Interviews

Soul revivalists Durand Jones & The Indications join Mystic Brew following their debut tour of Australia and New Zealand in March. Known for their smooth dual vocals—Durand’s raw croon and Aaron Frazer’s falsetto—the group blends classic soul with modern disco, funk, and strings. Rising from an Indiana basement to global stages, their third album 'Private Space' pushes vintage grooves into lush, danceable territory. This interview is bound to one for the heart and soul.

Off the back of releasing their debut single, local rock band Public Figures chat with Jordan on Underground Love about their journey so far. Tune in to hear about their upcoming shows at The Old Bar on May 9 with The Unknowns and Wombat, and on May 16 with Cong Joise and The Hell Racers.

Cam Brown and Adam Humphreys from Naarm post-hardcore outfit Some Heard Trouble join Tyrannocoreus live in studio. They'll talk touring life, plans for 2025, and their latest single 'ihopeyouletgo'. Blending the grit of Underoath with Hellions' inventive edge, the five-piece has carved a space in the scene since 2016. With recent singles 'Blind (Eye For An Eye)' and 'Ghost Club' turning heads, and a third track due in July, Some Heard Trouble continue to build momentum with high-energy shows.

Joining forces with powerhouse label ROAR, GhostSeeker are currently gearing up for the release of their hotly anticipated debut studio album, 'Divergence'. Having taken the heavy music scene by storm with their infectious debut EP, 'Initium Novum', the band has a full tour schedule planned for 2025. Tune in to Tyrannocoreus to hear when their next show in Melbourne will be.

Sliding into Jumpin’ the Blues is Rick Dempster—singer, harmonica and steel guitar player with The Railway Gang. He’ll chat about the band’s rich acoustic blend and his role in the upcoming Steel Guitar Convention at Brunswick Ballroom on May 18. The Railway Gang’s lineup is a string-lover’s dream, weaving Tin Pan Alley tunes, hillbilly swing, Calypsos, tangos and rags. With four vocalists and a love for old-timey sounds, this long-running Fitzroy crew brings harmony and history to the stage.

Since releasing their Grammy-winning single 'Call My Name' (Best American Roots Song, 2020) USA based trio I’m With Her has regularly stepped away from their individual careers to create music together. Their sophomore album, 'Wild and Clear and Blue' showcases their luminous harmonies in a soul-searching collection that explores reaching into the past, navigating a chaotic present, and bravely stepping into the unknown. Tune in to hear from one of the trio’s singer/songwriters, Aoife O’Donovan.

Ghost Medium, the project of Simon Bailey and his band, made their debut performance as the house band on ABC TV's Spicks and Specks. With an all-star lineup featuring ARIA Award-winning producer Pip Norman and Naarm legends Lilith Lane and Huddy Whitlock, Ghost Medium will premiere their debut single on the show. They'll also chat about their upcoming single launches at Archies Creek Hotel on May 16 and The Retreat Hotel in Brunswick on May 17.

On May 31 at Merri Creek Tavern, singer-songwriter Amaya Laucirica will launch her latest single 'Now Or Never', with Nathan Hollywood opening the show. With the swirling contours of Cocteau Twins and the wistful melodies of The Go-Betweens, Amaya’s prosperous career has seen her perform at Primavera Sound (Spain), release four critically acclaimed albums, and is currently working on her fifth. Tune in to Radio City to hear from the local, dream-pop artist.

Returning to Australia to unleash his boldest album yet, is USA riverboat-chic rock’n’roller Pokey LaFarge. His new record 'Rhumba Country' serves up flavours of mambo, Tropicália, rocksteady, and mid-century American rock and roll, and was written during his time working 12-hour shifts on a farm. Ahead of his performance at The Croxton that night, Ernie chats with Pokey LaFarge about the new album. Tune in for a Studio 5 Live session, along with an exclusive PBS interview.

Touching down on Tomorrowland is DJ D.DEE—selector, curator, and the force behind Pacific Rhythm, the label and party series that helped shape the breezy, buoyant sound of Canada’s West Coast. With residencies at Public Records (NYC) and Paradise (Vancouver), plus a regular slot on Worldwide FM, D.DEE’s mixes drift from deep cuts to dancefloor sunshine. Catch him at Angel Bar this Friday night with Babycino, serving feel-good spins and global grooves that blur borders and lift spirits.

Mastanah Nazarian, an Iranian-background composer, writer, guitarist, and oud player, visits Global Village to perform traditional Persian oud pieces and discuss her diverse projects, including photography and poetry. Beyond music, she’s a certified Pilates teacher, holds a black belt in aikido, and is passionate about teaching movement education to both musicians and the public.

Sarah Hardiman from Moon Rituals drops by the studio to chat about 'Aura', her long-awaited synth-pop LP out May 9 via Poison City. The project is a dreamy, analog-tinged collaboration with Mikey Young (Total Control, The Green Child), recorded over four years and featuring members of The Green Child. With shimmering textures, upbeat turns, and a touch of sax, Aura marks a lush evolution for the Naarm-based artist, known for her work in LOU, Brick Head, and Deaf Wish.

As part of PBS Radio Festival week, Lyndelle Wilkinson of The Afterglow joins Crispi on Radio City for a special crossover show celebrating all things PBS. A Wednesday drive-time favourite since 2004, Lyndelle brings an irresistible mix of soul, funk, disco, electro, hip hop and beyond—always fresh, always feel-good. With decades of experience across media and music, Lyndelle’s passion for sound and community is unmatched. Tune in for good vibes, deep cuts, and radio love.

Chris Pearson of Pojama People joins Crispi on Radio City as part of PBS Radio Festival! Known for his deep dives into stoner-heavy psych, prog, post-rock and eclectic 70s gems, Chris brings a love of long cuts, live energy and Melbourne’s vibrant underground to the airwaves every Wednesday night. Expect passionate music chat, left-of-centre picks, and a celebration of community radio’s boundary-pushing spirit—all anchored by Radio City’s signature focus on the art of the song.

Local trio Vardos is driven by Alana's wild violin, chased by accordion and double bass, performing folk and Romany music. As long-standing members and supporters of the Global Village, Vardos drop in to PBS during Radio Festival to talk about the role PBS has played in their career. Tune in to hear what they love about Roger's show Global Village, along with a live performance from this all-female group.

Margret RoadKnight joins Jan for a special co-presenter segment celebrating Australia’s rich bluegrass, folk, and roots music. With a career spanning over five decades, Margret’s diverse talents in blues, jazz, gospel, and cabaret will shine through alongside Jan’s deep knowledge of bluegrass and its influences. Expect a unique blend of interviews, live performances, and insights into the music that has shaped these genres. Tune in for a rich journey through the sounds of America's heartland.

Claire Stuchbery of Firewater joins Crispi for a special crossover segment! Firewater takes you on a high-energy ride through rock and beyond—from swampy rhythms to power-punk, alt-country, and dirty rock ‘n’ roll. Claire’s dynamic show, airing Tuesdays from 5-7pm, delivers an eclectic mix of upbeat sounds and adventurous tunes to fuel your drivetime. Tune in for an exciting chat and a blast of music that crosses genres, all with rock at its heart.

Myles O'Neil-Shaw of 5ft High & Rising joins Ernie for a unique crossover. A passionate advocate of Alt Country, Myles brings his unique perspective on the genre, shaped by his roots in alternative music scenes and influences like Uncle Tupelo, Son Volt, and Wilco. Together with Ernie, who curates a blend of classic country, honky-tonk, and Americana, they'll dive into the rebellious spirit of real country music. Tune in for a rich mix of music, stories, and the deep heart of authentic country.

Ania Reynolds brings both of her personae – as a piano player and baritone saxophonist, both extraordinaire – to her visit to the Global Village. She shares with Roger why she supports PBS and the Global Village, and encourages you to do the same. Tune in to hear her perform music from forthcoming albums in both guises, and a hint at some of her upcoming musical adventures.

Born from a love of the dance floor, Wrong Way Up serves vintage Afro disco and psychedelic boogie in the form of deep grooves, quirky synths and addictive chants. Inspired by the likes of Frances Bebey, William Onyeabor and Lijadu Sisters, the Afro-synth duo delivers a fresh but familiar funk feel. Emmanuela Degery and Andrew Phillips (Broadway Sounds) join Elle on Headhunters for a chat and Studio 5 Live performance.

On June 6, Dark FOMO 666 returns with its sixth mini-festival at the Cactus Room in Thornbury, featuring music, art, performance, nude poetry, and more. The organisers pop into Pojama People to preview the lineup, including Jack Harlon and the Dead Crows, Night Rites, USER, and plenty other acts. Tune in for all the details on this night of irreverent fun and vivid performances.

Chris Hannah of Canadian punk heavyweights Propagandhi joins us to talk 'At Peace'—the band’s fierce new album. Since forming in 1986, the band has evolved from skate punk roots into a thrash-influenced force, pairing razor-sharp riffs with unapologetically political lyrics. From their home base in Winnipeg, they’ve championed anti-fascism, veganism, and radical change. With 'At Peace', the band continues to challenge power structures while refining their most urgent, blistering sound to date.

Aric Improta and Stephen Harrison from House of Protection join Ryan for a conversation about the band’s journey from the ashes of Fever333, their sophomore EP 'Outrun You All', and their plans for 2025. Born from the duo’s fearlessness and a love of pushing boundaries, they fuse hardcore, electronica, and punk into a raw, creative space. With their shared history in bands like Fever333, Night Verses, and The Chariot, House of Protection has created a sanctuary for radical self-expression.

Naarm trio Npcede discuss their self-titled debut EP—Chapter Music’s final new artist signing and a fittingly explosive send-off. Fusing industrial, shoegaze, rap, and noise into five tracks of raw intensity, Npcede channel alienation into something both brutal and euphoric. Formed in 2022, the band has performed at Meadow and SXSW Sydney. Singles 'Spleen', 'Tabula Rasa' and 'Hear Them' are out now. Tune in to Bleeding Black Hearts Revue for a deep dive into their latest sound.

Adam Biggs, bassist and vocalist for progressive tech-death giants Rivers of Nihil, joins Tyannocoreus to discuss their upcoming self-titled album—his first as lead vocalist. They’ll explore the band’s evolution since 'The Work', what lies ahead after completing their ambitious seasonal arc, and the new directions the band is taking with this record. With a packed touring schedule for the remainder of the year and a refreshed lineup, Rivers of Nihil are embarking on an exciting new chapter.

Ryan will be joined in the studio by Naarm's heavy-hitting Nu-metalcore band DRUID. They’ll discuss their recent appearance at Slipknot’s Pulse Of The Maggots digital festival, new singles, and what’s next for the band. Since forming in 2019, DRUID has built a powerful sound that blends crushing metal with experimental elements, showcased in their debut album 'The Beauty in the Decay' and tracks like 'HANG IN THERE (IT GETS WORSE)'. With 'HOSTAGE' released in April, DRUID’s rise is unstoppable.

Blues powerhouses Lloyd Spiegel (AUS) and Charlie A’Court (CAN) reunite for a special run of NSW/VIC shows this June. Long-time collaborators and award-winning artists, the duo brings their soulful vocals, jaw-dropping guitar work and playful storytelling to the stage. With deep roots in blues, soul and rock, their chemistry is undeniable. They'll perform live on air and join Helen for an interview on Roots of Rhythm—don’t miss this electric preview of two masters at work.

Ryan sits down with Sean Harmanis, vocalist for Boorloo's progressive metalcore force Make Them Suffer. They discuss the band’s busy international tour schedule, the revitalizing energy of their 2024 self-titled album, and what’s in store for their upcoming regional Australian tour with Justice For The Damned and The Gloom In The Corner. From their symphonic deathcore roots to their evolving, genre-blurring sound, Make Them Suffer continues to push boundaries.

Naarm's The Jimmy C—aka multi-instrumentalist Jamie Coghill—joins Crispi on Radio City to chat about his new album 'Refreshing', out June 13. A one-man band since 2005, Jamie has released nine albums, scored U.S. web series and horror films, and played drums in cult Aussie acts like Luxedo and The Devilrock Four. His music pays homage to 60s psych, power pop and cinematic flair yet is something else entirely. Tune in for the chat and a sneak peek into his quirky, sonic world.

Naarm's Steve Ryan-Gledhill joins Helen on Roots of Rhythm to chat about his upcoming self-titled album, launching June 27 at George Lane in St Kilda. Blending heartfelt storytelling with country, blues and Americana, his music draws on years of lived experience. His latest release is a double A-side of upbeat break-up tunes—'End Of The Line' and 'It Happens Every Day'—delivering foot-stomping rhythms, rich horn riffs and timeless charm.

Fresh from their Canadian tour, ZÖJ visit Global Village to discuss their new album 'Give Water to Birds', created in collaboration with Brett Langsford. Gelareh Pour and Brian O'Dwyer will share insights into their musical journey, the concept of neo-Persian experimentalism, and details of their upcoming local album launch. Gelareh, alongside long-time collaborator Brian, continue to push the boundaries of contemporary music, fusing Persian and Australian sound worlds in bold, avant-garde ways.