W24 IMAGES MAGAZINE

DON BROCO

BEDFORD, UK - UK rock band DON BROCO return swinging with their explosive new single Hype Man - a nu-metal-infused banger that captures the chaos of burnout and the lifeline of friendship. Out now via Fearless Records, the track marks another bold step in the band’s ever-evolving sound.

With vocals that flip between rapped flows, soaring choruses, and guttural screams, Hype Man charges forward with crunchy guitars, pounding drums, and electronic flourishes. The Dan Lancaster-produced song is a loud, unfiltered reminder that even in the most overwhelming moments, having your people in your corner makes all the difference. Unrestrained, electrifying, and unmistakably DON BROCO.

“Hype Man is about how grateful I am to be on this journey with the rest of my bandmates”, shares frontman Rob Damiani. “We’ve been friends since school and I don’t know how I could face all the challenges of life without them. In this industry there’s so many highs and lows that I couldn’t even imagine dealing with as a solo artist, so for me that brotherhood and support system is the best thing about being in a band. We all need that person to talk to when things become too much, that person who can bring the energy and get you back on track. So if you're struggling, don’t ever be afraid to go ask for that help.”

Following the release of the single Cellophane earlier this year, DON BROCO made it clear they’re entering a bold new era. The song channels a sharpened wave of nu-metal energy marking a fearless evolution of DON BROCO’s genre-smashing sound. It has racked up over 700,000 streams in its first week and landed the band on the covers of Spotify’s Nu New, Amazon’s Rock Scene, and YouTube’s New Metal playlists.

The band will be bringing their electric live energy across UK, Australia and North America, performing new material alongside fan favorites. DON BROCO's Australian tour officially kicks off next week on September 4 in Brisbane, before heading to Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide, and closing out on September 9 in Perth.DON BROCO
AUSTRALIA '25
WITH SPECIAL GUEST
REDHOOK
TOUR DATES:

THURSDAY 4 SEPTEMBER - PRINCESS THEATRE, BRISBANE
FRIDAY 5 SEPTEMBER - MANNING BAR, SYDNEY
SATURDAY 6 SEPTEMBER - THE CROXTON, MELBOURNE
MONDAY 8 SEPTEMBER - LION ARTS FACTORY, ADELAIDE
TUESDAY 9 SEPTEMBER - MAGNET HOUSE, PERTH

Bullet for your Valentine

Australia, come wake the demon this October when British mainstays BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE return down under for their biggest ever Australian headline tour, celebrating the 20th anniversary of their debut album The Poison as well as a horde of fan-favourites, joined by special guests WHILE SHE SLEEPS (UK) and THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA (USA).

Commencing on Wednesday 15 October in Melbourne, this epic arena run will journey to Sydney on Thursday 16 October and close out on Saturday 18 October in Brisbane, with each show also switching up supports and alternating slots each night between WHILE SHE SLEEPS and THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA.

Forming in the late 90s, Welsh behemoths BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE went on to become an unwavering pillar for metal and British music in general, releasing their debut album The Poison in 2005 and never looking back. Between their 2008 album Scream Aim Fire and 2010 third full-length Fever, through to their most recent outing, 2021's self-titled album, BULLET FOR MY VALENTINE have also amassed over 3.5 million album sales to date and counting, while also ticking off sold out performances across the globe, multiple award wins and nominations, ongoing chart success, a legion of diehard fans worldwide and plenty of hits spanning decades; many of which will be on full display for Australian fans this October.

Check out Destroy All Lines for ticket sales and more information.

TELE NOVA

Telenova

Before there upcoming shows at The art factory Sydney 11th September and The Night Cat 13th September we caught up with the guys for a quick chat and the famous 5 questions.

The atmospheric, cinematic art-pop trio hailing from Melbourne formed in early 2020 during an APRA AMCOS songwriting camp in Melbourne. The trio consists of lead vocalist, songwriter, and filmmaker Angeline Armstrong, along with multi-instrumentalists and producers Edward Quinn (formerly of Slum Sociable) and Joshua Moriarty (of Miami Horror) .

Their sound is often described as a shadowy, sample-driven blend of alt-pop, art-pop, trip-hop, electronica, and touches of blues, R&B, indie folk, and cinematic textures—some even call it “cinema for your ears” .

Their first full-length album dropped on 16 August 2024 via Fiction Records and EMI, debuting at 2 on the ARIA Albums Chart and 3 on the vinyl chart . Critics called it “bigger, bolder, and more ambitious,” with memorable tracks such as “Power,” “Margot,” and “Discothèque Inside My Head” .

Angeline background in film heavily influences their visuals. Notable music videos like “Teardrop” and “Discothèque Inside My Head” are mini cinematic experiences, often directed or co-directed by her and laden with surreal and dreamlike imagery.

Who or which bands inspired you to make music?

Jack Johnson definitely got me in to playing the guitar. And then from there is kind of went to Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Mars Volta and Radiohead.

If you could open a show for any artists, band dead or alive who would it be?

I think it would have to be Radiohead, purely to see what an act of that size do as thier pre show routines. Perusing over all their gear would be nice too.

Do you have a favurite show or venue you played at?

I love playing in Greece. Athens to be specific. It’s got a nice element of chaos to it and the people there really connect with the tunes.

Whats the best advice you can give to anyone wanting to start a band?

Be prepared to embrase a whole heap of mistakes. Whether it’s touring or wiritng or in the studio. We’ve been doing this for 5 years but the mistakes are sometimes what makes it fun.

What’s next for you?

Bitcrush EP is being released today I believe and then some Sydney / Melbourne shows in September where we’ll be debuting a whole heap of new songs. Cannot wait.

Thanks again to Edward Quinn. For taking the time to answer the questions.

Photo gallery to come as I will be shooting at there Melbourne show.

So keep a look out.

See ya there.

THE GOOD THINGS FESTIVAL

ITS BACK.

Once again for another round of alternative myth-making, bringing along a stellar roster of international legends, local heroes, and budding dreamweavers. With all three East Coast event dates 16+ and up, punters of all generations have the chance to chase their sonic dragon, find their stage unicorn, or solve the minotaur’s crowded maze.

As one of the world’s most idiosyncratic heavy music acts, TOOL are a genre unto themselves as they mark their 35th year of existence. Fusing metal, rock, and alternative sounds through gargantuan grooves, heady instrumental runs, and the hypnotic vocal refrains of enigmatic frontman Maynard James Keenan, the group’s intimidating back catalogue features five studio albums: Undertow (1993), Ænima (1996), Lateralus (2001),10,000 Days (2006), and Fear Inoculum (2019). With each offering raising the band’s—Danny Carey (drums), Justin Chancellor (bass), Adam Jones (guitar)—conceptual pedigree to dizzying new heights, their storied career includes numerous world tours and four GRAMMY® Award wins. TOOL’s coveted appearance as part of Good Things Festival in 2025 will be their first Australian festival headline since their Big Day Out performance in 2011, and their first Australian tour in over five years.

It’s hard to think of other contemporary rock acts with as many accolades to their name as WEEZER. Whether it’s airwave megahits like “Buddy Holly,” “Undone (The Sweater Song),” “Say It Ain’t So,” “El Scorcho,” “Hash Pipe,” or “Island In The Sun”; classic records like their seminal, multi-platinum ‘Blue Album’ (1994), cult-favourite follow-up Pinkerton (1996), or worldwide career record sales in the multi-millions; industry nods in the form of GRAMMY® Award and MTV Video Music Award wins; sold-out stadium tours, and even a fav-inspired cover of Toto’s iconic “Africa”—WEEZER have truly done it all, guiding the trajectory of indie rock, emo, and power-pop for decades.

Returning to Australia for the first time in nearly a decade, GARBAGE aren’t ones to rest on their laurels. Led by vocalist, guitarist and bonafide ‘90s icon, Shirley Manson, the Wisconsin rockers—rounded out by Duke Erikson, Steve Marker, and drummer/famed producer Butch Vig—will delight Aussie crowds by roaring through classic cuts like “Stupid Girl” and “Only Happy When It Rains” from their iconic, double-platinum 1995 self-titled debut, alongside 2000’s radio smashes “Cherry Lips (Go Baby Go!),” “Why Do You Love Me,” and others.

Pop-punkers ALL TIME LOW will be pulling from their multi-platinum catalogue and unfurling hits for their ever-devoted fanbase. From Warped Tour anthems like “Dear Maria, Count Me In” and their smash cover of Rihanna’s “Umbrella,” to recent commercial highs like 2020’s “Monsters” (featuring Demi Lovato and blackbear), the Maryland chart-toppers have one hell of a catchy arsenal at their disposal. Oakland groove metal titans MACHINE HEAD return for their first Australian Festival appearances in 13 years, and their career-spanning set is sure to include pit-starters from landmark records like 1994’s Burn My Eyes, 2007’s The Blackening, and much more. With a slew of Billboard hits to their name, it’s remarkable that 2000s rock staples THE ALL-AMERICAN REJECTS can still find time to play house party pop-up shows in 2025. And while Good Things Festival can’t offer that kind of intimacy, there’s still plenty of room for radio anthems like “Swing, Swing,” “Dirty Little Secret,” and “Gives You Hell,” and to wash over Aussie crowds for the first time in sixteen years!

With a coveted late-night talk show performance and Grammy nomination under their collective belt, punters will finally get to see Kentucky juggernaut KNOCKED LOOSE in devastating final form. As one of heavy music’s most uncompromisingly aggressive acts, this is destined to be an unmissable set. After selling out their first-ever Australian headline tour in just 10 days earlier this year, New Jersey quintet LORNA SHORE are coming back to raise hell once more. While 2022’s Pain Remains LP set the bar for deathcore extremity through the inhuman utterings of frontman Will Ramos, recent singles like “Unbreakable” and “Oblivion” showcase the group folding in anthemic stadium-worthy hooks among their pitch black brand of sonic chaos. But alas, all *ahem* good things must come to an end, and that’s why “REFUSED Are Fucking Dead.” For their final ever Australian shows, the Swedish hardcore legends will deliver a bittersweet farewell to their forward-thinking catalogue, including 1998’s trailblazing The Shape of Punk to Come.

Floridian pop-punkers NEW FOUND GLORY don’t know how to stop. Fast approaching three decades as a unit, their influential style of hardcore-adjacent pop-punk can be found in the sonic DNA of countless groups across the world. With 11 studio albums, one live album, one Christmas album, one acoustic album, two EPs, and four cover albums in the tank, their 2025 Good Things appearance will be all hits and no misses. After conquering the world off the back of 2024’s monstrous, self-produced and self-titled LP, Perth metalcore quintet MAKE THEM SUFFER will return home with a battle-tested set of ferocious breakdowns, insane vocal dexterity, and futuristic synth sounds. California post-hardcore genre-benders DAYSEEKER will be eager to play a slew of new material for dedicated Aussie fans, with their long-awaited sixth studio album, Creature in the Black Night, set for release in October. As one of the country’s finest singer-songwriters, Australian Crawl frontman JAMES REYNE will turn the nostalgia up to 11, as the ARIA Hall of Famer and Order of Australia recipient performs iconic pub anthems like “The Boys Light Up,” “Hammerhead,” and more.

With quaking grooves and rowdy pit-calls ready to roll, Lone Star State veterans KUBLAI KHAN TX are sure to get the moshers out in full force, especially when they drop “The Hammer” with new cuts from 2024’s punishing Exhibition of Prowess LP. New York City rockers COBRA STARSHIP will bring back the hallowed glory of the MySpace Top 8, as Gabe Saporta & Co strut through dancefloor anthems from 2007’s iconic ¡Viva La Cobra!. Known for fusing skate-worthy pop-punk tunes with ‘90s ska-revival sounds, California’s GOLDFINGER will barrel through a fun, upbeat set of horn-blazing, arm-in-arm sing-a-longs for young and old alike. Following their comeback at last year’s When We Were Young festival in Las Vegas, Aussie pop-punk mainstays TONIGHT ALIVE are bringing the reunion vibes back home for Good Things Festival in 2025, rolling through classic belters from their seminal LP, 2013’s The Other Side.

Calling themselves the “bastard child of a Ramones/Strokes one-night stand,” BAD NERVES play angsty pop songs with plenty of distortion and a feisty punk rock spirit. Fresh off touring their third LP, Chrome Dipped, for international audiences, Melbourne post-punkers CIVIC are no doubt eager to get back and feed off some hometown energy. After selling out 1000+ venues across the world, L.A.-based rockers DEAD POET SOCIETY will bring their “heavy indie rock” sound to Australia, full of down-tuned riffs and pop-adjacent hooks. No one does it quite like FEVER 333. Helmed by live-wire frontman Jason Aalon Butler, the group’s trademark blend of incendiary punk rock, hardcore, and hip-hop style will captivate Good Things Festival attendees with themes of resistance, social justice, and unflinching honesty.

GWAR are not of this earth, and neither is their liveshow. Be prepared for heavy metal insanity that will scatter your brain to the furthest reaches of deep space, one gnarly riff and cosmic spray of goo at a time. Back once more following a 2024 run with Aussie sensation SPEED, HIGH VIS are proudly leading the UK hardcore vanguard off the back of their third studio album, the Madchester-aping Guided Tour. Sydney-siders INERTIA are at the forefront of Australia’s heavy music community, with their debut LP, Second Shadow, blending metalcore and post-hardcore with progressive tendencies and alternative visions. Vegas outfit PALAYE ROYALE take brotherly love and turn it into high-octane art, peddling a glam rock sound indebted to the fashion, lifestyle and neon-lined strip of their hometown. While she might be dressed in pink, SCENE QUEEN is more than just an aesthetic. After opening for BABYMETAL in 2024, her blend of crushing breakdowns and catchy emo anthems has garnered a fervent fanbase with headline tours across the US and UK.

Proving that online virality can have real staying power, SOUTH ARCADE will bring their unique blend of pop-punk and alt-rock Down Under for fans of Pale Waves, Avril Lavigne, and Bring Me the Horizon. UK provocateurs WARGASM have never had trouble standing out, and the 2025 line-up for Good Things is no exception. Metallic mayhem, layered harmonies, crunchy cyber synths, and a prickly ‘take no prisoners’ attitude–what else might they have in store for us? After crushing their Knotfest appearance earlier this year, Aussie metalcore progressives WINDWAKER will gladly make their HYPERVIOLENCE set a Good Thing affair—witness at your own risk. After the whirlwind success of their second studio album, TOXIC, Aussie rockers YOURS TRULY are stepping up to the festival stage to show off how their relentless touring schedule has sharpened their already hook-laden songwriting.

After a wild 2024 appearance, the stunt crew on STAGE 666 will unveil their “Oozing Future Freakshow” for this year’s Good Thing Festival, with a shocking slate of pole dancers, live bands, and competitions. Billed as the “world’s most modified marvel,” gaze upon the teflon horns and tattooed scales of Austin’s Lizardman as he pulls off the touted ‘Cranial Corkscrew’! Be amazed as Brisbane’s own burlesque seductress, Jacqueline Furey, takes to the stage to breathe fire, swallow swords, and do unspeakable things with an angle grinder. There’s also the straitjacket escapades of Captain Ruin, the punk rock clown, and rock karaoke with Kill Your Pop Stars, including a tribute to the late great Ozzy Ozborne!

GOOD THINGS FESTIVAL LINE UP:

DATES AND VENUES:
Friday 5 December - Flemington Racecourse, Melbourne (16+)
Saturday 6 December – Sydney Showground, Sydney (16+)
Sunday 7 December - Brisbane Showgrounds, Brisbane (16+)

Pre-sale tickets on sale Tuesday 19 August @ 10am AEST Time
Sign up now for pre-sale tickets at www.goodthingsfestival.com.au

General Public tickets on sale Thursday 21 August @ 10am AEST Time
https://www.oztix.com.au/

TEDDY SWIMS

TEDDY SWIMS: SPECIAL GUEST MATT CORBY TO PERFORM ALL AUSTRALIAN SHOWS

With 12 huge arena shows locked in across Australia and New Zealand this October, global chart-topper Teddy Swims just keeps getting bigger.

The ‘Lose Control’ hitmaker is fresh from setting a new US chart record – his international smash becoming the first song in Billboard Hot 100 history to spend 100 consecutive weeks on the chart. Now deep into the North American leg of his I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy Tour, Swims is hitting milestone after milestone – including two sold-out hometown shows in Atlanta and a tour finale in Honolulu – before heading down under.

Today, Swims is thrilled to announce ARIA Award-winning artist Matt Corby as very special guest for his Australian dates.

Matt Corby is a musical perennial. Three immaculate albums into an original music journey, with no end in sight. Matt first broke through back in 2011 with the bruising ballad ‘Brother’ – a song whose enduring appeal was proven again with its #51 appearance on last week's triple j ‘Hottest 100 Australian Songs’ of all time. In his career, Matt’s confidence as a songwriter, lyricist, and record producer has grown to match his vocal mastery. Fans can expect new music in 2025.

Says Corby:

“I’m such a fan of Teddy. I first heard ‘Lose Control’ on the radio while driving from the airport to a show, was completely floored by his vocal chops and the soul in his sound. I’ve been hooked ever since. We first met at his Sydney show last year: Teddy came up, gave me a big hug, and told me he’d been listening to my music since high school, which just blew my mind. After his set, we hung out, talked music, and joked about starting a boy band one day. Being invited to join him on this run of shows is a real honour. I can’t wait!”

With final tickets selling fast, this powerhouse pairing of Teddy Swims and Matt Corby is not to be missed. Two once-in-a-generation voices. One unforgettable night.

THE LUMINEERS

THE LUMINEERS ANNOUNCE RETURN TO AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND NEXT JANUARY – THE AUTOMATIC WORLD TOUR

Frontier Touring is thrilled to announce the return of beloved American folk-rockers and 2 x GRAMMY® nominees The Lumineers, bringing their hugely anticipated AUTOMATIC World Tour to Australia and New Zealand in January 2026.

Renowned for their soul-stirring live shows and emotive songwriting, The Lumineers will perform in Christchurch, Auckland, Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney, Adelaide and Perth –their first visit since 2022’s sold-out run.

Captivating audiences around the globe with their rich instrumentation, raw lyricism and undeniable chemistry, The Lumineers – Wesley Schultz and Jeremiah Fraites – will deliver some of the most unforgettable performances this summer. Currently on tour in North America and having already lit up sold-out arenas with rapturously received shows across Europe and the UK, today’s news follows the release of the band’s acclaimed fifth studio album, AUTOMATIC (out now via Dualtone).

DON BROCO

SIGN TO FEARLESS RECORDS & UNLEASH BLISTERING NEW SINGLE CELLOPHANE

TOURING AUSTRALIA NATIONALLY THIS SEPTEMBER

UK rock juggernauts DON BROCO are charging into a bold new era with the release of their explosive new single Cellophane, out now via their new label home, Fearless Records. The track launches alongside the announcement of their forthcoming US, UK and Australian tour dates.

Blending biting riffs, stomping drums, and a vocal performance that flips effortlessly between smooth melodies, snarled verses, and angsty screams, Cellophane marks a razor-sharp evolution of the band’s signature genre-bending style. Equal parts nu-metal revival and festival-ready rock anthem, the Dan Lancaster (Blink-182, Muse, Bring Me The Horizon) produced song is built to make you bang your head and move your feet, all while grappling with something much heavier beneath the surface.

“Cellophane is about realizing you’re not as tough as you thought,” the band shares. “That maybe you mentally don’t have what it takes, but at the same time are afraid of getting the help you need.”

DON BROCO

SIGN TO FEARLESS RECORDS & UNLEASH BLISTERING NEW SINGLE CELLOPHANE

BRADLEY SIMPSON

The Panic Years

Bradley Will Simpson, born on July 28, 1995, in Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham, England, is best known as the lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist of the British pop-rock band The Vamps. The band, formed in 2012, includes members James McVey (lead guitar), Connor Ball (bass), and Tristan Evans (drums). They gained popularity through YouTube covers and signed with Mercury Records in late 2012. Their debut album, Meet the Vamps, was released in 2014 and achieved gold certification in the UK.

In 2025, Simpson embarked on a solo career, releasing his debut album The Panic Years. This indie rock album, characterized by personal and introspective lyrics, was composed in his home studio with collaborations from artists like BOOTS and Ina Wroldsen. Despite his solo endeavors, Simpson has emphasized that The Vamps are not disbanding, a sentiment reflected in his song "The Band's Not Breaking Up."

Simpson's musical journey began at age 11 when he started playing guitar, inspired by the film School of Rock and guitarist Angus Young of AC/DC. He began singing at 14 and is also proficient in playing the ukulele and piano.

As of May 2025, Simpson is touring Australia with The Panic Years, including a performance at Melbourne's Northcote Theatre.

Check out the full photo gallery

GARY CLARK JN

Review and photography Indi Hayes

Monday evening, the historic Palais Theatre in St Kilda was set alight with soul, swagger, and searing guitar licks as blues-funk virtuoso Gary Clark Jr. took the stage. With a presence as commanding as his tone, Clark delivered a performance that was equal parts gritty blues revival and modern sonic exploration.

From the moment he walked out under the dim, moody lights, it was clear the crowd was in for something special. Opening with a slow-burn, Clark instantly had the audience in the palm of his hand. His voice and iconic guitar tone instantly captured everyone’s attention, leaving the audience in awe.

The band, tight and tasteful, all instruments perfectly blended together to create the sound that is Gary Clark Jr. There wasn’t one person on stage that was standing still, all enjoying the moment and having a good time like it was nothing while producing an alluring sound.

The Palais, with its vintage charm and rich acoustics, was the perfect venue. The intimacy of the space amplified every emotional nuance, while the lighting added drama and mood to an already electric performance.

Simply put, this was a masterclass in live performance. If you ever get the chance to see Gary Clark Jr. live—especially in a venue as stunning as the Palais—don’t hesitate. It’s a night you won’t forget.

CHECK OUT THE FULL PHOTO GALLERY

YELLOWCARD

Margaret Court Arena

Yellowcard

Margaret Court Arena in Melbourne:

Photography

James McLaren

Melbourne was treated to The iconic pop-punk band Yellowcard they took the stage at Margaret Court Arena on Saturday 5/4 bringing their signature sound.

Formed in 1997, Yellowcard quickly became one of the defining bands of the pop-punk genre, gaining widespread recognition for their unique sound that blends punk rock with orchestral elements, most notably the violin. Their breakthrough album, Ocean Avenue, released in 2003, features hit singles like “Ocean Avenue” and “Way Away,” which catapulted them to international fame.

Over the years, Yellowcard has released several acclaimed albums, showcasing their ability to evolve while staying true to their roots. With a discography that encapsulates youthful angst and heartfelt storytelling, they have maintained a dedicated fan base that spans generations.

With support acts Plain white Ts and Motion city soundtrack it was a unforgettable night.

NELLY

JOHN CAIN ARENA

Review and photogallery by
Elle Tiganis

On Thursday March 27th the stage lit up at John Cain Arena as Nelly and his friends brought us the “Where the party at” tour.

From the moment he jumped up on stage he delivered an electrifying performance that left fans in awe, blending high-energy hits with deep gratitude for his fans who have followed his career since day one and a deep appreciation and respect for the artists who joined him on the night.

The line up included, Chingy, J-Kwon, St Lunatics & Murphy Lee

The vibe was electric after Chingy & Dj Trife and their opening acts. But from the very first moment Nelly stepped out, the crowd was on fire. One thing about RnB fans in Melbourne is, they know how to bring the energy to a live performance. The stage show was filled with smoke, nostalgic clips from our favourite music videos and some lucky VIP fans who were placed on a platform right above the stage. It truely provided the atmosphere of a club in the most perfect way.

As he went down his catalogue it was a reminder of just how monumental his music was and still is. With each song it brought back a different era of nostalgia to those 90s babies in the crowd.

One of the biggest crowd eruptions came when “Hot In Herre” dropped, proving that the track is still a guaranteed party anthem. He also performed an unexpected nod to AC/DC performing short snippets of “Thunderstruck” & “You shook me all night long”.

“Just a Dream” closed the night on a sentimental and thankful note. Allowing those vip fans who were in their above stage booths to come down to the back end of the main stage and experience the show from an angle that not many would ever get the chance to.

From his smooth vocals to the atmosphere he was able to create, Nelly proved why he’s a legend in the game. This wasn’t just a concert—it was a celebration of his career, his fans, his musical family and the timeless music that still gets everyone hyped.

CODY JOHNSON

Rod Laver Arena

Country Magic at Rod Laver Arena: Cody Johnson, Cole Swindell, Ashley Cooke & Wade Forster Deliver an Unforgettable Night!

On Thursday, March 27, 2025, Melbourne’s Rod Laver Arena transformed into a country music paradise as Cody Johnson’s Leather Deluxe Tour rolled into town. With an incredible lineup featuring Wade Forster, Ashley Cooke, Cole Swindell, and Johnson himself, the night was packed with high-energy performances, emotional ballads, and plenty of crowd interaction.

Wade Forster, Queensland’s Country Star on the Rise!! Kicking off the night, Wade Forster proved why he’s a name to watch in Australian country music. Hailing from Queensland, Forster brought a perfect blend of heartfelt melodies and playful banter, instantly winning over the crowd. His set balanced smooth vocals with a down-to-earth stage presence, making it clear he knows how to connect with his audience. Whether it was a foot-stomping anthem or a soulful ballad, Forster set the stage for a night to remember.

Ashley Cooke, a voice that demands attention! She took the stage with infectious energy and a powerhouse voice that filled every inch of the arena. From the moment she started singing, it was clear she was in command of the stage. Her performance was passionate, dynamic, and full of heart delivering soaring vocals and emotionally charged lyrics that resonated with fans. Cooke’s enthusiasm was contagious, proving she’s more than ready for the spotlight in country music.

Cole Swindell, a showman with a hit-filled setlist! As the lights dimmed and the excitement built, Cole Swindell and his band stormed the stage, bringing a high-voltage performance that had the entire arena on its feet. With dramatic lighting, massive singalongs, and a set packed with hits, Swindell’s show was pure entertainment. His ability to engage the audience was undeniable, filling the space with an electric energy that made it impossible not to sing and dance along.

Cody Johnson, a masterclass in country music then came the moment the crowd had been waiting for, Cody Johnson took the stage, and the energy reached an all-time high. From the first note, Johnson had fans clapping, singing, and completely immersed in his performance. His set was a perfect mix of his biggest hits, intimate ballads, and emotionally powerful songs that spoke directly to the audience. Whether he was belting out a stadium-sized anthem or delivering a softer, storytelling moment, Johnson proved why he’s one of the best in country music today. His connection with the crowd was undeniable, making every song feel personal and powerful.

The Leather Deluxe Tour at Rod Laver Arena wasn’t just another country concert, it was a celebration of everything that makes the genre great. From Wade Forster’s easygoing charm to Ashley Cooke’s commanding vocals, from Cole Swindell’s high-energy performance to Cody Johnson’s masterful set, every artist brought something unique to the night.

For the thousands of country music fans who packed into the arena, it was a night of pure magic, one that won’t be forgotten anytime soon.

KYSTALE RIVVERS

The 5 famous questions

@krystal_rivvers
We caught up with the guys before the show for chat and they were generous enough to take some time to answer the 5 famous questions.

• Who or which bands inspired you to make music?

Ever since hearing music I’ve been inspired to make music , but seeing an array of bands at music festivals really drove me to want to perform , I’d say mostly it’s internal the desire to want to make music as much as possible , it’s not something I have control over , it’s all I desire to do .

• If you could open a show for any artist, band dead or alive who would it be?

Defintely just all my friends bands , the best shows are always the ones when your playing with your crew . But if we were jump on with anyone else, maybe Iggy pop in his prime would be wild, rhcp always had heaps of gags with supports , for sentimental value nick cave, war on drugs

Do you have a Favourite show or venue ?

lost paradise main stage that was unreal, Selina’s aswell with the history behind it with nirvana , you could real harness and energy of all of those that have played there .

• What's the best advice you can give to anyone wanting to start a band ?

Enjoy and work hard on it , you’ll only get back what you put in, keep backing yourself , savour every moment and enjoy the process, it’s a privilege to have the opportunity to even play an instrument , let alone access to stages and crowds , embrace that and soak up each moment of stage

• What's next for you?

We’re back to Melbourne playing shows woth friends bootleg rascal on their tour , as we wrap up our own east coast and Bali tour , then knuckle down in the studio to complete our album, from there who knows but it’ll be a lot of fun whatever is in store .

Check out the full Photo Gallery

ROLE MODEL

ROLE MODEL @ The forum melbourne

Role Model is an indie-pop artist and band project led by Austin, Texas-based musician, Role Model (born Austin Kinsley), who has gained popularity for his introspective lyrics and catchy melodies. His style blends indie pop, alternative, and R&B influences, creating a unique sound that resonates with a younger audience.

His music often explores themes like love, vulnerability, self-reflection, and mental health, which many fans appreciate for its emotional depth. The music is marked by smooth production, catchy hooks, and an intimate feel, giving listeners the sense of connecting with the artist on a personal level.

Check out the full gallery

CALUM SCOTT

Calum Scott Dazzled The Forum:

The immensely talented Calum Scott took stage at The Forum on the 31st Jan bringing his powerful vocals and heartfelt songs to one of the city’s most iconic venues. his emotional ballads and captivating stage presence, was a unforgettable night for fans and newcomers alike.

Since rising to fame as a finalist on Britain's Got Talent, Calum Scott has captured the hearts of audiences around the world with his stunning voice and poignant songwriting. His debut single, Dancing On My Own became a global hit,

His soulful sound, combined with heartfelt lyrics, createsd an atmosphere that invited thr audiences to connect with his music deeply.

The Forum, known for its stunning architecture and intimate setting, was the perfect venue for Callum Scott’s live performance which left the audience wanting more.

Check out the full gallery

Photos by

Elle Tiganis

https://www.instagram.com/elletigphotography?igsh=OWV2cm45YmpjNWNt

REIKI RUAWAI NORTHCOTE SOCIAL 23/01/2025

REVIEW BY JACK JEFFREYS

REVIEW BY

JACK JEFFREYS

Reiki Ruawai at Northcote Social Club 23/01

This 20th of January, 2025, was declared by those who know and should say they can gauge a thing like this, as the new year’s “Blue Monday”. The Monday, and the week to come with it, are meant to fall at the perfect stage of a joint misery. With resolutions likely broken and holidays mostly past, this creation of U.K origins factors in too their dreary winter’s absolute depths come mid-January — a sensation that residents of Northcote, Melbourne were no doubt delighted to join in on with a massive downpour pelting down High Street unfortunates the evening of this Thursday the 23rd. Luckily, if you could make out the Social Club’s gig line-up through the timely and certainly pissing rain that night, you’d realise you’d made a perfectly placed run for shelter

into the arms of Second Hand High opening for the first-time Australian appearance of the now

touring Reiki Ruawai.

The band room at the Social greeted me with an air just barely lingered with fog, carrying along

an overhead mix of funk and soul that kept a cool, relaxed atmosphere in the wait.

The scene was coming together slow and sure, being a well soaked Thursday night and all. Fortunately, I was personally kept attentive by something distant, just by the door: a lonely bit of light meant to reveal the first two steps to the toilets and green room setup upstairs, showing me instead only the seccy, a looming but familiar presence in the now growing crowd — him having ID’d me three times to that point.

Melbourne’s own Second Hand High came out with an immediate chemistry that brings their

stage presence together in an electric, improv-focused way. Luke Joycey’s bass lines came through strong and clear from the first track, really setting the feel for a set that switched the

crowd on just as all good opening acts should. This boost to the atmosphere no doubt aided by

lead vocalist James Bonnyman light, easy-going engagement that even led to a jam based

totally on crowd input in amongst a high movement rotation of original indie singles including their June 2024 release “When I’m Older”.

“We’ve been doing this thing recently, where we get someone to call out an emotion, and we

play to that emotion.” Invited Bonnyman.

“So anyone, just call out an emotion and we’ll jam to that!”

“Agitated!” Called out a voice just two standing rows back from the stage.

“Oh! Are you agitated right now?” Responded James, getting a feel on the room.

“No, but I was agitated yesterday.”

If there was little reason for present agitation with Second Hand High, there was even less for

headliner Reiki Ruawai.

Starting off the set with smooth, slow jams, tracks like “Mystic Magic” passed a steady sway through the crowd. It didn’t take long though for Reiki to move into more high-paced tunes like “Express” with Nat Hathaway driving the tunes on bass and Andrew Isdale keeping a clean guitar groove throughout. I spoke with Reiki afterwards about the variety in sound and songwriting he’s been showing off live and in his new EP “The Message”:

“Yeah I’m really keen to have the EP out, before we had just had the singles that we had to keep

calling back to so it’s good to have a full body of work out there.”

A standout track was his 2023 release “PAPATUĀNAKU”, Reiki really carried the track’s warm, distant nostalgic feel through to the stage, mentioning the inspiration of his home town of Whāingaroa (Raglan).

I asked Reiki what it meant to him to naturally have these pieces of Māori language and culture be so prominent in his work, but especially when performing to an Australian audience that may not have had the same past engagement with Māori culture as a crowd back home might.

“It’s good to get the crowd engaged with it, I usually do the meaning of the titles too. Every time I speak about it I go on a bit of a tangent.”

Reiki invited the Social Club crowd to say some of the Māori titles back up to the stage, a

connection that clearly remained strong through the set with a call for an encore that produced a

wild, totally improv’d jam with a two-minute drum solo from Tivoli Levi.

Going forward, Reiki is making clear moves with the rest of the upcoming tour, playing seven

dates in total starting at the Social Club and finishing up back in New Zealand with a Wellington show on the 3rd of Feb. As for new releases, Reiki is keeping things open, as he recommends to anyone getting started in music:

“Stay true to yourself and make music that feels right for you. It’s important to have a plan, but

don’t overthink it, let things unfold naturally while enjoying every step of the process.”

When we asked Reiki more about his own personal future, the direction was even simpler:

“For me, it’s about staying connected to the music, whether I’m writing, recording, or playing.”

Energised by the vibrant and supportive pocket of the Melbourne music scene present last

Thursday, Reiki is keen for the rest of his time in Australia, wrapping up at Sydney’s Landsdowne Hotel this Sunday the 26th. At the Social, he put together a confident and exciting

performance with every bit of his defined but assuredly still-evolving take on the R&B sound that

can be heard in “The Message”, released this past September and available for streaming now.

RANDY HOUSER

ONE NIGHT ONLY CORNER HOTEL

Randy Houser Rocked the Corner Hotel in Melbourne: A Night of Country Music Magic

Country music fans in Melbourne were treated as the talented Randy Houser took to the stage at the Corner Hotel on Friday 3rd Jan. Known for his powerful vocals and heartfelt songwriting, Houser performed unforgettable night filled with the best of country music.

Randy Houser first burst onto the music scene with his debut album, Anything Goes, in 2008. Since then, he has become a household name in the country genre, with hit singles such as “Like a Cowboy,” “Runnin’ Outta Moonlight,” and “We Went” topping the charts. His rich baritone voice and emotional delivery resonate with fans, making him a standout performer.

With a career spanning over a decade, Houser has earned critical acclaim and numerous accolades, establishing himself as one of the leading artists in contemporary country music. His ability to blend traditional country sounds with modern influences has allowed him to connect with a diverse audience.

The Corner Hotel, Was the the perfect venue for an up-close experience with Randy Houser. Fans got to enjoy a dynamic setlist featuring both his biggest hits and newer material from his latest album, Note to Self,

The night was filled with storytelling, laughter, and, of course, plenty of toe-tapping tunes that capture the essence
of country music.

Photos of the show in the Gallery page.

For more info about upcoming shows and Randy's music click on his socials and website.

https://www.randyhouser.com/

https://www.instagram.com/randyhouser/

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