Premium Content:

Ben Lee – Ripe – INERTIA

Australian pop prince Ben Lee continues to play tunes that will make most listeners (or at least this one) want to ruffle his curls and pinch his cheeks. Beyond the poppy rhythms, however, lies a fascination with American culture, prompting songs about television and Jay-Z as well as a less than impressive collaboration with Mandy Moore on what is easily the worst track on the record, Birds and Bees. The bizarre chorus of Sex Without Love passes as Ben Lee’s best Bon Jovi impersonation, and in an even stranger twist, the 80s throwback actually works. However, it is tracks like American Television and Blush – infectious tunes that will get in the head of anyone within earshot and keep them smiling – that make this album worth owning. –Megan Smith  

Latest

New Zealand’s ban on puberty blockers blocked by High Court

The new rules were set to take effect on Friday.

‘Jimpa’ to open to 2026 Queer Screen Mardi Gras Film Festival

The new film has been getting rave reviews at film festivals ahead of its general release.

More photos from Connections Nightclub’s 50th birthday celebration

It was a huge night of celebration and community connection.

Victorian police will not march in 2026 Midsumma Pride Parade

Transgender Victoria have announced that with the police withdrawing they will rejoin the event.

Newsletter

Don't miss

New Zealand’s ban on puberty blockers blocked by High Court

The new rules were set to take effect on Friday.

‘Jimpa’ to open to 2026 Queer Screen Mardi Gras Film Festival

The new film has been getting rave reviews at film festivals ahead of its general release.

More photos from Connections Nightclub’s 50th birthday celebration

It was a huge night of celebration and community connection.

Victorian police will not march in 2026 Midsumma Pride Parade

Transgender Victoria have announced that with the police withdrawing they will rejoin the event.

Peach PRC announces debut album will be out in 2026

Peach PRC has announced her debut album Porcelain will be released...

New Zealand’s ban on puberty blockers blocked by High Court

The new rules were set to take effect on Friday.

‘Jimpa’ to open to 2026 Queer Screen Mardi Gras Film Festival

The new film has been getting rave reviews at film festivals ahead of its general release.

More photos from Connections Nightclub’s 50th birthday celebration

It was a huge night of celebration and community connection.