Music – Local and National

Promoting mental wellness through the universal language of music is a cornerstone of our mission...

Melrose Avenue: Australia’s Rising Pop-Metal Sensation

Emerging from Sydney’s vibrant music scene, Melrose Avenue has swiftly captured attention with their dynamic blend of pop and metalcore. Formed in 2022 by vocalist Vlado Saric and guitarist Shawn Mayer, the band has been recognized for their energetic performances and innovative sound. 

Their debut track, “Enemy,” released in October 2022, set the stage for subsequent hits like “Suffering,” “Fool And The Beggar,” and “Through Hell.” In 2024, Melrose Avenue’s momentum led them to perform at Las Vegas’s renowned When We Were Young festival, sharing the stage with iconic acts. 

A significant milestone in their journey was signing with Hopeless Records in late 2024, aligning them with a label known for representing influential bands such as All Time Low and Avenged Sevenfold. With a growing fanbase and a series of anticipated releases, Melrose Avenue is poised to make a lasting impact on the global…

Nina Simone (1933–2003) was more than just a singer—she was an icon and a force of nature. Born Eunice Kathleen Waymon in Tryon, North Carolina, Simone was a classically trained pianist whose dream of becoming the first Black concert pianist was shattered by racism and bigotry. Having to pivot, she directed her talents into jazz, blues, soul, and protest music; she ultimately became one of the most distinctive and influential voices of the 20th century.

Her music was raw, urgent, and deeply emotional, blending classical technique with gospel intensity and jazz improvisation. Songs like Feeling Good, Mississippi Goddam, and I Put a Spell on You weren’t just your average performances; they were declarations. Simone used her voice as a weapon for civil rights; she refused to be silenced in the face of injustice.

Yet, behind her fierce stage presence, many don't know that Simone battled deep-rooted personal struggles. She was…