Five Favourites with Maybe Hugo

Tarndanya/Adelaide-based artist Maybe Hugo is making waves in the national music scene. A saxophonist turned multi-instrumentalist, he crafts warm, vintage soul-infused pop that's found a large fanbase here in his hometown.

Picked to perform at this year's WOMADelaide as part of Northern Sound System’s Academy Stage, Maybe Hugo loved his time on stage, telling The Note, "For me, playing here gives me an audience I just wouldn’t be able to reach… Also, the crowd here, they just really love their music. If you watch any acts, there’s barely any phones out… people are in it. It’s amazing."

Ahead of his two showcases as part of BIGSOUND 2026, Maybe Hugo took some time out of his busy schedule to chat to The Note about five Tarndanya/Adelaide artists he believes will be at BIGSOUND in the coming years, also highlighting his favourite song by each artist.

Wilson Blackley - 'Summertime is Gone'

Vocals are smooth as butter. Give this guy a stage, mic & guitar, and I'll be there to see & hear it!!

JAMIE LENA - 'Collateral Damage' 

Jamie has some amazing wordplay that she ties into some even more amazing soul and folk-inspired production - cannot wait for the new music she's sitting on ;))

Miles Nautu - Closer

Jazz and Rap - need I say more?!

Grace Vandals - 'TOBACCO'

Another amazing Adelaide talent that is not being spoken about enough. Grace has a frickin killer voice with some bloody infectious grit! I’m so lucky to have worked with her for a bunch of my own personal projects.

Jet Vesper - 'Halfway to Yours'

Stumbled upon Mr Jet Vesper's music a little bit ago. If you like a dreamy falsetto… look no further!

BIGSOUND is held at Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley precinct and runs from Tuesday 1 September to Friday 4 September. Ticketing and lineup information available at bigsound.org.au.