The Tryouts are a two piece indie pop band who met when singer-songwriter, Chelsea Reed, hired guitarist, David Macmichael, to back her up on a small Canadian tour in late 2017. A few co-writes later the pair took a songwriting trip to LA and decided to get married. It was there they penned the autobiographical debut single, Washer, which leads the launch of their first EP Nothing Bad is Ever Going to Happen. Produced by Jack Moffitt (The Preatures, I Know Leopard, Johnny Hunter), the EP showcases a range of surfy sounds, bratty power pop, and piano ballads. Lead single Washer has already been met with glowing reviews from community and national radio across Australia including Triple J, FBi, 4ZZZ, RTR FM and 2SER. The duo have shared the stage with notable artists such as Sloan Peterson, Tamara and the Dreams, Joan and the Giants, Tommy Gun and Trip Fandino as well as being invited to open for legendary ‘90s band Smudge The Tryouts are continuing to tour throughout Australia in the latter half of 2023, and the wheels are in motion to record their first full length album.

My Giddy Aunt is a curly-haired, queer, indie trio consisting of vocalist and songwriter Rory Vagg (he/him), guitarist Luke Perry (they/them), and Océane Federow-Yemm (she/her) on bass and backing vocals. Officially formed in 2021, but writing together since high school, the band has been steadily gaining dedicated fans for their electrifying live performances and large back catalogue of quirky and thoughtful tunes that blend pumping indie rock, ethereal folk, and everything in between. In 2023, the group have performed at the Port Fairy Folk Festival and are gigging regularly around Melbourne with their backing band. Described as an ‘incredibly strong debut’ (Matt Jensen, Pitch Perfect), the group’s first EP, ‘All Things Come In Time’ and subsequent singles released in 2023 showcase a whimsical lyrical style and highlight their ‘indie-pop sonics’ and ‘glistening soundscapes’ (MILKY). Recent offering ‘Tiny Candle’ is ‘delightfully charming’ (Dave Ruby Howe, JJJ Unearthed), with more songs to come in 2023.

For years the Newcastle-bred and now Melbourne-based singer/songwriter Michael McDonagh has played across Australia and North America, refining his sharp, cheeky, mournful tunes with his beloved band Remember the Circus. The clever lyrics tell stories that connect with audiences and offer acute social commentaries, while exceptional musicianship adorns the laidback vocals and lush harmonies.

Made up of talented musicians Caitlin O'Reilly (Keys), Erling Grønhaug (Drums), Michael McDonagh (Guitar and Vocals), Sam Rush (Guitar), Skye Harrison (Violin), Tim Merrikin (Double Bass), and Truman Smith (Guitar, Keys), Remember the Circus released their debut EP in November of 2023 after years of playing to crowds and patiently building a respected repertoire. The EP also features cameos from Mat Woodcock (trumpet) and long-time collaborator Tim Evans (Glockenspiel & Organ).

Michael has played alongside brilliant musicians in Canada such as Maddie Storvold, Supernatural Buffalo, Mikey Coen and Brendan Joy (co-writers of the song At Ease), and Laura Kirkup (now of Sunday Lemonade). Back home in Australia, members of the band have either led or been part of acclaimed bands such as; As of Sky, Chaika, Mojo Juju & The Snake-Oil Merchants (now Mo’Ju), Truman Smith, and many more. Remember the Circus evokes shades of Bright Eyes, David Dondero, Jason Isbell, JB Paterson, Paul Kelly, Sarah Harmer, & Wilco.