Bands
I Got You: Split Enz’s New Wave Rise in 1980
In 1980, Split Enz released I Got You, a song that turned a simple riff into an eight-week No. 1 reign in Australia. Out on Mushroom Records (K 7759), it was Neil Finn’s breakout, written from a Tim Finn title, produced by David Tickle, and paired with Noel Crombie’s oddball video. It ruled charts and…
Read MoreHorror Movie: Skyhooks’ Glam Slam That Defined 1975 Australia
When Skyhooks released Horror Movie in 1974, it wasn’t just a song—it was a glitter-bombed jab at the telly that topped Australia’s charts. Out on Mushroom Records (K-5753), it hit No. 1 on March 31st, ’75, for two weeks, with a 27-week run. Written by bassist Greg Macainsh and produced by Ross Wilson, it launched…
Read MoreDragon’s April Sun in Cuba – A ‘70s Rock Anthem Down Under
In October 1977, Dragon unleashed April Sun in Cuba, a single that turned a Kiwi band into Aussie rock legends. Released on Portrait (PR 45008) as the lead track from their fourth album, Running Free, this song roared onto the charts on November 7th, soaring to No. 2 and hanging around for 22 weeks. Only…
Read MoreBecoming Little River Band: The Story Before the Band
Before Little River Band became one of Australia’s greatest musical exports, its members were already shaping the country’s music scene in bands like The Twilights, Zoot, Mississippi, and Axiom. Discover their incredible journey from Adelaide’s vibrant ‘60s music scene to international stardom.
Read MoreThe Story Behind Divinyls’ “I Touch Myself”
In 1990, Divinyls released a song that would not only define their career but also leave an indelible mark on the music world. “I Touch Myself” was a bold, sultry anthem that captured the spirit of the 90s with its infectious melody and unapologetic lyrics. The single was released through the Virgin label with the…
Read MoreThe Story Behind INXS’s “Original Sin”
In 1983, INXS released the single that would catapult them into the mainstream and solidify their place in Australian music history: “Original Sin.” The track, written by the band’s frontman Michael Hutchence and keyboardist Andrew Farriss, was the first single from their fourth album, The Swing. It was a groundbreaking moment for the band, not…
Read MoreThe Zarsoff Brothers Live At Yella Rock 1991
I was contacted a little while back by Ian “Piggy” Peel from the Australian Road Crew Association to say that he’d got hold of some recordings from the Yella Rock Concert in 1991. Luckily, some of those recordings are now being released. This one is particularly special as I became friends with Peter “Izzy Foreal”…
Read MoreVertical Hold
I have to extend a huge thank you to Noel Forth who supplied the following information on South Australian band Vertical Hold. This is a mammoth effort and it is very much appreciated. 1970’s Mick Michalopoulos & Jim Mountzouris were school friends who started their band in the early 1970’s. The band was originally known…
Read MoreFranky Valentyn – All In A Dream Review
This album was a genuine surprise to me when I first heard it, a wonderful surprise. You see, I was well aware of the quality of Frank’s musicianship as I’d had the pleasure of hearing him play numerous times over the years and anyone who has seen him work will understand just what a talented…
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