On the very first episode of 2026. Takee had a chat with Kaiyah Mercedes.

Kaiyah is a rising force in Melbourne’s indie music scene, bringing raw emotion and poetic storytelling to the forefront. At just 18 years old, this LGBTQIA+ artist has already carved out a distinct sound, blending indie-pop with rock influences. Diagnosed with autism and ADHD at 15, Kaiyah channels their experiences into deeply introspective songwriting, offering a powerful lens into self-discovery and identity.

Their debut album Hindsight introduced audiences to their heartfelt lyricism, while their sophomore release Trying To Hate You showcased a cinematic evolution in sound. Now, with their latest single MANIC!!!, Kaiyah embraces a grittier, more untamed energy, proving their versatility as an artist.

Beyond the music, Kaiyah is a fierce advocate for authenticity, curating live performances that celebrate queer and neurodivergent voices. Their shows are more than concerts—they’re immersive experiences, inviting audiences into a world of unfiltered emotion and electric energy.

With a growing fanbase and a fearless approach to artistry, Kaiyah Mercedes is not just making music—they’re making waves. Keep an eye on this powerhouse as they continue to redefine indie music on their own terms.

On the very first episode of 2026. Takee had a chat with Kaiyah Mercedes.
Kaiyah is a rising force in Melbourne&rsquo;s indie music scene, bringing raw emotion and poetic storytelling to the forefront. At just 18 years old, this LGBTQIA+ artist has already carved out a distinct sound, blending indie-pop with rock influences. Diagnosed with autism and ADHD at 15, Kaiyah channels their experiences into deeply introspective songwriting, offering a powerful lens into self-discovery and identity.
Their debut album&nbsp;Hindsight&nbsp;introduced audiences to their heartfelt lyricism, while their sophomore release&nbsp;Trying To Hate You&nbsp;showcased a cinematic evolution in sound. Now, with their latest single&nbsp;MANIC!!!, Kaiyah embraces a grittier, more untamed energy, proving their versatility as an artist.
Beyond the music, Kaiyah is a fierce advocate for authenticity, curating live performances that celebrate queer and neurodivergent voices. Their shows are more than concerts&mdash;they&rsquo;re immersive experiences, inviting audiences into a world of unfiltered emotion and electric energy.
With a growing fanbase and a fearless approach to artistry, Kaiyah Mercedes is not just making music&mdash;they&rsquo;re making waves. Keep an eye on this powerhouse as they continue to redefine indie music on their own terms.

Kaiyah Mercedes | The Spotlight with Takee

On the final episode of 2025, Takee had a chat with Lucinda from Displaced Records, who joined him remotely all the way from France on her 22nd birthday!

Listen and find out all about Lucinda’s incredible journey, how displaced records came to be, and maybe even a sneak peak of Takee playing 22 to celebrate Lucinda's birthday.

Lucinda Drabsch is an alt pop musician based in Naarm/Melbourne and most known as the founder of the independent label Displaced Records. Launched in October 2024, the label pays homage to Drabsch’s experience relocating to Melbourne in 2022 after experiencing limited musical opportunities in her hometown of Canberra. Displaced Records focuses on supporting young and relocated artists by creating spaces to develop industry experience and skills. Since its launch, Displaced Records has debuted multiple bands and artists, launched a monthly residency at the renowned Naarm venue, Bar Open and partnered with many community organisations to develop and highlight the next generation of independent artists in Melbourne.

On the final episode of 2025, Takee had a chat with Lucinda from Displaced Records, who joined him remotely all the way from France on her 22nd birthday!
Listen and find out all about Lucinda&rsquo;s incredible journey, how displaced records came to be, and maybe even a sneak peak of Takee playing 22 to celebrate Lucinda's birthday.
Lucinda Drabsch is an alt pop musician based in Naarm/Melbourne and most known as the founder of the independent label Displaced Records. Launched in October 2024, the label pays homage to Drabsch&rsquo;s experience relocating to Melbourne in 2022 after experiencing limited musical opportunities in her hometown of Canberra. Displaced Records focuses on supporting young and relocated artists by creating spaces to develop industry experience and skills. Since its launch, Displaced Records has debuted multiple bands and artists, launched a monthly residency at the renowned Naarm venue, Bar Open and partnered with many community organisations to develop and highlight the next generation of independent artists in Melbourne.

Lucinda Drabsch of Displaced Records | The Spotlight with Takee

On the second episode of the 2025/26 summer seasonal, Takee sat down with Atlanta-based indie artist Varun Sheel to discuss all things music, and his newly founded project: The Elephant Room.

Varun Sheel is a boston native with rich indian roots, and is also the founder and CEO the Elephant Room. He grew up in a musically rich household, influenced by both Western and Bollywood music. His father, a classical Hindustani vocalist, began teaching Varun the basics of raags, tune maintenance, and breathing techniques at a young age.

Varun’s musical journey took off when he received his first guitar as a child and started learning from YouTube, studying virtuosos like Paul Gilbert and Buckethead. In high school, Varun formed his first band, “Beyond Boundaries,” and later, in college, another band, “Solara.” They released multiple EPs and played local shows, with Varun in a variety of roles such as lead vocalist, songwriter and lead guitarist.

While pursuing a degree in Neuroscience, Varun blended his contemporary style of songwriting with his eastern influences.

 During the COVID-19 pandemic, he deepened his craft by integrating Hindustani raags and Bollywood visuals with Western music theory. After years of honing his craft, Varun is now ready to share his latest work, promising to transport listeners with his evocative melodies and storytelling.

Varun has also launched an independent artist accelerator program called ‘the elephant room,’ designed to equip artists with everything they need to build sustainable, label-free music careers. It’s a year-long program based in Atlanta (USA) that combines a K-pop–style skill camp with business and industry training.

Each artist develops and releases a single through the program, and gets $100K invested into marketing that release to kickstart their career.

The first cohort of 6 begins in June, and applications are rolling until spots fill or the deadline hits, but waitlisted artists get early access when applications officially open.

Find out more here:

https://www.theelephantroomgroup.com/

On the second episode of the 2025/26 summer seasonal, Takee sat down with Atlanta-based indie artist Varun Sheel to discuss all things music, and his newly founded project: The Elephant Room.
Varun Sheel is a boston native with rich indian roots, and is also the founder and CEO the Elephant Room. He grew up in a musically rich household, influenced by both Western and Bollywood music. His father, a classical Hindustani vocalist, began teaching Varun the basics of raags, tune maintenance, and breathing techniques at a young age.
Varun&rsquo;s musical journey took off when he received his first guitar as a child and started learning from YouTube, studying virtuosos like Paul Gilbert and Buckethead. In high school, Varun formed his first band, &ldquo;Beyond Boundaries,&rdquo; and later, in college, another band, &ldquo;Solara.&rdquo; They released multiple EPs and played local shows, with Varun in a variety of roles such as lead vocalist, songwriter and lead guitarist.
While pursuing a degree in Neuroscience, Varun blended his contemporary style of songwriting with his eastern influences.
&nbsp;During the COVID-19 pandemic, he deepened his craft by integrating Hindustani raags and Bollywood visuals with Western music theory. After years of honing his craft, Varun is now ready to share his latest work, promising to transport listeners with his evocative melodies and storytelling.
Varun has also launched an independent artist accelerator program called &lsquo;the elephant room,&rsquo; designed to equip artists with everything they need to build sustainable, label-free music careers. It&rsquo;s a year-long program based in Atlanta (USA) that combines a K-pop&ndash;style skill camp with business and industry training.
Each artist develops and releases a single through the program, and gets $100K invested into marketing that release to kickstart their career.
The first cohort of 6 begins in June, and applications are rolling until spots fill or the deadline hits, but waitlisted artists get early access when applications officially open.
Find out more here:
https://www.theelephantroomgroup.com/

Varun Sheel of The Elephant Room | The Spotlight with Takee

On the very first episode of the 2025/26 summer seasonal, Takee sat down with Dr. John Martin Cass of JMC Academy, to discuss all things to do with creative education, his journey that led to the success of the institution and how they continue to empower emerging artists and creatives.

Martin founded JMC Academy in 1982 and has remained staunchly dedicated to lifting the quality of education and training in the Creative Industries.  Martin launched Australia’s first ever accredited courses in Audio Engineering (1991), Multimedia (1996), and Digital Television (2000) in an industry still relatively new to the opportunities and prospects of a Creatively-driven multi-media explosion within an environment traditionally.

Martin is or has been a member of multiple accreditation and advisory panels across the higher education, vocational training, creative industries and philanthropic sectors including: 
Chair Acpet 2010-2016
Acpet NSW 2001 benchmarking sub-committee 
Acpet NSW 2003 higher Education sub-committee.
VETAB accreditation panels of various private providers and TAFE.
CREATE Australia advisory panel for the development of Music and Entertainment industry Training Packages.
CREATE Australia advisory panel for the development of Music Industry competency standards.
Various Arts Training NSW advisory panels 
The curriculum advisory panel for the Graduate Diploma in Design Science (Audio), Sydney University Faculty of Architecture.
AUSMUSIC education advisory panels  
Australian Contemporary Music Institute ACMI panel 
Papers and Seminars
Delivery of “Innovation and Creativity – sunk without a trace” paper at the 2006 National Acpet conference. 
Opening address at the International Association for the Study of Popular Music Conference 2006
Mater Dei Foundation Committee member (Fundraising for children with disabilities)
Presented documentation to the Federal inquiry into the future opportunities for Australia’s film, animation special effects and electronics games industries. July 2003

Qualifications:
PhD.I (University of New England)
Masters in Recording Arts, Macquarie University
Cert IV in Assessment and Workplace training

On the very first episode of the 2025/26 summer seasonal, Takee sat down with Dr. John Martin Cass of JMC Academy, to discuss all things to do with creative education, his journey that led to the success of the institution and how they continue to empower emerging artists and creatives.
Martin founded JMC Academy in 1982 and has remained staunchly dedicated to lifting the quality of education and training in the Creative Industries.&nbsp; Martin launched Australia&rsquo;s first ever accredited courses in Audio Engineering (1991), Multimedia (1996), and Digital Television (2000) in an industry still relatively new to the opportunities and prospects of a Creatively-driven multi-media explosion within an environment traditionally.
Martin is or has been a member of multiple accreditation and advisory panels across the higher education, vocational training, creative industries and philanthropic sectors including:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Chair Acpet 2010-2016</li>
<li>Acpet NSW 2001 benchmarking sub-committee&nbsp;</li>
<li>Acpet NSW 2003 higher Education sub-committee.</li>
<li>VETAB accreditation panels of various private providers and TAFE.</li>
<li>CREATE Australia advisory panel for the development of Music and Entertainment industry Training Packages.</li>
<li>CREATE Australia advisory panel for the development of Music Industry competency standards.</li>
<li>Various Arts Training NSW advisory panels&nbsp;</li>
<li>The curriculum advisory panel for the Graduate Diploma in Design Science (Audio), Sydney University Faculty of Architecture.</li>
<li>AUSMUSIC education advisory panels&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
<li>Australian Contemporary Music Institute ACMI panel&nbsp;</li>
<li>Papers and Seminars</li>
<li>Delivery of &ldquo;Innovation and Creativity &ndash; sunk without a trace&rdquo; paper at the 2006 National Acpet conference.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Opening address at the International Association for the Study of Popular Music Conference 2006</li>
<li>Mater Dei Foundation Committee member (Fundraising for children with disabilities)</li>
<li>Presented documentation to the Federal inquiry into the future opportunities for Australia&rsquo;s film, animation special effects and electronics games industries. July 2003</li>
</ul>
Qualifications:
<ul>
<li>PhD.I (University of New England)</li>
<li>Masters in Recording Arts, Macquarie University</li>
<li>Cert IV in Assessment and Workplace training</li>
</ul>

Dr. Martin Cass of JMC Academy | The Spotlight with Takee

On the final episode of season 4, 2025, Takee and Arie Rose has a lovely chat about her music and whats to come. 

In 2025, Arie brings you flutes and choirs like you’ve never heard them before in hard rock and metal, releasing a series of songs paired with short films baring the struggles of living with disability and chronic illness, including the hidden struggles that others rarely see. In her debut album, In Sickness and In Sickness, ARIE ROSE shares her lived experience with disability and its intersection with womanhood. This album takes you on a journey through various rock and metal subgenres with notable folk and classical influences, accompanied by her powerful clean and screamed vocals and masterful flute solos and choral backing vocal arrangements. The lyrics largely revolve around ARIE ROSE’s battle with Crohn’s disease, a diagnosis she received at 15 and spent many years in and out of hospitals and doctors’ offices finding effective treatment for. The album has another minor theme running throughout, of neurodivergence. The music is serious and emotional at times and at other times fun and irreverent, ending on an uplifting a capella track about her latest Crohn’s remission, Hope.

On the final episode of season 4, 2025, Takee and Arie Rose has a lovely chat about her music and whats to come.&nbsp;
In 2025, Arie brings you flutes and choirs like you&rsquo;ve never heard them before in hard rock and metal, releasing a series of songs paired with short films baring the struggles of living with disability and chronic illness, including the hidden struggles that others rarely see. In her debut album, In Sickness and In Sickness, ARIE ROSE shares her lived experience with disability and its intersection with womanhood. This album takes you on a journey through various rock and metal subgenres with notable folk and classical influences, accompanied by her powerful clean and screamed vocals and masterful flute solos and choral backing vocal arrangements. The lyrics largely revolve around ARIE ROSE&rsquo;s battle with Crohn&rsquo;s disease, a diagnosis she received at 15 and spent many years in and out of hospitals and doctors&rsquo; offices finding effective treatment for. The album has another minor theme running throughout, of neurodivergence. The music is serious and emotional at times and at other times fun and irreverent, ending on an uplifting a capella track about her latest Crohn&rsquo;s remission, Hope.

ARIE ROSE | The Spotlight with Takee

Keanu joined Takee live and in the studio on SYN 90.7 FM to talk all about his music and creative journey so far. 

Keanu Askar is an emerging artist whose music blends vulnerability, melody, and modern production into a sound that feels both global and deeply personal. Drawing from hip-hop, rap, and contemporary pop influences, he creates songs that explore emotion with honesty and intent.
Influenced by artists like The Kid Laroi, Juice WRLD, and Iann Dior, Keanu’s work is rooted in storytelling — transforming real experiences into relatable, emotionally charged music. As a singer, songwriter, and producer, he brings authenticity and precision to every project.
A graduate of Full Sail University in Florida with a degree in Music Production, Keanu has refined his craft in sound design, recording, and audio engineering, developing a skill set that allows him to take complete creative control of his sound.
His latest single, “Aquafina,” channels the highs and lows of modern relationships — inspired by a series of difficult dating experiences reimagined as one story about an unattainable love. It captures the tension between desire and detachment, pairing heartfelt lyrics with sleek, contemporary production.
Keanu recently collaborated with Sydney artist Suhail on several songs for an upcoming EP, continuing to expand his sound and artistic direction.
Born to a Lebanese family and fluent in English, French, and some Arabic, Keanu’s multicultural background gives him a unique creative perspective and global sensibility. With each new release, he continues to evolve as an authentic voice in modern music — unfiltered, emotionally honest, and driven by connection.

Keanu joined Takee live and in the studio on SYN 90.7 FM to talk all about his music and creative journey so far.&nbsp;
Keanu Askar is an emerging artist whose music blends vulnerability, melody, and modern production into a sound that feels both global and deeply personal. Drawing from hip-hop, rap, and contemporary pop influences, he creates songs that explore emotion with honesty and intent. Influenced by artists like The Kid Laroi, Juice WRLD, and Iann Dior, Keanu&rsquo;s work is rooted in storytelling &mdash; transforming real experiences into relatable, emotionally charged music. As a singer, songwriter, and producer, he brings authenticity and precision to every project. A graduate of Full Sail University in Florida with a degree in Music Production, Keanu has refined his craft in sound design, recording, and audio engineering, developing a skill set that allows him to take complete creative control of his sound. His latest single, &ldquo;Aquafina,&rdquo; channels the highs and lows of modern relationships &mdash; inspired by a series of difficult dating experiences reimagined as one story about an unattainable love. It captures the tension between desire and detachment, pairing heartfelt lyrics with sleek, contemporary production. Keanu recently collaborated with Sydney artist Suhail on several songs for an upcoming EP, continuing to expand his sound and artistic direction. Born to a Lebanese family and fluent in English, French, and some Arabic, Keanu&rsquo;s multicultural background gives him a unique creative perspective and global sensibility. With each new release, he continues to evolve as an authentic voice in modern music &mdash; unfiltered, emotionally honest, and driven by connection.

Keanu Askar | The Spotlight with Takee

Takee sat down with Nathaniel, Rocco and Brandon from MONROE live on the airwaves!

Tune in to find out more about them and hear some live renditions of their originals. Stream their new single ‘Bad Bitch (You Can’t Kill Me)’ which is OUT NOW on all streaming platforms!!

It truly is an an anthem of empowerment and self-expression inspired by the iconic Vine. After hitting #1 on the AMRAP charts with ‘Take Me For a Ride’, MONROE are back and louder than ever, a reminder that glitter and grit never go out of style.

MONROE brings glam-pop energy with a wink and a wild streak, riff-heavy, high-energy, and all about having a good time. Think Van Halen meets The Darkness with a dash of The Struts swagger, loud, unapologetic, and built for chaos.

Fronted by powerhouse vocalist Nathaniel, with Rocco and Jason trading guitar licks, Brandon keeping it tight on drums, and Christian laying down the groove, MONROE delivers big hooks, bigger smiles, and a live show made for pure escapism.

Takee sat down with Nathaniel, Rocco and Brandon from MONROE&nbsp;live on the airwaves!
Tune in to find out more about them and hear some live renditions of their originals. Stream their new single &lsquo;Bad Bitch (You Can&rsquo;t Kill Me)&rsquo; which is OUT NOW on all streaming platforms!!
It truly is an an anthem of empowerment and self-expression inspired by the iconic Vine. After hitting <a href="https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/1/">#1</a>&nbsp;on the AMRAP charts with &lsquo;Take Me For a Ride&rsquo;, MONROE are back and louder than ever, a reminder that glitter and grit never go out of style. MONROE brings glam-pop energy with a wink and a wild streak, riff-heavy, high-energy, and all about having a good time. Think Van Halen meets The Darkness with a dash of The Struts swagger, loud, unapologetic, and built for chaos. Fronted by powerhouse vocalist Nathaniel, with Rocco and Jason trading guitar licks, Brandon keeping it tight on drums, and Christian laying down the groove, MONROE delivers big hooks, bigger smiles, and a live show made for pure escapism.

MONROE | The Spotlight with Takee

Takee was lucky enough to sit down with Rennie Pearson to talk all about his music and journey so far!

Rennie Pearson’s music is deeply rooted in the Celtic traditions of Ireland, Scotland, and Maritime Canada, blending centuries-old melodies with fresh energy and artistry. Whether he’s performing on the wooden flute, guitar, Irish tin whistles, bodhrán, fiddle, or with his voice, his music takes audiences on a journey through history and culture.

His shows feature soaring flute melodies, captivating songs, foot-stomping jigs and reels, and heart-wrenching slow airs. Each performance is a carefully crafted tapestry of tunes, songs, and storytelling, designed to engage and transport listeners to another time and place. Rennie’s ability to transition seamlessly between high-energy tunes and emotive ballads keeps audiences on the edge of their seats, making each performance dynamic and unforgettable.

Rennie is a master performer on a wide array of instruments, showcasing extraordinary talent and versatility in every performance. His seamless command of multiple musical styles captivates audiences, while the heartfelt emotion in his slow airs and songs resonates deeply, creating a powerful and personal connection. Audiences often say they felt transported, with some describing it as a journey back home, while others share how the music awakened a deep connection they hadn’t realized they had before.

Rennie has made a name for himself in the traditional music scene of Australia and New Zealand as a stand-out solo performer, as well as touring his own duos, bands, and performing with large international stage productions. He has played and taught all over the world, including music schools such as Ceol Aneas, ScotsStrings, CelticANZ, Gaeltacht, The National Celtic Festival, Boxwood, and folk festivals in Auckland, Wellington, Dunedin, Christchurch, Tasmania, and Port Fairy.

Rennie has worked closely with the New Zealand Irish ambassador, Peter Ryan, on numerous occasions, including performing his show at the Dunedin Fringe Festival with the Irish embassy's support and organizing two tours with his five-piece Irish band, Criú. He has also toured with renowned Irish dance troupes, including Celtica, Rhythm Of The Dance, and Celtic Illusion, across New Zealand, Australia, and China, as their flute and bodhrán player. These tours have taken him to prestigious venues such as the Melbourne Arts Centre, the Wellington Opera House, the Christchurch Isaac Theatre, and the Bruce Mason Centre in Auckland.

​

In addition to his performance career, Rennie’s recording accolades include his first album, released in 2020, with Oscar West as the Kiwi folk duo Polytropos. His solo album, From Across the Seas, followed in 2022, and his most recent release, AIR, came out in 2023. AIR is an acoustic EP of all-original tracks for flutes, whistles, and guitar, recorded with Bob McNeill as their duo, Half Light.

Rennie’s collaborations also extend to international recording projects. Most notably, he appeared alongside world-renowned artists such as Yo-Yo Ma on the track "The Fireside Jig" from Sandra Boynton’s album Cows and Holly. This project also featured other prominent names such as Stuart Duncan, Michael Ford and Lyle Lovett.

With a career that has taken him across New Zealand, Australia, Ireland, Canada, America, and China, Rennie’s performances are as intimate as they are captivating. Whether he’s playing dance music that makes you want to leap from your chair or delivering a hauntingly beautiful piece that brings tears to the eyes, his artistry and passion for this beautiful and ancient music leave a lasting impression on all who hear him. As he continues to captivate audiences worldwide, Rennie remains dedicated to sharing the depth and richness of Celtic music, ensuring its traditions endure and inspire future generations.

Takee was lucky enough to sit down with Rennie Pearson&nbsp;to talk all about his music and journey so far! Rennie Pearson&rsquo;s music is deeply rooted in the Celtic traditions of Ireland, Scotland, and Maritime Canada, blending centuries-old melodies with fresh energy and artistry. Whether he&rsquo;s performing on the wooden flute, guitar, Irish tin whistles, bodhr&aacute;n, fiddle, or with his voice, his music takes audiences on a journey through history and culture. His shows feature soaring flute melodies, captivating songs, foot-stomping jigs and reels, and heart-wrenching slow airs. Each performance is a carefully crafted tapestry of tunes, songs, and storytelling, designed to engage and transport listeners to another time and place. Rennie&rsquo;s ability to transition seamlessly between high-energy tunes and emotive ballads keeps audiences on the edge of their seats, making each performance dynamic and unforgettable. Rennie is a master performer on a wide array of instruments, showcasing extraordinary talent and versatility in every performance. His seamless command of multiple musical styles captivates audiences, while the heartfelt emotion in his slow airs and songs resonates deeply, creating a powerful and personal connection. Audiences often say they felt transported, with some describing it as a journey back home, while others share how the music awakened a deep connection they hadn&rsquo;t realized they had before.
Rennie has made a name for himself in the traditional music scene of Australia and New Zealand as a stand-out solo performer, as well as touring his own duos, bands, and performing with large international stage productions. He has played and taught all over the world, including music schools such as Ceol Aneas, ScotsStrings, CelticANZ, Gaeltacht, The National Celtic Festival, Boxwood, and folk festivals in Auckland, Wellington, Dunedin, Christchurch, Tasmania, and Port Fairy.
Rennie has worked closely with the New Zealand Irish ambassador, Peter Ryan, on numerous occasions, including performing his show at the Dunedin Fringe Festival with the Irish embassy's support and organizing two tours with his five-piece Irish band, Cri&uacute;. He has also toured with renowned Irish dance troupes, including Celtica, Rhythm Of The Dance, and Celtic Illusion, across New Zealand, Australia, and China, as their flute and bodhr&aacute;n player. These tours have taken him to prestigious venues such as the Melbourne Arts Centre, the Wellington Opera House, the Christchurch Isaac Theatre, and the Bruce Mason Centre in Auckland.
​
In addition to his performance career, Rennie&rsquo;s recording accolades include his first album, released in 2020, with Oscar West as the Kiwi folk duo Polytropos. His solo album, From Across the Seas, followed in 2022, and his most recent release, AIR, came out in 2023. AIR is an acoustic EP of all-original tracks for flutes, whistles, and guitar, recorded with Bob McNeill as their duo, Half Light.
Rennie&rsquo;s collaborations also extend to international recording projects. Most notably, he appeared alongside world-renowned artists such as Yo-Yo Ma on the track "The Fireside Jig" from Sandra Boynton&rsquo;s album Cows and Holly. This project also featured other prominent names such as Stuart Duncan, Michael Ford and Lyle Lovett.
With a career that has taken him across New Zealand, Australia, Ireland, Canada, America, and China, Rennie&rsquo;s performances are as intimate as they are captivating. Whether he&rsquo;s playing dance music that makes you want to leap from your chair or delivering a hauntingly beautiful piece that brings tears to the eyes, his artistry and passion for this beautiful and ancient music leave a lasting impression on all who hear him. As he continues to captivate audiences worldwide, Rennie remains dedicated to sharing the depth and richness of Celtic music, ensuring its traditions endure and inspire future generations.

Rennie Pearson | The Spotlight with Takee

Takee was lucky enough to sit down with Minhy to dive deep into her journey, music and upcoming gigs!

Minhy (Mini)  is a Naarm-based songwriter and designer who creates immersive worlds through her award winning visuals, eloquent lyrics and laidback style of pop-R&B. With a background in automotive design, music has become her vehicle to express and tell her story.

She has performed at festivals including Brunswick Music Festival, Leaps and Bounds and Sleepless Festival, and is an alumna of The Boite’s Portfolio Project. Minhy is also an events co-ordinator for South by South East Asian (SXSEA “sexy”), organising events that spotlight artists of the Asian diaspora to create the way they want, free from cultural expectations. Minhy also launched her own Open Mic x Dessert Night series this year called Sweet & Sound.

Takee was lucky enough to sit down with Minhy to dive deep into her journey, music and upcoming gigs!
Minhy (Mini)&nbsp; is a Naarm-based songwriter and designer who creates immersive worlds through her award winning visuals, eloquent lyrics and laidback style of pop-R&amp;B. With a background in automotive design, music has become her vehicle to express and tell her story.
She has performed at festivals including Brunswick Music Festival, Leaps and Bounds and Sleepless Festival, and is an alumna of The Boite&rsquo;s Portfolio Project. Minhy is also an events co-ordinator for South by South East Asian (SXSEA &ldquo;sexy&rdquo;), organising events that spotlight artists of the Asian diaspora to create the way they want, free from cultural expectations. Minhy also launched her own Open Mic x Dessert Night series this year called Sweet &amp; Sound.

Minhy | The Spotlight with Takee

Takee was joined by Ash, Sam & Kath from The Clever References to talk all about their music and upcoming gigs. 

The band consists of five members: Ash, Janset, Kath, Sam and Vidusha, who are queer, chaotic, and dangerously catchy. They make smart, loud, slightly unhinged indie rock with hooks for days and the occasional flute solo. Their lyrics name-drop Jane Austen and Magic: The Gathering in the same breath, and somehow it works...maybe? lol.

If you’re looking for vibes, volume, and a very good time—you just found your new favourite band: The Clever References.

Takee was joined by Ash, Sam &amp; Kath from The Clever References to talk all about their music and upcoming gigs.&nbsp;
The band consists of five members: Ash, Janset, Kath, Sam and Vidusha, who are queer, chaotic, and dangerously catchy. They make smart, loud, slightly unhinged indie rock with hooks for days and the occasional flute solo. Their lyrics name-drop Jane Austen and Magic: The Gathering in the same breath, and somehow it works...maybe? lol.
If you&rsquo;re looking for vibes, volume, and a very good time&mdash;you just found your new favourite band: The Clever References.

The Clever References | The Spotlight with Takee

The Spotlight takes listeners on an hour-long deep-dive, shining a light on the individuals who power the creative industries - from musicians, producers and performers to managers, curators, entrepreneurs and visionaries. Offering an in-depth conversation that uncovers the real stories, challenges and triumphs that define a creative journey.

The Spotlight takes listeners on an hour-long deep-dive, shining a light on the individuals who power the creative industries - from musicians, producers and performers to managers, curators, entrepreneurs and visionaries. Offering an in-depth conversation that uncovers the real stories, challenges and triumphs that define a creative journey.

The Spotlight

Social links:

Follow the podcast:

22 clip(s)