Where are you currently based?

I’m in Perth at the moment.

How did you first get into playing electronic music?

Back in high school I used to take music as a class, it basically meant I’d get an hour everyday to play guitar and chat shit with my mates. We were shown Logic Pro by our teacher and were pretty intrigued. The next day I transferred logic onto my Mac and was just amazed by how everything worked. If always been a fan of electronic music and now the possibility of making my own was at my fingertips.

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

It’s doing very well compared to the rest of the world. There’s gigs left and right. Besides the capacity limits its almost back to normal in venues and clubs. Pretty shit that the government won’t let festivals come back though, everyone here is definitely hanging for them.

What’s been happening recently?

I had my summer uni break so I knuckled down to write some tunes over the summer months. Over this time Solsta was a little quiet but sometimes you just need to take a step back from putting music out and just focus on learning. My last release before together started to gain me a bit of momentum so I wanted to keep the ball rolling and come back even bigger.

Your latest release ‘Together’ Ft. Bexx is out now, what influenced the sound and song writing for this track?

I really wanted to write a track that sounded organic and mellow but still had a tint of grit to it. The writing process of together was me sitting their trying to build this huge atmosphere that constantly built tension. I’d combine like 30 different elements and then when I was happy if strip it back into a instrumental that a vocalist could work with

How did you come to work with Bexx?

So there’s this music production school in Perth called LabSix. I got a few mixing lessons there and went to a few presentations where past students would show off some music and get some feedback. During my big writing stint over the uni break I went in to catch up with Jeremy (one of the instructors I’d worked with) and we just chatted about how to further the Solsta project. After this chat he linked me up with BEXX and a few days later she sent me the vocals you hear. It was that quick.

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

I created the skeleton of the track in my bedroom studio before I got linked up with BEXX. Perth was in lockdown at the time so we weren’t able to get some studio time. She recorded the vocals at her place sent me them. Over the next few weeks I polished the track off in one of the lab six studios Jeremy gave me permission to use. This was huge by the way, big ups to Jeremy and LabSix for giving me the opportunity’s they have.

What programs equipment did you use to record and what do you use live?

I haven’t developed a live show beyond mixing on decks, but it’s definitely something I’ll be doing in the future. In terms of recording, I use a wide range of instruments. I have a couple of guitars, a mono synth and this wierd sequencer called a subharmonicon. I run em through an appollo arrow into logic and then muck around with plug ins as well.

How did you approach the recording/production process?

When I have a writing session for new ideas I’ll set a timer for 40 minutes and just create something. After that 40 mins is up I’ll start again. I’ll do this like 3 or 4 times then take a break, come back and pick an idea to pursue. In my opinion this kinda eliminates writers block because your forced to just make something and eventually one of those somethings will sound decent.

Any idea who you’ll be collaborating with in the future?

I got another huge song coming out with BEXX very soon. I’ve also been working on a couple of other tracks with local Perth producers that are huge. Can not wait to get them out!

Do you have any shows coming up?

Not yet. I’m really trying to nail my production the first half of this year. I’m planning on dropping my Debut ep later in the year so will definitely try and get some shows going with that. Should be huge.

What do you like to do away from music?

I’m at uni at the moment so when I’m not cooking up some music I’m studying. Whenever I get the chance I love to get in the water for a surf to.

Who are you listening to at the moment?

Atm I’m pumping crooked colours, choomba and Kream. Kream and Choomba just get me going and crooked colours mellows me out. Perfectly diversified portfolio.

What’s planned for the remainder of 2021?

I just want to keep grinding music. I’m not to worried about trying to play shows every weekend. I want my music to be perfect. If I can just keep putting good tunes out there and generate a following of people who enjoy it I’ll be stoked. That’s the plan for 2021.

Favourite food and place to hangout?

I love KFC. Absolutely froth it. To be honest my favourite place to hang out is definitely in the studio. I spend a bit of time in the studios at Labsix in Perth and it’s definitely my happy place. Just chilling and chatting to other producers who come through.

Where are you currently based?

Sydney, Australia

How did you first start playing music?

My father is a Bass player and Singer so Music has always been in my blood and in the house since I was little

What’s been happening recently?

I have been perfecting my ALIASOUND haha and creating tracks and a whole new image for my new era of Artistry 

Your debut self titled EP is out May 14 2021, what influenced the sound and songwriting?

Yes so exciting….The sound was influenced by a whole range of musical talent I have been exposed to throughout my life. From Rnb and Funk to Pop and Rock. The lyrics were inspired by my self discovery and evolution in which I like to share.

How did you go about writing the music?

The very talented Phil Anquetil and I had a brainstorming session in which we discovered a combination of different feels, from Artists for eg: Prince, Pink, Evanescence and Paramore, that influenced me throughout my musical history, to create a whole new style for me as an Artist.

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

Phil Anquetil and I worked together in Phil’s own studio. We created this EP in the midst of the restrictions and lockdowns of 2020, which turned the year in to a positive experience.

How did you approach the recording/production process?

It varied from track to track, some I approached with ideas lyrics and melody already written and some were written from scratch.

What did you find most challenging and rewarding during the creation of the EP?

A challenge was finding time in Phil’s busy schedule haha…..Rewards was definitely the finished EP, when you see a completed body of work it is very fulfilling.

Who are you listening to at the moment?

Spotify everything, haha. I really like to keep up to date with new Artists and Music that is coming out. The Kid LAROI and Olivia Rodrigo come to mind as they have been quite ground breaking and have a fresh sound, which I appreciate. I also have a love for Deep House and Techno so usually have a kick a* local or international Dj’s mix or release on the burn.

What do you like to do away from music?

I love dancing, hanging out with family and friends and going away on holiday.

What’s planned for the remainder of 2021?

Werk Werk Werk haha. Promoting, my new material and writing/recording more for the next releases.

Favourite food and place to hangout?

Love Pancakes on the Rocks but faves are hard for me as there is so much to experience.

Follow ALIA:

Instagram | Facebook

Stay Awake are an international punk rock band based in Bangkok. With influences ranging from Propagandi, Rise Against and Boy Sets Fire, several Asian tours and two hard hitting EPs, Stay Awake has developed a reputation for their professionalism and energetic live performances.

Where are you currently based?

Currently based in Bangkok, Thailand

What is your name and role within Stay Awake?

My name is John and I play rhythm guitar and sing

How did you first start playing music?

My mum bought me a guitar when I was 11 years old. Began doing stuff like ‘Smoke on the Water’ but from an early age would write my own songs. I was born in the 1980s, rock music was the most popular thing then and I always wanted to be part of it.

How did Stay Awake form and how did you all end up in Bangkok?

We all came from different areas in the world. I guess we all seek adventure and like what Bangkok offers, it’s an amazingly dynamic city. Andy formed the band with two other guys in 2018, but they quit when the band became more serious. I brought in Uly, the drummer from our old band ‘The Sangsom Massacre’, and he brought Paul along on bass. The current lineup works so well.

What’s been happening recently?

Bangkok is all locked down again due to a spike in covid19 infections. No tour, no shows. Bad time for live music…

Your latest EP ‘Portraits’ that was released in March 2021, What influenced the sound and songwriting?

We have lots of influences, but I think the main vibe is punk music from late 1990s and early 2000s. Was quite a nostalgic journey joining this band and writing stuff that inspired us in our youth with our own styles.

How did you go about writing Portraits?

The theme of Portraits is about looking at yourself and society. We had a lot of time to write because of 2020’s lockdowns and we feel the music is a snapshot of the year that was; internet interactions becoming the norm, increased government control, fear, division and a time to reflect on ourselves and who we want to become. We have all had to question things, accept changes, been influenced by the media and maybe even delved into conspiracies… Portraits is a record about this.

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

We recorded in Bangkok at Vintage Studios Nov/Dec 2020, mixed by a super talented Thai mixer called Nin and mastered by US producer Shordeli.

How did you approach the recording process?

It was much easier than the first EP as we knew the process better and the studio. Each of us has been in studios previously so we also brought our combined experiences. In Thailand, the engineers aren’t very vocal or opinionated, you’re left to your own devices so you need to be clear on what you want. We hired the help of our friend Yotam Ben Horin from veteran Israli punk band Useless ID – he really helped us lift our game, improve our melodies and cut every song down to about 3 minutes.

Did Covid impact the creative/recording process?

Not so much, in November/December 2020 we weren’t locked down in Bangkok. Maybe we had more time to spend in the studio as there were less obligations and no travel.

You’ve been on some epic tours, please tell us about what you most enjoy and what you find most challenging when on the road:

The awesome parts of touring are meeting new people, showing our music to others and being inspired by new bands. But the most fun is being with ‘the guys’ in a new place, having a laugh, being super pumped after a show and talking about it in the hotel after. In the Philippines the crowds are super receptive, you feel like rockstars. Sometimes performing in outer-city punk shows, things can be a bit DIY. In Japan the sound teams and equipment is top notch so you’re always happy with your sound on stage. We have seen both sides of the spectrum in Asia. Most challenging part of touring? Dealing with hangovers from free local beer

Who are you listening to at the moment?

I have been listening to some heavier stuff, Defeater, Killing the Dream and Gideon, but also punk bands Like Pacific and newer Propaghandi albums. I found a 2004 Melbourne band called ‘Away from Now’ on Spotify last month and have been playing a bunch of their stuff.

What do you like to do away from music?

I like reading, working out, yoga and building my businesses (I am currently working in the cannabis industry developing consumer products and doing music events)

What’s planned for the remainder of 2021?

We are filming our music video as soon as lockdowns are over. Maybe we can do a domestic tour to north Thailand. Hopefully another band bonding trip to the beach to write new songs later this year. The band is hugely supportive of each other even without shows to play.

Favourite food and place to hangout?

Bangkok has so many places to eat, so much variety, it’s hard to choose a favourite… but one I always bring friends is Barcelona Gaudi, a delicious Spanish tapas restaurant in Asoke built in Gaudi style. Best Thai food? Nearly every street has someplace new to try.

https://www.facebook.com/stayawakeofficial

https://www.instagram.com/stayawakepunks/

https://music.apple.com/th/album/portraits-ep/1559884920

(P O R T R A I T S  on Apple Music)

https://stayawakeofficial.bandcamp.com/album/portraits

Following the release of their debut EP ‘Friends’ in 2020, Adelaide’s pop-punk outfit Wing Defence is back on the court with the video for their latest single ‘Greener Pastures‘ (watch HERE).

‘Greener Pastures’ is the spicy comeback from South Australia’s ‘Best Group’ (as awarded at the 2020 SAM Awards) accompanied with fierce and honest lyrics. The incredibly catchy new number is a powerful nod to anyone that’s ever felt trapped in a job where you’re overworked, rarely appreciated and under-paid. 

Since its release only a few weeks back, the track has been played on Triple J’s Home & Hosed, Triple J Unearthed’s ‘Tops’ and has received love from Pilerats, Dave Ruby Howe – as well as being added to playlists including Spotify’s Local Noise, Domestic La La’s Tuna Tuesday,  Home & Hosed on Spotify + more!

“You’d be pretty lucky if you’ve avoided a situation where you’ve been treated unfairly by your boss or a colleague… It’s incredibly frustrating and upsetting when this happens and you just want to tell them where to go, which most of the time, you can’t! That’s what this song is all about — a way of releasing all the frustration around the things you can really never say.” states guitarist Benny Tamblyn.

Formed in 2018 by Skye Walter and Paige Court, the indie act has been quick to generate hype around their punchy bubblegum-punk melodies and distinctive Australian sound. Since their debut release, ‘Stuck’ in 2018, Wing Defence rapidly positioned itself as one of South Australia’s most exciting new exports. Within twelve months they received national praise after performances at  BIGSOUND, Groovin’ The Moo and Laneway Festival (Triple J Unearthed Winner, 2018) and toured the country with Polish Club and The VANNS.

Recorded at Depict Studios & mixed by Wade Keighran (Wolf & Cub and Polish Club) at Rolodex Studios, ‘Greener Pastures’ is the beginning of a new direction from the band, who are using their latest single to formally introduce touring musicians, Benny Tamblyn, Anthony Costanzo and Miles Sly to the Wing Defence line-up. Lead vocalist Skye Walter elaborates, “They’ve always been WD’s at heart and we’ve been through a lot together, so we figured now was the perfect time to bring them along for the ride with us”.

With big plans for 2021 and beyond, Wing Defence have recently signed a distribution deal with Korean music distribution company Sound Republica and are on the Dock 7 Records label in Germany. 

‘Greener Pastures’ is the band’s first release of 2021, with a sophomore EP teased for 2022

(answers by Skye Walter)

Where are you currently based? 

Adelaide, South Australia.

How did you first start playing music?

I knew how to sing but needed an instrument to help me write music. So I picked up a guitar and started playing it. And then, a bunch of awesome friends and musicians came into my life and we began to make magic together… this is called Wing Defence. 

What’s been happening recently?

We signed to a great record label in South Korea called Sound Republica. That was very exciting. Other than that, writing new tunes, going to work, eating, sleeping, repeating.

Your new single ‘Greener Pastures’ is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting?

Benny (our guitarist and producer) wrote this one. He’s fed up with his job, if you can’t tell! Haha. 

How did you go about writing Greener Pastures?

Benny wrote it in a moment of pure frustration and anger… great time to write a bloody banger of a tune! Thanks Benny’s shit job, you’re the best! 

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

Recorded most of it in Benny’s bedroom studio, then we headed to Depict Studios with the legend that is Lachy to record the live drums and bass. We then sent it over to Wade Keighran (Wolf and Cub & Polish Club bassist) to mix and master. What a team!

Who are you listening to at the moment?

Dream Wife, The Grates, Avalanches new album, Yo La Tengo, Jeff Buckley… so many!

What do you like to do away from music?

Vanlife, Yoga teaching, playing with my beautiful one year old & eating delicious foods. 

Any gigs coming up? 

-Tonight at Jawbreaker with our great mates Bitchspawn and Yorke Heath.

-A regional show in Paigy’s home town, Port Pirie on May 28th.

-And then a really exciting one coming up that I’m not allowed to tell you about.

What’s planned for the remainder of 2021?

Release another single and hopefully play some more rad shows.

Favourite food and place to hangout?

My favourite food used to be pickled octopus but then I watched My Octopus Teacher and I can never eat it again… I have now replaced this with marinated asparagus spears (the crisp ones not the soft ones) and truck loads of spicy sauerkraut.

I like hanging out at home with my baby Billy, my partner Stevie and my mates. I also enjoy travelling in my Campervan.

 https://www.facebook.com/wingdefence

https://www.instagram.com/wingdefenceband/