Tag Archives: New EP

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.

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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.

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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Fleur Wiber Releases ‘Orderves’ (Remaster 2024)

Step into a musical odyssey where cosmic vibes meet the heartfelt twang of alt-country. Fleur Wiber, the luminary songstress, invites you on a celestial journey through her soul-stirring melodies and poetic lyrics. Her voice, a captivating blend of stardust and raw emotion, transports listeners to a cosmic frontier where love, longing and the vast mysteries of the universe converge.

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About Fleur Wiber

Born in Hamilton, Victoria, and now based in the enchanting coastal town of Port Fairy, Fleur’s artistic roots trace back to her studies in sculpture, performance, and installation at Sydney College of the Arts, where she explored themes of self-determinism and freedom. Influenced by musical luminaries such as Cat Power, Sharon van Etten, Wilco, and Fiona Apple, Fleur’s music blends cosmic country, alt-country rock, and indie pop with a unique touch. Drawing from her personal adventures, Fleur infuses her songs with authenticity and depth, inviting listeners on a heartfelt and introspective journey.

 Having graced stages like the Tamworth Country Music Festival and Nundle Rocks earlier this year, Fleur embarked on an exhilarating Southeast Asian tour in 2024, captivating audiences in Bangkok and beyond. Her performances are characterized by warmth, honesty, and a genuine connection with her audience.

Join Fleur Wiber as she invites you into a universe where heartfelt emotion meets cosmic exploration through music. Immerse yourself in her soul-stirring melodies and discover the magic of Fleur’s musical odyssey.

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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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The Gronks Release EP ‘The Gronks Go Bang’

Bang Bang and Indie Darling were recorded by Luke Bert at Soundworks in Sydney, and feature special guest Gronks Paul Mason, Adam Griffiths and Tim Denny. The tracks were mixed by Steve Melville (Gronk adjacent) at the Burning Boat in Melbourne. Deidre Chambers Coincides and YSFR were recorded and mixed by Paul Scott and Ken Stewart at the Static Attractor II, Sydney. All songs are the product of Stewart and Scott’s imagination and any resemblance to historic ditties and/or dirges is purely coincidental.

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So, what is Gronks? Well… Ken Stewart sings, plays guitar and writes most of the words, Paul Scott plays guitar and keyboards and writes most of the music. They record at various times and places, and honestly, don’t remember too much about the process except that there seems to have been one because these digital encodings of melodies and words exist… so there’s that.  Drawing on their mutual roots in the Sydney indie scene of the early 2000’s and inspired by the possibilities of home recording, Ken and Paul have enjoyed a fruitful, if infrequent, collaboration over the last few years. Occasionally Gronks include Paul Mason, Tim Denny and Adam Griffiths.

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Montana Release EP ‘Nearer’ (2024 Remaster)

Montana was formed in Sydney in 1998 by Paul Scott, Ken Stewart, Steve Melville and Michelle Margherita. They began playing at friend’s parties and around the Sydney inner-city indie circuit, sharing the bill with Mr Blonde, The John Reed Club, Youth Group and 78 Saab.

Within a few months they had booked time at Damien Gerard Studios to begin work with legendary in-house engineer Russell Pilling, the tracks recorded including the debut single ‘Koolest Band’, formed part of their debut EP.

Koolest Band received significant airplay on independent stations across Australia and national broadcaster JJJ put the song on high rotation. Interest from US labels resulted in the band playing shows in Los Angeles, including a spot at the Whiskey a Go Go and at SXSW.

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Following the release of Koolest Band EP and another year of constant gigging in Australia and the US, the three piece (Michelle Margherita, Steve Melville and Paul Scott) felt confident enough in the studio to stretch out sonically. Tracks for the follow up were recorded at Velvet Sounds studio under Pitt Street in the heart of Sydney.

There were many talented people involved in the recording of the Nearer EP, but special mention must be made of Tony Wall and Adrian Grigorieff who tracked most of the songs and the late, great Craig Porteils who mixed them. The EP sold out its first pressing in less than a week, causing a few headaches for their small indie label Velvet Lounge and debuted at number 9 in the indie charts.

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The Sheyana Band Release New EP ‘Ricochet’

The Sheyana Band’s EP, ‘Ricochet’, came together during covid lockdown in Tasmania. Making the best of a bad situation and with plenty of time to reflect, Sheyana and the band focused on song writing, and the music emerged from those strange, uneasy times. The songs were the lights at the end of the tunnel, at a time when we were both separated and unified. Through the music and the artwork, this EP is a tribute to the loved ones we’ve lost along the way, and the big hearts working towards a higher love and respect for one another and our planet.

Song Descriptions

Remarkable Man
A full throttle country rock number, a very worthy single to follow up to Big Hearts. The song begins with the full band straight in, it’s up-tempo, catchy and full of riffs and hooks from the very competent guitar section, foot tapping all the way to the end.

My Darlin’
Another full band tune with a Beatles-esque intro, the song then quickly hits the classic americana/country references with the addition of some Hammond and backing vocals to the full band arrangement. Up-tempo and yet another killer tune from this release.

Ricochet
A pumping rhythm section intro starts this up-tempo rocker. Great electric guitars, Hammond organ and the usual strong lead vocal set the tone for this one. You can imagine this being a live favourite, very accessible and plenty going on all the way to the end.

About

Influenced by the classics and drawing inspiration from their deep Tassie roots, The Sheyana Band are like a fine wine. A ripe fruity musical banquet, fusing stylistic flavours from Australian Rhythm & Soul, American Funk & Blues, English Pop/Rock & Punk, with a dash of Southern Country/Folk.

The Sheyana Band shake it up, roll it on the rocks, pour it in the groove and serve it with passion. Delighting audiences with an exciting delivery of powerhouse vocals, brilliant musicianship and heartfelt song writing, their captivating live shows have seen them share the stage with Australia’s finest.

London born, Tasmanian based singer, songwriter and guitarist, Sheyana, has been hooked on music since early childhood. The soulful Celtic/Sri Lankan storyteller brings flavour to the table with her stellar band, featuring Wayne Rand on lead guitars/vocals, Dan Jeffrey on bass & Leigh Hill on drums/vocals.

Having national and international recognition and airplay, the band have supported Deborah Conway, Hoodoo Gurus, Neil Finn, Meg Mac, Mojo Juju, Gang of Youths, Renee Geyer, Diesel, The Angels, Kevin Borich, Ian Moss, Bill Chambers and Fanny Lumsden. Nationally they won “The Chris Wilson Award” for Emerging Act of Year” with their album Big Love in 2018.

The Sheyana Band received a top ten hit in Sri Lanka in 2015 with their single “Keep the Change”, along with a Best Act nomination. Sheyana scored a blues award with the OzSong International Song Writing Competition in 2011 for her song “Two Birds”, which also made it to the finals in “Fresh Air” ABC National Song writing Competition. The Sheyana Band are a favourite act at major Tassie events: Skyfields 2017-2018, Forth Valley Blues Festival 2018, Party In The Paddock 2018-2019, Fruits of the Roots 2019, Festival of King Island 2020, Red Hot Summer after party 2021, Junction Arts Festival 2021, and Riverbend Blues 2023.

The Sheyana Band EP ‘Ricochet’ is Out Now via FOG/MGM

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Drawing Arrows Release EP ‘Pinch Me’

Powderfinger, Radiohead, Arctic Monkeys, Nothing But Thieves and Queens of the Stoneage all inspire an authentic live sound from Drawing Arrows that sits as well on stage as it does in your headphones.

With influences of jazz, alternative rock, punk, Spanish flamenco and pop, Drawing Arrows stay focused on crafting music that makes you want to press rewind and listen again.

This is the second EP that Drawing Arrows have put together and it holds a lot of importance for the band.

The first track, ‘Pinch Me’, has been a work-in-progress since the boys first started playing together. Despite the fact that it changed format a number of times, it remained a favourite of Sidney’s. With its soulful lyrics and cool groove you can understand why.

‘Lights Out’ provides a little light chaos and fits in well with the energy you’d see in their live shows. The driving bass and drums keep the crowd going as the post-punk guitars keep them inspired.

‘Good Grief’ explores the ideas of dealing with things that you just can’t change. Instead of a melancholic ballad this track hits all the big notes. Another huge, live-sounding song.

Drawing Arrows is a love letter to rock music. Not one band, not one decade, but the whole effect. With multiple influences – from Australian rock’n’roll, US grunge and flamenco guitar to Britpop rock and amped-up punk.

With band members from Spain, the UK and right here in Australia, each member brings their own unique influences. Sidney (vocals) and David (bass/guitar) have previously worked on an experimental dubstep project (Milo Firewater). Drawing Arrows is a creative outlet – a way to channel all their experiences – not just musically. The aim – to create music that feels good to play and to listen too.

Song Descriptions

Pinch me
The most chilled of this 3-song offering from the boys. This is a mid-tempo cruise with clean guitars and a lighter touch on the drums. You can really hear the song writing skills of the band on this one, as well as some superb background vocals and guitar work throughout.

Lights Out
Drawing Arrows have come up with a modern up-tempo rock formula that really works on this tune. There’s plenty to like early on with a great ear catching intro, then Sid’s distinctive vocals and the snare popping chorus. A total winner.

Good Grief
Arpeggio electric guitars along with fast and furious drums and bass start this song off before the vocals kick in.  Some very Radiohead sounds pervade this song in a great way. Up-tempo, hooky and technically challenging but the band get away with it no problems.

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Grander Things bring back the rock on new release EP Supermoon

Update

New article from Scenestr

Original Press Release

Following on from the release of their first ep MASH in 2020 and unable to play live with the sporadic Sydney shutdowns for the better part of the year, Grander Things went back into their burrow and got busy.

From a riff here or there, the lads played around with some ideas in the rehearsal room and started sending recordings for vocalist, Liz Clear to find the ones that inspired the lyrics and melodies to fall onto the page. After some months of blending music and lyrics, Grander Things had five tracks to put down.

Recorded at Damien Gerard Studios on the Central Coast, you can tell Grander Things love wearing their pop-rock hearts firmly on their sleeves. This ep has gentle moments of angst and vulnerability but then surprises you by colliding into epic rock. Keys were added post recording by Gino Campagnaro to the opening track You Said, but the band have stayed true to their roots with guitars that soar.

Recorded with Andrew Beck, co-produced with Marshall Cullen, mixed by Russell Pilling and mastered by William Bowden, the result is Supermoon out now on Foghorn Records.

Brent Williams /Liz  Clear / Rhys Lewis-Smith/ Bruce Thomas

Song Descriptions:
You Said
A tale of the broken hearted that builds on anger and crescendos with the pain of broken promises.

Loopholes
The future is fresh with positive feels and the knowledge that love is in the air tonight.

Supermoon
With a driving bass beat and sultry invitation this is no time for sleeping. Get your freak on board the Supermoon party.

Greta
In a sea of ineptitude and pollie-speak our best hopes are pinned on a teenage girl screaming the truth and trying to save the planet.

The Push and Pull
We always hurt the ones we love the most; we know they’ll always be there even when we’re at our worst.

Supermoon is OUT NOW – September 24th via MGM
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Team Utopia release new EP The Gallery Sessions

Redcliffe outfit Team Utopia have come a long way in 5 years. After international support slots with Richie Ramone and Bonjah the band has gained a global cult following. Line up is Dan/Sue/Kirsti and Mick.

Team Utopia emerged unscathed from the past 18 months with a blockbuster Five Song Live set. Recorded live at an Art Space in the Seaside town of Redcliffe Qld last November 2020. They haven’t held back with production. Very nice sounds indeed. “We joined a bunch of other bands and shot a short 20 min set”, explains Drummer Sue Kennet. The project came about after many misfires and let downs from what the pandemic has continued to do to the industry. “We didn’t want to just sit around and wait for this to end. We wanted to give our fans some Lovin”, insists Kennet.

This Brisbane based Rock outfit continues to make waves. The band had a nice little tour kicking off early in July in Brisbane to coincide with the release of this EP. This was cancelled due to Covid. Many cool things happening and lots of festivals booked pre covid for Team Utopia. “That’s 3 times now”, says Kennet. “We started rehearsals for the tour and had Bob Spencer coming for the run for some fun. That got shut down, however that won’t stop us releasing this one”.

‘A great mix of good old fashioned Australian Rock done with a nice Twist’ – RS

‘This band sounds like a cross between TISM and Max Q. Nice Combo’ – Jane Gazzo Triple M

The Gallery Sessions (Live) is OUT NOW Foghorn/MGM. 

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