Interviews

In a very welcome return to the PBS airwaves, Gerry Koster drops by to join Greg for this special Radio Festival edition of Stars in the Static. One of Australia's most respected jazz broadcasters and a member of the PBS family for over 3 decades, Gerry joins Greg to share their love for improvised music and the myriad variants of jazz, and of course their shared love for PBS.

With roots stemming from singing Gospel as a child, JoysSoul’s career has seen her perform locally and internationally for over 15 years. Performing in many groups such as Women of Soul, Grand Wazoo, and the in-house bands for TV shows such as Australia’s Got Talent and The Logies, JoysSoul will be bringing her powerful soul and blues music to Valley Sounds on May 31. Adam catches up with the Kenyan-born musician – tune in to hear about her upcoming performance in Holmes Hall.

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.

With Chapter Music recently announcing a shift in focus—moving away from new signings to concentrate on its rich back catalogue, label heads Guy Blackman and Ben O’Connor reflect on the Chapter's legacy ahead of their Day Tripper showcase at RISING. Tune in to Underground Love for a deep dive into Chapter’s history, underrepresented sounds, and a passionate tribute to the role PBS plays in supporting its artists.

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.

Local Coburg cinematic jazz-funk maestros Surprise Chef are releasing their new album 'Superb' this month. Since breaking onto the scene in 2017 and signing with Brooklyn label Big Crown Records, the band has continued to evolve its sound - and 'Superb' is no exception, exploring a more upbeat, groove-driven direction while staying true to its soul-jazz roots. Tune in to The Breakfast Spread with Milo Eastwood to hear from the band, and to get a glimpse into the new album.

Infectious roots/soul/blues/improv outfit Checkerboard Lounge reunites with Australian music and jazz legend Bob Sedergreen for a special not-to-be-missed event. They will be launching their limited edition vinyl album 'Live at Jazzlab' on June 7 at The Jazzlab - tune in to Roots of Rhythm to find out how you can get your hands on a copy of this unique collaboration.

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.

With decades of experience in the music industry, Nina Las Vegas has become a powerful force in both the Australian and international music landscapes through her work as a producer, DJ, and the head of NLV Records. With broadcasting experience on triple j, BBC Radio One, and Red Bull Radio, Nina has performed at major festivals, from Splendour in the Grass to Coachella. Celebrating 10 years of her label NLV Records, Nina joins Milo for a round of Musical Chairs to celebrate the milestone.

Legendary guitarist Tommy Emmanuel is currently touring Australia, playing to packed concert halls all around the country. Last weekend Tommy took time out ahead of his Hamer Hall soundcheck to drop in for a chat with Ernie, and to play a song live in PBS' Studio 3. Tune in this Thursday to hear from one of Australia's most revered instrumentalists.

Figurehead within the Naarm electronic music landscape, Rev Lon has been a curator, tastemaker, and exceptional DJ since 2018. Performing at iconic venues such as The Forum, Hopkins Creek, and curator of the event series Slow Burn, she also runs her own design company, Soft Edges. Tune in to The Breakfast Spread to hear Rev Lon’s versatile approach to sounds and texture on the Wheels of Steel.

Wandering through the dankest, weirdest corners of the traditional songbook, Bush Gothic are a postmodern, anti-establishment, folk feminist group. Having won the 2022 Australian Folk Music Award for Best Band and received five stars from BBC Music Magazine, their new album 'What Pop People Folk This Popular' is set for release on May 20. Members of Bush Gothic visit the Global Village, tune in to hear the dark meanings of Australian colonial and pop music, along with tracks from the new album.

Naarm-based groove-punk outfit culaccino join Brooke during PBS Radio Festival to chat about their latest release, 'Bizarre and Extreme'. Blending angular guitars, punchy rhythms, and a gritty punk attitude, the five-track EP features the songwriting of guitarist Declan Peel, vocals from Phoebe Parsons, elastic basslines by Anton Zalewski, and Callum Lee Gow’s dynamic drumming. Hear tracks from the new release and learn how you can support Homebrew and over 80 music shows this Radio Festival.

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.

Gary Jones, presenter of 'Kickin' the B' at Bar 303 enters Jumpin' the Blues airwaves to chat about the show's 14th anniversary on June 5. Joining the evening of celebrations is Paul Williamson's Hammond Combo, Jake Mason Trio and Juicebox. With a strong passion for the culture and people of New Orleans, expect the distinctive rhythm of Orleanian blues in their performances. Listen in for more event details!

Coming together to share their love for the Zamrock movement, 'Spiritual War' is the new EP from local Afrodelik artist Immy Owusu and hip hop producer and drummer Sensible J. Blending swirling psychedelia, Afrobeat, and funk, the EP is a rowdy, boisterous collection of songs exploring injustice, insanity, and the absurdity of modern life in the burning house that is late capitalism. Joining Milo for a round of Musical Chairs, tune in to hear the music that inspires these two talented artists.

Tune in as Belgian-born, Naarm-based songwriter Romanie joins Crispi to chat about her new single ‘Uh Oh’—out May 14—and her single launch at Merri Creek Tavern on June 6. With a voice that cuts straight to the heart, Romanie blends intimate lyricism with indie-folk charm, drawing comparisons to the likes of Lucy Rose and Big Thief. From her 2021 debut 'Little Big Steps' to now, Romanie continues to shape a sound that’s equal parts vulnerable, vivid, and unmistakably her own. Don’t miss it!

Ahead of her RISING performance on June 8, Thalia Zedek swings by Junkyard to detail her upcoming revue style concert featuring Leah Senior, Michael Beach, plus many more acts. In true collaboration, all of them are playing together in no particular order. There’s no support act, just songs from each artist, scattered here and there like seeds in a psychedelic forest. An unrepeatable act, one night only in the Athenaeum. Tune in to hear more about this intense, dark songwriter show experience.

Inspired by a myriad of musical influences, ranging from House and Electro to Breakbeat and UKG, get ready for a dynamic Wheels of Steel with DJ and producer duo, Lay Down The Groove. Hailing from the vibrant music scene of Bogotá, Colombia, the duo also runs a record label and party collective under the same name. Tune in from 8am to experience the sounds of Lay Down The Groove.

Naarm-based pianist Mina Yu honed her craft in New York, performing at Carnegie Hall and touring globally. She’s featured at Melbourne International Jazz Festival, Melbourne Recital Centre and Arts Centre Melbourne. A collaborator on award-winning albums, Mina also teaches at VCA and Monash college and holds Berklee and Manhattan School of Music degrees. The gifted pianist and composer will join Greg for a chat and live performance ahead of her show at the Jazzlab on June 14.

Kaurna-based quintet The Empty Threats fuse Australian post-punk and noise rock into a metallic rainbow of snarling bass, frenzied guitar work, restless percussion, and electric clarinet. Playing a sold-out show presented by Dark Mofo on June 15, the band bring their unadulterated party rock energy into Homebrew. Tune in to hear about their new single 'the one'. If you're an admirer of unconventional spectacles and stagecraft, tune in to this one.

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.

Ricky McCandlish, vocalist for Naarm-based melodic hardcore band Saving Face, sits down for a chat with Ryan. The pair will discuss Saving Face's sophomore EP 'The View From Up There', the upcoming album launch on June 21 at the Bergy Bandroom, as well as the band's goals and ambitions for the rest of the 2025. For more on the event, including the slew of special guests, listen in to their conversation.

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.

Guy Blackman from Chapter Music drops by to celebrate the reissued release of 'Can't Stop It!', a homegrown collection of post-punk from 1978-82. This deluxe remastered compilation boasts six bonus tracks, pressed on black vinyl, as well as limited edition green and white. 'Can't Stop It!' documents a fantastically inventive and dynamic era, when Australian acts stepped out of the shadow of overseas influence and asserted their own musical identity. Tune in to hear more on this landmark era!

Yoav Landau and Sam Haft from Israeli-American electronic-rock duo The Living Tombstone land in the studio to chat with Ryan ahead of their Australian tour. The duo share insights from their new album 'Rust' and divulge their thoughts and feelings on internet culture — listen in to hear about their process and sound before The Living Tombstone's show at Max Watts on July 6.

Zac Bergholtz (vocals) and Patrick Haas (guitar) from deathcore metal band Zeolite enter Tryannocoreus airwaves to chat about their sophomore album 'L'Appel Du Vide', re-grounding the group after a major lineup change, and their plans for the rest of 2025. Having been handpicked for tours alongside some of metal’s biggest names, including The Black Dahlia Murder and At The Gates, the future looks bright for this Naarm outfit.

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.

Burning B3 Trio is the spirited combination of Liam Kealy's Hammond b3 organ and Sammy Owen's Stratocaster, together with Tony Martin on drums. From blazing jump blues to sizzling slow blues and everything in-between, Owen and Kealy play a true "Hammond trio, traditional blues show" in every sense. Turn up the dial and settle in for an afternoon performance with all the hues of the rhythm and blues.

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.

Pizza Death are crashing into Arockalypse Now with a live set that’s as greasy as it is gnarly. Hailing from Naarm, this cult thrash-punk crew serves up blistering crossover anthems about three things: pizza, death, and—you're on the money—death by pizza. Riding high on the global buzz of their sophomore record 'Reign of the Anticrust', Pizza Death has topped Coretex Records’ charts and left sold-out crowds sauced and stunned. Catch the most brutal dinner-and-a-show experience on August 2.