Darlinghurst Release First Song As Duo, 'Unapologetic'

Darlinghurst are back with their first song since announcing their new band line-up, now consisting of Pagan Newman and Cassie Leopold.

Unapologetic is a pop-country banger that’s already climbing up the Countrytown Hot 50, and with that chorus, how can it not? Newman and Leopold sound primed for absolutely massive venues and festivals, with a singalong-ready, anthemic new track kicking off the new year and new era for Darlinghurst.

Unapologetic was written by all four original band members – Newman, Leopold, Jason Resch and Matt Darvidis alongside the songwriting and production team MSquared (Michael Paynter and Michael DeLorenzis).

In a press release, Leopold said about the new single, “Unapologetic’s message is this – by all means, listen to other people’s opinions, but don’t disregard your own. Don’t be afraid to disappoint if you don’t meet others’ expectations.”

She added, “Unapologetically know your own worth; fight for it if you must. Success comes in the lonely hours, and it can be awfully lonely when it feels like it’s you alone against the world, but sometimes you just have to trust your gut and jump.”

You can listen to Unapologetic below.

Darlinghurst announced Resch and Darvidis’ shock departures from the group last month, revealing that “visions for Darlinghurst were not aligned”.

In a statement, Leopold and Newman explained, “Earlier this year, it became clear the members’ visions for Darlinghurst were not aligned. The members have now agreed that Darlinghurst will move forward with Cassie and Pagan as the remaining original members. Cassie, Pagan, Jason and Matt are incredibly proud of what they have achieved together and grateful for their fans’ ongoing support.”

After Darlinghurst released their debut self-titled album in September 2021, they were crowned New Talent of the Year at the 2022 Golden Guitar Awards. That win was followed by collaborating with Amber Lawrence on her song Living For The Highlights.

2023 was also a massive year for the band, starting with their live team-up with Daryl Braithwaite at Twilight At Taronga festival, their collaborative single with Joe Camilleri & The Black Sorrows on A Little Love, the release of self-empowerment number Pretty Doesn’t Make You Good, and an in-depth Countrytown interview.