The Screaming Jets and Silverchair put the Newcastle music scene on the national and global map more than three decades ago.

Meet another six local acts who are hoping to follow in their footsteps.

SKYES LAW

Said to be the next Silverchair or Screaming Jets, Skyes Law are the new faces of homegrown rock n’ roll. Hailing from the heart of the Hunter Valley, the band sports a dynamic catalogue of classic rock anthem covers and showstopping originals. This group of local young musicians share a heartfelt passion for delivering unforgettable live music performances. Playing venues across the Hunter and beyond, Skyes Law makes sure to give audiences the show of a lifetime. In 2024, the band released debut single Made For Me. The track blends soulful lyrics with powerful rock melodies, offering listeners a glimpse into their evolving musical identity. Resonating with fans old and new, Made For Me has been praised for its anthemic sound and heartfelt delivery. With their evolving sound and growing catalogue, Skyes Law are well on their way to be one of the Hunter Valley’s most exciting musical acts.

PIT

Inspired by the grunge sounds of the 1990s, young guns Pit are serving up powerful performances across the Hunter. Despite their youth, this trio’s knowledge of alternative music runs deep, influencing their hardcore grunge rock tracks. Their recent single Don’t Come Running Back showcases their pure talent with its complex riffs and intense vocals. Inspired by the likes of Aussie icons Silverchair and Grinspoon, Pit is bringing the old days back in a newly-refreshed style. Members Bailey Parker, Korby Essex and Hamish Sanders formed the band in early high school, quickly forming the tight trio. Their first single Use Me became a cult classic within the Newcastle rock scene, with many excited to see what these boys do next. If you love things on the heavier side, make sure to check out Pit.

RUM JUNGLE

Rum Jungle are one of Newcastle’s newest major exports, consistently touring across Europe and the United States. Forming in early high school, this local quartet has become staples of the Australian indie, surf rock genre. In February 2025, the band released its debut album Recency Bias after eight
years of performing. It was an immediate success, ranking number one in the ARIA charts for several weeks. Alongside the record’s success, one of the singles Don’t Be A Stranger also hit number one in Australia as well. With their constantly evolving sound, Rum Jungle’s discography has something for everyone, whether it’s indie rock, heavy grunge, sing a long anthems or pop tracks. Recently coming of their Australian tour, fans can’t wait to see what the band does next.

PETE McCREDIE

Fans of Ed Sheeran and Ziggy Alberts are guaranteed to love Newcastle artist Pete McCredie. Known for his sunset performances at Bar Beach, Pete’s music shares heartfelt stories of personal experience, issues and future dreams. Playing in venues across Newcastle since 2018, Pete has developed a cult following. His recent track I’ll Be There features him and his brother David in an emotional ballad about the trials and tribulations of brotherhood and family. In February, Pete embarked on his largest venture yet, a 17-date tour across the country. Travelling around in his van, his laid-back lifestyle resonates with wide audiences, spreading the joy of acoustic music. Pete plans to take his music international in 2026, with an expected Europe tour in the works.

CHLOE GILL

Chloe Gill is an independent folk-rock artist born and raised in Newcastle. Guided by her unmatched vocal ability, her songs feature powerfully honest storytelling and provoking melodies. Chloe’s career has taken her across the country, opening for iconic musicians Sam Fischer, Kate Ceberano, Meg Mac and Joe Mungovan. Her debut single Paper Stars was produced by Jessi J’s Phillip Anquetil and Gang of Youth’s Adrian Breakspeare. Over time, her unique sound has developed through drawing on some of Chloe’s “holy grail” artists Missy Higgins, Maggie Rogers, Sharon Van Etten and Angie McMahon. Her latest single Firework Night speaks on her recent diagnosis and battle with endometriosis, in a track filled with heartfelt lyrics and an incomparable melody. Performing shows across the Hunter regularly, Chloe Gill is a must-see local act.

GEORGIE WINCHESTER

Georgie Winchester grew up living and breathing music. At the age of seven, she began learning classical piano, singing in choirs and joined the school jazz band. Since then, this Maitland local has gone on to play some of the largest stages in the Hunter and venture on multiple international tours. Her music blurs the lines between pop, rock and folk, producing a discography that makes you want to dance and cry at the same time. In 2024, Georgie released her Pretty Things EP, featuring a killer line-up of hard-hitting lyrics and catchy riffs. She has since gone on to play the 2024 Spilt Milk festival, Gumball and Rockhampton River Festival. Last year, Georgie underwent one of the biggest tours by a Hunter artist, playing more than 60 shows across the country. Now, she says new music is in the works, so keep your eyes peeled for upcoming releases from this showstopping artist.

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