Created In Partnership With Mentos
Sydney’s own indie-pop artist Gazal is finding a unique intersection between female rage and fun, whimsical lyricism.
Growing up in a Lebanese family, Gazal listened to a range of music but ended up teaching herself everything she knows, spending years honing her craft. Her eclectic sound mixes pop with R&B influences to create a body of work unique within Australia’s musical landscape.
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Listen to her EPs and you’re likely to hear the influence of Frank Ocean and Doechii. With songs covering everything from mansplaining to late-night hook-ups, her glittering tracks bring a fresh take on the modern-day experience of young women in Australia.
As the latest addition to the Mentos Fresh Sounds Class of ’26, curated by Rolling Stone AU/NZ, we sat down with Gazal to learn all about her music and what was coming up next. On the agenda? Risk-taking, bold decisions and enjoying the journey.
Who are you and where are you from?
I’m GAZAL, from Sydney, Australia.
Describe your ‘Fresh Sound’ in three words.
Eclectic, brash, fun.
Tell us about your latest release.
My latest release “ONION (stfu)” is about men thinking women can’t do the simplest task. When I was cooking, a man told me how to cut an onion and I went into rage mode. As I get older, my tolerance shrinks by the day and I am sick of women being underestimated.
If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be?
THIS IS DIFFICULT. Right now, probably Rosalía. She is a god.
What’s been the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far on your musical journey?
To enjoy the journey. I feel like so many artists are looking at the end result and I just love all the parts in between.
What’s your dream venue to play?
My dream venue would have to be the desert (Coachella, lol). I have been hung up on that one since Tumblr circa 2016. Coachella for sure.
What’s coming up for you in 2026 and beyond?
More music, more chaos. Potentially another EP on the horizon… shows, tours, collaborations. ALL THE THINGS AND I AM EXCITED.
What’s one thing you think the Australian and New Zealand music industry needs right now, and why?
I think the industry needs to be BOLD AND TAKE SOME RISKS. Bet on something! Make it interesting. A lot of artists have to leave Australia to be heard, and then when they blow up, Australia comes back around like “oooh, we loved them from the beginning.” It’s annoying — there is so much incredible talent here.
What does it mean to you to be part of the Rolling Stone and Mentos Fresh Sounds Class of ’26?
It really is surreal. I have seen so many amazing artists I love do this and it feels so awesome to be seen. Also, I literally take Mentos to every gig I watch and give them to my friends, so it feels very fitting.
Why is it important to support emerging Australian and Kiwi artists?
I think it’s so important. Australia is pretty far away and is a smaller industry, so artists really need to be supported to take them to the next level. And I stand by the fact that the quality of music coming out of Australia is different; if we don’t back artists early, it either dies quietly or has to go find support somewhere else first.
