Sheppard compile exclusive ‘Songs From Down Under’ playlist
Songs from Down Under
I figured there’d be so much great Australian music that doesn’t get heard overseas, so I’ve chosen some of my favourites, some old, some new, some better known than others, but all fantastic examples of how rich and diverse our music culture is here in Australian.
“Disciples” by Tame Impala
Disciples is a short, but standout track on Tame Impala’s critically acclaimed album “Currents”. Super quirky, vintage pop at its finest. The way the sound of the production changes from old-school to modern 44 seconds in is amazing.
“Learnalilgivinanlovin” by Gotye
Although you may only know him from his super hit “Somebody that I Used To Know”, Gotye has been releasing incredibly diverse and uniquely stylized music in Australia since 2001 – and no two songs sound alike. “Learnalilgivinanlovin” is the first track I ever heard from Gotye, and it’s funky motown vibe instantly pulled me in. His other tracks “Hearts A Mess”, “Easy Way Out” and “State of the Art” deserve honourable mentions here too.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U-u-uA8I8Jg
“My Happiness” by Powderfinger
You can’t have a list of Australian music without featuring the great Powderfinger. A rock band which wasn’t super well known overseas, but was an unstoppable force in Australia during their years performing together. Their song “My Happiness” is a true Australian classic.
“Surrender” by Ball Park Music
Hailing from our home town of Brisbane, Ball Park Music are one of the most interesting bands to emerge on the Australian music scene in recent memory. Quirky, intelligent songwriting, coupled with an energetic powerhouse of a live show easily earns Ball Park Music a place on this playlist. “Surrender” is one of their more direct efforts at writing a ‘hit’ pop song, and it’s a true gem of the genre. Their songs “Coming Down” and “All I Want Is You” deserve a mention here too.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rPgQ6B6CAE
“Waves” by Dean Lewis
Dean Lewis is a new Australian singer/songwriter who’s currently impacting the airwaves with his epic single “Waves”. The song’s uniquely progressive structure and beautifully crafted melodies tug at the heartstrings and earn it a place on this list.
“Are You Gonna Be My Girl?” by Jet
Another true Australian classic, and one of the greatest rocks songs of the century, if not of all time. If you haven’t heard this song by now, then get on it. The song is just way too much fun, and rightly earned Jet a place as one of the most loved rock bands in Australian music history.
“Never Be Like You (Wave Racer Remix)” by Flume
I’m sure this brilliant Aussie tune is no stranger to your ear holes by now, but this remix by fellow Aussie producer Wave Racer is something to behold. It adds a funky new dimension to Flume’s international hit song, and is one of those rare remixes that is able to stand alone as a great production in its own right, whilst staying true to the original.
“Gold” by Chet Faker
Chet Faker dominated the international music scene in 2014/15 with his debut album “Built on Glass”. My favourite track from the release was “Gold”. A smooth, soulful electronic production with Nick Murphy’s trademark husky vocals on point.
“Fences” by Isabel
Another example of smooth, soul-infused electronic music. Isabel is a relatively unknown artist from Brisbane, who I feel deserves to be heard far and wide. Incredibly chilled, slick production techniques coupled with a voice that makes melt you right into your chair.
“You Were Right” by Rufus
Originally from Sydney, Rufus are one of those bands who seem to consistently improve on their last release, and their latest studio album “Bloom” is no exception. Their state of the art electronic production is perfect for summer chilling. The album’s biggest single “You Were Right” deserves your attention for 3:59seconds. If you like that, check out another song of theirs “Sundream”.
“Breathe Me” by Sia
Even though she’s now a superstar songwriter, penning party anthems for the likes of Rihanna and Katy Perry, Sia has long been a critically acclaimed singer/songwriter hailing from Adelaide. This song, “Breathe Me” from 2004 is one of the most beautiful efforts from her third album “Colour the Small One”.
And of course, you can catch Sheppard’s new track ‘Keep Me Crazy’ below:
Sheppard will support Little Mix on their UK tour this summer.
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