Well known for its exotic wildlife, great waves, beautiful beaches, and that unforgettable Simpson’s episode, Australia is now becoming well known for something else; its output of amazingly talented and inventive producers. With Knife Party, Flume and What So Not clearing the way, Australians are making big moves. It seems like every other time I find a great new producer they are hailing from the land down under. Whether it’s coincidence or there’s something special going on down there I’m not sure, but check out our list and decide for yourself.
Wave Racer
Wave Racer was the first producer on the list that I ever encountered. I have to admit, I wasn’t really familiar with Future Bass at the time and his sound absolutely blew me away. It’s upbeat, inventive, fun and inconceivably happy. It’s difficult to listen to one of his songs without smiling. After checking out his SoundCloud his ‘The Dofflin’, ‘Stand Still’ and ‘Always’ remixes were instant favorites. His unique sound was truly game changing and has influenced a wide range of artists across the industry and likely a few on this list. This year he released the radiant tune ‘Streamers’, and saw him and Ryan Hemsworth remixing each others work. He also managed to drop an official remix of Foster The People’s – ‘Best Friend’. Aside from making music the producer has spent some time touring Australia, North America and Europe, and is set to accompany Chromeo on their Frequent Flyer Tour. He’ll also play Mad Decent’s Boat Party in November. 2014 has been a huge year and it’s only getting bigger. Follow Wave Racer on Facebook, Twitter and SoundCloud.
Sable
My introduction to Sable was his Feel So Good EP. Aptly titled, the 5 song project combined elements of Future Bass, Jersey Club, and House for a sound that is immensely cheery and seriously sexy. ‘Foolin’ and ‘Feels So Good’ are my personal favorites. Considering it clocks in at just under 20 minutes it definitely deserves a full play through. Keeping sexy in mind, his rework of ‘My Luv’ is guaranteed to have dropped panties around the world. Mixing things up, Sable recently released the Pokemon inspired ‘Mt. Moon’ trading in the seductive and serotonin inducing melodies for a grimy bass epic that’ll have you mean muggin’. The track shows Sable’s versatility and proves that whatever he chooses to make will undoubtedly impress. Check out Sable on SoundCloud, Facebook and Twitter.
SLUMBERJACK
If you’ve been sleeping on Slumberjack, it’s time to wake-up! The Perth based duo has had a huge year, dropping some of the most originals tracks out. Just listen to ‘So Sweet’ and try to make sense of what you just heard. Actually don’t, just enjoy its awesomeness. Likely their most well known tune is ‘Felon’. A wonky, bassment certified banger that also includes gorgeous piano work, ragga vocals and a multitude bass. If you’re a fan of Mr. Carmack or What So Not this’ll blow you away. If you’re looking for something a little lighter don’t worry, their collaboration with Sable ‘Sprinter’ is straight Kawaii bliss. And you can’t talk about the duo without mentioning their anthematic ‘Touched’ edit (listen below). SLUMBERJACK has proven their ability to make a wide variety of mind blowing music and they’re just getting started. Be sure to keep up with them on SoundCloud, Facebook and Twitter.
Palace
A master of summery synths, Perth based producer Palace has a knack for delivering sunshine through your speakers. Much like the glorious life source, his music warms you up, fills you with positive energy and beckons you to make the most out of your days. His best release is a toss up between ‘Slow Burn’ and his remix of Crooked Colours ‘Come Down’. The former features a melody so infectious and delightful that you’ll be humming it for days off just one listen. The latter is a perfect blend of Future Bass and Club elements that’s guaranteed to have you grooving. Finally his remix of Paces ‘Leave’ is a tropical themed tune that’s the perfect accent to your summer playlist. It’s been a little while since we’ve heard new material from Palace but we can’t wait to hear what he’s got in store! Don’t miss a thing, follow him on SoundCloud, Twitter and Facebook.
Loston
Loston is probably the most out of place on this list. Don’t misinterpret that, he’s definitely deserving of his spot, it’s just that his sound is very different from majority featured here. While Australia is becoming known for its cheery upbeat sounds, Loston makes music that is airy, emotive and breathtaking. His soundscapes conjure images of gorgeous rocky coast lines rather than sunny sandy beaches. Every track he’s put out has been impressive. From his reworks (‘Too Much’, ‘Waiting Game’, ‘Retrograde’, ‘November 18th’) to his originals ‘Next Exit’ and ‘Drown’, everything he touches is sure to give you some serious feels. Follow Loston on SoundCloud, Facebook and Twitter.
Leon Osborn
Hailing from Fremantle, Leon Osborn creates music that is truly unique and unpredictable. His most recent project Nature Strip has him fusing ambient sounds, smooth melodies, hip-hop vibes and lush bass. The result is a fresh sound that’ll take you to a completely unfamiliar zone. My favourite work is ‘Vinson Massif’ which utilizes militant snares, hazy vocal loops, and deep bass hits, all while drifting between states of calm and intensity. Other standout tracks include the zoned out ‘Perito Moreno’ and dream-esq ‘Sleeping Bear Dunes’. If you’re feeling the vibes be sure to check out Leon on SoundCloud and Facebook.
Basenji
Basenji is another artist who has the keen ability to take listeners completely away. His debut song ‘Speak With A Dofflin’ is nothing short of spectacular. It takes you off the shores of Australia into an underwater fantasy world where you feel you might be able to do just what the title ensues. Dolphin samples, epic synth builds, and uncharacteristic drops make this track truly something else. ‘Tribute To The Cat’ is unsurprisingly reminiscent to the sounds of Cashmere Cat. What does impress is how good this song actually is (I’m sure Cashmere Cat would be pleased to have produced it himself). If you’re feeling those two tunes then ‘Dawn’ is a can’t miss. To close things out, his latest release ‘Heirloom’ is a sun-drenched, smooth record to bump on the beach. Follow the dog on SoundCloud, Facebook, and Twitter.
Dugong Jr.
Moving Castle has been taking over 2014 and recently expanded their family to Australia by adding Dugong Jr. A worthy inclusion, his original track ‘In Love’ packs some serious feels. What truly made me a fan is his remix of Kid Ink’s ‘Sunsets’, which in my opinion is one of the best songs of the summer. It’s an infectious, melodic rework that is the perfect soundtrack to cruising on a summers eve. With synth soaked remixes of Gudu, Miami Horror and Kilter, Dugong Jr is right at home on this list. Keep up to date with him on SoundCloud, Facebook, and Twitter.
That’s it for our list. Bear in mind this is only a sample of the great music coming out of the overly talented nation. Be sure to let us know your favourite selections or any artists who you think we missed in the comments below. Also be sure to bump our A Trip Down Under playlist which includes a ton of tunes from the artists featured on the list.
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