By Nath Luke

Slow Pulp are definitely one of my favorite music discoveries of the last 12 months. Distinguishing themselves as a band that could effortlessly create such a distinctly unique contrast between heavy and lush. I have since been following their new singles eagerlyl as they journeyed towards the release of their debut album Moveys. While coming forward as both vulnerable and strong footed, this first LP from the group throws a left turn that is equal parts exciting and relaxing.

Slow Pulp’s music is immediately familiar with both sonic and songwriting links to those that came before them in the world of “indie guitar” music. But the mark of a truly great band like Slow Pulp is to take those influences and genres, and make them their own. Slow Pulp’s just released debut album Moveys is an unique stand out body of work with all the necessary to become a timeless star of the genre

The vocals from band front Emily Massey are just perfectly balanced between powerful and intimate and she conveys strong emotion that draws you in and connects you to the music created by the band.

I knew from previous releases and live shows that this is a band that knows how to lay down a full throttle, guitars heavy, shoegaze-esq indie track. But on Moveys the band has dialled it back and taken a more gentle and intimate approach to the recording and production of their tracks. The result is touching, connective, but hooky. The 10 track album leads you down a path that is not all serious, there is some playfulness and fun to be had amongst this collection of emotive songs. Whilst the title track is filled with what sounds like fun samples or studio collaboration, the bare interlude “Whispers (In The Outfield)” is a piano instrumental which creates a close quarters feeling of being a part of the wider narrative of Moveys. Fitting with the rest of the album you hardly notice the absence of vocals. It was cool to learn that the piano on the track was played by Massey’s father.

This is indeed an album to be listened to from start to finish over and over, testament to the songwriting skill of the band. It is hard to pick a couple of dominant “hits” from this debut. Each time I spin it I am drawn back to different tracks.

Obviously the state of the world and personal lives of the band have personally necessitated this album being recorded outside of a formal studio environment but it is great to see an indie album being recorded at the artists homes.

Slow Pulp are  Alexander Leeds (bass), Theodore Mathews (drums), and Henry Stoehr (guitar) who have played together since primary school whilst growing up in Madison, Wisconsin who formed Slow Pulp in 2017 with lead singer Emily Massey. They moved to Chicago and are now signed to Winspear Records.
Album Link  https://smarturl.it/moveys

If you love Slow Pulp then get around this tasty INDIECORE playlist put together by our Ben Luke.. 
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3SFJSxh90zj2zHyCjPjZGQ?si=hgFOrfidRzSjdbxGye4n7w

Meg Hitchcock is a UK artist who has found herself firmly planted in the Byron Bay music scene whilst we are under international lock down. 

The debut single of her solo project is called 'Hello Moon" and you can have a listen to the track on this epic playlist she has curated for our 'turned Up' playlist series.  You can also watch the amazing video for the single below. 'Hello Moon' is very "80s Kate Bush meets Rocky Horror" a genre we did not know we were missing but one which we are huge fans of!  A totally original and modern track influenced by the unashamedly epic emotion of 80s pop. With music like this Meg Hitchcock is very welcome to stay marooned in Australia! 

You can read Meg's thoughts on the playlist tracks below. 

turned Up playlist by Meg Hitchcock..

I Feel Love - Donna Summers
This song opened me up to the world of Disco, I remember hearing it for the first time and being completely immersed in the beat and rhythm. Structurally it's quite a simple song with elements dropping in and out for different sections, but it is overwhelmingly compelling in the way it draws people in. 

Spinning Away - Brian Eno, John Cale
I've seen Brian Eno described as 'the Godfather of ambient music' and for me, this song brings shivers through my body every time I hear it. When I was learning how to use Ableton, I had a playlist of a handful of songs on repeat that I wanted to get to know like the back of my hand, and this was one of them. 

I Wanna Be Your Lover - Prince
Growing up I tried my hardest to not write songs about love and relationships, I found it predictable. It came to a point where I realised there was a reason for so many love songs, but they weren't all as boring as I once thought. When I explored the world of Prince I found that he gave me permission to write about love and desire in a funky charming way. 

Like a Prayer - Madonna
Well, well, well. What can I say? This song to me is all time. I love the theatrical nature and euphoric ending. I aspire to write a song that possesses the same gumption. 

Rhiannon - Fleetwood Mac
This song taught me the power of storytelling and singing with the voice of our ancestors, the kind of sound that in country music they call 'crying.' It's a tool that when used well can transform a listener into a state of nostalgia. 

Let It Happen - Tame Impala
The piercing, bodily vibrations that this song emitted when performed live was sensational. Again, it gave me something to aspire to. I'd love to emit that same sensual feeling through live music. 

Seven Devils - Florence + The Machine 
This song opened me up to the idea it's just as important to express my ominous side of music creation, I enjoy deep baselines that ripple through audiences and playing with the themes of god, fate and experience.

Bang Bang (1987 Version) - Cher
What a power ballad. This again ignited a need to be theatrical with my songwriting, it also helped that my parents were great at a good old car-sing-along. The mixture of rock 'n' roll with a strong vocal line is something that isn't often found in modern music... I'm hoping to bring a little touch of this back. 

In Spite of All The Danger - The Quarrymen
This was one of the first songs I learnt on the guitar. I love the unusual chords progression and there's no doubt this has influenced a lot of my decision making when writing my own music. 

Bohemian Rhapsody - Queen
When I was about 7 years old, myself and my close family friends heard Bohemian Rhapsody for the first time. In awe and disbelief at its length and unfamiliar storyline, we decided it were best to try and write down every single lyric (by listening to the track on CD over and over) and to learn it off by heart. We then went with our family to the country pub, popped the song on the jukebox and danced around the pool table using pool cues as microphones.  I guess this taught me that there really are no boundaries with songwriting, you can do whatever you like, and maybe your strangest idea might end up being one of your most loved. 

Over the years we have come to fully appreciate the amazing work that graphic artists do in the music industry.  It is very interesting to learn that many musicians are also graphic artists and have sometimes played a vitally important role as to how their act or band is visually presented.  Over the coming months we will be showcasing the work of graphic artists who are also musicians. 

Today we introduce you to Cristian Campano who we first met as a member of indie rock band Food Court.  Cristian continues his musical career as a member of electro duo FETES.

Cristian is also a very gifted and professional graphic artist and his clients include huge music festivals,  touring Companies and artists. He has a background of working full time in the magazine industry including for Rolling Stone Australia. Just to keep himself busy he also now runs and promotes his own regular mini-fest in Port Macquarie called 'Hot Tropics'

We sat down with Cristian to have a chat about  music and graphic art.

Lennox Groove - Hey Cristian, let us know a bit about your background in visual arts, how did you get your skills? 
Cristian Campano - I was always into visual arts so I studied graphic design at TAFE for 2 years as I wanted to learn the programs to get straight into the work force. From there I started working in the magazine industry slowly working my way up through motorbike magazines then into Tracks Surfing Mag and Australian Skateboarding mag where I had full creative freedom. There I was able to get organic with my design, scanning in bits of paint, photocopies and found objects and incorporating them into the magazine pages which suited the artistic nature of the surf and skate industry. 

LG -  You obviously pour a lot of creative energy into your music as well. How do you balance those two different creative outlets?
CC - Well for me my graphic design has always been my full-time gig with music being my passion project rather than the other way around! But I try to only do music based design these days to make sure I’m still staying true to my love of music. There’s surprisingly a lot of work out there with touring companies which helps pay the bills.

 LG - what is your typical process to get to the end result? 
 CC - I usually research the artist to see what style design they go for then listen to the artist and get a vibe then go from there to design whatever they need. Typography is always important to me. Trying to find a couple of fonts that complement each other nicely is always a challenge which I enjoy. 

 LG -  It seems to us that many musicians who are also visual artists get a lot of experience doing their own band’s designs. Has that been your experience? What are some of the key designs or themes you came up with for your music projects and other bands in your circle? 
 CC - With the amazing history of album art, band logos and merch I think it’s important that when you’re listening to the music the design and art complements the audio and gives it a visual feel. So you remember the art when you listen to the band as it’s so integral to the overall project. With my bands Food Court and FETES I tried to always keep that in mind, especially with FETES I’ve had as much fun with the visual design for each track as I have with the music, if that makes sense!
 
LG Who have some of your other clients been? Have you got a few favorite creations? What are you working on now?
 CC - My favourite job was working as the Art Director of Rolling Stone Mag. It was unreal to be working with so many Australian and International artists and bands and getting the chance to bring their feature articles and covers to life. My favourite piece was a Queens Of The Stone Age feature as the photos we had to use were amazing. It’s always easier when you have amazing photos to design with.

Lately I've been working a lot with Chugg Entertainment, Laneway and Unified which has been rad. Working on tours for Tame Impala, Mac De Marco, New Order, Client Liaison, CMC Country Music Festival, G-Flip, Lime Cordiale, K-Flay etc. Every creative piece is different so the variety keeps me on my toes and pushes me to explore all areas of art and design to keep my clients stoked. 

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LG - do you think graphic artists are valued enough in the music industry? How important are the visuals to presenting a band or artist, or an event?
CC - I think graphic artists are definitely valued in the music industry. I have been super lucky to score so many jobs and make a career out of it. I think it helps the more work you do and the more you reach out to people to build your business. The visuals are SO important for band or event. Think about your favourite album or festival of all time and I guarantee you'll remember the photo, illustration, colours and even the type used! 

LG - where does your own inspiration come from with your visual arts, any particular artists that inspire you or influence you, inside and out the music industry? 
My own inspo comes from keeping as relevant as possible by finding any new cool designs and art and compiling it. There's so much cool stuff out there. I love Jason Galea who does all the King Gizz stuff and Mike Giant is always super cool but that's more tattoo styles. Overall I think it's important to be closely connected to your typography. If you have a great photo and a great font your job is pretty much done!

LG - Thanks Cristian (pictured left). 
Check out the LINKS BELOW to Cristian's business and his music projects.  

www.cristiancampanodesign.com.au
FETES
Food Court

Stay tuned for the next in this series from punk legend Kate of VOIID

If you’re a local of Brisbane and a fan of venues such as Greaser bar, Tomcat or Crow Bar, there is no doubt you wouldn't have of come across the power trio Rude Rum and their groove-rock set infused with energy. The band have certainly made an unforgettable impression on anyone who has seen them play, with a set list that could get anybody and everybody up dancing.

Ali Flintoff made her start in Perth outfit called Boat Show. Currently Melborune based she now she makes music as Denise Le Menice. Following on from the release of her new single  'Lust' Lennox Groove caught up with Ali to find out a little more.  

Pretty Bleak are a Melbourne outfit. They’ve just released debut single ‘Jawline’. We didn’t know all that much about them so we asked them to make Lennox Groove a playlist of several of their key influences and then tell us five things about themselves even a regular Pretty Bleak fan wouldn't know. 

City Calm Down have built quite a reputation for themselves. Over the last 11 years, the band has continued to both surprise and please their growing fanbase. Third record Television is no exception. Shifting away from the postpunk and new wave references of albums past, the band now explore a stripped down and hook-laden sound. Yes, Television is still very much a guitar driven affair, but where once the band might once have been compared to Joy Division they’re now firmly sounding a little more like The Clash. Regardless of how you’d peg them though, this album is another sturdy addition to the band’s discography. 

With her 2016 debut Glorious Heights, Montaigne established herself as a reigning queen of Australian art pop. She won the ARIA award for Breakthrough Artist that same year and has been trying to take the world by storm ever since. Ahead of her second album, Complex, the Sydney artist sat down with Lennox Groove to discuss her new album, her upcoming tour, #STOPADANI, Björk and everything between.

Over the last few years we have seen a heap of stories about you musicians getting your gear stolen.  From small touring bands to well known acts including recently DZ Deathrays and Kingswood.

WHY DOES THIS KEEP HAPPENING TO YOU!?
Simply, your kit is expensive, portable, common and easy to sell off. You might think your precious tele or SG is a “one of a kind” but you will find at least one expensive “unique” guitar in every pawn store in Australia. There are 3,000 Fender items in Australia for sale on just one online sales site right now.  Unfortunately, a thief grabbing a guitar or a laptop is assured of a quick buck with low risk.

The other reason is that you musicians leave your gear in easy to spot and easy to rob places. Unattended music studios,  the inside of your wagon where it can all be seen through the window or in your homes with low security. Thieves know this. You are bunch of sitting ducks. 
 
WHAT TO DO?
Thieves need to be in and out  fast and want their life of crime to be low risk. Anything you can do to slow a thief down and increase their risk of being caught makes it much more likely they will give your place a miss.

Here are some top tips:

Hailing from the West African Nation of Mali, Luka Guindo has been dabbling in music since age eight. He started out singing and playing instruments in church choir but after more than a little insistence from friends lent his vocals to secular recordings too. From here his career in music moved upward fast. Today Guindo is a prolific producer and runs one of the top recording studios in the country. He has also released a string of critically acclaimed albums under the alias of Luka Productions. These records have won him a growing international following. Drawing inspiration from life in Mali, Luka continues to create heartfelt and explorative music.      

 
​‘The Real Thing’ embodied Australia’s psychedelic era. But how Russell Morris’ 1969 debut, a six-minute-long musical collage became a number one single at first glance seem like anyone’s guess.  Costing $10,000 to produce - enough to fund two to three entire albums at the time - the song’s astronomical cost is legendary. Yet Morris contends he cut ‘The Real Thing’ in relatively few takes, it was producer Ian ‘Molly’ Meldrum who ran up the studio bill which had their financial backers all but beating down the door. 

Codie Latour is a Gold Coast DJ. He’s been in the game for eight years but is still searching for the right sound. He’s opening Circus Paradise Festival this Sunday and here are a few of his thoughts. 

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Tia Gostelow had a massive 2018. At 19 years old she released debut album Thick Skin through her own label Lovely Records and celebrated its arrival with a series of parties in Brisbane, Sydney as well as Melbourne. The very same year she was picked by The Rubens to tour with them through Queensland. Gostelow ​also opened for Ball Park Music and San Cisco. In July she performed for triple j’s Like A Version covering Empire of the Sun’s ‘We Are The People’ before rounding it all out with a series of performances at Falls Festival. But where is she heading in 2019? We caught up with her to find out.  

​Celebrating surfing, community and great Aussie music, The Drop Festival is back for its second year. Taking place in five cities alongside some of the most incomparable surfing tournaments in the world, this year's festival will feature a range of talented acts including Angus & Julia Stone, Client Liaison and The Jungle Giants. Ahead of the festival kickoff, we caught up with Director (and world surfing champion) Wayne ‘Rabbit’ Bartholomew. We found Wayne in good spirits and more than willing to share what The Drop's second year had in store. 

Amidst a long career of '80's inspired industrial synthesizers, quirky, at times, almost horror movie-like lyricism and electrifying, memorable live performances, Gold Coast's beloved Tesla Coils bring us one of their longest standing live-set additions, DINOSYNTH. Alongside standout animation from newcomer and friend of the band, Peter Anthony, the standout track is met with a stunning cartoon-ish visual element, giving the already complex story and arrangement a whole new level of meaning. Watch the dinosaur fight his way past enemies and rekindle with a loved one as growling synthesizers guide his journey to mark his place through the vastness of the galaxies and space. Standing as a fantastic metaphor for the complexities of human emotion, DINOSYNTH finds its way into all of our playlists, and we expect it to make its way into yours too.

​​Perth dream-popsters Mosquito Coast are heading out on a national tour taking in capital cities and visiting the Gold Coast and Newcastle for the first time, as well as a coveted support opening for Beach House at Perth Festival.

​The Kooks started their career with a bang in 2006 with their unstoppable debut ‘Inside In/Inside Out’, which went five times platinum. The four-piece have continued to go from strength to strength. With three more studio albums including a ‘Best of…So Far’. The band have acquired over 1 billion streams worldwide – embarked on a number of massive world tours, awards and critical acclaim under their belts they’ve maintained a steady ascent to the top, constantly growing in popularity throughout the last decade.

California's radical sons The Growlers are coming back to our Aussie shores,  with all their swirling psychedelic glory, alognside good friends, self-acclaimed 'monkey disco' band The Babe Rainbow. Playing at one of our favourite GC spots, Miami Marketta, we definitely couldn't be more ready for the most psychedelic day of the year year this Jan 10. 

2018 has been one hell of a year for Aussie music and Newcastle rockers, The Gooch Palms, have been lapping up every moment of it. After spending most of the year performing shows all around Australia, the twosome have recently dropped their hit single ‘Summertime’ along with a whacky and funny film clip that showcases what the band is really all about, having a laugh and making sick music.
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Tayla Sudall and Gooch Palms’, Leroy Macqueen had a chat about the bands last show for the year at Best Night Ever as well as their plans to drop a new album early next year.
Catch the full interview below.

It’s been a huge year for Aussie punk band WAAX from the massive positive response to their hit single ‘Labrador’, to playing huge festivals and shows all around Australia, to producing a debut album with the help of Bernard Fanning, you’d be crazy to think WAAX are going anywhere but up.
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WAAX’s front woman Maz De Vita spent some time chatting with Tayla Sudall about the upcoming show at Best Night Ever on the Gold Coast, the enormous year that the band has had and the band’s debut album release co-produced by Bernard Fanning, scheduled to be released in 2019!

​If your New Year’s resolution is to spend more time listening to amazing tunes and less time dashing between stages at festivals, listen closely! Victoria’s best boutique end of year bash, NYE on the Hill have dropped their set times and they’re an absolute doozy.

​Hot off the heels of their first European tour with over twenty dates throughout the UK, Germany and Austria with two sold out headline shows in London, KINGSWOOD are back in Australia for summer headlines including a destined re-union at their original stomping, The Esplanade Hotel on New Years Eve.