So What’s Been Happening?

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.

EP183 - So What's Been Happening? - Ben Mastwyk

Ben Mastwyk & His Millions: Let Me At The Night Lights Up Melbourne
On this episode Aaron chats with Ben Mastwyk about his new album Let Me At The Night, the creative energy behind The Millions, and the collaborative videos and limited-edition release. Ben explains his festival-ready vision, family-made clips and upcoming shows across Melbourne, Dashville and Tamworth.
The episode also highlights local gigs (Sweet Talk at Howler, Bernadette Novembre supporting a Black Dog Institute benefit), the busy music week and a heartfelt reminder to check in on someone — ask “Are you okay?” and really listen.
Let Me At The Night is a bit of a fantasy record for Ben Mastwyk – the Australian cosmic cowboy and interstellar troubadour. He really discovered the DNA of his band The Millions over the last few records, and this time, they all wanted to push the boundaries. Mastwyk was lucky enough to receive funding through a Creative Victoria Creative Works grant, which allowed him to really lean in and record the album he wanted to make, without cutting corners. Working with producer Michael Hubbard at The Shrimp Shack studio in Melbourne, Mastwyk initially set out to make a ‘90s country-inspired record—and in a way, he did. But instead of sticking strictly to that particular sonic palette, he found himself leaning back into the genre-bending, experimental approach he first explored with his original band in the actual ‘90s. "It’s still a country record in my eyes: narrative-based songs that explore the themes I’ve been circling in my writing for years," he says. "But we’ve really dialled up the experimentalism - pushed our sonic palette further than we ever have before!"
We get a chance to chat to Ben LIVE about his new release LET ME AT THE NIGHT on Thursday 11th September from 8:00pm AEST, join in the chat anytime.

EP182 - So What's Been Happening? - Temperate

Behind the Music with Temperate
Join us for an electrifying episode as we dive into the world of Temperate, a dynamic band from Coffs Harbour. In this engaging conversation, we explore their upcoming gigs, touring plans, and their exhilarating live performances, including a unique mix of acoustic and rock influences.
Meet the band members - Finn, Levi, and Taylor - and learn about their journey, the creative process, and how Taylor's powerful voice has added a new dimension to their sound. Discover the challenges and joys of band life, from crafting memorable music videos to the thrill of live gigs.
Don't miss this inside look at what makes Temperate stand out in the Australian music scene, and get ready to rock with them on their upcoming tour!
Full video episode available to watch - https://bit.ly/4lVrTXp

EP181 - So What's Been Happening? - BlackbirdsFC

Rock Renaissance with Blackbirds FC: A New Era of Sound
Join us for an in-depth conversation on EP181 with Gina and Jeremy from Blackbirds FC as they share their excitement about their upcoming album launch at George Lane. Discover the creative process behind their rockier third album and get a sneak peek into the unique sound that sets this release apart from their previous works. Revisit their journey from an impromptu Zoom chat during the dark days of COVID to hitting the stage with electrifying energy and passion.
Explore their collaborative efforts with producer Cameron McKenzie and the addition of guitarist Jeff Baker, which has introduced an invigorating new dynamic to their music. Hear about the joys and challenges of crafting music that resonates locally while drawing influences from iconic bands like Midnight Oil and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young.
As they prepare for a special launch event featuring the Penny Hewson Band, you won't want to miss this opportunity to experience the magic of live performances that bring their music to life. Tune in to hear more about their aspirations for future tours and recordings, their reflections on the Melbourne music scene post-COVID, and their plans to keep the spirit of live music thriving. Don’t miss their heartfelt discussion about the joy of creating music that continues to inspire and entertain.
Loved this episode recorded on 16th July 2024. Enjoy
if you would like to watch the video version, its available here - https://bit.ly/3TTqViB
More on Blackbirds FC check out - https://blackbirdsfc.com
LAUNCH TICKETS - https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1412604

EP180 - So What's Been Happening? - Party Crashers

Unveiling the Artist: Robert F. Cranny's Music Journey
Welcome to Episode 180 of 'So What's Been Happening', where host Aaron Cusack engages in a captivating conversation with musician Robert F. Cranny. Dive into Robert's fascinating musical journey, discover the story behind his intriguing middle name, and explore the formation and evolution of his band, Party Crashers. Enjoy insightful discussions on the impact of live performances, the significance of vinyl and tapes, and anecdotes from Robert's early days with music. Tune in for a special treat as Robert shares tracks from Party Crashers' debut album and his recent solo projects, ensuring a delightful mix of music and nostalgia. Don't miss out on this enriching episode filled with music, life stories, and a sneak peek into the local music scene.
You can also watch the full episode - https://bit.ly/44wZWhn

EP179 - So What's Been Happening? - Bryan Estepa

"Brian Estepa's Musical Journey: From Manila to Melbourne"
Join us for episode 179 of "So What's Been Happening" as we sit down with the talented Brian Estepa to discuss his latest album, "I See It Now." This episode dives into Brian's musical journey, from his early influences in Manila to recording his seventh album across continents. Listen in as we explore the creative process behind his new songs, the importance of staying true to your musical roots, and the excitement of live performances. Don't miss this engaging chat about the joys and challenges of indie music, complete with a look at the vibrant gig scene and a special live performance from Brian himself.
Across 'I See It Now', Estepa documents an arc of personal development where themes of self-doubt, false starts, renewal and optimism form the basis for his songs that poetically connect the personal to the universal. It's all set against Estepa's consummate marriage of indie rock and power pop where melody and sonic guitar excursions exist in perfect harmony. Bryan has a strong connection with his Spanish band and producer JJ Extremera, and he'd long dreamed of being able to record with them. The importance of Extremera's role in the making of the album can't be understated.
Estepa's excitement at sending the producer demos of songs fuelled and inspired his songwriting, and then when it came to recording, Extremera was invaluable creative counterweight to Estepa's approach and ideas. Though the holy triumvirate of The Beatles, Wilco, and Big Star are still in Estepa's DNA, the musical palette has clearly widened and deepened.
We catch up with Bryan LIVE on Facebook and YouTube and discuss his musical journey. Join in the chat on Thursday 3rd July from 8:00pm AEST.

EP178 - So What's Been Happening? - Time To Check In

The Power of Music and Mental Health: A chat with Little Faith's Jon Baxter
One not to miss, it's time to "Check In Tuesday" with special guest Jon Baxter from Little Faiths with a purpose to stop the stigma around mental health and normalise discussions about mental health in particular.
Join us for an enriching evening episode as we dive into the world of music and mental health with special guest Jon Baxter from Little Faiths. On this Tuesday, the 1st of July, we explore how music can be a powerful connector and healer during challenging times, especially as we embrace the "group hug" metaphor for the month.
This episode highlights the importance of supporting friends and family, particularly during the financially and mentally testing end-of-financial-year period. Jon shares his personal journey, discussing mental health with refreshing honesty and how his band is affectionately known as "The Men's Shed." Through their unique sound and songs, Little Faiths provides a safe space for emotional expression and camaraderie.
We also discuss exciting upcoming gigs and the joy of live music experiences. Listen as Jon enlightens us on how dropping in for a chat and a cuppa can strengthen bonds and spread kindness. Whether you're in it for the music or the insightful conversation, this episode promises to inspire.

EP177 - So What's Been Happening? - W.O.M.B.A.T.

In episode 177 of "So What's Been Happening," we dive into the vibrant world of Melbourne's own punk band, Wombat. Join us for an exciting conversation with the band members as they share their experiences, musical influences, and the philosophy behind their energetic performances. From the story behind their EP to their relentless gig schedule and the unique dynamics between the band members, this episode promises an insider's look at a band that leaves it all on stage. Ready to discover what makes Wombat tick? Tune in and prepare for an auditory adventure that captures the essence of live Aussie rock.
We also highlight upcoming gigs in Melbourne and beyond, featuring some of the most anticipated music events of the month. Whether you're a regular at the Tote, a fan of live punk energy, or just curious about the behind-the-scenes of band life, this episode is packed with insights and anecdotes that resonate with music lovers everywhere. Don't miss it!
Rewatch episode on YouTube - https://bit.ly/4kH5vkh
 

EP176 - So What's Been Happening? - The Electorate

Celebrate Live Music: A Colourful Journey Through Gigs and Stories
Join us for Episode 176 of "So What's Been Happening" as we dive into the vibrant world of music with The Electorate. Recorded on a chilly night in June 2025, this episode brings warmth through lively conversations and upcoming gig highlights that showcase the ever-evolving music landscape.
Explore memorable anecdotes about the band's past, Josh Morris' and Nick Kennedy's personal journeys through music, and how they finally came together to create some of the freshest sounds today. With a keen focus on live music, from iconic venues to intimate gigs, we delve into the heart of what makes this scene so magical.
THE ELECTORATE ARE THRILLED TO RELEASE THEIR NEW ALBUM, BY DESIGN, OUT NOW VIA LOVE AS FICTION RECORDS.
The members of The Electorate (Eliot Fish, Josh Morris & Nick Kennedy) have all been part of the Australian music scene for a number of years, with ties to Big Heavy Stuff, Knievel, The Apartments, Imperial Broads, Atticus, and the Templebears. This invaluable experience has shaped their sound and informed their astute musical choices, evident on their 2020 debut album, You Don’t Have Time to Stay Lost, which received a 4.5-star review from Rolling Stone.
Their latest album, By Design, produced by Wayne Connolly (Teskey Brothers, Babe Rainbow, Underground Lovers), marks the latest culmination of their musical journeys. Each of the album's singles deliberately highlighted a different side of the band — 'Face of a Giant' is angular, ethereal and metronomic, 'Peace Love & Kindness' is frantic, sharp, and political, 'The Great Divide' is vulnerable, honest, and stripped back to its bare bones.
Get ready for a thrilling evening filled with musical insights, fond memories, and an exciting journey through the world of The Electorate.
Full video episode - https://bit.ly/3HxzFHX