ALT-POP ANZ AWESOMENESS
A playlist of incredible tunes.
‘Which way to go?’ by MIA SAVANNAH
Mia’s second single this year, just released, is epic; extremely personal yet incredibly relatable. If people in general were willing to be bold enough to be honest, the world would be a much easier place to navigate.
Mia is a Melbourne-based singer-songwriter who is becoming known for her introspective and honest storytelling. Her soulful, velvety voice delivers raw, relatable lyrics over instantly recognisable alt-pop arrangements.
What sets her apart is her ability to craft songs that feel like reading a friend’s diary - upfront, confronting, and left lingering in your mind. Her lyrics are the kind you can’t help but feel -intriguing and revealing, yet impossible to forget.
‘Manic!!!’ (Jonesy Remix) by KAIYAH MERCEDES
Kaiyah Mercedes is a bold, amazing and inspiring and ambassador for a group of under-represented artists in the industry.
Kaiyah’s new work is a raw depiction of her mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety and PTSD, and a window into her inner world and the intricate emotions she grapples with daily - influenced in part by her Autism and ADHD. She also represents the LGBTQI+ community and is just a hero of so many groups.
Kaiyah’s sophomore album 'Trying To Hate You' marked a departure from their previous folk-pop style, into the realm of cinematic indie-pop / rock. Add into that an electro remix of an already bouncing song, and we have this wonderful creation!
‘Girls just wanna have sun’ by ELYA
Elya is originally from Belgium. She is a world-traveller. She’s an artist who loves global adventures and believes in destiny, and that soon becomes obvious in her songwriting and recordings.
Her mix of soul, sass and seriousness reflect the jumble of emotions anyone can go through at any minute of the day. And the fact that she captures that in the moment means it will never be forgotten.
Elya has a new EP in the works to be released in the coming months, and the Southern Hemisphere will start to hear a lot more from her. Watch this space!
‘Rage’ by LOVY
Lovy’s debut single Rage is a bold reminder that genre is more of a suggestion than a rule. A sonic fusion of RnB, pop, electro, jazz, and hip-hop, the track shifts shape mid-song, a seamless collision of sounds that keeps you on your toes. It’s the kind of track that refuses to sit still, demanding attention with every unexpected turn.
Her voice is the anchor—one moment a breathy whisper, the next an explosion of raw, unfiltered power. It’s a reflection of the song’s emotional depth, as Rage digs into themes of anger, grief, and the chaos of connection. Despite its minimal chord structure, the track carries an emotional weight that’s anything but simple, revealing a complexity that’s impossible to ignore.
‘In orbit’ by Divine Wave feat. K*ahna
Born out of a long life of playing guitar based music, a chance encounter with the right friends and a few festivals made this long-haired weirdo slowly fall in love with the electronic music world.
Dipping his toe in with more eccentric entries like Jon Hopkins, Max Cooper and Stephan Bodzin, and then becoming a fan of more straight up and down Melodic Techno / Tech-House tracks, Divine Wave started fiddling around with synthesiser-based music in late 2019. Fast-forward to today and we now have a catalogue of amazing bangers and gorgeous melodies.
‘In Orbit’ was an exclusive collaboration and release featuring vocals from incredibly versatile vocalist K*ahna.
‘One thing’ by ASIA
Asia’s ‘One thing’ is the soundtrack for every confused 20-something trying to navigate modern life. Her debut single is a hymn to self-reflection, empowering her listeners like a comforting hug that says “trust in the universe - because you’re not alone.”
Asia’s siren-like ability to say out loud the words in your head through her introspective lyrics offers perfect support for all the things you’re secretly worried about. The track features her unique voice, layered with rhythmic melodies, gritty, old-school beats, and interspersed with bright piano keys for a truly ethereal listening experience you’ll want to groove to.
‘Strangers’ by HEYZUKO!
Heyzuko! is the musical project of young artist Antonio Villamor, who is dedicated to crafting an agile and immersive sound. From an early age, heyzuko! has strived to exceed expectations, driven by a passion to create music that serves as an escape for both himself and his listeners.
With a wide range of influences spanning both underground and mainstream artists like midwxst, Juice WRLD, and The Kid LAROI, heyzuko! blends these sounds into something uniquely his own. His music is often described as ethereal and otherworldly, evolving with each new release to resonate with a diverse range of listeners. Every song tells a different story and captures a new vibe, offering a collection of tracks that listeners are sure to connect with.
‘Cost of living’ by KATHLEEN HALLORAN
I saw Kathleen perform at RoarFest ‘25 for the first time and I was absolutely mesmerised for the entire set. I didn’t know her background as an ensemble career guitarist but wow. Her songs, riffs, voice, band and stage-presence was just, totally mesmerising.
The electrifying guitarist/singer/songwriter has well and truly established herself as one of the country’s most exciting rising stars. Educated on stage alongside some of Australia’s biggest names, this triple threat is widely known for her swaggering fretboard flare and irresistible spirit.
‘He’s a 4 but…’ by IT’S ROSIE QUARTZ
Rosie Quartz is a Melbourne-based singer-songwriter who transforms her intimate dating experiences into captivating Alt-pop anthems.
As a self-proclaimed "hopeless romantic," Rosie Quartz narrates the highs and lows of navigating love in the modern world through her deeply personal and relatable storytelling.
Her music offers a candid and vulnerable glimpse into her journey, blending heartfelt lyrics with a shimmering pop sensibility.
‘Close Proximity’ by CHITRA
Chitra Ridwan is an artist whose music is as reflective and honest as a quiet conversation. Hailing from the Wadawurrung/Bellarine Peninsula, her sound is an intimate form of indie-rock that explores the delicate and often painful process of growing up.
With her self-titled 2020 EP, she quickly garnered attention for her ability to articulate the emotional complexities of her relationships with others, and with herself. Through her clear-eyed lyrics and expressive melodies, Chitra offers a comforting voice for anyone navigating the challenges of change and the journey to self-acceptance.
‘Right on my mind’ by MIAR
This is one of the best unsigned releases I’ve heard this year on Triple J Unearthed.
I haven’t learned much about Miar apart from a few Instagram posts but if ‘Right on my mind’ is a benchmark for what an amazing talent she has, and someone mentions Toni Braxton as an influence, I’d predict a great future as a singer/songwriter.
Also a big shout out to Jay Manuel Cabrera, the production is just wonderful.
‘Red’ by ED MOON
Ed Moon is a Soul Vocalist, Songwriter and Jazz-inspired guitarist with a passion for fashion. Never wanting to be put in a box, Ed is forever evolving and is happiest when colouring outside the lines.
Sharing a sparkly, androgynous and unapologetic plethora of original music Ed is a thrilling and unpredictable powerhouse performer - A unique style that permeates throughout their Art and live performances with a sprinkling of star dust for good measure, Ed Moon is one to watch.
I’ll be honest that’s pretty much Ed’s website bio, it’s really well written, very much like all their songs.
‘Light night talking’ by MISHAYLA
Mishayla is a 22-year-old indie-pop artist from Newcastle, NSW, who transforms emotional growing pains into glittering pop gold. With a voice that feels like a late-night diary entry, she masterfully blends soft confession with polished, hook-driven pop.
Influenced by artists such as Sabrina Carpenter and Olivia Dean, Mishayla's sound has evolved from raw, acoustic roots into a more defined and emotionally resonant pop world and it is wonderfully produced (Gracie May) and delivered. For her, songwriting is a form of therapy - a safe to articulate the things she can't always say aloud.
‘Billboards’ by RIORDAN
The lyrics for "Billboards" are a narrative that focuses on a character named Madison, exploring themes of being oblivious to a partner's deceit, using ‘billboards’ as a metaphor for “messed-up lies” to tell a very specific and personal story about navigating a "lying, conniving" partner.
RIORDAN has been building up to this release, promoting it on social media and sharing an early sneak peek with fans who pre-saved the single. The release of "Billboards" adds to Riordan’s growing discography of great alt-pop tunes.
‘Claw machine hand’ by GALLAGATH
Gallagath is the musical project of Melbourne-based artist Sam Beros, who first gained recognition as a YouTube mashup creator. Now, as Gallagath, he produces a distinctive brand of arcade-y, synth-based pop music.
The Gallagath sound is defined by its lo-fi vocoder vocals, ambient sweeping synths, and a commitment to raw honesty. His 2022 album, 'Abnormal Nocturnal,' refined this video game-inspired aesthetic, exploring the depressive haze of internet-fueled isolation and pushing his sound into a hyperpop-adjacent space. With a musical identity that is as genuine as it is sonically unique, Gallagath is a compelling voice in the indie electronic scene.
‘????’ by CHARLOTTE JADE
Charlotte Jade is an English-German singer-songwriter who delivers amazing alt-pop every time. Originally from Liverpool, now based in Western Australia, she blends emotional storytelling with atmospheric melodies. Her sound draws from a diverse range of influences, from the house and EDM tracks of her childhood to modern pop.
Charlotte made her debut with the single 'Messin' (With My Head)', showcasing her ability to write straight from the heart. With over 70 songs written since the age of 10, she continues to experiment with her sound, evolving from her earlier R&B style toward a more alternative approach. But whatever style, each song is instantly hooky and always sounds fantastic. This track has been on the playlist for weeks.
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‘Hello’ by XANU
Xavier Scanu is a prolific and insanely talented writer. I don’t know much about their background or build (I’m a relatively new fan), and though there are links and pieces of work everywhere but very little written content, so I can’t quote people.
All I can say is this is like alt-pop perfect.
‘Say it when you’re sober’ by HARRIET WRAITH
Harriet Wraith is a compelling voice in Naarm’s (Melbourne) vibrant indie music scene, known for her unique and ever-evolving style. Blending elements of jazz-infused soul, folk, and rock, her music is a rich tapestry of haunting melodies, gritty guitar, and deep and frank lyrics.
Drawing inspiration from artists like Fleetwood Mac, Julia Jacklin, and Nai Palm, Wraith has been writing songs since childhood, bursting with stories to tell. Her distinctive voice, at once ethereal and commanding, weaves through narratives of love, loss, and self-discovery with a raw honesty that is both vulnerable and empowering.
‘Sleep easy’ by ANGELA ROSE
Angela Rose is an independent artist and songwriter from Mulubinba (Newcastle), NSW. Over the last few years, she has made a name for herself with a country-tinged indie alt-pop sound, celebrated for its striking vocal presence and elegant, heartfelt melodies. Her music has earned praise from fans and all corners of the music industry.
In 2023, Angela Rose released her debut EP, 'Late Bloomer,' a project that resonated deeply with listeners. The title track was a winner of the prestigious Triple J Unearthed x NIDA music video competition.
Angela Rose has become a notable presence on the live stage, supporting a host of huge incredible Australian artists, including Angus & Julia Stone, Adam Newling, Gretta Ray, Mia Wray, Dulcie, Greta Stanley, Hollie Col, and Imogen Clark.
Save & enjoy.
‘Heartbreaker’ by ROSETTA
Rosetta is an alt-pop-princess in the making from Christchurch, New Zealand. Her music is a blend of dreamy melodies, heartfelt storytelling and catchy hooks.
A true girl-next-door, Rosetta shares the stories of her own self-discovery navigating the twists and turns of life and love sharing her relatable stories and the stories of others around her.
Rosetta wants to “Create the backing tracks for the movies that are our lives.” She seamlessly weaves together elements of indie pop and rock, creating tracks that are as sugary sweet as they are introspective and authentic.
‘Stolen love syndrome’ by LARA BUCHANANAN
Lara Buchanan is an amazing lyricist who brings a natural flair for transparent narration to her songs. Lara began writing at 11 and has been dedicated to her art ever since.
Since releasing her debut single at just 14, her discography has grown and evolved into a compelling blend of soulful songwriting with pop and rock elements. Her music is driven by a powerful narrative, each song a testament to her unique voice and the stories she believes need to be heard. Lara Buchanan is an emerging artist with a clear vision, an already awesome catalogue, and the talent to match her big dreams.
‘I could love U’ by LOGAN PRIEST
There’s a rare magic to Logan Priest’s music - it’s the sound of a new obsession that feels like an old friend. At just 21, the Southeast Queensland multi-instrumentalist, singer, and producer crafts songs that are as infectious as they are charming. And they are instantly memorable.
His self-taught journey has led to a stunning list of accomplishments; from supporting Pacific Avenue and touring with Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers to performing at major festivals like Spilt Milk and Heaps Good.
A standout performance at the Mushroom 50 Live event at Rod Laver Arena cemented his place as an artist on the rise, and with a massive 2024 under his belt, Logan Priest is just getting started.
‘Died a little’ by LEWY
Lewy’s debut single ‘Died a little’ has been on the playlist for a few months, I heard it on Triple J Unearthed and was instantly hooked and excited about future releases.
She just released a brand new single Delusions, which is another alt-pop instant classic.
‘Autumn leaves’ by HYPER RARE
Hyper Rare self describes his audio brand as “Anti-pop music that's honest, a little dark, and really catchy.” I think I can put that in the alt-pop bucket (I hope!).
Having been a music producer for 14 years, for most of that time, he was working on other’s art. Back in high school, he used to write his own music all the time, but set that aside to focus on audio engineering. He fell back in love with it and decided it was time to share his own creations. Hyper Rare is his space to do just that.
His songs often have melancholy lyrics and a dark production, but boy does he write good pop hooks.
‘Just in case’ by ERICA AVENUE
Erica Avenue, a dynamic five-piece band from Melbourne, formed in early 2024, uniting new and old friends with a shared passion for creating original music.
'Just in case‘ was a great follow-up single to ‘Feel it’ and confirmed that Erica Avenue had a real unique group vibe to dive into.
‘Down under‘ by SALTY
Salty is a dynamic force in the pop world, known for her electrifying live performances and unwavering dedication to dance. Drawing inspiration from icons like Lily Allen, Britney Spears, and Lady Gaga, Salty's music is a vibrant fusion of infectious old-school pop hooks and bold, unapologetic lyrics.
Her artistry transcends conventional pop norms, injecting elements of electronica and timeless musicianship. What truly sets Salty apart is the seamless integration of dance into every aspect of her artistic expression. Each of her songs serves as a manifesto—a powerful declaration of her desires, aspirations, and a vision for the future, delivered with captivating energy and a magnetic presence.
‘See both sides’ by JONESY feat. K*ahna, LOVY & ASIA
A random track created on the idea that ‘New-Jack-Swing’ was ready for a comeback.
Jonesy (me, Galaxy producer) and 3 x feature vocalists - K*ahna, Lovy & Asia, basically made this up on the fly and, I’m super proud of it - I think it’s one of my favourite surprises.
‘What are friends for?’ by LASHES
LASHES is a Melbourne-based alt-pop artist whose musical journey began at the age of seven. A restless spirit who eschewed traditional music theory, she instead developed a lifelong passion for musical experimentation and heart-on-sleeve songwriting.
Self-taught and driven by a collaborative spirit, the Ballarat-raised artist has aligned herself with a brilliant lineup of local producers. LASHES combines sincere lyrical narratives with infectious melodies to create a brand of evocative and relatable alt-pop that is uniquely her own. “What are friends for” is constantly stuck in my head. In a great way.
‘Dark Magic’ by VLF
“Victoria Lopez Fuentes makes music from her bedroom in Collingwood about her life in the world.”
A humble biography for someone who can write something instantly engaging yet still somehow slightly subtly leftfield. I could listen to this song on repeat.
‘Maniac’ by ROMAN MACLEAN
Pop artist Ronan Maclean released his debut project - ‘The Maniac EP’, a few months ago, following the release of the lead single, “I HOPE U NEVER KNOW HER.” The EP showcases Maclean’s versatility and strong pop instincts across four distinct tracks, all of which were written, produced, and performed by him.
What sets this project apart is its unique, DIY creative process. Most of the EP was recorded in his 2008 Kia Rio, an unconventional approach that has garnered significant attention on social media.
"It’s called The Maniac EP because “every song is unique," Maclean says. "I’m just experimenting, making whatever I think is cool. The one thing I can promise is that every song will be stuck in your head.” He’s not wrong.
‘Mountain’ by MEGHNA
Meghna is a genre-blurring alt-pop artist blending her Tamil-Bengali heritage with glitchy hip-hop/EDM production and introspective lyrics.
Named among best new music by Rolling Stone, VICE, and The Guardian, this human rights lawyer-in-the-making has played to 5K+, partnered with global brands, and is fast rising as one of Australia’s most distinct voices.
‘Holding out hope’ by ALISYA RAE
Alisya Rae is a Naarm/Melbourne-based artist with a truly global sound. Raised internationally in London, Qatar, the Netherlands, and Texas, she has returned to her birthplace to infuse the Australian music scene with her unique blend of soul-driven R&B and smooth, nostalgic vocals.
With roots in classical training, her songwriting style is more akin to modern R&B luminaries like H.E.R, Amy Winehouse and Yebba. Alisya’s music transforms heartbreak into an empowering force through driving beats and soulful melodies.
As described by Claire Mooney of Triple J, her "big vocal range... demands attention," and "once that chorus kicks in, you’ll be dancing/singing like your soul depends on it."
‘Learn how to love’ by MOSS BODY
This is the collaboration we've all been waiting for! The incredible Grace Robinson has teamed up with the production genius Christy Wositzky-Jones (Skinny Wizard) to form Moss Body, and the result is pure magic.
Their music is a soul-stirring fusion of electronic production and raw, heartfelt storytelling. The way they've combined their artistic strengths is just (IMO) just a perfect combo.. The sound is massive, yet so personal, with hints of James Blake, Sylvan Esso, and Imogen Heap. I am completely obsessed with this.
‘Don’t come crying’ by HOLLY HEBE
Holly Hebe is a singer, songwriter, and producer from the Mornington Peninsula, who is quickly becoming one of Australia's most exciting emerging voices. Drawing inspiration from artists like Maggie Rogers, Phoebe Bridgers, and Clairo, Holly fuses her love for piano and poetry to create celestial, dreamy pop tracks.
Her sound is shaped by a rural, seaside upbringing and her knack for organic sampling and unique processing. She describes her music as "scream in your car, cry while eating a McFlurry, soft rock/indie type of music."
Brilliant.
‘All wishes come true’ by WILD GLORIOSA
Wild Gloriosa is the musical project of Gloria Ragesh, whose name is a tribute to the flame lily, or Gloriosa, the state flower of Tamil Nadu. Her music is a compelling blend of sounds that feels at once familiar and unique, hypnotic and forthright, prayerful and seductive. It’s a journey that transcends the moment, holding listeners in its spell.
Delivered through the vessel of a South Indian flower grown in the suburbs of Geelong, her sound draws influence from the soulful depths of Bill Withers, the creative genius of Erykah Badu, and the graceful artistry of Lianne LaHavas. Wild Gloriosa crafts a one-of-a-kind sound that is as rich and multi-layered as her own story.
‘I’m gonna be famous’ by KAIYAH MERCEDES
‘Addictive’ by AIRIA
Airia crafts songs with a potent blend of raw emotion and electronic energy. Influenced by the dark-pop theatrics of Lorde and Billie Eilish, and the euphoric techno-pop of Charli XCX and Louis The Child, her music captures the vulnerability of a diary entry and the power of a dance floor anthem.
Each of her songs is a journey—a careful fusion of heartfelt lyrics and powerful production, designed to make listeners feel deeply connected to her sound. Having transitioned from bedroom covers to official releases, [Artist Name] is an artist on a mission, ready to see where her musical journey leads.
‘Locket’ by ISABEL WOOD
Wearing her heart on her sleeve and doing it in style, Isabel Wood skilfully combines her sugary sweet vocals with sticky melodies and intriguing lyrics to create really compelling emotional alt-pop.
Really addictive.
‘Kinda fucked’ by SERENDIPITI
Serendipiti is a Naarm/Melbourne-based artist whose music is best described as “carbonated indie-folk”. Her sound begins with modest, sweet guitar lines that build into fizz-up-your-nose, cinematic sensations. Her debut single, ‘Human,’showcased this ethereal charm, and her upcoming debut EP serves as a testament to her dedication to relentlessly uncovering the light in the darkness.
Following a recent run of support slots for artists like Thelma Plum, Jem Cassar Daley, and Jo Davie, Serendipiti’s newest single, ‘Kinda Fucked,’ steps into a poignant, heartfelt honesty. She also just destroyed Bigsound.
‘I like’ by LOOSIE GRIND
Loosie Grind is a vocalist who self taught production and DJing during Covid lockdown, when there’s time to move forward, she grinds at the opportunity!
Connecting with her queer community even further, no thanks to her recent tik tok virality, she prides herself on keeping her sets genre-fluid, booty shaking, vocal heavy and one big party.
I love this production so much.
‘Star sign’ by SHARESPIRIT
This is such a huge track.
I don’t know how to find out more about your productions, but I am very very keen to hear more and more!
‘Body language’ by JASMINE CLARKE
Jasmine Clarke is an Australian singer-songwriter celebrated for her powerful voice and unique blend of R&B and pop. She first garnered a dedicated fanbase on YouTube, where her heartfelt covers amassed millions of views over a decade of perfecting her craft.
Jasmine’s artistry reached a global audience with a pivotal collaboration on the League of Legends soundtrack. She was the voice of the character Seraphine and contributed her vocals to the hit track "Against All Odds." With a career rooted in authenticity and resilience, Jasmine continues to inspire listeners with her emotive music and collaborative spirit, proving that her artistry knows no bounds.
‘Sober’ by RAT GIRL
Hailing (mostly) from the Central West of NSW, rat girl lives and works in Sydney. Her music combines ethereal vocals on genre-blending beats. Living somewhere between blown-out rock and emo hyperpop, and still continuing to evolve.
Inspired by her lived experiences of growing up in a rough environment, but still nostalgic for all things reminiscent of childhood (bearing a large Littlest Pet Shop collection, A LOT of Polly Pockets, and still emulating shitty flash games).
Rat girl is the former front-woman and songwriter for Sydney band 'rat boy school excursion'.
‘Run to the moon’ by SHELLEY Q
Shelley Q is an Australian-born singer-songwriter and actress whose creative journey began on a remote farm in Western Australia. Finding early refuge in music and performance, she taught herself to play guitar and piano at age eight, and captivated audiences by singing for residents in local nursing homes.
Shelley’s music blends cinematic storytelling with raw emotional depth, creating a sound rooted in alternative pop-rock with touches of soul. Her discography includes the single "Stay" and her debut EP, Little Things, which showcase her unique ability to transform personal stories into captivating, heartfelt anthems
‘Wipe out!’ by LMDNA
LMDNA is the primary solo musical project of Liam Downey - a composer, performer, recording engineer and producer based in Perth.
His music under this name is a shapeshifting mass of digital maximalism - sometimes abrasive, sometimes danceable, often a mix of both. Though the songs wield a whirlwind of artifice and intangibility, there is a guarded emotional sincerity at the core of the practice.
Liam completed a bachelors degree in Music Composition and Technology at WAAPA in 2022, and has since been working as a freelance producer, engineer, performer, and general musical collaborator around Perth ever since. Wipe out! is such a banger.
‘48 harbour street’ by ZOE DAVIS
Zoe is a vocalist, producer and multi-instrumentalist on Darkinjung country ((NSW Central Coast.)) She soaks in life like a little sponge and wrings it all out in the form of genre-fluid, eclectically inspired tunez.
Her music - much like her life - plays upon a balance of wispiness and grit, light and dark, humour and introspection. With texture-focused arrangements, trip-hop inspired beats and warm vocals weaving between jazz, neo-soul, folk and alt rock influences, her music carries a unique and multi-faceted aesthetic. Zoe's creative process is intuitive, some-what lawless, and leaves room for a healthy amount of "just jumping in and figuring it out."
‘I get it now’ by JAZZY DALE
Jazzy Dale is an alternative R&B artist hailing from Eora/Sydney., known for her candid lyricism and heart-felt soul.
Jazzy tackles toxic relationships with biting 5-part harmonies and irresistibly catchy hooks. Effortlessly pushing the boundaries of the genre, Jazzy is carving out her unique space in the global music scene, drawing inspiration from both trail-blazers and hit makers alike.
‘Shit’ by LAURIE LUO
Laurie Luo is a Melbourne-based singer-songwriter and producer whose music blends honesty, vulnerability, and front-facing storytelling.
Originally from Urumqi, she moved to Australia on her own at 16; an experience that shaped her independence and creative voice.
During the COVID lockdowns in Beijing, Laurie taught herself music production, channeling isolation into artistry before returning to Melbourne to fully pursue her career. Drawing from real-life experiences of love, loss, heartbreak, and self-discovery, her songs carry both intimacy and power. With rich, emotive vocals and lyrics that cut to the core, Laurie crafts melodies that feel deeply personal yet universally relatable, inviting listeners to find their own stories within hers.
