Sound Check: The Latest Music News You Need to Know

The world of music is always evolving, and whether you’re following the latest global hits or keeping tabs on local talent, there’s no shortage of exciting music news to keep you on your toes.

From surprise album drops to festival and highly anticipated tour announcements, there’s something for every fan. Stay tuned as we break down the freshest updates from your favourite artists, both near and far, and dive into the stories behind the hits that are shaping the soundtrack of our lives.

Ready to turn up the volume? Let’s dive in!

The International Acts Touring in February and March

Australia’s 2025 concert season is set for a major glow-up, and you won’t want to miss it. Thanks to the success of Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour, which injected over $500 million into the economy, the international music scene is buzzing more than ever.

First up, Kylie Minogue hits Perth on February 15, Adelaide on February 18, Melbourne on February 20, 21, and 22, and Sydney on March 1, 2, and 3, bringing her glittering disco reign down under. Billie Eilish will enchant with her hauntingly beautiful sound, performing in Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne on multiple dates throughout February and March.

Then, Dua Lipa takes the stage in Melbourne and Sydney in late March, delivering her high-octane Radical Optimism tour. Cigarettes After Sex will serenade fans with their ethereal sound in Melbourne on March 11 and 12. And finally, Drake is already in the country, bringing his swagger and chart-topping hits to Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane in February and March. Don’t miss your chance to catch these incredible acts.

Check Tixel

Australian Music News: Live Gigs, Festivals & More

Untitled Day Party Brings Global Techno Titans to The Timber Yard

Mark your calendars—Untitled Group is throwing an absolute belter of a day party, and it’s bringing some of the biggest names in electronic music to Melbourne. On Sunday, March 9th, 999999999, FJAAK, Daria Kolosova, Elli Acula, and Kait Xri will unleash blistering sets at The Timber Yard, delivering raw techno, heavy-hitting beats, and pure, unfiltered chaos.

It’s a Pitch Music & Arts 2025 sideshow, so expect world-class production, immersive visuals, and precision sound. This one’s set to be huge.

Presale drops February 12—lock it in, or prepare for FOMO!

Sunday March 9th

The Timber Yard, 351 Plummer Street, Port Melbourne 

Dan Sultan to Perform Free Concert at the Sydney Opera House

ARIA-winning powerhouse Dan Sultan is set to light up the Sydney Opera House Forecourt with a one-night-only, free concert under the stars. Joined by rising indie-pop star Jem Cassar-Daley, the show marks 20 years of Sultan’s genre-spanning career and 15 years since his breakout album Get Out While You Can. Expect a night of soul-stirring vocals, powerful storytelling, and a celebration of music on one of the world’s most iconic stages.

Saturday 8th March, 6pm gates

Free entry – register here

Forecourt, Sydney Opera House

Sam Alfred Brings High-Energy House & Techno to Sydney

Fresh off a career-defining Boiler Room set and a massive international run, Naarm-based DJ and producer Sam Alfred is back on home soil for a four-city tour. Known for his euphoric blend of ’90s house, UK garage, and techno, he’ll bring his high-energy sound to venues like The Timberyard in Melbourne and The Rechabite in Perth for a series of electrifying day parties throughout March and April. With global buzz surrounding his latest EP Roadblocks, these sets promise pure dancefloor heat.

Sign up for presale here on Wednesday 5th February, 12pm AEDT

GA tickets available from Thursday 6th Febraury; buy tickets here

Saturday 29th March – Melbourne – The Timberyard

Sunday 6th April – Sydney – Liberty Hall Courts

Saturday 12th April – Brisbane – The Triffid

Saturday 26th April – Perth – The Rechabite

Electric Warehouse is Bringing the Underground Rave Vibes to Sydney’s Hordern Pavilion this April

On 4th April, get ready for an electrifying night as global stars Duke Dumont and Hayden James light up the stage. Known for hits like “Ocean Drive” and “Just Friends,” they’ll deliver the ultimate dance experience. Add in UK duo Trilucid for a live set that’ll blow your mind.

If you’re craving dark, industrial beats and an unforgettable rave atmosphere, this is your moment.

Don’t miss out — score your tickets here

4th April

Hordern Pavilion, Moore Park, Sydney

Tickets are Still Available to Mardi Gras’ After Party

The Mardi Gras After Party in Sydney is about to set the night on fire. Headlined by Romy and the legendary Honey Dijon, this is more than just a party—it’s a celebration of music, culture, and the kind of beats that move you. Tickets are still available—get yours now and get ready to dance into the early hours at Hordern Pavilion.

Score tickets here

Saturday 1st March, 10:00pm

Hordern Pavilion, Sydney

Summer Dance 

On Saturday 8th March, Summer Dance is throwing it back to 2018 with a reunion that’ll hit harder than a late-night bass drop. The House of Mince takeover is bringing the heat, with the ever-untamed queer party institution leading the charge. At the helm is Honey Dijon, the Chicago-born, London-based legend who blends classic house with a futuristic groove. She’s a 2018 alumni, but now she’s spinning for Beyoncé and Madonna, so you know she’s got that magic touch. Joining her is Sofia Kourtesis, the Peruvian DJ who’s making waves with kaleidoscopic soundscapes that bewitch every dancefloor. And don’t miss Deepa, whose energy and genre-bending prowess will have you lost in the music. Summer Dance 10? Get ready to feel it.

Saturday 8th March, 3:00pm

Book tickets here

Liberty Hall, Sydney

The Last Wave of Laneway Tickets Have Just Dropped!

The fourth and final release of tickets for Laneway Festival 2025 is here—get in quick! With an incredible lineup featuring Charli XCX, Clairo, Olivia Dean, Djo, beabadoobee, Remi Wolf, and more, this is set to be an epic day of music.

Don’t wait—secure your tickets now and be part of one of Australia’s ultimate music experiences this February!

Score tickets here

The triple J Hottest 100 Results are In…

The triple j Hottest 100 served up a fresh mix of sounds, with Chappell Roan taking the top spot with “Good Luck, Babe!”—a track that hits hard and sticks with you. Royel Otis followed closely with “Murder on the Dancefloor,” proving they’re a force to be reckoned with. Billie Eilish and Charli XCX each landed multiple entries, keeping things exciting.

Despite fewer Aussie songs making the cut this year, the list still had plenty of moments that kept us on our toes. It’s a perfect snapshot of where the music scene is at right now. Basically, give it up for the pop girlies! 

Global Music News

Lana Del Rey Announces New Album

Our favourite “Summertime Sadness” queen, Lana Del Rey, has officially announced her next album, The Right Person Will Stay, dropping May 21st next year. This 13-track opus promises to be the soundtrack of longing and love, with whispers of country influence still lingering like “a day at the races.”

Fans have been waiting since Did You Know That There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd, and it seems Lana’s muse has found a glow-up in her whirlwind romance with gator man Jeremy Dufrene. Lana has given us countless love songs to ache and dream to over the years, and while she’s keeping most of the inspiration behind The Right Person Will Stay under wraps, the title hints at a swoon-worthy, love-soaked masterpiece. We’re ready to dive headfirst into the feels!

Coachella 2025 Lineup Announced

Coachella 2025 is shaping up to be one for the books! With Lady Gaga, Green Day, Post Malone, and Travis Scott headlining, there’s something for everyone. Lady Gaga’s return promises epic performances, while Green Day’s festival debut is sure to rock the crowd. Post Malone and Travis Scott are bringing their signature vibes, making this the ultimate must-see festival for fans of pop, rock, and hip-hop.

But that’s not all—there’s a lineup of incredible global talent across genres, from K-pop stars to indie icons, ensuring no matter your taste, you’ll find a set to get excited about!

April 11th to 13th and 18th to 20th, 2025

Sabrina Carpenter Teases Aussie Tour 

Sabrina Carpenter is giving fans a taste of something sweet—an Aussie tour tease! After serenading crowds as part of Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour, she’s ready to heat things up Down Under with a solo show. She’s been craving the chance to perform in Melbourne again, and we’re all ready to be Skinny Dippin’ into her dreamy setlist. While exact dates are still a mystery, get ready for a performance that will leave you hooked. 

Tate McRae Announces Upcoming Album

Tate McRae is back with her brand-new single 2 Hands, giving us all the feels as we wait for her upcoming album So Close to What (out February 2025). If you’ve been vibing with her introspective lyrics, this track will hit the spot—think raw emotions and the kind of growth you can’t ignore.

Watch the 2 Hands Music Video here

Billie Eilish Named Apple Music’s 2024 Artist of the Year

Billie Eilish has been crowned Apple Music’s 2024 Artist of the Year, solidifying her status as one of music’s most influential figures. The honour follows the release of her third studio album, Hit Me Hard and Soft, in May, which quickly dominated charts and hearts worldwide. Known for her genre-defying artistry and introspective lyrics, Eilish continues to captivate audiences. This latest accolade adds to her growing list of achievements in a stellar year for the pop icon.

Loved our picks of the latest music news that keep your life at an all-time bop? Now it’s time to match those tunes with the perfect setting. Keep the good vibes vibin’ as you unwind at dreamy island destinations and chic European-style escapes. Whether you’re soaking up the sun, sipping cocktails, or just letting the rhythm of the music guide you, these getaways pair perfectly with the soundtrack of your life.

Kelsey Harrington

6 February 2025