Fresh Finds: Class Of 2025 – Aussie Acts To Add To Your Playlist

Matt Etherington, Journalist

Matt Etherington

I began my writing journey exploring the world of data - looking at how algorithms can be used to revolutionise music and catapult unknown artists into the limelight. I'm fascinated by the opportunities that democratisation of music can have in connecting us with artists and sounds we never could have heard otherwise.

I'm a music nerd who loves digging through new releases, and sharing the hidden gems. Writing blogs about underappreciated musicians led me to explore the emotional experiences music can take us through and how these reflect the lived experiences of the artists. I'm passionate about translating and appreciating that aspect of music in new and deeper ways.

Reviews / Live
Live Review: The Wombats
"The crowd certainly made the most of it."
Reviews / Live
Live Review: Tash Sultana, Ocean Alley, Big Words
The crowd was left "breathless and euphoric".
Reviews / Live
Live Review: Nick Cave
"I can’t play that to you for so many reasons."
Reviews / Music
Marlon Williams, Mike Noga
"Williams can hardly be contained by genre."
News / Music
Tim Minchin Blew Our Expectations Away At First Aus Solo Gig In A Decade
"This is it, man, I’m back.”
Reviews / Arts
Dark + Dangerous Thoughts: The Place Of Doubt
"It's much more difficult to dehumanise someone when they're in front of you, beard and all, telling a very human story."
Reviews / Live
Live Review: Alex The Astronaut, Stella Donnelly
"There's a piano solo at this bit, but we couldn't fit it on the plane..."
Reviews / Live
Live Review: San Cisco, Chase City
"New bass guitarist and bona fide rock star Jennifer Aslett hit the ground running with many a slick bass line and a cool stage presence."
Reviews / Live
Live Review: A Day On The Lawn
"Dempsey then delivered a stirring acoustic cover of 'Edge Of Town' before hailing Middle Kids as one of the most exciting prospects on the Australian indie scene."
Reviews / Live
Live Review: Slum Sociable, Teischa
"The fast-rising Melburnians returned straight to the music, crowd-pleaser 'Dancing In The Moonlight' met with silly dance moves from the crowd."
Reviews / Live
Live Review: Gordi, Danny Barwick
"Payten revealed to the audience that the crowd's cheers had become a permanent part of the vocal loop at a previous gig, at which point eager gig-goers cheered trying to replicate this feat."
Reviews / Arts
Alex Williamson
"To those who found his jokes offensive, Williamson kindly invited them to 'go home and watch 'Pingu'."
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