So What’s Been Happening?

Ramona Sky Unplugged: New Singles, Live Clips & Festival Dreams Episode 197 features a lively chat with up‑and‑coming band Ramona Sky — their origins during COVID, recent singles (“Go”, “10 Seconds”, “Hypnotized”), live clips, music‑video visuals, and the band’s studio and songwriting process. We plug local Melbourne and Sydney gigs (including Bundoora Beats), discuss influences and touring, and wrap with the band’s plans for new releases, festival goals, and upcoming headline shows. Atmospheric, groovy, and effortlessly powerful, Naarm/Melbourne quartet Ramona Sky offer a unique vintage-infused sound and an electrifying performance. Established in late 2020, the band quickly carved a niche in Melbourne’s music scene, inspired by the sounds of 70’s rock ‘n roll with a modern groove-based twist. Shortly after releasing their debut self-titled EP in 2022, Ramona Sky were nominated for Best Group for the Music Victoria Awards, with recognition for their captivating and theatrical live shows which they have continued to uphold today. Since then, the band have released a string of independently released singles and music videos which have been added to rotation on MTV AU & NZ, as well as gained regular love and airplay on community radio stations. The band have played a countless amount of shows since their arrival, and have supported the likes of You Am I, Pacific Avenue, Psychedelic Porn Crumpets, The Terrys and Large Mirage to name a few, and have packed out every one of their anticipated headline shows. Amongst other achievements, they have also headlined a show for Leaps & Bounds Festival, organised a fundraiser show to help save SYN FM, and helped raise over $3000 for Musicians Making a Difference. Ramona Sky consists of powerhouse lead vocalist Chelsea Sharp, drummer & backing vocalist Jess Maio, guitarist Nick Thorne and bassist Giac Carbone. Join in the LIVE chat with Ramona Sky from 8:00pm AEDT on Tuesday 25th November.

Relays Unleashed: Shann Lions on Punk and Family Host Aaron sits down with Shann Lions of Relays to discuss the band’s new cover single “Get Free,” upcoming shows and the gritty, high-energy approach to recording and live performance. Shan talks candidly about his neurodivergent diagnoses, bonding with his son through music, DIY touring, funding challenges for live venues, and previews tracks from their forthcoming album. Formed in late 2023 on Djaara Country (Bendigo/Castlemaine), Relays are an unapologetically raw punk trio shaking up the Australian underground. Fronted by neurodivergent producer/guitarist Shann Lions, with Mik Weird on drums and El Wellard on bass, the band has built a reputation for chaotic, high-energy performances and fiercely DIY releases. Their self-titled debut album, recorded live to tape with Finn Keane (Wilco, Courtney Barnett), dropped in October 2024 to critical acclaim, international airplay, and a slot at Chopped Festival alongside Cosmic Psychos. Since then, Relays have completed a 23-date national tour, supported You Am I, and wrapped their second album — funded by Creative Victoria’s New Music Works — due mid-2026. With over 30,000 Spotify streams and a growing cult following, Relays continue to push boundaries. Their feral cover of The Vines’ “Get Free” (out October 30, 2025) and upcoming shows with The Meanies and The Smith Street Band cement their place as one of punk’s most vital voices. Relays are loud, relentless, and impossible to ignore. Join in the LIVE chat with Relay's Shann Lions from 8:00pm AEST on Thursday 20th November.

Host Aaron sits down with Tin Town for episode 195 to discuss their album Down in the Dirt, songwriting, harmonies, and standout tracks like "Before We Begin", "Things I Got From You", "Samson" and "These Days". The band talks about recording moments, personal influences, upcoming gigs and touring, and the emotional stories behind the songs, encouraging listeners to support their music and catch them live. in Town isn’t just a band — it’s a heartbeat.Born from the dust and corrugated iron of Port Adelaide’s Wool Stores Precinct, this wife-and-husband duo — Courtney Robb and Snooks La Vie — craft songs that cut deep and linger long. Their sound? Raw folk-country with a blues backbone.No gloss. No gimmicks. Just stripped-back storytelling and melodies that feel lived-in. Robb’s vocals are all grit and grace — honest, textured, and heavy with meaning.La Vie’s harmonica? It doesn’t just play — it haunts. One minute it’s aching, the next it’s slicing through the silence like a switchblade. After years of playing side by side, they’ve made it official: Tin Town is here.Inspired by the streets they walk and the stories they carry, their debut album Down in the Dirt is twelve tracks of unfiltered truth — recorded with Ryan Martin John at Cactus Cactus Sound. Think folk, country, and blues in equal measure.Best served with a glass of red, a quiet room, and nothing to prove. Tin Town sounds like real life — weathered, tender, and unapologetically authentic. 🎙️ LIVE chat with Tin Town — Tuesday 18th November, 8:00pm AEDT.Tune in. Strip it back. Feel every word. Check out Tin Town at https://www.tintown.com.au/ Watch the episode - https://bit.ly/47UqVoN  

From Kiss to The Revolation: Dean Whitman-Lamb's Comeback Host Aaron chats with Dean Whitman-Lamb of The Revolation about his musical journey from early influences like KISS and INXS to his time with Valve and new solo work. They discuss recent recordings — including "Tumblin' the Rough," "Born Again," "Liberty," and "Shattered" — the studio process, music videos, and forming a live band with help from friends like Rusty Brown from Electric Mary. The episode also touches on personal moments, including Dean's family struggles and his son Xander's cancer diagnosis and recovery, plus local gig recommendations, Electric Mary shout-outs, and encouragement to support live music and local artists. Melbourne’s own Dean Wittmann-Lamb isn’t just a singer/songwriter — he’s a rock survivor. Back in 2000, his band Valve got snapped up by the legendary Alberts label, signed by none other than Vanda & Young — the gods behind Aussie rock royalty. Fast-forward to the chaos of 2020. While Melbourne was locked down and the world hit pause, Dean hit record. With a little firepower from Rusty Brown of Electric Mary, the two laid down tracks that oozed soul and swagger — gritty rock anthems inspired by the likes of The Black Crowes, Free, Humble Pie, and Faces. By 2021, Dean was back in the studio, launching his new project: The Revolation. Three singles turned into ten. Acoustic sets turned into full-blown gigs. Raw. Real. Relentless. Since then, The Revolation has dropped 10 singles, 4 video clips, and smashed out 16 full-band gigs — plus 6 stripped-back acoustic shows where Dean bared the songs as they were born: raw, soulful, and unapologetically rock. They’ve shared the stage with Candlebox (USA) at The Corner Hotel, Electric Mary at Musicland, and Sisters Doll at Northcote Social Club. No fluff. Just amps, sweat, and soul. Now, The Revolation is heading back into the studio in Feb 2026 — with Rusty Brown once again behind the boards. “The soul of rock is not lost.” It’s alive. It’s loud. And it’s coming for you. 🔥 Join the LIVE chat with Dean — Thursday 13th November, 8:00pm AEDT. Plug in. Tune in. Feel it. Video episode - https://bit.ly/47I6WJX

Maxine Gillon Unveils 'Girl Songs' — Album Launch at The Tramway Episode 193 features a conversation with Maxine Gillon about her debut album, Girl Songs, its recording process, and the upcoming free launch at the Tramway with her band the Blue Jeans. The episode explores the album's lush arrangements and wall-of-sound influences, stripped-back acoustic takes recorded at Avery Studios, songwriting themes of desire and vulnerability, and Maxine's artistic influences and live approach. Maxine Gillon proves she’s a talented songwriting force to be reckoned with on her debut album ‘Girl Songs’ Melbourne solo artist Maxine Gillon announces her debut album ‘Girl Songs’. The album is written, arranged, performed, recorded and produced by herself, is mixed by Wade Keighran (Dust), John Lee (Laura Jean) and Paul Annison (Flyying Colours) and is mastered by William Bowden (Gotye). The album itself takes Australian indie-rock to expansive and majestic new territory with production and sonics inspired by 60’s Wall-of-sound, 80’s ethereal glitz and modern dream-pop. The lyrics throughout are unconventionally exceptional, and reflect her imaginative, queer, poetic and witty vocabulary. Maxine Gillon is a Melbourne-based singer-songwriter whose cerebral and intelligent approach to music sets her apart in the indie rock scene. Her compositions are rich in lyrical depth and musical complexity, drawing listeners into a world of introspective exploration. – Deb Pelser, Backseat Mafia (on ‘Lipstick’) Upcoming gig - November 14th, Tramway Hotel, Fitzroy (‘Girl Songs’ album launch w/ Mystery Shopper) (free), For kore on Maxine check out - https://maxinegillon.bandcamp.com/ Join in the LIVE chat with Maxine from 8:00pm AEST on Tuesday 11th November.

Episode 192 — A Man Called Son: Instrumental Calm & Mental Health Host Aaron previews local gigs, announces ticket giveaways and teases the upcoming milestone show 200, then sits down with Simon Pearlman (A Man Called Son) to discuss his new instrumental record, creative process, and mental-health themes. Blending the sun-drenched sounds of classic Australian rock with introspective storytelling, A Man Called Son, the project of multi-instrumentalist and producer Simon Pearlman continues to evolve. Drawing comparisons to Hoodoo Gurus, The Go-Betweens, and The Church, the music is rich with intricate guitar work, heartfelt vocals, and a uniquely atmospheric style rooted in Australian isolation. Simon talks about the making of Instrumental Health, his recording approach, shoegaze and ambient influences, and the forthcoming vocal album AutoTraumatic with singles like “Meds” and “No Time Like the Present,” plus livestream and Bandcamp recommendations. Join in the LIVE chat with Simon from 8:00pm AEST on Thursday 6th November.  

Al Matcott Unveils ‘Fake the Days Away’ — Blue Vinyl, Pedal Steel & Protest Episode 190: Host catches up with Al Matcott about his new album Fake the Days Away — the singles “All Night” and “There Is Much Wrong I Have Done,” the recording process at The Gem with producer Rob, and the band’s new addition Joe on pedal steel. They also discuss the album’s blue recycled vinyl, internet-inspired artwork, and the use of found footage in videos. Al talks upcoming shows and the album launch at Stay Gold on November 14 (with funds supporting Rising Tide), his plans for quieter songs and a heavier future project, and the everyday realities of life on the road and in the studio. Join in the LIVE chat with Al from 8:00pm AEST on Thursday 23rd October.  

Team Love Live: Inside the New Album, Gigs & 10-Year Plans Host Aaron Cusack talks with Team Love members Ruby and Tom about their new album, recent launch shows, and the stories behind singles like "Tomorrow Is a New Day" and "Winter." The conversation covers the band’s origins, recording process, and how life changes — including parenthood — shape their music. The episode also highlights upcoming gigs, the new Coburg venue The Graveyard, festival ambitions, and the band’s plans to celebrate their 10-year anniversary with returning past members and special performances. Victorian country/folk group Team Love return with their second album, Now Things Ain’t Coloured Rose, out September 12 on vinyl and digital. A follow-up to their acclaimed 2020 debut, the new record is a heartfelt collection for the hopeful and heartworn, blending poetic storytelling with rich harmonies and a distinctly Australian sound. Written during and after the pandemic, the band refined 26 songs down to 11, recorded across suburban Melbourne and rural Coomoora. The album explores themes of aging, shifting relationships, and life’s complexities, with moments of optimism woven through. Singles like Winter, Tomorrow is a New Day, and No Longer My Birthday showcase their evolving sound - from country-rock to introspective ballads - drawing comparisons to Big Thief, Waxahatchee, and Gillian Welch. Featuring contributions from Jake Holmes (pedal steel) and Christi Hodgkins (harmonica), the album is a raw and resonant journey through folk and country traditions, grounded in the landscapes of Victoria. Join us for a LIVE chat with Team Love's Ruby McGrath-Lester and Tom Thomas on Thursday 16th October from 8:00pm AEDT.

Ben Mastwyk & His Millions: Let Me At The Night Lights Up Melbourne On this episode Aaron chats with Ben Mastwyk about his new album Let Me At The Night, the creative energy behind The Millions, and the collaborative videos and limited-edition release. Ben explains his festival-ready vision, family-made clips and upcoming shows across Melbourne, Dashville and Tamworth. The episode also highlights local gigs (Sweet Talk at Howler, Bernadette Novembre supporting a Black Dog Institute benefit), the busy music week and a heartfelt reminder to check in on someone — ask “Are you okay?” and really listen. Let Me At The Night is a bit of a fantasy record for Ben Mastwyk – the Australian cosmic cowboy and interstellar troubadour. He really discovered the DNA of his band The Millions over the last few records, and this time, they all wanted to push the boundaries. Mastwyk was lucky enough to receive funding through a Creative Victoria Creative Works grant, which allowed him to really lean in and record the album he wanted to make, without cutting corners. Working with producer Michael Hubbard at The Shrimp Shack studio in Melbourne, Mastwyk initially set out to make a ‘90s country-inspired record—and in a way, he did. But instead of sticking strictly to that particular sonic palette, he found himself leaning back into the genre-bending, experimental approach he first explored with his original band in the actual ‘90s. "It’s still a country record in my eyes: narrative-based songs that explore the themes I’ve been circling in my writing for years," he says. "But we’ve really dialled up the experimentalism - pushed our sonic palette further than we ever have before!" We get a chance to chat to Ben LIVE about his new release LET ME AT THE NIGHT on Thursday 11th September from 8:00pm AEST, join in the chat anytime.

Trams, Tribute and Tangled Heartstrings - Jules Sheldon Episode 191 features Jules Sheldon and The Boundary Riders discussing the new album Electric Transport, a heartfelt tribute to Spencer P. Jones who this episode is dedicated to the memory of SPJ, which happens to be recorded on the date he was born, and the songs that shaped his sound. Jules talks about his tram obsession, songwriting as catharsis, favourite guitars, and upcoming tour dates while performing tracks like "Tramways in My Mind," "Uncles," and "When I’m Old." Jules Sheldon & The Boundary Riders Release New Album Electric Transport featuring Lead Single ‘Tramways In My Mind’ Melbourne alt-country artist Jules Sheldon returns with his fourth studio album, Electric Transport, backed by his new band The Boundary Riders. The album showcases Sheldon’s signature storytelling, blending jangly rock with punk-infused country, and draws inspiration from icons like Paul Kelly, John Prine, and R.E.M. The lead single, Tramways In My Mind, is a deeply personal track written during a difficult overseas tour, reflecting Sheldon’s connection to Melbourne’s trams and themes of comfort and nostalgia. Electric Transport explores themes of grief, memory, and resilience, with standout tracks including: ‘The Uncles’ – a tribute to mentors Spencer P. Jones and Brian Henry Hooper ‘Got Myself A Shadow’ – a love song to a family pet ‘When I’m Old’ – a poignant reflection on memory and identity Praised by peers like Kim Salmon and Mick Thomas, the album captures the raw energy of the band’s live performances and marks a triumphant return for Sheldon. Electric Transport is available now on CD, digital via Bandcamp, and streaming platforms. https://julessheldonmusic.bandcamp.com/ Join in the LIVE chat with Jules from 8:00pm AEST on Tuesday 28th October.  

Alcotomic Unplugged: From 90s Demos to the 8 Second Empire For Fans Of: Ash, The Lemonheads, You Am I, Weezer, Screamfeeder Host Aaron chats with John Freeman Baxter of Alcotomic about his backyard studio, the band’s new album 8 Second Empire, and the 90s Melbourne music scene that shaped their sound. They discuss songwriting rooted in old demos, authentic recording approaches, standout tracks like "Bridges," "Sunshine," "Tom Lee Park," and "Ruby Shoes," plus video-making, mental health themes, and plans to return to live gigs — with a reminder to support local venues and call a mate.  "Alcotomic not breaking left or right but enjoying the front-facing fun of singing over the revolutions of spinning guitars ...a ‘90s sound that might have slept under the Glebe Point Bridge." Bernard Zuel Alcotomic formed in Melbourne in 1996 after singer John Freeman Baxter left Holocene. Backed by producers Lindsay Gravina and David Price, the trio developed a distinctive blend of power pop and melodic rock, gaining airplay on triple j and community radio. Their track Living in Luxury featured on TV shows like Stingers and Good Guys, Bad Guys, and they were offered a record deal with Polygram, which fell through due to restructuring. Despite setbacks, the band continued recording and touring, appearing on ABC’s Recovery, signing with US label Not Lame Records, and showcasing at the 1998 Pacific Circle Music Conference. After disbanding in 2001, Alcotomic returned two decades later, sparked by Baxter rediscovering old demo tapes. Joined by Doug Lee Robertson (Icecream Hands) and Jay Pinfold (Juke Kartel), the band began recording again, releasing the comeback single Bridges, which gained over 10,000 Spotify plays in six weeks. Their new album, 8 Second Empire, reflects on the short attention spans of modern listeners. Tracks tackle serious themes: Hanging Out explores addiction, Pale & Thin addresses bullying and body image, and Tom Lee Park reflects on teenage struggles. Seventeen and Ruby Shoes showcase their melodic rock roots, while Sunshine—the lead single—deals with mental health and the longing for light. Rejecting AI and overproduction, the band focused on raw, authentic performances.  Their sound blends 70's influences like Big Star with 90s' acts such as You Am I and Weezer, proving Alcotomic’s enduring relevance in 2025. Join us for a LIVE chat with John Freeman Baxter on Tuesday 7th October from 8:00pm AEST.

From Back Deck Gigs to Toasty Anthems: Plastic Cheeses on Episode 187 This episode of So What’s Been Happening features a lively conversation with indie trio Plastic Cheeses — their origins, new singles, music videos and standout tracks like "Pandemic of Stupid" and "Mid‑Strength Crisis." The show also covers upcoming gigs and festivals around Victoria and NSW, band name stories, mental‑health check‑ins, record‑collecting anecdotes and a call to support local live music and venues. Since deciding to try and be a real band, Plastic Cheeses have played a bunch of gigs in the big smoke and regionally, released four singles, put out a couple of homemade DIY film clips, had a few spins on community radio both locally and interstate, sold a few t-shirts and stubby holders and far outweighed their initial goal of playing one gig on the back deck for a party. Plastic Cheeses’ chiming guitars, jangling riffs, bouncing basslines, laidback rhythms and sunshiny vocal harmonies are the perfect soundtrack for easing into a few quiet ones at your local. Lethargic and cathartic - they write simple, catchy songs about the happenings and observations of everyday life with a distinct tinge of Australiana. Getting older sucks. You wake up one morning and everything hurts - your neck, your back, your… you get the picture. You find it harder to stand up for long periods of time. You find it harder to stay awake. You’ve lost your piss fitness. Hangovers hurt waaaay more than they used to. Some begin to experience these pitfalls of aging, admit defeat and settle into getting old and boring without much of a fight. Some decide to still try and party like they’re in their 20s and age disgracefully. Plastic Cheeses are from the latter school of thinking. Plastic Cheeses’ latest single, ‘Mid Strength Crisis’ is an ode to being okay with getting older, but not being okay with some of the stereotypical behaviours that are meant to come with it (i.e. sitting at home alone drinking mid strength beer). Join us for a LIVE chat and a few tunes on Thursday 2nd October from 8:00pm AEST.

Dashville Skyline Preview: The Festival Bringing Live Music Home Episode 186 previews Dashville Skyline with an in-depth chat with Matt Johnson of Magpie Diaries and conversations with artists Ben Mastwyk, Joyce Prescher and Meghan Maike. The show covers the festival's grassroots spirit, Magpie Diaries' new album recorded at the Tractor Shed, and highlights from the 11th-year lineup (Oct 3–5, Hunter Valley). The episode blends interviews, live clips and festival-ready updates — celebrating community-driven music, emerging talent, and the intimate boutique vibe that makes Dashville Skyline a must-attend event. Dashville is a secluded bushland venue and campground, located at Lower Belford in the Hunter Valley, Wonnarua, NSW. It’s also a grass roots cultural enterprise, embracing, connecting and inspiring a community through music, art and events. A number of annual festivals and smaller events are held at the unique purpose built site, added with a wonderful wide community of people who come to enjoy, embrace, perform, create, learn and grow from them. Dashville curate and promote a number of boutique music, art and food festivals annually, along with various one off concerts and events throughout the year. Dashville Skyline is a favourite for those who like a bit of cool oozed over their country, with a myriad of artistic collaborations, family activities & laid back old-school country-inspired fun. Tickets to the festival - https://www.dashville.com.au/  

Valerie Trails Unveiled: Inside 'Winter Palace' — New Album & Tour Dates Episode 185 of So What's Been Happening features Andrew Bower of The Valery Trails discussing their new album Winter Palace, the recording at their Buffalo Speedway studio, singles like "Everything Is Temporary" and "First Kiss," and upcoming shows across October. The episode also covers band lineup changes, video visuals, influences and plans for U.S. radio, plus a round-up of local gigs and festival news — a concise look at the band’s creative process and live plans. For Fans Of: R.E.M, Hüsker Dü, The Replacements, The Hold Steady The Valery Trails (Brisbane, QLD) return with their first new music since the release of their fourth album, The Sky Is Blue, in 2022. On the back of the album's strong airplay and positive reviews, the band toured the east coast of Australia, with new guitar recruit Tim Steward (Screamfeeder) along for the ride. Previously, as a trio, Andrew Bower (vocals/guitars), Sean Bower (bass), and Dan McNaulty (drums), released their debut album Ghosts and Gravity (2012), Buffalo Speedway (2014), and Chameleon Bones (2016). The three albums’ melodic and atmospheric indie rock received college and specialty airplay in the US, strong community radio support in Australia, and critical acclaim from outlets such as PopMatters, The Big Takeover, and many other international websites. On the new album, Winter Palace, there’s plenty of The Valery Trails’ trademark guitar jangle and crunch, but they also explore some diverse styles and genres, including synth-pop stylings, horn-driven retro flavours, and some straight-up rock and roll, across the 13 songs. Heading into the band’s second decade, The Valery Trails continue to strive towards their goal to build a body of work on their own terms. With Andrew at the helm, and through their collective experiences, influences, and musicianship, they've created another gem of an Australian indie rock album. Great to get the chance to chat to Andrew Bower from The Valery Trails LIVE on Tuesday 23rd September from 8:00pm AEST, join in the chat anytime.

Crayon Shades Live: Moderate Lovers on Songs, DIY Clips & N.W.A. Surprises Aaron sits down with Mick Wilson of Moderate Lovers to discuss the band’s debut EP Crayon Shades, track-by-track stories (including “Lucy’s Gardening,” “Lost City” and a surprise N.W.A. cover), DIY video-making and songwriting influences. The episode also shares upcoming gig dates, a mental-health shout-out, and a reminder to support indie music via Bandcamp Friday. For Fans Of: Pavement, Screamfeeder, Dinosaur Jr, Swervedriver Moderate Lovers are an indie pop/rock three-piece band from Sydney who write skewed melodic tunes with a pinch of jangle, a dash of distortion, and a healthy serving of observational dry wit. Alongside musical touchstones such as Pavement and Dinosaur Jr, you can hear the rich lineage of Australian indie music, as well as various bands from Flying Nun Records, in their sonic DNA. Indeed, their own musical resume includes time spent treading the boards with local bands such as Soap Star Joe, Starky, Restless Leg, and Froggy Prinze. Forming in 2024 after a few drinks at the Townie (aka The Town Hall Hotel, Newtown), Mick Wilson, Saul Foster, and Adam Taylor began crafting Wilson's musical sketches into a full set of indie rock earworms. In short time, they started taking those songs to live stages and appreciative audiences across the inner west of Sydney. The band’s first single, ‘Lost City’, burst onto Australian community radio sounding like Swervedriver fronted by Robert Pollard of Guided By Voices, with a brilliant 'lost Sydney music scene' video in tow. They quickly followed it up with 'Lucy's Gardening Again', a song overflowing with sweet harmonies and jangly guitars reminiscent of the '60s British Invasion sound and modern exponents such as Teenage Fanclub. “Firmly grounded in a nineties-style velvet glove over a steel fist, with a sound redolent of fellow compatriots You Am I or, from further afield, Dinosaur Jnr or Pavement, ‘Lost City’ hides within its impassioned melodic delivery and wall of sound a glimmer of hope and resilience.” - Backseat Mafia We get a chance to chat to Mick Wilson from Moderate Lovers LIVE on Tuesday 16th September from 8:00pm AEST, join in the chat anytime.

Behind the Music with Temperate Join us for an electrifying episode as we dive into the world of Temperate, a dynamic band from Coffs Harbour. In this engaging conversation, we explore their upcoming gigs, touring plans, and their exhilarating live performances, including a unique mix of acoustic and rock influences. Meet the band members - Finn, Levi, and Taylor - and learn about their journey, the creative process, and how Taylor's powerful voice has added a new dimension to their sound. Discover the challenges and joys of band life, from crafting memorable music videos to the thrill of live gigs. Don't miss this inside look at what makes Temperate stand out in the Australian music scene, and get ready to rock with them on their upcoming tour! Full video episode available to watch - https://bit.ly/4lVrTXp

Rock Renaissance with Blackbirds FC: A New Era of Sound Join us for an in-depth conversation on EP181 with Gina and Jeremy from Blackbirds FC as they share their excitement about their upcoming album launch at George Lane. Discover the creative process behind their rockier third album and get a sneak peek into the unique sound that sets this release apart from their previous works. Revisit their journey from an impromptu Zoom chat during the dark days of COVID to hitting the stage with electrifying energy and passion. Explore their collaborative efforts with producer Cameron McKenzie and the addition of guitarist Jeff Baker, which has introduced an invigorating new dynamic to their music. Hear about the joys and challenges of crafting music that resonates locally while drawing influences from iconic bands like Midnight Oil and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. As they prepare for a special launch event featuring the Penny Hewson Band, you won't want to miss this opportunity to experience the magic of live performances that bring their music to life. Tune in to hear more about their aspirations for future tours and recordings, their reflections on the Melbourne music scene post-COVID, and their plans to keep the spirit of live music thriving. Don’t miss their heartfelt discussion about the joy of creating music that continues to inspire and entertain. Loved this episode recorded on 16th July 2024. Enjoy if you would like to watch the video version, its available here - https://bit.ly/3TTqViB More on Blackbirds FC check out - https://blackbirdsfc.com LAUNCH TICKETS - https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1412604

Unveiling the Artist: Robert F. Cranny's Music Journey Welcome to Episode 180 of 'So What's Been Happening', where host Aaron Cusack engages in a captivating conversation with musician Robert F. Cranny. Dive into Robert's fascinating musical journey, discover the story behind his intriguing middle name, and explore the formation and evolution of his band, Party Crashers. Enjoy insightful discussions on the impact of live performances, the significance of vinyl and tapes, and anecdotes from Robert's early days with music. Tune in for a special treat as Robert shares tracks from Party Crashers' debut album and his recent solo projects, ensuring a delightful mix of music and nostalgia. Don't miss out on this enriching episode filled with music, life stories, and a sneak peek into the local music scene. You can also watch the full episode - https://bit.ly/44wZWhn

"Brian Estepa's Musical Journey: From Manila to Melbourne" Join us for episode 179 of "So What's Been Happening" as we sit down with the talented Brian Estepa to discuss his latest album, "I See It Now." This episode dives into Brian's musical journey, from his early influences in Manila to recording his seventh album across continents. Listen in as we explore the creative process behind his new songs, the importance of staying true to your musical roots, and the excitement of live performances. Don't miss this engaging chat about the joys and challenges of indie music, complete with a look at the vibrant gig scene and a special live performance from Brian himself. Across 'I See It Now', Estepa documents an arc of personal development where themes of self-doubt, false starts, renewal and optimism form the basis for his songs that poetically connect the personal to the universal. It's all set against Estepa's consummate marriage of indie rock and power pop where melody and sonic guitar excursions exist in perfect harmony. Bryan has a strong connection with his Spanish band and producer JJ Extremera, and he'd long dreamed of being able to record with them. The importance of Extremera's role in the making of the album can't be understated. Estepa's excitement at sending the producer demos of songs fuelled and inspired his songwriting, and then when it came to recording, Extremera was invaluable creative counterweight to Estepa's approach and ideas. Though the holy triumvirate of The Beatles, Wilco, and Big Star are still in Estepa's DNA, the musical palette has clearly widened and deepened. We catch up with Bryan LIVE on Facebook and YouTube and discuss his musical journey. Join in the chat on Thursday 3rd July from 8:00pm AEST.

The Power of Music and Mental Health: A chat with Little Faith's Jon Baxter One not to miss, it's time to "Check In Tuesday" with special guest Jon Baxter from Little Faiths with a purpose to stop the stigma around mental health and normalise discussions about mental health in particular. Join us for an enriching evening episode as we dive into the world of music and mental health with special guest Jon Baxter from Little Faiths. On this Tuesday, the 1st of July, we explore how music can be a powerful connector and healer during challenging times, especially as we embrace the "group hug" metaphor for the month. This episode highlights the importance of supporting friends and family, particularly during the financially and mentally testing end-of-financial-year period. Jon shares his personal journey, discussing mental health with refreshing honesty and how his band is affectionately known as "The Men's Shed." Through their unique sound and songs, Little Faiths provides a safe space for emotional expression and camaraderie. We also discuss exciting upcoming gigs and the joy of live music experiences. Listen as Jon enlightens us on how dropping in for a chat and a cuppa can strengthen bonds and spread kindness. Whether you're in it for the music or the insightful conversation, this episode promises to inspire.