Band: The Urban Sea
Band Member: Shanan Kilner
Tell us about your new single My Own Time?
My Own Time came from that moment when you know slipping back into old, comfortable patterns would be way too easy – but you’re determined not to. It’s about avoiding the tempting quicksand of familiar bad habits and choosing to move forward, even when the unknown is a bit daunting. Writing it felt like telling myself, “Don’t fall for the cozy trap; keep moving.” It’s the anthem for anyone who’s fighting the urge to take the easy route back to what they know isn’t right and is strutting their way into something better.
What’s your favourite work at this point in time? (your group’s work)
Right now, it’s our upcoming EP, Sunsets and Silhouettes. We’ve been on a bit of a journey trying to find our sound and have been pretty genre-fluid for a while. This EP, though, feels like everything finally clicked. The tracks flow together really well, offering a balance of groove and emotion, and it’s the first time we feel like we’ve truly captured who we are as a band.
How would you describe your sound in food form and why?
We’d be a loaded taco with a kick. It’s familiar and layered, with a mix of flavors that keep things interesting, and that bit of heat to keep you on your toes. Like our music, it’s something you can dig into and enjoy, but with a twist that makes it memorable.
Tell us a quick, on the road or studio, anecdote.
We recorded our EP, Sunsets and Silhouettes, at Ian Haug’s studio. He let me play a guitar worth more than my car for one of our tracks. I pulled it out of a flight case which still had a Powderfinger baggage sticker on it, feeling like I was holding music history. Of course, I then proceeded to completely and repeatedly mess up the guitar part because I was insanely nervous he was watching.
What, or who, inspires you?
We’re inspired by the raw emotion and intensity of Sam Fender and the hooky, witty goodness of Ball Park Music. But really, we’re creative kleptomaniacs. We steal ideas from graffiti at the bus stop, a clever phrase spotted in the newspaper, or a pop song playing on Coles radio while we’re buying bananas. We pickpocket from love, from frustration, from whatever resonates. It’s all about collecting those bits and pieces and turning them into something uniquely ours.
Which song do you wish you wrote?
“Seventeen Going Under” – Sam Fender. Raw storytelling with powerful emotion; it’s a song that feels real and resonates deeply. It’s got that Bruce Springsteen drive throughout, and the “whoa whoa” sing-along at the end seals the deal. You really can’t ask for more.
What’s next for you?
We’re gearing up for the release of our EP, Sunsets and Silhouettes, early next year, and we’re planning an East Coast tour to bring these songs to life on stage. 2025 is going to be full of new shows, new music, and hopefully some new audiences.
What’s your scene?
Somewhere between the city and the beach – like sitting on the sand with a bottle of booze, wearing faded jeans, watching the waves crash. It’s that mix of urban chaos and seaside calm, where big nights end and reflections begin. We try to capture that blend of energy and space in our music, turning life’s noise and quiet moments into something you can feel, raw and real.
