We’re serving up another fresh batch of Happy Mag’s staff picks, with hot releases from the likes of Oliver Cronin and Bella Amor
We’re so close to the end of the year, and while the final schlep towards the festive season often feels like a marathon, we can at least take some solace in the release of new music, and Happy’s weekly staff picks.
A case of Mondayitis or humpday blues is never incurable when your favourite musician drops their long-awaited single, which is why Happy Mag collates our favourite new releases at the end of each week.
This week’s batch is coming in hot, with the return of Aussies finest singer songwriters, Oliver Cronin, and Bella Amor and the debut projects of some imminent breakout stars.
So go on then, crack yourself a cold one and catch up on all the tunes you might’ve missed this week with Happy Mag’s staff picks.
Oliver Cronin— 1,2,3 (with Tropic)
Closing out a prolific year, Australian dark-pop artist Oliver Cronin collaborates with German producer Topic on the summer-ready anthem ‘1,2,3.’
This track sees the Sydney-based artist venturing into an electronic soundscape elevated by Topic’s distinctive production blend. The collaboration showcases Oliver in a bright sonic perspective while maintaining the essence of dark-pop lyricism.
Underlay — Family Lines
Underlay, the indie-rock artist (aka Cody Brougham), has dropped his final single of the year, giving us a glimpse of his upcoming EP, ‘Sick Like A Kid,’ out on February 2, 2024.
The track, ‘Family Lines,’ reflects the early stages of Cody’s relationship, exploring the complexities of post-serious-commitment dating. Produced with Vacations’ frontman Campbell Burns, the EP encapsulates Cody’s journey through three different houses from 2020 to 2022, following a house fire during the chaos of 2020.
Bella Amor — my first demo (weekend lover)
Bella Amor takes us on a nostalgic journey with ‘my first demo (weekend lover),’ one of her earliest recorded tracks. This stripped-back piece showcases Bella’s exceptional songwriting skills and vocal range, capturing her vulnerability and honesty.
‘my first demo (weekend lover)’ reinforces the star quality that has been a constant in Bella Amor’s music journey since her debut single, ‘cant get laid’.
Broxton — Depth Of My Colour
Broxton’s latest release ‘Depth of my Colour,’ is the first single from his upcoming third album, ‘Bloom,’ featuring collaboration with Project Sonic. The kanamaluka/Launceston musician and producer partnered with friends to create a progressive indie track that follows his sophomore album, ‘Patience.’ Drawing inspiration from musician Tom Fowkes, and with a desire to explore the indie genre, he enlisted Project Sonic to join the musical journey.
In Broxton’s words, “I keep saying to everyone it’s my best yet. I can’t tell if I’m unconsciously trying to manifest it or if it really is true.” Stay tuned for the unveiling of “Depth of my Colour” as a glimpse into Broxton’s evolving musical landscape.
Lisa O’Neil— All Of This Is Chance
Irish folk singer Lisa O’Neill has announced a comprehensive Australian tour in 2024, including appearances at Woodford Folk Festival and WOMADelaide. Known for her soul-stirring songwriting and mastery of guitar and banjo, O’Neill’s live performances, described as a mix of originals and interpretations, captivate with stark music and a uniquely charismatic stage presence.
Her latest album, ‘All of This Is Chance,’ showcases orchestral masterpieces and contemplations on nature, earning her accolades and affirming her status as a cultural hero.
Leaving Jordan — Hidden
Leaving Jordan are a 5-piece indie/punk/rock outfit hailing from around Byron Bay . Over the past couple of years, they have rocked stages from Brissy to Byron, sharing bills with names like Ruby Fields, Death by Denim, JK-47, and more. Proudly headlining shows for 250-500 attendees, they are about to roll out their EP, ‘Better Late Than Never.’
Their latest track, ‘Hidden,’ delves into more intimate themes. Despite its heavier undertones, the message is about rising above perceived problems, finding strength, and embracing flaws. With over 15k plays on previous singles, the band is gearing up for a strong start in the new year, with live shows and the EP’s full release.
Hidden Cycles — Ready and Steady
‘Ready And Steady’ is a raw, vital anthem exuding optimism, embracing impending change while acknowledging the inability to control every outcome. Following the ethos of ‘long songs played quickly,’ this visceral and catchy math rock blast clocks in at just under 2 minutes.
Fans of Mclusky, The Bronx, and Hot Snakes will find resonance in its dynamic energy and spirited embrace of transformation.
Wishy— Paradise
Wishy has dropped their debut EP, “Paradise,” spearheaded by celebrated Indiana songwriters Kevin Krauter and Nina Pitchkites. The band has quickly become a standout in 2023, gaining significant buzz with early singles like “Donut,” “Too True,” and “Spinning.”
The band is being hailed as a promising new group with a fuzzy, immersive, with an irresistibly catchy take on dream pop.
Check out Happys Best New Music here via our weekly mixtape:
