The Australian music scene celebrates a significant new milestone as Michael Clifford, acclaimed guitarist from 5 Seconds of Summer, secures a Top 10 debut on the ARIA Albums Chart with his inaugural solo effort, ‘Sidequest’. This remarkable achievement places his album at No. 10 on the dated August 1 chart, marking his first independent entry into the competitive realm of Australian music charts as a solo artist.
Clifford’s impressive entry follows a trend within 5SOS, making him the second member of the globally recognized band to achieve a Top 10 solo debut this year. This comes after Calum Hood’s solo success in June, which famously soared to the No. 1 spot, underscoring the individual artistic strengths within the group and their collective impact on the pop culture landscape.
‘Sidequest’ represents a distinct artistic evolution for Michael Clifford, described by the artist himself as a “love letter to video games, fantasy, and finding your own path.” This conceptual framework provides a stylistic departure from his previous work with 5SOS, offering fans a deeper insight into his personal creative vision and expanding the scope of his solo music.
The album’s release was preceded by several well-received singles, including “Potion,” “Haunted Player,” and “Healing Light.” These tracks offered a glimpse into the album’s sound, generating considerable anticipation among fans who have closely followed Clifford’s journey, both within the band’s dynamic and his burgeoning career as a solo musician.
Beyond Clifford’s success, the ARIA Albums Chart saw other notable entries. Veteran Australian artist Tim Minchin debuted his latest project at No. 4, marking his second solo album to chart, following his 2020 release which peaked at No. 3. Additionally, rising indie act Folk B***h Trio made a strong impression with their debut album landing at No. 19, while The Dreggs also secured a position at No. 63.
The ARIA Singles Chart also witnessed significant movement, particularly with the lead track from the ‘Stray Kids’ soundtrack, “Golden,” ascending from No. 2 to No. 1. This track made history by becoming only the fourth K-pop song to ever top the Australian charts, highlighting the genre’s increasing global influence and its appeal within Australian music consumption. Three additional songs from the same album, “Your Idol” (No. 4), “Soda Pop” (No. 5), and “How It’s Done” (No. 7), further solidified its dominance within the Top 10.
Meanwhile, the recent triple j Hottest 100 countdown of all-time Australian songs provided a nostalgic boost to classic tracks, sending several back into the charts. Iconic hits like Crowded House’s “Don’t Dream It’s Over” re-entered at No. 22, INXS’ “Never Tear Us Apart” at No. 28, and Hilltop Hoods’ “The Nosebleed Section” achieved a new chart peak at No. 31, showcasing the enduring legacy of these Australian music anthems.
