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Where are you currently based?
Photo by: Portia Gebauer
PLAY/LISTEN
Perth indie punk-rockers Tied Down return with a punchy and soaring new single ‘Undefeated’. Featuring explosive drumming, powerful vocals and high tempo punk-riffs, the result is a masterful combination of all that Tied Down has become known for.
Building from the consistent sound delivered with previous releases, ‘Undefeated’ marks a powerful back up to their last single ‘Slow’ which similarly showcased their skillset and roots in the punk/rock genre. With this current release, Tied Down has proven themselves as being able to produce a nuanced and tastefully curated exploration of passionate, yet refined, high-energy music.
“Undefeated is a track armed to the teeth with fast paced riffs, explosive drumming, a driving bassline and a powerful vocal arrangement which we’ve become known for. Fighting against the challenges of daily life and an unwillingness to give up despite what’s thrown at you is what this track is all about. We want this track to uplift and empower anyone dealing with issues they feel are out of their control and have a feeling it will do exactly that!” Tied Down.
Crackling with energy, ‘Undefeated’ Is a cathartic exploration of resilience. The delicate balance between vulnerability and boldness will have you reminiscing on the tenderness of existence. A punchy 90s pop-punk instrumentation underpins this fiery single while delicately woven strands of instrumentation
In a similar vein to contemporaries The Dead Love, Slowly Slowly, Dear Seattle, and Waxflower. Tied Down prove themselves as being able to deliver exceptional music with refined production. Recorded live at Hopping Mouse Studios the track was then recorded and produced by Matt Templeman (Sly Withers, Voyager) and mastered by Simon Struthers (Psychedelic Porn Crumpets, Karnivool, Something For Kate) at Forensic Audio Mastering.
Speaking of the process of making the music, Tied Down share unique insight into the collaborative efforts. “Undefeated started with a riff written by Kado (Rhythm Guitar) which saw Deano spring into action pretty easily on the drums. Once we marked out the progression and arrangement of the track, the rest of us latched on nicely. We already had the concept of writing a more up-tempo, uplifting track heading into this one so once Dolsy (Bass) and Steve (Lead Guitar) got their hands on it, it really started to take shape. I think CJ (Vocals) sat on it for a couple of days and sent all the lyrics through in the chat which hit home for all of us. All in all, we’re super proud of how Undefeated came about and the message it conveys.” Tied Down.
Tied Down are no stranger to the stage. Having supported Hands Like Houses on the WA leg of their national tour, they have further supported local legends South Summit and DICE to sold out crowds at Mojos and Milk Bar respectively.
The release of ‘Undefeated’ will be accompanied by a launch show in the main room of The Rosemount Hotel on July 16th. Supported by Angie Colman and Reins, Tied Down say of the launch “The Rosie has become a bit of a home for us over the years and we’ve got a really special setlist lined up to mark the occasion” Tied Down.
PRAISE FOR TIED DOWN
“The explosive and energetic Tied Down have melded a quixotic blend of punk, rap and indie-rock into their own unique sound”
The AU Review
“Bruised, delicate alternative rock that smoulders throughout with instrumentation that showcase a band who know how to harness their skills”
Scenestr
“explosive and energetic sound infusing punk, rock, rap and indie roots.”
WAM FEST
“Australia has long been a fertile breeding ground for great rock acts. [Tied Down] might be the latest group worthy of that title.”
SOUNDS OF OZ
UNDEFEATED is out now.
Perth based Indie Punk outfit The Mess Around have just released their new single ‘Still Broke’, which was premiered via HEAVY Mag.
The band have also announced a huge run of WA tour dates to celebrate the release that kicks off on July 29 at Lucy’s Love Shack, Perth. The run of dates includes a performance at Blossom Festival, where the boys will showcase their outstanding live show on the big stage.
The Mess Around are a collection of 5 larrikins that create a fresh and diverse brand of music. A highly talented melting pot of musical backgrounds, their songs though often irreverent, are inconspicuous in their messages of love, self-improvement and finding a balanced lifestyle.
Their shenanigans recently saw them featured on Channel 9 News as they went through local bottle shops in a bobsled.
The band draws influence from the likes of Dune Rats, Skegss, Hockey Dad, Bugs, The Chats, The Grogans, The Terry’s and Sly Withers.
Conceived during the pandemic, The Mess Around released their debut single ‘On My Mind’ in 2021. They then followed up with the release of single ‘Pasito’ later that year. The band released their latest single ‘Balance’ earlier this year, which was added to the All New Rock playlist on Spotify. They have since stepped back into the studio to record a plethora of outstanding new music.
New single ‘Still Broke’ is available on all major online stores and streaming services.
Tickets available at door | 18+ only
Tickets available at www.oztix.com.au | 18+ only
Tickets available at www.oztix.com.au | 18+ only
Tickets available at door | 18+ only
Tickets available at www.blossomfestival.com.au | 18+ only
Tickets available at door | 18+ only
Tickets available at door | 18+ only
Title: Pure
Label: Self release
New Zealanders FOVOS have made hard-hitting techno and house tracks their namesake, and their newest release “Pure” certainly doesn’t disappoint. Upon first listen, it’s clear that the title is meant to represent pure underground sound, with driving and minimal bass lines that are meant for dark clubs and certainly aren’t for the faint of heart. As heard in their recent singles “Platia” and “Under Pressure,” FOVOS draws on inspiration from the old school raves of the 90s, bringing a dose of nostalgia with a modern twist. Whether you’re looking for your next festival anthem or after-hours banger, look no further than “Pure.”
“We’re so keen to get this dirty underground track out there. Pure takes heavy inspiration from old-school 90s raves and tries to bring that vibe into a modern techno banger. The track features a 90s-inspired vocal sample, tearing synths, and grooving bassline that’s sure to get any dancefloor moving.” – FOVOS
FOVOS began their artist adventure back in 2020 and throughout the midst of a global pandemic, have been hard at work producing music that speaks to the heart of the underground. Even early in their career, they’ve already been supported by Alok, AC Slater, Cloverdale, Dr. Fresch, Eli & Fur, Joel Corry, Kryder, Martin Ikin, and MASTERIA, to name a few. The duo has already been off to a strong start in 2022, while “Platia” continues their momentum. FOVOS have more music lined up for 2022 on the likes of Lee Foss’ Repopulate Mars, Insomniac, Barong Family, and more. Stay tuned for many more dancefloor-worthy tracks from these two.
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Title: Round My Head
Label: CONTROVERSIA
Tomorrowland resident Yves V makes his triumphant return to Alok‘s label CONTROVERSIA with his new track “Round My Head,” for which he teamed up with the label’s regular and their very own artist Bhaskar. The release is a dance-pop crossover suitable for both festival dance floors and radio airwaves, with dreamy and rhythmic male vocals. With the groovy melodies and driving tech house bassline, “Round My Head” fuses genres perfectly to make for an approachable and catchy gem. Yves V has recently released “She Movin’” with 22Bullets on Spinnin’ Records last month, and on the flip side we saw Bhaskar‘s stream of successful originals on Alok‘s label, such as “I Feel You,” “Higher,” or “See You There.”
Yves V has gained global recognition for his dynamic big room style with releases like “King Cobra” with Don Diablo, “Octagon,” “Direct Dizko” with Sander Van Doorn, “Madagascar” with Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike, and “We Got That Cool” with Afrojack & Icona Pop. He has also remixed the likes of Timbaland, Missy Elliott, Ginuwine, and more. In 2022, the producer is amassing almost 4.5M monthly listeners on Spotify alone and has been supported by heavyweights such as David Guetta, Afrojack, Martin Garrix, Armin van Buuren and more. His electrifying live performances have wowed crowds at some of the world’s best festivals, including Tomorrowland, Sensation, Amsterdam Dance Event, David Guetta in Concert and Mysteryland.
Bhaskar began his history in 2004, still at age 12, when his first project with his twin brother Alok started. It all began as a hobby, but in a short time, they were already splitting their time between the studies and the studio. Son of renowned DJs Swarup and Ekanta, Bhaskar was inspired by his parents’ success and soon started to tour the world playing his music. Throughout his career, the Brazilian has collected a few hits to his name, including “Fuego” (145M+ Spotify streams) and “Infinity” (105M+ Spotify streams). His talents have led him to collaborate with and remix artists, including Tomorrowland resident Yves V, Moguai, Dubdogz, Wankelmut, Lucas Estrada, the Brazilian pop star Anitta and his brother Alok. Bhaskar has some more surprises up his sleeve, and we can’t wait to see what’s next!
Photography + Words: Darren Chan
In another chilly winter evening in Melbourne, UK psychedelic indie-pop group, Glass Animals brought the summer vibes into John Cain Arena.
With a pineapple placed next to the drum kit looking like an orange, the band strolled onstage to an ecstastic crowd. Under neon signs and colourful stage lighting, they took everyone into their tropical oasis, performing tracks from their Dreamland album including Dreamland, Tangerine, Hot Sugar, and their hits Heat Waves and Gooey.
Lead singer Dave Bayley danced around the stage enjoying every moment, and the audience followed suit dancing the night away. This is as close to summer as we’ll get in the middle of winter!
Where are you currently based?
Brisbane, Australia!
How did Grizzlyshark first start?
Liam: Three of us (Liam, Andrew and Adam) were in a band together previously, which shall remain nameless for the sake of our dignity, and we’d had Joey fill in on bass for us once before. When that band broke up we decided to keep playing music together and asked Joey to join us.
Andrew: I needed an excuse to hang out with Liam. A band seemed like the right move.
What’s been happening recently?
Liam: We most recently played a show with Glass Tides, Shangrila and Citadel at The Zoo in Brisbane which was awesome.
Your latest single ‘There’s No I In Quaranteam’ is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting?
Liam: The song draws heavily from the 2008-2012 post-hardcore/emo scene, which we all grew up listening to and influenced our musical taste for years.
Andrew: I’ve been playing with the theme of this song for a fair few years. The start of it happened at a friends 18th. He had his “once a year phone call” from his father and not once was he wished a happy birthday. The train ride home broke my heart hearing how my friend had been treated by his father.
How did you go about writing There’s No I In Quaranteam?
Liam wrote the music while doing a side project that never panned out which played a similar style of music. The music itself was written first with more a Grizzlyshark spin on it than straight post-hardcore. Andrew and Joey then wrote all the lyrics and vocal melodies, though these were changing right up until we recorded the final version.
Where and when did you record/produce/master and who did you work with?
Back in July last year! Hard to believe it’s been that long. We recorded with Troy Brady (The Amity Affliction) who we’ve worked with for all of our releases to date. Having worked with him on 4 occasions he understands how we function (and sometimes don’t) as a unit, and it always feels like he knows how to get the best out of us.
How did you approach the recording process?
Doing a whole EP this time was pretty different compared to other times we’ve recorded. We came with 6 songs in various states of completion, one of which we’d done extensive pre-production with Alan Day from Four Year Strong (TMS). One of the songs got scrapped, and the 5th song got changed drastically in the recording process, and was built from some music Liam had written and lyrics and melodies that Andrew came up with during the recording process. Very different for us, as our writing process usually takes a while and we like to record quickly!
Your upcoming EP ‘MOSAIC’ is out on July 29, what can we expect?
Not consistency, that’s for sure! Our 3 released singles will be on there (TMS, What’s The Plan Gogglehead? and There’s No “I” In Quaranteam) along with 2 as yet unheard songs. It’s safe to say that none of the songs necessarily fit into exactly the same genre, which is pretty typical of Grizzlyshark at this stage. One in particular is very different to anything we’ve released at this point.
How did MOSAIC come about and what does this EP mean to you?
Honestly like most bands at the moment it came from the pandemic. When we released our last set of singles (Vicarious and Remember The Black Box) back in 2020 we were geared up to record an EP at the time with those songs and then right after we returned from the Vicarious launch tour that we played in QLD and NSW the pandemic hit. That took a lot of enthusiasm away from the music, until we started writing more, and eventually after discarding many demos we weren’t happy with, we had a set of songs we were really proud of. The name MOSAIC comes from the fact that this is a collections of from different genres written it different times, but all coming together to make Grizzlyshark what it is.
Who are you listening to at the moment?
Windwaker, Ocean Grove, ERRA, Sleep Token, Letlive.
What’s planned for the remainder of 2022 going into 2023?
We’ll be joining We Set Signals for the Brisbane and Gold Coast legs of their upcoming tour in August, and will have an EP release show at an as yet unannounced time. After that, who knows? We might direct a movie or start selling bootleg goods, honestly we have no idea!
Favourite food and place to hangout?
Death and Taxes is the “classiest” place you will find us. Otherwise Netherworld or someone’s place for boardgames is a common hangout for the band.
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‘Drum Workout!’ is out now, watch Visualiser HERE / Save & Stream it HERE
Full EP out in Summer on LG105
The enigmatic Phairo newly emerges as a dance music artist after years in high demand producing acclaimed names in other genres such as Bruno Major, ELIZA and Sam Wills. His new project ‘9’ will drop monthly as singles. ‘Galacticon’ and ‘Drum Workout!’ are out now, with ‘Dwemer Sphere’ coming August 12th before the full almost-album drops Sept 9th.
Fired up by working on the likes of Bruno’s first two albums, including hits like ‘Easily’ (with 295 million streams on Spotify alone), Phairo found lockdown unlocked his first love. ‘Club and dance music first got me into producing at about 16, so it felt amazing to re-enter that realm and find a new love and excitement for making beats! I wanted to make music on my own, with the main focus on musical and production ideas.’
‘Galacticon’, his first ‘9’single, delivers those beats in spades, a drum- and bass-heavy track with a jazzed up industrial vibe overlaid with mysterious distorted melody. Genre-bending, yes, but eminently danceable.
‘Drum Workout!’ is in Phairo’s own words ‘a clubby thumper with a bonkers beat’. Cool, jazzy, exuberantly intricate percussion takes centre stage, the bones of dance laid bare, contrasted with a breakdown and climax of juddering string chords. If you’re not dancing to it, you’re drumming along to it on any available surface.
‘At 9 tracks it’s longer than an EP, but shorter than an album, more like a mixtape – a broad indicator of my influences and musical loves, and a good sign of what’s to come and where I’m headed musically.’ The artwork for the full project, from artist Osian Jenaer, is heavily inspired by Phairo’s intrigue with the number 9 and his love for sci-fi, nature and otherworldly scenes.
Drum Workout! is out now on LG105, get it here: https://phairo.lnk.to/DrumWorkoutSo
Full ‘9’ EP Track List:
- Skyward
- Galacticon
- Yaled
- Drum Workout
- Talk To Me
- Excavation
- Dwemer Sphere
- Breathe
- 9
Connect with Phairo on Spotify | Soundcloud | Facebook
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Presale available from 9am local Wednesday 20 July
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