Every week, Rolling Stone AU/NZ brings you the best new sounds from Australian artists.
Catch up on our past coverage of Vassy, Sam Fischer, Chasing Ghosts, King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard, and Ninajirachi.
Here’s what else dropped last week:
Elle Shimada – “ANSWERED PRAYER”
On “ANSWERED PRAYER”, Elle Shimada shifts from storm to stillness, riding a lush jazz-drum groove. Her signature textured electronica weaves through soft, shimmering melodies that feel like surrender—choosing love, she says, “because it feels the fuck good.”
The latest single from the Tokyo-born, Melbourne-based multi-hyphenate’s upcoming album LULLABY FOR THE RIVER IN MY DREAMS, due July 18th, follows earlier releases like “RED RIVER” and “FREEDOM”, and comes with a stylish music video.
Surprise Chef – Superb
On Superb, Surprise Chef stretch out and get loose. The Naarm jazz-funk crew sound freer than ever, bouncing from laid-back grooves to full-blown cinematic chaos across 11 tracks, all recorded live-to-tape in one take. If you love your funk with a side of Timbaland, you’ll want in.
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Immy Owusu & Sensible J – Spiritual War EP
On Spiritual War, Immy Owusu and Sensible J channel the fiery spirit of ’70s Zamrock mixed with today’s chaos, delivering a vibrant, psychedelic soundtrack that’s a must-listen.
Flynn Gurry – “Don’t Stop Dreaming”
Flynn Gurry turns the comedown of tour life into something uplifting on his latest single. There’s a hint of Vance Joy in the melody, a bit of Mumford in the strum, but it’s Gurry’s warmth that really shines through. It’s a big moment for the rising singer-songwriter: first single on ABC Music, first headline tour.
effie isobel – “Moon Made”
On “Moon Made”, effie isobel shifts gears from the softness of “Peach Heart” to something punchier. Dreamy vocals float over a driving melody, with a bit of grunge underneath.
Sarah Saint James – “Seven Years”
“Seven Years” is an acoustic-pop track that reflects on the idea that your body renews itself every seven years. It’s a reflective piece, delivered with emotional weight.
Clare Perrott – “Philadelphia”
Perth newcomer Clare Perrott makes a delicate debut with “Philadelphia”. Soft nylon-string guitar and melancholic melodies set the tone, with a subtle alt-country flavour.
Milly McPherson – Avoca
Milly McPherson’s debut album Avoca introduces her thoughtful songwriting and warm indie-pop sound with quiet confidence. It’s a polished release backed by a tight band. One for fans of Missy Higgins or early Courtney Barnett.
