Kathleen Halloran made her long-awaited Western Australian headline debut at Mojo’s Bar Fremantle on Wednesday night, bringing her intimate solo show to WA in support of her outstanding debut album Nobody’s Baby. Already regarded as one of Australia’s most exciting young guitarists and performers, Halloran delivered a night of storytelling, musicianship and raw emotion that proved well worth the trip to Fremantle.
Out and about on a school night is nothing unusual for me; however, Freo is. But I would have easily driven another 45 minutes to see one of my favourite young rock chicks, Kathleen Halloran.
Opening tonight’s acoustic performance at Mojo’s Bar was the exquisite voice of Helen Shanahan with Deer in Headlights. She told us it was 17 years ago that she first graced the Mojo’s stage. Songs Care Too Much, Under the Maple Tree and Like This followed before a guitar change for Better Times, a song written in a laundry space due to a daytime sleeping housemate, back when residing in the UK.
My favourite of Helen’s songs would have to be Canvas, a very relatable song about people-pleasing. This was storytelling at its finest. Helen’s new song My Hamartia (which means fatal flaw) was another highlight, before finishing the set with Finding Gold — which we certainly did in Helen’s flawless vocal delivery. Helen announced she has a new album coming in August.
Helen Shanahan Gallery
What can I say? I’m a huge fan, ever since first seeing Kathleen Halloran playing guitar in Kate Ceberano’s band.
Tonight, in the more intimate setting of Mojo’s, we heard Kathleen talk about her early childhood influences. As a shy young girl, she spent hours every night in her bedroom practising and listening to Jimi Hendrix and Bob Dylan — and we experienced that influence firsthand, completely awed by her brilliance.
Kathleen’s debut album, Nobody’s Baby, was released on 8 May 2026 and debuted at #2 — no surprises there! What an amazing week she’s had. We heard songs from the new album including I Am Hunted and Find Me Again. This “old soul”, as she refers to herself, is the youngest of nine and the only one in her family involved in any form of the arts.
The next song, Cost of Living, was dedicated to her family, who she absolutely gushes about, telling us her parents are still madly in love… aww, heart melts. Wolves Like You, Kathleen’s favourite song on the album, featuring a collaboration with friend Dusty Lee Stephensen, is also my favourite. It highlights the journey of female artists in a tough industry.
Then came Stolen Night, featuring a guest duet with Vikki Thorn from The Waifs. Who doesn’t love a great harmonica and guitar duo? From there, Kathleen launched into a Kate Ceberano song — “I could sing, so I stole it” — Can’t Find My Way Home, also performed with Vikki.
Finally — and sadly, because I could have listened all night — came the song that gave the album its title, Nobody’s Baby. A song for all us strong, independent women out there. But wait… we can’t leave without a showstopper.
First headline show in WA? Bloody brilliant! Thank you so much for making the long trek that many others don’t to Perth, Kathleen. We all love you. Rock Chick out.
A huge thanks goes out to Kathleen for her warmth & hospitality on the night – have an amazing tour!
Photos by Hunter Brothers Media
Kathleen Halloran Gallery
