Laura Frank – The Road

Every once and a while, one track emerges onto the world stage that simply takes your breath away. Scheduled for global release on Friday 9 September 2022, “THE ROAD”, the latest offering from Australian Country artist, Laura Frank, is that song. With a return to her traditional country roots, “THE ROAD” tells the tale of Frank’s move from the city to the country to build a house from salvaged and repurposed materials in the pursuit of her dream to live a more conscious and sustainable lifestyle. With the official video capturing many of the moments building the house with her partner, Nick, the raw and poignant lyrics also take you on a parallel voyage into Frank’s mental health struggles.

As world leaders prepare to mitigate the impact of climate change, “THE ROAD” certainly captures the essence of eco warriors across the globe while sharing a very real and personal story along the way. “THE ROAD” is the fifth track to be released in three years, and given that two of those years were interrupted thanks to the global pandemic, Frank has rapidly revealed herself to be one force to be reckoned with. With her last two singles, “SIMPLE GIRL” and “PRETTY” both debuting at number #1 on the iTunes All Genres and Country Music Video Charts, Frank was added to high rotation on commercial network Flow FM across Australia. With a monthly Spotify listenership tripling every 30 days, a fast selling summer tour across regional Queensland, and a podcast LET’S BE FRANK, a lifestyle show shining a light on sustainable brands and sustainability crusaders like herself across the globe, the Frank Train, Laura’s digital fan army, is thundering down the tracks.

Sarah Leete – Girl Next Door

Today Sarah Leete returns with her latest single, ‘Girl Next Door’. Following on from the star on the rise’s previous offering, ‘Used’ (which peaked at #14 on the CountryTown Hot 50 airplay chart), the new single continues to showcase Sarah’s trademark straight-shooting storytelling, infused with catchy melodies.

‘Girl Next Door’ bears all the hallmarks of a contemporary country hit – a driving beat, world class production and engaging vocals – yet it still maintains that unique authenticity for which Sarah is known for. A tangle of guitars and banjo ebbs and flows perfectly around her voice, as she reminisces about a past life.

“Girl Next Door is about leaving home and coming back again to all you left behind,” confesses Sarah. While many have previously suffered a tumultuous few years, Sarah has weathered an exceptionally challenging storm, dealing with the loss of both her parents. “I wrote Girl Next Door late last year while getting my childhood home ready to put up for sale. After the last few years that I’ve had, it really has me thinking about the past.”

The song’s title was inspired literally by her childhood neighbour. “The girl I used to live next door to used to play electric guitar and I would hear it through my window while I was learning to play.”

Sarah entrusted QLD producer, Michael Muchow (Catherine Britt, Melody Moko), with the task of building the songs sonic landscape. Together at Airlock Studios (founded by Powderfinger’s Ian Haug) they crafted the track. “It ticks all the boxes for me sonically and it’s something I’m really proud of,” smiles Sarah.

Since her debut self-titled EP release in 2017, Sarah has steadily been building a firm fanbase. Despite the numerous curveballs life has thrown her she continually manages to knock them out of the park – vigorously touring her show and supporting the likes of The Viper Creek Band, Bill Chambers and Fanny Lumsden.

Now she’s set to embark on one of her largest tours to date, the Girl Next Door Tour. The 19 date run will see Sarah snake her way from the county music capital, Tamworth, through the NSW heartland to the Mildura Country Music Festival and back up the east coast, incorporating stops in Canberra and Brisbane.

The last two years have already seen 3 stellar singles from this down-to-earth songwriter and ‘Girl Next Door’ is no exception. “I know that things have changed / I’m not the girl next door.” Dominated by themes of reflection and change, Sarah’s pen describes these sentiments with a genuineness that few possess. Her talent lies in her authenticity, which has allowed her to create truly moving music.

Kevin Sullivan – Louanne

Whilst the last two years have seen the The Sulli-Vans family band shine, it’s time for Kevin Sullivan to release original music once again. ‘Louanne’ is the lead single from Kevin’s upcoming album, the follow-up to his 2018 debut album ‘Belonging’.

Recorded at Alex the Great in Nashville, award-winning Australian producer Matt Fell has captured the warm vintage vibe of the recording studio with a distinct traditional country beat that is now ‘Louanne’. In the recording booth there was a signature gold microphone capturing the deep bass of Sullivan’s voice, transporting you back to a time reminiscent of recording with the legendary likes of Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, and Roy Orbison.

The method of recording ‘Louanne’ was a first for Kevin, where the musicians were all playing at the same time in parallel separate rooms just like they did in the early days of recording; creating a dynamic sound with a feeling they were on a grand old stage. The music was created with some of Nashville’s finest – Michael Webb on keys (played with John Prine, Chris Stapleton and Hootie & The Blowfish), Will Kimbrough on lead guitar (previously collaborating with Steve Earle and Emmylou Harris) and Evan Hutchings on drums (played with Keith Urban, Steven Tyler and Ronnie Dunn).

This new track is a humorous tongue-in-cheek observation of navigating the world of social media. Kevin adds, “It came about after a real-life person named ‘Louanne’ commented in a positive way about one of my original songs on my Facebook page. As it turned out, Louanne thought she was conversing only with her cousin, but was unaware that her comments could be seen by everyone, including me. Having at times struggled with social media myself, I caution the listener to be careful with their comments, you never know who is reading them”.

The cautionary tale which wouldn’t be out of place in any American diner or old honky-tonk bar, has already been embraced by live audiences; with many people saying it could be a sequel to Dolly Parton’s ‘Joelene’.

‘Louanne’ will be released prior to the next run of The Sulli-Vans shows starting with twelve appearances at the Mildura-Wentworth Country Music Festival in September and Cordola Rocks The River (Morgan SA) in October.

Steve Cheers – 10,000 Ways

The second radio single from Steve Cheers’ fourth solo album, ’10’000 Ways’ is a call for us all to try and focus on all the good things that surround us every day of our lives.

The track and album, ‘Signs Of Life’, (released September 1st, 2022) is Steve’s second collaboration with producer Matt Fell, and continues to reflect his melodic modern Australian country style.

Steve Cheers hails from the NSW Southern Highlands, where he worked in and on the regions entertainment industry for 25 years. Apart from releasing and performing his own music, he has also worked as an artist manager, promoter, theatrical actor producer and director, and with his wife Geralyn runs the local Music Centre which has educated many thousands of students over the years.

Entertainment has run in the bloodlines of Steve’s family for generations and continues with members of his own family engaging in music teaching, composing and performers and other artistic endeavours.

Lyn Bowtell (feat. Shane Nicholson) – Wiser

ARIA Chart-topping, nine-time Golden Guitar winner Lyn Bowtell shows her indomitable strength in her new single ‘Wiser’.

The Hunter Valley artist co-wrote the song with fellow Bennett, Bowtell & Urquhart members Felicity Urquhart and Kevin Bennett, and recorded it as a duet with long-time producer Shane Nicholson .

“This is an anthem for those who understand the importance of learning from your mistakes,” Lyn said. “And that it’s usually the hardest times we go through that stimulate the most positive growth and change.”

The single is the title track from Lyn’s #1 Country ARIA Album of the same name, released in May.

“I want listeners to take away from this song the message that you’re bound to make mistakes, you’re bound to fall, and you’re bound to be tested, but as long as you’re learning from those experiences you will come through the other side, a wiser, braver and stronger human being,” she said.

Adding to the track is the distinctive voice of ‘Wiser’ album producer Shane Nicholson.

“When Lyn Bowtell writes a song, you listen to it,” Shane said.

“When Lyn Bowtell asks you to sing that song with her, you say, ‘yes’, and when that song is ‘Wiser’, then you’ve hit the bloody jackpot!”

Dave Herrera – Shades

Dave Herrera has a way of writing thought-provoking material, as demonstrated in this NEW Single “Shades,” a tale about a woman who catches a man’s eye with her dark sunglasses that aren’t used to block the sun, but as a barrier to the outside world. But once she pulls up the shades, one realizes there’s something deeper.

Herrera said “it’s not easy to meet people, more specifically a significant other, as OPENING UP is not an easy thing to do” as Herrera wrote in his lyrics “hiding your eyes won’t hide ya; cause only the sun shines brighter; fix a broken heart; if you look my way; let down your guard pull up those shades”.

Herrera wrote the track with the help of Cory Coppin and Kale Coppin co-writers and produced the track with co-producer Jeff Balding. “Shades” was recorded at WestRoc Studios.

DARLINGHURST – HANGMAN

In just three short years since their debut single release, Darlinghurst have established themselves as one of the hottest new acts in country music. They’ve notched up four x #1 Country Hot 50 airplay hits, a #1 debut ARIA Country Album and their first Golden Guitar win for New Talent of the Year 2022. Today Darlinghurst unveil their brand-new single, ‘Hangman’.

This banger sure hits the ground running; a jangly guitar opens the track, giving way to a stampede of percussion. It’s foot-stomping, southern feel instantly makes you feel like moving, while the song’s lyrics cleverly deliver a discerning message. “Not unlike a ligature to the neck that brings unconsciousness, so too, metaphorically, a toxic relationship does the same,” explains band member Cassie Leopold. “Hangman is about breaking the cycle and hanging in limbo.”

The Melbourne based 4-piece called upon Pete Dacy (Taxiride, The Androids) to co-produce the new track with Darlinghurst guitarist, Jason Resch. Recorded at Secret Sound Studios, ‘Hangman’ draws on high energy and timeless rhythms that delivers both mischief and magic.

The first single released from the band since their ARIA #1 debut album, the quartet continue to build on the signature sound they’ve become known for. Stellar melodies, relatable lyricism and exceptional vocals; their voice’s blending together in sumptuous, layered harmonies creating a fifth voice. It’s certainly been enough to turn heads and secure them 4 x #1 singles on the Country Hot 50 airplay charts, a Top 40 spot on the US Music Row Country Radio Chart and a highly coveted Golden Guitar award.

With such a great reception to their music it’s no surprise the band is touring far and wide. They’ll launch the single tonight at the revered Gympie Music Muster, before cruising up and down Australia’s east coast. They’re slated to appear at Country Rocks Festival in Bungendore, Deni Ute Muster, Savannah in The Round, Groundwater Country Music Festival and their own headline shows.

Darlinghurst are a band that just keeps churning out hit after hit. Their high energy country music has gripped audiences around the nation and resonated with their rapidly growing fanbase. ‘Hangman’ is testament to all they’ve achieved; proof that these four are truly something special.

Jimbo Stokes – Atlas

Country singer-songwriter Jimbo Stokes has stepped out of the corporate world and onto the stage with debut single, “Atlas”.

Born and raised on a sheep and cattle station near Tamworth, Jimbo returned to the Hunter New England region at the beginning of the 2022 after many years working, studying and playing rugby in Sydney. Despite holding a Bachelor of Commerce and Master of Economics from Sydney University, Jimbo is now a full-time creative, balancing his time between music and visual arts and has also strapped on the boots to play for his local rugby club, the Scone Brumbies.

Jimbo wrote the song in covid times then teamed up with award-winning producer and multi-instrumentalist, Rod McCormack. “Atlas” is a raw and honest tribute to Jimbo’s mum, Dr Bronwyn Stokes OAM, a hard-working regional GP.

Dr Stokes OAM was a beloved family practice GP in the Tamworth and Merriwa regions, who was awarded an Order of Australia Medal for her services to regional medicine, in the field of nutrition.

“I think Atlas is a good metaphor to describe mum; someone who held so much on her shoulders but was selfless and had immense courage all the way to the end,” Jimbo said.

The song tells the story of Jimbo’s time living in the city and dealing with the loss of his mother while trying to stay on track in the present, juggling memories of the past whilst dealing with the day-to-day grind of the corporate world.

To bring the single video to life, Jimbo worked with Southern Highlands-based videographer Steph Hunter. “I knew Steph was great at capturing people and stories so I was confident she’d be the perfect collaborator,” he said.

Country hasn’t always been Jimbo’s musical home, having trained as an operatic tenor under Christine Douglas (Director/Founder – Pacific Opera), but he returned to his first love during COVID-19 times.

Hannah Lee – Momentary Thing

‘Momentary Thing’ is an upbeat, country tune about giving that one person a shot after being so hesitant, and it turning into the real deal, more than just a fling.

Born and bred in Bellangry, New South Wales, above the New South Wales Mid North Coast, Hannah Lee was raised surrounded by nature reserves and spectacular mountain views.

Having begun performing and songwriting at the age of 12, Hannah has been a regular at the Tamworth Country Music Festival and Gympie Muster.

Hannah’s debut single, ‘Just Look Back’, reached #3 on the iTunes Country Song Chart. The self-directed and produced music video was featured regularly on CMT, with the song giving Hannah a loyal following of country loving fans eagerly waiting her next instalment.

Jordan Davis – Next Thing You Know

Multi-Platinum MCA Nashville hitmaker Jordan Davis continues to rack up streams and engage his fans with his latest music. The chart-topping entertainer’s last single, “What My World Spins Around,” has garnered more than 50 MILLION streams since hitting country radio airwaves in June. Written by Davis, Matt Dragstrem and Ryan Hurd and produced by Paul DiGiovanni, Davis performed the hit on NBC’s TODAY this week.

Davis has shared his new track “Next Thing You Know” as a continuation of releases from his highly anticipated upcoming album. Written by Davis, Chase McGill, Josh Osborne, and Greylan James, “Next Thing You Know” is available everywhere.

“Next Thing You Know” follows his previous single “What My World Spins Around” and is the latest glimpse at new music from Davis, who, with his single “Buy Dirt” (feat. Luke Bryan), amassed more than 626 MILLION global streams. “Buy Dirt” tallied multiple awards nominations as a finalist for Top Country Song at the 2022 Billboard Music Awards, nominated for Musical Event of the Year at the 55th CMA Awards, and for Music Event, Single, and Song of the Year at the 57th ACM Awards. Davis delivered high-profile performances of the song on both The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and The Ellen DeGeneres Show .

In addition to releasing new music, Davis is set to headline back-to-back nights at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium this fall (9/27 and 9/28) for the first time, and will join Luke Combs as direct support on The Middle of Somewhere Tour through December. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit jordandavisofficial.com/tou