ATLAS FRANKLIN ALEXANDER SHARES EFFERVESCENT NEW SINGLE + VIDEO ‘NEW REMEDY’ TAKEN FROM UPCOMING NEW EP ‘FLEXIBLE NEW REPLICA’ OUT MARCH 13
An ethereal exploration into vulnerability, atmospheric whimsy and psych pop elements, the brand-new track New Remedy out today from Newcastle artist Atlas Franklin Alexander wields nostalgic modernity, while also offering glossy insight into what lies in wait at the core of his impending new EP, Flexible New Replica, due March 13, and celebrating its release with an east coast tour, set to hit Wollongong, Sydney and Melbourne in March.
A raw yet resplendent outing that glimmers with touches of Peter Gabriel’s experimental 80s side, Radiohead’s atmospheric dreaminess, Tame Impala’s synth-meets-psych-pop sensibilities and a dash of Kurt Vile’s vulnerability, New Remedy also firmly showcases Atlas Franklin Alexander’s ability to balance modern hues with throwback tendencies, while also traversing extremely relatable lyrical fare in an open-veined fashion, as Atlas Franklin Alexander shares, “New Remedy is about finding clarity in the middle of confusion. It’s that feeling of wanting to fix something that feels broken, but not knowing exactly how. There’s a vulnerability in wanting to make things right, and this song explores that tension. It’s a mix of personal reflection and a kind of quiet desperation for resolution. I think it’s a universal feeling—wanting a “remedy” for what ails you, whether it’s a relationship or just your own inner struggle. In terms of inspiration, it came from a combination of personal experience and the way those emotions often feel heightened in moments of uncertainty. There’s a bit of that ‘80s energy where everything felt bigger—more dramatic—but also something modern, like trying to capture those feelings in today’s world. It’s kind of like a snapshot of a moment when you’re searching for something that feels like it could fix everything, even if you don’t know exactly what that is.”
Teaming up with long-time collaborators Harri Gilbert and Dave Fulham, the accompanying video for New Remedy perfectly encapsulates the single’s otherworldly sonics, while also channelling its lyrical content through abstract yet entirely fitting visuals. “I came up with the concept and directed the video myself with the help of two pals Harri Gilbert and Dave Fulham,” Atlas Franklin Alexander explains. “The video is a bit of an abstract reflection of the song’s themes—like an exploration of the different facets of human experience. You’ve got the green man dancing in the kitchen—he’s kind of a symbol for something that’s “other,” something outside the typical norm. There’s the girl who is in love with a robot—representing that strange tension between human connection and the things we create, I’d say in 5-10 years these kind of relationships with robots will become our reality. Then we have the fortune teller, predicting what is all about to unfold, and finally we got the gang of youths and I’m there, singing the song, trying to make sense of it all. It’s about navigating confusion and finding that piece of clarity, even in the midst of chaos.”
An immersive and holistically DIY labour of love, both New Remedy and its overarching body of work, Flexible New Replica, was written, recorded and produced entirely by Atlas Franklin Alexander, with the six tracks all simultaneously standing alone as separate creative journeys, and carrying a sharp yet cohesive creative thread. From its buoyant opener, New Remedy, Flexible New Replica unfurls into percolating 80s synth wave (Firebird), modern ambience (Crave), lolling atmospheric bliss (Dolphins), ethereal haze built for driving down dark highways at night with the windows rolled down (Young Love) and, ultimately, an uplifting cloud of smooth textures and languid-yet-driving beats via closing track Brighter Days. A deeply engaging collection of tracks that collectively celebrate a retro-future aesthetic, Flexible New Replica is also firmly helmed from start to finish by this talented artist, with the entirely solo endeavour a soaring reflection of catharsis and self-exploration, as he elaborates, “It is a true DIY project—everything from the writing to the recording to the production came from my home studio, where I’ve always felt most connected to the work. I think there’s something deeply personal and reflective in making music this way. It’s not about perfection; it’s about honesty. Each instrument is played by me, each decision made with a purpose, even if it’s an imperfect one. In a way, the song becomes an extension of my environment, my mindset. There’s a certain beauty in the DIY process, in shaping everything from the ground up, even if it’s a little rough around the edges. That’s where the real magic lies for me.”
Hailing from Mulubinba/Newcastle, Atlas Alexander Franklin has dazzled with his post-punk and indie pop wiles over the years, layering lashings of imagination across ambient synths and immersive beats in a way that is both fresh and familiar; and entirely fascinating. Releasing his debut EP ENTER ECHO in 2021, Alexander blends raw emotion into his sonic dreamscapes, offering uplifting messaging and relatability along with resplendent catharsis. And, for Alexander, his musical output is as much a therapy for himself as it is for any of his listeners who venture into his spellbinding creations. “It’s almost like writing music is my form of self-therapy,” shares Alexander. “The drive to understand, to express what’s inside through writing & recording. My song writing came from wanting to create something that was completely real & honest with no outside influences. So yes, it’s definitely like I’m counselling myself through my music lol. I just have always had and will always have this strange impulse to create stuff. Sounds a bit hippie-dippie but music’s always been my way of navigating life, and this project came from wanting to make something completely on my own terms.”
With the imminent release of Flexible New Replica, Atlas Franklin Alexander is also set to embark on a special run of shows in support of the new EP, with the Flexible New Replica Tour visiting Wollongong on March 7, Sydney on March 13 and Melbourne on March 21.
New Remedy is out today.
Flexible New Replica is due out March 13.
ATLAS FRANKLIN ALEXANDER – UPCOMING SHOWS:
Tickets available from https://linktr.ee/atlasfranklinalexander
FRI 7 MAR | TBH, WOLLONGONG NSW | 18+
THURS 13 MAR | HOLLYWOOD HOTEL, SYDNEY NSW | 18+
FRI 21 MAR | LULIES TAVERN, MELBOURNE VIC | 18+
SOMA SHARES SULTRY NEW SINGLE + VIDEO ‘SAY IT’ LIFTED FROM ‘COBRA’ MIXTAPE SET FOR FEBRUARY 21 RELEASE
Bold, slick and laden with modern hip hop hues, today Sydney-based artist SOMA unveils her new single Say It, conjured alongside the legendary Danny Duke (Lizzo, Sampa the Great), and also accompanied by a cosmic music video ahead of the release of her debut mixtape COBRA, due out on February 21.
A sultry slice of alternative hip hop merged with futuristic soul, Say It collides SOMA’s seamless artistry alongside nods to the fearless storytelling and creativity of SZA, FKA twigs, and Outkast. Also expanding her experimental approach to music via inspiration courtesy of Björk and Missy Elliott, Soma ultimately captures edgy celestial vibes with her own unique twist in her latest masterpiece. “Say It is about an alien falling in love with a human on Earth and exploring this intense, otherworldly connection,” SOMA explains. “It’s a metaphor for feeling like you don’t belong yet finding someone who accepts and loves you unconditionally. It’s sensual, intimate, and cosmic—pushing boundaries while still remaining deeply human. The idea came from a conversation about how love transcends everything: distance, identity, and even planets. Releasing Say It feels surreal. This single represents such a bold step for me as an artist—it’s raw, emotional, and unlike anything I’ve done before. Sharing it with the world is a little terrifying, but mostly it’s empowering. It’s my way of saying, “This is who I am, take it or leave it.”
Teaming up with Danny Duke, the award-winning producer renowned for his work with Lizzo and Sampa the Great amongst others, SOMA also channelled her boundless sonic stylings into an accompanying music video for Say It, with the clip, directed by Frederick McHenry, expanding SOMA’s creative evolution as she steps into a bold new era in the lead up to the release of her mixtape, COBRA. “The video was directed by Frederick McHenry, whose storytelling ability is unmatched,” shares SOMA of the Say It music video. “He’s worked with some amazing artists and brought so much vision and expertise to the project. His Atlanta roots added a unique flair to the visuals. This video is a love story told through the lens of surrealism. Think dreamy visuals, glowing alien skin, and neon-lit cityscapes. It’s both futuristic and intimate—a visual representation of love that transcends boundaries.”
A mixtape set to dive into concepts of life, love, loss, self-discovery, letting go, taking control, and learning to stop caring about things that don’t matter, SOMA’s highly-anticipated debut, COBRA, due out on February 21, boasts 11 powerful tracks, each enticing you into SOMA’s creative universe while also cementing the Sydney-based artist as a genuine musical force. From the swagger of 247 through to the futuristic yet primal expanse of Burn, the raw, crystalline beauty of Sink, the humid and prowling White Silk, and the sultry emotives of Say It, SOMA’s COBRA mixtape is a sharply-polished outing that also dazzles with its immersive lyrical content, as SOMA elaborates, “COBRA explores life, love, loss, self-discovery, and empowerment. It’s about healing from trauma, letting go of pain, and reclaiming your power. Each track tells its own story while contributing to this larger narrative of resilience and growth. Writing this was an empowering and deeply cathartic experience. I chose the mixtape format because I wanted to release a cohesive body of work that truly represents my sound and my story. It feels so good to finally get these thoughts out—onto paper, into music. My own therapy sessions. My metamorphosis.”
COBRA will arrive on February 21, alongside an accompanying 20-minute long-form film, directed by Frederick McHenry, with the visual companion set to amplify the mixtape’s raw emotional power and creative depth, while also firmly signposting SOMA as an innovative visionary in the local scene.
Heavily inspired by honesty, empathy and “the ability to transform pain into art”, SOMA has evolved into an artist renowned for her ability to fuse timeless charm with raw emotion and modern flair. Growing up listening to hip hop, classical and everything in between, SOMA’s eclectic taste developed at a young age, has continued and ignited with each new release in her solo material, also drawing her creative moniker from the idea of nourishment for the soul, whether through music, storytelling, or connection. In this transformative moment of our world, where society stands at a critical crossroads, SOMA sees the digital age as a unique opportunity to explore, share, and collaborate across diverse voices – and music, as a universal language, plays a pivotal role in this evolution. For SOMA, it is not just a medium for expression; it is a tool for healing and connection, a way to navigate and transcend the complexities of time, fostering shared experiences that unify us all. With a voice capable of transcending time, space and emotion, she crafts music that resonates globally: “As a multicultural woman from Australia, I believe music and the arts hold profound power to dismantle barriers and pave the way toward a more inclusive and compassionate future”.
Off the back of unveiling Say It, and in conjunction with the upcoming release of her brand new mixtape COBRA on February 21, Soma is also set to perform some special mixtape launch shows, including her official launch party in Sydney on Friday March 7. And, as SOMA concludes, these performances are set to be something truly memorable both for SOMA herself as well as her fans.
“Fans can expect a transformative experience. My live shows are about energy, connection, and storytelling. It’s not just about performing the songs; it’s about taking the audience on a journey. With new visuals, choreography, and some surprises, it’s going to be unforgettable.”
Say It is out today.
SOMA’s COBRA mixtape and accompanying long-form film is set for release Friday February 21 via Mandatory Music.
SOMA – UPCOMING SHOWS:
FRI 7 MAR | MIXTAPE LAUNCH PARTY, TROCADERO, SYDNEY NSW | 18+
Plus Special Guests
Tickets available from: www.moshtix.com.au
SAT APRIL 5 | BOOTY BLOCK PARTY, LANSDOWNE HOTEL, SYDNEY NSW
Plus Special Guests
Tickets available from: www.moshtix.com.au
THE NOMADIC UNVEILS STIRRING NEW SINGLE ‘MARIE ANTOINETTE’ TAKEN FROM SOPHOMORE ALBUM ‘NEW HORIZONS’ DUE OUT DECEMBER 14
A haunting yet hopeful exploration of love, loss and growth, the stirring new single Marie Antoinette out today from Sydney singer songwriter The Nomadic offers a sweeping glance into the artist’s upcoming sophomore album, with New Horizons imminently beckoning for release on December 14.
Helmed by singer-songwriter Rob Gaylard, The Nomadic sweeps in today with a glimmering and oscillating bundle of melancholy and optimism, with Marie Antoinette stylistically nodding to the likes of early Coldplay, Radiohead, Phosphorescent, The War On Drugs, The 1975 and The National, while also fostering The Nomadic’s introspective and immersive unique flair. “Marie Antoinette is about being in a relationship with someone where things are so close to working but it’s not quite there,” explains Gaylard. “You both have work to do on yourselves, you both have hidden trauma, there’s a revolution coming for both of you! You just don’t know it yet! But over time you will come to see the silver lining in the current (painful!) cloud and realise that you grew from pain, suffering, hardship and crisis. The song is not about anyone in particular, just really inspired by the stage of life I was at and the observations of the world around me and the struggles friends and family were going through!”
After relocating back to Sydney in 2022 following years as a regular fixture on the New York City indie rock scene, Gaylard’s original designs for his latest body of sonic work also grew alongside working with some high-profile local talent, with an army of collaborators from around the industry joining Gaylard to grow The Nomadic journey; and, to ultimately bring both Marie Antoinette and its broader album New Horizons to full-bodied life. “I was lucky enough to work with some of the best in the business!” shares Gaylard. “I relocated home to Sydney Australia in 2022 and recorded New Horizons with Dan Frizza in Sydney at Forbes Studios. The Nomadic is the best of Aussie rock talent, with Miles Thomas (Lior, Ronan Keating, Montaigne) on drums, Oliver Thorpe (The Whitlams, Matt Corby, Meg Mac) on guitar, and Brendan Clark (Meg Mac, Montaigne, Jack River) on bass. Dan Frizza as producer lends the kind of magic touch that has seen him enrich the work of the likes of Tones and I, King Princess, and Gurrumul.”
Mastered by Greg Calbi of Sterling Sound in New Jersey, New Horizons builds upon the foundations set by The Nomadic’s 2022 debut album My Mind is Racing. Detailing themes of loss, change and hope amongst fluctuating moments of indie hues, classic and modern rock, wistful anthems, alt-country and more, New Horizons feels instantly intimate and welcoming, with many of Gaylard’s own powerful experiences percolating throughout. “The main themes of the album are feelings of being stuck in life and having the feeling that there is ‘something out there better for you’, of not wanting to let go of dreams, going through big changes professionally and personally, loss of relationships, and generally life upheavals!” Gaylard reveals. “This personal theme is set against the backdrop of major global changes and events, including the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, climate change, social and societal changes, and revolutions in the west.”
Opening with calm melancholy, New Horizons kicks off with Treading Water, before diving into an alt-country-meets-rock charmer courtesy of All Changed. From here, The Nomadic explore more upbeat rock territory (the Led Zeppelin-inspired First Light), unbridled and driving optimism (Don’t Give Up On Your Dreams), and a Bloc-Party-esque propulsive rocker (Hearts And Minds), with the latter also traversing heartache set against a personal backdrop of political instability and crumbling security witnessed by Gaylard during his time spent with the UN in Afghanistan between 2009 and 2011. Shifting into glossy emotives via title track New Horizons, a sublime nine minute opus buoyed by violin and cello, the album’s second half oozes into wistful beauty (Luminescent View), evocative storytelling (Erasing Mental Photographs), and a nod to The Boss himself, aka Bruce Springsteen, via The Absolution; also another track heavily influenced by Gaylard’s time in Afghanistan, and in particular the mental health issues caused by America’s troop surge in 2009. And returning again to some alt-country flavours with Blood Red Sky, recalling the devastating Australian bushfires in early 2020, New Horizons ultimately closes out with a rousing call to arms (Revolution), the gentle yet equally powerful stylings of Find A Way, and, ultimately, its closing track, and also The Nomadic’s brand new single out today: Marie Antoinette.
Imbued with a passion for music and songwriting from a young age, Rob Gaylard’s road to forming The Nomadic stemmed from his own nomadic lifestyle, living in five different countries in the first 10 years of his life, including Australia, Burma, Singapore, the Soloman Islands and the UK. This nomadic theme continued into Gaylard’s adulthood, with the talented creative living and working with the United Nations, national governments and NGOs in Kenya, Somalia, the Sudan, Afghanistan, Indonesia, and Israel/Palestine. Also a massive sports fan alongside his musical pursuits, Gaylard’s adventures under The Nomadic moniker entices listeners to enter a world of boundless melodies and wanderlust-inspired styles, first witnessed in 2022 with The Nomadic’s debut album My Mind is Racing, and set to flourish further this December with the release of New Horizons. Commencing The Nomadic project in 2014 off the back of immersing himself in the vibrant energy during a stint in New York City, Gaylard ultimately returned to his Australian roots in 2022, teaming up with producer Dan Frizza to begin work in earnest on New Horizons in 2023; and the rest is set to be history.
“It’s incredibly exciting to be releasing Marie Antoinette today!” shares Gaylard. “It feels like the culmination of a long journey, from the initial conception of the songs to the development and creation of the final product in the studio, mixing and mastering! Combine that with the emotional experience of going through some rough times and coming out the other side to see some New Horizons – overall It’s been a bit of a marathon!”
Marie Antoinette is out today.
The Nomadic’s full-length album New Horizons is due out Saturday December 14.
Soundcloud: MARIE ANTOINETTE
Stream: MARIE ANTOINETTE