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[CONTENTS]
[Canberra’s
Guide]
Entertainment
#519
July/August
Card subject to change
HANDS LIKE HOUSES
p. 16
Mail: 36/97 Eastern Valley Way Belconnen, ACT 2617 Publisher ABN 76 097 301 730 Pty Ltd General Manager Allan Sko T: (02) 6257 4360 E: advertising@bmamag.com Editor Allan Sko E: allan@bmamag.com Accounts Manager Ashish Doshi T: (02) 6247 4816 E: accounts@bmamag.com Graphic Designer/Cover Design Juliette Dudley
p. 21
ST.SINNER
FUTILITY EP REVIEW
p. 23
Article Design Marty Baker Film Columnist Cam Williams Entertainment Guide Editor Allan Sko Social Media Manager Allan Sko & Ruth O’Brien Columnists Ruth O’Brien, Josh Nixon, Alice Worley, Chris Marlton, Allan Sko Contributors Josh Eckersley, Rory McCartney, Ruth O’Brien, Vince Leigh, John P Harvey, Michele E Hawkins, Allan Sko NEXT ISSUE #519 OUT Thursday, 19 August
ARC’S KRAM ON BEATLES + BAND HELP p. 24
TWENTY MINUTES WITH THE DEVIL
p. 28
EDITORIAL DEADLINE Friday, 30 July ADVERTISING DEADLINE Wednesday, 11 August ABN 76 097 301 730 BMA Magazine is independently owned and published. Opinions expressed in BMA Magazine are not necessarily those of the editor, publisher or staff.
JOHN WATERS/LENNON
p. 30
VENUES REVEAL PLANS p. 32
CBR MUSIC REVIEWS
p. 34
TIM FERGUSON
ES 199 T 2 PAGE 10
FILM REVIEWS
p. 36
NOORDHUIS / NICOLLE p. 40
BMA GIG/EVENTS GUIDE p.42 @bmamag
FROM THE BOSSMAN BY ALLAN SKO [ALLAN@BMAMAG.COM]
Totally [sic] With the country, nay, the world periodically dipping into the flaming shitpan as is its wont these days, I thought that instead of attempting to wrestle with the heavyweight issues of our time, and thus further add to the doom-scrolling we find ourselves inexorably drawn to, I would instead use these scant column inches for something lighter and altogether more pointless; to invite you briefly into the wonderful realm of editing, and the silly little anxieties a seemingly by-the-book set of rules can conjure. Thus, for this little foray into phrasing fussiness, I call your attention to the term [sic], its usage, and the moral quandary it puts sensitive editors in. Ahhhhhh, she’s an oldie but a goody, is our [sic]. Meaning “intentionally so written”, it first appeared in English circa 1856. If you want to get really high falootin’, it is derived from the Latin adverb sīc, which means “so, thus, in this manner”. So you see, we’re already into some proper wanky territory with this. Simply put, it’s used when quoting or referring to another source that has a potential mistake, you want to portray said name slash quote accurately, while also letting your reader know that YOU know it’s a mistake. And therein lies the quandary. It’s nearly impossible to employ the use of a [sic] without looking like a smug elitist who enjoys nothing more than the act of huffing deeply from the well of one’s own farts. Adversely, you don’t want go [sic]less and leave a mistake in there that could leave legions of readers saying, “Ha! Fucked up there, didn’t you!” Here’s an easy example lifted via the cursory use of a search engine of your choice, in which, you might want to quote the printed introduction to a college catalog: “Maple Leaf College is well-known for it’s [sic] high academic standards.” That vital employment of [sic] allows you to join in the point-and-laughery of there being a grammatical error when boasting about academic standards. But Christ does it come across as smug as all bollocks; highlighting psomeone else’s innocent mistake. Leave that [sic] out, however, and people will justifiably assume you, too, are a boob. It becomes acutely painful when the reference you wish to use is from someone you like and respect which, I am equal parts delighted and dismayed to report, is essentially everyone. So every time you see a [sic], spare a thought for the agony a sensitive editor had to work through to put in there. And, of course, whenever you see a mistake, just assume a [sic] was meant to go there, ‘kay? And sometimes, when the world is going mad, it helps to get caught up on such little things. As I say myself in this column right now: “If the use of a grammatical tool is the worst thing to have to worry about that day, things are going allright [sic].” facebook.com/bmamagazine
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[HOT TIX]
CANCERVIVEFEST / 2-stage 7-band event / Fri, 23 July / The Basement With all profits donated to The Cancer Foundation Australia, this worthy event looks to raise money for the good cause by rocking your little socks off. On the Main Stage, you can expect to be delighted by the freewheelin’ shenanigans of Traces, Proposal, Karma, Bury Me, Chain Tombstone & The Dead Men. And over at the Afterdark Bar are the joys of 3 Broken Strings, Axiomatic Theory, and AtrocitA. Proudly presented by Milestone Entertainment. From 7pm, tickets are $24.25 from Oztix
Jack Biilmann / With Kim Yang / Fri, 30 July / Blackbird Bar After the launch of a new rock project, a global pandemic, and a truckload of inspiration comes Jack Biilmann with his 3rd solo record Full Circle. The record sees Biilmann in his true element of blues/ roots but also wanders into the folk, soul, Americana, and soul genres for by far the most complete record to date, with signings to Cooking Vinyl Music Publishing & MGM Distribution. After a near sold-out full production show at The Street Theatre on 8 May, Canberra show #2 will see a more stripped-back variety of songs inside the beautiful backdrop of Blackbird. Doors 6pm, $20 via StickyTickets
The Bec Taylor School of Music - School’s Out Rockshow / Sun, 8 August / The Basement The School’s Out Rockshow is a showcase of the The Bec Taylor School of Music’s flagship group program: Bandmates. With a headline set from the incredible and professional Reverend Bones & The Exvangelicals, the event features 13 rock bands from the school, including the Bandmates Juniors, Teens, Icons, and Heroes. With Wayne Herbert as MC and an incredible diverse mix of rock bands playing different genres of covers, this is a fantastic celebration of The Bec Taylor School’s music community and student achievements. 3pm, $15 (under 18s), $20 (adult), $40 (family of four) via Oztix. PAGE 12 PAGE 12
UPCOMING EVENTS
Box Dye / State of Emergency single launch / Fri, 30 July / The Basement It’s time. It’s happening. Box Dye have been toiling away in the rehearsal room and recording studio to produce some dangerously attractive music and its FINALLY time to release State of Emergency into the world! Box Dye have had a busy start to 2021 with a packed schedule supporting interstate legends FANGZ, and (almost) BOYSCLUB, as well as local heroes Highland Light and NORA. With everyone else releasing new music they decided it’s time to squeeze out another single for the masses. Joined by HOT local talent Spinning Plates and Bad Lunar. From 7pm, $25.25 via Oztix
st.sinner / CBR punk upstarts’ first ever show/ Sat, 7 August / Live at the Polo The time has come... the much anticipated and asked-for opportunity to see st.sinner live! st.sinner & The Revelators are “young, rebellious and unapologetic” and have planned a show of the calibre that Canberra hasn’t seen in a very long time. On the night, their friends comprise an amazing line-up of Kilroy, Dead Lazrus, and Subway to Venus - guaranteeing you a quality night of unforgettable music at one of Canberra’s best venues - Live at the Polo. The show will sell out, so get in early, grab your tix, and let’s shout PUNK IS NOT DEAD!!! From 7pm, $15 + bf via Trybooking
CBS celebrates International Blues Music Day 2021 / Sun, 7 August / Harmonie German Club 11 acts across two stages, hot rods, specialty market stalls, raffle prizes, CBS member lucky door prize and nine hours of music from The Groove Kings (ACT), CJ Fairleight-RAVEN (NSW), Simon KinnyLewis Band (NSW), The Bluetones (ACT), The Johnny Reynolds Band (ACT), W. Wade (ACT), Genevieve Chadwick & The Stones Throw (NSW), The Throwbacks (NSW), KillWater (ACT), Darren Jack (NSW), and Pacey, King & Doley (NSW) 1pm - 11pm, $40 + bf from events. humanitix.com/international-blues-music-day-2021 @bmamag
[SPOTLIGHT]
Bangarra Dance Theatre / SandSong / 15 - 17 July / Canberra Theatre SandSong is a journey into ancient story systems framed against the backdrop of both ever-changing government policy and of the survival of people determined to hold strong to their Culture. SandSong is created by Bangarra Dance Theatre in consultation with Wangkajunga and Walmajarri Elders from the Kimberley and Great Sandy Desert regions, drawing on the stories, knowledge, and memories of the past to create a new narrative for our Indigenous futures. This work honours the legacy of Ningali Josie Lawford-Wolf and her family – past, present, and future. 7:30pm (1pm matinee), $59 + bf via venue
David Helfgott / Piano genius / Fri, 30 July / Canberra Theatre The internationally acclaimed Australian pianist, David Helfgott OAM, will be in town for one of his mesmerising concerts. Celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Academy Award winning Australian film Shine, which was nominated for an astonishing seven Academy Awards, the 74-year-old is a national treasure, awarded an Order of Australia Medal for his service to the performing arts, following a career spanning seven decades. He’s played The Hollywood Bowl, Royal Albert Hall, and Carnegie Hall, now this is Canberra’s chance to witness this amazing talent live. 7:30pm, $65 - $79 via venue
Lightbulb Improv / Switched On / Thu, 12 August / Smith’s Alternative Join Lightbulb Improv for a comedy variety show like no other, that is, completely made up on the spot! In a lively and daring journey, the players craft stories, games, songs, and fearless theatre that frees the mind, delights the intellect, warms the heart, and stirs the soul. Since 2016 Lightbulb Improv have performed in comedy and improv festivals in Australia and overseas. They love bringing their improvised magic to Smith’s Alternative in their long running monthly show. Tickets $15 online via the venue or available at the door from 6.30pm. Be warned, shows do sell out quickly! facebook.com/bmamagazine
UPCOMING ARTS EVENTS
That Poetry Thing / Popular regular poetry night / 19 July + 16 August / Smith’s Alternative One of the hottest and longest running literature events on the Canberra calendar, That Poetry Thing brings Canberra’s best poets into the intimate surrounds of Smith’s Alternative and gives the audience a greater insight into their poetic lives and work processes. The night begins with an open mic session, followed by an interview with the featured poet(s). Recent Work Press has played host of late, with Stephen Gilfedder and Kimberly Williams on 19 July, and Phillip Hall and Damen O’Brien, on 16 August. 7pm - 9pm, $5 - $10 via smithsalternative.com
Tom Stoppard’s Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead / 12 - 28 August / Canberra Repertory A modern classic, this fabulously inventive tale of Hamlet as told from the worm’s-eye view of the bewildered Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, two minor characters in Shakespeare’s play. This Shakespearean Laurel and Hardy finally get a chance to take the lead role, but do so in a world where echoes of Waiting for Godot resound, where reality and illusion intermix, and where fate leads our two heroes to a tragic but inevitable end. Wed - Sat, 8pm; matinees: 21, 22, 28 Aug, 2pm - $35-$45 + bf from Canberra Repertory
TAIKOZ / Side By Side / 20 + 21 August / Belconnen Arts Centre Australia’s premier taiko group Taikoz emerges from lockdown stronger than ever in their latest production Side By Side. Taikoz’s trademark dynamism, dramatic flair, and superb musicianship bring five brand new works exploring intimacy, innermost thoughts, and shared experience to life on a stage full of taiko, percussion, and evocative light sculptures by designer Bart Groen. Come and celebrate, experience and contribute to real, live music making with Taikoz! 8pm, $55 ($45 concession) + bf via belcoarts.com.au/ taikoz/ PAGE 13 PAGE 13
LOCALITY
[THE WORD ON LOCAL MUSIC] WITH RUTH O’BRIEN. SEND YOUR GIGS AND INFO TO: [RUTH@BMAMAG.COM]
Well, hello! How’s it going? Welcome and settle in with a warm beverage of some description, it’s time for another snapshot of what’s coming up in the Territory’s arts and music scene. Now, at this point in time, all of the gigs and events listed below are still happening but, with the shit show that is COVID, there’s a chance that some things may be cancelled or postponed closer to the date, so be sure to check what’s on before you rock up.
Canberra garage-pop purveyors Barry Drive are dusting off the amps and playing a one-off show at Live At The Polo at 7:30pm on Saturday, 31 July for the nostalgic, the curious, and the weren’teven-born-then, to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the release of their debut May Contain Traces Of Peanuts. So get out the time machine, set the course for 2001, and come sing along and jump about one more time to Barry Drive, with special guest Adelaide Jones. A good night is a distinct possibility. Tickets and more info is available at bit.ly/3xxtNV8 Not that we wanna make you choose but another cool gig happening on this same evening is the Welcome Back Party featuring Flyying Colours, Cable Ties, Teen Jesus & The Jean Teasers and more at Kambri at ANU. With sounds ranging from grunge pop to shoegaze to post-punk and garage-rock, this gig’s sure to have something for everyone. Starts at 6pm. For more info, head to Moshtix or visit the Yours & Owls website yoursandowls.com.au
First up is the awesome young musical powerhouse that is Sophie Edwards, the mastermind behind She’s On The Bill.
This fantastic initiative was started by Sophie to provide opportunities to female and gender non-conforming folk in the Canberra music industry. Not only does every event have an all female/gender non-conforming line-up, all other staff involved in each event including the sound technician, photographer, and event manager are also female/gnc. The next gig for She’s On The Bill is coming up on Friday, 16 July at Queenies in Kingston from 8pm. Tickets are FREE and the line-up includes Emily Grace and Samantha Sly. Keep an eye out for more SOTB gigs throughout the year and be sure to visit shesonthebill. com.au for more info! For those of you seeking a bit more jazz in your world, Canberra bassist and composer Brendan Keller-Tuberg will be debuting his sophomore album, In Spite Of It All. The show will be a one-time opportunity to hear Brendan, alongside some of Australia’s best young jazz musos, before he jets back to the US for the next stage of his musical career. The show will be happening at Ainslie Arts Centre on Saturday, 24 July from 6:30-8:30pm. Tickets are $20$30 and can be bought via humanitix.
Thursday, 5 August will see local singer/songwriter Jen Broadbent launch her debut EP The Final Heartbreak at The Basement. Jen started out in the Canberra band scene almost 30 years ago (!), and after a much too long hiatus she has decided to finally go solo with her music. Hallmarked by strong, passionate vocals and lyrics, Jen will be joined by friends Christiaan Sep and Chris Wark. To book go to thebasementcanberra.oztix.com.au and to have a listen to the EP head to jenbroadbent.bandcamp. com/releases If blues tunes are more ya thang then you’ll wanna check out International Blues Music Day happening over at the Harmonie German Club on Saturday, 7 August. The Canberra Blues Society have put together an amazing line-up of 11 acts across two stages from 1-11pm. These nine hours of music will feature Canberra bands The Groove Kings, The Bluetones, Killwater, W. Wade and The Johnny Reynolds Band. There’ll also be a whole lot of bands from NSW. To book (advised because of COVID restrictions) and/ or to find out more head to events.humanitix.com/internationalblues-music-day-2021 or canberrabluessociety.com.au As always, if you’re a muso or industry professional in the Canberra music scene, make sure you subscribe to Upbeat - the music industry newsletter I curate and email out every second Wednesday. This free resource is full of all the latest professional opportunities, jobs, competitions and grants I come across. To sign up head to eepurl.com/g2T5iz
Brendan Keller-Tuberg
That’s all ’til next time. Stay safe and well, and happy gigging! Ruth O’Brien - Singer | Songwriter | Writer | Lover of all things artsy and creative - email: ruth@bmamag.com
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Hands Lik e Houses to Rock the Foundation s of the UC Ref ectory Local rock legends, Hands Like Houses, are set to unleash their stadium-sized rock show at the UC Refectory on Friday, 30 July as part of the Semester 2 O-Week celebrations. We caught up with singer Trenton and bassist Joel to see what they’ve been up to recently and to talk about the highlights of their wild, decadelong career. Hands Like Houses (HLH) formed in 2008 from a bunch of different bands on the Canberra music scene. The five members quickly bonded over their love of artists such as Nothing But Thieves, Linkin Park, and Karnivool. With their sights set high, they quickly found themselves partaking in huge international touring festivals, such as the Vans Warped Tour, sharing lineups with the likes of Foo Fighters, Deftones, Alice Cooper and the Red Hot Chilli Peppers. Add to this over 150,000 album sales globally, two top-10 ARIA albums and over 200 million streams, HLH are nothing short of a huge Australian rock band making an enormous impact both here and overseas. They have even dominated in the sporting arenas, having scored the official theme songs for the WWE Super Showdown, as well as both AFL & NRL Grand Finals back in 2020. But it didn’t all happen overnight for HLH, and as Joel assures us, it took a lot of hard work and having that Aussie battler attitude that pushed these five friends to achieve these huge milestones. In saying that though, they certainly had a lot of fun along the way. “We started off touring America, playing to maybe 20 or 30 people each night, and we were absolutely loving it. Living off less than $5 a day and sleeping in the back of our van in Walmart carparks,” Joel reveals. “We were pretty much living off peanut butter wraps and half cooked microwave pasta. We didn’t have a song that blew us up or get any free
By Josh Eckersely
rides. We just worked our arses off and invested all our time and money into backing ourselves and what we were doing. We took nothing for granted, and our core fanbase was built through this kind of mentality.”
Their latest release, 2020’s self-titled EP, has continued the evolution of their sound, with notable pop elements and catchy vocal hooks being utilised at every turn.
Interestingly, whilst HLH quietly achieved massive results overseas, it took some time before the Australian music industry really sat up and started taking notice. Having shifted 40,000 albums mainly in America, and consistently selling out 400-500 seat venues in America and the UK, they would be lucky to sell 40 tickets to a show in Australia in those early days.
When asked about the recording process, singer Trenton tells us:
That all changed with the release of their third album, Dissonants (2016), which debuted at No. 7 on the ARIA Albums charts, and gave the band both a huge boost and their first ever sold out shows in the home country.
“We made the EP on the Central Coast in NSW over 12 days in late 2019, pre- COVID… It was a difficult process, engaging with our own strengths and weaknesses and having to trust our musical instincts to craft the best possible songs in the time we had. “Our producer, Colin Brittain, flew out from the US to put it all together, and he was absolutely key to focusing our process, and shaping a bunch of different vibes and directions into a cohesive collection of songs.” Unfortunately, the rest of 2020 and the overall impacts of COVID have been devastating on all aspects of the entertainment industry. For HLH, as with many others, the loss of the ability to tour means a loss of income, and a huge loss in momentum after ten years of hard work. That’s why the upcoming HLH show at the UC Refectory is going to be a truly special occasion and a chance for everyone to let their hair down and rock out all of the pent-up frustrations from the last 12 months. The show’s line-up boasts some killer local talent, including renowned hip-hop artist Citizen Kay and indie-pop artist Hope Wilkins. Add to this special interstate guests, garage rock duo Polish Club, and the show is nearing festival status. No one is keener to get the show started than singer Trenton, as he lets us know: “Hometown shows are always a rip. It used to be mostly friends and a handful of people, but in the last few years the crowds have grown and grown. I think that same sense of home-town pride comes on extra strong when it’s made up of genuine fans from the city where you grew up. It’s also a chance to put on a homegrown mixed bill of artists that we know and love as people as well as performers.” Hands Like Houses play the UC Refectory, Canberra, on Friday, 30 July. Tickets and further information can be located on the Hands Like Houses website - handslikehouses.net
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PUNK & DISORDERLY
[THE WORD ON PUNK] WITH ALICE WORLEY Hey lovelies, corona is kicking up again so let’s see how many shows I’m about to hype you up for actually go ahead… But get hyped anyway because maybe they will happen! It’s still possible that we will be able to see all these bitching bands this coming month. Fingers crossed (and thoroughly sterilised)!
winners are st.sinner Well-well-well... Look who finally decided to show. The much anticipated live performance debut of st.sinner is finally on the cards, playing with Dead Lazarus, Kilroy, and Subway to Venus on Saturday, 7 August at The Polish Club. Hot off the heels of their third single being released, We’re All Going To Hell, they’re talking a pretty big game on their facebook event, boasting “a show of the calibre that Canberra hasn’t seen in a very long time”.
The end of July will see Box Dye having their first ever single launch. Been a hot minute since their first release last year, Julia, so get ready to pop their new track, State of Emergency, on your Spotify mix! Playing on Friday, 30 July with other locals Spinning Plates, Bad Lunar, and Northbourne at The Basement, this limited number of tickets is at high risk of selling out, so get onto that quick sticks if you wanna come celebrate this release. The trio will be going on hiatus for a spell after this show, set to return to the stage later this year, so get your ticket from Oztix before they go into hibernation! Flash Anthem will be having their last show EVER at UC Hub on Friday, 23 July, so if you wanna get your final fill of those guys, plus performances by Enfants, The Narcissists, and Sunday Sojourn, this is the time! Flash Anthem have been a staple of the Canberra music scene for the last 4 years, and they’re sure to finish off with a bang, so get your tickets at moshtix.com.au if you wanna say your farewells!
Find out if they can put their money where their mouth is by buying a ticket on trybooking.com! I’ve got mine, so I’ll see y’all there! This column was due for publication the day of Sketch Method’s single launch for Panic! At The Costco, so I can’t report on how it went, but I’m pretty damn sure it was awesome. Nah, I can report on it. It was awesome. How could it not be when they were supported by Melbourne’s punk gods Wolfpack and locals Signs & Symbols and Box Dye? It was the best show ever and if you missed it, we were all very perplexed by your absence. What the hell, mate? Where were you? We’ve missed Sketch so much and I’m so so happy to see them getting things up and running again. Panic! At The Costco has been making the rounds on local radio stations around the country and it’s an instant Aussie punk classic. I’m absolutely bursting in anticipation of their other tracks set to be released this year. Thanks for hanging in there through COVID guys, we love you so much! PAGE 20
Flash Anthem to play their final ever gig! In bummer news, The Meanies have had to postpone their upcoming show with Dicklord and Charlotte and The Harlots at The Basement, but I’m so keen for them all to be back on the cards when it’s safe for them to travel. Sweet lady ‘Rona be a harsh mistress, but hey, we just gotta roll with the punches these days. Wishing all of you the very best through these virus-addled times. Stay safe, keep those hands clean, and thrash responsibly xx @bmamag
BMA BAND PROFILE
Group members: Rory Maclean, Josh Pedrana, Nick Dennis, Patrick Galen-Mules, and Caleb Jonas. Where did the band name come from? st.sinner is all about accepting yourself, being ok with being a saint and a sinner sometimes. The Revelators are probably the name of some porn stars or something idk How did you form? One night after a gig I (Caleb the drummer) got approached by Nick (the guitarist) who got me in touch with Rory because they were looking to start a band. That band eventually became The Revelators and then we introduced Sam (the bassist) a lil later. Describe your sound: If Pangea was still around this music would split the continents. Who/What are your influences, musical and/or otherwise? Definitely gotta give a shout out to my boy Guy Fieri, everything he does is an inspiration for the culinary arts. Sonically though, Bring Me The Horizon, Yungblud, Dead Kennedys, White Stripes, Nothing But Thieves.
Tell us about one of your proudest moments? Hitting 30k streams on Spotify was a pretty cool moment. It was sick to know so many people were listening!! What are your plans for the future? Fight Godzilla, get on the cover of Vogue, tell Scott Morrison to his face that he’s an idiot and needs to do his job. What makes you laugh? Funny stuff. Jelly. The colour beige. What pisses you off? The Liberal Government, or any government that doesn’t represent what the people want. Being told you can’t be yourself also pisses me off. Judgment is annoying.
What are some of your most memorable experiences as a band?
Anything else you’d like to add?
Staying a night in the same room as Nick (the guitarist) has caused us to learn a lot about things we didn’t think were physically possible.
If you’ve enjoyed the singles we’ve released so far, we have an EP coming very soon that should knock your socks off, on, and then off again.
What is it that you love about the scene? Your genre’s scene?
So will our upcoming show! (7 August @ Live at the Polo)
We love that people fuckin send it in the mosh!
Stay tuned and thanks for all the support x
Sadly, the With a Heavy Heart 8 festival of brutal doom metal succumbed to the Covid. But Futility still have their new album Anhedonic available now (full review just over there, and down) and you should all go and order a copy here facebook.com/ futilitydoom/ or at futility.bandcamp.com
METALISE
[THE WORD ON METAL] WITH JOSH NIXON To kick off this edition of Metalise, Australia’s longest running continuous metal column stretching back to the last millennia, we need to recognise the efforts of someone who has directly contributed far more for the local metal community than just about anyone. Lance Fox has recently sold The Basement to the new proprietors Nicole and Mik Bergersen, bringing to an end a tenure going back to 2014 that saw the venue space change drastically.
Dirty Sanchez, a Belconnen two-piece made up of former members of Golden Crop, Precursor, Pod People and All Throth play a special two-set show at The Pot Belly on the Saturday, 17 July and you can go have a look for the grand price of free. Thy Art is Murder rescheduled their Human Target tour and the monstrosity of the Sydneysiders finds the target at The Basement on Thursday, 21 July and you can still purchase tickets, thought undoubtedly not for very long, so don’t be hunted down and die wondering.
Thy Art Is Murder
In times past, the Town Centre Tavern and Pete’s Bar & Grill occupied that space, at a time when Officeworks over the road was a carpark for people to struggle with the chemicals they had ingested, or to settle arguments that began in the bar through the medium of fisticuffs. Actually, that used Lance to happen in the two aforementioned bars as Fox well, but I digress… even when ‘The Basement’ became ‘The Basement’ it wasn’t half the venue is is today, in terms of crowd capacity in pre-Covid times or floor space.
Witchskull copped a severe wing clipping for their upcoming March of Winter tour with dates in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane having to drop due to the Covid. The final form of the Canberra leg at The Basement on Saturday, 24 July is still up in the air a little with three of the five bands on the support bill being from Red or Orange Zones. The current line-up is still Witchskull, Mental Cavity, Mountain Wizard Death Cult, Astrodeath and BC but keep an ear to the ground through the ‘Skull socials to see what’s finalised.
This is, in part, due to the fact that the back wall where Chompy’s is today used to be the X&Y Dumpling House or, amusingly, as the decrepit sign with missing letters was prior to its closure would state, the “X&Y Dump House”. Lance and the team invested tens of thousands of dollars on the infrastructure from the PA, to the back wall, to the 500 guitars signed by every band owning a distortion pedal that came near the joint.
Mental Cavity will no doubt be raring to go with their new album dropping earlier this month. Mass Rebel Infest is another slab of punk-inflected death metal with a pleasing crust of d-beat in spots that is being very well received around the heavy press world wide. I’ll have a review of my own up here real soon, with the disclaimer that the guitar solo in the first song is both A) very good and B) played by me.
The renovations were extensive and the scope and ambition decisive as when Lance took over things, Canberra was dropping off of the nation’s and international promoters’ radar, particularly for heavy music. The peak of all of this investment was probably the Phillip H Anselmo & The Illegals show with King Parrot, Potion, and Palm, where the doors of the joint were overflowing and the head banging people stretched all the way from the stage at one end to the bar all the way down the back. Covid stole a lot of this momentum, but again Lance and crew saw opportunity and opened up the riffs for select audiences, with Witchskull kicking off the exclusive events in the lowest ebb for the live music industry ever. The Basement, through Lance’s leadership, provided a model for many around the country to operate through C-19 and negotiate the changing legislative landmines that came with it. Nicole and Mik inherit an institution, and it’s one forged on the back of a hard working team lead by a bloke that has always put the local stuff on the same stage as the biggest bands that came through town. Well done, and thank you Lance. PAGE 22
Melbourne melodic death brutalisers Orpheus Omega are due here on Sunday, 25 July as a part of their Bleed The Way 10th Anniversary tour. Bringing fellow Mexican death metal act Triple Kill you can still get tickets at this point.
Newcastle band The Witching Hour bring the Gen-Z Tour to The Basement on Friday, 6 August with Black Heart and Tundrel. The guys’ single Sleep with the Stars has been getting radio play the world over, including Alice Cooper adding it to his TripleM playlist.
The Witching Hour
Cryptic rumblings last month from the Canberra Metal Fest announced for 14-15 January, 2022. Only a couple of bands announced so far to add to the detail on the promo of “Two Days of Aussie Metal”, but Brisbane’s Misery and Melbourne’s Reaper being the first two acts announced bodes very well indeed. We will be watching with interest as to what materialises in the coming weeks. That’s all for this month. Join us next month where Australia’s longest running continuous metal column will extend that run just a little further.
FUTILITY ANHEDONIC
There’s something mischievously ironic about calling your album Anhedonic, the adjectival form [ ] of anhedonia—a psychological condition characterised by an inability to experience pleasure in usually pleasurable acts. But perhaps it’s fitting when it’s from a doom metal band called Futility. The third album for the Canberra band, which features Brendan de Bear (vocals and bass), Kurt Neist (guitar), Mat Newton (lead and rhythm guitar) and Dan Nahum (drums), is a distended sonic affair spread across five tracks. The opening volley, A Visceral Melancholia, immediately transports us to Futility land; hefty, sustained notes providing a truly immovable foundation for accents and a series of guitar lines that sound more pageant-like and celebratory than one would expect. Of course, by the two-minute mark, the guttural presence of the death metal monster arrives, bringing into line the band’s ear-demolishing capabilities. As this opener progressed, I gradually realised the similarities between Futility’s brand of extended musical forays and, hear me out, classical music.
Despite the apparent differences, there is an alignment more about an approach rather than purely technical characteristics: grand dynamics, the counterpointing, the juxtaposition of searing moments— such as the anticipated guttural vocal style—with quite reflective nuances, as the guitar lines here oft invoke. The following track, A Man of Great Appetites, presents a torrent of disproportionate angst, with some rhythmic diversions that go on to establish, if I may appropriate more formal terminology, certain suitably colliding movements. As heard in the other tracks, the landscape here might intone a sense of desolation, but there are a few moments amid the structured bleakness that provide many salvaging breathers. On Soliloquy, my classical comparisons are emboldened by the band’s use of canonical material; yes, Shakespearean is an oft used term, but Futility has seized the possibilities here by harnessing the Bard of Avon’s work outright: slings and arrows indeed! The normally pleasurable act of listening to music comes in all forms. For those who like theirs substantially heavy, distortion-led, and as dense as post-apocalyptic fall-out, then Canberra’s Futility has just the record for you. VINCE LEIGH
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AUSTRALIAN ROCK COLLECTIVE’s: KRAM Speaking words of wisdom for emerging musos By Alice Worley Australian Rock Collective are back with another ‘Beatles installment after two sold out circuits of Abbey Road - Live. This time around they’ll be celebrating the final ‘Beatles album; Let It Be. Here’s a brief bit of background for you. While recorded predominantly before Abbey Road, Let It Be was released in May 1970, almost a month after The Beatles had broken up. As with Abbey Road, this was an album The Beatles never fully got to celebrate and tour themselves. So ARC are here to do just that. To refresh your memory, Australian Rock Collective is made up of Kram of Spiderbait, Darren Middleton of Powderfinger, Davey Lane of You Am I, and Mark Wilson of Jet, and as with their last circuit, they’ll be joined on stage by a bunch of other lovely guest musicians to help them bring Let It Be to life. I don’t know how many of you reading made it to the Abbey Road tour, but even as someone that’s not a hardcore ‘Beatles fan, I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The show PAGE 24
had so much soul and love and care put into it. You could tell everyone on that stage had such a pure admiration for the band they were paying tribute to; every one of them shaped by those albums and songs they grew up with. My personal favourite performance from that night would certainly be Kram singing I Want You (She’s So Heavy). That final build of the drums rumbling towards the song’s conclusion was felt in every cell. I do believe my sister and I looked at each other with tears in our eyes at the end of it and just said “Wow”. It was a dopamine roller coaster. Speaking of the Spiderbait drummer, I got to have a chat with the wise and charming Kram about the Let It Be tour and the ARC’s motivations for hitting the road once again. So, with Abbey Road done to great success, what was the purpose of doing another album when the first tour seemed perfect, and was such a well rounded project? Well, Kram and the others don’t think you can really do this album without the other. “We were gonna do this show last year, and we kinda made the decision that if Abbey Road went really well then we
were gonna do this show; the two records are basically linked,” Kram reveals. “It’s almost like having two final records, because they had the project, the idea, and it failed miserably. They had such a bad time. “And then they regrouped and made Abbey Road, even though that record came out earlier, so we wanted to explore both sides of the repertoire and also capture the experience. Let It Be is such a different album; it’s so much rawer and simpler in some ways, but there’s more space. Although we’re approaching it in a different way, the personality is the same.” I interviewed Davey Lane last time the ARC came to town, and after hearing how The Beatles had shaped him, I wanted to hear Kram’s relationship with the music; what it did to him as a musician and how he thinks they influenced music in general. “I think all four of us, as well as so many other music lovers and artists all over, are just so into this band,” he says. “Davey always says that he worships at the altar of The Beatles, and that’s so true. You can have so much faith in that band and in their work, and he can really draw upon that, not just in his creativity but also as an unashamed fan. If we weren’t musicians ourselves, I think we still love the band just as much. “My influence from The Beatles came at exactly the same time as the Sex Pistols, and those two bands have impacted me ever since; the third being Black Sabbath. “So my orientation as an artist has been a combination of those three groups,” Kram continues. “Janet (English) gave me a tape of The Beatles and my school councillor gave me a tape of the Sex Pistols when I was in year 10, saying ‘Hey you should listen to this’. He was a cool cat, a potsmoking basketballer,” he laughs. “I’d never heard anyone like Johnny Rotten, and I thought, ‘Oh! You can sing like that, and it sounds sick?!’ You don’t have to be amazing, like a diva or anything. “And then with The Beatles there was this incredible variation in sound. One minute you’re listening to Yesterday and the next you’re listening to Tomorrow Never Knows.” Even if you’re not a huge ‘Beatles fan, you can still appreciate how albums like Let it Be and Abbey Road have changed music in terms of songwriting. Kram says it also shaped the way bands developed personalities, both individually and as a collective. “I went and saw You Am I playing at a club in Brisbane the other night; we’ve been playing with those guys at festivals for years,” he says. “But I haven’t seen them up close like that for such a long time. “Watching them, it really occurred to me that every personality on stage is just as important as the music being played. With The Beatles, each member is a personality, and such likeable characters. There’s something very relatable about the members. Even
if those songs were the same, it would be a different experience if it were a different band that had put them together. It’s about the relationships with these individuals during these projects that I’m interested in as much as the songs and the music. “It’s the same with people in real life that we hang out with. People can be so interesting to us for so many different reasons. Bands are basically an extension of a friendship. That’s no exception with Spiderbait. We wouldn’t be the band that we are unless we really cared for each other and wanted to hang out together. The Beatles were one of the first bands to do that. Before, there would be the star, and then the band behind them. The Beatles said, there’s no one individual in this band, it’s a group and it has a name.” Being such an iconic group, how does one approach such a project? Kram’s advice: give it love and do it your way. “My point of view for a show like this is the same as any show I would do. It has to have an element of myself in it. Last time around when we played Helter Skelter, I mean, that’s about as Spiderbait as it gets,” he laughs. “I really had to restrain myself so I wasn’t smashing up the drum kit at the end. “But in other songs, you can tap into a performance side of you that people might not have really seen before, and that’s what I like about projects like this. Even if I’m doing a ballad, you can still get that punk vibe coming through. Once a punk, always a punk.” When ARC last came to town, there was one older gentlemen in the crowd that felt the need to scream, “You better not stuff this up!” before the group performed what I assume was his favourite track on the album. To be fair to that guy, it’s a sacred thing to so many that you’re taking on, so I was curious as to how many people have been negatively critical towards the guys for handling a project like this. “That’s the thing, we haven’t really had anyone,” Kram chirps. “Janet and our manager Fiona were in the audience at one of our shows surrounded by some hardcore ‘Beatles fans, and everyone was just loving it. We have no preconception that anyone can do it better than The Beatles, that would be ridiculous. But it’s done from a place of love and celebration of the music. “I was jamming Dig A Pony this week and just thinking, this is sick, this is absolutely sick, there’s some of my favourite drumming in this song. I mean, Ringo has always been such an inspiration to me and he is always about being inside the song, and that’s what I concentrate on.” If you’re wanting to catch Australian Rock Collective dishing out another batch of ‘Beatles magic, they’ll be playing at Canberra Theatre Centre on Wednesday, 28 July. Tickets - $81.85 - $176.15 + bf via the venue - were already flying out the door when I checked, so get in quick!
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Exhibitionist | Arts in the ACT
Lockdown Tips and Tricks To Ward Off Boredom
and thousands of novels that haven’t been written since the pandemic began are akin to mass-burning of books, but even worse, they’re being destroyed before they ever began. You can use a pen and paper, a computer, or even your phone, but you must start writing today. Think of some characters and write about them doing things. Once they’ve done some things they can then discuss the things they’ve done with themselves or with each other. Threequarters through the book reveal that some of the things one of the characters did was dishonest. When you’ve written roughly 100,000 words you can send your novel to a publishing company. Congratulations, you’re now a novelist.
By Chris Marlton
Design a Submarine
Finding entertainment is easier than ever in today’s world of smart TVs, smartphones, smart watches and endless shows and movies on streaming services. However, people are finding that these easy distractions can lose their shine over extended periods of time.
If you thought writing a novel was daunting, take a deep breath, maybe two, because this next lockdown boredom buster is no walk in the park. Step one in designing a submarine is gaining a degree in mechanical engineering. Universities in Australia are currently throwing themselves at local students with a range of online options to help make up for the loss of income from international students being unable to enter the country.
Recent lockdown laws in major cities around Australia have revealed that we are less capable of entertaining ourselves than we may have thought. But fear not, there are solutions. Here is a short list of simple tasks that will distract you from boredom. And you might end up having a little bit of fun along the way. Write A Novel First up, we have what might seem like an obvious project to embark on, but you’d be surprised how many novels haven’t been written in the past 18 months. The hundreds PAGE 26
Once you’ve gotten yourself a Bachelor of Engineering degree, you’ll have to get yourself an integrated Naval Architecture design software suite. I personally recommend Paramarine, by QinetiQ, but there are several top choices available, and all will get the job done. You may wish to “pirate” the marine software, since the full suite isn’t cheap. No matter what marine engineering software you choose, you’ll
quickly find that few things pass the time, or are as personally satisfying, as designing your very own submarine. Become a Private Military Contractor So, you’ve written a novel, designed a submarine, and the lockdown is still going on… what’s next? Fret not, because the submarine you’ve designed isn’t going to gather dust on your metaphorical diningroom table of a USB hard-drive; it’s time to sell those blueprints. And who better to buy your submarine than the navy of a global superpower? There’s nothing stopping you from shopping around, to make sure you get the best deal for your lockdown submarine design. Defence contracts aren’t secured overnight, so be patient, but if you stay the course you could find yourself making some decent money without ever getting up off your couch! Pilates Self-care is the final piece of the puzzle in this magical solution pie. There’s lots of apps around for pilates. Download one, and start doing Pilates. Chris Marlton is a Canberra based comedian, writer, painter, and film-maker. His Canberra Comedy Festival show Mephisto Waltz is on Wednesday, 29 September, tickets on sale now at canberracomedyfestival.com.au/ event/chris-marlton-mephisto-waltz/ Chris also runs a monthly stand-up comedy night at The Front in Lyneham. Upcoming standup comedy tickets are available at www.linktree.com/3blindmen, and you can follow @threeblindmencomedy on Instagram and @ChrisMarltonComedy on Facebook.
(PHOTO)BOOK REVIEW WITH CARA LENNON
Billie Eilish by Billie Eilish [Wren & Rook] Why are photobooks so goddamn fun? Try to make me follow your Insta and I will roll my eyes right into the quarkth dimension. Same photos in a big shiny hardcover? Sign me up five times and staple my license to your mailing list. Slick in format and warmly weird in content, this is exactly the Burtonesque, high fashion horror show that any Eilish fan is gonna absolutely love. Read cover-to-cover, the photos show a story rarely alluded to in Eilish’s accompanying commentary. A homeschool kid raised by two musicians in shambling surrounds, going through the obligatory Pink and Bieber phases, wound by degrees into a machine of cameras, crowds, hype, and fantastic scale. Eilish grew up writing songs with her brother Finneas, her first hit Ocean Eyes blowing up when she was 13, hitting the Billboard charts with her EP Don’t Smile at Me at 16. Her distinctive aesthetic set her apart from other tweeny pop stars, her intense colors, cluttered prints and bling against creepy minimalist backdrops elevating Eilish from popular to iconic. It’s a style that translates dramatically to full-sized glossies, and Billie Eilish makes the most of it with seriously gorgeous shots from her music videos, stage shows, fashion shoots, and behind the scenes mayhem.
Eilish presents her early family candids as a celebration of her loved ones and an invitation to relate to her adolescent awkwardness. However I did find that, even as a unapologetic Eilish fangirl, the commodification of a teen star’s childhood is an uneasy proposition. Collectively we’re still coming to grips with the idea that people need platforms, but exposure and self-expression don’t automatically equate to empowerment. Young people need and deserve to be heard, but we know by now the kids with the most microphones pointed at them can be some of the most vulnerable. I found myself lowkey scanning this part of the book for signs of dance moms and showbiz nastiness amongst otherwise wholesome family photos (but turned up nothing). If you can put the trauma of being woke in 2021 aside it’s a fairly sweet collection of baby photos that follows a girl through her glow-up into stardom. Eilish’s commentary is sparse and, apart from a smattering of meme humour and some fan service, revolves around her loved ones. There’s a sense of strong connection with her brother and her friends. The slew of baby and family photos transitions through gig and studio recording pics into staged entertainment-slashart compositions, giving us the Eilish we’re all familiar with in glorious black and neon. It’s a cool book. Get one.
no way out, I thought it was a great idea. So, we’ve worked steadily, workshopping, and it’s been developed from that glimmer of an idea.” The writers, real-life law professors Desmond Manderson and Louis Gomez Ramiro, being of Mexican and Australian backgrounds, combine their talents to bring a cross-cultural mix that informs this work of true crime-inspired fiction. Their unique insight into the mysterious events of that day, along with their thorough understanding of all things law and order, makes up the perfect preparation for delving into the mind of a crime syndicate kingpin.
Twenty
Minutes With The
Devil
by Joshua Eckersley This month we spoke to Caroline Stacey, Artistic Director of The Street Theatre, about the upcoming original production, Twenty Minutes With The Devil. This thrilling, black comedy is inspired by the real-life capture of the notorious Mexican drug lord, El Chapo, and taps into the basic fears and anxieties we all possess when faced with immeasurable uncertainty and ever-present danger. Twenty Minutes With The Devil is a speculatory examination of the unknown aspects of the most recent El Chapo arrest, where by chance, two highway patrol officers apprehend, and are subsequently ordered to hunker down in a hotel room and watch over, the most dangerous man in the world. As forces on both sides scramble to gain control of the situation, the police officers have to make choices that will save their lives or seal their fate, whilst all along not knowing who is coming for them. The inhabitants of that room suffer through the excruciating emergency of their situation where any outcome is possible, and life and death hangs in the balance for them all.
“The two writers were thinking about the problem of justice in the modern world, and they thought that this real-life capture of El Chapo provided an amazing canvas. Somebody that has escaped from the FBI and would have gotten away but was pulled over in the middle of the night, and they were just told to sit tight”, Caroline tells us. “Their question was - what did they talk about, these two lowly cops with the most wanted man in the world? What did he offer them? What did he do to threaten them? How did he charm them, and in a place that is so corrupt, why did these two nobodies stay put?” Breathing life into these characters is the incredibly gifted actors, PJ Williams, Joanna Richards and Raoul Craemer. Williams, who has a long history of performance in Canberra theatre, will be unleashing a deluge of menace and darkness as the crime lord El Ticho. He was last seen at The Street Theatre in Diary of a Madman, for which he received the critic’s award for best performance. He has also acted in a swag of other Street Theatre productions such as A Doll’s House Part 2, The Faithful Servant, The Chain Bridge, Breathing Corpses, and The Give and Take. Richards and Craemer star as Officers Angela and Romulo, the unlikely duo who apprehend El Ticho, and use every tool in the shed to keep control of the situation in their tenuous grasp. As partners, they embody the well-known ‘odd couple’ dynamic, and as Caroline puts it: “All those TV series that have cop duos, it draws upon that idiom. From Starsky & Hutch to CHiPS, to every single TV program you can name where there are two cops working together. One of them is, of course, a complete shambles, and the other is all business. So, it’s playing around with a lot of those tropes that we all know”. Twenty Minutes With The Devil will be performed at The Street Theatre from Friday, 20 August, through to Sunday, 29 August and will include a Meet the Makers Q&A session after the Sunday 29th 4pm show with the cast and the creative team. For fans of crime fiction, this production will have you captivated from beginning to end and keep you guessing with every twist and turn. And in case you’re still not convinced, the final word from Caroline is: “It’s very funny, gritty, and dark. There are big emotions, and it is incredibly suspenseful. You do not know what is going to happen next, and none of us want to be locked in a room with a drug lord.” For more information, visit The Street Theatre website.
Talking to Director, Caroline Stacey, she sets the scene for us: “If you like Fargo, Narcos and those type of series, Twenty Minutes With The Devil will be right up your alley. It draws on that type of popular culture and examines some really important issues. “The basic premise of the work is, it’s set in the locked room of the modern world, and how do we get out? How do we make the right choice before time runs out? When crisis comes, what would you do? No help, no witnesses. What do you do?” Caroline continues. “The writers came to me about three and a half years ago and pitched the idea. It was immediately interesting in terms of the characters and all of them being under pressure and not being able to leave the room. With El Chapo handcuffed to a bed in a locked room with PAGE 28
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Photos by Creswick Collective
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THE JOHN LENNON SONGBOOK IN CONCERT Celebrating the 50th anniversary of Imagine By Joshua Eckersley John Waters is easily one of Australia’s most recognisable and widely respected entertainers. This month, he is set to wow audiences with his new John Lennon Song Book concert at The Street Theatre, which will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the release of the classic album Imagine. John will be performing the whole album live with his band, along with a number of other Lennon and ‘Beatles classics.
According to John: “It’s two men creating this huge atmosphere and when Stewart plays the piano, he sounds like a band of six people. He really thumps that thing and makes it sing, so he’s brilliant in that way. We wrote and rehearsed the show and wondered if anybody would like it at all. We first did it at the Tilbury Hotel in Sydney and after three weeks we had people hanging from the rafters, so it was a revelation for us that we’d got it right somehow.”
John Waters belongs to a special class of performer that straddles multiple genres and formats, be it music, film, theatre, or even kids’ programming (surely everyone has seen him on Playschool at some point in their lives). Over the 50-year span of his career he has basically starred in every TV show ever made, with some of the choice cuts being All the Rivers Run, All Saints, Underbelly, City Homicide and my personal favourite, Offspring.
So, to say John Waters is an authority on John Lennon is a huge understatement. He is nothing short of the living embodiment of Lennon on stage and has honed his skills over a lifetime’s commitment to the music of one of the greatest composers of the 20th century. And it is into this light that he now steps out with the new John Lennon Song Book concert, performing the album Imagine in its entirety.
It is really no surprise that above all else, the love of music came first for the English-born star, who landed on Aussie shores as a 20-yearold migrant with guitar in hand and 30 pounds in his pocket. Already an accomplished live performer, having spent his early years playing with a blues band in England, Waters tells us on arrival he, “just schlepped around looking for work sitting in the corner of cafes, playing guitar and singing folk songs. I had to brush up on my Peter, Paul and Mary, and Bob Dylan repertoire. Then eventually I auditioned for Hair, the rock musical, and got into the show, and that put me into the mainstream of musical theatre in Australia.” From these humble beginnings, Waters managed to ride the wave of a renaissance of Australian film throughout the 1970s, establishing himself as a dominant force in the blossoming industry. Never one to rest on his laurels, Waters kept up a constant touring regime of performing his own original compositions. Then in 1992 he created and stared in the two-man theatrical production of Lennon: Through A Glass Onion. The show was met with such acclaim and was in such high demand that it has taken John and his musical partner Stewart D’Arrietta around the world, from New York to London and back for nearly 30 years. The show depicted the thoughts and nuances of what was going through Lennon’s mind at certain points in his life, with Waters delivering monologues in a flawless scouse accent, interspersed with songs from Lennon’s entire career. PAGE 30
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According to Waters: “It’s great fun to do every track on an album, one after another, so we’ve lined up a tour doing just that, followed by a bunch of different Lennon songs in the 2nd act. It’s Stewart and I with a fabulous band, and it’s almost like we’ve been unchained,” John explains. “The Glass Onion show is strict, and the timing is exact and precise for theatrical effect, but here we can be a bit more looseygoosey and express ourselves with the songs, chat with the audience and have a laugh. I’m digging it and I’m looking forward to the tour because we’re going to have a lot of fun.” In the 50 years since the release of Imagine, it is important to note how we are currently situated, both politically and socially, given the philosophical message of hope contained in the lyrics. The subject matter is just as pointed and relevant today as it ever was, which is certainly not lost on Waters. “I don’t think it’s naïve, the idea of visualising something to make it happen. It’s a philosophical thing that’s been around for thousands of years actually, that idea of imagining and visualising something and bringing it into being. Sadly now 50 years since that song came out, we still have religious bigotry and we still have war, but we don’t have any wealth-sharing in the world. It is a long-term project to change and if we are going to save the planet and live on it still, then we have to change radically, and I think Lennon was a great voice for that.” John Waters performs The John Lennon Song Book In Concert, Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Imagine album at The Street Theatre on Saturday, 31 July at 8pm. More information is available at The Street Theatre website. @bmamag
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Blackbird Bar We will be using the money from the grant to improve our sound system and equipment, as well as:
The Front
- Build a large more user friendly stage for our performers.
The Front is an intimate venue in the inner north looking for weekly acts on Friday evenings. We would love to showcase Canberra’s diverse music scene and we are open to all genres! You can fill out a gig enquiry form at frontgallerycafe.com to let us know if you and your bandmates are keen!
- Bring big name artists from outside of Canberra to blackbird. - Support the local music scene by having different live artists every night we’re open. - We will also open roughly one Sunday per month doing big name ticketed events - Increase our marketing reach for events
Mimir / Events Manager @The Front
We’re very grateful for this opportunity and excited. Follow us on Facebook and instagram for updates on all of our events @blackbird.canberra
The Boardwalk Bar & Nightclub We are bringing live music back to Belconnen! Situated on the shore of Lake Ginninderra, The Boardwalk Bar and Nightclub is the premier entertainment hub that you must not miss! Featuring live music duos from local artists every Wednesday from 7:30pm and monthly performances from a variety of bands as well as an exciting new full production show – STUN! A Queer Variety Show. Check our Facebook events for details.
UC Live UC Live will be hosting a huge program of local and touring artists, whilst predominantly using the funding to pay for our technician’s wages. We’re also hoping to run some much-needed all-ages events! Kels - Live Music Manager
Peter Dorree - Owner PAGE 32
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@bmamag
The Amp It Up! fund was developed to assist small to medium sized live venues to recover after the impacts of COVID-19, as well as to grow opportunities for local musicians and other performance artists to get back on stage and give Canberrans some great live entertainment options throughout 2021.
Gang Gang
23 live entertainment venues across the ACT will share in nearly $800,000 to help support local gigs and get the night-time economy going again. As a result, we caught up with some of the venues to find out how they’re gonna splash the cash, and thus what we can look forward to in the months ahead.
Smith’s Alternative Gang Gang’s Amp It Up program is built around bringing bigger interstate acts into Canberra under the proviso that we get to pick the supports. This will provide a bunch of local artists with the invaluable experience of performing and hanging out with nationally and internationally successful artists. Something which can be quite hard to come by for Canberra bands.
We are also super happy to be able to provide guarantees to some amazing local artists that will be launching their singles and albums. We’re so excited to see what this invaluable program does for our local scene over the next six months!
We proposed a two-pronged strategy. Sunny Spring Sundays: a weekly series of free outdoor concerts on our street front, featuring the best and liveliest of Canberra bands every Sunday afternoon for thirteen weeks. Smith’s Wish List: a smaller number of concerts featuring Australian bands not normally in our league aimed at raising Smith’s profile both amongst the local music audience and the national music industry Nigel McRae - Venue Owner/Manager
King O’Malley’s
Sam Conway - Co-Owner/Manager
King O’Malley’s has been supporting free live music in Canberra for over 20 years. Thanks to a grant from the ACT Government’s Amp It Up fund we will be able to support even more musicians by increasing both the variety of music and adding extra sessions.
The Basement The Basement Canberra crew and community are stoked to have the support of the ACT Government through the Amp It Up! grant. With their help, we’re keeping our doors open and our stages lights on, despite global uncertainty and local restrictions on freedom of movement.
Musicians and their supporters have been particularly hard hit with the COVID 19 restrictions and this round of grants is very timely and welcome. Peter Barclay - Managing Director
WE LOVE YOU CANBERRA \m/ Let the bands play on!
Hippo
sideway is using the Amp It Up fund to continue to host and support local and interstate performers. A week at the venue features free live music Thursdays, Funk, Jazz and Soul music Fridays, electronic music on Saturdays, and live music on Sunday afternoons. Some of the exciting guests coming include Sydney-based funk artist Setwun and South Sudanese legend Gordon Koang.
Hippo is a live music institution in the ACT with over 20 years of weekly live jazz in the venue on Wednesday evenings. In 2018 we started a weekly blues night on Mondays. Hippo is built on supporting local musicians perform in a relaxed, friendly, and warm environment. With the Amp It Up grant funds we will reintroduce two nights of live music at Hippo, supporting our local musicians to perform for Monday Night Blues (from 8pm) and dedicated Jazz on Wednesday evenings (from 8:30pm).
Finbar - Owner/Manager
Kylie Preston - Director
Mik and Nic Bergersen - New Owners!
sideway
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[CANBERRA MUSIC REVIEWS] BEC TAYLOR AND THE LYREBIRDS SHED MY SKIN [
]
Canberra outfit Bec Taylor and The Lyrebirds recently released Shed My Skin. The new track, following previous singles, Off The Edge and Friend of Mine, reveals a stylistic departure—less organic sounding, yet still raw.
The new one is a sonically quieter place than those previous records, with a spare production that feels considerably more concentrated. With a verse that kicks in as soon as you start, Taylor’s tenderised vocal approach leads us straight into the sinewy motions of the track. Mood setting swells and finger snaps are set alongside a percussive pulse and, as the track progresses, a discreet bass drum ushers us into subtle shifting changes in temperament. Despite the track’s overall low-key profile, there’s a palpable sense of something akin to resignation, a casual articulation of relief that’s undoubtedly tied to the narrative’s focus. It feels reflective, so the track has hit the spot in that regard. Taylor’s vocal performance is convincingly aligned to these suggestions of cleansing, with her voice oscillating between ethereal airiness and high range fragility.
MOOD. START AGAIN [
]
For two years Canberra-based music artist Mood. has released single after single, undoubtedly firming up his follower base and honing his style. His latest release is a laid-back induction into his habitat, utilising a spare groove, an acoustic guitar, and an assortment of lush pads that act as a platter from which the sweeteners of the vocal layers are served up.
After the purging there’s a commitment to remove the vestiges—this, too, is supplemented by the vocal; the unknown can always induce trepidation no matter how robust this commitment to change is. The song’s melodic terrain is assiduously attended to by the production’s gradual layering of synths and rhythmic touches and vocals, helping to imbue the track with a dynamic that’s as sneakily effective as it is inoffensive. And, of course, reminding us, in a sonically careful and finely filtered manner, what’s about to happen here. Rather than removal, we have extension, a technique not as at odds with the song’s theme as one would expect. There is a crescendo, narratively speaking, and the instrumentation puts a little soft fire behind it. Shed My Skin is a rebirth for Bec Taylor and The Lyrebirds, and in more than just subject matter. VINCE LEIGH the melody muscles up, and the instrumentation further thickens the sonic backdrop. When we do arrive at the chorus, Mood.’s voice breaks off into falsetto, a choice one would think might lighten the impact of the centrepiece part; however, it actually seems to enhance it, with the pleasing descending melody imbuing the track with a resolve one can only wish for another as they traipse through the detritus and displeasure of splitsville. The chorus mainline is the crowning hook of the track, a tumbling arrangement of notes that seem to allude to hope and thwarted sentimentality—this feature offers us a renewed experience of the verse and pre-chorus that follows. Start Again is smooth and restrained, hi-fi pop that effectively reveals Mood’s cocktail of creative talents, a combination that delivers quite salient, urbane results. VINCE LEIGH
The track’s intro instantly gives one a clue as to the song’s temperament, with its adlib-like vocal part and chord progression, setting the, ahem, mood, so to speak. And it does this with calming efficacy, leading us straight into the heart of an accumulation of soul-baring admissions, ‘a bad guy with all the wrong intentions’, Mood tells us. This candour is reflected in the barebones nature of the verses, during which we get acquainted with a series of decisions the narrator makes, with a bag ‘packed up for the ocean’. Perhaps the decision has been made for him? The pre-chorus contains a couple of self-affirmations that lead us to believe Mood. is taking the break-up rather well. Up until this point, we’ve also heard an efficient assortment of attributes that support these self-assessments; the pace picks up a little, PAGE 34
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ARCHIE GREENER
ARCHIE formed in late 2018 while studying at the ANU School of Music, and since their launch at the start [ ] of July 2019, they’ve made quite an impact on the Canberra scene. They began with shows alongside wellestablished hometown heroes but soon began sharing the stage with the likes of Surf Trash, Neko Pink, and BENEE.
and industrious bass lines, which quickly segues into a straight feel, this certifying the band’s undoubtedly joyful abandon, spiritedly shepherding us all into the zone of dance.
It wasn’t long before the band headlined a string of sold-out headline shows around Canberra, confirming a healthy fanbase. Now, the indie dance-pop purveyors have remerged with Greener, the fourth single for the band.
One hears this abandon and is utterly convinced by it.
The new track fuses all the shiny brilliance heard in parts of their previous singles and marries that to a newfound melodic clarity and focus to be found here. Two forms of musical preludes are established before Grant Simpson’s vocal seizes the spotlight. The first sets out a laid-back groove, where funked-up clean guitars float above a swirl of synth arp
The fun continues. But it’s quite a refined sense of frolic. Aided by a wellcrafted verse-melody, the song grows into an expanse of infectious cheer, decorated by some Daft Punk vocoder touches and passages of syncopation that add a sense of sonic colour and urgent dynamism. Lines like, ‘I want to run away from here / there’s so much waiting for us outside’, are imbued with an intrinsic depth in this day and age. Still, no doubt the exuberance that spills forth from this record is also alluding to the sense of freedom one faces at a certain age. Greener is not the sound of youth angst necessarily but perhaps more like youthful appetite. The dizzying sense of wonder is palpable, as too is the groups’ aligned sense of hunger. ARCHIE has refined itself, and in the process is now armed with an undeniable pop prototype that should see the band gather many eager souls and diehard devotees—not to mention innumerable plays and streams—for years to come. VINCE LEIGH
SKINNY WOLF YELLOW MOUNTAIN BELL [
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Last year, Canberra act Skinny Wolf released their debut Fever, a well-received alluring folkblues roots and indie dream pop lo-fi amalgamation. The duo comprising Ash Buckley and Josh Veneris has returned with a new release Yellow Mountain Bell. As the band states:
“This one is named after an endangered mountain flower in the Stirling Range (WA), which was severely impacted by the 2019-20 bushfires. The song reflects our disillusionment with the response to the bushfires and the current biodiversity crisis.” Of course, any eco-protest song is welcome, and the more, the merrier, or the more of them, perhaps the more enlightened some of us might become. And this track is a fine addition to the no doubt burgeoning genre. A study in quiet dissent, Yellow Mountain Bell features a combination of soothing textures, eddies of synth pad lines, hovering guitar layers, and silken vocals placed over an unvarying light and steady groove, with an added percussive element that seems to help maintain the track’s vitality. Obviously, a balance between the conceptual and the musical was uppermost in the minds of Ash and Josh, and this appears to have been partly solved by these rhythmic elements. Many of the band’s previous aesthetic tendencies are present here, a lo-fi dreaminess, a cathartic sounding ethereality. facebook.com/bmamagazine
The attempt at seduction is measured and well-crafted and so impressionistic as to seem languid. But all in a rewarding way; this enervation becomes the track’s strong suit, as it gently assuages, sneakily working its subtle elegance on you as an impressive artistic work might do. Yellow Mountain Bell contains its fair share of melodic inventiveness, too, the kind which leaves you unprepared and unsuspecting, for its lissom tentacles do wrap themselves around you, long after the song first drifts into your consciousness. VINCE LEIGH
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[FILM REVIEWS]
THE WORD ON
FILMS with Cameron Williams GIVING THE SLASHER A NEW SPLASH O’ PAINT Not many film franchises get a chance to grow with their audience. James Bond is stuck in an endless reboot loop, the Fast and the Furious saga is in cruise control, and the Harry Potter series got shaggier and moodier but, hey, that’s high school.
HITMAN’S WIFE’S BODYGUARD [
Fear Street is different because it’s an experiment 30 years in the making. The concept? Take R. L. Stine’s (yes, the Goosebumps guy) young adult book series Fear Street, first published in 1989, and adapt them as an R-rated trilogy of films: Fear Street: 1994, Fear Street: 1978 and Fear Street 1666. So, the teens who once read the books are now old enough to indulge in full on blood splatter; it’s a glow up and a gore up. Fear Street splits the story across three eras and it’s a tale of two towns: Sunnyside and Shadyside. The town rivalry is like The Simpsons Springfield and Shelbyville beef but in Fear Street there’s 200 per cent more death threats. Sunnyside is upper class and Shadyside is lower class. Yes, as you probably suspect, there is nothing subtle but that’s part of the appeal of its self-aware hyper melodrama. The Shadysiders suspect their ongoing misfortune is the result of a curse and it gets off to a stabby start in the ‘90s when a series of murders leads a group of teenagers to investigate the town’s past.
]
Bodyguard Michael Bryce (Ryan Reynolds) is trying to come to terms with the demons haunting him since his assignment as Darius Kincaid (Samuel L. Jackson)’s bodyguard. Bryce’s therapist assures him that he needs to take a sabbatical from bodyguarding, with no violence, no guns, no weapons of any kind. Bryce needs to find out who he is. Fear Street: 1994 and Fear Street: 1978 stands on the shoulders of slasher giants like Scream and Friday the 13th but director and co-writer Leigh Janiak (Honeymoon) doesn’t try to outsmart those iconic franchises. Instead, she embraces the thrill of the contract you sign when you decide to watch a slasher. Janiak sets up Slasherville, USA, where there are multiple masked killers, which ups the stakes of the plot kind, as well as the kind that goes through people’s chests, faces and limbs. At times, the first two films feel like a cross between Jumanji and Halloween and each period setting is potent with nostalgia – the Stranger Things effect – as the result of the blunt force song choices. Once you get to Fear Street: 1666 the series relies more on supernatural elements
and ye olde unease, and loses the previous nostalgic slasher thrills. In the scope of the trilogy, it’s what Janiak and cowriter Phil Graziadei don’t do that stands out the most. They don’t always follow the traditional character archetypes of a slasher. There are final girls, plural. There’s better representation when it comes to race and sexuality but they never grandstand – it’s just the way it is. The connection to these characters allows for genuine heartbreak with each cruel twist of fate rather than the urge to join Team Masked Killer. Fear Street hacks and slashes its way through familiar ground, but there’s a youthful vibrancy to the way it leverages Stine’s brand of bubble-gum horror for both die-hard fans and the ones who crave the cheap thrills of a slasher.
But just when Bryce has committed to his new life path, Darius’s wife, Sonia Kincaid (Salma Hayek), launches herself into his world and gives him no choice but to help her recover her hitman husband, who has gotten on the wrong side of some mobsters. Nothing if not loath to help the wife of the man responsible for his breakdown, Bryce nevertheless speeds from one catastrophe to another in the wake of the frenzy that is Sonia. Meanwhile, evil mastermind Aristotle Papadopoulos (Antonio Banderas) is bent on destroying the European power grid in retaliation for the EU’s proposed sanctions against Greece. Interpol gets involved, but so does the FBI, setting its sights on Bryce and the Kincaids, leaving the trio an uncomfortable option as its price for continuing freedom. The Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard hurtles from one killing to the next, but there are plenty of funny moments along the way, especially with the long-suffering Bryce finding himself stuck with hitman Kincaid, who apparently hates him, and with Kincaid’s terrifyingly loving wife. Terrific performances all round, heroes to admire (not many of them, though), villains to despise, and imaginative action sequences interspersed with what we might — at a stretch — call quieter moments make The Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard great fun from start to finish. A rollicking good time. Screening at Palace and Dendy cinemas. MICHELE E HAWKINS
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[CANBERRA SINGLE REVIEWS] CHINS MARGO + BOJACK [
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Chins are a Canberra-based alternative rock band, having released this double-A side featuring Margo and Bojack earlier this year. If one were compelled to give an allembracing description of the sound, one could use the terms punk or grunge, but there’s a lot more going on here than any abridged genre can provide. Between the interweaving ululations of the noise guitars and the cosmic contemplations of youth angst, there are cadences of subtle power and true-to-form authenticity. And we all love that.
And that’s healthy, of course.
As well as a subtle uniformity, there’s a diametric curve that covers a lot of ground. There are some persuasive delights for the lovers of frenetic rambling post-punk during Margo, and for those with a penchant for a less explosive but not less intense experience, there is Bojack.
Many of the same snarling guitar parts that populate Bojack appear on this one, with the difference being their ability to double up on the tangible vexations issuing forth from the vocal performance.
The vocal duties on the latter are performed by Madie Cook, who does a splendid job of reigning in a searing urgency, utilising a discursive melodic centre upon which the song swirls. With enough vulnerability to provide a formative counterweight to the relatively untethered but nonetheless effective band behind her, Madie’s performance is what draws us in, in turn tethering us to the band’s miasmic flame. In contrast, though not incoherently so, is the partnered track, Margo. This side of the band gives in to some healthy punk grunge tendencies with perhaps more of a lean towards grunge. Utilising another of the band’s vocalists, Margo has a corrosive, enervating aesthetic that wears its peeves and petulances on its sleeve.
What stands out here, on both tracks, is the band’s concerted energy and selfassuredness, all intact while maintaining an idiosyncratic, emergent edge. VINCE LEIGH
CHINS BACK IN THE 80S
The new track from Canberra-based Chins is an unsuspecting dose of [ ] conspicuous ethereality that deflects much of the punk grunge sounding angst of their last releases for a quieter, less noisy disposition. However, there’s still a discernible level of anxiety present, but it’s deceptive—it resides in a rawness that’s at the heart of the band’s MO. A two-chord chugging guitar progression introduces us to quite a pleasing temperament, one accompanied by an assumed reminiscence. The song, after all, is called Back in the 80s, and I feel pretty confident there were no such 80s for these kids. Nonetheless, this appropriation is absolved by Madie Cook’s vocal—effortlessly gliding through a series of references and visual snapshots dreamily woven into the fabric of the rhythm and melody. After a few rounds of this list-like lyric, we are taken down, or up, depending on your taste, by a diverting route, complete with a rushed one-bar count, to a more boisterous space, where, finally it seems, some semblance of raw punk power makes an appearance. But as much as this rawness is welcome, its deviating characteristics are tricky, merely reflecting a will to free oneself from the shackles of memory, as part of the lyric intones. Once the song is over, what’s revealed is that the melodic hooks are relegated to the verses and the philosophical tendencies to the chorus. PAGE 38 Page 38
And with that in mind, these parts become interchangeable. Another pleasing attribute. There are also two forms of energy present, the verses making use of a straight drum part, and the chorus’s urgency which is governed by the descending chords and accents. The more strident part of the song has its chief refrain, the line: ‘We don’t need to remember anymore’. And so, perhaps the appropriation mentioned above is not the case after all, and the song is a fresh statement of rejection, willing the past to the past and not to some pointless, empty pedestal? Well, I’m up for all that. As another line informs us, Back in the 80s, ‘we were all kinda crazy’. And yes, who isn’t when they’re that young? VINCE LEIGH
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ALBUM IN
FOCUS
continuing Mahmood’s trademark world pop sound and will undoubtedly repeat the success of his previous releases. Imaginary Friend follows the enormous success Mahmood is enjoying right around the world. His trail-blazing musical career also includes his enduring recordings with Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, and his debut solo album selling over six million records. But Mahmood has also achieved phenomenal results at a global level. Imaginary Friend has already shot into the USA iTunes Jazz charts at #5 and is currently #1, a feat no other Australian or Pakistani artist has ever accomplished. The new release follows in the wake of Mahmood’s recent chart impacts worldwide, which include:
MAHMOOD KHAN IMAGINARY FRIEND EP
There’s no one quite like Mahmood Khan in Australia, and this amazingly versatile artist has the track record to prove it. His new EP Imaginary Friend is the latest addition to his oeuvre and a very welcome one it is too. It is an outstanding record,
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- six songs on the iTunes USA top 100 during April 2021 - a #1 Billboard Classical Crossover hit with the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra that also reached #1 on iTunes in USA, Australia, France, Switzerland, Mexico, France, and Turkey - four consecutive #1 singles in Australia - Tere Baghair becoming the first foreign-language album to go #1 on the USA and Australian iTunes charts
As for the new EP, the opener is Call Her Up, a track that gives the listener a good taste of what lies ahead; that full, slick sound tempered with, on some occasions, raw, unguarded performances. The title track continues the same resplendent aesthetic, yet one imbued with a faint quixotic tone. The following track, I Have To Love You, despite its rather inflexible title, is the ballad of the EP, one that actually reveals the flexibility of Mahmood’s vocal skills. Mahmood’s new collection also includes the funk-fuelled Runnin, with its splashes of mid ’70s cop show drama and reiterative, circling chorus. The result here is a uniformed sophistication, an atmosphere that manages to be expansive while retaining an organic, relatable vulnerability. The EP has many surprises and reveals, in varying degrees of accessibility, with Mahmood Khan’s ability to draw on numerous genres and writing styles to sustain his artistic idiosyncrasies on full display. VINCE LEIGH
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a jazz conversation to wash away life’s dust By Ruth O’Brien Many singers spend a long time trying to master the vocal skills that Michelle Nicolle performs seemingly effortlessly. If you listen to any of her discography, you’ll hear the perfect balance of mixed voice, twang, and just enough vibrato in all the right places. It’s one thing to hear this kind of vocal technique demonstrated well on a recording. It’s another to hear it done just as well, if not better, in a live concert. Heading to The Street Theatre at the end of the month, Nicolle will be joined by long-time friend and collaborator, Nadje Noordhuis, trumpeter and composer who is currently back in Australia after living abroad in New York for more than 16 years. Noordhuis has been described by All About Jazz as “one of the most compelling voices to emerge on her instrument in recent years”. A quick Youtube search will make you realise how the playing style of Noordhuis is quite special. Unlike many jazz trumpeters who might like to fit as many notes as they can physically muster (ok, maybe a slight exaggeration) into a single bar, Noordhuis gives each and every note its moment. The blend of Nicolle and Noordhuis sharing the lead-voice for this gig makes for a unique event in and of itself; there aren’t too many ensembles that have two instruments “singing” the lead part. They will also be joined onstage by bassist, Jonathan Zwartz, and drummer, Ronny Ferella. As you may notice, there is no chordal instrument in this quartet. I found this particularly intriguing when talking to Nicolle about the show. However, it’s something the vocalist has been doing for years at The Brunswick Green in Melbourne.
asked Nicolle what her experience was with the younger generation coming through when it comes to jazz music and traditional standards. “I’m always amazed that there are young people who know about jazz. I teach at Melbourne Uni and Monash Uni and they’re all young people. I would say a good percentage of those, probably half, are really interested in the jazz repertoire.” While this gig is already interesting for a number of reasons, it’s really exciting to see to see women taking the lead. In a recent interview Noordhuis did with the Street Theatre, she said, “one of my most important jobs is to be seen. I know that by merely walking into a room of students, where there may be only one young woman in the course, that is enough to solidify that what they are trying to do is possible. You have to see it to be it, generally speaking.” The soaring long, cinematic notes of Noordhuis coupled with Nicolle’s rich vocal stylings guarantee to make for an intriguing and intimate show. Both warm and generous performers, the friendship and sense of fun will certainly be evident between those onstage both within the songs and between each tune. This gig is a must-see for anyone studying jazz vocals, composition, improvisation and general stagecraft, or who simply enjoys a good time out. To book tickets head to thestreet.org.au Friday, 30 July 8pm-10pm Cost: General $35.00/Concession $29/Student: $25
“[In Melbourne] it’s myself, bass player Frank DiSario and saxophonist, Paul Williamson. We’ve been doing that gig every Thursday for 14 years. And all we do is take requests”, says Nicolle. “It’s fun because you have to think differently (as a singer, a horn player and a bass player), everyone’s roles are slightly different because you can’t rely on that chordal instrument to provide the harmonic information and the time. Everyone’s got additional things they have to do.” The show at The Street will not be dissimilar in style to these Brunswick gigs. Many of the tunes performed will be improvised arrangements of jazz standards, however there might also be the occasional original composition thrown into the mix. When they’re not performing or writing their own music, both Nicolle and Noordhuis teach privately and at various tertiary institutions. I PAGE 40 Page 38
Photos by Mireya Acierto @bmamag
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ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE
THURSDAY 15 JULY Mervyn Bishop Photo Exhibition Celebrating Mervyn Bishop, one of Australia’s most prolific and renowned photographers, whose images of culture, politics, and people have significantly influenced our collective understanding of Australia’s history. Runs til August, 10am – 4pm every day, $5 - $13 from nfsa.gov au NATIONAL FILM AND SOUND ARCHIVE Smith’s Scribblers Lunchtime Life Drawing Each Thursday lunchtime Smith’s transforms into a drawing salon, hires a life-model, and invites everyone to come and try their hand at drawing the human figure. 12:30pm - 1:30pm, $15 or $10 for students/concessions at the door SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE Are We Dead Yet? by Stephen Dupont // Exhibition Opening An artistic documentation of the devastating effects of climate change on our nation, through the lens of award-winning Australian photographer Stephen Dupont. 6pm – 8pm, exhibition will continue daily from 10am-6pm weekdays and 12pm-5pm on weekends until Sun, 8 Aug AMBUSH GALLERY Potted Potter Olivier Award nominee and Best Of Las Vegas Award winner Potted Potter takes on the ultimate challenge of condensing all seven Harry Potter books (and a reallife game of Quidditch) into 70 hilarious minutes. 7pm, tix from $69.90 via venue THE PLAYHOUSE Skyscraper Stan and The Commission Flats Bringing their cocktail of country, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll. From 7pm, $20/$25 via venue SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE Bangarra Dance Theatre presents SandSong: Stories from The Great Sandy Desert SandSong is a journey into ancient story systems framed against the backdrop of ever-changing government policy and of the survival of people determined to hold strong to their Culture. Runs 15 - 17 July, 7:30pm, $59 + $5.95 bf via venue CANBERRA THEATRE CENTRE
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Drag Trivia! - Sex Ed Edition Every Month brings a local drag host, games, giveaways, and fab themes. 7:30pm – 11:30pm. Free, register via phishandphreak.com THE BOARDWALK BAR & NIGHTCLUB Leaving Jackson - The Johnny Cash and June Carter Show Jeff Carter and Brooke McMullen bring to life a captivating and unforgettable musical concert, recreating the dynamic Johnny and June shared. 7:30pm, $29 – $59 via venue BICENTENNIAL HALL The Penelopiad By Margaret Atwood Penelope re-tells the story of The Odyssey from her point of view through a series of visions spanning her life. An all-female cast of 13 actors in which the women play all the parts. Runs 7–17 July, $30 – $40 + $5.95 fee via venue website (check for times) THE COURTYARD STUDIO Beatrix Christian’s The Governor’s Family Beatrix Christian’s remarkable play explores what might have been not that long ago. No other Australian play has dealt with such a time and place. The ghosts of our colonial past cannot be forgotten. Runs 1 - 17 July, tix $35 - $45 via venue website CANBERRA REPERTORY FACT Thursdays Party all night in the intimate setting of Fact located on the mezzanine level of Fiction. Hear all your favourite RnB, hip hop & party jams. 10pm – 3am, free entry FICTION CLUB
FRIDAY 16 JULY ‘90s Tribute Night Come and rock out as People of The Sun, Loo Lighters, Guns n Roadkill, Slaytallica and No Sleep Til Belco pay tribute to 5 of the biggest acts of the ‘90s! From 6pm ti late, $34.95 via Oztix THE BASEMENT Bird’s Nest presents: nonbinarycode nonbinarycode delivers a mix of grunge, punk, and stadium rock hits from the ‘70s, ‘80s, ‘90s to today with their unique blend of instrumentation. 6:30pm, free, bookings via venue website BLACKBIRD BAR
Potted Potter 7pm, tix from $69.90 via venue THE PLAYHOUSE Bangarra Dance Theatre presents SandSong: Stories from The Great Sandy Desert 7:30pm, runs 15 - 17 July, $59 + $5.95 bf via venue CANBERRA THEATRE CENTRE The Penelopiad By Margaret Atwood 7:30pm, runs 7–17 July, $30 – $40 + $5.95 fee via venue website THE COURTYARD STUDIO Welcome To Friday (WTF) Live Local Music Betty Alto and Beau Sykes Alto are long time friends, here to serve an original blend of upbeat pop and rock with Sykes, the professional street balladeer and performer himself. 7:30pm, free CANBERRA IRISH CLUB Beatrix Christian’s The Governor’s Family 8pm, runs 1 - 17 July, tix $35 - $45 via venue CANBERRA REPERTORY Carl Barron There is no point to this show other than to make you laugh as much as possible. Funny stories from a bloke with a funny head. 8pm, $79.90 via Ticketek ROYAL THEATRE Growing Pains A chronology through the lives of Sarah Ison and Chelsea Heaney, a show of half sketch, half stand-up comedy. 8pm, $20 via venue SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE Karaoke - Disney Come dressed up in your favourite Disney gown to have your chance of winning the best dressed prize. 8pm – 1am THE BOARDWALK BAR & NIGHTCLUB She’s on the Bill Presents: Queens at Queenies Featuring Emily Grace and Samantha Sly from 8pm. Free QUEENIES AT KINGSTON Thelma Plum The Homecoming Queen Tour Sold out at time of print, but check with Moshtix/venue and you might get lucky, eh? 8pm UC REFECTORY Vinyl DJs From 8pm Spinning funk, soul ‘n’ more THE OLD CANBERRA INN
TAKEOVER ft Sydney Yungins The trio will be joined by fellow Sydneysiders Latifa Tee & Mowgli May, Canberra favourite Kilusan, plus regulars Karani, Divito, Edstar, Trigga, and Daz. 9pm – 5am, $32.23 via hiphoptakeoverjul.intix.com FICTION CLUB
SATURDAY 17 JULY Leo Joseph’s Blues Piano Sessions Running since 2011, Leo’s familiar solo blues piano sessions have now found a new home at Smith’s on the 3rd Saturday of every month. From 12.30pm to 2pm SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE Bangarra Dance Theatre presents SandSong: Stories from The Great Sandy Desert 1:30pm & 7:30pm, runs 15 - 17 July, $59 + $5.95 bf via venue CANBERRA THEATRE CENTRE Beatrix Christian’s The Governor’s Family 2pm & 8pm, runs 1 - 17 July, tix $35 $45 via venue CANBERRA REPERTORY Live Acoustic Sets From 2pm 2pm – 6pm THE OLD CANBERRA INN The Penelopiad By Margaret Atwood 2pm & 7:30pm, runs 7–17 July, $30 – $40 + $5.95 fee via venue website THE COURTYARD STUDIO Il Bruto The seasoned players will be takin’ care of business with a Satdee arvo of garage, blues, punk, and rock ‘n’ roll. 3pm – 5pm SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE Potted Potter 4pm and 7pm THE PLAYHOUSE Super Rats - Winter Revels A midwinter’s evening with timeless eastern European melodies that your ears can snuggle into like a well-worn cosy jumper, a plate of hearty stew and a nip of the good stuff! 7pm, dinner and show $43.90 via Oztix GANG GANG CAFE Marky Worthington Presents: Open Mic Comedy Whether seasoned pro looking to tryout some new stuff, or your first time, head on down. Doors 7pm, show 7:30pm, limited spots available, email: markyworthingtoncomedy@gmail.com THE BASEMENT @bmamag
ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE Rock of Origin Featuring 3 of Canberra’s top pub rock and tribute acts: 5150 for the US classics, Metropolis with the Aus Rock legends, and the Brits with their new Oasis trib show. 7:30pm til late, $30 via Humanitix HARMONIE GERMAN CLUB Carl Barron 8pm, $79.90 via Ticketek ROYAL THEATRE Drag Takeover’s First Birthday! Jello shots on arrival and an extra large cast to celebrate this stunning achivement and the over 80+ hours of shows put on in the past year. 8pm ti late, $25 via Phish and Phreak website THE BOARDWALK BAR & NIGHTCLUB FICTION Saturdays House, EDM and mashups in the main; RnB, hip hop & party jams in the Fact Bar. 9pm – 5am, free before 10pm, $21.79 from intix.com FICTION CLUB
SUNDAY 18 JULY CBS July Blues Jam hosted by The Minglewood Blues Band Four like-minded fanatical seasoned blues musicians decided to form a band that had a common purpose: to play the blues for the fun and love of it. 1pm – 4:30pm, $10 via Humanitix HARMONIE GERMAN CLUB
Covid sucks, listings may change. Check venues/ticket outlets for latest Ed Kuepper With Jim White Kuepper; the co-founder of ’70’s proto-punks The Saints, chief architect of the uncompromising Laughing Clowns and The Aints! and master songsmith over some 15+ solo albums, and White; the brilliant drummer of renowned instrumentalists Dirty Three. 4pm, $50 via venue website THE STREET THEATRE Liquid Dreams by #Water_Voices, an immersive night An interactive exhibition presented by #Water_Voices, a collective project established in response to drought in 2019 by artists Beth Johnston, Elissa Jackson, Xingweiai Fang & Zora Pang. Guest artists include DJ & sound artist Hei Zhi Ma & poet Zhi Yi Cham (ShaYu), movement artist Shiara Astle, and photographer Kenton/Davey (Oculi). 6pm, $17.35 ($12.25 concession) via Oztix GANG GANG CAFE
MONDAY 19 JULY Lunchulele 12.30pm-1.30pm, ukulele players SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE
TUESDAY 20 JULY IQ Trivia From 6pm THE OLD CANBERRA INN
English Trad Jam Dust off those accordions, fiddles, hammer dulcimers & tubas and knock out those toe-tapping tunes from the British Isles including polkas, jigs, waltzes & 3/2 hornpipes with the Burnt Roast Band. 1pm – 3pm, free SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE
Tuesday Jams with MissM Described as a mix of soul, folk and jazz, with smooth tone and percussive lyrics, MissM’s music can take you on a journey, leaving you thinking or finding you feeling understood. 6:30pm, free, book a table via bit.ly/3sIA11v BLACKBIRD BAR
Potted Potter 1pm + 4pm THE PLAYHOUSE
WEDNESDAY 21 JULY
The Ten Tenors Revisits the full history of the group’s catalogue of 15 albums and over 4000 live performances. 2pm + 7pm, $79 + $5.95 bf via venue CANBERRA THEATRE CENTRE
Old Timey Jam Luminaries from the local old timey/folk/acoustic scene gather for an open session of Americana/ old timey music. 4pm-6pm SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE
Live Acoustic Sets From 4pm THE OLD CANBERRA INN
Live Jazz From 6:30pm THE OLD CANBERRA INN
Carl Barron 8pm, $79.90 via Ticketek ROYAL THEATRE
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THURSDAY 22 JULY Smith’s Scribblers Lunchtime Life Drawing Each Thursday lunchtime Smith’s transforms into a drawing salon, hires a life-model and invites everyone to come and try their hand at drawing the human figure. 12:30pm - 1:30pm, $15 or $10 for students/concessions at the door SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE A Croatian, Swiss and American Walk into a Bar Come see this triple header standup show and see the joke incarnate. Featuring outstanding local comedians Sarah Ison, Anthony Tomic and Kelsey Bullis. 7pm, $20 via venue website SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE Hannah Gadsby – Body of Work The world class, award winning funny person has a brand new live show. 7:30pm, $74.90 + $5.95 fee via venue website (tickets selling fast/ sold out!) CANBERRA THEATRE CENTRE Pierce Brothers Into The Great Unknown Celebrating their new album. From 8pm, $45.13 via Moshtix THE UC HUB FACT Thursdays Located on the mezzanine level of Fiction. Hear all your favourite RnB, hip hop & party jams. 10pm – 3am, free entry FICTION CLUB
FRIDAY 23 JULY Bird’s Nest presents: Sheldon Keys Sheldon Keys and the band are all about reggae, calypso, and pop music! From 6:30pm, free entry. Book your table now bit.ly/3sIA11v BLACKBIRD BAR New Owner - Puppetry, Live Action and Animation A story of love, loss, and new beginnings, New Owner takes you on a world of adventure through a dog’s eyes. 6:30pm – 7:30pm, $20 – $29 via venue website THE STREET THEATRE CANCERVIVEFEST - Mini-Festival 2-stage, 7-band mini-fest with funds donated to The Cancer Foundation Australia. Featuring Traces, Proposal, Karma, Chain Tombstone & The Dead Men, 3 Broken Strings, Axiomatic Theory, and AtrocitA. From 7pm, $24.95 via Oztix THE BASEMENT
Children Collide Uh Oh Tour w/ Special Guests Their repertoire includes some of the most well-loved Australian singles of the past decade. From 7pm, $24.60 via Moshtix KAMBRI PRECINCT Live @ The Polo Flowermarket + Thyme + Nora A night of high energy grooves, emo something-punk, and heart-stealin’, ham-steamin’ alt-rock. From 7pm, $18 + bf via Trybooking POLISH WHITE EAGLE CLUB Hannah Gadsby – Body of Work The world class, award winning funny person has a brand new live show. 7:30pm, $74.90 + $5.95 fee via venue website (tickets selling fast/ sold out!) CANBERRA THEATRE CENTRE Welcome To Friday (WTF) Live Local Music Nyash! Afrobeat Collective Canberra’s very own enclave of Afrobeat + ska + reggae sounds – this 9-piece orchestra combines the mighty Afro-Funk of Nigeria’s Fela Kuti with tight brass section and heavy jazz + ska grooves. 7:30pm CANBERRA IRISH CLUB Dami Im - Piano, Songs & Stories An insight into a remarkable performer and her experience as she brings new life to her charttopping hits and fan favourites. 8pm, $49 – $65 + $5.95 bf via venue THE PLAYHOUSE Eurogliders Grace Knight and Bernie Lynch’s love for each other seen on stage every night are a shining example of the sheer joy that only music can provide. 8pm, $48.32 via Eventbrite HARMONIE GERMAN CLUB Flash Anthem Final Ever Show! Flash Anthem started rocking out in 2017, surfing the scene with their experimental, psychedelic rock. An end of an era, and what a blast it’s been. Come send Flash Anthem off with a bang! With supports Enfants, The Narcissists, and Sunday Sojurn. 8pm, $12.97 via Moshtix THE UC HUB STUN! A Queer Variety Show STUN! offers queer art in all of its forms, celebrating LGBTQIA+ artists from all backgrounds within the Canberra community. 8pm, $10 available at phishandphreak.com THE BOARDWALK BAR & NIGHTCLUB Vinyl DJs From 8pm Spinning retro, jazz, and funk THE OLD CANBERRA INN PAGE 43
ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE FEEL ft LUUDE With supports Rex Da Ruler, Reubok, Karnotix, Chounders. 9pm – 5am, $21.79 via feelftluudee.intix.com FICTION CLUB
SATURDAY 24 JULY New Owner - Puppetry, Live Action and Animation 11am and 5pm THE STREET THEATRE Live Acoustic Sets From 2pm THE OLD CANBERRA INN Canberra Choral Society & National Capital Orchestra Brahms German Requiem An unforgettable performance conducted by Leonard Weiss featuring Song Company soprano Amy Moore and baritone Hayden Barrington, with chorus master Dan Walker. 3pm, $22.40 – $47.90 via ticketek.com.au LLEWELLYN HALL We Mavericks Original Wild Folk It’s folk that resembles everything else: bringing challenging originals, entertaining stories and incredible energy, this award-winning new duo pack emotional punches but have songs to heal the scars. 3pm – 5pm, $20/$25 via venue website SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE Hannah Gadsby – Body of Work 5pm + 8pm CANBERRA THEATRE CENTRE Sounds from the Suburbs With Lachlan X. Morris, Lady Denman, and Paint Store. From 6pm, $17.35 via Moshtix GANG GANG CAFE Brendan Keller-Tuberg In Spite Of It All A stalwart of Canberra jazz, Brendan returned to the ACT in 2020 from the United States, having performed with Walter Smith III, Emmet Cohen, June Lee, and many others. 6:30pm, $20-$30 + bf via Humanitix AINSLIE ARTS CENTRE Canberra Opree 2021 With headline artist Luke O’Shea (13 GG winner), plus Ash Greenwood (Bungendore) and Felicity Dowd (Bega), Urban Drover: The Duo (Canberra) and others. From 6:30pm, $30 ($25 for members) via Trybooking CANBERRA IRISH CLUB PAGE 44
Eat the Bourgeoisie Feast of Fuckery A night of drag, dance, and other worldly delicacies. 7pm, $35 via Phish and Phreak SUBSDANCE DANCE STUDIO The Resilience Project Hugh van Cuylenburg, founder of The Resilience Project, has partnered with elite sports teams, 1000+ schools and 500+ workplaces – teaching simple and practical mental health strategies. 7pm, $40.95 + $5.95 bf via venue THE PLAYHOUSE Witchskull March of Winter Tour Witchskull, Mental Cavity, Astrodeath, Mountain Wizard Death Cult and B.C. invite you to an evening of aural brutality. From 7pm, $29.35 via Oztix THE BASEMENT Dancing in the Shadows of Motown 10-piece powerhouse all-star band featuring internationally acclaimed artists playing classic hits from the era. 7:30pm, $42.86 via Eventbrite HARMONIE GERMAN CLUB Kefi at The Boardwalk Canberra’s only regular Greek night. Featuring Canberra’s resident band: Kefi. 8pm – 2am THE BOARDWALK BAR & NIGHTCLUB FICTION Saturdays House, EDM and mashups in the main; RnB, hip hop & party jams in the Fact Bar. 9pm – 5am, free B4 10pm, $21.79 from intix.com FICTION CLUB
SUNDAY 25 JULY Pachamama Play Along Latin American music jam session, open to all ages & levels. Learn to sing in Spanish, play some hand percussion, or join in on your own instrument. 1pm – 3pm. Register via venue website SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE Music Chats: Strategising Your Release with Beehive PR Join Beehive PR’s Sosefina Fuamoli to talk about release strategy for emerging musicians, how to identify when a PR agent is needed, and what musicians can do to improve the reach and success of their music. 3pm, register at Moshtix GANG GANG CAFE
Live Acoustic Sets From 4pm THE OLD CANBERRA INN The Tuesday Weld Experience with Space Party The early ’80s pop influenced Welds meet the rough, edgy, ‘60s rock ‘n’ roll sound of Space Party. 4pm, $10 via venue website SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE Orpheus Omega Bleed The Way 10 Year Anniversary Tour With their aggressive approach to classic melodic death metal, the Melbourne band blends catchy hooks and melodies with crushing riffs. With guest Triple Kill. 7pm, $20 via Oztix THE BASEMENT
MONDAY 26 JULY Lunchulele 12.30pm-1.30pm, ukulele players SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE
TUESDAY 27 JULY IQ Trivia From 6pm THE OLD CANBERRA INN Emil and The Detectives Told by two skilled actors immersed in smoke and mirrors, miniature worlds, and a cinematic score. Dark and light, intrigue and delight for audiences aged 8 and up. 6pm, $21 – $30 + $5.95 bf via venue website THE PLAYHOUSE
WEDNESDAY 28 JULY Old Timey Jam Luminaries from the local old timey/folk/acoustic scene gather for an open session of Americana/ old timey music. 4pm-6pm SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE Live Jazz From 6:30pm THE OLD CANBERRA INN Australian Rock Collective Let It Be Live! ARC, Australian Rock Collective, comprised of Kram, Darren Middleton, Mark Wilson and Davey Lane do Let It Be from start to finish. 7:30pm, $81.85 – $176.15 + $5.95 bf via venue website CANBERRA THEATRE CENTRE
Bird’s Nest presents: Tweet to the Beat! Sing your heart out at the Bird. Kanberra Karaoke playing the best retro hits of the decades. 8pm, free BLACKBIRD BAR Shadow Ministers at Paradiso Reggae Night Chill vibes and great beats with cozy Caribbean style. 8pm THE HIGHBALL EXPRESS
THURSDAY 29 JULY Smith’s Scribblers Lunchtime Life Drawing Each Thursday lunchtime Smith’s transforms into a drawing salon, hires a life-model and invites everyone to come and try their hand at drawing the human figure. 12:30pm - 1:30pm, $15 or $10 for students/concessions at the door SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE Rebecca Mann with Alec Randles Mann is a Blue Mountains-based folk singer/songwriter who delivers raw emotion through her passionate, original music. CBR’s Randles is a fingerstyle guitarist and roots musician. 7pm, $15/$20 via venue website SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE John Butler In this brand new live show, John will be sharing stories from the road and from his heart and playing songs from his vast catalogue which spans almost a quarter of a century. 7:30pm, $88.50 + $5.95 bf via venue CANBERRA THEATRE CENTRE Sputnik Sweetheart Energetic, emotive and passionate, Sputnik Sweetheart bring their own blend of alternative-rock to the Australian Music Scene. With Coconut Cream and Parklands. 8pm, $17.97 ($12.86 student) via Moshtix THE UC HUB FACT Thursdays Hear all your favourite RnB, hip hop & party jams. 10pm – 3am, free FICTION CLUB
FRIDAY 30 JULY Jack Biilmann After a packed full production show at The Street Theatre in May, show #2 sees a stripped-back variety of songs inside the beautiful backdrop of Blackbird. 6pm, $20 + bf via Sticky Tickets BLACKBIRD BAR
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ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE Box Dye State of Emergency Single Launch The brazen CBR punksters are joined by HOT local talent in the form of Spinning Plates, Bad Lunar, and Northbourne. From 7pm, $25.25 vis Oztix THE BASEMENT David Helfgott In Concert Having performed at prestigious venues such as the Hollywood Bowl, Royal Albert Hall and Carnegie Hall this is Canberra’s chance to witness this amazing talent live in concert. 7pm, $65 - $79 via venue website CANBERRA THEATRE CENTRE Kuban Katz The all girl group led by Carmen Alicia and Wendy Parra, with supports Amy McCarthy, Bernice Tesara, Lauren White, Lauren Tsamouras, Riley Soltes, Olympia Karanges and Yvonne Veivers, playing the latest music Cuba – rock, funk, salsa, son, pop, Cha Cha, with amazing dancers Alice Jury and El Moro. 7:30pm, $40 + bf via StickyTickets HARMONIE GERMAN CLUB Welcome To Friday (WTF) Live Local Music - Mega Beige From 7:30pm CANBERRA IRISH CLUB Diesel The set will be littered with hits that span his 30+ years in music, including Tip Of My Tongue, Cry In Shame, Don’t Need Love, 15 Feet of Snow plus many more. 8pm, $70 + $5.95 bf via venue website THE PLAYHOUSE Hands Like Houses with Polish Club, Citizen Kay & Hope Wilkins Celebrating HLH 10 years and counting, a massive night with some of CBR’s finest and special guests Polish Club. 8pm, $45.13 ($40.02 for students) via Moshtix UC REFECTORY Noordhuis / Nicolle Group Both trumpeter Nadje Noordhuis and vocalist Michelle Nicolle are jazz artists at the top of their game that have changed said game. Both possess qualities and abilities on their respective instruments that challenge what those instruments are supposed to do. 8pm, $25 - $35 via venue website THE STREET THEATRE Vinyl DJs From 8pm Spinning retro, jazz, and funk THE OLD CANBERRA INN
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Covid sucks, listings may change. Check venues/ticket outlets for latest
SATURDAY 31 JULY Live Acoustic Sets From 2pm THE OLD CANBERRA INN Welcome Back Party With Flyying Colours, Cable Ties, Teen Jesus & The Jean Teasers and more. From 6pm, $45.10 via Moshtix KAMBRI PRECINCT CBBC Big Band Series 2021 The Canberra Big Band Collective presents a night of hot swinging big band music! Featuring two Canberra big bands: In Full Swing and Blamey Street, with a special swing dance display by Swing Katz. 6:30pm, $45 via Trybooking HARMONIE GERMAN CLUB NIN + A Perfect Circle + Radiohead - Triple Header Tribute Show From 6:30pm til late, $34.95 via Oztix THE BASEMENT Mog with Subway to Venus Welcoming a multi-instrumentalist, local band Mog are launching their new album, titled Maybe It’s Nothing. Joined by Subway to Venus, mercilessly grooving everyone to hard funk heaven! 7pm – 9pm, $10/$15 via venue website SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE Barry Drive May Contain Traces of Peanuts Canberra garage-popsters Barry Drive are dusting off the amps for a one-off show to celebrate 20 years since their debut release, May Contain Traces Of Peanuts. Supported by Adelaide Jones. From 7:30pm, $10 + bf via Trybooking POLISH WHITE EAGLE CLUB Bohemian Symphony Orchestral Queen Tribute A 24-piece symphony orchestra, conducted by internationallyrenowned George Ellis, will perform Queen’s Greatest Hits. 7:30pm, $99.90 – $149.90 + $5.95 bf via venue website CANBERRA THEATRE CENTRE Heath Franklin’s Chopper The Silencer Panic, terror, stupidity, crisis; they can all form a queue and suck the wrinkles out of Chopper’s walnut wallet because he has stopped giving a f*** and is done with suffering fools. 8pm, $36.95 – $39.95 + $5.95 bf via venue website THE PLAYHOUSE
The John Lennon Song Book In Concert - John Waters Celebrating the 50th anniversary since the release of Imagine – the whole album will be performed live by John Waters and Stewart D’Arrietta with The Liverpool Band. 8pm, $55 via venue website THE STREET THEATRE FICTION Saturdays House, EDM and mashups in the main; RnB, hip hop & party jams in the Fact Bar. 9pm – 5am, free B4 10pm, $21.79 from intix.com FICTION CLUB Small Town Alien with Freelings There will be laughs, cries, yips of ecstatic bliss, existential philosophy, jarring non-sequiturs and engrossing, Woodstockesque jam sessions. 9:30pm – 11:30pm, $10/$15 via venue SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE
SUNDAY 1 AUGUST English Trad Jam Dust off those accordions, fiddles, hammer dulcimers & tubas and knock out those toe tapping tunes from the British Isles including polkas, jigs, waltzes & 3/2 hornpipes via the Burnt Roast Band. 1pm – 3pm, free SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE Live Acoustic Sets From 4pm THE OLD CANBERRA INN The Songtellers The World is Full of Stories 3 unique songwriters and one all star band joining forces for a show that revels in the power of the song. Featuring The Marvellous Hearts, Paula Punch and Lisa Richards. 4pm – 6pm, $20/$25 via venue website SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE Bohemian Symphony Orchestral Queen Tribute A 24-piece symphony orchestra, conducted by internationallyrenowned George Ellis, will perform Queen’s Greatest Hits. 5pm, $99.90 – $149.90 + $5.95 bf via venue website CANBERRA THEATRE CENTRE Rap FC Presents: First of the Month Rap FC is throwing another Sunday session, featuring Big Ric, King Dunx, and Jam Cee, plus more to be announced. 6pm, $10 on the door SIDEWAY
MONDAY 2 AUGUST Lunchulele 12.30pm-1.30pm, ukulele players SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE
TUESDAY 3 AUGUST IQ Trivia From 6pm THE OLD CANBERRA INN Bird’s Nest presents: J.E.P Trio Promising more sick tunes. Doors 5pm, show 6:30pm, free, table bookings via bit.ly/3sIA11v BLACKBIRD BAR
WEDNESDAY 4 AUGUST Old Timey Jam Luminaries from the local old timey/folk/acoustic scene gather for an open session of Americana/ old timey music. 4pm-6pm SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE Live Jazz From 6:30pm THE OLD CANBERRA INN Bird’s Nest presents: Tweet to the Beat! Sing your heart out at the Bird. Kanberra Karaoke playing the best retro hits of the decades. 8pm, free, bookings via venue website BLACKBIRD BAR
THURSDAY 5 AUGUST Smith’s Scribblers Lunchtime Life Drawing Each Thursday lunchtime Smith’s transforms into a drawing salon, hires a life-model and invites everyone to come and try their hand at drawing the human figure. 12:30pm - 1:30pm, $15 or $10 for students/concessions at the door SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE Jen Broadbent The Final Heartbreak EP Launch Jen officially launches her debut EP at the After Dark Bar. Supported by Christiaan Sep and Chris Wark. First 20 people through the door get a FREE copy of the EP on CD! WOW! Physical media! 7pm, $10 + bf via from Oztix THE BASEMENT
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ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE FACT Thursdays Party all night in the intimate setting of Fact located on the mezzanine level of Fiction. Hear all your favourite RnB, hip hop & party jams. 10pm – 3am, free entry FICTION CLUB
FRIDAY 6 AUGUST BELCOvid-21 Face melting metal tributes featuring four acts: Slaytallica (Slayer and Metallica with members of Clarity of Chaos, Johnny Roadkill, Soulcrusher; Land of Goats (Lamb of God with members of Clarity of Chaos, Deprivation, Immorium, Talesin); Blood of the Zodiac (Machine Head with members of Wretch, Immorium, Clarity of Chaos, Deprivation), Doon (Down with members of Immorium, Wretch, Inebriator, Claret Ash). 7pm, $24.25 via Oztix THE BASEMENT The Witching Hour - Gen Z Tour The Newcastle-based band will be bringing their heavy, occultic riffs. Supports Black Heart + Tundrel. From 7pm, $23.50 via Oztix THE BASEMENT Nothing Else Matters – A Symphonic Tribute to Metallica Over two hours of Metallica classics performed by the George Ellis 24-piece symphony orchestra with Damage Inc. 7:30pm, $99.90 – $149.90 + $5.95 bf via venue CANBERRA THEATRE CENTRE Disco Revolution Slip on your flares, step into your platforms, and get ready to enjoy all the Disco Classics that have become anthems in their own right. 8pm, $32.57 via Eventbrite HARMONIE GERMAN CLUB Welcome To Friday (WTF) Live Local Music - Beta Blockers It’s folk music. It’s pop music. It’s god damn Rock n Roll. It’s verses and choruses. It’s the music you already know that you don’t even know that you know. From 7:30pm CANBERRA IRISH CLUB Vinyl DJs From 8pm Spinning retro, jazz, and funk THE OLD CANBERRA INN
SATURDAY 7 AUGUST
MONDAY 9 AUGUST
CBS celebrates International Blues Music Day 2021 Hot Rods, specialty market stalls, raffle prizes, CBS member lucky door prize and nine hours of music. 1pm – 11pm, $30 - $40 HARMONIE GERMAN CLUB
Lunchulele 12.30pm-1.30pm, ukulele players SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE
Live Acoustic Sets From 2pm THE OLD CANBERRA INN FLIK Bloodbath Single Launch Supported by humdinger, Ruth Lorelle, and Jess High. 7pm, $15 + bf via Humanitix GANG GANG CAFE st.sinner st.sinner & The Revelators are “young, rebellious and unapologetic” and are planning a show of the calibre that Canberra hasn’t seen in a very long time! With supports Kilroy, Subway To Venus, and Dead Lazarus. 7:30pm, $15 + bf via Trybooking POLISH WHITE EAGLE CLUB FICTION Saturdays House, EDM and mashups in the main; RnB, hip hop & party jams in the Fact Bar. 9pm – 5am, free before 10pm, $21.79 from intix.com FICTION CLUB
SUNDAY 8 AUGUST Björn Again Mamma Mia! We Are Back Again! Björn Again have performed over 7000 in over 120 countries worldwide, are endorsed by the members of ABBA and are regarded as the most successful tribute show of all time. 2pm & 7:30pm, $69 – $89 + bf via venue CANBERRA THEATRE CENTRE The Bec Taylor School of Music Presents: School’s Out Rockshow A showcase of the School’s flagship group program: Bandmates. Ending the night with the incredible and professional headlining prowess from Reverend Bones & the Exvangelicals, School’s Out features 13 rock bands from the school, including Bandmates Juniors, Teens, Icons and Heroes.With Wayne Herbert as MC. 3pm, $15 (under 18s), $20 (adult), $40 (family of four) via Oztix website THE BASEMENT Live Acoustic Sets From 4pm THE OLD CANBERRA INN
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TUESDAY 10 AUGUST IQ Trivia From 6pm THE OLD CANBERRA INN
WEDNESDAY 11 AUGUST Old Timey Jam Luminaries from the local old timey/folk/acoustic scene gather for an open session of Americana/ old timey music. 4pm-6pm SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE Live Jazz From 6:30pm THE OLD CANBERRA INN Bird’s Nest presents: Tweet to the Beat! Sing your heart out at the Bird. Kanberra Karaoke playing the best retro hits of the decades. 8pm, free BLACKBIRD BAR
THURSDAY 12 AUGUST Smith’s Scribblers Lunchtime Life Drawing Each Thursday lunchtime Smith’s transforms into a drawing salon, hires a life-model and invites everyone to come and try their hand at drawing the human figure. 12:30pm - 1:30pm, $15 or $10 for students/concessions at the door SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE Jimmy Plants and The Kashmir Pants present: A Led Zeppelin Experience An event by The Filthy Darlings. 7pm, free THE BASEMENT Lightbulb Improv - Switched On A comedy variety show like no other; completely made up on the spot! In a lively and daring journey, the players craft stories, games, songs, and fearless theatre that frees the mind, delights the intellect, warms the heart, and stirs the soul. 7pm, $15 via venue SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE Mildlife Presenting a mixture of chillers and floor-movers amidst acoustic and electronic instrumentation. 8pm, $44.90 via Moshtix KAMBRI PRECINCT
Tom Stoppard’s Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead This Shakespearean Laurel and Hardy finally get a chance to take the lead role, but do so in a world where echoes of Waiting for Godot resound, where reality and illusion intermix. Runs 12 - 28 Aug. 8pm, $35 - $45 via venue website CANBERRA REPERTORY FACT Thursdays Party all night in the intimate setting of Fact located on the mezzanine level of Fiction. Hear all your favourite RnB, hip hop & party jams. 10pm – 3am, free entry FICTION CLUB
FRIDAY 13 AUGUST Simply Divinyls w/ Metropolis This exceptional 6-piece recreates the distinctive sound of Chrissy Amphlett’s torched vocals in an unparalleled display of all the energy and raw rock you would expect in a Divinyls show. Plus pub rock faves Metropolis. 7pm, $39 via Oztix THE BASEMENT The Front present: Billy Puntton, Sal Viejo, Elestial & Bad Lunar 4 different shades of acoustic wonderment. 7pm, $20 + bf via Humanitix website THE FRONT GALLERY & CAFÉ Welcome To Friday (WTF) Live Local Music - Shadow Ministers The live dub/jazz musical group from Canberra setup by Liam O’Connell and Rafael Florez to bring together Canberra’s most versatile improvisers in a southeastern dub style. 7:30pm CANBERRA IRISH CLUB Dave Graney and Clare Moore They’re a duo with guitars/vibes/ keys/melodica … However Dave and Clare choose to play, they bring their story and their songbook which stretches to over 40 albums. 8pm, $30/$35 via venue website SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE Double Header - Rock City Saints & Damaged Justice Damaged Justice – a top Metallica tribute show, and Rock City Saints - covering popular songs from the ‘60s through to now. 8pm, $27.33 from Eventbrite HARMONIE GERMAN CLUB
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ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE Ross Noble 2021 Comeback Special With an on-stage presence like no other, Ross Noble’s exuberance, spontaneity, and cerebral style have established him as one of the world’s best-loved comedians. 8pm, $54.90 + $5.95 bf via venue CANBERRA THEATRE CENTRE Tom Stoppard’s Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead 8pm CANBERRA REPERTORY Vinyl DJs From 8pm Spinning retro, jazz, and funk THE OLD CANBERRA INN Ziggy Alberts with Tay Oskee searching for freedom is an exploration into some of humanity’s most heartfelt and complex emotions, translated into beautiful simplicity by Alberts’ capable hands. 8pm, $79.90 via Moshtix website UC REFECTORY
SATURDAY 14 AUGUST Live Acoustic Sets From 2pm THE OLD CANBERRA INN Canberra Brick Expo Features exhibitors and collectors from all over Australia showcasing a large variety of LEGO models including a massive working layout of trains, fleets of space ships, and many more. There will also be onsite LEGO sellers with rare and hard to find sets and bricks. 9am – 4:30pm, $8 – $38 from Trybooking (check for session times) THE HELLENIC CLUB WODEN
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Covid sucks, listings may change. Check venues/ticket outlets for latest An Afternoon At The Proms A Musical Spectacular This stunning spectacular salutes the famous BBC Proms Concerts of London’s Royal Albert Hall, including well-known favourites Rule Britannia, Jerusalem, Radetzky March and Elgar’s Land of Hope and Glory. 2pm, $85 + $5.95 bf via venue website THE PLAYHOUSE Live Acoustic Sets From 2pm THE OLD CANBERRA INN Avalanche Second Hand Band’ East Coast Tour The West Sydney hard rockers bring their their raucous, energetic live show. Supports Clarity of Chaos, Hence the Testbed, and Highland Light. 7pm, $18.10 via Oztix THE BASEMENT Songs In The Key Of Springfield Songs from The Simpsons A chance for the world’s many hard-core fans of The Simpsons to dance and sing along to all of their childhood favourites, performed live by Australian guitarist and singer Boadz. 7pm – 9pm, $15/$20 via venue website SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE Marty Sheargold An opportunity to laugh live with the star of Have You Been Paying Attention? as he delivers a load of jokes and stories he can’t do on national TV. 7:30pm, $49.90 + $5.95 bf, via venue website CANBERRA THEATRE CENTRE Tom Stoppard’s Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead 8pm CANBERRA REPERTORY
Ziggy Alberts with Tay Oskee searching for freedom is an exploration into some of humanity’s most heartfelt and complex emotions, translated into beautiful simplicity by Alberts’ capable hands. 8pm, $79.90 via Moshtix UC REFECTORY
The Sound of Violence Tour Featuring Thraxas! If loud, fast, heavy thrashing madness is your thing then be sure to catch the show! With supports Black Mountain and Arkanae. 7pm, tix price TBC via Oztix THE BASEMENT
FICTION Saturdays House, EDM and mashups in the main; RnB, hip hop & party jams in the Fact Bar. 9pm – 5am, free before 10pm, $21.79 from intix.com FICTION CLUB
MONDAY 16 AUGUST
SUNDAY 15 AUGUST Canberra Brick Expo Features exhibitors and collectors from all over Australia showcasing a large variety of LEGO models including a massive working layout of trains, fleets of space ships and many more. There will also be onsite LEGO sellers with rare and hard to find sets and bricks. 9am – 4:30pm, $8 – $38 from Trybooking (check for session times) THE HELLENIC CLUB WODEN English Trad Jam With the Burnt Roast Band. 1pm – 3pm, free SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE Live Acoustic Sets From 4pm THE OLD CANBERRA INN Griffin Ford & The Variables + Trash Springfield + Jordan Kenny + Blood Blossoms There’s a good, long spiel on each band on the online BMA Guide. Check it out! 4:30pm, $20+ bf in advance, $25 at the door SIDEWAY
Lunchulele 12.30pm-1.30pm, ukulele players SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE
TUESDAY 17 AUGUST IQ Trivia From 6pm THE OLD CANBERRA INN
WEDNESDAY 18 AUGUST Old Timey Jam Luminaries from the local old timey/folk/acoustic scene gather for an open session of Americana/ old timey music. 4pm-6pm SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE Live Jazz From 6:30pm THE OLD CANBERRA INN Bird’s Nest presents: Tweet to the Beat! Sing your heart out at the Bird. Kanberra Karaoke playing the best retro hits of the decades. 8pm, free BLACKBIRD BAR Tom Stoppard’s Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead 8pm CANBERRA REPERTORY
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