Australian Musician Magazine: Snippets for Thursday, April 30, 2026

Riding Northbound, a Melbourne rock group, is gaining traction in the local music scene with their latest single, “Missing Pages,” a soulful track that embraces the band’s rugged, travel-worn vibe. The band, comprising John McNamara, Shaun Klinger, Chris Rourke, and Mark Degiorgio, came together during the isolating times of the pandemic, crafting a sound that merges classic rock elements with a contemporary, introspective twist. Released in April of 2026, “Missing Pages” displays the band’s musical cohesion, with each member contributing to the rich guitar melodies and cohesive rhythm section that anchor the song’s contemplative themes of memory, distance, and unresolved narratives. This single solidifies Riding Northbound as a compelling force in Australia’s indie rock scene.

Marlon, a well-known figure in Australia’s hip-hop scene, has stepped into the spotlight with his debut solo single and music video, “Blood In The Water.” Hailing from Darwin, Marlon, also known as Marlon Motlop, showcases a polished blend of hip-hop and soul in this alluring track, setting the stage for the release of his debut album later this year. “Blood In The Water” kicks off with a seductive bassline layered over the soothing sound of ocean waves, carrying a blend of confident swagger, sultry beats, driving pianos, and lively percussion throughout the song. Marlon’s smooth vocals and expertly crafted hip-hop production give life to the track, drawing inspiration from early musical influences like Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, and Red Hot Chili Peppers, fused with modern styles of Miguel, The Weeknd, and Frank Ocean. The song’s poignant lyrics delve into the human tendency to turn a blind eye to issues that may not directly impact us, particularly highlighting the disparities faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Marlon explains, “Blood in the Water speaks to the age-old analogy of ‘out of sight, out of mind’ making reference to the human habits of not acknowledging and speaking to things that do not affect us.”

Crafted in a modest room in his childhood home, “Blood In The Water” came to life through a collaboration with fellow Australian artist Daniel Rankine, also known as Trials. Working closely together, the duo transformed Marlon’s intimate acoustic guitar composition into the powerful track it is today. Directed by Richard Coburn and co-produced by Coburn and Marlon, the music video for “Blood In The Water” complements the song’s sharp, thought-provoking essence with striking visuals. The video seamlessly transitions between moody coastal scenes, vivid hues, and bold red accents, capturing the essence of the song’s sonic atmosphere and lyrical depth. With his debut solo single, Marlon has set a high bar for his forthcoming album, showcasing his ability to blend soulful melodies with insightful storytelling and captivating visuals.