triple j reveals its new crop of Unearthed High contenders for 2017
Set to carry on the very solid legacy established over the past few years by names like Montaigne, Stonefield, Japanese Wallpaper and last year’s winner Gretta Ray, triple j’s Unearthed High ‘Class of 2017’ has been revealed, with five acts being hand-picked as finalists from over 1000 acts.
First up is Arno Faraji of Shenton College in Perth, nominated for his track ‘Destiny’s’, with the station describing him as “one of the most exciting young hip hop artists in the country, with his keen, future-leaning productions only matched by his whip smart raps and oozing charisma.”
Next we have a name who might already be familiar to some as a finalist from last year’s comp, Ninajirachi of Gosford High School in Gosford NSW, who brings a new track called ‘Pure Luck’ (Ft. Freya Staer).
“Backing up her 2016 Unearthed High finalist appearance, Nina returns with another high-quality production earning wide spread praise and a spot on the 2017 Listen Out lineup,” triple j says “And all that on the cusp of turning 18!”
Out of Darwin High School with a track named ‘Hell In Every Religion’ is Stevie Jean, with a voice described by triple j as “unstoppable”.
“The 17-year-old marries that immense voice with songwriting that is ignited with raw emotional power,” they say. “It’ll have you in a sweat by the time its four minutes are up, demanding you to experience it again.”
Electronic duo SŸDE represent Melbourne and Caulfield Grammar with an already-popular jam entitled ‘Orbit’ (Ft. Ashe).
“Juggling school and a burgeoning music career, this Melbourne duo’s super clean, chilled-house track ‘Orbit {Ft. Ashe}’ has struck a chord globally,” triple j tell us, “amassing more than eight million plays on streaming services and lighting a path to big things ahead.”
Finally, Sydney’s Mosman High School brings us young singer-songwriter Taj Ralph, who has attracted some attention with brand new track ‘Undone’.
“Already receiving nods from industry heavyweights like Horrorshow and Amy Shark, this 16-year-old solo artist’s music is rich in sound and ideas but you can still hear his roots as a busker shine through,” triple j say.
The winner of course has the chance to record, mix and master their music with the help of some industry mentors, but will also see that music championed across triple j and triple j Unearthed, and Unearthed Music Director Dave Ruby Howe seems enthused about this year’s crop.
“It’s exhilarating to discover the amazing creations coming out of bedrooms and garages around Australia and this year’s crop of artists has been as bountiful as ever,” he says. “Picking just five finalists is super difficult, but we couldn’t be more excited to introduce you to the most outstanding acts from 2017’s Unearthed High, who’ll be leading the next generation of Australian music.”
Check out the announcement of all five acts below.
This article originally appeared on The Industry Observer, which is now part of The Music Network.