Fresh from her Indie Country Music Australia awards win, Sally-Anne Whitten releases new single, ‘You Can’t Hide from a Broken Heart’. This new release is the 3rd single from the singer-songwriter’s award winning album “Burgundy Street”.

Sally-Anne’s new single, was co-written by fellow Tamworth artist, Allison Forbes and explores grief and loss. Having already booked a trip to the USA, when a list of death and disasters occurred for Sally-Anne’s family, she was in two minds about going. With no refunds available, the trip went ahead and the singer thought it would do her good to get away. The singer soon realised ‘you can't hide from a broken heart’, it will follow you everywhere.

“Burgundy Street” is a mixed bag when it comes to musical genre - Sally-Anne has yet again embraced her unique blend of swampy blues, R&B, southern rock and West Coast country. Over the years the artist has honed her very own style of ‘funky country’.

Sally-Anne was awarded Most Popular Female Artist and Most Popular Independent Album for 2018’s “Burgundy Street”. Producer/husband Alwyn Aurisch received the Most Popular Producer gong for the album of the same name, validating the term ‘keeping it in the family’! The awards were presented at the ICMA (Indie Country Music Australia) Showcase during the 2019 Tamworth Country Music Festival.

Laura-Therese Davis is a singer, songwriter, trained pianist and self-taught guitarist from the Northern Rivers of NSW. Her connection to the land and love of horses have helped bring her to country music. Born in Sydney with a spirit raised in the country, Laura packed up her horses, Bonnie and Polo, and moved north to a property near Maclean NSW in 2015. This is where the inspiration for her debut country recordings have transpired.

Drovers, cattle stations, and farms light up the Davis family-tree. Whereas for Laura, creating and performing music has always been something she loved. The singer-songwriter has been performing since she was four years old. Over the years, Laura-Therese has been involved with musical theatre and shows, the extras and commercial acting scene also attending ATYP (Australian Theatre For Young People). She began performing on the live music circuit in Sydney at 17 and has played inner-city bars, country pubs to the Sydney Opera House and everything in between.

Drawing inspiration from a broad range of musical greats such as Loretta Lynn, Dolly Parton, Glen Campbell, Wanda Jackson, KD Lang and Paul Kelly, Laura-Therese comments, “I take inspiration from great songwriters, lyricists and story tellers”. All the family on her dad’s side are big country music fans. They all grew up in the country and most of them still live on the land.

When asked about the type of music she wants to share, Laura-Therese muses, “I want to write songs about things that matter. I live on a property in the country, surrounded by cattle, cane fields and farmers, people who really “live off the land”. I see the comparisons between city and country and how tough it is in the country, yet country folk will help anyone anytime, it’s just the way it is out here. I don’t belong in the city, I belong in the country and I finally feel like I’m home”.

Laura-Therese’s debut single is an autobiographical tale of a new highway being built near her hometown. While the song’s author lives in Maclean, New South Wales this story could be about so many towns; it’s the same sad tale. With roadwork ten minutes from her home, everyday Laura would drive past and see the beautiful landscape literally changing before her eyes. The song begins with lap steel guitar and the haunting tone sets the scene for ‘Forgotten Town’.

They’re building a highway on the edge of town, rolling up sleeves, tearing it down.
Tar in the field, instead of sugarcane, rust in the river, what will remain?
‘Forgotten Town’ – Laura-Therese Davis, 2018

‘Misfit’ written and recorded by Sally-Anne Whitten is the second single from the 2018 album “Burgundy Street”.

On this new single, Sally-Anne and co get down and a little dirty here. Lyrically, the songstress pulls no punches and fellow Tamworthian Matt O'Leary has starring role on harmonica. We all know those air-kissing, fake members of society depicted in the song.

“Burgundy Street” is a mixed bag when it comes to musical genre. The artist has yet again embraced her unique blend of swampy blues, R&B, southern rock and West Coast country. Over the years Sally-Anne has honed her very own style of ‘funky country’.

Review rating: ***½
“Whitten’s originals elevate this record beyond homage”.
Phil Stafford – The Sunday Mail

Since releasing the album and first single ‘Watch It Burn’, the singer-songwriter has performed in Sydney and Melbourne, with more album release performances planned across the country. The proud Tamworth born and bred resident was amongst country music’s biggest names performing at the ‘We Care Concert’, the New England and North West Drought Appeal. Sally-Anne joined Lee Kernaghan, Adam Harvey, Lyn Bowtell, Ashleigh Dallas and more to help raise over $55,000 for the much-needed fundraiser.

Following on from the successful “Jason Owen Sings John Denver Tour”, Jason now prepares to release ‘Apple Tree’, his first original tune in almost two years. Written by Cousin Matthew Young the new track is a tender tale of promised love.

While Jason has loved performing the songs of the country music legend for the better part of the last year, the 2012 X Factor runner-up is eager to once again release original work. When asked about the upcoming release Jason says, ‘I'm pumped to be releasing my first original song in over a year and a half. I'm excited about my new feel with ‘Apple Tree’ as I believe it’s time for a slight change from what I have released in the past six years. I really hope that everyone enjoys the slightly new feel with the single ‘Apple Tree’.

The “Jason Owen Sings John Denver Tour” has criss-crossed New South Wales culminating in three shows next month – Temora, Dubbo & Newcastle. With special guests including Gretta Ziller, Dani Young, Angus Gill and Jasmine Atkins, Jason has performed the much-loved tracks from his June 2017 release, “Jason Owen Sings John Denver - The 20th Anniversary”.

Born and bred in the small town of Albert 150km west of Dubbo NSW, Jason was raised to the tune of classic country artists. After being launched onto the Australian music scene following his time on The X Factor in 2012, Jason has continued to grow into a genuine country artist. A national tour with country music darling Amber Lawrence, a 2014 CMAA Golden Guitar finalist placement for ‘Top Selling Album Of The Year’, nine hit singles including ‘Run’ (the 5th highest song on country radio throughout 2015) and a ‘Male Artist Of The Year' nomination at the 2017 Country Music Channel Awards have cemented his growing reach in the industry he loves.

On this track, Tamworth born and raised Sally-Anne Whitten talks about doing life your way, staying true to yourself, and not being afraid to say good bye to people or things that are no good for you. It’s no surprise that Sally-Anne was listening to a lot of Robben Ford and John Hiatt just before this track was born.

'Watch It Burn' is the first single from Sally-Anne's new album Burgundy Street and is available on all digital stores & streaming services now and in all good record stores via Checked Label Services from this weekend

REVIEWS ARE IN:
If you’re a fan of modern Australian Country Music, with a touch of Jazz and Blues thrown in for flavor, I highly recommend checking out "Burgundy Street"", John Turnbull - Independent Australia

"Burgundy Street" initially sounds like a great rockin’ album; on repeated listening it’s clear that it’s soaked in some heavy experiences and a tinge of heartache, if not heartbreak. That’s due to the complexity of Whitten’s voice and her ability to bring a lot to a song. So take your time with this one – perhaps even sit back, imagine yourself on Burgundy Street in New Orleans and let the world pass by as you listen", Jolene: The Country Music Blog

"Sally-Anne's winsome vocals are the thread that binds all of the different elements and styles of this album together, whether interpreting the songs of Glenn Fry & Don Henley, Little Willie John or Alan Toussaint or singing her own wonderful originals, it's her voice that pulls the listener into every nuanced corner of Burgundy Street. I am enamoured with this album, and you will be too", Pete Williams - 'Made In The Shade', 99.3FM

‘Follow Through’ the debut single from country pop artist Alexandra Gunn is about getting into gear. If you say you're going to do something, commit, follow through and take action. Influenced by strong young female country artists such as Kacey Musgraves, Maren Morris & Kelsea Ballerini, Alexandra says, “This is my unconventional love song. Not the butterflies and rainbows type but love all the same. It's a bit of a last ditch effort, get it together or I'll give you the boot”.

Born and raised on the Southside of Brisbane, Qld the self-described girl from the suburbs who rides horses in her imagination, has her mum and dad to thank for the musical introduction. Dad performed in bands before Alexandra existed and mum would diligently attend his gigs, even while pregnant with their first born child.

Dad has been Alexandra’s musical rock over the years with guidance in recording, writing, producing and even features in the ‘Follow Through’ film clip; on the guitar. Her husband and bass guitarist can also be seen on-screen. Meeting through music, Alexandra was quick to poach him for herself, both personally and professionally, not long after the pair met.

WATCH THE CLIP HERE

Preferring to create songs, young Alexandra would sing more than she talked. As she got older and life became more real her songs were always a way to put her emotions into words. Every song, even sassy ones like 'Follow Through' are based on real life. Alexandra firmly believes, “It's my release and I don't think I would survive without it”.

Previously performing under the moniker ‘Alexandra’, in the singer/songwriter genre, the artist always dreamt of playing with a full band and becoming the pop country artist she is today. Freely admitting she stumbled into country music, Alexandra instantly felt at home, “The culture is amazing and performers are applauded for the longevity of their careers. Country songs are about real things, real life, and it's something I immediately wanted to be a part of”.

‘FOLLOW THROUGH’ IS AVAILABLE ON ALL DIGITAL STORES & STREAMING SERVICES

INTRODUCING JENNY MITCHELL
**New single, ‘Let Me Be’
**2017 New Zealand Gold Guitar Awards Overall Winner

Jenny Mitchell might not be a name you’re familiar with so let’s remedy that right now. Jenny was raised in the southern town of Gore - New Zealand’s home of country music. The Folk/Alt Country singer-songwriter grew up immersed in the music of Dolly Parton, The Dixie Chicks, Hank Williams and Johnny Cash.

At just 14, the singer placed third in the 2013 season of New Zealand’s Got Talent and ever since has performed right across her homeland in addition to regular visits to the Tamworth Country Music Festival.

2015 marked the release of Jenny’s debut album “The Old Oak” which debuted at No.1 on the New Zealand iTunes Top Music Albums chart and No.3 on the Official NZ Music Chart. While Jenny was initially influenced by her dad’s favourite country music artists, the 18 year old now includes Gillian Welch, The Lumineers, Miranda Lambert and Norah Jones as strong inspirations on her original work. While Shane Nicholson, Fanny Lumsden, Harry Hookey and The McClymonts have given her a strong love for the Australian country music scene.

On June 4th, 2017 Jenny’s long-time dream of winning the prestigious New Zealand Gold Guitar Awards came true when she was named the Overall Winner – her first year in the Senior Section. Taking out the title with an original song ‘So Far’, the $15,000 industry-focused prize pack included an Australian country music radio single release with KrisKat Publicity. The single ‘Let Me Be’ recorded with Nashville-based musician/producer Jay Tooke (Jody Direen) is the perfect summer feel good tune and like all of Jenny’s music is based on real life. The track affectionately tells the story of her parents’ relationship.

“‘Let Me Be’ highlights the importance of enjoying the small things in life - such as honey on toast and a glass of wine at the end of a big day. I feel that I have grown a lot as a songwriter since my last record and I can’t wait to get my new batch of songs out there. This single is the first taste of the style I’ve worked hard to create and I can’t wait for my audience to hear it”, Jenny Mitchell.

Just in time for the Tamworth Country Music Festival, Liam Brew is back with brand new single, ‘Shotgun’.
Produced by Tamworth’s Rusty Crook, this latest musical offering is the ultimate summer party anthem. Infectious and catchy 'Shotgun' is fast becoming a live favourite amongst fans.
When the Sunshine Coast resident last released new tunes (2013’s “Faster”) he had been focused on music for the better part of a decade. Liam was named 2009 Toyota Star Maker at just 18 years old and released his debut album “Wild Heart” later that same year.
The time in between releases didn’t exclude music completely, Liam has been performing at major festivals and touring locally and interstate whilst returning to the family business. While laying synthetic grass isn’t Liam’s first choice at making a living, he realised stepping back has allowed him to find out who he is as a man and in turn as an artist.
“I think I’ve discovered my true sound as an artist and I didn’t want to rush releasing new music. I want to make an impact”, Liam Brew.
While 2018 has just begun, stacks of new music is planned with a full EP by the close of the year. The live music front is jam-packed too, Liam has been confirmed to perform at some of Australian country music’s biggest concerts – announcements coming soon. But those heading to the Tamworth Country Music Festival won’t have to wait, Liam kicks off his week-long residency at Moonshiners Honky Tonk Bar (next door to The Family Hotel, Bridge St) this Friday night @ 9pm – other performances include Toyota Fanzone Thursday January 25th @ 4.30pm and Toyota Stars Under The Stars Friday January 27th @ 7pm, in the park.
‘Shotgun’ will be available at all digital stores & streaming services on Australia Day