For connoisseurs of delicate and deeply felt music, the output of Melbourne-based DJ Moopie's independent label, A Colourful Storm, has become an essential source. The DJ, whose real name is Matthew Xue, is known for his wide-ranging sets, but his label is carving out a distinct niche with its charmingly moody experimental pop releases.
The Sound of A Colourful Storm
Operating from Melbourne, A Colourful Storm punches impressively above its weight. The label's eclectic roster includes London-based percussionist Valentina Magaletti, the dub-influenced Hobart duo Troth, and underground polymath Simon Fisher Turner. In 2017, the label made a notable mark with 'I Won't Have to Think About You', a compilation of winsome indie pop that echoed the sounds of the iconic C86 era.
'Going Back to Sleep': A Twee-Pop Guide for 2025
This year, the label has released a quasi-sequel to that beloved collection. The new compilation, titled 'Going Back to Sleep', serves as a neatly curated guide to some of the finest twee-pop acts working today. It showcases a compelling array of artists from Australia and beyond.
Sydney band Daily Toll, whose 2025 debut 'A Profound Non-Event' is an underrated gem, contributes 'Time', a seven-minute reverie built on melodica and guitar. The duo Chateau, featuring Al Montfort and Alex Macfarlane, ventures into percussive, psychedelic lounge pop with 'How Long on the Platform'. Meanwhile, Melbourne's promising new band Who Cares? channels the spirits of Hope Sandoval and Eartheater on their track 'Wax and Wane'.
The compilation's reach extends internationally, featuring San Francisco indie stalwarts the Reds, Pinks and Purples, minimalist Sydney group the Lewers, and sun-dappled folk-pop from Dutch pair the Hobknobs. This unassuming collection is poised to become a frequently referenced favourite among fans of nuanced, emotionally resonant music.
This Week's Best New Tracks
Beyond the compilation, this week brings a wealth of new music. Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist Flea has released a rare solo track, 'A Plea', a propulsive piece of soul-jazz where he earnestly calls for peace and love.
Oscar-winning composer Daniel Blumberg teams up with actress Amanda Seyfried for 'Clothed By the Sun', a stunning duet from the soundtrack to 'The Testament of Ann Lee'. Texan songwriter Jana Horn returns with the richly despondent 'All in Bet', a track painted in every shade of a sigh.
Madrid-based cellist Umor Rex presents the industrial-tinged gothic opus 'Lo Animal', while Austrian producer-vocalist Zora Jones and Bristol's DJ Polo collaborate on the slamming ghettotech track 'Hoes Link Up'. UK rapper Jawnino, alongside producers Surf Gang, drops the alert and locked-in 'Hit Again'. Finally, Austin's Annabelle Chairlegs, with production from Ty Segall, offers the garagey chug of 'Heavy Sleeper'.
