Words and photos by: Arlena Laessaari @awkward.archives
Australia has a lively and rich music scene that has produced some of the most influential bands in the alternative music world. From major cities like Sydney to smaller coastal towns, our country is home to massive names like AC/DC, Parkway Drive, The Amity Affliction, and Northlane.
However, Australia is also home to many unique and exciting local pockets. Slightly over an hour away from the Sydney CBD lies the South Coast (Dharawal Country) region and more precisely its major hub Wollongong. With a population of approximately 200,000, Wollongong fosters its own vibrant and diverse music scene.
Today, we are shining a light on this exciting community that still embraces a true DIY, indie, and community spirit. Wollongong has a huge variety of artists and small venues, no matter what genre you are into, this region surely has something for everyone.
Without further ado, take a look at these hardworking artists hand-picked from the sunny South Coast.
L.O.W
Genre: Hardcore
L.O.W is a rising name in the Illawarra hardcore scene. You can find these guys playing local pubs, tattoo studios, and DIY shows. Their sets are always packed, and if you are looking for a good mosh, a L.O.W show is the place to be. These local punks are well loved, and they do a lot for the community by advocating for and running fundraisers to help local organisations.
L.O.W Aftermath Tattoo Gallery ©Awkward.Archives
NASTY INSECTS
Genre: Electro Thrash Metal
Nasty Insects enriches the local scene with their vibrant aesthetic and a good old ’80s electro-thrash vibe. Whether you are a fan of the genre or completely new to it, their latest single, Not My Rat, is well worth a listen.
Nasty Insects Society City ©Awkward.Archives
SPEAKING TERMS
Genre: Pop-Punk
Another emerging name in the South Coast scene to keep an eye on. Their song Cannonball is guaranteed to lift your energy. This trio recently supported Trophy Eyes and are about to release a new single, Taking Shape, on the 13th of March.
Speaking terms ©Dillon Gibbs
DESTRUCTION OF THE HEALER
Genre: Brutal Melodic Death Metal
The Wollongong death metal scene has to be one of the most wholesome by far. Every show is welcoming, and these musicians love to show up for one another. At any given show, you are guaranteed to run into members of other local metal bands, making you feel right at home.
Destruction of the Healer (DOTH) is a five piece band of incredibly hardworking and skilled musicians. They are on track to release a new album this year and just dropped their latest single, Bestial Hunger, in early February.
DOTH Dicey Riley’s Hotel ©Awkward.Archives
PROXY DIVER
Genre: Post-Hardcore/Grunge-Gaze
This four piece will take you on an authentic underground journey. While Proxy Diver loves to play local small venues, you are just as likely to catch them at secret DIY house shows. They have a solid fan base, and you are guaranteed to spot a familiar face in the crowd at every gig.
Proxy Diver Society City ©Awkward.Archives
CAM CREST
Genre: Hip-Hop
A true one man unit. Cam Crest can be spotted just about anywhere, whether it is a monthly hip-hop night or busking on the streets. Cam is an incredibly passionate musician, and his dedication to his craft is truly inspiring. He also has a bubbly social media presence that is well worth a follow. His latest single, MILLION$, perfectly embodies his passion for his career.
Cam Crest Society City ©Jasmin Whitton
DEAD NETTLES
Genre: Indie Rock
Formerly known as Eastwood, the newly branded Dead Nettles is a top pick for indie lovers. This hardworking band makes you want to dance and cry at the same time, but don’t worry their wholesome stage presence will leave your heart feeling warm and fuzzy.
Dead Nettles La La La’s ©Awkward.Archives
Where to catch them?
The South Coast is lucky to have a range of amazing venues that keep the local pulse beating. Society City is a local gem that hosts artists big and small, offering a space for everyone. If you prefer the energy of a bigger pub or bar, well known spots like La La La’s and Dicey Riley’s are also the go-to homes for live music. For those in the Wollongong CBD during the day, the Live at Lunch initiative offers free music in the heart of the city every week, making local talent accessible to everyone.
If you’re looking to plan your next night out, be sure to check out Onevolume the ultimate gig guide for the region. Supporting local music has never been easier, and there’s no better time than now to get out there and see what the South Coast has to offer.