It’s 2001, you’re driving home from work, flicking through the radio stations, and Five Star Laundry by Motor Ace is being played on triple j, Triple M and a bunch of other stations in between. Then, as you walk in the door, the television is blaring and it’s Motor Ace again, with their iconic track Death Defy reaching an even wider audience as the theme song for the beloved Australian television series The Secret Life Of Us. 

Five Top Aussie Bands by Motor Ace

There are too many great Aussie bands to choose from so I am going to narrow down on the first bands I loved growing up.

God: My Pal by God is an amazing 5 note earworm of a riff that never gets old. Recorded in 1987 by four hairy 16 year olds from the eastern suburbs of Melbourne, My Pal reminds me of many weekends spent haunting AuGoGo and Gaslight Records in the city as a 14 year old.

You Am I: I first saw You Am I at an underage show in a community centre in Croydon. I was gobsmacked to hear the opening chords of Belin Chair pumping through the big old PA as Tim windmilled his guitar, and a stage diver landed directly on my head. I caught the train home with a rooted neck, ringing ears and a huge smile. We went on to play with You Am I on several occasions and spent months hanging out in Sing Sing Studios while we each recorded albums in adjacent sound rooms. Hourly Daily is still one of my favourite records.

The Saints: Stranded was on Rage high rotation in 1989, often getting played at around 3am in the morning to thousands of teenagers in their parents’ living rooms, wishing they were somewhere else. The clip features the band playing in a busted up abandoned house that look like the set of a snuff movie, The Saints – Stranded, crudely painted across one wall in blood red. I love the moment Chris Bailey steps up to the mic taking two big tokes of his ciggie before launching into the opening lines – bad attitude personified! It’s so simple, grubby and punk. Pretty sure it was a decisive factor in starting my first band.

Hard-Ons – I love the Hard-Ons nursey rhyme like simplicity. Two chord wonder pop songs set to wall of sound chainsaw guitars. Where did she come from is still a killer song.

Died Pretty: I think Died Pretty could have been huge if they’d been in the right place at the right time. My favourite DP track is Everybody Moves Away. Insistent bass line, moody organs, oddly energetic drumming, and Peno’s maudlin droning… Perfectly captures what it felt like being a teenager experiencing that first lash of hormonal depression.  I love it.

Fast forward almost two decades and Motor Ace’s hoards of fans no longer have to wait for that highly anticipated reunion, because in March and April of 2019, the band we all love will embark on a national tour to celebrate the 20 year anniversary of the band’s inception, kicking off in Adelaide at The Gov on March 29, then moving through Perth, Sydney, Brisbane and finishing up in Melbourne at the renowned venue 170 Russell on April 12.

MOTOR ACE 20th ANNIVERSARY – A FIVE STAR REUNION NATIONAL TOUR

FRI MARCH 29 | THE GOV, ADELAIDE SA | 18+ Tickets available from http://tickets.oztix.com.au/?Event=92178

SAT MARCH 30 | CAPITOL, PERTH WA | 18+ Tickets available from http://tickets.oztix.com.au/?Event=92186

FRI APRIL 5 | FACTORY THEATRE, SYDNEY NSW | 18+ Tickets available from http://bit.ly/FAC19_MOTOR_ACE

SAT APRIL 6 | THE TRIFFID, BRISBANE QLD | 18+ Tickets available from http://tickets.oztix.com.au/?Event=92188

FRI APRIL 12 | 170 RUSSELL, MELBOURNE VIC | 18+ Tickets available from https://www.moshtix.com.au/v2/event/motor-ace/106229?skin=747

Stepping into the Australian music scene with no stopping down in her sights. Sydney-based RNB/Pop singer Kirrah has shun a bright light with her music with her latest offering ‘Fallin’. Soul/RNB Singer Kirrah Releases An Infectious New Single ‘Fallin’. She has also performed for the likes of Australian Icon ‘Jimmy Little’, ARIA winning group ‘Idea of North’, the Deputy Prime Minister and Governor General of Australia. Most recently, she performed back up for James Arthur when he visited Australia, Conrad Sewell and Ben of The Voice Australia. Parallel to this, full knowing that she is ready to show the world what she has been working to build and create for over 10 years, a significant amount of her focus is currently directed at the release of her debut album set to drop this year. 

My Top Five Fave Guitarists by Kirrah

1. John Mayer, the most incredible songs, individual voice and heartbreaking lyricsJohn Mayer is one of my biggest musical influences growing up – he writes the most incredible songs, has an individual voice and such heartbreaking lyrics. His early albums are my go-too any day.

2. Mormon Guitar, the most peaceful, uplifting music I’ve ever heard.I love the Mormon Guitar YouTube channel – just peaceful, uplifting music to clear my head, definitely not just for Mormon listeners.

3. Thundercat, killer (bass) guitarist, smooth vocals, original look, chilled vibeI was recently introduced to the force that is Thundercat but he is on my list. A killer (bass) guitarist, honey smooth vocals, and has a chilled vibe. Didn’t think anyone could pull of pink dreads until I saw this man.

4. Vince Gill, his cover of “How Great Thou Art” with Carrie Underwood got me shook to the core.Vince Gill is an incredible artist and does the most beautiful collaborations! His cover of “How Great Thou Art” with Carrie Underwood got me shook to the core.

5. Prince, guitarist, vocalist, influencer, and prince in the truest sense.And not that he needs a lot of words but Prince is a favourite – artist, influencer, and prince in the truest sense.

 Kevin Mitchell was already under the Australian music spotlight as singer/guitarist for indie-rock-darlings Jebediah when in 1998 he found a t-shirt in a Perth op-shop with the number 15 on the back, and the name ‘Bob Evans’ printed on the front. Coincidentally at this time he was embarking on his first solo shows in Perth and a random name on someone’s discarded basketball shirt took hold.

Moments That changed my life by Bob Evans 

1. October 1^st 1977.  The day I exited my mother’s womb and began this strange adventure.  I can’t remember it but apparently I was a very large baby and quite difficult to get out.  This might explain why I don’t have any younger siblings.
2. Going to my first all ages show in Perth.  It was an all local line up. The Rosemary Beads and Yummy Fur were the main acts.  I can’t quite remember who else played.  I discovered what a mosh pit was.  I crowd surfed for the first time.  I got sweaty with a bunch of other kids.  My ears rang.  I was absolutely hooked.  From that day on all I thought about was starting a band.
3. Meeting my wife.  She used to come and watch Jebediah play in Melbourne when we were just starting out.  When you’re only pulling 12 people to a show you kinda get to know your audience.  We didn’t hook up straight away even though we were both really in to each other.  It took a couple of years for the timing to be right.
4. Getting on a plane to Nashville in September 2005.  Recording my second album with Brad Jones in Nashville was like some kind of dream.  I couldn’t believe my luck.  I knew I had a really good bunch of songs but the record turned out so much better than I ever imagined.  It was the best thing I had ever done and when it came out the following year it took off and I’ve been riding that wave ever since.
5. Becoming a dad for the first time in 2011.  You realise when you become a parent for the first time that your life is kind of over.  Not in a bad way.  Just in that nothing is ever the same again and your life is not all about you anymore, it’s about your kid.  It’s their world and your job to make it as good for them as possible.

BOB EVANS HAS ANNOUNCED HIS  NEW ALBUM ‘FULL CIRCLE’ AND WILL TAKE IT ON TOUR LATER THIS YEAR 

BOB EVANS NATIONAL ‘FULL CIRCLE’ TOUR

FRI 19 OCT | BLACK BEAR LODGE, BRISBANE QLD | 18+ Tickets available from www.bobevans.com.auor www.oztix.com.au | 1300 762 545 | All Oztix Outlets SAT 20 OCT | LEADBELLY, NEWTOWN NSW | 18+ Tickets available from www.bobevans.com.auor www.leadbelly.oztix.com.au FRI 26 OCT | THE GOV, ADELAIDE SA | 18+ Tickets available from www.bobevans.com.auor www.oztix.com.au | 1300 762 545 | All Oztix Outlets SAT 27 OCT | THE ROSEMOUNT HOTEL, NORTH PERTH WA | 18+ Tickets available from www.bobevans.com.auor www.oztix.com.au | 1300 762 545 | All Oztix Outlets

SAT 3 NOV | NORTHCOTE SOCIAL CLUB, NORTHCOTE VIC | 18+ Tickets available from www.bobevans.com.auor www.eventbrite.com.au

Sam Perry is a name thousands of Australians have fallen in love with through 2018. The young vocal loop artist struck a chord with Australian music fans and viewers of The Voice, where Perry took out the winner’s title for 2018.

 My Top Five musicians that are not Dj’s by Sam Perry 

   Plan B – I have been a big fan of his for a quite a long time now. His first album is one of my all-time favourites. He is not only a brilliant rapper but an amazing writer. When he raps he is in character and tells his characters story, it’s clever. His music can be quite dark with some very heavy themes, but it is thought provoking and powerful.

     Michael Jackson – This one probably doesn’t need an explanation. His music is so powerful and spreads very meaningful messages. He’s such a talented musician, with so much soul in his voice. I grew up listening to him and don’t think I will ever stop loving his music.

   Amy Winehouse – She would have to be my favourite female musician; a real talent. Her music is a little bit jazz, a little bit RnB and just so full of soul. Her music makes me feel, I could listen to her sing all day, those raspy, cheeky vocals with her clever lyrics and jazzy beats are a winning combination.

  Odette – I first heard song ‘Watch Me Read You’ about a year ago and I was really into it straight away. She has a beautiful singing voice and a wonderful way with words. Her songs are like spoken word poetry backed with really cool chill beats. Her album just came out and I am really digging it.

    Dub Fx – Last and definitely not least is Dub Fx. He is the reason I am making music in the way I am. He is crazy talented, amazing vocal skills and makes some killer songs with dirty bass and rad beats. His music has this power to up my vibes and put me in a good mood. Such a fan.

SAM PERRY ‘NOT A DJ’ AUSTRALIAN TOUR DATES

Friday 16th November The Toff in Town MelbourneSaturday 17th November Dub in the Park AdelaideFriday 23rd November The Helm Sunshine CoastSaturday 24th November 256 Wickham BrisbaneFriday 30th November Civic Underground SydneyFriday 7th December Settlers Tavern Margaret RiverFriday 14th December Jack Rabbit Slims PerthFriday 21st December Magnums Hotel Airlie BeachSaturday 22nd December Dalrymple Hotel Townsville

Sydney producer and musician Oh My My gives listeners hit of dark and sultry electronica. We asked Oh My My what top Sydney bands you should be listening to.

Fav Sydney bands by Oh My My 

Stumps Not only are these some incredibly lovey dudes, but they are also just an insane live band. As a producer who works with different vocalists, I really appreciate how unique and emotive Kyle’s voice is. Hopefully we can make some music together at some stage.

Gaspar San – If you haven’t heard of this local gem of a band, then you’re really missing out. First time I saw them, they were supporting a friends band in Newtown. And shit, son!!! They completely blew me away. There was just so much conviction and attitude coming from the stage. It was infectious.

Chymes- Kiersten’s voice is just one of those amazing voices you could listen to all day, or night at a show. It’s perfectly complimented by the production. Live, they mix a lot of acoustic elements with electronics and it’s a bloody sweet symphony of sound. How’s the alliteration.

Milan Ring-I’ve been obsessing over her stuff of late. Perfect minimalist production. Amazing vocals. Interesting, unpredictable harmony. It’s just about everything I want in an artist.

Creo  – I’ve always digged these guys. But their latest release ’In The Red’ is just a real epic break out track for me. It feels nostalgic and reminds me of some of my favourite bands, while still being original and refreshing. This one really hits hard. It’s been on repeat in car for the last week or so.

Born with Peruvian, Russian and Italian roots, Sydney-based RNB/Pop singer Tiana Troy is set to take on the world with her lush vocals and pop-esque vibes. Whilst Tiana is relatively new to the scene, the promising star has already performed at notable venues in Sydney and is showing no signs of slowing down.

My Fave Top 5 singers by Tiana Troy

Ariana Grande
I am a huge fan of Ariana Grande. Mostly because I love that she is all about women empowerment, and that she is crafting a whole new sound which paves the way for a new generation just like me. She’s an inspiration.

Christina Aguilera
Christina Aguilera is just the best artist that I listened to whilst growing up and she’s never given up. She’s been an inspiration for me ever since I can remember.

Rihanna
Rihanna is really special. I feel like everything she does is different and so unique that she always come strong. She’s done so many things for women in the music industry by being herself and I admire that.

Beyoncé
Beyonce is my idol and my everything! What is there not to love about her? She’s fierce and powerful. She uses her music to influence others and inspire young women like me to keep pushing.

Adele
I love her songs, they have sooo much meaning to me and love screaming them from the top of my lungs. She’s very emotional and sings about real things that I can relate to.

After releasing a debut album in 2015, spending years performing on cruise ships, and venues throughout New York and working with some of the most notable names in music like Matty Amendola (Adam Levine), Katile (pronounced Katie Lee) returns with her brand new single ‘So Caught Up’ out now. 

My “top 5 favorite songs I to listen to when I want to feel inspired” by Katile 

1. Mika “Make You Happy”
I can’t tell you how many times I danced to this song around my house. This is my all time favorite. 

2. Rhye “Open”This song makes me feel all the feels. It just is so beautiful. 

3. WENS “Take”
Everyone should listen to this artist. Her voice is mesmerizing.

4. HAIM “Want You Back”Love everything these girls do, but this one is in the top 5 of my inspo playlist. 

5. Florence + The Machine “Dog Days Are Over”This song never gets old. I could be having the worst day, I hear this song, and it gives me hope and positive energy.

5. Florence + The Machine “Dog Days Are Over”This song never gets old. I could be having the worst day, I hear this song, and it gives me hope and positive energy.

Zimbabwean born, Melbourne based soul singer Thando returns with new single ‘Happy’, a track which hypnotises and constricts as effortlessly as a cobra  seducing its prey.  We asked Thando to tell us about Five Zimbabwean artists you NEED to know about right  now.  

FRI 17 AUGUST | Newport Hotel | Fremantle, WA
SOLD OUT | EVENT 

SAT 18 AUGUST | Amplifier Capitol | Perth 
SOLD OUT | EVENT

FRI 24 AUGUST | Oxford Art Gallery | Sydney, NSW
SOLD OUT | EVENT

SAT 25 AUGUST | Transit Bar | Canberra
SOLD OUT | EVENT

SUN 26 AUGUST | Oxford Art Gallery | Sydney, NSW 
SOLD OUT | EVENT

FRI 31 AUGUST | Black Bear Lodge | Brisbane, QLD
SOLD OUT | EVENT 

SAT 1 SEPTEMBER |  Black Bear Lodge | Brisbane, QLD
SOLD OUT | EVENT 

THUR 6 SEPTEMBER | BIGSOUND | Brisbane, QLD
TICKETS | EVENT

FRI 21 + SAT 22 SEPTEMBER | Wollombi Music Festival |  Wollombi, NSW
TICKETS | EVENT

FRI 28 + SAT 29 SEPTEMBER | Wallaby Creek Festival | Rossville, QLD
TICKETS | EVENT