It’s a return to her established sound, carrying on the intelligent restraint of her previous album I Know I’m Funny haha with her trademark so-subtle-you-don’t-always-notice-it’s-so-cutting, self-deprecating edge that should appeal to fans new and long-time. If by the time someone is halfway through album opener Thinking About You, they aren’t on board with Webster’s way of storytelling, when the six-and-a-half-minute track finally finishes, they should have gotten the point - …

Just before midday on my favourite day of the year (Laneway day), I find myself in an Uber to Flemington Racecourse. It’s my first Laneway in Melbourne, though I haven’t missed the festival since 2018. Depending on who you ask, I was too early for anyone worth seeing, such as headliners Dominic Fike or Stormzy. But, as I prepared for my fifth Laneway, I knew I was in for a marathon day of the best up-and-coming local acts sharing the stage with some of the world’s finest talent. 

I trotted off the plane giddy with anticipation – hands full with heavy luggage and camping gear. While I overlooked the vibes town stage with the stunning backdrop of Tassies natural beauty, I knew I was in for a great ride.  Exhausted from the 4am plane ride and the 20kg loads of camping gear on our backs, we set up camp in the 30-degree heat, filled with excitement for the day ahead. 

Last Saturday night, the heavens scheduled a quick reprieve from pouring down on Melbourne and I found myself hungry, heartbroken and with $38 to my name, watching the Slingers perform at the Brunswick Ball Room. With each soaring guitar slide and lyric delivered with utmost gusto, I gently swayed and locked arms with my pal, feeling a small part of my soul heal again.

It was the first Friday night of September and footy finals fever was in the air, yet my mind remained on other things. I was seeing a band who would prove to be worthy adolescent reincarnations of the messiah, who were also partial to some flirting in denim. Enter, Teen Jesus and The Jean Teasers.