After trying to work out how to better collect my thoughts each week - I was given the idea of writing a weekly summary post to capture everything I’ve covered over the last seven days. I think it’s a great idea. Unfortunately, you’re also going to get some of my thoughts on the week that was, so if that’s not your bag, you’re out of luck.

I’ve spent the week listening to Haiku Hands’ self-titled debut album, and it’s easily one of my favourite releases of the year. Seeing them at Splendour In The Grass 2018, and again at St Kilda Festival 2019 made them one of my favourite live acts in the country. However, I wasn’t sure how their energy would convert into an album format. It’s safe to say they’ve nailed it. Once live shows come back, they’ll become a household name very, very quickly.

I’ve been grappling with whether to make this a purely musical column, or to include some of my non-music thoughts as well. Quite frankly, I don’t think anyone can afford to be silent - especially if they have the privilege of being heard. Amplify the voices around you that people aren’t always listening to, because they’re the people that matter. I’m lucky enough to have a variety of platforms to express myself. Not everyone has that luxury.

We are in a pivotal time in history, and the political pendulum is on course to swing. Which way it swings, I’m not sure yet - I’ll let that one play out. I’ll be doing everything I can to make sure it swings to the left - but politics aren’t enough. Make your voice heard, and don’t rely on your politicians to represent you. Take care of everyone around you, and give your time and energy freely. That’s how you build a community. If you ever want to chat to me, I’m pretty easily found - and I’m happy to chat more about anything you want to get off your chest.

Now’s where I talk about what I’ve written about this week. I interviewed a couple of Melbourne artist, Tanya George and Big Words, and wrote about Hylander/Biond, Freeds, Dugong Jr, RISSA and Millie Tizzard. I’ll drop links to everything below. I think the blog is serving its purpose - I’m listening to more music than ever.

Here’s my closing statement. If you’re an artist, or you’re involved in the music industry - your time is valuable. Your work is valuable. Value shouldn’t be intrinsically linked to economics, but unfortunately we exist in a society where it is. Thanks capitalism. Use the resources available to you to promote yourself - social media, community media, community radio, and engage with the local music community. We' need to have each other’s backs - when one wins, we all win. Thanks for reading this far - and let me know if I’m sounding a bit kooky. It’s a Sunday evening, and my girlfriend’s in the kitchen making some scrambled tofu. I am very, very hungry.

INTERVIEW: Tanya George Wants You To Make Every Day Count

RISSA's 'Hold Up' Has A Serious Case Of The Horns

INTERVIEW: Big Words Are Learning To Love Imperfection

Hylander Has Teamed Up With Biond For The Flowery ‘Buttercup’

Freeds' ‘Goldmine’ Is A Reminder To Be True To Yourself

Dugong Jr Is Sick And Tired Of Feeling 'On My Own'

Millie Tizzard Is Being Genuine When Dealing With ‘Oblivion’