A Breath of Fresh Air Nov 4

Few figures in Australian music are as intriguing or enduring as Steve Kilbey, the poetic frontman, bassist, and chief songwriter for The Church. Born in England and raised in Canberra, Kilbey’s early fascination with sound and lyrics set him on a path that would redefine Australian rock.

In 1980, he co-founded The Church, a band whose shimmering guitars, dreamlike lyrics, and ethereal soundscapes made them global standouts. Their breakthrough hit The Unguarded Moment put them on the map, but it was 1988’s Under the Milky Way that cemented their place in rock history. The haunting, otherworldly single became an anthem of the era and remains one of Australia’s most beloved songs.

Beyond The Church, Kilbey has carved out a prolific solo career — releasing over 20 albums, writing poetry, painting, and collaborating with artists like Grant McLennan and Martin Kennedy. His creativity extends well beyond music; it’s a lifelong exploration of art, philosophy, and spirituality.

Today, Kilbey continues to write, perform, and evolve, proving that true artistry knows no limits. Whether on stage with The Church or behind a canvas, Steve Kilbey remains one of music’s most original voices — reflective, restless, and eternally inspired.

Sandy Kaye