Being an Australian, I may be heavily biased when it comes to telling the world about the quality of my country’s homegrown talent. But the proof is in the pudding (or charts?) and we truly have some of the most talented musicians in the world. So ready your ears for some extreme talent, because some of these artists have taken over the Aussie and NZ charts, others are rising stars, and many have toured with some of the most notable acts in the world. Here are five Australian (ok, and New Zealand) musos you need to hear.
New Empire: This Cronulla based four-piece have made a name for themselves since 2006, and aside from opening for Switchfoot and Owl City, their single “On Heart/Million Voices” was chosen as the theme song for the 2012 Commonwealth Games. After signing to Tooth & Nail earlier this year, they released their third album, In A Breath, complete with a national tour.
Brooke Fraser: If you haven’t heard about Brooke Fraser, go and search her on YouTube immediately. The singer/songwriter is known for her soulful voice and distinctive acoustic and piano-based tunes. Heralding from New Zealand, her third album, Brutal Romantic, signals her comeback to the charts after a four-year hiatus.
AIRPORTS: In recent years, the electronic/dance genre has taken off, and this duo, made of Aaron Lee and Nathan Moss, has positioned itself at the forefront of the movement in Australia. Lee is also known as DJ Northie, and these guys have captivated young people with their energetic performances on the festival circuit. Having just signed to Parachute Music NZ, big things are coming from these boys.
Evermore: This indie-folk band from New Zealand now live in Melbourne, and brothers Jon and Peter Hume have made quite an impression on the Aussie and NZ charts since their debut album, Dreams, was released in 2004. Their songs are vulnerable, honest, and have anthems for gen Y; and they are also dang good musicians to see perform live. They released their fourth studio album, Follow The Sun, in 2012.
The Veronicas: Australia fell in love with these sisters in 2005, but after topping the charts, they ran into conflict with their record label and went quiet for a few years. Now back with the compelling, “You Ruin Me,” Lisa and Jess Origliasso have a new, more mature sound, and have just released a self-titled album.