The Partae
  • Music
    • News
    • Interviews
    • Festivals & Events
  • Fashion / Culture
  • Stay & Play
  • About Us
  • Contact Us / Advertise
  • Submit Event

HARLEY GIRL drops high-energy new EP The Music, delivering club-ready chaos and...

December 4, 2025

Live at the Gardens announce epic March 2026 season | Royal Botanic...

December 4, 2025

Interview: Sola Rosa on Rebirth, Rhythm and the Making of ‘Jupiter’ –...

December 4, 2025

JULES ANNOUNCES IT’S COMING ON CHRISTMAS EP

December 4, 2025

44 Ardent’s New EP ‘Me, Again’ Marks a Powerful Return to the...

December 4, 2025

Interview: bbyclose steps into her own world with ‘ego’ – confidence, contrasts,...

December 4, 2025

Callum Padgham Turns Life’s Chaos Into Gold on ‘Everything is a Blessing’

December 4, 2025

Legendary NZ producer SOLA ROSA teams up with IVA LAMKUM once again...

December 3, 2025

AUSTRALIA’S BIGGEST GUITAR SHOW LAUNCHES IN SYDNEY

December 3, 2025

FROM THE BACKYARD TO THE WORLD STAGE: SUMMER JAM GOES NATIONAL WITH...

December 3, 2025
Monthly Archives

September 2025

Festival NewsMusic News

THUNDER JACKSON RETURNS WITH EXUBERANT NEW SINGLE ‘HEART ATTACK’

by the partae September 29, 2025
written by the partae
Photo Credit: Jared Kinley

Rising indie artist THUNDER JACKSON makes his bold return on September 5 with an exuberant new single ‘HEART ATTACK’ (VERO Music), written and produced with Taylor Johnson (Flaming Lips, Samantha Crain) and mixed by Grammy Award-winner Cian Riordan (Lana Del Rey, St. Vincent).

Born out of the natural chemistry he shares with frequent collaborator Johnson, Jackson says of the track: “When it was time to get back in the studio after HELLO STRANGER, we struck gold with ‘Heart Attack.’ A rough demo I had sitting on my hard drive opened up into the world you hear now. It was the perfect push-and-pull to find the sound.”

 

The propulsive and addictive ‘Heart Attack’ arrives hot on the heels of Jackson’s 2024 sophomore album HELLO STRANGER, a gritty, genre-blurring triumph featuring standout singles ‘The Fever & The Dream’ and ‘Steady Freddy.’ With millions of streams since its October 2024 release, the album, mixed by Eric J Dubowsky (Flume, Chet Faker), has grown Jackson’s profile and more than doubled his fanbase.  HELLO STRANGER follows Jackson’s 2022 Take Me Back EP, produced by Ryland Blackinton (U.S. Girls, Cobra Starship) and named after its title track, a collaboration with Australian artist and producer Chet Faker. Jackson also opened for Chet at various shows across the U.S that year.  The project was #1 NACC Most Added the week of release.

Jackson’s first ever tour of the UK and Europe kicks off on September 12 at Colours Hoxton (London, UK) and includes a sold-out headline performance at the highly influential SWR3 NEW POP FESTIVAL in Baden-Baden, Germany on September 20th. Jackson and his band then head back to the USA for a string of West Coast dates including stops at El Cid in Los Angeles and Barboza in Seattle. (Full tour itinerary listed below).

Named one of the “Best 15 Acts” at SXSW 2024 by CLASH Magazine, who praised Jackson for having the “showmanship of Sly Stone with the songcraft of Elton John,” the HELLO STRANGER TOUR has thrilled packed audiences from Brooklyn’s Baby’s All Right to Brighton’s The Great Escape Festival.

“Every show is an extraordinary and exciting opportunity to connect with people,” Jackson says. “There is no greater or more satisfying energy in the world.”

 

With over 600K monthly global listeners, Thunder Jackson’s catalogue has amassed more than 50 million streams to date, driven by ‘The Fever & The Dream’ as well as ‘Guilty Party’ and ‘Love Sick Doctor’ from his eponymous 2020 debut, produced by Pete Lawrie Winfield (Until the Ribbon Breaks, Run the Jewels) and mixed by Rob Kinelski (Billie Eilish, Joji).

THUNDER JACKSON’S HELLO STRANGER TOUR

WEST COAST USA DATES
OCT 29 – The Parish (Anaheim)
OCT 30 – El Cid (Los Angeles)
NOV 1 – Brick & Mortar (San Francisco)
NOV 4 – Barboza (Seattle)

For more information, go to:

 

THUNDERJACKSON.COM
LINKTR.EE/THUNDERJACKSON
SPOTIFY // APPLE MUSIC // INSTAGRAM // TIKTOK // VERO
September 29, 2025 0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Music InterviewsMusic News

Interview: Midnight Pool Party on ‘NEVER GONNA GIVE UP’: Reviving a Lost Track, Finding the Right Moment, and Turning Heartache Into Disco

by the partae September 29, 2025
written by the partae

‘NEVER GONNA GIVE UP’ was written years ago but only just made it out into the world. What was the moment you knew it was finally time to share it?

To be honest, we just went with our gutt feeling. Everytime we re-visited it, we love it but felt more connected to the other tracks we were working on at the time. But this time round, we just knew it was time to get it out into the world.

You’ve said you kept coming back to ‘NEVER GONNA GIVE UP’ and reshaping it over the years. How different is the final version from the one sitting in your vault all that time?

As producers, we have just gotten better over time, So if you listen back to the earlier versions, just the details of what sounds we used changed over time.

‘NEVER GONNA GIVE UP’ captures that emotional rollercoaster after a fight in a relationship. How did you tap into that feeling and turn it into something so danceable?

Back in the 70’s there was a lot of disco tracks that are such a vibe to dance to, but when you stop and listen to the lyrics they are quite sad haha. “Young Hearts Run Free” is one of our favourite songs, and when it comes on, the whole room dances. But if you ever take the time to research what that song is about and why she wrote it, its incredibly sad. I think the formula works, dancing and music is an escape for many people.

Disco-pop is having a serious revival right now. Where do you see yourselves fitting into that scene — and how do you make sure your sound stands out?

We’ve been doing our thing for many years, and we’ve been sticking to our sound and vision. Disco always come back one way or another. We jsut try to make our music as catchy as we can.

You’ve called ‘NEVER GONNA GIVE UP’ special for its melody and emotion. What was the breakthrough that finally made it click for you creatively?

The chorus. Soon as the chorus was written, that’s when it clicked. We thought it was catchy, and felt groovy with the beat.

After so many releases together, how do you keep challenging each other and staying inspired as a duo?

It definitely is challenging. But to be honest, alot of it is just a feeling for us. We’ve been doing this for so long, we can put together a song in 20 mins, and write a bunch of songs in a week, but theres this thing that just happens, where we both know which one feels right and feels good and we flesh that idea out more. We both have to love it, before we can move on.

The lyrics carry a sense of redemption and holding on. What do you want listeners to take away emotionally when they hit play?

That love and relationships are exrelmely complex haha but you have to work through it together.

With ‘NEVER GONNA GIVE UP’ setting the tone for 2025, what’s next on the horizon — can we expect a run of new music, collaborations, or a big live return?

At the moment, we have 1 more single top drop this year, Then we will pause to write a bunch of songs for next year 🙂

Stream:
https://bfan.link/never-gonna-give-up

Socials:

https://linktr.ee/MPP_PoolBoys

September 29, 2025 0 comments
1 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Festival NewsMusic News

FINELY TUNED ANNOUNCE NEW MULTI-DAY WAREHOUSE EVENT SERIES THE WORKS

by the partae September 26, 2025
written by the partae

FEATURING UNDERWORLD, I HATE MODELS, BEN BÖHMER (LIVE), MARK REBILLET, CHRIS STUSSY, CAMELPHAT, VTSS, ROSS FROM FRIENDS (PRES. BUBBLE LOVE), PRETTY GIRL (LIVE), A-TRAK & MANY MORE

ACROSS SIX NIGHTS AT CARRIAGEWORKS, EVELEIGH NSW
THIS DECEMBER & JANUARY

MORE INFO HERE

Renowned live music curators Finely Tuned today unveil a forward-thinking new music program THE WORKS, taking over Gadigal Land/Sydney’s iconic Carriageworks this 2025/26 Summer. Steaming up the season’s cultural calendar, the series will see world-class electronic music artists including Underworld, Ben Böhmer, Chris Stussy, CamelPhat, I Hate Models, Mark Rebillet, Ross From Friends (pres. Bubble Love), Pretty Girl (live) and many more convene in one of the country’s most significant creative hubs across six cutting edge warehouse events.

Invoking the spirit of global hallowed halls like London’s Printworks and Drumsheds, THE WORKS puts ambitious production, world-leading artists and state of the art creative direction at the forefront of these innovative, high-impact and sonically versatile experiences. From pioneering rave icons to mainstream festival heavyweights, club circuit heroes to trailblazing innovators – THE WORKS will host more than 20 local and international acts across four carefully curated, unmissable weeks. Channeling large-scale warehouse energy while honouring the underground, these are Sydney’s hottest Summer tickets.

British electronic icons Underworld will headline the opening event on 29 December, showcasing the daringly blurred boundaries, top of the class live show and generation-defining anthems that have labelled them one of dance music’s most influential acts. Accompanying them, cult favourite Ross From Friends will present his high energy club-pop project Bubble Love, alongside a local lineup of Australia’s own globe-trotting producer Roza Terenzi and one of the Sydney circuit’s favourite DJs, Reenie.

In a mammoth New Year’s weekend offering something for everyone, French industrial artist I Hate Models’ raw, frenetic energy and unhinged selections will come alive within the industrial surrounds of Carriageworks on 2 January, alongside Polish techno maximalist VTSS, rising Scottish DJ Sim0ne and local label head MASSI. in a night of non-confirmist attitudes and thunderous sets. German melodic house heavyweight Ben Böhmer will inject the space with his euphoric audiovisual show on 3 January, joined by Australia’s own electronic powerhouse Pretty Girl and a special local b2b set from PARIS and Juno Mamba. Meanwhile 4 January will see a takeover by irreverent American provocateur Marc Rebillet, with his Coachella and Glastonbury-approved improvised funk and hip-hop tinged cuts, outrageous beats and free flowing humour, joined by storied NYC party starter A-Trak, one of Australia’s most legendary contemporaries Young Franco and local gem Madame Reve.

10 January will host an essential figure propelling modern house music – Dutch DJ, producer and label head Chris Stussy, as well as a b2b from the UK’s next big breakouts Josh Baker and Prospa that promises plenty of fist-pumping frenzies. Then, the 2025/26 season will round out on 16 January with a visit from Grammy-nominated global house icons CamelPhat, widely declared one of dance music’s most innovative forces backed by billions of streams and an era-defining anthem under their belt, “Cola”. They’ll be joined by Samantha Loveridge, known for her technical flair blending melodic house with Middle-Eastern and Afro sounds, plus deep and dreamy house with Sydney-based selector OLIIV. See below for the full list of dates and lineups.

Led by creative, music, events and touring agency Finely Tuned (Lost Paradise, Lost Sundays, ABOVE), this fresh, forward-thinking series expands the team’s dedication to delivering memorable live moments inspired by global music and cultural sensibilities, injected with a local spirit.

“We’re very excited to bring this new curated event series to one of Eora’s most exciting creative venues. THE WORKS takes inspiration from the globe’s best electronic music spaces, combining a world-class lineup with an exceptional level of production to create a series of warehouse events unlike anything previously seen in Sydney. Something big is in THE WORKS.” – Simon Beckingham, Finely Tuned

Signups for THE WORKS presale are now open HERE, with presale ticket access opening from 10am AEST on Tuesday 30 September. Tickets go on sale to the general public from 10am AEST on Wednesday 1 October.

Sydney Summer just got a whole lot juicier – snatch up your ticket to one of THE WORKS’ unique offerings before they fly out the door.

THE WORKS 
29 Dec 2025- 16 Jan 2026 (Carriageworks, Gadigal Land/Sydney)
INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | WEBSITE

FINELY TUNED
WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE

September 26, 2025 0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Music News

RITA ORA UNVEILS SULTRY NEW SINGLE “ALL NATURAL” ALONGSIDE ACCOMPANYING MUSIC VIDEO DIRECTED BY TAIKA WAITITI

by the partae September 26, 2025
written by the partae

Rita Ora unveils her brand-new single “All Natural” – a sultry, electro-pop gem produced by GRAMMY-winning auteur Joel Little (Gracie Abrams, Lorde, Sam Smith, Taylor Swift).

“All Natural” is a smouldering, seductive cut that explores transformation and self-discovery. The track sees Rita stripping back to embrace her femininity in its most unguarded form, her vocals weaving through glassy synths and shadowy beats before crystallising into a confident reflection of strength and sensuality.

Rita says: “‘All Natural’ is one of the most personal songs I’ve ever made. For me, it’s about learning to love every side of yourself — the strong and the fragile, the light and the shadows. Working with Joel was such a gift; he has this rare ability to take something deeply intimate and turn it into music that everyone can feel as their own. This song is really about growth, healing, and self-discovery. My hope is that when people hear it, they connect with their own journey and feel seen in it.”

The accompanying music video, directed by Academy Award winning filmmaker Taika Waititi, arrives the same day. Shot in a cavernous, dimly lit studio, the visuals see Rita dancing beneath vast overhead lights, gliding through rippling water, and moving between mirrored reflections. The result is a striking exploration of identity and duality – celebrating transformation, empowerment, and the beauty of being unapologetically yourself.

Rita Ora’s multi-platinum music career has won her commercial and critical acclaim, with 13 UK Top 10 singles (four at Number One), over ten billion streams, and a BRIT Billion Award to her name. Her last album You & I (2023) debuted at #6 on the UK Official Albums Chart, topped the Independent Albums Chart, and was praised by Rolling Stone as “a collection of stunning love songs.”. With “All Natural”, Rita opens a new chapter – one that feels sharper, stronger and truer to herself than ever before.

RITA ORA’S “ALL NATURAL” IS AVAILABLE ACROSS ALL PLATFORMS NOW:

https://ritaora.lnk.to/AllNaturalPR

Follow Rita Ora here:

WEBSITE

INSTAGRAM

TIK TOK

X

FACEBOOK

September 26, 2025 0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Music News

Hiroko Mina Releases ‘Beyond the Silk Road’ – A Captivating Journey of Classical Crossover Mastery

by the partae September 26, 2025
written by the partae

Hiroko MINA, the internationally acclaimed pianist and composer known as the “Queen of Classical Crossover,” unveils her breathtaking new album, Beyond the Silk Road. This release continues Mina’s mission to transcend musical borders, weaving together classical tradition with the rich textures of tango, folk, and gypsy influences.

With over 3,000 concerts performed worldwide, Mina is a true global artist, bringing audiences an unforgettable blend of technical brilliance and emotional storytelling. A graduate of Musashino Academia Musicae and the Moscow Conservatory, she has released 14 successful albums, penned a bestselling autobiography, and serves as the director of the Hokuriku International Music Festival.

Beyond the Silk Road is now streaming on Spotify, offering listeners an evocative journey through soundscapes that bridge continents and centuries. Fans can follow Mina’s creative journey on Facebook and Instagram.

September 26, 2025 0 comments
1 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Music InterviewsMusic News

Interview: Mia Savannah on “Which Way to Go?”: Turning Pain Into Art and Finding Clarity Through Songwriting

by the partae September 26, 2025
written by the partae

Which Way to Go? explores mental health and decision-making — what was the moment or experience that first inspired you to write this song?

I wrote this song when my mental health was at a very low point. Everything felt difficult during this time and songwriting was truly one of the only things I wanted to do. Songwriting for me is my emotional release and has truly helped me to get through some of my toughest times. I always feel better after I write a song about a situation/how I’m feeling, it sort of makes everything clearer to me and provides a sense of closure.

The lyrics are deeply personal and vulnerable. How do you balance sharing your own struggles while making sure your listeners can connect with the song?

To be honest, I don’t know if I do a great job at that. I just write what I feel. What I’ve realised through releasing my music though, is that a lot of people can relate to my struggles and have experienced the same or similar feelings. Through my writing, I have realised how common these experiences actually are and naturally people have connected to my music without me needing to consciously change my lyrics.

Sonically, the track has this gentle yet powerful indie-pop feel. Can you walk us through how you and your team built the soundscape around your vocals?

Yes, it started with just the piano riff that I wrote around my melody and lyrics, and that played throughout the whole song. Then I took that demo to Lee Jones, the producer and label owner of Galaxy Music, and he instantly liked it and had a vision for it. He did an incredible job producing it and truly created a masterpiece. We hired a cellist, which took the entire mood of the song to a whole new level of heart-wrenching. I like that the song opens with its original, raw format of just voice and piano. Then by the second verse the whole party is in with the cello, guitar, bass, and drums. I like that the piece has a steady build-up of textural dynamics but then also has its moment of minimalism post bridge. I think we did a great job at making it dynamically interesting. I’d also like to pay a special mention to the four-part harmonies in the bridge, it’s so difficult for me to not add harmonies to my songs, they feel incomplete in my brain without harmonies.

You’ve been open about themes like comparison and low self-worth in your music. How has writing about these topics helped you personally?

Writing about my feelings helps to get them off my chest and into the air. But also, like I mentioned before, through releasing my music I have realised that this is actually a very universal experience. It’s very common to compare yourself to others and struggle with self-worth, especially in your younger years while you’re still learning to love yourself. Growing up I have always been an open book, someone who wears my heart on my sleeve, and a chronic over-sharer. In fact, I would find it weird when the people around me weren’t quite as open about themselves and I would almost take it as an insult thinking they didn’t trust me. What I have learnt the past couple of years is that not everyone feels comfortable expressing their emotions and sharing personal things, and that is not a reflection on me. But through this, I have also realised that EVERYONE struggles and just because they don’t talk about it, doesn’t mean they don’t experience mental health struggles too. So back to your question, writing about these topics has helped me by understanding that I am not alone, and I am not as ‘strange’ and ‘different’ as I thought.

Your last single Ghost was a playful pop banger, while Which Way to Go? feels much more introspective. How do you decide which side of yourself to explore with each release?

Honestly, I took Ghost to Lee Jones at Galaxy Music not thinking much of it, but he loved it and saw what it could look like post-production. He has these insane creative visions of things and took the piece to a level I never knew was possible. All of my previous releases were mellow, solemn, indie-pop pieces so the playful, big-production, pop song is an area I had never touched before. But I think it was nice to change up my sound stylistically and do something different. People have reacted well to it which is nice.

When you listen back to Which Way to Go?, is there a particular lyric or moment in the track that still hits you the hardest?

Probably “I hear the rain fall in the morning, don’t wanna get up for another day”. That was a deep state of depression where I didn’t want to get out of bed because of how bad things were. So that was a scary place to be in. The whole song is pretty heart-wrenching though.

Many fans say your voice has a “velvety clarity” that really pulls them in. How do you approach vocal delivery to get such emotional impact?

For a song like this, I wanted a very close-to-the-mic, gentle vocal delivery, to go along with the vulnerable, raw nature of the lyrics. I kept my vocals super breathy to add to that mood as well. However, the breathiness pulls back at the bridge and the final chorus to create a louder dynamic and a stronger vocal tone. When recording, I get myself into the mental space that I was in while writing that song to really capture the emotion. I really think about each lyric that I’m singing and how it felt to experience that. I was also very conscious of where to have clear diction, so that the listener doesn’t miss the wording, and where it was okay to relax with it.

The song tackles universal feelings of being stuck or uncertain. What would you want someone who’s going through that to take away after listening?

That they are not alone, that it’s a very universal experience, and that they are not the only one struggling. That there is always a light at the end of the tunnel. That it’s okay to speak openly and vulnerably. And it’s okay to seek help. And that everyone moves at their own pace, regardless of age.

You’ve now released two singles this year. What’s next for you — will we see an EP, album, or perhaps some live shows on the horizon?

I’m releasing another single called ‘Merry-go-round’ very soon so that’s exciting! Early next year I will also be releasing my second EP. I have a live show coming up on November 9th at The Retreat hotel in Brunswick, Melbourne. And a possible Halloween show is in the works too.

If Which Way to Go? could soundtrack a scene in a film, what would that scene look like?

Probably a scene of a character with depression or anxiety laying in their bed staring up at the wall. E.g. Marcus in Ginny and Georgia.

Or a scene of a character who has to make a big life decision and doesn’t know which way to turn. The song also works really well with someone walking to it – like a dramatic scene of a moody, angsty walk.

Links:

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/mia.savannah.music

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/mia.savannah.music

TikTok:

https://www.tiktok.com/@mia.savannah.music

Website:

https://www.galaxy-music.net/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/5IdbVbYDLNBjdOEWGaXRXV

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@miasavannahmusic/releases

Soundcloud:

https://on.soundcloud.com/szyvMqEsDpHJrCteaa

Apple music:

https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/mia-savannah/1524306139

Amazon music:

https://music.amazon.com/artists/B08D9RDRXT/mia-savannah?marketplaceId=A15PK738MTQHSO&musicTerritory=AU&ref=dm_sh_bUP3CqjoMHnLEtaDv6vChX4kG

Deezer:

https://link.deezer.com/s/318KlDn92ZhZe3rcho27h

September 26, 2025 0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Music News

Midnight Pool Party – ‘NEVER GONNA GIVE UP’

by the partae September 26, 2025
written by the partae

Midnight Pool Party keep their 2025 momentum alive this week with the shimmering disco-pop energy of their brand-new single, ‘NEVER GONNA GIVE UP’.

Originally written years ago, the track sat in the vaults until the duo felt the timing was right. What began as an unfinished idea has now been reimagined into a vibrant, heartfelt anthem that explores the fragile moments that follow an argument in a relationship – owning mistakes, acknowledging the hurt caused, and holding onto the determination not to lose someone you love.

“This song captures the raw, vulnerable exchange that happens after a fight in a relationship—the back-and-forth of admitting fault, acknowledging the pain you’ve caused, and holding on to the determination not to let go of the person you love. We originally wrote it so long ago we can’t even remember exactly when. At the time, it didn’t feel ready or aligned with our sound, but we knew there was something special in its melody and emotion. Over the years, we revisited it, experimenting with the production and reshaping it until recently. With its new sound, we knew it was finally ready to put out into the world.” – Midnight Pool Party

‘NEVER GONNA GIVE UP’ is shimmering, catchy, and irresistibly danceable – a perfect blend of disco-pop fun and heartfelt emotion. Get it everywhere now!

Stream:
https://bfan.link/never-gonna-give-up

Socials:

https://linktr.ee/MPP_PoolBoys

Credits:

Co-Written by Darren Morilla & Oliver Dela Cruz

Produced by Midnight Pool Party

Mastering by Jack Prest

Artwork, Photos & Visuals by Morilla Media

September 26, 2025 0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Music News

DREAMING SODA RELEASE NEW SINGLE “KISSING STACEY” – OUT NOW

by the partae September 24, 2025
written by the partae

“What does it mean to be a child that makes their Barbie dolls kiss each other?”

Following the success of their second Kickstarter campaign, Dreaming Soda are ready to finally release their highly anticipated new single “Kissing Stacey.”

This indie-pop earworm explores the playful tension between Barbie’s perfect plastic capitalism and the doll’s strangely liberating potential for self-expression.

“In 2022 I stumbled across one of the greatest YouTube videos of all time — Overanalyzing the Barbie Movies with Queer Marxist Theory by Alexander Avila. The video is about how Barbie can represent both the peak of consumerism and heteronormative values, yet still be a powerful tool for queer exploration for young people. I’ve re-watched it countless times, and it inspired me to write a tongue-in-cheek pop track that tries to capture this exact energy.”

Written in 2022 and performed across countless shows in Sydney and Melbourne, Kissing Stacey has already become a live crowd favourite. Its recording was brought to life thanks to the recently funded Kickstarter campaign. Produced at Hercules Studios in Sydney and mastered by Becki Whitton, the track is polished to perfection and ready to blast out of your 2004 novelty Bratz lips speaker.

Dreaming Soda cite St. Vincent, Superorganism, CHVRCHES, Phoenix, video game soundtracks, and the awkward joys of youth as their influences. Their debut EP Just Before The Internet launched in 2022 alongside a headline show at Melbourne’s beloved Leadbeater Hotel and a 16-page full-colour comic book — showcasing the duo’s commitment to world-building beyond music.

“Kissing Stacey was first written about a week before our EP release. I wondered if I had time to sneak it in, but it was clear this song needed its own spotlight.”

The single will be accompanied by a mixed-media animated lyric video, a professionally filmed music video, and a social media sketch series leading up to its release. Dreaming Soda also have two more fan-favourite tracks — Martian Boy and Lemmings — slated for later this year.

The band have performed across Sydney and Melbourne, opening for Cry Club, Buttercats, Montana Sharp, Yi-Lynn, Kirklandd, Clover Blue, Kitty Rae, Peak Park, Love Me Not, and Skypaint, with appearances at Northcote Social Club, Oxford Art Factory, The Leadbeater, King Street, and more.

 

September 24, 2025 0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Festival NewsMusic News

PIERCE BROTHERS SHARE SHARE PASSIONATE NEW SINGLE ‘ALASKA ALASKA’

by the partae September 24, 2025
written by the partae

Awash with acoustic glimmers, rousing harmonies and a raw yet rousing glow, the brand new single Alaska Alaska out today from folk duo Pierce Brothers is a heartfelt new addition to the pair’s brand new sonic chapter. Set to perform Alaska Alaska, as well as their most recent 2025 release Losing Friends When You’re Older, alongside a horde of fan-favourites in Australia this October and November, the pair will also kick off 2026 with an extensive UK and European headline tour, with multiple shows already entirely sold out.

Penned by Jack Pierce and Patrick Pierce, aka the eponymous Pierce Brothers, Alaska Alaska opens with glistening acoustic guitar and emphatic vocals, quickly swelling into lush vocal interplay between both Pierce Brothers, stomping percussion and soaring choruses, topped off with a rousing harmonica solo that ultimately leads to an exuberant conclusion. Self-produced alongside long-time collaborator Phil Threlfal, Alaska Alaska welds the modern sensibilities and musical charm that beats at the Pierce Brothers core alongside nods to some of the true greats of the folk and acoustic realms, as Jack explains, “I think this is an affecting syncable song that really sits in the world of big folk with lots of space. Influences of Eddie Vedder’s acoustic stuff and Bob Dylan are fairly clear here!”

A song laden with passion and rumination, Alaska Alaska also powerfully draws into relatable territory, both lyrically and musically, with the track balancing its yearning yet uplifting instrumentals with lyricism inspired by a real-world Pierce Brothers experience; and a truly affirming real-life love story. “This is a love story about longing,” shares Jack. “Alaska Alaska was written about a time when my wife was travelling through Alaska and we’d decided to take a break in the early months of our relationship about 10 years ago, we were both travelling and finding ourselves. It’s an exploration of wanting the person you love to find peace, even if it does mean you lose them, and the struggle between wanting the best for them, but also selfishly wanting them to come back.”

“Funnily enough this song will be released on my wife’s birthday,” Jack adds, “and we have been married for five years with two beautiful kids.”

Between ongoing chart successes, touring the globe as headliners and alongside an eye-watering array of icons, generating millions of streams and fostering a devoted fanbase that only swells with each new release and performance, Pierce Brothers, aka twin brothers Jack and Patrick Pierce have become – and firmly remained – a dynamic fixture in the Australian music and broader global music scene. Starting their creative journey busking on the streets of Melbourne, the duo’s unmistakable charm, dexterous storytelling and potent mix of high energy indie folk, blues and roots has seen them release two top 15 ARIA albums, two Top 10 ARIA Eps, dazzle arenas alongside James Blunt and Tash Sultana, tour across the UK, North America, South Africa and Australia, and also perform at the likes of Bluesfest Byron Bay, Port Fairy Folk Festival, Queenscliff Music Festival and countless more.

Announcing themselves to the world via their breakout 2014 EP The Night Tree, Pierce Brothers most recently channelled their creative and personal growth into their acclaimed third studio album Everything Is Bigger Than Me, with the album debuting at #1 on the Australian Albums Chart and snagging a top 20 debut on the all-genres, all-formats Albums Chart, leading to Australia’s Rolling Stone to declare, “Everything Is Bigger Than Me is a sign of the Pierce Brothers’ maturity as both musicians and men.”

Never ones to rest on their laurels, Pierce Brothers kicked off 2025 with an extensive 10th anniversary tour for The Night Tree EP, and also released their first new material since the resounding success that was 2024’s Everything Is Bigger Than Me via the duo’s foot-stomping new single Losing Friends When You’re Olderthat unveiled last month. Most recently performing at the iconic Mundi Mundi Bash, Pierce Brothers will close out 2025 performing at Lake Tyers Beach and Merimbula in October, and at Graze The Day in Timboon and Queenscliff Music Festival in November, before bursting into 2026 with a hotly-anticipated UK and European run, with multiple shows already sold out.

“We can’t wait to get back over to Europe and the UK!” shares Patrick. “Every time we get over there is an adventure! We always try to fit in as many shows as we can, so it’s definitely going to be hard, but always fun!”

But before the brothers kick off 2026 with some undoubtedly unforgettable moments to add to their legacy, 2025 is wrapping up in stunning fashion, including the release of Alaska Alaska today.

“I’m stoked with how Alaska Alaska came together in the end,” Jack concludes. “We took a bunch of different approaches to the song, but in the end we stripped a lot of it back to its bones, as we just loved the simplicity of the melody, and the story it tells!”

Alaska Alaska is out today.

Stream: ALASKA ALASKA

PIERCE BROTHERS – UPCOMING 2025 AUSTRALIAN TOUR DATES:
Tickets available from www.piercebrothers.com

FRIDAY 3 OCT | WATERWHEEL BEACH TAVERN, LAKE TYERS BEACH VIC
SAT 4 OCT | WANDERER FESTIVAL, MERIMBULA NSW 
SAT 18 OCT | THE ENTERTAINMENT GROUNDS, GOSFORD NSW

2026 UK/EURO TOUR
Tickets available from www.piercebrothers.com
TUE 27 JAN | ST LUKE’S, GLASGOW UK
WED 28 JAN | THE DEAF INSTITUTE, MANCHESTER UK SELLING FAST
THU 29 JAN | BRUDENELL SOCIAL CLUB, LEEDS UK SELLING FAST
SAT 31 JAN | THE GARAGE, LONDON UK SELLING FAST
SUN 1 FEB | BODEGA, NOTTINGHAM UK SELLING FAST
TUE 3 FEB | THEKLA, BRISTOL UK SELLING FAST
THU 5 FEB | POPUP, PARIS FR
FRI 6 FEB | HELIOS 37, COLOGNE DE SELLING FAST
SAT 7 FEB | HEBEBÜHNE, HAMBURG DE SELLING FAST
SUN 8 FEB | LARK, BERLIN DE SELLING FAST
TUE 10 FEB | DE OOSTERPOORT, GRONINGEN NL FINAL TICKETS
THU 12 FEB | ROTOWN, ROTTERDAM NL FINAL TICKETS
FRI 13 FEB | PARADISO – TOLHUISTUIN, AMSTERDAM NL FINAL TICKETS
SAT 14 FEB | DOORNROOSJE, NIJMEGEN NL SELLING FAST

 

Follow PIERCE BROTHERS
Facebook
Instagram
Spotify
YouTube
September 24, 2025 0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Festival NewsMusic News

BONE THUGS-N-HARMONY announce rescheduled Australia & New Zealand tour – May 2026

by the partae September 24, 2025
written by the partae

Hip hop icons BONE THUGS-N-HARMONY have shifted their anticipated Australia and New Zealand run to May 2026 due to extended studio commitments, giving fans a new set of dates to mark on the calendar as the legendary crew prepares to touch down.

A Statement from the band: Australia & New Zealand, we’re still in the studio putting the finishing touches on the album so we’re pushing back our dates to May 2026. Hang on to your tickets, we can’t wait to party with you next year!

Ticket holders are encouraged to hang onto their tickets which will remain valid for the new shows. Anyone that can’t make the new dates, are entitled to a full refund and should get in direct contact with their ticket provider.

Still riding high on the release of their newest single ‘AWW SHIT’ (out now via Greenback Records), the Grammy-winning collective—Bizzy Bone, Wish Bone, Layzie Bone, Krayzie Bone and Flesh-n-Bone—remain laser-focused on delivering an unforgettable show celebrating more than three decades of groundbreaking music. Their influence is unmatched: over 60 million records sold, multiple Platinum albums, and a catalogue that forever changed the sound of rap.

Across four shows, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony will honour their timeless catalogue of music, all the while reconnecting with Australian audiences and showing them the potential that is still to be tapped into.

Joining Bone Thugs-N-Harmony in Australia two fellow game-changing hip hop legends, XZIBIT and TOO $HORT.

West Coast legend XZIBIT has long held a strong following in Australia, and will be bringing his first studio  album in over a decade KINGMAKER – featuring collaborations with heavyweights such as Dr. Dre, Ty Dolla $ign, Ice Cube and more – to audiences for the first time. Bay Area legend TOO $HORT is a West Coast hip hop pioneer, an impactful figure whose music shaped an entire wave of the West’s movement and popularity in the ‘90s and ‘00s. Maintaining his relevance via classic hits and his recent album, SIR TOO $HORT, VOL. 1 (FREAKY TALES), Too $hort’s sound is never far from a club beat or being sampled on a modern day hit.

Regarded as “the world’s most influential rap group”, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony’s impact on the culture and the mainstream is undeniable. Multi-Platinum selling records, chart-topping projects and genre defining songs in the bank, this is a group that has over 60 million records sold to their name, remaining to this day the best selling rap group of all time. Thirty years on, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony have created a legacy not many can match and in 2025, the original lineup comes back together, hungrier than before.

BONE THUGS-N-HARMONY AUSTRALIAN TOUR DATES

With XZIBIT and TOO $HORT
Tickets

Fri 8 May  Spark Arena, Auckland
Sun 10 May  Riverstage, Brisbane
Tue 12 May – Hordern Pavilion, Sydney
Wed 13 May – PICA, Melbourne

September 24, 2025 0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Festival NewsMusic News

DANIEL JOHNS IN CONVERSATION: WHAT IF THE FUTURE NEVER HAPPENED? | November 2025

by the partae September 23, 2025
written by the partae

SYDNEY, BRISBANE, NEWCASTLE & MELBOURNE – NOVEMBER 2025. TICKETS ON SALE THURSDAY 25 SEPTEMBER

BODY AND SOUL, THE BOY’S A FREAK

FUTURENEVERMOVIE.COM

Frontier Touring is thrilled to announce Daniel Johns In Conversation: What If The Future Never Happened? – four nights of storytelling, film and music with one of the most decorated Australian artists and songwriters of his generation, live in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Newcastle this November.

Johns is taking to the stage in celebration of the worldwide premiere of his highly anticipated short film, What If The Future Never Happened? – with each screening framed by an hour-long onstage conversation. In these rare live talk appearances, Daniel will discuss his early life and creative process, sharing never-before-seen photos, moving archival footage, and unreleased recordings straight from his personal collection. He’ll reveal previously unheard demos – from 4 track embryonic Neon Ballroom bedroom demos to the original songwriting session of ‘Straight Lines’ from Silverchair’s final album Young Modern, to ideas for songs he had written that would never make it onto a sixth Silverchair album – Johns will also play new music from his solo career and collaborative projects, each evening promising a distinct experience shaped by the moment, no two nights the same.

In these four shows – his first time appearing on stage in over five years – Johns will get up close and personal with fans, who’ll also be invited to submit questions pre-event in each city. ​ ​

“What If The FutureNever Happened? is equal parts reality and fantasy and I’m as proud of it as anything I’ve ever done in my career. The orchestration took time, and the final result was worth it.

“To celebrate the release of the Featurette, I’ll be sitting on stage, telling stories, taking the aux chord and sharing tunes that nobody has heard and sharing random ideas that couldn’t be realised or released. Basically, turning theatres into giant living rooms… it would be great if some people showed up but I’m doing it anyway – you’re all invited!” ​ – Daniel Johns

Directed by James Medlam, What If The Future Never Happened? is a genre-bending, semi autobiographical featurette that puts reality and fantasy in a hyper-speed spin cycle. Shot in 2022, Johns made the executive decision to hold it back while he completed it and to mark the 30th anniversary of frogstomp.

Fans first caught wind of the trailer back in 2022 with the release of Johns’ chart-topping second solo album, the #1 FutureNever – an album that broke ARIA records by reaching #1 twice and spending a record seven weeks in the Top Ten, a feat that is yet to be matched in the three years that have passed. Produced by Clockwork Films in association with Daniel Johns, BMG and Winarch, the sci-fi inspired film is a cinematic portal back to the ‘90s, a postcard from the past written to the future. The Featurette features a stunning orchestral soundtrack intertwining modern interpretations of Daniel’s Silverchair classics with sound design by Adam Alexander from Bamm Bamm Wolfgang.

It’s 1994, mere months before a teenage rockstar called Daniel (actor Rasmus King) would conquer the global music world in ways never-before-seen. On this ordinary day in regional Australia, while escaping the routine torment of three local bullies (led by newcomer Lockie Ranson), a chance interaction with a mysterious figure from the future will change Daniel’s Tomorrow forever…

Tickets for Daniel Johns In Conversation: What If The Future Never Happened? go on sale Thursday 25 September (1pm local) via frontiertouring.com/danieljohns. Sign up to become a Frontier Member and get early access to the Presale, starting Wednesday 24 September (11am local) – see website for further details.

These are the nights fans have been waiting for. Don’t miss Daniel Johns In Conversation: What If The Future Never Happened?

 

About Daniel Johns

With six #1 albums and a career marked by reinvention, Daniel Johns stands as the most decorated Australian songwriter of his generation. As the frontman of Silverchair, he led the band to an unprecedented run: five studio albums between 1995 and 2007, each debuting at #1 on the ARIA Albums Chart and collectively selling more than 10 million copies worldwide. Along the way, Johns became the first artist in history to claim APRA’s Songwriter of the Year award three times, cementing his reputation as one our most innovative musicians.

Johns’ career has been defined by constant reinvention. In 2003 he joined forces with Paul Mac to create The Dissociatives, a Gold-certified project that picked up ARIA and MTV Awards. His debut solo album Talk (2015) reached #2 on the ARIA Albums Chart, while his collaboration with Empire of the Sun’s Luke Steele, DREAMS, launched in 2018 and took them from Vivid Sydney to the stage at Coachella. Johns’ songwriting has also reached far beyond his own projects: he co-wrote Flume’s Grammy-winning ‘Say It’ featuring Tove Lo, and has worked with Zhu, What So Not, and Slumberjack. As Musical Director for the Emmy-winning series Beat Bugs (2017), he reimagined Beatles songs for a new generation.

In 2021, Johns turned the lens inward with the Spotify Original podcast Who Is Daniel Johns?. Narrated by actor Guy Pearce, the series charted at #1 in Australia for five consecutive weeks and peaking at #3 in Canada, #11 in the UK, #23 in US, #47 in Ireland and #58 in Brazil. Featuring contributions from figures as diverse as Billy Corgan, Tom DeLonge, Kevin Parker, Van Dyke Parks, and Natalie Imbruglia, the podcast mapped the personal and creative forces that shaped one of Australia’s most enigmatic artists.

FutureNever – Johns’ 2022 second album – continued his singular path, breaking ARIA chart history by going to #1 twice before becoming the longest reigning Australian top 10 album of the year, and the highest selling new Australian album of 2022. Released without singles, it was one of Johns’ most arresting full-length statements to date. The same year, Johns staged ground-breaking exhibition ‘Past, Present & FutureNever’, which showcased personal memorabilia from the artist and experimental exhibits, across four months at Rialto Melbourne. $5 from every ticket sold went towards the FutureNeverFund – a charitable fund Johns created to raise money to create better futures for people and animals in need across the globe.

What If The Future Never Happened? was shot proudly in Newcastle on Awabakal Land with a local cast and crew, the Featurette is a love letter to the creative evolution of Silverchair’s hometown of Newcastle. The film was partially funded by the generosity of Winarch Experience – a Newcastle owned and operated entertainment company built around the human experience. Winarch Founder and one of the film’s executive producers, Paul Lambess, is a proud supporter of local stories including Daniel’s and is committed to taking these Newcastle stories to the world.


DANIEL JOHNS IN CONVERSATION: WHAT IF THE FUTURE NEVER HAPPENED?
​AUSTRALIA
​NOVEMBER 2025
​
Presented by Frontier Touring

FRONTIER MEMBER PRESALE
​
via frontiertouring.com/danieljohns
​
Runs 24 hours from: Wednesday 24 September (11am local)
​
or until presale allocation exhausted


TICKETS ON SALE
​
Begins: Thursday 25 September (1pm local)
​ALL SHOWS LICENSED ALL AGES

Saturday 1 November
​State Theatre | Sydney, NSW
​
ticketmaster.com.au

Friday 7 November
​Newcastle Civic Theatre | Newcastle, NSW
​
civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

Sunday 9 November
​Fortitude Music Hall | Brisbane, QLD
​
ticketmaster.com.au

Thursday 13 November
​Palais Theatre | Melbourne, VIC
​
ticketmaster.com.au

FOLLOW DANIEL JOHNS:

Website | Facebook | Instagram | X | YouTube | Spotify | Apple Music

frontiertouring.com/danieljohns
​
​
FUTURENEVERMOVIE.COM


Patrons are advised to purchase tickets only through authorised ticket sellers.

We cannot guarantee any ticket purchase made through any means other than the official ticketing agents listed on the Frontier website.

September 23, 2025 0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Festival NewsMusic News

WOLLONGONG’S CHEEKY LEASH RELEASE SINGLE & VIDEO ‘CHANGE’

by the partae September 23, 2025
written by the partae

FOLLOWING BREAK OUT SHOWCASES AT BIGSOUND 

TOURING AUSTRALIA OCTOBER – DECEMBER

Photo Credit: Tiarna Stahmer

Fresh off the back of a successful BIGSOUND debut, Wollongong indie four-piece CHEEKY LEASH have continued to build on the momentum their music has generated across the last year. 

Returning with a brand new track titled ‘CHANGE’, Cheeky Leash demonstrates how their collective energy as songwriters and performers has fueled  – a vibrant and exciting effort from the band as they head into the home stretch of 2025, ready to welcome a Spring/Summer season of shows around the country.

‘Change’ is a song that had Cheeky Leash focusing on human connection and growth – things that are easy to lose sight of when we’re caught up in trying to stay afloat in today’s social and financial environment. Musically, the track is sharp and engaging from the jump. Cheeky Leash’s combination of melody, riffs and emotion-building within their indie arrangements have made them fresh favourites on the East Coast. The arrival of ‘Change’ further cements their place as one of the best new groups to watch.

“The song ‘Change’ is rooted in the cost of living crisis and reflects how society has become so focused on getting ahead that we’ve lost a sense of connection with each other. It’s a metaphor for transformation whether that’s personal growth, the evolving world, or even the band’s own musical development. There’s a nostalgic, coming-of-age film feel to the track and lyrically, it’s open to interpretation. Lines like “Still searching for change…” play on the dual meanings of spare money and a deeper desire for societal change, making it resonate differently depending on the listener’s own experiences.” CHEEKY LEASH

Recorded at Sonora Studios with Jack Nigro (The Terrys, Rum Jungle, Pacific Avenue, Lazy Ghost) in the Central Coast ‘Change’ lands as the band’s second release for the year, following on from July’s drop, ‘The Weekend’, and the impactful Cheeky Leash debut EP, The Burrow, which arrived in March and firmly put the band on the map. 

Filmed amongst the picturesque Gerroa coastline, Cheeky Leash today also unveil their accompanying official film clip. Written and directed by Brendan Palmer and filmed by Film for Frank.

“Change was a change of pace for us, handing over the reins to Brendan as director and Mitch as videographer to get their perspective on what the song means to them as well as to us. It’s different from us running around and having a laugh. It’s more serious and we really wanted to get the best representation of the song as possible. The song has a deeper meaning and a different pace for the video compared to what we’ve done before, so there’s more to explore and interpret in this one. We always seem to pick the wildest and coldest days for filming music videos, which presents its own challenges, but it’s a whole lot of fun getting to create something with your friends. Making music videos is always difficult with limited time and resources, but it was really cool to see the passion from other collaborators who have now become an integral part of the project. We’ll remember this one as our first time having an actor and handing over creative control, just trusting the process.”

Their music has caught the attention of Australian industry, with heavy triple j and triple j unearthed support for their music putting Cheeky Leash in front of a hungry national audience, while as a live unit, the band has been constantly dominating on stages as headliners, enjoying sold out shows across the East Coast for their EP tour for The Burrow – the EP quickly amounting 1 million streams.

Cheeky Leash have shared stages with artists including The Kooks and Fontaines D.C. (at Yours & Owls Festival 2025), as well as Boy And Bear, South Summit, The Terrys, Death By Denim and more. Before 2025 is out, fans will be able to see Cheeky Leash touring around the country from October through into December – charting headline dates, festival appearances and support slots for fellow Australian favourites.

PRAISE

“This upload absolutely leaps out of the speakers – perfect way to cap off the Aussie summer – what sunshine <3” TRIPLE J, ANIKA LUNA (‘Red’, 2025)

“Had me shouting along at the chorus immediately! Great song you guys, my fav from you yet!” 

TRIPLE J UNEARTHED, CLAIRE MOONEY (‘Red’, 2025)

“High energy, fun loving…” 

GOOD CALL LIVE

“…Explosive live shows and indie rock anthems full of playful charm.”

HAPPY MAG

“…their latest single ‘Lock My Stare’ elevating Australian indie rock to new heights.”

PLEASER MAGAZINE

CHEEKY LEASH AUSTRALIAN SHOWS

Tickets and info via cheekyleash.com 

On sale 10am AEST Thursday 18th September

Saturday 4 October Pambula Beach Sapphire Coast

WANDERER FESTIVAL

Sunday 5 October Finnian’s Tavern Port Macquarie

FINNIAN’S SPRING FESTIVAL

Thursday 6 November The Northern Byron Bay

Friday 7 November Elsewhere ‘Bespoke’ Gold Coast

Saturday 8 November Solbar Sunshine Coast

Friday 14 November 170 Russell Melbourne

Supporting South Summit

Saturday 15 November Factory Theatre Sydney

Supporting South Summit

Sunday 16 November Stag & Hunter Newcastle

Thursday 22 November Felons Barrel Hall Brisbane

Friday 28 November Dissent Cafe & Bar Canberra

Saturday 29 November Marlin Hotel Ulladulla

Friday 5 December Lalala’s Wollongong

Friday 12 December Gage Roads Fremantle

CHANGE is out now!

CHEEKY LEASH: Official Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Triple J Unearthed | TikTok

September 23, 2025 0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Music News

Album Review: Charu Suri’s Shayan — A Luminous Journey Into Stillness and Sound

by the partae September 23, 2025
written by the partae

Charu Suri’s Shayan is not just an album, it is a passageway into stillness. Known for pioneering a distinctive fusion of jazz and Indian ragas with her celebrated Book of Ragas series, Suri steps into more meditative territory with this deeply personal project. What began as an experiment with raga-based compositions has evolved into a signature style that now carries her name, and with Shayan she offers perhaps her most intimate work to date.

The album was born out of a very human experience: the desire to help her mother find peace after nights of insomnia following the loss of Suri’s father. The Sanskrit word “Shayan” means rest or deep sleep, and this intention permeates every note of the record. Rather than writing for performance or spectacle, Suri has created a collection of seven pieces designed to guide the listener inward, reconnecting body and mind with a sense of natural rhythm and balance.

From the very first track, the title piece, the album sets its tone with a quiet invitation. The music is grounded in raga Kalyani, the Eastern counterpart to the Lydian mode, and its muted piano, ethereal vocals, and gentle flute create an atmosphere that feels like stepping into twilight. This is music that doesn’t demand attention but rewards it, carrying the listener into a space where the rush of the day begins to dissolve.

The journey continues with “Mohanam Hymn,” where Grammy winner Jim “Kimo” West’s warm guitar playing weaves around Charu’s elegant piano, joined by cello, flute, and delicate vocals that feel like a prayer. “Inner Peace” is one of the album’s most emotive pieces, pairing Ravichandra Kulur’s expressive flute with Siyer’s hauntingly tender vocals, creating a sanctuary in sound. “Raga Jog” turns more inward, its shimmering dulcimer textures and resonant cello lines evoking the quiet of late-night contemplation.

“Nightingale” is the heart of the album’s lullaby quality, Jim Kimo West’s guitar gently cradling the melody while Charu’s piano floats above, delicate and soothing. “Raga Durga” glows with a sense of devotion, Haruna Fukazawa’s flute and Philip Vaiman’s violin intertwining like candlelight flickering in the dark. The album concludes with “Shayan Reprise,” a cinematic and deeply satisfying finale featuring Raniero Palm and the Venezuela String Recording Ensemble, Ron Korb’s lyrical flute, and Charu’s poised piano, closing the album like a benediction.

What makes Shayan extraordinary is its balance between tradition and innovation. Charu does not dilute the ragas or rush their natural flow; each piece is allowed to breathe, to open and bloom in its own time. Yet the arrangements are global in scope, drawing from a palette of harp, ukulele, dulcimer, cello, and multiple flutes to create a soundscape that feels both rooted and expansive. This makes the album accessible to longtime raga enthusiasts while inviting new listeners into the world of Indian classical music without intimidation.

Listening to Shayan feels like a journey through evening itself. It starts with that first moment when the light softens, moves through the introspection of nightfall, and ends with the deep exhale of sleep. It does more than accompany rest — it creates it. The album’s pacing is unhurried but never static, allowing the listener to slow down without losing engagement. It is as much about emotional restoration as it is about sonic beauty.

Charu Suri has assembled a remarkable ensemble of Grammy-winning and world-class musicians to bring this vision to life, and their contributions are never ornamental but always in service of the emotional center of the music. Together, they have made something rare: a work that is artistically rigorous and emotionally generous in equal measure.

Shayan is an album that stays with you long after the last notes have faded. It is an experience that asks you to pause, to breathe, to listen — not just to the music but to yourself. In a world that feels increasingly restless and noisy, Charu Suri has given us something priceless: a moment of stillness, offered with grace.

INSTAGRAM

September 23, 2025 0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Music News

ZOCO Debuts with “Restless” – A Global Pop-Rock Journey Begins!

by the partae September 23, 2025
written by the partae

ZOCO–the international rock project founded by multi-instrumentalist, singer, songwriter Marco Zocco–makes its debut today, September 19, with the release of “Restless” (Z3 Records), and it’s a real family and friend affair. Produced by Gunnar Nelson (of Nelson) with executive production by Kerry Brown (Smashing Pumpkins), “Restless” shines with masterful performances from Zocco on vocals, guitar, piano, synth and percussion, and distinguished rock players Carmine Rojas (David Bowie, Rod Stewart) on bass guitar, Slim Jim Phantom (Stray Cats) on brush drums, London Hudson (Return to Dust, Suspect208) on drums. Marco Zocco wrote the music and lyrics for the song with his two brothers Paolo and Matteo, who feature on the iconic whoa chorus backing vocals. Marco also got lyrical input from good Stanford friend and acclaimed American swimmer Jack LeVant whilst at college together at Stanford in 2022.

An inspired debut release, “Restless” offers a preview of what’s to come when ZOCO releases their debut EP LUMANISTA (Part 1) early January 2026. The stirring, guitar-driven track with Zocco’s signature baritone vocals on display highlights the restless energy of moving on and starting anew.

“Restless is about breaking free from routines and celebrating spontaneity. Whether for an hour, or for a day, in a career, or in a relationship, it’s about reimagining daily experiences to live life to the fullest” shares Marco Zocco of the song he co-wrote with his brothers Paolo and Matteo Zocco. “It’s a call to press pause on our emotional and physical autopilot, and make space for freedom and adventure.”

The all-star collaboration was recorded between Los Angeles’ Licorice Pizza Records and Milan’s Massive Arts Studios with vocal production and recording in Nashville, putting a stamp on the international appeal of ZOCO. In addition to the cast of talented players, with Gunnar Nelson also on backing vocals, Marco co-produced the music with the help of studio engineer and friend Jake Pace alongside Carmine Rojas. The music was mixed by Stephen DeAcutis (Gladys Knight, Cyndi Lauper) and mastered by legendary mastering engineer Howie Weinberg (Nirvana, Beastie Boys).

Marco, who hails from Geneva, Switzerland, writes and performs all of ZOCO’s material, guitar, piano, bass, drums, vocals and lyrics, often alongside his two younger brothers, Paolo and Matteo, and a revolving door of talented collaborators from the U.S. rock scene who help bring his creative vision to life.

With new music on the horizon, ZOCO continues to expand its bold, genre-bending sound where iconic guitar riffs meet cinematic arrangements, layered with piano, synths, and unexpected instrumental turns. The upcoming release carries the band’s signature mix of alternative rock and pop with flashes of metal, electronica, and blues, creating songs that are both technical and heartfelt.

INSTAGRAM

September 23, 2025 0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Music InterviewsMusic News

INTERVIEW: To Octavia: MELODRAMA, Identity, and Turning Anger into Anthemic Power

by the partae September 23, 2025
written by the partae

“What’s My Name?” feels raw and full of urgency — almost like a demand to be heard. What was the spark that lit this track, and how did it evolve in the writing room?

‘For me it came with the chorus, it was a callout to all the frustrations and confusion I feel hearing about catastrophes abroad. The victims of atrocities become nameless, even with the details in the news. It’s not political, it’s personal, as I was inspired by the frustration I feel trying to highlight these issues with people who don’t care. It’s my attempt to (albeit vaguely) convince them that these issues are important no matter how much it stings to acknowledge them.’

You’ve described the song as channeling frustrations with the state of the world. Was there a particular moment, event, or feeling that tipped this into music, rather than just anger?

‘I would say the concept of “What’s My Name?” originated with my own contempt of people claiming to know me, that don’t know my name, let alone could deadname me. But with the state of the world it evolved into an anthem for people fighting for, and marching for, peoples around the world who stand up for the nameless victims of cruel regimes.’

To Octavia has always been known for blending heaviness with melody — but on MELODRAMA the darker tones feel more unapologetic. How did you decide to push further into that heavier space?

‘Really, the heaviness of MELODRAMA comes from our mental states while writing. It’s as simple as that. We were angry and hurt and sad and all of those things during the writing process. We wanted to make an album that represented us as a collective at this specific point in time, and this is the result. It’s darker, heavier, and more of a middle finger up to everyone than we’ve ever felt brave enough to do.’

Working again with Chris Lalic, who knows your sound inside out, must give you both comfort and challenge. How did he shape the sonic landscape of this record compared to your past releases?

‘I would say this was the release he was most “hands-off” with, in terms of writing. We came to Lalic with more songs almost fully formed than we ever had before and I think just having him there for guidance was a tool in our belt that we exploited as much as possible, while being able to completely maintain our own vision and concepts for the album.’

Nav Jay officially joined the fold during this album cycle. How has his addition changed the band dynamic, both creatively and personally?

‘Nav joining gave us a wholly outside perspective which we had never had before internally of course. It’s been a pleasure getting that perspective and working with it. We couldn’t have done what we have with MELODRAMA without him.’

Your journey from Somewhere in a World, Not of the Dream through Wonderland to MELODRAMA feels like a steady escalation in conviction. Looking back, what do you think you’ve shed or outgrown as a band to get here?

‘What we’ve shed is worrying about what will sell, or what songs will be the most popular. We have just pushed forward the tunes that we like and have made an album with which none of us can agree on a best song. It’s a smorgasbord of bangers that we love, and all we can hope is that our fans love them too.’

Merry, your vocal contribution to Sonic Frontiers reached a global audience far beyond the alternative scene. Did that experience influence how you approached writing and performing on this record?

‘The short answer is no. The longer answer is that writing to a criteria set for you, is a LOT easier than coming up with the concept by yourself. So writing for the album was a complete ordeal compared to writing for the Frontiers theme song.’

With triple j support, festival appearances, and now over a million Spotify streams, you’re steadily carving out a national and international footprint. Do you feel the momentum building differently around MELODRAMA compared to past releases?

‘Yes, it has been such an unexpectedly successful release so far. Only unexpected in the way that the releases have done far better than we ever could have hoped. We are so incredibly grateful to our fans and all new listeners for consuming To Octavia this way.’

The title MELODRAMA suggests heightened emotion, tension, and maybe even theatre. What does that word mean to To Octavia, and how does it tie the whole record together?

‘The record is a series of stories all filled with heightened emotions, drama, conflict, and resolution. Therefore, “MELODRAMA” perfectly encapsulates the energy of the album from start to finish.’

INSTAGRAM

September 23, 2025 0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Newer Posts
Older Posts

Recent Posts

  • HARLEY GIRL drops high-energy new EP The Music, delivering club-ready chaos and emotional release
  • Live at the Gardens announce epic March 2026 season | Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne
  • Interview: Sola Rosa on Rebirth, Rhythm and the Making of ‘Jupiter’ – The First Signal of a Bold New Era
  • JULES ANNOUNCES IT’S COMING ON CHRISTMAS EP
  • 44 Ardent’s New EP ‘Me, Again’ Marks a Powerful Return to the Music That First Defined Him

Recent Comments

  • Shannon Austbo on RUNYAMOUTH hits the scene with explosive debut single HEAD ON A STICK
  • Anna on Interview: LUX – ‘Mirage’ A Dreamy Exploration of Love’s Illusions and Realities
  • Claire P on Interview: LUX – ‘Mirage’ A Dreamy Exploration of Love’s Illusions and Realities
  • Joe Travers on Trevor Kidd Teams Up with INXS and The Tea Party Legends for Explosive New Track “Sunshine”
  • Will s on Exploring Ego: Inside Pallas Haze’s Groovy Musical Odyssey Interview

Archives

  • December 2025
  • November 2025
  • October 2025
  • September 2025
  • August 2025
  • July 2025
  • June 2025
  • May 2025
  • April 2025
  • March 2025
  • February 2025
  • January 2025
  • December 2024
  • November 2024
  • October 2024
  • September 2024
  • August 2024
  • July 2024
  • June 2024
  • May 2024
  • April 2024
  • March 2024
  • February 2024
  • January 2024
  • December 2023
  • November 2023
  • October 2023
  • September 2023
  • August 2023
  • July 2023
  • June 2023
  • May 2023
  • December 2022
  • November 2022
  • October 2022
  • September 2022
  • August 2022
  • July 2022
  • June 2022
  • May 2022
  • April 2022
  • March 2022
  • February 2022
  • January 2022
  • September 2021
  • August 2021
  • July 2021
  • June 2021
  • May 2021
  • April 2021
  • March 2021
  • February 2021
  • January 2021
  • December 2020
  • November 2020
  • October 2020
  • September 2020
  • August 2020
  • July 2020
  • June 2020
  • May 2020
  • April 2020
  • March 2020
  • February 2020
  • January 2020
  • December 2018
  • April 2018
  • February 2018

Categories

  • Eats & Drinks
  • Fashion & Culture
  • Festival News
  • Music Interviews
  • Music News
  • Others

Meta

  • Log in
  • Entries feed
  • Comments feed
  • WordPress.org

MyListing is the most advanced directory theme made for WordPress. MyListing 2.0 improves and refines all aspects of the theme

 

  • Upload Event
  • Upload Listing
  • More Pages
  • [27-icon icon=”icon-box-2″] More
  • Categories
  • More Categories
  • More Categories #2
  • Locations
  • More Locations
  • Place
  • Event
  • Jobs
  • Real Estate
  • Cars
  • Create your own!
  • More demos
  • Facebook
  • Instagram

The Partae © 2025


Back To Top
  • Music
    • News
    • Interviews
    • Festivals & Events
  • Fashion / Culture
  • Stay & Play
  • About Us
  • Contact Us / Advertise
  • Submit Event