So What’s Been Happening?

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.

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.

In episode 177 of "So What's Been Happening," we dive into the vibrant world of Melbourne's own punk band, Wombat. Join us for an exciting conversation with the band members as they share their experiences, musical influences, and the philosophy behind their energetic performances. From the story behind their EP to their relentless gig schedule and the unique dynamics between the band members, this episode promises an insider's look at a band that leaves it all on stage. Ready to discover what makes Wombat tick? Tune in and prepare for an auditory adventure that captures the essence of live Aussie rock. We also highlight upcoming gigs in Melbourne and beyond, featuring some of the most anticipated music events of the month. Whether you're a regular at the Tote, a fan of live punk energy, or just curious about the behind-the-scenes of band life, this episode is packed with insights and anecdotes that resonate with music lovers everywhere. Don't miss it! Rewatch episode on YouTube - https://bit.ly/4kH5vkh  

Celebrate Live Music: A Colourful Journey Through Gigs and Stories Join us for Episode 176 of "So What's Been Happening" as we dive into the vibrant world of music with The Electorate. Recorded on a chilly night in June 2025, this episode brings warmth through lively conversations and upcoming gig highlights that showcase the ever-evolving music landscape. Explore memorable anecdotes about the band's past, Josh Morris' and Nick Kennedy's personal journeys through music, and how they finally came together to create some of the freshest sounds today. With a keen focus on live music, from iconic venues to intimate gigs, we delve into the heart of what makes this scene so magical. THE ELECTORATE ARE THRILLED TO RELEASE THEIR NEW ALBUM, BY DESIGN, OUT NOW VIA LOVE AS FICTION RECORDS. The members of The Electorate (Eliot Fish, Josh Morris & Nick Kennedy) have all been part of the Australian music scene for a number of years, with ties to Big Heavy Stuff, Knievel, The Apartments, Imperial Broads, Atticus, and the Templebears. This invaluable experience has shaped their sound and informed their astute musical choices, evident on their 2020 debut album, You Don’t Have Time to Stay Lost, which received a 4.5-star review from Rolling Stone. Their latest album, By Design, produced by Wayne Connolly (Teskey Brothers, Babe Rainbow, Underground Lovers), marks the latest culmination of their musical journeys. Each of the album's singles deliberately highlighted a different side of the band — 'Face of a Giant' is angular, ethereal and metronomic, 'Peace Love & Kindness' is frantic, sharp, and political, 'The Great Divide' is vulnerable, honest, and stripped back to its bare bones. Get ready for a thrilling evening filled with musical insights, fond memories, and an exciting journey through the world of The Electorate. Full video episode - https://bit.ly/3HxzFHX

Rocking Out with Private Function: A Journey Through Music and Chaos. Join us for an exciting dive into the world of Australia's Punk-pub band Private Function, as we catch up with band members Lauren and Aidan. In this episode, we explore the journey of the band, their new album release ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ (SHRUG), and their unique approach to music and live performances. Discover the inside stories behind their latest tracks and music videos, and hear about the chaotic energy that makes their gigs unforgettable. Tune in for a conversation filled with humour, music insights, and a celebration of live music culture. Full video episode - https://bit.ly/4dbVmck

Join us for an exhilarating episode as we dive into the vibrant world of live music with our guest, XANI. After a brief hiatus, the spotlight is on Aaron's ambitious challenge - experiencing 50 bands in just 30 days to celebrate turning 50 in May. Along with exploring Xani's musical adventure, we delve into the creation of her newest album "Keep Moving." Discover how her unique blend of genres and artistic influences inspire her music. Plus, get the inside scoop on upcoming gigs, including an exciting album launch. Highlights: Explore the musical journey behind "Keep Moving," a raw and authentic new album. Hear from Xani about her transition from classical violin to a dynamic, multi-genre artist. Find out about upcoming gigs that you won't want to miss, including an album launch and performances from talented artists like Xani, Jess Hitchcock and Elana Stone at the Northcote social club on 16th May 2025. Experience the magic of Xani's music and her passion for live performances. Support local music and be part of the vibrant music scene! YOUTUBE LIVE - https://bit.ly/3YIb6xP FACEBOOK LIVE - https://bit.ly/4dd34TE

Get Ready to Rock with 6V6s: An Electrifying Episode on New Music and Live Performance The 173rd episode of 'So What's Been Happening' dives into the electrifying world of emerging rock band 6V6s as they gear up for their Saturday night launch at Melbourne's iconic venue, The Gem. Hosted by Aaron, the episode features an enriching conversation with band members Willie J. Maxwell, Seb Robertson, and Callum Leavey. The trio shares insights into their creative process, the exciting journey of creating new music, and their upcoming projects. Listeners are in for a treat with snippets of their high-energy tracks, including 'Mad Woman Boogie,' 'Love on the Loose,' and 'Evil Woman' plus a few more. As the band recounts their exciting escapades, studio experiences, and live shows, they also discuss their future plans of an East Coast tour and their aspirations to perform on global stages. The episode is a must-listen for rock enthusiasts eager to discover new sounds and stories from Melbourne's vibrant music scene. As 6V6s prepare to set the stage ablaze, fans are encouraged to grab their tickets early for this not-to-be-missed event!   YOUTUBE LIVE - https://bit.ly/4hm05sr FACEBOOK LIVE - https://bit.ly/41Qi6dX

Breaking the Yo-Yo Cycle: Consistency in Fitness and Mental Health Join us for Episode 172 of "So What's Been Happening," where we dive into the journey of self-improvement with guest Aaron Lapira from Body Revival. As the new year unfolds, many of us struggle with keeping up with resolutions and setting consistent goals for both physical and mental health. Tune in to hear Aaron's insights on overcoming obstacles, establishing small yet impactful habits, and staying motivated amidst life's challenges. This episode encourages listeners to embrace the little victories, appreciate lived experiences, and start their path to wellness one step at a time.

"Versace Vibes: Behind the Music and Madness" In this lively episode 171 of "What's Been Happening," we dive into the world of the "Versace Boys", a dynamic duo known for their infectious energy and musical talent. Aaron gets a chance to chat with Will Henderson and Alex 'Coasty' as they share their journey from busking in markets to making waves at major festivals. These social media-savvy musicians reveal their creative process, inspirations, and the fun behind their hit tracks like "Vegan" and "Nails." Tune in to hear about their latest projects, upcoming gigs, and the vibrant live performances that keep audiences smiling. Whether you're a fan of eclectic sounds, engaging lyrics, or just love a good story, this episode is a must-listen. Join us for an inside look at one of Australia's most entertaining and promising musical acts. Full video episode - https://bit.ly/4k7J3B3

A Journey from Campfire Melodies to Chart Success Join us for an engaging episode with talented musician Dakota East, as she shares her unique journey from humble beginnings on a Canadian island to becoming a prominent figure in the Americana country music scene. Dakota reveals her early musical influences and the crucial support she received from her family, which helped her navigate through the challenging times, especially during the COVID-19 lockdowns. We delve into her creative process, exploring how her songwriting skills evolved over time, and how she collaborates with other musicians to produce her acclaimed music. Dakota also discusses the significance of her first big hit, "Runaway", and how it set the stage for her burgeoning career. Discover Dakota's passion for supporting local music communities through initiatives like Nashville Fridays and her thoughts on the future of country music, all while she continues to carve her path with incredible talent and determination. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that highlights Dakota's artistic resilience and her commitment to connecting with audiences through heartfelt melodies and authentic storytelling.   Rewatch video episode - https://bit.ly/4hTBdc8

"Jack Hanley: The Crazy Running Man's Epic Journey" In this captivating episode, we delve into the incredible journey of Jack Hanley, famously known as the Crazy Running Man. As we kick off 2025, Jack shares his motivating voyage from battling personal demons to setting extraordinary running records. Driven by a passion for mental health advocacy, Jack embraced the challenge of running 100 kilometers every day for 100 days, accumulating an astonishing 10,000 kilometers. His journey is not just a personal quest but a mission to raise awareness and funds for mental health, aiming to inspire others to connect through movement. Join us as Jack recounts pivotal moments that led him to transform his life, the supportive community that fueled his ambition, and the pivotal role of physical activity in overcoming mental struggles. Discover Jack's ongoing work with Miles for Smiles, a movement dedicated to promoting mental health awareness and support through communal running. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, community, and the transformative power of running.

Celebrate Valentine's with Skyscraper Stan's New Album! Join us for Episode 169 of "So What's Been Happening" as we welcome back the talented Skyscraper Stan. In this Valentine's special, we catch up with Stan about his soon-to-be-released album, reflecting on its unique blend of romantic and eclectic tunes. Discover the stories behind some of the standout tracks and get a sneak peek into the creative process. As Valentine's Day approaches, Stan encourages us to think beyond traditional gifts and instead, support live music by attending gigs and festivals. He highlights the Riverboats Festival, a must-see event featuring his band's performance, promising an unforgettable musical experience. Tune in to learn more about the collaborations, upcoming shows, and the community spirit that drives Skyscraper Stan's artistry. Don't miss this engaging conversation, full of insights and exciting announcements for the music lovers out there!