Interviews

This Easter, Naarm's hypnotic dance-punks Gut Health and local outsiders Slow Clap are bringing the latest installment of Highly Contagious to regional Victoria for the first time, with a stellar lineup of friends including Alien Nosejob, Gregor, Palm Springs, and plenty more crowd-pleasers. Grab your tickets via Theatre Royal and catch all the details on this special afternoon soiree with Jordan on Underground Love.

First up on Pojama People is The Miffs, a high-energy psych rock power trio from Naarm known for their intense live performances and unique blend of atmospheric psychedelic rock, surf, and grunge. Their debut self-titled album is a dynamic and ambitious collection, delving into themes of identity, morality, and personal choice, all propelled by thumping, intricately layered jams. Tune in for the full scoop on this exciting upcoming project, due out on April 20.

Ahead of their show at Shotkickers on April 19, Grinding Eyes joins Chris to talk about their upcoming release 'Out of Focus', out April 4 via Poison City Records. Hailing from Eora, the three-piece crafts a dark sonic landscape, blending psychedelic shoegaze, drone rock, and ambient garage punk. The collective has collaborated with Jim Diamond and Paul Maybury, and shared stages with Amyl and the Sniffers, Psychedelic Porn Crumpets, and more. Tune in for the full brief on their latest project.

Local satanic boogie band Nephalem are about to release their new album 'Nepalism'. With musical backgrounds ranging from punk to indie to hardcore and everything in between, their diverse influences come together to create a unique take on metal. Kene and Leah Noir catch up with the four-piece band to talk about the release, tune in to Burning Bitumen to find out when you can next catch the band live.

Sydney-based death metal juggernaut Anoxia is set to decimate stages this April and May with their highly anticipated debut album 'Revel in Sin'. Joined by Werewolves, Immorium, and Gravepeeler, the band will tear up The Leadbeater in Richmond on April 17. But first, tune in to Burning Bitumen, where Kene Lightfoot and Leah Noir chat with the band about the launch show.

Oliver Smith, bassist for Eora progressive metal band Inertia, joins Tyrannocoreus to discuss their action-packed years touring Australia in support of their debut album 'Second Shadow', released last August. After a successful run, the band is back for another national headline tour this April. Tune in to hear all about their life on the road, their experiences performing, and what’s next for the band as they continue to make their mark in the metalcore scene.

Join Kev, vocalist of the animated Naarm-based metalcore five-piece Lost Souls, as he sits down with Ryan to discuss the band's debut album 'Lore', set for release on April 18. They’ll explore Kev’s journey of embracing neurodivergence, going viral online, collaborating with his new best mate Jonathan Vigil from 'The Ghost Inside', and the band’s plans for physical releases and live performances. Don’t miss this rich conversation on Tyrannocoreus.

Recently established Naarm-based darkwave band Double Happiness joins Kristen to discuss their debut album 'Derealisation' and perform live in the studio. Formed in late 2023 after the dissolution of garage punk band 'PLEBS', Double Happiness merges shoegaze, darkwave, and post-punk, with standout tracks like 'Electric Sheep' and 'Staring at the Walls'. Comprised of Sam Jemsek, Will Stanforth, and Ben Callaghan, with guitar by Sam Walsh of Silent Income, they’re navigating darker sonic realms.

Following their recent noughties-pop throwback 'And That's How I Got The Congas', Melbourne’s wonky-pop whizzes Cool Sounds are back with the second taste of their upcoming album, 'Just A Dream'. Taking us on a backseat cruise down a sunny highway, eyes closed, windows down, singer Dainis drops into PBS for a round of Musical Chairs. Tune in to hear his selection of favourite songs, along with tracks from the new album 'Party Punisher', out May 23 via Nice Guys Records.

All-girl rock’n’roll band The Wraylettes have a mission: to celebrate Link Wray’s enduring legacy and influence on rock’n’roll as we know it. Playing at Shotkickers on May 3, the annual event 'Missing Link #5' will also feature bands The Bluebottles, Honk, and The Missing Link Band. Tune in to Sunglasses After Dark to hear Phil MacDougall catch up with the band on the day of the federal election.

PBS is gearing up for the next MIDNGIHT DRIVER, which will be held at one of Naarm/Melbourne’s most beloved nightclub's, Revolver Upstairs on April 24. The night will have sets of disco and groove, courtesy of PBS all stars Mike Gurrieri (Mystic Brew), MzRizk (Boogie Beat Suite) and Jonny Alexander (Audio Vitamins), along with six-piece disco group Steady Weather. Spinning a range of house, soul and dub on The Breakfast Spread, tune in to hear Jonny's guest mix on the Wheels of Steel.

For his latest record, singer-songwriter Bonnie 'Prince' Billy collaborated with David 'Ferg' Ferguson (Johnny Cash, Sturgill Simpson) to create his country-folk album 'The Purple Bird' - the second time he's worked with a producer in his illustrious career. Many of the songs reflect the voices of multiple composers, making the shape-shifting aspect of the Bonnie 'Prince' Billy persona more fluid than ever. Tune in to 5ft High and Rising with Myles for this PBS exclusive interview.

Having recently recorded several albums in Bulgaria with a local choir, kaval, and other musicians, Naarm-based jazz pianist David Dower visits Global Village to talk with Roger about his latest project 'Sonder'. The album reflects his deep connection to Bulgaria and his journey as a classical musician. Listen in as David discusses the intersection of traditional Bulgarian music and jazz, sharing insights into his unique creative process and the cultural influences behind his work.

Ahead of their performance at The Thornbury Bowls Club for Helluva Ride on April 26, Mikey and Veeka from Kosmetika join Brooke at Homebrew for a chat. Following their DIY sophomore album 'Illustration', Kosmetika’s 2024 release 'Luxury' marks a shift to a more studio-focused sound with engineering by Erik Scerba. Moving from a duo to a full art-pop band, all five members contribute vocals, song ideas, and textures, resulting in a diverse 10-track album blending elements of their previous work.

One of the most electrifying guitarists of her generation, Samantha Fish charges rock and soul with bold energy and emotional depth. Her new album 'Paper Doll' (Rounder Records), produced by Bobby Harlow, showcases her fiercest work yet. Following the success of 'Death Wish Blues', Samantha delves into themes of unapologetic defiance grounded in vulnerability. Tune into Transfigurations with Lucas for an in-depth discussion of this powerful new release and her career-defining moments.

Having just released their album 'Snowman', the lengthy, dynamic and epic sounds of Treebeard will be gracing Studio 5 this April 22. With only one show planned in Melbourne for the year at The Old Bar on May 2, feast your ears on this PBS exclusive of post rock and post metal music. Tune in to Pojama People where Chris Pearson chats to the band about their first international show in Belgium at Dunk Festival.

Tune in to Tyrannocoreus this April 23 to hear from Perth beatdown/hardcore band Sedative. Fresh off their Southeast Asian tour, Ryan chats with vocalist Blanche Dubrah about their new record 'Love Is Not Enough' and their upcoming Australian tour, featuring support from No Face No Case (CZE) and No Life (NZ).

They may not be operating aircrafts, but one thing's for certain, Life Pilot are doing exactly what they set out to do - write heavy, angry songs and refuse to conform to trends. Known for their unique and awe-inspiring presence, the band's ridiculous sense of humour shines throughout their self-titled debut album. Ryan catches up with drummer Eli Green, tune in to hear more about Life Pilot's headline tour this April and May.

Blues-roots guitarist and singer-songwriter Geoff Achison is set to host a music retreat in Yackandandah, Northern Victoria. The renowned Naarm-based musician invites the public for a weekend of playing, learning and discussing the wonders of acoustic guitar with no distractions, other than eating, chatting and jamming. Helen catches up with Geoff about this leisurely weekend getaway – tune in to hear more about this retreat, taking place on May 16 -18.

Local mandolinist Justin Vilchez swings by Southern Style for a live-to-air performance and a discussion on the role of the mandolin in Bluegrass music. Bridging tradition with youthful flair, Justin captivates audiences worldwide with his unique approach to classic Bluegrass and original compositions. Currently performing with Australian Bluegrass band The High Street Drifters, he also teaches and takes on session work in his hometown of Naarm. Don’t miss this special live session!

Led by bassist Steve Purcell and members of The Pearly Shells, the Jumpin' the Blues All Stars return for another live session with Tom. This time around they'll be featuring artists involved with the Newport Jazz Festival (May 2-4) including singer Sarah Maclaine and legendary pianist Bob Sedergreen.

Joining Larry for Musical Chairs is Steady Weather (Ben Grayson, Tamil Rogeon, Allysha Joy, Rita Satch), a collective ushering organic dance music from Naarm's rich neo-soul and jazz community. With lineage tracing back to The Bamboos and The Raah Project, Rogeon and Grayson bring heritage, philosophy and true soulfulness to their productions. Featuring the glorious vocals of Joy and Satch, Steady Weather will be right at home on the dance floors of Revolver for Midnight Driver on April 24.

Achieving cult status in the garage punk scene since 1989, The Breadmakers are back with a new album, 'Lonesome Sundown'. Delivering an explosive mix of garage rock revival and rockin' rhythm 'n' blues, they'll be launching the record over two nights at the Town Hall Hotel in North Melbourne, on May 2 and May 9. Tune in to Sunglasses After Dark to hear from the local garage legends.

The Tarab Ensemble performs classical Arabic instrumental music with a unique twist. "Tarab" is an Arabic term that captures the joy and emotional connection brought by exceptional classical Arab music. This large ensemble joins Roger on the Global Village to perform their music and discuss their artistry ahead of their concert at the Melbourne Recital Centre on May 9. Tune in for this special live-to-air performance.

Potent post-punk band dogworld joins Brooke on Homebrew to discuss their latest single "inmypocket" and upcoming Australian tour this winter. The Ngunnawal-born four-piece blends modern post-punk with indie rock, crafting a vivid sound fueled by razor-sharp melodies. Tune in for insights on their 2025 plans and the creative process behind their projects.

Tune into Dounya for a live interview and performance with Watar Ensemble, a 5-member band playing acoustic Arabic music. Featuring two vocalists, electric bass, oud, percussion (darbuka, cajón, riq, daf), and guitar, Watar’s music blends tradition with emotion. "Watar" means both the string of an instrument and the nerve it stirs. With a passion for sharing stories from the heart of the Levant, the collective invites you on a journey through soul-stirring harmonies and intricate rhythms.

Australian-born, Canada-based soprano singer-songwriter Ruth Moody, member of The Wailin' Jennys, joins Lauren to talk about her upcoming performance at Brunswick Ballroom on May 1. Ruth’s critically acclaimed album 'Wanderer' tells the story of her past decade. She’ll also perform a track live in the studio—don’t miss this intimate performance!

Tony Jackson and Ryan Sweeney from Mighty Horse visit Radio City to discuss their ambitious second LP, 'Road Movie Dream'. This 18-track album explores influences from rock, alt-country, dub, and psychedelia. Due for release on May 4, it will be available on vinyl and streaming platforms. The album launch will take place at The Bridge Hotel in Castlemaine on release day, followed by a show at The Retreat Hotel in Brunswick on May 9.

Cantrips is the solo project of Naarm-based musician, DJ, and producer Patrick Ryan. His music blends the warmth of acid folk with 70s-inspired grooves and a distinct appreciation for analog textures. In his upcoming interview with Crispi, Cantrips discusses his debut album, 'From A Darebin Cave', set for release on May 2. Through atmospheric instrumentation and deeply personal lyrics, the full-length project offers a reflective journey of transformation, solitude, and emotional rebirth.

Joining forces with powerhouse label ROAR, GhostSeeker are currently gearing up for the release of their hotly anticipated debut studio album, 'Divergence'. Having taken the heavy music scene by storm with their infectious debut EP, 'Initium Novum', the band has a full tour schedule planned for 2025. Tune in to Tyrannocoreus to hear when their next show in Melbourne will be.

Aric Improta and Stephen Harrison from House of Protection join Ryan for a conversation about the band’s journey from the ashes of Fever333, their sophomore EP 'Outrun You All', and their plans for 2025. Born from the duo’s fearlessness and a love of pushing boundaries, they fuse hardcore, electronica, and punk into a raw, creative space. With their shared history in bands like Fever333, Night Verses, and The Chariot, House of Protection has created a sanctuary for radical self-expression.

Since releasing their Grammy-winning single 'Call My Name' (Best American Roots Song, 2020) USA based trio I’m With Her has regularly stepped away from their individual careers to create music together. Their sophomore album, 'Wild and Clear and Blue' showcases their luminous harmonies in a soul-searching collection that explores reaching into the past, navigating a chaotic present, and bravely stepping into the unknown. Tune in to hear from one of the trio’s singer/songwriters, Aoife O’Donovan.

Ghost Medium, the project of Simon Bailey and his band, made their debut performance as the house band on ABC TV's Spicks and Specks. With an all-star lineup featuring ARIA Award-winning producer Pip Norman and Naarm legends Lilith Lane and Huddy Whitlock, Ghost Medium will premiere their debut single on the show. They'll also chat about their upcoming single launches at Archies Creek Hotel on May 16 and The Retreat Hotel in Brunswick on May 17.

Mastanah Nazarian, an Iranian-background composer, writer, guitarist, and oud player, visits Global Village to perform traditional Persian oud pieces and discuss her diverse projects, including photography and poetry. Beyond music, she’s a certified Pilates teacher, holds a black belt in aikido, and is passionate about teaching movement education to both musicians and the public.

Local trio Vardos is driven by Alana's wild violin, chased by accordion and double bass, performing folk and Romany music. As long-standing members and supporters of the Global Village, Vardos drop in to PBS during Radio Festival to talk about the role PBS has played in their career. Tune in to hear what they love about Roger's show Global Village, along with a live performance from this all-female group.

On June 6, Dark FOMO 666 returns with its sixth mini-festival at the Cactus Room in Thornbury, featuring music, art, performance, nude poetry, and more. The organisers pop into Pojama People to preview the lineup, including Jack Harlon and the Dead Crows, Night Rites, USER, and plenty other acts. Tune in for all the details on this night of irreverent fun and vivid performances.