TheAussieWord

New Music: Wrap My Arms by Brian McFadden

2012-03-03T01:33:00.004+11:00

The new single from Brian McFadden - Wrap My Arms.
Love or Loathe? TheAussieWord Loves! Thanks Bri!

Darren Hayes Talks Bloodstained Heart

2012-03-02T00:00:00.000+11:00

Look.....Listen....and Learn. Darren Hayes talks about the new single Bloodstained Heart... Amazing track and vocals from a super Aussie pop sensation.

Australia Salutes Roxette!

2012-03-01T00:00:00.000+11:00

Australia have welcomed pop/rock Swedish sensations Roxette with open arms in the comeback concert of the year! Playing all the major stadiums around the country, Roxette have wowed audiences in massive numbers. Playing a marathon set of Greatest Hits and new tracks from Charm School. The tour is now at it's end for Australia - the nations response has been astounding... TheAussieWord says thank you!

The success of the Down Under tour has been phenomenal, fan reaction on our blog has been mammoth, hits and visitors dropping by in the thousands to honour and commemorate Roxette's successful Australian return. TheAussieWord has put together this very special photo/video tribute. A huge thank you to Mark Klumper at Xpose' for sharing these amazing shots with TheAussieWord BLOG and allowing us to bring it to all of the Roxette fans worldwide! Enjoy the photo roll as well as the supporting nostalgic videos - a couple of hits from the 1986 smash Pearls of Passion - what I believe is Roxette's best album, together with Look Sharp!

Roxette.... Australia Salutes You!

Australia 2012 Setlist (Melbourne / Rod Laver Arena)

Dressed For Success (from Look Sharp, 1988)

Sleeping In My Car  (from Crash Boom Bang, 1994)

The Big L  (from Joyride, 1991)

Wish I Could Fly  (from Have A Nice Day, 1999)

Only When I Dream  (from Charm School, 2011)

She’s Got Nothing On (But The Radio)  (from Charm School, 2011)

Perfect Day  (from Joyride, 1991)

Things Will Never Be The Same

It Must Have Been Love  (from Tourism, 1992)

Opportunity Nox  (from Pop The Hits, 2003)

7Twenty7  (from Have A Nice Day, 1999)

Fading Like A Flower (from Joyride, 1991)

Crash!Boom!Bang!  (from Crash Boom Bang, 1994)

How Do You Do!  (from Tourism, 1992)

Dangerous  (from Look Sharp, 1988)

(Band Presentation)

Joyride (introduced with “Waltzing Matilda”) (from Joyride, 1991)

Silver Blue  (b-side, 1988)

Spending My Time  (from Joyride, 1991)

The Look (from Look Sharp, 1988)

Listen To Your Heart (from Look Sharp, 1988)

Church Of Your Heart (from Joyride, 1991)

Aussie Cardio Tennis Heart Pumper!

2012-02-29T00:00:00.000+11:00

Cardio Tennis has made quite a splash in Australia over the last couple of months, particularly during the 2012 Australian Open - the perfect way to get into shape and burn some of your excess Christmas and Easter calories! For more information, visit www.cardiotennis.com.au to see where your local Cardio Tennis is running. Melbourne's western suburbs people can join ME at the Green Gully Tennis Club on a Monday night from 7pm... promise to keep a straight face - yep, it's that much fun!

Dexy Midnight Runners Return After 27 Years!

2012-02-28T20:00:00.000+11:00

It's taken 27 years, but Dexy Midnight Runners are finally making their musical comeback. One Day I'm Going To Soar is the name of the new album which will be released this June. We all remember Come On Eileen right?

Special Interview: Audio Blackmail

2012-02-27T00:05:00.000+11:00

TheAussieWord catches up with local Aussie dynamos Audio Blackmail! Check it out!

What can you tell us Aussies about you. How and where did it all begin?

Hi Brian, thanks for having us! Craig & I knew each other through mutual friends & decided to start a band a few years ago. Audio Blackmail started as a 5-member cover band but we split to become a duo & write our own music about 18 months ago.

What first got you interested in music?

I lived in Papua New Guinea as a child, where music is quite a big part of life and, being a pretty primitive place (no malls, game centres etc), I spent a lot of time hanging out with the locals, singing & dancing. Craig’s parents are from Guyana in South America, so he also grew up with different types of music.

Are there any tours or gigs planned for the future?

We’re coming to Melbourne this month! We’re playing at The Espy on February 21st, which we’re really excited about! It’s our first interstate show. We love The Espy, playing a gig there is high on the bucket list ;) We’re then playing SFX in Sydney on 24 March.

What are some of the biggest goals you hope to accomplish as an artist?

We just really hope that people enjoy what they hear. Impressing a wide range of people with our music is our biggest goal I guess because the sky is the limit from there. We’d love to play at festivals, support known artists, play overseas – I guess every band has those goals and dreams of course!

Dizzy - Audio Blackmail

What can fans expect from you in the coming months?

New music & some live shows! Our newest song ‘Periphery’ was mastered this week and is now available for free download via: www.triplejunearthed.com/audioblackmail

Tell us a bit about the song?

The song is written about being confronted with death, and was loosely written around an incident involving my mother in a sinking car 2 years ago. The car was swept off the road by storm water and the windows & doors locked, leaving Mum trapped inside as the car sunk. She was miraculously saved at the very last minute by a 6”7 Englishman, who happened to be running late for work. Mum had pretty much said her goodbyes to Dad, who she frantically called, when water was up to her neck & when she couldn’t get through to 000. The incident shocked our whole family, especially Dad after receiving that call. She’s great now though & graduated as a nurse not long after the incident.

Success, what is the secret to success and what has been your biggest career highlight so far?

Being nice to everyone you work with and taking no-one for granted. I think the way you treat people is important in any industry or field; I’d like to think that people who are friendly get further than those who are awful! Of course dedication, determination etc are important factors but you don’t get anywhere being a @&^%(*! Being appreciative of people who support you is a big thing for me; I’ve gone off ‘too cool for school’ bands, purely because of the way they’ve treated their audience/supporters. As for a highlight… we played at a TEDx event at Macquarie University late last year; we managed to get most of the crowd up dancing (bellydancing even!), they’d all been seated before that.

Which current stars in the industry do you highly rate?

I’m really into Chairlift and Foster the People at the moment – their latest albums are amazing. We both love Lady Hawke, the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, the Ting Tings, New Order… so many more!

Name a few of your favourite Aussie artists.

Alpine, Miami Horror, Cassette Kids, Sneaky Sound System, Kylie Minogue, Strange Talk, Elizabeth Rose, Silverchair…and of course Jimmy Barnes & John Farnham ;-)

The shape of the music industry has changed significantly over the years, including the use of social media, how do you feel about the industry as a whole and what it means to you in getting your records out into the public eye?

It certainly is a lot easier to get music heard these days; there used to be a time when you would discover a hidden gem of a completely unknown artist / band at the second-hand CD shop and actually feel proud for finding it! Now you can pretty much get all the music you could ever want very easily through itunes, myspace, facebook, etc…. which is great, but it's more of a passive experience for the listener. That's why we make it a real focus of ours to entertain the audience when we play live. If people have made the effort to come and see us live then the least we can do is make it worth their while. Triple J is a fantastic avenue for artists to be given the chance to get noticed; I’ve found many new bands through Unearthed i.e Alpine and Elizabeth Rose, who weren’t really known at all when I came across them but are now doing amazingly well.

Thanks for the interview! What can you leave fans with here on TheAussieWord blog today?

We really appreciate every individual who supports us in any way so thank you for listening to us, telling people about us, following us online and for coming to shows – it all means a lot to us and makes us want to continue on this journey! Thanks :-)

Website: www.audioblackmail.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/audio.blackmail.music
Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/audioblackmail

TheAussieWord BLOG thanks Audio Blackmail for becoming major sponsors of the site. Please remember to support all of our sponsors and our great local home grown Australian talent.

Tennis Goes Viral In South & Latin America

2012-02-27T00:00:00.000+11:00

An interesting insight into tennis and where it is headed for the passionate people of Latin and South America.

FLASHBACK: Young Einstein / Mental As Anything - Rock And Roll Music (1988)

2012-02-26T20:16:00.004+11:00

TheAussieWord takes you back to 1988, the year of Young Einstein and Mental As Anything's hit Rock and Roll Music. Awesome memories and a bloody good laugh!

DAYS FLASHBACK: Steve & Kayla (1990)

2012-02-26T00:00:00.000+11:00

I know there are plenty of Days of Our Lives fans out there who have been old friends of mine from my Daytime Confidential days, new fans from Twitter and big supporters and readers of the blog - for that I treat you to this very special DOOL flashback from 1990. This, a montage featuring Stephen Nichols (Patch) and Mary Beth Evans (Kayla), the shows biggest exports from the 80's and 90's to this classic rendition of Don't Know Much by Aaron Neville and Linda Ronstadt.

K25: On A Night Like This (Abbey Road Sessions)

2012-02-25T10:18:00.001+11:00

A K25 surprise this morning from Kylie Minogue - a sexy rendition of On A Night Like This from what I am calling The Abbey Road Sessions...

A Belinda Carlisle / Roxette Megamix

2012-02-25T00:01:00.000+11:00

Belinda Carlisle and Roxette have taken over Melbourne in the last week! Both superstars contacting me at TheAussieWord on Twitter excited about their time in Melbourne. Carlisle arriving in town primed for her performance tonight and tomorrow night for her legion of Melbourne fans! Belinda letting TheAussieWord know she was well and truly in town and enjoying her walk by Melbourne's pretty Yarra. As for Per Gessle, the man half of Roxette, acknowledged my post review on Roxette's Melbourne shows - he was extremely grateful - so much so he tweeted and re-tweeted the article and spiraled www.theaussieword.blogspot.com into one massive Joyride!

This audio just in from Belinda's Melbourne show tonight!

Belinda Carlisle - Live Your Life Be Free (mp3)
Audio taken from tonights Belinda Carlisle show in Melbourne
Live Your Life Be Free!

Belinda Carlisle - Heaven Is a Place On Earth. My ALL time favourite song!!!!!! (mp3)

Heaven Is A Place On Earth!

Belinda Carlisle - Our Lips Are Sealed (Alex the Seal) (mp3)

Our Lips Are Sealed!

TheAussieWord loves both artists - I wish them all the success in their recent visit to my home turf. Melbourne salutes you!

Lady Gaga Sellout!

2012-02-25T00:00:00.000+11:00

Lady Gaga has added extra shows to her Australian leg of the 'Monster Ball' - no need for her to do this on my account though, I've got my tickets to the biggest show in Melbourne on June 30! Bring it!

Rockin' Rod Stewart!

2012-02-24T17:00:00.000+11:00

Oh Rod, 67 and still got it! Check out these images and setlist from Rod Stewart's Melbourne show on Feb 17.

Love Train (from Soulbook, 2009)
Tonight’s The Night (from A Night On The Town, 1976)
Having A Party (from Unplugged and Seated, 1993)
The First Cut Is The Deepest (from A Night On The Town, 1976)
Baby Jane (from Body Wishes, 1983)
Forever Young (from Out Of Order, 1988)
Downtown Train (from Storyteller, 1989)

Unplugged set:
Have I Told You Lately (from Vagabond Heart, 1991)
You Wear It Well (from Never A Dull Moment, 1972)
I Don’t Want To Talk About It (from Atlantic Crossing, 1975)
Ooh La La (from The Faces Ooh La La, 1973)
Tom Trauberts Blues (from Storyteller, 1989)

Sweet Little Rock and Roller (from Smiler, 1974)
Proud Mary
Rhythm Of My Heart (from Vagabond Heart, 1991)
Twisting The Night Away (from Never A Dull Moment, 1972)
You’re In My Heart (from Footloose and Fancy Free, 1977)
Hot Legs (from Footloose and Fancy Free, 1977)
Maggie May (from Every Picture Tells A Story, 1971)
Sailing (from Atlantic Crossing, 1975)

Do You Think I’m Sexy (from Blondes Have More Fun, 1978)

Keep Your Eye On The Red And The Blue

2012-02-24T00:00:00.000+11:00

On the eve of the new 2012 season, the Demons prepare for a fresh new tilt at AFL's Holy Grail. Here is a little heart pumper to get Melbourne Football Club fans excited, it's David Bridie singing a spine tingling rendition of the club theme song Grand Old Flag.

DAYS OF OUR LIVES: Open Closet!

2012-02-23T00:00:00.000+11:00

A picture is worth a thousand words... In this instance, life for Will Horton (Chandler Massey), will change forever! Seems like that closet has stopped rocking and the doors and floodgates are officially open! Kudos to Days of Our Lives for taking the bull by the horns and writing this story - well done!

Melbourne FC: U Can't Touch This

2012-02-22T00:00:00.000+11:00

Game day is getting ever so closer for the Demons who take on the Brisbane Lions and Gold Coast Suns at Metricon Stadium on Saturday February 25. These pictures snapped at the club's open intra-club practice match and family day at Casey Fields. Mitch Clark, Aaron Davey and James Sellar all have a little MC Hammer going on - U Can't Touch This. Ohhhhhh yeeeeah!

Aaron Davey too quick from Cale Morton

James Sellar leaps away from Nathan Jones

Mitch Clark goes for goal as Lynden Dunn waits in the wings

ROXETTE OWNS MELBOURNE!

2012-02-20T00:00:00.000+11:00

There is plenty truth in the saying 'they came, they saw and they conquered '. Roxette in fact did that to the largest of proportions at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne! Roxette, supported earlier on by the greatest unsung heroes of Australian Pop/Rock 1927. It was a night to remember, the classic hits from yesteryear, a trip down memory lane, it was a complete 1986 tape rewind with a display of true pure Roxette brilliance as they sang through decades of a #1 hits, forgotten classics and new songs from their latest album Charm School. Per Gessle had tweeted earlier that Roxette had 'owned Sydney', little did they know that a few hours later, they would also own the hearts of a passionate and nostalgic Melbourne crowd.

I heard them all, Dangerous, Dressed For Success, Listen To Your Heart, It Must Have Been Love, Fading Like A Flower, Wish I Could Fly, Sleeping In My Car, The Big Love, She's Got Nothing On (But The Radio), The Look, Spending My Time, How Do You Do, Joyride... the hits just kept coming, it was a show to remember. This was one trip down memory lane that I will never forget. Tickets still available for their final Melbourne show on Wednesday at Rod Laver Arena - do yourself a favour and see this one. For an added bonus, you get to see 1927 belt out the classics If I Could, Compulsory Hero, That's When I Think Of You, You'll Never Know... this spectacle from Roxette and 1927 is by far the highlight of performances in 2012.

Roxette - The Big Love (Live In Melbourne)

Roxette - Fading Like A Flower (Live In Melbourne)

1927 - If I Could (Live In Melbourne)

Farewell Whitney

2012-02-19T20:45:00.000+11:00

Family and friends of the late Whitney Houston have said farewell in an emotion charged funeral service in Whitney's home state of New Jersey. These images streamed live across the internet for fans around the world.

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&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://video.heraldsun.com.au/2198736486/Friends-farewell-Whitney"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;VIDEO: Friends farewell Whitney&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&lt;/p&gt;
&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://video.heraldsun.com.au/2198703587/Houston-coffin-heads-to-funeral-home-after-service"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;VIDEO: Houston coffin heads to funeral home after service.&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&lt;/p&gt;

Whitney Houston Hits Top Of The Charts

2012-02-19T20:30:00.000+11:00

Unfortunately for Whitney Houston she had to die to revive her record selling career, plus get her biggest hit back into the top of the charts - I Will Always Love You back to where it was in the 90's... the single currently sitting in the US Top 10 at #7.

K25: Better The Devil You Know!

2012-02-19T13:00:00.000+11:00

The record that kicked off a whole new direction for our girl Kylie. Better The Devil You Know - a massive hit for Kylie Minogue fans worldwide still gets its fair share of spinning on all disco dance floors! Sporting its own ounce of pop disco culture, this track has been well and truly embraced as once of her most popular. Kylie, performing this on just about all of her tours to date - from Fever, Light Years and Intimate and Live - this song, will go down as one of Minogue's best... I remember the exclusive video premiere on the Ray Martin hosted A Current Affair - the rest, is history... #K25blastfromthepast

READY! SET! ROXETTE!

2012-02-18T14:00:00.000+11:00

Ok Melbourne! It's time to ROXETTE! TheAussieWord is jumping on The Joyride to Rod Laver Arena for a trip down memory lane!

The Walking Dead Season 2 Explosion!

2012-02-18T00:00:00.000+11:00

Why The Walking Dead is one of the best shows on television right now... Watch the final scene to the latest episode 'Nebraska'... #WalkingDead will hit the FX channel on Australia's Foxtel from February 26 - do yourself a favour and check it out.

Sexy And They Know It?

2012-02-17T00:00:00.000+11:00

Does Tom Daley and his GB team have too much time on their hands? You be the judge! A perfect LMFAO lip sync!

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Madman and the Lover

2012-02-15T06:00:00.000+11:00

TheAussieWord catches up with Aussie group Madman and the Lover band member Michael White in this one on one special interview for the blog.

A very special treat for TheAussieWord readers, with your chance to score the bands exclusive EP plus 4 free tickets to the EP Launch this coming Sunday February 19th at the Northcote Social Club! Read on for details...

What can you tell usAussies about you. How and where did it all begin?

It all started back in Perth in 2000, where a rollerblader made friendswith a skateboarder across the road. The rollerblader happened to play drumsand the skateboarder had a guitar, so the two got together and started creatingmusic with plenty of driving rhythm. After 10 years of working on separateprojects due to living arrangements, the two find themselves together oncemore, now in Melbourne as a group of four, writing the music they imagined allthose years ago.

What first got youinterested in music?

My dad was a musician, playing in cover bands and writing his ownmusicals for the university he worked at. As a kid, I was exposed to musicdaily, and have even been credited with naming one of the old man’s songs,which I came up with at the ripe old age of three whilst dancing around hispiano.

Who inspires orinfluences your quest to make great music?

Two things inspire me to make great music, and they are in essence thetwo halves of music, but I believe they need to be done well. I lovecatchy/hooky rhythms, particularly through the syncopation of multipleinstruments, such as the bass drum and bass guitar locking in together. Thesecond is a soulful melody, so anything by Lady Gaga clearly doesn’t fit thisbill. Something where you can hear and feel the emotion in the voice (andsometimes instrumental melodies), which is so much less common this century.

Are there any tours orgigs planned for the future?

We have our EP Launch on this Sunday February 19^th at theNorthcote Social Club in Melbourne. We are on at 4pm. Tix are $12, or $17 withticket and EP.

What are some of thebiggest goals you hope to accomplish as an artist?

Playing large-scale festival shows is definitely on the radar, as isreleasing our music internationally.

What can fans expectfrom you in the coming months?

After this EP Launch, we are going back into a heavy writing phaseagain. Unlike the majority of bands, songs are mostly written out of therehearsal room, due to the presence of all the additional strings/piano/samplesforming the orchestral wall that is the backbone of our sound. Considering thatthese are played back live via a computer, they need to be spot on! So, we willbe really harnessing our sound during this time.

Success, what is thesecret to success and what has been your biggest career highlight so far?

Success is deemed by how you measure it. It may be something big, like adistribution deal, or it may be small, like learning a drum fill or getting thecontact details for someone important to you. It’s about how you gauge thelevel of success of your achievements. Career highlights would be lining thestage with big name Aussie acts from a variety of genres, including SneakySound System, The Potbelleez, Vanessa Amorosi, The Butterfly Effect, Karnivooland Thousand Needles in Red.

Which current stars inthe industry do you highly rate?

Keeping things Aussie focus, I’ve always been a big fan about how JohnButler has gone about his music. Keeping things independent but deliveringimportant messages through his lyrics. He also fits the hooky/catchy rhythmcriteria I mentioned prior. It probably also swayed me a little with him beingfrom Western Australia.

How would people bestdescribe you and your music?

It’s difficult to categorise the sound of Madman and the Lover into onespecific genre, given the eclectic influences that range from heavy rock tostripped backed acoustic flavours. The music is sculpted from a thickbottom-end of groove heavy drum beats locked tight with dirty bass tones,combined with the lush warmth of an acoustic guitar and an emotive orchestralwall serving as a backdrop. Combine these elements with soaring vocals and ahigh energy stage show, and you have the formula for a band that is bothvisually and aurally captivating.

Tell us a bit aboutyour first EP or album?

This EP launch on February 19^th is for our debut EP, so it’sthe first real taste of our sound for the listeners. There is also another EP’sworth of songs ready to be tracked, so the time between releases will be quiteshort.

Our debut EP is called “Eight” and it has been put together over thespace of the last 12 months, with the bulk of the work taking place from aroundJune 2011. It draws influences from a range of music styles. Rhythmically ithits hard, with clear likeness to that of American heavy rock bands Sevendustand Deftones. The music is also melodically potent, but driven without vocal screamsor electric guitars. The power comes from the lush harmonies and the layers ofstrings, piano and other sounds. The five tracks (plus one secret track) areall very different from each other, and capture the variety of styles of whichthe band is influenced by.

Do you have anyexciting projects in the works?

The cd will be marketed overseas as I (the rollerblader) head to Londonto get involved in music there. The beauty of our writing style combined withthe flexibility of the Internet ensures that the music will continue to flowsteadily.

The industry is huge,where do you see yourself a few years from now?

It’s hard to predict what will be happening in the industry a few monthsdown the track, let alone years. But knowing the unique flavor of our sound,and the charismatic live show, I have no doubt that Madman and the Lover willbe a prominent feature in the Australian music scene (yeah, a lot of confidencethere, but an industry trait is backing yourself when you love what you do!)

Name a few of yourfavourite Aussie artists.

Something for Kate, Boy & Bear, Paul Dempsey (solo), Karnivool, TheButterfly Effect, Cog.

The shape of the musicindustry has changed significantly over the years, including the use of socialmedia, how do you feel about the industry as a whole and what it means to youin getting your records out into the public eye?

It is much easier to get your music heard, particularly with things likeFaceBook and ReverbNation, where they have tailored pages for musicians to helppromote their work. Unfortunately in Australia, it’s all pretty clicky at thetop level, so comradery amongst the local scene isimportant, but not always the case. Being true to your music and being genuineto the other people you work with are important things. If people like yourstuff, they will share it, and that’s vital to getting people to come to yourshows. Let’s hope this whole SOPA crap doesn’t eventuate…

Thanks for theinterview! What can you leave fans with here on TheAussieWord blog today?

We are giving away 4 free tickets to our EP Launch this Sunday February19^th at the Northcote Social Club. Simply “like” our FaceBook pageand email us your details, and we’ll put your name on the door. Plus we’llthrow in a free EP for good measure!

Website: www.reverbnation.com/madmanandthelover

Facebook: www.facebook.com/madmanandthelover

Twitter: @matlmusic

Lana Del Rey #1 Aussie Album

2012-02-14T20:00:00.000+11:00

Lana Del Rey has dislodged Foster The People from the #1 spot on the Aussie ARIA album charts with her Born To Die album taking out the top position - here's the album preview. Yay? or Nay?

Tribute: Victorian 'Black Saturday' Bushfires

2012-02-13T20:30:00.000+11:00

3 years on, we pause to remember the victims, their familes and all those who lost loved ones in one of the biggest Australian tragedies - the 'Black Saturday' Victorian Bushfires which struck my home state on February 7 in 2009. In such an outpouring of grief, Australians together with the rest of the world dug deep to donate a mammoth $40 million dollars to help with the recovery effort.

SPECIAL TRIBUTE WHITNEY HOUSTON 1963 - 2012

2012-02-12T20:07:00.000+11:00

The music world is in shock with the news of the death of music legend and pop soul diva Whitney Houston.

Houston was behind the hits - All At Once, Saving All My Love For You, How Will I Know, Greatest Love Of All, I Wanna Dance With Somebody, Didn't We Almost Have It All, So Emotional, Where Do Broken Hearts Go, One Moment In Time, I'm Your Baby Tonight, I Have Nothing, Run To You, I'm Every Woman, Step By Step and the world smash I Will Always Love You... a huge catalogue of hits, generational music that will be remembered for many more to come.

All at once... Whitney was taken away, her body found in her room at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. Although the cause of death is still being investigated, Whitney suffered a tumultuous battle with drugs and alcohol, this most likely the cause of her sudden death. Reports stating Whitney's body was found by bodyguard Ray (not that of ex-boyfriend Ray J) in the bath with no signs of criminal intent. Daughter Bobbi Kristina and ex-husband Bobby Brown are said to be inconsolable.

Houston was a guest at the hotel preparing for the pre-Grammy party which she was expected to attend on Saturday evening. Stars of the industry were in shock with the news, turning to Twitter to celebrate Whitney's life and glittering career.

Mariah Carey tweeted: "Heartbroken and in tears over the shocking death of my friend, the incomparable Ms. Whitney Houston. My heartfelt condolences to Whitney's family and to all her millions of fans throughout the world. She will never be forgotten as one of the greatest voices to ever grace the earth."

Christina Aguilera tweeted: "We have lost another legend. Love and prayers to Whitney's family. She will be missed."

While Rihanna said:" No words! Just tears #DearWhitney".

La Toya Jackson: "I can't fathom the fact that #whitneyhouston has died! My heart goes out 2 her mother, daughter & her love ones. #Whitney U will be missed!"

Russell Simmons: "Deeply saddened by the death of Whitney Houston ... may she rest in peace."

Randy Jackson: "Wow I am devastated. the world has lost another one of the best voices in history. RIP whitney houston, so fortunate am I to have worked with u, and have u touch my life. may god bless this family."

Boy George: "Whitney is dead, OMG, I'm so heartbroken. You were amazing and I hope you have found peace! X"

Ricky Martin: "RIP Whitney Houston. Sending my love and deepest condolences to her family and friends. Fly Whitney Fly."

Kelly Osborne: "i truly hope you are in peace #WhitneyHouston i feel so honored to have known you! i love you RIP!"

Quincy Jones: "I am absolutely heartbroken at the news of Whitney's passing. Ashford & Simpson first made me aware of Whitney when she was just sixteen, and I always regretted not having had the opportunity to work with her. She was a true original and a talent beyond compare. I will miss her terribly."

A tragic loss to the music world, one of the all time greats, one of TheAussieWord's favourite performers and musical artists. May God rest your soul - Rest In Peace Whitney. x

'Come On' Let's Hear It For Will Young

2012-02-12T12:00:00.000+11:00

TheAussieWord is enjoying this new track from Will Young, it's called Come On - taken from the 2011 Echoes album. Check it out!

Hewitt Uncovered

2012-02-11T12:00:00.000+11:00

ATP World Tour Uncovered catchup with Aussie tennis champion Lleyton Hewitt for this one on one interview. Watch as Hewitt explains and reflects on his 'never say die' attitude. Aussie! Aussie! Aussie!

The Descendants (Official Trailer)

2012-02-10T00:00:00.000+11:00

Is this George Clooney in his career best performance? The Descendants - out now!

K25: Kylie Minogue's 24 Show Record Breaker!

2012-02-09T00:00:00.000+11:00

A #K25blastfromthepast special - this one a flashback from Kylie Minogue's Intimate and Live show that stretched far and wide across our great country for a record 24 shows! Here is a rocking version of What Do I Have To Do - is there anything better!

James Morrison Returns To Aussie Top 40

2012-02-08T00:00:00.000+11:00

I Won't Let You Go is the new single inside the Australian Top 40 charts this week from James Morrison - a ripping song that tugs right at the heartstrings. The single, taken from the new album The Awakening. Ahhhh beautiful!

Madonna's Australian World Tour 2013!

2012-02-07T21:11:00.000+11:00

Only a few posts ago I was wondering what needed to be done to get Madonna out to the land Down Under. My message was recieved and Madonna has acknowledged - she's coming to Australia! Live Nation confirmed the news today, Madonna will make her long awaited return to Oz - 20 years since her last visit in 1993. Madonna will start her world tour in Tel Aviv on May 29 and end it in Australia in early 2013, a mammoth 90 shows. It will be a scramble for tickets, no doubt the likely venue will be either Melbourne's Etihad Stadium or the 100,000 capacity of the MCG. What a show stopper this will be. God?

Foster The People Hit #1

2012-02-07T17:00:00.000+11:00

Foster the People have reached Number #1 in Australia, dislodging Adele from the top spot with their album Torches. You can listen to the full album here - isn't this brilliant mood lifting music!

Icehouse & John Oates In Electric Blue Heaven!

2012-02-07T01:00:00.000+11:00

Icehouse frontman Iva Davies teams up with the man who co-wrote the number one smash Electric Blue - John Oates to perform before a massive Melbourne crowd at The Plenary last week.

Madonna's Super Bowl Extravaganza!

2012-02-06T17:51:00.000+11:00

Ok Madonna, enough with the teasing.

What does Australia have to do to get a show stopper like this one?

Days Of Our Lives Shock February Promo!

2012-02-06T07:00:00.000+11:00

February DAYS storylines are about to make an almighty twist and a smashing turn when the contents of Stefano and Alice's safe deposit box is revealed. Hope (Kristian Alfonso) is married to John Black (Drake Hogestyn)... Insert a very shocked look on the face of Marlena (Deidre Hall) and Bo (Peter Reckell). Looks like our favourite soap veterans are about to become front and centre news on the all new Days of Our Lives!

Bryan Adams' Canadian Homecoming

2012-02-05T16:56:00.002+11:00

Bryan Adams will tour on his native Canadian soil this year after announcing approximately three months of touring commencing in April at St. John's Newfoundland and ending on June 22 at Winnipeg Manitoba.

It's been 20 years since Adams toured his homeland, this time he's as excited as ever saying via Twitter "Excited about the Canadian tour! 20 years since the last cross country tour. (have done lots of Cdn tours, but not like this, coast to coast)." TheAussieWord wishes him well for the tour - am still recovering from the Melbourne gig only a few months ago.

Madonna Giving All Her Luvin'

2012-02-04T13:41:00.002+11:00

Madonna has returned to her pop roots with the official release of new single Give Me All Your Luvin' featuring M.I.A and Nicki Minaj. Pom poms, cheer leaders and football jocks predominant in the video, not to mention shades of Oh Mickey what a pity you don't understand - I can hear the Toni Basil remix now.

Free Hugs: Darren Hayes Hug Fest!

2012-02-03T00:00:00.000+11:00

Darren Hayes has posted a somewhat 'hug fest' themed video on YouTube. Darren posting this message for fans -

Sometimes the things that make us most happy cost nothing at all.

A call to arms on Twitter to ask strangers for a hug resulted in an outpouring of love one afternoon at London's Somerset House. Captured on mine and a friend's iPhone and set to 'Bloodstained Heart'.

Don't you just want to give the big buggerlug an almighty hug? Come 'ere boy! #Love

George Michael Hints Return!

2012-02-02T23:13:00.001+11:00

He may have been down and well and truly out fighting serious pneumonia, but rest assured George Michael will bounce back and return to the live stage. George is currently on holidays, getting over the horrendous illness that had brought him to cancel his live shows....this week, he tweeted...

"Pneumonia may have been a b**tard thing to go thru (through), but normally when I suffer you guys benefit somehow."

It's just a matter of time.

Demons President Steps Down

2012-02-01T23:47:00.002+11:00

New Melbourne President Don McLardy

Jim Stynes, the colossal tower of strength who brought the Melbourne Football Club back from the brink of ruin has stood down from his role as President at the club. The last couple of years have been busy at the Dees helm, Stynes opting out to concentrate on his treatment for melanoma. Jim was appointed President in June of 2008. Don McLardy will take over the role as President, the announcement came at the club's Annual General Meeting. Jim Stynes' achievement was acknowledged by a standing ovation from members.

On a personal level, I can say Jim has pretty much revived my great football club, put us back on the map from within the football fraternity and has also established some very impressive networks from within the clubs business circles. Without this, the club would be cellar dwellers, now, the Dees are on the verge of becoming an AFL powerhouse once more. We will see what the new Demons are made of come February 25.

Official statement from the Melbourne Football Club

Jim Stynes has stepped down as President to focus on his health and family as he continues his cancer fight.

The announcement came at Melbourne's AGM, held in the Members' Dining Room at the MCG on Wednesday night. Although Stynes was not in attendance, due to his ongoing treatment, the announcement was made by Don McLardy, who has now become Melbourne President after serving as Stynes' vice-president. Guy Jalland will continue as joint Vice-president, along with fellow director Peter Spargo, who replaces McLardy in that position. Stynes released a statement about relinquishing his position, which was read by Don McLardy at the AGM.

Standing ovation from members acknowledging Jim Stynes' achievement

Statement from Jim Stynes:As Melbourne enters what promises to be an exciting new season, and hopefully exciting new era, I see this an opportune time to step down as Melbourne president. It will give the football club the best chance to be 100 per cent prepared for round one and will give me the time to fully focus on my health and family. I am extremely proud of what the board has managed to achieve since I took on the presidency in June 2008, particularly in bringing a greater sense of unity and purpose to the club. I have full confidence that Don McLardy and the team will continue that work. Don has my full support to lead the club and the Demons can rely on me to help out in an advisory capacity at any time.

For full coverage, including Don McLardy's speech from the AGM and Jim Stynes' full announcement, visit melbournefc.com.au

2nd Melbourne NKOTBSB Show!

2012-01-31T22:42:00.003+11:00

The much anticipated national Aussie tour of New Kids On The Block with the Backstreet Boys has lifted a notch with the release of a 2nd show in Melbourne! Australia is limited to six shows only - Melbourne the lucky city to score the second show. Tickets will go onsale from 9am on February 8 for the Friday May 18 show at Rod Laver Arena!

K25: Finer Feelings 'The Original Video' 1992

2012-01-30T23:15:00.001+11:00

Kylie Minogue has just released Finer Feelings in a specially arranged format, recorded from the studios of Abbey Road. For fans who have followed our Aussie pop queen for the whole #K25, this video is no surprise - for newer fans wondering where this song originated, here is the video clip of Finer Feelings, filmed in Paris in 1992.

K25: KYLIE & JASON LIVE - Especially For You (Dec 1988)

2012-01-29T19:00:00.000+11:00

A #K25FANS flashback also known as #K25blastfromthepast - Kylie Minogue and Jason Donovan with Especially For You performed in December 1988.

MARTIKA: Flow With The Go Press Release!

2012-01-29T12:00:00.000+11:00

The official press release for Martika's latest track is out!

Flow With The Go has started making it's way around the airwaves and getting uploaded to music sites around the globe! Here is the official press release from The Michael Group. Follow the links and be one of the first to listen to the new track!

“FLOW WITH THE GO”

Martika, J8DED/DCR Media Release The Michael Group

“Flow with the Go” is now for immediate listen at:

http://www.michaelgroupltd.com/blog/2012/flow-with-the-go

Shortened Link:

http://bit.ly/wokTD8

The single is going to be available through the following portals: • iTunes (US) • iTunes (AUS/NZ) • iTunes (Japan)

• iTunes (Mexico) • iTunes (Canada) • iTunes (UK) • iTunes (Europe) • Virgin Mega

• Rhapsody • Spotify • Zune • Google Music • MySpace Music • Amazon MP3• iLike • Last.fm • MOG • eMusic • Tesco • Intertech Media • InMotion Entertainment • Synacor • Moozone • Deezer • 7digital • Nokia • Puretracks • 24/7 • Rdio • We7 • Immergent • La Curacao • Google Music • Thumbplay OTA • Guvera • Myxer • Aspiro • GetPlaylists • Secure Media

However, be aware that once uploaded to these sites, it could take anywhere from a few days to a full week for the song to be available, depending on the speed at which materials get into the system. For the time being, you’ll begin to hear the single on air and see Martika in interviews during the coming weeks!

We will be filming the video for “Flow With the Go” on January 16th, and once complete will immediately be serviced to the following:

• VEVO • MTV • COOL TV • VH-1 • Palladia • martikamartika.com • RetroRewind • Perez Hilton

Martika’s touring schedule will be announced shortly. All of us at The Michael Group, and on behalf of J8DED/DCR would like to thank all of you for your support of the lovely Martika.

BLUEJUICE Return With New Video 'Shock'

2012-01-28T22:30:00.000+11:00

BLUEJUICE have returned with a brand new video, this one titled Shock does just that, it has something for everyone - seriously. Love the tune, love the vocals - great job boys!

Special Interview: Fools For Rowan

2012-01-28T09:30:00.000+11:00

Erin, lead singer from Fools For Rowan was kind enough to catch up with me for TheAussieWord's blog interview... Can I just say how great the track and video is for 'Dead'...must watch!

What can you tell us Aussies about you. How and where did it all begin?

Well.. It all began in Nashville, TN. I was there writing and working on a solo project and forming a band instead sounded like a great idea! So that’s what I did!

What first got you interested in music?

Oh man, I think I came out of the womb interested in music. I think it’s either in you or it’s not.. music kinda chooses you!

Who inspires or influences your quest to make great music?

Hmmm, well amazing artists that have paved the way inspire me. Artists like Steven Tyler, Pat Benatar, Faith Hill, etc. My family, however, inspire me to make it great! If they’re watching and supporting something I do, I’m going to give it all I’ve got to make them proud.

Are there any tours or gigs planned for the future?

We’ve got a few gigs coming up this spring, but our main goal right now is to start and finish our new record! Really excited for that!

What are some of the biggest goals you hope to accomplish as an artist?
Just to be successful at it, ya know?! Not have to sacrifice my family, morals, etc, in order to make it in this business. Also, I want to be an encouragement and source of strength to our fans and to put on the most amazing live show ever!!

What can fans expect from you in the coming months?
Well in the next few months we will be writing and recording like crazy and digging our heels into making a new record!!!

Success, what is the secret to success and what has been your biggest career highlight so far?
I think the secret to success is really dependent on how you personally define success. The secret to success in the music business in my opinion is real talent + perseverance= success.

Our biggest career highlight to date for me would have to be opening up for Evanescence in Nashville! That was amazing!!!

Fools For Rowan 'Dead'

Which current stars in the industry do you highly rate?
Evanescence ranks really high, Beyonce is right up there too.. she is a GENIOUS business woman! And I know that they’re not exactly “current”, but I totally heart Aerosmith!

How would people best describe you and your music?
I’d like to think that passionate, intense, high energy, and strong are all words that they would use!

Tell us a bit about your first EP or album?
Our first record was called Twisted. Tied Up. Tangled. and we learned so much from it. It taught us how to be better musicians, entertainers, etc.. we owe that album a lot.

Do you have any exciting projects in the works?
We’re working on our new album and that is very exciting!

The industry is huge, where do you see yourself a few years from now?
Playing sold out arenas to a swarm of screaming fans that we call our friends. There’s always room for more in the music industry!

Name a few of your favourite Aussie artists.
I really love Delta Goodrem … and one of our producers is close friends with Jamie O’neal so I’ve had the pleasure of meeting her! Both ladies have absolutely amazing voices!

The shape of the music industry has changed significantly over the years, including the use of social media, how do you feel about the industry as a whole and what it means to you in getting your records out into the public eye?
The industry is always changing. In order to keep up with the changes, last year we gave away all of our cds at our shows to insure that our fans got to listen to our music! Social media also plays a major role! I personally feel like that’s really where the fans get to get close to the artists. Take Facebook for instance, we get to interact and talk with our fans there all the time… it’s awesome! It’s one on one, anyone can comment and you can really get to know your fans on a personal level.

Thanks for the interview! What can you leave fans with here on TheAussieWord blog today?
Thank you! We’d love to get to know all of our Australian fans so come say Hi on our facebook page! You can also get free music downloads there!!

Website: www.foolsforrowan.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/foolsforrowan

Twitter: www.twitter.com/foolsforrowan

Demons Go Happy & Hard In January Training

2012-01-27T18:01:00.000+11:00

Here are the boys looking sharp and in complete fully fledged training mode. Only weeks away from the NAB Cup in Brisbane where Melbourne will tackle the Lions and Suns up at Metricon Stadium on Saturday night - February 25.

Australia Day's TheAussieWord's Top 5 Tunes!

2012-01-27T00:00:00.000+11:00

TheAussieWord's Top 5 Aussie tracks! Happy Australia Day!

K25: Kylie Minogue Finer Feelings (Abbey Road Recording 2012) - Officially Unlocked For Fans!!

2012-01-26T15:01:00.003+11:00

Kylie Minogue fans have spoken, tweets using the hashtag #K25FANS has reached Twitter by the tens of thousands - the complete video for Finer Feelings now unlocked by KYLIE.com and made available worldwide!

The re-recorded version of Finer Feelings is set to be released to celebrate Kylie's 25 year anniversary.

Watch the video here... and keep tweeting using #K25FANS

K25: Kylie Minogue 'Finer Feelings' Teaser Clip!

2012-01-25T22:38:00.002+11:00

#K25 - the Twitter hashtag used by Kylie Minogue fans around the world to highlight the big anniversary year, today January 25 (UK time), Kylie will be revealing all! If this video is anything to go by, diehard fans who have stuck thick with their girl for the last 25 years are about to be rewarded in a very very BIG way! Reports suggest that should the tweet count for #K25Fans reach 25,000 from 7pm tonight, Kylie will unlock the entire video for fans! Get tweeting peoples!

"Very big things happening tomorrow! Stay tuned to Kylie.com to see it all unravel… To whet your appetite please check out this sneak peak of one of the surprises we have in store for you!" ~ Kylie.com

REVENGE - Best Show Of 2011/2012?

2012-01-25T22:30:00.000+11:00

For those Aussies waiting with great anticipation for the upcoming new series REVENGE - here's the mouthwatering promo. It's full of twists, turns, drama and well... revenge. Sweet bitter revenge. You do not want to miss this one. Brilliant drama and outstanding acting from Emily Van Camp! Could this be the biggest show of 2011 and 2012? I think it is.

TheAussieWord Australian Open Snaps!

2012-01-25T00:29:00.003+11:00

A couple of my photographs from this years Australian Open visit last week. A few big names and a couple of unknowns... can you make out who they are? Umm, let's start with Juan Martin Del Potro...

'WEEKEND' Movie - Opens January 26!

2012-01-23T23:21:00.000+11:00

Thanks to Cinema Nova in Melbourne for the advanced screening of the new flick Weekend. The movie opens on January 26.

An amazing film featuring Tom Cullen as Russell and Chris New as Glen, written and directed by Andrew Haigh - this movie is a must see. Remember folks to support the genre!

"Winner of best actor and best feature at Nashville Film Festival, Tom Haigh’s modern love story follows the budding romance of young Englishman Russell (newcomer Tom Cullen) and artist Glen (Chris New). What starts out as a casual Friday night tryst at a nightclub unexpectedly becomes something more as the two young men spend the next 48 hours together; sharing stories and reliving experiences with one another. Affecting and naturalistic, Weekend is a beautifully realized story of human connection that has deservedly earned comparisons with Richard Linklater's beloved Before Sunrise." ~ Cinema Nova

Berdych & Almagro Spat - Australian Open 2012

2012-01-23T21:30:00.000+11:00

Tomas Berdych is digging quite a hole for himself. A spat with Rafael Nadal not so long ago, and now this with Nicolas Almagro at the Australian Open. Surely Nicolas didn't mean to hit the ball 'intentionally' at Tomas - or did he? You be the judge. To not shake hands after the match....well that's another story. Don't think the Aussie fans liked that at all.... booooo? Guess who Tomas plays next? Rafael Nadal....

Special Interview: Dejon Piere

2012-01-23T21:00:00.000+11:00

TheAussieWord caught up with Dejon Piere for this unique interview..

What can you tell us Aussies about you. How and where did it all begin?

IT BEGAN IN 2002 I WAS ALWAYS FASCINATED WITH RECORDING MUSIC BUT DIDN’T THINK I HAD THE VOCALS TO SOUND GOOD ENOUGH WHERE PEOPLE WOULD ENJOY LISTENING TO ME, BUT IT ALL STARTED ON MYSPACE IN 2006.

What first got you interested in music?
WELL I ALWAYS ENJOYED WRITING SONGS FOR OTHER FRIENDS WHO HAD AMAZING VOICES BUT I GOT FED UP OF BEING IN THE BACKGROUND ALL THE TIME, SO I GOT SOME SINGING LESSONS AND BOOKED A PRODUCER I MET IN THE STAGE NEWSPAPER AND STARTED PENNING IDEAS

Who inspires or influences your quest to make great music?
SPICE GIRLS, MICHAEL JACKSON, PRINCE, BEYONCE AND TLC

Are there any tours or gigs planned for the future?
NO MORE FUTURE GIGS AT THE MOMENT AS I HAVE STOPPED RECORDING MUSIC AS I AM GOING INTO MANAGEMENT

What are some of the biggest goals you hope to accomplish as an artist?

THROUGH MY ACHEIVEMENTS I HOPE TO MOVE INTO MANAGING UPCOMING ARTISTS.

What can fans expect from you in the coming months?
MY 5TH RELEASE WHICH ALSO HAPPENS TO BE MY ONLY FREE RELEASE IT IS ENTITLED “BLOSSOM” WHICH HAS 22 SONGS WHICH ILLUSTRATES MY LIFE FROM 2002-2012 AND THIS IS DEDICATED TO MY LATE MUM WHO DIED IN OCTOBER 2011, TRIBUTE TO HER.

Success, what is the secret to success and what has been your biggest career highlight so far?
SECRET TO SUCCESS IS HARD WORK AND DEDICATION, MY BIGGEST HIGHLIGHT IS GAINING 15,000+ MEMBERS TO MY WEBSITE SELLING 10,000 COPIES BETWEEN MY PREVIOUS 4 ALBUMS THROUGH MYSPACE, FACEBOOK AND TWITTER AND GAINING 160,000+ VIEWS ON YOUTUBE AND ALSO BEING IN THE CHART CHANNEL AKA WITH MY MUSIC VIDEO “WASTED ENERGY”

Which current stars in the industry do you highly rate?
BEYONCE

How would people best describe you and your music?
WEIRD, POP, CATCHY, DIFFERENT, UNIQUE

Tell us a bit about your first EP or album?
OH MY… HAHA IT WAS CALLED ‘HONEST’ IT WAS RELEASED IN 2006 ON ITUNES, I ONLY RELEASED THIS AS A JOKE, BUT AS I WAS AT UNIVERSITY I WAS CONSTANTLY ON MYSPACE SO I WAS ALWAYS INTERACTING WITH OTHER PEOPLE IN OTHER COUNTRIES, AND I WROTE THE ALBUM IN TWO WEEKS.

Do you have any exciting projects in the works?
YES I CURRENTLY MANAGE AN UPCOMING ARTIST NAMED “MELODI” HE IS A MC/RAPPER FROM LONDON WHO HAS A GOOD FOLLOWING, SO IM USING MY SKILLS I LEARNED TO TRY AND GET HIS ARTIST SIGNED, AND WE BOTH HAVE A LOT IN COMMON AS BOTH OUR MUSIC IS DEDICATED TO OUR PARENTS WHO HAVE PASSED.

The industry is huge, where do you see yourself a few years from now?
IN A FEW YEARS I HOPE TO BE KNOWN FOR MANAGING ONE OF THE BEST UPCOMING ARTISTS, WHICH INCLUDES RAPPER MELODI

Name a few of your favourite Aussie artists.
KYLIE MINOGUE, MY FAV SONG OF HERS IS “SLOW” I LOVE POP MUSIC SO SHE IS ONE OF MY FAV I LOVE THAT SONG, AND I ALSO HAVE TO SAY HOLLY VALANCE WITH “KISS KISS”

The shape of the music industry has changed significantly over the years, including the use of social media, how do you feel about the industry as a whole and what it means to you in getting your records out into the public eye?
IT MEANS A LOT FOR ME TO GET MY MUSIC MORE ON TV OR ON A WIDER SCALE WHERE I CAN PUT ALL MY EFFORTS INTO MY ARTIST

Website: www.dejonpiere.com
Twitter: @dejonpiere
YouTube: iamxklusive

K25: Kylie Minogue Videography Special!

2012-01-22T01:49:00.002+11:00

A K25 special. So many great memories in this 17 minute video featuring the best of our very own Aussie sweetheart KYLIE. Here's what Kylie Minogue had to say about this years K25 anniversary...

"I am astounded to be still around after 25 years. That is the truth. I've been doing quite a bit of reminiscing which is not a usual thing for me to do - just because we're preparing for what we're calling K25. I've been looking back through a load of old photos and footage. It isn't normal to still be here and looking forward to great things I have planned for next year. I feel very, very fortunate."

WEEKEND (Official Trailer)

2012-01-20T00:43:00.000+11:00

Advanced screenings at Cinema Nova in Melbourne this weekend for the movie Weekend! Opens January 26.

Watch the official trailer here...

Bloodstained Heart EP Out Now!

2012-01-17T23:59:00.001+11:00

The exclusive iTunes bundle for Darren Hayes’ next UK single ‘Bloodstained Heart’ is available for pre-order today (UK). The official release is on Monday, 27th Feb. The EP features 3 mixes of the stunning Bloodstained Heart and an exclusive, never before heard track ‘Ending Before I Begin’. Click here to pre-order now!

1. Bloodstained Heart (Radio Mix)
2. Bloodstained Heart (Monsieur Adi Mix)
3. Bloodstained Heart (Kryder Club Mix)
4. Ending Before I Begin

WHAT'S HOT: 'Wild Ones' - Flo Rida ft Sia

2012-01-15T17:28:00.001+11:00

Wild Ones... this dance track bound to be the biggest track of the Aussie summer. Flo Rida featuring Sia... sorry to say Flo Man, but without Sia, this track would be n o t h i n g. Brilliant!

The Graham Norton Show To Air Down Under

2012-01-15T16:00:00.000+11:00

The Graham Norton Show will finally air on Australian commercial television - all thanks to Network Ten!

New Album for Aussie Jason Donovan!

2012-01-14T11:30:00.000+11:00

March is the likely date for Jason Donovan's sixth studio album, his first in years. Jason made a statement saying “It feels great to be going back in the studio. I know exactly how I want the new album to sound and I’m as excited as I’ve ever been about a record.” Let's not forget that Jason's debut album from 1988 Ten Good Reasons went five times platinum in the UK!

We look forward to it Jase! With love beside us, nothing can divide us!

Australia Day 2012: "Barbie Girl" - Sam Kekovich, Melissa Tkautz & Justice Crew

2012-01-12T21:54:00.001+11:00

This message from Sam Kekovich on Australia Day 2012...

"Pop culture's now rife with unAustralian behaviour. Sam's only antidote is to create 'Chop Culture' and go viral himself with his 'chop song': "Barbie Girl". Help Sam get as many hits as possible for his chop hit Barbie Girl to get it to the top of the Nova Australia Day Countdown. You know it makes sense"

(Starring pop starlet Melissa Tkautz, Australia's Got Talent winners Justice Crew and pop guru Richard Wilkins).

Series Premiere: ALCATRAZ

2012-01-12T21:42:00.000+11:00

Alcatraz is the brand new series to premiere on January 16, the series to debut on the Nine Network in Australia. Watch the trailer here!

New Video: AUTOHEART 'Control'

2012-01-12T21:35:00.005+11:00

The new music video for Autoheart is out now! This one is 'Control' - you can read our interview with the group here => Autoheart Interview. This video is amazing!

Exclusive Interview: Nathan Leigh Jones

2012-01-11T00:00:00.000+11:00

He's the man behind Beautiful You, the #1 most requested song on Foxtel channel MAX, the video, perfectly directed and edited by Josef J.Weber.... join with me in this very special interview with Nathan Leigh Jones!

What can you tell us about Nathan Leigh Jones?
I'm a singer/songwriter/piano player who spends far too much time writing music. I love producing, I love co-writing, and I love travelling… luckily I'm doing all three at the moment. If you're in Australia, you've probably unknowingly heard my voice on TV — I'm currently the promo voice for Nickelodeon and Eleven — but behind the scenes I love jamming it out on the keys and singing up a storm. Nice to meet you!

How would people best describe you and your music?
Think John Mayer meets Savage Garden, with a hint of Beatles pizazz. Lyrically it's less "baby baby you're so sexy" and more "I'm gonna make it though this, dammit!". I tend to write my music in some of my darkest moments, and it always manages to bring me hope and inspiration. So it's positive piano-powered pop. And apparently it's brought to you by the letter P.

What got you first interested in music?
Well, my first memories of music weren't always pleasant. My older brother and sister were forced to attend piano lessons on Saturday mornings, and I was dragged along as a little kid to join in the fun too. It was in a cranky old lady's house and was boring as hell. I've since found out that I only went along because she had some kind of "buy two, get one free" deal going on with my folks. Anyway, I'm glad I had an early kickstart, because that knowledge pushed me into songwriting throughout my teenage years. Since then I've been addicted.

Tell us your experience about starting out on the music scene and getting your music noticed...
I cut a rough demo while I was still living in my hometown of Adelaide back in 2004, and entered it into a national music competition. In the end I won the 'Artist Of The Year' award, which gave me a great leg up in the local industry. Looking back it's odd that I won over fellow finalists Bliss n Eso — not sure if that makes any sense whatsoever — but it resulted in the recording of my first record '10 Letters' and my first music video. In 2008 I relocated to NYC for a year and learnt a lot more about co-writing and producing, which inspired me to work on my latest record without relying solely on a manager or label. I'm still on the journey and having a blast.

Do you have any tours planned for the coming year?
No official tours planned at this stage — I'm taking a little breather as we head into 2012 — but ready to jump back in when the next single arrives. In 2011 I released my album Sooner Or Later and beat my personal best of "most shows in a year"! I owe myself a medal or something. The official launch was at New York City's iconic live music venue Joe's Pub, with other shows that followed at Rockwood Music Hall and Duane Park. Back here in Australia I've headlined some of my favourite Sydney venues like Slide, The Basement and The Vanguard, along with The Promethean in Adelaide. It's been a hugely productive year on the live front and I'm looking forward to playing just as many shows in 2012.

What are some of your biggest career goals that you hope to accomplish as an artist?
Hmm. My answer for this is continually changing. Several years ago it would have been to go double platinum with an album and to see my billboard illuminated above the Virgin Megastore in Times Square. Well, that would still be nice, but I'm not sure it's my goal anymore. That, and the Virgin Megastore in Times Square no longer exists… ha ha. With the advent of all things social media, my greatest satisfaction comes from my music connecting with listeners from around the globe. My latest single Beautiful You has been used for over 15 weddings and civil unions this year, at least that I know of. It's those kind of numbers that resonate with me on a personal level and inspire me to push my music as far as it can go.

Nathan Leigh Jones - Beautiful You

Tell us more about your latest track 'Beautiful You'.
This track is perhaps the most simple and understated song on the album, but it's probably why people are drawn to it. We all wish we had the right sentiments to explain that weird fuzzy sense of gratitude, and Beautiful You is an effort to communicate that emotion in a song. When recording this track with the live string section in the studio, I definitely got goosebumps and knew there was something special going on. An amazing Christmas present for me was seeing the Beautiful You music video featured on MAX and having it currently stand as the #1 most requested song on the channel. Super excited!

So are there any other singles to be lifted from Sooner Or Later?
I hope so! The album itself has an organic flow where all the tracks really compliment each other in the context of the record, but there are definitely a few singles waiting to have their moment. I love She's Into You — it was the first track I recorded with Dan Warner (co-writer of Mika's Grace Kelly) and Lee Levin (drummer for Pink, Kelly Clarkson and Backstreet Boys), and can imagine hearing that one on the radio. Also Who The Hell I Am, Bubblewrap and Sooner Or Later seem to resonate with people online. I have some decisions to make. Help.

Anything else fans can expect from you in the coming months?
Aside from another music video, they can expect whispers of new songs and new recordings! I've been writing like a mofo lately. Inspiration is weird, it comes in odd places and at less-than-convenient times. I'm currently trying to move house, have overseas guests staying with me and my poor piano is breaking down, yet exciting new songs are free flowing and begging to be recorded. I want to do a few web concerts in 2012 to showcase these new tracks and get some feedback… sign up to my mailing list and I'll keep you posted!

Who inspires or influences you to make great music?
Great music inspires me to make great music! A mate put on Kelly Clarkson's new record in the car yesterday and I was like — yeah, there's some amazing writing on this! I got home and started jamming straight away. There are also some indie artists making killer music on a limited budget, and that inspires the hell out of me. Brooklyn based popstar Sean Cooney has released an insanely addictive world class record, one of my favourite releases of 2011, and my mates from The Sundance Kids in Adelaide also know how to write a great hit. Nothing like inspiration from friends to keep the creative vibes flowing.

Are there any current musical stars that you highly rate in the industry?
Obsessed with the work of Sara Bareilles. She had the #1 record in America earlier this year and is a judge on one of NBC's biggest shows, yet a lot of people still have no idea of who she is. If you've somehow forgotten her hit "Love Song", think quirky but slick piano pop with deliciously passionate vocals. A true artist in every sense. I also love Ben Folds, OneRepublic and Mika. And remember Hanson? Discover their latest stuff. Seriously, there's a whole lot less mmm-bopping these days!

Success, what is the secret?
Do what you love. Don't do what you don't love. And do it as well as you can. I think that's it!

Thanks so much for the interview!

What can you leave your fans with here on the TheAussieWord blog today?!
Thank you for being lovers of music! There's sometimes an assumption that music artists are living some kind of glam existence in their private jets, but in reality it's a super tough gig that relies on your support — whether you're with a major label or not. These holidays, get out to a show, stay for the act afterwards, buy their merch and connect with other fans. Music builds happiness, community and love. Kudos to you for being a part of it!

All The Lovers (Kylie cover) - Nathan Leigh Jones

Official site: http://www.nljmusic.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/nljmusic
Twitter: http://twitter.com/nljmusic
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/nathanleighjones
iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/nathan-leigh-jones/id272401281

K25: KYLIE - It's No Secret (Live - 1989)

2012-01-10T00:39:00.000+11:00

Kylie Minogue performs It's No Secret live at the The Arsenio Hall Show in 1989. A favourite track of mine from her debut album Kylie. Embrace yourself for more spontaneous K25 videos on TheAussieWord. We're celebrating 25 years of Kylie!

Dees Training Session January 9

2012-01-10T00:35:00.000+11:00

A couple of snaps from the Dees training session today...they're looking good!

Icehouse Gearing Up For Hall & Oates Show

2012-01-09T00:00:00.000+11:00

Not long now till the Hall & Oates / Icehouse show hits Aussie shores. Here's Icehouse in a flashback from 1988!

KYLIE: K25 Flashback Tribute

2012-01-08T19:53:00.001+11:00

Keep your eye out on the blog for some very special K25 flashback videos - just like this one! A tribute in this landmark K25 anniversary year! Viva Kylie!

The Walking Dead - Special February 12 Preview!

2012-01-08T19:46:00.003+11:00

I just can't believe that I have to wait till February 12 to see this. The Walking Dead, such a bloody fine damn show, great cast and gripping storylines. Need I even mention Frank Darabont? Watch the sneak peek video here...

Patti Smith's Dedication to Amy Winehouse 'Pissing In A River'

2012-01-08T19:38:00.001+11:00

Patti Smith has dedicated the song Pissing In A River to the late Amy Winehouse. The track was performed live at FreeFest.

Kylie & Madonna Duet? Will Kylie & Jason Reunite?

2012-01-08T19:37:00.000+11:00

Will they? Won't they? Kylie Minogue has tweeted to fans saying that the rumour of a duet between herself and legendary Madonna is just that - a rumour. She said "It's just a rumour, but of course it would be amazing!! maybe one day:) #MadonnaKylieDuet."

In Kylie's 25th anniversary year, the worldwide web has gone into overdrive with nostalgic video pictorial specials and likely duet rumours. Other names dropped for likely partnered duets was Nick Cave, sister Dannii Minogue and former Neighbours co-star Jason Donovan!

Can't Get Kylie Out Of Our Heads!

2012-01-08T19:36:00.000+11:00

Can't Get You Out Of My Head, the dancefloor smash from our girl Kylie Minogue was named this centuries most played tune in a British radio poll. The track, released in 2001 was not only rejected by Sophie Ellis-Bextor, but has also trumped Britney Spears' Toxic and the famous Angels by Robbie Williams. Congrat's girl!

AQUA Announce Aussie Tour!

2012-01-08T19:32:00.002+11:00

AQUA, the group that gave us Barbie Girl, Doctor Jones, Lollipop (Candyman), Turn Back Time and My Oh My have announced a tour Down Under! The new album Megalomania is out now.

March 8, Brisbane, Hi-Fi
March 9, Coolangatta, Cooly Hotel
March 11, Adelaide, HQ
March 15, Melbourne, Palace
March 16, Sydney, Hi-Fi
March 18, Fremantle, Metropolis

War Horse (Official Trailer)

2012-01-08T19:27:00.000+11:00

Steven Spielberg is about to tell us all an epic story set during the European & English First World War. War Horse is out now, starring Jeremy Irvine and Emily Watson.

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Ezra Axelrod

2012-01-07T01:00:00.000+11:00

I caught up with the recording artist from the "middle of nowhere cowboy town of America's west..." - but now based in London - Ezra Axelrod! Check out this exclusive one one one interview!

So tell us, who is Ezra Axelrod, and is that your real name!?
Indeed it is! My parents made it easy and just stamped me with a stage name the second I came out of the womb! I’m always having to prove it’s my real name, I’m like, “It’s real, I swear! Look at my passport!” Anyway, I’m a recording artist from a middle-of-nowhere cowboy town in the American West, now based in London, which is pretty much the antithesis of where I’m from!

Your debut album Songs from the American Motel comes out the 30th of January, tell us a bit about what we can expect.The album follows the journey I’ve been on for the past seven years or so, since I left my hometown at 18 and started making my way through the world. I’ve lived a lot of places since then: Buenos Aires, Bogotá, Madrid, Washington D.C., Vermont, now London, and the songs on the album retell the stories I’ve collected along the way…there have definitely been some crazy ones!

How would you describe your musical style?
Cinematic. I’ve been told that listening to my songs is like watching a movie, and I would agree with that, it’s definitely what I’m aiming for. They are full of vivid characters and stories. The style is a subtle combination of rock, country western and my upbringing as a classical pianist. My band is me on piano and vocals, with guitars, bass, drums and string quartet.

You’ve mentioned comedian Chelsea Handler and filmmaker Gus Van Sant as influences in your music. How do they manifest themselves in what you do?
I’m a huge Chelsea Handler fan and definitely share her acerbic sense of humour. Throughout my journey as a performer, I’ve wanted to find a way to incorporate comedy into my live show. So I started doing stand-up comedy style banter and monologues and I found that it really made audiences engage with the music on a deeper level, so it stuck! As for Gus Van Sant, I think he’s a filmmaker who so poignantly captures the world that I grew up in, a very Americana, western landscape, and it’s an aesthetic I try to recreate in my music.

The title track “American Motel” boasts an awesome Americana-infused video that we understand you made yourself? The song definitely stands out because you’re singing about a laundry list of lovers who happen to be men. Tell us about the song and video and about being an out gay artist.
Well, first of all, I knew from the beginning that as a writer, I wanted to recreate my reality and the reality of those around me through music. So that meant talking about my life in very real terms. I never even thought twice about being “an out gay artist,” I just wrote songs about things that I thought were good stories, and for me, a lot of those stories have involved men! Haha! And what I’ve found is that you don’t have to be gay to appreciate a song like “American Motel,” I mean, it’s about being in your 20s and being a complete mess, which is something anyone who’s ever been in their 20s can probably relate to!

As for the video, filmmaking has always been a huge passion for me, but something I decided to forgo in university for music…so I was pretty thrilled to start making my own music videos this year! For the “American Motel” video I wanted to make a montage of hundreds of clips that for me somehow represented my journey to “checking in” to the “American Motel”: all the memories, images and fantasies that I encountered along the way and that formed my experience as a boy from the Wild West trying to find his place in the world. There are so many clips in this, about 200, if I remember correctly.

You’re launching the album in an unorthodox way. Tell us about your month-long theatre run at London’s Leicester Square Theatre.
To launch the album, I wanted to create a special experience for my audience that went beyond the typical music gig, so I put together a theatre show in which my ensemble perform the songs from the album on a “motel room” set. The audience feels like they are in the room with us, as we lounge around on the furniture playing awesome music! It’s going to be one big, month-long party at the Leicester Square Theatre!

Have you been to Australia?
Unfortunately, no...And I’m dying to! Aussie’s are pretty much the best part of London and everyone I meet is like, “You need to do this show in Australia!” So we’re going to try to make that happen. It would literally be a dream come true! Hopefully the Aussie’s in London will come check out the show!

www.ezraaxelrod.com
www.facebook.com/ezraaxelrodmusic
www.twitter.com/ezraaxelrod

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Autoheart

2011-12-31T00:00:00.000+11:00

Join with me as I catch up with musical dynamos Autoheart in this exclusive special interview!

What can you tell us Aussies about Autoheart? How and where did it all begin?

Autoheartare me on vocals, Simon on keyboards, Barney on guitar, David on drums andJihea on Bass. Simon and I formed the band after a chance meeting in EastLondon several years back. After discovering similar musical tastes we decidedto work together on the score for an independent film that Simon was working onat the time. We did a cover of Bronski Beat’s “Small Town Boy” and we were mostpleased with the results so we decided to work together on some originalmaterial and form a band. Barney and I were working on another musical projectat the time and Simon and David were friends, and we auditioned Jihea a year orso later, but all in all the band evolved quite naturally.

What got the group first interested in music?

I can onlyspeak for myself here but the artist and album which made me want to get intomusic was PJ Harvey’s “To Bring You My Love”. I remember seeing her duet withBjork at the 1994 Brit Awards, it left me spellbound. I instantly bought herand Bjork’s “Debut” album. I played both of them to death that year. Itinspired me to buy a shitty guitar from Argos and start writing music, terriblethough it was at the time. So I owe much to those two ladies.

Do you have any gigs/tours planned?

Our next gigis at the Camden Barfly on January 25^th in London and tocoincide with the album release next year we will be doing lost of gigs in andaround the UK to promote that.

What are some of the biggest goals that you hope to accomplish as an artist?

For some time it has beento simply get an album out there for people to listen to. We recently recordedour debut album with producer Danton Supple (Coldplay, X&Y) and we arereally proud of it, it was a long time in the making and finally we havesomething that we really feel represents what we are about as a band. The nextstep is releasing it in 2012 and following this up with summer festival gigs.We also write and record continually so we have a mighty prolific backcatalogue – getting these songs out there will be our primary goals overthe next year or two.

What can fans expect from Autoheart in the coming months?

Our debut album. The great thingabout online press is that you can find a fan base in other countries that youdon’t get from just gigging around London. Unfortunately those fans can’treally get to our gigs often but who knows, we may take a road trip! I think wecould probably stretch to Paris, we may be a little under budget to doAustralia just now, sadly.

Who inspires or influences you to make great music?

Many, many artists over theyears have inspired and influenced us: Fleetwood Mac, Depeche Mode, Abba, TheCardigans, Elliot Smith, PJ Harvey and Bjork, Jeff Buckley, R.E.M, Mazzy Star,Nick Cave,

Success, what is the secret to success and what has been your biggest careerhighlight so far?

Our firstcommercial release was “The Sailor Song” which was met with widespread supportand our live session on the “Radcliffe & Maconie” show (BBC Radio) wasvoted as one of the sessions of the year. It was also “Record of the Week “onShaun Keaveny’s BBC6 radio show, “The Guardian” labelled the track"heaven” and Bob Harris (of “The Old Grey Whistle Test” fame) declared usas one of his favourite emerging talents. Furthermore, “The Sailor Song”was chosen by Greenpeace, Oxfam and WaterAid as the music for 2009’s GlastonburyFestival awareness video . We hope to achieve similar heights with thealbum release next year.

Are there any current music stars that you highly rate in the industry rightnow?

Adele for her voice andyouthful maturity, and John Grant for his wonderfully bittersweet yet playfullyrics and gorgeous voice. I like singers that aren’t afraid to sing personaltruths no matter how private they are. That’s very admirable. I try and emulatethat trait as best I can when writing lyrics.

How would people best describe you and your music?

A bloggeronce described us as “Fearless and romantic” which I quite liked...so I’ll gowith that.

Tell us about your first album. Is there a favourite song?

No song is alike howeverthe sound is very typically Autoheart. Some songs are epic and lavish, somemournful, some are up tempo pop and our band carries the sound together. Wealso tried to make sure that everything was played live and nothing was overedited, using keyboards and organs from the 60s/70s and big tubular bells. Wehad to retune the piano 3 times in 2 weeks though as it was so cold in thestudio and it kept slipping out of key. Favourite song is a 4 way tie betweenFactories, Santa Fe, Agoraphobia and Lent, but I love them all...

Thanks for the interview! What can you leave fans with here on theTheAussieWord blog today?!

A freedownload from our debut as yet untitled album – “Control” (http://soundcloud.com/autoheart/control)

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Autoheart

Twitter - http://www.twitter.com/Autoheart

Myspace - http://www.myspace.com/Autoheartofficial

You Tube - http://www.youtube.com/Autoheartofficial

SPECIAL INTERVIEW: Carlos Nobrega

2011-12-30T23:00:00.000+11:00

Carlos Nobrega has returned to TheAussieWord blog to give fans an exclusive sneak peak into the new album and details to the new EP - The Echoes! Visit www.carlosnobrega.com for all the details and download information!

KYLIE: Let It Snow 'Live'

2011-12-28T23:40:00.000+11:00

Kylie Minogue performs Let It Snow on the Michael McIntyre Christmas Comedy Roadshow!
Thanks to my roaming reporter @Matty_Boy_89

New Music: BLUEJUICE - Act Yr Age

2011-12-28T23:30:00.000+11:00

Something new and fresh from BLUEJUICE! This one is Act Yr Age. If you listen carefully, you will hear snippets that remind you of Christopher Cross' Ride Like The Wind....Great track!

TheAussieWords TOP 5

2011-12-27T17:30:00.000+11:00

TheAussieWord's hottest tracks right now! Are we in agreement?

NO RIFT: Jason Donovan & Kylie Minogue

2011-12-26T20:30:00.000+11:00

Just setting the record straight from Down Under... contrary to press reports... Jason Donovan and Kylie Minogue are still very close friends. Jason told the media, "We've never not talked. There was never a problem between us. We're different people in different worlds, but I've always been supportive of her and she of me... She was a huge part of my life and we'll always have that bond."

Melbourne FC Insight Story (Herald Sun)

2011-12-26T20:00:00.000+11:00

An impressive story to come out from the Herald Sun this week. One of the newspapers column writers put together this piece - an insight into the 'new' Melbourne Football Club. Even more reason to snap up a membership and be part of this exciting journey. Premiership glory is just around the corner...

THE clock is yet to tick past 7.30am as the Melbourne players start trudging in.

It's going to be another long, exhausting day at AAMI Park. Colin Sylvia is texting, Jared Rivers shuffles in yawning. Nearly every player sips water. The Demons are about to be subjected to more pre-season torture by new coach Mark Neeld and his beefed-up coaching crew and the Herald Sun has been granted unfettered access to witness it. It is a captivating insight to how the AFL's oldest club is trying to fight its way out of the darkness.

Inside Melbourne's state-of-the-art headquarters the physio room is a blur of movement as players prepare to hit Gosch's Paddock in about an hour. Head trainer John Stanaway and his team are in the middle of a busy morning taping, strapping and massaging. The smell of liniment is almost overpowering.

"Some of them are high maintenance," Stanaway laughs. "But no, they're a very good bunch."

Around the corner Matthew Bate and Jordan Gysberts change in the locker room. Los Angeles street signs adorn the walls. "Rodeo Drive" hangs above Brent Moloney's locker.

But there's little joking around. The players know what awaits them.

Down the hall Neeld and strength and conditioning manager Rob Jackson sit in an open plan kitchen and lounge area eating breakfast - Jim Stynes' Jimbo Super Muesli - and flicking through the Herald Sun.

After discovering football operations manager Craig Notman is on cleaning up duty, Neeld "accidentally" spills his cereal dregs over the bowls and plates sitting in the dishwasher. "He'll love that," Neeld chuckles.

AT 8am the coaches and football staff file into a meeting room to discuss the day and week ahead. Eleven men - Neeld, Neil Craig, Brian Royal, Jade Rawlings, Leigh Brown, Todd Viney, Josh Mahoney, Paul Satterley, Aaron Greaves, Andrew Nichol and football analyst Luke Chambers - sit at a large timber table scattered with coffee cups and laptops.

Football manager Mahoney says AAMI Park co-tenant Melbourne Storm has written the Demons an apology after the NRL club invited several Carlton players and coaches into the building for a tackling session while the Demons were training.

"Obviously it's no good for us having other AFL clubs coming in here watching our sessions while we're in the same facility, and they recognise that," Mahoney says.

Neeld then takes over. The words "defensive day" and "congestion goals" are on the projector screen.

The coach goes over his basic attacking philosophy before Brown announces a tweak to how the team wants to sweep the ball out of defence. Backline coach Rawlings reinforces points for the "defensive grid".

"There's some real attention to detail we've been short on," he says.

Nothing is left to chance and it is all discussed in modern day AFL-speak - "grids", "boxes", "bumpers".

The meeting ends with applause for Brown, who will be awarded life membership at Collingwood's AGM on Wednesday night.

The room empties, but Neeld stays to fine tune with IT man Chambers.

The coach pores over the wording, symbols and sizing of a defensive day Powerpoint presentation that will be shown to the players soon. It offers the first insight into his perfectionist nature.

"These need to be here, make this bigger, move this, take these out," Neeld says. "Now, what else do I need to change?"

IN the huge gym the Dees share with Melbourne Storm and Victory, a group of players including Jack Watts, Cale Morton and Sylvia are ticking their legs over on the stationary bikes. They have a laugh at a rap music video and watch Premier League soccer highlights.

Moments later all players are summoned into the theatrette for a meeting. The group is reminded of its obligations in an upcoming Christmas music video shoot for members.

There are giggles as the 2008 version rolls up on the screen. It puts the team in a buoyant mood, but Neeld gets the biggest laugh.

"Unfortunately I'm double-booked so I can't make it. Work out between yourselves who is wearing the Santa suit because it's sure as hell not going to be me," he says.

"But do it right or it will earn you a strike."

The strike system is ruled by Jackson. If a player gets three in any two-week period, he and his teammates in that position are ordered to a 6am beach swim. A group of players had to brave the elements recently.

The Christmas video offers the final few minutes of relaxation before the serious stuff starts.

Mahoney thanks the club's pre-draft train-on players for their efforts and the focus starts to narrow. When Brown, and then Neeld, start talking you can hear a pin drop in a room holding about 60 people.

"Right, defensive day," Neeld begins. "Create as many scoring opportunities as we can from our defensive work - that's the basis of this activity. Keep the ball in our part of the ground. If the blue team cause a turnover ... go for it, you can break.

"You blokes are very offensively talented so play the game. If you cause a turnover and can snap a goal, do it."

Rawlings then goes over a "five-point checklist" for manning the mark and tries to catch players out. He calls out Rivers, Jordie McKenzie and others for answers.

"It's about setting ourselves up with good habits," Rawlings says. The room falls silent for a moment before Neeld snaps: "Let's go".

By 9am they're outside on Gosch's Paddock and being hit right between the eyes. The squad is divided into pairs for a brutal sprint session.

There is a 300m, a 150m, another 150m and another 150m. There is no more than 30 seconds rest in between.

The Matthew Bate-Cale Morton partnership sets a furious pace. So do Nathan Jones and Jack Trengove.

A brief rest is followed by another 300m. Two more 150m sprints then come in quick succession. Craig fires footballs at unsuspecting players as they gasp for air. Dan Nicholson yells: "C'mon boys, this is easy s--- here!"

"C'mon, keep it going. Good start," Trengove offers.

But it's not over. There's another 150m. As Bate breaks again, Craig barks at Morton: "C'mon, attack him!"

Ricky Petterd gets some treatment, Jeremy Howe is stretching his quad, but elite performance manager David Misson ploughs on. "Thirty seconds," he yells.

Craig and Misson have brought a hard edge to training and as Neeld peers above his shades, you can almost see this club regaining its steel.Looking on, Viney says the new coach has set the tone.

"If you had to say what percentage out of 100 that he's been serious or jovial, it would be 90/10. He has come in firm," Viney says.

"He's obviously come from Collingwood, 'Misso' was at St Kilda and Sydney, 'Craigy' comes from a really good program, Leigh Brown is not long out of it. There's no holes."

The players are subjected to yet another 300m. Bate is in the zone. Then a 150m. Melbourne Storm giant Jaiman Lowe walks past raising his eyebrows. "That's too far for me," he says.

The players are then put out of their misery. The warm-up is done.

Back indoors, the gym is the lonely refuge for the rehab group. The bikes, whirling away earlier in the day have stopped except for one - Luke Tapscott works up a furious sweat as he continues his recovery from a hip injury.

"I'm slowly getting through the rehab," he says. "I can't wait to get back out there. I got a little taste of it today and it's going well."

Around the corner James Frawley, Jake Spencer and McKenzie are in the swimming pool, in the middle of a vigorous underwater running session. "It's hard work, but it can get pretty lonely," Frawley says.

By now training is in full swing outside and all the hallmarks of the modern game - intensity, press, pressure and zones - are evident. Mitch Clark is a presence up forward, Clint Bartram is busy, Brad Green's vision is excellent and Trengove's decision-making is razor sharp.

The players then split into small groups for game-specific drills. Midfield coach Royal oversees an exercise he calls "fire in the hole".

A ball is rolled towards a player from a random angle. He must quickly gather and retain it against as many as six tacklers.

Royal zeroes in on Sam Blease. "C'mon Bleasy. Use your voice Bleasy. Don't get stripped ... offence, defence, support." A whistle sounds. Finally, it's over.

At 12.30pm the squad heads inside for a "flush" - a light massage designed to remove toxins and lactic acid from the body - before a dip in the pool and lunch.

The players sit down to a meat and salad spread in their rec room, a large space containing a kitchen, tables, couches and plasma TVs. A "Revenge From Mars" pinball machine does not get much love these days.

As the players enjoy a few moments of relaxation, Rawlings walks past. He explains the adjustment they've been forced to undertake.

"We hit them for six in the first week of training," he says. "They weren't ready for it, but they're adapting and going well."

As the players take a breather another meeting begins. Barry Prendergast, Neeld, Craig, Mahoney, Viney, Tim Harrington, Kelly O'Donnell and Gary Burleigh finalise strategy for the pre-season and rookie drafts.

Recruiting manager Prendergast paces back and forth from the whiteboard. The others sit facing him in a room no bigger than 6m by 6m.

Prendergast writes "Talent vs need" on the board, but it quickly becomes clear this is primarily a "need" operation.

Neeld and co. are well aware of the landscape - they are light-on for mature-age, big-bodied types who can give their kids a breather. They need some warriors to give the golden eggs time to hatch.

"We have got a lot of offensive talent and we have got them young," Neeld says. "They are being flogged ... we are quite aware we could find the tipping point with some of these kids, but we believe in a year or two they'll be better for it."

Neeld is keen on inside midfielders so that's where the discussion starts. Then comes the project tall. "He has clearly got the most upside," Prendergast says.

Prendergast does the lions' share of the talking, but is frequently tested by Neeld. O'Donnell and Viney also chip in.

Craig has been silent. Neeld turns to him and says: "What do you think, guru?" The coach wants answers on a player's perceived lack of competitiveness. Craig replies: "I've seen worse."

A fascinating, often blunt, debate rages on a range of players - current and potential. Some of it is cutting, some of it is humorous, some of it is complimentary. All of it is to the point.

"He's a toothpick" ... "He's a dead-set cross from me" ... "He's like Kung Fu Panda" ... "He's got something".

Craig leans back in his chair, listening. He has spoken once in nearly 50 minutes. Out of nowhere he sparks debate on a VFL player. "To muddy the waters, what about ... ?"

Twenty minutes later Craig's question hasn't muddied the waters, it has turned it into the Yarra after a three-day storm.

But then the conversation turns to two other potential recruits. One has superior endurance and skill, but the other is harder and tougher.

Neeld interrupts. His verdict offers the clearest insight yet into where he wants to take this club.

"Eighty thousand people, Queen's Birthday, Collingwood, Dane Swan belting the s--- out of us, who are you backing when the heat is on in the middle of the ground?" he demands.

The answers are fudgy so Neeld interrupts again: "I'm going with the grunt."

After an hour the once-orderly whiteboard looks like a half-eaten plate of spaghetti. There are names, lines, arrows and circles all over the place. Craig seeks clarification from Prendergast on Plans A, B, and C. They have finally settled.

Forget The Phantom of the Opera. If you're a football fan this is the best live show going around.

Back in the gym the heavy lifting is well and truly on. The players carry checklists and march from station to station in small groups, talking and encouraging. A table loaded with supplements stands in the middle.

Jackson and Misson cast an eye over proceedings.

Misson admits the Demons have been led on a steep learning curve.

"They needed some real structure with their training, weights and conditioning," he says.

"We needed to improve their strength and fitness and we've put some systems in place to get them up to speed on what an elite AFL program is. To be honest, they've embraced it and in the seven weeks I've been here they've really taken to it.

"We can see a lot of upside and the improvement in just seven weeks has been more than I expected. We've got a long way to go, but they're really taking the bit between the teeth and I think they're enjoying the hard work."

IT'S now 3.50pm and Royal holds court in the theatrette for the midfielder's meeting.

The small group is shown videos from "stoppage day" the previous Friday. Midfield development coach Greaves stands off to the side with a laser pointer.

The players are reminded of the stoppage key performance indicator at Melbourne for 2012 and they are soon put on the spot.

"What was our body work like? Did I show my back? Did I get pushed under the stoppage?" Royal says.

The vision rolls. Greaves talks through the unfolding plays, alternating between sideline and aerial cameras to make his point while using terms like "plus one", "wedge" and "the V".

The level of detail is astounding. Here, it's not so much football, but a giant game of human chess. The coaches pour over videos, offering constructive criticism. A Jordan Gysberts kick from the wing into the middle of the ground is picked out, despite finding a target.

"Lucky," Royal says, instructing Gysberts to instead handball backwards to a waiting Nathan Jones, who can then kick it forward.

The vision is sped up, slowed down and even shown frame by frame. Good play is praised, but every mistake is pointed out and explained.

In the kitchen Craig finds a moment to make tea.

"Equalisation is what this game is all about now," he says. "Every club has meetings, every club has GPS and every club has altitude rooms. But how do you analyse it, how do you present it? How do you work with the results?

"Competitive advantage is found in the attention to detail. It comes back to the people in charge."

By 4.30pm the players are winding down, but the meetings just keep going. Prendergast talks to Neeld; Rawlings to Misson; Brown examines more vision.

It is this unrelenting attention to detail these men believe will make the difference.

Darren Hayes Special Christmas Message

2011-12-26T01:33:00.001+11:00

Darren Hayes gives us a truly heartwarming message from the heart this Christmas. Watch here...

TheAussieWord's Top 5 Christmas Tunes!

2011-12-25T01:00:00.000+11:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS! xx

DEES Christmas Video!

2011-12-22T22:30:00.000+11:00

Melbourne Football Club have launched their special Christmas video! How good is this! #LOVE

MUPPETS Return!

2011-12-22T22:06:00.000+11:00

Just in-case you were wondering. Kermit The Frog, Miss Piggy and Co are on the comeback trail on the big screen! Check out The Muppets trailer!

Chic & Nile Rodgers To Rock Melbourne!

2011-12-21T20:23:00.000+11:00

Funk and souls greatest - Chic with Nile Rodgers will rock the cores of Melbourne as the team have just announced a tour of Oz! Melbourne will see the music maestros in town on Wednesday March 7 at Billboard! This is one special event you will not want to miss! Snap your tickets up early from www.moshtix.com.au

Nile Rodgers & Chic - LeFreak

Darren Hayes Wants YOU For The Sirens Call!

2011-12-21T17:15:00.000+11:00

Darren Hayes has placed a call to arms for all his fans of the world to be part of the next special video presentation for Secret Codes and Battleships track Siren's Call...

To all of our friends around the world,

Darren wants your input to create an official fan video piece for the album track 'Siren's Call' - the stunning final track on his brilliant new album 'Secret Codes and Battleships'. As many of you know, this song seems to have struck a chord with audiences around the world and Darren wanted to recognise the special sentiment of the song by involving you, in the creation of a fan generated lyric video with content supplied by YOU. Send in your photos, video pieces, footage - anything you think fits in with the theme of the song which is about overcoming an ocean of fears and insecurities amidst a journey to happiness. It could be literal (sirens, oceans and greek mythology) it could be abstract (colours, signs, symbols) it could be photos of loved ones long gone or far away....

Send your email submissions to sirenscall@darrenhayes.com

Toomelah (Official Trailer)

2011-12-20T20:27:00.000+11:00

Toomelah is the new Aussie flick by Ivan Sen. Check out the trailer here.

Beach Boys Reform!

2011-12-20T17:03:00.000+11:00

The oldies are coming back...you heard it, The Beach Boys will reform in 2012 for a 50 date international tour which will kick off in New Orleans in April! A brand new album will accompany the tour in the 50th Anniversary year! Good luck boys!

Tina Arena's French Knighthood

2011-12-20T16:45:00.000+11:00

Congratulations to our Tina Arena who was awarded France's Knighthood of the Order of National Merit. Tina has been living in France since 2008. Arena who's 44 years old was chuffed with the presentation of the award from the French President. Tina Arena will be back in Australia in 2012 to spend 5 months working with Rob Mills and the brand spanking new Young Talent Time!

Lana Del Rey: Born To Die

2011-12-19T20:30:00.000+11:00

The new video from Lana Del Rey - Born To Die. Could this lady be on her way to becoming the new Adele?

Molly Meldrum Critical But Stable

2011-12-18T16:54:00.000+11:00

TheAussieWord would like all its readers and visitors to spare a thought or two for Ian 'Molly' Meldrum who remains in a coma in hospital after his recent accident at home this week. Molly had emergency surgery to repair swelling on the brain, broken ribs and a punctured lung. He was placed in an induced coma and remains in a critical but stable condition in hospital. Fans from around the world, including sisters Kylie and Dannii Minogue both tweeted get well messages for Australia's pop rock music icon. Get well soon Molly.

Here's myself with Molly Meldrum at Kylie Minogue's Aphrodite Live concert in Melbourne this June.

Radiant KYLIE: Kylie Minogue In Pictures

2011-12-18T16:03:00.000+11:00

Our girl KYLIE looking absolutely radiant outside BBC Radio's Studio 2 on December 9.

Thumbs up folks? More like #PutYourHandsUpIfYouFeelLove!

Lana Del Rey's Video Games Phenomenon

2011-12-18T16:02:00.000+11:00

Lana Del Rey has taken the world (and YouTube) by storm with this track, it's called Video Games. A remarkable clip and spine tingling voice. Word has it, Lana will tour Sydney and Melbourne next year! What do you guys think?

Lisa Rinna Back On DAYS!

2011-12-18T16:01:00.000+11:00

Lisa Rinna will reprise the role of Billie Reed on Days of Our Lives starting March 8th!

Rinna said "I have done reality shows, talk shows and I thought, what a great way to come back and play a character that I love to play so much. Feels very full circle -- like a new old chapter."

Why do I sense that life is about to get very very complicated for Hope and Bo? All we need now is Crystal Chappell. BANG!

Sinead O'Connor's 2012 Release

2011-12-18T16:00:00.000+11:00

February next year will see Sinead O'Connor release her ninth studio album titled....wait for it.... How About I Be Me and You Be You. The record to hit shelves on February 20.

Sinead O'Connor - Jealous