Renowned for their glimmering pastiche of alternative country and beyond, today ARIA Award-winning act The Audreys return with a stunning slice of brooding country, releasing new single Secondhand Boots; the first new music from The Audreys in 10 years, alongside their 20^th anniversary as a band in 2024.

We caught up with Taasha from The Audreys and asked for her Dream Rider:

1. A gigantic green room big enough for all of my band and their significant others and their kids and parents and friends and hangers-on and basically just anyone who wants in. We could even just invite the crowd in and do the show there.
2. Bottomless snacks.
3. An open bar.
4. A pool table, although I’m annoyingly good at pool which people don’t expect given my extremely poor eyesight and general lack of aptitude for sport, so they get really pissed off when I beat them.
5. A table tennis table, cos I’m absolutely rubbish at table tennis and it will make all the people I beat at pool feel better. 
6. A play pen full of kittens. 
7. A play pen full of puppies for people who don’t like kittens.
8. A play pen full of kittens AND puppies for people who can’t decide.
9. Someone who gives top shelf foot massages. You know, the kind that are borderline too painful but actually incredible, and you can’t help making weird sex noises which becomes super awkward for everyone involved.
10. A pit full of soft things, like beanbags, that you can sink into after the show to unwind, and maybe get one of those foot massages.

The Audreys’ spectacular new single Secondhand Boots is out everywhere now.

Jam-packed with charisma and summery tones, the new single Daydream out today from Australian singer-songwriter and guitarist Charlie Bedfordsparkles with upbeat instrumentation set against frank lyricism. Also marking the first taste of this exciting artist’s new album due out in early 2025, Daydream finds Bedford expanding his blues roots further into upbeat indie rock territory, with the talented musician also primed to perform his latest single live in action in South Australia and Victoria to close out 2024, with some shows also locked in to kick off the new year.

Embracing inspiration from the likes of Neil Finn, Custard, John Mayer, Paul Kelly, Ash Grunwald, Theo Katzman, David Bowie and The Clash, amongst others, Charlie Bedford’s ever-emboldening trademark sonic style finds fresh new terrain on his latest single. A track soaked in honest storytelling, fun and passionate delivery, Daydream flourishes with luminous melodics, driving instrumentation, and an Aussie tinge that also urges its listener to strive for positivity, as Bedford elaborates, “Daydream can be interpreted a few different ways, but the way I resonate most with it is by identifying it as an internal conflict – loosely based around procrastination. The takeaway for me is to realise how easy life can be if you push on, find the positives in your situation and access the willpower to get the important things done.”

Working alongside Mark Lowrie from Guffland Studios to bring Daydream to life, Bedford also amassed a team of fellow creatives to enhance every aspect of his latest sonic endeavours, both on the new single and for the broader impending album of the same name set to release next year. “I worked with a number of people behind the scenes, getting opinions and advice on my songwriting,” Bedford shares. “The person I worked with most overall was my good friend Mark Lowrie from Guffland Studios in Melbourne. He helped me produce, record and master this album. He was fantastic to work with, always open to entertaining my wild ideas and adding a few of his own along the way where he saw fit. I’ve also had the absolute privilege of collaborating with some amazing artists, one of them being a very talented friend Nikota Kelly, we’ve been collaborating closely on the artwork and visual design of my singles and album cover. Her work naturally matched the exact style that I was looking for with these new recordings, our creative flow has been just perfect – it’s been incredible working with her and watching her illustrations come to life!”

Establishing himself as one of Australia’s most exciting up-and-coming artists, Charlie Bedford began his music career playing in bars and clubs at the age of 12, ultimately going on to become a regular fixture on the Aussie pub, club and festival scenes. Growing up surrounded by music, Bedford has performed in North America multiple times, including in Memphis, Nashville and Muscle Shoals, and has performed with band members from many iconic acts, including BB King, Ray Charles and Wilson Pickett. Bringing a modern twist to the blues genre via his 2020 full length album Good To Go, Bedford’s most recent record also reached #1 on Australia’s RMR Charts, #2 on the USA RMR Blues Rock Charts and #14 on the UK’s IBBA Charts, alongside global acclaim. A finalist in the 2020 Music Victoria Awards for Best Blues Album, Bedford has also acted as a Youth Ambassador for The Bendigo Blues & Roots Music Festival, The Melbourne Blues Appreciation Society and Blues Music Victoria, and continues to push his music into new sonic terrain, including expanding his songwriting prowess with his more recent creative pursuits.

“I’ve always listened to and enjoyed many different styles of music,” shares Bedford of his professional evolution from his earlier years as a blues guitarist. “Growing up there was a lot of the alt pop rock world playing – everything from 90s Australia over to David Bowie and The Clash. My real connection with blues music started from getting guitar lessons. My good friend Phil Smith took me under his wing at an early age and invited me to one of his jam nights in the Dandenong Ranges. It was there I discovered blues music, the rawness, grit and honesty. A local blues legend named Billy Kavanagh blew my mind and I was hooked. They told me about the Melbourne Blues Appreciation Society and their Youth In Blues program – and it all snowballed from there, from trips to America through to representing Australian youth and starting my first bands – and so much more! I’m now finding through my original music a bizarre blend of all of these sounds and I’m loving it. The more of a mix focused into one song the better I reckon!”

A passionate audiophile, mentored by some of Australia’s finest, Charlie Bedford’s live performances also shine with his modern amalgamation of pop, rock, blues and soul, with upcoming shows locked in as part of Port Noarlunga Blues Fest in South Australia and also in Victoria set to close out 2024; and the promise of more shows on the horizon.

“I’m currently performing numerous solo shows all around Victoria and surrounds,” shares Bedford. “Daydream is in the set as a more raw and stripped-back version. I’m currently organising the next events for the live show and will be touring it with a full band following the release of the new album!”

“It’s super exciting to finally be releasing this single, I’ve been working on this track and the others from my forthcoming album for a long time now, and to finally share them with everyone will be absolutely awesome,” Bedford concludes. “My new album Daydream will be released February 2025 and I’m ecstatic about it!”

Daydream is out today, Wednesday November 20.

Listen: DAYDREAM

Real Estate

Supported by Flamingo Blonde

The Triffid

20/11/2024

San Cisco

The Tivoli

14th of November 2024

Known for their upbeat sound and playful lyrics, San Cisco mix elements of indie rock, and indie pop to create an infectious sound and feel-good energy. They played at The Tivoli on Thursday night for the Brisbane leg of their ‘Under the Light’ Australian Tour.

San Cisco have been a standout in the Australian indie scene for over a decade now. They bring a sound that not only feels fresh but also deeply nostalgic. They’ve well and truly earnt a reputation for their high-energy live shows and this gig was no different. The packed-out crowd of diverse music lovers showed the wide reach San Cisco has across Australian music industry today.

Their new album was the spotlight of the show, with the title track Under the Light, One Percent and Consequence slotting in perfectly with San Cisco’s large, now 5 album, catalogue.

The Tivoli holds a special place in the hearts of Brisbane music lovers. The theatre’s charming, classic atmosphere beautifully matched songs like ‘Fred Astaire’, ‘Too Much Time Together’ and ‘Awkard’ having us all reminiscing while belting back lyrics we’ve loved for years.

With a couple of festival dates to go for the year, get out and see these guys for a show you’ll never need space from.

We spoke to Kate Yaxley about the show and her role in this very risqué, very funny show. 

What can you tell us about your character in A Very Naughty Christmas? How do youget into the mindset for such a playful, cheeky role?

I’d say my character brings the high energy and party girl vibes to the show – she’s happy to be there & easy to work with. In a lot of traditional theatre, you’re often confined to a specific role or type, but what I love about this show is the freedom we have to truly showcase our unique talents. The creative team does an amazing job of shaping the characters around us, which means we get to bring our own wacky and wild ideas to the table. And trust me, they often make it into the final show! The energy in the rehearsal room is absolutely next-level. It’s where the magic really happens. 

 This is your second year in the Melbourne show. What keeps you coming back to A  Very Naughty Christmas?  

Christmas is my absolute favourite time of the year, so you don’t have to twist my arm to  be involved! Christmas tree up and carols in the car from November! They say laughter is  the best medicine – so I think A Very Naughty Christmas is the perfect end of year self care  treat. I love being a part of making people’s festive season merrier and brighter (and  naughtier)!

The show combines comedy, skits, parodied songs, and even burlesque. Which part  of the performance do you enjoy the most, and why?  

The show always kicks off with a playful sketch behind the set. While we can’t see the  audience, the moment you hear that shift—when they realise exactly what kind of show  they’ve signed up for—is priceless. It’s a reaction that never fails to energise me and  propel me into the show. And because I can’t just pick one moment, another highlight is  when I get to sing one of our original songs. It never quite goes where the audience  expects. 

A Very Naughty Christmas has achieved cult status, especially among audiences who  love its irreverent take on the holidays. What do you think makes the show resonate  so strongly with audiences?  

A Very Naughty Christmas resonates so strongly with audiences because it offers a  refreshing twist on the traditional Christmas celebration. It takes everything we love about  Christmas—the cheer, the family gatherings, the over-the-top decorations—and flips it on  its head. The show’s edgy humour and boldness pushes the boundaries giving people the  chance to laugh at what is often a pressure-filled season. It’s that perfect mix of  cheekiness, wit and heart that makes the show feel so authentic and relatable, keeping  people coming back for more each year.
P.S Let’s be real.. kids can’t come so audiences are already in a good mood which makes for a great show!

You’ve performed in productions like Groundhog Day. How does your experience in  more traditional theatre influence your approach to a show like A Very Naughty  Christmas?  

More traditional theatre, like Groundhog Day, taught me how to build a solid foundation in  character and story, and I bring that same discipline into this more playful, off-the-wall  production. It’s about blending the structure of classic theatre with the freedom of  something more farcical, creating a show that’s both sharp and fun. 

The show plays in three cities this year. How do you think Melbourne audiences differ  from those in Brisbane and Gold Coast, especially when it comes to adult comedy  and festive shows?  

This year is the 8^th year the show has run in Brisbane and the audiences there are  diehards. I performed in Brisbane in both 2021 and 2022, so while Melbourne may be the  arts capital, I was nervous about how the crowd would react last year. But let me tell you,  Melbourne audiences are wilder than I could have ever imagined! I don’t think they knew  what to expect, but they definitely got more than they bargained for! We even had some  repeat offenders, attending multiple times throughout the season.  

Working alongside talents like Tim Paige, Jordan Twigg, and others, how does the  cast’s dynamic influence your performance? Any memorable moments from  rehearsals or past shows?  

Working alongside these talented performers is a huge part of what makes the show so  successful. Each person has their special talent in the show and our dynamic with each  other is what brings it all together!  

    I will never forget the year my solo number was a roller-skate extravaganza. One night a cast member lost control, couldn’t stop the momentum, grabbed the curtain and pulled the  whole thing down all whilst rocking gold sequinned booty shorts. The 6 ft 4 man stood  exposed for a few numbers before a solution was found. These unscripted moments are  always the best. 

Alex Woodward, the show’s Co-Creator, describes the cast as bringing “irreverence  and fun” to the stage. How would you describe your own approach to comedy in A  Very Naughty Christmas?  

My approach is don’t overthink it! We aren’t performing in a serious show so I try to make  my approach far from serious. Comedy always lies in the truth. So I think just connecting  to relatable moments we all experience and embracing the natural absurdities of life is  where the humour lies.  

Performing in a holiday-themed show that’s for adults only is unique. How do you  maintain a balance between humour and festive cheer while keeping it fresh each  night?  

 Honestly, with this type of show no night is EVER the same. Our audience can change the whole trajectory of the show so we often get to flex our improvisation skills. We love a bit of audience participation in A Very Naughty Christmas so we are always on our toes with  what may come our way next. I’m usually responsible for selecting audience members  which can be harder than you think. You want someone who wants to be involved, but not  TOO involved. Some people truly believe they are our next cast member.  

With the show being described as a “festive tradition” in Australia, what holiday  traditions do you personally look forward to, on or off stage? 

It is so hard to narrow my favourite traditions down but the list would include…. locating  the best Christmas lights in the neighbourhood, annual Love Actually viewing, rumballs and  receiving the chocolate gold coins at the bottom of my Christmas sack from my parents  (yes all three siblings in my family around the age of 30 still receive this delight). Most  importantly though, spending time with family. We close the show on the 22^nd December  and I’m on the first flight out the next day to see all my beautiful family in Brisbane.  

For fans of comedy, burlesque, and a good laugh, what can they look forward to  most in this year’s production of A Very Naughty Christmas?  

Expect the unexpected. You will never be able to hear your favourite carols the same ever  again. We’ve cranked up the comedy with some fresh, razor-sharp sketches and  outrageous numbers that will have you laughing until your cheeks hurt, whilst still  sprinkling some of your favourites in! Mark my words – you will be back! 

Thanks for your time! Have a great season. 

Having fast achieved cult status with its playlist of Christmas classics as you’ve never heard them before, this year the show will play in three cities: in Brisbane atLa Boite, Gold Coast at The Star and Melbourne atAlex Theatre St. Kilda.

All three cities are now on-sale. To book tickets for the hilarious Christmas romp, visit www.averynaughtychristmas.com

A VERY NAUGHTY CHRISTMAS 2024

Melbourne, 5-21 December – Alex Theatre St. Kilda

Brisbane, 21 November-18 December – La Boite

Gold Coast, 20-21 December – The Star

www.averynaughtychristmas.com

Now & Next Festival

The Now & Next Festival by Island Records was a masterclass in showcasing emerging talent while celebrating the label’s legacy. Held in a vibrant venue buzzing with energy, the festival proved to be a dynamic platform for fresh voices in the music industry. It captured the essence of innovation and the unyielding spirit of artistry that Island Records is known for.

Baker Boy electrified the stage with his high-energy performance, blending hip-hop beats with infectious Yolŋu Matha lyrics. Known for his dynamic stage presence and feel-good anthems, he had the crowd dancing from start to finish. Tracks like Cool as Hell and Meditjin brought the audience to life, affirming his position as a cultural ambassador and a force in the music industry.

Kalani Live and Charlie Collins added soul and storytelling to the mix, with their performances capturing both tender and fierce moments.

The festival also championed rising talent. Bella Mackenzie, Luca Georgei, and Redd showcased immense potential, leaving the crowd eager for more. Hellcat Speedracer delivered raw energy with their punk-infused set, while Ben Swissa and Jack Gray brought melodic flair and introspection.

Vera Blue amazed the audience captivating the audience with her ethereal voice and emotionally charged lyrics. Her ability to transition seamlessly from soft ballads to upbeat electronic-infused tracks demonstrated her versatility as an artist.

Peach PRC rounded out the evening with her signature pastel pop vibes and playful storytelling. Her bubbly personality shone as she performed fan favorites like Josh and Forever Drunk. Peach’s connection with the audience was palpable, as she balanced humor and vulnerability, leaving everyone feeling like they’d just spent time with an old friend.

Overall, the Now & Next Festival highlighted Island Records’ commitment to fostering diverse Australian talent. Each artist brought their unique flavor, resulting in a well-rounded and unforgettable musical experience. This event not only celebrated the artists’ achievements but also connected fans with the future of Australian music.