Inclusive Groove

Ky and Tom are members of ONIERA, an indie rock band based in Engadine on Dharawal Country. Formed in 2023, ONIERA blends dreamy, jangly guitars with jagged grooves and soaring R&B-inspired harmonies, creating a dynamic live sound that moves through a wide range of moods and emotions.Since forming, the band has sold out shows in both Sydney and Wollongong, toured the East Coast twice, and supported artists including Pacific Avenue, Letters to Lions, Salarymen and Vlads.ONIERA is currently preparing to release their second EP at the end of the year. Ky and Tom are both guitarists and two of the band’s four songwriters, playing key roles in shaping the sound and songwriting of the upcoming release.Outside of the band, Ky also runs a bookings and promotions company in the Sutherland Shire, focused on giving local artists opportunities to perform in their hometown while helping strengthen the local music scene by welcoming artists from across the country. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dean Nash (he/him) is a singer-songwriter, actor, writer and award-winning theatre maker.He co-wrote the 2021 concept musical The Breaths in Between and was the recipient of the Commitment and Innovation in Accessibility Award at Sydney Fringe 2025 for his most recent work, Dean, Don’t Dance! - a Creative Access cabaret blending Dean’s love of storytelling, soaring melodies, tongue-in-cheek lyricism and accessibility-driven art into one bubbling musical pot.Dean’s EP In the Autumn and most recent single, Leather Wallet, are available on all streaming platforms.Dean studied a Bachelor of Music at WU in 2011, completed a Musical Theatre residency at NIDA in 2016, and is an alumnus of the 2021 AFTRS Talent Camp for emerging writers.Dean is a sought-after vocal coach and Creative Access consultant, and currently works as the Access Coordinator at multi-arts not-for-profit organisation Brand X. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Benja Roberts is a Wayway musician and songwriter whose music is shaped by culture, identity and lived experience.Proudly identifying as Widjabul, Wiabul and Githabul, Benja creates music that reflects who they are and the stories they want to share. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Frog Soup are a 5 piece jazz fusion instrumental band.They started jamming at the Austinmer Beach change sheds and haven't stopped since! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Little Girl Likes Her Brain are a four piece, all femme band formed on Dharawal Country in 2024 by drummer Samantha and singer/guitarist Nadia and filled out by Tilly on bass and later Ruthii on keys. They have played a steady string of shows since forming as well as having a self recorded and released EP which was well received on the local scene. Blending sincerity, toung in cheek humour and a healthy does of Simpsons references they bring a unique presence to the stage as they perform songs channeling the energy of grunge bands from the 90's but putting a modern spin on things. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hailing from Wollongong in the Illawarra of NSW, Tyler Hauptberger is a singer/songwriter and guitarist who blends Blues/Rock, Alternative/Indie and Country sounds into Australiana story-telling.Tyler's voice and musical talents have graced many stages across Australia over the past 12 years. From his captivating solo acoustic performances, gigs with the Tyler Hauptberger Trio, drumming for Bad Girls Burlesque Club and supporting established artists including Steve Kilbey, Diesel and Frenzal Rhomb.With the release of his debut EP 24+4 in August 2024, alongside a packed out EP release show at Jamberoo Pub, then 'Three Trees' in November 2025 and an epic single launch show at The Vault, along with his latest single No One Woman Woman's and an awesome single launch at Seeker Brewing, the trajectory is only upwards from here...Jamal Salem is a professional Australian drummer, music educator, and singer-songwriter based in the Illawarra region of New South Wales, near Woonona. He has over 20 years of performance experience, notably touring as the opening act for Sir Elton John's 2020 Australian tour. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zoey, Chad, Louis and Pauly are The Huneez - Wollongong's definitive pop powerhouse!Playing some of the sweetest beats and juiciest jams around, this indie four-piece blend soulful melodies, funky rhythms, and some pleasantly piquant grooves into a dynamic show full of synergy, energy, and all-around good vibes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Halen Ryan is a multi instrumentalist from Kiama, playing in pubs since he was 14 his Influences stem from the early British Invasion such as The Beatles, kinks and the who to Aussie classics like cold chisel and midnight oil. Halen has been in local bands The saltwater criminals from 2023 and is now in Wollongong bands Buzzwagon and good for nothing He has worked alongside artists such as Ross Wilson, Bret Mkenzie, Toto and George Thorogood aswell as meeting some of musics top artists such as Nick Cave, Bob Geldof and New order Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we’re joined by benchwarmers, an alt-rock trio from Wollongong/Dharrawal made up of Cole Park, Victor Strange and Will Coleman.Blending deeply personal, confessional lyricism with elements of emo, slacker rock, shoegaze and noise pop, benchwarmers create music that feels nostalgic and fresh, energetic and soothing, funny and tragic - often all at once. Their sound sits somewhere between the guitar music of the late ’90s and early 2000s and the DIY indie-pop world of today.The trio first met at university, bonding over a shared obsession with music as performers, songwriters and avid listeners. Drawing inspiration from artists including Alex G, beabadoobee, Pavement, Dinosaur Jr. and Elliott Smith, benchwarmers have carved out a sound that feels distinctly their own.We chat about the band’s beginnings, their influences, songwriting and the music that continues to shape them. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hailing from the South coast of NSW, The Chordroys distinct sound of refreshing indie rock is one not to miss. The Chordroys pull inspiration from all corners of the music world, with music styles similar to the likes of The Vanns, Mumford and Sons, The Rions, Plini, Gang of Youths, Tame Impala, Boy and Bear and an endless list of others.The South Coast gents bring a unique mix of psychedelic guitar hooks, engaging choruses, harmonious ballads and tasteful rhythms that guarantee the listener to be left with their jaw dropped. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cooper Smart and Harry Leighton are two members of local band Dirty Merchants who formed in late 2023 when the four of them found themselves jamming in a garage after previous bands had fallen apart. Made up of three brothers and a best mate, the band has quickly developed a loud, energetic sound built for live shows. After winning the opening slot at Changing Tides Festival in 2024, they've been busy playing wherever we can and working on new music. They've recently released their debut EP 'Waste the Day' and are super stoked for what's to come. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Renzo, Lincoln and Lana are members of High Catz, an emerging punk-rock band from Wollongong. Having already headlined their own shows and shared the stage with local acts including Earl Gray and Dead Nettles, the band are quickly building a name for themselves within the region’s lively punk and alternative music scene. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Composed of lead vocalist Jack Clare, drummer Jarrah Henderson-Jackson, guitarist Harvey Jakubiw, bassist Jye Gibson and keyboardist Martin Sholl, giraffeHead are creating a unique combination of Jazz, RnB, Funk and Soul, with a distinctive and direct goal of creating the most enjoyable, crowd-pleasing, funky music audiences have ever heard. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Paul Greene is an ARIA Finalist Songwriter, Producer and performer based on the South Coast of New South Wales, Australia.His music has been difficult to define, melding elements of folk, roots, soul and Americana, but his new work is at home in 'country".He is also the founder of Sounds Delicious, which is many things:1: Recording Studio: making music sound good, refining and developing artists and creating music since 2001 also creating high quality video and photography2: A record Label: helping artists maintain a sustainable career in the music industry, consulting and managing artists towards their goals3: Events space: to show case top touring artists combining music and cuisine to create the perfect combination for both artist and performer.Greene is currently working on his 12th Album.The new record 'Get Loved' is maybe the first for Greene that fits nicely into a genre - something that he has so far cleverly avoided. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Originally from Batemans Bay, Lizzie Jack is a singer songwriter based in Wollongong. She fronts the local band The Beanstalks, a folk-rock four piece based in the gong whose music blends Noah Kahan lyricism over Aussie pub rock musicality.Alex Fordyce is a founding member of The Beanstalks, starting as the bassist and later switching to lead guitar. As one of the main songwriters in the band, he brings the riffs and rock influence to the bands music. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brendan Neville is the primary songwriter for the band Dribs - who have been playing in sheds, odds and ends since 2017. We've been in love with being silly our whole lives and see the band as an expression of what we felt was a huge amount of overly seriousness particularly in music. We aspire to ensure our live performances are real and an opportunity to feel as if you were just watching us play in our loungeroom - you can say what you feel and we're happy to just hang out rather than being behind some mystical curtain. We make music for people to have fun to in whatever way they seem fit my personal favourite is loud in a car but we've been told it's great to mow the lawn to, my dad said our song 'something' should have gotten on the radio and my mum says we're a good band; trust her!She comes to as many shows as she can. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Max Reuben is a singer, songwriter, producer and multi- instrumentalist from Wollongong, Australia, whose music refuses to stay confined to a single genre. Blending elements of indie, psychedelic pop, alternative rock and metal, his work is driven by a curiosity for experimentation while remaining grounded in honest, introspective songwriting.Rather than settling into one lane, Max sees every project as an opportunity to explore a different side of himself.Max first emerged in 2015 as a founding member of the rock band Left Lane, where he co-wrote, recorded and performed original music, releasing several singles and an EP before departing the group in 2020 to pursue his own creative vision. Later that year, he released his debut solo album, Abstraction-a synth-pop and psychedelic-inspired record exploring themes of change, self-discovery and moving forward. Since then, he has continued to evolve as both a songwriter and producer, releasing a series of singles, collaborating with fellow artists, and refusing to be defined by one particular sound.Alongside his solo work, Max co-founded Business Doing Pleasure in 2022 with vocalist and guitarist Zach Vella, creating another outlet for his ever-evolving songwriting. The duo blend indie funk, pop, soul and groove into a vibrant, tongue-in-cheek sound powered by infectious hooks, tight musicianship and high-energy live performances. Drawing comparisons to Lime Cordiale and Parcels while taking inspiration from Anderson.Paak and classic soul artists, Business Doing Pleasure have built a reputation for effortless jams and feel-good shows, sharing stages with CHEEKY LEASH, smartcasual, Clay Western and Aodhan.Whether writing for his solo project or Business Doing Pleasure, Max's focus has always remained the same: creating music that feels genuine, emotionally resonant and sonically adventurous. Now entering his next chapter, he is preparing to release his latest solo project, with another already underway. Drawing inspiration from alternative rock and metal while retaining the melodic sensibilities that have shaped his earlier work, these releases mark his most ambitious and authentic music to date. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Logan Ritchie and Harry Dawkins are the lead singer and lead guitarist from Roommates which is a pop rock band hailing from Wollongong, NSW, known for their catchy, energetic, and poetic sound that instantly pulls listeners in. Blending infectious hooks with raw emotion, Roomates craft a unique brand of rock that captures the heart of their coastal city and beyond. Their music draws inspiration from the highs and lows of life, with lyrics that are as introspective as they are anthemic. The band's electrifying live performances and tight-knit chemistry create an atmosphere where fans can't help but move to the rhythm. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Australian trio Necko draw on the sounds of 1970s stadium rock: atmosphere, catchy hooks and extended guitar solos. The three Sydney boys go from a whisper to a roar with Alek Necko's delicate R&B-flavoured falsetto and vintage wail, Reno Torrisi's explosive drumming and Alex Damon's dextrous bass and keys tap-dance.Their eponymous debut EP launched the band into over two years of touring across Australia, including support slots for The Radiators and a finals appearance at Bluesfest Byron Bay's Busking Competition. And now, the fanbase that's been built as a result sees the group release the eagerly anticipated 'You've Got What I Want': the lead single from Necko II. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jack Earl and Adam Bransgrove are the lead singer and lead guitarist from Earl Gray. They're a five piece band, brewed on Dharawal land, rocking the East Coast with a fresh blend of indie rock! Full flavour, full volume, full throttle!After an enormous 2024, your favourite Illawarra indie band has returned with a shot of caffeine, ready to bring you a taste of what the future holds! All new music, new merch, some new friends, and a whole lot of energetic rock music to sink your teeth into!Driven by a catalogue of songs that dance through genres like a ballerina in a moshpit, with a live show that will take you away to a sonic paradise, Earl Gray is ready to take on the world! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stella Eve is a Canberran ballad songwriter whose style blends the sonic aesthetics of her childhood playlist with groove-hitting, mood-lifting music. This is the music you'll be whistling around the office come Monday. Stella has supported artists like Josh Pyke, Thelma Plum, Little Quirks, Rum Jungle, and many more...Her debut project, Here For You (2025), brought together multiple producers and musicians to create a body of work full of texture, grounded in community. Her sound values ​​honesty, connection, experimentation, and, in every way, expresses Stella's desire to make music that makes you feel something. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Marley Fox is a non-binary artist, performer, and creative advocate whose work is all about self-expression, connection, and authenticity. They are known for blending music, performance, and community into spaces where people feel seen and celebrated. As a vocalist and member of The Midnight Tides, they bring passion, individuality, and heart to everything they do.Beyond music, they are an event curator within the performing and creative arts world, as well as a proud advocate for gender fluidity and the LGBTQIA+ community. Whether they're on stage, creating opportunities for others, or simply being unapologetically themselves, Marley uses their voice to encourage people to embrace who they are. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hailing from the heart of one of Sydney's Southern coastal splendours, Kim Girdlestone is a truly authentic and captivating singer/songwriter. Her style is what she calls 'Daisy Chain Blues' a rich, raw blend of blues, folk, and Americana grounded in heartfelt storytelling and soul- drenched vocals.Recently featured on 7NEWS with her band as part of Sydney's live music revival and she's just come off playing her sixth year performing at Cronulla Jazz & Bluesfestfestival.A 2024 finalist in the Sydney Memphis Blues Challenge, Kim has performed at prestigious events including Cronulla Jazz & Blues Festival and Culburra Music Festival and has opened the annual Sydney Blues Society's 2025 & 2026 International Women's Day event. She's opened for artists such as Matt Corby, Pacey, King & Doley, and Canada's Charlie A'Court.As soundsofoz.com notes, "Kim has much more than a voice on her side. She's a true artist, a crafter of songs that hearken back to the classic traditions of blues and soul. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chelsea Daghita is an Australian indie singer-songwriter and musician based in the Wollongong and South Coast area of New South Wales. Known for her stripped-back, emotional music, her sound blends heartfelt, DIY storytelling with delicate melodies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Autumn Sunset was born in Wollongong, inspired by some of the most breathtaking sunsets you'll ever see. This 7-piece band blends the brightness of indie rock with the rich colours of jazz and funk, creating a sound that feels like a masterpiece painted across the sky.Like autumn leaves gathering along a footpath, Autumn Sunset has grown into an overflowing collection of imagination, groove and soul-music that's impossible not to move to. With the rhythm of the wind and the warmth of the sun, the music is made to soothe the hardest of souls.So, sit back, or start moving, and let the golden hour consume you into the night. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

LEON is a south coast NSW singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who spent years performing and recording as a session musician alongside artists including Charlie Collins, Ben Swissa, Hein Cooper, Billy Otto and Ben Morgan.Now focused on his own project, LEON blends blues, folk, rock and modern indie influences into songwriting that feels both timeless and current. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mick Thomas is best known as chief songwriter of pub-rock icons Weddings, Parties, Anything. His current band The Roving Commission features old "Weddoes" bandmate Squeezebox Wally on Piano Accordion and a rotating schedule of talented performers to keep the party alive with Mick's unique mix of folk, roots and country. Running along side the Roving Commission is a whole raft of projects such as the magnum opus theatre piece The Vandemonian Lags (featuring Tim Rogers, Brian Nankervis, Liz Stringer, mong others). There's more theatre work in development coupled with the running of a boutique inner city music venue (The Merri Creek Tavern). It would be too easy for Mick to revive and live his life in the shadow of his iconic seemingly never to be forgotten band Weddings, Parties, Anything but more than ever it comes down to the shows he's doing now and the songs he is about to write and record. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Keens Brewer is a 23 year old Indigenous Australian Musician. Living with unilateral deafness, Keens has been playing music since she was 12 years old and has been singing her little head off since words could form in her mouth.Growing up, Keens was heavily inspired by blues and rock music, with herher dad introducing her to Jimmy Hendrix, Eric Clapton, BB king, and Pink Floyd at a young age. Later, she developed her own interest specifically in artists like Nina Simone, Etta James and Bessie Smith.She is currently working on an EP called "not getting better" that's set to be raleased early next year. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Wollongong-based singer songwriter Emily Duncan weaves a dreamy tapestry of ethereal vocals and introspective lyrics over stripped-back guitar on her latest EP, 'Maybe I Needed Time', sets the scene for a new, more mature musical direction for Emily, honest story- telling, without the frills, dealing with themes of personal growth, connection to the bodyand the sense that there's a kind of comfort in finding a stable home and community. Taking inspiration from the likes of Australian icons Julia Jacklin and Jen Cloher, as well as US, Faye Webster and Adrienne Lenker, Emily combines hazy folk sensibilities with cutting, reflective poetry and limitless vocals.After years of support from the Australian DIY music scene, playing and touring in the Jack R.Reily band and working on her first single with Cry Club's Jonathon Tooke, Emily has been inspired to start a fresh, independent project, inspired by home and connection."I wanted this release to capture what it feels like to grow up in your 20's, to reflect on those everyday moments where you're reminded that you have to practice at being yourself, reconcile parts of you that don't always fit, and land wherever makes sense. Each song on the EP travels through my own reckoning with who I am becoming as a person and my relationship with my brain and body. It's about home, community and confidence and is really an honest and raw collection of stories, without too much frillSince the EP release, Emily has played packed launch shows in the Illawarra and Sydney, and played at Illawarra Folk Festival, with many more shows in the works for this year"This EP has had a really lovely reception, especially in my local community. I'm really proud of it" Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Raised in Cronulla by a first-generation Greek mother and an Aussie father, Adam Newling is a singular voice in Australia's alternative music scene. Blending grungy alt-rock and country sensibilities with poetic lyricism and an unruly, heartfelt vocal style. Newling has carved out a sound that feels both nostalgic and entirely his own.Cutting his teeth as the longtime guitarist in Ruby Fields' band (and a featured vocalist on her ARIA #1 debut album Been Doin' It For A Bit) Newling stepped into the spotlight with his own deeply personal songwriting. His 2023 EP Dorothy Painted Portraits landed at #9 on the ARIA Albums Chart and showcased his unique ability to capture the light and the dark in equal measure. This followed 2022's breakthrough EP Half Cut and Dangerous, which has now clocked million streams and featured the triple j Hottest 100 entry "Sweetness" (#98)Newling's music has enjoyed consistent support across triple j, with multiple singles landing in high rotation, including "Barmy." "Singing Blackbird," and "Sweetness." His warm, introspective songwriting has also struck a chord with live audiences across Australia and beyond. He's completed numerous sold-out headline tours and performed on festival stages including Laneway Festival, NYE On The Hill, Yours & Owis, Woodford Folk Festival, and Great SouthernNights.On stage, Newling is a magnetic presence, part country wanderer, part rock 'n' roll poet. He's joined some of Australia's most beloved acts on the road, including Gang of Youths, Amy Shark, King Stingray, Ruby Fields, and The Church, In 2025 he was main support for U.S. indie favourites Richy Mitch & The Coal Miners on their sold-out Australian tour, playing iconic venues like Sydney's Metro Theatre, Melbourne's Corner Hotel, and Brisbane's The Triffid. He also toured the US in 2022 with Skegss, further cementing his international reach.Whether it's on record or in a packed room, Adam Newling continues to build something special, honest songs, loyal fans, and a long road ahead that's completely his own. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Max Carr is an Australian singer-songwriter and frontman of Profannity, whose music blends raw blues, pub rock, and lived experience. As both a solo artist and the driving force behind Wollongong band Profannity, his sound is built on unfiltered storytelling, gritty grooves, and a deep connection to live music.Originally starting as a stripped-back acoustic project, Max's music evolved into Profannity-a hard-hitting rock/grunge outfit featuring Wilson Featherstone (drums), Fergus Bolack (bass), and Reece Thurkettle (guitar). Known for their energetic live shows and powerful sound, the band has become a standout in the Illawarra scene, regularly playing packed rooms across local venues.Profannity have released a string of singles including "Flogged," "Useless C*nt," and "Eye of the Loaded Gun," with their debut record Such Is Life on the way. They've also gained recognition through competitions like New Blood Wednesdays and the Good Things Festival band competition, continuing to build momentum within Australia's grassroots rock community.Alongside the band, Max has returned to releasing music under his own name-coming full circle back to his blues-driven roots. His solo work leans into a more stripped-back, intimate style, shaped by years of gigging and a voice that carries both grit and honesty.After leaving school to focus on songwriting. Max completed a Diploma of Music at TAFE and is now studying a Bachelor of Creative Arts (Music) at the University of Wollongong-reflecting his ongoing dedication to his craft.Whether performing solo or with Profannity. Max Carr's music is grounded in real stories, real energy, and the kind of presence that stays with you long after the show ends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chiara Kovac is a Sydney-based musician whose work has grown from early acoustic songwriting into a fuller, heavier live sound shaped by collaboration, instinct and a love of Australian indie music. In this episode, Chiara reflects on learning saxophone, singing from primary school, teaching herself guitar, and developing her sound through recording, performing and working closely with her band. She also shares how songs like “Angry Ghost” marked a turning point in her confidence, musicianship and live energy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matt "Chibbsy" Bragg is an Australian musician, producer, and podcaster with deep roots in the South Coast music scene. Over the years, he's played in bands including Trample, Toy Not Suitable, Fires Were Started, and currently performs with Mac Tango and Fat Bald Idiot. Alongside performing, Matt is the host of two podcasts, 1001 Songs That Make You Want To Die and Screech & Roll, the latter focused on the Illawarra Hawks.Previously, Matt ran Bragg Recordings, where he worked closely with a wide range of artists including The Bungalows, Inanimate Objects, Tokyo Spares, and 19-Twenty. Whether on stage, behind the desk, or behind a mic, he brings a practical, artist-first approach shaped by years inside bands, studios, and scenes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Max Mandile and Baylen Russell are the lead singer and drummer of Indie-Surf band Streless from Dharawal/Wollongong. Despite this label, the South-Coast band come from many different genres and influences. A must-see energetic live act, their recording style is much more reserved as proven by their debut single 'Fourth Wheel!' Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kane Calcite is an independent folk-inspired songwriter whose sound drifts between sun- washed surf rock and grounded alternative folk.Blending aspustic storytelling with coastal rhythms and electric warmth, his music feels equally at home on long road trips and late-night campfires. Rooted in melody and mood, Kane's songs capture movement, memory, and the quiet pull of the ocean.On stage, Kane Calcite's music invites stillness as much as movement - a space where folk storytelling meets the open horizon, and every song feels like part of a journey still unfolding. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ramstone are an Australian classic/heavy rock band from Nowra on the South Coast of NSW. Formed in 2021 and evolving from an acoustic duo into a full four-piece in 2023, they write and perform big, rhythmic rock ’n’ roll anthems built for pubs and stages alike, and have shared stages with iconic Aussie bands including The Angels and Dragon. Drawing influence from classic and modern rock - from AC/DC and Led Zeppelin to Wolfmother and Audioslave - Ramstone bring a fresh, modern take on classic rock ’n’ roll. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Glenn Whitehall is a touring/session musician and songwriter based in The Illawarra. Over a varied 20+ years in music, he has shared stages with international and local legends, and is frontman for soul/rock band The Sacred Crows. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This project is the creative outlet of producer and multi-instrumentalist Lucas Trevisan. Lucas embarks on this solo journey to truly express his creative purpose with his extensive musical knowledge and skill-set. The 7-piece one-man band describes his genre as 'psychedelic groove', which is based around a fusion of funk and psychedelic rock with a sprinkle of jazz and samba groove. He is dedicated to representing a rainbow of cultures through his worldly genre awareness. In his live performances; hip-hop beats, hand-played percussion, melting chords and funky bass-lines are looped to create a magical atmosphere; opening space for saxophone, flute and guitar solos. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

South Coast artist Cassy Rae is known for her smooth live vocals and a quirky, genre-blurring sound shaped by indie, rap, blues and singer-songwriter influences. Her music balances raw emotion with strong rhythmic feel, creating songs that are both intimate and groove-driven.Raised in a musical household and surrounded by guitars, Cassy Rae found her way into music early, playing Avril Lavigne covers to her bedroom walls. Two decades later, she's performing live most weekends, building a reputation for honest songwriting and captivating live shows. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Vanns are a four-piece indie rock band from Kiama, Australia, formed in 2012. I've been following them since Keep My Cool, and it's been amazing to see them evolve throughout their discography of Through the Walls, Last of Your Kind, and All That's in My Head, selling out shows across Australia and touring internationally. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Patrick Rogers is a key part of the vibrant Wollongong music scene, known for his dynamic musicianship and ability to elevate every project he's involved in. A versatile and passionate drummer, Patrick has performed with a range of acclaimed artists and bands, including Warbaby, Adam Newling, and Ruby Fields, showcasing both technical skill and an instinctive feel for rhythm that brings power, character, and heart to the stage. His drumming style doesn't just support a song - it enhances it, helping to shape the sound, energy, and emotion of each performance. Beyond music, Patrick is driven by a strong sense of purpose and community, with aspirations to become a school teacher, reflecting his love for learning, guiding others, and making a positive impact both on and off stage. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dan Southern is a Nowra-based creative, musician, and drummer at heart who has been writing, recording, mixing, and releasing his own music since 2012. He is married, has three kids, and five dogs, and lives a life that is loud, chaotic, and permanently soundtracked by whatever he's working on next.Entirely self-taught, Dan founded his home studio, Ghetto Bird Studio, recording artists such as Adams Parade, Mac Tango, and Polly Hazelton. As a session drummer, he has played with Topnovil, Mac Tango, and even Joey Cape of Lagwagon over the years.His current focus is the comedic pop-punk project Fat Bald Idiot, but his history spans bands including Sort It Out, Under The Influence, Death Or Fireworks, All And South, Bowtie, and fronting Mixtape For The Drive, who toured alongside Lagwagon, Unwritten Law, The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, and Hawthorne Heights.Outside of music, Dan writes comedy, works full-time as a Creative Strategist at Bright Star Kids, and during COVID performed 10 weeks of Facebook live streams as "The Other John Williamson," Warilla's unofficial John Williamson impersonator.None of this would be possible without his incredibly supportive wife, Naomi, who is always on board with whatever creative idea he dreams up next. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jack Tickner is a music therapist from Wollongong specialising in neuro-affirming practice and improvisation. He also plays in Basil's Kite, Wollongong, and the American/Australian band Yowie. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Luke Mahler is an artist and producer based on the Central Coast. He has been active in the music scene, playing in bands and producing for the last 10 years. He is currently part of the band Sugar Soap along with his brother Jordi. Sugar Soap has swiftly become a fixture on the local circuit. Their journey has seen them grace stages across the east coast, sharing billings with acts such as their brother Tom's band The Moving Stills, Spacey Jane, Telenova and Velvet Trip. The duo were also lucky enough to win and play the Triple J Unearthed local slot at Lost Paradise 2024. The brothers hope to make waves beyond their home shores. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Tin Knees are a theatrical music confection based in Sydney and Wollongong. With humble roots on Australia's east coast, in both the Gong and the quaint country town of Dubbo, the group indulge in a signature synth pop, surf rock, jazz-infused sound with saucy lyrics that get even the most sensible mothers hot and bothered.Lead by the unapologetic creativity of Leonardo Sunshine on lead vocals and guitar and Frankie Desire on drums, the six piece band had its beginnings playing gigs at local music venues, including Wollongong's dearly departed RAD Bar. In early 2020, they released their debut EP 'The Tin Knees Are Dead' with a sold out tour. Two years later, their success continued upward, with a new international tour following and a residency at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland. Now, The Tin Knees are back ready to take over the world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Born and raised in the coastal town of Thirroul, Robbie discovered his passion for music at an early age. The sound of waves and the laid-back beach culture deeply influenced his musical style, creating a unique blend of warmth and sophistication.While completing his Music Degree at the University of Wollongong, Robbie embarked on a professional musical journey that has spanned over a decade. His experience ranges from intimate solo performances to dynamic band collaborations with Circadia, Toruadh, Sleepy Jo and the Bananas, and more.As both a solo artist and accomplished band member, Robbie has performed hundreds of times at gigs and events throughout Australia.In this episode, Robbie and I discuss his musical upbringing, the bands he is part of, some shows he has done, we talk about disability, and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matt Roach is a local musician who's been playing in bands and venues around the Wollongong area for the past 10 years. Originally from the South Coast, he now focuses his time as the bassist for local band Roomates. Matt plays a key role in shaping the band's sound with his steady rhythms and thoughtful approach to music.In this episode, we talk about his influences, old bands he was in, his upbringing in church, the people who have shaped his life, we talk about disability, and so much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Futureheaven are a rock/shoegaze 5-piece band from Sydney, blending crushing heaviness with dreamy melody. Known for their emotive vocals and textured guitars, they carve out a sound that's both raw and atmospheric, a modern take on 90s-inspired heaviness that hits hard and lingers. Balancing chaos and calm, Futureheaven delivers music that's as powerful as it is immersive.In this episode, Futureheaven and I talk about how this was their first interview, the shows they've done, how I met Bridie, and how the band came about. Plus disability and so much more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Australian alt-rock band LSF are gearing up to release their new album 'Haunted' alongside a national headline tour kicking off on Triple J's Hottest 100 Day, January 24, 2026.Born in a warehouse and built entirely DIY, LSF have grown a dedicated following through high-energy shows, self-produced releases, and national radio attention. 'Haunted' marks their most refined work to date as a blistering mix of '90s grit, explosive hooks, and emotional weight, all produced in-house by frontman Blake Lauricella.The album arrives as LSF embarks on their biggest run yet: a multi-city headline tour bringing their chaotic live show to fans across Australia. With previous festival appearances, playlist support, and a fast-growing community around the band, this next chapter positions them for a major breakout in 2026. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ket & Ian make up half of Wollongong alt-rock outfit Blackout Fun Club. Forming in 2019 and hitting their stride post-COVID, Ian's driving bass lines blend like rich, bitter coffee through Ket's soaring vocals.In 2025, Blackout Fun Club have released three new tracks (Bitumen, Many Coloured Lover, and Off The Slab), as well as embarked on a run of East Coast tour dates in additional to a bunch of fun hometown shows. When they're not on the tools playing shows, Ian is a disability support work and Ket works in live music marketing and promotion. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.