Endorphin heads out to play some chilled gigs accompanied with his amazing visuals. So for an intimate evening of classic Endorphin, chilled and not shaken ... Check out Endorphin ... Endorphin's Latest Independent Release 'Soon After Silence'. ENDORPHIN - Latest CD Reviews "Mesmerising soundscapes ... superbly seductive ... a deliciously dark dream." (Rolling Stone Magazine) "MUST HEAR! ... It stacks sound upon sound until even the casual listener is seduced." (The Sunday Telegraph) "Want the perfect seduction soundtrack? Here it is ... this is a Triumphant return for the ARIA-nominated artist." (MH) "A smooth as silk, chilled-out ride that is at times incredibly gorgeous"(AWW) "Aussie Dance Music Extraordinaire, Endorphin ... has raised the bar on this latest release." (Tsunami Music Magazine)
'Half Seas Over' by acclaimed Australian guitarist, singer and songwriter Jeff Lang is an album resonant with story and song. With his eloquent guitar, sweet voice and plainspoken yet sensitive approach to the original and traditional source material, Jeff Lang is expanding the boundaries of traditional folk, country and blues to create a new brand of non-traditional music which is undeniably and deeply steeped in tradition, yet with its imagination set on future horizons. This powerful and hypnotic recording draws deeply on folk sources – the old, unsettling gothic tales that have passed from musician to musician from century to century – and the simple but compelling sound of acoustic guitar with minimal accompaniment to express the deeper resonances beneath the stories. In Lang's hands, the ordinary becomes an enchanted space; everyday and domestic tales reveal themselves with heroic dimensions and tragic consequences. And his song writing mastery can be seen in the smallest details -- from the wiry whiskers on an old lady's chin to a dress clinging to a barmaid's body in the small town heat. Don't miss this album launch at The SoundLounge. "Seeing Jeff Lang live was like going to church." (John Butler)
Imagine this artist: classic songwriting skills, smooth sultry vocals, and the ability to whip up a storm with a fiery slide guitar. Very few can boast this set of trump cards, but it just happens to be the hand dealt to Australian singer, songwriter and guitarist Kara Grainger, who exhibits an effortlessly seductive and modern take on roots, blues and soul music. After nearly 2 years in the United States, Kara Grainger is returning to Australia to release her debut album 'Grand And Green River'. The album, which was recorded in Los Angeles with producer David Kalish (Rickie Lee Jones, Ben Harper) and Barrie Maguire (Amos Lee) at the helm, showcases a stunning line up of some of America's most celebrated musicians – including Eric Johnson, Reggie McBride and Jeff Young to name a few. "There's a whole lot of Bonnie Raitt in songs on Grand and Green River... Grainger's alternately throaty and honeyed voice floats over a slickly produced bed of bluesy accompaniment." (The Tennessean)
Stephen Cummings first achived success in Australia as lead singer with 'The Sports', a pop band that had a number of hits in the late 70's including the classic 'Who Listens to Radio?" Never completely comfortable with the rigours of touring with the band, it was not surprising for him to embark on a solo career. 17 albums later, consisting of 13 studio albums, two 'best of compilations', a live disc and an album of accoustic re-workings of his songs and he is still going strong. His fourth album 'A New Kind of Blue' won an ARIA award and his eighth album 'Falling Swinger' was included in Australian Rolling Ston'es list of "100 essential Australian albums".
Bangalow sisters Melia and Nerida Naughton have been joined at the hip since they were womb mates. Spending their (in)formative years in Sydney and then south of Hobart hanging out in a dilapidated apple orchard, stage shows were mandatory in the Naughton family household. With their delightful debut record 'Our Sweet Ambush' tucked firmly under their arms, Scarlett Affection showcased in the States and Canada last year, a tour made possible by the generous support of the Bangalow community. Synergy and simpatico are central to the sound of Scarlett Affection. Harmonies and folk pop songs oozing with sass and soul. Affecting ballads that stir the poignant pot of emotion; soaring choruses that hook into your heart; quirky ditties that make you want to dance in the rain – Scarlett Affection have a blazing stage dynamic that throws opens the Pandora-like box of secretive sibling rivalry for everyone to experience.
"Independent musician Christopher Ernst released his second solo ep little pieces late 2007, a collection of acoustic songs recorded live in the studio. Ernst sings and plays guitar accompanying his vocal either with a delicate finger-picking style or with a fiery stomping slide - each offset with his own melodic killer punch. Since the release of his self-titled EP in late 2004 Christopher has gigged with Xavier Rudd, Ash Grunwald, and the Whitlams among many others, and has seen a string of his tracks receive airplay on Triple J's Roots n All and on community radio stations across the country. Ernst has played to packed houses at The Soundlounge on the Gold-Coast and the Troubadour in Brisbane, as well as appearances .. with his band playing a cracking set - at Woodford Folk Festival, Festival of the Sun and The Quicksilver Pro show. And these days he..s as likely to be playing indie venues, folk clubs or festivals."
Album Launch - Space Between the Silence. Quiet achiever James Grehan recently put the finishing touches on his 3rd studio album 'Space Between the Silence'. Having taken out the coveted Music Oz Award for Best Acoustic Artist, received airplay for some 10 songs on Triple J and community radio across Australia, this young Aussie artist continues to go from strength to strength. With his astounding live show, James has drawn the attention of some of Australia's most renowned artists having played live for Bernard Fanning, supported artists such as Mark Seymour (Hunters & Collectors) and graced the stages of the Big Day Out, James Grehan's live performances are truly spectacular. His song writing has been likened to that of Elliot Smith, Nick Drake and Ben Harper, receiving rave reviews for debut album Rather Be a Butterfly and sophomore release Chemical Sunsets. Embellishing musical influences from Neil Young to Iron & Wine, he combines his influences with a style of guitar playing that could only be recognised as James Grehan. Our apologies, but due to unforeseen circumstances Liz Stringer will no longer be performing at this show.
THE MILLIONAIRE$ are an Australian indie supergroup featuring David McCormack (Custard), Jim Elliott (Cruel Sea) and Brendan Gallagher & Michael Galeazzi both of Karma County. Between them they have won ten ARIAs and played every major venue and festival in the country over the last fifteen years. These long time music buddies have been playing together since April 2007, hog tying their favourite songs from every music era from Merle Haggard to Depeche Mode, The Fab Four to Steve Miller, Bob Dylan to Britney Spears and corralling them into long distance, sweaty Grateful Dead-like live shows. Their debut album Sentimental Horses sees them making their own 21st century, country music take on songs from Doris Day, George Michael, Marianne Faithfull and some new original compositions. Sentimental Horses drips with life and fun capturing these four great musicians performing at the top of their game. "To the lost souls of 21st century with false memories of Waylon Jennings in his thirsty days looking out over the Nashville Skyline when Sunday morning was comin' down... this one's for you."
It was a triumphant year for Gentle Ben and His Sensitive Side. In 2004 they released their debut album 'The Beginning of the End' (featuring the JJJ hit of the same name plus got heaps of airplay on channel 7's Last Man Standing and Rage), toured this wide, brown land several times and supported the likes of 'Rocket Science', 'The Handsome Family' and 'Calexico', as well as their own shows. By contrast, the band has been relatively quiet on the live front during 2005. They haven't been idle during this time, however, choosing instead to spend their days in the seclusion of Melbourne's Atlantis Studios. Within this seething den of iniquity they have spent their time inhaling stale cigarette smoke, drinking whiskey and beer, whilst chiselling away at their soon to be released sophomore effort under the evil gaze of producer Loki Lockwood.
Dog Trumpet began in the 1990s as a side project for brothers Reg Mombassa and Peter O'Doherty from their main band Mental As Anything. Reg and Peter are both highly acclaimed artists as well as musicians and Reg has been the artist behind the distinctive image for clothing line Mambo. Dog Trumpet have recently released their fourth album 'Antisocial Tendencies' which has great detail in song writing and includes some anti-establishment lyrics striking a chord for fringe dwellers and artists of all stripes. The line up has Reg and Pete on guitars and vocals, Bernie Hayes on bass and backing vocals, and Jess Ciampa on drums. Bernie a respected singer songwriter in his own right also sings lead and plays 12 string acoustic guitar. Enjoy inventive songs with poetic lyrics, some sad others romantic and often bizarre, as Dog Trumpet meld their trade mark acoustic, electric and slide guitars with percussion and vocal harmonies.
Nearly a year since the release of her ARIA Nominated debut album 'Little Eve', Kate Miller-Heidke is one of the most talked about performers in Australian music. Heralded as one of the ultimate acts to catch live, rarely has an artist left fans and reviewers alike so consistently awestruck. Kate is currently selling out national tours, and supporting the likes of Cyndi Lauper and Evermore, as well as being a major festival drawcard (East Coast Blues and Roots, Apollo Bay, Port Fairy, Woodford). Traversing a wide landscape of styles, Kate has truly found her feet as a performer. She has a potent presence on stage. The combination of her virtuosic voice, theatrical artistry and the chemistry with her band are devastating. "Miller-Heidke's punishing vocal prowess is the impetus of the gustiest show in Australian music at the moment. There is nothing contrived here; just a cathartic release of punk opera - stunning, fine and porcelain-fragile meets pummeling, bruising rock & roll." (Adelaide Fringe Festival Live Review 28/2/08)
Speed of Purple is the newest musical project for ex-Tulipan member Sallie Campbell, showcasing her original songs and instrumentals. The music is a fusion of folk, gypsy and pop styles, featuring intricate piano textures and melodies. The music of Speed of Purple is driven by piano and violin, accompanied by percussion and vocals from Velvet Pesu and Cello from Danielle Bentley.
At the 2004 Tamworth country music festival Sara Storer took home a record seven Golden Guitars for her second album ;Beautiful Circle'. The album was a hit with fans, industry insiders and critics and the easy thing would have been for the Victoria born and bred but Central Coast based Storer to reduce that success down to a formula and then repeat. You don't need to look very far to see many successful careers built on that principle. The trouble with that sensible approach is that Storer came to prominence in the first place, not because she was doing what was expected, but rather because she was following her heart to make music that mattered most to her. And to all who heard her, there was little doubt that here was a unique talent. It was music that was proudly of and about this country, but crucially there was a sense that it was rooted firmly in the present. Her fourth album ;Silver Skies' is the first to be made without the steady hand of producer Garth Porter on her shoulder. It is filled with tales of lives and loves of those on the land but there is a much broader musical palette that shows her to be a contemporary of Missy Higgins and The Waifs as much as her country comrades. Most impressively Sara has moved forward without leaving anything behind.
Following the critically acclaimed release of their debut long-player "Between Last Night & Us", ARIA award winning band The Audreys release their much anticipated sophomore album, "When The Flood Comes". It is an album of lyrical and sonic beautythat expands their musical template beyond the alt-country-tinged instrumentation and smoky pop of their gorgeous debut, as heard in the striking first single Paradise City. Hailing from South Australia, The Audreys feature smoky-voiced front woman Taasha Coates and her four dapper suited sidekicks. They have a history of sell out shows and stand out performances, and this tour should be no exception. Special guest support on all shows will be J Walker (Machine Translations).
Geoff's lap steel slide, acoustic tapping slide and mind rattling rhythm based acoustic has him titled as a captivator of audiences (Townsville Bulletin) with a unique gift for music (Lismore Uni). His variation in styles, rhythm and attack provides a show that never fails to intrigue. Soothing melodies captivate the audience, raw but directed outbursts chill spines and eccentric rhythms inspire trancelike dance sessions. Layering via multiple pickups allows eclectic effects to be layered over sensual acoustic sounds. Soulful vocals complement the music and top this unique performer's act.
If you fancy a mix of Rock, Folk, Blues and Bluegrass with a dose of mischief, make sure you're here for this show. With the release of his 3rd independent and self produced album, the momentum keeps building for this talented Guitarist/Songwriter. Asa's powerhouse guitar playing and soaring voice with some tasty blues harp thrown in and a thumping stomp box continues to enchant audiences everywhere. Asa's unique brand of Rock/Roots music has taken him from local venues and festivals to touring with national and international artists (including Evermore, Diesel, Pete Murray, Ash Grunwald to name a few). And with 3 self funded, independent and self produced releases under his belt, Asa's dedication to his music and his live show is obvious.
From very humble beginnings in an equally humble place called Dongdingalong, Jerram Gabriel found his inner Gypsy and followed the bright star in the sky all the way to the big smoke. City life offered Jerram better prospects for making his brand of blues-folk-reggae-rock and many more opportunities to observe humanity doing what they do. His songs reflect his wanderings and wonderings and he gives his music the space it needs to tell the story people need to hear.
Harry Manx has been called an "essential link" between the music of East and West, creating musical short stories that wed the tradition of the Blues with the depth of classical Indian ragas. He has created a unique sound that is hard to forget and deliciously addictive to listen to. Manx is a prolific artist, releasing seven albums in a six-year span with no signs of stopping. Blending Indian folk melodies with blues, a sprinkle of gospel, and compelling grooves, Manx's "mysticssippi" flavour is hard to resist, easy to digest and keeps audiences coming back for more. Harry joins us in The SoundLounge for the very first time in 2008 featuring percussionist Yeshe. "While most musicians are content to work within the accepted boundaries of their chosen style, lap-slide guitarist Harry Manx likes to colour way outside the lines. His crayons? Soulful, raspy vocals, poetic lyrics, and the whining drones and mysterious melisma of Indian music ... Manx conjures songs that are as bewitching as they are unique." (Andy Ellis, Guitar Player Magazine) "I've discovered something new tonight, seeing Harry play" (Bruce Springsteen, 2005)
It's been an amazing year for The Panics. Not only did 'Cruel Guards' debut in the Top 20 of the ARIA charts, it earned the band the 2007 J Award for Triple J's Album of the Year and standout single, 'Don't Fight It', a place in the Top 10 of the Triple J Hottest 100. The Panics also recently picked up two WAMI Awards in their hometown of Perth including the public voted Most Popular Act. Not only has 'Don't Fight It' reached the top echelons of Triple J, it has also found welcoming ears at radio stations across the nation. The band are on the cusp of an international, taking in SXSW in Austin, Texas followed by shows in the USA and UK throughout March. The Panics then return for a major national tour in April and May tour (The Panics Don't Fight It National Tour), stepping it up a notch and playing theatre venues around the country. The Panics will be supported by Wilson Pickers and Little Red.
"They fill venues right across Australia, get 5-star reviews in Edinburgh (Fringe Festival highest score), break attendance records in England and get ranked in the media alongside k.d.lang and the Indigo Girls..." (David Curry, Time Out) As one of Australia's premier independent bands, Bluehouse have stamped out their own unique style by combining folk- flavoured pop melodies meshed with powerfully intricate harmonies and inspired guitar & bass playing (along with healthy doses of sardonic wit thrown in between songs)! Jacqueline Walter and Bernadette Carroll, met in a pub in Melbourne in 1995 and moments later were singing together on stage. They have since forged a successful career, by honing their performance skills through beautiful singing, clever thinking and near constant touring. They have consistently received five-star reviews from critics and created a loyal fan base all over the world.
Having spent the past few years living and playing overseas Julz Parker and Leesa Gentz are full of stories and songs and have collaborated to form the Hussy Hicks. The Hussy Hicks music is flavoured by a unique mix of influences and the girls present their songs in an energetic yet intimate way, each supporting the other in their distinctively different styles. Their vocal harmonies are outstanding and their acoustic sound is enhanced by an exotic selection of musical gems collected on their travels (percussion/mandolin/frog/Turkish finger cymbals etc). Julz's eclectic approach to the acoustic guitar, rooted in the Emmanuel-esque tradition then inspired by Spanish streets, European gypsies and Arabic intricacies has been celebrated by guitar enthusiasts in all corners of the globe. Leesa, although the best frog player in all the land, is most recognised for her passionate vocals and her ability to express her deepest emotions in every song. Together the girls have found a beautiful balance between raw emotion and an astonishing level of musicality which reflects a collective 30 years of experience.
"Red Wine & Postcards is a solid addition to women in docs music heritage... their earthy vibe and strong voices deserve attention." (Rolling Stone) A label like "Australia's hardest working artists" might be giving too much credit to some acts, but for women in docs it's a label that fits like a glove. women in docs have successfully released two awarding winning and critically acclaimed albums to great reception in America – 'Red Wine And Postcards' as follow up to successful debut album, 'Under A Different Sky'. Their achievement and continued dedication to their craft has never been more marked as their career continues to thrive across the world. Join the women in docs for a couple of cracking SEQ shows, featuring Geoff Green on drums (George) and John Bedggood on violin and keys (Bernard Fanning, Lior). You won't be disappointed.
Scarlett Affection combines sisterly synergy with a fresh, inspiring twist and uniquely crafted songs with sensuous harmonies. Both singing sisters - Melia and Nerida - are classically trained musicians and their show is a live performance not to be missed: the sisters bare their hearts, souls and stories through their songs. A spine-tingling must-see act!
Loren and the Grow Your Owns will join the grey nomads of Australia this March and April and set out the road on a seven week national tour to launch their new EP, '80 k's an hour'. The band went into hibernation and hit the studio after returning from a heavy touring schedule throughout November and December last year which included the triple j supported 'Roots Roadshow Tour' and festivals including Pyramid Rock Festival. The EP features Loren, Beck Flatt and Luke Foran with appearances from special guests. It delivers five new recordings including the crowd favorite 'Old and Retired', and five live bonus tracks recorded at the Corner Hotel in Melbourne last December. Luke Foran will be opening for the tour with some shows featuring his band Galleons Lap.
Guitarist and lead singer of Brisbane's own alt. country/ acoustic/ folk-sters Galleons Lap, Luke Foran performs in his own understated style, but with a warm creative energy and a vast musical talent, gifted in equal measure. With a self-titled Galleons Lap EP under his belt, Luke hits the road in 2008 in support of good friends Loren and the Grow Your Owns.
A 'roots' performer in the true sense of the word, Juzzie Smith is a one of a kind musician. His sound has grown from street performing around Australia and being a father. Music is an expression of who you are and Juzzie likes to bring the world together through mixing styles, instruments and positive lyrics. Juzzie gives such a great vibe through his music that you can't help but be filled with some special energy.
One of Australia's finest contemporary songsmiths, Lucie Thorne "creates an oasis of musical beauty which is completely entrancing... disarmingly sweet...and stunningly beautiful." (The Canberra Times) With two electric guitars, Thorne and long-time collaborator Heath Cullen deliver distinctive heart-of-winter folk songs and rugged, spacious rock n roll, with a warmth and intimacy for which their live performances are becoming so renowned. Thorne's newest release - 'Where Night Birds Call' was included in the prestigious 2007 Australian Music Prize Long list, and has been hailed as "some of the most simple and beautiful songs you will hear." (The Age).
SHOW CANCELLED - ALL TICKETS AND BOOKING FEES WILL BE REFUNDED IN FULL. THE SOUNDLOUNGE AND BRITISH INDIA APOLOGISE FOR ANY INCONVENIENCE.
After almost 12 years as one of Australia's finest performance duos, stringmansassy will this year, embark upon their final Australian Tour. Their upcoming performance at The SoundLounge will signal the end of an era for these much loved musicians, who have touched the lives of many during their years touring throughout Australia and the world. For their fans, this farewell will be a concert not to be missed. For those new to the world of stringmansassy, it will be the final Gold Coast opportunity to experience some of the enthralling magic of this remarkable duo. stringmansassy's music is synonymous with the sublime. Their live performances are spellbinding and the intimacy and passion of their music translates across all venues. They are innovators and spontaneous performers, creating "a world of their own, in which 'passion' flows like an electric current and each nuance of music is played with conviction and belief" (Andrew MacLean : music-culture.org.au 10/11/2003). As a performance duo, stringmansassy have always transcended the realm of guitar and voice and created an astonishing musical atmosphere with their small ensemble and for the past 12 years they have gained a devoted following for their unique fusion of folk and jazz. To coincide with this farewell tour, stringmansassy will be releasing a CD of 'Live' recordings collated from some of their memorable concerts over the past seven years, available from The SoundLounge on April 4th.
The "poetic, original songs" and "extraordinarily brave vocal style" (Lonnie Martin, Folk Rag) of Stephanie Barros Lees have endeared her to Brisbane audiences through her bands moot (brazilian-influenced folk-jazz) and maudlin (ambient-industrial trip-hop). Emerging from her years of experience is her solo project pear and the awkward orchestra, a mini-orchestra of diverse instrumentation and sparse arrangements supporting an emotive and powerful voice and gritty, personal songs. pear is currently planning a Brisbane to Melbourne tour, commencing April 4 with Stringmansassy at the Soundlounge, Gold Coast. EP CD Russian Doll - 6 tracks of evocative contemporary folk-jazz - will be available at performances, with a limited number featuring handmade covers by the artist herself.
At the tender age of seven, Dan Mangan's first goal was to memorize and recite Abbey Road's side 'B'. At 17, it was to record his first EP. Now, at 24, it's to meander into the stereo and hometown of music lovers worldwide. Plan of attack? The release his debut album 'Postcards & Daydreaming' in 2007 and tour – a lot. With two recently completed tours of the US and UK – including a feature in the Brit-tastemaker magazine, NME – and let's not forget the umpteen festival performances, three west coast tours and clutches of east coast dates, one could definitely say he's off to a good start. Tying together the roots of acoustic folk and subtle symphonic pop, Postcards & Daydreaming is unabashedly mellow. However, it's Mangan's powerful, weather-beaten vocals that hint at something epic lurking in the undertones. Influenced both by songsmiths of old (Nick Drake, Woody Guthrie) and sonic innovators of late (Neutral Milk Hotel, Sigur Ros). Mangan's "old soul" is made obvious through his lyrical ruminations on both the harmful capabilities and intrinsic beauty of human foibles. Think Kurt Vonnegut with a gravelly sweet singing voice. Support for this show is yet to be advised.
Rory Mcleod - ex-circus clown and fire-eater. A one-man soul band, poet and storyteller, singing his own unique upbeat dance stories. A modern travelling troubadour using tap shoes, a cappella, harmonica, guitar, trombone, spoons, finger cymbals, bandorea, djembe and various percussion instruments! "I've travelled to look for work, to mend a broken heart, to be with someone I longed for. I'd travel to visit friends and on the way I'd make new ones, I'd roam because I was curious to see what was around the next corner, sometimes I travelled to follow the warmer weather and migrate... like the birds and the big whales and fishes do". Rory Once seen never forgotten, a truly unique performer who never gives less that his all no matter what the circumstances. " 'The charismatic British storytelling troubadour, proved to be very entertaining as he tripped passionately through highly original and distinctive self-penned material......(Beat Magazine)
Tonchi McIntosh grew up in Bourke and has Mexican blood running through his veins on his Mother's side. He sings, his voice full of warmth and emotion, of Australia with a clear-sighted passion for the land and its traditional owners, moving from acoustic folk/rock to electric and touches of reggae and country. This mixture of musical forms enfolds his lyricism, and one of his strengths is the meshing of imagery, be it allegorical or as raw and rich as the red earth of the outback.
+++ SHOW CANCELLED BY MANAGEMENT +++ Apologies for any inconvenience.
Candid, humourous and emotionally powerful songwriter Loudon Wainwright III is returning to Australia for a highly anticipated national concert tour in March 2008 supporting his acclaimed new album, 'Strange Weirdos: Music from and inspired by the film Knocked Up. Throughout his career, Loudon has engaged in the type of soul-baring that many other artists talk about doing, but few have the guts to actually do. Called "the not-so-sensitive folk singer" by Greg Reibman in Billboard, Wainwright has built a cult following with funny, biting, and incisive songs about virtually any subject. He is, according to Tom Surowicz of the Twin Cities Reader, "a thoroughly compelling master of irony" and in Rolling Stone contributor David Browne's words, "our greatest pop satirist." Ultimately, Wainwright's artistry revolves around his ability to probe and expose the most intimate facets of his own life. His humour and engaging stage persona have made him a cult figure and a concert favourite. Don't miss this one of a kind artist on his upcoming Australian tour.
Lucy Wainwright Roche grew up in Greenwich Village, New York City. She is the daughter of two performing musicians, Loudon Wainwright and Suzzy Roche (The Roches). Her childhood was spent living out of a suitcase, either on the road, with her parents or being ferried around to different relatives in her big musical clan. Described by the New York Times as having the best qualities of both her parents and a voice "clear as a bell", Lucy is a refreshing, pure, alternative to the jive pop culture. She is alarmingly straightforward and unadorned. Lucy has just released her first recording '8 Songs', a pure, solo, acoustic mix of original material and some surprising covers.
Guy Davis is an Afro-American bluesman, one of a new wave of younger performers in the states who have chosen to follow the traditions of the country folk blues. A singer and guitarist in the rural mould of Robert Johnson and Mississippi John Hurt, he has a voice like Howlin' Wolf dipped in honey. Like the best early bluesmen, Guy Davis is, at heart, a storyteller. A master at setting intimate, richly nuanced tales to stomping acoustic blues backing, often with folky accompaniment from mandolin, banjo, and accordion, he has helped revitalize the state of country blues in North America. He will be touring his most recent album 'Skunkmello' one of his most successful of his nine recordings. "He's smart and humane, deals with his political alienation, thinks highly of sex and understands that blues authenticity depends on forthright spirit rather than perfect reproduction of the classics." (Charles M. Young, Playboy Magazine)
"Nadia Sunde has a power packed set of vocal chords. Her melodic tones have an earthy quality to them – they resonate, as opposed to punctuating. And that, is a good thing." (Time Off Magazine, Brisbane) Nadia has captivated audiences around Australia with her 'soulful' voice, beautiful songs and powerful stage presence. A generous performer, Nadia shares her stage with the audience like she would an old friend, inviting you into her songs with an honesty and warmth that touches the heart and the funny bone. There's no denying, this woman was born to be on stage.
For over a decade The Flood has remained devoted to honestly composed and beautifully rendered songs in the best traditions of organic roots music. Kevin Bennett, James Gillard, Tim Wedde and Scott Hills bring impressive credentials to the current lineup through individual contributions to Australian music history with: Moving Pictures, Chasing The Train, Mondo Rock, Goanna and many others. Driven by Kevin Bennett's superb lyrics and exquisite vocals, The Flood's undercurrent of roots/blues/alt country rhythms and glorious harmonies engender solid dedication from both fans and fellow musicians.
22 year old Michael Muchow is no stranger to the music industry. After growing up from a strong country music back ground there was never a doubt that Michael was born to make music. "Muchow" picked up the Guitar at the ripe age of 6 and has been bound to it since. After some time off for family Michael is back and here to stay with the release of his debut EP which has a flavor of his unique Alternate Country, Blues and Roots stye- in stores now (distributed by One Stop Entertainment). With 6 amazing songs, co-writes by Bill Chambers and The Floods Kevin Bennett, To tell stories of his life, love and how he found happiness.
Angie Hart - You might remember a major event in Australian pop called Frente. They were from Melbourne; the singer Angie Hart was only seventeen when they began and only a couple of years older when they started having enormous hits. It all went crackers for Frente. Totally off the scale in terms of stardom and recognition and all that. Angie was just a girl. But boy, the girl could always sing. That was then. This is now. Angie's got her own thing going on, finally. And this is the thing: back then with Frente, it was like she was trying to be the singer and trying hard with her singing. Now it's all totally effortless, the most natural thing in the world. It seems ridiculous that she never did a solo album before. It seems unthinkable. How could it be that Angie Hart is only now ready to be out on her own? Well – she is. The debut solo album is called 'Grounded Bird' and it's lovely and strange. "I don't really know what the songs mean at the time of writing them,'' she says. "I can figure them out later, but at the time they're a mystery. They're like weird little messages to myself.''
Emma Dean is a quirky, inventive and original singer/songwriter from Brisbane. She performs either playing solo piano or with her incredible band comprising Dane Pollock (electric guitar), John Turnbull (electric bass) and Anthony Dean (drums). Emma's voice is as sultry as it is beautiful and her music has been described variously as soulful, honest, jazzy and dynamic. Since touring extensively in early 2006 as the support act and violinist/backing vocalist for the Kate Miller-Heidke band, Emma has become known as a soloist in her own right. In November 2006 she performed in Women In Voice 15 at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre and officially released her acclaimed second EP Face Painter.
Embarking on her second Australian Tour in February /March 2008, Eleanor McEvoy is one of Irelands leading female singer/songwriters. Respected as a fine multi-instrumentalist in both traditional and contemporary music, she is best known for writing "Only A Woman's Heart", the title track of an anthology album that's gone on to be the best selling recording in Irish History. Eleanor's strong Irish accent adds to her renditions of her quirky, perceptive songs, ranging from love ballads and story-telling to left-of-centre takes on the vagaries of life. Her last album "Out There" recorded in SACD format, won HI-FI Album of The Year 2007, her latest album "Love Must Be Tough" will be released in Australia in February 2008. As a result of what one music critic described as "Ms McEvoy's flawless performances" the lady has now built a loyal and devoted fan base throughout the UK, USA, Australia, Asia and Europe.
Dan Parsons is a 20 year old Brisbane Singer-Songwriter who started teaching himself guitar after hearing Paul Simon's 'Graceland'. He immediately locked himself away in the confines of his bedroom, mastering the peice of wood that was ripping his fingertips apart. A smooth, resonant voice, emotive and introspective lyrics, accompany his deft finger-picking acoustic guitar style. Playing Woodford at age 17 and lead guitar in Andrew Morris' band supporting Powderfinger and Silverchair, Dan is well regarded as one of Brisbane's leading guitarists. "Some things never go out of style; fast rising singer songwriter Dan Parsons has a voice that warms the heart and songs to match." (Noel Mengel, Courier Mail)
"Like his two previous efforts, album No.3 exudes that same feeling of expectation, something bubbling away with all the excitement of a treasure waiting to be discovered .... Surely the secret can't be kept much longer" (Courier Mail) 2007 has been extremely busy for renowned Brisbane singer songwriter Andrew Morris. He has toured the nation constantly, written and recorded his magnificent third solo offering Union Bars, an album which finds an accomplished musician taking his craft to the next level, and signed to the ABC. Andrew has long been a leading artist in the Brisbane music scene, though with Union Bars he is destined for much bigger things.
Born in Sydney but now based on the Sunny Coast, singer songwriter Ange Takats somehow managed to begin her musical journey in Bangkok where she was based for two years as a foreign correspondent. Spending her days on the road with a TV news crew, and her nights singing Joni Mitchell songs in a small music bar...Ange was able to mix her two greatest passions. After several months playing solo she was asked to join a folk rock band, teaming up with some of Thailand's top musicians to perform every Friday and Saturday night at one of Bangkok's most popular acoustic music venues. Following her adventures in Asia, Angela enjoyed four years of chasing summer around the globe – spending time in the Middle East, Canada, Ireland, Spain and getting back to her Hungarian heritage in Eastern Europe. "... Her set on Boxing Day at the Troubadour was just about the most sublime, perfectly-balanced half hour's entertainment. ... Keep an eye out for this diminutive yet vocally and lyrically powerful singer-songwriter..." (Bill Quinn, Cornstalk - NSW Folk Federation)
Acclaimed Gold Coast roots/pop/rock outfit Black Market Rhythm Co. will release their debut album in 2008 after a run of major shows over summer including sweet slots at The Woodford Folk Festival, Queenscliff Music Festival (Victoria) and their first ever appearance at the Big Day Out in January. Having spent the better part of 2007 holed up in a Brisbane studio with long-time friend and producer Tidy kid (of Red Paintings fame) BMRC have finally completed their debut album entitled Low-Fi Records, Hi-Fi Radio and will be releasing it with a massive party at The SoundLounge! Lo-Fi Records, Hi-Fi Radio is the band's first full-length album since forming in 2004 and sees their unique sound refined into a solid blend of traditional roots, indy pop and flat out rock and roll. Their previous Ep 'Aint For Sale" (2006) secured a strong foundation for band with several tours of the East Coast, a string of high profile supports and a nomination on the official voting list for Triple J's hottest 100 poll in 2007. With their first film clip hitting TV screens in December and the first single "You Said That You Loved Me" already receiving great support from the "blues and roots" show on JJJ – it looks like good times ahead for these local lads, so come and celebrate with them at this huge SoundLounge Album Launch Party.
Georgia Potter is an advocate for music with a social conscience. An alert listener of music, politics and people, her calling is to use music as a building tool for social awareness and community strength. Georgia is a public voice with a positive social conscience, a politician without the tie or the hidden agenda, and a human being with stories to tell. Aided by the guitar, the piano and a lot of other borrowed worldly instruments, it is Georgia's vocal strength and freedom, combined with lyrics heavily laden in philosophy, imagery and humour, which deem her performances both moving and memorable. Coming from a background of jazz, folk and reggae, Georgia combines these sounds with a style that is her own, and at times coloured with world music flavours. Gigging at original music venues throughout South East Queensland, she has performed with National and local artists such as Tommee (Tommee & the Neighbourhood), Tom Cooney and Jackie Marshall and touring International artist Beth Preston (San Diego) to name a few.
This show, like all other SoundLounge shows, is an 18+ event only. Identification will be required upon arrival. It's ironic that the young country singer who has become synonymous with a true Aussie sound, was actually born in England. But Lisa Mitchell – Albury's new star – is very much an Aussie girl. Located just outside of town, this charming youngster plays local cafes and events, sharing her exceptional songs with the local community and playing in covers band, Chrome. Since taking guitar lessons at age 12, Lisa has pursued her dream of becoming a professional musician, using the inspiration of Australian artists like Missy Higgins and Clare Bowditch as she carved her own sound. It's Lisa's humble but powerful persona that has enchanted the nation, and of course, that winning smile. A lover of folk and rock, Lisa doesn't seem daunted by the challenge of mastering diverse themes during the finals. It certainly helps to have the best of intentions and this blossoming performer appears to have her heart in the right place.
Leroy Lee is a songsmith, whose tools – guitar, voice and stompbox (foot drum) – are used to create a songbook brimming with rhythmic ingenuity, nimble melody and above all, subtlety. As winner of Triple J's Unearthed competition Leroy Lee supported Missy Higgins in theatres and stadiums across the state. Good choice Missy! He is really good. This is a fine song, sung well, and doesn't need anything more than a guitar to carry it. (Richard Kingsmill, triple j) "I really like the production on this track. The laid-back vocals show tasteful restraint and the instrumentation- especially the rhythm section- is rich and interesting. Like the change of feel into the chorus too. I really like your stuff and looking forward to hearing more!" (Missy Higgins)
Ashleigh picked up a guitar for the first time at the age of eleven and didn't even trust her vocals on their own until three years later. It's strange to hear this still wide-eyed and wondrous perspective nestled within a song writing maturity that more befits a folk festival veteran than this surf-loving babe from the beach. Her joyful enthusiasm beams out through more than her music. In the very few years she has been performing, Ashleigh has managed to grace the same stages as Lior, The Beautiful Girls, Alex Lloyd, Something for Kate, Kasey Chambers, The Whitlams and Killing Heidi, who even invited her to Melbourne after hearing her set. Renowned surf company Billabong saw Ashleigh's potential before almost anyone and immediately offered her a sponsorship deal, also inviting her to perform at many of their own events such as Billabong World Junior Pro 2005 and Girls Get Out There Tour in 2006.
!!! SHOW CANCELLED!!! - Apologies for any inconvenience - cancellation by Endorphin Management and beyond our control.
Think raw, yet controlled female vocals, along with dynamic guitar playing, an array of emotive, sincere, untamed lyrics about love, travel and devotion – add to the mixture a solid base of drums and electric bass guitar, and a line up of WA's most exceptional soloists – and you have yourself 'Toby'. WA's top singer/songwriter. "Toby" has supported the likes of The Indigo Girls, Paul Kelly, Pete Murray, Donavon Frankenreiter, Luka Bloom and many other national and international artists. She has played alongside musicians including Michael Franti, Jack Johnson, The Waifs, John Butler, Xavier Rudd, The Whitlams and Alex Llyod.
Laying and living in Melbourne and Fremantle, touring the East coast and regional Western Australia regularly, playing at folk festivals such as Folk Rhythm and Life (Vic) and Fairbridge Folk Festival (WA), supporting the likes of Clare Bowditch, and Carus, being a finalist in competitions such as WAMs The Next Big Thing and the ASA Songwriter of the Year, being included in the line-up of the 2006 WAMI festival, as well as singing in her brothers band Loren and the Grow Your Owns, have all given Freya a healthy resurgence of confidence to aid in the long, slow recovery from her profoundly devastating primary-school experience.
Australian singer/songwriter Mick Hart has been touring the world for the past 10 years, playing festivals and concerts all over Australia, France, Holland, Germany and the rest of the world Praised all over the globe by critics and fans including Ben Harper, and Jeff Buckley's ex-manager Dave Lory, Mick has played support to Bob Dylan, Coldplay, Sting, John Butler Trio to name just a few. Possessing an earthy, soulful and angelic voice, Mick's music is a brilliant mix of rock/pop/blues/roots. Mick has just released his fourth studio album 'Finding Home', an acoustic masterpiece written and recorded in France and England in 2006/2007. The album has a very raw and intimate old school quality, laying somewhere in the vain of early Bob Dylan, Ryan Adams, Nick Drake , Ben Harper and Elliot Smith along with Mick's unique voice and touch and possessing a wealth of songwriting inspiration.
Join us as we celebrate acoustic vibes at The SoundLounge with this Mini Acoustic Fest Line Up ... - Chocolate Strings - Dan lethbridge - Dom Cooley - Skotty Fairclough - Matt Collyer
Join the The Saruzu Quartet with special guest vocalist Kacey Patrick (stringmansassy) for their first series of 2008 performances. A fiery flamenco-tango-jazz ensemble, Saruzu's interpretation of the rich harmonies of Argentine tango, the wild improvisations of gypsy jazz and the fire and grace of flamenco, is exhilarating. Evocative of a 1920's Paris cafe scene filtered through an edgy and contemporary sensibility, Saruzu is a celebration of the musical passions of its members - renowned violinist Luke Moller, sensual flamenco dancer and fiery percussionist Simone Pope, ferociously cool jazz bass player Andrew Shaw and laid back guitar virtuoso Andrew Veivers.
World Beat visionaries Afro Dizzi Act have released their sophomore album. Titled Walkin', Afro Dizzi Act has created a sonic journey that captures adventures they shared with musicians in locations of India, Nepal, Dubai, West Africa and Australia. The first single (track 3, Walkin™), featuring West African master Kora & vocalist/story teller Jali Buba Kuyateh, is a multi-lingual global feast that cooks along with rich flow of African roots and melodies blended with the signature deep grooves of Afro Dizzi Act Anchored in a broad spectrum of roots music, Afro Dizzi Act have built a reputation as one of the most flexible bands in Australia. Their ability to craft a live performance for a particular audience and space is second to none and it's for this reason amongst others the group has been able to attract such a wide ranging audience and an equally diverse array of gigs. With the present new additions to the band, Vocalist/Kora player Jali Buba Kuyateh from Senegal, West Africa, and Nepali Tabla master Dheeraj Shrestha, a new direction is starting to present itself for Afro Dizzi Act.
Rarely do you see such a complete musician as Jali Buba Kuyateh. A master of traditional kora tunes, Jali Buba has applied his kora to the Afro Manding styles, soukous of Mali and Guinee Conakry, the mbalax made so popular by Youssou N'dour, reggae, salsa, jazz and the blues. Jali Buba Kuyateh has the ability to captivate an audience on his own or with a band. He sings like Youssou N'dour and plays kora like Toumani Diabate. He's a brilliant entertainer and to watch him play as he gets lost in his music is a delight to behold. He not only plays and sings, but he dances while he plays
Who is Laneous? The enigmatic and often masked master of soul is none other than Lachy Mitchell of famed afro-jazz funk quartet Kafka. Playing an astounding 300 shows a year with six other bands, Lachy is one of Australia's hardest working musicians. Lachy's ability to improvise on guitar, flute, keyboard and voice makes rehearsals largely unnecessary. When playing with the Back Beatniks his spontaneous compositions renders critics dumbfounded, whilst his superb singing range leaves audiences mute with rapture.
South-East Queensland locals, Grassroots Street Orchestra, have created a formidable reputation and a dedicated following throughout Eastern Australia with their captivating original sound, and intense, high-energy live performances. Their unique style is a potent mix of passionate, politically charged, eloquent hip-hop lyricism, underpinned by exotic, progressive sounds from a jaw-dropping live instrumental lineup. After standout festival performances, industry showcases, several east coast tours and a successful EP in 2007 - and with a debut album on the way. 2008 is shaping up to be a big year for this local six-piece phenomenon.
After a busy year touring extensively all over the globe, Madviolet return once again to Australia to dazzle audiences with a stage show they will never forget. The internationally acclaimed Canadian duo (Brenley MacEachern & Lisa MacIsaac) are renowned for their humorous and emotionally charged performances, extraordinary guitar and fiddle abilities and, in particular, their stunning folk country vocal harmonies. Together they have toured the world non-stop for over six years, and produced two albums. The most recent album 'Caravan', features songs written in Byron Bay after their 2005 tour, others co-written with Ron Sexsmith, and a veritable who's who of the music world, including Clare Kenny (Indigo Girls), Fiachna o' Braonain (Hothouse Flowers) and Julian Wilson (Grand Drive).
Scarlett Affection combines sisterly synergy with a fresh, inspiring twist. Uniquely crafted songs with sensous harmonies – Scarlett Affection is sisters Melia and Nerida. Scarlett Affection's live performance and award winning songwriting is engaging and inspiring audiences in Australia and beyond. After a stella performance last year and with the release of their album 'Our Sweet Ambush', Scarlett Affection has been invited back to perform at the International Folk Alliance Conference in Memphis, Tennessee in 2008! Their concert style live show combines guitar, piano, smatterings of flute and intoxicating harmonies. The Scarlett stories infused with the theatrics and dynamics of their sibling bond make Scarlett Affection a spine-tingling must see act!
African born, French raised, creation bound alternative singer song writer Tété digs melodies above all, just as long as the mixture is blues tainted. Music can't possibly be worth it if there's no soul in it right? Right. Is it the west indian blood running in his veins,or the Beatles heritage he grew up listening to that keeps the man going? No one can tell really.Who cares about pigeonholes anyway!? Now one of France's most well regarded song writers, Tété started out playing bars and cafés, just him and his guitar. France's original troubadour, has now sold over half a million records, also selling out The Olympia five times in one year. Described as 'terribly human', his music blends the pop, folk and blues influences that shaped his early musical life. All 3 of his albums (L'Air de Rien, A La faveur de l'Automne, and Le Sacre des Lemmings) have also been distributed to Japan by Meta Company, where a small tour has just been completed successfully.
Attracting comparisons to artists such as Natalie Merchant and Joni Mitchell, songwriter Kate Fagan is a leading light in the folk-roots scene. Her solo debut 'Diamond Wheel' was released through MGM earlier this year and has won high praise from critics and fans alike, showcasing her divine vocals and her "lucid, emotionally persuasive and evocative" (SMH) poetical skills. Kate also scored a winner when Diamond Wheel picked up the National Film and Sound Archive Award for 'Best Folk Album' at last year's National Folk Festival. Kate is certainly no stranger to the stage. Having grown up in Sydney's most celebrated folk music family, The Fagans, as a child she toured across the country countless times with her mother, father and brother. She now plays with some of the hottest acoustic musicians in Australia and returns home from an extensive UK tour. "Clear Water sounds like a song Joni Mitchell forgot to add to one of her early albums. Seriously, Diamond Wheel is that good. Welcome to a major new Australian talent." (Sydney Morning Herald)
West Australian singer-songwriter Carus has been a part of the new Roots-Folk scene since day one and with its explosion his fan base has grown enormously. As a songwriter, Carus' focus lies in the endeavour to achieve what's best for each song particularly priding himself on the dynamics of a live set. An experienced performer, he not only performs solo but with his band The True Believers melding rock, reggae, country, folk, funk and groove, switching between acoustic and electric guitars and ensuring a strong connection with every audience, not only in Australia but also in the UK and Europe. Live, Carus is a wonder to behold and the energy on stage is exhilarating.
After a huge 2003, in which not only did Rob win the Frankston International Guitar Festival Young Guitarist of the Year, PBS Songwriter of the Year competition and the Apollo Bay Young Musician Award, he also managed to graduate from High School, turn 18 and get his drivers license. A monster year in anyone's books. "Rob Sawyer was absolutely amazing. He really knows how to use that guitar of his...only word I can think of to describe it is `brilliant`." (www.iota.com.au) "Rob Sawyer ... Whoa, he was fantastic! I'd never seen him before, and he was just really really amazing!" (www.carus.com.au)
A SoundLounge favourite, Loren has been making waves around the country with his brand new album 'Slow Burn'. April saw Loren tour nationally with his band The Grow Your Owns to launch the impressive new release, which explores similar themes as his previous release, 'Community'. Australian audiences and media alike have greeted Loren's new songs with open arms and the first single 'On By Day' hit the airwaves receiving instant rotation on Triple J. Loren's music continues to soothe souls and warm hearts and there is plenty of room for us all to tag along on his musical journey! "Loren writes the kind of music that when you listen to it you somehow feel like you're getting a massage. A sweet, gentle voice accompanied by relaxed melodically plucked guitar written by a man with a heart of gold. I¹ve watched Loren play ... and am always inspired by how effortless the music is." (John Butler – John Butler Trio)
If having a 'story' is prerequisite for success in these times of instant celebrity, then Old Man River (Ohad Rein) is more than half way there. Like the mighty Mississippi after whom this intriguing artist is named, Old Man River has ridden his life's ebbs and flows, sometimes a turbulent rapid, others a soothing babble, an endless energy running from East to West and back again. Old Man River released his debut EP 'Sunshine' in 2004, and his debut album 'Good Morning' in 2006, and swerves from classic pop to the transcendental, touching the darkness with warmth and turning the confrontations of our shadows into a peaceful and liberating journey.
Pedalling hard cut alt-country lashed with indie roots-rock: The Rain in Juarez are four members strong and based out of Brisbane. They traffice in rhythm, musicality, subtle flourish and stark conviction. Having booked into seedy motels using such aliases as 'The Evan Alexander Band', The Rain in Juarex formed from the shuddered ashes of 'John Jeckyl and his illustriously long titled bonanza of behavioural attitues u serious ****'. Following a secret release to national alternative radio this December, The Rain in Juarez will be launching their debut EP early next year.
M. Jack Bee was hummed into being on a suburban back porch in a city in the south. Fumbling guitars and haunted vocals sets this lo-fi scene, an ode to love and the fear it costs. After shows supporting Old Man River and then Lior (under the guise 'Doin'Fine') he went back into hiding as the frontman for indie rockers Lelu, and after five trips interstate and many a meeting with the honcho's of the 'industry' the rock'n'roll dream was lived and found to be completely un-inspiring. The demo's were written as the tape rolled, and were meant only as a guide but provided the sole material for the album to be released at somepoint(!) this year.
"Band of Frequencies" unique style draws sounds from a palette of deep roots grooves, free soul, uplifting rhythms, drum driven psychedelic journeys and ambient soundscapes. Having produced and performed several surf film soundtracks 'Band of Frequencies' have become known for their unique musical directions, captivating improvisations and fluid compositions. They have presented their distinctive sounds in the US in 2006 and have since been commissioned to compose half of the sound track to 'Under the Sun', a film by Californian filmmaker Cyrus Sutton. The double album soundtrack release will be in conjunction with UK producer Shawn Lees and will be available through Ubiquity records in 2008. They are also heading over to Japan in October '07 to perform for the Japanese launch of 'Life Like Liquid', a film by free surfer Dave Rastovich that they produced and performed the sound track for in 2005. With a new album in the pipeline and two songs, 'Dylan's Wings' and 'Sol Train', receiving airplay on Triple J radio recently, the band have a busy summer ahead. The album, "Sol train", has been reviewed favourably in several US and Aust surf magazines and is set for release later in the year through their own independent label Low Pressure Productions
The weird guitar band at dance parties and the weird dance band at rock shows, Taste of Tea will break you into little pieces and put you back in a new order. ToT deliver rich textures, bombast attack and magnificent chaos, creating sonic worlds that dodge genre trends and fuse hypnotic drum driven dance rhythms with a vast palate of psychedelic sounds. Deeply rooted in the Japanese underground, guitarists Yusuke Akai and Daiji Igarashi play their instruments like control interfaces for space shuttles. Boldly original and sonically lush, this forward thinking guitar playing flags this band deep within the territory of modern psychadelia and finds it's perfect counterpoint in the complex yet relentlessly driving rhythmic arrangements and live fire of the two drummers (Nik Mayer-Miller & Sam Mitchell) and bassist (Josef Muller).
Kate Miller-Heidke truly arrives in 2007, and delivers what we've been waiting for from an Australian solo artist for years. Her debut album Little Eve beautifully combines her unique theatrical musicality and the fascinating peculiar girl inside her. A collection of charming and eclectic songs about a modern girl's life and her world, it's the result of a focused and determined artist. Modest and gorgeous, Kate's fresh, innovative and slightly loopy folk/pop softly melts the insides of her enchanted listeners, and establishes her as one of Australia's most exciting musical talents.
The distorted cry of a lap steel guitar slices through the Brooklyn night. A voice sings with aching sweetness and strength. Caressing melodies are barbed with stinging solos. This is the sound of The Last Town Chorus - the revolving ensemble led by singer/writer/lap-steel-guitarist Megan Hickey - whose singular approach to music has beguiled writers from The New York Times to The Washington Post. Her live shows are nothing short of revelatory, bringing audience members to tears, turning critics into fanatics and building a fiercely loyal fan base in every city The Last Town Chorus visits. The new album, Wire Waltz, is even deeper, more powerful and more personal than the last and includes the wistful reinvention of David Bowie's 'Modern Love' that was recently featured in an episode of Grey's Anatomy. Released in March 2007 Wire Waltz is comfort food for wounded souls.?- Hacktone Records "She sings like an Angel and plays lap steel guitar like the Devil." (Village Voice)
Melbourne garage rockers British India have exploded onto the Australian pop scene since the release of their debut album 'Guillotine' in July 2007. The 4 piece from Melbourne topped the 'Triple J 'Most Requested' several weeks running and the video single 'Tie Up My Hands' reached No1 on JTV staying in the top 10 for 8 weeks. The boys received Triple J 'Album of the week' feature and the band have now been nominated for the prestigious J Award for 'Album Of The Year' British India just completed a 'sold out' national city tour. Offers for the band to perform are pouring in from all over the country and the band will continue touring throughout 2007. The boys will release their follow up video single 'Run the red light' in October 2007.
Brittle is a four piece rock band with the determination to make it big on the international scene. They are going to explode and hit your stereo and ipods like a punch to the teeth. Brittle have been playing shows for over 5 years and have shared the stage with some iconic international and national bands such as Grinspoon, Kisschasy, Bodyjar, Something With Numbers, Avalon Drive, The Veronicas and many more. 2006 saw Brittle play a variety of venues including the main stage at Splendour In The Grass, The Hard Rock Café during Indy Week as well Schoolies Week.
Sometimes an artist's creative evolution can be painstaking and protracted, a process whereby a subtle transformation occurs over a long period of time and which can be difficult to pick up for the casual observer. At the opposite end of the spectrum such artistic change can often prove to be swift, with a massive artistic leap being made in between two projects which are linked chronologically, but which prove to be miles apart from each other in a stylistic sense. This latter - more rapid - course of action has recently been embraced by celebrated Brisbane musician Andrew Morris, whose third solo album Union Bars is a stunning departure from the sound and feel of his previous, critically-acclaimed, work. Released less than a year after his 2006 sophomore effort Valleys, Union Bars represents a marked creative progression: a move away from the country-rock feel of his former output, a development which will appease his existing fanbase but which will find him appealing to a whole new discerning audience. "Like his two previous efforts, album No.3 exudes that same feeling of expectation, something bubbling away with all the excitement of a treasure waiting to be discovered .... Surely the secret can't be kept much longer" (Courier Mail)
We welcome Tom back for his second week at The SoundLounge. Tom Cooney has emerged as another brilliant Brisbane singer-songwriter, destined for musical greatness in one form or another. A reflective and humble performer, Tom had played classical guitar for nearly 10 years before he put pen to paper to write his first heartbreak-inspired song. Influenced by artists such as Ryan Adams, Natalie Merchant and Rufus Wainright, Tom Cooney encapsulates life's varying experiences, and writes with a thoughtful and hopeful hand. Due for release in February 2008 Tom's has recently spent his time constantly arranging and composing for his debut full length album, "Presque Vu". After the uncluttered approach to "Hold Me Down", his LP will prove to be a more layered and ambient approach to giving musical thoughts life. "Every now and again, a very special musician comes along whose gigs leave a room of people certain they ahve witnessed someone on the path to greatness. Such a musician is Tom Cooney." (Tsunami Magazine, Album Review)
After leaving school, Abby Dobson wandered around the world singing for her supper in New York subways, Greek Islands and Parisian tequila slammer bars. She returned to Australia and started the band Leonardo's Bride with Dean Manning and went on to make some wonderful records with them, including the gold selling 'Angel Blood' with its top 5 single 'Even When Im Sleeping' which also won the coveted APRA Song of the Year award and, later, voted APRA 'Top 20 Australian Songs of all Time'. Since then, Abby has done more travelling, including some inner mountains she had to climb, and so bowed out of the spotlight for a few years, working on smaller musical projects, assisting friends with their recordings and promotion and quietly getting together a body of work to prepare for her debut solo offering. The album 'Rise Up' is slated for a September release, but stay tuned in the meantime for the release of the first single 'Shining Star' .... '...she belts out power ballads, delicate laments and quirky, catchy melodies with professional ease. Dobson seems to be one part Gwen Stefani to two parts Sinead O'Connor;...a tightly coiled set which hints at stadium status." (The Independent, England)
Never a lyric for the sake of it, Tom's poetry lies on a bed of delicate guitar work. Walk a line between confusion and clarity, layered and bare, folk and something else ambientish..... Throw in some despair and indifference (and obviously a contradiction or two) with underlying hope and you have Tom's music. 3 years ago, Tom received a wake-up call from Hermann Hesse (among others) and left the world of drudgery and ambition. All signs then pointed to one road (as they always do if you look close enough) and Tom put together a 7 track mini album "Hold Me Down". Since then he has toured constantly including shows with M. Ward, Fionn Regan, Josh Pyke, Old Man River and many more. Like any independent musician (not necessarily by choice), Tom is back workin' for the man. They have his time for now but his mind is elsewhere, constantly arranging and composing for his debut full length album, "Presque Vu" (due for release Feb 2008). After the uncluttered approach to "Hold Me Down", his LP will prove to be a more layered and ambient approach to giving musical thoughts life. "Every now and again, a very special musician comes along whose gigs leave a room of people certain they ahve witnessed someone on the path to greatness. Such a musician is Tom Cooney." (Tsunami Magazine, Album Review)
Michael Fitzgerald and brothers Sid and Ted O'Neil were still in their teens when they formed The Vasco Era in the (otherwise) quiet coastal town of Apollo Bay. The trio felt an instant musical and live chemistry spurring exciting local performances that were soon packed houses with the crowd feeling the dynamic intensity of their live shows. From these humble beginnings, the band have gone on to much bigger things, most recently culminating in large outdoor performances at The Falls Festival, Southbound, East and West Coast Blues & Roots Festivals, Apollo Bay Music Festival and The Great Escape. In addition to the ever growing list of festivals, the band has an impressive resume of supports, having toured with The Black Keys, Gomez, The Violent Femmes, You Am I, and even opening for Wolfmother in London last year. The Vasco Era have toured extensively throughout Australia on their own as well and last year won fans further afield with shows in LA, New York and London. "Blazing onto the scene in the wake of Wolfmother and the John Butler Trio, they solidify Oz as the home of blues rock updated. Their set was a glory of no-holds barred thunder from down under. Rarely do I see a band throw themselves so wholly into a set..." (American Chronicle, Los Angeles, USA - J Caldwell)
The Fumes deliver multi-facetted, stylistic raw blues tunes mashed with healthy rock riffs and snappy beats. Steve Merry spent 12 months in the U.S where he took on some mentoring from Bob Brozman and an opportunity to immerse himself in many styles of music. It helped define and develop The Fumes. Having left Sydney an already accomplished exponent of the resonator guitar, Steve is now more than ever so strongly articulated in the finger picking rhythms and slide techniques that are relative rare in Australia. He returned with a new passion for his music. The Fumes complete with the addition of Joel Battersby, who has drummed with members of The Beautiful Girls.
Founder of legendary rock group Dire Straits, David has subsequently faithfully pursued his own musical vision, writing and producing his own compositions featured on nine solo CDs to date. David Knopfler has been fortunate enough to reach a wide audience without compromising his art and though he's enjoyed the respect and admiration of his musical peers and received widespread critical acclaim, he currently lives quietly (and happily) in the English countryside. His stand-out album 'Ship of Dreams', released in 2004, was co-produced with long time friend, writer, composer and performer Harry Bogdanovs (Westerhagen) and features guest appearances by Chris Rea and Alan Clark (Dire Straits) amongst others.
Ed Kuepper is an Australian guitarist, singer and songwriter, and co-founder of the seminal punk band The Saints. Awarded ARIAs in 1993 and 1994 for Best Independent Australian Release (and nominated for similar awards in 1992, 1995, 1996, 1997 and 1998), he was arguably Australia's most prolific recording artist in the early nineties. In recent years, Kuepper has been involved in soundtracking radio drama and experimental films, and has toured Australia and Europe performing semi-improvised music to some of these films. Currently, Ed has his eyes on a new release titled 'Jean Lee and the Yellow Dog', which is loosely based on the story of Jean Lee who was the last woman hanged in Australia. This album features performances by Jeffrey Wegener (Laughing Clowns), Peter Oxley (Sunnyboys), Warren Ellis (Dirty Three) and Chris Bailey (The Saints).
Mia Dyson is on the road again, telling stories, making music and looking far ahead to the bright future that awaits her beyond the horizon. Her third album, the recently released 'Struck Down', is an album about finding your place in the big, wide world and simultaneously getting lost in it! Mia performs at The SoundLounge every time she's in town, and is one of our favourite artists – we congratulate her on her new album which is a mature, contemplative surrender to chaos and beauty, confusion and clarity, sadness, strangeness, and to the rich traditions of roots Americana that first made her dream. "She's a guitarist, songwriter and singer, but it's her voice - more guttural than just gravelly, more touched than merely smoky - that is the show stopper. Skinny young white girls aren't supposed to sound this big, soulful and black." (Sydney Morning Herald)
After a decision to scale back touring and concentrate on writing and recording this year, 2007 is shaping up to be quite an interesting year for Matt Walker. With no plans to release an album in the immediate future he has decided to 'go back to the lab' which in this case is his home studio known as the '8 track shack'. Here Matt has been writing and recording music for an Australian feature documentary due for release in America later this year. "... is there a more exciting talent than Matt Walker ... as a singer, songwriter and guitarist, he's touched by greatness ... what sticks with you is the perfect melding of Walker's youthful voice, with its tone of bruised innocence and the desperate conviction of these songs." (Sydney Morning Herald)
Since forming in Brisbane in 2003, The Gin Club have refined their eclectic mix of traditional folk, blues and country to the point of perfection! Performing extensively throughout Brisbane, this power-packed live act has toured Australia and supported Tony Joe White, Youth Group, Paul Kelly, You Am I, Pete Murray, Andrew Morris and others. 2005 saw The Gin Club release their second album 'Fear of the Sea', which followed-up their widely acclaimed debut self-titled album from 2004. 'Fear of the Sea' features 'Drugflowers', which peaked at No.3 on the Triple J Net 50. Not content to sit on their assets, The Gin Club toured to Canada in 2006 where they were invited to showcase at Canadian Music Week in Toronto, as well as playing a series of side shows throughout Ottowa, Montreal and Quebec.
Renowned for their beautifully shambolic live shows, Sydney six-piece Dead Letter Chorus are ever-ready to whisk the listener away from the mundane to a place where independent music reigns supreme! Their charming debut EP Listen Carefully (We Shall Say This Only Once) has garnered strong reviews and airplay around the country and, recorded on one rainy day, this EP is reflective of the band's live dramatic energy aswell as their more intimate, introspective side.
Matheson are four likeable Ballarat lads who, in the finest Blues Brothers tradition, put together a band built on solid rock, alt-country and blues foundations. Recent supports of Tim Rogers, Tex Perkins & Charlie Owen, Dallas Crane and Wolfmother have shown these lads for what they really are – Ballarat boys with well-crafted songs and a golden syrup sound! It's said that Matheson's music goes equally well when dancing with a pretty girl as it does going whiskey-for-whiskey with 'that shady bloke by the bar'. It'll make you dance, and may even make you cry tears of joy!
Inspired by the sights seen and people met covering more than 60,000 km of Australia's lonely highways, Geoff Turnbull turned his hand to writing and recording and has since become a much-sought-after roots musician. Performing solo - a la Xavier Rudd - since July 2004, Turnbull has jumped aboard the Festivals Fun-Bus and supported the likes of Lior, Vascoe Era, Ash Grunwald, and The Mess Hall. A passionate musician with a refreshing approach and a fondness for playing explosively good roots music, Geoff Turnbull is electrifying, inspiring and 100% individual.
From very humble beginnings in an equally humble place called Dongdingalong, Jerram Gabriel found his inner Gypsy and followed the bright star in the sky all the way to the big smoke. City life offered Jerram better prospects for making his brand of blues-folk-reggae-rock and many more opportunities to observe humanity doing what they do. His songs reflect his wanderings and wonderings and he gives his music the space it needs to tell the story people need to hear.
Having already sold over 35,000 EP's, brother and sister duo, Angus and Julia Stone are set to release their debut album, 'A Book Like This' on September 8 through EMI Music Australia. In support of the release Angus and Julia will be touring nationally from October 4 – 26, which includes a stop-off at The SoundLounge. This tour is proudly presented by Triple J and IMC. "We argue about a lot of things, but never about music," says Julia about the relationship she has with her brother Angus. It's this language of music that forms the basis of Angus and Julia's debut album 'A Book Like This' – a collection of 13 heartfelt and organic songs that share their experiences and observations with listeners. Together, and with respective singer/songwriter talents, Angus and Julia Stone form two halves of a musical act whose words and music reveals a pure and genuine love of music and a talent for telling beautiful and beguiling stories.
After a 12 month absence, stringmansassy once again bring their magic to The Soundlounge. This will be another concert not to be missed!!! stringmansassy, guitarist Aaron Hopper and vocalist Kacey Patrick are innovators, improvisers, passionate and spontaneous performers. stringmansassy have become one of the most highly regarded performance duos in Australia. They are refined and sophisticated performers and unique arrangers of every musical genre, transcending their roots of jazz and folk to create a music that has been described as spellbinding, enthralling and passionate. As a performance duo, stringmansassy transcend the expected realm for guitar and voice, proving that it is possible to create an astonishing musical atmosphere with a small ensemble. Aaron and Kacey uplift, inspire and transport their audiences to a place of unparalleled beauty and "for those lucky enough to join them, the visit is wonderful" (Andrew MacLean, www.music-culture.org.au)
Ann Vriend's vulnerable yet commanding voice is often the first thing heralding her music as acutely intimate-- and yet powerful beyond belief. Secondly, she has a sound all her own, as adventurous as Fiona Apple or Kate Bush, as soaringly epic as David Gray or Aimee Mann, as freshly poppy as Sarah Slean or Gavin DeGraw, and alternately as joyous and heartbreaking as humanly possible. She performs her unique brand of cinematic pop music around the world, from New York to Berlin, Melbourne to Paris, and in her home and native land of Canada. Writes American Music Biographer David Ritz: "Once every generation a singer-songwriter emerges with the creative fire to set the music world ablaze. Ann Vriend has that fire."
To support the release of their new album 'Free Yourself', released September 1st, Cornerstone Roots announce an Australian tour. The 7-piece reggae/roots group from Aotearoa, New Zealand, formed in 2001. ‘Free Yourself’, is the bands second full-length release following on from the 2003 release of ‘Soul Revolution’ and two previous EP’s ‘Forward Movement’ (2004) and ‘One Fine Day’ (2002). With contemporary message orientated lyrics and catchy riffs, the Corners have been building a solid fan base and a reputation for creating a timeless vibe at their live shows. Fans are either working up a sweat dancing up a storm, or bugging out to the more chilled vibes. A typical live performance will showcase a variety of styles and moods from a rhythmic syncopated groove to a bass driven onslaught.
Dubdoubt’s sunshine sounds blossomed after a humble beginning as a bedroom hip-hop collective. Kiwi Hayden Andrews eyes met those of guitarist John Ruggles across a room at a 21st birthday party in 2001. The pair was joined by John’s brother Meetch on bass and, with Hayden on drums, began to lay Dubdoubt’s funky foundations. Fellow Aotearoan Nic Ramsden arrived in August 2003 to compliment the three piece with his skin-beatin’ skills. Later on Saxophonist Westy (Euan Gray) and trumpeteer Disco Skaar (Darren) completed the line up. With their powers combined and influences pooled, Dubdoubt’s sound settled into a smooth blend of dub, funk, jazz, hip hop and reggae with entirely original overtones. Fat bass from a skinny player and driving drums anchor punchy horns, dreamy guitars and catchy vocal melodies. Their positive ethos finds its way into the music and influences come from bo