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Monthly Archives

June 2022

Music News

Christena Rich ‘Without You’

by the partae
written by the partae

The Los Angeles-based Canadian singer-songwriter Christena Rich, has released her brand new single “Without You.”  Christena started recording at age 17 and has always been immersed in soul, R&B, gospel & pop, naming Amy Grant, Mariah Carey, Celine Dion, Aretha Franklin and Etta James as her biggest creative influences.  In addition to writing and recording a wealth of songs, Christena is no stranger to the stage, having wowed audiences as part of the popular West Coast series with ‘The Soul Sisters’, being a faithful worship leader as well as performing for Engelbert Humperdinck, Coco Dolenz and Rod Stewart’s producer Lauren Wild. Her passion for the story behind a song, combined with an effortless way of relating with any crowd makes for a captivating show. “When I’m on stage it’s like this huge wave of strength and passion takes over and envelopes my voice and my body and that’s when I don’t care if it’s too much, it’s that vulnerability that makes performing a safe place to lay it all down on the stage holding nothing back.”

Her first widespread release,‘The First Time’ EP,came out on Boomsmack Records in the Fall of 2020.The trio of songs, created with collaborator, co-writer and producer Lin Gardiner, saw Christena dip her toe into the world of dance and EDM, resulting in a blend of styles that work beautifully with her voice;a set of tracks to make you both reflect on the human condition and make you move at the same time. A feature on Julia Sound’s debut album, for the song ‘Myself Like This’ followed in 2021, accompaniedby a powerful and brave lyric video. Christena next teamed up with LA’s Moonhead Industries to create a spectacular video for ‘The First Time’.Christena is now back with a new release, a gorgeous RnB pop ballad, ‘Without You’. The song, produced by Lin Gardiner and written with Gardiner and Eric Zayne brings the sound of Christena’s powerful soul and delicate falsetto.

boomsmackrecords.com

instagram.com/christenarich

facebook.com/christenarichmusic

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Music News

Lucy Morgan ‘Upper Hand’ Premiere

by the partae
written by the partae

Port Stanley’s Lucy grew up with music in her life from the very beginning, and performing has always been in her blood. Writing songs is a form of therapy for her and letting the world hear it feels like closing the chapter that inspired it. She believes music is the universal language and feels so blessed to provide a space for others to connect emotionally through her songs and storytelling.

“I wanted Upperhand to feel moody and a bit sinister. I wanted the sounds to reflect an exaggerated version of my experience,” says Morgan.  “As if something evil is lurking in the shadows. Because being in an emotionally abusive relationship is like walking on eggshells everyday, constantly waiting to slip up somehow. And each time you inevitably do, you get a little bit smaller while the other person only seems to get bigger. Until it feels like you are no longer in control of your own mind.”

https://linktr.ee/LucyMorgan

https://www.instagram.com/lucymorgan.music/

 

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Music News

KIERAN CHRISTOPHERSON releases new LP ‘Grand Mote’

by the partae
written by the partae

“We can only expect his debut album Grand Mote will showcase the stunning scope of his storytelling songwriting when it drops later this year” TROUBLE JUICE

“Christopherson has created a truly beautiful slice of Australian indie goodness“ LUCAS PACKETT – PBS FM

Kieran Christopherson releases new LP Grand Mote, gears up for release show One Night Only at Brunswick Ballroom.

Kieran Christopherson’s new LP Grand Mote will be released worldwide on Friday June 24th, 2022. The record was co-produced with Melbourne engineer and producer Guy Faletolu at the artist’s home in Central Victoria and Sunset Pig Studios in Collingwood.

Kieran Christopherson spent much of the last decade as a founding member and core performer of Melbourne band Cousin Tony’s Brand New Firebird. Grand Mote is the next iteration of Christopherson’s solo work, which began almost 15 years ago and saw him play with a range of beloved Australian acts including Matt Corby, Tim Rogers, Pete Murray and The Beautiful Girls.

Grand Mote combines influences from Australiana and folk rock with cutting synths and shoegaze guitars, and explores imminent fatherhood, reconciling your past, and leaving everything behind to live in the country. The record was produced during 2020 – 2021 and features performances from Matthew Hayes, Peter Corrigan, Nicholas Reid of Kitsch Kitchen, and Lachlan Rose of Cousin Tony’s Brand new Firebird. Grand Mote demonstrates Christopherson’s knack for story and self-critique, swirling amongst the unique guitar-driven sound developed during his time with ‘Cousin Tony’.

Two singles have been released from the record, ‘China’ and ‘Get That Money’, which have received radio play in Melbourne and Sydney. Sneak peeks into the full track list of Grand Mote have been made available through an accompanying podcast titled Grand Mote Radio, which quickly picked up sponsorship from Australian headphone company Nura Sound. The launch event for the record, GRAND MOTE: One Night Only will see a swag of friends and collaborators performing at the Brunswick Ballroom on July 21st, with Christopherson debuting the album live in full through a unique solo performance.

“Grand Mote is primarily about creating something out of nothing. But it also represents the harsh truth that a life is only really important to the person living it. What we experience moment to moment may be critical to us, but at the end of the day it’s one reality playing out in something far more complex.” 

This record has been a life changing experience. I produced most of it alone at home in the Macedon Ranges, and used it as a chance to make sense of the last 10 years of my life while preparing to become a father. My friends and collaborators helped turn it into something far grander than I ever thought it would be.”

Grand Mote is out on Friday June 24th on all streaming and digital platforms.

 

Stream the record
Buy tickets to ONE NIGHT ONLY

 

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Music News

PERTH INDIE GROUP LATE 90s RETURN WITH EMPHATIC NEW TRACK ‘DIE TO HEAL’

by the partae
written by the partae

Photo: Mike Dann

Fresh off the back of releasing cathartic single ‘Disarray’ in February, West Australian four-piece Late 90s return with more confidence than ever fueling their new release, ‘Die To Heal’. 

Pouring emotion and a myriad influences into their new work, the latest from Late 90s is a surefire way to the hearts of any alt-rock, indie grunge music fan. Driven by the charged up, almost yearning vocals of Stephen Loreck, and bolstered by the strength of the band’s core dynamic of Loreck, Zaac Morgan, Brody Morgan and Elliot Lee, ‘Die To Heal’ is another stellar offering from the young group taking strong strides forward in 2022. 

‘Die To Heal’ was recorded at Hopping Mouse Studios, with the band working with Matthew Templeman (Birds of Tokyo, Sly Withers) on production and Simon Struthers (Psychedelic Porn Crumpets, Karnivool) on final mastering out of Forensic Audio Mastering. The collaboration between band, producer and engineer has proven a successful one, carrying over from the ‘Disarray’ sessions earlier in the year. 

The song is about how acknowledgement and acceptance of your troubles is a part of the healing process: “You gotta feel to heal”. It is easy to ignore problems in your life, however if you don’t acknowledge them, you may never move on or feel as you did before. Sometimes it’s only when you’re watching someone else go through tough times that you can realise this, and it’s painful to watch your friends go down a bad path “you’re so stuck in this left lane, my heart is starting to ache”. 

Stephen Loreck, LATE 90s

“With ‘Die To Heal’, we wanted to build a lot of tension throughout the intro and first verse and hit hard with the chorus as a satisfying resolution to that tension, continuing in the heavier direction of our last single ‘Disarray’.” 

Elliot Lee, LATE 90s

Late 90s have been consistently growing their presence out of the West Coast in 2022, cementing their place as one of the leading fresh voices in WA music currently gigging. With stellar performances at the likes of Sidefest alongside Sly Withers, Ruby Fields, Beddy Rays and Teenage Joans, and support dates for artists including Gyroscope, South Summit and Old Mervs pushing them further onto more radars, Late 90s are anticipating more attention levelled their way as the year rolls out.

With the release of ‘Die To Heal’ arriving at the midway point of the year, Late 90s are celebrating their new music with an unmissable launch date at Scarborough’s Indian Ocean Hotel in June.

PRAISE FOR LATE 90s

“I can see you guys really building with some pretty core punk elements, sounding great”

Declan Byrne, triple j

“Cranked up and muddier than some of the other grunge revivalists going around atm.”

Dave Ruby Howe, triple j

“Digging into a tapestry of influences spread throughout alt-rock, grunge, punk and indie to create energetic work of their own, often intertwined with intimate lyrics that dissect their ever-changing world. Keep a watchful eye on LATE 90s as they reach new heights in the year to come.

Pilerats

“Their new single, ‘Friends’, serves to highlight their punchy choruses, big chords and unique vocal delivery.”

Toasty Tunes

Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Triple J Unearthed | Website

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Music InterviewsMusic News

Floozy

by the partae
written by the partae

Where are you currently based?

Dre and I are both based in Melbourne Aust. We live 5 mins down the road from each other on the north side.

How did Floozy form?

We did a song writing session together for a European producer and had heaps of fun together. We were both complaining about being stuck writing sad music and wanted a change so we started getting together with the goal of making fun, light music.

What’s been happening recently?

Just releasing music and trying to shoot, direct and edit our own music videos. We are doing a marketing course online too to help with our releases. Dre and I are also preparing for some zoom sessions as we will be living in separate stated for the winter. Looking forward to seeing what that brings to our process.

Your latest single ‘Craving’ is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting?

We tried to listen to what the production was making us feel and started fleshing out the story. There was something distinctly cheeky and flirty in the way the bass moved with the beats but also something mysterious in the pulse of the pads and textures. Almost like a question being asked.

This really guided the theme of the song: Everyone’s had the experience of being out somewhere and locking eyes with someone magnetic and mysterious, only to have them disappear into the crowd like smoke; Someone who everyone knows of, but no one really knows. Who are they? Where do they go? Who are they with? Did they notice me in the same way?

How did Craving come about?

In coming together as a duo, we always said we’d go for fun and spritzy. This doesn’t always happen in the writing process but Craving definitely landed true. The track started with a sunny arvo studio session together, where Dre brought in this sick beat and bassline to work off. We started bouncing around the studio having a laugh and Leigh almost instantly started singing the chorus hook.

Where and when did you record/produce/master and who did you work with?

Recorded in Fitzroy North with Xavier Dunn, mixed by George Nicholas and mastered by George Georgiadis.

How did the concept for the music video come about?

The music video was an absolute dream. Late last year, we were driving down St Georges Rd in Fitzroy North and saw this vision of a person gliding down the concrete sidewalk, dancing in their rollerskates. We were so taken by them, that we stopped the car and hailed Dylan down in the middle of the street. We both knew when we saw them, enigmatic in their signature blue get-up, catching the eyes of every stranger in sight, that they were ‘Craving’ incarnate. Dylan was thrilled at our ideas and shortly after exchanging contacts, we were texting excitedly about the shoot.

This is the first shoot that we’ve filmed, directed and edited alone. We both have strong creative vision, so the process was strangely easy. We kept looking at each other and saying “surely something’s gonna go wrong any second”. We used Andréa’s DSLR camera with some serious rented lenses, and used Leigh’s Skateboard for all the motion shots with the skates. We even snuck off for a cocktail at the Everleigh to break up the shoot.

Dylan was an absolute pleasure to film; so smooth and magnetic in their glowing skates. They were so naturally enthralling that we ended up with a mountain of amazing, usable footage to choose from. A good problem to have, but it meant we had to be very cut-throat during the editing process. To make sure that most of the incredible daytime shots didn’t go to waste, we ended up deciding to repurpose it into a separate lyric video.

Where and when did you film and who with?

We shot, directed and edited it ourselves.

Who are you listening to at the moment?

Dijon, Dominic Fike, Tom Misch .

What do you like to do away from music?

Leigh surfs, reads lots of books and studies Spanish. Dre teaches yoga and looks after her giant rabbit.

What’s planned for the remainder of 2022 going into 2023?

We’re gonna continue rolling out our music and filming music videos. We have a lot of material we made through covid and can’t wait to get it out and seeing what sticks.

Favourite food and place to hangout?

Japanese, Monties Bar Fitzroy North, Black Cat in Fitzroy .

Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Triple J Unearthed

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Festival NewsMusic News

2manydjs, KAS:ST, Solardo and more added to Bumper Decibel Open Air Lineup!

by the partae
written by the partae
Paul Kalkbrenner, Caribou, Reinier Zonneveld all set to perform live alongside Nina Kraviz, Kölsch, Amelie Lens and more
September 2022
Saturday 10th / Sunday 11th
PARCO DELLE CASCINE
FLORENCE, ITALY
Decibel Open Air announces the full program of its 4th edition, spanning 10th and 11th September 2022 (noon-midnight) at Parco delle Cascine in Florence, Italy.
1979, 2manydjs, KAS:ST, Klaus, Kommando, Malandria Jr, Mattia Trani (live) and Solardo are added to complete an already impressive lineup that offers something for everyone of an underground persuasion.
Decibel Open Air is one the most highly anticipated summer festivals in the European calendar. The highlights? A new location, three stages (one brand new), more than 40 international artists (live and DJ sets), plus the immersive universe of elrow and Terminal V. Decibel Open Air line up will see superstars Paul Kalkbrenner, Caribou, Cosmo, Reinier Zonneveld and Vitalic (live), and Amelie Lens, Fisher, Marco Carola, Michael Bibi, Nina Kraviz, Peggy Gou and Richie Hawtin (DJ sets).
With the announcement of the full lineup and daily splits, fans can begin to get excited about the latest edition of Decibel Open Air.

Decibel Open Air daily full line up

Saturday 10th: Amelie Lens, Fisher, Marco Carola, Richie Hawtin, Giorgia Angiuli, Fideles, Stephan Jolk, Malandra Jr. (DOA stage); Kölsch, Wade, Marc Maya, Toni Varga, Viviana Casanova, Dimmish, Kommando (elrow stage); 2manydjs, Caribou (live), Overmono (live), Jessy Lanza, Elkka, Giulia Tess (Amphitheatre stage)

Sunday 11th: Peggy Gou, Paul Kalkbrenner (live), Nina Kraviz, Michael Bibi, Solardo, KAS:ST, Pôngo (live), 1979 (DOA stage); 999999999 (live), Adiel, I Hate Models, Pan-Pot, Reinier Zonneveld (live), T78, Mattia Trani (live), Sara Mozzillo (Terminal V stage); Cosmo (live), MACE (dj set), Vitalic (live), Tamburi Neri (live), Klaus (Amphitheatre stage)

Tickets and info:
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Music News

MELBOURNE DREAM-POP DUO FLOOZY ARE BACK WITH VIBRANT NEW TRACK ‘CRAVING’

by the partae
written by the partae

Photo by Juana Martignone

After impressing on arrival with their track ‘Sand Dunes’, Melbourne’s Floozy returns with another shimmering delight, with new track ‘Craving’. 

The single is seductive as it is easily danceable, highlighting the strong writing and artistic partnership between musicians Leigh Dallimore and Andréa Hajenian. Where ‘Sand Dunes’ introduced the pair as a group with intrigue and much potential to get stuck into, ‘Craving’ gives music fans further insight into who Floozy is – their core musical identity out on full display.

Fun, confident and beautifully expressive.

“Have you got a love you’re craving?”

It’s a simple question that threads its way through the song, and one that hangs in the air as Hajenian and Dallimore’s vocals weave together with ease. On ‘Craving’, Floozy worked with Xavier Dunn (Charlie Collins, Jack River) on co-production, recording out of their Fitzroy North studio. In terms of sound and creative direction, Floozy knew exactly what they were going for.

“In coming together as a duo, we always said we’d go for fun and spritzy. This doesn’t always happen in the writing process, but ‘Craving’ definitely landed true. The track started with a sunny arvo studio session together, where Dre brought in this sick beat and bassline to work off. We started bouncing around the studio having a laugh and Leigh almost instantly started singing the chorus hook.

We tried to listen to what the production was making us feel and started fleshing out the story. There was something distinctly cheeky and flirty in the way the bass moved with the beats but also something mysterious in the pulse of the pads and textures. Almost like a question being asked.

This really guided the theme of the song: Everyone’s had the experience of being out somewhere and locking eyes with someone magnetic and mysterious, only to have them disappear into the crowd like smoke; Someone who everyone knows of, but no one really knows. Who are they? Where do they go? Who are they with? Did they notice me in the same way?”

LEIGH & ANDREA, FLOOZY

And with the release of ‘Craving’, Floozy have also unveiled the song’s music video, a collaboration with the rollerskating performer Dylan Blue that really brought the energy of the track to life. Directed by Floozy themselves, the group took to the streets of Fitzroy North, Brunswick and Carlton, capturing Dylan as a rather ethereal creature maneuvering the nightscapes of Melbourne’s inner north.

“The music video was an absolute dream. Late last year, we were driving down St Georges Rd in Fitzroy North and saw this vision of a person gliding down the concrete sidewalk, dancing in their rollerskates. We were so taken by them, that we stopped the car and hailed Dylan down in the middle of the street. We both knew when we saw them, enigmatic in their signature blue get-up, catching the eyes of every stranger in sight, that they were ‘Craving’ incarnate. Dylan was thrilled at our ideas and shortly after exchanging contacts, we were texting excitedly about the shoot. 

While writing we really tried to embody the scenes we had imagined: indistinct voices echoing down neon lit city streets; Smokey bars and clubs filled with colourful creatures of the night. Taking notes of all the textures, sounds, and emotions present.”

LEIGH AND ANDREA, FLOOZY

WATCH HERE

PRAISE FOR FLOOZY

“They’ve got a strong sound to match some good style. Floozy’s a name worth remembering”

Triple J Unearthed, Dave Ruby Howe (‘Sand Dunes’, 2021)

“You’ve done such a stellar job of bottling up the feeling of an idyllic, carefree afternoon into a song. It’s intoxicating!”

Triple J Unearthed, Abby Butler (‘Sand Dunes’, 2021)

“3 minutes and 20 seconds of Sun-soaked Nostalgia. Big fan of this one.”

Triple J Unearthed, Jerry Ijale Agbinya (‘Sand Dunes’, 2021)

“Sand Dunes is driven by lofty production, dreamy vocals wrapped in a clever pop arrangement, reflecting the duo’s clear songwriting ability and charm.”

The Music

‘Craving’ is released Thursday, 2nd June.

Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Triple J Unearthed

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Fashion & Culture

Jam-packed NAIDOC Week program at Arts Centre Melbourne

by the partae
written by the partae
NAIDOC Week 3 – 10 July
Arts Centre Melbourne will celebrate the storied culture, country and resilience of First Nations artists and communities in an exciting NAIDOC Week program from 3 – 10 July. Central to this offering is the 2022 NAIDOC theme, GET UP, STAND UP, SHOW UP!, a powerful statement to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples as they declare their proud history of getting up, standing up, and showing up each and every day.
Kicking things off on Sunday 3 July will be a NAIDOC Week: Sunday Market from 10am – 4pm featuring First Nations businesses Clothing The Gaps, Haus of Dizzy, The Koori Circle and many others. Clothing The Gaps have also been given creative freedom to decorate our buildings with powerful imagery and will have eight posters across the Hamer Hall and St Kilda Rd backlits.
Throughout the market day, there will also be a series of FREE, family-friendly workshops in the Hamer Hall Foyer. Mob can join in a bushtukka and feather flower-making workshop with artist Cassie Leatham in collaboration with Craft Victoria or design their own tram art with Jarra Karalinar Steel. For those more musically inclined, there will be hip hop dance workshops with Indigenous Outreach Projects and a songwriting workshop with storyteller, composer, director, producer, musician and soundscape designer Allara. Participants will need to pre-register their interest for each of the workshops.
To round out the opening day of NAIDOC Week, viewers can catch a stream of legendary singer-songwriter Uncle Kutcha Edward’s album launch for his latest release Circling Time. This is Uncle Kutcha’s fifth studio album and was filmed at the invitation only launch in May 2022. The stream will be available from Arts Centre Melbourne’s content hub, Together With You.
Bri Pengarte Apma Hayes’ winning Vic NAIDOC poster design will take pride of place up on Arts Centre Melbourne’s super banner until the end of NAIDOC Week. Each year, Vic NAIDOC run a poster design competition to find an artist who captures the essence of the year’s theme. Hayes, a 19-year-old emerging Arrernte artist born and raised in Geelong on Waddawurrung country, shares her love and passion for culture through her art by telling stories and showing connections in her works.
From a young age, she watched her father Joel Penagnke Apma Hayes, a renowned Aboriginal artist, and started her own painting journey at the age of 16. Hayes incorporates many different aspects into her paintings using dots and symbols alongside lots of blues and earthy tones.
To accompany this powerful image, First Nations photographers Jacinta Keefe and Tiffany Garvie will also have a selection of their photography on display across the façade of Arts Centre Melbourne.
“My images of Mandy Nicholson and Barkaa show two women of different generations and different approaches to activism in contemporary Australia. Both have the shared experience of living as First Nations women in this country and are powerful, consistent and authentic in the way they use their voices,” said Garvie.
“I chose Archie because he stood up for mob and fought endlessly to get where we are now. I also chose the footy oval where the TREATY For Victoria concert was held because despite the rain and scary as thunderstorm, the show still went on and we all showed up – for mob and treaty,” said Keefe.
Throughout the month of July, the digital projection about the Spirit Eel, Ancestral Memory – created by First Nations interdisciplinary artist Maree Clarke (Mutti Mutti/Yorta Yorta/BoonWurrung/Wamba Wamba) and emerging artist Mitch Mahoney (BoonWurrung/Barkinji) – will weave its way across the façade of Hamer Hall.
For Ancestral Memory, Clarke collaborates with her nephew to tell the mysterious journey of the short-finned eel of the Birrarung and Maribyrnong River systems as it crosses land, river and sea, taking on many forms on its path to maturity. For the peoples of the Kulin Nation the eel is a protector spirit, food source, seasonal marker and timekeeper.
The metaphor of the Spirit Eel connects time and place, a story of resilience and adaptation that has been pushed below the surface but never lost. This work provides First Nations communities with a new connection to the Hamer Hall site honouring their custodianship of the land and gives greater visibility to their cultural heritage.
Other events taking place during NAIDOC Week at Arts Centre Melbourne include MSO + Electric Fields (7 July), MSO + Spinifex Gum (9 July) and Get Up, Stand Up, Show Up & Shake a leg (10 July) a Songlines concert in the Fairfax Studio featuring some of Victoria’s best pop acts and legends including Alice Skye, Aunty Zeta, Bart Willoughby, Dave Arden, Soju Gang, Yung Warriors and the Get Up, Stand Up, Sing it Up Choir.

For more information visit artscentremelbourne.com.au
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Music News

NICK & JUNE RELEASE DREAMY VIDEO FOR LATEST SINGLE ‘ANYTHING BUT TIME’ FROM FORTHCOMING EP BEACH BABY, BABY

by the partae
written by the partae

Photo by Lukas Popp

 

A gentle beat, a psychedelically blazing organ, subdued guitar arpeggios, to which an echoing female voice whispers. The first sounds of “Beach Baby, Baby”, the new EP by Nick & June, cause several associative bells to ring at once: Dream Pop! LoFi! Sixties! And those who have known the duo from Nuremberg for a while may be momentarily puzzled: Where’s the indie-folk? Well, after a creative break (and more than two pandemic years) it’s okay to start a new chapter, right?

With the first single ‘Anything But Time’, Nick & June float in a glittering fog of trilling synthesizers, gentle beat and drum pulses and vibrating organ sounds. Embedded in dark reverb guitars, the bitter-sweet paired voices of Suzie-Lou Kraft and Nick Wolf lead the way through euphorically orchestrated restraint and meditative ramifications of thought. Where parallels were once drawn to artists like Bon Iver, Damien Rice, and Angus & Julia Stone, now also Beach House, Mazzy Star, and Lana Del Rey, peer through the reverb-veil. 

“The song was written really fast, very stream-of-consciousness, really really fast. It’s a brief song, with simple sounds, in fact just an old Casio keyboard and a drum machine, with lots of ideas in it. We don’t do too much talking about the lyrics so people can interpret them in their own way. Besides, sometimes even we don’t know one hundred percent what they mean.“ NICK & JUNE

The band shot the accompanying video in an old hotel in Berlin, a late 19th-century tenement house that was once home to silent movie star Asta Nielsen. 

“We have watched many classics of film history and all time favorites in Pandemic – maybe that’s why the overall concept of the EP has a cinematic touch. With these impressions absorbed, we quickly had a firm idea of what the video should look like. The Hotel Funk in Berlin, as an already stunning location, was adapted even more to our wishes by Lillie Ceben, who was responsible for the set design, and Jeanette Friedrich then captured them and shortened them to two minutes thirty – which was really hard with such beautiful material. I believe that with Maja Bons as the actress, we have found the one person who can make this video fun from head to toe.“  NICK AND JUNE

WATCH HERE

Change is a constant in Nick & June’s career. What began in 2011 as Nick Wolf’s solo project, evolved into a variable work of art and indie project during recent years. While both the first EP and full-length debut “Flavor & Sin” (2013) were still deeply rooted in acoustic singer-songwriterism, Nick & June pushed the doors wide open with their concept-release ”My November My” (2017): It was still folk(pop), but more cinematic and layered, with choirs, brass and no inhibitions about freestyling at times – and with singles like “Home Is Where the Heart Hurts, Pt. 1” and “London City, Boy, It’s Killing Me” that morphed into minor indie hits: over 10 million streams, air time on the radio, prime-time TV and even the big screen, in the acclaimed coming-of-age film “About a Girl.”

PRAISE FOR NICK & JUNE

“Delicate, dreamy, poetic…”

OK! Magazine

“The parallels range from Conor Oberst to The National to Azure Ray…simply beautiful.”

Waste of Mind

“The almost perfect mix of pop, indie, melancholy, excitement, high altitude and a deep fall…this filigree work of art just makes you happy.”

Alternativemusik

 

‘Anything But Time’ is out now!

Official Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube 

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Music News

Surrender Yourself To SOMNIUM’s New Single ‘Truth Set Me Free’ & Entrancing Music Video Accompaniment Out June 10

by the partae
written by the partae

Stream ‘Truth Set Me Free’ | Watch Music Video

Appearing in a sonic mirage of ambient psych-rock that effortlessly fuses gnarly guitar blitzes with absorbing synth atmospheres, Adelaide-based indie rock outfit SOMNIUM are unveiling their newest single ‘Truth Set Me Free’ alongside a hypnotic visual accompaniment, both out on June 10.

Known for their punch-packing brand of prog-rock fuelled by unbound melodies and deep, ensnaring grooves, SOMNIUM have solidified their status as class performers, sharing the stage with King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard, Pond and Mild High Club, Psychedelic Porn Crumpets, The Belligerents, Ecca Vandal, The Babe Rainbow, Buried Feather and more.

Now, returning with their first release since crispy 2017 album ‘Omnism’, SOMNIUM are delivering a sensory whirlpool of hypnotic rock wonder in ‘Truth Set Me Free’ as it arrives in a slithering shroud of unsettling synth.

Gripping electric guitar grooves join drifting vocal melodies that move farther from the earth’s surface with each new line. In a blitz of funk-filled bass lines and envious hooks, the second verse grooves and shakes in the lead up to an entrancing guitar solo, before culminating in a sprawling mass of transcending psych-rock magic.

‘Truth Set Me Free’ arrives alongside a hallucinatory music video that encapsulates the song’s quest for liberation, featuring James and Anthony in a vision of vibrant colours and wacky visual effects, jamming together in the outcrops of nature.

Written about the search for freedom that can ultimately lead to overindulgence in escapism, SOMNIUM describe the single as:

“An emotive song that relates to personal trials and tribulations that ultimately lead to liberation. However, this newfound liberation leads to a sense of loneliness and an overindulgence in the escape realm.”

Surrender yourself to the transcending soundscapes of SOMNIUM with their new single ‘Truth Set Me Free’ and accompanying music video out everywhere on June 10.
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Eats & Drinks

FIND A SEAT AND MEET THE LOCALS AT NEW ST KILDA SEASIDE RESTAURANT LOTI – OPEN!

by the partae
written by the partae

LOTI will open its doors in the seaside suburb of St Kilda on Wednesday 22 June celebrating the best of Australia’s own coastal surroundings infused with Mediterranean influence and an atmosphere of relaxed luxury and local community that is distinctly Melbourne. 

The seaside neighbourhood local at the base of St Kilda’s new Saint Moritz precinct, is the perfect place for a quiet cocktail overlooking the waves or destination dining for locals and visitors, friends and family. In a nod to the sentimentality of the past, LOTI’s name, Lady of the Ice pays homage to the heritage and community of the Saint Moritz area. 

Glance at the kitchen to find Head Chef Elijah Holland (Lume, NOMA Australia, Aria, Quay) behind the flame bringing his own artful interpretation of food cooked over fire, striving to make everything from scratch and using ancient techniques of fermentation, preserving, curing and serving food in the freshest and purest form. LOTI’s menu shares space with an equally crafted drinks list curated in collaboration with World Class Bartenders from Sweet&Chilli, overseen by co-owner Cameron Northway. 

Diners can find snacks and small plates for those in a hurry such as butter poached and grilled scampi skewer and smoked yellowfin tuna mousse cornetto with Albacore tuna mojama. For those looking to settle down for the night; dishes like artichoke tarte tatin, an ‘Ice Rink’ ceviche of market fish; and larger mains, whole lobster butter poached and wrapped in kelp, barbequed with lemon scented tea tree and kelp ditalini pasta; BBQ rack of Turbot ribs with sea parsley, grilled lettuce and capers. To continue the meal, Holland invites diners to indulge in a Baked L’artisan raclette and pumpkin vol au vent ahead of moving into dessert with dishes such as local Victorian sourced saffron ice cream with rhubarb and riberries and a burnt marshmallow sorbet with macadamia honey and coastal tea tree. 

“My menu is inspired by nature, the coast and history of St Kilda. We are visiting local producers weekly, foraging centuries-old wild, native and naturalised botanical and using new-age cooking techniques to form seasonal and approachable dishes that are packed full of flavour and hero our Victorian produce.” says Holland. 

The bar finds its home as the central focal point, split across the two sides of the restaurant, acting as an invitation to passersby to pop in for a casual drink, or get comfortable over dinner. Locally roasted coffee from one of Melbourne’s coffee pioneers, ST. ALi, house made pressed juices, locally sourced beers, wine and spirits and an embrace of local artisans and flavours can be seen throughout the cocktail list. 

The cocktail menu will see familiar classics given new life with native herbs, locally made spirits and unique garnishes such as Season Spritz – Seasonal cordial and garnish, local gin, regal rogue lively

white, suze, bubbles; Cooler – River mint infused white rum, cacao, carbonated; and Dirty Martini – Uni butter vodka, vermouth, LOTI seasoning, seaweed snack. There will also be a focus on a lower ABV spritz, to suit the aperitif occasion, with the craftsmanship to the non-alcoholic menu, given just as much attention, ensuring there is always a way to celebrate at LOTI. 

Approachable wine varietals will dominate the wine list with a focus on biodynamic and organic Australian producers, especially those using grape varietals known and loved from the European coastline. An extensive international reserve list will be available for those guests looking for something special, ensuring the menu remains approachable yet luxurious for those looking for an added flair. 

“We want dining out to be an experience that makes our guests conjure up memories of favourite trips away. The LOTI experience is meant to be a feast that everyone at the table joins. Think the theatre of watching a chef grill the finest produce to order, sauces and dishes made up table side, a house made charcuterie board from seafood to meat inspired by the Victorian coast and local ingredients and the 

intrigue that grows from a unique spin on the classic martini.” says Cameron Northway. 

Designed by renowned Melbourne based Interior Architecture & Design studio, Mitchell & Eades, LOTI takes inspiration from the seaside topography of its location, LOTI’s architecture is beautifully curvacious and showcases organic curves and shapes seen through their sensuously curved banquette seating, elegant high ceilings and soft feature lighting. The colour palette is a mix of calming soft tones with a base of creamy sand, warm pink and blushing peach, grounded in the depth of natural greens through a mix of earthy, artisan materials that exude a rawness, warmth and sense of glamour. 

More than just a restaurant, LOTI sits as the vibrant community hub for the St Kilda community as part of the Saint Moritz precinct, representing a partnership with developer and entrepreneur, Tim Gurner’s Gurner Group. Having set new records across luxury, design and customisation since its inception LOTI strives to bring the very best in dining experiences to St Kilda’s once-in-a-lifetime regeneration. 

The perfect destination to drop in for a casual drink on the sun-drenched terrace or plan a cosy dinner inside with friends, LOTI’s beautifully designed surroundings embraces locals and visitors to come together and embrace the hospitality of the St Kilda neighbourhood from day to night. 

LOTI 

Opens Wednesday 22 June 

Wednesday – Sunday: 12:00pm – Late 

www.lotistkilda.com.au 

@lotistkilda 

14 – 16 The Esplanade, St Kilda 

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Inspirational Color Scheme Ideas For An Elegant Wedding Day

by the partae
written by the partae

When planning your wedding day, the suit color schemes you choose for the groom and his groomsmen are very important. You want to create a look that is elegant and stylish, without going overboard. Here are some great color scheme ideas to get you started!

Charcoal and Black

Wearing charcoal colors is probably the most elegant scheme you can find on the market. Many people get a dark grey tuxedo that showcases their unique look. The black color is also a very classic look for a wedding. It’s simple and easy to match with any other colors. 

You can wear a black shirt with Charcoal pants and it will still look good. If you want to add some more contrast, you can throw in a white shirt or jacket. But be careful not to overdo it! Too much white can make you look like you’re going to a funeral. 

Your best bet is to keep the accessories simple and understated. A pocket square, watch, and cufflinks are all you need to really complete the outfit. 

Royal Blue and Brown 

Another common color palette for an elegant wedding is royal blue and brown. This color scheme can create a feeling of sophistication and royalty. This specific shade of blue is also said to represent depth, stability, and knowledge. Including this color in your wedding decor can create a sense of luxury. 

Paired with brown, Royal Blue can take on a calming effect. Brown symbolizes earthiness, dependability, and strength. Together these colors embody elegance and grace. 

If you’re looking for an elegant color scheme that will make your guests feel like royalty, consider using royal blue and brown. This classic combo can give your wedding a luxurious feeling while still providing the stability and dependability that you need on your big day. Plus, it’s sure to make a beautiful contrast against any wedding dress. 

Navy, Brown, and Red 

This combination is perfect if you’re looking for a classy and elegant color scheme. Navy is the perfect choice for an elegant wedding as it exudes sophistication and class. Brown provides a warm and earthy feel, while red adds a touch of romance and passion. This color scheme is ideal if you want to create an intimate and romantic ambiance on your special day.

If you’re looking for something a little different, why not try navy, brown, and red? This unique combination is perfect for those who want to make a statement on their big day. The navy will add an air of sophistication, while the brown provides a warm and earthy feel. 

The pop of red will add a touch of romance and passion, making this color scheme the perfect choice for an elegant and intimate wedding day. Navy, brown, and red is a unique and beautiful color scheme that is perfect for an elegant and romantic wedding day.

Light Grey, Brown, and Blue

Blue shirts under light grey suits are a very elegant look for a groom and his groomsmen. This light grey, brown, and blue color scheme would work great for a summer or spring wedding. For the bride, a light blue dress with some light grey accents would be stunning. 

The bridesmaids could wear light blue dresses as well. To add some contrast to the light colors, use dark brown as an accent color. Dark brown can be used in the flowers, table decorations, and even the wedding cake. This elegant color scheme is perfect for a summer or spring wedding!

Tan, Black, and White

Tan suits are getting back in style for grooms and tan bridesmaid dresses are always a classic choice. If you want to add a little color to your tan and black wedding, consider using white as an accent color. You can use it in your decorations, on your invitations, or even in your wedding dress. By adding a pop of white, you’ll create an elegant and timeless look that will be sure to impress your guests.

Black and Light Blue 

Finally, black and light blue is a stunning color scheme idea for an elegant wedding. The black adds a level of sophistication while the light blue keeps things feeling fresh and modern. What’s not to love about this chic combo?

For example, black tablecloths with blue napkins would be a beautiful way to incorporate this color scheme into your wedding reception décor. Or, if you’re looking for something a little more dramatic, try black bridesmaid dresses with light blue bouquets. Trust us, your guests will be swooning over this stylish combination.

Wearing the right colors are essential for your wedding day, so make sure to pick the right combination. All of these mentioned above are great ideas, but if you want to be the most fashionable person out there, then a charcoal grey tuxedo is the best choice. Choose wisely and you won’t make any mistakes!

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SPLENDOUR IN THE GRASS Friday 22 to Sunday 24 July 2022 EXPLORE – Beyond the Main Stages!

by the partae
written by the partae

With just one month to go until we gather at North Byron Parklands for one almighty splendid reunion, we’re back with more Splendour in the Grass for you to explore!

There’s an alternate universe of Splendour in the Grass beyond the main stages, where world music and wellness reigns, where mesmerised mates dance amongst Tipis and where punters, pollies and panellists collide to debate, deliberate, speculate and contemplate. Prepare to be astounded by interactive and immersive visual arts, stunned by science and tickled by Australia’s funniest comedians.

Splendour in the Grass presents the 2022 edition of Global Village, Tipi Forest, Splendour Forum, Science Tent, Splendour Arts, Splendour Comedy and Little Splendour. Go forth and explore!

WELCOME TO COUNTRY
Splendour in the Grass takes place on Minjungbal Country. The Welcome to Country is an ancient protocol, that can only be shared by the Traditional Owners of the land, to ensure the safety of all visitors. The 2022 Welcome to Country will feature Minyungbal dance group Mirrigingi Ngari showcasing the Minyungbal way of life through storytelling, dance, language and culture alongside internationally acclaimed former Bangarra member, Waangeenga Blanco who will choreograph and perform a unique piece of work to honour his own experience of connecting to Country.

Music will be composed by Greg Sinclair featuring a prayer spoken by Ella Bancroft in Bundjalung language with traditional instrumentation including Yidaki, clap sticks, WARUP (long drum from the torres strait ) and the GOR (a seed shaker also from the Torres Strait  Islands).

We urge all Splendour’s patrons to pause and focus on the Welcome to Country, take a moment to connect to the land and to pay respect to Elders past, present and emerging.

GLOBAL VILLAGE
Splendour’s cultural melting pot returns bigger and better in 2022! More transcendental than ever, Global Village is an inspiring oasis, home to The Bohemian Lounge, The World Stage, Healing Sanctuary, and the Village Green. This year Global Village is excited to introduce two brand-new destinations – the Minjungbul Yarn Space and Wellness Workshop Pod – presenting a great mix of culture, sound healing, workshops and performance.

Connect to Country with Traditional custodians, learn healthy habits and tap into your inner clairvoyant. Embrace your inner burlesque, dial up your confidence and enjoy performances as varied as cabaret, circus arts, music, drum, dance and more.  Get ready to free your mind, body and soul! The rest will follow. Full program here.

TIPI FOREST
Get set to play hard and get loose at The Tipi Forest, Splendour’s beating heart. Ever evolving and transforming, this legendary outdoor dance stage continues to amaze. Catch original music producers and DJ’s playing fresh beats and a range of genre bending sounds. Step into its immersive creative environment and enjoy luminous light shows, intricate lasers, otherworldly projections and inspiring performance art. Kick off the festival on Thursday evening, dance your way through the day or kick on late after the main stages close. Get ready for a sonic manifestation of pure underground sounds, including Bass, Breaks, Disco, Drum & Bass, Dub, Funk, Glitch, Hip-Hop, House, Soul, Techno, Trap, Trance and everything in between. Full program here.

THE FORUM
Take a seat, relax and flex some serious mental muscle at Splendour Forum. Join a bevy of our most prominent and interesting thinkers, politicians and musicians of the moment, as they raise the vibrations with lively discussion, panels, debates, documentaries, trivia, Q&A sessions, philosophical talks and more.

The Forum’s 2022 guest list includes journalists Hamish McDonald (The Project), Jo Lauder (triple j Hack) and Zara Seidler (The Daily Aus); science aficionados Adam Spencer and Dr Karl Kruszelnicki; musicians Patience Hodgson (The Grates), Holly Rankin (Jack River), BC Michaels (Dune Rats), Phil Jamieson (Grinspoon) and Jake Taylor (In Hearts Wake); politicians Dr Sophie Scamps, Max Chandler-Mather, Angie Bell and Peter Whish-Wilson; comedians Dan Illic, Gen Fricker and Paul McDermott; and activists Sally Scales, Anjali Sharma, Tarang Chawla and Grace Tame amongst many others.

Check out Q&A Live, climate action documentary GREEN IS THE NEW BLACK, brush up on your music trivia at cult favourite Not On Your Rider and expand your mind at one of the panels discussing topics such as the climate, war in the modern age, the changing face of Australia and much more. Full program here.

SPLENDOUR ARTS
Splendour Arts returns to North Byron Parklands with a whole new suite of artworks. Prepare to interact, create, immerse yourself and maybe snap the odd selfie or ten!

From large scale light sculptures by Sam Songailo and IKONIX to bizarre interactive photo opportunities with the legendary Andy Forbes. Take a break, make a contribution and immerse yourself in the second instalment of the Hiromi Hotel Trilogy  – Hiromi Hotel – Heartbeat. You won’t miss Lucy Dysons large scale mural at the entrance to the festival and, this year, Splendour is also launching a new project in partnership with local arts organizations to support Northern Rivers artists to make new work for the festival, titled OUT THERE FROM HERE. Xanthe Dobbie has been selected as the inaugural OUT THERE FROM HERE commission. She will attend the festival, cook up ideas and develop a new work for Splendour 2023. Full program here.

SCIENCE TENT
What do yeasts, beasts, and sexual feasts all have in common? They’re all rockin’ The Science Tent in 2022! It’s back bigger than ever to blow your mind, ignite your neurons and curl your toes in ways you never thought imaginable. Explore your bodies with Dolly Doctor, learn how fungi can free your mind or f*ck you up, check out climate-saving glowing algae, brew ideas with the yeastie boys, talk dinosaurs and all things Jurassic, get frisky (and risky), date like the planet depends on it, and heaps more! Get set for awesome interactive experiences, engrossing talks and other sick science-y stuff for the entire Splendour weekend. Full program here.COMEDY
Lovers of LOLs this one’s for you. Between bands and beers, head to the Forum tent for a daily dose of giggles with some of the hottest laughter-masters in the comedy-biz! Check out stars like Luke McGregor (Rosehaven), Geraldine Hickey (Have You Been Paying Attention), Matt Okine (The Other Guy), Michael Hing (Hobba & Hing on triple j), Nikki Britton (Just For Laughs) and tonnes more award-winning, festival-selling-out and globe-trotting funny people. Splendour Comedy Club will be dishing up the laughter left, right and centre all weekend! Full program here.

LITTLE SPLENDOUR
Calling all pint-sized punks and mini moshers! Open daily from 12noon, Little Splendour is a festival within a festival, created especially for small humans and featuring some serious headliners from the world of children’s entertainment alongside loads of activities – from a knee-trembling climbing wall to colourful, creative workshops, storytelling Tipi as well as roving entertainment, a sneaky flash mob and a painting wall where you can unleash your inner graffiti artist. Kids can get down and dirty with Costa the Garden Gnome, rock out with Bunny Racket, hit the decks at DJ Skool or head to the Art Space for activities galore. There’s also the legendary Artie Fartie Partie, where kids can paint, create, reuse and upcycle to their hearts content. Do I Gnome you? On Saturday 23 July, Little Splendour invites everyone to dress like a garden gnome. Go big or go gnome! Full program here.

Little Splendour’s family-friendly Tipi offers a safe, private and comfortable space for feeding and a nappy changing station plus there’s a professional babysitting service if you’d prefer to fly solo for a while. Bookings by July 1 are essential.

PARK(lands) STAGE
Splendour’s new PARK(lands) Stage will feature carefully curated lineups bought to you by the legends at Secret Sounds, Astral People and Love Police. Head here for the likes of Still Woozy, Wet Leg, Joy Crookes, MYD, Jarreau Vandal, Brame & Hamo, Bad//Dreems, Shannon & The Clams and many more! Full program here.

So much for you to discover over three days! Let’s go!
GORILLAZ ∙ THE STROKES ∙ TYLER, THE CREATOR ∙ YEAH YEAH YEAHS ∙ GLASS ANIMALS ∙ LIAM GALLAGHER ∙ KACEY MUSGRAVES ∙ DUKE DUMONT LIVE ∙ VIOLENT SOHO ∙ DMA’S ∙ YUNGBLUD ∙ JACK HARLOW ∙ DILLON FRANCIS ∙ TIM MINCHIN ∙ THE JUNGLE GIANTS ∙ MURA MASA ∙ AMYL & THE SNIFFERS ∙ AITCH ∙ G FLIP ∙ RUEL ∙ OLIVER TREE ∙ JUNGLE ∙ TOM MISCH ∙ GRINSPOON ∙ ORVILLE PECK ∙ PARQUET COURTS ∙ TIERRA WHACK ∙ CUB SPORT ∙ JPEGMAFIA ∙ RUBY FIELDS ∙ SOFI TUKKER ∙ METHYL ETHEL ∙ JULIA STONE ∙ BAKER BOY ∙ STELLA DONNELLY ∙ GENESIS OWUSU ∙ SURFACES ∙ HOOLIGAN HEFS ∙ THE CHATS ∙ CONFIDENCE MAN ∙ BIIG PIIG ∙ HOLLY HUMBERSTONE ∙ CHILLINIT ∙ ALEX THE ASTRONAUT ∙ MAXO KREAM ∙ ROLLING BLACKOUTS COASTAL FEVER ∙ TRIPLE ONE ∙ STILL WOOZY ∙ BAD//DREEMS ∙ MYD ∙ NORTHEAST PARTY HOUSE ∙ JOY CROOKES ∙ WET LEG ∙ MO’JU ∙ PUP ∙ MIIESHA ∙ MILDLIFE ∙ JARREAU VANDAL ∙ BRAME & HAMO ∙ SHANNON & THE CLAMS ∙ BABE RAINBOW ∙ TAI VERDES ∙ THE SNUTS ∙ SYCCO ∙ BIG TWISTY ∙ SLY WITHERS ∙ HINDS ∙ DAYGLOW ∙ STARCRAWLER ∙ ALICE IVY ∙ BUDJERAH ∙ JK-47 ∙ JEFF THE BROTHERHOOD ∙ FAZERDAZE ∙ KING STINGRAY ∙ MAKO ROAD ∙ RENFORSHORT ∙ MAY-A ∙ THE LAZY EYES ∙ ADRIAN EAGLE ∙ BANOFFEE ∙ FLOWERKID ∙ THE BUOYS ∙ MOKTAR ∙ STEVAN ∙ THE SOUL MOVERS ∙ GEORGE ALICE ∙ 1300 ∙ MICKEY KOJAK ∙ DRO CAREY & DJ SCORPION ∙ PRICIE ∙ MYLEE GRACE ∙ ANDY GOLLEDGE ∙ CHARLIE COLLINS ∙ PINK MATTER ∙ MEMPHIS LK (DJ) ∙ TRIPLE J UNEARTHED WINNERS ∙ PLUS MIX-UP DJ’S ∙ DENA AMY ∙ JORDAN BRANDO ∙ SHANTAN WANTAN ICHIBAN ∙ LUEN ∙ HONEY POINT ∙ AK SPORTS ∙ AYWY ∙ CAROLINA GASOLINA ∙ MUNASIB
FINAL PRE-LOVED TICKETS ON SALE NOW
MOSHTIX or phone 1300 GET TIX (438 849).SPLENDOUR IN THE GRASS
22, 23 & 24 July 2022
North Byron Parklands
Tweed Valley Way, Wooyung
splendourinthegrass.com
#SITG2022

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Dropkick Murphys announce new album “This Machine Still Kills Fascists” out September 30 on Dummy Luck Music

by the partae
written by the partae
Photo credit: Dave Stauble
Dropkick Murphys have announced a new album unlike anything they’ve done to date, bringing Woody Guthrie’s words to life on This Machine Still Kills Fascists, to be released digitally and on CD September 30 via the band’s Dummy Luck Music / [PIAS], with a special edition vinyl out in November. The first single and video, ‘Two 6’s Upside Down,’ will debut July 6.

In the 10 songs that make up This Machine Still Kills Fascists, Dropkick Murphys bring Woody Guthrie’s perennial jabs at life – many of which are from the 1940s and ‘50s – into the present, with the resulting music eerily relevant to today’s world. And they’ve done it all without their usual arsenal of electric guitars. In fact, not a single amplifier was used to animate Woody’s words in these songs, but DKM harnessed all of their trademark power to bring Woody’s lyrics to life.

Dropkick Murphys founder Ken Casey explained, “The project has been a long time in the making. Nora Guthrie thought her father would’ve got a kick out of us, would’ve liked us, that we were somewhat kindred spirits so to speak, which to us was a huge honor.”

The idea for the collaboration that became This Machine Still Kills Fascists has been percolating between Woody’s daughter Nora Guthrie and the band for more than a decade, with Nora curating a collection of her father’s never-published lyrics for the band over the years. The challenge was always finding the right time to pull it together. When Dropkick Murphys co-lead vocalist Al Barr was sidelined in the latter half of 2021 – taking a leave of absence from the band to care for his ailing mother – the band was apprehensive about making a normal DKM album. The perfect time to take on the Woody project had presented itself, and the band leapt at the chance to bring more of Woody’s timeless lyrics to life with a Dropkick Murphys musical twist. The end result is This Machine Still Kills Fascists – the true fruition of like-minded rebellious artists collaborating – albeit nearly a century apart.

Nora Guthrie explained, “I collected lyrics on all kinds of topics…lyrics that seemed to be needed to be said – or screamed – today. Ken Casey is a master at understanding Woody’s lyrics, which can be complicated, long, deadly serious, or totally ridiculous. DKM is capable of delivering them all.”

DKM’s James Lynch said, “Nora gave us the privilege of going through the archives and selecting some lyrics to use. The common thread that I see through everything was this love for people and this understanding of the universal truth that there is no one person fundamentally better than another person.”

Woody Guthrie wrote songs from the heart and for the common person. He made a point of showing up when it counted most, often performing at fundraisers, benefits, and rallies to champion working class causes and condemn greed, war, and unchecked capitalism – all with his guitar in hand.

This is exactly where Woody Guthrie and Dropkick Murphys intersect. Dropkick Murphys’ entire ethos of family, community, service, and action depends upon honest reporting in their music. Like Woody, showing up in real life is what makes their songs so impactful. They just are who they say they are. Whether it’s standing up to Nazi thugs or standing with working men and women on a picket line, showing up is what holds the center in DKM’s world.

As Woody once said: “A folk song is what’s wrong and how to fix it, or it could be who’s hungry and where their mouth is, or who’s out of work and where the job is, or who’s broke and where the money is, or who’s carrying a gun and where the peace is.” In both song and deed, Dropkick Murphys have always held true to this same view.

That’s no coincidence, explains Dropkick Murphys founder Ken Casey: “Woody Guthrie, he’s the original punk. He went against the grain, he fought the good fight, he spoke up and sang about his beliefs. I’m motivated by reading what he wrote and am inspired by his courage. One man and a guitar – it’s powerful stuff.”

The album title itself pays homage to the powerful message Woody Guthrie began painting on his guitars in the early 1940s, in the midst of World War II: “THIS MACHINE KILLS FASCISTS.” A man and a credo laid bare – on the face of his guitar.

This Machine Still Kills Fascists isn’t an acoustic folk departure for Dropkick Murphys – it’s a continuation of their journey with Woody Guthrie, which began nearly two decades ago when DKM covered Woody’s ‘Gonna Be A Blackout Tonight‘ on their 2003 album Blackout. The journey reached new heights a few years later when DKM founder Ken Casey discovered a few scribbled lines about Boston in the WG archive. The band painted Woody’s lyrics about their hometown into a vicious punk missive called ‘I’m Shipping Up To Boston,’ and put the song on their 2005 album The Warrior’s Code.

Dropkick Murphys and their longtime producer Ted Hutt aptly recorded This Machine Still Kills Fascists at The Church Studio in Tulsa (just a few minutes from Woody’s birthplace, and the modern-day Woody Guthrie Center). The historic studio was founded by Leon Russell and was the original location of legendary Shelter Records. During the album sessions, Dropkick Murphys made a point to visit Woody’s hometown of Okemah and walk the same streets Woody walked. Retreating to Woody’s home state of Oklahoma to record the album had a powerful effect on the band and the creative process behind these songs. Ultimately, Dropkick Murphys had so much material based on Woody’s poignant lyrics that they recorded two albums, with Vol. 2 scheduled for release in 2023.

“We wanted to get into small town America…Tulsa, into Woody’s roots and not be doing it in New York City or Boston,” said Casey.

The first single and video, ‘Two 6’s Upside Down,’ is a forlorn gambler’s lament, awash in love and loss, murder and punishment. Ken Casey said, “We all love how ‘Two 6’s…’ came out. We’ve actually been playing it live on tour in Europe and the crowds have been super enthusiastic about it. Plus we really love to play it live.”

Other standouts on the album include ‘Dig A Hole‘ – which features Dropkick Murphys’ full band performance wrapped around Woody’s rare Smithsonian Folkways recording, with DKM lead singer Ken Casey essentially dueting with Woody, with a special appearance by Woody’s grandson, Cole Quest, on Dobro guitar and backing vocals; ‘Never Git Drunk No More,’ featuring a duet between Casey and alt country artist Nikki Lane; ‘The Last One,’ with guest vocals from country roots group Turnpike Troubadours’ Evan Felker, who hails from Woody’s hometown of Okemah, and Cole Quest on Dobro; and ‘Ten Times More,’ which was written, arranged and recorded on the spot and features a guest appearance by Dom Flemons, founding member of Carolina Chocolate Drops, on harp; he also appears on ‘The Last One‘ and ‘All You Fonies.’
This Machine Still Kills Fascists by Dropkick Murphys
is out September 30 on Dummy Luck Music / [PIAS] Pre-order: https://dropkick-murphys.ffm.to/7reo1k8.OYD
Drop Kick Murphys
This Machine Still Kills Fascists

1. Two 6’s Upside Down
2. Talking Jukebox
3. All You Fonies
4. Never Git Drunk No More (feat. Nikki Lane)
5. Ten Times More
6. The Last One (feat. Evan Felker)
7. Cadillac, Cadillac
8. Waters Are A’risin
9. Where Trouble Is At
10. Dig A Hole (feat. Woody Guthrie)
For more information on Dropkick Murphys, follow them below.
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Music InterviewsMusic News

RIP Youth

by the partae
written by the partae

Where are you currently based?

West Hollywood, California

How did you first start playing music?

When I was about 9 I wrote some really bad songs and made people watch as a friend and I performed them. REALLY bad! Good beats no structure and crap lyrics

What’s been happening recently?

Working on my EP and launching an NFT community

You’ve partnered with Peloton and R3hab, please tell us how this came about and what you’ve done together?

I was flown by Playboy Down to a party in Miami to launch Centerfold and the party was fun, Charlie XCX was dj’ing but nobody was dancing except this one really cool lady. So I went up and started dancing with her and exchanged numbers. Turns out she was the SVP of music and content partnerships for peloton, (Gwen Riley) I asked if they’d be interested to place product in my next video and she said let’s go bigger and do a Peloton edit of one of your songs and launch it for gay pride. I was thrilled obviously, we had spoken about who we’d get to do it and I had previously worked on a song with R3HAb and JOJO that wasn’t released but I loved what we did. By chance R3HAB’s manager had reached out in January to Gwen to find something to do with Peloton so it was meant to be.

At first Peloton’s DJ John Michael and I spoke about what would work in his room’s . He knows the Peloton following and what they needed to work best with the ride’s so that was interesting to hear how dynamic and functional the song needed to be. We tossed around reference’s and let R3HAB work his magic as he does. Was cool to see the song take on a new life in such a different way.

Please tell us about your other song writing placements with both international and local artists:

I got lucky , The first real producers I worked with were the Aussie DNA boys. Before they were multi platinum hit makers they are now. We were working on some songs for me and at the time, I was always like “how am I working with you guys …and you’re making music for h2o tv show about mermaids was there biggest ticket item at the time. They were so talented and still are ! … anyway,  I used to go to this bar in woolomolloo where I met UK singer Brian McFadden after a recording session one day. We became friends and one day I asked his opinion on one of my songs. One in particular he liked was a song called “Chemical Rush” said he liked it and the next day I get a call out of the blue saying he had shown his A&R manager at Universal and wanted to release the song for himself , so I went back to DNA and told the boys , they were thrilled obviously and that went on to become my first commercial release and aof my first gold record that hit #2 and got nominated for APRA dance work of the year.

Later I went on to work with Delta Goodrem and working with international; artist JoJo was a career highlight. Her voice is on Mariah Carey’s level and she takes her craft so seriously. A perfectionist at its best. So cool to witness that angel sing and ask my take on how and where she should take the song vocally was insane.

Aussie artist Nat Dunn is another Highlight, similar stance on her. I always tell her it’s your duty to over-sing everything because you have a voice that only few people on the planet possess.. “so sing into the shell little mermaid “ !!! I always joke that’s how I’ll steal her voice.

How did your creative partnership with Playboy and Cardi B come about?

As it always seems to happen with random LA moments… I literally moved into a building and started hanging out with the marketing director, Holly Ruprecht and she had instagramed me on her story, her boss Reena had seen me and asked her if I’d be into becoming a founding creator of Centerfold. Just like that!

What did you create?

I was shot by photographer Maddie Cordoba who has shot for Selena Gomez, Kris Jenner, Jessica Alba etc so that was cool, paid a fair bit of cashola and started creating and planning out events to promote being content creators who could connect with fans and monetise their videos, photos, host podcasts, live stream and all that good stuff. I was flying blind as I suck at all that but I’m learning and thank god they’re teaching me as we go and are planning more partnerships as part of an ongoing relationship. Love my playboy peeps.

Who are you listening to the moment?

Earth wind and fire . Going old school.

What do you like to do away from music?

Working on a radio show at the moment here in LA that will be a weekly gig chatting starting in July.

What’s planned for the remainder  of 2022 going into 2023?

Working on my EP and radio show. RIPYouth tour would be cool and I am hoping to get back to Australia.

Favourite food and place to hangout in LA?

Pace Restaurant in Laurel Canyon. Always a vibe, cool not pretentious place that you’d find the likes of Johnny Depp in a corner reading a book or someone smoking a Joint and drinking a glass of red whilst drawing on the walls or tables – that’s allowed, it’s a very creative space!

@weareripyouth @james_maas

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