Newcastle singer-songwriter Lachlan X. Morris has released his fifth album, Illusionaires, exclusively on vinyl and CD, rejecting streaming platforms. Morris says the move is about encouraging active listening, where listeners engage with the music without distractions from apps or phones.
Morris, a veteran of the Newcastle music scene for a decade, has seen his own records and those of other local artists get lost in the streaming churn. He believes physical copies have a better chance of making a lasting connection with listeners.
The album is released through Hiss & Crackle Records, owned by Mitchel Eaton. Eaton, who also fronts the band FAHM, says the label rewards pre-orders with items like stickers and guitar plectrums. Vinyl press orders are limited to 150 copies, with some local bands selling a third within a week.
Eaton praises Morris for his commitment to no streaming, calling it a brave move. He notes that releasing an album is a lot of work, and the lack of response on streaming can be deflating for artists.
