https://www.southernfm.com.au/category/breaking-barriers/

Breaking Barriers, Brighton East (2025)

28/06/2025

Today's show:

Created by BEAT ENTERTAINMENT and RECKŌNING SOUNDS, and produced by Performing Lines, AUNTY will take over Northcote Town Hall Arts Centre for one glorious night. The night will be serving up a showcase of Naarm’s best and baddest: cabaret and performance artists, DJs, pop-up performances, impromptu vogueing sessions, and uninhibited Black Q***r Beauty from the stage to the dancefloor.

Channelling his Māori and Nigerian roots, the Melbourne-based multi-hyphenate, Samuel and creative partner Johnny Hamilton created RECKŌNING: Te Waiata Paihere Wairua—an intercultural exploration of indigeneity and ancestry, which went on to win four awards at Melbourne Fringe Awards and toured nationally.

Velvet Bloom’s debut EP Glimmer served as a catalyst for their rise, released through independent label Cousin Will Records (The Grogans), and saw them tour nationally across Australia, and taking the stage at esteemed venues including Lazy Bones, The Night Cat, The NGV, Loch Hart Music Festival, MONA, St Kilda Festival, Mordi Fest and many more.

Velvet Bloom's music transcends genres, a sonic voyage through the cosmos with Maddy Herbert’s soulful prowess and lyricism serving as a beacon of authenticity, with each band member and musician adding their own flair to the group's project and kaleidoscopic soundscape.

Written during a soul-searching trip to the US and developed with longtime producer Cameron McKenzie (Mark Seymour), New City New Love is a 3:34 adrenaline rush — a driving indie-rock storm that begins with an ominous intro and explodes into a hook- heavy groove, open guitar lines setting the scene for Jones’s emotive, road-worn vocal.

New City New Love imagines a world rebuilt — brick by brick, scar by scar — where outsiders find power in unity, and change is not feared but embraced.
It’s not just a track. It’s a movement set to music.

07/06/2025

Two amazing acts on today!

1: Since their 2019 debut, Arabella and The Heist have embodied the pumped up and unhinged energy of the icons of rock and seduction of punk, encouraging their listeners to let loose and get wild. Now, ‘Ruckus’ marks the dawn of a new age for them.

Fizzling with static energy, ‘Ruckus’ is a storm of electric party beats mixed with harsh rock noise, overdriven guitar and amped up drums, making for a track that feels straight from a noughties house party. It’s loud, it’s infectious, and it’s unapologetically Arabella and The Heist.

Arabella and The Heist are taking this whirlwind energy on their east-coast tour: ignited by the raw energy ‘Ruckus', they’re taking the defiance of punk and infectious energy of dance to venues all along the coast with a setlist of new and old songs that’s fast, loud, straight to the point, and sure to establish Arabella and The Heist as one of Australia’s newest electrifying acts.

2: Celebrated for her innovative and cultural impact, Mỹ Anh made history as the first Vietnamese Gen Z artist to appear on New York’s Times Square Screen in Spotify’s EQUAL campaign, honouring outstanding global female artists.

Mỹ Anh burst onto the scene with her debut single ‘Got You’. She has since received the ‘Outstanding New Face’ award at the Làn Sóng Xanh Music Award and a nomination for ‘New Artist of the Year’ at the Cống Hiến Awards. She was selected to participate in the A COLORS SHOW project in 2024. She released her debut album Em—a collection of nine R&B/Soul tracks exploring themes of love, ambition, and self-discovery. This was followed by the English version, Me, in February 2024, and a physical edition, Em•Me (Full Circle Edition), quickly sold out.

For Mỹ Anh, phases of the moon is more than just an artistic endeavour. It is a personal reckoning. Through the process of writing and producing this project, she deepened her relationship with her own emotions, resisting the urge to seek external distractions and instead finding solace within herself.

31/05/2025

Five amazing aussie artists on today's show:

1. The Burbs are back — and they’re not holding back. The Bells Beach trio known for their grunge-tinged, pop-hooked intensity deliver a raw, gut-punch of a track with There’s No Time For Presents. Recorded at Sing Sing Studios with producer Aaron Dobos, the song channels dark, confessional storytelling into a visceral acoustic landscape, punctuated by the eerie, knife-sharp percussion of a pocketknife slicing through paper.

Fuelled by muted guitars and a rhythm section that simmers beneath Brook Mckeon’s haunting vocal delivery, the track builds from a melancholic pulse to a climactic chorus. The lyrics cut deep, reflecting on moments of powerlessness and the weight of failing those we love. “What a nice weight to get off your chest / All it took was a pocketknife and a press” — it’s a line that lingers, haunting in its simplicity, devastating in its impact.

2. A five-piece folk rock band from Walyalup (Western Australia), Lloyd & the Leftovers are set on bringing the sounds of indie-folk americana to Australian shores. With their performances at festivals like Nungarin Festival and the City of Fremantle Winter Festival, album and single features on radio station RTRFM, and their sold out headline shows at the Buffalo Club and Clancy's Fish Pub, it’s clear their fanbase is eager and growing, and with their electric, energetic live shows and character-packed DIY recordings, it’s clear why.

‘Tried It On Tuesday’ is the culmination of their creative nature: a hopeless romantic’s ode to their creative partner. With a fitting vocal twang and skilfully plucked guitar, the song conveys an atmosphere both wistful and hopeful. The clear, open vocals and perfectly balanced mixing let the lyrics of the song really shine, along with the story within them.

3. Deeply embedded in the Melbourne music scene, SIDELINES first emerged as the frontman of beloved pop-punk/emo outfit Snark and now performs as guitarist/vocalist with All Regards.

His second offering, ‘Sleep Alone’, is equal parts comforting and cathartic — a breakup anthem soaked in heartache and clarity. Featuring soft guitars, crisp pop drums, grooving bass lines, and SIDELINES’ signature mournful vocals, the track builds from aching verses into a stadium-sized chorus. It’s a song made for long night drives, late-night spirals, or letting it all out at top volume.

4. Known for her dynamic vocal looping, four-octave range and dynamic stage presence, Tanya George is now stepping out from behind her looping station and in front of her six-piece live band, revealing her new single 'Serious' out Wednesday 30 April via Xelon giving listeners the first glimpse of a new direction and her long-awaited debut album Contrast.

Embodying innovation, her genre-blending sound fusing soul, jazz, and electro-pop bursts through the barriers in 'Serious', with a strong message for women in music and their personal lives. All music and lyrics written by Tanya George, for this new phase of her career, she has also stepped into the role of producer and mixer in collaboration with Lewis Pidutti, with the track being mastered by Lachlan Carrick.

5. Sunshine Is Here — Marcus Turk Drops the Ultimate Feel-Good Country Rock Jam
Marcus Turk is bringing the feel-good vibes with his brand-new single Sunshine — a sun-soaked anthem that radiates warmth, freedom, and the kind of easy going romance that turns any getaway into a memory.

Teaming up with powerhouse guitarist and producer David Holmes, along with heavyweights Jeff Camilleri (Graeme Connors) on bass and Mitch Farmer (Andrew Farris) on drums, Marcus has crafted a track that captures the carefree bliss of a road trip with someone you love. Inspired by a simple comment from his wife about the weather, Sunshine weaves together snapshots of time spent away, soaking up the sun and rekindling that unmistakable spark.

24/05/2025

On the show today -

Queensland Music Award finalist and proud Wayilwan woman Sunny Luwe invites listeners into an intimate moment of truth with her new single ‘Letter to the Future’, releasing Friday, May 23. This soul-stirring track is a heartfelt message for the next generation—a gentle but urgent call to take action on the climate crisis, wrapped in acoustic simplicity and deep emotional resonance.

First written in 2020 during her time as a full-time teacher, the song was completed last year with support from her husband and producer Matthew Collins (WHARVES), and it stands as one of Sunny’s most personal works to date. Originally intended as part of a future album, the growing urgency of the climate crisis prompted Sunny to release it as a standalone single.

Take it back to the golden days of folk with Clare Perrott’s dulcet voice and darling chord progressions in her debut single ‘Philadelphia’, out on Friday, May 16.

Fresh off an appearance at Woodford Folk Festival 24-25, Clare Perrott is an up-and-coming Boorloo-based alt-folk musician that’s eager to share her creations with the world. With her musical influences from artists of years past, her songs are powerful numbers that tell stories and tug on the heartstrings.

Her debut single, ‘Philadelphia’, is the perfect example of this-- a raw, powerful song with nylon guitar and twangy emotive vocals that showcase her evocative range. This song is packed with yearning, and the grief that comes with the changes that happen to a relationship.

Time is another captivating release from GLVES (pronounced Gloves), a Magandjin-based alt-pop interdisciplinary artist. Known for her layered vocals, rich electronic textures, and immersive storytelling, GLVES crafts music that lives between worlds — emotive, imaginative, and resonant. She has performed at major festivals including Dark M**o, Splendour in the Grass, Ministry of Sound Classical, and Yabun.

With her signature blend of cinematic pop, Time offers a more light-filled take on GLVES’ evolving sound. Anchored by her unmistakable voice, shimmering synths, and afrobeat-inspired rhythms, the track is polished and dynamic — showcasing GLVES as both emotionally powerful and creatively distinct.

03/05/2025

On the show today:

Australia’s next breakout sensation Piper Wallin takes a fearless step forward with the release of 20 Seconds, a sharp-edged pop anthem bursting with attitude, vulnerability, and undeniable hooks.

Following the success of her debut Only One, which racked up over 17,000 Spotify streams, Piper doubles down on the emotional honesty and dancefloor-ready pulse that set her apart. Produced by industry heavyweight Liam Quinn, 20 Seconds rides a dramatic opening into an explosive chorus, spotlighting Piper’s vocal prowess and magnetic presence.

Next up:

Bundjalung/Byron Bay-based indie-punk outfit Off Judy return with their anthemic single 'Lean In' – produced and mixed by Alain Decarne (Les Krills, Tropical Zombie).

'Lean In' unfolds with shimmering guitars accompanied by lively drums, setting the backdrop for Finn Mcildowie's dynamic vocals as he captures a striking balance of raw vulnerability and introspective clarity. Stepping away from their penchant for high-energy power punk grooves, 'Lean In' treads the lines between folk, punk, and poetic storytelling with sun-drenched riffs, backbeat-driven rhythms and melodies mirroring late-night chats at a bar.

05/04/2025

On today's show: Australian R&B pop sensation Anirban Jee returns triumphantly with the electrifying new single Are We Gonna, an irresistible dance anthem destined for international acclaim.

Are We Gonna is expertly produced by Sydney's sought-after Tony Cvetkovski (Top Cat Music Productions), seamlessly blends sleek, contemporary pop-dance rhythms with Anirban’s unmistakable smooth vocals, crafting a track that pulses with excitement and emotional immediacy.

22/02/2025

‘Spark’, the bands first release since 2023, is without a doubt the pinnacle of their musical output thus far; with confident, infectious vocal melodies; airtight production and dynamic performances - Figurehead feel like they’ve arrived on ‘Spark’.

‘Spark’ was recorded along with two other singles during a week-long stay at Tone City recording studio in Yalingup, with producer Sam Ford (Dice, Dear Sunday, Siobhan Cotchin). One could draw sonic comparisons to Australian indie contemporaries The Rions, South Summit or The Vanns on ‘Spark’- but the sound Figurehead have conjured on this recent release still feels wholly their own. With expansive instrumentation that feels up every corner of the track, the up-and-coming 6-piece sound like they are destined for festival stages on their latest single.

Dark indie triad Mecha Mecha is bringing the heat on Thursday, February 20 in their newest woeful tale ‘Mourning In The Evening’, an epic and moody song built on the rubble of a seminal breakup. Releasing with it, is its demo, ‘The Worst Dream’.

The lyrics of this song are heavy and emotional, as the singer grieves a breakup like it’s a death, but looking down on himself from an external perspective, as a means to cope with the end of a significant relationship.

In addition to this exciting release, Joan & The Giants have just announced a monumental opportunity—they will be supporting global superstars P!NK and Tones And I at the Optus Stadium in Perth on March 1 and 2.

Fittingly, with the good news and high-spirited energy surrounding Joan & The Giants, 'Good Time' is, as the title suggests, all about having a good time. As a lush and euphoric indie rock trip, 'Good Time' captures the essence of letting go, unwinding, and experiencing the pure joy of a moment.

Beaming with an exhilarating sense of freedom, the dreamy anthem is soaked with layers of flourishing guitars, full-bodied bass and Grace Newton-Wordsworth's stunning vocal delivery with lyrics that imbue ecstasy and that token sense of enchantment JATG are known for. Infused with warm, buoyant vibes, the track is set to become a soundtrack for late-night drives, moonlit ocean dips, and the intoxicating rush of first love.

Having the absolute best time, 2024 has Joan & the Giants building on the success of their recent single, 'Beg', and their incredible 2023 that had them showcase at BIGSOUND, support Eskimo Joe, and land seven nominations at the WA Music Awards, where they secured awards for Best Alternative/Indie Act, Best Single ('Cool Kid'), and Best Music Video ('Cool Kid').

15/02/2025

Today on the show:

Sydney-based indie soul and pop sensation Kristin Venae is back with her highly anticipated new track, Still Here, a masterful blend of pop, funk, and dance that showcases her signature sultry elegance and powerhouse vocals. With influences from icons like Prince, Mariah Carey, and Whitney Houston, Kristin delivers a bold and timeless anthem that cements her place as a rising star in modern music.

TRILLA is the project of Yugambeh/Gold Coast-based Q***r/Lesbian artist Trilla Sol, who is often compared to the likes of Stevie Nicks, Angie McMahon and Tash Sultana. TRILLA also runs her own community event called Spell Song, a ceremonial rock show held over the past two years with the aim of bringing people together. TRILLA explains, "Bringing people together is very close to my heart. I frequently gather with the community to sing and dance together in circle and full expression. No matter how big I get, I will always desire to hold intimate community events."

'Stronger', released on Friday, January 31, is a reflection of Lucy's personal journey, showcasing her exceptional talents in a radiant way. The song, centered around reclaiming strength, is driven by drums that echo like a steady heartbeat. The piano chords throughout add a touch of melancholy, which contrasts beautifully with the empowering and vibrant energy of the chorus. In an impassioned statement that stems from her own lived experiences, Korts said: "I hope that 'Stronger' can remind you to be stronger than whatever it is that hurt you."

08/02/2025

For today: Breaking the fourth wall with a sledgehammer and her newest single ‘No Main Character’ is Bailey Perrie, Perth’s rising star. With theatrical vocals and storytelling, ‘No Main Character’ will enchant you, released yesterday!

Next on the show, With melancholic guitar and the loveliest vocals, Zanna Black lets out into the world her latest single, ‘This Town’ and its wistful music video, also out on the 7th February!

01/02/2025

🎙️📻 On the show today from 2pm:

Fresh from her regional Victoria and NSW tour, multi-instrumentalist and dynamic artist Kat Greta returns with her latest single, 'Summer Daze' (out yesterday Friday, Jan 31). With its unique, modern-60s and joyful sound, the track captures the vibrancy of the Australian summer while showcasing Kat’s original and free-spirited style!

Next up Oli from Sydney’s Refinery Drive have returned for the New Year with the goods in new single ‘Headlights’.
“For the first time we included some electronic drums creating a really cool blend of styles and it was something that worked so much better than we had expected! Every time we write a new song we aim to create something better than the last and we really feel like we have achieved that with this new track!”

To close the trifecta, hot off the back of the ‘Honey Honey’ single, the first taste of an upcoming EP I Am Major Zulu due for release on Friday 2 May, 'Down Under' (released Thursday) is inspired by Major Zulu's relocation to Sydney and being awoken by the city's vibrant cosmopolitanism, the expansive Australian landscape, and its raw beauty with an emphasis on outdoor living, which stirred a forgotten sense of freedom and adventure.

25/01/2025

On the show today:

Darren Gillis “Cuss the Black Dog” articulates the turmoil in one’s mind when they’re at their lowest point. With a frontline background, Darren Gillis has witnessed the effects of and lost close friends to the black dog. He wrote this song to raise awareness with an empowering message to keep marching forward and holding your ground. Having a brush with the black dog himself, he knows too well that many suffer in silence. There is always someone who will listen. He hopes that this moody and empowering track will relate to those who are or have suffered and shift their thoughts towards standing up, reaching out and fighting.

18/01/2025

What better way to spend a warm Melbourne day than listening to conversations with Aussie artists who break barriers with their incredible music!?

First up, Eora/Sydney-based punk rock quintet FANGZ have just unveiled their new show 'The Night Show with Cottreau' - shot and directed by Rhys Bennett (DZ Deathrays, Totally Unicorn).

'The Night Show with Cottreau' is a take on how the media often gives the wrong people a platform. Whether it's reality stars, criminals, or athletes, they're handed the mic to share opinions or sell products. By doing that, the media not only amplifies them but makes them seem relatable, even likable, just because they're entertaining. It's a look at how easily narratives can be controlled, and it leaves you unsure of what to believe.

Next, Mulubinba/Newcastle punks Dead Mall have returned with their latest single ‘GASOLINE’; a fiery, 2 minute belter that lyrically draws from a classic 20-year-old comedy skit.

Dead Mall have been working away at a fresh batch of songs since the release of their previous single back in 2023, and its immediately obvious on ‘GASOLINE’ that the band have evolved ten-fold during the process. Not straying too far from their hardcore influences, ‘GASOLINE’ is still full to the brim with breakneck riffage - but the production and songwriting as a whole is a significant step up from the raw, chaotic sound found in the band’s earlier output.

Setting the sun on another show, Castle Hughes, the rising music star from Western Australia, unveils her latest single, Chasing Sunsets, a vibrant follow-up to her heartfelt hit Why. With its infectious melodies, evocative lyrics, and a blend of pop, rock, and indie vibes, Chasing Sunsets cements Hughes’s reputation as an artist who captures raw emotion with an effortless modern edge.
Chasing Sunsets invites listeners into a world of hope and connection, celebrating life’s shared adventures and moments of introspection.

The track’s dynamic arrangement—beginning with a driving groove and building through powerful choruses—showcases Hughes’s signature ability to marry intimacy with grandeur. Lyrically, it paints a picture of love, trust, and a boundless sense of possibility, wrapped in the warmth of a cinematic sunset.

Breaking Barriers

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Breaking Barriers starts with conversation.