Copyright cover photo: © Melissa Nicholson
Australian singer-songwriter Bel Kil is back with her bold new single, “Not Whatchu Think,” ahead of her upcoming EP Wasted Emotion. The track showcases her genre-defying sound, continuing to push boundaries in both her music and the way she connects with her audience. Along with the release, she’s also revealed her exciting new project, Out West Fest, a music festival aimed at bringing top Australian talent to her hometown.
A unique sound
Bel Kil has always been known for her distinctive style, mixing different musical influences in a way that doesn’t fit into any one category. With Not Whatchu Think, she continues to resist easy classification. Her production style is raw and personal, blending guitar riffs, beats, and melodies in ways that feel experimental but somehow perfectly natural.
In an interview, Bel shared that she doesn’t aim to sound like anyone else. “Each track is an experiment,” she explained. “I play around with guitar riffs, chord progressions, beats, or melodies until something resonates.” This approach has earned her a growing fanbase and a reputation as an artist who isn’t afraid to take risks.
This single builds on the momentum of her debut EP, My Year, which introduced Bel to a wider audience. It featured standout tracks like “Rose Street,” which helped her earn spots as a semi-finalist in both the Unsigned Only Competition and the International Songwriters Competition. Her music continues to evolve, and Not Whatchu Think is no exception—it’s a more mature and layered sound that still retains the honesty and vulnerability she’s known for.
Mentorship and growth
One of the key elements behind this new sound is Bel’s work with producer Edward Quinn (known for his work with Telenova and Slum Sociable). She credits his mentorship with helping her push the limits of her music. “Getting feedback from someone experienced is invaluable when working solo,” she said. This collaboration has brought fresh depth to her sound, blending Bel’s raw songwriting with professional production. The result is a track that feels personal yet speaks to a broader audience, capturing emotions and stories that are easy to connect with.
The launch of Out West Fest
Alongside her new single, Bel Kil is launching Out West Fest, a music festival that will bring some of the best talent in Australian music to regional Victoria. For Bel, this festival is more than just a way to showcase great music—it’s the realization of a dream she’s had since she was a little girl.
“I’ve had a dream of hosting a festival since I was a little girl, listening to music and looking out over the paddocks, envisioning a stage,” she shared. With events like the Grampians Music Festival no longer running, Bel saw an opportunity to create a new space for live music in her community. Out West Fest promises not only incredible music but also a strong sense of community, with affordable ticket prices and a focus on connecting people through live performances.
The inaugural Out West Fest will feature a lineup that combines established acts and emerging artists. Performers include Sex on Toast, Deep Sea Arcade, Hayley Mary (solo), and of course, Bel Kil herself. The festival also includes local talent like Riley Mason and LISTEN HUNGER DIGITAL, as well as DJs to keep the energy high between sets. Bel Kil has handpicked every artist for the lineup, choosing performers who have left a lasting impression on her both musically and personally.
A festival with heart
Out West Fest isn’t just about showcasing the big names—it’s about celebrating local talent and creating a space where people can come together to experience live music in an intimate, community-focused setting. Bel’s dedication to keeping the festival accessible is clear, and she hopes to inspire others in the region to connect with live music and local talent in ways they haven’t before.
The festival also serves as a reminder of the power of music to bring people together. With regional areas often lacking in large-scale music events, Bel Kil’s vision for Out West Fest is a much-needed addition to the cultural landscape of Victoria.
Looking ahead
As Bel Kil prepares to release her full EP, Wasted Emotion, and host the first Out West Fest, she’s setting the stage for an exciting future. Her latest single, “Not Whatchu Think,” is a testament to her growing artistry, showcasing her ability to create music that is both bold and deeply personal. Fans of Bel can expect more genre-defying sounds and emotional depth as she continues to innovate in her music. With her talent and passion, she’s sure to make an even bigger impact on the Australian music scene in the coming months.
In summary, Bel Kil is an artist who’s not afraid to challenge expectations and explore new sounds. With Not Whatchu Think, she’s once again proved that she’s on the cutting edge of the Australian music scene. And with the launch of Out West Fest, she’s bringing her dream of community and live music to life in a big way. Keep an eye on this rising star—there’s no doubt she’s just getting started.
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