LIVE REVIEW: BIGSOUND 2025

Words by Cecilia Pattison-Levi

Various Sites - Fortitude Valley – Brisbane – 1 to 4 September 2025

Fortitude Valley was alive with the Big Sound 2025 of music as the Australian music industry showcased new and emerging talent started in Brisbane.

If you have never experienced ‘Big Sound’: it is a week of music where bands can pitch their music and gain music industry coverage. Big Sound 2025 brought together an eclectic mix of emerging and established Australian and International musicians to showcase their music and performance style at Australia's largest music industry conference and festival that is held annually in Brisbane's Fortitude Valley. 

The music spans numerous genres and aims to be an “overwhelming feast of emerging talent” for both industry insiders and the general public. You can go and discover the next “big thing” or a new favourite artist across various styles of music from pure pop to indie via punk to country. If you can think it – it will be there.

DAY 1

The week starts off with the Destroy All Lines showcase at The Brightside. It is always a night of exceptional music with a diverse line up bands from across the country. The showcase this year featured:

Monday 1 September 2025
The Brightside
Friends of Friends (Gold Coast)
Sunbleached (Brisbane)
Bad JuJu (Melbourne)
Late 90's (Perth)
Closure (Sydney)
Heart Line (Adelaide)

Friends of Friends kicked off the week with a dazzling rock set with real personality and magnetism. Hailing from the Gold Coast, Friends of Friends delivered an energetic and uber-tight set. Lead singer Barnaby Baker showcased incredible vocal control that was supported by the synergy of the band Frank Christian and especially the drumming of Morgan Blake. The band performed their own songs and it was a great live performance as they did the hardest job and kicked off a major event as first up act.

Then, Brisbane band, Sunbleached, then came to the stage to rev up the night with good solid hard rock music with a singer who drinks beer between songs. Old school! The lead singer Josh Baker was great at engaging the crowd. As the short set progressed, Sunbleached’s sound became harder with unexpected emotional screams and a post-hardcore flurry of guitars. The crowd loved it!

Melbourne five-piece Bad JuJu delivered high energy and heavy riffs. Bad Juju brought a different raw and angsty intensity to the evening. The band play hard but with a powerful and melodic underscore to their music. Their lead singer vocals were great and the songs are full of catchy hooks.

Late 90s are an alternative hard-rock band from Perth. Their music had that 2000s and 1990s blend of nostalgia with a more contemporary edge. Their songs had infectious melodies and darker lyrics that were hauntingly beautiful. Their sound and instrumental layering was delivered well. ‘Intrepid’, ‘Cruel’ and ‘Low’ were highlights.

Sydney hard-rock band Closure delivered hard-hitting post-hardcore music bringing raw intensity and emotion to the stage. Closure comprises of Lucy May, Lachlan Cronin, Connor Stewart, and Callum Gowing. The four-piece are carving out a reputation for their dynamic live energy and uncompromising sound. The band are still pretty raw, but the potential is there – especially with the strong front woman in Lucy May and the music delivering that angel/devil vibe.

Heart Line ended the evening with their melodic hard rock side that energetically cuts across the threshold into melodic metal. They featured songs from their third album, ‘Falling Heaven’ that was released in March 2025. The hard rocking riffs and the glorious guitar tones underpinned with drums and crisp bass lines gave the crowd a great ending to a night of authentic rock music.

DAY 2

Then, the overwhelming feast that is Big Sound officially started. And, there have been some impressive bands and musicians from Western Australia at this year’s event. However, it was Sydney that took bragging rights as Rageflower kicked off the proceedings in style at the Black Bear Lodge.

Tuesday 2 September 2025
Who: Rageflower
Where: Black Bear Lodge
Time: 7pm

Who: Azure Ryder
Where: Eclipse
Time: 7.30pm

Who: Sunsick Daisy
Where: The Alligator Bar
Time: 8pm

Who: Mariae Cassandra
Where: Wonderland
Time: 8.30pm

Who: Darcie Haven
Where: The Brightside
Time: 9.15pm

Who: Mozë
Where: The Wickham
Time: 10.15pm

Who: DJ Demin
Where: Eclipse
Time: 11pm

Rageflower (aka Madeline Powers) is a Sydney based independent musician. She was just amazing as she brought the sound, the songs and the dramatic live performance to fans at the Black Bear Lodge. She has finally unleashed her much anticipated debut EP ‘Infinite Highs, End of Times’ that has seven songs that weave together trauma, lust, heartbreak, and fleeting moments of joy.

Rageflower is a mesmerizing force as she delivers these songs live using at times ferocity and tenderness, often in the same breath, to perform the emotive substance of the songs. Her band as she described them were thorns to her petals. She opened her set with ‘Hands On My Body’ followed by the wonderful ‘Sign Of Life’. The fantastic songs were all her in ‘Hot Glue’, ‘Someone New’, ‘Don’t Believe In Love’, Plush Tin, the beautiful ‘Angel Things’ and the two huge songs ‘Kerosene’ and the brilliant ‘Desk Job’. Rageflower was so good. I went twice to see her. And will get to any future gig she puts on.

Azure Ryder is singer, songwriter and musician from Sydney but is currently based in London. Her magnificent voice, mesmerizing performances and poetic lyrics are outstanding as she delivers her music in a very So-Cal way. Her songs were breezy, and light delivered with her voice and acoustic guitar. Azure Ryder's live performance was powerful, as her honey-like vocals, wrapped around her songs like ‘Collarbones’, ‘Wolves’, ‘Honeycomb’ and ‘Some Kind Of Love’. Her graceful stage presence, and her ability to spin ethereal tales with rich harmonies and synth-driven arrangements was impressive.

Sunsick Daisy were an independent indie rock band from South Australia, and they are based in Adelaide. They had the jangly guitars, sweet rock melodies and the songs like ‘Hideaway’, ‘Pale Blue’, and ‘It’ll Be Alright’. Sunsick Daisy delivered an energetic and magnetic live show, characterized by their diverse indie rock sound, featuring shoegaze and dream-pop influences. The lead singer, Sarah’s vocals are wonderful and Kane’s guitar riff on ‘Underwater’ was so catchy. They were very tight for such a new band and their harmonies were spot on. They closed out their set with ‘I’m Fine’ and they certainly were fine.

And, speaking of impressive, the 17-year-old Western Australian musician Mariae Cassandra put on a fantastic set of her original songs. Her new song ‘Love Vomit’ has indie teenage sensation written all over it. Mariae Cassandra has had a rollercoaster ride over the last year since taking out the Triple J Unearthed High competition with her song ‘Million Billion Trillion’. Mariae Cassandra played new songs like ‘Theodore’, her debut single ‘Cassie’ and she even toasted to Big Sound with water as she was underage at the venue, she was playing in. She put on a very impressive set that had the crowd stunned. Mariae Casssandra has been consistently building her cache of songs and ultimately, her performance presence and it’s clear that her sonic vision is one built around intimate songwriting and delivery.

Then, another Western Australian Darcie Haven delivered the goods. She has been a musician for barely two years but has quickly establishing herself as a rising talent in the Australian music scene. She was raised on a farm in a remote corner of WA, she learned to sing and play guitar by herself, and embraces the sing songwriter confessional style of music. She is an impressive force on stage. Darcie Haven's live shows emphasize her trademark blend of raw, personal songwriting with a sharp indie-pop sound, creating an intimate connection with her audience. Her gig focussed on her latest EP, ‘Angel of the Apocalypse’, which explores themes of early adulthood, heartbreak, and the complexities of past relationships with songs like the fabulous ‘Burner Account’, Doomsday’ and her favourite song ‘Hounds’ – you will see why she is one to watch.

It was a quick run to The Wickham for Mozë. Mozë is (aka Zoe Marshall) and she is an English-born, Australian self-produced musician who began exploring her sound during the 2020 lockdowns. Her style is electronica with neo-soul and funk vocals. Her song ‘Albert Street’ was big with the crowd. And the crowd was big to see her, as she got the dancing underway with her synth-based melodies and powerhouse vocals. Mozë delivered songs such as ‘Time Will Tell’, ‘Say It Like You Mean It’ and others from her EP ‘Mosaic’. Her performance style was unique and engaging. Big voice, big sound, big fun!

Then, it was a sprint to Enigma for DJ Demin. She brought the bass heavy beats for the last set of the night. She created a seamless and dynamic dance floor experience for the fans. Her set was energetic and supercharged, and she incorporated influences from artists like Sophie and Skrillex while staying true to her own signature sound. Her music could be characterized by its unpredictability, but it was fun and enjoyed by the dance floor fans.

DAY 3

Then, it was Wednesday. It was night two (officially) and it was a running night right from the start of the evening. I decided to go and see Closure again and have another look and listen.

Wednesday 3 September 2025
Who: Closure
Where: Wonderland
Time: 7pm

Who: Frankie Venter
Where: Eclipse
Time: 7.30pm

Who: George Alice
Where: The Prince Consort Hotel
Time:8pm

Who:Ullah
Where: The Brightside Time: 8.30pm

Where: The Stamps
Where: Black Bear Lodge
Time: 9pm

Where: Lucky
Where: The Alligator Club
Time: 10pm

Sydney hard-rock band Closure brought their post-hardcore sound to the Wonderland stage. Maybe it was the venue but they seemed a bit more tentative tonight. The crowd loved what they were performing and they delivered their hard-hitting songs well. Lucy May really gave the crowd her energy. The band are still raw and more gigging will help smooth out their live sound.

After a quick race walk, it was over to the Eclipse for Frankie Venter. She is a rising New Zealand musician who's built a devoted following in just 12 months. Again, this musician needed polish but with songs like ‘Backseat Driver’ I could see what the fuss was about. The girl can write, and the song is an absolute banger! Frankie Venter's live performance was engaging. Unfortunately, she had a few technical ‘issues” with equipment breaking and her vocals were too low in the mix. But she is energetic, emotionally resonant, and highly engaging with the crowd as they sang along her relatable and personal lyrics. Listen to ‘How You Like Me Now’ and you will get the drift.

It was a short run to see George Alice next. Georgia Mannion (aka George Alice) is a strident South Australian singer-songwriter. Her set at Big Sound was just great. She warned up the crowd with ‘Bubble’ and ‘He Sucks’ before she delivered her new songs ‘SOS’ and ‘Valium & Sushi’ amongst others. George Alice's live performance was stripped back and captivating (her and her drummer) as she showcased her dreamy indie-pop sounds and "Disney princess vocals" with its focus on emotional song writing and catchy tunes. The crowd was huge and really appreciative of this performance.

I raced over to see the Western Australian indie-rock tinged with folk-pop musician Ullah at The Brightside. And it was an amazing set. Ullah as a band were tight. Ullah as a person was funny, engaging with absolutely no filter and such a dynamic and powerful performer. I was blown away.

Beneath her enticing sonics, is a tenderness and insight to Ullah’s song writing and narrative tales of human connection. It is central to her music, and it was so obvious. Songs like ‘Hot Stuff’, ‘Not Gonna Tell You’, ‘I Want It All’, Shoulder To Shoulder’ and ‘If I Were A Fish’ were just classic. Boy! Did Ullah impressed on stage as well. They were polished but raw, youthful, and emotionally vulnerable. She was undeniably adorable throughout and no less powerful for it.

Then, for something completely different The Stamps, the adorable three-piece harmony girl group from Western Australia took over The Black Bear Lodge and drew a huge crowd. The Stamps do what the name says and stamp out the rhythm with their boots as their voices combine in harmony heaven. All they needed was wood, voices and an acoustic guitar with occasional tambourine. The Stamps (Sofia, Scarlett and Rubina) gave an intimate, harmony-driven performance that captured their friendship and coming-of-age songs like ‘Hallelujah’, ‘Not The Loving Kind’, new song ‘Charlie’ and ‘Maria’. The songs had sharp hooks, and lyrics that cut straight to the heart. They created a unique connection with the crowd.

Melbourne based musician Lucky burst onto the stage at the Alligator Club in flurry of fuzzy guitars with the most captivating songs of indie alternative-rock. With only thirty minutes to impress she did more than that and more with some killer melodies in her arsenal. Her live reputation has been building and I was excited to finally see her live here in Brisbane. Lucky should be headlining her own shows in her own right. The set highlights were ‘Lady Beetle’, ‘Clover’ and ‘Never Know’.

DAY 4

Thursday was a packed agenda and it was rapid movement between venues. It was also a night beset with “technical issues” at lots of venues. But I was happy about that as I got to move rapidly between the musicians without missing much.

Thursday 4 September 2025
Who: Wishlist
Were: Black Bear Lodge
Time: 7pm

Who: Daste
Where: Wonderland
Time: 7.30pm

Who: Darcie Haven
Where: Black Bear Lodge
Time: 8pm

Who: Mel Blue
Where: Wonderland
Time: 8.30pm

Who: Sleepazoid
Where: The Alligator Club
Time: 9pm

Who: Wafia 
Where: The Brightside
Time: 9.25pm

Who: Hatchie
Where: The Prince Consort Hotel
Time: 10.15pm

Who: Lyric
Where: Wonderland
Time: 10.35pm

Where: Cheeky Leash
Who: Wonderland
Time: 11pm

Melbourne musicians Wishlist got things off to a flying start at the Black Bear Lodge. Wishlist (Stella, Soren and Alex) were playing their third ever gig and the chemistry was there and it was fantastic. They blended electronic pop with organic instruments and delivered a terrific set of original songs such as ‘Counting On You’, ‘Ceilings’ and ‘Even When You’re Leaving’. The female/male interplay of vocals was well conceived and their sound had a 1980s vibe (like Yazoo crossed with Arvo – but not weird). There was a lot to like here.

Then, over to see Daste at Wonderland. The local Brisbane based band comprises of: Callum MacDonald, Tyler Harden and Braxton Tahi. I have seen Daste a few times and they never disappoint. They delivered their funky dance music with rock leanings set with songs such as ‘Butterfly’, ‘Tide’ and ‘River’. It was over way too soon.

Then, it was back to the Black Bear Lodge, and round two with Darcie Haven. Her set was plagued with a few technical issues but she handled it so well and he packed out venue liked what they saw and heard. See the review above for more.

If you see a theme of venues happening, it did, as Wonderland became the venue I was rushing in and out of all night. The security guard had a laugh at me – in and out. But it was back there to see Mel Blue. The set delivered by Mel Blue was a surprise. It was characterized by its combination of euphoric, danceable electronic music with emotionally resonant song writing, organic instruments that blended house, breakbeat, and UK garage influences. It was so much fun! The song ‘None Of That’ was a great track dripping in drum and bass influence that had Sycco’s pristine vocals on display on the back screen. It was a truly a perfect combination.

The Alligator Club was up next and the fabulous Sleepazoid and they were on form. I have seen this band before and rate them highly. Melbourne's Sleepazoid are a band with their fingers on the pulse as they delivered a lively set of post-punk rock. The five-piece band seem sure in their sound and what they are delivering to crowds. The band Sleepazoid comprises of Nette France (lead vocals/guitar), Josef Pabis (bass), George Inglis (guitar), Luca Soprano (drums/backing vocals), and Jim Duong (guitar/backing vocals). Nette France’s vocal delivery and guitar work was mesmerising, the guitar work of Jim Duong, George Inglis was very good, and the frenetic percussion of Luca Soprano aligned with bassist Josef Pabis was solid. There is something arresting about Sleepazoid and the use of their four-guitar sound. The set included the beautiful ‘3AM’ and tracks from their debut EP ‘Running With The Dogs’.

Thankfully, music equipment technical issues helped me out, and I made it to see local Brisbane musician Wafia at The Brightside. And, I am so glad I got to see this set. Wafia was fantastic! She truly captivated the crowd (the crowd was bouncing) with both her music and confident as she brought strong feminine energy onto the stage. Wafia’s music is a blend of R&B with elements of dreamy pop, funk and neo-soul. Her voice is silky and mellifluous. She played songs from her new album ‘Promised Land’ and I ‘spotifyed’ on the spot. Set highlights were ‘Big Thoughts’, ‘Hurricane’ and ‘When I See Your Face’. Just great!

And, again technical music issues helped me out, as I ran to The Prince Consort Hotel to see Hatchie. The delay was substantially but I was told to wait by a lovely photographer Darcie (who I see at many gigs) and she told me: “you don’t want to miss this”. And, was she right! Hatchie was amazing as well. Brisbane local, now Melbourne based, Hatchie (aka Harriette Pilbeam) brought her trade mark dream indie pop-rock reverie to the crowd and it was amazing. There was a delicious thread of melancholia weaving throughout her set with ‘Lights On’, ‘Stay With Me’, ‘Sure’, ‘Sage’ and ‘Lose It Again’ glittering with melodies ringing out across the venue.

I raced to see Lyric at Wonderland. And she never disappoints as she delivered a great set of seven songs with ‘Wildfire’ starting it off. Lyric played new songs like ‘Homesick’, ‘The Real You’ and ‘Outdated’ which will be featured on her new EP ‘The Art of Falling First’ coming out soon as she gets ready to tour. The backing band (Sam, Cody and Lawson – most of JUNO) were so tight. The overseas touring and experienced showed as they all looked different more polished and mature, and they sounded even better. The growth in all these musicians over the last 12 months has been astonishing. Lyric really is a talent with her song writing and delivery – wonderfully pop.

I was getting to the exhaustion point and decided to stay at Wonderland. I am glad I did as I caught the set performed by Cheeky Leash. They are a Wollongong-based indie rock band and their coastal vibe was just what I needed. I was proud to know that I ended the four days with a band from my home range as I grew up around Wollongong. Cheeky Leash were just like the band name described with punchy guitar riffs, hook-filled song writing, and playful charm. They had that coastal surf-rock sound driven by the guitar. There was a lot to like here and it was an awesome way to finish a week full of amazing talent. The future is looking bright!