So What’s Been Happening?

EP193 - So What's Been Happening? - Maxine Gillon

Maxine Gillon Unveils 'Girl Songs' — Album Launch at The Tramway
Episode 193 features a conversation with Maxine Gillon about her debut album, Girl Songs, its recording process, and the upcoming free launch at the Tramway with her band the Blue Jeans.
The episode explores the album's lush arrangements and wall-of-sound influences, stripped-back acoustic takes recorded at Avery Studios, songwriting themes of desire and vulnerability, and Maxine's artistic influences and live approach.
Maxine Gillon proves she’s a talented songwriting force to be reckoned with on her debut album ‘Girl Songs’ Melbourne solo artist Maxine Gillon announces her debut album ‘Girl Songs’. The album is written, arranged, performed, recorded and produced by herself, is mixed by Wade Keighran (Dust), John Lee (Laura Jean) and Paul Annison (Flyying Colours) and is mastered by William Bowden (Gotye).
The album itself takes Australian indie-rock to expansive and majestic new territory with production and sonics inspired by 60’s Wall-of-sound, 80’s ethereal glitz and modern dream-pop. The lyrics throughout are unconventionally exceptional, and reflect her imaginative, queer, poetic and witty vocabulary.
Maxine Gillon is a Melbourne-based singer-songwriter whose cerebral and intelligent approach to music sets her apart in the indie rock scene. Her compositions are rich in lyrical depth and musical complexity, drawing listeners into a world of introspective exploration. – Deb Pelser, Backseat Mafia (on ‘Lipstick’)
Upcoming gig - November 14th, Tramway Hotel, Fitzroy (‘Girl Songs’ album launch w/ Mystery Shopper) (free), For kore on Maxine check out - https://maxinegillon.bandcamp.com/
Join in the LIVE chat with Maxine from 8:00pm AEST on Tuesday 11th November.

EP192 - So What's Been Happening? - A Man Called Son

Episode 192 — A Man Called Son: Instrumental Calm & Mental Health
Host Aaron previews local gigs, announces ticket giveaways and teases the upcoming milestone show 200, then sits down with Simon Pearlman (A Man Called Son) to discuss his new instrumental record, creative process, and mental-health themes.
Blending the sun-drenched sounds of classic Australian rock with introspective storytelling, A Man Called Son, the project of multi-instrumentalist and producer Simon Pearlman continues to evolve. Drawing comparisons to Hoodoo Gurus, The Go-Betweens, and The Church, the music is rich with intricate guitar work, heartfelt vocals, and a uniquely atmospheric style rooted in Australian isolation.
Simon talks about the making of Instrumental Health, his recording approach, shoegaze and ambient influences, and the forthcoming vocal album AutoTraumatic with singles like “Meds” and “No Time Like the Present,” plus livestream and Bandcamp recommendations.
Join in the LIVE chat with Simon from 8:00pm AEST on Thursday 6th November.
 

EP191 - So What's Been Happening? - Jules Sheldon & The Boundary Riders

Trams, Tribute and Tangled Heartstrings - Jules Sheldon
Episode 191 features Jules Sheldon and The Boundary Riders discussing the new album Electric Transport, a heartfelt tribute to Spencer P. Jones who this episode is dedicated to the memory of SPJ, which happens to be recorded on the date he was born, and the songs that shaped his sound. Jules talks about his tram obsession, songwriting as catharsis, favourite guitars, and upcoming tour dates while performing tracks like "Tramways in My Mind," "Uncles," and "When I’m Old."
Jules Sheldon & The Boundary Riders Release New Album Electric Transport featuring Lead Single ‘Tramways In My Mind’ Melbourne alt-country artist Jules Sheldon returns with his fourth studio album, Electric Transport, backed by his new band The Boundary Riders. The album showcases Sheldon’s signature storytelling, blending jangly rock with punk-infused country, and draws inspiration from icons like Paul Kelly, John Prine, and R.E.M. The lead single, Tramways In My Mind, is a deeply personal track written during a difficult overseas tour, reflecting Sheldon’s connection to Melbourne’s trams and themes of comfort and nostalgia. Electric Transport explores themes of grief, memory, and resilience, with standout tracks including: ‘The Uncles’ – a tribute to mentors Spencer P. Jones and Brian Henry Hooper ‘Got Myself A Shadow’ – a love song to a family pet ‘When I’m Old’ – a poignant reflection on memory and identity Praised by peers like Kim Salmon and Mick Thomas, the album captures the raw energy of the band’s live performances and marks a triumphant return for Sheldon. Electric Transport is available now on CD, digital via Bandcamp, and streaming platforms.
https://julessheldonmusic.bandcamp.com/
Join in the LIVE chat with Jules from 8:00pm AEST on Tuesday 28th October.
 

EP190 - So What's Been Happening? - Al Matcott

Al Matcott Unveils ‘Fake the Days Away’ — Blue Vinyl, Pedal Steel & Protest
Episode 190: Host catches up with Al Matcott about his new album Fake the Days Away — the singles “All Night” and “There Is Much Wrong I Have Done,” the recording process at The Gem with producer Rob, and the band’s new addition Joe on pedal steel. They also discuss the album’s blue recycled vinyl, internet-inspired artwork, and the use of found footage in videos.
Al talks upcoming shows and the album launch at Stay Gold on November 14 (with funds supporting Rising Tide), his plans for quieter songs and a heavier future project, and the everyday realities of life on the road and in the studio.
Join in the LIVE chat with Al from 8:00pm AEST on Thursday 23rd October.
 

EP189 - So What's Been Happening? - Team Love

Team Love Live: Inside the New Album, Gigs & 10-Year Plans
Host Aaron Cusack talks with Team Love members Ruby and Tom about their new album, recent launch shows, and the stories behind singles like "Tomorrow Is a New Day" and "Winter." The conversation covers the band’s origins, recording process, and how life changes — including parenthood — shape their music.
The episode also highlights upcoming gigs, the new Coburg venue The Graveyard, festival ambitions, and the band’s plans to celebrate their 10-year anniversary with returning past members and special performances.
Victorian country/folk group Team Love return with their second album, Now Things Ain’t Coloured Rose, out September 12 on vinyl and digital. A follow-up to their acclaimed 2020 debut, the new record is a heartfelt collection for the hopeful and heartworn, blending poetic storytelling with rich harmonies and a distinctly Australian sound. Written during and after the pandemic, the band refined 26 songs down to 11, recorded across suburban Melbourne and rural Coomoora. The album explores themes of aging, shifting relationships, and life’s complexities, with moments of optimism woven through.
Singles like Winter, Tomorrow is a New Day, and No Longer My Birthday showcase their evolving sound - from country-rock to introspective ballads - drawing comparisons to Big Thief, Waxahatchee, and Gillian Welch. Featuring contributions from Jake Holmes (pedal steel) and Christi Hodgkins (harmonica), the album is a raw and resonant journey through folk and country traditions, grounded in the landscapes of Victoria.
Join us for a LIVE chat with Team Love's Ruby McGrath-Lester and Tom Thomas on Thursday 16th October from 8:00pm AEDT.

EP188 - So What's Been Happening? - Alcotomic

Alcotomic Unplugged: From 90s Demos to the 8 Second Empire
For Fans Of: Ash, The Lemonheads, You Am I, Weezer, Screamfeeder
Host Aaron chats with John Freeman Baxter of Alcotomic about his backyard studio, the band’s new album 8 Second Empire, and the 90s Melbourne music scene that shaped their sound.
They discuss songwriting rooted in old demos, authentic recording approaches, standout tracks like "Bridges," "Sunshine," "Tom Lee Park," and "Ruby Shoes," plus video-making, mental health themes, and plans to return to live gigs — with a reminder to support local venues and call a mate.
 "Alcotomic not breaking left or right but enjoying the front-facing fun of singing over the revolutions of spinning guitars ...a ‘90s sound that might have slept under the Glebe Point Bridge." Bernard Zuel Alcotomic formed in Melbourne in 1996 after singer John Freeman Baxter left Holocene. Backed by producers Lindsay Gravina and David Price, the trio developed a distinctive blend of power pop and melodic rock, gaining airplay on triple j and community radio.
Their track Living in Luxury featured on TV shows like Stingers and Good Guys, Bad Guys, and they were offered a record deal with Polygram, which fell through due to restructuring. Despite setbacks, the band continued recording and touring, appearing on ABC’s Recovery, signing with US label Not Lame Records, and showcasing at the 1998 Pacific Circle Music Conference. After disbanding in 2001, Alcotomic returned two decades later, sparked by Baxter rediscovering old demo tapes.
Joined by Doug Lee Robertson (Icecream Hands) and Jay Pinfold (Juke Kartel), the band began recording again, releasing the comeback single Bridges, which gained over 10,000 Spotify plays in six weeks. Their new album, 8 Second Empire, reflects on the short attention spans of modern listeners. Tracks tackle serious themes: Hanging Out explores addiction, Pale & Thin addresses bullying and body image, and Tom Lee Park reflects on teenage struggles. Seventeen and Ruby Shoes showcase their melodic rock roots, while Sunshine—the lead single—deals with mental health and the longing for light. Rejecting AI and overproduction, the band focused on raw, authentic performances. 
Their sound blends 70's influences like Big Star with 90s' acts such as You Am I and Weezer, proving Alcotomic’s enduring relevance in 2025.
Join us for a LIVE chat with John Freeman Baxter on Tuesday 7th October from 8:00pm AEST.

EP187 - So What's Been Happening? - Plastic Cheeses

From Back Deck Gigs to Toasty Anthems: Plastic Cheeses on Episode 187
This episode of So What’s Been Happening features a lively conversation with indie trio Plastic Cheeses — their origins, new singles, music videos and standout tracks like "Pandemic of Stupid" and "Mid‑Strength Crisis."
The show also covers upcoming gigs and festivals around Victoria and NSW, band name stories, mental‑health check‑ins, record‑collecting anecdotes and a call to support local live music and venues.
Since deciding to try and be a real band, Plastic Cheeses have played a bunch of gigs in the big smoke and regionally, released four singles, put out a couple of homemade DIY film clips, had a few spins on community radio both locally and interstate, sold a few t-shirts and stubby holders and far outweighed their initial goal of playing one gig on the back deck for a party.
Plastic Cheeses’ chiming guitars, jangling riffs, bouncing basslines, laidback rhythms and sunshiny vocal harmonies are the perfect soundtrack for easing into a few quiet ones at your local. Lethargic and cathartic - they write simple, catchy songs about the happenings and observations of everyday life with a distinct tinge of Australiana. Getting older sucks. You wake up one morning and everything hurts - your neck, your back, your… you get the picture. You find it harder to stand up for long periods of time. You find it harder to stay awake. You’ve lost your piss fitness. Hangovers hurt waaaay more than they used to. Some begin to experience these pitfalls of aging, admit defeat and settle into getting old and boring without much of a fight. Some decide to still try and party like they’re in their 20s and age disgracefully. Plastic Cheeses are from the latter school of thinking.
Plastic Cheeses’ latest single, ‘Mid Strength Crisis’ is an ode to being okay with getting older, but not being okay with some of the stereotypical behaviours that are meant to come with it (i.e. sitting at home alone drinking mid strength beer).
Join us for a LIVE chat and a few tunes on Thursday 2nd October from 8:00pm AEST.

EP186 - So What's Been Happening? - Dashville Skyline (Festival Preview)

Dashville Skyline Preview: The Festival Bringing Live Music Home
Episode 186 previews Dashville Skyline with an in-depth chat with Matt Johnson of Magpie Diaries and conversations with artists Ben Mastwyk, Joyce Prescher and Meghan Maike. The show covers the festival's grassroots spirit, Magpie Diaries' new album recorded at the Tractor Shed, and highlights from the 11th-year lineup (Oct 3–5, Hunter Valley).
The episode blends interviews, live clips and festival-ready updates — celebrating community-driven music, emerging talent, and the intimate boutique vibe that makes Dashville Skyline a must-attend event.
Dashville is a secluded bushland venue and campground, located at Lower Belford in the Hunter Valley, Wonnarua, NSW. It’s also a grass roots cultural enterprise, embracing, connecting and inspiring a community through music, art and events. A number of annual festivals and smaller events are held at the unique purpose built site, added with a wonderful wide community of people who come to enjoy, embrace, perform, create, learn and grow from them.
Dashville curate and promote a number of boutique music, art and food festivals annually, along with various one off concerts and events throughout the year. Dashville Skyline is a favourite for those who like a bit of cool oozed over their country, with a myriad of artistic collaborations, family activities & laid back old-school country-inspired fun. Tickets to the festival - https://www.dashville.com.au/
 

EP185 - So What's Been Happening? - The Valery Trails

Valerie Trails Unveiled: Inside 'Winter Palace' — New Album & Tour Dates
Episode 185 of So What's Been Happening features Andrew Bower of The Valery Trails discussing their new album Winter Palace, the recording at their Buffalo Speedway studio, singles like "Everything Is Temporary" and "First Kiss," and upcoming shows across October.
The episode also covers band lineup changes, video visuals, influences and plans for U.S. radio, plus a round-up of local gigs and festival news — a concise look at the band’s creative process and live plans.
For Fans Of: R.E.M, Hüsker Dü, The Replacements, The Hold Steady The Valery Trails (Brisbane, QLD) return with their first new music since the release of their fourth album, The Sky Is Blue, in 2022.
On the back of the album's strong airplay and positive reviews, the band toured the east coast of Australia, with new guitar recruit Tim Steward (Screamfeeder) along for the ride. Previously, as a trio, Andrew Bower (vocals/guitars), Sean Bower (bass), and Dan McNaulty (drums), released their debut album Ghosts and Gravity (2012), Buffalo Speedway (2014), and Chameleon Bones (2016).
The three albums’ melodic and atmospheric indie rock received college and specialty airplay in the US, strong community radio support in Australia, and critical acclaim from outlets such as PopMatters, The Big Takeover, and many other international websites. On the new album, Winter Palace, there’s plenty of The Valery Trails’ trademark guitar jangle and crunch, but they also explore some diverse styles and genres, including synth-pop stylings, horn-driven retro flavours, and some straight-up rock and roll, across the 13 songs.
Heading into the band’s second decade, The Valery Trails continue to strive towards their goal to build a body of work on their own terms. With Andrew at the helm, and through their collective experiences, influences, and musicianship, they've created another gem of an Australian indie rock album. Great to get the chance to chat to Andrew Bower from The Valery Trails LIVE on Tuesday 23rd September from 8:00pm AEST, join in the chat anytime.

EP184 - So What's Been Happening? - Moderate Lovers

Crayon Shades Live: Moderate Lovers on Songs, DIY Clips & N.W.A. Surprises
Aaron sits down with Mick Wilson of Moderate Lovers to discuss the band’s debut EP Crayon Shades, track-by-track stories (including “Lucy’s Gardening,” “Lost City” and a surprise N.W.A. cover), DIY video-making and songwriting influences.
The episode also shares upcoming gig dates, a mental-health shout-out, and a reminder to support indie music via Bandcamp Friday.
For Fans Of: Pavement, Screamfeeder, Dinosaur Jr, Swervedriver
Moderate Lovers are an indie pop/rock three-piece band from Sydney who write skewed melodic tunes with a pinch of jangle, a dash of distortion, and a healthy serving of observational dry wit. Alongside musical touchstones such as Pavement and Dinosaur Jr, you can hear the rich lineage of Australian indie music, as well as various bands from Flying Nun Records, in their sonic DNA. Indeed, their own musical resume includes time spent treading the boards with local bands such as Soap Star Joe, Starky, Restless Leg, and Froggy Prinze. Forming in 2024 after a few drinks at the Townie (aka The Town Hall Hotel, Newtown), Mick Wilson, Saul Foster, and Adam Taylor began crafting Wilson's musical sketches into a full set of indie rock earworms. In short time, they started taking those songs to live stages and appreciative audiences across the inner west of Sydney.
The band’s first single, ‘Lost City’, burst onto Australian community radio sounding like Swervedriver fronted by Robert Pollard of Guided By Voices, with a brilliant 'lost Sydney music scene' video in tow. They quickly followed it up with 'Lucy's Gardening Again', a song overflowing with sweet harmonies and jangly guitars reminiscent of the '60s British Invasion sound and modern exponents such as Teenage Fanclub.
“Firmly grounded in a nineties-style velvet glove over a steel fist, with a sound redolent of fellow compatriots You Am I or, from further afield, Dinosaur Jnr or Pavement, ‘Lost City’ hides within its impassioned melodic delivery and wall of sound a glimmer of hope and resilience.” - Backseat Mafia
We get a chance to chat to Mick Wilson from Moderate Lovers LIVE on Tuesday 16th September from 8:00pm AEST, join in the chat anytime.