A stalwart of the Sydney/Gadigal music scene, singer/songwriter and producer Blain Cunneen has long been recognised for his versatility and innovation. With roots in jazz, songwriting, and sonic experimentation, Cunneen has carved a unique space in Australia’s musical landscape, contributing to a wide array of projects over the years. Since his last release, The Prizes We Demand, Blain has maintained a busy schedule behind the scenes, working on production duties for some of Sydney’s most exciting artists such as Beryl, Georgia Mulligan, and Human Noise.

Amongst all this, Cunneen has been diligently working on a follow-up project, which has now culminated in a full-length LP set for release in 2025.

Cruel is Cunneen’s latest self-produced effort - an indie-laced, classic rock delicacy layered with lush guitars, moody keyboards, and rich harmonies that echo the spirit of Elliott Smith, Sparklehorse and Beck.

Lyrically, Cruel delves into betrayal, tall poppy syndrome, and imposter syndrome. It plays like a raw diary entry, steeped in anger and jealousy, as the narrator grapples with being hurt by someone close. But beneath the bitterness lies a deeper reflection: the recognition that some of the healing has to come from within.

—out July 4th via Another Matchstick Recordings—accompanied by a single launch show at Lazy Thinking in Dulwich Hill, Sydney on July 30th supported by Indira Elias