Back in 2015, at Darren Middleton’s Melbourne launch of second solo album ‘Splinters’, I was naively surprised how varied and expansive his repertoire was. Ranging from earlier bands (notably Powderfinger and DRAG) as well as his solo career ranging over four albums, I was taken with how many memorable songs he had written, including the beautiful … Continue reading Darren Middleton
I became a Dave Graney listener in the 90’s. Wearing polyester, $2 shop bling and with an offbeat yet fabulously intelligent song writing style, he fit the scene of mis-fits who created their own niche between grunge and alternative rock. He gave the impression that anything goes and don’t take yourself too seriously. His eccentricity … Continue reading Dave Graney
Will Cuming, aka LANKS, is an Australian songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. His debut album twentyseven is full of sweet, melodic layers and sometimes reflective moods of an artist expecting more from life and himself, as he moves through his late 20’s. Songs such as ‘Yours’ and ‘Comfortable’ are cruisy and easily accessible, whereas the title … Continue reading LANKS (Will Cuming)
Tracy McNeil’s Canadian accent flows warmly, as we find a spot to sit and talk in a Brunswick beer garden. She’s on the phone when I rush in late and after I grab a drink, she’s quick to apologise for being on a call. An indication of her down to earth personality. She’s strong … Continue reading Tracy McNeil
Ben and Julian from Ukelele Death Squad are both keen to chat. Their ukelele band have been selling out their live shows, as word has quickly spread of their talent, improvisational skills and funny banter. This has lead to the four piece be asked to play numerous festivals since forming in February 2016, and they … Continue reading Ukelele Death Squad
Charm of Finches sisters Mabel and Ivy met with me on a Saturday morning in Northcote to chat about their songwriting. Mature and natural songwriters, it’s no surprise their first EP Home, and 2016 debut album Staring at the Starry Ceiling have already earned them multiple slots on the festival scene (Port Fairy Folk … Continue reading Charm of Finches
After some initial discussion on Melbourne’s ongoing changes, and moving between north and south, i’m speaking to an articulate Dan Kelly about his writing process. It’s the middle of winter so luckily we find a heater and some wine and get chatting. Dan is amusing, reflecting his outlook on influences, old style 4 tracking, layers … Continue reading Dan Kelly
"Well you'll have a better life. You'll have a better life, you mark our words. Have a better life, you'll all get what you all deserve. Oh man, this is too f***** up. In anybody's language it ain't good enough. 'Cos I've been here almost fifteen years. In anybody's language, this is fight or … Continue reading Liz Stringer
Mark Seymour recognised his difficulty with song writing, after Hunters and Collectors disbanded in 1998. Suddenly faced with writing alone, and having a family to support, he says “The criteria were pretty strong, so gradually I figured it out. The problem wasn’t so much I was looking for a style, I didn’t really understand how … Continue reading Mark Seymour
