After being a guitarist in other bands for years, Melbourne artist Dean Luke has stepped out on his own.
With the release of his debut single 'What Do I Know?' in 2024 followed earlier this year by sophomore release 'Easy', Luke has just dropped his third single 'Love Can Be So Cruel'. With a steady stream of more singles on the horizon and a knack for blending folk storytelling with contemporary indie textures, Dean Luke is carving out a space for himself in Australia's indie music scene; and for now, he’s content letting the songs lead the way.
Who is... Dean Luke is me – a songwriter from Melbourne/ Naarm, Australia. I've been playing in bands as a guitarist for a long time but have recently embarked on a career as a singer-songwriter.
I sound like... '90s dream pop bands like Mazzy Star and The Sundays, and indie folk/ alt. country artists like Big Thief and Wilco. I tend to naturally alternate between writing songs that are 'dream poppy' and songs that are more 'folky'.
In the studio I usually... Do my utmost to stay calm and not screw up.
Social media is... A part of me wanted to say 'a necessary evil', but that seems too cliché. Anyway, I'm at the point now where I believe social media is neither good or bad – it's more about how you use it.
My favourite app at the moment is... It's probably TikTok because I feel a deeper sense of community there than with any other app. I also like all the funny and creative things people post.
If we were coming over to your place, what would you cook us? Probably a roast.
When it comes to pets are you a lover or hater of our furry friends? I love all animals and don't understand why people dislike certain animals, or dislike animals in general. The only time I ever ghosted someone was because they said they think cats are 'creepy'.
What's the one chore you dislike the most? I really like washing my car, but for some reason I don't enjoy vacuuming it.
What celebrity/ famous person would you love to be your spokesperson... The ghost of Marc Bolan would be pretty cool. I think they'd be great at hyping everyone up.
If you had to live in a city abroad, where would you choose and why? Either New York for the jazz scene, Portland for the mountains and hiking, Bangkok for the weather and Mauy Thai or Istanbul for the cats.
Best local takeaway joint for a midnight feed that will leave you with a food coma? I haven't had it in ages but Coburger used to be my go to, I'm sure it's still amazing.
Which fictional character best describes your personality? I'd like to say Sherlock Holmes because of their obsessive work ethic, but it's probably more like Gregor Samsa from 'The Metamorphosis'.
No matter the expense, send me a case of... Cuban cigars. I love them but only let myself have one or two a year.
If I could tour with anyone... Maybe Wilco or The Cure. Or even boygenius if they ever get back together.
Dean Luke's 'Love Can Be So Cruel' is available.
