with musical partner & producer Justin Weaver, “Craw” showcases their collaborative strength, proving a powerful sound needs only vision, not a large team.

nola

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.

Spotify Link

Connect with Jack Nolan

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Jack Nolan Releases Single ‘Always’

Jack Nolan’s ‘Always’ is a story of enduring love with additional Nashville craft. Recorded at Nashville’s Curb Studios, the track emerged from Jack’s ongoing collaboration with producer Justin Weaver. Surprisingly, this captivating track, like many of their standout songs, began as a mere afterthought, a filler, before evolving into a powerful and poignant expression.

nola

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.

Always is the first single from “The Lonely Petunia.” The album is scheduled for release later this year.

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JJ Davison Releases EP ‘The Long Road South’

JJ Davison and the Shipbuilders present The Long Road South, a heartfelt collection recorded at the renowned Damien Gerard Sound Studios on the Central Coast, NSW. This project captures the essence of Jack Davison’s folk roots, offering a distinct departure from his work with the rock band Halfway Homebuoy.

The tracks on this record offer a poignant homage to heritage, memory, and the unbreakable ties between past and present. The record stands as a testament to Davison’s passion for folk music and his commitment to preserving the stories and songs of his homeland, even as he carves out a new life and sound in Australia.

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Jack “JJ” Davison, best known as the front man for the Australian rock band Halfway Homebuoy, steps into the spotlight with his evocative solo project, JJ Davison and the Shipbuilders. Their debut record, The Long Road South, is a heartfelt collection of folk songs that trace the journey from the rugged landscapes of Northeast England to the distant shores of New South Wales, Australia.

Davison’s music is deeply rooted in his upbringing in the Northeast of England, where he was immersed in the region’s rich folk tradition from an early age. Growing up, he played alongside his father, brother, and friends in the folk clubs and pubs scattered across the Northeast, absorbing the stories, melodies, and camaraderie that define the area’s musical heritage. These formative years instilled in him a passion for the working men’s songs and the resilient spirit of the local communities.

The Long Road South is a more acoustic and introspective record compared to Davison’s rock work with Halfway Homebuoy.  The EP weaves together tales of football, local characters, resilience, and pride—each song a tribute to the people and places that shaped him. The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and pride in times gone by, reflecting the enduring heritage of Northeast England’s working-class culture.

Davison’s storytelling is both personal and universal, capturing the challenges and triumphs of migration, the bonds of family, and the pride of community. The acoustic arrangements highlight his gravelly, emotive vocals, allowing the stories to take centre stage.

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The Mezcaltones Score #2 Place on ABARAC Charts!!

Congratulations to The Mezcaltones for scoring the #2 debut spot for the new album on the Australian Blues and Roots Airplay Chart

View the Chart HERE: http://abarac.com.au/australian-charts-2025.php

“They’re baaaaaack!! Hell, they never left. Australian surf-cowboy-Country-Rockers The Mezcaltones just released their fifth album entitled Big Hat, No Cattle. While the phrase describes someone who dresses the part without doin’ any of the work, it sure as hell ain’t a self-descriptor. If anything, this band wears their big hats and herds the cattle, then fixes dinner at the chuck wagon for the whole damn posse.”
– Wiley Koepp
“Big Hat No Cattle fuses twangy outlaw country, surf rock energy and cinematic storytelling, delivering a high octane listening experience from start to finish”
https://www.wokechimp.com/music/the-mezcaltones-big-hat-no-cattle
“Original, extraordinary, genuine, distinctive, and proves to create an attractive world of its own”
“A blistering collection of songs that wander across a landscape that is both nostalgic and celebratory while continuing to make such music relevant and revered in the modern age”
– Dave Franklin
“An electrifying, genre-defying masterpiece, proving that The Mezcaltones are not just keeping the spirit of Hillbilly Surf Music alive—they’re reinventing it for a whole new generation”
– Jacob Aiden
“Another milestone in their impressive career, an album that promises to be a fan favorite and a staple in the alt-country panorama. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their sound, The Mezcaltones’ latest album is a must-listen”
– Grant Williamson

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Northern Beaches Band The Mezcaltones perform regularly at Sydney venues – The Orient (The Rocks), Marrickville Bowlo, Collaroy Beach Club, Brighton RSL to name a few. They have also performed at eight Tamworth Country Music Festivals; Groundwater CMF; Blues on Broadbeach; Sydney Blues & Roots Festival; Dashville Skyline Festival; and Greazefest.

Their sound can be difficult to describe – mixing original songs with rare tracks you might find on Robert Rodriguez/Tarantino movies or B-Grade 60’s Sci-Fi Flicks the guitars are richly infused with surf tones and 60’s Twang served up with a healthy dose of Cowpunk brashness. One booker described them as “Mexican Hillbilly Surf Music”. One punter said “lf Johnny Cash surfed he’d have sounded like you guys”.

Their antics are captivating. The band is fronted by vocalist Col Padre (who engages in tongue in cheek choreography) and dancer/singer/percussionist Mimi. Mimi is renowned for her routines involving gymnastic ribbons used as whips, hula hoops, fans and whatever else she can lay her hands on.

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The Mezcaltones Release Single ‘Big Hat No Cattle’

Don’t worry if you missed their sell out run at Tamworth Music Festival last month , you can catch The Mighty Mezcaltones at any of the following dates:

pdf mez

Big Hat No Cattle is a song about that boss that we all had/have. He (generally a he) is not the owner or the manager, maybe a supervisor, but probably not, just been there longer than you – so he’s your BOSS. Definitely a big hat and for sure – no cattle!

Northern Beaches Band The Mezcaltones perform regularly at Sydney venues – The Orient (The Rocks), Marrickville Bowlo, Collaroy Beach Club, Brighton RSL to name a few. They have also performed at eight Tamworth Country Music Festivals; Groundwater CMF; Blues on Broadbeach; Sydney Blues & Roots Festival; Dashville Skyline Festival; and Greazefest.

 Their last album ‘Agave Soirée’ entered the Australian Blues and Roots airplay charts at #7 before spending five months embedded in the Top 20. The band are putting the finishing touches to their fifth album ‘Big Hat No Cattle’, scheduled for release in March. The title track is the first single released on 17 January to coincide with their shows at this years Tamworth County Music Festival.

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 Their sound can be difficult to describe – mixing original songs with rare tracks you might find on Robert Rodriguez/Tarantino movies or B-Grade 60’s Sci-Fi Flicks. The guitars are richly infused with surf tones and 60’s Twang served up with a healthy dose of Cowpunk brashness. One booker described them as “Mexican Hillbilly Surf Music”. One punter said “If Johnny Cash surfed he’d have sounded like you guys”.

Their atics are captivating. The band is fronted by vocalist Col Padre (who engages in tongue in cheek choreography) and dancer/singer/percussionist Mimi. Mimi is renowned for her routines involving gymnastic ribbons used as whips, hula hoops, fans and whatever else she can lay her hands on. Big Daddy K from 2RRR’S Sydney Sounds show described the Mezcaltones as the best live band in Sydney.

The costumes make for an outstanding visual – four guys dressed as party hire Cowboys and two girls dressed as Spanish gunslingers with several minor costume changes throughout the show involving masks, veils and mirror shades. Sounds corny… sure is.

TOUR DATES

Date Venue Location
Saturday, 18 January 2025 West Diggers Club Tamworth
Friday, 19 January 2024 West Diggers Club Tamworth
Saturday, 20 January 2024 West Diggers Club Tamworth
Saturday, 18 January 2025 West Diggers Club Tamworth
Friday, 19 January 2024 West Diggers Club Tamworth
Saturday, 20 January 2024 West Diggers Club Tamworth
Saturday, 18 January 2025 West Diggers Club Tamworth
Friday, 19 January 2024 West Diggers Club Tamworth
Sunday, 16 February 2025 Orient Hotel The Rocks
Sunday, 9 March 2025 Marrickville Bowlo Marrickville
Saturday, 15 March 2025 Railway Hotel Hornsby
Sunday, 23 March 2025 Orient Hotel The Rocks

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Bob Pigott Releases EP ‘Still Moving’

 ‘Still Moving’ is Bob Pigott’s 9th studio release and was recorded at Damien Gerard and Ears That Hear Studios on the picturesque Central Coast of NSW. The songs were written on an old stand-up piano while Bob took some time out to raise his young son.

The songs reflect light and shade with tracks ‘Like It’s Summer’ and ‘Pop Song’ pushing the beat while reflective moments come with ‘Glasgow’ and ‘Moving Day’. The toe tapping ‘Arlo’ is a note from a father to a son, and ‘Tired of Thinking About You’ goes straight to the heart strings. ‘Still Moving’ is another welcome offering from a singer- songwriter who just won’t stop moving…still.

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Critically acclaimed and multi award winning singer/songwriter Bob Pigott bridges folk, pop and country with rich vocals and a gift for storytelling. His original blend of smooth acoustic rhythms and poetic lyrics has broad appeal that transcends genres.

Bob’s intimate style and ability to craft songs that are artful as well as commercial has seen Bob secure a raft of ABC Music Awards and gave him the opportunity to record at the famous Abbey Road studios in London.

Bob’s ability to discover the heart of a song and produce lyrics that sound like words we could hear ourselves speaking, continues to attract the discerning listener worldwide.

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