Ups and Downs. Photo: Bandcamp.
Brisbane indie band Ups and Downs have released their first new original music in 10 years, ahead of Queensland shows marking 40 years of Sleepless.
The new EP Radio Is Dead was released on Friday, September 4, through Basketcase Records, with MGM distributing the release in Australia and Redeye Worldwide internationally.
It arrives as Ups and Downs prepare to take their acclaimed 1986 mini-album Sleepless back on the road in October, performing the record in full for the first time.
The four-show tour includes Crowbar Brisbane in Fortitude Valley on Friday, October 2, followed by Wallaby Hotel at Mudgeeraba on Saturday, October 3.
At each show, the band will play Sleepless in its entirety before a second set of hits and crowd favourites.
Band member Greg Atkinson said it was incredible to still be on the journey four decades on, adding: “The band is sounding better than ever.”
Formed in Brisbane in the early 1980s, Ups and Downs became known for jangly guitars, melodic hooks and soaring harmonies.
Breakout single The Living Kind topped the independent charts and was ARIA Award nominated in 1987. The band’s 1986 Sleepless mini-album also featured its cover of Neil Diamond’s Solitary Man.
Ups and Downs Queensland shows
Friday, October 2, 2026
Crowbar Brisbane, Fortitude Valley
Saturday, October 3, 2026
Wallaby Hotel, Mudgeeraba
The tour continues to Sydney on October 9 and Newcastle on October 10.
Tour and ticket information is available via Flying Saucer Presents.
For more live music around the south east, see YELO’s Brisbane Gig Guide and Gold Coast Gig Guide.
