New Music Review #21: ‘Dancing Through The Fire’ by Austin Mackay
You may be familiar with Kirby, the adorable and obscenely powerful character from 90s Nintendo games? He’s a weird little fella – pink and round, with the unique ability to absorb the characteristics of those around him and transform into something stronger and more dynamic with each inhale.
I often think of Kirby whenever I hear a new iteration of the ever-evolving beast that is Australian indie folk. Indie folk is the kind of genre that struggles to be defined – it is so malleable and subject to influence.
Combine it with 60s psychedelic rock, you get Ocean Alley. Sprinkle it with emotional pop and you get Thelma Plum. Put it in a blender with heartland rock and a little disco flavour, you get Austin Mackay’s newest track, ‘Dancing Through The Fire’.
Mackay, a singer-songwriter from Newcastle, embraces the diversity that the canvas of indie folk provides. ‘Dancing Through The Fire’ utilises stirring guitars, pulsating synths and even saxophone to create a rich textural experience.
Ultimately, it’s all just window dressing for the voice. Oh, that voice.
Mackay delivers his smooth, husky vocal with conviction and charisma – think the hip-swinging flair and energetic holler of Tyne-James Organ, or Matt Corby channelling disco-era David Bowie.
Oh, and he’s about to take off on a huge national tour, with dates all over the country across October and November. So be sure to check that out too.
And a few others:
‘Blip’ by Wongo: This track is insanely fun. Super catchy, hyperpaced and boppy as hell – if you grew up loving 2000s poptronica like Madison Avenue or Sneaky Sound System, this is the brilliant nostalgia kick you need today.
‘Mermaid Avenue’ by Vera Blue: Massive return to form by one of Australia’s great indie pop songstresses. Pristine vocal, heart wrenching lyrics, and a hazy, understated production – this is her best work since 2018’s ‘All The Pretty Girls’.
‘Lost’ by Folk Bitch Trio: Unavoidable starting point – this is a tremendous band name. Musically, they’re giving hints of The Waifs and Seeker Lover Keeper, which is great company to be keeping. Graceful, exquisite indie folk in perfect harmony.