Words by Kate Johnson

THE SUNDIALS - ‘TELEPATH’ (SINGLE)

Music isn’t what it used to be? Adelaide six-piece, The Sundials have a solution. Like it’s ripped from a 70’s funk record, ‘Telepath’ has that ‘back in the day’ feel, only with lots of 2024, foot-stomping style and Aussie accents! This is their third release from the upcoming debut EP, and they bring the buzz using drums, saxophone, 12-string guitar and endearing local vocals. ‘Telepath’ has rhythm like Cage the Elephant, riffs like your dad’s record collection and a bubbly, live-show energy. You’ll hear this and suspect they wear flared pants. Which they do.

Listen to ‘Telepath’ here.

THE FLYING SQUAD - ‘ANXIETY PRAYER’ (SINGLE)

You’re at a party. See that guy huddled in the corner with a notebook? It’s probably the lyricist of The Flying Squad. ‘Anxiety Prayer’ is the anthem that speaks to the wrath of social anxiety; the good news is, being all in your head isn’t so bad with a sick country backing track. Production is crisp, tight and uplifting, while verses and chorus flow slide each other. With harmonious vocals and an American twang to match, this simple and infectious track has the whole party singing along by the end.

Listen to ‘Anxiety Prayer’.

NONNIE - ‘NECTAR’ (SINLGE)

Hitting the feels! Adelaide three-piece NONNIE sum up feeling ‘used’ in their new tune, ‘Nectar’. It’s catchy, with witty and self-aware lyricism, and intergalactic hyper production. Headphones on and you’re transcended into a video game, or arcade, or 2005 – I can’t decide which. The chaotic energy is maintained through switching up techniques: check out the changes of rhythm, pace, auto-tune use and muffled vocals. ‘Nectar’ is a ball of sunshine, and these Adelaide kids have a huge discography to back this one up.

Listen to ‘Nectar’ here.

TOWNHOUSE – ‘UNINSPIRED’

TOWNHOUSE sound bored of their excuses in ‘uninspired’. Each line oozes self-pity and regret, in two minds whether to excuse bad behaviour or face fears in order to change. You’re visualising a guy, head in hands, thanks to their raspy, thoughtful dictation and clever metaphors. Musically it’s clean: both beachy and grungy with the electric guitar performing in-ear acrobatics. TOWNHOUSE’s indie-rock track ‘uninspired’ is a journey: it’s your journey. Because acknowledging your setbacks are planting a seed for growth.

Listen to ‘Uninspired’ here.

THE HAZYS - ‘HAD ENOUGH’

Another indie band from Adelaide have entered the ring: ‘Had Enough’ is the debut single from The Hazys. It shimmers, pops and rocks with likeable, bubbly vocals. Melody is core to this song, evoking feel-good vibes perfect for a road trip or a summertime gig. Notably, the vocalist changes pace by spitting speedy sentences: he’s waggling his tongue while we’re on our toes. Wrapping it up, feminine and male vocals harmonise joyfully, opening the door to sing-along valley: Adelaide’s version of Spacey Jane, anyone?

Listen to ‘Had Enough’ here.