ELLA ION RELEASES LIVE ACOUSTIC SINGLE 'MAP - BREAKFASTERS LIVE AT 3RRR' + PERFORMING AT SXSW

PRAISE FOR ELLA ION

“Ella Ion sparks immediate pause, to be fully immersed in her heavenly sonic aura. Like a Pearl, Ella is singular and rare, emanating mystery, beauty and completely awe inspiring. Mesmeric in the best possible way.”
- Kath Devaney (ABC Country)

“My favourite Kaurna artist and songwriter. I find myself mesmerised everytime by you. Adding this to the catalogue of favourites once again.”
- Claire Mooney (triple j)

“Completely and utterly mesmerising in both the writing and production.”
- Abby Butler (triple j)

Today Kaurna Land/Adelaide based Ella Ion touches down in Texas ahead of a week showcasing at SXSW. To celebrate she shares a strikingly poignant acoustic version of her 2025 single 'Map'. Recorded live to air in the early hours of a February morning on 3RRR FM's Breakfasters program, just her voice and an acoustic guitar. Centred around the strangeness of trusting someone new, Ella's ability to trace the contours of old wounds with poetic lyricism is an exercise in cutting the listener straight to the bone.

The track was recorded live in studio by Karl Chapman and mixed and mastered by Bonnie Knight. Breakfaster Jas Moore said of the live-to-air "A genuinely stunning performance from Ella - I still have goosebumps." Ella will be bringing this feeling to audiences across Texas this week while showcasing at SXSW. She has four official showcases and a number of parties spanning March 12th to 17th with all details below for those who will be in town. 
 

~ LISTEN TO "MAP - BREAKFASTERS LIVE AT 3RRR" HERE ~
 

2025 saw Ella win two South Australian Music Award fuelled by tracks "Map // Creature Skin", "Mess In Your Eyes // Vultures", "Blue Black Crows" and "Looking For Nothing". All tracks received play across triple j, Triple R, PBS, 4ZZZ, Radio Adelaide, Edge Radio and more as well as being added to over a dozen Spotify editorial playlists each and featured in Frankie Magazine, The Music and Rolling Stone among others.

The past year has been one of transformation for Ella, breaking out of her Adelaide hometown to play headline shows, The Great Escape and Green Man Festival and support Jake Bugg (UK), Big Sleep (IRE) and Folk Bitch Trio across the UK and Europe, making the trek over thrice in 2025 alone. She supported Suki Waterhouse (UK) at the Athenaeum Theatre in Melbourne for Rising Festival in June, showcased at BIGSOUND in the middle of her debut Australian tour, played Port Fairy Folk Festival and supported acts such as Folk Bitch Trio, Gordi and Kacy & Clayton. 

Listen here

Emerging from Kaurna Land (Adelaide, Australia), fragmented-folk musician Ella Ion crafts music that cuts deep to the core. Drawing on influences of indie-rock, folk and country, her eloquent lyricism and masterful musical control delivers a cacophony of raw emotion, anchored by grit and heart. Ion has already amassed a loyal following across Australia, having played at a plethora of prolific venues, events and shows. However, the reach of her sonic capabilities stretches beyond country borders, with listeners streaming her music across the UK, US, Europe and more.

From picking up a guitar at 10 years old to performing in beloved local bands as a teenager, Ion broke into the wider music scene in 2023 with her debut LP ‘Waiting’. A 10-track exploration of the tension between longing, stagnancy and growth, ‘Waiting’ saw Ion earn praise for her seamless ability to balance deft introspection with an outward curiosity. Like her songwriting, Ion’s live performances similarly demonstrate the musician’s masterful range. From intimate encounters of tender folk to electrifying post-rock arrangements, Ion flaunts her ability to transform a room of anyone and everyone into a fan with her magnetic stage presence, considered songwriting and angelic vocal range.

Ella Ion is holding nothing back as she barrels forward in a direction of raw sonic and personal exploration. With a renewed creative direction and personal clarity, she’s carving out her own path in real time.

You can listen to "Map - Breakfasters Live on 3RRR" HERE.

ELLA ION @ SXSW 2026
Thu 12th March - Happen Twice @ Webberville Food Truck Park - 4PM - 4:40PM
Thu 12th March - South By Kickoff @ Paseo (48th floor) - 6:30PM - 7:10PM
Thu 12th March - Wanderlust Wine Co - 11PM - 11:40PM
Fri 13th March - SXSJ @ Hotel San Jose - 1:00 PM - 1:40PM
Fri 13th March - Summer on Music Lane @ Hotel Magdalena - 8PM - 8:40PM
Sun 15th March - Born Loser @ Chess CLub - 3:15PM - 3:45PM
Sun 15th March - BIGSOUND @ Seven Grand - 10PM - 10:40PM
Mon 16th March - Global Stage @ Downright Hotel - 8:40PM - 9:10PM
Tue 17th March - Saxon Pub - 12AM - 12:40AM

FOLLOW ELLA ION
Instagram · Facebook · Bandcamp · Spotify · Apple Music

OUR GOLDEN FRIEND ONLINE
www.ourgoldenfriend.com
www.facebook.com/ourgoldenfriend
www.twitter.com/ourgoldenfriend
www.instagram.com/ourgoldenfriend
www.tiktok.com/@ourgoldenfriendhq
 

Our Golden Friend is a management collective and record label from Melbourne Australia.
We deal with people who make music that we love and help them share it with the world.

Management: Coldwave, Ella Ion, Elizabeth, Good Morning, RVG

Label: 808s and Greatest Hits, Chitra, Elizabeth,
Moonlover, Peak Twins, Poppongene, RVG, Way Dynamic

NOT FOR PRINT: For more information, interview requests or press images please contact: info@ourgoldenfriend.com

ROBERT BAXTER ANNOUNCES MELBOURNE LAUNCH SHOW FOR 'ICY (TAKE IT OFF)' FRIDAY 6TH FEBRUARY THE GRACE DARLING BASEMENT + ANNOUNCES NEW SYDNEY SHOWS

Photo by Jarrad Levy

Today Naarm/Melbourne's pop star Robert Baxter (they/them) announces their first headline show of 2026 to celebrate their viral bop 'ICY (TAKE IT OFF)' at The Grace Darling Basement on Friday 6th of February. Tickets are on sale now here.

It's been a blistering start to the year for Robert, who released 'ICY (TAKE IT OFF)' with Sweatbaby on the 19th of December as everyone clocked off for the holidays. The track has since amassed over 14 million views and garnered more than 400 thousand streams since the release only three weeks ago. 'ICY (TAKE IT OFF)' was added to rotation on triple j as well as to several Spotify New Music Friday playlists including in the US, UK, Canada and Australia/New Zealand. Robert's monthly listeners have grown from 15 thousand to more than 200 thousand over the last few weeks, buoyed by their cover star status on playlists such as Pop n Fresh and Evolver. 

Sweatbaby will be supporting Robert on the night as they transform The Grace Darling Basement into a dark and sweaty club. Alongside this headline show Robert will be spending an extensive period of time in Sydney this February which will include performances as part of Mardi Gras and Transgenre Festival. Already it is clear that Robert is one of the most dynamic voices in Australia’s new wave of queer pop and these shows are only the beginning. Full tour dates are below.

Robert Baxter Tour Dates
Sun 18th January - Midsumma Carnival @ Alexandra Gardens - Melbourne, VIC - INFO HERE
Fri 6th February - ICY (TAKE IT OFF) Launch @ The Grace Darling Basement - Melbourne, VIC - TICKETS
Sun 15th February - Fair Day @ Mardi Gras - Sydney, NSW - INFO HERE
Wed 18th February - Transgenre @ Metro Social - Sydney, NSW - INFO HERE

ROBERT BAXTER SIGNS TO OUR GOLDEN FRIEND FOR MANAGEMENT + RELEASES NEW SINGLE 'ICY (TAKE IT OFF)' WITH SWEATBABY

Photo by Jarrad Levy

Ending the year on a high, today we are excited to officially announce that Naarm/Melbourne based pop star Robert Baxter (they/them) has signed to the Our Golden Friend management roster. The signing coincides with Robert's last release for 2025 'ICY (TAKE IT OFF)' with 2000s dance scene inspired producer Sweatbaby (he/him). 

The track is a clear club pop anthem to soundtrack the upcoming hot summer nights exploring the emotional whiplash of connecting in the digital age, feeling a spark when you’re together and feeling iced out over the phone. Of the track Robert says "From the beat to the lyrics to the sweaty cover shoot, ICY is song of the summer certified hit." With over 350k streams, sold-out headline shows, and recent performances at SXSW Sydney, Heaps Gay Mardi Gras, Midsumma and Victoria’s Pride, Robert has made it clear they are one of the most dynamic voices in Australia’s new wave of queer pop and this is only the beginning. 

Of the signing Lorrae says “I’m over the moon to be working with Robert, I saw their live show at SXSW Sydney earlier this year and honestly what an oversight by me (and maybe the entire music industry) to have taken that long to see the show! Robert performed to 20 people like they were playing to 20,000 and I thought alright, let’s go! ICY is a certified banger and I dare you not to dance to it this summer”

Robert reflects on the signing, saying "Managing myself as an artist has been very rewarding and I’m proud of how far I’ve taken my career, but I was always waiting to meet the right person to be my manager. Lorrae came to my first SXSW show and then brought friends to the second one, and then pitched me for an opening slot I really wanted without me even telling her I wanted it. She just understood me and my lane in the industry. We both have ambitious goals that are really aligned and I can’t wait to show you what’s next!"

Photo by Jarrad Levy

Robert Baxter is a non-binary Taiwanese/Australian pop artist, model and influencer based in Naarm/Melbourne. Drawing on a rich background in dance, modelling and theatre, their creative practice is driven by a bold, emotionally open approach to storytelling, unafraid to explore vulnerability, desire and humour in equal measure, and to sit comfortably in the tension between the serious and the playful.

They stepped into the spotlight to cement their identity as a musician with you wouldn’t expect cupid to cry released in April 2024 and STARGIRL singles ‘SUSPICIOUS’ and ‘CAMBOY’ - drawing comparisons to the likes of SZA & Troye Sivan with support from Rolling Stone, VICE, rage (Wild One - ‘CAMBOY’), Mixdown Magazine, Acclaim Magazine, frankie magazine, A Modern Gay’s Guide, Fashion Journal, Shepparton News, Forte Magazine, Music Feeds, Demure Magazine, Verve Zine, triple j (recently taking the helm of Mix Up as part of House of Transenergy’s takeover), triple j Unearthed (with adds across STARGIRL’s singles and beyond), Triple R, FBi Radio, SYN FM, JOY 94.9 and many more.

Robert’s diverse catalogue, striking visuals, and multidisciplinary practice position them as one of Naarm/Melbourne’s most exciting queer voices, an artist proudly building spaces for community while carving out their own dazzling lane in Australian pop.

Listen here: http://ascent.ffm.to/icytakeitoff

ROMY VAGER ANNOUNCES FIRST SHOW OF 2026 NORTHCOTE SOCIAL CLUB ON FRIDAY JANUARY 23

Photography by George Johnson, art direction & styling by Bianca Cornale.

After a decade of multi-award-winning music with RVG, Romy Vager debuts her new musical chapter with a very special intimate preview of her new album on Friday 23rd January at Northcote Social Club (tickets here). As her first headline show of 2026 this will be an exciting opportunity to be in the room as she shares her first new music in over a year.

Debuting the first of this new music while supporting Sharon Van Etten in November at the Forum, this show provides the first chance for fans to hear this next body of work with a live band. Romy will be joined on the night by gritty alt-folk artist Milly Strange whose self-titled debut album was released in August and rising folk-rock outfit NoTurns.
 

Tickets are on sale now via the Northcote Social Club website.

Poster by Jordanne Chant.

ELLA ION UK/EU TOUR BEGINS THIS WEEK

This week Kaurna Land/Adelaide based Ella Ion begins her UK/EU tour following the release of last month's vulnerable and reflective 'Mess In Your Eyes // Vultures'. She will play her first date on August 8th supporting Jake Bugg in Amsterdam before heading to the UK and Ireland for a number of shows including a headline London show on August 14th, a slot at Green Man Festival and a run supporting Greg Mendez. Tour dates can be found here.

This will be her third tour of the UK and Europe this year having recently supported Folk Bitch Trio and Big Sleep (IRE) at a number of shows and showcased at The Great Escape. Ella Ion is stepping into her own this year. All grown up, she’s no longer content with waiting. In a reclamation of agency, she’s chasing after what she wants, and she’s doing it on her own terms. With this new perspective comes a new layer of rugged vulnerability to her sound.

Supporting Suki Waterhouse (UK) at the Athenaeum Theatre for Rising Festival in June, Ella entered into the studio with a new focus once again teaming up with Stefan Blair, one half of acclaimed duo Good Morning. The resulting two-track received play across triple j, RRR, PBS, 4ZZZ and many more as well as spotlights in Frankie, Rolling Stone and The Note.

This UK/EU tour comes ahead of her debut Australian tour which includes headline shows across September in Melbourne, Adelaide, Sydney and Thirroul as well as showcasing at BIGSOUND and supporting Folk Bitch Trio in Perth and Adelaide. 

Emerging from Kaurna Land (Adelaide, Australia), fragmented-folk musician Ella Ion crafts music that cuts deep to the core. Drawing on influences of indie-rock, folk and country, her eloquent lyricism and masterful musical control delivers a cacophony of raw emotion, anchored by grit and heart. Ion has already amassed a loyal following across Australia, having played at a plethora of prolific venues, events and shows. However, the reach of her sonic capabilities stretches beyond country borders, with listeners streaming her music across the UK, US, Europe and more.

From picking up a guitar at 10 years old to performing in beloved local bands as a teenager, Ion broke into the wider music scene in 2023 with her debut LP ‘Waiting’. A 10-track exploration of the tension between longing, stagnancy and growth, ‘Waiting’ saw Ion earn praise for her seamless ability to balance deft introspection with an outward curiosity. Like her songwriting, Ion’s live performances similarly demonstrate the musician’s masterful range. From intimate encounters of tender folk to electrifying post-rock arrangements, Ion flaunts her ability to transform a room of anyone and everyone into a fan with her magnetic stage presence, considered songwriting and angelic vocal range.

Ella Ion is holding nothing back as she barrels forward in a direction of raw sonic and personal exploration. With a renewed creative direction and personal clarity, she’s carving out her own path in real time.

Tickets to all shows can be found at ellaion.com.au

This project was supported by Music Australia.

This project was supported by South Australia’s Music Development Office through the Robert Stigwood Fellowship.

ELLA ION RELEASES NEW SINGLE 'LOOKING FOR NOTHING' + SIGNS TO GROUND CONTROL TOURING + GREEN MAN FESTIVAL LIVE SESSION OUT NOW + WINS TWO SOUTH AUSTRALIAN MUSIC AWARDS

Today Kaurna Land/Adelaide based Ella Ion returns with her final musical offering of the year in the mesmerising single 'Looking For Nothing' out now via Our Golden Friend. This comes alongside the release of her Green Man Live Session, filmed back in August in the middle of her UK/Europe tour, the announcement of her signing to Ground Control Touring for bookings in North America, South America and Asia, and last night's South Australian Music Awards win for Best New Artist and People's Choice Folk Award.
 

~ LISTEN TO "LOOKING FOR NOTHING" HERE ~

After a year spent traversing the world 'Looking For Nothing' is an exercise in letting go, a forced moment of pause. Working once again with producer Stefan Blair, one half of acclaimed duo Good Morning, Ella's folk leanings are unleashed amidst a lush production. The single was mixed by Dylan Young (Way Dynamic) and Liam "Snowy" Halliwell. 'Looking For Nothing' in a shining example of Ella's eloquent lyricism, masterful musical control and her unmatched ability to deliver a cacophony of raw emotion, anchored by grit and heart.

This is further exemplified in the Green Man Festival Session filmed in August, a secret second set which gives insight into the vulnerable and transformative nature of Ella's live shows. With the news of her signing with booking agents Jim Romeo and Alisa Preisler of US-based booking agency Ground Control Touring, Ella is well on her way to sharing this with audiences across North America, South America and Asia.

Her two South Australian Music Award wins were fuelled by 2025 tracks "Map // Creature Skin", "Mess In Your Eyes // Vultures", and "Blue Black Crows". All tracks received play across triple j, Triple R, PBS, 4ZZZ, Radio Adelaide, Edge Radio and more as well as being added to over a dozen Spotify editorial playlists each and featured in Frankie Magazine, The Music and Rolling Stone among others.

The past year has been one of transformation for Ella, breaking out of her Adelaide hometown to play headline shows, showcase at The Great Escape and support Jake Bugg (UK), Big Sleep (IRE) and Folk Bitch Trio across the UK and Europe, making the trek over thrice in 2025 alone. She supported Suki Waterhouse (UK) at the Athenaeum Theatre in Melbourne for Rising Festival in June, and showcased at BIGSOUND in the middle of her debut Australian tour in amongst local support slots with Folk Bitch Trio, Gordi and Kacy & Clayton. 

Emerging from Kaurna Land (Adelaide, Australia), fragmented-folk musician Ella Ion crafts music that cuts deep to the core. Drawing on influences of indie-rock, folk and country, her eloquent lyricism and masterful musical control delivers a cacophony of raw emotion, anchored by grit and heart. Ion has already amassed a loyal following across Australia, having played at a plethora of prolific venues, events and shows. However, the reach of her sonic capabilities stretches beyond country borders, with listeners streaming her music across the UK, US, Europe and more.

From picking up a guitar at 10 years old to performing in beloved local bands as a teenager, Ion broke into the wider music scene in 2023 with her debut LP ‘Waiting’. A 10-track exploration of the tension between longing, stagnancy and growth, ‘Waiting’ saw Ion earn praise for her seamless ability to balance deft introspection with an outward curiosity. Like her songwriting, Ion’s live performances similarly demonstrate the musician’s masterful range. From intimate encounters of tender folk to electrifying post-rock arrangements, Ion flaunts her ability to transform a room of anyone and everyone into a fan with her magnetic stage presence, considered songwriting and angelic vocal range.

Ella Ion is holding nothing back as she barrels forward in a direction of raw sonic and personal exploration. With a renewed creative direction and personal clarity, she’s carving out her own path in real time.

You can listen to "Blue Black Crows" HERE.

This project was supported by South Australia’s Music Development Office through the Robert Stigwood Fellowship.

ELLA ION RELEASES NEW SINGLE 'BLUE BLACK CROWS' + DEBUT AUSTRALIAN TOUR STARTS TODAY

Today Kaurna Land/Adelaide based Ella Ion marks the first day of her debut Australian tour with new single 'Blue Black Crows' out now via Our Golden Friend. This new single will take her across Australia over the next two weeks including headline shows in Adelaide, Sydney, Thirroul and Melbourne, BIGSOUND showcases and two shows supporting Folk Bitch Trio in Adelaide and Perth. 

~ LISTEN TO "BLUE BLACK CROWS" HERE ~

'Blue Black Crows' is an all encompassing moment of time, seeing Ella Ion sweep up listeners in longing and reflection. The single was recorded ahead of her third UK/EU tour of the year which included a slot at Green Man Festival and supports for Jake Bugg and Greg Mendez. Working once again with Stefan Blair (Good Morning) 'Blue Black Crows' shines a light on Ella's eloquent lyricism and masterful musical control and her ability to deliver a cacophony of raw emotion, anchored by grit and heart.

The songs were mixed by Dylan Young (Way Dynamic) and mastered by Liam "Snowy" Halliwell (Snowy Band), the same team behind her 2025 releases "Map // Creature Skin" and "Mess In Your Eyes // Vultures". Both two-tracks received play across triple j, Triple R, PBS, 4ZZZ, Radio Adelaide, Edge Radio and more as well as being added to over a dozen Spotify editorial playlists and featured in Frankie Magazine, The Music and Rolling Stone among others.

The past year has been one of transformation for Ella, breaking out of her Adelaide hometown and traversing the world to play headline shows, showcase at The Great Escape and support Jake Bugg (UK), Big Sleep (IRE) and Folk Bitch Trio across the UK and Europe, making the trek over thrice in 2025 alone. She supported Suki Waterhouse (UK) at the Athenaeum Theatre in Melbourne for Rising Festival in June, and will showcase at BIGSOUND in the middle of her debut Australian tour. The first show is tonight in Adelaide at Ed Castle, full tour dates are below and tickets can be found here.

Emerging from Kaurna Land (Adelaide, Australia), fragmented-folk musician Ella Ion crafts music that cuts deep to the core. Drawing on influences of indie-rock, folk and country, her eloquent lyricism and masterful musical control delivers a cacophony of raw emotion, anchored by grit and heart. Ion has already amassed a loyal following across Australia, having played at a plethora of prolific venues, events and shows. However, the reach of her sonic capabilities stretches beyond country borders, with listeners streaming her music across the UK, US, Europe and more.

From picking up a guitar at 10 years old to performing in beloved local bands as a teenager, Ion broke into the wider music scene in 2023 with her debut LP ‘Waiting’. A 10-track exploration of the tension between longing, stagnancy and growth, ‘Waiting’ saw Ion earn praise for her seamless ability to balance deft introspection with an outward curiosity. Like her songwriting, Ion’s live performances similarly demonstrate the musician’s masterful range. From intimate encounters of tender folk to electrifying post-rock arrangements, Ion flaunts her ability to transform a room of anyone and everyone into a fan with her magnetic stage presence, considered songwriting and angelic vocal range.

Ella Ion is holding nothing back as she barrels forward in a direction of raw sonic and personal exploration. With a renewed creative direction and personal clarity, she’s carving out her own path in real time.

You can listen to "Blue Black Crows" HERE.

TOUR DATES
Wed 27 August - Ed Castle w/ Cagefly - Adelaide, SA - TICKETS HERE
Fri 29 August - Low302 w/ Beryl & Sarah Sykes (Sunscreen)- Sydney, NSW - TICKETS HERE
Sun 31 August - Frank's Wild Years - Thirroul, NSW - TICKETS HERE
Mon 1 September - Grain Pre-party - Felon's - Brisbane, QLD - FREE ENTRY
Tue 2 September - Omiya 'Blown A Wish' @ 6pm - Netherworld - Brisbane, QLD - FREE ENTRY
Tue 2 September - Official BIGSOUND showcase @ 10:15pm - Blutes - Brisbane, QLD - TICKETS HERE
Wed 3 September - Made in SA Showcase @ 1:10pm - Ric's Backyard - Brisbane, QLD - TICKETS HERE
Wed 3 September - Bugsound 2.0 @ 2:30pm - Blute's - Brisbane, QLD - FREE ENTRY
Thu 4 September - Official BIGSOUND showcase @ 10:15pm - Black Bear Lodge - Brisbane, QLD - TICKETS HERE
Fri 5 September - Jive - Adelaide, SA (Supporting Folk Bitch Trio) - TICKETS HERE
Sat 6 September - Mojo's - Fremantle, WA (Supporting Folk Bitch Trio) - TICKETS HERE
Sun 7 September - The Tote Upstairs w/ Rowena Wise & Racoo - Melbourne, VIC - TICKETS HERE
Sat 4 - Sun 5 October - Space Jams - Inman Valley, SA - TICKETS HERE
Sun 19 October - Summertown Studio, Adelaide, SA (Supporting Kacy & Clayton) - TICKETS HERE

FOLLOW ELLA ION
Instagram · Facebook · Bandcamp · Spotify · Apple Music

This project was supported by South Australia’s Music Development Office through the Robert Stigwood Fellowship.

ELLA ION RELEASES TWO-TRACK "MESS IN YOUR EYES // VULTURES" + ANNOUNCES DEBUT AUSTRALIAN TOUR

Today Kaurna Land/Adelaide based Ella Ion presents her next musical offering in the vulnerable and reflective 'Mess In Your Eyes // Vultures' out now via Our Golden Friend. Alongside this comes the announcement of her debut Australian tour and a performance at Green Man Festival in the UK this August.
 

~ LISTEN TO "MESS IN YOUR EYES // VULTURES" HERE ~

Recently returned from a European jaunt in May, where she supported Folk Bitch Trio and Big Sleep (IRE) at a number of shows and showcased at The Great Escape, Ella Ion is stepping into her own with this two-track. All grown up, she’s no longer content with waiting. In a reclamation of agency, she’s chasing after what she wants, and she’s doing it on her own terms. With this new perspective comes a new layer of rugged vulnerability to her sound.

Of the songs Ella says "Vultures and Mess in Your Eyes began a few years ago as one-line sketches, but evolved with the tool of hindsight, into two of my most bare and confrontational songs. Narratively, these songs live in the same world. They reflect an empathic longing for healing in the lives of those around me and an unrelenting desire to fix things, juxtaposed with an inevitable sense of helplessness under the weight of systems and circumstances that oppress us."

Supporting Suki Waterhouse (UK) at the Athenaeum Theatre for Rising Festival in June, Ella entered into the studio with a new focus once again teaming up with Stefan Blair, one half of acclaimed duo Good Morning. Over two days at Sydney Road Studios they melded Ella's folk leanings with Stefan's intricate production skills honed through a decade in one of Australia's most beloved self-produced indie duos. The songs were mixed by Dylan Young (Way Dynamic) and mastered by Liam "Snowy" Halliwell (Snowy Band).

These songs follow May's release of "Map // Creature Skin" which was premiered on the triple j unearthed podcast, was added to over a dozen Spotify editorial playlists and received coverage from the likes of The Music and Rolling Stone.

This two-track comes ahead of her debut Australian tour which includes headline shows across September in Melbourne, Adelaide, Sydney and Thirroul as well as showcasing at BIGSOUND and supporting Folk Bitch Trio in Perth and Adelaide. Ella will also return to the UK and Europe in August for a performance at Green Man Festival in Wales with more dates to be announced soon. 

Ella will be performing a free show at The Tote Front Bar on Friday June 25th to celebrate the release. Music starts from 5pm and she will be supported by DC Maxwell.

Emerging from Kaurna Land (Adelaide, Australia), fragmented-folk musician Ella Ion crafts music that cuts deep to the core. Drawing on influences of indie-rock, folk and country, her eloquent lyricism and masterful musical control delivers a cacophony of raw emotion, anchored by grit and heart. Ion has already amassed a loyal following across Australia, having played at a plethora of prolific venues, events and shows. However, the reach of her sonic capabilities stretches beyond country borders, with listeners streaming her music across the UK, US, Europe and more.

From picking up a guitar at 10 years old to performing in beloved local bands as a teenager, Ion broke into the wider music scene in 2023 with her debut LP ‘Waiting’. A 10-track exploration of the tension between longing, stagnancy and growth, ‘Waiting’ saw Ion earn praise for her seamless ability to balance deft introspection with an outward curiosity. Like her songwriting, Ion’s live performances similarly demonstrate the musician’s masterful range. From intimate encounters of tender folk to electrifying post-rock arrangements, Ion flaunts her ability to transform a room of anyone and everyone into a fan with her magnetic stage presence, considered songwriting and angelic vocal range.

Ella Ion is holding nothing back as she barrels forward in a direction of raw sonic and personal exploration. With a renewed creative direction and personal clarity, she’s carving out her own path in real time.

You can listen to "Mess In Your Eyes // Vultures" HERE

Photo by Izzie Austin, Design by Ella Ion

TOUR DATES
Fri 25 July - The Tote Front Bar - Melbourne, VIC - FREE ENTRY
Wed 30 July - Cry Baby - Adelaide, SA - FREE ENTRY
Sun 17 August - Green Man Festival - Brecon Beacons, UK - SOLD OUT
Wed 27 August - Ed Castle - Adelaide, SA - TICKETS HERE
Fri 29 August - Low302 - Sydney, NSW - TICKETS HERE
Sun 31 August - Frank's Wild Years - Thirroul, NSW - TICKETS HERE
Mon 1 - Thu 4 September - BIGSOUND - Brisbane, QLD - TICKETS HERE
Fri 5 September - Jive - Adelaide, SA (Supporting Folk Bitch Trio) - TICKETS HERE
Sat 6 September - Mojo's - Fremantle, WA (Supporting Folk Bitch Trio) - TICKETS HERE
Sun 7 September - The Tote Upstairs - Melbourne, VIC - TICKETS HERE
Sat 4 - Sun 5 October - Space Jams - Inman Valley, SA - TICKETS HERE

This project has been supported by Music Australia.

This project was supported by South Australia’s Music Development Office through the Robert Stigwood Fellowship.

ELLA ION RELEASES TWO-TRACK "MAP // CREATURE SKIN" + SIGNS TO CRASHER MUSIC FOR AU/NZ BOOKINGS + PLAYING THE GREAT ESCAPE NEXT WEEK + SUPPORTING FOLK BITCH TRIO IN LONDON & PARIS

Today Kaurna Land/Adelaide based Ella Ion shares her first new music in over two years with two track "Map // Creature Skin" out now via Our Golden Friend. Ella will also showcase at The Great Escape in Brighton this month and support Folk Bitch Trio at their shows in London and Paris, full tour dates below.
 

~ LISTEN TO "MAP // CREATURE SKIN" HERE ~

With her first release since 2023 album ‘Waiting’, Ion is determined to disrupt the circuit of tension that was bubbling throughout her debut LP. All grown up, she’s no longer content with waiting. In a reclamation of agency, she’s chasing after what she wants, and she’s doing it on her own terms. With this new perspective comes a new layer of rugged vulnerability to her sound.

A serendipitous meeting between Ella and Stefan Blair, one half of Good Morning, led to Ella extending her time in Melbourne early last month, initially only in the city on account of a one-off pop-up show at The Tote. Over two days at York Street Recorders they melded Ella's folk leanings with Stefan's intricate production skills honed through a decade in one of Australia's most beloved self-produced indie duos. The songs were mixed by Dylan Young (Way Dynamic) and Liam "Snowy" Halliwell and features the cello of Lucinda Machin. 

On ‘Creature Skin’, one half of her latest two-track release, Ion confronts past iterations of herself. Like shedding layers of skin that she no longer needs, the track explores Ion’s newfound strength in fragility - a product of necessity born out of leaving a version of who she once was behind. She steps into the light of blatant honesty, raw but ready. The counterpart track, ‘Maps’, offers a further insight behind the veil of the musician’s reflective contemplations as she moves forward. Centred around the strangeness of trusting someone new, Ion’s ability to trace the contours of old wounds with poetic lyricism is an exercise in cutting the listener straight to the bone. Exploring ideas of bodily autonomy and the hands of another, the musician treks through a terrain of emotional uncertainty as she figures out how to tread safely in complete and utter exposure.

Alongside the new music comes the announcement that Ella has signed with Crasher Music for bookings in Australia and New Zealand. Helmed by Chinese-New Zealand agent, DJ, and multi-award-nominated music journalist, Jess Fu. Having worked in the music industry in Aotearoa, Australia and the USA, Jess has built up a unique perspective and experience. Previously working at Village Sounds Jess built up a roster of rising NZ artists that fast became fan favourites. Her artists have sold out a multitude of shows, won national awards, and opened for major international acts. She currently works with the likes of D.C. Maxwell, Holliday Howe, Hanbee and BBYFACEKILLA.

Single artwork by Tom Katsaras

Emerging from Kaurna Land (Adelaide, Australia), fragmented-folk musician Ella Ion crafts music that cuts deep to the core. Drawing on influences of indie-rock, folk and country, her eloquent lyricism and masterful musical control delivers a cacophony of raw emotion, anchored by grit and heart. Ion has already amassed a loyal following across Australia, having played at a plethora of prolific venues, events and shows. However, the reach of her sonic capabilities stretches beyond country borders, with listeners streaming her music across the UK, US, Europe and more.

From picking up a guitar at 10 years old to performing in beloved local bands as a teenager, Ion broke into the wider music scene in 2023 with her debut LP ‘Waiting’. A 10-track exploration of the tension between longing, stagnancy and growth, ‘Waiting’ saw Ion earn praise for her seamless ability to balance deft introspection with an outward curiosity. Like her songwriting, Ion’s live performances similarly demonstrate the musician’s masterful range. From intimate encounters of tender folk to electrifying post-rock arrangements, Ion flaunts her ability to transform a room of anyone and everyone into a fan with her magnetic stage presence, considered songwriting and angelic vocal range.

Ella Ion is holding nothing back as she barrels forward in a direction of raw sonic and personal exploration. With a renewed creative direction and personal clarity, she’s carving out her own path in real time.

You can listen to "Map // Creature Skin" HERE

TOUR DATES
Wed 14 May - St Pancras Old Church - London, UK (supporting Folk Bitch Trio) - SOLD OUT
Fri 16 May - Manchester Street Arts Club @ 1:15PM - Brighton, UK (Pure Represents Showcase)
Sat 17 May - TGE Beach @ 3:00PM - Brighton UK (Sounds Australia Showcase)
Mon 19 May - La Méchanique Ondulatoire - Paris, FR (supporting Folk Bitch Trio) - TICKETS

FOLLOW ELLA ION
Instagram · Facebook · Bandcamp · Spotify · Apple Music

This project has been supported by Music Australia.

This project was supported by South Australia’s Music Development Office through the Robert Stigwood Fellowship.

COLDWAVE ANNOUNCE UK TOUR

+ SHARE LIVE VIDEO FOR ITALIA '06
+ PLAYING SXSW AUSTIN MARCH 2025

Photo by Mayah Salter

Tandanya/Adelaide-based post-punk six piece Coldwave have announced their debut UK tour this February and March 2025 which will be followed by their showcase at SXSW. Off the back of extensive media support from the likes of Stereogum, Clash Magazine and Rolling Stone Australia for their recent two track The Ants / Italia '06 this tour will be the UK's first live introduction to Coldwave's captivating post-punk accelerant.

The tour will begin on February 27th at Castle Hotel in Manchester and will see the band play eight shows, including supporting Pom Poko in London at The Garage. They will continue their run of must-see showcases on March 10th - 15th playing at SXSW Austin, which will build on their previous performances at SXSW Sydney and BIGSOUND. Full tour dates are below. 

Alongside the tour announcement Coldwave have also shared an explosive live video for Italia '06 which sees the band leaning into a frantic yet tightly controlled blend of jagged guitars, booming horns and uncompromising vocal delivery. With an added percussionist and saxophonist and band members running between instruments the song builds from a play on negative space and spoken word, before the aural spike strip is laid down and explodes in the second half. You can watch the video HERE.

Watch Italia '06  Live HERE

Following the release of their debut EP Same Window, Different House in 2023, Coldwave were named triple j Unearthed Feature Artist, performed at Laneway Festival amongst a stacked lineup including Turnstile and Fontaines D.C., and made their much-talked-about debut at Bigsound 2023, with Dave Ruby Howe applauding the band for “delivering heavily to a big room which seemed to have caught wind that something was cooking... every member of the band vying for your eyes with intense noodling, rumbling rhythm section and demonic trumpet.”

COLDWAVE - Harrison Evans (he/him; vocals), Kiran Memisoglou (he/him; guitar), Anthony Griffin (he/him; guitar/vocals), Sean McGowan (they/them; trumpet/synth/vocals), Lara Patzel (she/they; bass) and Jordan Maywald (he/him; drums) - formed in 2020 from the ashes of two beloved Tandanya/Adelaide post-punk outfits and have continued to evolve rapidly, welcoming new collaborators, exploring experimental instrumentation, and building a national audience, while remaining steadfastly loyal to their home community. They have released two EPs No Conflict (2023), Same Window, Different House (2023) and have performed with Citizen, Pond, RVG and more.

Poster by Jordan Maywald

TOUR DATES
Tickets on sale from coldwaveband.com

Thu 27 Feb - Castle Hotel - Manchester, UK - TICKETS HERE
Fri 28 Feb -  Nice N Sleazy - Glasgow, UK - TICKETS HERE
Sun 2 Mar - Hyde Park Book Club - Leeds, UK - TICKETS HERE
Mon 2 Mar - Heartbreakers - Southampton, UK - TICETS HERE
Wed 5 Mar - The Windmill - London, UK - TICKETS HERE
Thu 6 Mar - Prince Albert - Brighton, UK - TICKETS HERE
Sat 8 Mar - The Garage (supporting Pom Poko) - London, UK - TICKETS HERE
Sun 9 Mar - Hare & Hounds 2 - Birmingham, UK - TICKETS HERE
Mon 10 - 15 Mar - SXSW - Austin, TX - TICKETS HERE

Coldwave’s UK tour and SXSW showcase supported by Create South Australia’s Music Development Office.

This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through Music Australia and Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body.