The Jezabels: Australia's Cinematic Indie Rock Force

The Jezabels are an Australian indie rock band known for their dramatic, sweeping soundscapes and powerful vocal performances. Formed in Sydney in 2007, the quartet achieved significant commercial success in their home country, with their debut album Prisoner debuting at number two on the ARIA Albums Chart.

Early career

The Jezabels came together while its members were students at the University of Sydney. The original lineup featured vocalist Hayley Mary, guitarist Sam Lockwood, keyboardist Heather Shannon, and drummer Nik Kaloper. They self-released their first EP, The Man Is Dead, in 2009, quickly garnering attention on the Australian college radio circuit.

This early momentum led to a deal with the independent label MGM Distribution in Australia. Their subsequent EPs, Dark Storm in 2010 and She's So Hard later that same year, further refined their signature blend of indie rock and atmospheric pop.

Breakthrough

The band's breakthrough arrived in 2011 with the release of their ambitious debut studio album, Prisoner. The album was a critical and commercial hit in Australia, earning a gold certification and spawning several successful singles. Its success was amplified by extensive international touring and licensing deals in key markets like the United Kingdom.

Key tracks

Dark Storm — This early single from the 2010 EP established their dramatic, weather-obsessed lyrical themes and anthemic sound.

Endless Summer — A driving, synth-heavy track that became a fan favorite and a staple of their live performances.

Trycolour — The lead single from Prisoner showcased the band's full cinematic scope and received high rotation on Australian alternative radio.

Hurt Me — This powerful ballad highlighted Hayley Mary's commanding vocals and the band's dynamic range.

Pleasure Drive — A track from their second album that demonstrated a shift towards a more synth-driven, danceable sound.

The Jezabels followed up with their second album, The Brink, in 2014, which debuted at number three on the ARIA chart. Their third and final studio album, Synthia, arrived in 2016, exploring more electronic textures. The band announced an indefinite hiatus in 2021 following a series of farewell shows.

Fans of The Jezabels' epic, keyboard-laden indie rock may also enjoy the music of similar Australian artists. The Preatures deliver sharp, danceable indie rock with strong female vocals. Gang Of Youths share a similarly grand, emotionally charged approach to guitar-based rock music. MT Warning crafts atmospheric and moody rock songs with a distinct Australian sensibility.

The music of The Jezabels maintains a strong presence on alternative rock radio stations and independent music radio stations. Their anthemic singles are frequently featured in rotations that highlight the best of 2010s indie rock, ensuring their dramatic sound continues to reach new listeners.

Listeners can discover the dynamic catalog of The Jezabels through the radio stations featured on onairium.com. Tune in to hear their powerful tracks played on a variety of curated alternative and rock stations available on our platform.