Ahead of their showcase at SXSW Sydney, Joan & the Giants performed a few songs for their Rolling Stone AU/NZ ‘In My Room’ session.
The Perth indie pop-rock band delivered a powerful and heartfelt performance, including their latest single “How Could You?” – an upbeat yet bittersweet song blending bright melodies with raw and emotional lyrics, building to a finale of electric guitar and pounding drums.
Lead vocalist Grace Newton-Wordsworth explains more about the song: “When a person breaks all the trust you once had in them it isn’t just sad, it’s completely chaotic. I was going through life still doing all the things I have to do like working multiple jobs, playing shows, seeing friends and family – whilst internally, I was screaming.”
The song’s music video, directed by the band and shot by Isabelle Haubrich, captures their energy as they dance along to the track, offering a fun contrast to its emotional weight (watch below).
Back in January, Rolling Stone AU/NZ described Joan & the Giants as a “force to be reckoned with,” predicting that 2024 would be their most triumphant year yet. And so far, they’ve certainly lived up to the hype.
It’s been a standout year, featuring national tours and a support slot for US pop icon Belinda Carlisle on her Australian tour. Joan & the Giants also opened for P!NK and Tones and I at Optus Stadium, continuing their rise in the Aussie music scene.
The powerhouse four-piece have previously shared stages with some major acts including Eskimo Joe, Weyes Blood, Teen Jesus and The Jean Teasers, Sly Withers, Pacific Avenue, Coterie, South Summit, and Caravana Sun.
In 2023, they dominated the WA Music Awards, scoring seven nominations and winning Best Alternative/Indie Act, Best Single (“Cool Kid”), and Best Music Video (“Cool Kid”).
Formed in 2019 by Grace Newton-Wordsworth and Aaron Birch, Joan & the Giants have built their sound from diverse backgrounds: Aaron, a Nyul Nyul man from a remote Kimberley community, and Gracie, from an organic farm in southern WA. Now based in Perth, the band also includes Riley Sutton and Liam Olsen.
Watch Joan & the Giant’s full ‘In My Room’ session above. “How Could You?” is out now.
