Hear 2 Zen Podcast

Hear2Zen Magazine

🎧 Tune In to Your Next Favorite Podcast! 🎶 Are you a music lover looking for fresh perspectives, untold stories, and hidden gems? Dive into The Hear 2 Zen Podcast, where we explore the songs, stories, and artists shaping the soundtrack of our lives. From chart-topping hits to underground sounds, we cover it all with expert insights, exclusive interviews, and a passion for all things music. 🎤 Discover. Listen. Groove. Join the conversation today and amplify your playlist! 🎵 #SubscribeNow 🎙️

  1. 3d ago

    Hear 2 Zen Podcast Episode 310: Raw Emotion, Genre-Less Sound & Viral Waves with Billy Vincent

    Fresh off his signing to Columbia Records, Australian alternative troubadour Billy Vincent joins Episode 310 of the Hear 2 Zen Podcast. Known for pairing offbeat finger-picking riffs with a hard-hitting, unguarded vocal delivery, Billy breaks down the release of his debut EP, The Arrival. In this episode:From the Pitch to the Studio: Billy opens up about transitioning from playing local rugby league in Mackay to pursuing music full-time after getting turned down by talent shows, a setback that fueled him to write nearly 100 songs in a matter of months. Going Viral & Big Name Co-Signs: How waking up to unexpected social media love from country megastars Luke Combs and Bailey Zimmerman helped accelerate his journey. Track-by-Track Origins: Fly Away: Deep dive into the Chris Cornell and Eddie Vedder grunge influences behind his breakthrough track. Matchbox Car: Exploring his love for 80s pop, John Mayer-style thumb-picking, and tracking his newest material. Close the Door: The story behind his favorite 12-string acoustic track to perform live. The Live Grind: Lessons learned from playing 4-hour pub gigs in regional Queensland, building stamina, and preparing for his upcoming debut U.S. tour. A "Genre-Less" Vision: Why he rejects strict music categories and aims to carve out a distinct identity purely as a songwriter. Listen to Episode 310 now on all major podcast platforms, and stream Billy Vincent's debut EP, The Arrival, out now! Don’t Miss an Episode! 🔗Head to the website for all the info 📺 Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel and hit that notification bell so you never miss a legendary interview. 🎧 Listen on the Go: Find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all your favorite podcast platforms. 📱 Get Social: Follow the journey by searching Hear 2 Zen on all social media platforms! #Hear2Zen #BillyVincent #TheArrival #NewMusic #PodcastEpisode #AussieMusic #AlternativeMusic #ColumbiaRecords #SingerSongwriter #LiveMusic #GrungeVibes #NowStreaming

    Hear 2 Zen Podcast Episode 310: Raw Emotion, Genre-Less Sound & Viral Waves with Billy Vincent
  2. Aug 13

    Episode 309: Kate Miller-Heidke Embraces Midlife, Goth Folk, Flow State And The Kiss and the Abyss

    In this episode of The Hear 2 Zen Podcast, we sit down with acclaimed Australian singer-songwriter Kate Miller-Heidke to celebrate the release of her brand-new album, The Kiss and the Abyss, alongside her latest single, "Butterflies." Kate opens up about the relief and anxiety of releasing new music, the personal transformations that inspired the record, and why "killing off your old self" is a necessary part of growth. We dive into: * "Butterflies" & Personal Evolution: Kate shares how "Butterflies" reflects her personal journey navigating midlife and perimenopause, describing it as a song about letting go of outdated parts of oneself. * Bathroom Queue Inspiration: Discover how an unexpectedly raw conversation with a reality TV influencer during a Logies toilet break inspired a song about the heavy, nightmarish reality of living through social media algorithms. * Finding the Creative "Flow State": Working alongside long-time collaborator Keir Nuttall, Kate discusses "opening up the portal", using a strict routine to access an uninhibited flow state where the most vital songs write themselves. * Production & Sound Design: Recorded in England with producer Tom Iansek, the album leans into an organic, gothic-folk sound featuring real wooden instruments and dynamic textures. Kate emphasizes why listening with a great pair of headphones is the ultimate way to experience the record's subtle layers. * Track Deep Dives: We behind the scenes on ‘Muscle’, ‘Canterbury Stone’ and ‘Isabella Don’t. * The Potato Scallop Debate & Tour Rituals: Kate weighs in on the essential Aussie food debate, shares why a giant inflatable potato scallop didn't make the "Holiday" music video, and reveals the grounding secular pre-show prayer her band performs every night before stepping on stage. Kate also details her upcoming Australian tour, which includes intimate album launch shows across Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide, and two nights at the Princess Theatre in Brisbane. Don’t Miss an Episode! 🔗Head to the website for all the info 📺 Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel and hit that notification bell so you never miss a legendary interview. 🎧 Listen on the Go: Find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all your favorite podcast platforms. 📱 Get Social: Follow the journey by searching Hear 2 Zen on all social media platforms! #TheHear2ZenPodcast #KateMillerHeidke #TheKissAndTheAbyss #NewMusic #AussieMusic #AustralianMusic #PodcastInterview #FolkPop #GothicFolk #Butterflies #Holiday #AustralianTour #LiveMusic #MusicPodcast #TheVoice #TheVoiceAU🎧✨🎤

    Episode 309: Kate Miller-Heidke Embraces Midlife, Goth Folk, Flow State And The Kiss and the Abyss
  3. Aug 12

    Hear 2 Zen Podcast: Episode 308 - Justin Currie From Del Amitri

    In Episode 308 of the Hear 2 Zen Podcast, we sit down with Justin Currie, frontman and founding member of Scottish rock icons Del Amitri. Ahead of their upcoming Past to Present: Four Decades of Their Greatest Hits tour across Australia and New Zealand, Justin opens up about returning down under, the creative process behind new music, and surviving decades in the rock industry. Episode Highlights: The Return Down Under: Reflecting on their 2023 return after a 33-year absence, Justin shares the band’s delight at playing to passionate Australian crowds—and his excitement about heading to Tasmania for the very first time. Photography & The Road: A chat about Justin's former tour blogging, transitioning his written stories into a published book, and why phone camera editing saves him from his "terrible photography" skills. New Music on the Horizon: Justin reveals the band is currently in the studio recording their follow-up to 2021's Fatal Mistakes, aiming to release new tracks soon ahead of a full album launch. Navigating Band Longevity: How Justin and co-founder Iain Harvie have maintained their writing partnership since 1982, learning when to give each other space on tour, and avoiding the trap of social media burn-out in the modern industry. The Early Glasgow Scene: Looking back at Postcard Records, the bands that inspired them to get on stage (like Orange Juice), and why it's actually much harder to start a band in 2026 than back in the 1980s. Don’t Miss an Episode! 🔗Head to the website for all the info 📺 Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel and hit that notification bell so you never miss a legendary interview. 🎧 Listen on the Go: Find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all your favorite podcast platforms. 📱 Get Social: Follow the journey by searching Hear 2 Zen on all social media platforms! #Hear2Zen #Hear2ZenPodcast #JustinCurrie #DelAmitri #LiveMusic #ConcertPhotography #PodcastInterview #PastToPresentTour #AustralianTour #ScottishRock #NothingEverHappens #RollToMe

    Hear 2 Zen Podcast: Episode 308 - Justin Currie From Del Amitri
  4. Aug 8

    Hear 2 Zen Podcast Episode 307: Hayley Jensen

    In Episode 307 of the Hear 2 Zen Podcast, we sit down with Australian country-pop/rock powerhouse Hayley Jensen for an in-depth, candid conversation about her evolving musical journey, upcoming festival appearances, and live touring. Hayley shares her excitement about performing at the Groundwater Country Music Festival on the Gold Coast, breaking down what makes the free, multi-day event so special for both long-time country fans and newcomers. She also touches on her upcoming appearance at BIGSOUND in Brisbane directly after returning from the Long Road Festival in the UK. We chat about Genre Fluidity & Musical Roots: How Hayley seamlessly blends country, pop, rock, southern blues, and jazz vocal influences into a cohesive, high-energy sound. Songwriting Insights: A look into her songwriting process, the emotional power of empathy when crafting lyrics, and the personal story behind her single "Wild as the Wind"—co-written with Anthony Snape about breaking free, chasing dreams, and finding a supportive partner. Debunking Reality TV Myths: Lessons, pressures, and misconceptions from her early days on Australian Idol, including overcoming industry stigmas to build a lasting, self-driven career. Live Shows & Milestones: Reflecting on her massive stage setup at CMC Rocks, winning Independent Country Music Awards, celebrating the release of her chart-topping album Country Soul, and hitting the road for her extensive 20+ date tour And so much more. Thanks to Hayley for her time, and we hope everyone gets out to Groundwater or one of Hayley’s shows on this tour. 🔗Head to the website for all the info 📺 Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel and hit that notification bell so you never miss a legendary interview. 🎧 Listen on the Go: Find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all your favorite podcast platforms. 📱 Get Social: Follow the journey by searching Hear 2 Zen on all social media platforms! #Hear2Zen #HayleyJensen #WildAsTheWind #CountrySoul #GroundwaterCMF #BIGSOUND #AustralianCountryMusic #LiveMusicAus #Hear2ZenPodcast #NewPodcastEpisode #CountryPopRock #AussieMusic #PodcastInterview Don’t Miss an Episode!

    Hear 2 Zen Podcast Episode 307: Hayley Jensen
  5. Jul 27

    Hear 2 Zen Podcast Episode 306: Ken Gormly From The Cruel Sea

    Get ready for an absolute classic of an episode, music lovers! This week on the Hear2Zen Podcast, we’re joined by none other than Ken Gormly, legendary bassist for Aussie rock royalty The Cruel Sea! 💥 Ken sat down with us for a huge chat packed with killer stories, classic rock ’n’ roll history, and a ton of laughs. With The Cruel Sea gearing up to celebrate the 30th anniversary of their iconic ARIA-winning album Three Legged Dog, playing it live in full alongside all-time classics like “The Honeymoon Is Over”, “Better Get A Lawyer”, and “This Is Not The Way Home”, there was plenty to dive into! 🐶🔥 Here’s a taste of what we unpack in this episode: 🎸 Before The Sea: Ken takes us back to his pre-Cruel Sea days with post-punk legends Sekret Sekret! 🚌 On The Road: The pure family vibes and backstage camaraderie of the Red Hot Summer Tour. 🤝 Band Philosophy: Why true Rock ’N’ Roll is, above all else, a team sport. ⏳ Evolution: How the passage of time has changed the band, but hasn’t dulled an ounce of what they bring to the stage. 🏆 Wild Stories: The mysterious case of missing ARIA awards... and actual ransom notes?! 📝🚨 Whether you’ve been riding the wave with The Cruel Sea since their instrumental jam days or caught the fever during The Honeymoon Is Over era, this is an absolute must-listen! The Cruel Sea are taking the stage with special guests Magic Dirt for two extra-special, landmark outdoor shows this September & October! 🌲🏛️ 📅 CATCH THE CRUEL SEA LIVE THIS SPRING!📍 FRIDAY 4 SEPTEMBER – Night At The Parkland Roma Street Parkland, Brisbane QLD 🎟️ Tickets & info: nightattheparkland.com.au 📍 FRIDAY 2 OCTOBER – Night At The Barracks North Head, Manly NSW 🎟️ Tickets & info: nightatthebarracks.com.au Don’t Miss an Episode! 🔗Head to the website for all the info 📺 Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel and hit that notification bell so you never miss a legendary interview. 🎧 Listen on the Go: Find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all your favorite podcast platforms. 📱 Get Social: Follow the journey by searching Hear 2 Zen on all social media platforms! #Hear2Zen #Hear2ZenPodcast #KenGormly #TheCruelSea #MagicDirt #ThreeLeggedDog #AussieMusic #AussieRock #LiveMusicAustralia #BrisbaneGigGuide #SydneyGigGuide #NightAtTheParkland #NightAtTheBarracks #PodcastEpisode #AussieRockLegends

    Hear 2 Zen Podcast Episode 306: Ken Gormly From The Cruel Sea
  6. Jul 26

    Hear 2 Zen Podcast – Episode 305: Chris DeMakes (Less Than Jake)

    As long-time favourites of Australian audiences, the Floridian five-piece has built a reputation that goes well beyond simple nostalgia. Every return visit to our shores sees packed rooms, massive singalongs, and pure fun, a constant reminder of why they love coming back, and why Aussie fans keep showing up in droves. Across more than three decades, Less Than Jake have carved out a catalogue that sits at the very centre of ska-punk’s global story. From early genre-defining staples through to their later releases, their live shows hit the perfect balance: high-octane energy, sharp musicianship, huge choruses, and just enough edgy unpredictability to keep every single night interesting. In this episode, frontman and guitarist Chris DeMakes hangs out with us to dive deep into the band's history and hilarious tour life. Chris fills us in on: Memories of Warped Tour: Unfiltered stories from the legendary travelling festival era. Why Cats Rule the World: The absolute truth about our feline overlords. Why Actual Vacations Are Overrated : Why staying on the grind beats sitting on a beach. The Early Ska-Punk Scene: What it was really like building the foundation in the early '90s. '90s Riders vs. Today’s Riders: How backstage requests have evolved from chaotic wildness to functional survival. The European Festival Scene: The unique energy, massive crowds, and festival culture overseas. Don’t Miss an Episode! 🔗Head to the website for all the info 📺 Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel and hit that notification bell so you never miss a legendary interview. 🎧 Listen on the Go: Find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all your favorite podcast platforms. 📱 Get Social: Follow the journey by searching Hear 2 Zen on all social media platforms! AUSTRALIAN & NEW ZEALAND TOUR DATES Friday, October 30: Metropolis, Fremantle Saturday, October 31: Hindley Street Music Hall, Adelaide Monday, November 2: Forum Theatre, Melbourne Thursday, November 5: Enmore Theatre, Sydney Friday, November 6: Eatons Hill Hotel, Brisbane Saturday, November 7: The Studio, Auckland #Hear2Zen #Hear2ZenPodcast #LessThanJake #ChrisDeMakes #SkaPunk #PunkRock #LiveMusicAustralia #AussieTour #WarpedTour #EatonsHillHotel #EnmoreTheatre #ForumMelbourne #MetropolisFremantle #HindleyStreetMusicHall #TheStudioAuckland #ConcertJournalism #PodcastEpisode #musicpodcast

    Hear 2 Zen Podcast – Episode 305: Chris DeMakes (Less Than Jake)
  7. Jul 26

    Hear 2 Zen Podcast Episode 304 Adam ‘Hutch’ Glynn From Frankenbok

    In Episode 304, we sit down with Adam 'Hutch' Glynn, original vocalist of Australian heavy metal juggernauts Frankenbok! 🔥 Since their formation back in 1997, Frankenbok have weathered a legendary revolving door of lineup changes, with founding guitarist Aaron “Azza Bok” Butler remaining the steadfast anchor 🎸. Azza’s musical vision and sheer tenacity have kept the nucleus of this band burning bright through every era. Now, with Hutch back behind the mic alongside Tom Rossell (drums) and Owen Spratling (bass), the band is firing on all cylinders, holding tight to their heavy metal roots while pushing their sound forward 💥. In this deep-dive chat, we move beyond the breakdown to cover the heart, soul, and industry of music: 💿 Albums vs. Singles: Why the full-length album experience still holds a special power in an era dominated by quick-fix singles. 📦 Physical Media vs. Streaming: The tangible magic of holding vinyl and CDs compared to the convenience (and pitfalls) of digital streaming algorithms. 🎼 Beyond the Heavy: Why music doesn't always need to hit at 200 BPM or heavy riffs to leave a massive impact. ❤️ Emotional Resonance: How music acts as a universal bridge, tapping into raw human emotion and memory. 🎙️ The Mike Patton & Faith No More Effect: Exploring the huge influence of Mike Patton's boundary-pushing vocal versatility and Faith No More’s genre-defying legacy on modern rock and metal. Whether you're a long-time Bok fan or a lover of deep music discussion, this episode is packed with real, unvarnished insight. Don’t Miss an Episode! 🔗Head to the website for all the info 📺 Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel and hit that notification bell so you never miss a legendary interview. 🎧 Listen on the Go: Find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all your favorite podcast platforms. 📱 Get Social: Follow the journey by searching Hear 2 Zen on all social media platforms! #Hear2Zen #Hear2ZenPodcast #Frankenbok #AdamGlynn #AzzaBok #AustralianMetal #AussieMetal #HeavyMetal #MetalPodcast #MusicInterview #FaithNoMore #MikePatton #PhysicalMedia #VinylCommunity #AlbumArt #MetalHeads #HeavyMusic #PodcastEpisode #NewEpisode #MusicConversations

    Hear 2 Zen Podcast Episode 304 Adam ‘Hutch’ Glynn From Frankenbok
  8. Jul 26

    Hear 2 Zen Podcast: Episode 303 Riff Raiders

    Get ready to crank the volume to 11! 🔊 Episode 303, We sit down with Jenni and Marty Powell, the driving forces behind Melbourne’s hard rock powerhouses, Riff Raiders!💥 Since kicking off in 2015, Riff Raiders have been tearing up stages across Australia with their irresistible blend of big hooks, razor-sharp riffs, and explosive live energy 💥. From sharing stages with legends like Baby Animals, D-A-D, The Poor, and The Lazys to earning a nod for Best Punk/Rock Act at the Music Victoria Awards, these indie stalwarts know a thing or two about real-deal rock 'n' roll. 🔥🤘 Jenni and Marty dive deep into their musical journeys, their critically acclaimed album Welcome To Mars 🚀, and what makes true rock music stand the test of time. We chat about: 📺 Memories of Countdown The crew takes a trip down memory lane discussing the golden era of Australian music television! 🇦🇺✨ Jenni and Marty share how the legendary TV show Countdown shaped their early love for music, brought bands into living rooms across the nation, and created a nostalgic blueprint for authentic music culture. 📺🎶 🎸 Why Cheap Trick Are One of the Greatest Bands of All Time It’s time to pay homage to royalty! 👑 Marty and Jenni break down the genius of Cheap Trick from Rick Nielsen’s wild riffology to Robin Zander’s iconic vocals. They chat about how Cheap Trick masterfully bridged the gap between heavy rock power and Beatles-esque pop sensibilities. 🔊🎯 ✍️ The Craft of Writing a Song vs. Writing a Hit What’s the secret sauce behind a song that lasts forever versus a temporary radio hit? 🧪🎵 The duo opens up about their songwriting philosophy, explaining why chasing trends leads to burnout, while chasing genuine craftsmanship creates timeless anthems. 📝🎸 💎 Vanity vs. Substance in Music In a world full of social media polish, where did the soul go? 🎭 vs 🖤 Jenni and Marty get brutally honest about the divide between band "image" and pure musical substance, highlighting why raw authenticity and real-deal grit always beat superficial hype in the long run. ⚡🎤 🚀 Welcome To Mars & Live Comeback! Plus, we talk all things Welcome To Mars, from the darker depths of Broken Halo to the swampy rock of Climbing the Walls and psychedelic grunge of Sound Mirror! 🛸 Don’t Miss an Episode! 🔗Head to the website for all the info 📺 Watch on YouTube: Subscribe to our YouTube Channel and hit that notification bell so you never miss a legendary interview. 🎧 Listen on the Go: Find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all your favorite podcast platforms. 📱 Get Social: Follow the journey by searching Hear 2 Zen on all social media platforms!

    Hear 2 Zen Podcast: Episode 303 Riff Raiders

About

🎧 Tune In to Your Next Favorite Podcast! 🎶 Are you a music lover looking for fresh perspectives, untold stories, and hidden gems? Dive into The Hear 2 Zen Podcast, where we explore the songs, stories, and artists shaping the soundtrack of our lives. From chart-topping hits to underground sounds, we cover it all with expert insights, exclusive interviews, and a passion for all things music. 🎤 Discover. Listen. Groove. Join the conversation today and amplify your playlist! 🎵 #SubscribeNow 🎙️