From regional Western Australia, twin sisters Maddy and Jess Houston of Oceanique create music that blends
heartfelt storytelling with seamless harmonies. The duo’s sound draws comparisons to the sibling harmonies of First Aid Kit and The Staves, combining folk traditions with warm, reflective melodies reminiscent of the vast country sky.
Since their debut in 2019, Oceanique has become a rising act in the Australian folk music scene. Highlights include winning Port Fairy Folk Festival’s ‘Emerging Artist of the Year’ (2024) and Folk Alliance Australia’s ‘Youth Artist of the Year’ (2022). Their captivating live performances have graced renowned festivals such as the National Folk Festival, Woodford Folk Festival, and Port Fairy Folk Festival as well as supporting celebrated artists, including The Waifs at Geelong Arts Centre.
2025 has been a defining year for the duo, which saw them with an official showcase at Folk Alliance International in Montreal, alongside an eight-date headline Canadian tour. Their sophomore album, Skylines (June 2025), received critical acclaim, showcasing their evocative songwriting and magnetic harmonies. The duo toured the album across Australia with a 17-date national tour from July-Sept, including performances at the Folk By The Sea Festival as well as a sold out Melbourne album launch.
Photo: Ori Dagan
