I thought i'd start with what is perhaps my favourite new local artist this year.
Jack Ladder is one of the most promising singer-songwriters in Sydney, and has a big year this year, releasing his debut album "Not Worth Waiting For" and gaining some high-profile international supports including Stephen Malkmus & The Jicks, Feist and Okkervil River.

The album itself is a stunner, and complements Jack's live sound well (live he is more minimal than the album, which has some fuller arangements).

One of the standout tracks for me is "Up", and it's here for your downloading pleasure.

Download "Jack Ladder - Up"

Jack's next scheduled performance is on January 14th at the Hopetoun Hotel in Sydney, supporting Kelley Stoltz. The other act on the bill is Melbourne's The Crayon Fields.

The Crayon Fields are a great indiepop band who are in the process of finishing off their debut album after numerous EPs and some lineup changes.
Their most recent EP, and the only one available as far as i know, is The Good Life EP. It's well worth a look, and I look forward to their album.

Download "The Crayon Fields - The Good Life"

The lead singer of The Crayon Fields, Geoff, is working on a solo project by the name of Sly Hats. The songwriting is quite similar, but the Sly Hats material is a bit more minimal and acoustic-based.
Sly Hats released a lovely CDR EP earlier this year on Melbourne DIY label We Fear Conspiracy, and an album is also reportedly in the works.

Download "Sly Hats - You Will Be"