Forte #572 by Forte Mag

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issue 572 // 14 NOVEMBER 2013 // next issue: 28 NOV

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A WORD FROM THE TEAM

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Another fortnight passes and it has been a fortnight full of wonderful events and people to talk to. We have the 20th anniversary of the iconic Earthcore dance festival event on our cover and we caught up with the mastermind behind the festival over the last two decades, Spiro (the guys the phrased the term “bush doof”), to discuss the event’s history and what is in store for this year.

COVER DESIGN.....................James Dulce PRODUCTION........................James Dulce David Di Cristoforo SCENE PHOTOGRAPHER.......Marianne Valitutti

We caught up with Paul Dempsey as Something for Kate prepares to hit Geelong for the Hunters and Collectors show at The Hill Winery, plus we take an in-depth look at this year’s Lorne Film Festival in our Talk of the Town section, in what looks set to be a wonderful event for both Lorne locals and those wanting to get away down the coast for the weekend.

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This issue of Forte also proudly boasts a unique four-page pull-out event guide for Queenscliff Music Festival – so grab yours and check out all you need to know. There is a bunch more in store. There are so many people to talk to at the moment – the office has been a hive of activity, the phones are going off the hook and we are doing our best to cover everything we can.

Sunday 26 January 2014 at the Melbourne Showgrounds (15+)

Quick heads up: we will be going weekly for a few issues in the coming weeks so we can have a break over Xmas. For all our loyal readers, prepare for a Forte weekly overdose from Nov 28th – December 19th!

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the HIGHLIGHTS

I Want My MTV

The Highlights: Where we’re blinded by the light. Coming up you have…

The Australian arm of MTV recently announced that two new channels will be available through Foxtel from December 3: MTV Music and MTV Dance. MTV Music is the UK’s most popular dedicated music channel while MTV Dance will be the broadcaster’s first 24-hour channel dedicated exclusively to electronic, hip hop and RnB. Australian and New Zealand artists making their mark would also feature on MTV Music.

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Belle Roscoe Bring the Boom

StormChasers New Single

Abbe May’s Final Run

For the past three years, brother and sister harmony folk-pop duo Belle Roscoe (Julia and Matty Gurry) have been living in Paris. The Melbourne-born duo released their debut album in 2009, in doing so beginning a mutual love affair with Europe – see their invitation to play Le Printemps de Bourges and closing the 2009 Cannes Film Festival. Boom Boom is their second release. Bella Union – December 5.

Seven-piece Brisbane crew StormChasers have a new single for you to check out by way of ‘Figurout’. With an EP due from the band in early 2014, ‘Figurout’ is the perfect little warm up. A song about “that feeling of wanting and needing something, but not being able to have it”, ‘Figurout’ is a raw, dirty and funky little ditty which combines elements of hip hop, jazz and soul. The Grace Darling Basement – November 30.

Earlier in the year electronica doom-pop artist Abbe May took to the triple j studio as part of their popular ‘Like A Version’ series to cover Ginuwine’s ‘Pony’. Now she has announced her final run of shows for the year, the Perth Girls / Pony tour. Of course, there is also her EP Kiss My Apocalypse to enjoy, an album created over an 18-month period with producer Sam Ford. Howler – December 6.

THE LATEST ON international & national news & tours

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Another Round of Sebadoh When lo-fi indie gods Sebadoh toured Australia in 2011, they were selling their own merchandise and happily signing t-shirts and taking pictures with fans at The Corner. Yep, they’re just that cool. Well, they return for another handful of shows early in 2014. This time they’re armed with latest release Defend Yourself – their first release in 14 years. The Corner – March 21. There will be noise. There will be love. .........................................................................

Spider-Man, Spider-Man...

Meet You at the Food Court

Are you curious about what the new Spider-Man movie has in store? Well, it looks as though you will have to wait until December – according to director Mark Webb, anyway. Webb took to his Twitter account to announce that the first-ever trailer for The Amazing Spider-Man 2 is to be screened with The Hobbit 3D. Of course, there is sure to be a bit of stuff here and there before then, but the trailer will screen in 3D – if that is your thing.

Following a five-month break of travel, Food Court, those Sydney purveyors of sunny, punk fuzz, are back in the game. And they’re back in the game with new EP, Smile at Your Shoes, described by the band as “6 tracks of 90s grunge with a couple of dirty layers washed away by 60s scuzzy surfpop”. It sounds like the perfect EP to spread this summer. The Grace Darling – December 7. .........................................................................

Karnivool & Dead Letter Circus Karnivool and Dead Letter Circus will kick off 2014 in style with a run of shows so good the rest of the year will be sullied. When the tour announcement was made, Karnivool was busy playing a sold-out show in Munich, while DLC was enjoying a sold-out show in San Francisco – not too shabby at all. Both bands have released albums this year: Karnivool with Asymmetry and DLC with The Catalyst Fire. The Palace – January 8 & 9.

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Beck Enters New Phase

Up, Up & Away with Flyying Colours

Well, he has kept as guessing as to his next move in recent times, but it looks as though Beck will release his new album early next year. Morning Phase is its title and it has been described as a “companion piece” to his 2002 release Sea Change. Justin Meldal-Johnsen, Joey Waronker, Smokey Hormel, Roger Joseph Manning Jr and Jason Falkner will all appear on the album. Morning Phase hits shelves in February.

Shoegaze/psychedelic wunderkinds, Flyying Colours have been travelling along very nicely since the release of their debut single, ‘Wavygravy’. The band survived a month-long residency at the Cherry Bar earlier in the year, although there are more than a few tales from their time there. On the back of their self-titled EP, the band has lined up a few shows, including a date at The Evelyn on November 23.

Trick ’r Treat Gets a Sequel There have been cases over the years of TV shows and film where a cult following has helped to revive a career. The 2009 horror film Trick ’r Treat is the latest addition to this family. Directed by Michael Dougherty, the film went straight-to-DVD on its release, yet a dedicated (and ever-growing) following has encouraged a sequel. Sam, “the creepy child mascot of Halloween”, will return for the sequel. .........................................................................

John Belushi Biopic After whittling down their choices to four names (Emile Hirsch, Adam Devine, Adam DeMamp and Joaquin Phoenix), director Steve Conrad and producers settled on Emile Hirsch to take on the role of John Belushi in an upcoming biopic. Conrad, whose credits include The Pursuit of Happyness, will tell the story of the comedic genius who, to cash in on an old cliché, lived fast and died young. .........................................................................

Action Bronson Joins the Rapture The Rapture tour starring Eminem, Kendrick Lamar, J Cole and 360 is shaping up to be far bigger than your average show. And now it’s become even bigger with Action Bronson joining proceedings. Born Arian Asllani, Bronson earned major kudos through his mixtapes before releasing his debut EP, Saaab Stories, earlier in the year. He is currently working on his debut full-length effort. Etihad Stadium – February 19. .........................................................................

Leonard Cohen Reshuffle There has been a little reshuffling of dates and venues going on with the impending Leonard Cohen tour, with Melbourne fans affected. The concert originally scheduled for December 9 at the Rod Laver Arena has been changed to The Palais, St Kilda. The date remains the same. Frontier Touring advises that “ticket holders to both shows will be contacted directly regarding their tickets and any action they may need to take”. .........................................................................

A Trip to the Zoo Twilights Starting January 24, 2014, Zoo Twilights will enjoy a six-week run of fantastic music showcases. Taking place on Friday and Saturday nights, the Zoo Twilights calendar for 2014 will feature Dan Kelly, Fat Freddy’s Drop, Katie Noonan, Something for Kate and Xavier Rudd among others. The opening nights feature Perfect Tripod Australian Songs with Dan Kelly on January 24 and BABBA on January 25. Zoo.org.au/twilights. .........................................................................

Earthcore Countdown In the words of Europe, it’s the final countdown ... to Earthcore 2014. Gates open at 3pm on Thursday,

November 28. Music gets underway at 12-midday on the Friday. Online tickets are almost exhausted, so if you have been um-ing and ah-ing, it’s time to make a call as tickets will not be available at the gate. If you hit up YouTube, you’ll find a bunch of artists persuading you to do the right thing. Check in on earthcore.com.au for more. .........................................................................

The Age Music Victoria Awards Voting for The Age Music Victoria Awards closes tomorrow, November 15, so if you haven’t voted yet and want your say, it’s an easy-peasy process. Simply hit theage.com.au/agemusicvictoriaawards and go from there. It’s only a few clicks of the mouse. Nominees were chosen by a panel of over 20 music industry broadcasters, journalists, festival curators, music associations and record store owners. .........................................................................

European Metal Storms Australia Italy’s Fleshgod Apocalypse and Greece’s Septicflesh have teamed up for a co-headlining tour in the first half of 2014. Fleshgod Apocalypse formed in 2007, releasing their first album, Oracles, in 2009. Earlier this year they released their third, Labyrinth, a concept album based upon the labyrinth of Knossos. Septicflesh formed way back in 1990. Their latest album is 2011’s The Great Mass. The Hi-Fi – May 16. .........................................................................

Neil Finn Reaches New Heights Journeyed songman Neil Finn is set to release his new album, Dizzy Heights, on February 7. Working with producer Dave Fridmann, the album apparently marks a more “expansive” sound. Finn: “I didn’t want to make it a solo record in a stripped back singer-songwriter sort of way … I had a feeling Dave would be good at adding some odd shapes to the music. Which I always welcome – making things a little more expansive.” .........................................................................

The Crimson ProjeKCt Eye Australia In 1968, a group of musicians from western England gave birth to a little group that would become King Crimson. The band would later become recognised as a foundational progressive rock outfit. The Crimson ProjeKCt is a King Crimson offshoot featuring three members of the band (Adrian Belew, Tony Levin and Pat Mastelotto) and three talented stand-ins. The Hi-Fi – January 9. .........................................................................

Grohl Does a Spinal Tap Everyone’s favourite rockstar named Dave, Dave Grohl, has teamed up with Jack Black and Val Kilmer for the spoof rock band Sweetriver and the Huckleberry Dogs. You can check out the band performing a song called ‘Back to the Beginning’ through the Black-produced Yahoo web series, Ghost Ghirls. Earlier this year Grohl

announced that the new Foo Fighters album has been written. And so we wait… .........................................................................

Triple M Launch Digital Station Last month Triple M announced that the station would be adding a “new member to its real music family” with the launch of a digital station. From November 25, listeners on digital radio, online and mobile will be able to enjoy the sounds of Triple M Classic Rock. Artists including Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, The Rolling Stones, The Who, Queen and Neil Young will get a workout, as will Aussie artists including AC/DC and The Angels. .........................................................................

Happy Birthday to Polyester From here on in Polyester Records will look back on their twenties and think, ‘I really shouldn’t have drunk that much’. It’s Polyester’s 30th birthday and Polyfest is the celebration to end all celebrations. Personal & The Pizzas, Chris Cohen, Beaches, New War and Terrible Truths will be among those making it a day to remember. Polyfest is part of Music Week celebrations at Birrarung Marr, November 16.

Dami Im is Alive And just like that 24-year-old Queenslander and X Factor winner Dami Im is off and running with her debut single, ‘Alive’. Her debut self-titled album is set to follow on November 22 and will include performances of ‘Roar’, ‘Purple Rain’, ‘Wrecking Ball’ and ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water’. ‘Alive’ was written by Anthony Egizii and David Musumeci, aka DNA Song. Congratulations Dami on your win.

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Green Day Welcomes Documentary Earlier this month jCuatro!, the Green Day documentary, was released. The DVD takes fans into the hearts and minds of the little punk rock band that came to life in 1987 and now sits atop the punk rock pile. As well as featuring select spontaneous performances, the doco also chronicles the recording of their trilogy of albums:¡Uno!,¡Dos! and ¡Tré!. As you lovely readers know, the band is part of the bonza Soundwave line-up. .........................................................................

Corrina Steel on Borrowed Time

Ben Salter Finds a Home

Corrina Steel’s musical journey is over ten years now, over which time she has walked the roads of driving highway tunes, soulful country ballads and southern blues rock. Borrowed Tunes is her new album, and like the name suggests, it’s an album of covers. Always one to keep you guessing, Steel has lent her touch to songs by Ry Cooder, Patsy Cline, Iggy & The Stooges and Primal Scream. Pure Pop Records – December 14 & Flying Saucer Club – December 15.

With time spent in Giants of Science, The Gin Club, The Wilson Pickers and The Young Liberals, Ben Salter knows little else other than music. Well, he probably knows a fair bit, but he knows music best of all. His new single is ‘Tremulous’, a song he wrote with London-based singer-songwriter Christa Vi. To help spread the new single Salter has picked up residency at the Spotted Mallard, playing November 20 & 27 and December 4.

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Catherine Traicos in the Sky

It’s Time to Face the Music

At the end of the month Catherine Traicos, along with her supremely talented band The Starry Night, will release their new album, The Earth, The Sea, The Moon, The Sky. The album is what happens when very different musical backgrounds and personalities come together for a common goal. It’s Traicos’ second album with The Starry Night. The Spotted Mallard – December 6 & Pure Pop Records – December 8.

Okay boys and girls, music industry summit Face The Music is here. Across this weekend, November 15 & 16, some 140 speakers, including international delegates, will take to the Arts Centre to give their pointers on how to succeed in the music biz. Unearthed triple j, Spotify, Mushroom, Way Over There, Remote Control and APRA will be among those representing. Drop in on facethemusic.org.au for further information.

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Industry Insight with Michael Parisi Words by Phil Kearney, Photo by Andre Whiteford

In the last edition of FORTE, we were catching up with Michael Parisi, Head of MPM (Michael Parisi Management) in Melbourne, who has developed and signed artists such as Muse, Regurgitator, Snoop Dog, The Whitlams and many more, during his time working with IMAGO Records, Mushroom Records and Warner Records. We continue our chat with Michael with some more thoughts on the Music industry. The Importance of a Good Live Performance “It’s the be all and end all. The stage you play on is your work place. That is where you make your bread and butter. It’s one thing selling music, which is dwindling for various reasons. Subscription services have really caused a dent in music sales, and the fact the people’s attention spans have diminished somewhat when it comes to listening to music. The days of seeking out a band a buying their album are gone. Most kids have a compilation mentality, where they’ll take one song from that record, one some from that record and they don’t have that feeling that they need to become an album buyer, like we use to back when I was growing up. When I liked a band, I would go and seek out the albums. Now when someone likes a band, they go and seek out a song. And if the love the song, they may buy the album. And if they like the song, they may go and see you live. They’ll buy your concert ticket. That’s the most important part of the business these days. Songwriting One thing that hasn’t changed is the power of a song.

You still need to write a great song. But great songs don’t sell themselves. You need to have things in order. You still needto have a great repertoire. Once you have that repertoire, you need to be able to sell that repertoire. And if you have a great live act, you will a better chance of having a career than the next person. If you’re not a great live act, you’re going to find it tough, because music sales alone won’t sustain a career these days. It used to be that way though. It used to be that you would record to tour. Now you’re touring to record. By that, I mean, the more touring you do, the bigger fan base you will have, and the more chance you will have of selling music to that fan base. Whereas, back in the day, you would actually record and put out albums, hoping to garner an audience that way. Now it’s kind of flipped. The Australian Music Scene We’re kind of victims of two things. Tyranny of distance, in terms of we’re so far away from anything. We are also victims of the size of our country. In America, you have 365million people, so you can be a little niche avant-garde jazz band, and still tour it constantly. In Australia, if you want to be a little avantgarde jazz band, your options are very limited. The chances of sustainability are less than your American counterpart, by sheer size of the population and your audience. Then there is tyranny of distance in that we are so far away from anything, so far removed from Europe and America that we sometimes become a bit insular in terms of how we think about things.

Technology in the Industry

to get left behind.

With the rise and rise of iTunes, you have so many options today. Where do you start when you’re looking for something? You’re a kid and you’re looking for something new. There are so many option open to you. It used to be that you heard what you get from the record companies on a weekly basis, or what TV chose to play. These days, go on YouTube. It’s the biggest Music TV Station in the world. I know my kids find their music online. Whether it’s through gaming, or on YouTube. I think the days of radio, whilst I think the radio is still integral to the industry, I think the days of radio and commercial TV, and their impact on music, are slowly dwindling. They’re still part of the scenery, but I think the way people discover music has changed dramatically.

Another great example of that are record companies who have employed people who don’t go out and see bands, they sit behind a computer, and the look for bands who have had the most hits, or the most likes, and that’s how they judge if they should sign bands these days. That’s a telling statement. In the good old days, when I was growing up, I’d get on a plane, tram or train to go to a gig and see the band. These days, if I want to see a band, I just go online. In America, Atlantic Records have like six kids, who just sit there all day, trawling the internet, looking for bands. And they sign them from there.

So (as an artist) you have to be across social media. You have to be online. Otherwise, again, you’re going

Michael Parisi was in Geelong working with the students in the Diploma of Music Course at Oxygen College. Michael manages Dan Sultan, who will be touring Geelong and surrounding areas in November.

Creating Electronic Music words by Phil Kearney

Electronic music is everywhere these days and with current technology, a new breed of musician is able to create, distribute and promote their music from almost anywhere, anytime. I caught up with Chris Noonan from Oxygen College to get the low down on what Electronic Music Production is all about and how to get started. How easy is it to start making electronic music? Electronic music creation can take on multiple forms and there are many ways to get started, it really depends on what you want to achieve. Advances in technology have made the creation of electronic music affordable and easy to achieve. A great example of this is a new product by Ableton called Push. Push is a new instrument that allows you to control melody, harmony, beats, sounds, and song structure. Push puts the fundamental elements of music making at your fingertips - and it fits in a backpack alongside your laptop! What type of basic equipment is needed to start creating? A simple inexpensive analog synthesizer can begin the process or you may wish to do multitrack recordings using a computer and software. Synthesis is easily performed with products like the new KORG Volcaand beyond experimenting and performance, recording your ideas will require a computer/laptop an Audio interface and a DAW (sequencing software). Komplete Audio 6 by Native Instruments is a USB Powered, Low-latency audio interface perfect for a compact recording setup and Ableton Live 9 Intro, Standard or Suite 9 are great platforms for the artist starting out or the pro taking onthe world stage.

What if I just want to mix songs by my favourite artists? Native Instruments Traktor S2 or S4 is the trusted choice of pros while still remaining beginner friendly. Otherwise you can use the Z1 controller loaded with Traktor and rock the party from your iPhone or iPad. Once an artist has began creating with a basic set up, what other gear can be added to take their music to the next level? Creation and inspiration come in many forms. The important thing for you may be putting your own stamp on a song or improving your workflow to keep tapped into that inspiration. For example, having a decent set of Speakers can save you having to check and re-check your songs as they develop. This can be achieved at a fairly low cost with some trusted brands. Mackie MR Mark 3 Series studio monitors are an excellent example.MIDI Controller Keyboards are also a fantastic way to interact with your DAW and its VST instruments. Other common additions to a basic recording setup are: Headphones, Mixing desks, Microphones, Microphone pre-amps and good quality VST instruments/Plugins like Native Instruments Komplete 9. With this type of equipment what styles/genres are artists able to create? With the advent of modern music Technology, musical styles and genres have almost endless sub-categories. If it’s Techno, House, Hip Hop, Dub Step, Drum n Bass or Industrial Acid Moon Rock, you can create it and achieve magical results from the comfort of your bedroom. How has the internet and sites such as YouTube effected the distribution of electronic music and the exposure that

Tech Tips – Sounding great on stage

So what part can a band play in getting a great sound on stage? Below are some key tips bands can follow to assist the engineer in pulling a great live mix. Keep it quiet on stage Conservative stage levels can dramatically improve the mix out front. If you have your amp too loud on stage, it is unlikely the engineer will put much of it through the FOH (front of house) speakers creating an unbalanced mix for the audience. Lower stage volumes allow the FOH engineer to be far more creative with your mix and they will have no problem balancing and providing an even mix to every seat in the house. If you are concerned about solos not cutting through, employ a boost pedal or let your engineer know what songs you’ll be taking a solo so he can be poised to boost the guitar level when the time comes. With a quieter stage volume your singer will be able to hear themselves better on stage, and in turn this will allow them to pitch better and not over tire their voice.

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The internet and Social Media like Youtube, Bandcamp and Facebook have opened a new chapter in the book of music. You can record, release, publish and promote a song yourself from your computer and have the chance to reach a wider audience than ever before.

Live Performance opportunities are readily available, from your friends 18th Birthday to your local venues, festivals, national tours and on to the International stage. Don’t forget the internet! Music performance as an art form can be anything you like and as long as you have an audience,

Chris Noonan is the coordinator of Oxygen College’s Electronic Music Production course. For more info on equipment, getting started or how to further develop your skills, contact Chris on 52 159175 or email chrisn@ oxygencollege.com.au

The best guide is going to be the in house FOH engineer in the venue you are playing. If you are part of a multiple band lineup and are unsure how changeovers will work or where to store your equipment, ask the FOH engineer. Stow your equipment where you are told to and it doesn’t hurt (especially for the drummer) to uncase some equipment and start to prepare a few

These tips were provided by Tom Isaac. Tom is a live sound engineer with over a decade of professional experience in the industry. He is currently a trainer for the Advanced Diploma of Sound Production at Oxygen College in Geelong.

Something that sounds good in the bedroom or rehearsal space may not sound good live. Guitarists who tend to scoop out the mids (midrange frequencies) and crank the gain may not have sufficient midrange cut or definition to get through loud drums. Having a flatter tone on stage also allows your FOH engineer to shape your sound as required. A little less gain and a little more mids may be all that’s needed in getting a solid and cutting live tone. Use good equipment Obviously using a good guitar or drum kit that is serviced with new strings or drum heads is important. But also ensure you are using high quality leads, pedals, power supplies, fresh batteries in acoustic pre amps and active basses. This can all add unwanted noise or distortion as well as cause technical problems/ faults. Also use a good quality stage pedal type tuner for the guitars & bass.No one in the audience wants to hear you attempting to tune by ear, pedal type tuners mute the signal.

Any other tips for people looking at getting into EMP?

For someone creating electronic music, are there opportunities to perform live and if so what kind of skills sets are required?

Be prepared and make the most of soundcheck

Your live tone may not be your bedroom tone

an imagination and a song or two, you have a recipe for sharing your skills with others. Get Inspired. What makes you excited about music? Listen to a variety of music, talk to people about music, whether its friends, family or your local music shop. Remember, music is about the sound and feel of the instrument/ equipment so ensure you learn how to use it, practise hard and develop your skills.

things to minimize changeover times. In the case of a standard 15 minute changeover the first 5 mins of that is allowed for the previous band to get off stage, the next 5 mins is for you to get your gear on stage, and the next 5 mins is for the engineer to line check your instruments to make sure they are coming through OK, then its GO time. Be polite and wait for the previous band to get all their gear off before you start setting up, help them if they are under the pump. If you are the first or only act on the bill, you will be lucky to get a sound check, it is important that you listen to the FOH engineers requests to maximize the efficiency of the sound check and the quality of the mix he or she will deliver. Don’t all play at once.Wait for the engineer to ask for you to play. Use this time to request any changes to your foldback, if you are a singer,it’s important that you can hear yourself clearly so you can pitch your notes.Articulate your needs clearly to the engineer. Remember; if your foldbacks are on the verge of feedback, the engineer will not be able to turn your level up any louder, the stage volume will have to come down.

words by Phil Kearney

No matter how good a song is, how tight a band is or how awesome a stage show is, it all means nothing unless the audience gets to hear it. Live Sound Engineering is as important as any area of live music, as it is their job to make sure that the audience gets to fully experience the music. And trust me, if the live sound engineer doesn’t do a great job, then the band are gonna find the going tough as well.

can be obtained by releasing music direct to the public?

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THE

FORT-NIGHTLY

CALENDAR & GIG GUIDE Thursday November 14th

BARWON HEADS HOTEL: Mic Night w/ Dave Dorman, Masters Of Dartness 8:30pm, Parmi Night $11.90 BASEMENT LOUNGE & NIGHTCLUB: Stir Fridays BEAVS BAR: Dave Anderson BLACK HATT: Night in the Bar from 5pm till 7pm, Open Mic from 8pm with acoustic, bands, solos & duets COURTHOUSE ARTS: Be Here Now exhibition opening 6 – 8pm by Maria Richardson EUREKA: Apocalypto Red Cup Party Simon One, Shorty J, Pinky, Max McKay, Dawson, Vickers, Aybakez , Michael Cameron Paul E and more CITY QUARTER BAR: 50% off Menu ELEPHANT & CASTLE: $20 Asahi Seafood & Chips Night THE GATEWAY HOTEL: Ian Moss GPAC: Rhonda Burchmore Up Close and Personal, Showstopper KAROVA LOUNGE: The Bennies LIGHTHOUSE THEATRE: Troy Cassar- Daley and Adam Harvey THE MAX HOTEL: $12 Parmi All Day All Night, Inquizitive Trivia from 7.30pm THE SPHINX HOTEL: Night from $13

Friday November 15th AT THE HEADS: Live music from 5pm till 7pm (Barwon Heads) CARLTON HOTEL: Enquire Within live BARWON CLUB HOTEL: RDZJB, Altitude, Famous Will, Patrick Wilson BASEMENT LOUNGE & NIGHTCLUB: Kaysh, Bauer, Krit, Moluck, Schmikey BARWON HEADS HOTEL: Happy Hour 5- 7pm BEAVS BAR: Rosco BLACK HATT: Drink Promos from 5-7, Cor Ten live THE BRIDGE HOTEL (CASTLEMAINE): Solnation (Single Launch) W/ Keagan Clother, Jesse Hooper CITY QUARTER BAR: Friday Unwind from 5pm. Live with live entertainment and DJ ELEPHANT & CASTLE: Thank Guinness It’s Friday EDGE GEELONG: Live entertainment plus DJ GPAC: Showstopper MARTIANS CAFE (DEANS MARSH): Geoff Achison THE GROVEDALE HOTEL: Good Faces for Radio THE KAROVA LOUNGE: Wildeornes LORNE FILM FESTIVAL: 3 venues over 3 days - Celebration of Local

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and International Film LAMBY’S BAR & RESTAURANT: Live band & DJs Main Room and Terrace, open from 9pm TORQUAY HOTEL: Live music in The Sports bar from 9.30pm THE LOFT (WARRNAMBOOL): Josh Cashman PIPING HOT CHICKEN SHOP: Al Turrill, Jamie Pye and Jack Wright THE MAX HOTEL : 3 On The Tree THEATRE ROYAL (Castlemaine): DYSON, STRINGER & CLOHER THE SPHINX HOTEL: Retro Ago Go

Saturday November 16th BARWON CLUB HOTEL: The Wonders (EP Launch) plus Exposures, Jack The Stripper, Find The Remedy CARLTON HOTEL: Kristy Wilson live BASEMENT LOUNGE & NIGHTCLUB: Mike Callander, Darius Bassiray, Dhunt, Meatsauce, D.M.T BEAVS BAR: Steve Pianto THE BRIDGE HOTEL (CASTLEMAINE): Janette Geri W/ Smoke Stacked Rhino CITY QUARTER BAR: Live Entertainment and DJ ELEPHANT & CASTLE: Mr Hyde EDGE: Live entertainment plus DJ TORQUAY HOTEL: Live music in The Sports bar from 9.30pm GPAC: Showstopper, Sandra Clack Ballet Centre - Variations 2013 LORNE FILM FESTIVAL: 3 venues over 3 days - Celebration of Local and International Film THE KAROVA LOUNGE: The Mimes THE GROVEDALE HOTEL: Tim Tonic Hulsman HOME HOUSE: Upstairs: Samual James & Jamie Vlahos (Bilboard), Downstairs: Best RnB /Hip Hop DJ Russel Bastian (Billboard) LAMBY’S BAR & RESTAURANT: Live Band & DJs Mainroom and Terrace. Open from 9pm LIGHTHOUSE THEATRE (WARRNAMBOOL): Marina Prior (The Encore Tour) THE CAPITAL THEATRE (BENDIGO): Seven Turns Dance Collectiv THEATRE ROYAL (Castlemaine): Robert Ellis & Cory Chisel THE MAX HOTEL: Hey Charger WHISPERS: DJ’s including from Yatch Club DJs,Matt Watkins, Slice n Dice, Lucille Croft, Frazr Adam, Jungle Jim, Butters, Courtney Mills, Zoolander, Who Killed Mickey, Joel Fletcher, Katt Nial

Sunday November 17th BARWON CLUB HOTEL: Robert Ellis (USA) Cory Chisel, Front Bar Test Pilot Molly THE BRIDGE HOTEL (CASTLEMAINE): Louise Adams CITY QUARTER: Perfect Sunday Sesh EDGE GEELONG: Live entertainment plus DJ GPAC: Brian Nolan - A Celebration of Dance LORNE FILM FESTIVAL: 3 venues over 3 days - Celebration of Local and International Film ODYSSEY TAVERN + BREWERY: Caddy’s walk for Cancer - Sunday sesh, Live music and Auctions all day with music from C.J. Lee, Samsun, Jimmy Graham, Jordan Riddle, Ben Dew. Gold Coin entry GREAT CAUSE! THE LOFT (WARRNAMBOOL): Glenn Shorrock & Brian Cadd GPAC: The Barclay School of Ballet - 5th Annual Gala Performance THE LOFT (WARRNAMBOOL): Louise Adams & The Tornadoes, The Alamo & Red Eagle THE GROVEDALE HOTEL: Figjam CARLTON HOTEL: Pat Lowery & Ryan Turner live THE KAROVA LOUNGE: Ian Ball (Gomez) THE MAX HOTEL: Jimmy Cupples (The Voice) TORQUAY HOTEL: Live music in The Sports bar from 9.30pm OLD HEPBURN HOTEL: Cam kettle THE SPHINX HOTEL: Retro Ago go QUEENSCLIFF MUSIC FESTIVAL: Line up includes - The Living End, John Butler Trio, The Grates, Spiderbait, Blue King Brown, San Cisco, The Screaming Jets and Many More!!!!!!!!!

Monday November 18th BARWON CLUB HOTEL: $10 Parmis ELEPHANT & CASTLE: $20 Steak & Drink night LORD NELSON HOTEL: /Parmi & Pot for $15 on presentation of student I.D THE SPHINX HOTEL: Meals for $11

Tuesday November 19th ELEPHANT & CASTLE: $20 Steak & Drink night

THE CAPITAL (Bendigo): Don Rigsby GEELONG RSL:Steak Night $13 THE SPHINX HOTEL: Meals for $11, Poker Night (free)

Wednesday November 20th BARWON HEADS HOTEL: Trivia Night from 7:30pm

BEAVS BAR: Dave Anderson, Karaoke, Open Mic THE BARWON CLUB: The Subsonics (USA) THE BRIDGE HOTEL (CASTLEMAINE): Open Mic CITY QUARTER BAR: 50% off Menu LIGHTHOUSE THEATRE (WARRNAMBOOL): Melbourne Symphony Orchestra THEATRE ROYAL (Castlemaine): Glenn Shorrock & Brian Cadd ELEPHANT & CASTLE: Trivia Night. Great Prizes from 8pm GEELONG RSL: Parma & Pot Night $13 THE SPHINX HOTEL: Steak Night from $16, Poker Night ($10 buy in)

Thursday November 21st

BARWON HEADS HOTEL: Open Mic Night w/ Dave Dorman, Masters of Dartness 8:30pm BARWON CLUB HOTEL: Ian Ball (Gomez) plus David Lane, Justin Keenan and Nathan Seeckts BAR PIZZA : Open Mic Night w/ Dave Dorman BEAVS BAR: Andy Forster Live BLACK HATT: Tradies Night in the Bar from 5pm till 7pm, Open Mic from 8pm with acoustic, bands, solos & duets CITY QUARTER BAR: 50% off Menu ELEPHANT & CASTLE: $20

Asahi Seafood & Chips Night

The Sports bar from 9.30pm

KAROVA LOUNGE: We The Ghosts

THE SPHINX HOTEL: Retro Ago-Go

LIGHTHOUSE THEATRE (WARRNAMBOOL): Melbourne Symphony Orchestra

Saturday November 23rd

THE MAX HOTEL: Parmi All Day All Night $12, InnQUIZitive Trivia from 7.30pm till 10.30pm, amazing prizes, call to book your team’s spot THE SPHINX HOTEL: Schnitzel Night from $13

Friday November 22nd

LAMBY’S BAR & RESTAURANT: Live Band & DJs Mainroom and Terrace. Open from 9pm BARWON CLUB HOTEL: The Human Electric

BASEMENT LOUNGE & NIGHTCLUB: Leighboy, Nick Coleman, Kaysh, Dylan Gear

AT THE HEADS: Live music from 5pm till 7pm (Barwon Heads)

BEAVS BAR: Steve Pianto Live

LAMBY’S BAR & RESTAURANT: Live Band & DJs Mainroom and Terrace. Open from 9pm

THE BRIDGE HOTEL (CASTLEMAINE) : Little Murders W/ The Interceptors

BARWON CLUB HOTEL: The Murlocs W/ The Living Eyes, Sewer Side THE BARWON HEADS HOTEL: Happy Hour 5-7pm BEAVS BAR: Jesse Reid BLACK HATT: Drink promos from 5pm till 7pm (free entry), Public Nuisance - Live THE BRIDGE HOTEL (CASTLEMAINE): Lloyd Spiegel CITY QUARTER BAR: Friday Unwind with live music then DJ EDGE GEELONG: Live music plus DJ ELEPHANT & CASTLE: Thank Guinness It’s Friday OLD HEPBURN HOTEL: Cam Kettle THE GROVEDALE HOTEL: Trojan THE KAROVA LOUNGE: Saskwatch THE MAX HOTEL: Jimmy Cupples (The Voice) TORQUAY HOTEL: Live music in

CARLTON HOTEL: Stone Trees THE KAROVA LOUNGE: Ian Ball (Gomez) CITY QUARTER BAR: live entertainment and DJ EDGE GEELONG: Live music and DJ ELEPHANT & CASTLE: Regular Boys MARTIANS CAFE (DEANS MARSH): Smokin’ Sam GEELONG RSL: The Country Rock Superhits Show - The Rustic Sons THE GROVEDALE HOTEL: Thom TORQUAY HOTEL: Live music in The Sports bar from 9.30pm HOME HOUSE: Upstairs: Orkestrated, Harry Mullins (Noizy Neighbours), Downstairs: Best RNB / Hip Hop DJ Half Cuts

BLACK HATT: The Giants $10 Entry THE LOFT (WARRNAMBOOL): Michelles Velocity EP launch OLD HEPBURN HOTEL: Lukey Luke THE MAX HOTEL: Hey Charger WHISPERS: DJ’s including from Yatch Club DJs,Matt Watkins, Slice n Dice, Lucille Croft, Frazr Adam, Jungle Jim, Butters, Courtney Mills, Zoolander, Who Killed Mickey, Joel Fletcher, Katt Nial QUEENSCLIFF MUSIC FESTIVAL: Line up includes - The Living End, John Butler Trio, The Grates, Spiderbait, Blue King Brown, San Cisco, The Screaming Jets and Many More!!!!!!!!!

Sunday November 24th BARWON CLUB HOTEL: Crafter Front Bar Good Faces For Radio CITY QUARTER: Perfect Sunday Sesh The Max: The return of Klozet Sundays featuring Asian Envy & Steve Miguel 8pm Start THE BRIDGE HOTEL (CASTLEMAINE) : Broderick Smith OLD HEPBURN HOTEL: Sarah Wilkenson EDGE GEELONG: Live music plus DJ ELEPHANT & CASTLE: Des Camm Jazz + from 6pm Parmi Night 6 Great Parmis $20

Jazz Ensemble LAMBY’S BAR & RESTAURANT: Student & Industry Night (Free entry all night) w/ Live band & DJs in the Mainroom and Terrace SPHINX HOTEL: Carvery from $17.00 BLACK HATT: Bergman & The Balladeers from 7pm SCARECROW PATHCH (CERES): Hot Swing Club QUEENSCLIFF MUSIC FESTIVAL: Line up includes - The Living End, John Butler Trio, The Grates, Spiderbait, Blue King Brown, San Cisco, The Screaming Jets and Many More!!!!!!!!!

Monday November 25th BARWON CLUB HOTEL: $10 Parmis

ELEPHANT & CASTLE: $20 Steak & Drink night THE SPHINX HOTEL: 11 Meals for $11

Tuesday November 26th THE BRIDGE HOTEL: Trivia Night hosted by Lifon from 7.30pm, free event

Wednesday November 27th BARWON HEADS HOTEL: Trivia Night from 7:30pm

BEAVS BAR: Andy Forster, Karaoke and Open Mic THE BRIDGE HOTEL (CASTLEMAINE): Open Mic THE LOFT: The Doctor Strikes Back CITY QUARTER BAR: 50% off Menu ELEPHANT & CASTLE: Trivia Night from 8.30pm till 10.30pm GEELONG RSL: Parma & Pot Night $13 THE SPHINX HOTEL: Steak Night from $16, Poker Night ($10 buy in)

Thursday November 28th BAR PIZZA: Open Mic Night w/ Dave Dorman

Barwon Club: Audemia TORQUAY HOTEL: Grant Smillie BARWON HEADS HOTEL: Open Mic Night w/ Dave Dorman, Masters of Dartness

ELEPHANT & CASTLE: $20 Steak & Drink night

BLACK HATT: Tradies Night in the Bar from 5pm till 7pm, Open Mic from 8pm with acoustic, bands, solos & duets

GEELONG RSL: Steak Night $13

CITY QUARTER BAR: 50% off Menu

THE SPHINX HOTEL: 11 Meals for $11, Poker Night (free)

ELEPHANT & CASTLE: $20 Asahi Seafood & Chips Night GPAC: Alex Williamson

GEELONG RSL: Maryboorough Trad

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Earthcore 20th Anniversary Spiro Boursine

written by natalie rogers

There is no denying that Earthcore 2013 looks set to go off with a bang. Over three days, sixty-plus DJs from all over the globe will come together to play music and party in the breathtakingly beautiful Victorian countryside. In the lead-up to the event Forte Magazine has had the pleasure of interviewing a handful of the big name guests, but all the while the man behind the madness, Earthcore Director Spiro Boursine, has stayed out of the spotlight. Until now. Spiro Boursine is nothing if not dedicated; idealistic and even grandiose in his vocations. He says he fell into the business while completing an assignment for university as part of his Bachelor of Business and never looked back. Twenty years on and he’s the man responsible for coining the phrase ‘bush doof’, and his many enterprises are going from strength to strength. If you have any interest in EDM, or in fact have a pulse, you’ll have heard of or even attended one of Boursine’s soirées. Some of the memorable ones include the first-ever Earthcore in ’93, Technofest ’94, Bliss ’99, Traincore ’00 and more recently, Winter Beats Soundsystem ’11, Yellow Sunshine Festival ’11 and Meanwhile Back at the Disco. “I’ve been designing shows of this size for two decades and what amazes me most is that with every campaign you encounter something new. I literally sleep less than four hours a day because I’m highly passionate about ensuring that I put on the best show possible. This [creating these events] is the essence of my creative expression, and after thirty goes at it over two decades I think I’m as good as one gets at implementing multi-day multi-dimensional events.” In order to successfully orchestrate an affair of this magnitude for this very special occasion, the festival will feature three main music stages: the highly anticipated HydraTrance Arena; the Market Hub for electro/techno heads; and the larger than life Monster Main Floor. Earthcore 2013 has been more than a year in the planning, with a committed crew working closely by Boursine’s side. “We’ve been planning this since last year, covering all possible angles. There’s still a lot to do, but we’re ready … we think,” Boursine adds with a smile. “We always enjoy the absolute contained chaos we’ve created! “There is absolutely nothing better than being immersed in the great outdoors, especially at sunrise listening to music that comes from the creative geniuses that are performing. Our artists were hand-selected because of their incredible talent, and the fact that they understand the event [and] how much effort and time has gone in to it. We simply can’t wait to have them do their thing on one of our monster floors!” Taking to those monster floors will be a few of

The unique and renowned ‘Sphongle’ (pictured above) will be headlining this years event. Forte favourites: Italian brothers behind the decks, Min&Mal; Freedom Fighters and Ace Ventura all the way from Israel; and many people’s pick of the bunch, DJ/producer AnGy KoRe. (To get their unique and exclusive thoughts about Earthcore and the Australian dance industry in general search their names at fortemag.com.au) “I personally selected the entire line-up as they reflect 20 years of the music that everyone loves at Earthcore. We created what is now officially termed as a ‘bush doof’ in the dictionary. We’re proud of this distinction: it’s a deep experience bordering on cosmic.” (This is the reasoning behind this year’s official theme, ‘The Universe’.)

Alongside a first-rate soundtrack in idyllic surroundings Earthcore offers camping, workshops, food and clothes markets, mad performance artists, wild rides and sideshow antics at Happy Land and the Kinky Karnivool. Boursine and his crew have thought of everything – including introducing the ‘Muntfreight’ so that punters can save themselves hassle and the environment by catching the bus out to Earthcore. I finished the interview by reflecting on Earthcore’s long and varied history – what will be its future? Boursine answered in his traditionally elusive manner. “For me, throwing parties is like drinking water. I

think I’ve made a huge impact on the EDM scene in Australia and I intend to continue to do so for the next two decades. To be honest, I’m already a pretty happy man. The hard work and long-term planning has pulled it off in terms of people attending. All plans are in place, the vibe is excellent and we’re all excited! See you all in 2014!” An Earthcore encore party is already in the works for December 6 at Brown Alley Bar/Nightclub. Head to earthcore.com.au for all the tweets and deets.

when&where: Earthcore – November 29 through December 1.

Staff and Management of the EMC Group Geelong strongly enforce a no-drug policy. Enjoy great music & drinks whilst staying drug-free.

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Rocket from the Crypt written By Natalie Rogers

If you’re a fan of Me First and the Gimme Gimmes or Reel Big Fish, Rocket from the Crypt may be your new favourite band – but you just don’t know it yet. If you subscribe to RFTC’s unique brand of punk-infused rock’n’roll, you’ll know frontman John Reis (also known by his stage name Speedo) and his trademark sense of humour. “I’d love to say we’re gonna get on stage, blow minds and tears heads off!” John laughed, “but truth be told, we’re just gonna have fun and connect with old friends.” By old friends I assume he means the devoted band of Rocketheads that have held vigil since the guys were last Down Under more than ten years ago. “I really love your country! There are so many places I want to check out, so many great things to see and do. Unfortunately I’ve never been there as a tourist, only when we’re playing, so I found myself constantly sneaking out to have little adventures. This time will be no exception.” Being a lover of adventure, John started his own label ‘Swami Records’ and is a prominent face in the San Diego underground music scene due to his dedication to up-and-coming bands and his show on a local radio station. These commitments (among others) were cited as reasons for the band’s demise in 2005.

we decided we wanted to play shows again [they officially announced their reunion in December last year] we’ve been really thrilled that people have wanted us to play and about all the places we’ve played. “I’ll be honest with you, we’re not really interested in going out on the road for three months straight,” John explained, “but we made a commitment to incorporate the band into our lives even though we don’t necessarily want to put everything else on hold in order to do it. But right now RFTC is definitely a priority for me. We’ve been pretty busy playing nonstop for the last couple of months. It’s so different to back in the day when we’d play a club and be asked never to come back!” I can’t tell if he’s exaggerating or not as they’re well known for their wild antics and crazy, colourful stage costumes. “Unfortunately I can’t reveal what we’ll be wearing. We may need time for sizing adjustments because I might put on a little weight between now and then – you never know!” John joked. “I just can’t wait to plug in and play a set from our hundred or so recordings – and it’s all the same guys together again rocking out and having a blast!”

When & Where: Soundwave @ Flemington Racecourse – February 28

“When we decided to spilt, we all wanted our own lives; to do other things we really enjoy. Once

Something for Kate written By zach broad hurst

Something for Kate lead man Paul Dempsey has fond memories of his childhood home, humming to the sounds of Hunters and Collectors. As an adolescent they would light a musical fire beneath him that still burns strong decades later. “I’ve got three older sisters and they were massive obsessive fans who used to actually follow them around the country and go to their shows all over the place,” explains Dempsey. “I heard them blasting out of the stereo when I was a little kid; when you’re young you’re just kind of exposed to chart music and crappy pop music, but they were like the band that kind of switched on my brain and made me understand rock and roll.” Despite their influence on a young Dempsey, their 1998 split means he has never seen them play live, but he will get his chance in a way he probably never envisaged when Something for Kate open for Hunters and Collectors on their upcoming Day on the Green shows. “It is a bit surreal. Throughout my own career I find myself on the odd occasion kind of pinching myself and going, ‘how did I end up here?’ It’s so strange the way things turn out and to find yourself going on tour with a band that you were so in to when you were so young. It’s just like who could have possibly predicted that life would turn out this way,” laughs Dempsey. Something for Kate also had the honour of contributing to the new Hunters and Collectors tribute album, and with a little persuasion managed to nab a true Hunters classic, ‘When the River Runs Dry’.

“We were asked if we would be interested in contributing to a tribute album, and of course we were,” explains Dempsey. “But then we had to fight a little bit to get that song. We were given a choice of songs and that one was already taken. It is just really a favourite of mine, so I pushed my luck a little bit in the hopes that they would let us do that one. We got it in the end and it’s an amazing song and was a lot of fun to record.” Despite their relative youth compared with the legendary Hunters and Collectors, Something for Kate is certainly racking up the miles themself. Next year marks 20 years since the three joined forces at just 18years-old, which means some celebrations are surely in order. But thankfully their ambition and drive will also push them far beyond the impressive milestone. “Next year is our 20th anniversary, so we are sort of thinking about that now and how we will be wanting to commemorate that and have some fun,” says Dempsey. “We took a five-year break between albums, and the album that came out last year, we really feel, was like the best record we’ve ever made. “After the break it felt so new again and so fresh that we are still really buzzing from that; we just feel like we still have a ton of records still in us. I’m also going to make another solo record. My aim is to hopefully keep on having this great double life of being able to be a solo artist and being able to have fun with my friends in our rock band.” When & Where: The Hill Winery, Geelong – January 25

Bodyjar written By Natalie Rogers

Proudly flying the flag for Australian punk rock since the mid-nineties, Bodyjar held their own on the international stage alongside contemporaries The Offspring, Pennywise and Blink-182 until their breakup in 2009. Fast forward a few years and add in a handful of successful reunion shows, and to the delight of many Bodyjar are back with a new album and a national tour in tow. Forte chatted with drum thumper Shane Wakker a few days out from hitting the road. “We can’t wait to get out amongst it and catch up with some familiar faces!” Shane began. “We’re stoked that everyone’s digging the record – people have been saying that we’re back to our best. We want to thank everyone for their support and for getting behind the band again after being away for so long.” Role Model is everything you could hope for in a comeback record and features the Jar trademarks you would expect: intricate riffs, catchy choruses and strong vocals from frontman Cameron Baines. “Compared to the last record [self-titled ’05] which was more straightforward rock, we’re back writing fun, punk rock stuff, and it was an incredibly enjoyable experience.” I can hear the excitement in Shane’s voice as he recalls the early talk of the band’s re-forming and the efforts to keep work on the new album top secret. “Initially everything was kept on the hush-hush. Only a few people were allowed to know what we were up to. While we were trying to keep things quiet we knew we had to hook up an experienced producer. So we started talking to Tom [Larkin, drummer for NZ’s

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Shihad; worked as producer for The Galvatrons, The Getaway Plan, King Cannons, Ceres and others] and we discussed different ideas and how we wanted to make the record. He put up some cool suggestions. When it came to writing the album it was nice to have his well-trained set of ears to bounce ideas off. He’s a great guy and a pleasure to work with. “We were really lucky with the help we received on Role Model. We also had Joey Cape [Lagwagon, Me First and the Gimme Gimmes] sing on ‘Hope Was Leaving’

and Ahren Stringer from The Amity Affliction did guest vocals on the title track, ‘Role Model’.

Facebook page to put in their two cents regarding our setlist. That way every show we play will be different.

“It was nice to have Ahren work on this track with us because he’s a young guy too. I’m the youngest in the band and it was fun to joke around with him at the other guys’ expense!” Shane chuckled.

“Also, we have Luca Brasi from Tasmania coming on as our main support (they’re a really cool band) and another local band called The Sinking Teeth. I’m sure there’ll be a fair amount of beer drinking, and a whole lot of fun!”

A good time is pretty high on the agenda for these perennial punkers, and they want you to join in the fun. “We just want everyone to come along and enjoy themselves. We’re asking people to head to our

Release: Role Model out now

TALK OF THE

TOWN!

Keepin' it Regional!

Lloyd Spiegel

Ian Ball

Audemia

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TALK OF THE TOWN! Talk of the Town: Where we’re heading for the nineties, living in the wild wild west. Coming up you have… .........................................................................

Art Comes to Region’s Skate Parks The Surf Coast Shire Council will work with young people to design professional street art installations at skate parks in the shire. Expressions of interest are being sought from young people aged 12-25, who will then form focus groups for each skate park. Funding for the event comes from the Victorian Government’s Graffiti Prevention and Removal Grants announced towards the end of last month. Winchelsea Ward Councilor Rod Nockles: “This is a great project because it will assist local young people in learning new skills as well as helping to preserve the appearance of our local skate parks. It is widely recognised that legal, youth-driven murals in space like skate parks deters tagging and illegal graffiti, while improving the visual amenity of the area.” Email youthdevelopment@ surfcoast.vic.gov.au for further information. Installations will be placed at the Torquay, Lorne, Winchelsea and Deans Marsh skate parks. .........................................................................

The Truth About Abreact Within the Bendigo music scene, there are few bands that work as hard as Abreact. There is fair argument that they are one of the country’s hardest-working bands as well. The hardcore/metal outfit has been around the traps for a little while now, making a name through tracks such as ‘Bomber’ and their latest, ‘Remnants’. Early this year the band won a spot on the local leg of the Groovin’ the Moo bill, a pretty awesome tick for the band who has also shared the stage with Texas in July, The Amity Affliction, Northlane and In Hearts Wake among others. The band is currently on the road for their Fear the Truth tour and will drop by Bendigo’s Newmarket Hotel on December 6. Melbourne’s Scar the Surface and Series will also dish up their tunes. Scar the Surface recently released their debut album, From the Shadows to the Fire. .........................................................................

Bad News Toilet on the Runs Bryce Spratling is Bad News Toilet, a Ballarat-bred, Melbourne-based DJ wowing crowds left, right and centre. If you think the term DJ has become stale, it is time you checked out BNT. Inviting or pre-organising audience members to join him on stage, not to mention his habit of dancing around in random costumes, Bad News Toilet is like the host of the biggest party where rules are a loose term. So if that means dressing in scuba gear or getting people doing beer bongs on stage, so be it. In his short time he has already warmed up crowds for Nina Las Vegas, Kele Okereke, Alison Wonderland and What So Not, and his future is looking brighter by the day. Speaking with Music Laundry earlier in the year, Spratling said: “I wanted something visual that keeps people watching, as in, if they don’t like the song they can still watch and wait for the next one, so there’s no down time between each song.” The Karova, Ballarat – December 7. .........................................................................

Dustin Tebbutt: From Sweden, with Love Since late October, songman Dustin Tebbutt has been warming up the crowds for Boy & Bear and Battleships. He has been doing so on the back of his debut EP The Breach, a four-track number inspired by a two-year stint in Sweden. Tebbutt relocated to Sweden in order to live, work, write and record; The Breach is the result of a man confronted by distance and isolation. Writing, producing and mixing the album, as well as playing the majority of the parts, the album pays homage to “northern hemisphere winter dwellers” such as Sigur Rós, Jose Gonzalez and Justin Vernon. The title track received attention from BBC1 in the UK and triple j. According to promo material, The Breach is “music for your autumns and winters; for the soft light, for the rainy windowpane, for that silent drive in the night, or the carving of a home from a new place”. Harvest Moon, Bellarine – December 12. .........................................................................

King Parrot vs. Gay Paris The mighty powers of King Parrot and Gay Paris will

combine for a run of shows where one out of five people are guaranteed to wet themselves with excitement. King Parrot, who have joined 2014’s Soundwave bill, have been serving up their thrashy grind since three ex-members of Watchdog Discipline teamed up with a couple of other likeminded souls in 2010. They released their debut album, Bite Your Head Off, last year. “Too sweet for The Devil to lick and too damn hot for God to dance to”, Gay Paris formed in 2009 with a stoner rock and blues-tinged sound all of their own. With their viral videos winning fans over, the band found it all too easy to find the funds through a crowdfunding campaign to record their second album, The Last Good Party. A massive 40-date tour would follow the album’s release. The Karova, Ballarat – December 13. .........................................................................

All Aboard the Blues Train The Blues Train is one of the most unique music experiences you’re likely to come across. For those readers not quite up to speed, the Blues Train consists of a meal at the historic Queenscliff Railway Station, followed by a musical journey on a moving steam train. The train has four carriages, each with a different configuration: a solo act, a duo, a trio and a full band. Each run has three intervals for rest and refreshment, plus a swapping of carriage. Each carriage holds 50 people (maximum), meaning you get a snug little show. If you think this sounds pretty sweet, you’re right. The event is hugely popular and with the sun shining you can bet your bottom dollar that shows will sell out. Spots are available for their January and February runs, but you had better get on it today. Musicians include Jimi Hocking, Chubby Rae & The Elevators, Phil Manning and Geoff Achison with Chris Wilson. Hit thebluestrain.com.au for everything you need to know.

Turrill, Pye & Wright Three guys walk into a bar and play some awesome music – not a joke so much as it is truth. Alister Turrill, Jamie Pye and Jack Wright are three names that may sound familiar, and if not it’s time to listen up. Turrill plays the blues like an old-timer; yet he is only a bub. This year saw the release of his debut album Reverence & Resonance, an album produced by Aussie blues royalty Lloyd Spiegel. Geelong’s Jamie Pye has been playing guitar since he was nine. Still in his teens, Pye’s acoustic/instrumental/ finger-style guitar work has been stunning crowds around Geelong and Melbourne. His debut is Vibrations. Wright started out playing in various rock bands before discovering his acoustic side. In late November he released his debut EP, Sounds Like a Plan. Piping Hot Chicken Shop – November 15. * Note: Turrill also plays Beav’s Bar, Geelong on November 28 & Martians Café, Deans Marsh on December 20, while Wright takes on the Queenscliff Music Festival.

.........................................................................

Three Cheers to Beer FEATURE: With the Great Australian Beer Festival returning to Geelong early next year, we’re going to have a look at a competition that has been launched to capture the art of artisan beer. The ‘BEERtography Competition’ is doing the call out to amateur and professional photographers from anywhere in Australia, asking them to take a happy snap that captures the rising craft beer lifestyle culture. Running under the theme ‘Craft Beer – What it means to me’, Australian Beer Ambassadors, the brains behind the GABF, poses this question: “How do you express the journey from fields of hand-picked hops and barley to that refreshing bite as you take your first sip of a crispy ale on a relaxed afternoon with friends?” The BEERtography Competition is free to enter and open to photographers of any ability. Photographs will be judged by a panel overseen by Melbourne photographer Luzio Grossi whose work has been showcased in Vogue, The Face UK, Rolling Stone USA, Harper’s Bazaar, Cosmopolitan, The Bulletin and The Australian. First prize is a handy $1500, with the winning entry also receiving permanent display at Little Creatures. Entries close January 10 with specifics through gabfgeelong.com.au. The Great Australian Beer Festival takes place at the Geelong Racecourse on February 1. 150 beers and ciders will be on display, while Owl Eyes and Kylie Auldist will be among the entertainment .........................................................................

Blackadder Rides a Pitch Black Steed In the world of British comedy, Blackadder often rates as one of the best. With that in mind, the upcoming production of Blackadder is sure to be a real treat. Presented by the Geelong Repertory Theatre Company, the production takes us to England, 1588: “Elizabeth is on the throne, the Plague is sweeping the countryside, and most disturbingly, the Sceptered Isle is infested with more Morris Dancers than you can poke a May Pole at. Enter Lord Edmund Blackadder – large of ego, small of beard, and determined to raise the tone of the Golden Age. Followed by his band of be-ruffed riff raff – Baldrick (aka bottom-breath), and Lord Percy (aka gnat-brain) – Blackadder seeks favour from the certifiably unhinged Queen Bess, matches wits (and other body parts) with brown-nosing Lord Melchett, and generally wreaks havoc upon an unsuspecting London.” Woodbin Theatre, GPAC – November 22 through December 14.

The Eureka, Geelong Geelong’s Eureka Hotel has a couple of golden gigs (golden because, you know, Eureka) next month. Seany B is the man in charge on December 5. The Melbourne dance king has developed a knack for working wonders. There is ‘Flaunt It’, the massive ARIA-winning single; there is ‘Mr. Mysterious’, the platinum-selling collaboration with Vanessa Amorosi; and there is ‘Keep Talking’, the monster dance-floor filler and James Vlahos collaboration. And that is just a small taste of Seany B’s skills. Next up you have Girl Audio checking in on the venue on December 12. Erin Roberts is the gal behind Girl Audio. First hitting the decks in 2009, Girl Audio’s first single, ‘I Like That Bass’, stormed to the #1 spot in the Electro House charts on TrackItDown. Collaborating with vocalist eM, her next two tracks, ‘Telephone’ and ‘Fuck It’, reached the Top 20. Her name in the game is growing hotter all the time.

10 Years of The Gin Club 10 years together is as good a reason as any to celebrate, and that is exactly why The Gin Club will make their way around the country for a few shows next month. Once upon a time, at an open mic night at a Brisbane Irish pub, a bunch of regulars started playing together. Before they knew it, The Gin Club said hello to the music world. Frontman Ben Salter: “We were all in varying states of disrepair at the time, and drinking a lot of gin. One day we did a gig and someone at (Brisbane venue) The Troubadour wrote ‘Tonight: The Gin Club’. It wasn’t a totally shit name and sounded a bit like ‘The Gun Club’ so it stuck.” To go along with the shows, the band is re-releasing their debut self-titled album. They’re also working on a new release which is due for release mid-2014, so there is still life in the band yet. The Bridge, Castlemaine – December 5.

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Port Fairy Folk Festival 2014 The Port Fairy Folk Festival hasn’t wasted any time, announcing the first run of artists who will line up for the festival’s 38th outing next year. And I am not going to waste any time either, so here we go. You have: Madeleine Peyroux (USA), Jon Cleary & The Absolute Monster Gentlemen (USA), Archie Roach, Ash Grunwald, Blair Dunlop (UK), Ben Salter, Pokey La Farge (USA), Chris Wilson’s Crown of Thorns, Lunasa (Ire), Bobby Alu, Rory McLeod (UK), Rose Cousins (CAN), Daniel Champagne, David Bridie & The Pills, Dog Trumpet, The Topp Twins (NZ), Alaska String Band (Alaska), Altan (Ire), Antonio Serrano (Spain), Jaaleekay (West Africa), Gleny Rae Virus & Her Playboys, Grace Barbe Afro-Kreol, JVG Guitar Method, Margret RoadKnight, Marisa Quigley, Mic Conway’s National Junk Band, The Mae Trio, The Band Who Knew Too Much, The Pigs, The Tealeaves, Things Of Stone & Wood and The Tiger & Me. All up you can expect some 120 acts performing across four days. Encompassing roots and rhythms, crossroads, tradition, folk roots, country roads, Celtic colours, global sounds, words and music, cabaret and comedy, street invaders and fringe, the festival attracts some 60,000 visitors each year. The Port Fairy Folk Festival takes place from March 7 through March 10. Hit portfairyfolkfestival.com for further information. Tickets are available now.

Guineafowl Flock to Birds of Tokyo Birds of Tokyo are only a couple of weeks from kicking off a tour which will keep them busy throughout the first half of December. But every good touring band needs a good touring companion, and so Guineafowl have been persuaded to warm things up. Guineafowl is Sam Yeldham. Sitting above an antique store on a main road near Bondi, and armed with a laptop and an in-built mic, Yeldham set about crafting the ideas of his debut EP, Hello Anxiety. The EP, a translation of Yeldham’s life stories, wasn’t the easiest EP to record. The antique store was located near a main bus line, meaning every 10 minutes or so the aspiring singer-songwriter would have to stop what he was doing until the bus passed. He then set about recruiting players who could help flesh out the songs to how they played in his head. I Hope My City Loves Me Still is his newie. The Wool Exchange, Geelong – December 5.

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Summer Calendar

Summer in on its way, folks. What does that mean? It means the calendar is chockers with all sorts of goodies. We’ve got music, we’ve got sport and we’ve got film. We’ve got Christmas somewhere in there as well, but we’re going to forget about that. Instead, here at Forte we’re going to focus on some summertime favourites. So, as the one-legged man said, let’s hop to it. (Ah, puns.)

Music Big Day Out

Future Music Festival

Australian artists include Archie Roach, Ben Salter, Ash Grunwald and Bobby Alu.

Arguably Australia’s favourite festival child, the BDO made its debut in 1992.

It’s the festival when EDM fans go a little crazy. And we all know what happens when EDM fans go crazy.

When & Where: Port Fairy – March 7 through March 10.

Who: Internationals include Pearl Jam, Arcade Fire, Blur, Snoop Dogg, The Lumineers and Mudhoney. Australian acts include Tame Impala, Pez, Kingswood, Northlane and Cosmic Psychos. When & Where: Flemington Racecourse – January 24. .....................................................

Soundwave Originated in Perth, Soundwave is one of the biggest events on the music calendar. Who: International acts include Green Day, Avenged Sevenfold, Alice in Chains, Stone Temple Pilots (with Chester Bennington) and Rob Zombie. Australian acts include Nancy Vandal. When & Where: Flemington Racecourse – February 28. .....................................................

Falls Festival The little festival that made its debut in 1993 has grown to become a mustattend event for those who love music and not showering for a couple of days. Who: International acts include Violent Femmes, London Grammar, Grizzly Bear and The Wombats. Australian acts include Clairy Browne & the Bangin’ Rackettes, Hungry Kids of Hungary, Emma Louise and The Preatures. When & Where: Lorne – December 28 through January 1.

Who: International artists include Phoenix, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, Deadmau5, Eric Prydz and Tinie Tempah. Australian artists include Cut Copy, Stafford Brothers, Will Sparks and Helena. When & Where: Flemington Racecourse – March 9. .....................................................

The Great Australian Beer Festival A boutique festival for those who love their beer and cider with a different flavour, with a little entertainment thrown in for good measure. What & Who: Over 150 craft beers and ciders. Entertainment includes Owl Eyes, Kylie Auldist, Tigertown, Murdena, The Evening Cast, The Kite Machine and Grim Fawkner. When & Where: Geelong Racecourse – February 1. .....................................................

Port Fairy Folk Festival Way back in 1977 the first Port Fairy Folk Festival took place. From little things big things have grown. Who: International artists include Madeleine Peyroux, Jon Cleary and the Absolute Monster Gentlemen, The Topp Twins, Rory McLeod and Rose Cousins.

.....................................................

Rainbow Serpent Entering its 17th year in 2014, Rainbow Serpent is as much a festival of music as it is a festival of sustainability, well-being, performance and art. Who: International artists include The Orb, FreQ Nasty, Pan-Pot, Killerwatts, Dousk, Snareophone and Zion Train. Australian acts include Opiuo, Jamie Stevens, Dysphemic & Miss Eliza, Ghettafunkt, El Moth and Formidable Vegetable Sound System.

Sport

Film

Cricket

December:

The recent Ashes series in England was not the best form by the Aussie team – nor, arguably, for the umpires or sportsmanship. But we’re on home soil now.

Ender’s Games,

Dates: Gabba – November 21-25; Adelaide – December 5-9; WACA – December 13-17; Melbourne – December 26-30; SCG – January 3-7. The pick of the bunch is the Boxing Day Test, where leftovers and hot weather make for the perfect day of lazing around in shorts and thongs.

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More: Five one-dayers against the old foe will follow The Ashes series. The first game is at the MCG on January 12. Three T20 games will also take place against England. The first game is at Blundstone Arena on January 29.

St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival

The KFC T20 series kicks off on December 20 at the MCG with the Melbourne Stars up against the Melbourne Renegades.

When & Where: Lexton – January 24 through 27.

The St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival is so good it made its US debut in Detroit this year. We know and love it simply as Laneway. Who: International acts include Chvrches, Haim, Frightened Rabbit, Earl Sweatshirt and Four Tet. Australian acts include Adalita, Cloud Control and Dick Diver. When & Where: FCAC & The River’s Edge – February 1.

The women’s test, ODI and T20 series against England takes place throughout January and early February. The season proper kicks off at the WACA from January 10 to 13.

American Hustle, Anchorman: The Legend Continues, Frozen, Saving Mr. Banks, The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. .................................................

January: August: Osage Country, Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit, 47 Ronin, Grudge Match, The Wolf of Wall Street, 12 Years a Slave. .................................................

February: Dracula Untold,

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Endless Love,

Australian Open

Fading Gigolo,

Monday, January 13 through Sunday, January 26.

Winter’s Tale,

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All is Lost, Wolf Creek 2,

A-League The season continues through to May, 2014.

Homefront, The Selfish Giant.

Sunday Sesh @ Sunday 17th N ov Kicks off from 12pm

www.mycause.com.au

/page/caddyswalk4c

ancer

Live music Auctions throughout the day

gold coin entry

Come down and enjoy some great food and beer!

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The Wombats

Written by Tex Miller

The Wombats have a new single doing the rounds on the radio at the moment and it’s called ‘Your Body is a Weapon’. Once again it is complete indie-pop genius, and the new record, which will be out in the first half of next year, is sure to be just as brilliant. To say that I don’t really like The Wombats would be telling the biggest lie of my life. Sitting down to have an extensive chat with Tord Øverland-Knudsen, bass player for the band, whilst he was in preparations for the upcoming tour, was a complete honour and one of the highlights of interviewing in 2013 for me.

Talking from his lounge room in Liverpool, Tord is excited about the new album and can’t wait for everybody to get their chops around it in the new year. The process of songwriting for ‘Your Body is a Weapon’, although not all that different, was just as exciting as when the band first started jamming together around ten years ago. “We demoed the track and took it to the record label and everybody seemed to really like it. From there, we went to LA and laid it down, and I think it sounds really good. The record will be out in March or April next year. We have the latest single out, but we haven’t even started laying down the tracks really yet. We’re headed into the studio

and will record throughout December and January,” Knudsen said. Although there hasn’t been much news dropped about the new record, I think that it’s fair to say that if ‘Your Body is a Weapon’ is any indication, there will be many enjoyable moments on it, and it will definitely develop on the quintessential Wombats sound that has developed through their debut record A Guide to Love, Loss and Desperation and This Modern Glitch. “The first album was very guitar heavy and the second was a lot more synth and electronic. I think the new album is a 50/50 split between the both. It’s hard to say how it will turn out, but I think there will be a new single out in January or just before the album drops. It’s definitely an exciting time for us, especially with the Australian tour coming up.” Playing at The Falls, when the conversation turns to the talk about setlists, Tord assures me that you will definitely be able to hear some of your older Wombats favourites as well as the new stuff too. “We have been playing Party in a Forest quite a bit lately, and even in shorter sets I’m pretty sure that’ll be on the list.” School Uniforms, which to me is a classic track of the first album, is too fast for the band to play, and a really hard song to sing. “It’s fair to say that everyone will love what we choose: it’ll be upbeat and will get the party going that’s for sure. School Uniforms is too hard to sing anymore, and we’re getting too old!” Since the band’s inception in mid-2003, The Wombats have toured Australia many times and in a way should be made ‘Honorary Australians’. To be coming back for New Years is a bittersweet time for Tord, but is an experience that he is really looking forward to: “I’m always generally home in Norway for New Years and it’s really cold and snowing. This year is the complete opposite, so it’s going to be weird but awesome at the same time.” One of the B-sides to their first album was an absolute cracking version of ‘Postman Pat’, of which Tord sings in Norwegian. From a quick YouTube search you are able to find a video of them backstage in Europe singing the track. The origins of the track came from a lost in translation moment of not knowing the tune in English. Looking back retrospectively at recording the track, Tord cannot contain the laughs, which suggests that I am one of the few interviewers to pose

When & Where: The Falls - Dec 28 to Jan 1 2014 & Southbound Festival - Jan 3 & 4 2014.

a question about the session. “That was a silly part of the first album because we were really looking to having some fun and it was a great light-hearted moment. I think that how that song actually came about was that I was doing an interview and somehow the subject of Postman Pat came up. I started singing it in Norwegian and everyone seemed to think it was funny, but to me it was quite normal. I hadn’t seen it in English and for some reason, I don’t know why, we started playing it live. Something must have connected with people because that was really early on in the band and in 2013 we still seem to talk about it from time to time.” The success that has followed The Wombats all around the world over the years is primarily due to the kick-arse party anthems that the band keeps writing. Celebrating ten years as a band, a few days before this interview Tord feels that worldwide success was never the game plan – and he never thought that he would end up playing a gig in Ramsay Street and joining the cast of Neighbours. “When we started out, it was quite a laugh and we didn’t really take it that serious. It wasn’t a full-time thing, and being students we had a few musical projects on the side. It felt the right thing to do, but we only started thinking about our goals after we’d finished Uni. On the first tour of Australia, our record label asked us what our ambitions for touring were and we said that we really wanted to play on Neighbours. It was quite random and a joke. Six months later, we appeared on the show.” The commercial success that The Wombats have achieved with the likes of ‘Kill The Director’, ‘Backfire at the Disco’ and ‘Let’s Dance to Joy Division’ to name just a few, has never really played on the mind in the creative process. “Obviously you hope that the songs you write your fans will like. We started out from nothing, playing gigs to 20 people. That quickly took off as Joy Division took off up the charts. It was an insane time. Once you’ve done it once, you get a feel for how to do it again.” With a new album out in 2014, Australia is likely to get a big Wombats fix soon enough. “We’ve got the album coming out, and New Years will be big. We love playing in Australia and are hopefully planning to come back in the middle of 2014. See you out there somewhere on the road!”

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FINAL SHOWS BEFORE NEW YORK

LOOKING THROUGH A GLASS ONION JOHN

LENNON In Word and Music

SUNDAY JANUARY 19

LIGHTHOUSE THEATRE - WARRNAMBOOL www.lighthousetheatre.com.au | 03 5559 4999

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 9

THE CAPITAL THEATRE - BENDIGO www.thecapital.com.au | 03 5434 6100

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 15

WENDOUREE CENTRE FOR PERFORMING ARTS - BALLARAT www.wcpa.com.au | 03 5338 0980

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 16

GEELONG PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE DRAMA THEATRE – GEELONG www.gpac.org.au | 03 5225 1200

JOHN

WATERS with Stewart D’Arrietta

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL AN INTIMATE PERFORMANCE 32

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Grovedale Hotel

Written by Tex Miller

At The Grovedale Hotel they live by a simple ‘Three P’s’ philosophy: Parmys, Pots and Punting. And it’s a philosophy which is working wonders. Let’s take a closer look… A finalist in the 2010 Golden Plate Awards (Best Customer Service; Best Casual Dining; Best Value for Money), The Grovedale Hotel’s Portofino’s Restaurant and Bar offers an outstanding selection of meals at affordable prices. Make sure you take a look at their extensive list of local, national and international wines while you’re at it. Dining is available inside and out, and umbrellas have been set up outside for when the sun has a little extra bite. Their new summer menu is sure to be a real winner, while their popular sports bar menu continues to kick goals. All your sports needs are covered at The Grovedale. The venue has recently installed three 84-inch TVs which will screen live sport in high definition. The timing couldn’t be better with The Ashes series upon us. The TVs have been installed both inside and in their beer garden, so you’ll be able to cheer on Australia (or England, of course) wherever you are. Music lovers are in for a real treat this summer with the venue hosting live bands every Friday night and soloists and duos every Saturday. Few things beat a good meal, a quiet drink and some good tunes following a week’s work. The venue has made the call to move their regular Saturday night gig outside during summer. And why not; warm nights and great music is another winning combination.

Plus, they’d be a fool not to take advantage of their ripping beer garden. Inside you will find their TAB and sports bar. The Grovedale boasts one of Geelong’s biggest TABs, and with their sports bar menu and brand new sports wall you won’t come up short. You will love their function room. Working with French inspirations, the décor is simple yet stylish. Their function room can cater for formal or informal functions of up to 120 people, with a range of set menus or finger food options available. Those who enjoy a drink or two can take advantage of their $4 basic spirit happy hour from 9.30 p.m. ’til 11 p.m. on Fridays and $10 jugs of Bulmers on Saturdays from 7 p.m. The Grovedale Hotel is helping to take a little stress out of Christmas by serving up a three-course lunch. Bookings are coming in fast, so make sure you give them a bell to avoid disappointment. The Grovedale Hotel is located at 236-258 Torquay Road, Grovedale. Telephone is 5243 2814. You can take a closer look through grovedalehotel. com.au. Gamble responsibly. “Whether you are looking for fine dining, live entertainment, or just a place to relax, The Grovedale is the place to be.”

EVERY FRIDAY

Live Cover Bands EVERY SATURDAY IN SUMMER REST

AURA N

TS – BARS – ENTER TA I N M

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Geelong’s best soloist and acoustic duos in the beer garden from 7pm

Bulmers Jug promos Saturdays, and basic spirit promos Fridays. GROVEDALE HOTEL 236-258 SURFCOAST HIGHWAY PHONE: (03) 5243 2814 | GROVEDALEHOTEL.COM.AU

FACEBOOK.COM/GROVEDALEHOTEL

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Lorne Film Festival written by Tex Miller

The evolution of the Australian film festival has grown enormously over the past few years given that the abilities to make film have become considerably cheaper with production costs over time. From just a quick Google search of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;film festival Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, within a second 138 million options are at my fingertips. When you think about how many Aussie festivals have made it from the grassroots level to internationally renowned, it gives the smaller festivals a lot of opportunities. Recently I got the opportunity to sit down with Darren Markey, the director of the Lorne Film Festival, ahead of the opening night on the 15th of November to find out a little about the Surf Coast event and how through community engagement and development there are plans to take this festival to the reputation of the likes of Tropfest and Cannes. Speaking with Darren a week or so before opening night, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to hear that he is a cool, calm and collected guy. Yet, nonetheless a little bit of nerves are starting to kick in. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are a week out from Opening Night and the train is gaining momentum; we have finalised the program and all the attention is going in to promotion. We have got two of our members down in Lorne handing out programs, and the vibe thus far has been extremely positive.â&#x20AC;? Although the event is in its first year in 2013, the original concept for the festival was devised back in the early 2000s after Darren spent quite a considerable amount of time living in the Surf Coast town. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I was a playwright and then I became a screenwriter. I have always loved film and thought that Lorne had this original and raw persona about it as one of the best towns along the Great Ocean Road. So it was a very natural idea that Lorne should be put on the international film festival circuit.â&#x20AC;? With 28 films on show over the three-day festival between the 15 th and 18 th of November, the logistics of organising such an event must be quite substantial given that a section of the program is being show in 35mm film. â&#x20AC;&#x153;To date, there has not been a film festival in Lorne to this scale, but the logistics have thrown up some challenges along the way and I think that having overcome said challenges the festival is looking quite strong and everything is going to plan to create a successful festival going into opening night. I am so lucky to be surrounded by a great team, and that always helps I think. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The trickiest part of my position as director I think this year has been developing the relationships with distributors and stakeholders and key individuals in the industry, because gaining that

A still with shot from one of the movies screening at the Lorne film Festival - â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Uncharted Watersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

belief and backing from them after just having an idea and website rather than something physical has been a challenge. It seems to be paying off though which is a great thing. Once we get in to year two and later on down the track, it will become a lot easier.â&#x20AC;?

of Lorne and would suit the overall feeling of the festival. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think there is a film from my top ten in there, but our operations manager Bernie Clifford, our distributors and I have spent a lot of painstaking hours deciding what should make the cut.â&#x20AC;?

Opening with Uncharted Waters, which tells the story of the career of famed local Lorne surfer Wayne Lynch, the festival is set to play both feature and short films and commercial and amateur productions in two unique venues in the Lorne Theatre and the Cumberland Resort. One of the main aspects that came into the thought process of choosing the films to show was to build on the local aspect as well as showing a variety of local and international productions, as Darren relates.

Talking about Darrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourite films on the bill this year, he believes that it is hard to go past Blackfish, Outrage and Spring Breakers, three films that are the complete opposite end of the spectrum to each other and that will spark further conversation and thought after the film. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Blackfish is about a killer whale held in captivity that eats people and Outrage is a Yakuza mafia film by renowned Japanese director Takeshi Kitano. Spring Breakers is a film that I think may be seen as a controversial choice as itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the last film on the program and leading into schoolies week. All of these films are outstanding in their narratives, which was one of the key aspects of them making the cut. The films had to be an experience for the

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Before it can become an international event, the roots have to be grown and spread in Lorne. The process was not about picking our favourite films, it was about what films would engage the patrons

Diversitat Training

viewer and be able to tell a fantastic story.â&#x20AC;? With support from the Surf Coast Shire as well as Regional Development Victoria, the future of the festival is very bright and the community and grassroots filmmaking is set to develop in the years to come. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have a few locally produced films, and I think that film people draw other film people to these types of events. If you want to get involved with the festival, head along to our website and get in touch. Any time of year, I think that raw and original, edgy cinema is always fantastic and will have a place in our program. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hopefully Lorne Film Festival can develop into Victoriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier regional film festival, but weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll just have to wait and see.â&#x20AC;? When & Where: Lorne â&#x20AC;&#x201C; November 15 through 17

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TALK OF THE TOWN! Fun Fest Hits Bendigo The circus and physical comedy festival that is Fun Fest makes its way to Bendigo next month. Do you want fun-filled circus antics? Well, you got it, baby. Do you want hilarious comedy capers? Well, have I got what you need. Do you want heart-stopping stunts? You bet your sweet bippy you do. Fun Fest is fronted by Daniel Oldaker, aka Dandyman. Born in Ballarat, Oldaker spends four months of the year touring Europe, Asia, Canada and America and is regarded as one of Australia’s finest physical comedians. Another highlight is Rani Huszar, aka Ruby Rubberlegs. Ruby has been performing for over 10 years, with her acts of contortionism leaving audiences dumbfounded. The Pitts Family Circus will also perform. A circus family from Tasmania, The Pitts Family Circus blends highly skilled acrobatics with unusual juggling and off-beat humour. Hargreaves Mall, Bendigo – December 7. .........................................................................

Love Continues for Cash Savage and Co. Cash Savage and the Last Drinks aren’t done for the year quite yet. The band is in pretty good spirits at the moment, and has every reason to be: their track ‘I’m in Love’ is nominated for ‘Best Song’ in The Age Music Victoria Awards. We’ve also seen the release of their second EP, The Hypnotiser. Complete with a 45-voice choir, the second EP from the band cements their status as masters of dark country blues. It is their live show, however, that gets people talking the most. The AU Review writes: “It’s almost like watching Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. Burning with a violent passion one minute, then self-effacing the next… And it’s somewhat fascinating to watch. It’s like she’s possessed … This band is an institution.” The Bridge, Castlemaine – December 7. * Note: Voting for The Age Music Victoria Awards closes November 15. .........................................................................

Anyone for Personal & The Pizzas? If you’re one of those lovely people who jump on Forte as soon as it comes out, then you’re getting the goods about Personal & The Pizzas. You may have known about their gig anyway, but in case not, this is a last minute notice you’re going to want to take note of. You see, Personal & The Pizzas are a New Jersey-based garage rock band that is about as cool as they come. The main reason for their trip to our side of the world is to rock out at Polyfest, a massive love-in celebrating Polyester Records’ 30th birthday. While they’re in town they thought they would make best use of our musicloving community and tag on a few other shows around

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the traps. If you love your garage rock soaked in songs about girls, hanging around, starting trouble, eating pizza and drinking beer, then these three ‘mothers wouldn’t have ‘em’ delinquents are for you. The Barwon Club, Geelong – Tonight, November 14. .........................................................................

Martians Café Delivers Again Martians Café never lets you down when it comes to music, with November still to play host to some outstanding talent. Geoff Achison checks into the venue on November 15. Achison would be a familiar name to Forte readers; after all, he always seems to be up to something. His blues/funk style with a soulful quality has been smoking up stages locally and abroad for years. Speaking of smoking, Smokin’ Sam plays the venue on November 23. The Melbournebased blues singer and harmonica player kicks out originals and covers with equal passion. As well as performing solo, Sam also plays in Synergy Blues and the Cargo Blues Band. Seeing out November you have Smoke Stack Rhino on the 30th. Formed towards the beginning of the year, this Melbourne four-piece channel influences including Led Zeppelin, Soundgarden and Buddy Guy into their own style of blues. .........................................................................

The Crow Call of Nigel Wearne Quick bite: Nigel Wearne is a country/folk singersongwriter who melds finger-style guitar, country twang, honky-tonk and honest storytelling. With hints of Hank Williams, Wearne has performed at festivals including the Port Fairy Folk Festival, Queenscliff Music Festival and the Dorrigo Folk & Bluegrass Festival. Last month he was nominated for a Music Victoria Award for Best Country Album for Black Crow. Although losing out to Dan Walters, the nomination was due recognition for a very talented songman. Babushka Bar, Ballarat – November 15. .........................................................................

Dyson, Stringer & Cloher Quick bite: Coming together through a mutual admiration for each other’s work, Mia Dyson, Liz Stringer and Jen Cloher have been playing a few shows together in recent times. With eleven albums, ARIA Awards and Australian Music Prize short listings between them, not to mention a whole lot of other stuff, you’d be hard-pressed to find three finer voices in one room. Dyson’s latest album is The Moment; Stringer’s latest album is Warm in the Darkness; and

Striking the Right Nerve

Inca Roads Music Festival

Ezekiel Ox, Lucius Borich, Davarj Thomas and Glenn Proudfoot have all been in the music game long enough to have discovered what they like and what they don’t like. So when Proudfoot spotted Ezekiel fronting Full Scale, he knew that one day they would share a stage together. Enter The Nerve, a band full of talent but lacking in BS. They play rock and roll the way it’s meant to be played. Their initial writing sessions began in 2010 when Proudfoot pursued Ezekiel through email. The trouble was, Proudfoot went back to reside in Europe. Still, you never let a little thing like geographical location get in the way of good music, and so the music writing continued. Borich was the man they turned to for drumming and soon, with Proudfoot based in between Prague and Melbourne, Borich in Sydney and Ezekiel in Melbourne, they managed to carve out 24 songs over a two-month period. Peter “Reggie” Bowman helmed the ship, later introducing the trio to Thomas to complete the line-up. In February this year, the band, after having come together as a complete unit only four days prior, played their first gig together. Now they’re gearing up for the release of their debut album, Audiodacity. The Karova, Ballarat – November 28 & The Barwon Club, Geelong – December 13. Joining them at both dates will be those lovely lads, King Of The North.

We took a little gander at this one last issue, but it’s getting a more deserving run here. With a local flavour, the Inca Roads music festival kicks off at the end of the month, spreading good tunes and good vibes for the third year running. The line-up is: Gold Fields, Northeast Party House, Willow Beats, The Woohoo Revue, The Barons of Tang, Andras Fox, Playwrite, Bored Nothing, Lurch & Chief, Tully On Tully, Animaux, Alta, Sex On Toast, Neighbourhood Youth, Mildlife, The Pretty Littles, Velma Grove, 8 Bit Love, Albert Salt, Lowtide, The Ocean Party, Ghost Orkid, El Moth, Echo Drama, Leaks, The Gold Street Sound, Sleepy Dreamers, Papa Maul, Nebraskatak, Glaciers, Road Ratz, The Sweets, Papa G and the Starcats, The Ripe DJs and Nathan Camilleri. From their website: “It all started with a few friends packing their instruments into the back of a station wagon and heading out for a camping trip at good ol’ Nonno Frank’s place. It essence nothing has really changed. We’ve kept it small and love the little things that make a festival experience special. It feels like a camping trip, peaceful yet lively at the same time. We like to think of Inca Roads as a place where everyone is a friend or a friend in waiting. Great people, an ego free zone.” Greater Ballarat Region – November 29 through December 1. Hit incaroads.com.au for more. All roads lead somewhere.

Cloher’s latest album is In Blood Memory. Beav’s Bar, Geelong – November 17.

Australian talent including Matt Corby, Boy & Bear, Angus Stone, John Butler and Xavier Rudd. The humble and self-taught artist has had an impressive year, racking up shows at The Corner Hotel, The Espy, The Empress Hotel, The Chandelier Room and The Bendigo among others. The future looks bright for this one. The Loft, Warrnambool – November 15.

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Josh Cashman’s Big Future Quick bite: Melbourne-based Josh Cashman is a young singer-songwriter and guitarist driven by

a pretty tough slog for the band but they’ve stayed focused on the task at hand. At The Loft, Warrnambool on November 23 they’ll show off their hard work with the launch of their debut EP. Single ‘Jet’ has been going along very nicely. .........................................................................

Star Bar, Bendigo Rolls On

Queenscliff Music Festival Can you believe the Queenscliff Music Festival has almost arrived? I reckon you know about the all-too-cool line-up. I also reckon you know it takes place across November 22, 23 & 24. But there may be some things you’re not so sure about, and that is where we come in. The times: Friday, November 22 – 6pm through 1am; Saturday, November 23 – 10.30am through 1am; Sunday, November 24 – 10.30am through 6.30pm. Wristbands: All attendees must wear wristbands. Please take your ticket to the Wristband Exchange (located next to the front gates). And make sure you cling to them – they are your festival life support. Kids: Children under 14 are free with a ticketed adult. BYO Alcohol: That is a big no-no. Food: There will be a wide variety of food for every diet type. Chairs: Low beach chairs are permitted, though standing only rules may apply. Tickets: Tickets will still be available on the Friday unless sold out. Check in on qmf.net.au for more.

The Charms of Janette Geri Quick bite: Born in Sydney and now living in Central Victoria, Janette Geri plays a mix of Celtic, blues, contemporary and traditional guitar. Across her music journey she has released six albums and toured nationally and throughout the UK. She has also supported international artists including Jean Paul Wabotai, Abdul TJ Rokoto, The Fureys and Maria Forde. Her live performances are both earthy and playful, showcasing original contemporary and traditional songs. The Bridge, Castlemaine – November 16. .........................................................................

Michelles Velocity’s EP Launch Quick bite: Hailing from the Warrnambool area, Michelles Velocity started their music life as a cover band. This was in early 2011. It didn’t take them long to develop a following, so as the year edged closer to its end, they decided to try their luck at originals. It’s been

Quick bite: Bendigo’s Star Bar continues with its golden month of November. Don’t forget that coming up you still have Nina Las Vegas on November 15, Touch Sensitive on November 22, Allday on November 23 and L D R U on November 29. DJ, producer and beat-maker Nina Agzarian is Nina Las Vegas. You may know her as the madcap gal from triple j House Party; you may have been seduced by her at your favourite club. However you have come across her, chances are she’s stuck in your head. .........................................................................

Prison Punk Rock Party Quick bite: How good would you say your memory is? Hopefully it’s okay because this is an early shout-out regarding the Prison Punk Rock Party set to take place at the Old Geelong Gaol on February 1, 2014. A solid handful of bands from around the country will take part, with the line-up so far including Sydney’s Rust, the ACT’s Bladder Spasms, Queensland bands The Lost Cause and The Scam and The Worst, Slick 46, Half Pints and Foot Soldiers. .........................................................................

Listen Up, Ya’ll Okay, here are some reminders coming your way. Transvaal Diamond Syndicate swing by The Loft, Warrnambool on November 16. Wildeornes bring their riff magic to The Karova, Ballarat on November 15, while Saskwatch shake things up at The Karova on November 22. Robert Ellis and Cory Chisel take on The Barwon Club, Geelong on November 17, while Gomez’s Ian Ball fronts up to The Barwon on November 21 and The Karova on November 23. Finally, it will be a party atmosphere at the Old Hepburn Hotel on November 17 when Brow Horn Orchestra turns up the heat. .........................................................................

Bendigo Rocks the Vines Bendigo will welcome a new festival next year when Rock in the Vines makes its debut at Big Hill Vineyard in March. Details are this stage remain minimal, but the good news is a cracking showcase has been put together for November 24 at The Vine. Tasmanianbred, Bendigo-based muso Grim Fawkner (aka Tane Emia Moore) will be among the performers. Grim is a previous winner of the Queenscliff Music Festival’s Busking Competition in 2011 and this year’s CQ Unplugged Summer Series. Melbourne bands La Bastard and My Left Boot will also be on hand. All up, you’re looking at eight hours of music across two

stages. Festival Director (and muso) Steve Saxton: “We’re lucky to have so many talented acts right here in Bendigo, like Meredith (Mez Whittle) and Tyson Hodges with the re-assembled TH3, so this show will provide another reminder of what’s to come next year.” Show starts at 2 p.m. $10. .........................................................................

Vans Warped Australia From the mind of AJ Maddah comes the Australian counterpart of the almighty Vans Warped Tour. A bunch of familiar friends are heading this way to get loud. Who: Internationals include The Offspring, New Found Glory, Reel Big Fish, Millencolin and Hatebreed. Aussies include Parkway Drive, Tonight Alive, Buried in Verona and Hands Like Houses. When & Where: Birrarung Marr – December 7. .........................................................................

A Final QMF Treat Quick bite: Okay, so we have already given you a bit of a rundown regarding the Queenscliff Music Festival, but this latest addition to the QMF party deserves a little attention. Chance Waters, King Of The North, Siskin River and Twin Beasts will be among those treating festival revellers to a very special Midnight Oil tribute. The Oils tribute will take place on the Saturday of the festival from 6 p.m. Just who will be leading the Peter Garrett dance-off is anyone’s guess. This should be a ripper. .........................................................................

Caddy’s Walk for Cancer Stories are told best by those who live them, so I present Josh Caddy, a 27-year-old self-employed tradie from Jan Juc: “I grew up with a strong interest in motor cross racing and swimming where I travelled across Victoria competing throughout the year on most weekends. I raced my bike up until the age of 16 when I seriously injured my knee. I lived with the injury for many years, and then re-injured the same knee, which did further damage and resulted in surgery. I had knee reconstructive surgery at the Geelong Hospital in 2011. After the surgery I did extensive rehabilitation including swimming and walking to improve the strength in my leg. I recently participated in the 100km Oxfam Trailwalker, which was challenging through the Dandenong Ranges. Through the event I found motivation to tackle something bigger and raise funds for a great local foundation.” And so it is that Josh will commence walking on January 1 from Jan Juc, making his way to Mildura, a destination he hopes to reach by January 12. His aim is to raise $10,000 for Barwon Health’s Andrew Love Cancer Centre. You can alos get down to Odyssey Tavern this Sunday the 17th kicking off at midday for a great day of Food, beer and Live Music. There will be auctions throughout the day with a line up of live music riasing money for this great cause. Get on board through ycause.com.au/page/ caddyswalk4cancer.

Shaun Kirk back to work Still riding the high from performing at renowned Australian music festivals including Bluesfest, Woodford Folk Festival, Port Fairy Folk Festival and St Kilda Festival in the past 12 months, alongside heavyweights such as Robert Plant, Ben Harper, Bonnie Raitt and The Cat Empire, blues multi-instrumentalist Shaun Kirk continues his musical ascent with the release of his brand new EP, ‘Giving’. The five-track offering features two new songs from his forthcoming full-length album, ‘Steer the Wheel’ (due for release March 2014). The first of these, ‘Give to the Needy’, is available on iTunes in October. Three live tracks are also included on the EP, two of which were captured during his performance at this years’ Bluesfest. To celebrate the release, Shaun will embark on a extensive national tour before heading back into the studio to conclude recording the album. He’ll be launching the record on Thursday Nov 28 at the Evelyn Melbourne, Vic, Saturday Nov 30 at Babushka Lounge – Ballarat, Vic And Sunday Dec 1 at Westernport Hotel – San Remo, Vic

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FREE CLASSIFIEDS what's on in the rat: SEND YOUR INFO TO: editorial@fortemag.com.au or p.o. box 1388, geelong 3220 or fax 5229 0318 FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY, NOT FOR COMMERCIAL PURPOSES.

Guitarist wanted: for pop/rock originals band. Looking for an experienced guitarist who can also sing harmonies. Is easy going and reliable. Contact Phil 0421 901 530 30ish year old trumpet player, looking to form or play in jazz group. Ballarat area. Contact Mel 0435360076 19yo Male singer looking for funk/rock musicians: Want similar aged guys who like Led Zeppelin, Hendrix, Beatles, and ANYTHING funky bass! i love ANY music prior to 1950s all the way back to classical and beyond! I also play trumpet, Contact Sam 0407 347 444 Lead Guitarist, Bass Player and Vocalist are looking for an experienced drummer to complete a Geelong based Blues/Rock outfit. Influences include : Jimi Hendrix, Cream, The Doors, Pink Floyd, John Lee Hooker, Van Morrison, Black Keys, Ash Grunwald, Stevie Ray Vaughan etc... Also have originals to develop together as well. If interested contact - Craig: 0404 054 045 or email transform_pt@yahoo. com.au Screaming Vocalist wanted for metalcore band. Vocalist required between the ages of about 17 - 19. Live experience not necessary. Influences include Parkway Drive and August Burns Red. Email andyw14@live.com.au Vocalist Wanted. Experienced 25 y.o. guitarist looking for female vocalist to form acoustic duo to start

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playing cover gigs asap. Would also be interested in writing together music if partnership works well. Phone Curt 0412 166 393 Looking for a rock singer between the age 17-19. Main Influences are Green Day, Foo Fighters and Led Zeppelin. Band with Management and Label. Email and info at melodicmusic.com Looking for a drummer, not afraid to experiment. Male/ female. Age 35++ ono. All original. English/Australian influences without the radio play. Original to the extent of punk/pop sensibility 1978 to the not-so-now style. Think of yourself as a patron of The Saints, Stiff Little Fingers, Radio Birdman, Buzzcocks, The Smiths, Psychedelic Furs, Iggy & The Stooges, Wedding Present, Happy Mondays etc etc, then forget you have to be. The usual... car, equipment, attitude, mental state (in an OK kind of...) punctual, earplugs accepted. Be prepared to apply yourself. Let us know on 0409 567 043. Please leave your details and we will hear you - Confirmation code: AKA 1963 Geelong rock band looking for lead vocalist. We are a Geelong based original band looking for a lead vocalist, have a lot of experience and heaps of great original music waiting to be sung. Influences: pearl jam, chili peppers, foo fighters, nirvana, led zep, sound garden. Contact Ben 0432049231.

Thursday, 14th November – Wednesday, 27th November By Daniel Lock

G’day all, Daniel here with the brief rundown on what’s happening in Ballarat over the next couple of weeks. Thursday, 14th of November sees the solo acoustic artist Rod Fritz playing for the patrons at The Babushka Bar/Cafe/Gallery. His easy going sounds have seen live local radio play, and can be previewed on Soundcloud if you’re interested to hear some of his work before attending Babs for a chilled night. Entry $5. Over at The Karova Lounge they have The Bennies playing their punk/rock for the people who are after a faster paced Thursday. Backing them on stage are The Savages, Foxtrot and Embassy Talks. Tickets $10. Friday, 15th of November has Nigel Wearne playing country folk on the stage at Babushka. For a relaxed Friday this may be your best bet as there’s always an easy going crowd and the tunes will lull anyone in to a positive mood. Entry $7. On the other hand, The Karova Lounge is looking to stir up lots of excitement, with The Wildeornes on stage brandishing their headbanging heavy metal for everyone to enjoy. Backing them will be local rockers The Rye Catchers and local metal band, Saprotroph. Tickets $10.

Saturday, 16th of November sees some soft rock hit the Babushka Bar with Krazyfish set to play to the patrons that night. The lead singer of Krazyfish is a known lover of music and arts and has frequently been a guest at Live on Lydiard in order to assist the students of the Live Production course that run those shows. Sharing the stage with Krazyfish will be the Virginia Slims. Entry TBC. Thursday 21st has David Grimson playing acoustic solo sets at The Babushka Bar. Over at Karova, We The Ghosts are bringing their soft country-rock to the stage. Joining them will be the Paul Mah Duo plus Chelsea Morgan. Tickets $6. Friday 22nd sees local duo Gus and Bags playing at Babushka. These boys have been playing the Ballarat music scene for many years and are no strangers to entertaining. Entry TBC. That same night, The Karova Lounge will be hosting Saskwatch. This widely loved band will populate the place as well as the stage, with their nine-piece band churning out happy-go-lucky rhythms. Supporting them will be Fraser A. Gorman and The Harpoons. Tickets $15. Saturday the 23rd over at Babushka has house favourite ALEK and his local legendary Hurdy Gurdy instrument set to play for The Doctor Who anniversary. You’re probably right to expect an interesting cover at that gig. Entry TBC. While Babs has a house favourite playing, Karova will have Gomez singer-songwriter and guitarist Ian Ball playing a solo set on stage. If you haven’t heard Gomez then you’ve been living in a hole since 1998. Ian will be playing solo songs and some Gomez choice favourites. Tickets $27.50. Along with the above gigs and venues, a few other places are beginning to sprout on the Ballarat music scene. The Main Bar is also now hosting live music and The Eastern Station are still going strong with gigs happening regularly each weekend. Check out The Main Bar’s website for details of upcoming gigs at themainbar.com.au.

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Geelong’s Walk on the Wild Side Naughty Night Out From the playful minds of Exhibit Entertainment comes Naughty Night Out, a night where anything can happen and often does. It’s the perfect mix of entertainment, cheek and fun, and an experience you’re not likely to forget. We had a blast discovering a little more about a show that has the ability to change a person’s mind. Please introduce Forte’s readers to ‘Naughty Night Out’, Geelong. Naughty Night Out is like a fun night out with your friends that’s full of entertainment and talent. We have 25 performers all from different fields and different backgrounds all working together. One minute you’ll be in fits of laughter and the next you jaw will be dropping open with the ‘wow factor’. We have designed it to make you feel part of it. So many people that have been didn’t expect it to be that good and said they can’t believe we only charged $50, which is a massive compliment. How long has Exhibit Entertainment been running nights like this for? Can you give us a brief history? This is actually our first year as Exhibit Entertainment. We started by getting together and performing for fundraisers, as I believe if you can, use your talent for good. And we have run with that in our shows, donating $5 of every ticket sold to a charity of our choice. So we ran Naughty Night out for years up on the coast in a little pub in Princetown, as my mum owns it, and we wanted to take something different and get people through the door. That it did, and we gained an awesome support group from down there who even organised a bus and travelled down to our Geelong show. So the start of this year myself and Chaise decided to take the plunge and just booked in shows and went for it. Well, it seems it has paid off – the response is overwhelming. So Basically Naughty Night Out is showcasing what Exhibit Entertainment is all about. Exhibit Entertainment is basically an agency that hires out performers or performances. It’s creating work for talented people and bringing something different. We have comedians, singers, dancers; our male dancers are a highlight because everyone appreciates their unique manly talent. We hope people having Christmas parties or celebrations will want something different and hire us :-). We believe there are new shows by public demand. Tell us about the previous shows success? Well, the amazing thing is we didn’t have to advertise at all. Here we sold out well before the show was on, and same with Colac. Warrnambool was a little trickier, but we got there. This is the first time we have not advertised on Facebook. The success of the show is amazing. Comments made have been we did not expect it to be that good and that they haven’t seen this market in Geelong before; that it’s something really different. I haven’t had

negative responses – all positive so far … well, that we are told anyway, ha-ha. What can people expect from the night? Expect to laugh – there is a bit of shock value, but all is great fun. The hosts are amazing: they are like a real dirty version of Hamish and Andy. Everything in this show is so different; from roller skating duo Channi and Benji, who were on Australia’s Got Talent, to male tap dancers, with Chaise, who is my business partner, being one of the tap dogs. There are pole dancers that will stun you with their strength, agility and sensuality. There are vocalists and burlesque dancers, and much more. We are all different shapes and sizes – and the females are woman, not little girls :-) You describe the event as “An interactive cabaret with a twist”. What is the twist? The twist is you don’t expect it to be that good ;-) Is Naughty “kinky”?

Night

Out

“naughty”,

Definitely not kinky. No nudity, unless one of our hosts is feeling like it, ha-ha. But the naughtiness is the fun aspect; the swearing, the concept. Basically the hosts make it naughty. We put the word naughty in it so people aren’t easily offended with what’s coming out of their mouths. The dancing is sexy, but only because it oozes talent. Is this a specifically adult event? Absolutely. If anyone was feeling a bit nervous about coming along, what would you say? We don’t get anybody up out of the audience that doesn’t want to. That doesn’t work. You can sit there and have an exclusive night with your friends whilst watching and having a laugh, or you can join in. It’s all up to you. This show is designed for males and females. Don’t be nervous, come have some fun... What is one part of the night that is simply a ‘must see’?

All of it of course! Tap boys, hip hop guys, pole dancers, roller skaters, comedians, burlesque, vocalists… What more could you want? Anything you would like to add? Event info? We hope that you take a chance on us and bring cabaret back to life. I believe Geelong needs to look outside the box with this sort of thing. They will not be sorry. When & Where: The Sphinx, Geelong – November 29 & 30

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Lloyd Spiegel written by Tex Miller

Australian blues guitar legend Lloyd Spiegel is playing a gig at the Bridge Hotel in Castlemaine on the 22nd of November. Surprisingly, when I got the opportunity to sit down with Lloyd he was taking some time off the road to relax and rejuvenate the batteries before his next leg of gigs before Christmas. With eight albums under his belt and having toured constantly for the past two decades, it was an honour to sit down to have a chat with Lloyd in his downtime. “It’s really strange at the moment, because for the first time in fifteen years I have been able to take six weeks off from playing a gig to just relax and get my head together before the next lot of shows. I think I have definitely needed this break because I have got to the point of getting tired of my own shows. I’ve had to reinvent the way that I play, and I think the show is now building to be as strong as it ever has been. We (Tim Burnham and I) are flying to every show and now are able to put a hell of a lot more energy into the show than to travelling to and promoting. I think in effect that is playing quite a substantial dividend. “It’s important to stop every once in a while and take stock and realise what you’re in this game for,” Lloyd said. Since hitting the road playing guitar professionally at age 11, the opportunities that have presented themself to Lloyd and the people that Lloyd has been fortunate enough to share the stage is quite outstanding: a true blues players resume that has

seen Lloyd tick a substantial amount of boxes. In the time that Lloyd has been playing shows there have been several changes to the music industry and the touring life; so how does touring in 2013 compare to that of the mid-nineties? “Being on the road sounds a lot more glamorous and enjoyable than it actually is. It’s a really lonely place, and because you have your friends spread out around the world you always seem to be missing somebody. It wears your body and mind down quite a bit. A man spending twenty-two hours on the road driving to Byron Bay has a lot of time to think, and that is not always necessarily a good thing. 20 years on the road has made me make some time for myself and allow me to step out of the giggingstudio cycle.” It’s been three years since we have seen a studio release from Lloyd, and although Tangled Brew is the classic blues album that combines stellar guitar playing with thoughtful songwriting, 2014 is shaping up to be just as big. “I’m currently working on some grooves with Tim as well as a solo guitar album which I am looking to release midway through next year. I’ve always seemed to make blues albums, original albums or guitar albums. I’m recording a song at a time, and I think that although the process may be a little longer, it will pay a bigger dividend. I’m excited to be playing at the Bridge Hotel because it was really the starting point for my solo shows. “You’ll hear some new material real soon – and we’ll be out on the road to do it all again next year!”

When & Where: The Bridge, Castlemaine – November 22

Ian Ball

listener that sounded like a Brian Eno record. We kept adding layers to it, and it’s very dancey I think,” Ball said.

written by Tex Miller

The first single, entitled ‘Open Sesame’, can be heard on The Music and could well be a contender for alternative dance record of the year. Ian describes the sound of the record as “indie rock with a fuckload of synthesiser”, and I tend to agree. If you haven’t heard of Ian’s music and are a lover of edgy indie-disco beats, be sure to check this record out.

2013 has seen many great bands come to Geelong: highlights of the calendar year would have to include Matt Corby, Bernard Fanning and Boy & Bear’s recent show in town. But wait, there’s another exciting aspect! For the second time in six months another member of English indie-rock superstars Gomez is stopping in town at the Barwon Club for a show on his solo tour. Ian Ball is touring the country to promote his sophomore solo release Unfold Yourself, which as I found out, takes on quite a different sound to 2007’s Who Goes There. Taking some quiet time out of his busy schedule whilst his wife and daughter are off seeing Katy Perry at the Hollywood Bowl, Ian is spending the night drinking beer and talking to the Australian press for the upcoming tour when my call is connected. A circumstance which is quite a rarity these days, but nonetheless “is a pretty f*cking great deal”. The new record – which is released on the 15th of November – for Ian was a musical discovery and something different to anything that Ian had done previously in his solo career or with Gomez. “Who Goes There, my first release, was made up of songs that had never managed to make it on a Gomez record for whatever reason. This was the same thing with Big Ben’s [Ottewell] album. They were recorded in a studio in a very traditional way. “This time around I was inspired by a lot of ambient music and it was turning into a crazy concept album. It was a beautiful electronic experience for the

Audemia Geelong four-piece Audemia can do no wrong; and even if they were to slip up, chances are we’d forgive them as they’re just that likeable. Despite having a lot on their plate at the moment, we thought we would chance our luck to spend a little time with the guys to get the rundown on what’s happening in their world. What is currently happening in the life of Audemia? We know you have been doing a few shows around the place; bring us up to speed? Life has been quite hectic at the moment. After just recording our EP, we have been doing a few shows in Geelong for exposure, booking gigs for our EP launch, organising artwork and merchandise, doing interviews (like this one) and photo shoots, and campaigning for a competition to play at the BIG DAY OUT 2014 – all while driving and talking on a mobile phone! You guys are launching an EP in November. Give us the goods on the release. It’s a 6-track EP. We expect tears, laughter, abuse and swoons. We are very excited to be releasing the EP both digitally and hard copy. Tell us about the work involved in an Audemia release. Does it mean getting together in your spare time and getting tracks down? Does it take up a lot of time? Well, we recorded it in a few days at Hothouse in St Kilda. The pre-recording only took a couple of hours, so all in all it didn’t take up too much time. We don’t get a lot of time to work on songs. We all work, and Tony has three kids and has a side project acoustic show which he does with Jake (The Gannets), plus solo work to promote the band.

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As expected, Ian is excited for the ten-date tour which takes in shows all around the country. When prompted about what Gomez songs will make their way to the setlist, it seems a very open audience participation experience: “Usually I end up singing songs that the band recorded that I didn’t write. If you wanna hear a certain track, shout it out and I’ll do my best to play it for you.” Talking about the success of Gomez retrospectively, Ian feels that the opportunities that presented themselves to the band were 100 per cent out of luck and nothing else. “We were creating a sound on those first two albums that everybody wanted right at that point in time. When we came out, there was no interest in blues and roots music and nobody gave a shit. It’s impossible to imagine now because we’ve had The Black Keys and The White Stripes.” If you, like me, are hankering for a Gomez fix, Ian assures me that the band are heading into the studio to lay down a new record in 2014. But for the meantime, check out Ian in full flight in town.

When & Where: Barwon Club, Geelong – November 21; Karova, Ballarat – November 23; NSC – November 24

The key is playing together as much as possible, and keep writing songs and keep putting on great shows. But when we do decide it’s time to put tracks down, it’s solid work and lots of practise. With over 2500 Facebook followers and regular appearances in Forte :), the band’s stature is growing, if at least locally. Have you been enjoying the upsurge in popularity for both your recorded music and live shows? Of course! We love going into a venue and having people come up and ask about merchandise and about the EP release, and many offers to help in many ways. Time will tell with the EP being launched at the famous Cherry Bar in Melbourne, Nov 30th. We have heard a bit about your live show; it is known to be high energy. What are you guys aiming for when you take to the stage? Just as much as we can give; if the crowd are rockin’, we are rockin’! Music is our passion, but when it becomes someone else’s passion (the crowd), that’s when the shows become so much more. You are often involved in nights with multiple bands. Who else is fun to share the stage with for a night? Fistful of Steel (Geelong) are an 80s tribute band, and we have played a few themed gigs like 80s vs 90s where we would play everyone’s favourite songs. It’s a lot of fun. We also mix our shows up a lot and play originals, covers, acoustic shows … weddings, parties, anything! We have supported so many awesome bands and met so many great people. It would be unfair to name just a few, so we take this opportunity to name drop some big names like The Superjesus, Mark Seymour (Hunters and Collectors) and Paul Woosen (The Screaming Jets). I don’t want to get political here, but it is a point of interest. How have you found being a band from Geelong lately?

When & Where: Cherry Bar – November 30 Amazing! This town’s been awesome to us right from the very beginning. There’s a great community spirit here, and great support from most other bands, live music lovers such as Forte, Torrent This, The Pulse, Aussie Assult, Noyz Radio K Rock and many of the venues. We don’t see why people in Geelong say the music scene in Geelong is dead. We have found it to be very promising so far. We are lucky to have built up enough of a reputation that we are often contacted by many awesome bands from Melbourne asking us to support them or for advice on venues and contacts in Geelong. What does the next year or so hold for the band? More of the same old I spose; hopefully a lot more branching out in to Country Victoria, interstate, and an international show we have planned for September 2014. We have a few good support gigs we can’t announce just

yet; but more gigging, more exposure and hopefully a release of an album very soon. Anything else you would like to mention? Well, as most people in Geelong have already heard, we are sitting at the top of the leader board Aus-wide to win a competition to play at next year’s Big Day Out. So far we have had an incredible response from the community and local organisations who are helping campaign for us, and for that we are very grateful. But to everyone that hasn’t yet voted, head over to bigdayout.com/headspace and VOTE for your local band AUDEMIA to play next year’s BIG DAY OUT with some of the greatest bands including Pearl Jam, and help get Geelong back on the map in the music industry! There are double passes to be won, so head over there and VOTE. Voting ends Friday, November 15th.

Cold Chisel, is re-releasing their first two albums for a brand new audience since reclaiming the rights to the albums from Warner. Containing classics like ‘Shipping Steel’, ‘Breakfast at Sweethearts’ and, of course, Australia’s second national anthem, ‘Khe Sanh’. Available now on Cold Chisel Music.

Christmas – Michael Bublé

Last issue I made fun of Michael Bublé for releasing so many Christmas albums; this issue I’m going to make fun of him releasing a “Special Edition” of his old Christmas album from a couple of years ago. Available now on Warner Bros. B

ARTPOP – Lady Gaga Do I really need to hype this one? The biggest pop star in the world is releasing her third album. It’s going to be more of the same “edgy” material as she always releases. Available now on Universal.

Cinematic – Illy One of Australia’s best-loved hip hop artists is back with album number four. The Melbourne-based MC is hot off his appearance on triple j’s Like A Version, and this album looks to be his best yet. Available now on OneTwo.

Direct Hits – The Killers The Killers are releasing a greatest hits album with a couple of “never before heard tracks” – which is advertising speak for “tracks not good enough to be released on the original albums”. Available now on Island.

Flume Deluxe Edition – Flume It’s been a year since this album took the nation by storm. Flume went from being a relative nobody to being the hottest act in Australian electronica. I can’t help but think this re-release has been timed to coincide with his inevitable sweep of the ARIAs. Available now on Future Classic.

Cold Chisel & Breakfast at Sweethearts – Cold Chisel One of Australia’s favourite bands,

Goin’ Your Way – Paul Kelly and Neil Finn I’ll be reviewing this one next issue, but since I saw them on the tour these recordings are from, I can give you the TL;DR version: buy this album. Two of Australasia’s finest on one stage, with a backing band like no other. Available now on EMI.

Complete Album Collection Volume 1 – Bob Dylan Forty-one discs for around three hundred dollars is a ridiculously good deal, especially when those discs include Blonde on Blonde, Highway 61 Revisited, Blood on the Tracks and Bob Dylan MTV Unplugged. ‘Volume 1’ might be a little bit hopeful, as the man born Robert Allen Zimmerman is seventy-two, but he isn’t showing signs of stopping either. Available now on Columbia.

TOO HEAVY TO HUG PAUL S TAYLOR chris cruz

Black Flag just dropped a brand new studio record via SST! It’s called What The... and the 22 songs on it will tear you a new orifice. You have been warned.

as the Green Album). Exciting times!

Slow Death and The Brokedowns have a split 7” EP on the way. You can stream it right now over at Dying Scene.

Hopes Abandoned have parted ways with drummer Basil February.

The Beer Beer Beers (sorta aka The Half Pints) have a Facebook profile now – check it out!

Werribee lads Take Your Own recently Philly hardcore heavy- joked that they’ve been listening to too hitters Blacklisted have begun work on a much DragonForce, new full-length album, with the influence their first in almost five being evident in newly demoed songs. Hope years by the time it’s finished and sees the they get a keyboard player then! light of day. Well, IDIOTFEST is over for another year and what a smashing success it was! Punk-A-Billy Touring outdid themselves with a MASSIVE lineup of the country’s hottest punk and ska bands. The Beer Beer Beers and Hopes Abandoned flew the Geelong flag, alongside killer Queenslanders The Flangipanis and The Unprettier and Melbourne heavyweights Strawberry Fist Cake and Admiral Ackbar’s Dishonourable Discharge. Next year’s event is gonna have to be one hell of a doozy if it’s gonna top this one! The Lawrence Arms are back and ready to make a new record, their first for Epitaph. Look for it mid-2014. The band was, until recently, a Fat Wreck Chords act. Weezer have announced plans to record a brand new album for release in late 2014, produced by the legendary Ric Ocasek (who worked on the band’s breakthrough smash Blue Album, as well

Brody Dalle will be the opening act for the upcoming Nine Inch Nails/Queens of the Stone Age tour. She’ll be performing new solo material, alongside cuts from her previous bands Spinnerette and The Distillers. Don’t forget the massive Nevermind the Warped Tour extravaganza taking place at the Brunswick Hotel on December 7th. Chances are you won’t be at the real thing anyways! Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker has just remixed R.E.M.’s ‘Losing My Religion’ for a dance music mixtape called Scoopaloops, to be released by Scoop DeVille. Kill yourself. White Flag guitarist Pat Fear recently passed away due to natural causes. He was only 52. Until next time, bitches, be cool to each other and do something to make yourself a better person or member of your community – because THAT is punk rock.

The American holiday (that’s totes unAustralian and if you celebrate it then you’re only one step away from living your life under Obama’s policies and maybe even fantasising about him during that special time you share with yourself) of Halloween has just passed and with it came the release of Thriller: A Metal Tribute of Michael Jackson.

his multifaceted vocals to ‘Black or White’.

I’m all for metal dudes doing metal covers of non-metal pop or rock tracks, and I really don’t think there are enough of them out there; from Frankenbok doing ‘Don’t Call Me Baby’ to Disturbed doing ‘I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For’; from Chris Cornell doing Metallica’s lyrics from ‘One’ to the music from U2’s ‘One’, to I know album titles Korn’s ‘Brick in the Wall’, can be a bit obscure there needs to be more – sometimes, so I’ll explain a lot more. I’d love every that the above mentioned song ever done to be is a compilation of redone in heavy metal so Michael Jackson covers I wouldn’t have to listen performed by metal to the originals, which musos. Everyone loves aren’t metal because cover versions when that’s not the metal way. they’re done well; hell, The first track I nominate Chris Cornell does them to be metalled-up is Elton all the time and he can John’s ‘I’m Still Standing’. because he can, okay? Good. Speaking of Chris In other news… Cornell and Michael Black Rebel Motorcycle Jackson, have you heard Club will be at Billboard his awesome rendition on Friday, November 15. of ‘Billy Jean’? If you Nile will play the Corner haven’t, then do. If you Hotel on Saturday, have and if you still sit November 16. there in front of the TV The Vans Warped Tour with those ‘talent quest’ will be held at Birrarung reality shows blaring Marr on Saturday, as you cry-wank, then December 7. Notable you’re obviously deaf. acts on board include And probably blind. The Offspring, Hatebreed Which means you won’t be reading this; someone and Parkway Drive. else will be reading this Steel Panther and to you. Buckcherry will play the Myer Music Bowl on Where were we? Sunday, December 8. Melbourne Cup day, that’s right. I’m writing Mayhem and Watain will this on Melbourne Cup play The Hi-Fi on Friday, day, so you kinda get that January 10. it’s not going to make Soundwave 2014 will sense… be held at Flemington There’s Chuck doing Racecourse on Friday, ‘Thriller’; Paul Di’Anno February 28. doing ‘Bad’, which is really good; Chris Jericho Start planning your trip to Europe to catch doing ‘Dirty Diana’, and Avenged Sevenfold and not in that dirty way … Rob Zombie headline at least I don’t think so; Download 2014, to be and there’s Icarus Witch held on June 13. doing ‘They Don’t Care About Us’. Another ironic If you have any news about local metal bands, choice based purely shows or albums, let on racial statistics, aka THTH know by emailing facts, of how many to tooheavytohug@ white people do metal compared to black people hotmail.com or get in touch via Twitter at @ who do metal: Lajon Witherspoon offered up TooHeavyToHug.

Blank Thankless Air By BLAIR HALL

“Why on earth I took the job at Channel 7 I’ll never know,” stated Herman Neudik, lighting a cigarette with one hand and stirring ice with a straw in a glass of what looked like coke, but was likely much harder, with the other. He somehow smoked Davidoff’s even though they were next to impossible to get in this country; his supply seldom if ever faltered for the duration of our interviews. “The hours, the money, the workload: it all looked bang-on – but then they brought in the machine”. The machine in question was the Dictaphon 9007, a product of the Grell Corporation (a lower-Iowan organisation that specialised in selling the unwanted leftover animal products from SPAM for use in feeding other, smaller animals in the small low-end smallgoods manufacturing that had come to be a lucrative corporate venture leading up to the appointment of President J. Vernon c. 2019) in conjunction with Blume Research and Holdings (PTY LTD EST. 1973. Slogan: WE KEEP THEM AWAY!!!!!!!!!!), which was devised by a man named Artie Shewnerman. The pantheon of “they” state that Shewnerman crafted the first prototype by hand in his workshop, shipping in parts from Grell Corporation with financing from Blume R&H PTY LTD EST. 1973, after his foil in the communion of marriage, Debra Ursula Shewnerman-Horowitz, became so entranced by silent cinema that she held her beloved Artie at gunpoint in their basement and forced him to devise a system in which the lips of every bit-part actor and extra in every silent film could be read directly from the screen and translated into subtitles and audio to increase her enjoyment of this era of cinema by untold magnitudes. Naturally, Artie is now dead. It was both the sheer strain of endless hours endured in the workshop combined with a bullet to the face from his wife’s 44 Magnum which ultimately and quite unexpectedly provided passage for Artie into the next world. “He’d booked

in to die at the hands of a polar bear! It was going to be his big arctic finale!” Herman chuckled heartily at the retelling of the plight of the Dictaphon 9007’s creator. Following the development of this at-the-time niche product and the sudden and shocking death of her husband, Debra mysteriously disappeared, only to be discovered locked in a small hotel room with the Dictaphon taking up approximately 93.67% (best estimate as of 5/11/13) and thus the temperature of the room exceeded 200 Degrees Celsius, boiling Debra alive and melting the TV dinner trays that she consumed religiously in to her lap. More peas and carrots than woman, an autopsy revealed that she lived a solid 48 hours in the sauna of her demise as temperatures slowly rose. “But the point is that the machine was the ruin of my entire field. It cut down masters in their prime and reduced them to mere stenographers,” stated Herman as he had all but abandoned smoking a single cigarette at a time and assumed the position of chainsmoking multiplier, wielding 2-3 cigarettes in his mouth at any given moment. “We were kings. Kings I tell you! But now look at us; we’re no better than a Yak Bak.” Herman Neudik was found dead in his home a month after our interviews concluded. Desperate times led Herman to desperate measures and he found himself pedalling a device known as “Intra-Penis”, a tube that fed the contents of urethra during ejaculation to a plastic line that ended with a syringe. The idea for the product was to send semen directly into the human bloodstream, some sort of new fetish. During a product demonstration Herman damaged the walls of his urethra irreparably. Fearing the Morality Act which was enacted as a part of the Liberal Party’s ‘AbbottCare’ Health Care plan for the people of Australia, Herman avoided seeking medical treatment and ultimately passed away in a bathtub of his own bodily fluids.

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We the People written by Brendan Dando

There are many bands out there who claim to be ‘on the rise’, whilst there are others who actually prove it. Forming in early 2011, We The People have spent their time wisely, forming a strong reputation through good vibes and an overall positive approach to their work. Their debut EP ‘My Castle’ caught the attention of fans and critics with memorable tracks such as ‘Superstars’, However with the release of their new EP ‘The Truth About Fables’, these boys have shown the best is yet to come. “We definitely feel our composing has matured a bit more with this EP”, drummer Jonathan Ferraro says. “I mean it’s the same old story, the more you write the better you get, which is something I truly believe.” Ferraro is one of the band’s founding members, along with lead vocalist James and bassist Phil. After former guitarist Billy departed the band last year, current guitarist Matthew Jennings quickly filled the void. “Losing Billy was easily was one of the more disheartening moments we’ve had, but we literally couldn’t have found a better replacement than Matt!” Ferraro explains. Since then the boys have been busy preparing for their first national tour, which kicked off last week with a sell-out show at The Workers Club. “Selling out the first show was amazing, it’s like seeing all of your hard work finally paying off,” reveals Ferraro with a sense of accomplishment. “Honestly it wasn’t really nerve racking since it was in our hometown, it was just awesome to see everyone getting their sweat on up in the place!” This being their first venture into national tour territory, Ferraro lists a few of the essentials that he ensures they will take for the ride. “Well we can’t forget a frisbee, our phone chargers, a bocci set and some of James’ mum’s homemade cupcakes,” he says with a laugh. “Oh and I guess it’s kind of important that we take our gear too!” Once the tour is all wrapped up, We The People are set to play the upcoming Spin Cycle II festival in Geelong on November 30th, where they will be one of the headline acts. As Ferraro admits, “the line up is so great, I just wish there was time to check out all of the acts playing.” Although he says there is one particular band he is adamant on seeing. “Nothing against the other bands, but we’ve always wanted to play with The Jungle Giants. We seriously have mad crushes on them,” he jokes. It’s also no secret that an important skill to have on tour is the ability to manage one’s time, something Ferraro admits to not being very successful at. “I’m pretty bad when it comes to rocking up on time for a gig. I mean it’s at the point now where the other guys are starting to cotton on and giving me fake start times, just to make sure I get there before the show’s over.” Despite a lack of organisation at times, these four Melbourne boys are continuing to impress fans nationwide, with the clip for their new single ‘Sweetheart’ reaching thousands of views just days after its release. “We always put in 100% when trying to make unique clips for our songs, and people are really starting to take notice which is cool.” Social media has played a major role in getting We The People to where they are right now, however as Ferraro explains, it’s not always fun and games, paricularly when receiving strange Facebook messages. “One time this random guy started private messaging Matt through the band email, asking him out on a date to vieu de monde. The creepiest part was when he gave a truly frightening description of what he wanted to do with Matt later in the evening. The price of fame!” So if you’re the perfect way to kick off your Summer music festivities, look no further than Spin Cycle II . With a line-up boasting some of our region’s hottest musical talent, along with headliners such as The Jungle Giants, Muscles and We The People, this will truly be a great way to support local music. LIKE We The People - www.facebook.com/wetheppl WHEN&WHERE: November 30th at Spin Cycle, The Wool Exchange Enttertainment Complex, Geelong

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By Bevan Shepherd

Tony Irving, The Old Kiosk

BLACKADDER – Geelong Repertory Theatre Co

A COLLECTOR’S EXHIBITION OF ORIGINAL GRAPHIC PRINTS An impressive selection of collector’s original graphic prints is currently on exhibit at Gallery on Sturt. Artists include Rosalind Atkins, John Brack, Robert Clinch, David Frazer, Pro Hart, Leigh Hobbs, Tony Irving, Pamela Irving, Kenneth Jack, Sir Lionel Lindsay and Clive Wallis. Some of these artworks, including Andrew Sibley’s ‘The Gondoliers’ (Lithograph) are also in the collections of the National Gallery of Australia, Canberra. These original graphic prints include etchings, linocuts and woodcuts. All

TREASURES OF THE SEA GRASS Inspired by the local coastline, an exciting display of new paintings by Ondra Gangell beautifully complemented by new metal sculptures by Pat O’Connell.

THE GREAT STUPA OF UNIVERSAL COMPASSION This is the largest Buddhist monument (Stupa) in Australia and final home for the largest gem quality Jade Buddha in the world. A vast collection of sacred relics and statues are on display.

works are signed by the artists and available for purchase. Original graphic prints in this exhibition include Tony Irving’s Etching / Aquatint ‘The Old Kiosk, St Kilda’ featuring the kiosk before it was destroyed by fire in 2003. The kiosk has since been restored by the State Government because of its heritage significance. Where: Gallery on Sturt. 421 Sturt Street, Ballarat, VIC 3350. WheN: to Dec 24. PHONE: 5331 7011 INFO: www.galleryonsturt.com.au

Where: Eagles Nest Gallery. 50 Great Ocean Road, Aireys Inlet, VIC 3231. WheN: Nov 2–30. 10am-5pm. EMAIL: nadia@eaglesnestgallery.com.au INFO: www.eaglesnestgallery.com.au

by Ben Elton and Richard Curtis England. 1588. About 3pm. Elizabeth is on the throne, the Plague is sweeping the countryside, and most disturbingly, the Sceptered Isle is infested with more Morris Dancers than you can poke a May Pole at. Enter Lord Edmund Blackadder - large of ego, small of beard, and determined to raise the tone of the Golden Age. Followed by his band of beruffed riff raff - Baldrick (aka bottom-breath), and Lord Percy (aka gnat-brain) -Blackadder seeks favour from the certifiably unhinged Queen Bess, matches wits (and other body parts) with brown-nosing Lord Melchett, and generally wreaks havoc upon an unsuspecting London. Blackadder is a not-to-be-missed riotous romp through the Renaissance. In the words of Blackadder himself... “Thou shalt laugh thy codpieces offeth.” Where: Woodbin Theatre. 15 Coronation Street, Geelong West, VIC. WheN: Nov 22-Dec 14. PHONE: 5225 1200. INFO: www.gpac.org.au

SHOWSTOPPER – GSODA Junior Players What do you get when you combine singing and dancing ghouls with roaring twenties gangsters? A night at the theatre unlike anything you’ve ever experienced. GSODA Junior Players is a not-for-profit company that has been performing for Geelong audiences for almost 50 years and has produced internationally acclaimed performers including opera singer Peter Coleman-Wright, musical theatre’s Martin Croft and movie star Guy Pearce. Where: GPAC. 50 Little Malop Street, Geelong, VIC. WheN: Nov 14-16. PHONE: 5225 1200. INFO: www.gpac.org.au

LONSDALE 9 Following the highly regarded Lonsdale 5 exhibition in 2012 a larger group of Point Lonsdale artists have come together this year to exhibit a range of paintings, prints, photographs and ceramics in the forthcoming exhibition Lonsdale 9. Janet Goldman is exhibiting her large linocut prints that have been shown as finalist pieces in the National Silk Cut Awards of 2011 and 2013 Bevan Shepherd is exhibiting a range of recent paintings. Lester Hunt features stunning photographs of the tall ships fleet. Ceramic pieces are exhibited by Mike Simondson, a first for Tussock Upstairs. Tess Grace and Lynn Hunt are featuring the art works of their popular Tea Towel Art “Jumping Jack Splash” Paul Waycott is exhibiting a large landscape painting, Sue Cumming is showing new prints and Helen Hartnell is presenting new small brightly coloured prints of her larger works. Where: Tussock Upstairs. 89 Point Lonsdale Road, Point Lonsdale, VIC WheN: Oct 28-Nov 17. Open daily 10-5. PHONE: 0418 392 485. INFO: www.tussockupstairs.com.au

LORNE FILM FESTIVAL Lorne Film Festival is a three day  celebration of local and  international film and  the people who make and watch them. Lorne Film’s aims are to create and nurture film culture in Lorne and the Otway region for the duration of the event and beyond. Where: various locations around Lorne, VIC. WheN: Nov 15-17. ALL INFO: www.lornefilm.com.au

Where: 25 Sandhurst Town Road, Myers Flat, VIC 3556. WheN: Guided tours available every day.  Exhibition Centre is open from 9 am to 5 pm weekdays and 10.30 am to 5 pm weekends and public holidays. INFO: www.stupa.org.au

Joel Wolter, The Anchor 2013, oil on linen

STORIES FROM THE SHORE – Joel Wolter Well-known for his printmaking Stories from the Shore provides a rare opportunity for visitors to the Geelong Gallery to view a new series of oil paintings by Joel Wolter. Ranging from small scale still life images to larger scale landscapes each painting reveals the artist’s fascination in commemorating an ephemeral object or capturing a precise moment in an understated way. Where: Geelong Gallery. Little Malop Street, Geelong, VIC. WheN: Oct 19-Dec 1. PHONE: 5229 3645. INFO: www.geelonggallery.org.au

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arts news from around town – and beyond!

Maria Richardson Maria Richardson is our special guest for this Artist Profile round. Born in Lorne, and raised in Apollo Bay in a house built by her parents, Maria’s style of art emerged while studying a Bachelor of Visual Art in Geelong. Her passion for her craft is about as real and infectious as you’re likely to find.

be showcasing?

Hey Maria, thanks for talking to Forte. Can you please introduce yourself and tell the readers a bit about yourself?

How did the exhibition at the Courthouse ARTS come about? Are you excited about November 14th?

Hey Luke! Thank you for your interest and questions! I’m a 22-year-old painter from the Bellarine Peninsular. I moved to this region six year ago from Apollo Bay. I studied Visual Art at Deakin Uni, finishing last year. This year I have been working and painting lots, and having a ball. Painting is your passion. How long have you been painting for? It sure is! I feel I couldn’t live without it in my life – I’m so lucky to be able to do what I love. I’ve been painting since I was about 14. From where and what do you draw your inspiration from for your works? Me and my works really draw inspiration from my surroundings. Growing up living in the luscious Otways for 17 years of my life has totally influenced my art. Today I paint a lot of landscapes, all drawing on the visions of places I’ve been to in Australia and where I grew up. This island is so diverse and has so many naturally wild and vibrant colours and shapes. I am also inspired daily by music I listen to when I paint; live music, my beautiful, encouraging family and friends, comedy, films, history and life. If you were to define your paintings with a certain style, what would it be?

Be Here Now is about being in this moment in time: not worrying about the past or the future, just being here and enjoying the moment; where you are on the planet and who you are. I’m showcasing a mixture of abstract Australian panoramic landscape oil paintings.

One day months ago, I asked the Courthouse ARTS curator Stacey Williams if I could exhibit there – she said yes, and now it’s all happening! Thank you Stacey :). I am so excited about the opening of Be Here Now on Thursday, November 14. I have been working towards this exhibition since February this year, and have had a very interesting year making the work for this show. When people walk into the room, what can they expect to see? If you come to Be Here Now you will see some mighty vibrant colours; a reflection and dramatisation of the colours of Australia, along with some wild shapes and scenes of this landscape, done in thick oil paint on canvas and board of all shapes and sizes. If you were to overhear someone talking about your work, how would you want it described? I’d just love the person to enjoy the image for what it’s worth. I’d love them to hopefully fall in love with it. Anything you would like to add? Why should people come down to check out Be Here Now? Hope to see and meet you all at Be Here Now! There will be loads of paintings, wild, original live music performed by the brilliant Howlin’ Wind, food and drinks – and all my work for sale!

Electric Aussie abstraction!

FREE entry – Thursday, November the 14th, 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. Meraki Gallery at Courthouse ARTS, Geelong.

Can you tell us about ‘Be Here Now’? What will you

Thank you Forte Magazine!

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Robert Ellis written by Natalie Rogers

On first listen to Texan-born Robert Ellis, with his countrified lyrics and southern twang, you could easily be fooled into thinking you’re listening to a young George Jones or even a honky tonk musician of the 1950’s. At the tender age of 25 (most people own vinyl older than that) Robert’s natural talent and charisma are tearing down stereotypes and are impossible to resist. “Growing up I spent a lot of time with my grandparents because my mum was a single parent, so she had to go out and work a job. When I was a little kid, my best friends were my eighty year old grandparents and all their friends. I’d listen to music with them, so I think that had something to do with how I turned out. I don’t see myself as an old soul, but old-fashioned might be the right word.” I can’t help but wonder if that’s a big part of his appeal? “That’s really nice of you to say - I haven’t quite figured out what the appeal is yet!” Robert laughed. “I hope that people will relate to my songs and know that I care about what I do on a personal level. “I think that’s the reason that I started to play music in the first place. I grew up in a really small town in Texas and it was difficult to find people that I related to,” Robert continued candidly. “There weren’t a lot of folks that shared my beliefs or lifestyle in that little town. Through music I’ve been on a constant pursuit for people who identify with me, and I’m sure that came from living in a place

where there wasn’t anybody who did. “I think I was probably ten or eleven years old when I first started to write songs - but they were all pretty much bullshit!” he joked. “I’d say they were all bullshit till I was around 19 or 20.” Five years on and two long-plays later (The Great Rearrager, 2009 & Photographs, 2011) Robert certainly made an impression on punters during his first trip to Australia earlier this year, in support of Justin Townes Earle. “Oh, I loved it! I’m so excited to come back. It’s the furthest I’d been away from home before - I had a blast! Everybody is so friendly, you’ve an amazing culture. The shows were so much fun.” At his first shows on Australian soil Robert blew unsuspecting crowds away with his effortless guitar abilities and his relaxed, witty banter between songs. “Honestly it’s always been uncomfortable for me to be up on stage and have everyone looking at me – so I’ve found that a few jokes sort of break the ice.” He also played a few new songs at these gigs and I’m happy to report that his latest offering is done and dusted, and now just waiting for release. “We’ve already got it recorded and it’ll be out in the th States on February 11 ! It’s quite different to my other albums - it’s less influenced by the classic country stuff, but by more pop-based songwriters. I’m a big fan of Paul Simon and Randy Newman. I’ll be playing a lot of new songs on this tour, so it’s my hope to pay homage to them.”

When & Where: Saturday the 16th, Theatre Royal Castlemaine, Sunday the 17th, Barwon Club Geelong

Mama Kin written by Natalie Rogers

“We love to export our talent, us Aussies!” happily replied WA chanteuse Mama Kin, aka Danielle Caruana, aka Mrs John Butler. Her band, along with a host of Australian and international acts, are set to showcase themselves for local, national and international music industry insiders when they take to the stage at venues across Melbourne for the Australasian Worldwide Music Expo.

2010] I was trying to work out HOW to integrate music into my life. Everything has really fallen into place.”

“We love to blow people away with the quality of talent we have here, and the potential interest that can come from a gathering like this is amazing. You can meet and build relationships with people from all over without the expensive travel that usually goes with it. It’s a one-stop shop for people wanting to check out what Australian and other artists have to offer.”

Mama Kin will appear for one night only at the Hi-Fi on Thursday the 14th of this month. “I think we’ll do our classic festival set, which is generally a pretty punchy set. The Hi-Fi is big and a great venue to play. We’re looking forward to playing there and doing what we do. I don’t like to over-think it too much.”

Lately it seems like Mama Kin has a lot to offer, with a bold new album under her belt (The Magician’s Daughter, out now) and the self-assurance that comes with its critical acclaim. “The Magician’s Daughter has been really well received – I’ve read some lovely reviews. Alongside its release we did an incredible tour and sold out most shows,” Mama Kin smiled. “It’s been a real step up for us musically and the support we’ve received particularly in the last year has been genuine. People really connect with the songs and I’m really proud to share it. “I feel more confident now than ever before in my career. My music has naturally integrated into my life now, whereas with my first album [Beat and Holler,

It’s no surprise that life could become a little hectic at times: she’s a wife, mother to two young children, a soul songstress and director of The Seed Fund, a philanthropic foundation established to support emerging musicians and artists. That’s why she can see the true value of an event like the AWME.

Part of the same evening will be performances from the captivating Irish singer-songwriter Damien Dempsey and Richard Frankland & The Charcoal Club. Frontman Richard is also a well-known playwright, with a powerful stage presence. “It really is the pick of the crop in terms of the Australian music scene and I’m so glad we can showcase that to an international audience. There’s still time to get your tickets. It’s a great opportunity to see your favourite artist alongside someone you may not have seen before.” When & Where: The Hi-Fi, Melbourne – November 14

Jen Cloher written by Natalie Rogers

Jen Cloher; what can I say, the lady is all class! Currently on the road, she phoned in to Forte while driving through the Blue Mountains to have a chat about the insatiable appetite of budding musicians, her new EP and a recent biblical moment. “We’re a third of the way into a thirty-five date tour of Australia. Right at the moment we’re heading out to the Blue Mountains to play a show in Katoomba and it’s going great guns! We head into Victoria next week; it’ll be fun going through our home town. Then we head on to Tassie, Adelaide and WA.” Jen tells the story of how the idea to team up with fellow musicians and friends Mia Dyson and Liz Stringer came about. “It was my idea initially. I woke up with the idea of doing forty days and forty nights; it was a bit of a biblical moment that I had! I emailed Mia and Liz and said, ‘Hey! Why don’t we join forces and play like a band?’ It’s a real rock’n’roll show. We all play guitar and sing harmonies; it’s very loud. Together it’s kind of seamless, something like Crosby, Stills and Nash or Tex, Don and Charlie. It’s the idea of a shared band as opposed to three individual singer-songwriters.” As a kind of teaser, but also to have something tangible to accompany the tour, Mia, Liz and Jen each recorded a song for an EP, which is out now through Milk! Records. “We wanted to have something special to mark the tour; to play on radio and for people to get a feeling for what the show might be like. We all came to the recording with a few songs that we haven’t recorded before. Some were songs that hadn’t fit on

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When & Where: Theatre Royal, Castlemaine – November 15 our album projects and some we wrote especially for the EP, but the three we chose are a perfect fit.” While taking in the sights and sounds of our beautiful country Jen is continuing her crusade to assist burgeoning indie musicians with the sometimes seemingly impossible task of getting their music heard. “So far we’ve done workshops in Sydney, Mullumbimby, Brisbane and Darwin. Of course, we have ones coming up in Melbourne and Hobart as well. We’re doing them all over the country to accompany the tour; it works really well because we’re all self-managed and

independent. We share the process of getting this tour up and everything that goes with it. The workshops are very much about our experience, as opposed to just spouting theory. “I think there’s a real need; people are really hungry for the information. I’ve been amazed by musicians who are willing to pay more than they would to an international band to come and sit for five hours to talk about the music business!” Jen laughed. ”That’s a demonstration that there’s a real hunger and desire for that knowledge to be passed on.”

Later this week Mia, Liz and Jen will roll into town, and I implore you not to miss out on seeing these three fine ladies doing their thing. “We’ve compiled a set of our favourite songs; it’s amazing to be part of this experience with the band. It’s one of the best shows I’ve ever been associated with. As far as the quality of the songwriting and the musicianship, it’s world-class – and I don’t say that lightly. I really feel that this show can stand up anywhere in the world and speak to the people watching it.”

tweet of the week

T H E I N SI D E SP L I N T E R S T R A C K - BY- T R A C K R E VI E W

l a d y g a g a

ARTPOP MANiCURE Another iTunes festival track, this has been slightly modified from that live performance – and is all the better for it. Ditching the original chorus and moving it to the middle-8, all before adding more guitars to the track and rewriting a new chorus make this not only an exciting glam-rock moment, but one that resembles Born This Way genius album track ‘Electric Chapel’ in the slightest of ways possible.

DO WHAT U WANT You’d be forgiven for thinking Lady Gaga’s fourth studio album ARTPOP was a long-time coming, especially as it has taken almost a full two years to record and produce the finishing product.

G.U.Y.

The (only) Infected Mushroom production on ARTPOP serves as the record opener, with Gaga frantically screeching away over a truly hyperactive psychedelic trance bassline. She sings of her sexuality, but also uses the song as somewhat of a tribute to the westernised Muslim female.

Zedd’s brightest moment as a producer on ARTPOP is undoubtedly ‘Girl Under You’, a track which not only sees Gaga utter the line “Love me, love me, please Retweet”, but also comes complete with the most exciting final minute on ARTPOP. You’ll be screaming “NEIN ZEDD!” along with us in no time.

VENUS The very first track Gaga has ever produced solely on her own, ‘Venus’ is a maddening, completely bonkers sex-romp with the bizarrely brilliant line of “Aphrodite Lady Seashell Bikini Garden Panty”. The chorus really seals the deal on this being a brilliant song, harking back to the total genius of choruses last heard on 2009’s The Fame Monster.

SEXXX DREAMS Originally heard almost two months back during her iTunes Festival performance, fan favourite ‘Sexxx Dreams’ is one of the more advanced and stunning moments on ARTPOP. Look out for the flawless talky-bit wedged on to the end of the incredible middle-8 for complete auditory satisfaction.

JEWELS N’ DRUGS Featuring world renowned rappers T.I., Too Short and Twista,

ARTPOP This title track is easily one of the Top 3 moments on ARTPOP: a defining, excitingly-produced and immaculately performed moment of cool electropop.

SWINE Another track we’ve heard before via the iTunes festival, this has basically had zero changes since that first performance and is the only track of the pre-performed songs from ARTPOP to not have been drastically changed in some way. Keep an ear out for that menacing Gaga screech, especially as she hollers “SWIIIIIINE!!!!” from the

‘DONATELLA’ Our second favourite track from ARTPOP, this is the obvious choice for single #3 with its straightforward EDM bassline and BONKERS lyrics (“I’m gonna smoke Marlboro Light and drink Champagne!”) all about one of the most iconic women in fashion. If released, this will surely be one of the greatest video clips of Gaga’s career. “What do you want to wear this Spring? What do you think is the new thing? What do you wanna wear this season? DO-NATEL-LA!!”

FASHION! The will.i.am track: A nice, funky seventies Jackson-era inspired surprise with Gaga crooning away about one of her favourite topics.

MARY JANE HOLLAND PHWOAR! Just when you think this album can’t deliver any more absolute danceinfused CORKERS comes ‘Mary Jane Holland’. Sample lyric? “Fly on the radar tonight, making deals with every Devil in sight”. There’s also a lovely line about Russian hookers and a middle-8 ripped straight out of the ABBA songbook.

DOPE Oh dear. This is perhaps ARTPOP’s only downfall; a slightly over-sung ballad detailing Gaga’s struggles with drug addiction and being

saved from it by her current beau and love interest. “I need you more than dope” she sings, encouraging a slight cringe from the listener.

GYPSY …And finally we get to the pièce de résistance of ARTPOP! ‘Gypsy’ takes everything we loved about previous Gaga songs like ‘Edge of Glory’ and ‘Hair’, throws them into a blender with the greatest hits of ELO and concocts one of the greatest moments of her career. “Cuz I’m I’m I’m, I’m I’m I’m, a Gypsy, Gypsy, Gypsy, I’m!” An upbeat tear-jerker which is, arguably, what Gaga does best.

APPLAUSE How this was chosen by the label to be the first single when it is clearly an excellent album track and nothing more we will never truly understand. Regardless, it IS always good to hear ‘Applause’ again, if only for the “suddenly the Koons is me” line. ..........................

OVERALL… An absolute triumph, and very probably our ‘Album of the Year’. Is it better than Born This Way? Definitely so. The record may be as cluttered and noisy as its predecessor, but the final production on ARTPOP is – thanks to DJ White Shadow – impeccable.

FINAL SCORE: 10/10

LADY GAGA’S ARTPOP

HRRRRRNNNKKKK! THE Album of 2013 IS FINALLY HERE.

‘DONATELLA’

The proverbial petition to get ‘Donatella’ released as the third single from ARTPOP begins now.

KATE CEBERANO

This Australian legend’s new album Kensal Road, along with Tina Arena’s Reset, is one of 2013’s best.

KATY PERRY’S PRISM SEEDS The plant seeds included as a free gift with the deluxe pressing of Perry’s new album Prism have been deemed bio-hazardous by the Australian Government. How embarrassing!!!

THE NEW ONE DIRECTION SINGLE

This Ed Sheeran/Mumford & Sons shit has got to stop. You are a BOY BAND, not a BORE BAND.

MADONNA FANS vs LITTLE MONSTERS

It is time to practice what our Queens have been trying to preach for so long and STOP THESE ONLINE WARS WITH EACH OTHER.

SHIT!

Lady Gaga’s ARTPOP is a surprising and forward-thinking longplayer that combines the absolute best pop hooks possible with some of the finest and most respected dance, EDM and trance DJs/producers from the world over. Israel’s own Infected Mushroom appear alongside DJ White Shadow, Zedd, Madeon, David Guetta and even will.i.am on this monumental hour of music. Let’s have an in-depth squiz at ARTPOP, track-bytrack…

AURA

We all know this jam by now. Featuring watersport enthusiast R. Kelly on guest vocals, this is exactly what Australian radio needed from Gaga as single #2. By the time you are reading this the video will have premiered on YouTube to much fanfare.

bottom of her gut.

The UK’s @mmm_gash brings up some very valid points regarding Chris Lilley’s latest televisual project.

HIT

‘Jewels N’ Drugs’ is Gaga dipping her vocal pipes into the rap world. Somewhat surprisingly, it works.

“ I know #PrivateSchoolGirl is a massive parody but I do take a bit of issue with Ja’mie in her own series. She’s a bully and it gets a bit grating to just watch a bully for a whole episode. You need to set her against a nicer character to work. I hope the boarders exact revenge or they work out their differences and that Ja’mie actually LEARNS something about herself – this is the third series of exactly the same character traits. I want to see some growth.”

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FILM REVIEWS

by anthony morris

The Fifth Estate

The Counselor

The first sense that something has gone horribly wrong with this retelling of the last half-decade or so in the life of Julian “WikiLeaks” Assange (here played by Benedict Cumberbatch) comes during the very first scene. It’s the nail-biting global release of the Iraq war logs in 2010, cutting from editors in Germany, the UK and the USA as they … well, they’re just asking for “five more minutes” before they post their stories online. Then they all push various buttons, their stories go live, and if you’ve been paying attention you realise that you’ve just watched a bunch of people update their blogs disguised as a high-stakes thriller. Meanwhile, back in 2007 German journalist and I.T. expert Daniel Domscheit-Berg (Daniel Brühl) meets the slightly longer-haired but always abrupt Assange at a technology convention more interested in games than a global campaign against corruption. With nothing on their side but a bunch of laptops, a few inspirational catchphrases – such as “courage is contagious” – and the address of an artist’s squat in Berlin where they can communicate by laptop despite sitting directly across from one another (guess it must be all the loud music letting us know this is a cool, edgy place to be), they start turning WikiLeaks in to a global force for good. Daniel is quickly secretly checking facts in a supply closet at work; discovered by his cute co-worker Anke (Alicia Vikander), she asks him out to dinner. Who would have guessed this movie is in part based on Domscheit-Berg’s own book about WikiLeaks? Director Bill Condon does his best to spice up a movie that really is largely about people updating their blogs, but the occasional scene literally set inside the internet – an endless vista of old-fashioned work desks where people – usually aliases of Assange who’s constantly talking about an “army of volunteers” despite being too paranoid to let anyone help out – doesn’t help. Assange comes across not only as a jerk but as a charisma-free jerk, making much of this film somewhat flat, and then it comes out and says he was wrong to leak sensitive information because it put lives at risk … only it doesn’t really seem to have done much more than make the America government panic that lives might possibly be at risk. As a portrait of Assange it gets its point across in the first fifteen minutes; as a thriller it doesn’t even last that long.

The Counselor is a film that’s trashy without ever being all that much fun, which is if you think about it a bit of a problem. When your movie is about a drug deal gone bad audiences generally expect the “going bad” is going to be exciting and thrilling. Not here: sure, it features garishly dressed men being brutally murdered in over-thetop ways, but again and again this refuses to treat its brutal world as a joke. Based on Cormac McCarthy’s first original screenplay (his novels include The Road and No Country for Old Men), this isn’t exactly a masterpiece of complex storytelling. It seems that the Counselor (Michael Fassbender) needs money – let’s say to pay for the expensive engagement ring he’s just bought for his girlfriend, the innocent and pure Laura (Penelope Cruz) – so he asks flamboyant nightclub owner and drug dealer Reiner (Javier Bardem) to get him involved in a shipment of drugs coming in across the border in a septic tank truck. Reiner warns him against it but passes him off to urban cowboy and middleman Westray (Brad Pitt), who also warns him against it but sets it up. Then the truck is hijacked and it all goes to hell. Oh, and Reiner tells the story of the time his perpetually sneering girlfriend Malkina (Cameron Diaz) had sex with his car windshield. It’s not a story easily forgot. As the first half of the movie is everyone warning The Counselor in very specific ways exactly how badly things will turn out if his drug deal goes bad – including a mechanical device for removing heads that’s basically a wire loop and a motor – it will come as no surprise whatsoever that these very specific ominous warnings come true in the second half. There are also a series of shoot-outs and decapitations and bodies in oil drums in the scenes involving the drugfilled truck’s journey across the American south-west (director Ridley Scott can still tell a story), but the bulk of this film is the numerous long conversations in which the characters make long-winded proclamations about the brutality of the world they live in and the true essence of women, etc etc. Most of which sounds pretty much spot-on coming from a bunch of self-involved guys working in the drugs and nightclub business. The result isn’t exactly enjoyable, but it certainly is committed to its bleak worldview – and even when you’re not having all that much fun, that’s got to count for something.

Insidious: Chapter 2 Even if you missed the first Insidious – or somehow didn’t see James Wan’s other massive horror hit of 2013, The Conjuring – chances are you already know what to expect here: lots of creepy kids toys, an old house with plenty of cupboards to creak open and hidden spaces where more spooky stuff is stashed, Patrick Wilson freaking out as supernatural forces mess him up … you get the idea. Despite being a sequel this is actually a bit looser than the extremely by-the-numbers Conjuring; the scares aren’t quite as pre-programmed, but there’s a bit more variety to them which makes the whole thing feel a little more unsettling. It’s still Wan’s usual haunted house hijinks – in fact, at one stage the story features two haunted houses at the same time just so they can fit all the sneaking around through dusty corridors in – but Leigh Whannell’s script feels a little more like it was written by a human and not a program tasked with generating optimum frights. Oh right, the story: the last Insidious ended with dad (Wilson) having returned from the spirit realm with his son’s soul, only now dad has a murderous ghost now inside his body. So while his wife (Rose Byrne) gets increasingly creeped out by Wan’s usual tricks (it seems the ghost possessing her husband has an even more evil and creepy mother who wants to get back into the living world), the two bungling ghost-busters from the first film (Angus Sampson and Whannell) are trying to figure out how this connects to a dead hospital patient named Parker Crane and a serial killer known as “The Bride in Black”. While none of this makes any sense at all and the clunky story isn’t helped by being told in brief bursts of exposition and loads of newspaper clippings, it does provide the opportunity for everyone to creep through at least four different spooky old locations – and that’s before they cross over to the spirit realm, which is just the same spooky locations only with a smoke machine turned on. There’s zero reason to care about any of the characters – the film’s creators clearly don’t – as the whole film is just there to provide an excuse for a lot of creeping through old and badly-lit houses waiting for something to jump out at the screen. If that sounds scary to you, go for it.

Thor: The Dark World Has there ever been a movie that has been improved by a prologue? Thor: The Dark World kicks off with a flashback to before the dawn of time, when Dark Elves ruled the universe … though it wasn’t our universe until Odin’s father arrived and killed all the Dark Elves off, only he didn’t manage to kill their leader Malekith (Christopher Eccleston) and he didn’t destroy Malekith’s ultimate weapon (an all-destroying blood-like substance called Aether) either. Which seems fair enough until you get halfway through the movie and realise none of the characters in the movie knew this stuff either – so why not have someone explain it to them then? That way the opening third or so of the film, in which scientist Jane Foster (Natalie Portman) and intern Darcy (Kat Dennings) are hanging around London, would have a bit of mystery to liven it up. But nope: when Darcy blunders into Jane’s date (Chris O’Dowd) and rushes her off to check out some weird spatial abnormalities in a disused factory, Jane promptly falls through a wormhole – as you do – and touches some weird evil blood-like substance that gets inside her body. But we already know what it is – thanks to the prologue – so again, we’re left sitting there waiting for the movie to catch up to us rather than the other way around. At least the parts with Thor (Chris Hemsworth) bringing order to the nine realms is kind of fun, and eventually he’s reunited with Jane – why were they apart again? Even the film doesn’t seem quite sure – and then it’s time to actually get the story started. Loki (Tom Hiddleston) is in prison (but for how long); Asgard is at peace (but for how long); and Malekith is plotting something sinister (but for how long). This is basically good looking people having a fun time playing dress-ups, and on that level it’s perfectly enjoyable. Yes, it’d be nice if Portman and Hemsworth had even the slightest bit of chemistry together considering their love is meant to be the core of the film, but separately they’re both nice enough and Hemsworth once again makes the God amongst Men jokes work. Hiddleston (whose role was reportedly beefed up in reshoots) steals every scene he’s in, the fight scenes are just different enough to keep things kind of interesting, and once again Marvel churns out a fairly average movie that gets by almost entirely on charm. Their luck can’t last forever, but Thor manages to keep the ball in the air for now. Captain Phillips: Tom Hanks is the captain of a cargo ship attacked by Somali pirates (who in some ways are the real stars of the story) in this gripping and thought-provoking

procedural thriller by Paul Greengrass (director of the two best Bourne movies). The Butler: Over thirty years of service at the White House, butler Cecil Gaines (Forest Whitaker)

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saw eight Presidents come and go, and the rise of a Civil Rights movement that would change America. Which sounds a little serious, but fortunately his harddrinking wife is played by

Oprah Winfrey and the Presidents are played by a bunch of seemingly wildly inappropriate (yet usually spot on) actors: John Cusack as Nixon and Alan Rickman as Reagan, to name two.

Enough Said Eva (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) is a single mum and masseuse (whose clients are generally on the crappy side) whose life currently revolves around the question of what she’s going to do once her teen daughter Ellen (Tracey Fairaway) heads off to university. When her friend Sarah (Toni Collette) and her husband Will (Ben Falcone) invite her to a party she meets divorcee Albert (James Gandolfini), who also has a daughter about to leave home. He’s not Eva’s type – he’s pretty hefty and a bit of a slob – but their senses of humour click so why not go out on a date? Meanwhile Eva also has a growing relationship with new client Marianne (Catherine Keener), who she met at the same party. She’s a poet and basically the ideal friend except for one thing: a mild obsession with telling tales about her crap ex. No prizes whatsoever for guessing the plot twist here, but writerdirector Nicole Holofcener (Friends with Money, Please Give) is more interested in letting loose a lot of sharply observed jokes about people in their 40s and the way that too much information can kill the thrill of discovery that lies at the heart of falling in love. Louis-Dreyfus is excellent in her most vulnerable performance in years while Gandolfini’s recent death gives his work here real poignancy. Albert is just a nice guy you want to have good things happen to, and Gandolfini is so good in the role it’s hard not to be a little saddened. But in the end this is a smart, funny film with a lot of warmth; we don’t see them anywhere near often enough.

Prisoners: It’s time for two hours of grey rainy cinema as cop Jake Gyllenhaal and dad Hugh Jackman both try to track down a couple of missing kids in their own, equally bleak ways. It’s a good

film, but not exactly one to watch if you’re in need of cheering up. 2 Guns: Denzel Washington and Mark Wahlberg are buddy cops on the Mexican border who end up using a lot

more than just 2 guns as they try to figure out how they got a hold of $30 million of dodgy money – and how they can get rid of it without getting dead. Diana: This look at Diana’s relationship with

Pakistani heart surgeon Hasnat Khan would like you to think theirs was a love affair for the ages. Unfortunately the movie itself is one that simply feels like it’s been going for ages.

MUSIC REVIEWS

liVe review

Tina Arena Reset EMI Aside from her double-volumed Songs of Love & Loss series, Reset marks Aussie legend Tina Arena’s first English studio album in over ten years. 2001’s Just Me served up several hits for Queena, including the often imitated ‘Symphony of Life’ which, up until the release of Reset, was up there with 1990’s ‘I Need Your Body’ as her grandest moment to date. In the twelve years it’s taken Tina to release an album of original material there has clearly been a lot of soul-searching going on. That internal revelation seems to blossom throughout Reset, a record which sees Arena boldly teaming up with young, up-and-coming Australian producers and songwriters as well as a few industry veterans. Opener ‘Love You Less’ is a wonderful introduction to the world of Reset, but it’s quite obviously first single ‘You Set Fire to My Life’ and thrilling bonus track ‘Lose Myself’ which really hit all the proverbial nails on the head. Orchestral and scenic moments like ‘Out of the Blue’ see Tina register a vocal range we’ve not heard her hit before, while the Goldfrapptinged ‘Don’t Look Back’ sees Arena charge at glam-rock in a truly sophisticated – and honest – fashion. That’s the beauty of Reset: much like Tina herself, it is honest, frank and 100% genuine. Lyrically, this may arguably be the best set of stories Tina has told in her impressive 40+ year career, and thus, her greatest studio album to date. Reset all of your pre-conceived notions of Queena and invest your hard-earned money in to what is without doubt the ‘Greatest Australian Pop Record’ in well over two years. Welcome back Tina. We’ve missed you!

Boy & Bear The Wool Exchange, Geelong Friday, November 1 Boy & Bear played to a sold-out Wool Exchange, proving that they can still draw a crowd off their second album. It wasn’t all about Harlequin Dream, of course, but the new stuff did garner a big reaction from the assembled fans, especially for singles ‘Southern Sun’, ‘Three Headed Woman’ and the album’s title-track. However, the biggest love, of course, was

for the tracks from their debut LP, Moonfire. The biggest sing-along of the night went to ‘Feeding Line’, as did the biggest dancealong. The crowd also joined in on the ballad ‘Big Man’, and other fan-favourites ‘Part Time Believer’ and ‘Milk & Sticks’ drew good reactions. The band’s performance of the night probably went to ‘Lordy May’; there’s just something about Dave Hosking’s vocals on that one. Of course, it wouldn’t be a Boy & Bear show without tracks from the band’s first release, With Emperor Antarctica – the EP that started it all. ‘Mexican Mavis’ and ‘Rabbit Song’ were both met with nothing but love

from the crowd. Boy & Bear have become pros at live shows; their banter is both polished and spontaneous sounding. And they should be – they’ve learnt from some of the best. Opening act Dustin Tebbutt was a bit disappointing: his lyrics were impossible to understand. However the second support Battleships were fantastic, and worth checking out if they ever headline. I’ve seen every Boy & Bear headline tour, all but one in Geelong, and this was almost the best show yet. Cameron Brogden

Adem with an E

The John Steel Singers

The Trotskies

Everything’s a Thread

The eerie and somewhat spooky organ sounds ring out on ‘Running’, the opening track to the self-titled EP from Melbourne’s own The Trotskies. Inspired by the likes of New Order, The Horrors and Cocteau Twins, the bass lines are infectious and put an original and unique twist on the post-rock/indie sound. If the energy that is displayed on these tracks is any indication of what the live show is like, then you are definitely in for a good night at a Trotskies gig.

Dew Process/Universal Everything’s a Thread, the sophomore release for Brisbane sextet The John Steel Singers, leads off from where their debut album Tangalooma finished: tired after a sweaty dance floor session from the killer grooves that they were throwing down. Taking on the producing role themselves, The John Steel Singers bring back the classic indie-rock funky sound that they are well-known for. After a brief and quirky introduction called ‘The Needle’, ‘Happy Before’ chugs along like ‘Toes and Fingers’ from their debut. Having heard the title-track spun countless amounts of times on triple j over the past month, my enjoyment of the track hasn’t lessened as a result. It’s a groovy track with infectious hooks. The vocal harmonies are there, and the fuzzed guitar sounds a little more garage-y than their first album. Clunky and 70’s disco piano weens away along the tracks. It’s kind of an unwritten rule that bands are under pressure to follow up with another stellar set of tracks after such a hyped debut. If you enjoyed Tangalooma, I guarantee that you are bound to enjoy this disc. Be sure to check out the live show as it pushes the record even further. Tex Miller

The Trotskies

The fuzz guitar lines and hypnotic drums beats in ‘Vis a Vision’ takes you on a psychedelic journey and shows that The Trotskies are big contenders in the post-rock/ indie/pop world. ‘Home’ is a mid-tempo track that makes me think of American rockers Interpol and The National. Although it doesn’t immediately draw you to the dance floor, it definitely allows for your inner rock kid to shine and headbang along. Lead singer Jack Rudich’s strong vocal ability and range is on show in this tune as well. Drawing comparisons to The Cure and Joy Division, 80’s synth and dream-esque guitar lines are laden throughout each of the four tracks. This release is for the indie kid in the corner with his tight stovepipe jeans, alternative haircut and Converse All Stars. Turn it up and get lost in the moment. Tex Miller

Dale Watson and His Lonestars El Rancho Azul

Pete Murray

John Mayer

St. Lucia

Feeler: 10 Year Anniversary Edition

Paradise Valley

When The Night

Sony Music

John Mayer haters are always going to hate his music, no matter how good the review of his latest release is. This review isn’t trying to change your perception of him; it’s just telling you that the new country sounds that he has produced on his sixth LP Paradise Valley are funky and infectious. Announced as the main headliner for Byron Bay’s Bluesfest next April (and with a sideshow at Rod Laver Arena in late April next year), it isn’t long before we are able to hear the tunes in the live setting.

I somehow stumbled upon St. Lucia after liking their Facebook page a few months back. I didn’t check out the tunes, and had no idea that their debut record was about to drop. Opening with ‘The Night Comes Again’, the intro of which sounds like the start of a Moby record, eighties synth sounds greets the ear as we hear yet another indie-pop record kick off.

Red House Records

Sony Music

The prolific Alabama-bred Texan could hardly be more authentically country if he mooed instead of crooned. Dale Watson and band reek of hard times and honky tonks, with a swing in their step and a wink to the wise. With six of 14 tracks dedicated to the art of drinkin’, it’s Watson’s shout since the late George Jones left the bar. In the tradition of the country confessional he declares, “I lie when I drink and I drink a lot”; later, “I drink to remember. You drink to forget”.

Ten years ago this album was everywhere. It went seven times platinum and somehow spent two and a half years in the Top 100. So yes, it got overplayed by commercial radio and music television. There were indeed times when I would rather have punctured my eardrum than have to listen to ‘So Beautiful’ again.

The 50-year-old Grand Ole Opry regular has been doing his musical thang since he was a pup. While his material treads a traditional path, there’s a maverick edge between the tunes, and Watson’s 21st Century attitude warrants cult status outside the purists. The Lonestars are solid on upright bass (Chris Crepps), pedal steel (Don Pawlak), piano and fiddle (Danny Levin) and drums (Mike Bernal), with Watson on guitar. Dancing comes in a close second to drinking, story-wise. Watson has a modest crack at yodelling on ‘Cowboy Boots’ (“There’s something ’bout a woman dancing in her cowboy boots”), while a sentimental interlude breaks up the shenanigans with the pretty waltz, ‘Daughter’s Wedding Song’. ‘Quick Quick Slow Slow’ is a two-stepper followed by ‘Slow Quick Quick’, and we’re back to a waltz. Watson’s brand of country comfort is heading our way soon. Chris Lambie

Those days are long gone: removed from its media omnipresence and just listened to as it was in the early days. Before the hype, before it exploded, there was one single, ‘Feeler’, that got my attention – and it’s just as fantastic today. It’s not quite that polished dreamy surfer folk-rock sort of sound we expect from Pete Murray today. At the time, it was completely different to everything else out. Of course, then came his careerdefining tracks ‘So Beautiful’ (actually quite the lovely song when you’re not hearing it pumping out of every café in a ten mile radius) and ‘Bail Me Out’. Solely based on those three tracks, this album is worth picking up – and then there are the orchestral versions on the second disc. However, from end to end this album is very solid. Beyond those three classics are great tracks like ‘Passing Time’ and ‘Ten Foot Tall’. This is a massively underrated Aussie album that unfortunately is too adult contemporary for the music snobs to label as ‘cool’. Buck the trend and buy it – unless you’re one of the hundreds of thousands who already have it. Cameron Brogden

The swooning ‘Your Body is a Wonderland’-type vibes are present in the tunes ‘Paper Doll’ and ‘Who You Love’ in which Mayer duets with Katy Perry (his current flame), yet it’s not that this does an injustice to his new songs. Like Battle Studies, his 2009 release, Mayer pays homage to a classic blues/rock track once again, this time around JJ Cale’s ‘Call Me the Breeze’. I for one think that this release is his strongest since Continuum in 2006, and with similar sounding horn arrangements in some songs, have hope for those fence-sitting fans of his music. If you haven’t checked out this disc but like your guitar licks bluesy and cranked to eleven, give it a try. It may not sway you on the first listen but by the fourth or fifth, you may be converted.

The lead single off this release is ‘Elevate’, and it sounds like the intro scene to a vintage Will Smith or Bruce Willis movie. Thundering drum fills and the lead vocals of Jean-Philip Grobler really push this track to a new level. Chances are you will have probably heard this synth-y number on triple j – and it is the highlight of the record for me. ‘Wait for Me’ features jungle-type drums and bass lines that remind me distinctly of Miami Horror. If you’re looking for another set of tracks to compile a summer 2013/2014 playlist, throw a few tracks off this disc in for good measure. There has been no word about whether St. Lucia are going to be touring this record around Australia; but it’s summertime. Put this on your playlists and get ready to boogie. Tex Miller

Tex Miller

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Grog Watch Okay, so last week I went out to this work function – don’t worry, it wasn’t a Forte work function; like they’d be stupid enough to invite me to one of those since the time I found out the secret codeword to the bar tab and by the time I’d finished they had to close down The Geelong Times – only it wasn’t really a work function because a): it was at a bar in Melbourne and b): they only invited a bunch of people who were friends with each other, and some of them didn’t even work there anymore. Still, it’s going down on my tax return as “work function” because I made sure to discuss work for at least five minutes, even though those five minutes were right at the very end of the evening and it mainly consisted of someone else shouting “work sucks!” But still, work was discussed. Also, I almost fell down the stairs when we were

PULP. >>>>>> By Cameron Urquhart & Alastair McGibbon

Cameron: Part memoir, part history of comic books, part guide to the worlds of magic and creation, Supergods has it all. The problem I find with most comic book histories is that they take the exciting realm of superheroics and fantasy and turn it in to a rather dry list of events that occurred. Somehow Grant Morrison manages to make the story of creating comics as exciting as the comics themselves. Though to be fair, Grant Morrison is one of the greatest writers of our time, so what else can you really expect? As both an insider in the industry and an enthusiastic historian of it, this book is nothing short of perfect. Morrison has been one of my favourite writers since I first read his work on one of the Batman titles. Since then I’ve gone back and read a lot of his work, and the one thing that is most obvious about him is that he is a huge fan of comics himself. Supergods further proves this as he covers not only the major titles like Superman, Wonder Woman or the X-Men, but also takes a look back at the forgotten relics of superheroism and non-traditional comics. The end result is that the reader is left feeling not only educated, but entertained – and I swear it’s why I know more comic book history than I do actual real world history. Grant Morrison also takes detours into his own backstory, and if you’re a Morrison fan this will be supremely interesting; but if you aren’t it’s also a pretty damn good read. His writing is infectious with his enthusiasm, and you can’t help but be drawn into his cult of personality when reading it. Alastair: If you were given the gift of time travel, how would you use it? Would you travel through the universe saving people like the Doctor? Or would go to the same place at multiple points in time like Marty McFly? If you’re anything like Beethoven Jones, the protagonist of Beyond Reality Media’s Time Travelling Tourist, you’d use it to visit a bunch of important moments in human history and, well, be a bit of a dick. Based in Christchurch in New Zealand, BRM have a bunch of titles that cover

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leaving, which was pretty impressive considering there was only one stair. Unfortunately I wasn’t quite drunk enough to just go “ahhh, whatever” but yet was still drunk enough to have stumbled in the first place so I had to just kind of laugh at myself because a bunch of guys out the front were already laughing at my stumble and man, that kind of thing is exactly the kind of thing that turns you in to a massive drunk because clearly going at the bottle half-arsed only makes things worse. If you’re going to stumble, be drunk enough that you don’t care that you’re tripping over your own feet, okay kids? Here endeth the lesson. The point of me bringing all this up (yes, there is a point, stop the press) is not that I once again recommitted myself to hardcore drinking because that’s the moral of every single one of these columns, but that at one stage during the evening a bunch of people had left and there was only three of us left waiting for the next bunch to arrive: me and two women I was friends with but who had never met each other before tonight, having worked at the place at different times. Fortunately they quickly bonded over various stuff I wasn’t paying attention to, being busy trying to figure out how much I’d drunk so I could then figure out whether I needed to stop drinking so I’d be sober enough to get the train home or whether I needed to quickly drink more so I’d be drunk enough to tolerate having to take the train home. This, as you might

imagine, took some time. Eventually one of the women went off to the bathroom and the other one said to me how nice the first one was – which I already knew because I only hang around with nice people, largely because I find arseholes usually end up saying and doing stuff I was planning to do, which is odd because I’m more of a “loveable drunk” than an “arsehole”, right everybody? Look, I’ll prove it: then the other woman (let’s call her A) came back with some little seedy guy in tow, who she promptly revealed to be her (not at the gathering) boyfriend’s best friend. Sure thing, there’s only three of us here, let’s all have a chat. He then proceeded to completely ignore us in favour of constantly telling A that her boyfriend was shit, that she treated him like shit, that he also treated her like shit and … had he mentioned her boyfriend was a f**king shit? This, you may have gathered, cast something of a pall over proceedings. This guy was committed to telling A over and over just how much of a shit her boyfriend was – which seemed odd, as her boyfriend was a decent guy. This guy was also clearly way more drunk than anyone else at the table, which – as he was out on his own – seemed to suggest no one else wanted anything to do with him. Which wasn’t a surprise really; what was a surprise was the way that A seemed totally fine with his non-stop stream of violent abuse, while the other woman (let’s call her B)

and I kept up a fairly awkward conversation that largely involved us doing the whole “should we do something? What should we do here?” thing to each other with our eyes. Occasionally A would try to involve us in the conversation, but Mr Sweary Drunk would just stare blankly at us for a moment or two then turn back to her and start up from where he left off. Eventually it became clear that nothing was going to change, and as the bar was well lit and full of seemingly sober types B and I figured it was time to get out. Amazingly, A didn’t take up our offer to join us, so with a shrug and a worried backwards glance we were on our way. It wasn’t until I was on the train home that A called me and apologised for Sweary Drunk. Seems he was under a lot of personal strain (his girlfriend had been deported) and was taking it out on everyone, which excused nothing in my book because as I always say: if getting drunk turns you into an arsehole and you still decide to get drunk, then you’re an arsehole. In this case, an arsehole who meant I was nowhere near drunk enough when I got on the train and so had to hear the guy behind me spend 55 minutes talking about his shithouse cricket team. Like I said: arsehole. Tony “Cricket? Whatever” Montana

sci-fi, fantasy and everything in between – I, for one, can’t wait to get my hands on the awesomelynamed Blastosaurus. Beethoven, being the typical tourist that he is, spends his days jumping backwards and forwards in time, visiting famous moments from history, making sure to take an obligatory selfie at every stop. Want to visit Tutankhamun’s tomb? No problem. Want to ride around on dinosaurs? Beethoven can hook you up. However, Beethoven’s trip comes to a grinding halt the moment he meets Rebecca. He’s immediately smitten, and is intent on winning her over. Dragging her off on a whirlwind trip through time, he’s sure he’ll have her heart in no time (see what I did there? Har har, time travel puns). Unfortunately for Beethoven, Rebecca’s common sense, her disinterest in the past and the mysterious figures tracking Beethoven’s every move seem to be working against him. The Time Travelling Tourist is without a doubt one of the most entertaining comics I’ve read in a while. It’s light-hearted, witty and is definitely one of the more original takes on time travel going around. It’s gained high praise from some of Marvel’s toptier writers (Dan Slott and Mark Waid, to name a couple), and I get the feeling that the creative team of William Geraldts and Richard Fairgray (writers) with Gonzalo Martinez (on artistic duties) is definitely going to be one to watch. Check it out!

POrPe! cultu By An th on

y M or ri s

The biggest movie worldwide in the last month or so – okay, Thor: The Dark World may have overtaken it by now, depending on how it’s gone in the US – has been Gravity, in which George Clooney and Sandra Bullock drift around in space for ninety minutes. That’s not a slam on the film: it really is a movie based largely on having the two leads struggle to survive while being set adrift in space. Generally speaking the reaction to it has been positive, and rightly so as it’s a first-rate thrill ride and the best edge-of-your-seat filmmaking you’ll see this year, with numerous sequences that push the moviemaking envelope (the opening is around fifteen minutes without a cut) while remaining in service of the drama. More importantly for Hollywood, it’s a critical and commercial success without being either of the things that are increasingly considered vital merely to get a movie made: it’s not a remake or a sequel, and it’s not based on a pre-existing property. While the problem with Hollywood’s reliance on brand recognition was pointed out by many this year (just about every big hit was either a sequel, a remake, or based on a pre-existing property), the concern was that this year’s box office meant this trend would only continue (the big box office flops in the US – White House Down, After Earth, Oblivion – were all original ideas). So Gravity’s success is good news, as it proves that an original idea can be sold to audiences as something they want to see. Problem is there’s a competing narrative as to why movies today just aren’t as good as the good old days.

Sure, part of the problem is that no original ideas ever seem to get made; another part is that movies today are nothing more than special effects thrill rides based on great visuals and nothing else. So let’s take another look at Gravity, a film with next to no story – people are stuck in space, have to find a way to get back to Earth – and minimal characterisation (the backstory for Bullock’s character is clumsily shoe-horned in and all but pointless) but amazing action sequences that are the entire point of the film. After all, this is a film where just about every review has ended with readers being told they really should see it on the biggest screen possible as it’s the kind of experience that can only be fully appreciated in a cinema – which is true, but it’s also the exact anti-piracy message the studios have been pushing for a decade or more. It’s why Hollywood’s been promoting 3D so heavily (Gravity is in 3D): it’s an experience you can’t get at home, and it makes pirating movies all but impossible. None of this is to say Gravity isn’t a great film. It’s just a great film that happens to be absolutely on-message as far as Hollywood’s concerned: an awesome visual spectacle audiences will want to see in cinemas with minimal story and dialogue to make it easier to sell across the globe (where a nuanced plot and complex dialogue may not translate well). It’s their dream product. Expect a lot of imitations to come.

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