SINGLE REVIEW: WITHERED LEAF BY KARMA POLICE

Reviewed by Cecilia Pattison-Levi

Release date 15 May 2026

The Sunshine Coast band, Karma Police, have released their second single, ‘Withered Leaf’. It follows the release of their debut single in 2025, ‘Getaway’, and shows a young band growing in confidence and substance.

I have been privileged and lucky enough to watch this young band grow and hone their musical skills over the last two years. Karma Police formed three years ago and have gigged whenever they have had the chance. They have played with The Finches, Wave Raiders, and as part of the Brisbane Teenage Fanclub. I was amazed at the band’s progress at their last gig. Their instrument control and singing skills have leaped forward. And, while their new song references their influences, they have put their own unique spin on their sound.

‘Withered Leaf’ is a great original song that sees Karma Police stretching their wings lyrically and musically. The song utilises the loud-and-soft grunge rock dynamic. The soundscape has a gentle introduction, with a chiming electric guitar and bassline riff delivering the melodic structure as a cymbal from the drum kit echoes, then the driving guitars and vocals crash over the melody line.

The gentle verses and the wall of sound chorus interplay between the lyrics and the instrumentation until the chorus brings it all together and then fades out with feedback. The feeling of the music induces a head-banging effect on the listener.

Since ‘Withered Leaf’ debut outing at the Battle of the Bands in 2025 at The Presynct in Nambour, where it won first prize, Karma Police are an entrant in Unearthed High 2026. Their single has been on rotation on radio. The ABC Sunshine Coast and triple J’s Unearthed have been highlighting the song. Brisbane’s 4ZZZ has also been playing the song.

Karma Police comprises of Willem Brennan, Will McWha, Madison "Madi" Grose and Isaac Green, and they have recently spent time at Airlock Studios in Brisbane, recording their first EP with producer Cody McWaters.

The band are getting ready to release an EP, and this will happen on 15 August 2026 at Nambour’s Black Box Theatre. Karma Police are definitely a band to keep an eye on, showing songwriting and performance maturity well beyond their years.

‘Withered leaf’ is a leap ahead for Karma Police and deserves your attention.