Festival News

Acclaimed artist, songwriter & producer REIJA LEE launches a new project.

Photo credit: Mel Branson

Having previously amassed 40 million+ streams, performances at Listen Out, BIGSOUND, Sets On The Beach & sharing lineups  with Crooked Colours, Kira Puru & Luke Million as Reija Lee, Any Girl is the emotive & fierce new project from the acclaimed Australian producer, singer & songwriter. With her modern electronic influences now blending seamlessly with childhood roots of guitar-driven rock, Any Girl is today sharing her debut single ‘Into The Black’. An exquisite amalgamation of her abilities & versatility as an artist, ‘Into The Black’ explores the fear of the unknown, unpacking a relationship where one would rather stay, than risk the uncomfortability of loneliness.

Working closely with producer & drummer Timothy Commandeur (The Presets, Set Mo, PNAU), Any Girl was able to take a small demo loop of Tim’s & work it into a chorus melody with lyrics, almost instantly. The ease at which the song came together led them both to the quick realization that ‘Into The Black’ would be a keeper. With sonics in the vein of MAY-A, Hatchie & Kita Alexander, the track, whilst a debut release, is a testament to Any Girl’s ability to push boundaries for the sake of personal authenticity. 

“On the surface, Into The Black is a song about the dreaded ‘situationship’. But in a deeper sense, it’s about our fear of the unknown.  The lyrics portray someone who would rather be in an unfulfilling relationship, simply because it’s what they know, and it’s better than their fear of being alone. But the uplifting feeling of the chorus and the lyric ‘in the black’ being used as a metaphor for intimacy, kind of poses the question of whether giving in is always such a bad thing. Change is scary, but sometimes comfort is just what is required in the moment.” Any Girl

“Into The Black came together so easily. Working with Tim was an absolute dream. He had a small demo loop (which turned into the verse), then I came up with the lyrics and melody pretty instantly, and we just built it from there. I always know when a song comes together that easy, it’s gonna be a keeper.” Any Girl

In celebration of her liberating new song & sound, Any Girl will be performing her debut show at Perth’s El Grotto on Friday, July 14th, in partnership with Australian tastemakers Pilerats & legendary surfwear brand Rusty. Alongside giveaways & a custom light installation, Little Guilt will be joining to support, with DJ sets from Ekko & Sidetrack as well.

“I’m pretty excited to put on my first single launch and I never could’ve dreamed it would be supported by so many amazing artists and brands. Rusty and Pilerats are co-hosting the event, and we’ve even developed an AnyGirl x Rusty Merch collab up for grabs on the night. Beamhacker is building a custom light install, and Little Guilt are supporting which I couldn’t be happier about since I’m low-key obsessed with their latest single! And to finish off the night Ekko & Sidetrack are heating things up with an alternative DJ set, so yeah – I’m pretty psyched!” Any Girl

With a pedigree that is nearly unmatched in Australia under the Reija Lee name, Any Girl has previously clocked up well over 40 million+ streams across DSP’s, with her breakout hit ‘Sweet Talk’ #1 on US Dance iTunes, and enjoying revered sync with Victoria’s Secret. Signing to Diplo’s Mad Decent label saw Reija Lee feature on EDM tracks from the likes of Zeds Dead, ShockOne, Paces & Metrik, as well as being sampled by rap heavyweights such as T.I, OutKast’s Big Boi & Trinidad James. Domestically, she previously enjoyed support from triple j with full rotation spots across numerous singles, as well as anointed a prestigious triple j Unearthed Listen Out winner. Well versed as a live artist, her performances at Sets On The Beach, BIGSOUND, Listen Out & supports with Crooked Colours, Kira Puru & Luke Million only assisted in cementing her pedigree.

Any Girl is Reija Lee’s opportunity to transcend genres, picking up a bass guitar and returning to her childhood roots; raised on rock & guitar-driven rhythms. ‘Into The Black’ is the debut track, setting the precedent for what’s to come; with a full body of work recorded & ready to go. Any Girl is the synthesis of electronic, rock & pop influences across Lee’s lifespan, pairing the raw, emotional energy of her band, with her unarguably brilliant vocal power. Any Girl is coming out of the gates swinging & there’s no stopping her now.

ANY GIRL ‘INTO THE BLACK’ RELEASE SHOW

TICKETS

Fri July 14th El Grotto Perth

w/ Little Guilt, Spacedive

Rusty Giveaways, Rocky Ridge Tap Takeover

PRAISE FOR ANY GIRL

“Love Nobody gets stronger on each listen, it’s like you’ve bottled the emotions of a John Hughes film on this track.”

Nick Findlay, triple j (Reija Lee)

“Something about this gives me a big virtual feeling. It’s very colourful and pretty. Big neon lights everywhere too. It’s a stunning vibe.”

Claire Mooney, triple j (Reija Lee)

“Stepping out on your own can be intimidating but you’re born to be a standalone star.”

Tommy Faith, triple j (Reija Lee)

“There was never any doubts of Reija Lee being a one-trick pony considering her position as one of our electronic scene’s most visible members, but coming in hot with a new track premiering today, it’s evident that Reija is truly in her element when she’s on her own.”

Pilerats (Reija Lee)

“Reija Lee, playing outside at The Wickham, promises to “amp it up a little” at the beginning of her set. The musical chameleon delivers a varied collection of pop and electro numbers, switching between bass and vocals and winning over a seated audience in no time at all. Her voice and performance deserves a bigger stage.” 

Scenestr (Reija Lee)

‘Into The Black’ is out Thursday, June 29th

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | Triple J Unearthed | TikTok

Words: Domenico Frascino

Brace yourselves, music aficionados, for an adventure to discover one of the most spectacular and under-the-radar festivals of the year. Butik Festival, known for its underground lineup, outstanding location, and unique atmosphere, is ready to ignite the vibrant heart of the European electronic music scene for its 4th edition  from July 13th to 16th.

Nestled in the picturesque Tolmin in the Slovenian gem of the Soca River Valley, Butik Festival finds its home in one of Europe’s most breathtaking natural landscapes. Surrounded by the majestic Slovenian Alps and Soca river’s crystal-clear turquoise waters marking the border between Slovenia and Italy, this idyllic setting sets the stage for an unparalleled sensory experience. 

Butik Festival is more than just a music event; it is an immersive journey that transcends the boundaries of sound. Step into a world where innovation and creativity collide, where music becomes a living, breathing entity. The festival crew has meticulously handpicked a lineup of electronic music’s finest, blending established international artist such as Job Jobse (NL), Jennifer Cardini (FR) b2b Paolo Bozzi (FR), Ryan Elliot (US) b2b Ogazon (LX), Freddy K (IT), Marie Montexier (DE) among others, with a mix of local balkan legends and rising stars, like the slovenian underground wonders Mayell and Eliaz, AR:TE and the Ljubljana’s finest SOLVD label, the Adriatic Coasting’s crew captain Jogarde (HR) and many more. This ensures an eclectic mix that appeals to all tastes.

Butik Festival isn’t just about the music, it’s especially about the people. Join a vibrant community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for electronic music. Make lifelong connections as you dance, laugh, and revel in the collective energy that binds everyone together. Butik Festival creates an inclusive space where diversity and unity thrive, reminding us all of the power of music to bring people together.

Mark your calendars, electronic music lovers, because the Butik Festival is a not-to-be-missed event that will captivate your senses and ignite your soul. Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of pulsating beats, mind-bending visuals, and unforgettable memories.

For more information visit the official Butik Festival website and follow the updates on the main social media.

Website: butikfestival.com

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/butikfestival

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/butik_emf/

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

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@butikfestival

Photography: Juan Castro

PRAISE FOR SHADY NASTY

“The trio’s sound is as inscrutable as ever: lyrics are written like text exchanges between
gym junkies while the instrumentals are jenga towers of hip-hop beats,
slowcore guitars and punk vocals“
NME

“Jittery and tense blasts of sketchy rock that sounds like kids born in the late 90s have
discovered some early Helmet or Mark of Cain records. This is good rowdy stuff”
VICE

“The Australian trio’s sound can turn on a dime between ethereally pretty and menacingly dark”
Kerrang!

“The atmosphere is unsettling in a similar way to Show Me The Body’s songs”
Stereogum

“Rare units and they’re not afraid to mess with your ears“
Dave Ruby Howe (triple j Unearthed)

“When people say there’s no band quite like Shady Nasty in Australia,
it’s not some hyperbole or over-exaggeration”
Pilerats

Shady Nasty, Eora / Sydney’s cult alt-punk trio debut their latest single ‘G-SHOCK’ ahead of their upcoming east coast tour in July. LISTEN + WATCH HERE.

‘G-SHOCK’ is an extension of classic Shady Nasty teemed with their most overtly personal vignettes yet. Skittish guitars sketch deeper than before, playing with pop-punk riffs and harpsichord as vocalist Kevin Stathis dreams of twilight moments spent with his most prized automobile obsession – at the behest of the every day that interrupts those moments. ‘G-SHOCK’ revels in his desire to get to his next drive, toying with the edges of hobby, passion and infatuation, his vocals as detached and dissociated as ever, stocky in sound and stature.

Produced by The Presets’ Kim Moyes, the single straddles a prelude to the cost of every upgrade and car mod – and its justification at any cost – against yearning for the early discovery of an untapped subculture, memories bumming around Liverpool gripped by a Hulk-like chokehold. In their own words, “G-SHOCK is the next chapter of Kevin’s blinding obsession with hotted up cars. The tedium of daily life is clouded by accelerated visions of yet another modification and stretch of empty asphalt.”

Shady Nasty is a band that operates on an oxymoron – a post-punk outfit whose most popular songs (‘Get Buff‘, ‘R0LL1N’ H1LLZ‘, ‘PRETTYB0YZ‘) circulate on calm, sombre melodies that balance both electronic and hip hop driven impulses. Anthropologists of their own world, their music is rife with intelligent observations about the burgeoning algorithm of life. Their recent single ‘CHEST HEIGHT’ is just one of many examples of Shady Nasty’s abilities to refract growing pains into social commentary through their enduring motif – a serious, long-term relationship with cars.

Their second EP CLUBSMOKE, a blurry-eyed meditation on vlogging, gymming, clubbing and clout, the group saw international acclaim from NME, Stereogum, Kerrang, DIY, New Noise, BPM, and locally from triple j’s Home and Hosed, Something More and Unearthed, FBi Radio, 2SER, RAGE, Pilerats and Purple Sneakers. Its success took the group to their debut UK/EU tour with a sold-out Oxford Art Factory home show, full of devout adherents that propelled a heaving mosh. Now in 2023 Shady Nasty steady for their next gear shift.

‘G-SHOCK‘ is out now, buy/stream it here.

TOUR DATES
Fri 7 July – sideway – Ngambri / Canberra
Sat 8 July – Crowbar – Eora / Syd
Thu 13 July – Bearded Lady – Meanjin / Brisbane
Fri 14 July – Substation – Meanjin / Brisbane
Sat 15 July – Old Ambulance Station – Kabi Kabi Land / Sunshine Coast
Sat 22 July – Old Bar – Naarm / Melbourne
Sat 29 July – La La La’s – Dharawal Land / Wollongong

Tickets available at shadynasty.online

Stay connected with Shady Nasty:
Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

King Stingray have today dropped their brand new single ‘Lookin’ Out‘, the first taste of new material since the release of their phenomenal debut album in August last year.

Inspired by their own experiences spent gazing into the ocean or gathered around a campfire, “Lookin’ Out” beautifully captures the universal feeling of being awestruck by the magnificence of Mother Earth. It highlights how these moments of breathtaking beauty have the power to diminish our day-to-day worries and put them into perspective.

Through ‘Lookin’ Out,’ King Stingray also acknowledge the idea that our future is uncertain, yet if we unite and work together, we can find our way. “We have no idea what our future holds, but if we can find a way to work together we’ll be on the right track!” explains guitarist Roy Kellaway. “We are a band from a small place and we’re singing about big things!“.

The accompanying video includes tour footage as well as stunning imagery from the Great Barrier Reef and the band’s hometown of Yirrkala in North East Arnhem Land. Dive in and let the magic of King Stingray wash over you! Manymak!

King Stingray recently celebrated a huge win in the 2022 Vanda & Young Global Songwriting Competition, with their song ‘Milkumana,’ claiming 1st prize, and ‘Camp Dog’ taking out 3rd place.

The band have also recently released a mini-documentary from their 2022 album tour which captures the electrifying energy of their shows and the infectious joy that radiates from the stage. A handful of tickets remain for Melbourne and Adelaide on their current Australian headlining tour. Don’t miss your chance to experience it firsthand!

King Stingray @kingstingrayband

With just five weeks to go until Splendour in the Grass lights up Ngarindjin / North Byron Parklands for the 21^st time, the festival has added a bunch of exciting new acts to the lineup, set to perform on stages across the festival grounds…

Stop by the Byron Bay Brewery Bar to catch a stacked lineup featuring some of the hottest up and coming acts in town including fun-loving larrikins Beddy Rays with their heartfelt lyrics, huge hooks and mosh-worthy riffs, the infectious tunes of captivating breakout stars Chutney, and indie-rock six-piece Cool Sounds whose music nods to 80s pop, cheerful funk and alt-country. Don’t miss the fuzz, synths, samples and synergy of one of the most exciting new bands emerging from Melbourne’s underground Eggy, or the crooning and wailing of Ghost Mutt as they hurl their special brand of pop-rock into the universe. There’s the catchy tracks, captivating personality and out-of-the-box style of Go-Jo plus genre expanding trio The Grogans who explore manoeuvres in surf, punk, blues, garage, psych, rockabilly, and reggae.

Catch the indie tones and surf rock tempo of Lazy Ghost, and continue to ride the wave of the surf rock renaissance with WA legends Old Mervs, witness the enigmatic and colourful live show of Northern Rivers’ own Pasiflorez and prepare to get sweaty when five-piece indie-rock band Ra Ra Viper take to the stage. Enter the world of dream pop duo Royel Otis as they take inspiration from Japanese city pop and 90s nostalgia and enjoy the radiant indie-rock sounds of Melbourne five piece The Velvet Club. Stop by the Byron Bay Brewery Bar on Thursday for an extra special opening night party with special performances, and giveaways.

Download / Stream

After much anticipation and quite some time after its initially announced release date, Spag Heddy‘s debut album – “The Noodle Effect,” is finally out – and trust us, it’s worth the wait. Featuring an impressive 17 tracks, 14 of which are brand new, the body of work is an ode to Spag‘s true evolution as an artist over the last few years. While some tracks, like his recently released “Hammer Time” and the album’s “Fragga,” stay true to Spag Heddy‘s original bass-heavy style, what’s most noteworthy about it are the tracks that demonstrate his stepping outside of the box. In songs like “Vertigo,” “Imagination,” and “Voices,” the Dutch-born, Spain-based producer explores a softer, emotive sound with vocal-driven, melodic electronic ballads. Read on for more about his inspiration behind the album and press play on “The Noodle Effect” to usher in the new era of Spag Heddy.

“With this album, I wanna showcase more of myself than just the headbanger dubstep that I’m known for nowadays. This album made a perfect home for some of my productions that are not dancefloor-aimed but that I absolutely love and have wanted for so long to see the light of day. While a few of these tracks have been years in the making, others are brand new and show what I’m currently vibing with. Thanks to this project, I rediscovered my love and motivation to make melodic and timeless music, whether it’s DJ-friendly and/or danceable or not. ‘The Noodle Effect‘ couldn’t be a better title because it is on-brand, but it also means traveling into a singularity, which essentially is to become timeless.” – Spag Heddy

The Netherlands-born and Spain-based Spag Heddy has been cooking up dubstep hits since 2011, when his club bangers quickly got the attention of fans and industry tastemakers alike. With Skrillex, Rusko, Excision and others counted among his inspirations, Spag has gained widespread acclaim for his hard-hitting and yet melodic style that always feels fresh and forward-thinking. He has multiple successful singles as well as remixes and collaborations for The Chainsmokers, Krewella, SLANDER, and originals that can be heard in sets of Skrillex, Excision, Subtronics, NGHTMRE and many other heavyweights. His high-energy, mesmerizing sets have earned him tours with Zomboy and Flux Pavilion as well as direct support for Excision and Zeds Dead, plus a number of his own headlining tours around the globe. Now on the eve of releasing his most exciting project to date, Spag Heddy is well on his way to the top.

Phase 1 of Spag Heddy‘s “The Noodle Effect” Tour (tickets):

June 17 – Mardi Gras – Queenstown, NZ
June 23 – La La Land – Brisbane, AU
June 24 – Mardi Gras – Ohakune, NZ
June 30 – Potts Point Hotel – Sydney, AU
July 01 – Perth Mess Hall – Perth, AU
July 13 – Celine – Orlando, FL
July 14 – The Loft – Minneapolis, MN
July 15 – Miramar Theatre – Milwaukee, WI
July 28 – Exchange – Los Angeles, CA
July 29 – Sunbar – Tempe, AZ
August 10 – The Marc – San Marcos, TX
August 11 – Ogden Theatre – Denver, CO
August 24 – Hard Rock Live – Las Vegas, NV
August 25 – Elektricity – Detroit, MI
August 26 – Concord Hall – Chicago, IL
September 13 – Soundcheck – Washington, DC
September 14 – Trinity – Seattle, WA
September 15 – Celebrities – Vancouver, BC
September 16 – Palace – Calgary, AB