Renowned duo This Way North is set to release their eagerly awaited debut album, Punching Underwater, on February 8th, 2024. The album is a collaborative effort between award-winning artist Ainslie Wills and accomplished engineer-producer Jono Steer.

Having traversed the landscapes of Australia and beyond for years, the indie pop-rock duo found themselves on Dhudhuroa country in north-east Victoria during the pandemic. Longtime friends and creative partners, Cat Jungalwalla and Leisha Leahy, exchanged the freedom of the road for a home amidst ancient trees and high-country valleys. This unexpected pause provided a haven for creative expression, resulting in their forthcoming debut album.

This Way North, previously recognized as Music Victoria's Best Regional Act, boasts three EPs and has steadily risen in prominence across Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. Their journey includes supporting artists such as Vika and Linda Bull, Ash Grunwald, and Kate Ceberano.

The first single from the upcoming album, titled My Love, was released in October 2023, featuring the enchanting sounds of Christine Tootoo's Inuit throat singing recorded in Iqaluit, Arctic Canada. The single achieved national rotation on Double J, secured a top-5 position on the AMRAP charts, and resonated strongly with their dedicated fan base.

In Punching Underwater, This Way North showcases peak songwriting and performance, resulting in a record that highlights their creative prowess both musically and lyrically. Ainslie Wills, an award-winning musician, took on the role of producer for the first time, collaborating with long-time creative partner Jono Steer. The synergy between them allowed Cat and Leisha to delve deeper into each song, refining them to showcase their exceptional abilities. Recorded across studios in Melbourne and Romsey in central Victoria, each track exudes lush, dynamic sounds, standing out both individually and collectively.

The album features Cat Leahy's flamboyant, powerful drumming and Leisha Jungalwalla's intricate guitar tones and slide guitar chops, meticulously crafted by the duo. Guest vocals from Xani, Little Wise, Tuckshop Ladies, and Ainslie Wills, along with contributions from Jono Steer and a guest bassist, Brett Langsford, enhance the overall sonic landscape. Co-written with Bobby Alu and Little Wise, Punching Underwater brings together some of Australia's most understated and brilliant musical minds.

With compelling harmonies and robust melodies, the album explores an introspective journey within oneself. While previous records focused on the experience of life on the road, Punching Underwater delves into the realms of introspection, addressing insecurities, imposter syndromes, and self-doubts. Covering themes from the struggle to avoid falling in love and building confidence to the highs of contentment and the lows of war, the album captures the joy of evolution as a woman. Ultimately, the songs conclude on a positive note, celebrating self-discovery and embracing the journey wherever life leads..