East Coast Car Rentals has announced Selene and the Strange as the winners of its inaugural I’m With the Band competition, following a standout live performance in Manly that showcased some of Australia’s most exciting emerging music talent.
The Sydney-based indie group took out the top prize after impressing judges and audiences alike with their dynamic sound, a blend of dreamy synth textures and stomping country energy that defies genre boundaries. As winners, Selene and the Strange receive $12,000 in cash and publicity support to help elevate their career.
Runners-up Hope Held Hostage and Caleb Foster were also recognised for their outstanding performances, each receiving $500 to support their musical journeys. The remaining top eight finalists — Gilroy, Ash Morse, LACE, Harriet Lowe, and Andryel Jung — were each awarded a $500 East Coast Car Rentals credit.
The Manly live showcase brought together all eight finalists for an afternoon of original performances, celebrating the depth and diversity of Australia’s independent music scene. The event was hosted by acclaimed singer-songwriter Katie Jayne, who also performed and led onstage Q&A sessions with each act.
“Seeing these artists perform live in Manly really brought to life what I’m With the Band is all about — discovering incredible local music and giving grassroots talent the chance to take their sound further,” said Ben Whitmore, Chief Marketing Officer at East Coast Car Rentals. “We’re proud to help Selene and the Strange, along with all our finalists, take the next step in their musical journeys.”
Katie Jayne added:
“It was such an incredible experience to host I’m With the Band and to see just how much talent is coming through in Australia. Every act brought something special to the stage, and the crowd in Manly really felt that. Selene and the Strange were so deserving of the win, but every performer left their mark.”
Launched earlier this year, I’m With the Band was created to spotlight emerging Australian artists and celebrate the shared spirit of live music and travel — connecting the country’s love of the open road with the soundtracks that move us.
View all the acts’ performances and interviews here: https://www.youtube.com/@eccarrentals
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