Way Dynamic carries Melbourne’s music scene onto the international stage
Dylan Young’s project is set for an international re-release of Massive Shoe, as touring and reported support from Elton John expand its reach.
For Dylan Young, international attention has arrived by degrees. The Melbourne multi-instrumentalist behind Way Dynamic is preparing to re-release his 2025 album Massive Shoe through Jagjaguwar on 2 October, following headline shows in the United States and Europe, many reportedly sold out.
The Guardian reports that Elton John, Djo, Zane Lowe and Elijah Wood have praised Young’s music. The recognition follows a year in which he opened Australian tours for Black Country New Road, Waxahatchee and MJ Lenderman, extending a career built through collaboration as much as individual authorship.
Young, who grew up in Ballarat and moved to Melbourne at 18, has played with Good Morning, Snowy Band and Cool Sounds, as well as working as a live and session drummer for Darren Hanlon and Kankawa Nagarra. His first album as Way Dynamic arrived in 2022.
His music draws on folk-pop, jazz and bossa nova, with writing shaped by an interest in the intimacy and imperfections of older recording methods. The Guardian places its harmonies alongside the Beach Boys and the Beatles, while comparing Young’s gentle vocals and contemplative lyrics with Nick Drake.
The project’s next phase is already underway. Young is working on a follow-up album and plans Australian shows in November, followed by a United States and Canadian tour in early 2027. Despite the widening circuit, he has indicated that Melbourne remains home, citing its nurturing music community.
