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Music InterviewsMusic News

Interview: Pretty Little Saturday – “Tangerine” — The Real-Life Moment Behind Its Emotional Core

by the partae October 10, 2025
written by the partae

“Tangerine” feels both intimate and cinematic — what moment or emotion first sparked its creation?

Oddly enough, the song was inspired by my best friend’s daughter, who was just days away from giving birth to her first child at 20. I remember sitting there, listening to the music I had so far, searching for a melody and lyrical direction. I started thinking about her—how brave and terrifying it must be to face something like that so young—and that’s when the first verse and the seed of the chorus, “Who’s gonna love you,” just kind of appeared.

The song wrestles with vulnerability and the fear of falling apart. When you were writing it, were you reflecting on a specific period in your life?

Yes and no. I was reflecting on my own life and how I tend to handle difficult moments—my craving for connection and community, especially when things get tough, and a time when that support wasn’t always there. That experience pushed me inward, to learn how to have my own back and give myself the love and reassurance I needed. In that way, the song became a personal reflection on the question, “Who’s gonna love you when you’re falling apart at the seams?”—something I think many people can relate to.

You’ve described “Tangerine” as a plea for unconditional love and support. What does that look like to you in real life — who stands by you when things unravel?

The phrase “You’re lucky if you can count your real friends on one hand” definitely comes to mind. I’m grateful to have a few solid friends who’ve stood by me through so many ups and downs. Over time, life has really whittled that number down, but I’ve learned it’s all about quality over quantity. And honestly, my little orange cat, Cali, has been a huge source of comfort too—an emotional support furball in every sense.

There’s such a vivid contrast between the song’s warmth and its emotional heaviness. How intentional was that balance between beauty and ache?

The overall vibe of the music came first—it naturally carried a sense of sweetness and warmth. The melody and lyrics came later, and while I didn’t set out to create a contrast between beauty and ache, it started to reveal itself as the song developed. In the studio, as we refined the instrumentation, the vocal delivery and harmonies really helped the lyrics define that balance between beauty and ache. One of my favorite moments is the bridge—it feels like a breath of fresh air, more uplifting and encouraging, almost like it’s saying, “Don’t be so hard on yourself. Keep going. You’ve got this.”

You wrote this track between Asheville and Los Angeles — how did those two worlds influence its sound and tone?

At the time, I was traveling back to Los Angeles often for work—(I do video game audio as wel)l—and ended up staying in my old stomping grounds in Venice Beach. I’m so glad the melody and lyrics for this song began there. Venice is pure magic to me. I lived there for ten years, and it will always be my happy place—the spot where I feel most creative. The raw, gritty, colorful, and free-spirited energy of Venice absolutely influenced where my mind went while writing. It’s a place that feels safe enough to be deeply vulnerable.

Asheville, on the other hand, has become my second home. Collaborating with my producer and some incredible local musicians here has really helped me find a creative community that values connection and collaboration. Recording the vocals, harmonies, and final instrumentation in Asheville brought a warmth and organic texture to the song that perfectly balanced the edge and grit I felt in Venice.

Working with Patrick Doyle and Phillip Shaw Bova brought some serious pedigree to the production. How did those collaborations shape the final version of “Tangerine”?

Patrick Doyle is incredible at what he does. You can tell he genuinely cares about his craft as a producer and engineer. I feel so lucky to work with someone who’s also a master of harmonies — something that’s still relatively new to me. Every time we added harmonies to Tangerine, it helped highlight the vulnerability and delicateness of the lyrics. Patrick is truly one of a kind, and I’m so grateful to have him helping me shape my sound as a new artist. 

Philip Shaw Bova is an amazing mastering engineer, and I was thrilled he agreed to take on my project. Having someone who’s worked with artists like Feist, Bahamas, and Lake Street Dive add his final touch to Tangerine — and the record as a whole — was such an honor.

The name Pretty Little Saturday has such a poetic, nostalgic feel. What does it represent to you as an artist and a person?

As I mentioned earlier, I spent ten years living in Venice Beach, CA — a vibrant melting pot of people, art, and energy. Those were some of the best years of my life. I’d wake with the sun, play beach volleyball with friends for hours, watch every sunset I could, and share family-style meals with travelers passing through. I rarely left my little ten-block radius of sun-soaked paradise. I walked, biked, and skated everywhere. Life was simple and spontaneous — it didn’t need much planning, just presence.

Pretty Little Saturday is a tribute to that time and place that shaped me so deeply. It captures the spirit of those days — light, free, and full of connection and creativity.

“Tangerine” explores isolation and the search for connection — how do you personally find grounding or stillness when life feels chaotic?

I find grounding and stillness in a few different ways. Recently, I’ve gotten back into meditation and yoga, which have both been really helpful. I’ve also started a habit of burning incense and putting on a calming playlist as I wind down in the evening.

Limiting my time on my phone — though it’s definitely a challenge — has helped open up more space for daydreaming and reflection, especially when I’m searching for lyrics or trying to understand what I want to say in a song. And lately, spending time with a new instrument has been grounding, too. Getting to know the Weissenborn guitar has helped me hear music in a fresh way — it’s brought me back to a beginner’s mind, and that’s been really inspiring.

Looking back at your debut and now this release, what’s changed most about your creative process or what you want to say through your music?

I’m already back in the studio working on my second album while continuing to promote singles from my debut and preparing for a big social media push leading up to the full album drop in early 2026. 

This next record leans more heavily into live drums, gritty guitars, and synths — a sound I’m really excited to explore. Also, As I mentioned earlier, I’ve been frothing over a new instrument: the Weissenborn guitar. An incredible luthier named Tim Kill is currently building a custom one for me in Australia. I’m hoping to fly over to pick it up in person — it’s been a dream of mine to visit Australia, and I can’t think of a better reason for a first trip. I plan to feature the Weissenborn on this second album; it has such a unique emotional character and brings a whole new texture to my sound. 

As for what I want to say with Album 2, I’m trying to stay open and let the songs guide me. Each one has its own story and energy. As long as I’m making music and pushing my creative boundaries, I’m happy.

You’ve hinted that “Tangerine” is a taste of what’s next — what can listeners expect from the next chapter of Pretty Little Saturday?

My debut album, Long Overdue, hasn’t been fully released yet — Tangerine is the second of two singles I’ve shared so far.

Since this is all new to me, I wanted to take some time to release a few singles first and really learn the ropes of putting music out independently. It’s been a great way to understand the process and connect with listeners along the way.

I’m planning to release a few more singles throughout the year, with Long Overdue set to arrive in full in early 2026.

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Music InterviewsMusic News

Interview: Thunder Jackson Returns with “Heart Attack” and a Bold New Era

by the partae October 10, 2025
written by the partae

Photography @jared.kinley

You’ve just dropped ‘Heart Attack’ — can you take us inside the moment you knew this was the right song to mark your return?

After record two, I was searching for a new way to approach songs, a new tone, a fresh sound. ‘Heart Attack’ was one of those songs that just jumped out at me immediately. It felt like a new chapter had begun, the page turned.

‘Heart Attack’ feels both propulsive and vulnerable. How did you find that perfect balance between emotional storytelling and infectious energy?

I think I’m sort of obsessed with duality at the moment. I love blending the opposite spectrums of reality. This song is sort of a good example of that. I wanted the lyrics to feel vulnerable, but the song is this sort of driving force that counteracts with the melodies.

You worked closely with Taylor Johnson again on this track. What is it about your creative partnership that brings out your best work? 

When you get to make music with one of your best friends in the world, it creates an environment of encouragement and honesty where we can be real with each other. There’s no reading between the lines. He’s also an evil genius of sorts, Taylor. He is single handily the best musician I have ever been blessed to encounter in this life.

Cian Riordan’s mix gives the song a big, cinematic feel. How important was that mix in shaping the final sound? 

After we finished the track, I went on a deep dive search for a mixer. I was listening to all kinds of records; searching for this exact sound I was after. Cian’s name kept popping up as the mixer for a lot of the records I was listening to. He’s the perfect balance of this sort of 70’s saturation, whilst keeping the song sounding current with the times. I couldn’t have asked for a better mix. Cian is a legend.

HELLO STRANGER has been such a pivotal record for you. How did the experience of making that album influence this new chapter?

I poured my soul into ‘Hello Stranger.’ It was not an easy record for me to write. I was going through an identity crisis at the time and felt like I was in a constant fight with myself and the person who I wanted to be for the world. Once I came out the other side of that record, I wanted to create from a different perspective, I hate to this say this but I wanted to have fun again making records… And fun we did have again.

You’ve been named one of SXSW’s “Best 15 Acts” and sold out shows across the globe — how has the growing audience changed the way you approach live performance? 

The live show is everything to me. I write the songs based on how I am going to perform it live. The more the audience has grown, the more energy I feel like is being put into these songs and live shows. The songs have grown and changed as the crowds have grown and changed. It’s a beautiful ride to be a part of.

The HELLO STRANGER tour has been high energy. What’s been your favorite live moment so far this year? 

It has to be playing the SWR3 festival in Baden-Baden. It was a pretty surreal moment to sell that venue out to that size of crowd. I’m a kid from a small town in Oklahoma. It warmed my heart to look up to that crowd with my best friends behind me. It’s a moment I will never forget. Mom & Dad, I am really living my dream!!

This upcoming run includes both Europe and West Coast US shows — what can fans expect from the setlist and overall vibe of these gigs?

Sweat, tears and electricity.

With over 50 million streams and counting, what excites you most about where Thunder Jackson is headed next? 

The possibilities of the sound of Thunder Jackson are infinite. I want to continue to create and challenge the listener, with something fresh and something different. I’m about to start writing record three… prepare for a wild ride.

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
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Festival NewsMusic News

PSA: BWS Cool Room is back – bigger & bolder than ever | 30 Oct

by the partae October 8, 2025
written by the partae

PSA: BWS COOL ROOM IS BACK – BIGGER AND BOLDER THAN EVER

BWS ANNOUNCES FIRST EVENT IN ITS REFRESHED COOL ROOM SERIES

FEATURING
DJ EZ (UK), LADY SHAKA (AOTEAROA), HALFQUEEN (AOTEAROA), C.FRIM, DAMEEEELA, BELLA BELLA, BOUKI, KILIMI, OBEIDO

THURSDAY 30 OCTOBER
SECRET LOCATION, SYDNEY/EORA
7PM – LATE
REGISTER FOR FREE TICKETS

PAIRED WITH JOHNNIE WALKER BLACK RUBY

Get ready to step inside and discover the all-new BWS Cool Room.

Returning to Sydney/Eora on Thursday 30 October and headlined by UK garage pioneer DJ EZ plus two of Aotearoa’s most unapologetic forces, Lady Shaka b2b HALFQUEEN, BWS Cool Room is a portal to the unexpected. Set to transform a secret location, only revealed to guests the week of the event, tickets to the late-night, multi-room room takeover will be  free to those who register.

For its 2025 debut, BWS Cool Room has teamed up with local tastemakers Astral People and the bold new drop Johnnie Walker Black Ruby – a blackberry and soda serve – to bring together global icons, underground heroes and the next wave of club culture in immersive, genre-fluid spaces alive with music, movement, and unexpected moments.

With every legendary party starting with a trip to the Cool Room, guests will step through a virtual BWS Cool Room – a literal portal featuring interactive visual art by Sam Price – before entering the as yet undisclosed location. Upon arrival, they’ll be welcomed to a complimentary Johnnie Walker Black Ruby to kick off the night with an elevated ritual, with the bold serve available across the venue throughout the evening. From there, the night unfolds across multiple dance floors, each celebrating a different corner of club culture, creating an immersive world built for music, movement and connection.

As a true legend of the underground and one of the most technically gifted DJs on the planet, UK garage pioneer DJ EZ built his name in the ’90s through pirate radio, mixtapes and marathon club sets. With his legendary Boiler Room set regarded as one of the best UKG sets of all time, DJ EZ has become a revered selector that today moves seamlessly between garage, bassline, house, grime and beyond.

Having turned international dancefloors into a celebration of joy and diversity, Lady Shaka brings together music and art that challenges the mainstream, reflecting her queer identity, and deep connection to the moana (ocean) and diasporas she belongs to. HALFQUEEN, meanwhile, specialises in energetic global club music, with a mission to decolonise the dancefloor and uplift marginalised communities worldwide.

Holding it down across the night are some of the most exciting names in Australian electronic music including C.FRIM who draws on her Ghanaian-Filipina heritage to deliver heavyweight wub, sick rewinds and thumping dancehall whilst championing the underground QPOC scene. Meanwhile Yuggerah (Muninjali and Kullalli) DJ, dameeeela creates unforgettable dancefloor moments in parties, festivals and clubs across the continent, taking her audiences to an otherworldly-like state of music euphoria.

The night will also host Eora club queen Kilimi who fuses Ballroom beats with nostalgic rhythms for a sound that’s truly global, whilst Sydney-based garage collective and legendary party starters, Dayshift, represented by Bella Bella, Bouki, Obeido will bring high energy garage and bass direct from the Sydney underground to round out the lineup of local selectors.

Tickets are free but strictly limited, with the secret Sydney location dropping on the week of the event. Two lucky registrants based outside Greater Sydney will also be in the draw to win 2xVIP tickets with flights and accommodation, while Sydney locals can score 2x VIP tickets and a night of luxury accom.

BWS
FACEBOOK I INSTAGRAM I WEBSITE

 

 

October 8, 2025 0 comments
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Festival NewsMusic News

PEGGY GOU ANNOUNCES EXCLUSIVE SYDNEY SHOW Presented by Untitled Group

by the partae October 8, 2025
written by the partae

PRESALE SIGN UP HERE
TOUR INFO HERE

After a hugely successful run of shows across Australia in 2024, and with her highly anticipated set at AO LIVE in Melbourne confirmed for Sunday 1 February 2026, global dance icon Peggy Gou today reveals she will play an exclusive Sydney show at Carriageworks on Saturday 31 January 2026, presented by Untitled Group.

Few artists have made as immediate and profound an impact on electronic music and pop culture as Peggy Gou. From her roots in Korea to her formative years in London’s club scene, Gou has always honored electronic music’s heritage while forging her own distinct path. As founder of the music & design label Gudu, and through her collaborative relationships with creatives across fields, Gou has built a personal artistic universe that bridges sound, style, and community.

Her catalogue of hits – Gou Talk, It Makes You Forget (Itgehane), Starry Night, Jigoo (with Maurice Fulton), Nabi (with OHHYUK), and I Go – has earned her global acclaim, while her DJ sets are celebrated for their warm, joyful, and free-spirited approach. In 2023, Gou signed with XL Recordings and released “(It Goes Like) Nanana”, a global phenomenon that topped charts and set the stage for her highly anticipated debut album. That record, I Hear You, arrived in June 2024 to widespread critical and commercial success – hitting at #5 on the ARIA Dance Albums Chart, #3 on the UK Dance Albums Chart, and placing #2 on the UK Independent Albums Chart. The album further cemented Gou’s reputation as a visionary artist able to straddle the underground and mainstream with ease, blending her distinct “K-House” sound with an infectious pop sensibility.

PEGGY GOU – AU TOUR 2026
Pre-sale sign up

Saturday 31st January 2026 – Carriageworks, Sydney
Sunday 1st February 2026 – AO LIVE, Melbourne

Peggy Gou’s live résumé is studded with standout headline performances and marquee festival sets around the world. In 2024 she played her biggest-ever London show at Gunnersbury Park (capacity circa 20,000), marking a landmark moment in her live career. She has also graced the stages of major international festivals like Coachella, Glastonbury, Ultra, and Primavera Sound, as well as iconic Australian festivals Beyond The Valley and Wildlands, each time bringing her signature blend of house, techno and club culture to a global audience.

Peggy Gou’s timeless DJ sets channel an open-ended musical philosophy – drawing from influences as diverse as J Dilla, Patrick Cowley, Yellow Magic Orchestra and DJ Sotofett – and are celebrated for their ability to create pure moments of dance floor joy.

The Sydney show promises to be an unmissable experience for Australian fans, as Gou brings her electrifying presence and unique musical vision to Carriageworks.

Presale registration is now open.
Presale tickets go on sale 12pm AEDT Monday 13th October 2025.
General public tickets on sale 12pm AEDT Tuesday 14th October 2025.

For more info on Peggy Gou, visit:
WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | FACEBOOK | YOUTUBE | SOUNDCLOUD

For more information on Untitled Group, visit:
INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | WEBSITE | TIKTOK

October 8, 2025 0 comments
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Music News

PRETTY LITTLE SATURDAY Releases ‘TANGERINE’

by the partae October 8, 2025
written by the partae

After stepping into the spotlight with her debut, Asheville-based Pretty Little Saturday returns with her stirring new single, “Tangerine” — a bold, heartfelt glimpse into the next chapter of her evolving sound.

Blending vivid lyricism with cinematic imagery, “Tangerine” dives deep into vulnerability, inner chaos, and the aching need for connection when everything feels like it’s falling apart. The track captures that dizzying balance between strength and fragility — confronting isolation, fractured trust, and the quiet erosion of empathy. At its heart, the chorus becomes a haunting plea for unconditional love and support: Who will stand by you when you’re unraveling? With its mix of urgency, hope, and raw emotion, “Tangerine” lands as both an intimate confession and a universal anthem for anyone fighting to stay whole.

Pretty Little Saturday’s sound exists where wide-open spaces meet deep personal reflection. The track marries warm, organic textures with a polished pop edge, while Kristi’s vocal delivery carries an understated power — vulnerable yet self-assured. Written between the calm of the Asheville mountains and the pulse of Los Angeles, and brought to life with Patrick Doyle (Jennifer Lopez) and Phillip Shaw Bova (Lake Street Dive, Father John Misty, Feist), “Tangerine” captures a moment of clarity and artistic growth that’s been years in the making.

“This song is about falling apart on the inside and wondering who will stand by you in those darkest moments,” Kristi shares. “It’s a confession of vulnerability and the need for connection when life turns inside out.”

Shaped by a decade of introspection and reinvention, Pretty Little Saturday channels years of experience into music that feels unguarded, luminous, and unmistakably real.

“Tangerine” by Pretty Little Saturday is out now.

INSTAGRAM

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Music InterviewsMusic News

Interview: ZOCO ignite a new era of rock with their electrifying debut ‘Restless’ — a fusion of rebellion, rhythm, and brotherhood

by the partae October 8, 2025
written by the partae

“Restless” is such a powerful debut. Can you take us inside the first spark — the moment you knew this song had to exist?

Thank you very much for the compliment, we appreciate it. It’s a pleasure to be with you today.

The original riff came from messing around on my travel Martin while living on 443 Kipling St. in Palo Alto during my Stanford days. I remember being lost in thought, playing around with a G to open C chord progression that felt a bit burlesque, almost cartoonish – like Johnny Cash meets Alan-a-Dale from Robin Hood. I loved the hypnotic back-and-forth/marching band quality it had, but it felt too pretty and predictable to me, so I added that B7 strummed aggressively to take us somewhere else, which instantly reminded me of Joshua’s guitar strumming in Songs for The Deaf (Queens of the Stone Age).

I then jammed it with my dear Australian friend Louis Stenmark at a dorm hangout, and in his phone notes I saw the words “Rest Less.” It instantly clicked – sonically it fit, emotionally it captured the tension I was chasing, and I thought that the juxtaposed wordplay of “I need to rest less, and I am feeling restless” would be a fun twist. A few nights later after hanging at the Patio, I showed the riff to my other dear friend Jack LeVant, and he started freestyling over it with this Mattafix-style flow. That is when it all made sense to me – hip-hop had just walked into the room. I saw country & big band rockabilly on the verses with a Hip-hop flow, then Green day, Social Distortion and Marshall amps on the choruses. I demoed it that night on my laptop on Logic Pro, my Les Paul, my Martin, MIDI drums & bass and my iPhone voice notes for vocals. Little did I know at the time, Rockabilly legend Slim Jim Phantom of the Stray Cats would end up actually playing drums on Restless with us for the final master recording.

When my brothers Paolo Zocco and Matteo Zocco heard the demo, they immediately helped shape the structure and lyrics, and added the grand piano, synth layers and vocal ideas. The guitars gave it drive, but the synth injected that manic edge – the sonic equivalent of being on a carousel spinning, which we would later literally use in the Official Music Video shot in Geneva, Switzerland. Critically, Matteo later came to me and said “It needs something more, like a woah or another vocal hook at the pinnacle”, which then became the Woah stadium chant hook from 2:19-2:31 in the track, which is one of my favourite moments in Restless.

At its core, Restless came from the universal tension between comfort and change. We wrote it in a period where we felt electrified by the idea of escaping and personal, societal or creative limitations. The song encapsulates the adrenaline rush of being restless not because something is inherently wrong, but because you’re striving for more and you’re ready for the next leap forward. To us, it is a fusion of freedom, rebellion, and creating your own path.

The track was a true family affair, co-written with your brothers Paolo and Matteo. How does creating music together shape the emotional core of ZOCO?

The heart of ZOCO is a familial bond. Making music with my brothers is deeply satisfying and organic. Growing up we always were obsessed with music, both creating and playing ideas to one another. Paolo is my closest day-to-day collaborator, an instinctive songwriter and pianist with a gift for melody and cinematic arrangements. Matteo, currently a master’s student at Stanford, has a brilliant sense for harmony and top-line composition. His contributions often take a track from great to timeless.

This combination of different talents is essential to complementing my songwriting. It gives our writing the emotional layers you hear. In my view, the fusion of our individual talents gives us depth, authenticity and emotion in our songs, and being so close as brothers means we can work honestly and efficiently together towards making the song as good as we can.

You’ve said “Restless” is about breaking free and living spontaneously. How do you personally press pause on autopilot in your own life?

That is a great question. Honestly I’m not sure that I pressed pause enough before I started to craft this debut record of ours (LUMANISTA) 2 years ago. I suppose we all dedicate our time to things to a point where it becomes a form of living autopilot i.e without intentionality, but to me as long as it’s intentional and you are aiming at something you are passionate about, that is the goal. Perhaps I conceived Restless as a reminder to myself to consciously choose to allocate my time towards making my dreams happen and creating a timeless album, as challenging as that would be, instead of losing time in the inertia of the day-to-day autopilot habits that, while comfortable, make you restless. This is because they are ultimately an opportunity cost, and not aligned with the self-actualization your spirit yearns for.

Since doing what I love full-time, my “autopilot” has changed. When it comes to my creative side, I have found that I am overly-obsessive with regards to my art, sometimes  to a fault. It is difficult for me to press pause on this day-to-day. I am constantly thinking about how to improve a song, an artwork, or a video concept, even once it’s clearly finished. When you love what you do it hardly feels like work, and it is deeply fulfilling, but now my challenge is avoiding burnout and making space for the other pillars of my life, namely friends and family. I am still working on an answer, but I have found that the best thing to help me pause my creator headspace is for someone in my circle to pull me out of it with a proposal for a hangout or an event. And ultimately, continuing to live is what fuels my writing, so I know that I need to strike the balance between building and living regardless of how caught up I may get in finishing a project. I could never or would never do this career alone for that reason. I thrive off collaboration and sharing the journey with others.

The all-star lineup includes legends like Carmine Rojas, Slim Jim Phantom, and London Hudson. How did those collaborations come together, and what did each bring to the song’s character?

On Restless specifically, we recorded with the great Carmine Rojas, Slim Jim Phantom, and London Hudson. It’s the only song on LUMANISTA (and maybe even in modern rock) that features two iconic drummers from different generations. Slim, synonymous with rockabilly as the drummer of the Stray Cats, brought that authentic rockabilly swing to the verses. London, from Return to Dust, to me represents the best of modern rock drumming, bringing power, space, wisdom in choosing what to emphasize rhythmically, and incredible natural talent.

I had originally demoed all the parts for Restless and the LUMANISTA album with my brothers and JJ Wallace, and it was our mentor Kerry Brown who first connected us with Carmine and Slim. I later met London through my dear friend and engineer for LUMANISTA, Jake Pace, who had a sixth sense that he would be a perfect fit for the final drum takes. When we called London to see if he could play on the record, I remember he only had a few days to learn the whole 9-song LUMANISTA record. And over 2 days, he played the whole album in 2-3 takes each, all in great spirit. I remember looking at Jake in the control room and thinking “Wow man, he is on another level”. His energy never flagged; he welcomed feedback, pushed himself, actively worked with me to come up with the best parts for each song, asking me between takes what I was hearing or wanted more of, and suggested awesome ideas.

I remember when he first did that La Grange style fill before the chorus of Restless, we both looked at each other and laughed – ZZ Top reference! I cannot say enough about London’s professionalism. He was an absolute pleasure to work with and his talent, professionalism, and kindness were inspiring. We are very happy to have him on the record and I am grateful to call him a friend. His band Return to Dust is crushing it right now on tour with Breaking Benjamin and Three Days Grace – definitely go check them out.

Then there’s Carmine. I’d be remiss not to emphasize how priceless Carmine’s mentorship and input was on the production and arrangement side too. Beyond playing nearly all the bass parts on LUMANISTA, including Restless, Carmine spent countless hours guiding me on how to sharpen my songwriting and arrangement choices. His musical knowledge is immense – his experience as the rhythmic backbone of Bowie classics like Let’s Dance and Modern Love was evident – yet he could effortlessly draw from different styles. On Restless, for example, he contrasted a straight bassline with a Motown-inspired walk and even a jazz upright outro, giving the song layers of flavor. He was incredibly generous, always challenging me to refine the presentation of my hooks, and reminding me: “You have to imagine it live – how people will see it on every level, visually and sonically, and don’t give away too much right at the beginning.” I feel deeply grateful to call him a mentor and friend, and want to thank him here for taking me under his wing on LUMANISTA.

That high bar carried through the rest of LUMANISTA. We brought in Gunnar Nelson (Nelson) and Kerry Brown (Smashing Pumpkins) on production, Stephen DeAcutis (Gladys Knight, Cyndi Lauper) on mixing, and the legendary Howie Weinberg (Nirvana, Beastie Boys, Metallica) on mastering. Our thinking was simple: if we want to carry rock forward, why not do it alongside the architects who built the foundation—while shaping a sound for 2025 and beyond?

Working with Gunnar Nelson and Kerry Brown must have been a unique experience. What was it like having their creative fingerprints on your debut?

Gunnar and Kerry have been nothing short of transformative for us. Gunnar brought in an exceptional legacy of melody, vocal harmonies, and rock craftsmanship. He approached our project with candor, fresh energy, and professionalism – treating our work with the seriousness of seasoned musicians even though we were new.

I recorded all the vocals for our LUMANISTA album with Gunnar in just a few days at his Nashville studio, and we wrapped Restless in only a few hours. His instincts were razor-sharp, knowing exactly which of my ideas added to the song and which were superfluous. Beyond being a gifted artist, he’s a phenomenal vocal producer. I’d always liked to octave layer my vocals à-la-Arctic-Monkeys and play with my range, and Gunnar saw the vision instantly. As a perfectionist myself, having a mentor of his caliber guiding final production decisions, and sitting in the room with me to actually cut the final takes – was invaluable. Vocals, harmonies and hooks are his bread and butter, and it was an honor to watch his wisdom elevate Restless and the entire LUMANISTA project as both producer and vocal producer.

Kerry is visionary, and as executive producer he helped scope the bigger musical picture and aided in bringing on Gunnar to help carve the song into its final form. He is fantastic in imagining and translating raw ideas into a polished, authentic final form. He knows exactly how to get the magic in the room. Together, both Kerry and Gunnar as collaborators and mentors, pushed us to elevate Restless beyond a great pop rock song into somewhat of a global anthem.

The track was recorded across Los Angeles, Milan, and Nashville. Did working in such diverse locations influence the sound or feel of “Restless”?

I’m really a product of many cultures. I have three nationalities, a ridiculously diverse music taste that runs from classical to electronica to death metal, and I grew up in Geneva, a city where almost two-thirds of residents have more than one citizenship. That international identity is baked into the ethos of ZOCO. So in true ZOCO fashion, Restless and the whole LUMANISTA record carry the imprint of people and places across the world, from the earliest sketches to the final mixes and masters.

Working in different locations absolutely shaped the sound, as it meant being able to collaborate with different artists internationally. In Milan, at Massive Arts Studios, we laid down the first skeletons of the songs with our fratello JJ Wallace (Jorja Smith’s drummer and 2018 UK Young Drummer of the Year). JJ is one of the most technically gifted drummers I’ve ever met. He hadn’t recorded much straightforward rock before our Milan sessions, so he brought this jazz-infused style that gave the early demos a very technical and unique flavor – ideas London would later re-interpret for the final takes. I still have those demos with JJ’s parts, and who knows, maybe they’ll see the light of day if enough people want to hear them.

Los Angeles was where the production really came alive. At Kerry Brown’s Rolling Live Studios, we recorded all our parts and the other instruments, and working with Carmine Rojas and Jake Pace on arrangements took everything to another level.

Finally, Nashville was the finishing touch. Gunnar Nelson helped re-record all of my final vocals, layered his own harmonies that gave the songs arena-ready power, and helped me find a vocal chain that brought out the best in my baritone. That was the icing on the cake that made Restless feel complete.

You’ve blended alternative rock with pop, metal, electronica, and blues. How do you strike the balance between technical musicianship and emotional storytelling?

That’s another great question, and something I think about constantly. As a true music lover, I’ve always been influenced by many genres. My classical background gives me an ear for simple, beautiful melodies, while my rock/metal guitar side pushes me toward technical intensity – so the emotional and technical side often complement each other naturally.

On the technical side, I see each genre as having its “incontournables” – those essential elements that define its character to me: phrygian runs in Flamenco, the clave in Latin music, distorted power chords in rock, crisp synths in electronica, or rhythmic vocal accents in hip-hop. I love pulling these colors together and painting around a musical idea like a canvas. The key is making it feel organic, so it doesn’t feel like a lazy crossover attempt. You cannot just throw sushi on pizza and call it great fusion food, it has to work toward a clear vision. With ZOCO, the idea always comes first, the genre touches only matter if they serve it.

Then emotionally, I always focus on the hook. Technique, arrangement, dynamics, and all of that should support the delivery of the hook, as the hook carries the emotional gravitas. Great melodies are infectious and are the perfect delivery vehicle for whatever message or feeling you want the listener to carry with them.

The EP LUMANISTA (Part 1) is on the way. How does “Restless” set the stage for the sound and themes we can expect from the full release?

I want ZOCO to be a conduit between past and future guitar-centric music, reimagining a sound fit for the red carpet in 2025 and beyond. To do this, the ZOCO sound needs to authentically homage the greats while bringing in our modern eclectic take, and so it was very important to us to actually feature some of the progenitors of the greatest records on every ZOCO record.

Our 2025-2026 debut album LUMANISTA, which features Restless, achieved this on the whole. It includes collaborations with Carmine Rojas (David Bowie, Tina Turner, Joe Bonamassa), GRAMMY-winner Theron “Neff-U” Feemster (Michael Jackson, Dr. Dre), London Hudson (Return to Dust), Katja Rieckermann (Rod Stewart), Guy Erez (Alan Parsons), Slim Jim Phantom (Stray Cats), JJ Wallace (Jorja Smith) & more across different songs.

LUMANISTA Part 1 is the opening chapter of a larger story we hope to share in full by next summer. The title itself is a wordplay on the Italian L’Umanista (“humanist”) and luminate (“to bring light into”), and that captures the heart of the record. It explores timeless values our generation needs to hear – romance, living more physically than digitally, and the search for purpose in 2025. Thematically, it leans toward optimism, balancing light and joy with wake-up calls and cautionary tales that push listeners to reflect on their own path.

Sonically, it jumps between genres and moods, with the guitar always at center stage. This EP will have a wide variety of different songs, as I want every record to be a diverse vintage, different shades and tones like in a fresco, collectively forming the larger story line of LUMANISTA. In Restless, we “painted” with country, rockabilly and punk brushstrokes on the sonic canvas. Once a style and idea is explored, I like it to stand on its own and move so they can never place us, I like to explore new territory. This sets the stage for ZOCO to not take on one distinct form but to pull and showcase different aspects of our musical variety.

You often play multiple instruments and take on writing, producing, and performing duties yourself. What drives you to keep such a hands-on approach to every part of the music?

Honestly, I’m a perfectionist. I want everything to reach the highest level possible. That instinct naturally leads me to take on multiple roles in writing, producing, and performing. For me, it’s about ensuring that what we create feels handcrafted and intentional, with real artistry and quality behind it. I cannot do it any other way.  I only strive  to make timeless records, not elevator music. I want to make songs that become part of people’s lives, that bring people together, that might even spark movements, especially at a time when music is so commodified and plentiful.

Of course, that doesn’t mean every experiment I try is “right,” but if an idea comes to me, I feel compelled to see it through. For example, while I was recording the guitars for LUMANISTA, I suddenly thought it would be amazing to layer 12-string parts to brighten certain melodies and add a Led Zeppelin-like shimmer. That led me to record and double every rhythm and lead part across the album (which took forever, lol). Not all of it made the final cut, but the textures added a new dimension and shine to the songs that I couldn’t have achieved otherwise.

Now that I’ve completed the first ZOCO record, I better understand what my perfectionist influences – artists like Prince or David Bowie – must have felt: that relentless urge to refine until the work feels complete. Being a multi-instrumentalist helps me quickly try out these impulses on my own before deciding what’s worth keeping, which makes the process both demanding and deeply rewarding.

ZOCO feels both international and deeply personal. Where do you see the project going next — sonically, creatively, and geographically?

ZOCO is about breaking borders – musically and culturally. Sonically, we’re blending rock with global textures; creatively, we’re pushing into cinematic storytelling; and geographically, we see ourselves performing everywhere from our roots in Geneva to the biggest stages worldwide.

One of the main reasons I’ve dedicated my life to launching ZOCO is to perform live – to create unforgettable shows for audiences that raise the bar on every level. The LUMANISTA record itself was conceived with the stage in mind, from the dramatic dynamics and genre twists within each track to the full album’s arc, which plays almost like a concept record.

To me, you don’t go to a concert just to hear and watch the songs being played live – you go for an earthshattering experience. Expect endless energy, dancing, drama, crowdsurfing, passion, headbanging, philosophy, cinema, and unity at a ZOCO show.

We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Partae team for your time and interest in ZOCO. We’re delighted to share our journey with you today, and are excited to share more about our future releases with you again soon. We are releasing around 1 song from the LUMANISTA album a month for the next year, so many more updates to come.

Warm Regards, Marco & ZOCO

INTERVIEW

October 8, 2025 0 comments
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FOR THE FIRST TIME, ‘DISNEY JR. LIVE ON TOUR: LET’S PLAY!’ SWINGS INTO AUSTRALIA WITH MICKEY MOUSE, THE SUPERKITTIES… AND TEAM SPIDEY!

by the partae October 8, 2025
written by the partae

The Ultimate Interactive Disney Jr. Concert Experience Lands in Australia in 2026 Announces Limited Run with Performances in January and February

“DISNEY JR. LIVE ON TOUR: LET’S PLAY!”

AUSTRALIA

Tickets go on sale to the public Friday, 10 October at 1 p.m. AEDT

Special presale periods for Disney+ subscribers and MyTicketek members

Visit www.DisneyJrTour.com.au for more information and to get tickets

“Disney Jr. Live On Tour: Let’s Play!” is set to enchant families across Australia this January and February with FIVE spectacular tour stops: Adelaide, Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Perth. This immersive concert experience will bring beloved Disney Jr. characters to the stage in an interactive musical adventure perfect for young fans and their families.

In an Australian first, Ginny and Bitsy from “SuperKitties” and Team Spidey from “Marvel’s Spidey and his Amazing Friends” will head down under to join other fan-favorite Disney Jr. characters, including Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse and Ariel the Little Mermaid, and the Puppy Dog Pals, to delight audiences in this fully immersive live show featuring singing, dancing, dazzling 3D visuals, and exciting acrobatics.

In “Disney Jr. Live On Tour: Let’s Play!,” Mickey Mouse is planning the ultimate playdate for his friends at the Clubhouse. But when mysterious green weather threatens to ruin the fun, Team Spidey from “Marvel’s Spidey and his Amazing Friends” swings in to save the day — and the playdate!

The show features hit songs from popular Disney Jr. series, including:

“Hot Dog!” from “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse”

“Oopsie Kitty” from “SuperKitties”

“Do the Spidey” from “Marvel’s Spidey and his Amazing Friends”

 Jonathan Shank, producer at Terrapin Station Entertainment, said: “After delighting audiences across the U.S. and making its official international debut in London, we are excited to share this magical production with families throughout Australia.”

”Nicolás Renna, CEO of Proactiv Entertainment, said: “We are thrilled to be bringing world-class family entertainment to Australia. We are excited to be teaming up with Disney, Terrapin and our partners throughout the region to present ‘Disney Jr. Live On Tour: Let’s Play!’ This show promises to create unforgettable memories and is a joyful way to kick off 2026!”

Exclusive presale access is available to Disney+ subscribers and MyTicketek members for each city:

Disney+ subscribers presale: Tuesday, 7 October at 10 a.m. through Thursday, 9 October at 12 p.m., local time.

MyTicketek members presale: Tuesday, 7 October at 12 p.m. through Friday, 10 October at 9:59 a.m., local time.

Parents and caregivers can visit www.DisneyJrTour.com.au for all event and ticketing details. Follow the tour on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or by using the hashtag #DisneyJrTour for the latest updates.

Disney Jr. Live On Tour: Let’s Play!

Australian Tour Dates

ADELAIDE

Adelaide Entertainment Centre

3 & 4 January 2026 (10am / 1:30pm)

BRISBANE

Brisbane Entertainment Centre

10 & 11 January 2026 (10am / 1:30pm)

SYDNEY

ICC Sydney

17 & 18 January 2026 (10am 1:30pm)

MELBOURNE

Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre

24 & 25 January 2026 (10am / 1:30pm)

PERTH

RAC Arena

31 January & 01 February 2026 (10am / 1:30pm)

 

October 8, 2025 0 comments
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One Tree Hill co-stars Tyler Hilton & Kate Voegele to tour AUS & NZ in 2026

by the partae October 7, 2025
written by the partae

Photo Credit: Sarah Midkiff 

TICKETS

Tyler Hilton & Kate Voegele, who played Chris Keller and Mia Catalano respectively on the iconic US TV program One Tree Hill, will be making their way down under in 2026 for a special run of shows across Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland, Belgrave, Adelaide & Perth, presented by MRG Live.

The tour follows on from a successful solo tour from Tyler Hilton in 2025, which saw the artist/actor sell out the Northcote Social Club in Melbourne and pack out rooms across the country. The ‘Celebrating The Music of One Tree Hill’ is currently underway overseas, with the duo selling out shows across the US and Canada already. The Tour marks the second time the pair have toured Australia together, with their debut visit back in 2017 – and provides a special, unmissable experience for fans of the show as they play on stage together working their way through the music from the show.

One Tree Hill was a phenomenon when it first aired in 2003 via the WB/CW. Running for a total of 9 seasons, the series has been named one of the greatest dramas of all time by the likes of Cosmopolitan, Digital Spy and Entertainment Weekly. Music played an important role throughout the show’s run, with each episode named after a particular song, artist or album that has something in common with the theme of the episode. Tyler himself appeared on all three of the soundtrack albums – with his cover of the Ryan Adams song ‘When The Stars Go Blue’; his cover of ‘Missing You’ by John Waite & his original song ‘You’ll Ask For Me’.

Tyler Hilton has had an incredible award winning career across his work on the screen and stage – From portraying Elvis Presley in Walk the Line (2005) & his work on One Tree Hill, to writing and touring with the likes of Taylor Swift, Lady Antebellum and Joe Cocker.

Born and raised in California, Tyler grew up in a family of talented musicians who had played for acts like Fleetwood Mac, George Harrison and Donovan. Performing with his family from an early age, Hilton became serious about songwriting at 14. At 15, he called into L.A.’s KLOS radio station to win concert tickets and ended up wowing the hosts with an on-air performance. The station made him a regular guest and helped launch his debut record, which caught the ear of Warner Bros. Records, who signed him to record his second album The Tracks of Tyler Hilton, earning him two Top 40 singles. Most recently, Hilton released his EP ‘No Man’s Land’ in 2024, and worked on the score for the 2024 film ‘My Old Ass’ starring Aubrey Plaza & Maisy Stella, writing and performing on each track for the film.

“I’m so excited to be headed back to Australia on the “Celebrating the Music of One Tree Hill” Tour. This is truly my favorite place to tour in the entire world. Getting to come back solo earlier this year in February 2025 was such a beautiful reminder of how much I love and missed this place after spending several years away and also how much of a blast it was last time Kate and I got to come back over to OZ together. We’ve added double the amount of shows this time — plus a New Zealand play which is a first for both of us.”
TYLER HILTON

Kate Voegele is an LA based singer/songwriter, recording artist, actor, painter and content creator. Along with playing thousands of shows touring internationally for the last decade alongside the likes of John Mayer & Counting Crows, Voegele has released 4 studio albums to date, selling over 500,000 copies in total and racking up millions of streams in the process. Most recently, Kate has released, ‘The Best Part (French Version),’ a single in collaboration with indie band Bien; and released the debut album from her band Your Future Ghost earlier in 2025.

“I’m so thrilled to be coming back to Australia for our Celebrating the Music of One Tree Hill tour! My first tour in Australia was truly unforgettable, and I’ve been so excited to come back again ever since. It’s such a beautiful country and I was so creatively inspired last time we came through. Getting to play in New Zealand for the first time on this run is going to be incredible, and I’m so looking forward to meeting all the amazing fans in every city!” KATE VOEGELE

Tickets for the ‘Celebrating The Music of One Tree Hill’ tour will be on sale from 9am AEDT on Thursday October 9, with a pre-sale running the day prior via Spotify & MRG from 9am AEDT on Wednesday October 8.

TOUR DATES
Presented by MRG Live 
TICKETS

Friday March 6 The Brightside Brisbane, QLD
Saturday March 7 
The Lansdowne Sydney, NSW
Sunday March 8 
Howler Melbourne, VIC
Tuesday March 10 
Double Whammy Auckland, NZ
Thursday March 12 
Sooki Lounge Belgrave, VIC
Fri March 13 
Ed Castle Adelaide, SA
Sat March 14 
Indian Ocean Hotel Perth, WA

PRAISE

“(..) last Friday night proved the show’s beloved characters continue to live on in the hearts of Brisbane fans. The small, intimate interior of the New Globe Theatre was flooded with buzzing punters, more than ready for the talented offerings of Tyler Hilton and Kate Voegele, who played Chris Keller and Mia Catalano respectively on the hit series.”
AAA BACKSTAGE

“All in all, Tyler Hilton and Kate Voegele’s show was simply amazing. The stripped-back nature of the show made for a wonderful night. These artists are incredibly talented and put their soul into their performances and were absolutely lovely and down to earth after the show, sticking around to meet every punter and have a chat.”
SCENESTR 

“Tyler is as charismatic as they come and you can’t help but notice the endless smiles and joy he brings to the stage. During a break he said that ‘playing live music feeds my soul’, that the crowd is really what makes the show and you could just tell that those words rang true. He delivers such a great performance, his incredible talent for singing and songwriting, coupled with his storytelling and authentic interaction with the crowd made for such an unforgettable evening.”
STRIFE MAG

Tyler Hilton: Official Website | Facebook | X | TikTok | Instagram | YouTube | Spotify

October 7, 2025 0 comments
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Ring in 2026 with I Hate Models & Patrick Mason at Brisbane’s Fortitude Music Hall

by the partae October 7, 2025
written by the partae

Wednesday 31st December (NYE) – Fortitude Music Hall, Brisbane

Brisbane is set to host one of the biggest nights of the year as global techno heavyweight I Hate Models takes over Fortitude Music Hall on New Year’s Eve, Wednesday 31 December 2025, presented by Untitled Group and Lucky Presents.

Following the announcement of his Melbourne headline show and coveted spot on the Beyond The Valley lineup, Australia’s largest camping festival which has already sold out, I Hate Models now brings his commanding and uncompromising performance to Queensland.

This will be Brisbane’s chance to ring in 2026 with one of electronic music’s most in-demand and boundary-pushing figures, joined by Berlin’s Patrick Mason for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration.

A true force on the global circuit, I Hate Models has released music on his own label Disco Inferno, delivered remixes for Depeche Mode, and created international anthems such as his edit of Toro. His latest EP, Forever Melancholia, continues to showcase his uncompromising sound. The DJ and producer has also headlined Ultra Music Festival, EDC, Awakenings, Tomorrowland and more, cementing his reputation as one of techno’s most in-demand artists.

Famed for sets that traverse trance and techno with emotional intensity, his sound rejects formula and embraces raw catharsis. On his last visit to Melbourne in October 2024, I Hate Models sold out two shows at PICA Melbourne, proving the sheer demand for his return and reaffirming his cult-like following within Australia.

Berlin’s Patrick Mason brings his boundary-pushing hybrid of music, fashion and art. Known for his powerful stage presence and “techno extravaganza” style, Mason has played at Awakenings, Time Warp, Printworks, Tomorrowland and DC-10. His creative influence also spans into fashion, including collaborations with Maison Margiela and Trippen, and as Ray-Ban’s first external creative director, where his designs sold out globally within days.

Presented by Untitled Group and Lucky Presents, this NYE celebration promises to be one of the most unmissable electronic events of the summer.

Untitled Group, Australia’s largest independent music promoter, is celebrating 10 years of redefining the live music scene with flagship events including Beyond The Valley, Pitch Music & Arts, Wildlands and Ability Fest.

Lucky Presents is a leading Australian event brand with over 250 events in the past five years, curating world-class house, techno, progressive experiences across Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, and Dubai. Renowned for its flagship Berlin Rave series and cutting-edge productions, Lucky Presents has hosted some of the world’s biggest hard techno artists, cementing its reputation as a driving force in the Australian music scene.

Sign up for presale access HERE

Presale begins Thursday 9 October 12PM Local Time

General on sale begins Friday 10 October 12PM Local Time

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We Came As Romans Supported By Special Guests Caskets (UK) + Headwreck | February 2026

by the partae October 6, 2025
written by the partae

WE CAME AS ROMANS
SUPPORTED BY SPECIAL GUESTS CASKETS (UK)
+ HEADWRECK | FEBRUARY 2026

Set to bring their monstrous headline show to Australian shores in 2026, today Michigan metalcore titans WE CAME AS ROMANS announce their return down under this February in support of their new album ‘All is Beautiful.. Because we’re doomed’, joined by very special guests CASKETS (UK) and HEADWRECK.

Commencing on Friday 6 February in Brisbane, WE CAME AS ROMANS will hurtle through Sydney, Newcastle, Perth and close out their headline run on Thursday 12 February in Adelaide. WE CAME AS ROMANS, CASKETS and HEADWRECK will also all then perform on Saturday 14 February in Melbourne as part of the Polaris-curated heavy summer event Life’s A Beach, along with Thy Art Is Murder, Ocean Sleeper, Terminal Sleep and Reliqa.

Stepping into view in 2009 via their debut album To Plant a Seed, WE CAME AS ROMANS have remained a powerful force of sharp melodies, thick guitars, grooves and unwavering positivity in the face of an uncertain world. Between countless sold out shows, over 250 million streams, seven studio album and ongoing critical acclaim, WE CAME AS ROMANS relentlessly forge ahead with a sonic blend that spans metalcore, post-harcore, electronic hues at times and an urgency that captivates in any and every live setting.

Traversing tragedy and tenacity along the way, WCAR returned with gusto in 2025 with the recent release of their seventh studio album All Is Beautiful…Because We’re Doomed; the band’s second studio album since the tragic passing of their brother Kyle Pavone, and a collection of tracks that wrestles with the highs and lows of humanity, with Kerrang! declaring “they’ve returned to wreck your speakers and vocal cords…[the album] stands as a monolithic metalcore moment”.

In a live setting, WE CAME AS ROMANS have spent their storied career touring with some of the giants of the scene, spannning Bring Me The Horizon, I Prevail, The Used, Sleeping With Sirens, Parkway Drive and countless others, with WCAR performing down under most recently in 2023 which marked their first Aussie performances since 2015.

With an irresistible blend of lush post hardcore, modern metallic power and electronic edges equal parts towering and raw, Leeds heavy alchemists CASKETS have carved out an international reputation both for their sonic output and electrifying live performances. Recently performing down under earlier this year for a headline run celebrating their brand new album, The Only Heaven You’ll Know, CASKETS have also previously shared stages with the likes of Bad Omens, Memphis May Fire and Windwaker, and will close out 2025 performing at Vans Warped Tour in Florida along with a European and UK headline run.

With their trademark glitch-heavy sound, pop-inspired hooks, soaring choruses and low-tuned guitars firmly on the menu, Brisbane’s HEADWRECK have steadily expanded their grasp on the heavy scene since their explosive introduction in 2021 via debut single Freefall. Between selling out their own headline shows and performing alongside Invent Animate, Story Of The Year, Paledusk, Thornhill and more, HEADWRECK also continue to showcase their sharp sonic sensibilities, recently unleashing delectably chaotic singles Filet-O-Fish and Plan Z earlier this year.

Pre-sale tickets on sale: Thursday 9 October @ 11am AEDT time
To Gain Early Ticket Access Register Here -> https://daltours.cc/WCARGeneral tickets on sale: Friday 10 October @ 11am local time
Tickets from www.destroyalllines.com

Destroy All Lines Presents

WE CAME AS ROMANS
SUPPORTED BY SPECIAL GUESTS CASKETS (UK)
+ HEADWRECK
TOUR DATES:

FRIDAY 6 FEBRUARY 2026 – THE TIVOLI, BRISBANE (18+)
SATURDAY 7 FEBRUARY 2026 – METRO THEATRE, SYDNEY (LIC AA)
SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2026 – KING ST BANDROOM, NEWCASTLE (18+)
WEDNESDAY 11 FEBRUARY 2026 – MAGNET HOUSE, PERTH (18+)
THURSDAY 12 FEBRUARY 2026 – THE GOV, ADELAIDE (LIC AA)
SATURDAY 14 FEBRUARY 2026 – RIVIERA BEACH CLUB, MELBOURNE (18+)

General tickets on sale: Friday 10 October @ 11am local time
Tickets from www.destroyalllines.com

October 6, 2025 0 comments
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THE KID LAROI, PEGGY GOU, SPACEY JANE, THE VERONICAS AND MORE FRONT HUGE AO LIVE 2026 LINEUP

by the partae October 6, 2025
written by the partae

The Australian Open and Untitled Group have officially unveiled the biggest artist lineup for the highly anticipated return of AO LIVE.

As the only music series held at a Grand Slam, AO LIVE will expand to five massive nights this year, bringing an electrifying blend of sport and music to Melbourne Park with two additional evenings of music. 2026 promises an unforgettable experience, headlined by some of the biggest globally renowned artists ever to hit the AO LIVE stage at John Cain Arena, including The Kid LAROI, Peggy Gou, Spacey Jane, The Veronicas, and Sofi Tukker with more exciting artists to be announced.

Back for a fourth year, Untitled Group, Australia’s largest independent music and events promoter, once again curates the AO LIVE experience. Untitled Group is known for producing some of the country’s most beloved festivals, including Beyond The Valley, Wildlands, and Pitch Music & Arts, Untitled Group once again brings its signature style and energy to the heart of Melbourne Park.

Kicking off the Australian Open 2026’s huge AO LIVE lineup on Wednesday, 28 January, chart-topping artist The Kid LAROI will take to the stage for an unforgettable night of raw emotion and exciting music. With his unique blend of hip-hop, melodic rap, and pop, LAROI has quickly become one of the most influential young voices in modern music. Known for his breakout hits like “Go!” (featuring Juice WRLD) and “Without You” the Australian artist is ready to bring his high-energy performance to Melbourne Park, for a night not to be missed.

Joining AO LIVE’s lineup on Thursday, 29 January is Fremantle WA indie rock band Spacey Jane. Their breakout hit Booster Seat won ARIA Song of the Year and reached #2 in triple j’s Hottest 100, while their 2022 follow-up album Here Comes Everybody debuted at No.1 on the ARIA Charts. With three acclaimed albums under their belt, and a reputation for electric live shows, Spacey Jane is set to deliver a performance fans won’t want to miss.

The Veronicas and Sofi Tukker will enthral AO LIVE crowds on Friday, 30 January.

Get ready for a huge set from the iconic pop-rock duo The Veronicas, who’ve dominated charts since their debut. With a career spanning over two decades, Lisa and Jessica Origliasso have delivered platinum-selling albums and global hits like Untouched and 4ever. Following the release of their sixth studio album Gothic Summer, The Veronicas continue to evolve while staying true to their rebellious spirit. Most recently, Untouched landed at number three as the duo made their debut on triple j’s Hottest 100 of Australian Songs.

Sofi Tukker is a Grammy-nominated electronic music powerhouse. With hits like Drinkee, Best Friend, and Purple Hat, Sophie Hawley-Weld and Tucker Halpern blend Portuguese vocals, pulsating beats, and influences from West African drumming, tropical house, and electro-funk. Since their breakout hit Drinkee in 2015, they’ve become festival favorites with their high-energy live shows that effortlessly cross genres and continents.

Concluding an incredible five nights of entertainment, Peggy Gou will take to the stage on Sunday, 1 February. A global dance music icon, Peggy Gou is known for her infectious blend of house and techno. With hits like Gou Talk, It Makes You Forget (Itgehane), and Starry Night, she has captured audiences worldwide. Her single, (It Goes Like) Nanana, has topped charts internationally, and she continues to define the future of electronic music with her bold vision and unstoppable energy.

Wednesday 28 January 2026 – 5-9 pm AEDT

The Kid LAROI

+ Special guests

Thursday 29 January 2026 – 5-9 pm AEDT

Spacey Jane

+ Special guests

Friday 30 January 2026 -5-9 pm AEDT

The Veronicas + Sofi Tukker

+ Special guests

Saturday 31 January 2026 – 2-7 pm AEDT

To Be Announced

AO Women’s Final – 7.30pm

Sunday 1 February 2026 – 2-7 pm AEDT

Peggy Gou

+ Special guests

AO Men’s Final – 7.30pm

AO LIVE will feature music and entertainment across the precinct in 2026, including laidback acoustic acts in Garden Square and some of Melbourne’s most in-demand DJs on Grand Slam Oval each day.

Every AO LIVE ticket unlocks more than just epic music, it’s your all-access pass to the unforgettable atmosphere of the Australian Open 2026. Along with world-class live performances, fans can experience the thrill of Grand Slam tennis, indulge in top-tier food and drinks, and soak up the electric summer vibe that makes the AO one of the most iconic sporting events in the world.

Tickets start from just $99, delivering unbeatable value for a full day and night of world-class entertainment. Tickets for AO LIVE go on sale on Tuesday, 7 October. Visit Ticketmaster to be the first to access tickets and exclusive updates.

October 6, 2025 0 comments
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Music News

Megadeath release ‘Tipping Point’, announce final album

by the partae October 6, 2025
written by the partae

Photo Credit: Ross Halfin 

Legendary metal outfit MEGADETH have unveiled ‘Tipping Point’ as the first single and video from their forthcoming self-titled final album due out in 2026 via DAVE MUSTAINE’s Tradecraft imprint in partnership with Frontiers Label Group’s new BLKIIBLK label.  The sonically explosive and lyrically unflinching song kicks off with a thunderous guitar solo before DAVE’s iconic voice hauntingly kicks in.  In the desolate but hopeful accompanying video, directed by Leonardo Liberti, DAVE is locked up in a prison being tortured in extreme fashion, while the band performs in the same lock-up.  In the end DAVE perseveres evil and walks away into a new day. Watch the video HERE and listen to the song HERE.

“We all have different ‘tipping points’ and they may vary from day to day,” says MUSTAINE.  “I think we’re all being pushed to the edge right now, and it’s easy to lean into that feeling. But it’s important not to let things get you down.”

MEGADETH—Mustaine, Teemu Mäntysaari (Lead, Rhythm, and Acoustic Guitars), James LoMenzo (Bass Guitar) and Dirk Verbeuren (Drums)—will release their forthcoming self-titled album in 2026.  Pre-order the album HERE and stay tuned for more news about the album in the coming weeks.

Earlier this year, MUSTAINE revealed in a social post directly shared with his worldwide fanbase and Cyber Army that the forthcoming album will mark the final studio album from MEGADETH, who’ve sold over 50 million records worldwide and received a GRAMMY® Award (with 12 additional nominations).

He shared the announcement of the album and tour via his alter ego Vic Rattlehead.  Also set for next year is a new memoir from MUSTAINE, details of which will be revealed in the coming months.

Fans can click HERE to register for early access to exclusive information and offers surrounding the album and all MEGADETH news.  In addition, look for the initial run of farewell tour dates to be announced later this year.

‘Tipping Point’ is out now 
Megadeath: Official Website | Facebook | Instagram | Tik Tok | YouTube

October 6, 2025 0 comments
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Festival NewsMusic News

DJ Awards unveils Industry Awards winners and more ahead of ceremony hosted at ROTO Club in Ibiza

by the partae October 4, 2025
written by the partae

Tickets: [LINK]
Website: http://djawards.com
Date: Thursday 9th October
Venue: ROTO Club, Ibiza Town

The DJ Awards will return to Ibiza on Thursday 9th October for a truly independent celebration of electronic music culture

The influential DJ Awards is back for the 24th edition with another iconic, and more importantly independent and authentic, celebration of electronic music culture at the end of a superb summer season. On Thursday 9th October 2025, the spotlight returns to the White Isle for a night of deserved recognition and unforgettable music and dining at ROTO Club in Ibiza Town, a cool, urban hotspot with stunning views of the sea and Dalt Vila. Ahead of the ceremony, the Industry Awards Winners, as voted for by a Grand Jury, are now revealed.

Now in its second consecutive year since relaunching, the DJ Awards continues to loudly and proudly champion integrity and independence. The Industry Awards spotlight behind-the-scenes excellence, visionary leadership and the vital elements that power the dance music ecosystem. It has a global outlook and celebrates both red-hot new musical trends, enduring scene legends and more.

Due to recent and unfortunate developments regarding the devastating floods in Ibiza, the DJ Awards will be donating funds from the ceremony towards the Spanish Red Cross (Creu Rojo) to assist those affected by the flash floods.

Unlike commercial awards and pay-to-play platforms, the refined DJ Awards ceremony, in partnership with YouTube, Suntory and Skiddle this year, stands apart by celebrating talent on merit alone. New for this year, every nominee is selected by a fully independent Grand Jury made up of respected insiders, creatives, industry and market leaders and experts from over 50 leading music brands and institutions worldwide. This unique move guarantees a diverse, authentic, and genre-spanning representation of today’s dynamic DJ culture that also connects back to the integral and honest roots of the DJ Awards. It’s real recognition for top level talent, innovation and excellence by those with huge experience and who are perfectly placed to judge.

The ceremony itself will see nominees and music professionals gather, spanning across a wide-ranging selection of categories, genres, geographies and industry influence, awaiting the reveal of DJ Awards winners. This year’s categories include the newly launched Balearic and Hard Dance/Bounce categories, plus returning favourites Afro, Breakthrough, Drum & Bass, Garage/Bassline, Hard Techno, House, International DJ, Latin/Reggaeton, Live Act, Newcomer, Prog/Melodic, Tech House, Techno and Trance.

The DJ Awards yet again promises to be one of the standout nights of the Ibiza season, on October 9th a celebration of music industry excellence will commence in a venue at the heart of Ibiza’s underground scene.

Grand Jury Industry Awards Winners

Industry Executive of the Year:
Yann Pissenem

DJ Livestream of the Year:
Yousuke Yukimatsu – Boiler Room

Global Festival Award:

UNUM Festival, Albania

Eye On: [Region] — 2025 Spotlight: MENA:
Soundstorm Festival

Lifetime Achievement Award:
Simon Dunmore

Play It Back – Social Impact Award:
Ibiza Preservation Fund

What’s Hot Global:
[UNVRS]

Ibiza Icon:
Alfredo (Posthumously awarded)

Ibiza Party of the Summer:
Solid Grooves
Ibiza Track of the Summer:
Toman – Verano En NY

About the DJ Awards
Website | Youtube | Images (2024 DJ Awards)

October 4, 2025 0 comments
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Music News

Redspencer delve into life, death and love on anticipated third record Primal Urges out now

by the partae October 4, 2025
written by the partae

Stream / Buy HERE

Redspencer have revealed their anticipated third record Primal Urges today – a charming and enduring listen that balances both wit and warmth across its ten thoughtfully crafted dream-pop tracks. Purchase the vinyl HERE and stream Primal Urges on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, and Amazon Music.

Their first album in three years, Primal Urges pairs clever observations on life, death, and love with jangly rhythms, compelling lyrics, and melodies that are as comforting as they are memorable, resulting in a record that is both lighthearted and sincere. Songwriter and drummer David McMillan describes the band’s new album as “the most natural music we’ve made to date. The songs I wrote are much more outward focused, less subtle, and reflective of the stage of life we’re in. We’re not spring chickens anymore!”

In July, Redspencer returned with the hazy lo-fi gem ‘This is the Day’, which proved to be an immediate hit with community radio, receiving airplay across 2SER, PBS, Triple R, SYN, 4ZZZ, Edge Radio and many more. ‘Blue Horizon’ followed in August, a love song delving into an imagined conversation between Australia’s most wanted criminal bushranger Frank Gardiner, and his lover Kitty Brown, in the lead up to the Eugowra Gold Escort Robbery. Leaning into Redspencer’s own blend of mellow guitar pop, the two singles set the tone for what follows on Primal Urges, from the misty album opener ‘Dream Of Aphis Creek’ to the retro-filtered final track ‘Something Is Out There’. Their most self-assured body of work yet, Primal Urges was recorded with acclaimed writer, producer, and musician Alex Markwell (The Delta Riggs, Teen Jesus & The Jean Teasers, Kita Alexander). 

Redspencer made their return to the headline stage last month with an intimate ‘Blue Horizon’ release show at Fitzroy Pinnacle, packing out the room in the wake of their well-received sunset appearance at Wonder Mountain Festival. The band are set to launch Primal Urges on the live stage later this year, with more details to come. 

Citing the jangle of The Clientele, the lo-fi grit of Small World Experience, the slacker-dance of Dean Blunt, the dreaminess of Jessica Pratt, and the pop sensibility of early 2000s Madonna as influences, Redspencer’s knack for bringing some of the best parts of the past forward has seen them clock over 2million streams across their releases. In 2016, their debut album Perks garnered praise across the globe, with catchy lead single ‘Ride It Out’ earning comparisons to Mac DeMarco, The War On Drugs, and Real Estate. The band’s 2021 follow up Dreamworld showcased a more polished – yet still just as thoughtful – sound for Redspencer, hailed by Beat Magazine as “sensational” and launched to a full capacity Brunswick Ballroom in early 2022. 

Primal Urges is out now, with vinyl available for pre-order HERE

Listen on:

Spotify

Apple Music

YouTube Music

Amazon Music

Connect with Redspencer

Instagram | Facebook

October 4, 2025 0 comments
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Music News

Yamaha Music Australia announce Main Stage Grant to support emerging Australian talent with $5,000 cash + Yamaha instruments

by the partae October 4, 2025
written by the partae

APPLY HERE

Photo Credit: Alice Naish

Yamaha Music Australia is proud to announce the Main Stage Grant. A brand new initiative, the Main Stage Grant is designed to provide real support to the next generation of Australian musicians by giving them the tools they need to create, record and perform. The grant is open to artists across three categories: bands, singer-songwriters, and music producers, with one artist from each category set to receive $5,000 cash, plus $5,000 worth of Yamaha instruments.

Applications are open now and will close on Saturday 15th November at 10am AEDT. In collaboration with Yamaha Music Australia, a panel of industry experts and tastemakers will review each application to determine the three recipients, set to be announced in early December. For more information on eligibility and how to apply, head to Yamaha Music Australia’s website. 

“Main Stage is about giving the next generation of Australian musicians the platform and support they deserve. Whether you’re a band, a songwriter, or a producer, we want to help you take that next big step with real backing. We believe Australia makes the best music, and we want to continue to support you.” 

– Mitch Kelly, Yamaha Music Australia

The Main Stage Grant joins Yamaha Music Australia’s existing initiatives as they continue their mission to empower artists across all stages of their music journey to “Make Waves”. From their current Share Your Moment competition encouraging artists to share the stories that have shaped their music journey, to their Great Start Grant offering schools the opportunity to create a vibrant culture of music education, Yamaha Music Australia has a strong track record of supporting Australian musicians. 

Spanning first instruments to global stages, Yamaha’s 130-year legacy of innovation at the intersection of music and technology has established the brand as a cornerstone of music production, education, and performance worldwide. Find out more at www.au.yamaha.com.

CONNECT WITH YAMAHA AUSTRALIA

INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK

October 4, 2025 0 comments
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