This is part six of a six-part series on the year in indie Aussie music. 

So many bands absolutely killed it this year - far more than we can mention here, but here are some of the highlights!

The Tullamarines had a massive year, including huge singles Running On Empty  and Lying, plus dropping the EP Safety Blanket.

Meanwhile, Franjapan kicked off the year with the EP V, before dropping a string of singles, including the lively Fall Down.

Franjapan

We fell in love with The Colliflowers' debut EP Mirage Hotel, and with Rodney Starfish, who dropped seven singles, including Sun Stroke.

Defair dropped the psych-inspired EP Mutt, while Lucky blessed us with three killer tracks in Clover, Houston, and Lady Beetle.

Lucky

Mid Drift began the year with their brilliant Lemon Lime and Tan Lines EP. Mid-year we rocked out to Bakers Eddy's EP I'm Doing Better, and later we chilled out to the Kavs' EP Stay A Little While.

Peach Fuzz also delivered a cracking EP in Isn't It Obvious?, including the cheeky Wish U Were Never Born.

Peach Fuzz

HAVE A LISTEN!

There were HEAPS of great releases this year, but we've made it easy for you to check out the year's top rock tracks!

Find all our favourite classic rock tracks of the year on our ROCK ON! playlist.

Check out all our fave indie rock tracks of the year on our LET LOOSE! playlist.

Who knows, you might find some tracks to include when you vote in the HOMEGROWN HUNDRED (voting is open until Tuesday, January 27, 2026 - vote for your fave Aussie artists now!)