Photo Credit: Ewan Ogden

Set to make their long-awaited Australian return in March, Blossoms are bringing with them their latest chart-topping album, GARY. Ahead of their national tour supporting British indie icons Kasabian, the Stockport five-piece share focus track ‘I Like Your Look’ – a key entry in GARY’s sprawling tapestry of fun and dynamic sounds.

Co-written with breakthrough Irish musician and performer CMAT, ‘I Like Your Look’ is a homage to the aesthetic and sounds of the ‘80s, with vocalist Tom Ogden noting, “‘I Like Your Look’ is a tipping of the hat to Blondie’s ‘Rapture’ and a wink to Joan Baez ‘Time Rag’, and lyrically it explores a tongue-in-cheek approach to high fashion. ’Mothers’ is an ode to my and Joe’s friendship and it references the fact that our mothers were friends back in the 80s.’”

Their fifth studio album, GARY sees Blossoms engage with some of their most dynamic music to date. Having consistently released music that has remained in line with the energy of their earlier releases, the five-piece have also kept their focus very much trained on new sounds and directions that keeps the chemistry within the band fresh and tight.

GARY is a perfect example of such chemistry. Their first studio record as independent artists, there is a spirit of rejuvenation that threads its way through the record; from its singles in ‘Gary’, ‘Perfect Me’ and ‘What Can I Say After I’m Sorry?’, the album captures a unique turning point in Blossoms’ journey. The music is fun without losing poignancy in songwriting; dynamic without sacrificing precision in execution.

The impact of GARY only speaks to Blossoms’ continued staying power – debuting at #1 on the UK Albums Chart, the album has become the band’s fourth #1 record and has gone on to spark two special additional editions: a deluxe edition, and a covers edition featuring reworks of songs by artists including Radiohead, Whitney Houston, Caroline Polachek and Lady Gaga.

Selling over 100,000 tickets in the last year alone, as well as logging excellent sets at festivals including Glastonbury, Blossoms are set to have another busy and fruitful year with the release of GARY putting them back on the map as a band not to be missed. 

Since forming in 2013, Blossoms have enjoyed widespread success and acclaim. Their 2016 debut Blossoms topped the album charts for two consecutive weeks and went on to earn the band BRIT Award and Mercury Prize nominations, while 2018’s Cool Like You charted at Number 4 in the UK album chart, spawning the anthemic singles I Can’t Stand It, There’s A Reason Why (I Never Returned Your Calls) and How Long Will This Last? Their third studio album, 2020’s Foolish Loving Spaces was the band’s second UK Number 1 album, while their fourth studio LP Ribbon Around The Bomb gave the band their third UK Number 1 album, with the record’s standout tracks Ode To NYC, The Sulking Poet and Care For well established as fan favourites. Blossoms have had five top 5 albums in the UK, including their In Isolation/Live From The Plaza Theatre, Stockport release.

PRAISE

“At the top of their game…”

ROLLING STONE UK

“A band who gets better with each release…”

SUNDAY EXPRESS

“A cohesive, well-crafted and captivating album which is testament to their artistry.”

CLASH MAGAZINE

“Gary is Blossoms’ most accessible, cohesive record to date.”

LOUDER THAN WAR

“Gary is the most fun you’ll have with any band in 2024.”

DORK UK

BLOSSOMS AUSTRALIAN TOUR DATES

SUPPORTING KASABIAN

Tickets via destroyalllines.com

Tuesday 11 March Forum Melbourne

Wednesday 12 March Forum Melbourne SOLD OUT

Saturday 15 March Enmore Theatre Sydney SOLD OUT

Sunday 16 March Enmore Theatre Sydney

Tuesday 18 March Fortitude Music Hall Brisbane

GARY is out now.

BLOSSOMS: OFFICIAL WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | X | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE 

Bringing the party to Australia, New Zealand and Bali  

Ultimate party starter Hot Dub Time Machine is back for 2025 and he just can’t stop bringing the  energy with a new headline tour around Australia, New Zealand and Bali. Across 8 nights in 3  countries, Hot Dub’s brand new show will be celebrating some of the best in dance music from  1962-2025, delivering on his promise of the BEST. PARTY. EVER. 

TICKETS

Kicking off in March, the Can’t Stop Tour will bring the good times to Adelaide, Bali, Melbourne,  Auckland, Christchurch, Hobart, Brisbane and Sydney. Grab your best friends and get ready for a  dancefloor that just won’t quit, in what will be an epic tour you won’t want to miss. 

Since first launching his time-travelling, ‘dance-through-the-decades’ audio-visual party concept in  2011, Sydney’s Tom Lowndes has taken Hot Dub Time Machine from humble beginnings to global  acclaim. A regular on festival main stages, Hot Dub has brought his one-of-a-kind experience to some  of the world’s biggest festivals, including Coachella, Tomorrowland and Splendour in the Grass.  

Hot Dub headline tours continue to thrill fans across Australia, playing to sold-out crowds at the iconic  show Hot Dub on the Harbour, 100% Bangers Tour around the country, and now the much  anticipated Can’t Stop tour. Internationally, Hot Dub has wowed fans with headline performances at  London’s Printworks for Hot Dub Rave Machine and a sold out 5,000-pax Hot Dub Boogie show in  Glasgow. 

Beyond festivals, Hot Dub’s epic party energy has taken over major sporting events like the Australian  Open, Formula One, Hong Kong Sevens and Summernats. Hot Dub Time Machine is a constantly  evolving high-energy experience that unites crowds, electrifies dancefloors, and keeps the good times  rolling.  

Showcasing songs from every decade and genre of music, weaving it into one expansive, electrifying,  music history lesson, Hot Dub has become a worldwide sensation, winning over audiences with his  iconic, celebratory shows. 

Get ready for the BEST. PARTY. EVER! 

HOT DUB TIME MACHINE CAN’T STOP TOUR DATES  

Saturday 8 March 2025  

Gluttony @ Fringe  

Adelaide, SA 

Friday 21 March 2025  

Ulu Ciffhouse  

Uluwatu, Bali  

Saturday 29 March 2025  

Hot Dub on the Bay  

Melbourne, VIC 

Friday 4 April 2025  

Town Hall  

Auckland, NZ  

Saturday 5 April 2025  

Ngaio Marsh Theatre  

Christchurch, NZ  

Saturday 26 April 2025  

The Goods Shed  

Hobart, TAS  

Friday 2 May 2025 

The Tivoli  

Brisbane, QLD  

Saturday 24 May 2025  

The Hordern Pavilion  

Sydney, NSW

TICKETS

INSTAGRAM

Words + Photography: Louie Mosscrop

Knotfest Australia kicked it off in Melbourne, this wasn’t just a concert; it was a pilgrimage, a day where the city’s metal faithful gathered under the blazing Australian sun to partake in a sonic ritual. From the early afternoon’s first crushing chords to the final, echoing roar from Slipknot, the day unfolded as a meticulously crafted tapestry of metal, each thread contributing to the festival’s overwhelming power. The anticipation was palpable, a collective hum of excitement that vibrated through the crowd, a testament to the enduring and evolving power of metal in the Australian music scene.

The lineup was a masterclass in metal diversity, a carefully curated selection that showcased the metal’s breadth and depth.

Vended, with their raw, youthful energy, brought a fresh and ferocious sound, proving that the next generation of metal is ready to take the stage. Their performance was a jolt of adrenaline, a reminder of metal’s ever-evolving spirit.

Slaughter To Prevail, emerging with a visceral intensity, owned the stage with unrelenting heaviness. Alex Terrible’s guttural vocals and their crushing breakdowns resonated with a primal force, leaving the crowd stunned and invigorated, unfortunately having to stop mid set to get medics to assist with what we hope is a now fully healed festival goer. Despite their brutal nature Alex and the band made sure they were out of further harms way before continuing their set.

Knotfest’s atmosphere was a living, breathing entity, a testament to the power of shared passion. The mosh pits, far from being mere displays of aggression, were expressions of communal release, a physical manifestation of the music’s emotional intensity. The crowd, a diverse tapestry of metalheads, was united by a shared sense of belonging, a feeling of being part of something larger than themselves. The festival grounds buzzed with a sense of camaraderie, with fans exchanging stories, sharing their favorite bands, and celebrating the unifying power of heavy music. Beyond the music, the festival offered a vibrant marketplace, with merchandise stalls, food vendors, and interactive displays, creating a holistic festival experience. The sense of community was palpable, making Knotfest more than just a concert, but a genuine cultural event, even under the intense Australian sun.

Polaris, delivered a performance that was both technically precise and emotionally charged. Their blend of metalcore and progressive elements was met with thunderous applause, solidifying their position as a leading force in the Australian metal scene.

Within Temptation, bringing a touch of symphonic grandeur, offered a captivating contrast. Their soaring vocals and intricate arrangements created a mesmerizing atmosphere, proving that metal can be both heavy and beautiful. This being their first visit down under, lets hope not the last.

BABYMETAL, the enigmatic Japanese trio, injected a dose of theatricality and infectious energy into the festival. Their fusion of kawaii aesthetics and heavy metal riffs was a captivating spectacle, a testament to the genre’s capacity for innovation and cross-cultural appeal.

The intense heat of the Australian summer day, coupled with the physical demands of the mosh pits, underscored the importance of hydration and sun protection. Despite these minor considerations, the overall festival experience remained overwhelmingly positive. The festival’s meticulous organisation, and well-maintained facilities contributed to a smooth and enjoyable experience for attendees, some more shade wouldn’t have gone unnoticed however.

Hatebreed, with their signature brand of hardcore intensity, delivered a set that was pure, unadulterated aggression. Their relentless energy and empowering lyrics ignited the crowd, creating a swirling vortex of moshing bodies.

A Day To Remember, with their sing-along anthems and infectious stage presence, provided a welcome moment of collective catharsis. Their blend of pop-punk sensibilities and metalcore aggression created a singalong atmosphere, uniting the crowd in a shared moment of passionate release.

Finally, Slipknot, the architects of modern metal mayhem, delivered a performance that was nothing short of a sonic and visual assault. Their iconic masks, frenetic stage presence, and timeless anthems ignited the crowd, transforming the festival grounds into a swirling vortex of energy. Delivering an all new show it was a spectacle to witness and a show no one will forget any time soon.

Knotfest Melbourne was a resounding success, a testament to the enduring power of heavy music and the passionate community that surrounds it. The festival’s meticulously curated lineup, electric atmosphere, and dedicated fanbase combined to create an unforgettable experience. It was a day of sonic immersion, a tribal gathering where metalheads from all walks of life came together to celebrate their shared passion under the Southern Cross. Knotfest’s Melbourne has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the city’s music scene, forging a legacy of metal mayhem and communal celebration. For those who were there, the memories of Knotfest Melbourne will resonate long after the final notes have faded, a testament to the power of live music to unite and inspire, even under the harsh Australian sun.

…So when does the 2026 line up drop?

ULTRA Worldwide unveils Phase 2 lineup for 2025 editions of ULTRA Australia and ULTRA Beach Gold Coast

Nora En Pure, Joel Corry, Blasterjaxx, BYØRN, Simon Patterson, and more join the star-studded lineup

Previously announced headliners include Axwell, Da Tweekaz, Deborah De Luca, Knock2, Martin Garrix, and Sub Zero Project

ULTRA BEACH GOLD COAST – FRIDAY, 11 APRIL 2025

BROADWATER PARKLANDS

ULTRA AUSTRALIA – SATURDAY, 12 APRIL 2025

FLEMINGTON RACECOURSE IN MELBOURNE

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

ULTRA Worldwide has unveiled the Phase 2 lineup for ULTRA Australia and ULTRA Beach Gold Coast 2025. The single-stage ULTRA Beach Gold Coast is set to take place Friday, April 11, 2025 at Southport’s picturesque Broadwater Parklands for its second edition, while the multi-stage ULTRA Australia will once again touch down in Melbourne on Saturday, April 12 for the festival’s sixth instalment.

As previously announced, both festivals will feature star-studded headlining sets from Martin Garrix, Axwell, Da Tweekaz, Sub Zero Project, and Knock2. At ULTRA Australia, they will be joined by Italian techno maestro Deborah De Luca.

The festival will also feature performances from deep house queen Nora En Pure, British dance sensation Joel Corry, Dutch electro-house duo Blasterjaxx, Belgian hard techno producer BYØRN, and trance/tech virtuoso Simon Patterson.

Rounding out the lineup, ULTRA Australia adds a bevy of regional talent including Tazi, Laura King, Brent Honey, Brooke Powell, Sammy La Marca, Dimatik, KAOS, and many more.

ULTRA Australia takes pride in creating an all-encompassing entertainment experience for its fans from around the world. Revel in mesmerizing performances from the ULTRA Angels, relax in the designated, shaded ‘chill out’ areas, enjoy culinary delights from a vast array of local food trucks, and taste cocktails from the various bars stationed throughout the festival grounds.

ULTRA Worldwide continues to cement its status as the world’s most international music festival brand, boasting active events on all six inhabited continents. The global festival brand is celebrated for delivering an unparalleled combination of top-tier electronic talent, cutting-edge technology and large-scale productions.

For all details head to www.ultraaustralia.com

ULTRA BEACH GOLD COAST 2025 LINEUP (A-Z)

HEADLINERS (A-Z)

Axwell

Da Tweekaz

Knock2

Martin Garrix

Sub Zero Project

SUPPORT (A-Z)

Blasterjaxx

Joel Corry

ULTRA AUSTRALIA 2025 LINEUP  (A-Z)

HEADLINERS (A-Z)

Axwell

Da Tweekaz

Deborah De Luca

Knock2

Martin Garrix

Sub Zero Project

SUPPORT (A-Z)

Blasterjaxx

BYØRN

Joel Corry

Nora En Pure

Simon Patterson

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT (A-Z)

Benjamin

Brent Honey

Brooke Powell

Colin Hennerz

DARLEY

Dimatik

Ely Oaks

Etwas

Hannah

Highup

KAOS

Lance

Laura King

Only You

Ph4ntam

Rockafellas

Sammy La Marca

Sarah Armstrong

Scott Alert

Suae

Tazi

Teddy Cream

Yamatamoya

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

Words + Photography: Nate Hill

It’s a perfect summer evening in Melbourne. Sixty thousand people have gathered at Marvel Stadium with the roof open to bare witness to Green Day on The Saviours Tour. Here to celebrate 30 years of ‘Dookie’ and 20 years of ‘American Idiot’, the crowd were buzzing with excitement.

Private Function kicked off the night with a wild, unpredictable energy that instantly set the tone. The band tore through their set with playful chaos, throwing themselves into it both figuratively and literally. Both of the bands singers strutted confidently down the stage like it was his personal runway, owning every inch of the spotlight, balancing rockstar bravado with a sharp sense of humour. It was clear they were taking in the spectacle of playing a stadium show. At one point Chris Penney said “This ain’t the Tote”.

In a bold move, they encouraged the crowd to boo them, challenging the audience with a grin, promising to win them back — and they did. The call-and-response moments crackled with energy, turning the pit into a wave of raised hands and clapping by the time the last song rolled around. It was a performance that blurred the line between rebellion and charm, a perfect cocktail of punk spirit and crowd engagement.

Following the chaotic charm of Private Function, AFI took the stage and instantly shifted the atmosphere. From the first note, it was clear this was a band at the peak of their craft — a masterclass in precision and passion. The vocals were flawless, with Davey Havok’s voice soaring effortlessly from haunting whispers to gut-punching screams, every lyric hitting with emotional weight.

The band was impossibly tight, each member locked into the rhythm with an intensity that only comes from years of playing together. The balance between polished professionalism and raw, emotive energy made the set feel both larger-than-life and deeply personal.

But tonight was all about Green Day and they proved exactly why they’re rock royalty. From the moment they hit the stage, the energy was electric — and the crowd was one of the loudest I’ve ever heard. The call-and-response moments were deafening, a sea of voices echoing Billie Joe Armstrong’s every word, turning the arena into one massive choir. Tonight Marvel Stadium was converted into the church of Green Day and they were there to be our Saviours.

The show wasn’t just about sound — it was a full-blown spectacle. An inflatable plane soared over the crowd, and flames roared around the drum kit, adding a fiery edge to the already explosive atmosphere. But Green Day knows how to strip it back too — at one point, it was just Billie Joe and his guitar, the crowd singing every lyric in perfect unison, a raw and intimate moment amid the chaos.

It was an epic two and a half our set that included the band playing their iconic albums ‘Dookie’ and ‘American Idiot’ in full.

A playful interlude of All by Myself  brought a lighthearted break. One of the highlights had to be when they pulled a fan from the crowd to join them on Know Your Enemy— a dream come true for one lucky person and a reminder of the band’s connection to their fans.

Green Day didn’t just perform — they ignited a fire, blending punk anthems, unforgettable theatrics, and pure rock ‘n’ roll magic. Fans of all ages were treated to a masterclass in stadium rock and we hope to see them again sooner rather than later.

INSTAGRAM

Photo: Tim Cotton

Capturing the momentum of a massive 2024 and bringing it into the New Year, Aotearoa’s NO CIGAR comes out swinging with the release of their new single, ‘PROBLEM’. Blending a rich tapestry of indie influences together with a natural charisma and talent for musicality, the five-piece present a driving indie anthem for fans and newcomers alike.

As their first single drop for the year, ‘PROBLEM’ sets things up nicely for NO CIGAR; a prime example of the music still to come, this is a track that easily invites the listener in and keeps their attention, as the band flexes easily with a laid-back vibe and confidence in their chemistry. 

Created during a writing trip in France, ‘PROBLEM’ is built on perspectives gained from life on the road – the ups and downs that are faced during this time. Along with the band’s 2024 single ‘CHANTILLY’, ‘PROBLEM’ was created in space where NO CIGAR found themselves far from home. The energy and cohesive nature of the single however, demonstrates the close-knit dynamic the New Zealanders have retained as their profile beyond Aotearoa has continued to grow.

“Having flown to the other side of the world to tour and create, there was a very real pressure to create something special. Following on from writing our first single ‘Chantilly’, the floodgates seemed to open to this new material, and ‘Problem’ was one of the first that came from this. The guitar riff had been sitting with guitarist Arthur for a number of years, but he’d never found the moment to introduce it to the band.

Living in an AirBnb that was adjoined to our host, there were a string of songs from this record that succumbed to a much more chill style of drumming. Ned had to put an oven mit over his drum to allow us to jam late in the evening so we wouldn’t wake our host’s young son asleep next door. While ‘Chantilly’ was a song we wrote during daylight hours, ‘Problem’ was very much one of the late sessions, hence taking on the slightly cruisier vibe. It’s a journey in itself, much like our trip.” NO CIGAR

NO CIGAR formed in 2019 and has had a rapid rise to recognition as one of the country’s most promising acts. They have toured the world with their signature blend of psychedelic rock and groovy guitars, all the while drawing critical acclaim for albums such as 2023’s THE GREAT ESCAPE, which featured the #1 rock radio smash hit, ‘Concubine’. The track also debuted at #10 on 2024’s The Rock radio annual yearly countdown – the highest debut for a new band. THE GREAT ESCAPE continues to chart in the top 20 on the Aotearoa albums chart, where it has remained for 55 weeks.

Their debut album BIENVENIDO, released in 2022, and their 2020 EP RADICAL ROAD have also earned them critical acclaim.

May 2024 saw NO CIGAR complete their second tour of the UK, a trip that included a sold out show at the Islington Assembly Hall in London, entertaining a crowd of 900. March will see NO CIGAR take ‘PROBLEM’ on the road across a number of tour dates in Aotearoa, with an Australian return also in the works for 2025.

“..(‘Concubine’) is well constructed, featuring a wide range of instrumentation, taking a cool sonic turn halfway through. It starts out hazy and slow, but soon finds a crowd pleasing groove that’s bound to be received positively at shows and festivals this summer.”

ROLLING STONE (on ‘Concubine’, 2023)

“Each performance is a journey guaranteed to envelop you in romanticism, to the ever-evolving backdrop of a thumping sonic experience. With elements of alternative, folk, and indie rock, they also utilise groove-based rhythms with psychedelic undertones to keep your feet moving & your shoulders rolling.”

TWICE THE HYPE

“No Cigar has noticeably little banter, and are mostly here to play their music, which they do very well. The crowd was wild and some people climb onto their friends’ shoulders to see over the rowdy room full of music lovers. Anyone who’s not on someone else’s should is awkwardly pressed together as the venue was clearly at capacity, if not over”

13TH FLOOR 

NO CIGAR ‘PROBLEM’ TOUR DATES

Thursday 13 March San Fran WELLINGTON

Friday 14 March Double Whammy AUCKLAND

Saturday 15 March Errick’s Bar DUNEDIN

Sunday 16 March Loons CHRISTCHURCH

TICKETS

NO CIGAR: OFFICIAL WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE | TIK TOK 

10TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION
MARSHMELLO, ALAN WALKER, DJ SNAKE, DIPLO, MAJOR LAZER SOUNDSYSTEM, TIMMY TRUMPET & MORE TO HEADLINE ASIA’S MOST FAMOUS WATER FESTIVAL

Celebrating a decade of electrifying music and immersive water experiences, S2O Festival Thailand returns from April 12-14, 2025, at the iconic Rajamangala National Stadium in Bangkok. Taking place during Songkran, Thailand’s world-famous New Year celebration, this event promises a one-of-a-kind fusion of top-tier EDM lineup, spectacular stage production, and 360-degree water technology – all set against the vibrant energy of Bangkok. Now, S2O has revealed its highly anticipated day-by-day lineup, featuring an all-star roster of international dance music powerhouses, including MARSHMELLO, ALAN WALKER, DJ SNAKE, DIPLO, MAJOR LAZER SOUNDSYSTEM, TIMMY TRUMPET, and more. The regional lineup will be revealed in the coming weeks.

Kicking off the 10th-anniversary edition on Saturday, April 12, S2O welcomes MARSHMELLO, the masked EDM icon known for chart-topping hits like Happier and Alone. He is joined by TIMMY TRUMPET, a master showman blending electronic beats with live trumpet performances. Adding to the energy, B JONES, a Tomorrowland regular and one of Spain’s top electronic exports, takes the stage alongside RETROVISION, the rising bass house sensation, and China’s internationally recognized DJ SALLY.

Day two, Sunday, April 13, features a star-studded lineup led by ALAN WALKER, whose signature melodic sound has captivated millions worldwide with tracks like Faded. The stage will also welcome MAJOR LAZER SOUNDSYSTEM, the globally renowned trio behind dancehall-infused anthems such as Lean On. Adding a diverse edge to the night, DANNY AVILA, a pioneer of mainstage techno, will bring his high-energy performance. Joining them are PAULINE HERR, an innovative singer-songwriter and producer, and PROPHECY, an electrifying duo known for their dynamic sets.

Closing out the festival on Monday, April 14,  DJ SNAKE – the mastermind behind multi-platinum hits like Taki Taki and Let Me Love You – takes center stage. Also gracing the decks is the legendary DIPLO, a key force in electronic and pop music with an ever-evolving sound. Fans can also look forward to an exclusive B2B2B performance featuring BROOKS, MESTO, and JUSTIN MYLO, delivering a fresh wave of future house energy. Rounding out the night are drum and bass icon CULTURE SHOCK and China’s rising bass music star WUKONG.

Songkran, Thailand’s traditional New Year festival (April 13-15), turns the country into a lively celebration filled with water-splashing festivities, drawing thousands of tourists who come to experience this joyful and refreshing tradition. From the historic streets of the Old Town to Bangkok’s bustling nightlife, visitors can explore golden temples, floating markets, and world-class street food before diving into the S2O Festival’s high-energy, water-soaked spectacle. Officially supported by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, this event is a must-attend for music lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Regular tickets for Day 1 and Day 2 are still available, while Day 3 tickets, VIP tickets and ticket bundles are sold out. So secure your spot now at the official S2O Festival website: www.s2ofestival.com.

More information available on the following links:

S2O Website

S2O Instagram 

Lineup in order of appearance

Saturday, April 12th

Marshmello

Timmy Trumpet

B Jones

RetroVision

DJ Sally

Sunday, April 13th

Alan Walker

Major Lazer Soundsystem

Danny Avila

Prophecy

Pauline Herr

Monday, April 14th

DJ Snake

Diplo

Brooks x Mesto x Justin Mylo

Culture Shock

Wukong

Multiple stages across two days, a wonderland of music, local arts, incredible food, and plenty of bevs by the beach in Wollongong City, Dharawal Country. Yours and Owls 2025 will be 16+ in 2025; a parent or guardian must accompany all people aged 16 + 17 at all times.

Globally renowned Australian rockers Ocean Alley have today unveiled their first single of 2025 – the jangly rock’n’roller “Left Of The Dealer”, out independently via Community Music. Accompanied by a surreal, technicolour video, the track is an ode to youthful recklessness and the inevitable consequences that follow.

A bold step into new sonic territory, “Left Of The Dealer” swaps Ocean Alley’s signature groove-laden sound for a vintage-leaning, rock ‘n’ roll edge. With rollicking guitars, bluesy rhythm and an undeniable sense of nostalgia, the song exudes a timeless quality while retaining the warmth and depth that define the six-piece’s quintessential style. The track comes hot on the heels of last year’s Southern-rock infused “Tangerine”, which last month landed at #15 on triple j’s Hottest 100 of 2024—and even found a fan in Fred Durst.

On the track, frontman Baden Donegal shared: “Life is a gamble, but when we’re young, we often live in a much more carefree manner—taking all the risks, unaware of the consequences. The reference to being ‘Left Of The Dealer’ is a poker rule where the player left of the dealer will play first or be next to go, insinuating that your time to face these consequences may be up next.

I wrote and demoed this song at home before showing the rest of the guys. It was a sound we hadn’t really experimented with before. We jammed it a few times at our space in Middle Pocket and everything came together quickly. Messing around with guitar tones and vocal effects in the studio, we found it resembled some of our favourite bands like Creedence Clearwater Revival and Canned Heat, which we leant all the way into.”

Alongside the single, Ocean Alley have released a psychedelic, ‘60s-inspired music video directed by Duncan Wright (Pond, San Cisco, Methyl Ethyl). Shot on a lush, green property in the Northern Rivers, the video blends digital and VHS footage to create a sense of whimsy and otherworldliness. What starts out as hazy and carefree fun, quickly warps into a cat-and-mouse chase with the ‘doobie of doom’… before an unexpected friendship is formed.