Bio
Born and raised in tropical Darwin, Australian independent artist Alice Cotton’s compelling live presence and distinctive songwriting ‘hits you with the depth and breadth of her storytelling’ (triple j). Fresh off multiple finalist nominations in the Northern Territory Music Awards, a scholarship to the CMAA Senior Academy of Country Music, and the release of her debut EP, Alice Cotton is solidifying her place as one of Australia's exciting new voices.
The self-titled EP, produced by award-winning Nick Huggins (Jen Cloher, Dirty Three), features a stellar lineup including Holly Thomas (Quivers, HUSKY) and Tim Baker (Baby Velvet, Freya Josephine Hollick).
Her genre-crossing approach appeals to fans of Paul Kelly and Stella Donnelly, while her storytelling roots keep listeners coming back for more.
Carried by Cotton’s distinctively Australian voice and down-to-earth humour, her music is an exploration of intimate lyrics threaded through alt-country and indie-folk sounds, showcasing some of the Northern Territory’s finest narrative songwriting.
Recent highlights include a Royal Darwin Show scholarship to the prestigious CMAA Senior Academy of Country Music, performances at the cosmic country festival New Farm, New Country and Tamworth Country Music Festival, support slots for Liz Stringer, Charm of Finches and The Audreys, a NSW tour, and co-writing with Jenny Mitchell (Aotearoa/NZ).
And it’s not just about her own music. The community-minded artist was the recent recipient of an NT Arts Access Award for her work in increasing the participation of artists with disability in the music industry, as well as working as a Registered Music Therapist in dementia and aged care. A lover of the DIY music scene, Cotton also volunteers with community radio Saltwater Radio and 8CCC. Locally, you can catch Cotton at Darwin Festival, co-writing with award-winning folk-country artist Dave Garnham, or collaborating with local outfits TANG, Louder Than Words, The Sandhills, Darwin Symphony Orchestra, and post-punk feminist band The Ovulators.
Reviews
“On ‘Sleeping Dogs’, Cotton pens a beautifully tender and emotive track inviting us into her reflection” – Tone Deaf
“A fine example of desert-folk best served fireside under a starry night.” – Kath Devaney, double j
“cool as a cucumber” – Anthony Snape
“Cotton has the quality that Paul Kelly and Stellar Donnelly have whereby it seemingly feels like she's narrating the mundane moment in life and relationships that we've all been through and then - POW - you're hit with the depth and breadth of her storytelling.” – Nkechi Anele, triple j
“Sweeping, intimate, melancholy vibes” - FROOTY
“A Territory hit” - NT News
“Alice has delivered a song that resonates with NT nostalgia...The chorus will make you want to jump in a Hilux and hit the road ” - Benjamin Erin, Tone Deaf
“...showcasing all the sensitivity and grace marking all her music so far. There’s a warm and earthy feeling to her songs, and this recording feels like an intimate house show” - Cameron Menegoni, AMRAP
“a nuanced way of viewing the world has clearly produced an artist and performer of rare qualities ... Alice’s approach is insightful” - Steve Kelk, Foldback