Bendigo’s own Greg Stehle, the artist behind the musical moniker of Heisenberg Principle, has dropped his debut album, ‘Icarus’, and it’s a refreshing blend of indie rock sensibility and soulful storytelling. Set for online release on the 12th of December this year, along with on vinyl and CD, the 11-track collection is the culmination of a truly varied life. From Sabre fencing champion to symphonic musician and two-time master’s degree holder, Greg has poured every one of those wild adventures into his lyrics, and a good dose more.
It's a project that explores life’s complex uncertainties, a theme that cleverly mirrors the quantum theory inspiring the band’s name. This isn't just commercially driven or easy listening music but a reflective journey drawn from deep connections and universal experiences. The album, recorded over two years with Byron Bay-based producer Keefe Davidson West, showcases an impressive range.
The title track, ‘Icarus’, which was also the first single, is an instant standout. It immediately captures attention with energetic melodies and philosophical lyrics, blending dynamic riffs with a vocal delivery that carries both hope and caution. There are definite echoes of timeless classic rock, old school and ensnaring, yet it’s filtered through a modern lens, resulting in a familiar but fresh sound.
Track by track, the album maintains cohesion while exploring different sonic landscapes. ‘110’ plunges headfirst into a compelling pop-rock territory, the kind of infectious tune that demands a windows-down drive, featuring an instantly irresistible chorus that is guaranteed to be stuck in your head for days. On the other hand, ‘Bachelor of the Year’ is a more laid-back, almost conversational affair, leaning into a casual pub-story vibe with a riff that drifts seamlessly through pop vibes and moody rock swagger. It’s charmingly loose and allows the vibe to do the heavy lifting.
The more reflective moments are equally compelling. ‘No One’s Property’ takes a simple premise, the fight for independence, and turns it into a universal anthem, built on a robust pop-rock framework energised by rich, driving synths that propel the emotional surge of the chorus. It's a potent illustration of what makes Greg's music stand out, offering that stark emotional core that is perfectly balanced with lush, ensnaring instrumentals.
Similarly, ‘Chalk & Cheese’ is a beautifully uncluttered love song inspired by Greg’s own 18-year marriage. It avoids sentimental clichés, celebrating the glorious chaos of mismatch and choosing each other anyway, with a relaxed groove and settling melody that feels genuinely earned. Closing out the featured tracks is ‘Whiteout’, pure drive and energy that builds a bridge between the golden age of indie rock and modern production, its heavy, groovy guitar riff and vulnerable lyrics unfolding like profound self-admission.
‘Icarus’ is a remarkably self-assured and emotionally rich debut. Greg channels his varied life into sharply written, unforgettable music. It’s clear that Heisenberg Principle is ready to shatter the stereotype that new music lacks true worth. Keep an eye out for his live performances as he puts together a local band to support the launch of the record.
For more from Greg, you can stream all his singles and releases on Spotify and order your own copy of the album now on CD and vinyl via Elastic Stage. To stay in touch on the road to the online release, be sure to connect with Greg today on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.
