Blank Gold Coast issue #57 – June 2018 by Blank Street Press

RECHARGED PARTY WELCOMES YOU TO THE KRAM FAM

COMING SOON J U LY 2 6 , 2 0 1 8 VISIT BURLEIGHBREWING.COM/CINEMA

Editor in Chief: Samantha Morris Cultural Editor: Natalie O'Driscoll Creative Director: Chloe Popa Partnerships Manager: Amanda Gorman Partnerships: Simone Gorman-Clark House Photographer: Leisen Standen, Lamp Photography

Contributors (print and online): Natalie O’Driscoll, Samantha Morris, Marj Osborne, Anthony Gebhardt, Pip Andreas, Tiffany Mitchell, Catherine Coburn, Erin Bourne, Simone Gorman-Clark, Nae Kurth, Mella Bunker, Terry “Tappa” Teece, Dan Maynard, Danny Santangelo, Leisen Standen, Christian Stanger, Anna Akacich, James Wills, Peter Wheeler, JD Garrahy.

Editorial: news@blankgc.com.au Advertising: advertising@blankgc.com.au

British India set sights for Miami

O’Heart shines a light on conscious living

Triple J darlings British India are hitting the road this month for their national ‘Midnight Homie’ tour. The Melbourne act will roll out 16 shows across the country, including Gold Coast as well as Perth, Ballarat, Newcastle and Narrabeen as well as other capital cities. When they do, they’ll be playing tunes from their sixth studio album ‘Forgetting the Future’ as well as songs from their extensive 14-year back catalogue. British India will be bringing their indie rock charms to Miami Shark Bar on Friday 22 June. Tickets via Oztix.

Held in the foothills of Wollumbin Mt Warning with singing, breathing and movement workshops, live music, environmental awareness raising activities, yoga and film screenings, this new three-day conscious living festival will inspire and re-awaken souls across the region. Set to take place 17 – 19 August in Tyalgum, O’Heart will be a time of nourishment, uplift and networking like you’ve never seen it before. With the goal of zero-waste and the inclusion of solar-powered stages and a single use plastic free focus, this event will also show how big fun can come without the big environmental footprint. Check out the event on FB.com/oheartfest.

Cream and Honey coming to Soundlounge The insanely talented Danny Widdicombe and his band The Honey Sliders are continuing their infamous annual celebrations of their favourite music by bringing the music of Cream back to life next month. It’s been 50 years since Eric Clapton, Jack Bruce and Ginger Baker came together as Cream for the last time. Known for their bedazzling hurricane of technique, drama, emotion and zooming spirit, Cream were at their best when they played live. In a series of sold-out shows dating back to 2013 they’ve paid homage to Hendrix, Neil Young, The Band, The Rolling Stones and The Beatles. The Songs of Cream, performed by The Honey Sliders is at Soundlounge is on Friday 20 July. More at soundlounge.com.au.

Want Some Weed, Man? Those 1990’s legendary stoner rockers Tumbleweed are back on the road. Tumbleweed were formed from the ashes of The Proton Energy Pills and Unheard, from the beachside suburbs of Wollongong, and were rocking the underground scene in Sydney (and even supporting Nirvana on their only Australian Tour), before the band had even released an album. They’ll hit Miami Shark Bar on Friday 13 July.

Gigs: gigs@blankgc.com.au

Acknowledgement of Country We genuinely respect and acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which we work and play. We honour their elders past, present and emerging as well as the rich contribution that continues to be made to society through art, story and music.

About us: Blank GC is independently owned and published by Samantha Morris and Chloe Popa. Founded in 2013 we are the Gold Coast’s independent cultural voice and we rely on advertising as well as our generous contributors to keep us in the fray. Opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the editor, publishers or the writing team.

Printing: Blank magazine is proudly printed by Horton Media Australia, Queensland's only independent cold-set web printer. Printed by an environmentally friendly process using paper

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The Cat Empire return to the Gold Coast Fresh from two months in the studio recording new tunes, Australia’s favourite suppliers of non-stop festival vibes, The Cat Empire are hitting the road with a big bag of hits. Touring nationally throughout September, the band will hit some of their favourite Australian venues and will be taking star on the rise Odette out with them. Gold Coast fans will be delighted to hear that our own NightQuarter is one of the only regional stops being made by the partystarters. You can catch them at Nightquarter on Sunday 23 September for an all-ages show. Tickets via Oztix.

Amy Shark to play Nightquarter Gold Coast’s artist of the year Amy Shark has just announced her ‘Love Monster’ Australian tour dates including a ticketed show at Nightquarter on Saturday 8 September. ‘Love Monster’ is set to be Amy’s largest Australian headline tour to date and to coincide with the announcement, the superstar also dropped the new video for her latest single ‘I Said Hi’. The song has already been certified gold. Tickets for the Love Monster tour are on sale now with some dates already selling out. Snap ‘em up while you can via amyshark.com.

Spit Syndicate drop into GC on 20-date tour

Apply now for Australian Music Week Returning for its fourth year, Australian Music Week has opened showcase applications for the 2018 music conference, which takes place 7-9 November in Sydney's chilled-out beachside shores of Cronulla. Past editions have seen artists like Ruby Fields, Hein Cooper, Skegss, Diesel, The Audreys, Hollow Coves, Hanlon Brothers and more pick up international tours, major festival placements, record and distribution deals, international touring and showcasing opportunities. Apply now at australianmusicweek.com.

In support of new album ‘Orbit’ – their fifth studio offering, Spit Syndicate have just announced a massive national tour. They’re hosting their trademark One Day-style block parties in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth, and promising to deliver an explosive live gig locally as part of the east coast leg. Catch ‘em at Miami Shark Bar on 7 June.

Jaws, Harry Potter and Indiana Jones all in one night With five Academy and 23 Grammy Award under his belt, John Williams is the movie score composer of our generation. His compositions have wrung gasps, laughter and tears from audiences all over the world, and accompanied some of the most iconic movie imagery to ever grace the screen. This month you can join Queensland Symphony Orchestra as they bring the music of John Williams to life. In case you need some reminders, that includes soundtracks from Star Wars, Superman, Jaws, Jurassic Park, Harry Potter, E.T. and Indiana Jones. Roll out the picnic rug at HOTA Home of the Arts, on Saturday 16 June for this epic live music event.

Hollow Coves announce hometown show Coming off the back of their first-ever North American tour, a run of European dates and a double win at the Gold Coast Music Awards (GCMAs), Hollow Coves have also just released their new single ‘Ran Away’. A series of UK festivals and recording time follow next prior to their much anticipated homecoming Australian tour this August. They’ll hit Nightquarter on Friday 24 August and you can listen to their new tune on Spotify.

No Fun At All plan Crowbar assault

Pub Choir hits Marketta Pack yourself into a venue with hundreds of strangers, learn a song in three part harmony in 90 minutes, perform it twice, and if the publishing Gods are smiling: have it immortalised in video forever. No audition, no solos, no commitments, no sheet music, NO WORRIES. (And being able to have one or two drinks might just serve to work on those stage nerves, too). Whether you’ve heard of this phenomenon sweeping the country or not, 4 July is your chance to participate in our very own Pub Choir when it comes to Miami Marketta. Tickets via Oztix.

The Strides bring Declan Kelly and 4’20 sound system to Byron Fresh from rocking Bluesfest, nine-piece reggae dancehall sensation The Strides return to Byron for one big party at The Northern with local friends Declan Kelly and The 4’20 Sound system. With three acclaimed albums under their belt and one set for release in early 2019, a European label signing, festival appearances across the country and having graced the stage with the likes of Third World, Julian Marley, Tony Allen and Groundation, The Strides’ music faithfully builds on the foundations of classic roots reggae with a hiphop edge, forging a sound that brings together modern dance hall, dub beats and reggae-pop. These guys are the real deal. You can catch them 29 June at The Northern.

It’s been far too long since Swedish hardcore punks No Fun At All swept through Australia and this November tour is set to remedy that. What makes this announcement even better is the tour is to support a new album, ‘Grit’ released last month and clearly demonstrating that the band is still at full speed and the shows will not disappoint. After a slight line up change, No Fun At All have kept their fast and melodic sound, adding a deeper edge. With a back catalogue spanning over 20 years full of wicked riffs and clever lyrics No Fun At All are not to be missed. They’ll descend on Crowbar in Brisbane on 2 Noember with Wolfpack, Flangipanies and The Way We Were in support.

Jim Ottaway scores in New Orleans Gold Coast electronic musician, Jim Ottaway walked away with two Zone Music Reporter Awards at the 14th annual awards ceremony and concert in New Orleans last month. Jim was awarded Best Electronic Album for ‘TIMELESS e-MOTION’ and Best Ambient Album for ‘DEEP SPACE BLUE.’ ZMR, which is based in the USA, is recognised as the industry source for New Age, World, Ambient, Electronic, Solo Piano, Relaxation, Instrumental and other genres of music. These awards were for music released during 2017. Check Jim’s latest releases at jimottaway.com.

Ed Kuepper is back, solo and by request Dave Grohl’s mum is coming to BIGSOUND BIGSOUND announced its first three forums, two keynotes and program initiatives last month with a new focus on participation from delegates. And Dave Grohl’s mum – the mother of rock herself and also an author – Virginia Grohl is one of the high profile speakers heading to Brisbane for the event. A bunch of forums will explore the new music business, the role of First nations people in the music industry and how we change music industry behaviour by looking at the psychology of change. BIGSOUND takes place 4 – 7 September and earlybird registrations start at just $370. Register, get details on buyers already attending as well as program announcements at bigsound.org.au.

While we wait with much anticipation on the arrival of the debut album for Ed Kuepper’s favourite new band The Aints! the proto-punk original and career songsmith returns by popular demand this June and July. Playing solo and by request and with 50+ albums to his name, this is always a show for serious music lovers. The Saints, Laughing Clowns and solo Kuepper classics - it’s all up for grabs at Soundlounge on Saturday 16 June.

Block Party focuses on grounds in common Grounds in Common Block Party is an all-ages, licensed event. Taking place on 9 June, the one day festival includes the ethereal and electronic sounds of Jagwar Ma, Crooked Colours and Jack River alongside troubadour Didirri and Gold Coast’s breakout star San Mei. The event is the first from Grounds in Common – a new Sydney-based company focussed on curating unique individual music events across Australia. It lands at Nightquarter on Saturday 9 June. Tickets via Oztix.

Storm Boy on the road Xavier Rudd is taking his ninth studio album ‘Storm Boy’ on the road this August. The new release touches on issues both global and personal and will be part of the suite of songs he’ll deliver at Nightquarter on Friday 10 August.

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GOLD COAST ARTISTS SHOWCASED RECHARGED PARTY IN NEW WELCOMES YOU TO THE KRAM FAM ALBUM Come Together festival is back after a year off and boy, is it ready to rock! Since its inception in 2005, the festival has undergone a few changes. From its pure rock ‘n’ roll beginnings, it morphed into a showcase of all things hip hop and indie. Now, it’s come full circle. And what better way to return to its rockin’ roots than with a sonic blast from the past in the form of Australian music icons Spiderbait and The Superjesus? Also coming along for the wild ride at NightQuarter are Mammal, Osaka Punch and newbies Rackett.

There seems to be a trend of ‘90’s bands either reforming and/or touring. Kram agrees.

We spoke to the effervescent drummer and vocalist Kram from Spiderbait to find out why this festival, with its two date tour (Sydney / Gold Coast), caught Spiderbait’s attention.

“It’s great to see groups of bands from that period all playing together again. I guess bringing out a lot of fans who may not have gone to many shows. It’s just nice to see people coming out and seeing live music. You know with so much technology now that informs so much of everyone’s existence… there’s something about personality in a band or an artist that people want to go experience, the music as much they want to go and experience the happening, the live-ness of it. There’s a real to and fro between the band and the crowd.”

“One is at Luna Park and the other is on the Goldy. I think for the Goldy one it’s slightly regional and it’s been quite a few years since we played up here. Also the line up was cool and we though it would be a good show.” The Superjesus and Spiderbait played pretty much all the same venues in the nineties, and shared the stage more than once. Kram is excited to tour with them again. “It’s been a long time, I think that’s one of the cool things about the tour; that we were going to get to play with them. I did a show on Double J last year and it was like a nineties retrospective program and we were going through old clips and stuff from the ABC show Recovery. I remember a Superjesus clip popping up and just going ‘wow, I wonder what those guys are up to.’ Then fast forward a year and we’re playing with the guys again! “I’m also really interested in this band Rackett, everyone seems to talk about them and that’s the kind of bookend of a musical existence. You’re always rediscovering something older and then discovering something new for the first time.” This definitely holds true for The Superjesus, with the group set to celebrate both the 20th anniversary of their debut album ‘Sumo’ and their latest single release ‘Confide In Me’.

“Maybe there is. I really noticed that first Day On The Green two years ago, the one with You Am I, the reaction was so massive, it was much much bigger than I think anyone expected. Come Together: Recharged may be symptomatic of that reaction.

Between modern rock monsters Mammal, wildly entertaining Osaka Punch, pop-punks Rackett, The Superjesus and Spiderbait, the exchange will certainly be buzzing, and that’s just the way Kram loves it. “That’s what our band is really, just a posse of positivity and energy and we love creating and basking in that euphoric feeling. Welcome to the party. Welcome to our family.” Erin Bourne

Don’t miss out on your tickets to the Come Together: Recharged party at Nightquarter in Helensvale on 30 June. Your ticket will also get you free tram, train or bus travel from Broadbeach to make life even easier. Tickets from nightquarter.com.au.

Some of the city’s most talented emerging artists have been included in a new compilation. The new release is the seventh from Griffith University Queensland Conservatorium’s SEED program, which is an innovative artist agency based on the Gold Coast. The program helps upcoming artists to take their first steps in the music industry. The agency recruits new artists every year and releases a compilation to celebrate. This year SEED has selected seven emerging artists spanning genres from psych-rock through to electronic-pop including Emily Jane, Kaitlyn Martin and Mind & Matches. They join the likes of Tesla Cøils, Sophia Koop and Hazel Mei in the SEED program for 2018. And it’s not just recorded music that SEED is dishing up. On Friday 8 June they’ll launch the compilation album SEED Volume 7 with the first of five weekly live performances at Nightquarter. That launch will feature Phoebe Sinclair – a finalist for a 2017 Gold Coast Music Award – as well as three of SEED’s newest recruits – minimalist folk artist Emily Jane, indie songstress Kaitlyn Martin and dream folk band Mind & Matches. Donna Weston leads the Popular Music program on the Gold Coast and she says that SEED goes from strength to strength, “with Volume 7 again showing just how exceptionally talented our students are.” “Starting out as an annual album release seven years ago, SEED has now developed into an artist management and booking agency,” Donna said. “Our huge engagement with events surrounding the Commonwealth Games demonstrates just how much our industry connections have grown.” After the Gold Coast live concert series finishes, SEED is also heading up the highway to host a weekend showcase in Queen Street Mall in Brisbane from 20–22 July as part of The City Sounds. Samantha Morris

SEED Volume 7 Album Launch concert series takes place every Friday from 8 June – 13 July at Nightquarter (except Friday 29 June).

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MULTI-AWARD WINNER LAURIE ANDERSON COMING TO HOTA In an exciting coup for the revamped HOTA, Home of the Arts, legendary artist Laurie Anderson will be exhibiting in an intimate season of performances, conversations and screenings over four days in June, as the venue’s first Artist in Residence. The beating heart of the world of avant-garde will leave her home in New York City with a suitcase of performances and immersive experiences to perform for rapt Gold Coast crowds. “I think of myself as an experimental artist - always inventing new forms,” says Laurie, and indeed, audiences should be prepared for her special blend of storytelling which not only covers life, love, death and beyond but involves song, spoken word, visual imagery, electronica and soundscapes. Oh, and there’s a concert for dogs. HOTA CEO Criena Gehrke expands on the precinct’s mission and highlights the team effort that has attracted the acclaimed Ms Anderson to our shores. “It's part of our vision at HOTA, Home of the Arts, to bring national and international artists to the Gold Coast,” she says. “HOTA, Home of the Arts has a real commitment to bringing great contemporary artists to the Gold Coast and finding opportunities to link them with local artists. The Artist in Residence program is the perfect way for us to attract high profile artists to our home. “It was due to the vision and great connections of our team that Laurie was approached to be our first International Artist in Residence, she really fits the bill – she's a contemporary, avant-garde artist and a fearless pioneer. She's not been to the Gold Coast before but she's excited about the opportunity and we think her innovative, boundary pushing work will really match the positive energy and experimental spirit of the Gold Coast.” One of art’s truly unique storytellers, Laurie has collaborated with many of the world’s greatest singers, songwriters, poets, musicians, creators and composers, and is widely credited with the most influential arts movements in New York City in recent decades. Ms Gehrke feels her residency at HOTA will be a perfect fit for the burgeoning cultural landscape of the City. “We think the Gold Coast deserves to see amazing, contemporary artists, and the artists themselves are excited to be here,” Criena states. “Laurie brings intellectual rigour and avant-garde works that are both cutting edge and accessible (think Concert for Dogs.) We can't wait to welcome her to HOTA and see what happens. And how incredible is it that we now have the Outdoor Stage, and soon to have a new gallery, to support our programming ambitions. Watch this space, there's so much more to come.” Performer, musician, songwriter, storyteller, violinist, fine artist, writer, director, composer, vocalist, experimental wunderkind and inventor Laurie Anderson is set to explore the world in all its mystery from 20 – 24 June 2018 at HOTA. As the great one says herself, “ART is about paying attention.” Are you paying attention, Gold Coast? Natalie O’Driscoll

Visit hota.com.au for tickets and information

JUN 20 -21 | SOL / STORIES IN THE DARK This immersive voyage takes listeners on an incredible journey of discovery, guided by stories emerging from total darkness. Playing with memory, time and visualisation, Laurie Anderson’s multichannel soundscapes create and destroy mental movies that explore mystery and adventure in collaboration with the audience.

JUN 22 | LANGUAGE OF THE FUTURE The Language of the Future explores the concept of the now. What do we make of the playing out of current events and how do we absorb the nature of politics, what are the talking heads really trying to say and do? Story, song, electronics, and imagery, with the artist’s familiar themes of love, war, communication and history woven in – the art, the language of Laurie Anderson.

JUN 23 | SONGS FROM THE BARDO The Great Liberation Through Hearing in the Bardo – or Tibetan Book of the Dead, is an ancient text used to guide the newly departed through states encountered between death and reincarnation; or liberation from the cycle of rebirth. The international performer, singer Tenzin Choegyal joins avant-garde legend Laurie Anderson to present a musical interpretation of the treasured words and images of the ancient Bardo texts.

JUNE 24 | CONCERT FOR DOGS (Outdoor Stage) Previously performed in New York, London and Brighton, Concert for Dogs is composed of melodies, frequencies and riffs especially created to entertain dogs and their accompanying humans. Sound, music and voice combine to elicit moments of wonder and joy. As part of this event there will also be other quirky dog related activities such as a Dogs that look like their Humans competition, DOGA Dog Yoga by Hot Tropical Yoga and a special screening of the film Heart of a Dog.

JUNE 24 | LAURIE ANDERSON IN CONVERSATION: ALL THE THINGS I LOST IN THE FLOOD (Outdoor Stage intimate mode) Laurie Anderson is a luminary of language. Her recent book, All The Things I Lost In The Flood, Essays on Pictures, Language and Code is about all the things that represent her career, era, and personal experience. In it she examines the power and perils of language and storytelling, dissecting the relationship between words and images – provoking questions about beauty, time, reality, and memory. And so, the conversation begins. In her final performance as 2018 International Artist in Residence at HOTA, Laurie Anderson engages in conversation about stories and language with local writers and artists.

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ADAM BRAND PLAYS HIS MUSICAL MILESTONES With his tour page boldly shouting: “This year marks the twenty-year anniversary of Adam Brand,” Australia’s country music singer with the swagger, shares with Tiffany Mitchell his premillennium beginnings, ahead of his concert of milestone songs at this year’s Mudgeeraba Show. “There were a few different starting points,” reasons Adam Brand about his determination to crack into the music business. “1998 was when the first (selftitled) album was released, it was only the year before that I was busking in the main streets of Tamworth with a little briefcase holding 30 copies of my very first demo cassette. After Tamworth I went to Sydney and handed out those cassette tape copies to record companies – no one had meetings with me and I actually got rejection letters,” admits Brand. “The standard rejection letter at that! I remember I got one from Festival Records in ‘97 as well as everyone else. Then I received another letter six months later with them offering me a record deal. In my scrapbook I have these two letters side by side,” He laughs. “From there I went to Tamworth, did about three gigs during the festival and then went back with my debut album. That’s how it all kicked off – things got weird and exciting at the same time.” The steely sights to keep on track with no hint of a career change like so many of us go through is because of Brand’s grassroots popularity and ability to create music and song writing collaborations that resonate with country music fans. It’s a tough life so why does he love doing it? “That question answers itself – I just love it,” he enthuses. “In any chosen field there are always ups and downs, it’s not an easy road in general – but when the nucleus of that 20-year career is all really centred around something you do love and something you are passionate about, then it gets you 14

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The name Le Rayes is one that might not be too familiar yet with Gold Coast music fans. But on the strength of their debut release, ‘Ego Mask’, they certainly won’t be flying under the radar for much longer. The project features moonlighting members of Gold Coast punk/hardcore band Driven Fear, namely vocalist and guitarist Chris Hyde and drummer Nic Lalot, as well as Joe Lanskey (Promises) and Benny ‘Whiskey’ Willis, from blues rock act Hell and Whiskey.

through those twists and turns. What really drives you is touring. That hour and a half on stage, there is probably 30 to 40 hours of everything else to take into account – travelling, rehearsals, promos all the stuff that you do to get that fix… of that time on stage.” For Brand’s 20-year anniversary tour we ask whether he will be bringing his all-star energetic band to Mudgeeraba Show in June? “Absolutely, they will all be there,” he says. “The set will be a real mixture – a greatest hits tour. A mixture of old songs - a bit of everything - it’s meant to showcase the journey over the years of all those songs.” With well-loved song titles such as ‘Get loud,’ ‘The Anzacs,’ ’New England highway,’ and ‘Cheap country,’ to name a few - fans will no doubt receive a ‘Hell of a ride’ at the agricultural show’s ninetieth birthday milestone in June.

Adam Brand will perform at Mudgeeraba Show on Saturday, 23 June, with new album ‘Milestones’ to be released 13 July. Tickets to the Mudgeeraba Show are available through Oztix.

The sound of Le Rayes marks quite a stylistic shift from the members’ other bands, straddling more of a surf and classic indie rock type vibe. By way of introduction Le Rayes have dropped an impressive three song salvo, ‘Ego Mask’, which you can pick up on striking blue 7 inch vinyl via Pee Records. The A sider, ‘Last Rays’, is a gorgeously uplifting cruisy rock song, allowing the band members to step out of their musically heavier headspaces and give birth to a melodically charged delight. A searing guitar motif breaks things up half way through before the track sails home off the back of its memorably wistful refrain, “you’re like those last rays of summer, because those rays are bitter sweet”. The flip side features the tracks ‘Outside’ and ‘Grey Hair Faded Tattoos’, which ramps up the ’rock out’ quotient with some harder edged fare, while subtly channelling some of the bands stated influences, such as Wavves and The Pixies. We had an enlightening chat with Chris Hyde, to discover more about the world of Le Rayes. Are you expecting fans of your other musical projects to come along for the ride and enjoy Le Rayes too? Or is it more a case of picking up a whole new bunch of fans along the way?

A little bit of both I think – hopefully! Most punk and hardcore fans are into diverse styles in addition to heavy music, so a few might come along for the ride, as there are some tracks that flirt with those heavier genres. However, I guess I’m really looking forward to playing to a bit more of a mixed audience. This project is relaxed, it’s about having a good time, which is something that can appeal to everyone. You've just released a debut 7 inch EP, 'Ego Mask', Is the lead-off single, 'Last Rays', indicative of the sound of the band? As far as the sound goes I’m a massive fan of bands that mix it up on their records; bands like the Pixies and The Beatles did it the best in my opinion. I love not knowing what is coming next, each song has its own character and sound. Or even within a song, being surprised by where the song goes is refreshing and exciting as a listener. That’s hopefully the same with these Le Rayes songs. ‘Last Rays’ has a rock ballad vibe but some other songs are punchier and the punk influence is evident. It’s not an intentional thing, when writing I try to let the songs go where they need to, rather than forcing a structure that comes out contrived in the end. So with this release, each song offers up something different from the last. How is the rest of 2018 shaping up for the band? After this release we’ll be looking to release another EP later in the year as a ‘part 2’ to our current 7 inch release, and the entire project will then be available digitally. I’ve got a lot of material in the works at the moment that I’m excited to lay down soon. After that we’ll be looking forward to the end of the year and the Australian festival season. Anthony Gebhardt

Get the full interview at blankgc.com.au

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SIMON BAKER ON FEAR AND DIRECTING FIRST-TIME ACTORS ‘Breath’ is much more than a coming-of-age tale, and it’s much more than a surf film. Simon Baker’s directorial debut explores the fear that at times holds us back and others drives us forward. With stunning cinematography, breathtaking Australian landscapes and genuine surf sequences, the film adaptation of Tim Winton’s book of the same name is picking up rave reviews wherever it screens. Samantha Morris spoke to Simon Baker and his two lead actors Samson Coulter and Ben Pence about what it was like to work together.

BRYCE LENNOX

It’s not every student who can say they’ve had their artwork utilised for a professional industry event, but 18 year old Gold Coast TAFE alum Bryce Lennox certainly can. For the 2018 Gold Coast Music Awards, Bryce was tasked with animating Skull Murphy, the GCMA mascot created by local artist Dion Parker, for use in the video presentations on the night. Natalie O'Driscoll shot him five questions to get to know the man behind the animation. How did you get into animation? It’s a well-known story now, but neither Samson nor Ben aspired to be on the screen, coming to Simon’s attention after a year-long search for young surfers who might make that transition. Simon says time and time again that it’s easier to teach surfers to act than teaching actors to surf and the younger pair are obviously stoked with their experience. The three men became friends pretty quickly through the filming process and while Simon admits there were lots of challenges in working with people who’d never acted before he says their shared love of the water created a short-hand. “I already lived, kind of, what these guys were living,” he added, “so there was a shorthand there too, and because of that we didn’t have to go into airy-fairy actor stuff that a lot of times you have to go into. I pushed that there is no right and there is no wrong. I tried to create that kind of environment.” That connection around the water and the sea extends way beyond the trio sitting in front of me. The surf sequences are noticeably authentic and Simon is quick to praise the entire team. “It starts with who you work with as collaborators. It’s why I cast two kids that hadn’t acted but could surf. It’s why I used Jodie Cooper – she’s an ex-champion surfer who grew up in the area. She was the prop master for the first time. I used Ric Rifici as a surf cinematographer who had a grounding in drama but understood the water. John Frank as a camera operator – a celebrated water cameraman who’d never shot drama EVER as our lead camera guy,” he said.

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“You’ve gotta put all those things in place … and then you just keep on top of it and you hope for good conditions,” he said. It’s obvious there were a lot of fun moments on the set (and some mishaps) and the trio retell some of them, with plenty of laughter thrown into the mix, but Simon is quick to stress the strong work ethic shared by the team. “We were working our arses off,” he said. “I can’t help but look at these kids – not so much now, but at the time and see an aspect of myself in them at that age… that wideeyed kind of nature. These guys threw themselves into it.” Wide-eyed fear is a recurring theme through the film. Indeed Simon says one of the film’s key messages is that there’s fear in all of us and it’s how you live with it that makes you who you area. “That’s kind of the strength of what fear is. It’s always going to be there in some form,” Simon said. “You invite fear with you on the journey, just don’t let it drive.” Samantha Morris

I have always loved Cartoons, movies and games, and I wanted to learn how to make them. So back in 2016, I started teaching myself how to draw, 2D animate and I also started to learn 3D animation at TAFE as well. What were the courses you actually did at TAFE? When I first went to TAFE in 2016, I completed a short course on how to use adobe illustrator and then later that year I completed a Certificate 3 in Media where I learned more about 2D animation and started to learn 3D animation. Then in 2017, I completed a Diploma of Interactive Digital Media where I learned a lot more about 3D animation along with web design. I graduated in November that year and I am really happy with what I learned and how I was taught. What’s next now your study has completed? I have not started working full time yet unfortunately, but I would love to be able to do work similar to what I did with Skull Murphy for the Gold Coast music awards. I love making things in both 3D and 2D, and I would really enjoy working in that industry. How were you chosen for the job? I was approached by Ann Stevens from TAFE with the opportunity to be able to do some work for the Gold Coast Music Awards and It sounded exactly like something I wanted to do. So I then met with Chloe Popa, Dion Parker and Karen Graham to discuss what they wanted me to do with Skull Murphy. Then we came up with some ideas and I started working on the project. What were some of the challenges you faced during the process?

‘Breath’ had its Australian premiere at the Gold Coast Film Festival and is now screening across the country. Read the full interview with Simon, Samson and Ben at blankgc.com.au.

The main issue I was faced was the scope of the project, I had never done anything of this size before let alone for an actual client. Also I was going on holidays just before the end of my deadline, so I had to make sure that I used my time wisely to be able to get everything done and at a quality I could be proud of. But in the end, I was really happy with how it all turned out and I learned a lot through the process of making Skull Murphy.

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songwriting and delivery. The band worked with George Carpenter to record the song live to tape as some of the greatest recordings of all time have been, and the track will be pressed to vinyl on the forthcoming EP. The single ‘Little Tornado’ will be launched at Nightquarter on Friday 27 July.

Hammers announce Debut EP, release new track Northern Rivers / South East QLD band Hammers have just announced that their debut EP ‘Homeblokes’ will be released on 22 June, and to celebrate they have just today unleashed a new single and video. Following on from the release of their single ‘Dead Set’ (which was nominated for Video of the Year at the 2018 Gold Coast Music Awards), the Hammers boys are back with a new clip for ‘Speak of the Devil’, once again shot and directed by Colin Jeffs. It’s a cracker. They’ve also announced a release date for their debut EP ‘Homeblokes’. It’s out 22 June but you can pre-order now! Follow the lads at facebook.com/HammersOfficial.

Scarlet Kill drop anthemic Warriors Gold Coast three-piece pop punk outfit Scarlett Kill have released a new single, produced by ARIAnominated producer Stuart Stuart. The accompanying ‘Warriors’ video includes stunning Japanese visuals with the song evoking messages of the slow grind to the top. Brothers Will, Matt and Mitch Tyler have been seeking ‘their sound’ over recent tracks, experimenting across a bunch of sub-genres and they feel that ‘Warriors’ has hit their sweet spot. Stream at all the usual spots or check the video via Youtube.

On the back of debut single ‘Depth Perception’, new GC outfit Loose Leaf – the long-desired project of Rory Switzer (Yes Sir Noceur) - return with a second track ahead of their debut EP due July. The new song sets out with a dash of soul, showcasing sweeping melodies and a chorus with serious ear-worm tendencies - both catchy and funked up. Loose Leaf are at Miami Shark Bar on Saturday 7 July. You can hear ‘Crowd Pleaser’ via Spotify and triple j Unearthed.

Taylor unleash Little Tornado The destructive nature of love is under the microscope in a new track from Taylor out on 8 June. ‘Little Tornado’, the first single off an upcoming EP due is a sparse track with a focus on raw and earnest 18

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Matt Turner has spent most of the past decade thrashing out brash songs behind a drum kit. But now the singer-songwriter and multiinstrumentalist has made his solo debut with the release of the single ‘Wander’. The track sees Turner – a young but seasoned performer armed with just an acoustic guitar as well as raw, heartfelt vocals. There’s a touch of melancholy as well as uplifting contemplations of life, love and loss in the track with a nod to Tolkien: “not all who wander are lost.” You can listen via all the usual streaming channels.

McKenzie are Living for the Moment

Emily Jane behind closed doors

Loose Leaf release Crowd Pleaser

Turner returns with Wander

Gold Coast indie-folk artist Emily Jane is still studying a Bachelor of Popular Music at Griffith University but is already kicking goals. Included in the SEED program’s compilation album for 2018 and scoring radio play for her single ‘Behind Closed Doors’, she’s now got a three-track EP in the wings, due for premiere via Happy Mag on 4 June. The EP tackles social issues around violence in the home, toxic relationships, alcoholism and loneliness – all big issues for a 20 year old troubadour. While only three tracks in length, the EP takes listeners on a sonic journey with simple vocals and layered electric guitar through strings, harmonies and piano. Her live show charts a similar course. When she performs at the SEED album launch at Nightquarter on 8 and 15 June, she’ll debut her band with Isabella Leon (cello), Gabrielle Kerr (violin), Zak Muller (drums) and Tiahn Berg (keys) joining her on stage. You can stream the EP on Bandcamp from 4 June.

Newcomers McKenzie may have only just released their debut single, but they’ve slowly been earning their stripes as well as fans right across the State. The track ‘Living for the moment’, which was released two months ago, introduces us to brothers Nick and Jordan Beech as well as mates Jarrah Lange and Aidan Schilling who formed the band in SA’s Riverland before relocating to the Gold Coast. The track is a classic pop rock offering formed out of family tragedy and sees the fourpiece move from their cover-band roots into new territory. You can listen via Spotify.

Twelve Past Midnight

Electric Zebra drop Escalator 2017 was kind to Electric Zebra. Supporting Cloud Nothings, Screamfeeder and Horror My Friend, and placing in 4ZZZ’s Hot 100 for the second year running, it really seemed like this hardworking outfit hit its stride. With no PR label, manager or agents, the young band hit the recording studio with producer Darek Mudge (Screamfeeder) to give birth to ‘Escalator’ – a song which clearly shows the band’s sound maturing. They took extra production and mixing into their own hands this time too, allowing them to add layers of guitar and vocals from home. As a result ‘Escalator’ treads some new sonic territory, whilc staying true to Electric Zebra’s alt-rock sound. They’re touring in May, so keep your eyes peeled, and turn your ears to Spotify to take in the new song.

Peach Fur hit the road with Doreen Drive Gold Coast four piece Peach Fur have already captivated music lovers with their psychedelic rock tunes and brash live show. Reaching over 1.3 million Spotify streams and more than 30k monthly listeners on their last EP ‘Pleasures and Necessities’. Peach Fur have expertly mixed the delectable flavours of rock ‘n’ roll with a funky fusion of reggae and psych surf vibes on their new seven-track wonder ‘Doreen Drive’. And with that release comes an east coast tour. Peach Fur kick off the tour at Lennox Groove in June and wrap it all up in Adelaide in August. And of course their treasured Gold Coast fans get some love. They’ll hit Miami Shark Bar on Saturday 16 June, elsewhere on Friday 6 July and Snooker World on Saturday 11 August.

Desire for Høt Coffee What started as a jam turned into something much deeper for avantgarde duo Høt Coffee, who hit the Gold Coast scene in late 2016. Filled with electro-indie beats and laced with American-influenced r’n’b, Matt Hansford and Wade de Souza combined their diverse tastes in music to bring deep tones, lively spice and sweet acidity to their music. New track ‘Desire’ delivers deep beats, catchy r’n’b vocals and a simple layering of sounds, which results in a song which will be just as home on radio as it will be on a late night playlist. They’re live at Currumbin Pub 1 June supporting Machine Club.

Soaring indie-rock is at the heart of Twelve Past Midnight’s new single ‘Daffodils & Absinthe’. Piecing together influences from acts like The 1975, Catfish and the Botlement and Gang of Youths, this Gold Coast / Brisbane act is blowing up local venues and last year showcased at Little BIGSOUND. They’ve just returned from tour, where they took their electric live show to a bunch of new audiences. Listen to ‘Daffodils & Absinthe’ via Bandcamp.

New Tide for Matthew Armitage You’ll remember we wrote about Matthew Armitage’s single ‘Love from Afar’, the boot-thumping, blues track left a lasting impression, so we’re stoked to hear the news that the artist will release his debut album ‘New Tide’ in June. The songs on ‘New Tide’ were recorded by Armitage using his live set up of an acoustic nylon string guitar, vocals and foot-stomp percussion. The result is an incredibly full sound with stark elements that capture the authenticity of recording core elements live and later overdubbing only electric guitars, harmony vocals additional percussion and some keys. Matthew is on tour with Pete Murray through June, July and August and the album ‘New Tide’ is available from 8 June. The official album launch is at Maverick Art Space in Coolangatta on 16 June. More at matthewarmitage.com.

Twelve Past Midnight Soaring indie-rock is at the heart of Twelve Past Midnight’s new single ‘Daffodils & Absinthe’. Piecing together influences from acts like The 1975, Catfish and the Botlement and Gang of Youths, this Gold Coast / Brisbane act is blowing up local venues and last year showcased at Little BIGSOUND. They’ve just returned from tour, where they took their electric live show to a bunch of new audiences. Listen to ‘Daffodils & Absinthe’ via Bandcamp.

Nobody for The Ruiins

Amy Shark: I Said Hi It’s already been streamed more than five million times times, had commercial airplay and racked up oodles of positive reviews, not to mention being certified GOLD. Yeah, it was highly anticipated, that’s for sure. Amy Shark’s new track ‘I Said Hi’ off her upcoming album is a solid pop offering that cements Amy’s position as one of Australia’s fastest rising stars. The new album ‘Love Monster’, due for release in July is available for pre-order now and includes a free download of both the new track ‘I Said Hi’ and Amy’s breakout banger ‘Adore’. Win-win. She’s also announced an Australian tour with a sneaky ticketed Nightquarter show on Sunday 8 September. Pre-order the album at smarturl.it/as.lovemonster or stream the new track on Spotify.

Driven Fear unleash My Rhythm Sense You know it’s going to be a good month when it kicks off with new hardcore sounds from one of the city’s best metal outfits. Driven Fear – who showcased live at BIGSOUND last year and scored a finalist berth in the Gold Coast Music Awards – have delivered a new single and video in ‘My Rhythm Sense’. Vocalist Tim Hyde said the song was originally about capturing the role hardcore and punk music has in improving mental health and keeping people together as musicians and friends. But that the notion changed part way through the writing process… “we all have another sense that goes somewhat unrecognized, typically speaking a rhythm sense.” The accompanying video, filmed on a dirt road cutting through a sugarcane plantation being burned is simply stunning. You can listen to the track, which was recorded at Core Studios by Nik Carpenter on Spotify and watch the new video, which was produced by Collin Jeffs Media on Youtube.

Gold Coast via NSW North Coast duo The Ruiins have released their debut EP ‘Nobody’ following the release of two earlier singles off the record. They’ve been performing and writing music for the past two years gracing stages such as Falls, Grow Your Own and Caloundra Music Festival and amassing fans along the way. Govinda Doyle has worked his magic on the EP, which takes punters on a listening journey full of explosive instrumentals, driving guitars and melodic foot-stomping. You can listen to the full EP on Spotify.

Donny Love release Sensation Donny Love have developed close to a cult following on the Gold Coast, so we’re expecting their album launch at elsewhere in June to sell out and for all kinds of shenanigans to unfold. Their debut LP ‘Sensation’ which is out now is hard to describe – and I think the band likes it that way. We’ve reviewed it in full in this here magazine, and you can get your ears around the single ‘Dysfunctional Lovers’ which comes off the EP while you read it and then you can sort your tickets for the launch on 8 June.

Want to find out when all these guys and gals are playing live? Hit up the Gold Coast gig guide at blankgc.com.au and get thee to a gig.

GOLD COAST MUSIC AWARDS 2018

All the winners Celebrating its fourth year, 2018 Gold Coast Music Awards announced its winners at a sold out beachside event on 3 May, crowning Australia's indie pop darling Amy Shark as Artist of the Year for the second time with a couple of surprises in the mix. A finalist in four categories, Shark was pipped at the post by The Mason Rack Band for Live Act of the Year, folk duo Hollow Coves for Song of the Year and Lane Harry x Ike Campbell for Video of the Year.

Following up their 2015 Artist of the Year win, roots duo Hussy Hicks took out Album of the Year for their fifth studio album, 'On The Boundaries' while Hollow Coves doubled down, adding Breakout Artist of the Year to their wins of the night.

TWO TEARS IN A BUCKET What happens when you combine an evocative vocalist possessing an impressive technical range with a virtuoso guitar player fusing blues and roots with folk, country, jazz, punk and rock? Let me introduce you to hillbilly jazz. Expertly delivered by Two Tears in a Bucket, the musical collaboration of Nathan ‘Slyde’ Petersen and Michelle Fitness, this unique interpretation of traditional blues and roots tunes is something you’ve got to see (or hear) to believe.

Nathan Petersen is a journeyman songwriter with street kid punk roots and a hearty respect for folk traditions as well as virtuosic skill. Songbird Michelle Fitness has 20 years experience singing blues, jazz, fusion and roots music up and down the east coast between Brisbane and Melbourne. Together they are Two Tears in a Bucket. And they deliver some good ol’ foot stomping gritty blues. These two selfacclaimed hillbillies from Lismore definitely know what’s what when it comes to laying down the groovey blues. From the very first moment Nathan Slyde Petersen and Michelle Fitness met on stage they knew they had something special together. Intuitively, they blend to make magic musical moments, playing off each other with a depth of understanding to match any of the great musical partnerships of the last century. They’re constantly evolving and strengthening their musical partnership, adding new original songs and instruments and exploring all aspects of blues and roots. You can expect a repertoire of original songs and unique interpretations of traditional blues and roots tunes when they hit local venues this month.

"The categories were hotly contested in the judging this year," said panel chair and Queensland Conservatorium deputy director, Donna Weston, "Given the strength of nominations, the judges just had to keep coming back to the criteria to ensure the right results were reached." Bleach* Festival producer and Awards judge Julia Bridger said, "Hollow Coves were a revelation for the judging panel this year. Beautifully written and recorded songs, and incredible steps that they’ve made career-wise meant they were deserving winners in a very competitive field of finalists. "The Mason Rack Band's longevity, contribution to the local live scene and consistent delivery of exceptional performances made them a winning choice for Live Act of the Year," she said. Gold Coast stoner rock band, Baltimore Gun Club took out the People's Choice Award, which was voted by fans online and industry in a two stage process. And, of course, a thriving music scene is not possible without events and venues who consistently program quality original acts with a high standard of production and customer experience and last year, Shakafest and Miami Shark Bar did just that, taking out Event of the Year and Venue of the Year, respectively. The Awards ceremony, hosted by former triple j favourite Dom Alessio, sold out with the general public enjoying a free live concert by Bobby Alu, award-winners Hussy Hicks and finalists Electrik Lemonade and Eliza and the Delusionals. Acting Mayor Cr Donna Gates congratulated all the local artists.

Samantha Morris

“What an achievement for all involved, there’s a real depth of talent across the Gold Coast and it’s fantastic to see them celebrated through these music awards.”

Two Tears in a Bucket are at Little Big Fest, Saturday 9 June in Mackay (hosted by Mason Rack) and 17 and 27 June at The Scottish Prince at Palm Beach. Which is totally on point, because this hoe-down is paired perfectly with whiskey!

In partnership with Surfers Paradise Alliance, Gold Coast Music Awards kicked off Surfers Paradise LIVE (3-6 May) with four days and nights of non-stop, free music throughout the Surfers Paradise central precinct to follow this weekend with some of Australia’s all-time greats including Jimmy Barnes, Daryl Braithwaite, Jon Stevens and Kate Ceberano as well as a swag of Gold Coast talent. The Gold Coast Music Awards is proudly supported by City of Gold Coast.

Album of the Year sponsored by beatniks

Hussy Hicks – On The Boundaries Artist of the Year

sponsored by Miami Shark Bar + Surfers Paradise Beergarden

Amy Shark Breakout Artist of the Year

sponsored by Griffith University and Queensland Conservatorium SEED Program

Hollow Coves Event of the Year

sponsored by QT Gold Coast

Lane Harry x Ike Campbell – The Dash Directed by Nils Nilsson

BELLO The perfect winter festival

Imagine a killer music festival with an a-class lineup, set in a gorgeous hinterland town just 30 minutes from Coffs Harbour. Srsly, if that doesn’t scream ROAD TRIP, then nothing will.

crowd, and a venue up the road is absolutely thumping to an eight-piece dub band,” says festival programmer Kate Atkinson.

Bello Winter Music Festival runs over three days right on the crystal clear waters of Bellingen River. And like its spring sister Mullum Music Festival, Bello is loved by musicians and punters alike for its impeccable programming. There’s a mix of international, national and local acts, a focus on youth mentorship and gigs set for existing venues through the town.

One festival wristband gets you into each venue across the town with each performance promising to be intimate enough that you get to hear and see everything from the comfort of an actual seat. Unless you want to dance, in which case there’ll be space for that too. Each venue has its own bar (no tickets required here), there’s a bunch of proper loos and there’s much more than music on offer.

Justin Townes Earle, Lior, Deborah Conway, Caiti Baker, William Crighton, Thando, Z-Star Trinity,and Dustyesky lead the lineup for this year’s event. With Maddy Jane, Hot Potato Band, Perch Creek, Cheap Fakes also scoring sets in a bill that includes more than 70 acts.

Bellingen itself is a bucket-list destination for many east coast roadtrippers. It’s a creative and alternative village, just a short drive from the beach towns of Coffs Harbor surrounded by farmland and old-growth rainforest.

From 12 – 15 July, the town of Bellingen will come alive with live music and a friendly, inclusive community atmosphere. It’s little wonder that the event has been so wholeheartedly embraced by music lovers of all persuasions as well as musicians who rave about the laid-back, mountain vibes. Scoping the program in more depth reveals The Northern Folk, a 10-piece folk band with a big brass section as well as Dave Dondero – named one of the world’s top living songwriters by US National Public Radio. There’s eight-piece China Beach, a garage disco, freaky funk band and there’s Astro Travellers whose live shows are completely off the hook. Ten-piece The Morrisons deliver bluegrass and Masco Sound System bring analogue dance music to the party. “We love that in one venue there can be three singers huddled around one mic singing gorgeous harmonies to an entranced 22

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And just like the town itself, Bello Winter Festival offers a quirky mix of programming for punters. There’s a heap of free street theatre and workshops as well as pop-up performances and an entire sustainabilityfocused mini festival called Bello Leaf where you can join guided rainforest walks, learn primitive fire-making and listen to a bunch of talks. Plus there’s an arts and craft marketing in the centre of town and a New Orleans style musical street parade through the town on Sunday. If it sounds like we’re frothing over Bello Winter Festival, it’s for good reason. You will be too. Samantha Morris

Bello Winter Festival is 12 – 15 July in Bellingen, NSW. Tickets at bellowintermusic.com.

GET THOSE SUBURBAN TEENAGE WASTELAND BLUES

Explosive Californian punk legends Strung Out are heading back to Australia to tour their massive and much loved album, ‘Suburban Teenage Wasteland Blues’. This is the first time they’ve toured the album in its entirety but it won’t be the only tunes smashing eardrums. Punters can also expect ear blasting, punk grin inducing favourites like ‘Analog’, and ‘Too Close To See’ from their epic catalogue. Jake Kiley, obviously really looking forward to the tour, spoke to Erin Bourne about the upcoming shows. “It’s one of our more popular albums that people seem to have requested a lot,” Jake explained. “It will get people psyched to come out.” But don’t feel that the set list is completely locked down. Jake says the band is still working that out but that fans can be assured they’ll cover newer albums and the best of their entire catalogue. “You know you have certain hits that you have to play every night, that will always be in the show but then there’s other songs that you can rotate around and do new stuff,” he said. Although there is one criteria for the songs being included – and that is that the band has a new drummer, “so we’ll have to stick to the songs we’ve worked out with him.” Which leads to the question of what happened to the drummer the band had for 20-odd years? “We kind of just kept putting it off because we wanted to keep that original line up in tact but it got to a point where it was just completely counter-productive and I don’t think the band could have really existed in that situation any longer,” Jake explained.

As well as mixing up the lineup, the band’s also mixed up its sonic offering. There is a lot to do still with the recent release of acoustic EP, 'Black Out The Sky'. "That will be really cool you know, it's the first time we've done something in acoustic format," says Jake. “It’s very stripped down and different from anything we’ve done so far.” “There’s not a lot of drums but there’s a lot of other instrumentation on it and the vocals really sell the songs. It’s something we’ve been talking about doing for a while and last year we just decided to put some time into it and make it happen.” “It’s a cool thing that we can interject into our set, we can do acoustic shows here and there. But it’s not like the new direction of the band or something like that.’ No need to panic about an ongoing focus on acoustic vibes though. Jake assures fans that while it was a fun experiment, Strung Out are already working on the next full electric record – possibly one of the most aggressive things they’ve released. “It’s important as artists to challenge yourself from time to time and do something that is completely out of your comfort zone.” Erin Bourne

Strung Out will be bringing hits – new and old – to Miami Shark Bar on 23 June.

LLOYD SPIEGEL

Traversing The Backroad Blues Full-force acoustic blues maestro Lloyd Spiegel is certainly an artist with ample musical pedigree and longevity. Named by Australian Guitar Magazine as one of the top 50 Aussie guitarists of all time, Lloyd has been a worldly traveller on the music scene since the tender age of 13, when he first started performing. He’s also racked up a jaw dropping list of support slots, including Bob Dylan, Etta James and Ray Charles! And he continues to be an invaluable mentor to a bunch of young up and coming musicians on the Australian music scene. Eight studio albums and two decades later sees the release of his newest long player, ‘Backroads’, which marks somewhat of an artistic departure into the realms of amped up, electrified blues rock. Said Spiegel of the experience; “I hadn’t really let loose on an electric guitar on record since I was a teenager – it felt good.” Fresh from wowing crowds as part of this year’s Blues On Broadbeach Festival, Spiegel will be out on the road again supporting the release of ‘Backroads’ over the coming months, including a performance at Soundlounge on 29 June.

I haven't been in a while now. There was a brief ‘perfect storm’ of three years where Cole Clark, the guitar company I work with, became quite popular over there, and as a result I did too. I was at the right place at the right time I guess. That was my first experience playing theatres and that changed my career path totally. Much of what I learned there I brought home and infused into my career here. I built my confidence as an entertainer in Tokyo. I think what I loved about played there was the shock factor. The way I attack my acoustic guitar and my frantic style of having no style was brand new to the audiences I had there. I am possibly heading back next year. It would be great to tour there again. Anthony Gebhardt Lloyd Spiegel is at Soundlounge on Friday 29 June.

In the lead up, we had an enlightening chat with the man himself.. Your latest album, 'Backroads', marks a bit of a departure from your typical sound into a more raw, electrified realm. Are you pleased with how the record has turned out? I guess it's a matter of letting the songs dictate the path the album takes. These songs just screamed out for punch and drums and I had been itching for that change too. I love playing solo, but there's a limit to what anyone can do as a solo act. This group of songs gave me a free pass to think bigger and I'm really happy with it. I read that at the age of 16 you lived for a time with blues legend Brownie McGhee!? What was that like? Brownie was the patron of the blues society in Melbourne. Turns out he actually read the newsletters. I was invited to his home in Oakland to play with him. It's one of those surreal things that I still see as a cartoon in my head. Brownie might as well have been Elvis to me. He was my absolute hero, so to be a school kid from Melbourne in his home seemed beyond ludicrous. I guess I feel very much a link in the chain as a result of that. Like I was welcomed to ‘the club’ by him, or was given the responsibility of carrying on after he left us. I don't think I've ever played a show since that moment that didn't include one of his songs. You have a healthy following in Japan. Do you get over there often to play and promote your work, and how do the Japanese audiences react to you and your music?

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JUNE FRIDAY 1 JUNE Sook East Coast Tour | Miami Shark Bar Machine Club + Free The Genie + Høt Coffee + Diskodisco | Currumbin Pub Benny D Williams (5.00pm) | Burleigh Brewing Co Phil Jamieson | soundlounge

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Phoebe Sinclair + Mind & Matches + Kaitlyn Martin + Emily Jane + NightQuarter Spectacular + Rick Barron (The Backyard) | NightQuarter

The Pacific Belles (2.00pm) (Covers) | RSL Club Southport Hillbilly Goats (2.00pm) | Fishos Robert Bostock (2.00pm) | Burleigh Brewing Co Benny D Williams (1.00pm) | Botanical Gardens

Jason Delphin | Watermark Hotel & Spa Tessa Devine (5.00pm) | Cabana Bar & Lounge, Southport Sharks Krush (Covers) | Southport Sharks

Nomika + Sean Fitzgerald (5.00pm) Miami Marketta

Lann – Acoustic Soup (12.30pm) | Emerald Lakes Golf Club

Devils Kisok (Covers) | RSL Club Southport

Luke Bennett (5.00pm) | The Promenade, Robina Town Centre

Herbie Walker | Cambus Wallace Dave Murray | Scottish Prince

Dave Murray (4.00pm) | Balter Brewing

McKenzie + Dan Clark | Beach Hotel, Byron

Hillbilly Goats (2.00pm) | Fishos

Island Night: Can You Feel It Motown Show + Thomas Stowers + NightQuarter Spectacular + Lock n Load (The Backyard) | NightQuarter Mark Watson | Watermark Hotel & Spa Paris Lane (5.00pm) | Cabana Bar & Lounge, Southport Sharks Blues Arcadia (Covers) | Southport Sharks Goran Sedlar (Covers) | RSL Club Southport Thalia Matheson (4.00pm) | Balter Brewing

SATURDAY 2 JUNE The Wayward Suns (1.00pm) | House of Brews Salt & Steel + Ole Falco (4.00pm) | Miami Marketta Stonefield + Dreamtime + Sacred Shrines | Mo’s Desert Clubhouse Lima Manu (5.00pm) | The Promenade, Robina Town Centre The Long Johns + Round Mountain Girls + Matty Rogers + NightQuarter Spectacular + Paradise Road (The Backyard) | NightQuarter Dubarray (7.00pm) + T K Bassdread (2.00pm) | Sheoak Shack Benny D Williams | Chinatown Markets Alex Fietz | Watermark Hotel & Spa Living in the 70s (Covers) | Southport Sharks Long Gone Daddys (Covers) | RSL 26 www.blankgc.com.au Club Southport

Russell Sprout (1.00pm) (Covers) | RSL Club Southport

MONDAY 4 JUNE Jet | The Tivoli Greg Banks (11.00am) (Covers) | RSL Club Southport

TUESDAY 5 JUNE Leigh James | Beach Hotel, Byron Matt Armitage | Cambus Wallace Stephen Lovelight | Scottish Prince

SATURDAY 9 JUNE Sea n Sound: Paul Kelly + Kingswood + Harts + Pierce Brothers + Angie McMahon + Sea Gypsies + MORE | The Wharf Tavern, Mooloolaba Whoa! EP Launch + Ultraviolet Fuzz + More | Miami Shark Bar Grubfest: Nowhere Else + MORE | Eddie’s Grubhouse Ben Wilson (5.00pm) | Miami Marketta Born Lion + Serial Killer Dinner Party + Nowhere Else | Mo’s Desert Clubhouse Christine (5.00pm) | The Promenade, Robina Town Centre Fonzaius | Beach Hotel, Byron Tahlia Matheson (2.00pm) | Burleigh Brewing Co Jagwa Ma + Crooked Colours + Jack River + Didirri + San Mei + Colt Seavers Band (The Backyard) | NightQuarter Bill Jacobi (2.00pm) | Sheoak Shack Benny D Williams (5.00pm) | Burleigh BBQ Bazaar Nyssa Berger | Watermark Hotel & Spa Festival of the Stone: Last Dinosaurs + Choirboys + Tropical Zombie | Stone & Wood Brewery Rush Hour (Covers) | Southport Sharks Stoneage Romeos (Covers) | RSL Club Southport

SUNDAY 10 JUNE

Alysia Rose | Scottish Prince The Dennis Sisters + Nyssa Ray (2.00pm) | Advancetown Hotel Ear Candy (1.00pm) (Covers) | RSL Club Southport

MONDAY 11 JUNE Michael Whitmore (1..00am) (Covers) | RSL Club Southport

TUESDAY 12 JUNE

Dirty Channel (Covers) | Southport Sharks Wally & The Gators (Covers) | RSL Club Southport Ondre Davis (4.00pm) | Balter Brewing

SATURDAY 16 JUNE From Jaws to Jurassic Park: The Music of John Williams | HOTA Outdoor Stage

Andy Jansz-Brown | Beach Hotel, Byron

Peach Fur + Stingin’ Rogers + Lens + Ultraviolet Fuzz | Miami Shark Bar

Matthew Armitage | Cambus Wallace

Crescent City Players + Liv Heyer (4.00pm) | Miami Marketta

Elska | Scottish Prince

Scott Dalton (5.00pm) | The Promenade, Robina Town Centre

WEDNESDAY 13 JUNE

Jordan J Leigh (2.00pm) | Burleigh Brewing Co

Scott Day Vee | Beach Hotel, Byron James Street Preachers | Cambus Wallace

Muki + NightQuarter Spectacular + Matty Rogers (The Backyard) | NightQuarter

Herbie Walker | Scottish Prince

Helen Ashworth (2.00pm) | Sheoak Shack

THURSDAY 14 JUNE

Benny D Williams (1.00pm) | Robina Community Centre

Free The Genie | Cambus Wallace James Street Preachers | Scottish Prince Zookeepers (Covers) | Southport Sharks

Mark Watson | Watermark Hotel & Spa California Kings: Red Hot Chili Peppers Tribute Show | Parkwood Tavern Ed Kuepper | soundlounge

FRIDAY 15 JUNE

Dance On (Covers) | Southport Sharks

The Wayward Suns + Dreams Of Indigo + Daneel & the Feel + Ryan Munro | Currumbin Pub

Gemini Duo (Covers) | RSL Club Southport

Salt & Steel | Nimbin Hotel Perch Creek + Felicity Lawless (5.00pm) | Miami Marketta Sarah Grant (5.00pm) | The Promenade, Robina Town Centre

Rumours: Fleetwood Mac Tribute | RSl Club Southport

SUNDAY 17 JUNE Lisa Hunt (2.00pm) | Fishos

Pink Zinc + Leigh James | Beach Hotel, Byron

Lann – Acoustic Soup (12.30pm) | Emerald Lakes Golf Club

Benny Whiskey (5.00pm) | Burleigh Brewing Co

Elska | Cambus Wallace

AGWA + Cold Ghoast + Emily Jane + Angus Oastler + NightQuarter Spectacular + Marshall Okell (The Backyard) | NightQuarter Graham Hobson | Watermark Hotel & Spa

Lann – Acoustic Soup (12.30pm) | Emerald Lakes Golf Club

Ironing Maidens | Quickie-Mat Laundromat, Kirra Beach

Angelo Pash | Cambus Wallace

Michael Eotvos (5.00pm) | Cabana Bar & Lounge, Southport Sharks

Two Tears in a Bucket | Scottish Prince Lisa Hunt (2.00pm) | Fishos Merlin Solo (1.00pm) (Covers) | RSL Club Southport

MONDAY 18 JUNE Craig Shaw (11.00am) (Covers) | RSL Club Southport

TUESDAY 19 JUNE

SATURDAY 23 JUNE

WEDNESDAY 27 JUNE

Dan Clark | Beach Hotel, Byron

Outmoshyama Festival: Nowhere Else + MORE | Kirra Sports Club

Guy Kachel, Beacht Hotel Byron

Stephen Lovelight | Cambus Wallace

WEDNESDAY 20 JUNE Ben Walsh | Beach Hotel, Byron Ondre Davis Experience | Cambus Wallace

Jesse Morris Band + Mark Gray (4.00pm) | Miami Marketta Breanna Fielding (5.00pm) | The Promenade, Robina Town Centre Shag Rock + Adam Harpaz | Beach Hotel, Byron

James Street Preachers | Cambus Wallace Two Tears in a Bucket | Scottish Prince

THURSDAY 28 JUNE

+ Jewells and the Wolfe Pack (The Backyard) | NightQuarter Jason Delphin (2.00pm) | Sheoak Shack Mark Watson | Watermark Hotel & Spa Leave This Town Pop Punk Festival: Stateside + Shorelines + Skies Collide + Joy in Motion + Homefront + MORE | Ahepa Hall, Brisbane

Josh Boyd Trio | Scottish Prince

Devil’s Kiosk + NightQuarter Spectacular + Magnetic Force (The Backyard) | NightQuarter

Lloyd Spiegel | Byron Theatre, Byron Bay

THURSDAY 21 JUNE

Tim Stokes (2.00pm) | Sheoak Shack

Pink Zinc Duo | Beach Hotel, Byron

Ondre Davis Experience | Scottish Prince

Benny D Williams | Hotel Brunswick

Glenn Cardier + Christian Marsh | M-Arts Precinct Murwillumbah

Zookeepers (Covers) | Southport Sharks

Glenn Cardier + Christian Marsh | Nimbin Bush Theatre

JULY

Free The Genie | Cambus Wallace

Alex Fietz | Watermark Hotel & Spa

FRIDAY 29 JUNE

SUNDAY 1 JULY

James Street Preachers | Scottish Prince

Adam Brand | Mudgeeraba Show

Zookeepers (Covers) | Southport Sharks

British India | The Triffid

FRIDAY 22 JUNE

Funk N Wagnells (Covers) | Southport Sharks

British India | Miami Shark Bar Bondi Cigars | soundlounge AKoVA (intimate night with, call 0421 603 327 to book) | Chevron Island Kobrakai + The Point 0 Five + Missionary Deep + We All Drive | Currumbin Pub Bearfoot + Afi James (5.00pm) | Miami Marketta Jerome Williams (5.00pm) | The Promenade, Robina Town Centre Burger Joint (5.00pm) | Burleigh Brewing Co Athena Joy + Cadence + Hazel Mei + Kaitlyn Martin + NightQuarter Spectacular | NightQuarter Angus Oastler (5.00pm) | Currumbin Sanctuary Markets Michael Hickey | Watermark Hotel & Spa Benny Hanna (5.00pm) | Cabana Bar & Lounge, Southport Sharks McKenzie (Covers) | Southport Sharks Trilogy (Covers) | RSL Club Southport James Delphin (4.00pm) | Balter Brewing

Bondi Cigars | Caloundra RSL

Captain Wow (Covers) | RSL Club Southport

MONDAY 25 JUNE Doubleshot (11.00am) (Covers) | RSL Club Southport

TUESDAY 26 JUNE Greg Kew | Beach Hotel, Byron Izzy Day | Cambus Wallace Jason Delphin | Scottish Prince

Free The Genie | Cambus Wallace

P!NK Tribute | Southport Sharks The Smokin Crawdads (Covers) | RSL Club Southport

Robert Bostock (2.00pm) | Burleigh Brewing Co

Goran Sedlar Duo (Covers) | RSL Club Southport

SATURDAY 30 JUNE Neil Finn with Orchestra: Out of Silence | HOTA Outdoor Stage Burning Hands + Joe Murphy (4.00pm) | Miami Marketta Mark Divola (5.00pm) | The Promenade, Robina Town Centre Spiderbait + The Superjesus + Mammal + Osaka Punch + Rackett

20 – 22 JULY Splendour in the Grass: Kenrick Lamar + Lorde + Vampire Weekend + Khalid + The Wombats + Hilltop Hoods + Chvrches + Miguel + Girl Talk + MORE | Byron Parklands

FRIDAY 20 JULY Danny Widdicombe and The Honey Sliders play Cream’s greatest songs live | Soundlounge Dreams of Indigo | Nimbin Hotel

SUNDAY 22 JULY

The Angels: 40 Years On | Parkwood Tavern Nowhere Else + Nerdlinger + Friends with the Enemy + Antechinus + Unbroken Shore | Miami Shark Bar

SATURDAY 7 JULY

Fat Albert (Covers) | Southport Sharks

Rockks (2.00pm) | Fishos

FRIDAY 6 JULY

The Strides + Declan Kelly + The 4’20 Sound System | The Northern, Byron

Kris Wason (5.00pm) | Cabana Bar & Lounge, Southport Sharks

Lann – Acoustic Soup (12.30pm) | Emerald Lakes Golf Club

Burger Joint (5.00pm) | Burleigh Brewing Co

Mescalito Blues (5.00pm) | Burleigh Brewing Co

Graham Hobson | Watermark Hotel & Spa

Benny Whiskey (2.00pm) | Burleigh Brewing Co

Lann – Acoustic Soup (12.30pm) | Emerald Lakes Golf Club

The Presets + Roland Tings + Marshall Okell (The Backyard) | NightQuarter

Benny D Williams (4.00pm) | Balter Brewery

SUNDAY 15 JULY

Dan Champagne | Mt Nimmell Hall, Austinville U2 Show: Achtung Baby (Covers) | RSL Club Southport

SUNDAY 8 JULY Michael Hickey (2.00pm) | Burleigh Brewing Co Lann – Acoustic Soup (12.30pm) | Emerald Lakes Golf Club

12-15 JULY Bello Winter Festival: Justin Townes Earle + Lior + Deborah Conway + Caiti Baker + William Crighton + Thando + Z-Star Trinity + MORE | Bellingen, NSW

FRIDAY 13 JULY Manoa (5.00pm) | Burleigh Brewing Co

The White Tree (2.00pm) | Burleigh Brewing Co Lann – Acoustic Soup (12.30pm) | Emerald Lakes Golf Club

FRIDAY 27 JULY Kenny Slide (5.00pm) | Burleigh Brewing Co Lann – Acoustic Soup (12.30pm) | Emerald Lakes Golf Club

SATURDAY 28 JULY Polaris + Justice for the Damned | Miami Shark Bar

27 – 29 JULY Groundwater Country Music Festival: The McClymonts + Granger Smith ft Earl Dibbles Jr + Adam Harvey + O’Shea + Catherine Britt & The Cold Cold Heart + Lillie Mae + Bill Chambers + Joshua Hedley + Troy Kemp + Kirsty Lee Akers + Casey Barnes + Travelin’ Still: The Songs of Slim Dusty with Pete Denahy & The Travelling Country Band + The Hillbilly Goats + Hurricane Fall + Doug Bruce + The Morrisons + Melody Moko + Country Music Cocktails | Broadbeach www.blankgc.com.au

GOLD COAST AUTHOR ‘SAVED’ BY ORANGUTANS

Sue Feenstra, a former Gold Coast gym owner and aerobics instructor who endured a debilitating back injury, credits orangutans with saving her life. And now she’s trying to save theirs.

CAN YOU HELP BONNY BABES WITH THEIR RECYCLING PROJECT?

Having sustained an injury so serious that she was told she would remain bedridden for an undetermined length of time, Sue faced a difficult road ahead. Instead of giving up, she wrote a work of fiction: ‘Pongo - Hands Through The Forest’ entirely on her iPhone.

When it comes to learning to take care of our environment, starting young is always best. That’s why the kids at Bonny Babes Childcare are diverting the Gold Coast community’s oral care waste from landfill for their chance to win one of five recycled community garden sets, as part a national recycling competition run by Colgate, Chemist Warehouse and global recycling pioneers TerraCycle.

‘Pongo’ is a fictional tale about a young orangutan who enlightens the reader of the plight of deforestation threatening his species, and Sue has pledged 15% of all book sales to go directly toward bringing the orangutan back from the brink of extinction before it's too late. Natalie O'Driscoll shot her a couple of questions.

Between 23 March and 31 October 2018, the Colgate Community Garden Challenge invites pre-, primary and secondary schools nationwide to collect all brands of oral care waste and send it to TerraCycle, who will give the waste a second life by creating new products.

Can you tell us a little about the plight of the Orangutans? The Orangutans of Sumatra and Borneo are dying at thousands a year, in fact it is estimated that over 150 thousand have been lost over the last 16 years. Their jungle homes are being destroyed to make way for palm oil plants, trees that they are unable to survive in. Palm oil is such a cheap widely used product that can be used in anything from soap to make up and even pizza. Look for logos on all of your products and let the manufactures know that we don't approve of any unethical destruction of rainforests. Can you tell us about where you are in your recovery process? I am going really well thank you! I am just coming to a year past my surgery. I am able to do most things and am enjoying life again. The most wonderful part is that I can finally travel to Borneo and meet these gentle animals, something I could never have done when my back was going!

Five recycled community garden sets will be awarded to five schools, with each set including three garden beds, two custom-made benches, one rubbish bin and one sign, plus a $500 gardening voucher to buy seeds and plants. Besides showing how recycled materials can be used as a sustainable alternative to virgin plastic, the sets are designed to promote gardening and healthy eating among schools. Kati Mann from Bonny Babes Childcare said that the Colgate Community Garden Challenge is set to teach the centre’s children about environmental responsibility. “The challenge will help our children build lifelong skills such as patience, responsibility and respect, as well as the meaning of consequence,” Kati said. “With a recycled community garden set, our children would see the benefits of recycling and its impact on the environment and on their future.”

green weekend 1-5 June 2018 A handpicked calendar of events to celebrate and showcase our local environment For more info visit: gecko.org.au/gold-coast-green-weekend/ GeckoGoldCoast GeckoGoldCoast

“At TerraCycle, we want to ‘Eliminate the Idea of Waste’ and a perfect place to start is with schools,” Jean Bailliard, General Manager of TerraCycle Australia, said. “We want to thank the kids at Bonny Babes Childcare for their amazing recycling work, and wish them all the best in the competition!” Natalie O’Driscoll

Pongo - Hands Through The Forest can be pre-ordered now, with copies being shipped on the launch date of 5 June to coincide with World Environment Day. For more information or to pre-order, visit hellopongo.com. To read the full interview, visit blankgc.com.au.

The Gold Coast community is encouraged to drop their used oral care products at Bonny Babes Childcare to be recycled. Competition entry, rules and voting can be found at terracycle. com.au/colgategarden. www.blankgc.com.au

IF YOU CAN’T REUSE IT, REFUSE IT. The United Nations World Environment Day (WED) is just around the corner and with this year’s theme being ‘Beat Plastic Pollution’, we thought we would take a look at one of the biggest environmental challenges of our time.

Single-use or disposable plastics are something that all of us have used at some time or another, and are a massive contributor to global plastic pollution. The statistics are horrifying. Approximately 500 billion plastic bags are used each year and close to one million plastic bottles are bought every minute. These and other disposable plastics make their way into landfill and the wider environment and frequently take more than 1000 years to degrade. Plastic accounts for a whopping ten percent of human-generated waste and 13 million tonnes of plastic leak into the ocean each year, killing more than 100,000 marine animals. Plastic particles have found their way into 83% of tap water and it is not surprising that they are also found in 90% of bottled water. Global plastic production is expected to almost double in the next 10 -15 years and as consumers, we have the power to make a huge impact by reducing or eliminating our single-use plastic consumption. If we can’t reuse it, we need to consider refusing it. Every change counts – no matter how small. #BeatPlasticPollution.

www.blankgc.com.au

Here are 13 plastic reducing tips to get you started: •

Trade plastic shopping bags for your own reusable bags.

•

Ditch plastic straws and drink from the glass or cup.

•

Rethink buying bottled water and carry a reusable water bottle.

•

Choose cardboard or glass packaging over plastic when shopping.

•

Take your own reusable cup to the café for your on-the-go morning brew.

•

Swap the disposable razor for the replaceable blade kind.

•

Trade your plastic toothbrush for a bamboo alternative.

•

Avoid excess and unnecessary food packaging at the supermarket.

•

Pick up litter on your travels, especially near our waterways and beaches.

•

Drop your soft plastic packaging and plastic bags into the REDcycle recycling

bins at all Coles supermarkets to be converted into new products.

•

Avoid microplastic beads in products like scrubs and washes - look out for polypropylene or polyethylene in the ingredients.

•

Rethink your food storage and try aluminium foil, wax paper or glass containers instead of ziplock bags and cling film.

•

Ladies give a menstrual cups or reusable sanitary underwear a go or swap to a sanitary product with no plastic wrapping.

To coincide with WED, Gecko Environment Council will be hosting The Green Weekend on the Gold Coast from Friday 1 to Tuesday 5 June. There is a full calendar of events on offer including morning nature walks, koala tree planting and a wildlife expo to just name a few. You can check out the full festival program on the Gecko Environment Council website gecko.org.au/gold-coastgreen-weekend. Simone Gorman-Clark

WITCHES FALLS COTTAGES, NORTH TAMBORINE Witches Falls Cottages perch on the north side of Tamborine Mountain, and have the benefit of being a modest walk away from the village while also having the national park, galleries and glow worm caves at their doorstep (not to mention Witches Falls Winery, which is a short stagger down the road). Owners Daniela and David were unable to be there during our visit, however we certainly felt the unique sense of warmth that comes with many family run businesses when we were greeted by friendly and accommodating managers Kelly and Mark upon our Friday arrival. Our individual stone cottage was one of eight in the property, with quality construction and double glazed windows guaranteeing privacy. After “oohing” and “aahing” over the massive glass-walled bathroom and double spa (it opens onto a lush, high-fenced private garden area), we were keen to sample some of the mountain’s delights. We headed to friendly BBQ restaurant Hickory for a messy yet intimate dinner of slow cooked goodness - washed down with a couple of cocktails - after which we retired back to our very own fireplace, utterly satiated.

Our breakfast hamper arrived promptly at 8.00am whereupon we dived in and had a merry cook up on our small gas BBQ plate. Local eggs and produce alongside bacon, sausages, a variety of spreads, juice, fruit and – best of all – fresh crusty bread, still warm from the oven, that we could not stop eating. Local, freshly ground coffee is also included in every room. Saturday night saw us order in. An abundant cheese platter accompanied with a highly drinkable Witches Falls Cabernet Merlot ended up being sufficient enough for dinner for two (alongside a couple of other nibbles we had brought with us). Rugged up and surrounded by greenery, we sat on our private deck and contemplated the stars as we enjoyed our delightful supper. Sunday was time to tackle the National Park walk across the road - a must-do after all that cheese and wine! The foliage was stunning and we didn’t want to leave, but we had to, because two extremely professional therapists from Ripples massage were about to come to the cottage, set up and indulge us in a 1.5 hour package which included a massage, foot soak and chocolate face mask that I had to refrain from eating with a spoon. It was the

perfect end to the perfect experience, and we were heartbroken to leave. Nothing was too much trouble for our affable hosts, whether it was letting us know about the local delights, helping us with the fire and BBQ, giving us an extensive room tour or sourcing us some soy milk to go with our delicious local coffee. (Then it would continue with "It's often the homely touches"). It’s often the homely touches that make an experience memorable, and in the case of Witches Falls Cottages, they’ve nailed the brief. The crimson roses that climb the stone

walls harken to an earlier time, a quaint English village perhaps, before the internet (it’s patchy on the mountain, so use it as an excuse to get your face out of screens!), when eggs came from your neighbours and the locals knew what was what. Explore. Indulge. Experience. Relax. It’s not the motto of Witches Falls Cottages, but it should be. Natalie O’Driscoll

Visit witchesfallscottages.com.au for pricing and bookings. Blank GC were guests of Witches Falls Cottages.

Blank magazine is proudly printed by Horton Media Australia, Queensland's only independent cold-set web printer. Printed by an environmentally friendly process using paper that is a combination of recycled fibre and FSC responsoble sources.

Video Production & Photography

www.theeditsuite.com.au www.blankgc.com.au

IRONING MAIDENS PRESS FOR CHANGE WITH DEBUT EP Award-winning Australian electronic duo, The Ironing Maidens, are pressing for progress with the release of their debut EP, ‘Electro House Wife’, which puts domestic labour, technology and the history of women in electronic music centre stage. Ingeniously adapting real irons and ironing boards into electronic instruments, ‘Electro House Wife’ is a homage to house music and call to arms for women featuring 1950s advertising samples, fresh-pressed beats and tongue-in-cheek lyrics with a powerful message - now is the time to strike while the iron's hot. "We must keep pressing for progress to have women's work acknowledged, be it in the studio, the laboratory, in politics or in the kitchen," said the duo's singer/ songwriter, Melania Jack. "We know that women's work has long gone unacknowledged in electronic music history, it's why current courses don't teach the names of electronic music pioneers like Daphne Oram and no credit was given to Delia Derbyshire for making the Doctor Who soundtrack what it is! "And when you listen to 1950s advertising pushing the concept of 'women's work' and look at our current census data, it is clear that not enough has changed when it comes to the division of domestic labour. "We wanted to dissect these topics and discuss them in a way that is clear and direct, but at the same time humorous, musically credible and totally danceable." From the progressive, Daphne Oram-inspired track ‘Composers of the Future’ to’ Strike While The Iron Is Hot’, an ironic love song for the lusty Westinghouse, The Ironing Maidens' debut EP provides a powerful contribution to the ongoing conversation on equality, not to mention floor-happy house beats and kooky lead lines with driving 303 style bass patterns reminiscent of early Chicago house. Set to tour throughout Queensland laundromats this June, The Ironing Maidens immerse audiences in an unexpectedly emotive, highly entertaining show that leaves them feeling empowered and ready to press for progress.

GAZ COOMBES: PEACH FUR TOUR DOREEN DRIVE AND IN IT FOR THE MUSIC BEYOND After one long and intense build up, including a spot in the Gold Coast Music Awards after party lineup, Peach Fur are hitting the road for their biggest East Coast Tour to date to celebrate their newest seven-track wonder ‘Doreen Drive’. Hailing from the sunny Gold Coast, this four-piece has captivated music lovers with their blend of rock 'n' roll and a funky fusion of reggae and psych surf vibes. Audiences are lapping it up, with the talented quartet already reaching over 1.3 million streams on Spotify and more than 30k monthly listeners of their last EP 'Pleasures and Necessities'. “We’ve been so stoked with the response to our first release, we really couldn’t believe it, still can’t,” the lads told us before the GCMAs. “The seven songs from our upcoming new EP, ‘Doreen Drive’ are the combination of tracks that we had written in the period after our last single release, ‘Rough As Guts’, in November 2016 to when we were in the studio recording ‘Doreen Drive’ in June 2017. “It’s been quite a long writing process for the new EP, which has given us more time to develop our song writing and sound. I was 16 when we recorded ‘Pleasures and Necessities’, so as I have grown up over these past few years it has seeped through my musicality, resulting in the band finding more of our own sound.” Peach Fur will be kicking off their tour at Lennox Groove in early June to start spreading their tasty tunes and bust out their groovy moves and will be wrapping it up in midAugust in innovative Adelaide with one ultimate party hosted by the legends at Beach Burrito. Keep an eye out, the Peach Fur guys are coming to rock a stage near you. Natalie O’Driscoll

The Ironing Maidens' regional Queensland tour in support of ‘Electro House Wife’ will kick off at Quickie-mat Laundromat in Kirra beach on Friday 15 June. Tickets at ironingmaidens.com.au. 32

www.blankgc.com.au

Catch the guys at their favourite watering hole Miami Shark Bar on 16 June or at the Triffid in Brisbane on 23 June.

Back in the formative stages of the much-hyped ‘Britpop’ movement of the early to mid 90s, there emerged a gang of fresh faced young upstarts out of Oxford, England who went by the name of Supergrass. Channeling a neat line in buzz saw, alternative pop-rock with lashings of sublime 60’s melodies, the band exploded like a supernova upon the nascent Britpop landscape, eliciting scene-screams and critical acclaim in equal doses with their debut aural thrill-ride ‘I Should Coco’. The band’s distinctive front man, Gaz Coombes, (who famously sported the best set of mutton chop sideburns in the biz during their 90’s heyday), is now a well-respected solo artist. His second solo album, ‘Matador’ was nominated for the prestigious Mercury Prize in 2015. And this May he’ll release his third album, ‘World’s Strongest Man’. Chatting with the affable Gaz (or Gareth to his mum), I asked about the genesis and creation of his new album, a lot of which was initially formulated in his own home studio, with Coombes playing most of the instruments himself. “It’s been great to have that space and freedom. I can get up in the morning and be free with my own ideas. I kind of jam with myself in the studio, play some drums here, lay down some piano there, loop some other things in. I tend to record and write at the same time, so I can get some first takes and original ideas, which is always fun.” Supergrass were a much-loved touring entity in Australia throughout their existence, and Gaz is happy to reminisce on the wonderful times he spent touring in Australia during the height of Supergrass mania. “We did some cracking festivals, Splendour and Big Day Out and stuff. Not to mention the great club shows. I always dug the general attitude of the (Aussie) audiences; very discerning, not too cool for school, they know their shit. We always loved to playing for the Australian crowds.” Anthony Gebhardt

Catch Gaz on Friday 14 September at The Zoo in Brisbane. Read the full interview at blankgc.com.au

JUNE 9 MUDGEERABA SHOW BALL, BILL DEACON PAVILION, MUDGEERABA SHOWGROUNDS 6.30pm Non-Members $60 / Members $55 info@mudgeerabashow.org.au JUNE 10 FREE LIVE MUSIC, ADVANCETOWN HOTEL, NERANG MURWILLUMBAH ROAD Country Girls Sunday: 12pm – 2pm Nissa Ray 2pm – 4pm The Dennis Sisters Family Fun Day – last Sunday of every month, free live music, jumping castle advancetown.com/whats-on JUNE 23 - 24 2018 MUDGEERABA SHOW, MUDGEERABA SHOWGROUNDS Saturday 8am – 9pm Sunday 8am – 4pm

JUNE 24 MUDGEERABA 4 NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH CONNECTION DAY, WOODLANDS PARK, MUDGEERABA 10am nhw4mudgeeraba@hotmail.com JUNE 27 –JULY 8 D’ARCY DOYLE ART AWARDS, MUDGEERABA MEMORIAL HALL, RAILWAY STREET darcydoyleartawards.com.au

JULY 1 OUTLOOK RIDERS ALLIANCE, SOUTH EAST QUEENSLAND DOWN HILL MOUNTAIN BIKE RACE, ROUND 3 Boomerang Farm, 55 Johns Road, Mudgeeraba seqdh.com.au

JULY 7 DANIEL CHAMPAGNE MT NIMMEL HALL, Bigger attractions, more AUSTINVILLE entertainment and activities than 7.00 pm – 10 pm ever before Limited Tickets available Entry fee (see website) / SUPPORTED BY HARRY J EFTPOS available at gate HART mudgeerabashow.org.au/2018tinyurl.com/danchampagne mudgeeraba-show.html

DAYMAKER ESPRESSO

44 Pacific Avenue, Miami

LA BARRITA

4 Bells Boulevard, Kingscliff, NSW

“How come we’ve never been here before?” We shake our heads as we walk away from La Barrita, impressed. Nestled in between Fins and Bombay Cricketers Club in Salt Village, La Barrita opened in December 2017, slipping quietly onto the tail end of the ‘Mexican wave’ of coastal openings.

There's something really exciting about a start-up restaurant. When, with little fanfare, Daymaker Espresso popped up on the southern end of Pacific Avenue just a few weeks ago, there was a palpable feeling of 'Hey everyone, we've finally opened!' Owners Andrew Madgwick (ex-52 Espresso) and Dylan Nesbit (ex-Barefoot, Elk, Blackboard and Paddock) have done their time in the hospitality trade, serving their apprenticeship under some of the best on the coast. After waiting for the right site, they've made a commitment to Miami for the long term, signing a six-year lease on the former 'pet op shop' site beside the Pacific Ave Fruit and Meat Market. Looking around, it's easy to see their passion. So different to slick overblown fit-outs, the venue is clean and spare, with greenery and recycled wood popping colour against the polished concrete, exposed rafters, slate grey and white walls. There's a story behind every piece of wood, every table top and painted wall. "We got the recycled timber from Lloyd's Auctions, got rid of the asbestos and opened up the ceiling. Only then did we realise how much light we could get in here," Dylan tells us, outlining the guys' months-long journey to opening. They’ve scoped their demographic and suppliers out as well, conscious of the surrounding gym culture and the health food consciousness driving day meals on the coast. Starting with a base seasonal vegan-friendly menu of eight breakfast dishes and four lunches, Daymaker boosts our choices through its vegan and carnivore add-ons; a smart move.

What is not local, however, is their coffee, from Melbourne’s Axil Coffee Roasters, their first outlet on the Coast. Dylan developed a relationship with Axil whilst working with his twin brother at his café in Melbourne. Working with their world-renowned roasters, he found that the quality of their coffee was beyond compare, thus persuading them to come up to the Gold Coast when Daymaker opened. We should all be very grateful that they agreed! The uniqueness of Daymaker begins with the house coffee, which is a seasonal espresso blend that changes throughout the year and is currently comprised of beans from El Salvador, Costa Rica and Brazil. Sampling an espresso, a gorgeous grapefruit aroma makes way for a crisp acidity, with a flavour that develops from stone fruit to sweetened dried fruit with a slight savoury tang. As a piccolo, the bite of acidity remains with light flavours of chocolate and nougat. On our visit the single origin, which can vary each day, was from Llano Grande in El Salvador and we sincerely hope you get to try this single origin for yourself, as it was a rollercoaster of flavour. An intoxicating scent of fairy floss and fruit tingles hits you right in the nostalgia, with a lingering malted strawberry flavour that is just the right amount of sour snapping in your mouth. It should come as no surprise we asked for another. Daymaker. The name can easily resonate with us as ‘make my day’ or even ‘a punchy start to your day’. First impressions count, and what we notice most of all is the staff energy. Intent on customer return, there’s full table service, a dying art.

Our meals arrive smartly – mixed mushies on toast with herbs de provençe and wilted spinach ($16), and ‘The Hash’ with crispy potatoes, a 63-degree egg and a choice of confit chorizo or a vegan yolk pumpkin purée ($16).

We've learned from experience that you have to meet customers and make them feel welcome," Dylan tells us. "It's really important that staff are confident and willing to have a chat so people enjoy being here.

Sourcing hormone-free meat from Nobby’s Beach Butchery, bread and pastries from Burleigh Bakehouse (who only employ French bakers, Dylan tells us) and Sol Cleanse juices (whose excess by-products are pulped and given to local farms), and local produce, the guys are super-conscious of local, seasonal and sustainable principles.

Good food, great coffee and welcoming service… It’s a bit like a warm embrace – a great way to start your day.

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Marj Osborne and Catherine Coburn

Owned by Anna and Marco Cenfi (ex-Mangroves at Seagulls and Bellini, and owners of Piccolo Gelato), La Barrita displays the assurance of a well-established restaurant. Very elegantly decorated with colourful Mexican tiles, on the day we visit, the restaurant is full of locals who are greeted by name along with a scattering of tourists. Despite being almost full, table service is friendly and fast, delivering vibrantly fresh food to diners. We’re sitting on the undercover al fresco area of the restaurant, looking through the restaurant to the open kitchen where two chefs are working tirelessly. “The chefs are constantly prepping, because everything is cooked to order,” our waitress Yvonne tells us. “We have a lot of return business, with lots of takeaways during the week.” There’s lots of choice on the menu, divided into ‘start and share’ dishes, tostadas, tacos, quesadillas and bigger plates, priced for every day dining with most dishes ranging from $12 - $18. There’s even a kids’ menu to cater for family dining. While there are many family favourites such as nachos, quesadillas and tacos, several dishes are unique to La Burrita, including Taquitos – cigar-like corn tortillas filled with slow-cooked beef ($12). For dessert, we can’t go past the churros with chocolate dipping sauce or the sweet taquitos dipped in caramel. Served on beautiful earthenware plates, this is food that makes you remember why we all love Mexican. From fresh slices of luscious marinated fish in our Ceviche ($18.50) to Pescador Taco, corn chip-crusted fish with a fresh mango salsa and chilli lime dressing where you can eat the bowl ($16), each dish sings with flavour. Of course, no Mexican meal is complete without a margarita, but there’s better yet. Taking pride of place in the bar are about one hundred different bottles of tequila; one of the best-stocked tequila bars we’ve seen. What a choice! While La Barrita does not profess to shatter any boundaries, it delivers on the ‘fresh and flavoursome’ front – healthy, everyday dining delivering excellent food at the right price. We’ll raise a glass of tequila to that! A little winner! NOTE: Blank dined as a guest of La Barrita. Marj Osborne Read more of Marj’s reviews on foodgoldcoast.com.au

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Mo’s Movie Night Local florist becomes community recycling hub for coffee capsules Local florist Twigs Florist has become a recycling point for Nespresso coffee capsules, offering the Gold Coast community a convenient way to dispose of their capsules sustainably. Once collected, the team at Twigs Florist ships the Nespresso coffee capsules away to be recycled at a facility in NSW. In this process, the capsules are shredded, cleaned, its coffee grinds composted, and the aluminium melted down to be reused. Locals are encouraged to take their used Nespresso coffee capsules to Twigs Florist to be recycled.

Point Break (The original, not that new trainwreck): The all-time surf film, with an all-time cast, is showing at Mo’s Desert Clubhouse in Burleigh on Wednesday night 6 June. Tickets are $10 with profits going to Apex Harmony Sea Shepherd. Free popcorn! mosdesertclubhouse.com for more. Did we mention free popcorn?

Seedlings Community Sessions at Worongary State School The Seedlings program aims at educating children and their parents/family by creating a healthy environment. This includes the school community garden, the edible school project, the soft plastic program, and the community sessions. The sessions are there to learn, discover, share and create the community. Come and take part in free or low-cost community sessions at 9.00am every Wednesday, where different speakers will share their knowledge on a specific topic every week. Visit the Seedlings Program Facebook page for upcoming speakers.

Young Artist Development Salons come to Thursday nights Are you a Gold Coast creative under 30 years old? Want to grow your creative career? Then Young Artist Development Salons (YAD) is for you. This salon series is designed specifically for young people who want to carve out a career in the arts, cultural or creative industries. In June the salon focuses on presenting your work. The next salon will help you identify who and where is best to present your work, how to present this work, what is required to get your work into a major venue or festival and how the whole process works, and runs from 5pm-7pm at HOTA on Thursday 7 June. Attendance is free. Enquiries to cultural@goldcoast.qld.gov.au.

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THE DOYLES CELEBRATE THE PRESENT AND USHER IN THE FUTURE The d’Arcy Doyle art awards, or ‘The Doyles’, as they are affectionately known, were established in 2004 with an original prize money of $3,000. Throughout the years, many winners have found it to be a valuable stepping stone in their careers and have gone on to develop into full time artists. Now with prize money totalling over $19,000, it has become one of only two significant art prizes running on the Gold Coast (the other is the Morris Art Prize which is here for the first time in 2018). Natalie O'Driscoll spoke with Event Director Earle Hinschen and local artist, gallery owner and previous category winner Steve Hillier about the impact of the awards on the local arts community. “When the d’Arcy Doyle awards started we also had the Gold Coast Art Prize, which was partly or wholly sponsored by Council,” recalls Steve.

NightQuarter is transforming into a beer lover’s paradise The Gold Coast Beer Festival is set to take over NightQuarter in Helensvale for one day only, transforming it into a beer lovers paradise! Starting at midday, the inaugural Gold Coast Beer Festival will feature local and interstate beers, barbecue, food trucks, street food, carnival rides and live music. There are 100 beers to be sampled, including Furphy, Byron Bay Brewery, Stone & Wood, Eumundi Brewery, Panhead Custom Ales, Black Hops Brewing, Lost Palms Brewing Co. and Wakachangi with more to be announced! 2 June, folks. Pop it in the diary.

“And at the same time we had the Border Art Prize, which was a conjunctive effort between Gold Coast and the Tweed. Then last year, the d’Arcy Doyles was the only major art prize available on the Gold Coast – it was quite astonishing – so it’s really important in that respect in that it gives local artists something to work towards. “It is also a good opportunity for local artists to put their artwork into a prize that’s not going to be pre-judged,” Steve continues. “A lot of prizes are juried in, meaning that you send in an image in first and the decision gets made whether or not to show it. But at the Doyles just about everything that is submitted gets hung, so it’s good for both professional and amateur artists.” Many of the amateur artists on display this year will be Gold Coast students who have entered the junior competition. It’s a relatively new category, and one that Earle Hinschen is particularly excited about. “I instigated the children’s category about three years ago because I wanted to help children who are our

future artists and we’ve really gone very well,” Earle explains. “We’ve had full co-operation from the arts teachers on the gold coast and the standard of the childrens’ paintings is actually outstanding. It gives me a big thrill actually, I get a kick out of fostering art for children.” The prize for the Junior d’Arcy Doyle category is a masterclass by a known artist, a coup for any young painter. The winner of last year’s senior section had his painting bought by the Commissioner of Police in Brisbane where it now hangs in his Roma Street headquarters. Another resides in Parliament House in Canberra after being bought by a politician. “I’ve spoken to the [junior entrants] before, when they’ve come in,” says Earle. “And I say to them, ‘you never know where your art might end up.’ It’s things like that which are really heartwarming. I love encouraging our future artists.”

You can encourage future artists and support established ones by visiting the d’Arcy Doyle Awards exhibition at Mudgeeraba Memorial Hall from 27 June – 8 July. Visit darcydoyleawards. com.au for more.

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STARMAN SET TO BLOW YOUR MINDS AT HOTA IN JUNE

International smash hit ‘STARMAN’ is coming to HOTA for one night only. Helmed by entertainer Sven Ratzke, ‘STARMAN’ is an intimate and amusing exploration of David Bowie’s life through his chart-topping hits. Sven took the time to tell us more about his own experience of Bowie. Bowie was frequently a magnet and a safe place for those who felt like freaks, outcasts and misfits. Did you feel like you were on the outside looking in growing up? Yes, I'm quite out of the box, I'm flirting with underground as well as mainstream. I'm an inspiration to the queer audiences as well as to an opera audiences. When I started to create STARMAN and started to do all this research for Bowie I discovered this, that Bowie and l had this in common, that we are not boxed. I think it appeals to the misfits as well, because he steps out of the ordinary. Again, that's brave, ‘cause it can be a lonely place sometimes, I can tell you. Has Bowie's shock passing changed the way you approach your performance, and do you remember the first show you did after he died? We didn't change the show, cause it was more about his spirit, his music, it's so not an tribute show... but for the audience and also for us there was suddenly this hard realisation. He's never going to sing his songs again, but it felt as he was watching us. Yes the first show after his passing was

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hard, he felt for me as a relative, a friend. He had given me personal permission to do this show and it was if I knew him. In the audience there were tears that night and still at moments of the show people get really emotional. What is some of the best feedback you've ever received from a Bowie fan? I came for Bowie but left with Ratzke. That's beautiful! Natalie O’Driscoll

You won’t want to miss STARMAN when it hits the HOTA Arts Theatre Stage on 15 June 2018. Tickets at hota.com.au. To read the full interview, visit blankgc. com.au.

AUSTRALIA'S FIRST FEMALE TRUMPET PRINCIPLE TO PLAY WITH NEIL FINN AT HOTA

Queensland Symphony Orchestra’s Sarah Butler is Australasia’s first and only female principle trumpet player. She’ll be part of QSO’s concert with Neil Finn at HOTA as he performs his album ‘Out of Silence’, so Pip Andreas shot her a few questions before the event. Royal Albert Hall’s Lucy Noble has said that brass sections in orchestras are heavily male and suggested that gender stereotyping may be steering young girls towards learning more ‘female’ instruments such as violin, flute and harp. Do you agree with that? I think that traditionally brass instruments have attracted more young males and in the past there has been a view that females are not as physically strong and therefore not as able but more recently we know this is not the case and that females are increasingly in high profile positions/careers in the brass world. Having role models help change the statistics, and I believe that it’s simply a numbers game now that is slowly changing. You teach at the Queensland Conservatorium at Griffith University. Do you see more young women taking up brass instruments? I have seen an increase in the numbers of female brass players coming through, it’s great to see, I personally have talented

students both male and female, interestingly its the ones that work the hardest that are the most successful! Given that QSO appointed the first ever female music director and conductor in Alondra de la Parra, and yourself as the first female Principle Trumpet player, do you feel the QSO is the most femalefriendly orchestra in Australia? I feel lucky to work with the QSO, yes of course it’s female friendly and a very supportive work environment. It’s a hard working organisation that recognises artistic endeavour regardless of gender, we are all so lucky to have a state symphony orchestra to call our own. Neil Finn will be playing with QSO at HOTA Sat 30 June. To book tickets, go to hota.com.au . To read the full interview, visit blankgc. com.au.

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MEKONG MERCHANTS DONNY LOVE

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DIFFERENT BEINGS BEING DIFFERENT

KATANA

SENSATION

Oceanic psych-wanderers Mekong Merchants, a finalist in the best album category at the recent Gold Coast Music Awards for their debut effort, ‘Ocean Tones’, have backed it up impressively with the release of new EP, ‘Katana’.

Gold Coast oddball sensations and underground scene stalwarts Donny Love are a band not afraid to carve out their own, idiosyncratic space within the local musical landscape. Forgoing the currently fashionable when it comes to aural conventions, the local five piece deliver a joyous snapshot into their unique worldview with their smashing debut album, ‘Sensation’.

Well traversed, guitar-toting troubadour Gavin Doniger, who's been plying his realdeal blues both here and overseas for over 20 years, returns with a new album recorded in full band mode, under the name Mescalito Blues. The project has been active for over 12 years now and allows Doniger, who often plays in solo or duo format, to bust out and display his considerable talents in full blown blues-rock mode. The latest release from Mescalito Blues, 'Tall, Tails, True', features a white-hot cast of musical cohorts, including Liam Bowditch and Glenn Heffernan. The album is a tip-top solid collection of belters from the backroads, featuring the raw, gravelly, Tom Waits channelling vocals of Doniger. Opening number 'Nobody Rides For Free', kicks things off with a memorable, boogierock shuffle. While 'Little Mumma' brings jaunty thrills off the back of an insistent, head nodding bounce. 'Show Me The Devil' is a hard rocking number tailor-made for sweaty pubs, while 'My My My' stirs in some early rock and roll vibes to the album's bluesy template. And ''Shake It For The Money' delivers a dose of upbeat, voodoo rock stylings to proceedings. 'I Need A Job' is another top-notch bluesrock shuffler, featuring Doniger's exemplary guitar work and complemented by some tasty keyboard licks laid down by Gold Coast lad George Carpenter, who also doubled down on production duties for the record, which was recorded at Woodstock Studios in Melbourne. Another album highlight is the track 'Oh Lord’, which Doniger wrote with his 88 yearold great uncle Jefferey, an old bushy whose outback tales inspired many of the album's songs, and whose face appears on the album’s cover artwork. Things concludes with the smoky lament that is 'Cold Hard Stare', bringing down the curtain on a rock solid collection with plenty of dirt under the fingernails. Tall, Tails, True is available on vinyl from beatniks Anthony Gebhardt 42

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With their scream-out-loud anthemic debut, seven headed rock hydra West Thebarton is another band you can add to the impressive quota of quality acts emanating from Adelaide. Like their spiritual Adelaide brethren, the mighty Bad//Dreems, West Thebarton channel the best bits of honest to god Aussie pub rock with a healthy dose of scuzzedup, classic and contemporary underground rock, as magnificently evidenced within the grooves of their wonderfully monikered album, ‘Different Beings Being Different.’ ‘Moving Out’ kicks things off with a boldas-fuck big rock sound, all driving riffs and punchy rhythm, the impassioned vocals of front man Reverend Ray setting the tone for the rest of the record. There’s no sugar coating the band’s ‘real-deal’ approach to their songcraft, and lyrically the songs touch upon the mundane miasma of suburban existence, together with a liberal dose of home town pride. Recent single, ‘Bible Camp’, is another memorably frenetic rocker, it’s rousingly desperate chorus sure to set drunken bodies into overdrive in a live setting. Other hard riffing, gut churning highlights include ‘Anatomy’ and the fist pumping ‘On The Hill’, which briefly deceives with an acoustically strummed intro, before bursting forth with their signature ‘all guns blazing’ four guitar attack. There is, however, still plenty of light and shade to be found across the albums 11 songs, with tracks such as ‘Reason’ ‘Ivan’ and moody closing number, ‘Set It Straight’ slowing the tempo somewhat without compromising the band’s heart on sleeve approach. Anthony Gebhardt

West Thebarton is at The Zoo, 29 June.

Opening track, ‘Katana’, sets the bar high early, it’s moody, droning vibe akin to The Black Angels channeling The Velvet Underground’s ‘Venus In Furs’. Next comes ‘Reincarnation’, a brooding rocker with chugging, Eastern undertones. Bassist Kenji Tamura rolls out an expanding wave of head bobbing sound, while a breezy, mid song guitar interlude introduces a unique psych-surf vibe, perfectly complemented by an insistent chorus of “I have lived 1000 years, I have loved 1000 lives, I have surfed 1000 waves.” Track three, the 7-minute plus ‘Space’, rides forever onwards into barrels and sunsets, guitarist and vocalist Stu Tume coaxing mesmerising frequencies from his six-string, blissfully melding with the track’s insistent, Kraut rock bounce. The EP’s final track, ‘Haven’, is the sound of the sun reflecting off the waves on a late afternoon, it’s bright and breezy, surfinflected vibes, the perfect comedown to close out this highly impressive four -song collection. Let’s cross our fingers that the Mekong Merchants continue to release music of this calibre. Anthony Gebhardt

Recorded and mixed by Julian Abbott at No Wave Studio and mastered by Paul Blakey, ‘Sensation’ is the sound of a band who know how to carve out a memorable tune, and their use of dynamics and upliftingly shifting brass and keyboard arrangements ensure that ‘Sensation’ is a record that keeps giving upon repeated listens. Opening track, ‘No Sense’, is a bouncy, garagepop nugget while ‘Never Comin’ Back’ delivers a more frantic pace with keyboards in turns punchy and shimmering melded with vocals of pleading desperation. A notably strong horn driven, soul influence infiltrates throughout many of the album’s ten tracks. ‘Death’, is a brass driven smiler that builds to a rousing climax, sounding not 100 miles removed from early Dexys Midnight Runners at the time of their cracking debut, ‘Searching for The Young Soul Rebels.’ It’s a naggingly catchy ear worm of the highest order. Earlier single, ‘Dysfunctional Lovers’ is cut form a similar cloth, swooning and swaying to the jaunty sounds of tinkling keyboards conjugating with horns both subtle and punchy, approximating early 80’s mod-soul to pleasing effect. Meanwhile ‘Esplanade’ invokes somewhat of the haunted dancehall vibe of The Specials ‘Ghost Town’, before picking up pace across its latter half with trilling keys and wide ranging vocals. While epic closing number, ‘Sensation’, perfectly encapsulates the Donny Love ethos of catchy sonic exploration, the track jumping jauntily out of the blocks, twisting and turning, building momentum with a sublime horn crescendo half way through before rising into a dramatic, yelping rave up. If you’re looking for the Young Soul Rebels, you will find them within these Sensation-packed grooves. Anthony Gebhardt

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CORTISOL: DR JEKYL AND MR HYDE Many of us know that cortisol is the ‘stress hormone’ and assume it’s all bad. Actually, cortisol is a complicated cat, essential for survival but detrimental to survival in excess. Let’s break it down. Cortisol is a naturally circulating hormone that follows a rhythm. When we are healthy, cortisol levels rise in the morning just before getting up, and the level peaks 30-40 minutes after waking. It’s a natural stimulant to get us going in the morning, kicking off metabolism by releasing stored glucose and freeing fatty acids and amino acids to fuel the body. The adrenals are stimulated to produce epinephrine and norepinephrine which increase cardiac output and vasodilation in muscles, and boom! We’re ready to rock and roll for the day. Cortisol usually runs on an inhibitory loop, meaning when the concentration in the blood is too high, secretion is reduced. As the day progresses, cortisol levels drop, until late afternoon when we get a spike (our ‘second wind’). Levels then decrease through the evening to bottom out around midnight, which why we tend to want to be sleeping then. So far it seems like the good guy right? It gets a little better: cortisol is fat burning. This means if we add a little stress, like exercising, while fasting (not for days on end, just on an empty stomach), then we go into fat burning mode. Eating soon after, taking Branch Chain Amino Acids or protein helps this effect, as does lowering cortisol levels post-exercise. We can lower cortisol with leisure walking, sleep, massage, meditation, laughing, physical affection, essentially anything relaxing. Still sounds good right? Cortisol is so essential in helping us deal 44

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with stress in an appropriate way, it even reduces inflammation! This reduction of inflammation is our first hint at the Mr Hyde side of cortisol. Elevated cortisol when combined with insulin, ie: if you’ve eaten something sugary while stressed, increases fat storage. Cortisol can contribute to cravings and also hypothyroidism. The metabolic attributes of cortisol turn on us and we wind up with reduced lean muscle mass and increased insulin resistance. Insulin resistance can then lead into Diabetes type 2, completely messing with our ability to regulate blood sugar levels. It can also lead to weight gain. Cortisol reduces inflammation and the immune response leaving the body more susceptible to illness. Excess cortisol levels have been shown to decrease Hippocampal volume, the part of the brain associated with memory. It decreases our REM sleep, the important part of our sleep cycle for replenishing the body. Cortisol also increases our awake time which can lead to insomnia, chronic fatigue and mood disturbance. Cortisol is indeed a Dr Jekyl and Mr Hyde hormone. A little is normal, healthy and essential - the problem lies in excess. Chronic stress, sleep deprivation, inflammation, alcohol and coffee will increase the circulating cortisol levels and throw the system out of whack. Reduce stressors on the body, deal with chronic stress and your body will return to its healthy cortisol rhythm. Learn more at erinlbourne.com Erin Bourne

THE OLDEST AND NEWEST HERB: CANNABIS EXPLORED AT BOTANICAL BAZAAR Each year, Botanical Bazaar aims to educate and inspire nature enthusiasts of all ages. This September is no exception, with attendees being able to visit more than 90 green exhibitors plus attend celebrity gardener’s talks, demonstrations, botanical art and kids’ nature activities. It’s a great place to learn how to grow your own food, get into urban and small space gardening, employ sustainable living concepts and use medicinal herbs. One such herb is cannabis, which is being explored in a talk by Charmaster and president of the Australian Cannabis University, Dolph Cooke. There are many claims about the beneficial use of medicinal cannabis products for a wide range of conditions, but thus far most of these claims lack solid scientific backing, because cannabis is an illegal drug and it has been difficult for researchers to run research trials - particularly human trials. Government-approved research has been officially conducted in Australia for around 18 years, Dolph tells us. “A lot of leaders have tried to make cannabis legal and they’ve been crushed. I can even remember Paul Keating - they were all set to make it legal way back then.” So what’s the hold up? “It’s a government thing that started in 1936, Harry J Anslinger (US) was the first drug tzar. He used to say things like if you’re a white girl and you took marijuana you’d run off with a ‘Negro’ or a Mexican and have brown babies, or you’d be addicted to heroin for the rest of your life, and he spoke with such authority on it that people listened. “That report was actually put together by the Department of Treasury so it’s not actually a public health concern, it was a money thing, because the big businesses that cannabis competes against would have lost their money because cannabis is a far superior product.”

The two main active components that are the current focus of research are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). Some of the arguments against cannabis use claim that synthetic drugs have been created which replicate the medicinal properties of CBD and THC, minus the side effects, whereas the pro camp claim that cannabis is actually much safer. “There’s never been a death from inhalation or use of cannabinoid (in rats during clinical trials). They’ve worked out the lethal dosage is proportionate to 1500 pounds smoked within 15 minutes, and that could maybe kill half the subjects. Cannabis has a unique safety profile: it’s lower than sugar, lower than water, lower than fresh air, lower than sodium. It’s obvious that it was designed as a healing plant for humanity.” There are many other components of cannabis that may be beneficial and will undoubtedly be the focus of research in the future, and there is definitely much more to be learned about this ancient herb. Natalie O’Driscoll

You can catch Dolph Cooke’s presentation at Botanical Bazaar on 16 September at Country Paradise Parklands, Nerang. Visit botanicalbazaar.com.au for full program details.

TRIBUTE TO THE CHILIS

BONDI CIGARS FLOAT INTO SOUNDLOUNGE

Rarely has an Australian band received as much consistent and widespread acclaim from critics and music fans alike as the cheekily named Bondi Cigars. With three live and seven studio albums under their belt already, and over a dozen years of constant touring, this award winning quartet have well and truly worked their way into Australia's musical heart. Now with an upcoming show at Soundlounge, Natalie O'Driscoll caught up with bassist, vocalist and founding member Alan Britton. In 2015, the band released their 10th album, ‘Child in the Desert’ which was well received by fans and critics. I wonder what’s been happening on the recording front since then. “Since Child in the Desert we have basically been touring to support that disc,” says Alan. “And at the moment finding a good venue to record another live disc to give people an insight into Bondi Cigars’ live work.” With such a robust discography, I can’t help but ask if Alan has a particular favourite. “Every CD we have produced is a favourite in their own way to me and at the moment I do favour ‘Child in the Desert’, as I like the way Shane [Pacey, founding member, vocalist and guitarist] has crafted his songs on the album to be different but are still unmistakable Bondi Cigars. I also like the contributions from Frank [Corby, drummer] and Eben [Hale, guitarist, vocalist].” Renowned for their live energy, the band has been invited to perform at festivals such as The Melbourne International Music & Blues Festival, Great Southern Blues & Rockabilly Festival, Moomba Festival, Queenscliff Festival, The Byron Bay East Coast Festival and more. Over the years, the Bondi Cigars have also built a solid reputation as one of the best live acts in the country. After so many years of experience on the road, I ask Alan what, if any, advice he would 46

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have for young bands who are about to embark on a hectic touring schedule. “The band has toured nationally since its inception and in the early days by road to every corner of the country, and we used to carry our food with us as the food quality wasn't great in some places. My advice is to stay focused on the music, eat well, and keep up your water supply and save the partying until the end of the tour.” With their fantastic mix of blues, soul, funk and R & B, Bondi Cigars have maintained their status as one of this country's most indemand touring acts, with shows numbering over a hundred and fifty each year. Over a decade later, many original fans are still supporting the band, although they are gathering new ones each day.

Bondi Cigars hit Soundlounge on 22 June. Tickets at soundlounge.com.au.

California Kings are a Red Hot Chili Peppers tribute band comprising Jayden Fass, Brent Maxton, Gregory Wall and Michael Ginsberg. They’ve been pulling solid crowds through local venues with another big show on the horizon at Parkwood Tavern. Samantha Morris chatted to You’re obviously a big fan of RHCP but what other music has influenced you over the years? We're all products of the 80s and 90s, so many genres that fit that era we're in to, whether it be hard rock, metal, funk. Definitely bands like Rage Against the Machine, Living Colour, Chilis of course and 80s bands like Gunners, Van Halen are in the mix. And a few of us are metal heads too. Given you’ve got this broad taste in music what made you want to start a Chili Peppers tribute band? Our bass player (Brent Maxton) and drummer (Jayden Fass) have played in various bands in NZ and Australia and were in a Rage Against The Machine tribute band. They always wanted to jam a Chilis tribute so it was an easy transition. I played in a covers band with them so guitar was sorted. Finding a charismatic singer was the challenge! How did you find a singer? Greg (AKA Anthony Keidis) advertised for a bassist for his new RHCP tribute band. Snow (our bassist) was made aware of the ad, and thought he would audition, just to check out the singer. Snow was blown away by Greg’s vocals. After the audition, he invited Greg to rehearse with the rest of us. Greg loved our sound and immediately joined our band. We’re big fans of original music here at Blank GC and so are our readers, but there’s no doubt that Gold Coast is the covers band capital of Australia – it just comes with the entertainment x tourist territory. What are your thoughts on the originals vs covers scene?

There seems to be a little bit of conflict with the whole "playing someone else's songs" but for us it’s just about having fun. We've all been in originals bands and some of us still are. As long as we're playing live music and having a blast, I don't think it matters. Red Hot Chili Peppers have totally stood the test of time – from LA beginnings in 1983 to still touring and headlining the world’s biggest festivals today. What do you think it is that connects so many people to the band? What makes them so appealing? They've certainly changed from the straight funk rock/metal band they started out as but I think they've just used their influences collectively to just change with the times. Whether it's the ballads or the really heavy tracks, it seems everyone can like the Chilis. All the members are characters too which creates a pretty good image for the band. Tell us about your upcoming Parkwood show and what people can expect? We're really looking forward to Parkwood! We'll be playing a stack of tunes from their whole catalogue including a lot from 'Blood Sugar Sex Magic' which is our favourite. There'll be some radio classics then some of the more obscure tracks for the diehard fans - a good two hour mix. Samantha Morris

Catch California Kings at Parkwood Tavern on Saturday 16 June from 8.00pm.

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THE GOLD COAST’S SIGNATURE FESTIVAL OF FOOD AND WINE RETURNS THIS MONTH The third annual Gold Coast Food and Wine Festival set to explore the evolution of the city’s culinary landscape from 31 May to 3 June 2018. This year, the Gold Coast Food and Wine Festival will shine a spotlight on the Gold Coast’s evolving food and wine industries. More than 15,000 food and wine lovers are expected to gather at over 30 events across the Gold Coast for the celebration. Utilising the Gold Coast’s world famous landscapes and venues, from the north at Beenleigh, to the south at Coolangatta, the festival celebrates the Gold Coast as a food destination. Bringing together the best local chefs, street food, restaurants, precincts, wineries, breweries and distilleries across a weekend at the start of winter, there are degustations, picnics, workshops, demonstrations and signature food events. The event has grown year-on-year, attracting 11,500 attendees in 2017 across 35 unique events.

For full program details, visit gcfoodandwine.com.au.

LEAVE THIS TOWN: NEW PUNK FEST HITS BRISBANE Brisbane has scored a bangin’ new pop-punk fest, born from the ashes of one of the city’s last all-ages venues. For one day, in West End, ten bands will fuel the stoke for people of all ages. The lineup features Stateside, Shorelines, Skies Collide, Joy In Motion, Homefront, Chasing Velvet, Days Like These, Hard Luck Champions, What’s Left is Yours and Down & Out. Tickets are just twenty bucks and, wait for it, include free pizzas all night. $1 from every ticket sold goes to Suicide Prevention Australia, so not only do you get pizza and a night of incredible music, you also do so knowing your contributing to saving lives. #poppunkisnotdead

Tickets for Leave This Town which takes place on 30 June at Ahepa Hall, 126 Boundary Street, West End from 3.00pm are available at bit.ly/leavetown.

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MARGARET ATWOOD You’ve watched the TV series, and now season two is about to drop. Is it time to read the book? (You’ve asked the wrong person; my answer to this will always be ‘yes’.) But did you know the book was published over twenty years ago, in 1985, during the height of shoulder pads, the famine in Ethiopia and Live Aid, Mikhail Gorbachev’s leadership of the Soviet Union, and the beginnings of the birth control pill? And that the book won a stack of awards, including the first Arthur C. Clarke Award, and was turned into a film and then an opera, before the current TV series? But what’s it about? It starts with a young woman, going about her strange daily existence. She wears a red robe and a white hat with wings so that eye contact is hard and she sees only what she needs to see in the world. She sits often, for long stretches, and tells us about the sparse interior of her room. We watch her interact with others in the building—she is demure, does not speak unless spoken to, and is careful to not overstep any boundary. We start to understand some of the costs, should she do so, and when she and a fellow handmaiden walk past a wall in the compound, we learn that the costs are steep. Her name is now Offred, which means ‘of Fred’, because dispossession is the theme of the book. We learn, in flashes from the past, that she had a partner, Luke, and a daughter, but they were torn from her and Offred knows not of their fate. We learn the hope she keeps alive, through tales she tells herself inside her head, and that these stories keep her going in this dystopian world in which she is seen as nothing more than a vessel.

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The book takes a slower, more mysterious journey than the TV series, but the pace eventually quickens. It’s an important read, at any point in history, but especially in the era of #metoo. Nae Kurth

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WELCOME TO COUNTRY MARCIA LANGTON

‘Welcome to Country’ is a travel guide to Indigenous Australia: a whopping 230 page book by one of Australia’s most important voices for Indigenous Australia.

their works, Native Title, the Stolen Generations, NAIDOC Week, business, tourism and cultural awareness, including what to do if your guide is not Indigenous.

Accompanied by stunning imagery, the book is written in two parts. The first introduces the reader to Indigenous cultures and the second breaks the country into states and delves into each one’s Indigenous tourism offering.

It’s telling that this section is Part One and is given so much weight in the book. In honesty, this material should be compulsory reading for anyone travelling around Australia (or consuming stories via their armchair). There are practical tips on when to use names of places and people and when not to, some rules around Language and what is appropriate to say in public and even a list of where to eat some of the best cuisine prepared by Indigenous chefs.

The introduction to Indigenous cultures couldn’t come at a more pertinent time. With a growing number of people seeking out genuine cultural experiences, it includes an overview of cultures and languages, kinship (or how people are related to eachother), art (including why it is important to establish the authenticity of an artwork), performance, storytelling, a comprehensive list of Indigenous writers and

Part two of the book is a hands-on guide for people seeking Indigenous tourism experiences in each Australian state. From festival and music experiences through to national parks, galleries,

museums and cultural centres, organised tours and overnight stays, this section reads like a bucket-list for inquisitive tourists who genuinely want to explore Australia’s Indigenous culture and understand why it holds such a significant place in global history. ‘Welcome to Country’ is a practical and beautiful guide to Indigenous Australia, but it should come with a warning: because you’ll have serious FOMO after digesting its contents, and given that some of Australia’s best Indigenous tourism offerings are in remote places you’ll need both a healthy sense of adventure and wallet to tick these places off your bucket-list. All the more reason to add it to your travel guide collection, I reckon. Samantha Morris

STONE & WOOD BREWERY, BYRON BAY SAT 9 TH JUNE, 2018 LAST DINOSAURS • CHOIRBOYS • TROPICAL ZOMBIE FOR TICKET INFORMATION, CHECK OUT WWW.FESTIVALOFTHESTONE.COM

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