When I saw that Pisco Sour and The Noise were doing a gig together at Northcote Social Club on Kings B-day Eve- I couldn’t hide my excitement. I quickly texted my best friend and music photographer Chloe - ‘OH MY GOD IT’S PISCO AND THE NOISE- this is the dream team! We have to go!’

Jungle's performance was the epitome of perfect dancing music. It wasn’t the frantic kind that demands constant jumping, but rather a smooth, step-tap vibe that had everyone grooving. Within just a few songs, even those in the seated sections were on their feet, swept up in the infectious rhythm.

The Night Cat is already such a vibe as a venue – the funky décor of the vintage lamps gives an ambient red glow across the space and really creates an intimate environment. It’s already well known for its electric atmosphere and crazy moshes so I knew I was in for a ride when I saw the Belair Lip Bombs were going to play there before they set off to Europe.

Just before midday on my favourite day of the year (Laneway day), I find myself in an Uber to Flemington Racecourse. It’s my first Laneway in Melbourne, though I haven’t missed the festival since 2018. Depending on who you ask, I was too early for anyone worth seeing, such as headliners Dominic Fike or Stormzy. But, as I prepared for my fifth Laneway, I knew I was in for a marathon day of the best up-and-coming local acts sharing the stage with some of the world’s finest talent. 

Last Saturday night, the heavens scheduled a quick reprieve from pouring down on Melbourne and I found myself hungry, heartbroken and with $38 to my name, watching the Slingers perform at the Brunswick Ball Room. With each soaring guitar slide and lyric delivered with utmost gusto, I gently swayed and locked arms with my pal, feeling a small part of my soul heal again.