The DVD features an unreleased documentary and a stripped back acoustic session. There’s also every Josh Pyke music video (including the UK ones!), concert footage from last year’s sold-out show at The Metro, and a hidden “fans” section. I have no clue what that’s all about, but it sounds intriguing!

It sounds like a great stocking stuffer for the Josh Pyke fan in your life, or an early Christmas present for yourself!

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Propelled to super-stardom thanks to the Oscar-winning success of their indie film Once, the artists have remained fiercely independent and utterly compelling. Seeing them live is a profoundly moving experience.

Their latest Australian visit coincides with the release of their new album, Strict Joy, which is in stores now. The band will play the Byron Bay Bluesfest and intimate sideshows in the following capital cities.

25 March 2010 – Palais Theatre, Melbourne
31 March 2010 – Thebarton Theatre, Adelaide
5 April 2010 – Opera House, Sydney

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“We’re going to get some very talented people,” said Mark Ronson. “Then, add the wealth of experience of the artists we’re collaborating with, plus me producing it, it almost seems like it’s scientifically engineered to create the best song possible.”

That song will become the soundtrack for next year’s Tooheys Extra Dry: The Lab advertising campaign. The winner’s journey will also be filmed for a fly-on-the-wall documentary, which will be released next March. With all that promotion, the winner is bound to become a household name.

If you want that lucky musician to be you, head to the Tooheys Extra Dry: The Lab website for all the details. But don’t delay. Bands and solo artists need to register their interest before November 18.

Image used with permission from Peer Group Media

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“Out of Control” marks a comeback of sorts for the band, who hit the airwaves with “In Your Hands” in 2007. It was recorded earlier this year with acclaimed music producer Stuart Stuart (The Veronicas, Small Mercies). It’s just a taste of what’s to come, with the band preparing to release a five-track EP, Crossing Paths, in December. In the EP, the band draws on their experiences dealing with drummer Peter Hofbauer’s motorcycle accident. He was admitted to intensive care with internal bleeding, head damage, and a broken clavicle. It sounds like a hairy experience which should make for some pretty intense tunes.

Ahead of the EP release, Tin Alley will play the following pub shows around their home state of Victoria.

12 November 2009 – The Espy, Melbourne
13 November 2009 – The Yahoo Bar, Shepparton
14 November 2009 – Newmarket Hotel, Bendigo
22 November 2009 – Cusion Lounge, Melbourne

Image used with permission from AAA Entertainment

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The concert dates will give local music fans the first taste of Pendulum’s latest album, the follow-up to the chart smash In Silico. The as yet untitled CD is slated for a summer 2010 release.

The original trio – Rob Swire, Gareth McGrillen, and Paul “El Hornet” Harding will play seven dates with MC Verse. The shows include appearances at BBQ Beats, Summadayze, and a special New Years Eve show at Sydney’s Luna Park.

It’s the Perth band’s first trip home since their massive sets at this year’s Big Day Out tour. Considering the enthusiastic reaction then, you’ll want to snap up tickets to these shows quick smart.

18 December 2009 – Brown Alley, Melbourne
19 December 2009 – Halo, Hobart
26 December 2009 – Metro City, Perth
30 December 2009 – Phat, Nelson
31 December 2009 – Luna Park, Sydney
1 January 2010 – Summadayze, Adelaide
1 January 2010 – BBQ Beats, Brisbane

Image source: Newscom

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If I had any criticism of the EP, it’s that the songs are a little samey. Yet when each tune is this much fun, I don’t really mind the lack of variety. I’d hope to see more light and shade in an album, but the formula works fine for a quickie EP. The melodic rock tunes compel you to punch your fists in the air, while the synthesizers add just a dash of retro flair. The energy levels are turned up to eleven, making me wonder just how hard these guys would rock in the live arena.

True Love Stories Never Have Endings is seriously compelling, and like all good EPs, it leaves me wanting more.

Image source: Starlight Theatre MySpace page

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Having said that, I think James Johnston did a credible job of Toto’s “Hold The Line.” His voice is growing stronger every week, and his performance skills are also getting better. But he still feels a little underdone a lot of the time. The power songs theme only exposes the weaknesses. He’s just not quite ready for songs so big.

I’m not sure exactly why, but Hayley Warner’s take on U2’s “One” didn’t work for me. I simply didn’t connect, and it seems to me that she didn’t either. It felt boring and frankly a little sing-song in places. It just didn’t have the emotional grit, which is something I’ve never accused Hayley of. This just didn’t ring true.

I was really excited to hear Stan Walker was tackling Survivor’s “Eye of the Tiger.” Sadly though he didn’t live up to my expectations. He performed well, but the vocals were a little patchy in places. It just seemed too big for him. It was a good performance, but not a great one. I’m used to hearing greatness though.

James redeemed himself with his second song, a cover of Extreme’s “More Than Words.” This was always one of my favourite songs growing up, and he did it justice. Whenever he picks up the guitar, he excels. He should really do it more often. He looks more natural and seems more connected to the music when he’s strumming away. This is a really good space for him to work in. I loved it.

Hayley Warner definitely gave us a lot more with her take on “New Sensation.” Yet for some reason I still wasn’t impressed tonight. Initially it didn’t feel like she was quite in the pocket, and the rest of the time it just didn’t get into fifth gear. It was solid, but she didn’t knock it out of the park.

Stan Walker was back to his best with James Brown’s “It’s a Man’s World.” There is so compelling about Stan when he just stands there and sings. When he is still he draws you in like no one else in this competition. Performances like this are exactly why he’s still in this competition.

It’s a shame that James left his version of Foo Fighters’ “Learn to Fly” til last. This was Foo Fighters Lite. He took an indie anthem and made it a middle of the road pop rock song. It was technically flawless, but it lacked any real guts.

Hayley Warner was much smarter than James, saving her best until last. Her take on “Bittersweet Symphony” was sublime. For the first time tonight, she soared. For the first time tonight, it felt like Hayley was being Hayley. This was a really good reminder about why she’s here.

On power songs night I expected to hear big chunky guitars and chords. I didn’t expect the kind of power Stan delivered on “Amazing Grace.” It was quite simply incredible. This was an Idol moment, the kind of which we have not seen this season. Talk about saving the best to the last.

Stan Walker is the only certainty for the finale as far as I’m concerned. It seems the smart choice to think that James, who came so close to going home before, might stumble at the final hurdle. But you know? The voters might just surprise us.

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The pair has been considering the double act since playing together at the Troubadour reunion shows in 2007. Their historic Troubadour Reunion tour will kick off in Australia next March before reaching the United States in May.

Dates are yet to be finalised, but we can expect the official announcement sometime soon. I can’t wait. I saw Carole King on her Living Room tour a few years ago and was floored. Add James Taylor to the bill and you’ve got the recipe for one amazing night of music.

Image source: Newscom

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The track, which was recorded under the guidance of hot new producer Adrian Karvinen, features an infectious bass line, catchy guitar licks, and a groove which makes you want to move! The track is the first taste of the band’s sophomore release, which is due for an early 2010 release.

To celebrate the release, the lads will play The Cambridge Hotel in their hometown of Newcastle on November 20, and Sydney’s Club 77 on November 27. Fans in Melbourne, Brisbane, and Adelaide should keep an eye on the band’s MySpace page as dates there are soon to be announced.

Image used with permission from Peer Group Media

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You’ll find the festival less than an hour out of Brisbane in stunning natural forests and parklands. The natural beauty of the area promises to be the perfect backdrop for this brilliant festival.

To help you enjoy the festivities a little better, all tickets include complimentary camping passes. The grounds are named at some of Brisbane’s most beloved music acts. Stay in Regurgitatorville or Custard Central! Both sites have six amenities blocks with flushing toilets and showers, a welcome relief for those girly music fans like myself! Powered sites are also available for those who want to camp in luxury.

The Lost Weekend takes place from Friday March 5 to Sunday March 7. Two-day and three-day passes are available now through the Lost Weekend website, Moshtix, Rocking Horse Records, Butter Beats, Kill The Music, and The Music Shop.

Image source: Sanja Gjenero @ Stock.xchng

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