SPILT MILK 2025 CLOSES OUT FOUR MASSIVE SHOWS ACROSS AUSTRALIA BALLARAT |...

Legendary guitarist Tom Morello joins metalcore powerhouse Beartooth with new single “Everything...

LATE OPEN-AIR UNVEILS LINEUP FOR ITS DEBUT BALI SHOWCASE VIKEN ARMAN, GEJU...

Ministry of Sound Celebrates 35 Years with First Names of 2026

BEYOND THE VALLEY UNVEILS ITS SET TIMES AHEAD OF ITS MONUMENTAL 10TH...

Franklin + Soli @ The Palais Theatre, Melbourne, 16th December 2025

YUBIK JOINS FORCES WITH ADRIATIQUE & VINCENT VOSSEN ON MELODIC HOUSE/TECHNO TRACK...

WILDLANDS REVEALS SET TIMES

SLEAFORD MODS release new single ‘No Touch ft. Sue Tompkins’ – 2026...

The Rions announce Australian regional tour for Feb 2026

Author

the partae

The Partae

Festival NewsMusic News

Bluesfest Touring announces EXPLOSIVE DOUBLE BILL COMING TO SYDNEY, MELBOURNE & BLUESFEST BYRON BAY 2023!

by the partae
written by the partae
NATHANIEL RATELIFF and THE NIGHT SWEATS 
With special guests ST PAUL & THE BROKEN BONES 
Mon 10-Apr-2023 – Forum, Melbourne 
Thu 13-Apr-2023 – Enmore Theatre, Sydney 
PRE-SALE from Friday 28th of October 2022 – 12PM AEST 
ON SALE from Monday 31st of October 2022 – 12PM AEST 

Every now and again there is a truly magical double bill. The combination of NATHANIEL RATELIFF and THE NIGHT SWEATS and ST PAUL & THE BROKEN BONES is every bit that and more. Bring your dancing shoes!

NATHANIEL RATELIFF and THE NIGHT SWEATS are based in Denver, Colorado. They mix rock ‘n’ roll swagger with classic soul, R&B and a touch of country. They will make their long-awaited return to Australian shores following their explosive Australian shows in 2019.

ST PAUL & THE BROKEN BONES from Birmingham Alabama, are known for their powerhouse soul, funk rock with their charismatic singer Paul Janeway, and are returning to the Bluesfest and touring as an audience favourite.

They are a Musical Experience Like No Other!

All Bluesfest Touring artists will be playing Bluesfest Byron Bay next Easter Long Weekend, from Thursday 6th – Monday 10th April 2023. Tickets on sale at www.bluesfest.com.au.

REGISTER FOR PRE-SALE HERE:

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Festival NewsMusic News

Kokoroko debuts in Australia With headline shows in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne

by the partae
written by the partae
SIGN UP TO THE PRE-SALE
Astral People and Handsome Tours are thrilled to present… Kokoroko

Cohabiting at the apex of Neo Jazz and Afrobeats, in perfect soul-shaking harmony is Kokoroko. After bursting into the public view in 2018 with ‘We Out Here’, a project from Brownswood Recordings celebrating the brightest of London’s young jazz stars, the band became the crown jewel for the so-called ‘UK jazz renaissance’. The 50+ million YouTube plays given to their languid, improvisatory, track ‘Abusey Junction’ didn’t hurt either. Earning them universal critical acclaim from BBC 6 Music, 1Xtra, Afropunk, Line Of Best Fit, The Guardian, The Clash, and NPR and more.

Since then, they’ve sold out tours across Brazil, India, and repeatedly the UK. Performed at numerous international music events including Glastonbury, Wide Awake Festival, Lost Village, Pohoda Festival, Super-Sonic Jazz Festival, Akbank Jazz Festival, Coconut Music Festival, and Meadows In The Mountains. Now finally it’s Australia’s turn.

Released earlier this year to resounding acclaim was their debut album ‘Could We Be More’. An expansive and ambitious album that speaks to the force of Kokoroko. Each song possesses the energy which so naturally underpins the heartbeat of Kokoroko’s identity – deftly moving through afrobeat, highlife, soul, and funk across the album’s 15 tracks and taking inspiration from a plethora of other influences from West Africa to London and the Caribbean – ‘Could We Be More’ gifts the listener feelings of homecoming and joy.

Kokoroko’s music was shaped by the rich musical traditions of Western Africa and all steeped in London’s cultural diversity. The band’s music is beautifully complex and powerfully commanding, the kind of music that forces you out of your seat to dance. The group’s name which means ‘be strong’ in Urhobo was a declaration of power from the start, of the uplifting, positive energy and the sharp artistic vision that makes up their sound.

Don’t miss Kokoroko as they bring their lush vocals, adventurous brass motifs, and hypnotic guitar tones to Australian stages for the very first time this coming March.

Astral People acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia on which this tour takes place. Astral People acknowledge their Elders past, present and emerging and pay their respect to all First Nations people. Always Was, Always Will Be.
TOUR DATES

Tues Mar 7, 2023 – Brisbane, The Princess Theatre

Weds Mar 8, 2023 – Sydney, Factory Theatre

Fri Mar 10, 2023 – Melbourne, The Croxton Bandroom

TICKETS HERE
SIGN UP TO THE PRE-SALE

Instagram
Spotify
Facebook
0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Music InterviewsMusic News

Oly Sherman

by the partae
written by the partae

Where are you currently based?

Currently based in Manly! Sydney, Australia.

How did you first start playing music?

I started playing guitar throughout school, and slowly grew into singing and piano. Everything just kind of snowballed until I was confident enough to write my own stuff!

What’s been happening recently?

Moved house, finished touring, finishing up a new project, getting a lot more exercise and sleep in! The good stuff I guess. 

Your latest single ‘ Dancin’ in the rain” is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting?

I went through a massive RnB phase throughout lockdown, and went through about 6 months of experimenting with the type of sound that you can hear in the song. 

How did you go about writing ‘Dancin’ in the rain’?

It came rather quickly actually! I had the sax sample recorded for a long time and wrote the song around that! The theme of the song is architected around the people that are close to me, and how they make me feel.

Where and when did you record/produce/master and who with?

I recorded most of the song at my home studio in Sydney, and then completed a final mix with Dan Natoli at Kiln Studios. 

What’s the Sydney music scene like at the moment?

To be honest, whenever I’m asked this question, I don’t really know what to say. Sometimes it’s great and there’s a real sense of optimism within the shows I attend and shows of my own. However sometimes it can seem bleak, and there feels like this constant pressure to make artists into more than artists (content providers, accountants, media guru’s, etc).

What are your favourite venues to play and why?

I think my favorite venue has got to be my hometown venue of The Lansdowne. I grew up watching so many of my favorite artists play there, and was such an insane feeling when I got to sell it out myself a couple of times!

You have an upcoming tour, where are you headed and what do you most enjoy about touring?

Touring can be amazing, and can also be grueling. If I’m doing a solo part of the tour, airports can become a bit annoying after a while. We end the tour with a huge Byron show, which should mean the band and I get a bit of time in the sun!

Please tell us about any upcoming music/albums:

I have a new project in the works, which should be on the horizon early next year.

Who are you listening to at the moment?

Honestly, a lot of dance music, particularly house and jazz house. It’s such a fun and refreshing mixup to my normal stuff, and super fun to dj. 

What do you like to do away from music?

I’m a pretty chill morning guy, and like the simple things like exercise, beach and reading. I also like just organizing day things with my partner and friends and making the most of the time we have!

What’s planned for the remainder of 2022 going into 2023?

I finish touring in mid-November and then I have the rest of the year off! Very exciting. I’m going to spend a little bit of it completing a new project, and then I’m going to relax!

Favourite food and place to hangout?

Anything to do with sashimi. I’m due for some actually. 

Official Website: https://olyshermanmusic.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/olyshermanmusic

Twitter: https://twitter.com/olyshermanmusic

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/olysherman/?hl=en

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5Jv0u21SjHXS2-HpL1mirQ

Triple J Unearthed: https://www.abc.net.au/triplejunearthed/artist/oly-sherman-0/

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Music News

Sam Blacky Releases Spicy Latin-Inspired Single “Move Like That” On Terms & Conditions

by the partae
written by the partae

Artists: Sam Blacky
Title: Move Like That
Label: Terms & Conditions

Download / Stream

Femme powerhouse Sam Blacky returns with another sultry house single, “Move Like That” on Mexican duo Tom & Collins‘ label Terms & Conditions. Blacky is heavily inspired by her global travels and the music she encounters along the way, and this new release carries a distinctive Latin flair. With an energetic pulse driven by a steady bassline and kick drums, Blacky also layers in a catchy vocal riff with the title’s namesake that encourages the listener to get on their feet and “Move Like That.” In the same vein as Blacky‘s previous single “Colombiana,” the new track is perfect for steamy nights on the dance floor or any time you’re looking for a groovy pick me up.

“This single was inspired once again by my love for Latin dance music, and that’s why we wanted to go with Terms & Conditions. I have known Tom & Collins for many years, so to finally come together on a project is the only thing that made sense for this track.” – Sam Blacky

Samantha Black is a multitalented DJ/producer and creator professionally known as Sam Blacky. Originally from San Diego, Sam spent several years in Australia, where she first fell in love with producing music and performing live. Since moving back to Los Angeles, music and performing have taken a front seat in her life. Sam has performed live across the world from 2017 to the present day, from Mexico to Ibiza to Bali, at some of the premier electronic festivals and clubs on the planet. During the pandemic, Sam released a series of videos on Youtube called “A New World,” live streaming sets from some of her favorite places in Mexico, giving viewers a taste of vacation vibes even while staying safe at home. Following the release of her first EP on her own label, Stabby Records, Sam has also released singles with Repopulate Mars and now Terms & Conditions as well as an official remix for the viral Tik Tok single “Gaslight” by Inji. She is currently working more remixes and collabs with Inji and others as well as a new EP with Jackson Englund.

More info on Sam Blacky:

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Music News

Driving Force Behind the US Drum & Bass Scene Justin Hawkes Releases Debut Full-Length Album “Existential” on UKF

by the partae
written by the partae

Artists: Justin Hawkes
Title: Existential
Label: Pilot./UKF

Download / Stream

Justin Hawkes charged onto the DnB scene under his Flite moniker with the self-released track Blue Spark in 2013, with Liquicity featuring the seminal track on their influential YouTube channel. His ability to span soft-toned character to sheer euphoric brilliance through the dark, earth-shaking depths of bass music soon found him many fans, including some of the world’s top DJs, such as Andy C, Porter Robinson, RL Grime, Netsky, Friction, Sub Focus, Wilkinson and many more.

His relationship with UKF started when they featured his releases Featherfall and Colorless in 2014, released on Bass Explorer’s label Sup Yo! And Liquicity Records, respectively. His 2017 EP ‘The Cure,’ however, dropped on Liquicity, truly marked a momentous shift in his music career, releasing a flurry of bangers on labels such as Hospitality, Monstercat, and UKF and a slew of festival appearances in Europe and the US.

In 2020 dropped the Flite moniker in favor of Justin Hawkes, arising like a phoenix from the ashes with roof-tearing releases Lift Off The Roof (D&B Arena) and The Underground. He channeled his experiences in the US rave scene with songs such as IJDK and a remix for REAPER’s Barricade. And even though these releases were incredibly successful, the controversy surrounding the Flite moniker, with personal attacks against Hawkes’ honor during a global pandemic and huge politically uncertain times, left a serious mark – one that he would explore on his debut album ‘Existential.’

“Existential manifests as a self-portrait,” says Hawkes. “It weaves between my thoughts, philosophy, and history, both within my career as a Drum & Bass artist in America and internally through the unknown future. The title itself represents the existential scenarios that have formed who I am, exploring my journey through crisis, the weight and forgotten wisdom of the past, and even the sometimes-comedic power of being an outlier.”

Having grown up in a small town in Virginia, Justin wasn’t born into the DnB scene. Influences such as Justin’s early stint in his school’s marching band playing trumpet and his love for blues, rock, jazz, folk, and gaming, have found their way onto the album. His family was deeply entrenched in more ‘traditional’ American music genres such as Country and Americana, with his uncle Andrew Hellier playing guitar for Modern Yesterday and Rotoglow. His family, as well as his family’s influences, can be heard on the standout single ‘Better Than Gold,’ featuring none other than his uncle on vocals and father on mandolin and acoustic guitar. If there was ever a genre-busting tune, this Country Rock-meets-DnB would be it.

But it’s not all fun and games – Existential explores deeper themes, such as the idea that humanity is encouraging its own extinction and what it means to be alive at a time when the world feels like it’s collapsing in on itself. Tragedy, humanity is one such track that describes the many beautiful yet tragic paradoxes humans go through or create for themselves.

Featuring 15 tracks that showcase Hawkes’ flawless and diverse style as a producer, ‘Existential’ feels less like an album and more like a sonic journey through the artist’s psyche. From the opening notes of tracks like ‘Inheritance’ and ‘Arbiter’ (featuring PAV4N from Foreign Beggars), which convey power and intensity, to the more mellow and rock-infused ‘The End of an Empire,’ Hawkes brings a fix for a very wide palette of emotions. Says Hawkes: “I’m a big film guy, often leaning towards the existential questions and mysterious possibilities of human progress. The organic and moving sounds of composers like Jon Hopkins and Hans Zimmer really interest me as well, and that played a key part in my mindset while producing the album. I am pleased that ‘Existential’ as a body of work grasps the essence of what makes me think, feel, and makes me myself, all within a musical format I am exceptionally passionate about.”

More info on Justin Hawkes / UKF:

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Music InterviewsMusic News

Poppy Rose 

by the partae
written by the partae

Where are you currently based?
I am based in Naarm (Melbourne).

How did you first start playing music?
Off my brothers iPod! And eventually I just figured out how to make my own.

What’s been happening recently?
Well, I’ve been getting used to having a song out again after 5 years and taking it all in. I’ve been working to pay the bills and working on my music!

Your latest single ‘My God’ is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting?
I just started off with a simple beat I made and melody. I don’t think anything in particular inspired it. Maybe just lived experience and trying to have fun with the lyrics. I wanted to do some wordplay with pop culture references so the movie ‘Friday’ with Ice Cube and Chris Tucker, Kill Bill, Michael Jordan & Dr Phil influenced that!

How did you go about writing My God?
I love 808’s, and I was playing around with an 808 melody on GarageBand & then experimented with some percussion samples and slam/kick FX and MIDI trumpets and as I was doing the beat making process, I came up with a melody and then wrote lyrics.

Where and when did you record/produce/master and who did you work with?
Over a year ago now, I was in a little bedroom and created the demo. I then took the demo to HAMLEY (producer) who beefed everything up and then Matt ‘Xiro’ Fioravanti mixed and mastered it.

How did you approach the recording process?
After having my version of the demo for a while, I got used to the original vocals I did and was pretty set on them being in the final mix. When I’m doing it on my own time I don’t feel pressure because I can take as long as I like and choose my environment. But I had to let go of what I was comfortable with, re-record them better quality and try to have the same energy as the demo which ended up sounding more powerful in the end.

You’ve recently taken a break from music to work on yourself, please tell us about this
process:
When I put my first song ‘Ocean’ out 5 years ago, I didn’t realise the extent of how much I had going on for myself personally and mentally which put a halt on me focusing on my music. I got addicted to drugs and I didn’t know I was addicted until I was really in the depth of it. I made a choice and didn’t realise the implications it would have. When I knew I wanted help, I made a choice to try and get it. I had definitely tried to get help in the past, but when it worked for me is because I wanted it for myself. Music definitely played a big part in my recovery because when the lockdowns hit, I just threw myself into creating music again.

How did you go about teaching yourself to produce and make beats?
GarageBand, and a lot of YouTube tutorials!

Who are you listening to at the moment?
JK-47. I love his realness and lyricism. A new inspiration of mine too! I can’t wait to see him play at First & Forever – A Celebration of Blak Excellence festival in November and all of the other incredible artists on the lineup.

What do you like to do away from music?
Talk to my cat Chonky, spend time with my loved ones, do backyard hairdressing for friends and myself, converse with people and learn how they see the world and experience it and I like stretching/yoga, I just want to do it more regularly!

What’s planned for the remainder of 2022 going into 2023?
Staying focused on my music and getting it out there! I have a hard drive full of songs I’ve been writing and I just can’t wait for the world to hear them. More released music, more time with friends and family, getting back into live performing, keeping healthy and staying open to learning from every experience!

Favourite food and place to hangout?
Asian food, especially dumplings. My favourite place to hangout is in my bedroom studio. Whilst eating dumplings.

PLAY/LISTEN

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Eats & Drinks

Fonda Catering: bring a taste of Mexico to your next event

by the partae
written by the partae

Got a heap of people to feed? No problem, Fonda’s got your back.

Introducing Fonda Catering at ‘tu casa’ (your house) – bringing the epicness that is Fonda Mexican to you.

The new catering menu is here just in time for the warm weather and silly season antics. No matter the occasion, Fonda has it handled. Perfect for spring carnival celebrations, birthdays and private or corporate events. So, throw out the chicken sandwiches and tell the office manager that there will be no fruit platters at this year’s work Christmas party, Fonda has it covered.

In Mexico, a ‘fonda’ is a home that serves the community delicious and simple food that has been lovingly prepared. Taking this concept one step further, Fonda’s catering menu gives you the tools to turn any event into a hostess haven. The menu features a whole new lineup of never-before-seen Fonda dishes exclusive to the catering menu, bringing your guests on a culinary journey, fuelled with high-quality, fresh, Australian produce.

Fonda Catering Menu

Order Fonda catering online at fondamexican.com.au. Each box contains 30 pieces.

Tortilla Crisps – $70

Corn Ribs – $120

Chipotle Mac & Cheese Croquettes – $135

Chicken Taquitos – $165

Sweet Potato & Lentil Empanada – $125

Corn & Black Bean Empanada – $125

Chilli Con Carne Empanada – $135

Pork Sliders – $200

Sparked by a desire to plate up mouth-watering Mexican like no other, leading culinary institution,  Fonda, was born from humble beginnings. 

Over a decade ago, Tim McDonald and Dave Youl were on a mission to satisfy their cravings for  fresh, flavour-packed Mexican food in a venue that felt like home. When they noticed a gap in the  Australian market, a light-bulb moment followed. The pair set off on a culinary expedition across  Mexico, scouting the best bites and most welcoming hangouts in the country. Returning inspired,  with full bellies and big dreams, the duo dived into their restaurant venture. Fonda was born.  

Transporting the heart and soul of Mexico to Australian shores, Fonda burst onto the scene in 2010  with a flagship in Swan Street, Richmond. The monumental launch attracted hour-long queues and  earned the brand a cult following. Fonda has since become synonymous with perfected Mexican  street food, with standouts including its legendary tacos and moreish margaritas. 

Following enormous consumer demand, nine restaurants have opened across Sydney and  Melbourne. Locations include Richmond, Windsor, Hawthorn, Knox, Chadstone, Flinders Lane,  Collingwood, Surry Hills and Bondi, and for Fonda fans with an appetite for more – watch this space! 

No matter which restaurant diners head to, they can expect Fonda’s signature relaxed atmosphere, welcoming hospitality, and playful décor popping with bright injections of colour. In Mexico, a ‘fonda’ is a home that serves the community delicious and simple food that has been lovingly  

prepared. Inspired by this concept, Fonda’s menu encourages guests to take a memorable culinary  journey together, fuelled with high-quality, fresh, Australian produce. 

Hungry diners’ only task is to pick from the extensive list of fan favourites found on the eat-in and  takeaway menus. The coveted offering includes market-fresh fish tacos, herbed mushroom quesadillas, slow-cooked beef brisket burritos, grilled corn, and nachos with house-made guacamole and pico de gallo, to name a few. 

A show-stopping cocktail list transports diners to a beach side Mexican bar, where thirsts can be quenched by an   impressive range of margaritas featuring classic, chilli  mango and watermelon & lime, alongside a selection of  cerveza, cider, local vino and non-alcoholic beverages. Inside the kitchen, Tim and Dave have nurtured the hospitality teams like their own family, building a positive  and engaging culture that glows from the inside out. 

What sets Fonda apart from the competition extends far  beyond the menu. The commitment to its guests and dedication to continually inspiring and developing its  team is what delivers the unique experience diners know  and love. 

As the saying goes, “mi casa, su casa”, so head to a Fonda near you to experience the Mexican  magic. 

For more information visit: www.fondamexican.com.au

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Music News

Staples Release Addictive Track ‘Unjust Jeans (And Guillotines)’ And Announce EP

by the partae
written by the partae
Photography: Frances Wilson – @f.fx.co

Previous Support for Staples

“Jangly, fun, nostalgic, and bloody catchy. You have such a great sound – it sounds like a band who really know who they are. Great stuff!”
(Jess Perkins, Triple J) [About ‘Optimist’]

“Love that jangle wash! Its ethereal but really dynamic and that rhythm propels this track along so well. Really enjoying this, thanks Staples!”
(Steph Hughes, Triple J) [About ‘Serotonin’]

Meanjin/Brisbane group alt-rockers Staples release their instantly addictive track ‘Unjust Jeans (And Guillotines)’ on October 21, and you can bet it’s going to stick like honey.

Since forming in 2019, the band has released an EP ‘Another Melodramatic Mess’, sold out shows around Brisbane and last year they supported the Last Dinosaurs. 

Returning to the stage in 2022 to launch their single ‘Optimist’, Staples look forward to releasing their highly anticipated sophomore EP out on November 18.

The next release that we’re lucky to witness is ‘Unjust Jeans (and Guillotines)’, a song as memorable as its title.

With a feel-good, bop-ready beat and nostalgia-dipped rhythm, ‘Unjust Jeans (and Guillotines)’ is one of those tunes that will effortlessly inspire smiles and get people moving. The tune is synonymous with festival season and sunny days spent with mates outdoors, and evokes a sound that could be a mix of The Smiths, The Cure but with a unique indie-rock twist.

Though it’s a fun tune, it isn’t without substance, with lyrical gems like ‘revolution isn’t served on silver spoons’ given space to strike a chord. Speaking further about the song’s story, Staples explain:

“Blending driving post-punk basslines, glistening synths and nostalgic jangle-rock guitars, “Unjust Jeans (and Guillotines)” explores the bleak reality of worker exploitation and corporate greed under late-stage capitalism, while encouraging solidarity and hope within the hopelessness.”

That hopeful energy comes through strong on ‘Unjust Jeans’, and will no doubt earn the group even more support. So far, they’ve had consistent 4ZZZ airplay for three of their singles – ‘Talkerspace’, ‘Shoegrazze’ and ‘Optimist’, as well as drumming up reviews by presenters over at Triple J Unearthed.

Wrap your ears around this energetic indie bop ‘Unjust Jeans (and Guillotines)’ from Staples when it drops on October 21 ahead of their EP release on November 18.
0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Music News

Georgie Neilsen Pulls On Heartstrings With New Single ‘Eyes Wide Open’ And Announces ‘Suburban Daze’ Debut EP

by the partae
written by the partae

Previous Support For Georgie Neilsen

“Anyone in the mood for melodramatic love arcs, sparkling indie-rock tones and a rolling chorus that hooks into the crannies of your subconscious so thoroughly you still find yourself humming it on the train several hours later?  Yeah, good. Same.”
(Livewire AU) [About ‘The Last Time I Felt Better’]

“With a big, bold chorus and a killer hook, Neilsen pulls the listener into the drama and intensity of it all.”
(The AU Review) [About ‘The Last Time I Felt Better’]

“the sadness paired with the golden tinge is doing things! great one georgie.”
(Declan Byrne, Triple J) [About ‘The Last Time I Felt Better’]

“Love this songwriting. Great hook, compelling lyric, clever arrangement. Hell yeah.”
(Max Quinn, Triple J) [About ‘The Last Time I Felt Better’]

 

Effortlessly endearing indie-folk / country-pop artist Georgie Neilsen of Meanjin/Brisbane is back to pull on our heartstrings once again with stunning new single ‘Eyes Wide Open’. The song is out on Oct 21, and the ‘Suburban Daze’ debut EP will follow on Nov 18.

Georgie Neilsen has been making music since 2017, first with her band Georgie & The Growing Pains, then as a solo artist with her 2020 single ‘Suburban Daze’. Also a talented cabaret performer, Neilsen has sold out multiple shows including one of her own at Women In Voice, Queensland Cabaret Festival, Girl & Guitar and Anywhere Festival, as well as playing festival slots for Sunlit Sounds, Mountain Goat Valley Crawl, Hidden Lanes Festival, while also supporting Chris Cheney (of The Living End) at The Zoo earlier this year.

Hot on the heels of indie-rock banger ‘The Last Time I Felt Better’, this new track is more bitter than bittersweet, but harnesses its power as an ode to rebuilding yourself after a breakup.

A charming and gentle strum-driven intro gears up with bitingly honest lyrics. Soon enough, ‘Eyes Wide Open’ blossoms into an uplifting bop with indie rock rhythm and restless country-leaning guitar that swells with earnest lyrics to a heartfelt crescendo. Neilsen’s vocal prowess and talent as a songwriter is on full display here, and with a chorus this catchy it’s bound to incite a singalong at future live shows.

Speaking of the the song’s evolution, Neilsen explains:

“Eyes Wide Open has gone through many forms. From a heavy guitar driven song to a solo soulful folk tune and through drawing influences from HAIM and Katy Perry it has transformed into a sweet and sassy bop about reclaiming power and independence post-heartbreak.”

Georgie Neilsen’s music has seen support already from Double J, ABC Brisbane, Scenestr, RAW Artists, GC Live, The AU Review, Livewire AU, and is bound for more glory as the songwriter continues to grow her fanbase.

Keep an ear out for Georgie Neilsen’s gorgeous track ‘Eyes Wide Open’ when it’s released on Oct 21, ahead of the ‘Suburban Daze’ debut EP (out Nov 18).

 
0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Music News

Evergreener Release Headbanging Single ‘Sinking’, And Announce Debut EP

by the partae
written by the partae

Previous Support For Evergreener

Debut single ‘Deciduous’ added to Triple J’s Short.Fast.Loud playlist

“With both a modern and 90s edge to it, Deciduous bursts with angst, emotion and riffs.”
(Hysteria Mag) [About ‘Deciduous’]

“Evergreener, have turned that notch beyond eleven with their explosive new single”
(AAA Backstage) [About ‘Deciduous’]

“What I like about their new single Deciduous is the raw energy (I love the sound of the guitars, above all), the performance (great drumming!) and the overall no-frills/straightforward attitude of the band.”
(Given To Rock) [About ‘Deciduous’]

Stream ‘Sinking’
Watch ‘Sinking’ Music Video

Evergreener are back to serve up a heavy-hitting cocktail of punk/grunge/post-hardcore with their new track ‘Sinking’. The Naarm/Melbourne-based group are set to release the track on Oct 21 with its equally epic music video, and have announced their debut EP ‘After Thoughts’, which is slated for release on Nov 18.

FKA the band Stand Tall, Evergreener have started a new chapter and are following up their debut single ‘Deciduous‘ with this absolute belter of a track. Recently supporting Bad Neighbour, as well as Snark’s single launch at Cherry Bar, the group are quickly gaining momentum to make up for time lost to lockdowns.

‘Sinking’ will blow listeners right out of the water then dunk them back in by the first verse. Swimming in relentlessly angst-fuelled guitars, lashings of boisterous drums and lyrics that linger, it is both potent and punchy. An epic breakdown takes the song to new heights and is sure to get fists pumping fast and feet stomping hard in a live setting.

Elaborating on the song’s inspiration, Evergreener reveals:

“The song ‘Sinking’ takes a darker approach than the previous single ‘Deciduous’ as it describes the feeling of being trapped in a place where you’re living your life through someone else, unable to control your actions and thoughts while feeling paralysed in your own body.” 

In the accompanying ‘Sinking’ music video, the band shred in a dark room, the only light source amidst the chaos being a glowing red lightbulb. Empty picture frames and TV static glitches add to the distorted vibe, amplifying the feeling of being trapped. Everything builds to a climactic moment for Corey’s cathartic screams of ‘I’m losing grip’.

Having already won fans over at Triple J’s Short.Fast.Loud, Hysteria Mag, Heavy Mag, AAA Backstage and clocking up more than 4,200 streams on their debut single ‘Deciduous’, Evergreener are gaining momentum fast.

Get ready for a headbanging ride, Evergreener’s new track and music video for ‘Sinking’ are dropping on Oct 21, with their Debut EP ‘After Thoughts’ to follow on Nov 18.
0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Fashion & CultureFestival News

The Australian Ballet School presents Summer Season with Butterfly 9 & 10 December, Arts Centre Melbourne Tickets now on sale

by the partae
written by the partae
“…the ballet’s narrative itself has been lovingly designed to pay tribute to the school’s role in nurturing young dancers.” Dance Australia

“Butterfly is a clear sign that the Australian and international ballet scene can and will thrive for generations to come.” Limelight Magazine

The Australian Ballet School, the national centre for elite ballet, presents its much-loved end of year performance with over 100 of their full-time artists in training taking to stage for Summer Season with Butterfly at Arts Centre Melbourne on 9 and 10 December 2022.

The dynamic ability and grace of the students will be showcased as they perform a program of classical and contemporary works created by Australian choreographers Lucas Jervies, Simon Dow, Stephen Baynes and Paul Knobloch.

At the heart of the program is the magical title work Butterfly, which recently toured to Sydney receiving critical praise.  Choreographed by former graduate Lucas Jervies, this modern fairy tale told through movement, beautifully blends themes of realism and magic with classic and contemporary techniques.

The extraordinary artistry of the cast of 60 pre-professional dancers, transports audiences to a magical world through transformative sets and costumes by revered designer Hugh Colman.

“Reflection and journey are the heart of Butterfly. It’s an honour to work on this production with young emerging artists who are now in the position I was in 24 years ago at The Australian Ballet School. For me, the metaphor of the butterfly – to transform – is infinite. It’s a constantly evolving process. This production itself has evolved, with a new cast of dancers stepping into the roles this year, and making them new,” said Choreographer, Lucas Jervies.

Set to the joyous score ‘Le Papillon’ (The Butterfly) by Jacques Offenbach, Butterfly is a tale of a young boy who vies for the attention of the smartest girl in school. On an excursion to the butterfly enclosure at the Zoo, they immerse themselves in the kingdom of butterflies, momentarily forgetting the world outside and embarking on a magical journey.

In his other work on the program, π, students use their entire bodies as instruments of dance, percussion and vocalisation.  This exhilarating contemporary work was created by choreographer Lucas Jervies in conjunction with musician of The Australian Ballet School Oliver Northam.

Paul Knobloch has also choreographed two dance works for the program including The Jewellery Box, a charming classical ballet featuring symmetry, beauty and some challenging choreographic moments that showcase the Level 5 students’ skilful abilities. His other work is a dynamic movement dialogue with Level 7 students expressing thoughts, feelings, ideas without words and that moment in time when our thoughts become memories, In Memory of The Moment.

Wolfgang Dance, choreographed by Simon Dow and set to music from Mozart’s Eine Kleine Nachtmusik, is a joyous and cheeky performance from Level 4 and 5 students with the young dancers in 18th century-style white wigs and attire.

Dow is set to retire from The Australian Ballet School at the end of the year, having fulfilled a spectacular 10-year tenure.  The widely admired dancer, choreographer and educator graduated from The Australian Ballet School before going on to dance with the Stuttgart Ballet and become Principal Dancer with The Australian Ballet, San Francisco Ballet and Boston Ballet and an international guest artist. Dow also held leadership positions as Artistic Director of Milwaukee Ballet and West Australian Ballet, and was Associate Artistic Director for Washington Ballet, during his remarkable career.

Set to a stunning musical mix of Argentinian composers, El Tango choreographed by Stephen Baynes is performed by Level 8 students – their final performance before they graduate.  A social gathering around tables and chairs providing the setting for this evocative performance piece.

Lisa Pavane, Director of The Australian Ballet School says, “These performances are the culmination of a very full and rewarding year for The Australian Ballet School. The mixed program is designed to delight audiences, and provide all of our young talent with the opportunity to shine. Our beautiful Butterfly is a fitting finale to 2022; the butterfly is the perfect metaphor to be explored and performed by our transforming young artists-in-training.”
PROGRAM
The Jewellery Box – Paul Knobloch
π – Lucas Jervies
Wolfgang Dance – Simon Dow
El Tango – Stephen Baynes
In Memory of The Moment – Paul Knobloch
Butterfly – Lucas Jervies

SUMMER SEASON WITH BUTTERFLY
Venue:    Playhouse Theatre, Arts Centre Melbourne

Dates:     Friday 9 December, 7.30pm
Saturday 10 December, 1.30pm & 7.30pm.

Running Time:  2 hours 40 minutes (including two intervals)

Tickets:     Standard A Reserve $85.00, B Reserve $75.00
Concession A Reserve $65.00 B Reserve $60.00

Bookings:  www.artscentremelbourne.com.au
0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Music News

CLAIRE KNIGHT – SCORPIO SZN

by the partae
written by the partae

I remember thinking, about a year ago that when covid starts to give way, clubbing could be a really different experience. That the idea of dancing in a large sweaty, crowd, might have a bit of an edge to it. Then I wondered if this “good dirty fun” would herald a renaissance in the indie dance/electro house sound that was huge 15 years ago. A movement where Australia truely punched above our weight and a time when filth and grit were properly adored.

There are elements of this renaissance in the new CLAIRE KNIGHT single SCORPIO SZN.

Thumpin percussion with grainy synths & brazen vocals. Sounds that remind me tuesday night raves, cheap shots & dear friends.

 Claire played with this sound on her debut track KILLIN THE VILLAIN earlier this year & the new single SCORPIO SZN crystalises the style. Drawing major inspiration from the golden era of 00s electro, Claire’s vocals are dripping with pixelated sass. Constantly moving and morphing the bass rhythm is supported by a chic, house backbeat. Suitable for modern dance floors.

Malcolm Besley of Northeast Party House did a superb job mixing this cheeky track, giving it the kind of sparkle that will make it pop at high volume

  Stay tuned for the EP release coming from CLAIRE KNIGHT in the subsequent months but in the meantime you can catch her at the following shows.

SCORPIO SZN Launch party at Saferoom Sydney on tonight, 21st October 2022

22nd October LOVE CLVB Boat Party on Glass Island

22nd October Hotel Harry, Surry Hills

4th Nov  – The Gertrude Hotel, Fitzroy

11th Nov  – Francesca’s Bar, Northcote

Commercial Link:  https://noisehive.ffm.to/scorpioszn

Spotify URL: http://open.spotify.com/track/1mbuU5xd3BDUeOaBM4ooku

Instagram:  https://instagram.com/ck.dj

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@djclaireknight

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Festival NewsMusic News

HARVEST ROCK SET TIMES, APP & EXCLUSIVE DINING EXPERIENCES Saturday 19 & Sunday 20 November 2022 Rymill Park / Murlawirrapurka & King Rodney Park / Ityamai-itpina, Adelaide

by the partae
written by the partae
With only one month to go, the countdown to the inaugural Harvest Rock is on!

From some of the biggest acts in the world to carefully curated food and beverage experiences, here’s everything you need to know before you start making your way to Adelaide for two huge days of premium live music in the inner-city sanctuary of Rymill & King Rodney Parks. Starting with the festival SET TIMES!With icons like Jack White, Crowded House, The Black Crowes and Groove Armada through to stars such as Tones And I, Sam Fender, Meg Mac, Genesis Owusu and Electric Fields, there’s a wealth of talent to experience across two stages.

The best way to plan your weekend is with the Harvest Rock app, where you can create your own personalised planner which allows you to select all the artists you want to see, creating a customised schedule right in the palm of your hand. The app is also your go-to destination for all the latest event info, artist profiles, site map, notifications, ticket purchases and more. The Harvest Rock app is available now for both iOS and Android.

Harvest Rock is just as much about the food and drinks as it is the music, so you can expect to see some of Australia’s best chefs, cellar doors and innovative bars dotted around the festival for you to salivate over. The pinnacle of this is WILDWOOD by Jake Kellie of arkhé, a unique high-end dining experience created exclusively for Harvest Rock which will see the Michelin-starred chef and restauranteur collaborate with acclaimed Australian wine critic Nick Stock, to host two intimate lunches with a specially curated menu and wine pairing. Tickets are on sale now and with a limited number of 150 per session, they will sell out.

So go on, treat yourself to the very best music, food and beverages on offer at Harvest Rock in Adelaide this November.

JACK WHITE (ONLY AUS SHOW) * CROWDED HOUSE * THE BLACK CROWES * KHRUANGBIN * GROOVE ARMADA * SAM FENDER * THE LUMINEERS * TONES AND I * THE AVALANCHES * COURTNEY BARNETT * KURT VILE & THE VIOLATORS (ONLY AUS SHOW) * ANGUS & JULIA STONE * THE TESKEY BROTHERS * HOT CHIP * GOANNA * GENESIS OWUSU * THE LIVING END  * CAT POWER * YOU AM I * MEG MAC  * MARLON WILLIAMS * HOLY HOLY * ALEX CAMERON * RUBY FIELDS * ALLEN STONE * ELECTRIC FIELDS * TOWNS * SLOWMANGO & ARC PRESENTS NEIL YOUNG’S HARVEST LIVE

Harvest Rock is proudly supported by the South Australian Government, through the South Australian Tourism Commission.
HARVEST ROCK
Saturday 19 & Sunday 20 November 2022
Rymill Park / Murlawirrapurka & King Rodney Park / Ityamai-itpina
Adelaide
harvestrock.comTICKETING INFO
Tickets on sale now

MEDIA ACCREDITATION
Legitimate media can apply for accreditation before Monday 31 October here

FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | TWITTER | SNAPCHAT | YOUTUBE | SPOTIFY

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Music News

MDOU MOCTAR releases new single ‘Ibitilan’, announces new Niger EP Vol. 2

by the partae
written by the partae
Photo Credit: Atiba Jefferson

Mdou Moctar has announced details of part two of the Niger EP series – featuring live and alternate versions of songs spanning the band’s discography recorded in their native Niger – which will be released digitally on October 25th. It follows Niger Vol.1 EP which is out now digitally. A physical release date for both EPs on limited vinyl has additionally been announced for March 10th. Pre-order HERE.

A preview of Vol. 2 is today available to listen to with a live version of ‘Ibitilan’. First appearing on 2019’s Blue Stage Session, the latest iteration of ‘Ibitilan’ captures the band’s renowned live energy in unmediated form, pushing the faders to their very limits.

“Ibitilan is a love song,” says producer and bassist Mikey Coltun. “Mdou sings about his love for a woman, comparing her to a beautiful valley with a stream running through it, how her skin is a yellow flower and her smile is like lightning. This particular recording was done in Agadez in 2017 at a wedding. Mdou and I had played three weddings a day for about a month and a half on that trip. It was like bootcamp. I loved it. Ibitilan is one of Mdou’s oldest songs and is covered by pretty much every Tuareg guitarist. We’ve played versions of this song lasting over 20 minutes. It’s definitely one of my favorites to play!”

An innovative alchemy of Tuareg folk, blues and rock, electric guitar pyrotechnics, field recordings and electronics with poetic call-to-arms lyrics about the plight of his homeland of Niger, Moctar’s 2021 album Afrique Victime swept end of year lists, achieving high placements in The Economist, The Guardian, The New York Times, Uncut, MOJO, Pitchfork, The New Yorker, NPR, Rolling Stone, Dazed & Confused, DJ, Crack and many others.

2022 saw the four-piece of Moctar, rhythm guitarist Ahmoudou Madassane, bassist/producer Mikey Coltun and drummer Souleymane Ibrahim release the remix collection Afrique Refait, highlighting artists at the vanguard of electronic music across Africa. Resident Advisor called the Duma remix of ‘Untitled’, “a truly original record of distorted techno and doomy rock”, while writing the MC Yallah and Debmaster version of ‘Tala Tannam’ “introduces a contemporary club music vibe to Moctar’s thrilling and often gorgeous desert blues sound, the kind of rework that feels more like a cultural fusion than a simple remix“.

Stream / Download Niger EP Vol. 1: http://mdoumoctar.ffm.to/nigervol1
Pre-order / Pre-save Niger EP Vol. 2: http://mdoumoctar.ffm.to/nigervol2
Mdou Moctar – Ibitilan (Official Visualiser)
Listen / Download: mdoumoctar.ffm.to/ibitilan

Mdou Moctar Australian Tour Dates

March 10-13, 2023
WOMADelaide
TICKETS

March 10-13, 2023
Golden Plains
BALLOT

March 17-19, 2023
WOMAD NZ
TICKETS

+ more dates to be announced!

PRAISE FOR MDOU MOCTAR

Triple R Album Of The Week
RTRFM Feature Album

Best of 2021 placements

The Monthly Top 10 Albums of 2021
The West Australian Top 10 Albums of 2021
The Music Albums of 2021
Crack #16 Albums of 2021
DJ Mag Albums of 2021
Economist Best Albums of 2021
Gigwise  #23 Albums Of The Year
The Guardian #10 Albums Of The Year
MOJO #20 Albums Of The Year
New York Times Best Albums of 2021 (Lindsay Zoladz, #2)
New York Times Best Albums of 2021 (Jon Pareles, #5)
New Yorker #4 Best Music of 2021
Rolling Stone #26 Albums Of The Year
Uncut #13 Albums of the Year

“The Tuareg guitarist and his bandmates deliver the fullest picture of his gifts yet.”
– Pitchfork (Best New Music)

“This one is essential… It’s musically dense, wildly psychedelic and politically sharp, with Moctar singing in his native tongue across the record to make for the year’s most quintessential guitar albums.” – Mixdown

“Moctar’s guitar is a tangled, twisted, blazing beam of light cutting across a black sky.”
– Rolling Stone

“Searing and soulful” – CLASH

“This is a group that is deeply zoned into one another’s nervous systems, grooving hard, moving as one.” – Aquarium Drunkard

“Afrique Victime, Moctar’s first album for Matador, seems poised to attract his largest audience yet” – Bandcamp

“scarcely has a Fender Stratocaster sounded more alive than in his hands… a propulsive, psychedelic sound that is at once delivered with the cathartic oomph of celebration and the urgent cadence of protest” – Guitar World

“As it becomes safe to go out again, seeing these songs live should be as early a priority as is reasonable.” – Under the Radar

“His electric guitar leaps up from the band’s rhythmic core to trill, twirl, swoop and scream”
– New York Times

“The world’s most uniquely thrilling guitarist” – Dazed & Confused

“Afrique Victime finds Moctar and his band in the studio delivering the raw power of their intense and transcendent live performances.” – Reverb

“Vital, wonderful music with cutting intensity” – i Paper ★★★★★

“This is guitar music, but likely to resonate with club heads. Unlike anything you’ve ever heard in the West, it laughs at the idea that music has run out of new sounds” – DJ ‘Album Of The Month’

“Transcendent” – MOJO ★★★★

“Mesmerizing meld of Tuareg folk tradition and modern rock” – Uncut (9/10)

“Mdou Moctar and his band are the true sound of youth resistance” – Line Of Best Fit (8/10)

“The consensus that is slowly forming is that he is not just one of the leading exponents of Sahel (Sub-Saharan) guitar music, but one of the finest and certainly most expressive, guitarists in the world” – MusicRadar
Mdou Moctar – Niger EP Vol 2. is out 25 October
via Matador Records / Remote Control Records.
Mdou Moctar
Official Website | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook
0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Music News

THESE NEW SOUTH WHALES SHARE NEW SINGLE + VIDEO ‘UNDER THE PRESSURE’ DRAWN FROM FORTHCOMING LP TNSW OUT NOV 18 VIA DAMAGED RECORDS

by the partae
written by the partae
Photo by Josh Hourigan
PRAISE FOR THESE NEW SOUTH WHALES

“No one’s doing things quite like These New South Whales”
The Line Of Best Fit (9/10)

“Absolutely irresistible blasts of insistent, art-punk brilliance”
Kerrang! (4/5)

“TNSW also make a TV comedy about being pathetic punks.
Very meta, except the actual band are great:
tight, no-frills, plaintive vocals, caustic guitar and thumping rhythms”
Mojo, 4/5

“The band is real, the TV show is a hilarious mockumentary”
NME

“Very rowdy, enjoyable punk rock”
theneedledrop

“Sydney’s most revered punk band”
triple j

“The best mockumentary since Spinal Tap”
Monster Children

“A punchy, infectious, and delicious piece of punk fun”
Nick Findlay (triple j)

Australian punk royalty These New South Whales today share a third taster of their incoming third album, TNSW, out November 18th via Damaged Records. This time it’s the tumbling yet taut punk of ‘Under the Pressure‘ getting an airing, which beneath hints of Iceage or Fontaines D.C. finds the band’s Jamie Timony exploring ideas of performance and authenticity in his distinct Aussie drawl. LISTEN HERE + WATCH HERE.

“‘Under the Pressure’ is about recognising that you’ve been performing a version of yourself to please others – at work, at home, wherever” Timony offers, with perhaps a knowing nod towards These New South Whales’ hit Comedy Central series, where the band performs an exaggerated version of themselves, “and realising that being yourself would be far easier. It’s about that awesome sense of peace you get when there’s space to be yourself, warts and all.”    

“We wrote this song very quickly and naturally together in the room one night and it kinda surprised us cos it’s not what we would usually write, funny time signature and stuff, but it felt like an authentic expression of something and we were stoked with it. The chorus really snaps like a broken bone!”

“An authentic expression of something,” is an apt turn of phrase when viewing TNSW, the album, more widely, which finds them honing in on These New South Whales – the serious punk band – more closely than ever before. It’s a far cry from the band’s more tongue-in-cheek work across both their series as well as their talk show-style comedy TNSW Tonight! and exalted podcast, What a Great Punk, which has seen them chat to guests including Tame Impala, Adrian Grenier, Shame, Amyl and The Sniffers, and King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard.

Over the years, the band’s music has developed rapidly, evolving out of the realm of distinctly Aussie basement punk into a more sprawling, international space. Following the trajectories of bands like Ceremony and Turnstile from nuts and bolts basement punk to a more genre-defying sound, TNSW encompasses a broader range of influences. Blending the dark energy of their debut album You Work For Us and the CBGB’s heyday of its follow-up I Just Do What God Tells Me To Do, TNSW is both downtrodden and uptempo.

It’s still a post-punk record at heart, full of sonic depth and dejected storytelling but equally, it embraces their 90s alternative, hardcore and metal influences. Guitarist Todd Andrews found himself using references for certain guitar parts that he would never have touched on in the past (among them: Pixies, The Cure and Placebo), while Timony’s lyrics take a turn towards the poetic. ”I feel like they’re honest songs,” says Timony, who sees TNSW as the band’s most definitive album to date. “I feel very connected to them, and that’s probably a result of not trying too hard to force the album’s hand.”

TNSW marks a refined new era for the band and is comfortably their most sophisticated body of work yet: a 14-track tome of barrelling punk rock that polishes its heavier moments – heavier than ever – with sing-along choruses, sharp arrangements, and plenty of trademark irony and self-awareness. For every ’90s alternative reference, there’s a blast beat; for every big radio moment, a cursed instrumental aside.

‘Under the Pressure‘ follows on from the album’s two singles so far: the existential anthem ‘Rotten Sun’, which was inspired by a poem of the same name written by Ceremony‘s Ross. J. Farrar, and ‘Bending at the Knee‘, an art-punk masterclass that found them pulling from the darker half of their palette. Between them, the singles have received acclaim and support from the likes of The Fader, NME, DIY, The Line of Best Fit and more. With the album due out in November, season three of their Comedy Central series in the works and tours in Australia, the UK and the EU lined up for early 2023, These New South Whales look set to continue confirming themselves as a once-in-a-generation Australian punk proposition.

TNSW LP
Nov 18 via Damaged Records
PRE-ORDER HERE

‘Under The Pressure‘ is out now, buy/stream it here.

TRACKLIST
Bending at the Knee
Rotten Sun
That’s the Life
Under the Pressure
Changes
Back To You
Tartan & Chrome
Faceless
Signal is Strong
Going Outta My Mind
Wherever I Am, There I Am
Best of the Night
Win
Reset of the World

Stay connected with These New South Whales:
Official Website | YouTube | Instagram | Twitter

 

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Newer Posts
Older Posts