Created in partnership with Mentos
Rolling Stone House at SXSW Sydney is back for another year. On Thursday, October 16th, Rolling Stone House will host a party at the Lord Gladstone Hotel with Mentos as part of Fresh Sounds, a campaign all about spotlighting Australia’s emerging musical talent.
The Rolling Stone AU/NZ team hand-picked two up-and-coming artists, Akala Newman and Ama, to perform via the Mentos Fresh Sounds Portal. Alongside the two singers, a number of other local artists will be taking to the stage. Headlining the evening is Brisbane dance-punk trio DZ Deathrays, who have become a live circuit mainstay.
The line-up also includes singer Charlie Pittman, Māori/Samoan powerhouse Jamaica Moana, Melbourne musician DC Maxwell, and post-punk band Body Type. With a headliner set to be announced soon, it’s looking to be a true celebration of Australian music.
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Taking place at The Lord Gladstone Hotel in Chippendale, Sydney, the gig kicks off at the ideal time — the hotel’s 4pm happy hour. House beer, wine, and spirits are all $7 from 4-6pm. Plus, the event is free for SXSW badge holders.
Described as the dark angel of pop, Akala Newman is a First Nations artist whose music blends EDM and pop. Akala recently performed at BIGSOUND, wrote and performed her track “Calling Country” for the opening anthem of Sydney’s 2023 New Year’s Eve fireworks, and opened VIVID festival in 2024.
Her debut EP, (A)VOID, explores the tension between avoiding pain and “surrendering to the void.” Akala’s ethereal and haunting sound echoes over its rave-inspired beats. If you’re a fan of CXLOE, Alison Wonderland, or Kim Petras, the self-described South-West Princess from Sydney is one to add to your playlists. Akala’s set begins at 4:30pm on the Mentos Fresh Sounds stage.
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From Western Sydney, Ama is a new voice in indie pop. The 22-year-old Sri Lankan Australian singer-songwriter and guitarist is crafting vulnerable and honest tracks about relationships and life in your early twenties.
Ama’s debut EP, Julie’s House, explores the emotional rollercoaster of falling for someone you’ve only ever known through a screen – someone you may never meet in real life. The EP blends indie and rock pop to capture the modern desire for connection in the digital age. Inspired by the likes of Alexander 23 and Gracie Abrams, Ama is a fresh voice in the Australian indie scene.
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You can catch Ama at Rolling Stone House at SXSW Sydney from 5:30pm.
Be sure to head down to Rolling Stone House at SXSW Sydney to hear from the freshest voices in Australian music.
Visit SXSW Sydney and Rolling Stone AU/NZ for more.
For music fans who want to experience the entire 2025 event and receive priority access, consider purchasing a SXSW badge or wristband here. Space is limited.
Lead image: Supplied via talent
