Music Magazine Celebrates Five-Year Anniversary Supporting Australian Hard Rock

XMusic is celebrating its fifth anniversary in 2026 with a range of special live shows, limited-edition spirits, and a thriving lineup of Australian rock artists curated by founder Tim McLean-Smith.

Established by former Sony Music executive Tim McLean-Smith, Australian independent label XMusic was founded with the intention of supporting new rock bands and fostering emerging Australian talent. Over the past five years, the label has evolved into a well-established independent entity, representing artists such as Sisters Doll, Dellacoma, Karly Jewell, and international signing Blvd Of Eyes.

According to McLean-Smith, the fifth anniversary signifies not only the label’s growth but also the sense of community that has been nurtured around it. He expressed his pride in reaching this milestone and extended his gratitude to both the artists and fans who have supported XMusic through attending shows, streaming music, and purchasing albums and merchandise.

XMusic’s unique approach is centered around artist development, drawing on McLean-Smith’s extensive industry experience in marketing, promotions, and publicity. By working closely with bands to tailor individual strategies aimed at expanding their audiences and enhancing their long-term careers, the label places the artists at the forefront of every decision.

The roster at XMusic continues to expand, encompassing acts like Audio Reign, Awaken The Hate, Cicadastone, Electric State, Engraved, Frankenbok, Kaosphere, Kodem, Snake Bite Whisky, Sound Affliction, Whiteford, and XCalibre, among others.

To commemorate the fifth anniversary, XMusic has collaborated with Six Fathoms Australian Spirits to release a limited-edition collection of premium Australian whisky and vodka. These special bottles feature custom labels showcasing either the XMusic brand or individual artists from the label’s roster.

Fans purchasing these commemorative spirits can select labels featuring artists such as Audio Reign, Awaken The Hate, Cicadastone, Dellacoma, Electric State, Engraved, Frankenbok, Kaosphere, Karly Jewell, Kodem, Snake Bite Whisky, Sound Affliction, Whiteford, and XCalibre. The collaboration serves as a celebration of the label’s journey and the vibrant community that surrounds it, reflecting the late nights, touring experiences, and live performances that have defined XMusic’s identity.

Each bottle is crafted at 40% ABV and is presented as a limited-edition item tied to the anniversary campaign. Additionally, the fifth-anniversary promotion features a “Golden Ticket” competition, wherein fans can win exclusive prize packs by purchasing anniversary merchandise, attending shows, or acquiring the commemorative spirits.

Furthermore, XMusic will be hosting a series of anniversary shows across Australia, featuring artists from the label’s roster. These performances will showcase both established acts and newer additions to the XMusic family, underscoring the label’s ongoing dedication to live music and artist development. Fans can purchase tickets and official fifth-anniversary merchandise, including limited-edition T-shirts and muscle shirts, through the XMusic online store.