Sydney’s indie scene continues to buzz with fresh voices, and MEGA FÄUNA are proving themselves as one of the most exciting.

Following the creative spark of their 2023 Fibonacci Sequins EP, the five-piece band is stepping into 2026 with their new album softmore; a collection of music that feels both defiant and vibrant.

The band, which includes members from acclaimed acts like The Buoys, Sweetie, Wiles, and Skeleten, was born from a desire to create something outside the usual indie orbit.

Founders Tess Wilkin and Freyja Fox brought together women who weren’t already embedded in local music circles, fostering a project where diverse perspectives feed directly into the music. The result is a sound that blends catchy indie melodies with a contemporary take on Australiana, delivering both intimacy and energy.

softmore has already teased listeners with singles like ‘sleep deceit’ and January’s ‘lifelike’, and now the band has released its latest track, ‘heartbeat’. Recorded at Stranded Recording Studio in Bellambi on Dharawal Wodi Wodi land with producer Guy Fenech (AUSTRALIA the Band, Ces Hotbake, Shearin’, James Domeyko), ‘heartbeat’ explores the relentless rhythm of daily life.

“It’s about how time keeps moving, and our bodies keep doing their secret, magical work without us thinking about it,” the band explains. “It’s marveling at the inner life that quietly keeps rhythm, no matter the chaos outside.”

Since debuting in 2020 with ‘Jacaranda’, MEGA FÄUNA have carved out a strong presence on the scene, with memorable performances at SXSW Sydney, the King Street Crawl, and supporting acts including RVG, Otoboke Beaver, Body Type, and Los Bitchos. Their music, intimate yet magnetic, has gained traction on community radio and streaming platforms, racking up over 140,000 Spotify streams to date.

While emerging bands continue to make their mark, the role of Australian music PR and experienced Australian music publicists remains essential in connecting artists to wider audiences. Agencies such as beehive have helped amplify the presence of rising acts like MEGA FÄUNA, contributing to the energy and growth of the broader Australian music landscape.

With softmore set for release on March 19, ‘heartbeat’ offers just a glimpse of the band’s evolving sound. For listeners seeking music that’s both heartfelt and exhilarating, MEGA FÄUNA are a name to watch this year.