Hey Auxdeckers!(Catchy nickname, right?) This week, we’ve decided to start some globetrotting, in light of Bandcamp’s new City Guides series. So we’re bringing you a selection of tracks from cities with music scenes that are worth some exploring. Our first city’s Melbourne, one of the hubs of Australia’s huge community of incredibly prolific musicians. We’ve got synthy alt-rock, punk, some singer-songwriter material, soul, and straight ahead rock’n’roll. Enjoy!
There’s nothing quite like a catchy, blissed out guitar hook that melts right into the background of a great track. If it’s accompanied by a sexy solo outro and an equally catchy chorus, as is the case in Holy Holy’s new single, then just sit back and enjoy the ride.
We couldn’t bring ourselves to post about Melbourne without including the incredibly talented and infamous indie artist Chet Faker. Plush vocals coil their way around a polished beat to produce a finished product that’s, well, golden.
ScotDrakula comes crashing into your eardrums with this hectic single, bursting with a bloated suburban ego that’s just waiting to burst into flames.
Back in the Game- Now let’s head over to the bandshell at the county fair, with The Heartache State’s track “Back in the Game”. The encouraging lyrics and solid beat make it perfect for a hot summer day full of food and fun
Next we have a song from the up-and-coming alternative artist, Courtney Barnett. Known for her witty and wry lyrics, she adds her own twist to the already familiar sound of the softer side of punk rock.
If you’re in the mood for some history and a lot of crying, listen to this heartbreaking song about Laika, the first dog in space. Coincidentally, Wil Wagner sings lead for another band on this playlist, the Smith Street Band.
The Smith Street Band bring us a ear-rattling punk anthem, full of crashing drums, power chords, and a singer who’s attempting to blow his vocal chords out. However, it’s surprisingly nostalgic and joyful.
Aux Deck 