Feature Photo: Bruce from Sydney, Australia, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
Stella Donnelly is an Australian singer-songwriter from Perth, Western Australia, who has quickly established herself as a prominent figure in the indie music scene. She began her solo music career in 2017 with the release of her debut EP, Thrush Metal, which garnered critical acclaim for its candid approach and sharp songwriting, especially with tracks like “Boys Will Be Boys” that address significant social issues such as sexual assault. This EP was initially self-released and then reissued in 2018 due to its increasing popularity.
Donnelly released her debut studio album, Beware of the Dogs, in 2019, which expanded her reach and solidified her reputation for blending melodic indie pop with incisive lyrics. The album was praised for its wit and poignant commentary on personal and societal issues. Her follow-up album, Flood, was released in 2022 and saw Donnelly exploring a broader sound palette while maintaining her distinctive lyrical style. As of now, she has released two studio albums and one EP, with no live albums or compilations to date.
Stella Donnelly has received several accolades for her work, including nominations from the Australian Independent Record Labels Association (AIR) and winning multiple WAM (Western Australian Music) Awards. Her music has charted on the ARIA (Australian Recording Industry Association) charts, with Beware of the Dogs peaking within the top 40. Her tours and performances, both in Australia and internationally, have helped her gain a loyal following and critical recognition in the indie and alternative music communities. Donnelly’s career continues to evolve as she uses her platform to address vital issues and connect with audiences through her storytelling and performances.
STELLA DONNELLY STUDIO ALBUMS
Thrush Metal
Released: April 6, 2017
Thrush Metal is the debut EP by Australian singer-songwriter Stella Donnelly. Originally self-released in 2017, this EP was reissued in 2018 due to growing demand following the success of the single “Boys Will Be Boys,” which addresses the themes of sexual assault and victim-blaming. The EP showcases Donnelly’s raw vocal style and sharp, poignant songwriting, gaining her significant attention in the indie music scene.
Stella Donnelly performed vocals and guitar, with recording taking place in Perth, Australia. The EP’s intimate production sets the stage for her direct and confrontational lyrical approach.
CD Track Listings:
“Mechanical Bull” – 2:19
“Boys Will Be Boys” – 4:04
“Mean to Me” – 3:05
“Grey” – 3:14
“A Poem” – 3:13
“Talking” – 2:58
Beware of the Dogs
Released: March 8, 2019
Beware of the Dogs is Stella Donnelly’s first full-length studio album, marking a significant step forward in her musical career. This album expands on the feminist and political themes introduced in her EP, blending sharp lyrics with catchy, melodic indie pop arrangements. Donnelly tackles topics ranging from systemic misogyny to workplace harassment with both wit and gravity, creating a compelling narrative that resonates with a wide audience.
Recorded in Fremantle, Australia, and produced by Dean Tuza, this album captures the evolution of Donnelly’s sound from solo performer to a more lush, full-band arrangement. Beware of the Dogs was well-received by critics and performed respectably on indie charts, though specific Billboard charting data for this album is not available.
CD Track Listings:
“Old Man” – 3:33
“Mosquito” – 3:12
“Season’s Greetings” – 2:49
“Allergies” – 2:55
“Tricks” – 3:55
“Boys Will Be Boys” – 4:04
“Lunch” – 3:43
“Bistro” – 2:08
“Die” – 3:14
“Beware of the Dogs” – 3:35
“U Owe Me” – 2:41
“Watching Telly” – 4:47
“Face It” – 3:16
Flood
Released: August 26, 2022
Flood is Stella Donnelly’s second studio album, where she delves deeper into the complexities of personal relationships and societal issues. The album features a more refined and expansive sound, exploring new textures and sonic landscapes. Flood reflects Donnelly’s growth as an artist, both in terms of musicality and thematic depth.
Produced by Anna Laverty and recorded at a private studio in Margaret River, Western Australia, the sessions for Flood took place over several months in late 2021 and early 2022. The album has been praised for its sophisticated production and Donnelly’s evocative storytelling.
Brian Kachejian was born in Manhattan and raised in the Bronx. He is the founder and Editor in Chief of ClassicRockHistory.com. He has spent thirty years in the music business often working with many of the people who have appeared on this site. Brian Kachejian also holds B.A. and M.A. degrees from Stony Brook University along with New York State Public School Education Certifications in Music and Social Studies. Brian Kachejian is also an active member of the New York Press.