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.