Dan Henwood – Back Into Gear

Rising South-East Queensland country rock singer-songwriter Dan Henwood returns with a gritty, energetic and high-octane track that screams to be spun on full volume. ‘Back Into Gear’ is about heading out on a road trip with the boys, packing the swags and pushing the limits where you gotta get your mate to come rope you out, back into gear.

“I’m so stoked to finally be sharing this new single, ‘Back Into Gear’. Growing up with country music and mates who would take me out for the weekend inspired this song and the passion and joy that comes with it, I just knew I had to write one for the country folks out there! Looking forward to going back to my roots with his one with a touch of fiddle and guitar”.

Dan Henwood is a 2x graduate of the CMAA Junior Academy. Drawing inspirations from artists such as Lee Kernaghan and The Wolfe Brothers, Dan successfully captures a traditional country sound with a modern country rock twist.

His skill has taken him on the road through many new towns as a session guitarist which recently included a performance at Deni Ute Muster with Zara Lindeman. Dan has also performed alongside The Wolfe Brothers where he has been invited to play guitar at numerous shows.

A recent finalist in all categories in the Country Music People’s Choice Awards, Dan is currently writing new material which he is excited to be bringing to Australian audiences in 2024.

Dan Henwood’s new single ‘Back Into Gear’ is out to radio on Monday 16th October and out on digital platforms on Friday 20th October.

Kendra Gabrielle – He’s Not You

It’s the post-breakup love song everyone has experienced. Where you’re with the “right” person but you find them “boring” or “not exciting enough”. It’s the wanting of the ex, “the cool guy”, the chase, the thrill, the rush of emotions that one may classify as a heaty romance but you grow to learn better. “I wrote this because, for the longest time that was what I was chasing, the thrill of screaming and fighting and never knowing what to expect. I believed that was what made a relationship “exciting”. I don’t think I’m the only one whose experienced this so I’m sure it with resonate with people like me but this is a glimpse to my story” says Kendra. He’s Not You was written by Andrew Parton, Melissa Marshall and Kendra Gabrielle. Produced by CMAO nominated, Shawn Moore at Catherine North Studios Hamilton.

Kendra Gabrielle Bio

Country artist Kendra Gabrielle has been rapidly growing her audience in Canada and internationally since the release of her debut Country single “Drunk On My Own” in the spring of 2022. Her debut single earned placements on multiple Amazon Music editorial playlists, streamed over 15,000 times in 1 month, with the music video being viewed over 10,000 times in 4 days. Drunk On My Own is also exclusively spun on Sirius XM’s Channel 171. DOMO also earned Kendra her first “Best New Solo Artist” award nomination at the Mississauga Music Awards 2022.

Kendra’s 2023 single “RED” kept the ball rolling with being streamed over 65,000+ times to date, being spun on over 35 radio stations in Canada and added to over 600 user-generated playlists and multiple editorial playlists. The official music video was viewed over 15,000 times within a couple of days. During CCMA’s 2023, Kendra earned Top 5 in the Diamonds in the Rough competition hosted by Sirroma Entertainment.

This past summer Kendra was busy playing shows and festivals all over Ontario and working on the upcoming release of her debut EP “Can’t Help Myself” which will be available everywhere on September 29th 2023. This EP will feature the new single “He’s Not You”.

Carly Pearce – Heels Over Head

Following the launch of her headline Country Music Made Me Do It Tour at The Town Hall in New York City last night, GRAMMY, CMA and ACM Award-winning artist Carly Pearce releases brand new song “Heels Over Head” via Big Machine Records.

Ahead of the tour’s kick-off, Pearce stopped by NBC’s The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon to perform “Country Music Made Me Do It” – her love letter to country music – during the show’s first week back on the air. Watch her performance here.

The performance followed Pearce’s two nominations at the inaugural People’s Choice Country Awards, which took place on September 28 at the historic Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, TN. In addition to her nominations, Pearce graced the stage multiple times throughout the night: as a presenter, speaking about her favorite Opry moment with fellow country music artists, and as a performer when she took the stage for the debut performance of “Country Music Made Me Do It.” Watch her performance here.

Pearce embarked on her next musical chapter with Top-35-and-rising single “We Don’t Fight Anymore” (featuring Chris Stapleton). The single continues to garner widespread praise from fans and critics alike.

ABOUT CARLY PEARCE:  Fiercely rooted in the classics, the girl who left her Kentucky home and high school at 16 to take a job at Dollywood has grown into a woman who embraces the genre’s forward progression. GRAMMY® Award-winning singer-songwriter Carly Pearce lit a fire with her debut album Every Little Thing and the PLATINUM-certified history-making title track, and she hasn’t slowed down since. Pearce’s 3x PLATINUM-certified “I Hope You’re Happy Now ” with Lee Brice won both the 2020 CMA Awards Musical Event and 2021 ACM Awards Music Event, plus ACM Awards Single of the Year. Pearce, now a Grand Ole Opry and Kentucky Music Hall of Fame member, has come a long way from the pain she felt writing her critically acclaimed and commercially lauded third studio album 29 which includes Country Radio chart toppers “Never Wanted To Be That Girl” with Ashley McBryde and PLATINUM-certified “What He Didn’t Do.” For the PLATINUM-certified “Never Wanted To Be That Girl,” Pearce picked up her second consecutive ACM Music Event of the Year in 2022 and marked the third duet between two solo women to top Billboard’s Country Airplay chart. The song also took home the 2022 CMA Musical Event of the Year and won a GRAMMY® Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance, marking Pearce’s first and making history as the first female pairing to win in the category. Earlier this year, Pearce joined Blake Shelton’s BACK TO THE HONKY TONK TOUR and made her 100th performance at the Grand Ole Opry. As she closed out that pivotal 29 chapter with her first live album 29: WRITTEN IN STONE (LIVE FROM MUSIC CITY), Pearce now steps into the next chapter of her musical career with the praised release of her new single “We Don’t Fight Anymore” (featuring Chris Stapleton) in June and August  release of “Country Music Made Me Do It.”  Pearce is currently on her fall headline COUNTRY MUSIC MADE ME DO IT TOUR, which began October 5 and continues through November 18. In March 2024, Pearce will join Tim McGraw’s 2024 STANDING ROOM ONLY TOUR as direct support. Honored as one of CMT’s 2022 Artists of The Year , the 2021 CMA Awards Female Vocalist of the Year and 2022 ACM Awards Female Artist of the Year, Pearce continues to resonate with her honest lyrics and timeless musicality. For tour dates and more, visit CarlyPearce.com. 

Karli June – Feel Like Home (feat. Ryan Langdon)

Rising Canadian Country artist and multiple CMA Ontario Award nominee Karli June releases her upbeat new single “Feel Like Home” featuring Ryan Langdon.

Produced by Gavin Slate (Tim Hicks, James Barker Band) and written by Gavin and Karli, “Feel Like Home” is an anthemic country-pop love song that tells the nostalgic tale of growing up in a small town, where every street and landmark holds cherished memories. It is all about finding that special someone who makes you remember that familiar feeling of being somewhere you feel the most comfortable and most like yourself.

“As a small-town girl – that place has such a special place in my heart. This song captures the magic of a small town and finding somebody that gives you that same feeling of pulling back onto those familiar roads. It’s my version of a long song. Ryan Langdon brought the perfect voice to the track, and it so awesome getting to bring the song to its potential with him!” – Karli June

Ryan Langdon, the former MLB prospect renowned for his powerful oak-barrel baritone, joins Karli on the summer love song. Ryan’s 2020 breakout EP “Lit in The Sticks”, featured an impressive collection of six exhilarating country tracks, including his chart-topping single “Country Like You” which has maintained a strong position in the Top 40 on Canadian Country Radio. With nearly 8 million steams, Ryan’s music remains an adored choice among country music fans.

“When I first heard the song “Feel Like Home”, I was immediately excited to be a part of this duet. Not only do I believe our voices match really well together, the message behind the lyrics really resonated with me. One of my biggest values is my homegrown roots, so I always searched for someone who shared these same values. This song really captured what I consider to be the meaning of real love, and I am so excited for the world to hear it.” – Ryan Langdon.

Based in Hamilton, Ontario, Karli June is enjoying her continued career momentum with recent nominations for multiple Country Music Association of Ontario Awards in the categories of Rising Star, Songwriter of The Year for her song “Makes You Pretty”. Karli June’s debut EP “Where You Come From” was nominated for Album of The Year as well as taking out Producer of The Year for the EP’s producer, Karen Kosowski.

The nominations follow a year of career growth in support of Karli’s debut release, which has accumulated over 1.6 million global streams. Karli was also previously selected as a participant in the prestigious TD Incubator for Creative Entrepreneurship powered by the SOCAN Foundation and was selected as Arcadia Broadcasting’s “Break Out Artist” for “Makes You Pretty” in Canada. The track was also Karli’s first foray into the Australia market, peaking at #46 on the National Australian Country Radio Charts and was recently added into rotation on CMT Australia.

Additionally, Karli’s song “The List” was included in the 1% of Honourable Mentions in the International Songwriting Competition 2022 which received over 15,000 submissions.

James Blundell – Queen Of The Lost Highway

If Sideways announced the return of James Blundell to the charts, then Queen of The Lost Highway is the perfect follow-up.

Penned by the acclaimed international songwriting team of Australian lyricist Terry McArthur and Finnish composer Mika Kuokkanen, Queen of The Lost Highway is a unique fusion of classic Hank William’s country meets contemporary Americana and Finnish minor chord melancholia.

Producer Larry Campbell’s signature guitar motifs and Little Feat’s Bill Payne’s killer key feels curl around James Blundell’s bittersweet vocals as he laments love’s last rites, eyes wide open and the shadow of a smile on his face…

But don’t take my word for it, let’s see what JAMES BLUNDELL, the man described as the most influential Australian country artist of his generation has to say about queens, lost highways, and the ghost of Hank Williams…

LEMAR: Leon Payne penned The Lost Highway in the 1940s. The song has since
Been covered by a many artists, including Hank Williams .Tom Petty and
Willie Nelson. Queen of The Lost Highway seems like real deal sister song…

JAMES : During my time in Nashville the term Lost Highway developed absolute reality. It was used when artists were suffering burnout or were playing the Don Quixote card. It actually is a very real term in the American music or the Americana Country Palace.

LEMAR: How did you come to record Queen of The Lost Highway?

JAMES: ” The first two lines of the song go ( James sings)
Thought I saw your taillights out along the lake
You always drove so fast, so heavy on the brakes.

They were very representative of my relationship with Lidia, mother of my two oldest children. Lidia drove like a bat out of hell and always hit the brakes real hard. So, the minute I read those lyrics I thought, I actually have to sing this song. It’s a calling.

I resonated immediately with the song and the truth of my relationship with Lidia. It was a very, very strong, very deep committed, and loving relationship. And as it slowly unwound, it was probably the first time in my adult life that I came face-to-face with the fact that sometimes love is actually not enough. There’s all sorts of other forces at play that can determine whether a relationship does the term of each partner’s life.

So, I related to everything about Queen of The Lost Highway ~ its musicality, definitely the nostalgia and definitely the sense of loss, but also recognising the inevitability of the demise of a relationship really, really struck a chord.

LEMAR: You’re taking to the road on the Aussie Legends Hemp Lost Highway Tour October through November. What can fans expect?

JAMES: “The Aussie Legends Hemp Lost Highway Tour is me going live, intimate, and unplugged. I will be playing all the fan favourites and previewing a selection of songs from my new album World Don’t Stop. Can’t wait to do it!”

Kiara Rodrigues – Ain’t Your Rehab

A new musical maturity shines through on Kiara Rodrigues’ brand new single, ‘Ain’t Your Rehab’.

Following on from Kiara Rodrigues’ radio hits, ‘High School Reunion’ and ‘Message In A Bottle’, comes ‘Ain’t Your Rehab’, and sees the award winning Nash Chambers (Kasey Chambers/Jimmy Barnes/Troy Cassar Daley) return to the producer’s chair.

Chambers again highlights Rodrigues’ continuing growth as a songwriter and an original artist who is carving out her own musical niche.

“I wrote this song thinking about how sometimes we go into relationships thinking we can fix someone and put them back together again”, says Rodrigues. “That can often come at the price of our own wellbeing, and its inevitably unachievable”.

The song has instantly resonated with her audiences when played live.

“I’ve had people come up to me and tell me they’d had this same experience or knew someone in a similar situation”, she says. “Ultimately, it’s not our responsibility to fix somebody, no matter how much we care about them”.

Born to immigrant parents of Indian heritage, Kiara Rodrigues fell in love with country music when she moved to North Queensland at the tender age of nine. Over the years, she has become a wildly popular and certified talent within the Australian country music scene. In 2023, she was named a Grand Finalist for the prestigious Toyota Star Maker competition where she wowed the 10,000 strong crowd at the Tamworth Country Music Festival.

The single, ‘High School Reunion’, debuted at #2 on the iTunes Country Singles Chart, scored high rotation on ABC Country and entered the Countrytown Hot 50 Airplay Chart. Kiara Rodrigues has performed across the globe and is a graduate of the CMAA Senior Academy of Country Music.

‘Ain’t Your Rehab’ is out Friday 6th October through Checked Label Services.

Luke O’Shea – Different Drum

If anyone knows anything about dancing to the beat of a different drum, it’s definitely 16-time Golden Guitar winner Luke O’Shea . This is no more evident than in his new single, ‘Different Drum’.

“This song was written with my great musical mate Chris Matthews who is one of Australia’s hardest working and most travelled musicians,” Luke said.

“We were discussing what was happening in the music world of late and then having a good old laugh at ourselves for we both unconsciously seem to fly directly in the face of what’s fashionable and hip.”

Neither of them sees this as a bad thing, though, as they see the world getting better at acknowledging and accepting people for who they are, regardless of certain beliefs and habits.

“Just as long as we can all remember that one simple ‘golden rule’ … ‘to treat each other as we would like to be treated’,” Luke said.

Filled with a positive story, ‘Different Drum’ spreads the love and the important message that you should just go with what feels right.

“There is a lovely little story and message to this song – plus a real little ‘what the’ moment as the outro that for me – although it ain’t ‘typical’ country – it certainly brings home the message of just going with what feels good, not what you think it should be,” Luke said.

“Just keep dancing!”

‘Different Drum’ is the fourth single, and title track, off Luke’s highly anticipated album, released on CD today and available at gigs and via Luke’s website: lukeoshea.com

Sammi Palinkas – Don’t Blink

The commercial contemporary country song “Don’t Blink” marks the third consistent run of singles for Sammi Palinkas including “Meet in the Middle” which debuted at #3 on the Australian iTunes chart, #8 All Genre, and charted in the official Australian Country Radio Hot 50 Chart (CountryTown), while streaming single “You’ve Lived” debuted at #5 on the Australian iTunes Country Chart.

While currently recording her debut album with award-winning producer, Rod McCormack (Paul Kelly, The Wolfe Brothers and Lee Kernaghan), “Don’t Blink”, co-written with Rod McCormack, serves as a positive, uplifting reminder that life is short and to appreciate every moment whilst we can.

“Rod brought this idea into our write, and I instantly connected with it” Palinkas said. “I had just been retrenched in a restructure at an organisation I had worked at for nearly 10 years, and the period of reflection that came afterwards was invaluable. I had worked hard, long hours, and had been stressed out for a long time. In my last week a friend reminded me that ‘no one was going to stand up at my funeral and say Sammi did a great job at the company I was working for. They were going to talk about my legacy’. At that moment I realised as much as working hard was personally rewarding, there were important moments I’d sacrificed because I had put work first, furthermore time and experiences that I couldn’t get back. My Mum, Dad and Nan have given me so much great life advice as I’ve grown up. Rod and I wanted to write ‘Don’t Blink’ as a gentle reminder to listen to the advice and experience of those around you, because life flies by when we get caught up in the day to day, and it can all be over much sooner than we realise. Cody Johnson’s ‘Til You Can’t’ is a song both Rod and I love. It has such an uplifting feel that draws you in, and then delivers a hook and a message that really makes you think – it’s almost bittersweet against the general feeling of the song. When writing ‘Don’t Blink’, Rod and I wanted to create something positive and memorable to listen to, but when it counts really makes you think.” – Sammi Palinkas

With a lifetime of accolades, from winning a national televised singing competition at age 8, to starring in SEL/GFO’s Melbourne season of “Annie” at age 11, Sammi has developed her craft and written for many years between Australia and the US (LA, NY, Nashville), collaborating with renowned songwriters and producers including Andrew Bolooki (Selena Gomez, The Weekend, Post Malone), Fiona Kernaghan (Mindy McReady, Tina Arena), Sally Barris (Trisha Yearwood, Martina McBride, Lee Ann Womack), Sam Gay (Deric Ruttan, Little Texas, Bryan White) and Templeton Thompson (Reba McEntire, Jo Dee Messina and Little Texas) amongst others.

Hayley Jensen – Welcome Back Summer

2 x CMAA Golden Guitar Female Artist of the Year (2022, 2023) and CMC Award (2018) finalist, Hayley Jensen, is set to release a brand-new summer anthem, ‘Welcome Back Summer’ on Friday 29 September 2023.

‘Welcome Back Summer’ is a catchy summer ear-worm, bound to get toes tapping and the crowd singing along! Co-written by Jensen alongside award winning artists Brooke McClymont and Adam Eckersley, it’s about the anticipation and excitement for the return of summer after the colder seasons. A cheerful, upbeat country-pop jam set to be the soundtrack of summer.

“I’ve recently been showcasing freshly written songs at shows, asking the audience to help me choose which ones I should record for the next album. ‘Welcome Back Summer’ was a standout crowd favourite, so I quickly diverted my producer’s focus to start working on it to ensure I could get it out in time for Summer! It celebrates the joys of the season, such as beach parties, the warmth of the sun on your skin, the sand beneath your toes, as well calling out what inevitably happens when it really starts to burn up – we all start ‘whinging about the heat’ – a nod to the banter at Tamworth Country Music Festival each year!” says Hayley.

‘Welcome Back Summer’ follows the hugely successful release of ‘Rock Bottom’, which skyrocketed to #1 in the Australian Country Radio and Country Radio Charts where it stayed in the top spot for 3 consecutive weeks. The unique, colourful music video had heads spinning too and was added to CMT across the board.

‘Bring It On’, released in April this year, also hit #1 on Australian Country Radio Charts and climbed to the #5 spots on KIX Country Hottest 20 and CMT Australia Top 50. It was also released to Country Radio across North America (SiriusXM) & Canadian Country Radio.

Once again, Hayley teamed up with Troy Kokol at Reluctant Cowboy Records, Canada, to produce ‘Welcome Back Summer’, who was also at the helm on her ARIA #1 Charting Country Album, ‘Breakin’ Hearts’, as well as her last two chart topping country radio singles ‘Rock Bottom’ and ‘Bring It On’.

Hayley has been touring extensively throughout 2023, showcasing brand new music at headline shows across the country, as well as performing in top festival spots such as: Tamworth Country Music Festival (headlined main stage), Gympie Music Muster, Charters Towers Country Music Festival (headliner), Stock Route Country Music Festival, Texas QLD Country Music Festival, Lights on the Hill, various PBR Australia Events & Festivals plus many more.

JADE HOLLAND – Home, Town

Popular Australian pop country crossover artist Jade Holland is heading to her hometown Mareeba Queensland for the first time in ten years.

Jade is performing at Savannah in The Round Festival 6-8 October amidst a stellar lineup of her peers which include Aussie Icons & International Luminaries Jimmy Barnes, Kasey Chambers, Daryl Braithwaite, Russell Morris and Kate Ceberano to name a few.

Holland had already written and recorded a new song aptly titled ‘Home Town’ before Savannah In The Round reached out for a theme song for the festival. The lyric sees her recalling both happy and tragic memories of her youth growing up in the far north Queensland hinterland. Catchy and nostalgic ‘Home Town’ is a song we can all relate to when thinking about home.

“I grew up on a beautiful five-acre property in the bush. I have often channelled my formative years when writing songs. Mareeba was an is a magical place.

We thought we were the coolest kids on the block hanging out at centre parking in the Main Street. We would sit there for hours planning our lives”

TC Cassidy – Waiting on a Train (feat. Angus Gill)

TC Cassidy unveils stunning bluegrass duet with Angus Gill

Golden Guitar nominee TC Cassidy unveils stunning bleugrass duet, Waiting on a Train, featuring her producer Angus Gill. The romantic bluegrass song was written by Gill with US bluegrass luminary Ronnie Bowman. It features Grammy winners Ron Block (of Alison Krauss & Union Station) and Randy Kohrs, respectively on banjo and dobro, while Arkansas native Tim Crouch provides sublime fiddle, mandolin, acoustic guitar and double bass.

Ella & Sienna – Like A Boy

The growth of country music has been phenomenal over the past 18 months and rising Adelaide Hills singer-songwriter sisters Ella & Sienna have held their own, winning awards and gaining a rapidly growing fan base Australia wide, proving they are one of the most exciting emerging artists in the Australian music scene.

Powerful and liberating, Ella & Sienna’s latest release ‘Like A Boy’ embraces the sisters’ newfound country-pop sound. Recorded with renowned producer Ken Royster in Nashville, Tennessee, the dynamic track showcases the heartfelt storytelling the sisters are earning a reputation for. The anthemic track embodies vocal harmonies that soar over rich layers of guitars, intense drum builds and prominent slide riffs.

“We had the incredible opportunity to record ‘Like A Boy’ in Nashville earlier this year after winning the NQ’s Rock’n Country Reboot Competition and we absolutely loved every minute of the process. We were keen to see how the track came to life in the studio and we were really thrilled with how it turned out” Ella.

“Of all the songs we’ve recorded, this is one of our favourites for sure. And we’re really excited to see how everyone reacts to it. Hopefully they love it as much as we do”. Sienna.

Ella & Sienna’s list of achievements are astounding and undeniably impressive. It’s been a meteoric rise for the talented young duo who have seen growing accolades over the past 2 years. Winners of the Most Popular Country Artist in the South Australian Music Awards 2022, winners of the Groundwater KIX Start and NQ’s Rockin’ Country Reboot Competitions in 2022, Top 24 Finalists in The Voice Australia (Season 11) 2022, Finalists in the Folk Alliance Australian Youth Folk Artist of the Year 2021 and 2022, second place in both the Battle of the Young Stars and Best of the Buskers Competitions at the Tamworth Country Music Festival and Semi-Finalists in the prestigious International Songwriting Competition 2020 have all helped to shape the artists they are today.

A favourite amongst Australian radio, Ella & Sienna have received support from major players KIX Country, ABC Country and community radio which has earned them chart success on the Countrytown Hottest 50 Chart. CMT have supported the girls in high rotation with music videos and they have been added to editorial playlists including Spotify’s New Music Friday and YouTube Music’s ‘Incoming Country’.

Captivating audiences across the country at shows and iconic music festivals has seen Ella & Sienna perform at Tamworth Country Music Festival, Groundwater Country Music Festival, Gympie Music Muster, NQ’s Rockin’ Country, the EKKA (Brisbane) Semaphore Music Festival, Country By the River (SA) Fleurieu Folk Festival and Valley Folk Festival amongst others whilst also sharing the stages with John Schumann (Redgum) Amy Sheppard, Kristy Cox and Jayne Denham to name a few.

Now touring across several states to promote their debut EP ‘Seven Ways To Say You’re Fine’ EP, Ella & Sienna continue to build momentum, cementing the sisters as one of the most exciting acts to come out of Australian country music in years.

Ella & Sienna’s new single ‘Like a Boy’ is out at radio and digital platforms on Friday 29th September.

Duncan Toombs – Steel On Steel

This incredible song is the Title Track to a beautiful collection of songs about Duncan’s life & Family. It’s written with love to Duncan’s dad, Bob Toombs who passed away in Aug 2021.

From Duncan – I started writting this song while I was making trip’s back home to Toowoomba visiting my father in hospital. He was suffering from multiple mini stokes due to the lung cancer which was found while running tests on him. I finished the song the day the nurses called me while at home to let me know he had passed. It was soon realised that I would not be able to be at my father’s funeral as the QLD border was locked again. With the help of my producer Rod McCormack, we recorded and mixed the song within a matter of days. My family then helped me create a short video for it which features a trip I took to Europe with dad and my 2 boys in 2018 and It was played at my father’s service. I watched my father’s service via live stream from my loungeroom with my family and the saving grace from not being able to be there was that at least my energy was there in the room with him. My Dad was a Train Driver and worked for QLD rail for over 30 years. He was a true people’s champion. I miss him a lot.

Duncan.

“Steel On Steel” is a rare debut album that reveals an incredible degree of maturity, craftsmanship, and emotional depth for a brand new songwriter. With Streaming for his album fast approaching 1 million streams this Australian Aria Number #1 Country Album has created massive waves here in Oz and has fast become a favourite among fans and fellow Artists throughout the OZ music industry. Duncan’s live shows are nothing short of spectacular. The atmosphere Duncan creates leaves his audiences spellbound by the heart and passion woven into the lyrics of Duncan’s songs. Over the last 10 months Duncan has made the front of the stage his new home, wowing audiences all over the country whilst touring with Beccy Cole & Adam Harvey. The spotlights are finally revealing to fans across the world the talents that Duncan has been hiding for some time. This highly awarded filmmaker and sought-after guitarist to the stars is set to stand amongst our brightest stars.

TORI FORSYTH – SOMETIMES (FEAT. SHANE NICHOLSON)

Refreshed and refocused, Sunshine Coast artist Tori Forsyth ushers in a new era with the release of her new single ‘Sometimes’. Her first release in two years, ‘Sometimes’ is a song that marks a strong intention for the 3 x Golden Guitar Award nominee, that is to seek out and pursue what she loves, and to settle for nothing less.

With plenty of new music on the way, ‘Sometimes’ is a return to the unique alt-country sound that first launched Tori’s music career. Driven by her arresting vocals, and featuring friend and country music icon Shane Nicholson, the new single is a delicate and tender reflection on the ending of a relationship, without malice or resentment, simply bittersweet.

“Sometimes’ is a breakup song.” Tori openly shares, “The only one on the record, the only one I have ever written, the only one I intend to write. Plain and simple, sometimes out of nowhere, your heart gets broken. But you pick up the pieces and move on and sometimes, most of the time, something beautiful is on the other side.”

‘Sometimes’ is produced with Scott Horscroft (Charlie Collins, Brooke & Adam Eckersley) and is recorded at The Grove Studios with her full band of Reece Baines (drums), Matthew Newton (guitars) and Zachary Miller (bass), and joined by Mak Brothers , Thom (guitar) and Andy (keys)

Eight years after emerging from regional NSW seemingly fully formed with the release of her evocative single ‘New Wall’ and the acclaimed EP Black Bird, Tori’s highly anticipated 2018 debut album Dawn of the Dark was hailed as one of the standout country album releases of the year. It planted Tori at the forefront of alternative country music, underpinning her incomparable songwriting and gritty and expressive vocals.

Not one to follow the crowds, Tori’s second album Provlépseis (2021) was an unexpected swerve away from traditional alt-country and into a more bold and bruising rock record that pushed her out of her comfort zone. Released during a period of uncertainty and world closures, the album and its singles ‘Be Here’ and ‘Down Below’ continued to resonate with loyal fans. Big streaming numbers followed, with Tori currently boasting over 15 million artist global streams on Spotify alone.

But 18 months ago, the boundary pushing artist found herself at a crossroads. Living on her parent’s farm in rural QLD, Forsyth began to think she didn’t have anything to give anymore; she wasn’t sure who she was as an artist and what her musical future looked like. The songs weren’t coming, and for the first time in a long time Tori wasn’t putting pen to paper, sifting through her feelings, and distilling them into songs that strike at people’s hearts. It was, in Tori’s words, a “big old identity crisis”.

The fog lifted when Tori settled on a new vision: to only pursue what she loved and to stick true to her values. Suddenly, with no pressure or urgency resting on her shoulders, the songs began flowing out of her. The new songs were sculpted literally and figuratively by nature, with Tori spending months living in a treehouse listening to music from the likes of Ashley McBryde, Carly Pearce, Miranda Lambert, Nashville bluegrass outfit The SteelDrivers, with some ’90s Jewel, all while working on her parent’s horse stud and literally covered in trees.

It explains why ‘Sometimes’ feels real, warm and lived in, and no surprise why Tori chose to film the official video, directed by Bradley Murnane from Spill Films, on her parent’s property with her full band.

With a newfound freedom and lightness propelling her forward into a new chapter, once again Tori Forsyth is ready to take her place at the forefront of Australian country music. Following her BIGSOUND performances, Tori will be supporting US country artist Jackson Dean in Melbourne and Sydney with more news of live shows to come.

Kingswood – God Already Knows

AFTER ARIA #1’S AND 800 MILLION STREAMS, KINGSWOOD RELEASE LATEST SINGLE “GOD ALREADY KNOWS”

Following a recording breaking Australian tour consisting of over 100 shows, Kingswood have hit the ground running with their latest single “God Already Knows” from their forthcoming album “Tale of G.C Townes”.

“The single was born of the concept that eternally plagues most; the everlasting duel between fate or chance, and whether one has validity over the other. These questions seem to be most poignant and prevalent amongst apparent and important life decisions yet are the wallpaper that encompass our every move from day to day. In particular, God Already Knows beckons the questions when a life path comes face to face with a romantic path, a fantastic collision of opportunities both lost and gained, allowing for a wild pendulum between a fulfilled heart and a broken one”. – Kingswood

Kingswood’s upcoming album “Tale of G.C Townes” was written and recorded alongside “Home” in the mountains of Queensland Australia’s hinterlands on a ranch, with the finishing touches placed both on the road amongst the record breaking 110 date Australian tour and in Kingswood’s spiritual home in Nashville, Tennessee. The album and songs were engineered by Alexander Laska, Guus Hoevenaars, and Tennessee’s Eddie Spear.

The enigmatic track features all members of Kingswood alongside Shaun Richardson on mandolin and pedal steel (Ricky Skaggs, Sierra Hull, Bela Fleck) and Billy Contreras on Fiddle.

Andrew Swift – All These Parts

Following his win at the Golden Guitar Awards for Male Artist of the Year 2023, Andrew Swift released his third studio album, “Lightning Strikes and Neon Nights”. The album was met to critical acclaim and debuted at #1 on the ARIA Australian Country Album Chart.

Produced by Matt Fell, the album packed full of hits including “Young Lovers” “The Good Old Days” “You, Me, and a Bottle of Whiskey” and “Cheap Liquor”, the latest offering “All These Parts” mixes Swift’s signature grit with retro soundscapes and contemporary rhythms.

“There seems to be a bit of a pattern as I look back on my previous releases to include a song that I didn’t write. All These Parts is that song on this album, originally written. By Amber Rae Slade and Matt Fell, Matt pitched this song to me. I’ve always been a big fan of Amber’s work and it was a pretty easy decision to make. All These Parts is about moving on from a relationship, about cutting ties and pushing forward.” – Andrew Swift

With close to 2 million streams to date, Swift has been described as “an Australian songwriting heavyweight – with a powerfully evocative voice to match” by Country Update. Swift is undoubtedly a force to reckoned with. Both a wayward vagabond and a sweetheart, his songs brood on gut-wrenching heartache and revel in limitless joy.

Brooke Schubert – Stronger

Powerhouse Country Singer-Songwriter Brooke Schubert Delivers An Empowering Message In New Single ‘Stronger’.

In the vibrant tapestry of Australia’s music scene, one name shines bright, Brooke Schubert. Renowned as one of the country’s most exceptional vocalists, Brooke is poised to etch her indelible mark on the world of music. Following the resounding chart and streaming success of her previous hits, ‘New Kids In Town’ and ‘Burn Like Summer,’ Brooke returns with her latest single, ‘Stronger.’

‘Stronger’ isn’t just a song; it’s a seismic moment in Brooke’s musical journey. With poignant lyrics and an emotionally charged melody, Brooke invites us into her world of resilience and hope.

The opening lines, “One foot in front of the other is all that I know to do,” set the tone for a song that embraces the power of moving forward, even in the face of adversity. Brooke’s vocals effortlessly convey the struggle, and as the song progresses, we’re reminded that even on the darkest days, there’s a silver lining in every cloud.

“I’m beautifully broken, there’s magic in knowin’, I’m gonna be alright,” she sings with an unwavering conviction that captures the essence of inner strength. The chorus soars, a declaration of newfound resilience and determination: “I’m stronger after the break down, I’ve learned the hard way, what goes around comes back around.”

As the song unfolds, it becomes a testament to the idea that life’s challenges, like the turning of the world and the setting of the sun, are part of a larger cycle. Brooke’s music is a reminder to take life day by day, to find happiness despite everything, and to emerge from the fire and rain stronger than ever.

With its empowering message and Brooke’s captivating vocals, ‘Stronger’ is a powerful anthem that leaves you feeling inspired and ready to face whatever challenges life may bring. It’s a testament to the Brooke’s talent and resilience, and it’s bound to resonate deeply with listeners as they find their own strength within its melodies.

This remarkable track will feature on Brooke’s debut album, due for release in 2024.

Brooke Schubert’s new single ‘Stronger’ is out to radio 25th September and digital platforms on 29th September.

Matt Scullion – The Bush Takes Care Of Its Own

‘The Bush Takes Care Of Its Own’ is a heartfelt Australiana ballad written and recorded by Golden Guitar winning singer songwriter, Matt Scullion.

The track is the second single from Matt’s chart topping album ‘Nation Of Abbreviation’, which was produced by Matt at his recording studio in the Northern Tablelands of NSW. It was written on the Ukulele which features prominently throughout the song.

‘The Bush Takes Care Of Its Own’ captures not only the resilience of hardworking people in the bush, but the feeling of community spirit that is still alive and kicking in rural Australia.

People around here keep to themselves
They’d rather be left alone
But when there’s a problem, they’re happy to help
Cause The Bush Takes Care Of Its Own

With three successful albums under his belt, and 26 number one songs to his credit, Golden Guitar winning Australiana singer songwriter Matt Scullion has plenty to sing about.

Matt’s songs are a mix of witty old school storytelling and tongue in cheek Aussie humour as he sings up all things Australian. His lively yet intimate shows tug on your green and gold heartstrings as he swaps between acoustic guitars, banjo, and ukulele.

Matt’s tours regularly and can often be heard on Australian radio, while his songs have been recorded by the likes of Lee Kernaghan, Travis Collins, Sara Storer and Cold Chisel.

Brothers Osborne – Brothers Osborne

GRAMMY-winning duo Brothers Osborne release Brothers Osborne, their self-titled fourth studio album via EMI Records Nashville. The album was named one of the most anticipated albums of the year by the Los Angeles Times who call it “a lively self-titled” album which adds “fresh sounds and textures to the Osbornes’ solidly built songs.” The duo is currently on the cover of American Songwriter who say a “sense of comfortable confidence echoes through all eleven tracks on Brothers Osborne, which builds off the duo’s trademark meld of classic Southern rock and polished modern country.” Brothers Osborne is available in all formats here.

Last week, Brothers Osborne, the reigning CMA Vocal Duo of the Year, were nominated again in this category. They are five-time winners of this award and have six CMA awards in total. John Osborne of the band was additionally nominated in the Album of the Year category for his work as producer on Ashley McBryde Presents: Lindeville.

For their self-titled release, the brothers enlisted Mike Elizondo (Sheryl Crow, Turnstile, Dr. Dre, Twenty One Pilots, Lin-Manuel Miranda) to produce, entrusting him with curating his own band of studio musicians, including Paul McCartney’s drummer Abe Laboriel Jr. behind the kit. Miranda Lambert provides the LP’s sole guest vocals on “We Ain’t Good At Breaking Up,” after co-writing the song with Brothers Osborne and Jesse Frasure.

The brothers co-wrote every song on the album, including their chart-climbing current single “Nobody’s Nobody,” penned with Elizondo and Kendell Marvel, capturing a message of inclusion and acceptance.

Brothers Osborne are one of music’s most consistently adventurous bands, a duo connected by not just blood, but also a lifetime of performing together, and a shared working-class upbringing in Deale, Maryland. The reigning CMA and ACM Duo of the Year winners are leaders of a progressive and still classic school of country music, and the faces of the new generation of Nashville. Anchored by TJ’s baritone and John’s guitar, every one of the album’s 11 tracks are distinctly Brothers Osborne songs – the album is also their most musically diverse yet, along with a new producer’s direction, it features synthesizers, and a piano ballad.

“We are always pushing ourselves, always evolving and not afraid to change,” John says. “But at the end of the day, we are also who we are.”

“This is a defining record at this point in our career, where we needed to put it all on our shoulders,” TJ says. “And we did. Like it was when we were growing up, it’s just John and me.”

Brothers Osborne Track Listing:

  1. “Who Says You Can’t Have Everything” (John Osborne, TJ Osborne, Casey Beathard)
  2. “Nobody’s Nobody” (John Osborne, TJ Osborne, Mike Elizondo, Kendell Marvel )
  3. “Might As Well Be Me” (John Osborne, TJ Osborne, Corey Crowder, Julian Bunetta)
  4. “Sun Ain’t Even Gone Down Yet” (John Osborne, TJ Osborne, Corey Crowder)
  5. “Goodbye’s Kickin’ In” (John Osborne, TJ Osborne, Lee Miller, Mike Elizondo)
  6. “Love You Too” (John Osborne, TJ Osborne, Jessie Jo Dillon, Jesse Frasure)
  7. “New Bad Habit” (John Osborne, TJ Osborne, Lee Miller)
  8. “We Ain’t Good At Breaking Up” (John Osborne, TJ Osborne, Jesse Frasure, Miranda Lambert)
  9. “Back Home” (John Osborne, TJ Osborne, Lee Miller)
  10. “Ain’t Nobody Got Time For That” (John Osborne, TJ Osborne, Jaren Johnston, Lee Miller)
  11. “Rollercoaster (Forever And A Day)” (John Osborne, TJ Osborne, Jamie Hartman)

ABOUT BROTHERS OSBORNE:

Brothers Osborne are one of music’s most consistently adventurous bands, a duo connected by not just blood, but also a lifetime of performing together, and a shared working-class upbringing in Deale, Maryland. The reigning CMA and ACM Duo of the Year winners, John and TJ Osborne are leaders of a progressive and still classic school of country music, and the faces of the new generation of Nashville.

The siblings took home their first GRAMMY in 2022, winning Best Country Duo/Group Performance for their song “Younger Me,” inspired by TJ’s recent coming out. The song is featured on the deluxe version of their GRAMMY-nominated album, Skeletons. The band has been nominated for 10 GRAMMYs in total, standing as five-time CMA Vocal Duo of the Year, and are four-time ACM Duo of the Year. Overall, they have collected six CMA awards, seven ACM trophies and received the ASCAP Vanguard Award in 2019. Their critically acclaimed hit songs have tallied multiple RIAA Gold and Platinum certifications, while surpassing more than 2.8 Billion global streams.

Previously sharing the bill with Chris Stapleton, Eric Church, Little Big Town and Miranda Lambert, Brothers Osborne’s latest headlining We’re Not For Everyone Tour hit more than 50 markets. Last fall, John Osborne produced Ashley McBryde Presents: Lindeville, and Brothers Osborne contributed the song “Play Ball.” They wrapped 2022 with a limited-edition collaboration with WhistlePig Whiskey, launching the WhistlePig PiggyBack Legends Series: Brothers Osborne Barrel. Their fourth studio album, Brothers Osborne, released September 15th (EMI Records Nashville), featuring the chart-climbing single “Nobody’s Nobody,” out now.

Finnian Johnson – Dishonest

A force-of-nature talent with the passion to match, emerging country singer-songwriter Finnian Johnson has a deep love for country music. Over the past few years, he has been honing his craft and building a solid reputation performing at shows and festivals, combined with national television exposure on Season 11 of the popular television series The Voice Australia, where he made the Top 12.

Winning hearts and fans across the country with his deep and dulcet tone, it now seems fitting for Finnian to release his own original music, a self-penned soulful pop-country track called ‘Dishonest’.

“I wrote this this about a year ago, sitting in bed with my guitar trying to write anything. In country style, I pulled inspiration from the struggles of moving on after a breakup. What started out as just my voice and guitar, has turned into this awesome sound with Nashville pedal steel and soft acoustic guitar. I’m beyond excited to announce my first original single! It’s been a long time coming and I hope you love it as much as I do!”

Finnian has performed at Tamworth Country Music Festival and Gympie Music Muster, singing alongside country music legends such as Troy Casser-Daley, Bill Chambers and Troy Kemp. Earlier this year, he toured with Brooke McClymont and Adam Eckersley on their ‘Country Music, You and Beer Tour’ along the East Coast of Australia from January to May. Finnian went on to release his debut single ‘July’ receiving over 250,000 streams to date.

2023 has given Finnian continued exposure as a Top 10 Finalist in Toyota Star Maker at Tamworth Country Music Festival and was recently announced as a Finalist in the 2023 NAB Talent Search at the Gympie Music Muster.

Watch this space as Finnian Johnson embarks on a new journey of releasing his own music. His star is bound to shine bright and Australian audience are ready to embrace this exciting new talent.

Finnian Johnson’s new single ‘Dishonest’ is out at radio on Tuesday 19th September and all digital services on Friday 22nd September.

Dustin Lynch – Stars Like Confetti

Mixing nostalgia and passion of young love into a blast of upbeat Country Rock, the Josh Thompson, Thomas Rhett, and Zach Crowell penned track is tailor-made for his exhilarating live shows. Also produced by Crowell, the ringing guitars and classic dobro meet a pounding pulse as the heartbeat to Lynch’s bursting vocal, full of energy and ready to move fans by the tens of thousands. Likewise, the Chris Hickey directed music video shows the supernova in his element, surrounded by festivalgoers from Country Jam USA 2022 as the life of the party – like he’s done for 10 years straight. Whether connecting before the concert, thrilling a crowd onstage, or creating the soundtrack to a starry-eyed couple’s love story, the proven entertainer has never been more magnetic or more in tune with the moments that define forever-kind of memories.

“Literally, I was at the lake when I heard it the first time. I was in a great headspace; the day was beautiful. All of my friends were, ‘Play that again’ which is a good sign. It doesn’t have to be one girl, but just that feeling coming over you.” – Dustin Lynch.

First heard on his fifth studio album “Blue in The Sky”, which delivered the history-making PLATINUM, six-week #1 collaboration “Thinking ‘Bout You (feat. MacKenzie Porter)” and hit single “Party Mode”, Lynch is taking these smashes and more to the stage. “Stars Like Confetti” was featured in E! News’ The MixtapE! and Entertainment Tonight’s New Music Releases lists was praised as a “feel-good song” by All-Access.

“You can’t help but smile. This good-time banger captures being dizzy in love so marvellously. Get up and bop around the room or turn it up on the open road.” – MusicRow.

ABOUT DUSTIN LYNCH:

Dustin Lynch has “built one of the most consistent recording careers in modern country music” (Billboard), achieving eight #1’s, four Top 5 albums, 10 GOLD and PLATINUM certified singles, and tallying over 4.04 BILLION global on-demand streams. Lynch’s fifth studio album, “Blue in The Sky” (Broken Bow Records), feature current-single “Stars Like Confetti”, in addition to the history-making PLATINUM, six-week #1 “Thinking ‘Bout You (feat MacKenzie Porter)”, and latest hit “Party Mode”.

“Dustin Lynch’s new music will have you embracing the party 24/7”, hails E! News, as the good tine follow up to TULLAHOMA – which delivered consecutive PLATINUM chart-toppers “Ridin’ Roads” and “Good Girl”, in addition to GOLD, Top 5 “Momma’s House”. Since his PLATINUM breakout “Cowboys and Angels” in 2012, Lynch’s headlined packed venues and toured with country’s biggest names like Luke Bryan, Florida Georgia Line, Brad Paisley, and Kane Brown this spring. Likewise, the Tennessee native has earned industry recognition as a Grand Ole Opry member, as well as high-profile nominations for the American Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards, iHeartRadio Music Awards, and CMT Music Awards.

Andrew Farriss – Someone For Everyone

A luminary in the world of music, Andrew Farriss has dedicated over four decades to writing, producing, and performing songs that have left indelible marks on audiences worldwide. Known for his integral role as the co-founder and key songwriter for INXS, his solo career has been just as impactful. His self-titled solo album released in 2021 gained acclaim and spawned hits like “Come Midnight” and “Good Momma Bad”.

2023 is an exhilarating year for Andrew, as he participated in Don McLean’s nationwide Australian tour, served as a featured showcase artist at SXSW in Austin, Texas, and sat on the Eurovision Australian judge’s panel. These achievements come on the heels of a Golden Guitar nomination in 2022 and a Top-40 Billboard Indicator chart hit “You Are My Rock”.

Now, Andrew is gearing up for the release of his new single, “Someone For Everyone”, which is set to premiere on radio on September 18, 2023, and will be available on all streaming platforms by September 22. This poignant ballad explores themes of love and companionship, affirming that there is someone out there for everyone.

Sara Berki – Favour

In less than eighteen months since the release of her debut single, Sara Berki has established herself as one of the most exciting and prolific new artists in Australian country music and she continues the momentum with her fiery new single, “Favour”. The self-penned track, her eighth track release overall, follows the success of previous single, “A Boy That’s Into Trucks”, which reached #3 on the CountryTown Hot50 Airplay chart (Australia’s official country airplay chart).

Sara also today announces her headline Tamworth Country Music Festival show, taking place at the Tamworth Hotel on Sunday 21st January, 3.30pm. Sara will make a triumphant return to the Tamworth Hotel following her sold-out show at the 2023 festival.

“Favour” is a U-turn for Sara, a bold and empowering song about being cheated on but ultimately being stronger for the experience. The track features the most electric production of Sara’s releases to date.

Sara commented, “Favour is a song written from a past experience of being cheated on. I was hurting and even though my friends would tell me that I was so much better off, I just couldn’t see it at the time. There are so many things you can do to try and get over someone, but the best feeling is reaching the point when you realise that you’ve healed and that they’ve ultimately done you a favour.”

“Production wise, I wanted to do something different to anything I’ve released before.” Sara continued. “It’s heavy and I really think it’s a surprising choice of production, which I was so keen to tap into. Inspirations have come from my rock and roll upbringing. It’s super dynamic, the bass and drums are punchy, and I love that there’s fiddle and banjo following the riff. This is a fun song to play live!”

The Bundaberg born, Southern Highlands raised singer-songwriter made an impressive debut in 2022 with her first three singles, “Fallin’ Off the Heartline”, “Good Enough” and “Drinking for Free” reaching the Top 20 of the CountryTown Hot 50 airplay chart, while “A Boy That’s Into Trucks”

became Sara’s highest charting single so far, at #3. Sara released her debut EP, “Heartline” in January and her catalogue has achieved over 1.6 million total streams to date.

Sara has enjoyed a great run of live shows throughout 2023 and will top it off with appearances at Groundwater Country Music Festival at the Gold Coast in October and the inaugural Ridin’ Hearts Festival at Sydney and Melbourne in November and headlined by U.S star, Bailey Zimmerman. Sara is the only Australian female artist on the massive Ridin’ Hearts line-up

Peter Chapman – Pick You Up

Country singer-songwriter Peter Chapman returns with a new offering after releasing ‘That Kinda Bar’ earlier this year. Known for his quick wit and tongue in cheek humour, ‘Pick You Up’, again showcases Chapman’s fun personality.

“‘Pick You Up’ is a song written about a time in my life that I was working in a bar and one of the many situations I found myself in while working in that type of environment”.

Raised on music legends such as Creedence Clearwater Revival, Bryan Adams, Cold Chisel and Lee Kernaghan, Peter Chapman is a Brisbane-based Country Music artist who likes to tell stories and has a damn good time in the process.

He has toured Western Queensland on three occasions where he swam with crocs in Adels Grove, performed from the bar top in Quilpie, performed at the iconic Birdsville Races and the Birdsville Pub and even laced up the gloves for a few rounds in the World-Famous Fred Brophey Boxing Tent.

In 2022, Chappo (as he’s affectionally called) toured with Golden Guitar winning Brooke McClymont and Adam Eckersley for 21 shows in NSW and Queensland, as well as opening for legendary band Dragon.

Touring continued into 2023, with performances at Tamworth Country Music Festival, Stock Route Country Music Festival and further touring with Brooke McClymont and Adam Eckersley on their Queensland leg of their tour. Chappo then jumped on Busby Marou’s ‘Tiny Towns Tour’ for a month of shows through regional Queensland including outback towns. With upcoming shows and festivals in Texas, QLD, Newcastle, Armidale, and Ballina just around the corner, Peter Chapman is looking forward to being back on the road and performing ‘Pick You Up’ live.

Chappo loves a good time and that’s exactly what he wants to share with his audience every time he walks on stage.

Peter Chapman’s new single ‘Pick You Up’ is out at radio and all digital platforms on Monday 18th September.

James Keith – This Town

Country music newcomer James Keith has unveiled his latest single ‘This Town’ offering listeners a tantalizing glimpse into his formative years on his family vineyard in Orange, NSW.

‘This Town’ is just the kind of upbeat country rock James Keith has become known for. Radiating positivity and nostalgia, James cleverly leads listeners down memory lane in this ode to his hometown. “This dynamic track cleverly sprinkles clues about the town without outright disclosing its name,” he smiles. “Those familiar with Orange will recognize it instantly, while others will enjoy the guessing game.”

The creation of ‘This Town’ was as organic and dynamic as the memories it captures. Taking place at Dotted Eight studios, the single came to life under the watchful eye of producer Craig Honeysett . “When we initially started, without much knowledge of recording and producing, my band and I dove in, recording the entire track in just one day.”

They finalized elements on the fly, creating a piece that is as spontaneous as it is genuine. However, James enlisted the ears of ARIA award winning maestro Matt Fell (Troy Cassar-Daley, Fanny Lumsden), for the final piece of the puzzle. “Skip ahead 8 months, and after interacting with numerous industry experts during the journey, I decided to send the track to Matt Fell for his finishing touches. His expertise has undoubtedly elevated the track to a new level.”

The accompanying music video offers a greater depth to the memories imbued in ‘This Town’, weaving together clips of James and his brothers as they navigated their youth on the family vineyard, Mortimers of Orange. James also manages to showcase some of Orange’s most beloved landmarks.

Fans were treated to a live rendition of ‘This Town’ earlier this year when James Keith and his band supported Jon Stevens during his INXS/Noiseworks tour, as a part of the Corowa concert series. Next he has his sights set on a run of shows in Wagga Wagga.

‘This Town’ is more than music; its an experience – a love letter to the chilly wine country that James Keith calls home. This musical memoir is set to resonate deeply with anyone who cherishes their hometown memories and holds family close to their heart.