How does DIPLACUSIS reflect your journey as an artist and what do you hope listeners take away from it?

We created the album to be experienced in its entirety, and I hope some listeners take that journey from start to finish. Everything is crafted to keep you engaged, opening with an overture, blending song to song with interstitial music. The theme of self-acceptance flows throughout, starting playfully naive and ending in deep strings and piano. I hope listeners hear that story come through.

Who are some key influences behind DIPLACUSIS and how have they shaped your sound?

The influences behind this record are incredibly varied. On one hand, I was drawn to the soundscape freedom of Julianna Barwick, Enya, and Donna Lewis—their vocal layering and simple, rhythmic motifs really resonate with me. On the other end, bands like Hole, Hatchie, and Maggie Rogers brought that addictive indie-pop drive to the mix, creating a blend that’s both atmospheric and energising.

Could you walk us through your creative process, from writing songs to recording them with Terry Mann?

Terry is a dear friend and a genuinely great human—something I say every time, but it’s true. We share a lot of trust and musical understanding, especially after playing together in Sons of Rico, which made this process much easier. Terry’s background in making music for kids' shows and TV ads was appealing; he knows how to create songs that grab attention and lift your mood. Once we’d recorded the instrumental beds, I described my vision to Terry and then stepped back to let him work his magic. About a month later, I returned to the studio, and my mind was blown—8 out of 10 songs were so close to the mark, they barely needed touching. It felt like wizardry, having someone take my vision and bring it to life. From there, we bounced ideas back and forth, sharing emails and home recordings until we felt everything was just right. He’s just great to work with.

In your view, what makes a great album?

Art. Let artists make the art. It’s incredible what people can create when they’re given the resources and freedom to express themselves.

If you could collaborate with any artist, past or present, who would you choose and why?

I would choose Maggie Rogers. I adore her vocals and the way she effortlessly crosses genre lines, bringing the piano into her music in exciting ways.

When you're not working on music, what other creative pursuits do you enjoy?

So many! Sewing is my forever hobby—whether I'm making a corset or Christmas bunting. I love anything that gets me working with my hands, pulling me out of my mind and into that elusive flow state. It’s a beautiful space to inhabit.

What local artists or bands are you currently inspired by and would recommend?

We’re incredibly lucky in Naarm; there’s so much music to enjoy. If I’m keeping it super local, I absolutely love the joy of Surprise Chef—the world they create around their music and the energy they bring to the stage. Kaitlyn Keagan is another constant inspiration. Her songwriting is out of this world, and I wish a million more people could hear her music.

What can we expect from the launch on December 1st?

The line-up is fully neurodiverse, so expect the unexpected—costumes, energy, accessibility, poetry, harmonies, and lots of love in the room. The show is also Auslan interpreted, wheelchair accessible, and a matinee! Honestly, what more could you ask for?

What other projects or events do you have planned for the rest of the year?

Right now, I'm chasing my tail a little, creating content to promote this beautiful album so people know it exists. Besides that, I’m excited to start sewing outfits for our headline show, which will definitely keep me distracted!

MAGNETS ALBUM LAUNCH SHOW
Sunday 1st December - Northcote Social Club, Naarm/Melbourne
With support from Mathilde Anne, Alex Creece and Naavikaran (DJ)

A QUICK CHAT WITH MAGNETS