Katanak, the Brisbane-based indie-pop dynamo, is steadily carving out his niche sound while making a strong impression in what is an undeniably crowded indie scene. Born Dylan Cattanach, Katanak’s path to date has been nothing short of impressive, blending heartfelt lyrics, catchy melodies, and a striking versatility that keeps you on your toes. Since I first pressed play on his music, he’s managed to keep me hooked, each release strengthening that initial connection. With his latest single, “Holding Out for Gold,” out now, the anticipation for his debut EP keeps growing.
Having recently spent a blissful week exploring the beaches of southern Italy, I found myself frequently returning to Katanak‘s tracks, their sunny energy serving as the perfect soundtrack for my impromptu family getaway. What started as a lighthearted infatuation with his melodies has now blossomed into genuine admiration. And yes, I’m now back writing this in chilly London, so indulge my yearning for summer, beaches, and waves throughout this piece—it’s hard not to associate Katanak’s music with my favourite time of the year.
My aforementioned first introduction to Katanak came through the sun-soaked anthem “Honeycomb and Hurricane,” a breezy, uplifting track that won me over immediately with its irresistible energy and heartfelt delivery. Listening to this track feels like dipping your feet into cool ocean water on a lazy afternoon, the sun melting into the horizon. The ebb and flow of Katanak‘s melodies mirror the waves, with the unforgettable vocal run in the hook lingering long after the song’s last note. It’s the musical equivalent of a perfect summer day—gone too soon but so vivid you keep hitting replay to relive it. “Honeycomb and Hurricane” is the ideal entry point into this artist’s world, showcasing his knack for blending upbeat indie-pop with emotional depth.
Fast forward to today, and “Holding Out for Gold” feels like the natural progression of everything I loved about his work so far—just cranked up a notch. This track adds a layer of adrenaline to the laid-back vibe of “Honeycomb and Hurricane.” The verses drift by like grains of sand falling through your fingers, and when the chorus crashes in, it’s like a powerful wave hitting the shore—energizing, relentless, and utterly captivating. The build-up leaves you on edge, much like the peaceful rhythm of the sea disrupted by a sudden surge.
In my opinion, what really elevates this track is the subtle nod to an 80s aesthetic. The shimmering synths and reverb-heavy production give it a retro feel, but he succeeds in delivering it with a modern twist. It has the heartfelt emotion, but now it’s paired with a driving, anthemic momentum that sweeps you up completely. It’s another track made for repeat listens, offering something new with every spin.
Then there’s “Talk Like That,” another standout release from July this year, which showcases a different side of Katanak’s sound. If “Honeycomb and Hurricane” is the warm sun and “Holding Out for Gold” is the wave’s exhilarating rush, then “Talk Like That” is the transition into night—a cool breeze sweeping across the shore, bringing a refreshing shift in tone. The 80s influence remains, with its sleek production and shimmering synths, but this track taps into a more introspective revealing a deeper layer. What makes Katanak so compelling is his ability to switch gears while staying true to the core of his sound. “Talk Like That” may surprise you with its change in pace, but it never feels out of place. Despite the change in mood, the infectious energy is still ever-present. This is a testament to his versatility, taking me from the laid-back ease of a sunny afternoon to the introspection of a late-night stroll without missing a beat.
As we await his debut EP, one thing is clear: Katanak isn’t just riding a wave—he’s creating his own. Whether you’re basking in the glow of “Honeycomb and Hurricane,” diving into the emotional depths of “Holding Out for Gold,” or getting lost in “Talk Like That,” Katanak is here to soundtrack your most memorable moments. And I’m ready to dive in deeper.
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