What's so good?
By hmcclure | July 24th, 2012
Australians are proud of their own. Not only does the Splendour in the Grass Festival attract some of the world’s most well-known acts, it also embraces Australia’s overflowing pool of musical talent.
While it’s a place for well-established acts to show their wares and interact with their home crowd, it’s become an incredible platform for rising acts to prove themselves. This year is no different, with a smorgasbord of local bands and artists on show over the three days.
Again, it was a difficult chore to slice through the lineup (which boasts the likes of Wolfmother, The Shins, Missy Higgins and San Cisco), but I’ve done so to bring you my top 10 Australian acts to look out for at this year’s Splendour in the Grass.
"Tame Impala/POND - Fantastic Explosion of Time"
I’m cheating again here. Members of the well-known Tame Impala also play in a band called POND, and fortunate for ticket-holders, both bands will be performing! Tame Impala have a new album dropping very soon, and POND’s latest album
Beards, Wives, Denim was reviewed as “quite possibly the best album released so far this year” by
NME. Enough said.
Download from:
Soundcloud
Note: In many cases we can't share a track for free. So, we either link to sites that can, or provide purchase links (e.g., iTunes).
"Last Dinosaurs - Alps"
Their album
In a Million Years was one of the best local releases of the year, brimming with indie-pop classics. Their music is impossible not to enjoy, and will be perfect for the Splendour stage.
Download from:
Soundcloud
Note: In many cases we can't share a track for free. So, we either link to sites that can, or provide purchase links (e.g., iTunes).
"Gypsy and the Cat - The Piper's Song (Aeroplane Remix)"
Their debut album
Gilgamesh (2010) caught everyone by surprise, and now they’re back with a new album due in August. Their poppy hits like “Jona Vark and “Time to Wander" are bound to be festival favorites.
Download from:
Soundcloud
Note: In many cases we can't share a track for free. So, we either link to sites that can, or provide purchase links (e.g., iTunes).
"Kimbra - Call Me"
This is cheating a little bit, but the Kiwi songstress does live in Australia. Ever since she collaborated on a little tune with Gotye, she’s been on a tear, both at home and internationally. Kimbra will perform at her second straight Splendour after thrilling crowds last year before her star really took off.
Download from:
Soundcloud
Note: In many cases we can't share a track for free. So, we either link to sites that can, or provide purchase links (e.g., iTunes).
"Chet Faker - Jeans & Wallet"
Melbourne’s Chet Faker generated plenty of buzz recently after performing six shows at SXSW. His EP,
Thinking in Textures is a truly innovative and original piece of work.
Download from:
Soundcloud
Note: In many cases we can't share a track for free. So, we either link to sites that can, or provide purchase links (e.g., iTunes).
"Big Scary - Gladiator"
A truly moving band, the duo create emotive and thought-provoking band while maintaining a “twinkle in their eyes.” Their Vacation LP was critically acclaimed locally, being nominated for a swag of awards for best album and artist.
Download from:
Soundcloud
Note: In many cases we can't share a track for free. So, we either link to sites that can, or provide purchase links (e.g., iTunes).
"The Medics - Joseph"
An incredible live-band, the young men from North Queensland band the Medics are on a high after the release of their debut album
Foundations last month. Their frantic, emotional rock will be in high demand for years to come.
Download from:
Soundcloud
Note: In many cases we can't share a track for free. So, we either link to sites that can, or provide purchase links (e.g., iTunes).
"Husky - The Woods"
The Melbourne four-piece have been touring overseas for the past few months after signing to Sub Pop, but will be returning for Splendour shortly. One of the most beautiful bands to come out of Australia in recent times, they’re a rare talent.
Download from:
Soundcloud
Note: In many cases we can't share a track for free. So, we either link to sites that can, or provide purchase links (e.g., iTunes).
"The Rubens - Lay It Down"
Having burst onto the scene in 2011 - seemingly out of nowhere - 2012 has already been a huge year for the Rubens. They’ve seen fans of their soulful tunes flock to their shows, selling out four venues in Melbourne and three in Sydney on their recent tour. With their debut album set for release in the next few months, the four-piece will be one of the buzz bands at the festival.
Download from:
Soundcloud
Note: In many cases we can't share a track for free. So, we either link to sites that can, or provide purchase links (e.g., iTunes).
"Mosman Alder - Raisin Heart"
After their EP
Burn Bright streamed exclusively on our site, Brisbane’s Mosman Alder have quickly become an Indie Shuffle favorite. Their unique, brooding take on folk-rock will be on show for the second straight Splendour in the Grass.
Download from:
Soundcloud
Note: In many cases we can't share a track for free. So, we either link to sites that can, or provide purchase links (e.g., iTunes).
Hugh is based in Sydney, Australia, and lives in a world where music helps him function. He attends up to four gigs a week, and ...learn more →
