While the WA music scene has certainly made a lot of noise in recent years, it’s still often considered a bit of an underdog when compared to the heavyweights of the East Coast. However, this year’s WAMAwards and WAMFest have gone to some huge lengths to put that notion to rest.

In fact, a new research project spearheaded by WAM found that WA’s local music industry is worth nearly $1 billion to the state’s economy. That’s ‘billion’ with a ‘b’ and it’s also some 3,000 full time jobs, and accounting for wages of $149m.

To give you a better idea about why Western Australia’s music scene is one of the best in the country, we decided to highlight some of the most outstanding achievers in the scene, from artists and bands to labels, venues, and beyond.

Artists

KUČKA

As one of Australia’s most innovative and unique artists at the moment, a nod for KUČKA is well deserved. While KUČKA is a three-piece band in a live setting, Laura Jane Lowther is the brans behind the outfit. With a sound that focuses on experimental electronic, with a taste of ambient and industrial thrown in, KUČKA is an artist that is certainly going places.

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Methyl Ethel

Methyl Ethel have been winning fans all over the country, and with a world tour recently announced, their fanbase is soon to extend to all over the world. Another one of the bands that prove there is clearly something in the water in WA, be sure to keeping an eye on Methyl Ethel as they continue to impress everyone.

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Tired Lion

Bringing back a revival of some of the best 90’s groups, Tired Lion have managed to make a name for themselves as one of the most exciting and promising groups to come out of WA. Having released some absolutely banging tunes over the last couple of years, Tired Lion are just making waves for all the right reasons.

Venues

Jack Rabbit Slim’s, Perth

A newcomer to the scene, Perth’s Jack Rabbit Slim’s has been making a pretty big name for itself. Taking its name from the iconic diner in the equally iconic Pulp Fiction, it has a pretty big name to live up to. Since it opened in the middle of last year, Jack Rabbit Slim’s has hosted a vast array of local and international acts, including artists such as DZ Deathrays and Abbe May who’ll be appearing there quite soon.

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Mojos Bar, Fremantle

The North Fremantle venue is one of the best well-known venues in the state to both locals and international visitors alike. Making a name for itself by hosting both large and intimate venues, this is one of the venues that numerous bands have credited as the place where their careers started.

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Badlands Bar

Following a revamping project that concluded back in April, Badlands Bar are back with a vengeance, putting on some of the coolest gigs that WA has to offer. If you’re after an intimate show in a really special space, here’s the place for you.

Record Labels

Jarrah Records

One of the most famous Perth is one of the most famous record labels to come out of Perth in the last couple of decades. Founded by one of WA’s favourite sons, John Butler, the label was focused mainly on releasing John Butler’s stuff in the US, instead, it became one of the most vital record labels in the WA music scene.

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Pilerats

Started back in 2013, Pilerats has quickly become one of WA’s most prominent record labels. Signing groups like Hideous Sun Demon, Koi Child, and Willow Beats, the label has managed to build up a pretty impressive roster that many other labels in this country would be jealous of.

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The Community Records

Releasing some of the coolest Aussie hip-hop records in recent times, The Community Records label has been kicking goals all over the place. With an impressive list of artists in their roster, its no wonder they’ve been graced with a nomination.

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