Tag Archives: newmusicfriday

Dirty Suits ‘Who Put Bella In The Wych Elm Tree?’

October 23, 2026 Marshall Cullen

The new single from Dirty Suits tells the story of an unsolved murder in Haygley Wood, near Birmingham, during WW2.

The case was wild with conspiracy, accusation, and inuendo. But at its heart a woman was murdered and stuffed down the hollowed out trunk of a tree. Theres even a UK Podcast.

This devastating reality can get lost through story and can even become cartoonish through grafitti and gossip.

Written in the first person by the victim, Dirty Suits strips back, and tells what is a tragic tale using big rhythms and an urgent performance.

Recorded at the renown Damien Gerard Studios just north of Sydney, engineered and mastered by Andrew Beck and mixed by Aria Award winning engineer Russell Pilling. The release is number 3 of a 3 single campaign to promote the forthcoming album available on CD and Vinyl.

The band’s recent releases on Foghorn/MGM have lifted them to a new level and live shows have been coming thick and fast. And now they have an entire album in the final stages, the first single was ‘She Won’t Fall’.

After surfing together for over a decade , Matt Ayliffe and Peter Cunnington started jamming in 2020. The click was immediate.

Coming from different musical backgrounds seems to help, not hinder the writing process. From Blues, Alternative, Punk and Rock’n’Roll the songs dictate themselves. Demographics and egos, all checked at the door.

Dirty Suits is creativity for its own sake.

And as of Feb 2023, Luke Brooks has joined the ‘Dirty Suits’ family on drums and any out there suitable piece of equipment he can whack a sound out of to get this trio rockin’ any venue down.

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The Argon Room Release Single ‘Empty Star’

October 8, 2026 Marshall Cullen

ARIA Nominated Damien ‘Diz’ Cassidy (Faker) , Timothy Powles (The Church, Multiple Arias and Hall of Fame), and Simon Starling (Cult45 and Etherland) joined forces for the ‘The Argon Room’. Tim Powles produced the record with notable guest Jeffrey Cain (The Church, Remy Zero-USA).

The Argon Room has most recently played at The Vanguard (Newtown) and Metro Social in Sydney. Previous tours have among others taken them to The Northcote Social Club and The Worker’s Club in Melbourne, the sadly lost Sandringham Hotel and Notes in Newtown, Moshpit, Petersham Bowlo and The Brass Monkey.

Influences include… David Bowie, The Cure, David Sylvian, Thom Yorke, Annie Lennox and David Lynch.

“This was the last song written for the record. Tim said we needed something up tempo. Luckily I had those chords and rhythm kicking around. It’s up tempo… but it couldn’t get much darker.“

Simon Starling began his musical career in 1996 with Sydney punk band Cult 45, known for their energetic live performances. The band released the debut single Now We Are Sick on Chatterbox Records, followed by a five-song EP, before evolving into Spectators. In 2000, Spectators self-released the mini-album Mood Music For Action Flicks.

After moving to Melbourne in 2002, Starling formed Etherland, which became a regular fixture on the Melbourne live circuit and released a self-titled EP in 2006. Their single Same Old Trap received significant community radio airplay on FBI, RRR and PBS, with the accompanying video also appearing on Rage. Starling returned to Sydney in 2008 and began a prolific period of songwriting.

This led to the formation of the band ‘Starling’ and the 2012 album Semaphore, produced by Steve Kilbey of The Church. The album featured contributions from Kilbey, fellow Church member Timothy Powles, pianist David Lane and pedal steel player Jason Walker. The single Lovebirds received airplay on FBI and Double J.

Damien Cassidy, originally from Canberra, began performing as Dizzi DeCazz with cult dirty-lounge-noir group CooCoo Fondoo before moving to Sydney. He joined The Pip Branson Corporation and later Faker, touring extensively and performing at major festivals and alongside P!nk on the Australian leg of her 2009 Funhouse Tour.

The 2012 touring lineup of Starling eventually evolved into The Argon Room, featuring Wes Gregorace, Cassidy and Shaun Gaida. With Timothy Powles producing, the band began work on a new album, joined by notable guests Jeffrey Cain and Mark Axiak.

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Kalen Hogan Releases Single ‘Isopogon’

September 25, 2026 Marshall Cullen

Emerging onto the scene with an infectious groove and uplifting energy, ‘Isopogon’ is the new single that transforms a classic night-out tale into a vibrant metaphor of nature in bloom. ‘Isopogon’ was born from an evening spent with close mates, wandering city streets in search of adventure. Lead vocalist and songwriter Kalen Hogan recalls the original spark: “I remember us laughing at ourselves after locking eyes with a group of supermodels, but I wanted a more universal image. Bees felt right—so communal, so alive.” The result is a song that marries mateship with the natural world, rooted in Australia’s native Isopogon flower, known for its riot of colour and buzzing pollinators.

‘Isopogon’ is an anthem for springtime, leaving hibernation behind for warmer times and happy crowds; it’s a celebration of discovery and togetherness.

Kalen debuted onto the local Central Coast music scene in late 2022. He quickly captivated audiences through his evocative songwriting and unique sound. Kalen’s beginnings reached an early milestone with the release of his first album, ‘Isolation’, in May 2023, at just 17 years of age. Exploring themes of introspection and the human experience, ‘Isolation’ embodies the solitude experienced during its creation amidst pandemic lockdowns. Songs such as “It’s you” and “Stoned and Cold” highlight Kalen’s talent for merging melancholic lyrics with engaging melodies. His pure vocal quality has drawn parallels to Thom Yorke of Radiohead and the late Jeff Buckley, while his musical style pays tribute to the 1990s grunge era, reflecting influences from bands like Nirvana and Alice in Chains.

In 2024, Kalen continued to expand his music, releasing three singles that solidified his reputation as creative songwriter. “On the Phone,” released in April, singing of a culture engrossed in dating apps and disconnected individuals. The June 2024 release, “Right There,” contemplates the transient nature of time and the human inclination to take the present for granted until it has passed. Following this, November 2024’s “Mindless” courageously delves into the complexities of mental illness. In 2025, Kalen released the two new upbeat singles “Love is Out” and “Ratio”, adding a more lively spin on his usual songwriting process.

Coupled with his growing live presence, this prolific young songwriter is an emerging talent that is certainly worth watching out for. You can catch Kalen performing live at varying venues and events across Australia in 2026.

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Megan Scott Releases Single ‘What Do I Know’

September 25, 2026 Marshall Cullen

Seasoned professionals Andrew Beck (Steve Kilbey and the Winged Heels) and Kayne Butler (Christina Crofts Band) feature as the Rhythm Section of this uptempo indie guitar tune from Megan Scott produced by Marshall Cullen.

What Do I Know is about confusion. A song about whether to take an alternate path in life, or stay where you are. Hence, the line ‘Don’t really want to stay & don’t really want to go’. It’s about the depth of thinking one does when unsure and placed in a situation of uncertainty. The fear of change verses the dissatisfaction of staying as you are.

Megan has been writing songs and playing in bands and duos for many years. She is now branching out on her own. She had her debut release ‘I Know I’m a Lot’ in May and this is her first release through Foghorn records. Her musical influences are guitar based pop/rock. Something with good chord progressions and a good melody and harmonies. Her absolute favourite band and greatest musical influence is The Beatles. Other notables are The Clouds and Indie pop/rock guitar based bands. Megan writes from the heart and every song tells a story.

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The DK Effect Release Album ‘The Way It Used To Be’

September 18, 2026 Marshall Cullen

Our 2nd Album, ‘The Way It Used To Be’ took way too long to write and record, but ironically, most of the events that caused it’s delay actually inspired many of the songs. With the passing of family, the disturbing descent into chaos of the new world order and the mental and emotional impact of pivotal life and world events, writing about it all seemed to help. It just took a long time.

And although recording the album at home gave us the freedom to experiment and take risks with arrangements and performances (including adding live strings), it also contributed to the time it took to complete. Now it’s done though, we’re very happy with it.

The songs are quite diverse style wise (including 3 a Capella tracks) and cover a wide range of subjects. ‘The Great Divide’, ‘Gods and Guns’ and ‘Somebody’ are commentaries on the current political and religious climate. ‘Smile’, ‘Shine On’ and ‘Call My Name’ are welcome reminders that there is still a lot of love and kindness in the world.

We’ve also been buoyed recently by the success we’ve had with radio. We hit No. 2 on the R&B, No. 4 on the Pop, No. 6 on the Metro and No. 11 on the Australian National Community Radio Airplay Charts. We also landed a spot on Apple Music’s ‘New in R&B’ playlist.

The DK Effect are an original 9-piece soul, funk and RnB band known for their four powerhouse vocalists, rich storytelling, melodic harmonies, and the passionate, polyrhythmic ‘call and response’ vocal synchronicity inspired by gospel music.

Their debut album, ‘Moving Time’, showcased their diverse repertoire. The album spent two months in the TOP 10 of the Australian Blues and Roots Airplay Charts.

Recording at the iconic Frying Pan Studio was a unique and amazing experience for the band. The studio offers stunning views of Berriedale Bay and Kunanyi (Mount Wellington), creating a relaxing and inspiring environment. There is a viewing window into the studio, allowing museum visitors to watch and listen (via headphones) to the recording process. For the band, it was fun being an ‘exhibition / performance artist’ during the recording process – almost like a live recording.

The band has performed at numerous Tasmanian venues such as MONA (Museum of Old and New Art), Altar, The Moonah Arts Centre, Kickstart Arts, Salamanca Arts Centre, The Clarence Jazz Festival, The Playhouse Theatre, The Taste of Tasmania Festival, Rektango, the Uni Bar, Street Eats Franko, and the Republic Bar.

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CB Ghost Releases Single ‘All Good Things Take Time’

September 11, 2026 Marshall Cullen

With All Good Things Take Time, CB Ghost leans into the art of patience — a lesson carved from love, life, and the long road of chasing dreams. Written from a place of self-realisation, the track reminds us that the things worth having rarely arrive on command; sometimes the waiting is part of the becoming.

At the core of CB’s songwriting is a simple pursuit: make bodies move, make minds wander, and tell the truth without compromise. All Good Things Take Time delivers all three. On the surface, it’s a foot-stomping celebration, driven by thunderous drums, rhythmic guitars, and a blues-soaked organ that carries the song like smoke through the air.

But beneath the energy lies something sharper. Some of the lyrics act as a brutal mirror — reflecting our own failings, flaws, and the uncomfortable truths we often avoid. While the chorus offers a positive affirmation, there’s depth hidden in its poetic turns, leading listeners toward a take-it-or-leave-it mantra: accept yourself, own your path, and keep moving.

It’s a song that challenges both character and consequence — your own, and those around you — asking for reflection while never losing its pulse. Surf folk rock pop with grit, soul, and a hard-earned wisdom stitched into every note.

CB Ghost is an Australian singer-songwriter and frontman forging his own sound in the space where surf, folk, rock, and pop collide. Born from the sunburnt coastline of Forresters Beach, his music carries the pulse of the ocean — warm, wild, and restless — blending catchy melodies with raw, poetic storytelling.

Described as “Oasis meets Jack Johnson with Chris Cornell feels,” CB Ghost has quickly carved a reputation as a unique voice in Australia’s independent music scene. His songs balance laid-back coastal grooves with emotional weight, drawing listeners into stories of love, loss, chaos, and redemption. There’s a barefoot honesty to his writing — songs that feel lived in, weathered by saltwater and time.

At the heart of CB Ghost’s sound is a fusion of surf folk rock pop: shimmering acoustic and now electric guitars, driving rhythms, soaring choruses, and lyrics that hit like waves — sometimes gentle, sometimes crashing. His debut album Mayhemic introduced that signature style, with standout tracks like Hollywood Hills, Hold Down Hymn, and One Wave at a Time building a loyal and growing audience.

Backing him is his band of merry Ghosts: the incomparable award-winning Gem on keys, Glenn ‘Ginger’ Baker on drums, Archie Petrie on violin and 19-year-old bass prodigy Halen Ryan. A lineup that brings diversity, power, and unpredictability to the music. Together they create a sound that moves between intimate and explosive, polished and primal.

CB Ghost live is where the songs truly breathe — a mix of singalong hooks, emotional depth, and high-energy connection. It’s surf-soaked soul for the thinkers, the drifters, and the beautifully untamed.

NEW MUSIC VIDEO

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Dirty Suits Release Single ‘Life Takes Too Long’

August 14, 2026 Marshall Cullen

Life Takes Too Long is a celebration of a rut. Not a bad day or week. More like a bad year, job or marriage.

That sick feeling in the pit of your stomach that you can’t eat or drink away. It’s written as a celebration because one day it will pass.

One way or another.

The band’s recent releases on Foghorn/MGM have lifted them to a new level and live shows have been coming thick and fast. And now they have an entire album in the final stages, ‘Life Takes Too Long’ is the second single.

After surfing together for over a decade, Matt Ayliffe and Peter Cunnington started jamming in 2020. The click was immediate.

Dirty Suits is creativity for its own sake.

And as of Feb 2023, Luke Brooks has joined the ‘Dirty Suits’ family on drums and any out there suitable piece of equipment he can whack a sound out of to get this trio rockin’ any venue down.

Upcoming Live Show

Link and Pin, Woy Woy, NSW – August 22

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Lecia Louise Releases Album ‘Strike To Ignite’

July 23, 2026 Marshall Cullen

“Lecia’s unique style and rock chic attitude make her a new fav!! Awesome…” – Triple J Unearthed

From rock and blues to country and soul, Lecia Louise’s new album ‘Strike To Ignite’ embraces musical diversity with accomplished virtuosity showcasing her talents as a guitarist, multi-instrumentalist, and singer. Far from a typical singer-songwriter, Lecia commands attention with soaring, blues-infused, rock-driven guitar riffs, paired with melodic, emotionally rich lyricism.

With a powerful rhythm section plus additional keyboards and guitars and lush backing vocals the sonic impact of this 11 Song record is immediate.

Mixed by Multiple Aria Nominee and Winner Steve James.

Released on all DSP’s, Deluxe 180G Vinyl Glossy Sleeve with Insert of liner notes + Lyrics, and on CD.

IN FOCUS – LECIA LOUISE on Aussie Music Weekly Show
Noddy speaks with Lecia Louise about her career to date and her upcoming album release
Click here to stream the segment

“Aussie female rock will not be the same. Seriously cool guitarist as well as fantastic singer.” – Malcolm Foster, bassist for The Pretender and Simple Minds.

2025 People’s Choice Award winner, twice #1 on the Triple J Unearthed online charts, #2 on the AMRAP Regional Charts, and #1 position on the Alternative Chart three times in 2025. Lecia Louise’s musical journey has seen her perform around the globe and through Australia.

An award-winning songwriter and performer, Lecia’s music has been featured on cable TV, and radio stations nationally and internationally.

She has a loyal fan base which has seen her support grow as a result of years of hard touring and blistering performances at a number of Rock and Blues festivals around Australia. Lecia has shared the stage with The Black Sorrows, Ross Wilson, James Morrison, The Baby Animals, Jon Stevens, Grinspoon, Phil Emmanuel, Daryl Braithwaite and many more. Lecia continues to mesmerise audiences nationwide, with a highly anticipated new album due for release in 2026.

Her powerful sound and dynamic live performances have delivered major chart success, including twice reaching #1 on the Triple J Unearthed Online charts, peaking at #2 on the AMRAP Regional Charts, and claiming the #1 position on the Alternative Chart three times in 2025. A 2025 People’s Choice Award winner, Lecia is set to release her highly anticipated new album in 2026.

Lecia has continued to mesmerise audiences and has been featured at many festivals including Blues on Broadbeach, Tamworth Country Music Festival, Woodford Folk Festival, Mullumbimby festival, Agnes Blues & Roots Festival, Airlie Beach Music Festival, Adelaide Guitar Festival and more.

UPCOMING TOUR DATES

August 1 – International Blues Day, Sydney Blues Society, Marrickville Bowlo, NSW https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1576606

August 2 – Reub Goldberg Brewing Machine, Tarrawanna, NSW

August 2 – Blues Guitar Road Show, Factory Theatre, Sydney https://www.factorytheatre.com.au/event/blues-guitar-roadshow/

August 8 – Stag and Hunter, Newcastle, NSW https://stagandhunter.oztix.com.au/outlet/event/2030d7d0-7d76-4854-80c3-36e8823c9b0d?

August 9 – Flow Bar – Old Bar, NSW 12:30 – 2:30pm, solo free

August 14-16 – Mackay Blues Festival, QLD https://events.humanitix.com/mackay-blues-fest

August 21 – Flametree Gathering, Proserpine, QLD https://airlieevents.com.au/events/flametree-gathering-2026/

August 23 – Lefty’s Music Hall, QLD

August 30 – Gympie Muster, QLD https://www.muster.com.au

September 18 – The Cave Inn, Album Launch, QLD

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The DK Effect Release Single ‘Smile’

July 17, 2026 Marshall Cullen

‘Smile’ is our attempt to encompass the atmosphere, feel and emotion of some of our favourite 60’s soul classics -?? Otis Redding’s (Sittin’ On) The Dock Of The Bay and the Drifters’ Up On The Roof and Under The Boardwalk.
It is a relaxed, feel-good stroll through hot, carefree days, where the love and smiles of those closest to you form the warmest and most enduring memories.
The sparse production on this track was beautifully complimented by the addition of real strings performed by the wonderful Serena Ellery and of course features the fabulous harmonies and classic vocal arrangement by Crystal, Ruby and Belle.

Their debut album, ‘Moving Time’, showcased their diverse repertoire. The album spent two months in the TOP 10 of the Australian Blues and Roots Airplay Charts.

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Lecia Louise Releases Single ‘Saturday Night’

June 17, 2026 Marshall Cullen

“Saturday Night” is a swampy blues stomper about the grind of everyday life, working hard, and often feeling like you’re getting nowhere. It captures that feeling of letting go, where the struggles of everyday life fade away, even if only for one night.

Written by Lecia Louise and 8 Ball Aitken, the track was produced by 8 Ball Aitken, Lecia Louise, and Michael Flanders, with additional engineering by Rick Hollis and Jasper Jolley. The recording features guest Newcastle vocalist Justin Ngariki, along with additional guitar work from Blues Music Victoria People’s Choice Blues Legend Award recipient Shannon Bourne. The song was mixed by three-time ARIA Award winner Jeff Lang and mastered by award winning mastering engineer, Matthew Gray.

“Clean, elegant, tasty playing!!! I watched 3 times!!! Shred on!!!!!” – Nita Strauss, Alice Cooper’s guitarist

An award-winning songwriter and performer, Lecia’s music has been featured on cable TV, and radio stations nationally and internationally.

Lecia continues to mesmerise audiences nationwide, having recently completed a successful 3 State Tour April/May 2026 and the new album due for release in July.