Artists Who Have Defined the Aussie Music Scene: NOW
Formerly, we delved into the pasts of game changing artists from the 50s to all the way to the 00s, only to find that we’re not fully back to the future yet. Even though we won’t be meeting up with Marty McFly for another two years, our nostalgic quest through the Australian music industry must come to an end. So, to give you one last fix of patriotic bliss, AAA is leaving you with the growing success of alternative artists in 2013.
10s
Whether they’re somebody that you used to know or your brother, Australia’s alternative artists are reaching unfathomable heights both here and overseas. From recording in his parents’ barn to performing on Jimmy Kimmel, Gotye has brought a refreshing twist to Australia’s mainstream music. Proving that you know you’ve made it big when 6 o’clock news readers are forced to take an interest and report on you.
Within 2011 the bilingual singer-songwriter, reached Number 1 on the ARIA albums chart within a week of releasing Making Mirrors. The album became an international success, charting in the Top 10 in 17 countries and reaching Number 1 in six. However, such success has not overshadowed his artistic sensitivity or character as his band is still composed of highschool mates and album covers are remastered editions of his father’s artwork. Not bad for someone who often thinks of themself as "less of a musician, more of a tinkerer."
For other artists the platform and recognition was there initially, they just missed the boat. Now known for his smouldering eyes and luscious hair, Matt Corby was introduced to the music biz at the age of sixteen, through a stint on Australian Idol, where he was announced as runner up.
Years and an abundance of facial hair later, it seems that Matt Corby is now unstoppable. Into the Flame, his fourth EP, peaked at No. 3 on the ARIA Singles Chart in 2011 and by 2012 went five times Platinum. Singles such as ‘Brother’ have been gaining interest and recognition online causing Corby to finally make a name for himself within Australia and the US. However, this is no shock as his music has been subliminally taking over the airwaves throughout various TV shows such as Brothers and Sisters. But seeing as though he’s been working with INXS and Julia Stone, the big leagues had to know he was coming!
Although Matt Corby may be preparing to conquer the music industry, metalcore Byron Bay rockers, Parkway Drive have came, conquered and kicked the shit out of anyone in their way. Within 2006 string of line up changes forced the band to find a new bassist in their long time friend and merch guy. Despite being completely inexperienced, the now permanent member, had three days to learn bass before facing the underground venues of the UK and wider Europe. What more could you expect from the hardcore scene? As they say, you either go hard or go home.
So, go hard they did. Having played alongside someone of the greats and featuring in The Warriors' song ‘Panic’, and You Me At Six's single ‘Time Is Money’, the band’s national success was announced in 2010 where they were nominated for an ARIA Award for Deep Blue. Having eventually won in the newly-created Best Hard Rock, Heavy Metal Album category, it was the first ARIA Award in the band's history, thus acknowledging their success and influence within the genre both here and overseas. Clearly, they have come a long way from the "Parkway House,” on Parkway Drive.
So, hopefully this Australia Day: amongst the infinite number of sunburnt bodies, charcoaled steaks and empty beer bottles, your overheating iPod will proudly blast the songs and artists of Aussie generations, from the 50s til now.
Rachel Barrett- AAA Backstage
