Birth of 13 new Cubs 

The thing I am most looking forward to right now is finally getting to hear an album that I have been wanting for years now. A few singles here and there, EPs and even a few name changes, but 2016 is the year Brizzy indie/pop band currently named 'Cub Sport' are gracing us with a full length album. The excitement is pretty high in my books.

I first discovered Tim Nelson's voice many years ago, when the band Tim Nelson and the Cub Scouts had a beautiful track called 'Pinocchio' up on Unearthed (I think away). I also think he was part of a three piece called Hello Yoko and I'm pretty sure I still have them on my iPod. Anyway, out seeing gigs 'Cub Scouts' (their next evolution/name change) keep jumping up as the supports for many acts here in Melbourne. Overall, I believe I have seen them about 3 times within a few years. I have always liked their sound, which was fun indie/pop. Every time they popped up, I would be like “oh these guys again, I like these guys!”. They released a few beauty singles such as 'Pool' + 'Evie' + 'Paradise' + 'Do You Hear'. Which helped feed my appetite, but when I'm extra hungry I check out their social media platforms. Now if you are into cute dogs and watching people eat, then I suggest you check out their Instagram and especially their YouTube channel. There is plenty of odd entertainment there.

This band has really developed over their music career and people are starting to really notice.

We have already been exposed to two bloody rippa singles that will be on their new album This Is Our Vice, 'I can't Save You and Only Friend. Both are more mature than previous works, which I'm guessing that this is the direction they may want to head in. They mix catchy riffs with genuine, mature lyrics and concepts so well, that the listener can either jump around or kick back with a beer and hear what they have to say. Check out right I can't Save You and Only Friend here.

The Album is droppin here in Oz this Friday the 4^th of March. It's worth scouting out your local record store to pick it up, thus supporting our own talent. Or order it here. They are also hitting the road all over OZ during March/April and Europe later in the year!

Thank you Missy and Tim

Music is powerful. Has the ability to take you somewhere or stab you right in the feels. Music can be a very influential tool for story telling and can help get a message across that needs to be heard. Musicians for many years, have used music to show the wider community about social and political issues, from the 'Blues' speaking about life under slavery to 'Folk' standing up to injustices and violence. No one can escape a great song with a powerful message. Whilst most pop songs played on the radio these days are about sex, partying and getting rich. I feel in this last week we have been graced with two songs that broke the mould and spoke truth, giving the artist a chance to speak directly to their fan base about an issue that is so important to them.

I think it's a great change to see protest songs and songs with real issues being discussed being made in this day and age, especially with how easy it is to get a lot of backlash on social media. It's a risk and I think if you have the right message, it's a risk willing to take. Many of us sometimes avoid the News, as it can be very distressing with all the hate and death, but when your favourite artist speaks to you through song, it's harder to avoid.

I want you to listen to the two tracks below and focus on their message. Both speak about different issues but both very important.  

Beloved singer/songwriter Missy Higgins just released a power and sad track named 'Oh Canada' . The track tells the story of Alan Kurdi, his brother, mother and father escaping their dangerous war torn county by boat for a better life in Canada. The overcrowded boat capsized, killing many on board including Alan, his brother and mother. The touching and horrible photograph of three year old Alan washed up on the Greek beach, touched many when it was shown on the News. Higgins tells the story from the view of Adbullah, Alan's father who survived the cold waters. This song humanises the global Asylum Seeker crisis.  

Comedian and musician Tim Minchin also released a charity single called 'Come Home ( Cardinal Pell) asking Cardinal George Pell to come back to Australia to give evidence to the ongoing Royal Commission's investigation on Institutionalresponses to child sexual abuse. Minchin has a strong opinion that the truth needs to come out and that Pell has the responsibility to be present for the investigation. Pell has lodged that he is too sick to travel from Europe to Australia. The song has been making a huge impact in our media, as Minchin doesn't hold back with his words. The song has even made it to number one on the Aussie iTune's chart.  

I just want to say, we need artists like this in our music scene. Thank you Missy and Tim for being brave and standing up for what you believe in. Hopefully this blog post will expose your message to just a few more people.         

Blind Folded Night In Melbourne's Music Scene

Last Saturday night I went out with a few friends to a pretty hip bar/music venue called The Workers Club in Fitzroy, Melbourne. We were there for dinner, to see a band that most of us have seen before and of course for a good time. We certainly achieved all this, but for me there was a little cherry on top. Something that I knew existed but haven't seen for a while. Something that made me proud. Something that made me feel lucky.

Recently I have spent my $$$ on medium/larger musical acts, where they have a firm fan base and supports have been catered for them. Nothing wrong with this, just you already know what you are in store for and if you have no clue on the supports then there is a huge chance they will be within your music bracket. It's comforting especially with ticket prices these days. But it's nice to go out and experience the unknown. You never know, you may be blown away.

So we went to the Workers Club to see The Twoks, a band my sister first saw a few years back at our local music hub, Sookies Lounge and raved about them. Saturday night was the second time I've seen them and I was keen for another dose of their antics. The band consists of two, a vocalist/violinist and a drummer. Gee the violin amazes me, I can't even comprehend how it all works. Played right it sounds amazing, but played wrong it's a screeching mess, certainly a fine line. But in this case the two instruments bring a whole lot of power and I could listen for hours. The Twoks' energy, spirit and talent just oozes over the crowd and is always lapped up. I especially liked watching the intenseness of the drummer's stare for his brightly dressed band mate. Something going on there, not sure? You have to go out and see The Twoks live, it's an experience that you just need.

The Twoks were the middle act of the night, with two other acts that I hadn't heard of before on the line up. This is where I got my cherry on top. The night was a roller coaster and I was riding it blind folded. The three acts were so different, but it worked so well. When we first walked into the venue, Georgia Spain was trancing the crowd with her oddly sweet sounding voice, finger picking and lyrics of self doubt. There wasn't another sound in the small room, people were just sitting down and enjoying Georgia pour her heart out. It felt nice to just watch, without all the pushing and shoving you can get at larger venues with bigger acts.

Then the Twoks jumped on stage and turned it up. Playing their pop dance music, which creates the happy. During a giant instrumental, one guy runs up to the stage and breaks into a rapid dance spasm. This encourages others who wanted to dance but were too scared to be first, to jump up and boogie. Soon the room is full of movement.

Sadly The Twoks ended, and ScrimshawFour ( The Scrims) took the stage. I noticed the band was full of strings with a double bass, violin, banjo and an electric guitar. Not really sure what to expect, I got another beer and was ready for whatever might happen. A totally different sound, like something that would be played in a Tarantino movie. I guess a Blue grass/Gypsy vibe. The lead singer's voice was deep and gravely, and with a party of springs it was an overwhelming sounds that encouraged foot stomping. It was so much fun and at this stage everyone was committed.  

I walked out thinking wow, a prime time Summer Saturday night in a trendy part of Melbourne and you can be granted with three different acts that don't play on any commercial radio stations, nor trying to market to a certain genre. They are creating something unique and in the process people jump on board and have some fun. A night full of adventure and it made me feel damn proud and lucky to live where I live.

Lastlings + my love of sibling acts 

As I am writing this post I am listening to 'Blackstar', Bowie's final gift to the world. Can I just say, Bowie was a phenomenal character, a true showman, a pioneer, a visionary and an artist. R.I.P.

I don't hide the fact from anyone who knows me that I have a massive soft spot for bro/sis bands, especially the mighty fine Angus and Julia Stone. Maybe because my early early teens (12), my own sister and I were that close making it a band, conveniently named 'Brother&Sister'. So when I heard that 'Lastings' were also a bro/sis duo I almost wept. How can these families have so much musical talent, when mine, whilst full amazing people, have none?

On Facebook they list their genre as dreamy. Hit the nail on the head there. Amy and Joshua Dowdle, who make up Aussie duo 'Lastlings' have grabbed a bit of attention lately. They have been played on Triple J and performed at a few festivals. Their track 'Chills' will do just that. As you lay back into a fluffy cloud, Amy's angel like voice will calm the soul. I have had this on repeat for nearly 24 hrs (until 'Blackstar') and I ain't over it yet. Their other available tracks 'Verona' and 'Wavelength' are equally as pleasant, full of glossy comforting synths and beautiful vocals. The Gold Coast siblings are unsigned at present, and have a few tracks up on both Soundcloud and Unearthed for you to check out. They have also just released an EP called 'Unreality' just the other day that shows two new songs. you can listen here I see big things from them. They are only new to the game and Amy is still in high school. Just wait and see, but I'm sure the Aussie music scene will embrace them and we will all know their name soon enough. Look how cool they are!

Chills

Verona 

Wavelength 

SUNDAY MORNING SONG

One for Sunday mornings, when you have absolutely nothing planned except rolling around in the sheets dreaming about the good life. Where all the big problems in your existence disappear for just a moment, and the only big decision is whether you should skip breakfast to have a giant lunch. Whilst all theses lovely activities and peachy thinking is happening, blast Borns and Petite Meller's cover of the ever soon chilled classic Sunday Morning from Velvet Underground. The original may be in my top five favourite songs of all time, but this cover just adds a little more sparkle to it. The duet doesn't try and change the song, and why would they? It's perfect! Instead they just sing it with a smile and create a little bit of magic.  

Borns and Meller's voices just swoon together like two birds in an enchanted forest. Creating the perfect contrast between their tones. Borns with the lows and Meller with the surprisingly highs. It's just cute, cute, cute! Listen below to only a short snippet of this track and you will just get me..

You can listen to it in full on Spotify here

I have been a fan of Borns for a while now and was planning on doing a piece on this California style, rock/dance/folk/pop master mind. Borns or birthed as Garret Borns, moved from LA from Michigan where he got signed to Interscope and just recently released his debut album Dopamine. His music is gutsy and strong but with a cool edge on it. Something you can listen to whilst at a party, with the windows down in the car or whilst jumping on your bed. So versatile!

My favourite songs/ mainly his singles are Electric Love and the brilliant 10,000 Emerald Pools which you will fall in love with after one listen. I also really like American Money which is very sexy.  

Check them out below.  

ELECTRIC LOVE

10,000 Emerald Pools

AMERICAN MONEY

As for Petite Meller, I've only really started to check her out. She seems pretty massive on the net so who knows I may do a post on her soon enough.  

My Top 5 albums of 2015

It's only fitting that at the end of the year you sit back and reflect. It's healthy to remember all the good, and look back on stuff that happened cause it's all part of life. Whilst reflecting with a hangover and a massive food baby, I came up with my five favourite albums released in 2015 that have been with me through thick and thin last year. In no particular order-

1

Alabama shakes- Sound and colour

Released 21^st of April 2015

This album is the second instalment from these bluesy rock gods, and man oh man did it not disappoint! Their first album was an obsession, so when 'Sound and Colour' was released I had the highest hopes. Brittany Howard's voice just demands to be heard throughout the album, and has all the hooks and turns you would expect. It's groovy beyond your wildest dreams, with tracks like 'Don't Wanna Fight' and 'Shoegaze'. Then it knocks you out with its heavier side with 'The Greatest'. When you need a rest, this album has got you covered with tracks like 'This Feeling' mellowing you out and givin' ya dem feelz.

An album that doesn't let you down and allows you to listen from start to finish taking you on a roller coaster ride without the vomit.

2

Jarryd James- Thirty One

Released 11^th of September 2015

'Do You Remember' stole our hearts, making Aussie Jarryd James a big deal. Thirty One just proved the high would stay. It's cool, so cool. From the sexy beats, to James’s voice smoothly flowing out the speakers. It's full of gold, from 'Underneath', 'Sure Love' and ' Giving It Up' all speaking raw emotions, but at the same time helping your body to move in ways you want it to move. There is a beautiful duet with Aussie sweetheart Julia Stone, 'Regardless'. Which may be my favourite track on the album due to their voices just working perfectively together. The album in its entirety is great, you won’t next any tracks and it's better with a glass of whisky.

James is still humble and you know he is all about the music. Congrats mate and thank you!

3

Florence and the Machine- How big, How blue, How beautiful

Released 29^th of May 2015

Oh Flo, you beauty. Full of harrowing lyrics of love, pain and self destruction, the voice of an Angel and percussion used to perfection, 'How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful' is a mighty fine piece of work. After some time away from the spotlight Florence Welsh tumbled through life, helping her to find herself just that little more and writing her most personal lyrics to date. 'Ship To Wreck' is a about being on a spiral of only damage. Something Welsh went through when she first moved out from her parent's nest. I think of power when I think of Florence. Her voice, her phrasing, her use of instruments is just so grand that it can overpower the strongest of characters. This album is different to the rest of her work but at the same time very familiar. It's heavier and gutsier but beautiful.

4

Rhodes – Wishes

Released 18^th of September 2015

This album is a creeper. I first discovered this blonde Englishman when he and Birdy released their perfectly crafted duet “Let It All Go' in August. Straight away I wanted to know him and discovered his music. I listened to a few of his tracks then jumped onto something else. Then a month later he released 'Wishes', I didn't grab it straight away but when I did, I laid on my bed and listened to it right through. I was so impressed with his story telling, tone and production of each song. September was a busy music month so I didn't straight away give it the listen it deserved. But as I said this album is a creeper, I just kept coming back to it when I felt in one of those droopy moods. It takes you somewhere else, and speaks to you with so much love and understanding. Rhodes said he wrote the whole album being locked away in his room for two years. You can tell it's vulnerable, intense and self conscious, but deep in thought. It makes you feel like you are floating through each track. 'Breathe', 'Somebody' and 'You and I' are beautiful tracks that need to be heard. 'Wishes' is a strong album that doesn't over power in any way but if you take your time and get to know it you will be so happy.   

5

Years and Years- Communion

Released 10^th of July 2015

Years and years ago I stumbled across this energetic group on Vimeo, with a song called 'I wish I Knew'. It was 2012 and they were basically unknown. This song got under my skin something major and I instantly loved them! This song itself is in my top 25 played on iTunes still to this day. Even know they don't claim that song anymore (signed to a new label, less two members and were looking for a different sound), I still followed every single release. 2015 we were finally graced with a SHINEy new debut album that is fit for any KING. It's glorious, full of beautifully pieced lyrics bouncing off synths and killer beats. Olly's voice is magic, and can fits nicely in a clubs setting or simply in your bedroom. 'Eyes Shut' is my stand out track, it give's me chills. But there are plenty of tracks such as 'Worship', 'King' and 'Take Shelter' that make you want to jump up and down. This album is full of layers. It needs to be heard more than once. First listen will get you going like “Damn this is some catchy shit”. Second listen you will be bopping away like its Christmas. But once you start to delve a little deeper you will uncover some beautiful stories full of meaning, heartbreak and uncertainty. I love albums that aren't just picture books. Do yourself a favour and get 'Communion' for either that party vibe or for some solid great tunes.

THE POWER OF THE WOMAN IN BLACK

Let me set the scene – It was Friday the 29^th of November 2013 and I was rushing home from work to head to the Brunswick venue Howler, to see one of my all time favourite bands Georgia Fair. This was their album launch for 'Trapped Flames' and I was a little excited about this. Even though GF weren't on til like ten, I'm a big believer that you need to get into the groove before seeing a gig. This includes some tasty food, a few drinks and a chance to relax before you can really let the music take you over. Friday is a tricky night because traffic sucks and everyone is off to have some fun.

Anyway, I made it to the venue, grabbed a quick bite and a drink. I always put in my best effort to make sure I see the supports. It's a way of discovering new artists, seeing who will be the next wave of talent and you paid for a ticket to see multiple bands so, why not see them. However, this night I'm pretty sure I missed the first support as I got in close to nine. A little bummed, my friend and I scouted out where GF were hanging and made it our point to stand next to them. Not to talk to them because that would be awkward ( Spoke to them once when I was more than merry on the happy juice and it wasn't pretty), but to just eavesdrop and create the fantasy that we are friends. I love going to GF gigs as the two main members Jordan and Ben are dating Lisa Mitchell and Lester The Fierce, so our little fantasy group is pretty cool.  

So we are standing there with our besties and out comes a woman dressed in black with a few back up singers and band members. If you go to gigs often, you will notice that most people use the time before the headline band comes on as a catch up with your friends and to drink as much as you can. So the room is pretty noisy at this point, and even I am having a bit of a chat.

Then something happened that I have never experienced before. The woman in black casted a spell over the whole audience, dead silence. I had never seen this before, a bunch of semi drunk gig goers just stopping in their tracks for a support. At this stage I had no idea who this mystical bean was but I liked it. After the 3 or so minutes were up from the first song, I looked at my friend and said “wow”. I even heard the GF boys say “she's good!”. The response from the crowd was like insane, maybe the loudest clap of the night.  

The woman in black then introduced herself as 'MEG MAC'.

Megan Mclnerney (Meg Mac) born 1990 is one of Australia's hottest up and coming artists. She is on every 'One To Watch' list from Spotify to Rolling Stone. When I first saw her in 2013 she was only just getting noticed by Triple J, with one song on Triple J Unearthed 'Know Better'. Two years later and her presence is crazy. With Singles 'Roll Up Your Sleeves' and 'Never Be' both getting played on community and commercial radio. Signed to both Australian and American Labels. Nominated for an Aria for “Best Female Artist' and 'Breakthrough Artist'. Played at SXSW. Toured with D'Angelo and Clean Bandit around the US. This all with 1X EP which includes 5 songs and 1X new single 'Never Be'. We are just waiting for her to dominate the world when she releases her debut album sometime in 2016.

I don't think her music fits with one genre and I hate labelling. There is an essence of a Blues style of writing with the repetition, but a hell of a lot of Soul influence. However, still feels modern, with it easily being put into the Pop basket. I think all these elements are what set Meg apart. She is creating music that she likes and not worried about what to call it or how it should sound.

Meg is still humble and keeps it real with her fans. She does her best to answer, like and comment on all posts. She just needs a name for her fans like 'Maccas', 'Big Macs' or 'Meggins'. Ok I will stop.

I have now seen her three times over the years and with each performance I have noticed she is just

getting better and better.

On the 12^th of December she co-headlined with music mastermind Jarryd James with support KitaAlexander. The show was a night to remember. Never has I seen so much talent in one room! Kita set the tone, Meg claimed her throne and Jarryd brought it home. The cherry on top for me was the incredible Julia Stone making an appearance for her debut with Jarryd called "Regardless".  

Normally I would feature a few of my stand out tracks but Meg Mac doesn't have any because they are all bangerz. So I'll just add the ones with cool film clips to go with it.

Roll Up Your Sleeves – This song is my main jam and a great booster for believing in yourself, doing the right thing and saying to yourself “everything is going to be alright”

Never Be – Her latest single and chart favourite. It has a chorus that will be in your head all day

Know Better

Every Lie  

If you are hooked you can buy her EP on iTunes or from you local record store if you like to hold some gold in your hands

Summer playlist suggestions and my Aussiest post to date

For us Aussies summer is coming and it's damn exciting. For me, Summer entails lots of beer, beach and BBQs, so having a great summer playlist is a must! There is nothing better than sitting back in the sun and listening to some great tunes. What I look for in a Summer playlist is that easy chilled out feel with a beat that flows and makes you feel like there isn't a care in the world. I've always believed that certain music can be classified into certain seasons. For example Jack Johnson in my opinion can only be classified as a Summer type artist whilst Adele's music is something that I would listen to on a cold Winters day rugged up by the fire with a glass of red wine. Just me?

Anyway I have two new artists that you may want to add to your Summer playlist if you're keen. 

First artist that you may consider is newly signed Brizzy born, Kita Alexander. She's young, surfy and has a sonic aesthetic with catchy chorus that will leave you wanting to jump into the waves. She has made a few waves on Triple J with her two singles and has just been signed to Atlantic Records. I first heard about her when I brought my ticket for the Jarryd James and Meg Mac gig that is later on in December, which Alexander is the support. After checking her out I found myself singing her songs in my head over and over again. She is a perfect addition to a Summer playlist and I can't wait to see her live next month!

Check out her two singles here

You can also download her EP here

The second artist that I would like to put on the table for your playlist is Dan Kelly. Been active in music since 2003, Kelly has released lots of material under alias names and with other bands/artists but has recently released his second solo album called Leisure Panic. It's great! Full of twisty, wacky but smart lyrics, plenty of bass guitar and feel good moments. I first discovered Dan when he released his single Bindi Irwin Apocalypse ( 2010) and was very impressed. But I only found out whilst writing this piece that he is the nephew of Aussie icon Paul Kelly. Dan's accent, style of singing and lyrics in some songs do remind of a male Courtney Barnett, but his music flows easier through the ears. If you want to feel even Aussier during your fam BBQ add Dan to your playlist.

Check out his lead single here 

Download his Album here 

My sad song.. 

'Let It Be Me' by Ray LaMontagne

Adele's Hello has got me thinking. The song is sad and people have posted their crying reactions to the song. People still dig a emotional belter! Whilst 'Hello' doesn't give me the tears ( I still like to belt it though), I wanted to share my favourite sad song. My go to song when I feel like shit. What I put on to match my emotions but also uplift me enough to get out of my drizzly mood. It's great to have that song that you can always turn to and no matter what will deliver the goods that you are looking for. I've shared this song with close friends that have been down in the dumps and its allowed them to cry their hearts out, then they have said that the song makes them feel happy after the tears have gone. Music is therapy, and now I'm sharing it with you, thank me later.  

The therapist is Ray LaMontagne. He is an American singer/songwriter who has been in the game since 1999 and has released 5 studio albums. His music is brilliant and you will often hear his music in touching scenes on both film and TV. 

LaMontagne's song that really gets me is 'Let It Be Me'. Listen below-

Verse 1, just sums up the feeling of being shut down, stomped on and spat out. Feeling completely helpless. Which is a feeling that everyone goes through from time to time. It's like this verse speaks to you and can relate to what you are going through. It's nice when someone(thing) just gets you. Then the chorus comes in just when the tears are flowing and wraps it's big cuddly arms around you. “If it's a friend you need, let it be me”. The chorus is like a loving mum that tells you it will all be ok. Its comforting and I love it. But just when you start to feel a little bit better, verse 2 comes in and helps you release that last bit of the sookies.

This song is so powerful to me, and it will always be. I hold it close to me when I need it. Now you can adopt it as your own or feel free to post below your cry song.  

'Everybody wants'  Half Moon Run   

That song that stops you in your tracks and speaks your actually thoughts. As a young dude in this crazy world, I have been thinking a lot about the impact social media has on us all. Sometimes, it's easier to display that you're something through social media when in fact you're not. It seems in this day and age people often self promote through various social media platforms, the type of person they want others to think they are. We are all guilty of it, as we often only offer the positives in our lives rather than the negatives. Only natural to make others think your life is full of fun adventures.

Well, while I was having all these thoughts I was scrolling through my Instagram account and my good friend Tom Odell had posted a picture that he labeled as his 'new favourite album'. The album was 'Sun Leads Me On' by Half Moon Run. Because Tom said it's his fav, I instantly downloaded it on Itunes. After a listen I was blown away, a diverse album full of rocky beats and mellow storytelling. The lead singer's voice was bloody beautiful! Canadian band, Half Moon Run have been around since 2010 releasing two albums, one mid this year. Why have I only heard about them now?

After a few more listens one song screamed out louder for love than the others. It's not the heaviest song on the album but it is a builder. 'Everybody wants' starts off slow with a lyric that instantly speaks to me, 'Everybody wants to be someone else. Everyone needs to be somewhere else. To fit right in, to be ordinary but not the same'. The song then builds perfectly with added instruments and echoing backing vocals.

This song is magic and can really make you think, which I always love from a song. 'Everybody wants' is not a single and it's presence isn't really online for me to show you. That's the gift you sometimes get from exploring a full album, you may fall in love with a track that may not get noticed at all by others.

You can download the album here or stream it here