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NIGHTJAR FESTIVAL T O R Q U A Y

G E E L O N G

R E M M U IN S 29 DEC

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40-42 MOORABOOL ST, GEELONG

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Pete murray 18+ thursday january 24th

meG maC 18+

$49.00 inc. booking fee

WITH SPECIAL GUESTS tix available via oztix.com.au

1300 762 545 ALL ozTIx oUTLETS woolexchange.oztix.com.au/

BOOK yOur FunCtIOns and BIrthday PartIes WIth us!

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T U

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FrIday may 3rd

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$39.80

GEELONG’S ONLY LATE NIGHT BAR

Featuring continuous sexually explicit entertainment Delicious selection of dancers to choose from Sexually explicit entertainment Lounge seating Large outdoor smoking area Stage & pole dancing shows all night Comfortable booths for private lap dances Controlled touching experience Couples & ladies welcome

Closed from 27th December Open 3rd January

Bucks parties On site ATM

OPENING HOURS T H U R S DAY 8 P M – 3 A M F R I DAY 8 P M – 5 A M S AT U R DAY 8 P M – 5 A M

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Feature Story The Loop Local Feature News Food

A R T S

C U LT U R E

12 15–19 20 21-33 34

Creatives

36-39

Reviews

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Columns

Scenepix

The Guide

Last issue I spoke about summer music festivals and how great they are (which still stands and I wouldn’t dare take this back), but there’s also another type of festival I’m keen to get around this summer... and that’s night festivals. With bustling crowds, great street food, urban culture, local designers and musicians, night festivals create a real unique, spirited and lively atmosphere.

PH: 03 5229 7969 2/105 Skene St, VIC 3220 enquiries@fortemag.com.au

FREEBIES The Melbourne Renegades are bringing the juggernaut that is the Twenty20 Big Bash League back to our doorstep... and we have some free passes to giveaway. Two double passes and one family pass to be specific. These ones are for the double header on Sunday January 13 at GMHBA Stadium and gets you into both matches. Women’s: Renegades vs Sydney Sixers from 2:50pm - Men’s: Renegades vs Brisbane Heat from 6:35pm

We love them so much that we’ve got one of our all time favourites gracing our cover this issue. That’s right, NightJar Festival is back for its ninth year and will do its thing again in Torquay and Geelong this summer. Each season sees the festivals interactive art installations, the culinary delights, roving performers, buskers and banging main stage evolve with enthusiasm and we’re stoked to add this event to our summer calendar!

TO ENTER:

Publisher Furst Media Pty. Ltd. Editor Talia Rinaldo

talia@fortemag.com.au

Advertising Josh Dowling

josh@fortemag.com.au

General Manager Glenn Lynch

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Email your name, your number and the code word ‘RENEGADES’ to talia@fortemag.com.au

Art Director Nathan Mossop

artwork@fortemag.com.au

Interns Chloe Cicero, Lauren McKinnon, Shae Louise.

Further in this issue we also chat to one of Australia’s most loved protest folk singer/ songwriters, John Butler; local garage rockers Monsters Of The Dirty South; German postmetal outfit The Ocean; the soft-spoken songsmith Kim Churchill; the world’s most isolated heavy band, Southeast Desert Metal, and even the quintessential Irish-American Celtic folk/punk band Flogging Molly. We also take a look at the Aussie icons, rock stars and local talent who will be taking the stage at 2019’s Festival of Sails!

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Contributors Anthony Morris, Alastair McGibbon, Chris Lambie, Dr John Lamp, Natalie Rogers, Paul S Taylor, Tammy Walters, Wylie Caird. Advertisers and agents are advised that all advertising copy is their responsibility under the trade practices act. Advertisements are published in good faith and on the understanding that the content is legitimate and lawful. Advertisers and or agents submit advertisements at their own risk. The editor and creators hold no responsibility whatsoever for the content of the magazine in the case that it may offend. Forté accepts no responsibility for errors or omissions. Forté reserves the right to edit all articles and letters.

Well, that’s us done for 2018. Thanks to all who have stuck with us for another killer year! We’ll be back in mid January for our next print edition!

@tammywalters

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~ ~ GEELONG'S ARE YOU

: BU SK ER APPLY NO W S BE S T

BES T BUSKER?

Little Malop Street Central Geelong

16 and 19 February Finals: 23 February

ALL AGES AND PERFORMERS WELCOME

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tickets @ gabf.com.au 10

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NIGHTJAR FESTIVAL RETURNS TO TORQUAY AND GEELONG IN 2019 IS THERE A BETTER WAY TO SPEND A BALMY SUMMER EVENING THAN BY HEADING TO A NIGHT FESTIVAL? WITH BUSTLING CROWDS, GREAT STREET FOOD, URBAN CULTURE, LOCAL DESIGNERS AND MUSICIANS, NIGHT FESTIVALS CREATE A REAL UNIQUE, S P I R I T E D A N D L I V E LY AT M O S P H E R E . We love them so that’s why we’re throwing out a friendly reminder that the rather wonderful NightJar Festival will do its thing again in Torquay and Geelong this summer. Now diving into its 9th year, each season sees the festivals interactive art installations, the culinary delights, roving performers, buskers and banging main stage evolve with enthusiasm! A “vibrant, colourful and eclectic mix of a night market, music festival and showcase for emerging designers”, the splendour begins in Torquay on Thursday nights in January, overlooking the sun setting across the ocean, before the team pull up pegs and move into Geelong for Friday nights in February - a more intimate festival yet full of life. With eight nights to capture the imagination and hearts of the adventurous two-year-old right through to the art-loving 90-year-old across the summer, NightJar gives local artists, musicians and performers the chance to share their talents with the region which has become a major drawcard of the annual event. Kicking it all off in Torquay on January 3rd, the NightJar stage will come alive with performances from Girl Friday, Blooming, Geelong’s own The Kite Machine and Tanya George Band. If you missed the first edition it’s no stress because it all goes down again the next week (January 10th) this time with Matt Katsis, The New Savages, George & Noriko and Hussy Hicks taking to the stage. “NightJar is the local summer fest you just can’t help but get around. It always delivers such amazing lineup of music and we’re absolutely frothing to be invited to 12

play again! Rude to miss it really,” says Levi Anderson, “Events like NightJar are an important platform for plus heaps more. Best of all, they even have vegetarian, vocalist of Geelong’s premier Funk Rock export The celebrating this and engaging the creativity of the vegan and gluten free options, catering to absolutely Kite Machine who are veterans on the NightJar stage. wider community. Plus I love that my hometown has everybody. an event of this scale that still feels like a big family Shake out a picnic rug, kick back and indulge in some party,” she says. If your looking for a sugary treat, you’ll find solace in of the regions best boutique crafted beers and wine Eat Cannoli, Nordenfine Ice Cream Company, Honey at the third Torquay session will see Lash 78, Lucy & We love seeing all the talent at the Nightjar, but it dee loukoumades and Les Crepes de Marion. There will doesn’t stop at just the music. also be a range of the region’s best boutique crafted The Night Sky, Miles Recommends and Aine light up the stage, while performances from Ancient Animal beers and wine to enjoy. We’d recommend having an Each year, NightJar also showcases a range of creative Orchestra, The Twoks, Ajak Kwai and Deep Street Soul early lunch on NightJar days... stalls that are worth having a look at. With the promise will bid farewell to the Torquay NightJar on Thursday of excellent gift ideas for any upcoming birthdays, “There’s something dreamy about the ambience of January 24. you’ll find stalls selling candles, sweets and treats like Summer nights,” echoes the lovely and talented Many musicians unseen at Torquay will then be taking the Surfcoast Chocolate Company, delicious salami, Momoko Rose who will be performing in Geelong on to the stage each Friday in February, the perfect real gourmet chilli products, skincare products, Henna art, Friday February 1. “Counting down the days until we life playlist for your knock off drinks. The first Friday along with printed photography and unique paintings, play NightJar Festival!” night (February 1st) will see performances from the and a range of jewellery from the likes of Global likes of Momoko Rose, Tess Guthrie, Michael Meeks & Princess, Kissy and Out of Anakie. You can peep the Leave your worries at the gate, bring your pooch full list of stalls online or just meander through the The Lost Souls, and The Vibraphonic Orchestra, while and step inside NightJar’s wonderland and become the second week (February 8th) will see Bon Temps, carefully curated market precinct as the sun goes down. immersed in the magical atmosphere. NightJar Tanya George Solo and Zoe Fox and the Rocket Clocks Festival will tantalise the senses and evoke the soul. While live music and market stalls are a great excuse It’s a summer pilgrimage for holidaymakers and locals a take to the stage. to head on down to the NightJar, it’s also known for like, most can’t leave their experience at just one visit! With Sangria in hand the Friday festivities continue for it’s ability to pull through when it comes to satisfying the third Friday edition on February 15th which will see VISIT THE WEBSITE (NIGHTJARFESTIVAL.COM. cravings, ranging from savoury to sweet. performances from The Quick Sixes, Jack The Fox, Salty AU) FOR MORE INFORMATION AND POP Bones Band and Surfusion, and then it’s all wrapped With an abundance of options we’ve narrowed down THESE DATES IN YOUR 2019 DIARY NOW! up for another year with Blue Howl, The Refuge and our favourites that will be heading to both locations PHOTO BY: PATRICK CALLOW Libby Steel taking over the stage for the final evening this summer. First up, Spanish Gourmet Caterers are on February 22nd. your go-to if you feel like enjoying a flavoursome bite after a quick siesta in Spain with a seafood paella and Talk about a smorgasbord of musical talent, NightJar’s a Running Bull Sangria – a match made in heaven. If 2019 edition is looking to be its best one yet. you’re a fan of Mexican, Perla Tacos create soft corn tacos that are super tasty and healthy, using whole “The last time I played at NightJar was in 2011 with foods, locally sourced ingredients and healthy cooking Square One which I remember we were all stoked methods. To those of you who are keen to keep on the about,” beams Torquay local Tess Guthrie. “I’ve grown go, fetch yourself the original spiral cut potato – A.K.A. the Twistto. Potato on a stick? Pretty hard to say no. up slightly since then, and NightJar has grown up an awful lot. So to watch the festival get bigger over the Other food stalls to help make you indecisive for dinner years, involving more and more of the community and independent artists, and to be a part of it again in 2019, include The Flying Calamari Brothers, Bavarian Bangers, feels extremely cool. Curry Up Now, Eat The Chicken, Mushiki Dumplings, 705

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LOOP

B A L L A R AT BELLARINE

BENDIGO CASTLEMAINE

Geelong Gallery

Free entry Open daily 10am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5pm excluding public holidays

Little Malop Street Geelong 3220 T +61 3 5229 3645

Exhibition sponsor

GEELONG & SURF COAST WA R R N A M BOO L

geelonggallery.org.au

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WONDERLAND SPIEGELTENT

STRAYA DAY IN LORNE WITH THUNDAMENTALS

Wonderland Spiegeltent kicked off yesterday in Barwon Heads, and their calendar is bursting with comedy, acrobatics, aerial, circus, music and dance all the way through to late January. There is stuff for the adults and stuff for the kids. There is stuff for the entire family. Joe Camilleri and the Black Sorrows and Mark Seymour are among the music stars. Hit up wonderlandspiegeltent.com.au for the works.

Everyone knows there ain’t no party like an Australia Day party. And this year, it’s all about stepping away from the Barbie and letting someone else bring the long weekend vibes… and that my friends is none other than Thundamentals. Brought to you by the legends at UNO Presents and The Lorne Hotel, Thundamentals will be performing live for an open air beer garden event at Lorne’s favourite hotel on Australia Day (Jan 26 FYI). 2018 marks a ‘Decade of the Thundakat’, and homegrown hip-hop trio Thundamentals are celebrating their 10-year career by creating more infectious, instantly memorable music – so what better way to continue the celebrations than with a coastal party?!

IN HEARTS WAKE’S SUMMER SETLIST

PORCH SESSIONS The Adelaide-inspired Porch Sessions is getting the final inspection on the vans before some fine individuals pack their bags and climb aboard. In its sixth year, the festival transforms people’s gardens into travelling festivals. Jack the Fox, Harrison Storm and Alana Wilkinson will tour throughout January, hitting Geelong on January 13, Anglesea on January 14 and Warrnambool on January 16. You can find more through theporchsessions.com.

THE DROP IS RETURNING TO TORQUAY IN 2019 Back for its second year running bigger and better than before, The Drop will return in 2019, bringing together big names in music and professional surfing for a celebration of music, surf, community culture, and a love of the ocean. Last years festival bill included SAFIA, Dune Rats, San Cisco, Holy Holy and Ruby Fields. Announcing early next year, the lineup for The Drop 2019 includes more of the countries biggest names in music. The Drop will roll into Torquay on Saturday April 20. Keep up with all the deets via thedropfestival.com

IT’S A THEATRE WORKS MIDSUMMA Two international premieres and two Australian premieres head the Theatre Works’ Midsumma Hub program, an LGBTIQ event that takes place as part of the Midsumma Festival. Performances run as follows: ‘Give a F*ck Cabaret’ from January 18; ‘Truly Madly Britney’ from January 19; ‘The Butch Monologues’ from January 27; and ‘Cake Daddy’ from February 3. A whole lot more can be found through midsumma.org.au.

‘I like their old stuff better than their new stuff’. If you are one of those people, and we at Forte do not judge, you are going to love In Hearts Wake’s Summer Setlist tour. Basically, the band is asking the fan to vote for their favourite tracks, which they will happily perform. Barwon Club, Geelong – January 10. This is going to be their only Vic show for 2019, so choose wisely. They will be joined by Alpha Wolf and Drown this City.

DYLAN JAKOBSEN IS A COUNTRY LAD Raised outside of Seattle, Dylan Jakobsen found his heartstrings pulled towards country music. His dedication is as impressive as it gets, spending the last decade learning more than ten instruments in order to write all the parts you hear on his albums. An Aussie tour has been lined up for next year, including a gig at the Tamworth Country Music Festival. Cally Hotel, Warrnambool – January 26 & MusicMan, Bendigo – January 27.

COASTAL JAM Kick out the Coastal Jam. UNO takes a scenic stroll down the coast for two shows early in 2019, hitting up Lorne Hotel/View on January 5 and Warrnambool Laneway Bar on January 6. Luke Million and Benson head up both gigs, with a fine support cast rounding out the day/night party. Both shows take place from 2-11pm. There are still a few tickets hanging around, but not too many. Get the full details through coastaljam.com.

FREYA JOSEPHINE HOLLICK HEADS ABROAD Freya Josephine Hollick has only a few shows remaining before she boards a plane for the US to record with Buick 6, the renowned band of Lucinda Williams. Freya dropped her second full-length album, Feral Fusion, a few months ago. Shortly thereafter, she received a grant from Creative Victoria which has enabled the US expedition. A third album, as well as a documentary, will make for a busy time. Major Tom’s, Kyneton – February 2.

THE DEEP SIDE OF THE CREEK Blues-rock of the 1960s and 1970s, psych, soul and a little progressive/alternative is what you will discover in the music of Creek. The Melbourne-based band has spent 2018 working on their debut full-length album, which they will release next year. They’re putting the final touches on the first taste, single ‘The Deep’, which saw them take to Pozible to raise funds for a most triumphant video. Pistol Pete’s, Geelong – January 12.

PORT FAIRY JAZZ FESTIVAL You may need more than a few minutes to take in the Port Fairy Jazz Festival’s bumper program. Entering its third year, the program boasts more than 100 performers. These include The Old Married Couple, Black Stump Jazz Band, Annie Smith & the Bossa Boys, Dixie Street All Stars, Mike Tovey’s Original Hamfats and Pippa Wilson with Jazz Notes. The dates are February 8-10, with full information available through portfairyjazz.com.au.

PORTSEA POLO RETURNS FOR 2019

Thursday 27 Andy Forster

Thursday 3 Andy Forster

Friday 28 Jeff Jordan

Friday 4 Jeff Jordan

Saturday 29 Ryan Bell

Saturday 5 Cory Hargraves

Sunday 30 Steve Jones & Andy Forster

Wednesday 9 Karaoke Luke Biscan

Wednesday 2 Karaoke Luke Biscan

Thursday 10 Andy Forster

Friday 11 Jeff Jordan Saturday 12 Dave Anderson Wednesday 16 Karaoke Luke Biscan

The Portsea Polo is back which means so is the Entourage Polo Club. This year they welcome 6ft6 wines on board to help create a new and exclusive experience never before offered at the Portsea Polo! The Entourage package may be a bit exxy but from what we’ve heard, it’s totally worth it. Your all-inclusive ticket includes exclusive access to east side of the field, premium beverages and cocktails, gourmet food, entertainment and access to the hottest viewing location up close to all the action. Be quick this is an exclusive marquee with limited tickets available and it will sell out Tickets via www. entouragepoloclub.com.au

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S TA M P O U T A N D A B O U T

MORE COSMIC PSYCHOS Patience, there’s plenty of Cosmic Psychos to go around. As well as playing Torquay Hotel’s A Nice Day to Go to the Pub, the band, who released the album Loudmouth Soup earlier this year, has shows at Ballarat’s Karova Lounge on January 25 and Castlemaine’s Theatre Royal on January 28. Following that, they’ve got shows abroad including the Faster & Louder festival. Joining them will be Southeast Desert Metal.

FEAR IS A REAL PRICK STA M P SY I S T H E M U SI C D I R E CTO R A N D D R I V E A N N O U N C E R AT K R O C K I N G E E LO N G For as long as I can remember, I’ve had a fear of needles. A fear that makes me sweat, nauseous and puts a lump in my throat. You get the image, right? When you begin to shake at the thought of that prick driving into your body like Bowser on Rainbow Road after running through a power star.

BUSBY MAROU COOLS OFF There is plenty to look forward to in 2019, including another run of shows by Busby Marou. The ‘Sound of Summer’ tour highlights their new single of the same name, the first taste of their forthcoming album due around the midpoint of 2019. Channel 7 Cricket has picked up the single, so those enjoying some lazy summer days should keep an ear out for that one. Torquay Hotel, Torquay – March 8.

I have always had an over imaginative mind. I spent what felt like a third of my childhood in hospitals. As a young Stamps I had severe asthma, childhood seizures, clumsiness in my DNA and allergies. I wouldn’t say I was a problem child; however, my mum did take out the highest level of family medical insurance every year because of me. Despite having test after test, the process never got easier.

JACK RIVER ANNOUNCED AS SUPPORT FOR FLORENCE + THE MACHINE THIS JANUARY

When I had a severe reaction to my “Prep injection”, which I think was a booster for some preventable disease, it entrenched a real fear and anxiety of anything pointy near or in my skin. I also remember the feeling of being used as a pin cushion (nurse’s first day apparently) and it left me slumped in a bean bag in my class room until Mum collected me from school.

With Florence + The Machine descending on Australia for her sixth visit next January, the enigmatic musician has today announced changes to her lineups on select Australian shows. Due to international scheduling conflicts, breakout US teen sensation Billie Eilish will sadly no longer perform in Australia in January next year, needing to remain in the US in January. Very sad news. But there’s always a positive and that comes with the addition of Jack River. Off the back of a sold-out national tour and triple j feature album, this local singer-songwriter has confirmed she will join the bill at Geelong’s a day on the green event on Saturday January 19.

The fear got so bad that when I had my knee reconstruction, I had a show down with the anaesthesiologist. I wouldn’t let him administer the anaesthetics until he knocked me out with gas first. He had the “audacity” to tell me the request wasn’t in my notes and it was too late to administer (within his rights). So here we were, a medical professional and a fully-grown adult human chucking a tantrum, having a Mexican stand-off. I won. It wasn’t my finest moment but fear does make you lose all rationale.

MARNI SHEEHAN & MARK SMITH

THE CALL OF MAGPIE DIARIES Good things take time, wiser heads have said, so some of the songs that appear on the debut album from Magpie Diaries, Sanctuary, are pushing close to twenty years old. But it is out now, and that is all that matters. Led by Dashville founder Matt ‘Magpie’ Johnston, it’s an album of soulful folk country, with touches of psychedelic rock’n’roll. The Eastern, Ballarat – February 8 & Barwon Club, Geelong – February 9.

Leo Sayer began his music career co-writing songs with David Courtney, among them ‘Giving it All Away’, which was a solo hit for Roger Daltrey. He released his debut album Silverbird in 1973, which featured his first hit ‘The Show Must Go On’. He released the retrospective album, The Gold Collection, at the beginning of the year. Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo – March 9 & WPAC – April 13.

THERE’S A SASQUATCH ON THE LOOSE Much like the Fresh Prince, Sasquatch was born in Philadelphia before moving to Los Angeles. They have been around since 2000, keeping the spirit of 1970s metal, rock and psychedelia alive. With a motto of ‘keep the focus on the hook’, their music has been featured in Sons of Anarchy, The Supernatural and American Chopper among others. Maneuvers is their latest album. Black Hatt, Geelong – March 27.

TRAVELLIN’ STILL PLAY SLIM DUSTY Releasing more than 100 albums, the late Slim Dusty is a name known even outside of country music lovers. His former crew, Travelling Country Band, played their last show with Slim in 2002. In 2016, they performed together for the first time in years at the Slim Dusty Music Festival. It felt like the old times, and so the band decided to give things a proper crack. We’ve got early notice the band plays Gateway Hotel, Corio on June 1.

CHILLOUT 2019 ChillOut wants you to dance, prance and chill in 2019. The premier Queer Country Pride festival is held in Daylesford across March’s long weekend and was first held in 1997. The festival will launch on March 7 at The Palais, with cocktails flowing in conjunction with an art auction fundraiser for ChillOut’s Raising Rainbows Campaign. Sunday’s ChillOut Parade, March 10, is always a highlight. All the fun can be discovered through chilloutfestival.com.au.

UNCANNY X-MEN REUNITE 80’s pop/rock sensation Uncanny X-Men are reuniting for their ‘Cos Life Still Hurts’ tour which kicked off at the start of September this year in Queensland. The ever colourful and entertaining lead signer Brian Mannix will be taking fans on one hell of an adventure as they go cover to cover of one their biggest records to date, “Cos Life Hurts”. The chart-topping album came in at No. 3 in the Australian Aria charts for the year 1985. Selling over 100,000 copies in Australia, the album was certified platinum. The track listing for the evening will included hits such as “50 Years”, “Don’t Wake Me”, “The Party” and “How Do You Get Your Kicks”. But even after 30 years the band has released a new single, “Take it from me” which was premiered on iTunes, Amazon and Spotify in April this year. To see them live and preform as a group, together once again, catch them Saturday January 12th at the Sphinx Hotel Geelong with special guest Jade Holland. Tickets can be found via www.sphinxhotel.com.au

OUR TOP FIVE PETE MURRAY TRACKS WRITTEN BY SHAE LOUISE Summer is for cold beer, acoustic jams and Aussie music so when we found out that Pete Murray was coming to town we decided it was time to put together our favourite Murray track list and keep our fingers crossed that we may hear them live at The Wool Exchange. In town for his PM3 Summer Sessions tour, this show promises to be an intimate affair as Murray bring only two accompanying musicians to help him perform. The trio will be playing tracks from Murray’s 2017 album Camacho as well as fan favourites - hopefully one or all of our favourites listed below...

#5: Feeler The first track off Pete Murray’s debut album was definitely a feeler (pun most definitely indented) and left us all with the imaginary feels. The title album was debuted back in July of 2003 and markedthe beginning of Murray’s mainstream success.

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As an O Negative blood donor, I have a particularly unique opportunity to help people in emergency situations. It’s called “universal” blood, meaning they can be transfused to almost any patient in need. Several years on, my donations of O neg have saved lives. I am helping babies, the elderly and those who are taken to the emergency department. It has also helped me. I still don’t like needles but I can be in the same room as that little prick because I am doing something good. I’m doing something for the greater good. If you don’t already, can I encourage you to sign up today and become a donor. Every donation can save up to three lives. You could be saving someone from Geelong or even a family member. I would do it for you, sweaty palms and all. And yes, you will also get a cookie and a milkshake. So, sign up today. Stampsy xx P.S. Big thanks to Alex and all the amazing staff at the Blood Donation Centre on Ryrie St. You make me feel comfortable and relaxed every time I donate.

#4: Always A Winner I’m sure we aren’t the only ones who are suckers for a little horns and racing percussion subtlety in the background. ‘Always A Winner’ is most definitely a winner for any Summer Session and I’m sure it would sound just as cool stripped back. Plus this track went gold...

Newstead Live rolls around in January (25-28) and one of the performers will be the long-standing Marni Sheehan & Mark Smith. Marni and Mark first worked together in the psychedelic blues band Reuben Tice in the seventies, and the musical friendship still stands today. Their new album is A Crazy Dream, which features seven originals and four covers across rootsy blues, alt and vintage country music.

LEO SAYER STILL HAS IT

Eight years ago, I decided I wouldn’t let fear take control of my life any more. I threw myself in the deep end and I booked in to donate blood. I made the commitment live on radio so I couldn’t back out and I went in to the local donation centre with the support of my work mates, who held my hand as tears streamed down my face.

#3: Better Days Album number two came three years after Murray’s debut and gave us another selection of awesome Aussie tracks and a few more breakup songs to muffle into our pillows – including ‘Better Days’. Although this track may not have the horns we love, it does have some harmonious strings and a beautiful story. #2: Opportunity There is no doubt that when this song starts, the crowd will be following closely behind, echoing every single word with a lot of love and a lot of anger. ‘Opportunity’ is one of Murray’s many perfect campfire songs as it really does get the crowd singing along, and we are excited to apart of the action when he comes to Geelong this January. #1: So Beautiful And of course our number one had to be ‘So Beautiful’. Although not indented to be a breakup song, this track has meant a lot for many fans over the years. ‘So Beautiful’ was written after a night out where Pete felt overwhelmed by people being pretentious and by guys that needed to stop acting obnoxious. Regardless of what it means or why it was written, the song is still our #1 and possibly yours too... Don’t miss your chance to belt out a few of these numbers with the Australian music icon throughout summer 2019. When & Where: Whalers Inn, Warrnambool – January 23 The Wool Exchange, Geelong – January 24.

SEE YA 2018… Well folks, that’s all for 2018. 2019 is seated patiently in the waiting room, reading a New Idea from 2011. Here’s hoping you had a good year, and if not that a better one awaits you. May your commute become shorter, may your pay increase. May you find love should you seek it, may it keep you if you’ve found it. May time be more free than stressful, and may this time allow you to enjoy the little things along the way. Stay safe, we’ll be seeing you again.

JANUARY REMINDERS Didirri – Torquay Hotel, Torquay on January 4; Confidence Man – Torquay Hotel, Torquay on January 6; Trophy Eyes – Barwon Club, Geelong on January 9 & Karova Lounge, Ballarat on January 10; WAXX – Karova Lounge, Ballarat on January 11; Luluc – Theatre Royal, Castlemaine on January 12; and The Chats (with Pist Idiots) – Barwon Club, Geelong on January 15 & Karova Lounge, Ballarat on January 17.

BAND REHEARSAL AT THE POTATO SHED

DAN SULTAN, TAKE ONE Dan Sultan is giving his regional fans some loving. The 2019 spell shines the light on The Aviary Takes, described as “a collection of older, existing back catalogue songs and a smattering of new tracks including a couple of out-of-theblue covers and fresh tunes stripped back and all recorded in ‘one vocal take’ at The Aviary Studios in inner city Melbourne”. The Capital, Bendigo – March 16.

Victoria’s peak music body, Music Victoria in partnership with the Victorian Government has announced the commencement of a new leadership program, ‘Cultivate’, aimed at mid-career and established women in the Victorian music industry who wish to further their leadership and management skills. Supported by the Victorian Government, the ‘Cultivate’ program aims to foster the development of some of the state’s key decision makers, business owners, and industry leaders within the music sector, by partnering them up with CEOs, senior role holders and experienced mentors to support and guide the advancement of their careers. Applications open now and close Monday 14 January 2019. Apply now at: www.musicvictoria.com.au/cultivate

FOUR LIONS WORK HARD, PLAY HARD In that sweet spot between Christmas and New Year’s when there is a small chance to catch one’s breath, Four Lions will take to The Vine, Bendigo in duo mode tomorrow night, December 28. They’ve got some full band shows coming up in 2019, including as part of the Summer in the Park series and Bendigo Autumn Music Festival. Formed late 2014, the band has three albums out in the world, with a fourth, Hard Days, on the way.

ONE MORE TIME FOR SPACEGOAT It turns out that Spacegoat’s November show was not actually their final for 2018. But hey, we all make

The venue has four hour block of rehearsal – at night and weekends – the cost is $35 per session. The rooms include PA – speakers and mic stand and leads. The cost is kept low to assist the development of new bands and encourage music production.

The Potato Shed will be closed until January

BLUESTONE BLUES FESTIVAL

WHAT ABOUT BOB LOG III There was a time when asking your friend ‘Hey, do you wanna go see this guy called Bob Log III? He wears a full body human cannonball suit, with a helmet wired to a telephone receiver” would have been met with more than a touch of scepticism. But today Bob Log III is a bit of a legend, belting out his ramped-up delta blues in a one-man dance party show. The Loft, Warrnambool – January 4 & The Eastern, Ballarat – February 16.

THE WOODLAND HUNTERS HIT THE CITY If all goes according to plan, psychedelic roots’n’rock outfit The Woodland Hunters will release The Thoughts of Chairman Jim early 2019. It will be the band’s second album, following on from Let’s Fall Apart which made a couple of ‘Top 10’ lists of 2017. ‘Dead Cities’ is the lead mistakes – that’s why pencils have erasers. A heavy track, a song “inspired by random thoughts on a road band with melodic vocals, Spacegoat made their trip, and a love of deep space”. The Loft, Warrnambool live debut in the back half of 2017. They have ended – January 5. 2018 with studio time and are feeling pretty chuffed GET AROUND DODKNELL with their debut EP on the way. The Vine, Bendigo – From the get go, Dodknell don’t muck around on their December 29. Joining them will be buddies, ergasia. latest release, K.I.L.L. Lots of aggression and (negaKELLY AUTY @ STEAMROLLER tive) energy throughout the 3 tracks that make up this The Maldon Made Foundation has provided a bumper limited tape released by Impure Sounds. This is pure year of gigs through SteamRoller and SteamPacket in Black Metal, performed in true Old School Black Metal 2018, and they’re going out in style with the Kelly Auty fashion, there is no digital release, and is limited to 100 Blues Band in charge of a New Year’s Eve spectacular. tapes only. Little information can be found on the band, Kelly and her gang represented the Melbourne Blues but we can confirm they are from Australian and not Appreciation Society at the annual International Blues for the average metalhead. This is quality Black Metal

Black / Death metal Bassist

Looking for a guitarist for my acoustic

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7 2019. We wish all a very great new year and looking forward to be presenting some great entertainment in 2019!

rarely heard coming from an Australian band. $7 via Band Camp or Impure Sounds will score you this rare piece of black art. But with only 100 available, this will be for a short time only.

VICTOR CRIPES TELLS A TALE Early in the year, dirty blues musician Victor Cripes released the track ‘The Grave of Kitty Cane’. It goes that Kitty owned a tavern during the gold rush. When the heavy-set Kitty died, her loyal customers failed to carry her coffin to Aberfeldy cemetery due to intoxication, instead burying her roadside. It is recorded in the Victorian Heritage Inventory. Handle Bar, Bendigo – January 11. Victor will also board the Bendigo Blues Tram on January 12.

MONSTERS OF THE DIRTY SOUTH MEAN BUSINESS Originally set to perform at Ballarat’s Opulance on January 12, two-piece garage rock outfit Monsters of the Dirty South – based out of South-West Victoria – has changed the venue to The Eastern, Ballarat. The date remains the same. Their debut EP Unfinished Business is the reason for the tour, named so because “we have so much to give musically, that it can evolve into whatever form it needs to”.

CHECK OUT GLOBAL INTIMACY ‘Global Intimacy’ is the debut album of Barney McAll’s new anti-pop collective TQX released earlier this month that you should get around. Joining forces with a unique international crew of renowned artists and musicians, the album contains 17 tracks with the likes of SIA, Josh Mease, Ben Monder, Sirah of Skrillex and Shayna Steele of Snarky Puppy – just to name a few. Inspired by the dystopian prophecies of drama Black Mirror and using elements of hip hop, electronica, punk and pop, Global Intimacy is a macabre hybrid imploring us to alter our course.

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A highlight on the Sleepy Hollow Blues Club’s calendar, the Bluestone Blues Festival has become the place to be for blues lovers with people trekking across the country for the NYE celebration. On New Year’s Eve you have Dollar 20 Blues Band, Simon Kinny-Lewis Band, Catfish Voodoo, Blue Heat and Louis King and the Liars Klub. On New Year’s Day you have Wayne Jury Four, Rhythm X Revival, PJ O’Brien Band and The McNaMarr Project.

Guitarist wanted

For individual use only, not for commercial purposes.

Did you know the Potato Shed has band rehearsal rooms for hire?

Challenge in Memphis at the beginning of the year. The Maldon Vintage Machinery Museum will host the event.

THERE’S A NEW LEADERSHIP PROGRAM FOR FEMALE INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS

In 2019 we have a number of spots available, the only restrictions is that one member of the band must be over 18yrs of age and accept responsibility for the room and equipment.

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BALLARAT BLOG

BOB EVANS LOOKS BACK Looky here, it seems Bob Evans has announced some shows for 2019. One is at Ballarat’s Karova Lounge on March 30. The tour is all about his best of album Full Circle, containing 14 songs across his five albums. Playing in solo mode, everyone who attends will receive a raffle ticket. If your number is called, you get to request a song. With more than 80 songs from which to choose, he has some practising to do.

W R I TTE N B Y G L E N A N DE R S O N

FEAR DRIVES HEIN COOPER By his own admittance, Hein Cooper was drinking and smoking too much. So when slapped in the face by one of those ‘aha moments’, he set about writing his new song ‘Fear of Missing Out’. It has taken many shapes and forms, but it is good to go now. The songman will take the track for a spin early 2019 on his biggest tour to date, including a final stop-off at Ballarat’s Karova Lounge on February 2.

Well, it’s almost all over for the year 2018 and it has been a great year in Ballarat for live music. We are incredibly lucky to have such fabulous live venues on our doorstep and brilliant artists happy to make the journey to our beautiful town. It is that time of year to start thinking about getting your tickets for the 2019 Ballarat Beer Festival. This year’s venue is the beautiful shady area of the North Gardens, near the Botanical Gardens and lake Wendouree. Two boulevards of National craft beer and delicious ciders... plus award winning wineries from the Pyrenees will have you licking your lips trying to decide what to try next! How wonderful that local born and bred Ballarat band Butterfunked will pretty much headline the day. Formed in 2017 after attending Ballarat High school together, this group have loads of talent and will knock your socks off! Blues Roulette, Kelly Auty, Frank Sultana, P J O’Brien and the Justin Yap Band will also belt out tunes throughout the afternoon. General admission tickets are $48 and that will give you access to all events from 11am through until 8pm. Saturday January 19 is the day to get on your trolley and get down to this event that is

really becoming one of Ballarat’s most popular days on the calendar. Regurgitator recently came to town and showed that they still have what it takes to deliver a damn great night of pop rock! All the old classics like ‘Polyester Girl’, ‘I Like Your Old Stuff Better Than Your New Stuff’, ‘Blood and Spunk’ and a great selection of songs from their latest release Headroxx. They have been at it for quite some time these lads and they really are a class act and well worth getting along to see. They have stayed very close to their original sound and seem to have an element of humour in their lyrics, which shows they don’t take themselves too seriously and they really seem to enjoy themselves on stage. Grace Knight is making her way to the Cabaret Club on March 23, which is a while away, but if you want to get yourself a good seat, get in now to guarantee a good pozzy! The other gig to get to early in the new year is Jordie Lane and Ayleen O. Saturday January 12 is the day to pencil this one in to your diary as this is some of Australia’s finest talent playing in our town. Have a safe and happy new year everyone. Be kind to each other.

and even a university course for home brewing at Federation Uni. Ballarat Beer Festival was even voted the third most popular beer festival in Australia this year, and the most popular festival regionally, by 17,000 odd craft beer lovers.

who balance on a musical wire with No chats, No rehearsal or safety net - 100% pure blues! They’ve featured over 50 Australian and International Blues artists including Forte favourites Lloyd Spiegel and Geoff Achison. Other special musical guests include Christina Croft, Cass Eager, PJ O’Brien, Frank Sultana, Justin Yap Band, Kelly Auty and Butterfunked.

DEEP SEA ARCADE SEES THE LIGHT Vocalist Nic McKenzie has put on the gloves for Blacklight, the new album from Deep Sea Arcade. “On the first album I’d always hide behind something and hide vulnerability, and it left me feeling detached. On this record I feel like I forced myself to actually go, no, I am vulnerable and I’m going to say things about being vulnerable and when I speak to the audience I’ll be that person, I’ll be me.” Karova Lounge, Ballarat – January 19.

2019 SUMMER SUNDAYS Sunshine, good music and a handful of your closest mates; is there a better recipe for a good time? We don’t think so. Though, make it all free and you’re onto a winner. Sunday 6 January Fulton Street Fraser A Gorman Honey Hunter Ruby Wragg Sunday 13 January Alice Skye FLOC Gangz Kee’ahn Sunday 20 January Jazz Party Magnets Sahara Beck Candi Wade A selection of Ballarat’s favourite food vendors, including The Forge Pizzeria, Round the Way, Boost Juice and Bean Me Up, will also be onsite each Sunday serving up the best in local produce. Following its significant popularity last year, the Garden Bar is also back. This fully-licensed pop-up bar will showcase some of the region’s best wine and craft beer suppliers and is the ideal place to relax and take in all the action with the best lineof-sight to the stage. We hear there’s even a free VIP experience for Garden Bar guests this year, so get in early to secure your spot. And for those looking to relax even further with their family and friends, the bean bag lounge is also returning. Make sure you get in early to secure your spot on the lawn. The Summer Sundays concert series is presented by the City of Ballarat. For more information like @ SummerSundaysBallarat on Facebook.

THE BALLARAT BEER FESTIVAL The countdown is on for summer’s unmissable beer event, Ballarat Beer Festival. Now in its eighth year, the festival is returning for a garden edition, moving to a new location of the beautiful Northern Gardens. Situated near the Botanical Gardens and Lake Wendouree, this new shady area will soon be transformed into a craft beer lover’s paradise. If you’re not from Ballarat, it might seem like a long drive for a beer, but it’s actually a great excuse to get out of town to sample, sip and savour a smorgasbord of craft beer in the sun. This is especially true with Ballarat being the centre of Australian home brewing (and otherwise known as Beerllarat for that particular weekend), with three locally-loved microbreweries, along with a multitude of home brewers

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With the aim of creating the ultimate boulevard of beers, the family-friendly festival will showcase some of Australia’s leading craft beer brewers, giving the crowds – and the craft beer enthusiasts – the chance to sample over 150 craft beers and ciders, further fostering the explosion of the Australian craft beer scene. This year’s garden edition is also about embracing the craft beer culture with a number of beer classes, blind tastings, trivia games, the popular brewers sack race and plenty more to keep you busy.

A highlight will be the closing act in the 80’s Collection - An opportunity to step back in time and enjoy all the songs you know and love with the immaculate vocal stylings of Paul “Slatts” Slattery and Kate Madden complimented by some of the best beer Australia has on offer. BALLARAT BEER FESTIVAL WILL BE HELD ON JANUARY 19 WITH TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM BALLARATBEERFESTIVAL.COM.AU

Alongside the brews, activities and the food, it wouldn’t be a festival without the tunes. This year the good vibes will be flowing with a whole lot of blues, featuring The Blues Roulette, a Melbourne music institution that features Ben Wicks and guests

CELEBRATE AUSTRALIA DAY IN STYLE AT FESTIVAL OF SAILS BATTEN DOWN THE HATCHES, THE 2019 FESTIVAL OF SAILS IS MAKING ITS RETURN. As one of Australia’s oldest sporting events (and the largest keelboat regatta in the southern hemisphere) the Royal Geelong Yacht Club’s Festival of Sails has played a key part in the Victorian and Australian yachting calendar since 1844, attracting more than 300 entries, 3,000 competitors and 100,000 visitors annually to Geelong to experience the incredibly competitive and diverse event. Next year will mark the 176th regatta, which kicks off with the visually spectacular celebration of the Melbourne to Geelong Passage Race on Australia Day Saturday, January 26. The 2018 edition saw a huge fleet of 300 yachts - more starters than the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race which is known as one of the most gruelling ocean races in the world - charging from the northern end of Port Phillip Bay to the waters of Corio Bay for the 32 nautical mile race, on the first day of the regatta. With entries already on track to exceed 300 for the 2019 event (including that of Matt Allen’s Ichi Ban from NSW, the winner of the 2017 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race and 2018 Festival of Sails IRC Division 1), organisers are expecting this year to be a real bumper event. “It’s an iconic event, with really good racing on the beautiful flat waters of Corio Bay, with good winds, which is a real attraction for yachties,” Festival of Sails Chairman, Stuart Dickson says. “From the general public point of view the whole waterfront will be full of activities from one end to the other, catering for people of all ages.” Alongside the world class sailing on Corio Bay, the Regatta Village precinct will again be a hub of activity for sailors and public alike. With entry to the area free for all patrons, this entertainment hub is a drawcard of the Festival of Sails, creating a free community celebration that brings the Geelong Waterfront to life with a Regional Artisan Fair boasting exciting gourmet offerings from Geelong, the Great Ocean Road, the Bellarine Peninsula and Golden Plains, activities like Come and Try sailing, stand up paddle boarding and virtual reality sailing; and of course the glittering spectacle of a waterfront fireworks display! 20

A highlight for us here at Forte is most definitely the live music program which will see up to 30 different artists performing live across two stages, over three days. So who can we expect to rock the Geelong waterfront this Australia Day long weekend? First up, Ceres-raised singer Taylor Henderson, who shot to fame in 2013 when he was the runner-up on the X Factor, will return home as one of the acts headlining a stellar line-up of entertainment for the three-day regatta. With two #1 ARIA albums already behind him, the 25 year old recently dropped his first single for 2018 back in August off the back of his national tour of the same name ‘Love somebody’ which will continue into 2019. You can expect Henderson to serenade you with all the hits and yet to be released music off his forthcoming album from the Waterfront Stage, Eastern Beach Reserve on Saturday, January 26 ahead of the popular Australia Day fireworks display which will light up the sky at 9.15pm. Joining Henderson as headliners for the weekend, Aussie music icon Russell Morris and formidable sister act Vika & Linda will also shine at Australia’s biggest celebration of sailing. Morris is a man that needs no introduction. As a key player to the Australian music scene and a certified ARIA award-winning legend, Morris will be one act to get to as he performs songs from his successful 50 year career, such as his 1969 psychedelic number one hit, ‘The Real Thing’ on the Saturday night after the fireworks in the Regatta Village. Taking to the same stage, music lovers will be treated to the glorious voices of sisters Vika & Linda Bull on Sunday night (January 27). Since their multi-platinum conquest of pop radio with The Black Sorrows in the late 80s, the sisters have forged diverse pathways into soul, gospel, blues and country, performing with Paul Kelly, Rockwiz, C.W. Stoneking, Deborah Conway and Kasey Chambers to name a few. Meanwhile, Whole Lotta Rosie – hailed as the best AC/DC tribute show Australia has ever seen - will also perform on Saturday in the Regatta Village. The Melbourne based band includes artists from some of Aussie’s favourite bands, including The Angels and the Choirboys. Other highlights of the entertainment 705

program include Melbourne’s premier New Orleans style brass brand, Horns of Leroy performing on Sunday, on the Regatta Village Stage and soulful pop artist Taylor Sheridan performing on Saturday on the Waterfront stage. “It is fantastic to be once again welcoming such an impressive line-up of entertainers to the Festival of Sails. The entertainment is always a highlight for our participants and visitors, a chance to unwind after a big day of sailing,” Dickson says. “Along with our headline acts, there will be dozens of other must-see performances, including local artists, spread out over the long weekend so festival-goers can bring a picnic and settle in for the afternoon.” As for the local talent, this event truly showcases the crème de la crème. Kid’s entertainment dynamos The Mik Maks will once again entertain the crowds, both young and old on Saturday on the Waterfront Stage. Born and bred on farming land in the Victoria’s west, The Mik Maks have been wowing their young audiences all over the country with their catchy country rock tunes. If you’ve got a young family, come and see why The Mik Maks are taking Australian kids music by storm. Next we’ve got Jan Juc-based indie-pop up-andcomer Libby Steel, who performed at the Queenscliff Music Festival last month, and who will also entertain crowds on Sunday from the Waterfront Stage. The Western Victorian rocket has made waves in the industry, known for her unique, bold and colourful pop music. Her 2017 single ‘Bones’ captured the attention of triple j & Unearthed where she received stellar reviews from presenters praising her “big and versatile voice in a clever pop song”, claiming she’s “part Lily Allen and part Saskwatch. It’s a winning combo”. Weaving her way into the music scene, taking her animated, dynamic set across the country. From playing at the Australian Open, to supporting Taylor Henderson on aforementioned recent tour, she is bound to draw you in and leave you wanting more. As for the public holiday on the Monday, Torquay local’s Maximillian Rudd and Tess Guthrie are set to wow crowds from the Waterfront Stage, providing the event a healthy dose of coastal home-grown entertainment.

A regular on the local circuit, Guthrie became an online sensation earlier this year after penning a song to help a mate leave her dickhead boyfriend; wanting to see her friend in a happier place again and recognise that she would be better off without him. Not only was the song a little gem for the message laying within, but Guthrie’s beautiful folky vocals, accompanied with sweet subtle guitar tones is one that would caress your ears, leaving you wishing every life problem could be solved with a tune like hers. Rudd will then provide the perfect follow up with his unique music, a fusion of Latin American, jazz, blues and roots influences. A natural talent, Rudd’s performances engage with seasoned ears, hinting at the ‘this and that’ of modern guitar culture, sewing it all together with the subtle creativity of an eclectic musical upbringing. Oh, and did we mention the music is completely free? It is worth noting however that while free of charge to the public, the Regatta Village area is a controlled area after 5pm and wristbands are mandatory for access. You can register for wristbands to gain access for the Saturday and Sunday night by heading online (www. trybooking.com/YULR). These wristbands are strictly limited though so you won’t want to stew on it too long – and again, it’s free! Wristband registrations are limited to two per person. The Eastern Beach Reserve area does not require a wristband and will operate from 10am until 9pm (Saturday and Sunday), and 10am until 5pm (Monday). Whether you are a sailor, or prefer your feet on more solid ground, this event provides something for everyone to enjoy, from thrilling sailing action, exciting on water activities for all to try, and a great way to spend quality time with your family over the Australia Day Long Weekend. 2019 FESTIVAL OF SAILS RUNS FROM SATURDAY JANUARY 26 TO MONDAY JANUARY 28. FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE FESTIVAL OF SAILS VISIT WWW.FESTIVALOFSAILS.COM.AU

r e m m u S s Sunday

Chilled tunes. Delicious food. Relaxed vibes. Sunday 6, 13 and 20 January 2019. 3–7pm at the Ballarat Botanical Gardens. Sunday 6 January

Fulton Street

Honey Hunter

Fraser Gorman

Ruby Wragg

Round the Way • lil’ nomnoms, Dos Diablos • The Very Hungry Caterpillar • The Enchanted Caravan (Knife, Fork, Spoon) • Bianco Latte • Boost Juice • Bean me Up Espresso

Sunday 13 January

Alice Skye

Gangz

FLOC

Kee’ahn

The Gypsy’s Lunchbox • Forge Pizzeria • Dos Diablos • Round the Way • Wholefood Simply • Luigi’s Gelato • Boost Juice • Bean me Up Espresso

Sunday 20 January

Jazz Party

Sahara Beck

Magnets

Candi

Grill your Hunger • Forge Pizzeria • The Dumpling Man • East India Trading Company • The Classic Milk Bar Co. • Luigi’s Gelato • Boost Juice • Bean me Up Espresso

Want to know more? follow 705

@summersundaysballarat 21

KIM CHURCHILL WRITTEN BY TAMMY WALTERS Taking a day off from recording in a quaint studio surrounded by the tranquil Blue Mountains to go home and visit family in Newcastle, music duty wasn’t over for Kim Churchill with a number of interviews to get through, including one with us. We start our interview and about two minutes in Churchill interjects ‘Ah shit my toast is burning, Jesus! It’s really burning too…um…beg your pardon [laughs]’. It’s 10am and the guy has been so busy he hasn’t had breakfast; a reflection of his entire 2018, touring Europe and Canada, writing, recording and shooting his new four part EP series, and a projection into 2019. “Basically what I’m going to do is four EP’s. It kind of like a cheeky way of doing a double album but it’s four EP’s. One is set in the Blue Mountains, one is set in Berlin, and one is set on Vancouver Island in Canada and one is set in London in England.” He continues, “I’ll be releasing those over two years. So yeah it’s going to be quite the onslaught of new Kim Churchill music to badger everybody with!” Immersing himself in the most beautiful environments, Churchill adopted his scenery into his songwriting. The EP set around Berlin absorbs the underground grunge and hiphop scenes of the previously war-torn eastern precinct, while

the Canadian quarter soaks up the sleepiness of rainforests. “My music would kind of channel the experiences I was having and that’s hard if you’re stressed and tired… and I was noticing all of that was having an effect on my music. So I started feeling like I could turn it into a positive by putting myself in the right environment and places I would be really affected in a really positive way and allowing that to sort of dictate the music.” Currently just shy of being three quarters through the process with only the London leg to go, Churchill confirmed fans will get a preview of new material in early to mid February followed by an extensive touring schedule. “Once the single comes out in February we will start touring- I’m not sure if I’m allowed to say yet but bugger it, I’ll say it- I’m going on tour to South Africa to do a bunch of festivals and shows which will be cool because I haven’t been there before so that’s fresh adventure.” Churchill details. South Africa will be followed by a run of touring and festival rounds in Europe, North America, London, and returning back to Australia. “F**k it’s going to be a very big year. A lot of new music and a lot of shows which is cool because that’s what I know how to do, you know, record and release music and perform it to people. That’s the crux of what I’ve managed to become reasonably good at in my life and I’ll just be doing a shitload of it.” Winding it back to January, the avid songwriter and surfer will be stopping by Torquay Hotel for their Summer Series between cruising along the Great Ocean Road in a kombi van scouting breaks. “I haven’t played the Torquay Hotel in years and years and years but I’ve hung out in Torquay a lot- I have a lot of friends down there- and I’m kind of chuffed that they’ve got me down to play the opening week… I think it’s great there is a new ticketed venue that’s putting on some slightly larger shows and offering people the quality of show that normally people would have to travel to Melbourne for.”

SOUTHEAST DESERT METAL ARE HEADING TO BALLARAT If you like your music to rattle your bones, Blaze Music Festival is something you need to get to this January. Featuring an all Australian line up that includes a slew of brilliant local and national touring acts, spread across two stages of mayhem at the Karova Lounge in Ballarat, the festival is set to raise the bar of local music events. Among those on the lineup, an exciting addition comes from ‘the most isolated band in the world’ NT’s Southeast Desert Metal who hail from the small Aboriginal community of Santa Teresa, the home of the Arrente people. We chat to vocalist Chris Wallace. Hey Chris thanks for chatting to Forte Magazine! Congrats on being added to the Blaze Music Festival lineup in Ballarat. It’s really great, I can’t wait to head over and perform. We’ve played there [Ballarat] on tour before for our first album a few years back, and there’s a few bands on the lineup that we’ve played with before so we’re really looking forward to catching up with them. Some of them have even played our way at Blacken Open Air Festival in Alice Springs. What importance do you see of having a heavy music festival with all Australian bands?

Spend Friday 18 January soaking up the sun by day and soaking in Kim Churchill by night at the Torquay Hotel from 8pm. GA tickets via torquayhotelsummerseries.com.au

well set up. The sound, the atmosphere and normally there’s already drums there so I don’t have to bring my own. You just need to get up and it sounds great; there’s nothing to worry about – I love that. Then once you’re done, you can just enjoy the rest of the festival. You guys dropped your second album We’re Not Talking back in September! How’s all that been? It’s been good! The response seems to be pretty good. We did a tour overseas for two months and people seem to like it, both the record and the shows. We went to Europe and America, which we did for our debut as well. This is the fourth tour we’ve done – we’ve been pretty busy! For this album coming two years after your debut in 2016, do you feel there’s many By The Meadow, the much loved boutique differences between the albums, in terms of both music festival, is back for its sixth year in 2019 process and content? taking place on March 29-31 at the lush farmland It’s pretty different. We’ve worked really hard on hamlet of Bambra (Victoria’s enchanting Otway this one, not that we didn’t work hard on the first Surf Coast region). Leading the local menagerie one but we were just able to play our instruments is Brisbane three-piece The Goon Sax, still hot better now and think more about the production – from dropping their September album, We’re Not this producer made it sound really polished. The Talking. The trio just wrapped up an east coast first album, I was only 17 at the time but they’re just tour to celebrate the launch of their sophomore about our feelings at the time in our lives. record, and are set to support Parquet Courts What’s the writing process like, is it a early next year. We chat to drummer Riley Jones. collaborative effort? Hey thanks for chatting to Forte Magazine. We are now. It used to be the process of they would Congratulations on being added to the By The write songs and bring them to practice and then Meadow lineup for its sixth edition. Have you we’d work out our parts, but now we’re writing songs ever been to that one before? together and sharing parts; it’s a bit more fun and No we haven’t ever been to that one. We’ve played more collaborative now. It’s just something that’s a few festivals, we’ve done Meredith and some happened over time for us, we have a better idea of overseas as well but it will be good to get to this one. how to get the sounds we want and how to go for an What are you looking forward to about aesthetic. It can be hard to communicate what you heading to the Meadow? want to your friends, but I think if we keep going, we Well if it’s really in a meadow, that will be pretty can definitely get to a strong shared vision and I’m cool! I’m looking forward to playing, I haven’t seen really excited about that. the full lineup yet but it seems this festival has a What’s next for The Goon Sax heading into really good rep. People seemed really excited when 2019? we’ve told them about us playing it so there seems We’re just going to work on our next album so like there’s a lot of hype for it. stay tuned! Oh and we need to get a practice room... For you guys as a band, do you prefer performing on a festival stage or are you more Catch The Goon Sax at By The Meadow 2019. fans of an intimate gig? Tickets via www.bythemeadow.com I really like festivals because it’s usually really

THE GOON SAX

FOUR SONGS TO GET YOU WARMED UP FOR RNB VINE DAYS Get ready to boogie down because RNB Vine Days is making its way to Geelong for 2019. Bringing a huge offering of wines and beats, RNB Vine Days will keep you partying away under the summer sun all damn day. Making your wildest ‘90s and ‘00s dreams come true, this year’s lineup will see Nelly, Craig David, All Saints and Amerie slinging out back to back bangers, with DJ YO! MAFIA keeping the party in full swing throughout the day. ‘Hot in Herre’ by Nelly This song had us 90’s kids thinking we were about to have a great club experience when in reality it was nothing like that. I mean, people taking their clothes off in the club sounded like a pretty hectic time. Regardless, Nelly made history with this party anthem. After its release, the song reigned number one on the Billboard Hot 100 for seven consecutive weeks. Nelly’s memorable first line alone (“I was like Good gracious, ass is bodacious” is enough to have this one top the list. Embrace your inner Nelly and bring some water-resistant cheek bandages – the chance of getting a sweat on is high with this track. ‘7 Days’ by Craig David This one just had to be included didn’t it? This one is Craig David’s biggest hit to date - and it’s no surprise why. Telling the tale about seducing a

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It’s pretty exciting, it’s a good way to interact with other bands around the country and see the crowd, going off and banging their heads to all our music. You guys just released your second album ‘Break The Silence last month. What was the process like for that album? Is there a message within it? We only took about a month to make it. We were with a few other bands who were using the same studio so it was roughly about a month to put it together - the mixing and mastering was the part that took a while though. As for the message; this album is just more about educating the younger generation and promoting strong messages about the effects of drugs. Some of the songs are also educating people about our history too, our ancestors. Now you are heading out on a ‘Break the Silence’ Australian tour Part 1 hitting up Queensland, New South Wales, Tasmania and Victoria (including Blaze Fest). Do you guys prefer doing live shows or jamming? When we come back from Victoria and New South Wales, Queensland and Tassie, we’ll have a couple of weeks break, and then we actually head off on another tour in March down to Western Australia and South Australia as a ‘part 2’ to the tour. We like to do a bit of both – jamming and performing. When we’re bored, we just sit around and start playing music, and then a lot of the time we’ll put on a bit of a show on the weekends and invite other bands to come. Our music is just trying to personally keep this younger generation out of trouble and keep them entertained. Thanks for chatting! We’re looking forward to catching you at Blaze Fest. Any last words? We’re just really looking forward to catching up with the bands that we’ve jammed with before and we hope it goes well for everyone involved. We’re really looking forward to it and to put our music out there in this part of the country. When & Where: Blaze Music Festival @ Karova Lounge, Ballarat – January 26. Tickets available at Oztix

woman over the course of one week, this track has cemented itself as a noughies classic. And let’s be real, we all wish our dating lives went as smoothly as Craig’s in this Number 1 single – especially since he was only 17 at the time! What a legend! It also helped his 2000 album ‘Born to Do It’ make history by becoming the fastest selling album ever by a British male solo act at the time so you can’t argue with that! ‘1 Thing’ by Amerie Chances are that you probably forgot about ‘1 Thing’. To be honest, we did too until we heard it making this list, reaffirming its status as solid-gold pop class. The dizzying pace of ‘1 Thing’ encapsulates the thrill of infatuation, and the go-go beat moving it along made it a seriously infectious track back in 2005. As well as been featured on the soundtrack to the 2005 Will Smith film “Hitch”, this song took the radio by storm becoming Amerie’s first number 1 hit on the R&B charts and to date, serves as Amerie’s shining musical moment and one of the best songs of the 2000’s. Ah, memories. ‘Never Ever’ by All Saints All Saint’s smash hit “Never Ever” has it all. On top of a slow beautiful melody and a relatable message of heat break and closure, the song opens with a minute long monologue. The slick ballad spent eight weeks in the Top 10 before finally grabbing the top spot in January 1998, their first Number 1, and went on to solidify their place in British pop history. Plus, the music video features the members of the girl group bathed in ethereal light as they mourn their break ups. Oh and its best line? “The alphabet runs right from A to Z.” So simple, so true. Special mentions to ‘Walking Away’ by Craig David and ‘Ride Wit Me’ by Nelly. These 2000 hits are absolute classics. You’d be lying if you say you never belted these babies out on your 1st generation iPod. Go on, admit it... Alongside these RNB beats, there will be picturesque views, drool-worthy gourmet eats and an incredible selection of signature wines. You won’t want to miss this. It goes down at Mt Duneed Estate in Geelong on Saturday February 9. Tickets via ticketmaster. com.au | Ph: 136 100

ELECTRONIC MUSIC

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This course is designed to teach students how to create electronic music using Ableton Live. Students will learn, basic operation of the program, composition skills, how to mix and master tracks and will gain an introduction to some performance elements. Students will be given hands-on training in a classroom equipped with digital audio workstations and Ableton Live 9 software. - Suitable for beginners - Monday evenings (5:30pm till 8:30pm) - 9 months part-time *Funding is available subject to meeting skills first funding criteria

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Sound Production

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This course focuses on the ever-growing and exciting world of live and studio sound. You will utilise the in-house live performing auditorium to apply sound operation in a live performance context. The course also focuses heavily on studio recording, using state-of-the-art, professional recording studios to teach and apply recording processes.

- Suitable for beginners - Monday evenings (5:30pm till 8:30pm) - 6 months part-time *Funding is available subject to meeting skills first funding criteria

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PIECING IT TOGETHER WITH TINY RUINS WRITTEN BY DARBY-PERRIN LARNER Hollie Fullbrook has just wrapped a day of rehearsal with an orchestra. A first for her. The occasion? An all-female night in Auckland celebrating the anniversary of Women’s right to vote in New Zealand. It’s hard to imagine a world where women couldn’t vote isn’t it? Fitting then, Tiny Ruins’ (the band Fullbrook fronts), impending album is titled Olympic Girls. Due early next year, the record sounds like a holiday house ringing with talent from different rooms, all orchestrated by Fullbrook who brings each sound together and wraps it around her beautiful lyrics. Despite this soundscape, the album was actually recorded underground in band-mate Tom Healy’s

studios, and was pieced together over a year. The bands previous record, Brightly Painted One, was put together in just three weeks in the same studios. On Olympic Girls we can hear the distinct borrowed sounds of a Mellotron. The band travelled to the small town of Kumeu to find a working one and recorded it in-situ, the only recording done outside of the studio. A Mellotron is like a sampler that uses pre-recorded sounds loaded onto visible tapes – it was a favourite of the Beatles, whom Fullbrook is a massive fan of. “I wrote letters to Paul McCartney, I learnt all their songs on guitar and it was quite an extreme devotion,” she reveals. So the homage makes sense, “I think probably that most musicians have the Beatles in their brain somewhere unless they managed to just escape it all together.” Tiny Ruins will be joining the Bendigo Autumn Music festival, just two weeks after they get back from a full European tour. So what does Fullbrook do when she’s not working? She doesn’t have much time to herself, she admits. “When I’m not working on Tiny Ruins stuff, I try to get out of my own brain a bit because it can get very insular when you’re the songwriter, and kind of managing the band, and planning tours, and planning when the next recording is… I quite like to just turn off my brain and watch something really beautiful by somebody else or listen to something by somebody else.” We’ll have a chance to listen to something beautiful by Tiny Ruins themselves with their new EP in February next year and when they tour Australia next April through May.

COOPER LOWER Cooper Lower is original, thought-provoking and meticulous. With heart-cracking vocals, the Warrnambool-based soulful acoustic muso brings soul and vitality into everything he creates. This March long weekend, Cooper will be just one of the artists heading to the glorious seaside village of Port Fairy for the 43rd Port Fairy Folk Festival, joining an event that attracts thousands of music lovers each year. “I am so stoked about it; I’m not really over it yet,” Cooper laughs. Performing on the festival fringe for the past three years in a row, Cooper secured his slot on the lineup after being named Port Fairy Folk Festival’s Emerging Artist of 2018 back in March. “I’m certainly overwhelmed by it, but I’m ready,” Cooper says. “That’s the craziest part; I feel like I’m ready. I’ve spent the past four years crafting a live show that’s actually ready for some of those listeners and Port Fairy does have some of the best listeners in the world at that festival. I really want to spend the next couple of months crafting something that’s worthy for those ears. I think I have it somewhere in me.” Influenced by the likes of John Butler, Ed Sheeran and Lewis Watson, the soulful acoustic muso takes

Catch them at Bendigo Autumn Music, Bendigo on Sunday April 28 and/or at Howler, Melbourne on Thursday May 2.

‘Monsters of the Dirty South’, rehearsing mostly in our genuinely surprised at the sound we can make with hometown of Colac and playing gigs and recording just two people, so that’s honestly a massive buzz that all around Victoria with plans to take that interstate we absolutely love doing. We’re also big believers in and beyond in the near future. being in the moment on stage and connecting with Congrats on the release of your debut EP the audience, so we always make sure we’re having ‘Unfinished Business’. Can you tell us a bit about that? fun and just enjoying the experience for what it is. The Thanks! Yeah, we’re really excited about it, and people you meet through being in a band and playing the four songs are a compilation of songs we have live is priceless! Nothing beats it, really. recorded and played live throughout our lifespan as If you could play one stage in the world, where a band, thus far. We recorded these songs in Colac and would it be? Geelong, and they represent the style of ‘desert rock’ Well, we always wanted to play Cherry Bar, and that we’ve played on stages at venues throughout thankfully we’ve gotten to do that plenty of times (we Melbourne and Victoria over the past 5-6 years. even have a song on the EP named after it). However, the one stage we’d love to play would be Glastonbury. Has this been in the works for some time; what Seeing Foo Fighters and Royal Blood play there last was the process like on this one? It’s definitely been in the works for a long time. year really inspired us. We’ve played so many gigs in the past without actually Plans for 2019 for MOTDS? having a CD release to give to our fans, so the main Well, we have gigs in Geelong and Ballarat (at The elements of the release in terms of the artwork and Eastern) lined up in January, which will finish off our production were completed this year, whilst some of ‘Unfinished Business’ tour! After that, we have plans the music has actually existed for a few years, we’ve to go back into the studio and write new songs and just decided to finally release it on this EP! We finally release an album. We have plenty of songs lined up got there! for it already, and we most certainly have plans to take our shows to other capital cities such as Sydney Who are some of your main influences? and Brisbane, so 2019 will also be another big year We definitely have a lot of influences, but the main ones are Queens of the Stone Age, Nirvana, Arctic for Monsters of the Dirty South! Monkeys and Foo Fighters. Our music is definitely If we wanted to check out your music, where very ‘riff’ and ‘drum beat’ orientated, and we love would we find it? the repetition of the main hook that these bands do. You can find our EP ‘Unfinished Business’ on all They’ve been huge influences. DZ Deathrays have also major digital platforms, including Spotify, Bandcamp, hugely influenced us over the years too, and they’ve YouTube, Apple Music and Google Play Music. been an absolute favourite for a long time. They’ve We’re also on triple j Unearthed, and we also have really inspired us to believe in what we’re doing as physical copies of the EP available too. Facebook and well, as they also started as a two piece band. Other Instagram are also great platforms to keep in touch Mixing desert rock riffs with an electrifying live two piece bands like Royal Blood, Death From Above with our band, too. show, Monsters Of The Dirty South is two piece and The White Stripes have also influenced us. garage rock savagely on its own terms! Based out You guys have been gigging around the area for When & Where: of South-West Victoria, Shaun and Ricky take a some time, including a recent gig at the soon-toThe Workers Club, Geelong – Saturday January 12 love of rock, metal, and experimentation to cover be-ceased Reverence Hotel. What do you enjoy wide sonic territory with their own distinct flavour. most about been up on stage? The Eastern, Ballarat - Friday January 18. Hey guys thanks for chatting to Forte! First up We love playing at all these venues, including The Photo by: Goda Starolyte Reverence and other venues like Cherry Bar, Bendigo can you tell our readers a bit about the band and Hotel, The Barwon Club, The Black Hatt, Workers how you guys came to be? Club and The Eastern, but we love creating energy Basically we’re a two piece band that plays garage and alternative Rock, with plenty of influences. We’ve on stage, simple as that! Being a two piece band, been playing music together for a long time, but we’re always finding ways to create as big of a sound over the past few years we have gone on to play as as possible, and over the years, people have been

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you on a journey with his music, especially in his most recent EP Mysteries of Midnight, which was released early this year. From the beginning to the end, you’re transported into another place which almost leads you to believe Lower polished his sets as part of the vibrant busking scene in Byron Bay. Armed with the tracks from this EP, along with his back catalogue of originals, Port Fairy will be the perfect stage to showcase Lower’s obvious technical abilities and musical finesse, from his good sense of rhythm and melody to his polished song structure. “I’m also writing new material with this new vision that I have for the acoustic music I’m producing,” Cooper says. Performing since he was just 16 years old, the now 20 year old has new perspective since returning from capturing the hearts and minds of strangers with his music throughout North America and Europe for the past six months. “A lot has happened in the last six months in terms of creativity and vision and drive,” he explains. “I’ve always had this community around me, particularly in Warrnambool, that no matter what I was trying, they’ve always stood 100 per cent behind me. Now, I feel like I’m 100 per cent behind me and I’m ready to destroy the world a little bit. “I don’t have stadium based aspirations,” he continues. “For now, I’m focusing on capitalising on the skills I’ve been building the last six to nine months, and trying to bridge the gap between the niche style of percussive guitar, and music that you can really connect with. Sometimes if you’re seeing hands fly everywhere it can be a spectacle of course, but I want to make it so it’s conceivable and you connect with it, while still serving the song. That’s been my motto for the past four months; it doesn’t matter what you can do on guitar, just serve the song and make sure that people can connect to the music. That’s the thing I’m most passionate about.” Port Fairy Folk Festival will be going down from Friday March 8 until Monday March 11, 2019. Buy your tickets via portfairyfolkfestival.com

IGGY POP, NATHANIEL RATELIFF, FANTASTIC NEGRITO & MORE ANNOUNCE BLUESFEST 2019 SIDESHOWS In epic news to finish of the year, punk legend Iggy Pop, singer-songwriter Nathaniel Rateliff, The Marcus King Band, and Grammy-winner Fantastic Negrito have announced official 2019 Bluesfest sideshows. Fresh from being added to the 2019 Bluesfest lineup last month, Iggy Pop has secured headline shows in Melbourne and Sydney in April, including two shows in the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall. Alongside Iggy, seven-piece soul crew Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats will perform at The Croxton on April 18, American blues and roots hero Fantastic Negrito (Xavier Dphrepaulezz) will perform at The Corner in Melbourne on April 15, and South Carolina blues rockers The Marcus King Band will play at Melbourne’s Northcote Social Club on April 17 to mark their Australian debut, before performing at Bluesfest over the Easter period. Tickets via www.bluesfesttouring.com.au/

JOHN MAYER IS BRINGING HIS WORLD TOUR TO AUSTRALIA The legend that is John Mayer has finally announced his return to Australia for a 2019 headline tour behind his latest album The Search For Everything. The American singer-songwriter will kick off his 2019 ‘An Evening With John Mayer’ tour in New Zealand in March, before performing at Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Melbourne’s Rod Laver Arena and Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena later that month. Known for massive hits, such as this year’s “New Light,” “Gravity,” “Love on the Weekend,” “Heartbreak Warfare,” “Daughters,” “Waiting on the World to Change,” “Your Body Is a Wonderland,” and many more, these shows will see Mayer perform tracks from throughout his career, as part of his first tour down under since 2014. There will also be no support acts during the tour.

JOHN BUTLER TRIO Coming Home... WRITTEN BY NATALIE ROGERS To mark the release of HOME, the John Butler Trio’s most personal album yet, Butler, Grant Garethy and Byron Luiters will be heading out on the road this summer, and taking a slew of Australia’s finest musos along for the ride. “I want to celebrate with my friends and really connect with people along the way,” Butler says. “It feels so good to have these songs out in the world and to be able to talk about them honestly. All my life I have experienced times of feeling insecure and vulnerability was never my strong suit. I guess I’d always seen vulnerability as a bit of a weakness,” he adds, “but finally I was ready to let it all out and let people in.” Four years in the making, HOME, exposes the LA-born songwriter’s inner-most thoughts on love, life as a modern man, and past demons he’d worked so hard to ignore. “I was very much inspired by my wife Daniellle [Caruana AKA Mama Kin] she’s an artist as well,” he says. “She is such an incredible storyteller and unafraid to be vulnerable on stage,” he says. “ So I thought I’d take a leaf out of her book, be who I am, reach more people, and feel more free doing it.”

After the release of Flesh & Blood in 2014, Butler and his family made the life-changing decision to pack in the chaotic urban lifestyle of tour buses and hotels they had become accustomed to and move to a rural property in the south of Western Australia. “It’s a place that holds lots memories for me,” he says. “It was home after I moved from LA to Australia as a kid.” Butler says he wasted no time getting his hands dirty making this new house a home. There was always something to be done, from building chook sheds and nurturing gardens, to chainsawing until his hands were numb. Splitting wood, digging ditches. fixing irrigation. However, once the dust had settled he found himself feeling overwhelmed and a little lost. “In the end it turned out writing this album was what I needed to help me sort out my shit!” he laughs. “I could quite easily let myself get caught up in the anxiety of it all - but I thought speaking out about it would help other people going through a similar time feel less alone.” Once it was time to get back into the studio, Butler was on the hunt for a producer and knew he had to find the right man for the job. “I worked with a couple of different producers on this album and the vibe never felt right,” he says. “If I’m honest I would have done the whole thing on my own but unfortunately I didn’t have all right gear. After a while I started working with Jan Skubiszewski and he really understood my vision. “We had many nights around the fire after recording then we’d go back into the studio and make some more music. He’s a real comrade, a fine man. He’s got a great ear and a big heart. He’s someone I like having around. “Although the album didn’t turn out exactly as I had planned,” Butler adds. “It is a hybrid of ideas, kind of like my Frankenstein,” he laughs. “I like the analogy that these songs were like wild horses, I didn’t want to break their spirit, but I needed to bring them home.”

“Spotify and streaming is definitely levelling the playing field, you have access to the whole world.” Casey stumbles for words. “But then, I do have to say there is an Irish pub in every city, no matter where you go!” That’s true. Whether it be a fingerful or half your soul, everyone’s a little bit Irish, so everyone’s open to Flogging Molly.

FLOGGING MOLLY WRITTEN BY ANNA ROSE

Slowly Slowly are busy busy. Touring their behinds off in the UK recently, recognition for the Melbourne punk rocker’s explosive sound and bitter-sweet melancholia has grown rapidly this year. And of course, in the words of frontman Ben Stewart, it only makes Slowly Slowly feel really awesome. “We revel in the painstaking bits as well,” he says, “it’s a bit more conducive to the funny stories when you’re in a tired state – kind of like a sleepover at high school and everyone’s laughing – it’s been like that, it’s awesome.” Releasing their second album St. Leonards earlier this year, phwoar! Talk about them feels. You’ve gotta hear it to feel it. Releasing this album has, Stewart says, has taken Slowly Slowly on a more rabid journey. “It sounds weird to say but the first album we made, it was done entirely in my bedroom and I recorded all the instruments myself.

There’s none crazier than an Australian audience, who Flogging Molly of course will see when they perform at Bluesfest next Easter, a guaranteed highenergy performance reciprocated between band and audience.

Speaking of his fanbase, figures are well and good for Flogging Molly – they recently posted their Spotify figures on their Facebook page, stats into the millions, 65 countries reached – that Flogging Molly’s material is so universal, and so universally loved, resonates pretty well with Casey. “It’s humbling,” he says, “When I saw that too, I was like, ‘huh?’

When & Where: Myer Music Bowl, Melbourne – February 7.

Creatively, St. Leonards has been a step in the right direction for the band, Stewart says, feeling their songwriting abilities shine through more these days. “The way it’s been received has been mental,” he says, “It’s absolutely a rollercoaster since the release.”

WRITTEN BY ANNA ROSE

“When you watch an audience go absolutely crazy when you start playing it gives you more energy than you can imagine.”

Ferociously touring the UK, selling out shows, Irish-American Celtic punks Flogging Molly can pretty much let the numbers do the talking for what it’s like for them to be performing in 2018. “The whole Fireball tour has been a “We’ve spent so much time together, done so many success,” begins guitarist Dennis Casey “well, things, written so many songs, played so many times, it just makes me grateful, proud, and elated.” had wonderful times, hard times, not so hard times and all in between. At the end, it’s the love of this Quickly Casey is thinking out loud, mulling over music and being able to share it with people.” Flogging Molly’s healthy rate of success and popularity over the last 22 years. “We do well, we’ve When & Where: built a strong fan base – I imagine it would be hard 170 Russell, Melbourne – April 17. touring placed like here [UK] and not many people Tickets via www.bluesfesttouring.com.au showing up to see.”

“The first album, Chamomile, gave us a bit of a springboard. Me and Alex [Quayle] we’ve been there since the start but with Albert [Doan] with us on St. Leonards, it’s got more of a band feel, you can hear the personalities on that record.”

SLOWLY SLOWLY

There’s an honesty and a particular soul to the band that has obviously translated on a global scale, but two decades into their tenure, Flogging Molly there’s a simple explanation for what keeps the band going and keeps the people so in love with this raucous melody. “It’s the sheer love of what we do,” says Casey. “Creating this whole thing from the beginning is a solid foundation – everybody has to come like our second family.

Slowly Slowly’s two albums are each awesome in their own right, but the latest release really puts a spotlight on the changes in sentiment and delivery the band have adopted, particularly since the addition of Doan. “The other boys in the band help with the arrangements toward the final stages and bring their character to it with the performance,” says Stewart, “but most of the songs are still almost written entirely in my bedroom!

NICKELBACK RETURN TO FEED AUSSIE ROCKERS WRITTEN BY TAMMY WALTERS “50 million albums worldwide, 11th best selling musical act of all time, Billboards most successful rock group of the last decade, six Grammy nominations, 12 Juno awards (those count), six Billboard Music Awards, two American Music Awards, one People’s Choice Award- Canadian, and a partridge in f**king pear tree.” We can thank Deadpool for that highlights reel of one of Canada’s biggest exports, Nickelback. The unlikely hero came to the defence of fellow Canadian alumni being the butt of all jokes in the latest trailer for Once Upon A Deadpool, a notion highly appreciated by bassist Mike Kroeger. “It’s a novelty being on the right side of a joke for once,” Kroeger admits. “Ryan Reynolds is such a cool guy. Beyond the fact that he likes us, he’s a pretty awesome guy. He’s hilarious! And the Deadpool character is an interesting take on a superhero, because not only is the character clever and witty, he’s also Canadian, which whoever heard of that!” The Nickelback directed praise is well deserved. Even being the punch-line, the rockers sell out arenas worldwide boasting twelve consecutive soldout international tours and performing to more than eight million diehard fans. “When you get to see someone present all of these

“Some songs are a bit of a rabbit hole, and it’s really nice to have people to bounce ideas off and we end up somewhere we didn’t expect it to. That’s been really cool.” Going from what essentially began as bedroom rock to playing stages like the likes of Torquay Hotel Summer Series, where Slowly Slowly will appear next month as part of the venues epic saga of summer shows, has been a pretty easy yet wild transition, according to Stewart. “We started out playing to 15 people and over the two years, it’s built gradually. “I’m shocked sometimes when I do an interview like this, I look at some of our achievements and I’m like, ‘Woah, I can’t believe we’re doing that!’ We’re rolling with the punches and then you start running, you don’t stop to look up. Step by step, we’re trying to keep our heads above water.” When & Where: The Torquay Hotel, Torquay – Friday January 11.

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data points and propaganda it’s a pretty compelling argument that we’ve done some stuff, and to have him do that was very nice and very kind. Hats off to Deadpool for jumping to our defence. We may sign him up to be our PR person in the future,” Kroeger laughs. Though the jokes can be tiring, Kroeger notes, “For any challenge that we have, I think it pales in comparison to the challenge that a new artist has now.” Australia is no exception to the Nickelback lovefest. In October the four piece announced their return down under in 2019 for the Feed The Machine Tour. Playing just three shows on their Australian leg in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne, they were disappointed that time constraints meant they couldn’t add Adelaide, Perth and even the north of Australia to the dates and “humbly ask that fans travel to see them”. The last time Nickelback were in Australia was in May 2015, and they’re sure excited to be back, especially since Kroeger was almost one of us! “Ever since we first came I’ve loved Australia and I did actually consider moving my family to OZ early on because it’s such a great place and I thought it would be a great place to raise kids. It’s just a wonderful country but it was a little bit too far from the grandparents.” We would have received him with arms wide open [wrong band], just as we’ve received their 2017 ARIA #3 “straight up hard rock” album, Feed The Machine, beating out even their home country for the most streams and album sales. “As far as Feed The Machine goes I think it’s the biggest debut in Australia we’ve ever had. It seems like Australia just want to rock. At this point we’ve sold more records or albums or streams on Feed The Machine. We’ve sold more music in Australia than in Canada which Canada is normally heads above the rest.” Kroeger continues that it makes sense as he has always felt connected to our country with warm welcomes every time he touches down. “Every time we get off the plane we go why don’t we come here more often and we can’t really come up with an answer so we’ll have to keep coming back.” They’ll hit Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne on February 16. Tickets are available at Live Nation. www.musicvictoria.com.au/cultivate 25

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EXPLORE BALLARAT THE BALLARAT Beer Festival is returning to the city for another year, so why not make a weekend of it?

FRIDAY NIGHT Brewery Visits As a hub of craft beer, it makes sense to use your Ballarat visit to venture along your very own trail and scope out some of the region’s breweries and cideries including Red Duck, Cubby Haus, Rebellion and 321 Cider @ Cafe Sidra. Degustation dinner Held the night before the festival, Gallagher’s Friday Night Degustation Dinner provides the best opportunity to mix and mingle with the brewers as you enjoy a delicious 5-course menu served with perfectly-matched beers. Hosted by The Beer Diva and Professor Pilsner, the degustation dinner is a huge night on the Australian beer calendar. Wine and dine If you weren’t able to nab tickets to the degustation, fear not! Instead, get comfortable at one of Ballarat’s gourmet restaurants, craft beer hotspots or wine bars such as The Forge, The Mallow, Hop Temple or Mitchell Harris Wine Bar and order yourself a locally-produced gourmet dinner accompanied by a glass of the region’s top drops.

SATURDAY The Main Event Ballarat Beer Festival features more than 150 of the world’s finest craft beers as well as hours of entertainment, activities and music for all ages. You’ll be kicking back under the summery skies as you sample, sip and savour your way to craft beertopia. This year’s festival will also feature a selection of the top wines and ciders from the region. The music line-up features: Butterfunked, Kelly Auty, Justin Yap Band, Blues Roulette, Frank Sultana, PJ O’Brien, Cass Eager, Christina Croft and 80s Collection. Gastro pub eats Continue the gastronomic celebrations at one of Ballarat’s prized gastro pubs. The Western Hotel, Lake View Hotel, The George Lane or Golden City are great places to round-off your Beer Fest experience.

SUNDAY Brunch vibes There’s still plenty of cafes to explore and lots of room left to savour the city’s best eats. Wake up around brunch time and head out for another wholesome meal and caffeine fix. Classic sounds After a relaxed Sunday afternoon? Find your place at Ballarat’s Botanical Gardens for the Summer Sundays event and relish in the mood, tunes and flavours of the month! For more information on everything Ballarat has to offer, speak to a friendly local at the Ballarat Visitor Information Centre, Town Hall 225 Sturt St Ballarat.

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Neko Case (USA) Tim Rogers, Didirri, Wallis Bird (IRL) Mojo Juju Gregory Alan Isakov (SA) Sal Kimber & The Rollin Wheel Hollow Coves, Z Star (UK) Liz Stringer, 19 Twenty, Blue Shaddy Blackeyed Susans & Strings, Mick Thomas’ Roving Commission Basia Bulat (CAN) Greta Stanley, Cooper Lower, Van Walker The Weeping WillowsSkipping , Front country (USA)The Little Quirks Mark Lang ( VinegarGirl ) Junkadelic Brass Band Immy Owusu, Fenn Wilson and much much more ALL ARTISTS PERFORM MULTIPLE TIMES

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THE OCEAN HEAD PROGFEST’S 10TH ANNIVERSARY IN 2019 WRITTEN BY ALEX CALLAN With The Ocean being one of the world’s most prolific progressive metal bands, I have to say I found it quite surprising when I found out how the groups lead guitarist, singer and songwriter, Robin Staps spends his time off…clubbing in Berlin. “It’s a very exciting place to go out; since I’ll be on tour for the next three months I’ve got this month to properly celebrate with my friends,” Staps states. “I’ve always had a very diverse musical taste. These days I would say I actually listen to electronic music more than I listen to metal, but metal will always be my roots and where my heart is.” After discussing the state of Australia’s electronic music scene we quickly moved onto Phanerozoic 1: Palaeozoic, the German post-metal outfit’s first album in five years. “We didn’t really know what to expect because it’s the first album we have released in five years

and that’s quite a long time in between albums,” he explains. “When you do release a record after such a long time you never really know if people give a fuck about it, but, they do and that’s been great to see.” Expanding on the new material, Staps spoke of how refreshing it has been to perform new songs live. “It’s really important for us to start a new chapter,” he says. “I still love our last album, Pelagial, but it got to the point where we were getting a bit tired of it, especially considering that tour cycle we played over 300 shows and each time performed the album from the beginning to the end as that is how it was written. We just got to the point where we were craving something new and fresh.” With Part Two set for release in 2020, Staps spoke of why the band decided to not release Phanerozoic as a double album. “People’s attention span is short these days. I feel if you release a double album with over 90 to 100 minutes of music on it, most people won’t even finish the album because they are already distracted and listening to something else. “We wanted to release a very concise album that has a very clear theme and sound and the second part is going to be more stylistically eclectic and diverse,” he continues. “I think it was wise to split it into two different records. Even though the second part kicks off where the first part finishes, it kicks off into something different all together.” Fans will be able to witness the magic of Phanerozoic when The Ocean headline the 10th anniversary of Progfest in January. “The last two tours were really good and now with Progfest, it’s a great chance to play even bigger shows and for me to check out a lot of bands. I think Australia has a very interesting and vibrant scene in regards to progressive heavy music so I am very excited to see a lot of Australian bands perform.” The Ocean will headline Progfest 2019 at The Croxton, Melbourne on Saturday January 26. Tickets available now from wildthingpresents. com

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:EXPLORE, DISCOVER AND ENJOY THE GABF Raise your glasses, and say cheers as the Great Australian Beer Festival (GABF) returns for its seventh year. Set for February 16, it’s time to start prepping your beer bellies for a day of drinking from 1pm-8pm at the Geelong Racecourse next year. Sounds good so far, but do you want a taste of what you’ll experience at GABF ‘19? Picture this – hundreds of delicious craft beers and ciders, all at your fingertips, dozens of local vendors, smoking slow-cooked meats throughout, a rockin’ piano bar, beer cocktails, coffee martinis, interactive games, three stages with live music and one epic day filled to the brim with memories and of course, alcohol. Now we think that’s a perfectly crafted experience, don’t you? GABF overflows with fun, from the moment you set hands on your tasting glass, ‘til the time you’re tipping back your last craft beer of the day! Celebrate craft beer and party with your friends and the community, while sampling hundreds of new brews from all over Australia. Before you know it, you’ll be jamming along with the live music, snacking on delicious food, indulging in a range of time-honoured games of chance. Whether you prefer the Belgians or Blondes, the Pales or Pilsners, or the Saisons or Wits – get along to the 7th annual GABF Geelong on Saturday 16th February, and discover your next favourite brew. Cheers! Tickets are on sale now via www.gabf.com.au.

FIVE OF GEELONG’S NEWEST EATERIES Another month, another wave of cafe and eatery openings in the region. These are the ones you should know about: KERMOND’S HAMBURGERS One of our favourite things in this world, is getting your hands wrapped around a burger, making a mess and finishing the last piece with sticky fingers and a full stomach. Is there anything better? Well lucky for all you burger lovers, Geelong has been blessed with a new venue serving up some truly delicious next level sandwich creation in Kermond’s Hamburgers. An institution in Warrnambool, this is the second Kermond’s to open up in Victoria and we’ve heard some pretty good reports so far. Open for

GATES OPEN

SCREENINGS START AT

8.30PM

SUNDOWN

NEW YEAR ON THE PIER WRITTEN BY CHLOE CICERO

There’s nothing worse than getting to the day before New Year’s Eve and realising you don’t have a single iota of how you’re going to bring in the New Year. That’s where the people at The Pier Geelong come in; they’ve organised everything for you at a tidy price and extremely picturesque venue. Who needs to get stuck at the supermarket thinking of the ingredients to a Pina Colada when you’ve got tickets to New Years on The Pier. Guided by the theme ‘Nautical But Nice’, this is your chance to celebrate the new year like you’re on a yacht sailing the French Riviera. Kicking off at 8pm on New Years Eve (Monday December 31), you will be at the best vantage point in Geelong with the view of the last sunset of 2018 before witnessing both the 9pm and midnight fireworks. With exclusive bay and city skyline views, this is the only way to bring in 2019 in spectacular fashion. Tickets for this unmissable soiree are $59 per person, and this will cover your entry, two (yes, two) beverages upon arrival, roaming canapes, antipasto and cheese grazing platters, as well as live music from 8pm, with a DJ from 9. All other drinks are at bar prices The dress code is nautical themed, so rustle up your whites, blues and greens, sandals and boat shoes. Think the cast of Gossip Girl during summer in the Hamptons, or imagine you’re sailing along the French Riviera, whatever floats your boat. We know you know already but strictly no thongs, baseball caps or singlets. It’s all about the class this New Years.

CHAS COLE CELLARS Ahhhh.....Summer, Christmas, Boxing Day, New Years Eve. Sounds like a good time to crack a cold beer, pop a cork, or maybe you prefer to mix your drinks? Chas Cole Cellars has been a prominent name in Geelong for many years, established in Geelong as a fine wine Merchant in 1973. With a massive range of your usual fare, plus fortified wines, harder to find spirits and an awesome craft beer range, they are the place to go for even the discerning drinker. Conveniently located on Moorabool street across the road from Kardinia Park, they will happily guide you through a selection of tasty beverages for any occasion. Having a party? Need cool room hire? Give them a call and you can be sure of A1 service from go to whoa. With delivery options available, you don’t even have to leave your chair to get that alcoholic goodness. Don’t know what to buy for that hard-to-buyfor person? With a wide range of International Wines, Gins and Whiskeys, and other less common spirits, you are sure to be able to find that something special for that someone special! All the local favourites are also readily available. No doubt, Chas Coles are your one stop shop for Summer drinking lovin’! ! Enjoy responsibly!

Tickets are on sale now at www. thepiergeelong.com.au/nye2018, all patrons must be 18+ to attend.

CHAS COLE CELLARS 395 Moorabool St, Geelong. 5223 3322.

breakfast, lunch and dinner, Kermond’s burgers are your traditional greasy, cheese filled, dripping with delicious-goodness burger. With almost 70 years creating burgers, it puts you in pretty good stead as one of the best in the region. Burger lovers, this one’s for you. Kermond’s Hamburgers in Geelong is located at 212 Ryrie St, Geelong. DOSA HUT Say hello to Geelong’s first Indian multi cuisine destination, Dosa Hut. As the pioneers when it comes to bringing authentic South Indian food culture to Australia, Dosa Hut was born out of a passion for food. Boasting all your favourite Indian dishes and more, you’ll find a range of dishes like Biryani, Indo Chinese and Chaat, and of course, Dosas to indulge in. They even offer some cheeky meal deals throughout the week. Known staying true to the spices, flavours and textures found in original South Indian cuisine, if you’re looking for an authentic experience, look no further than this new venue. Get ready to pamper your taste buds silly. Dosa Hut is located at 126 Ryrie St, Geelong. OSTERIA FIORENZA Osteria Fiorenza is Geelong’s newest home to some of the tastiest Italian cooking outside of Italy itself. Opening only recently, the restaurant celebrates

traditional Italian flavours, focusing on the simple, flavourful dishes. We’ve got our eye on the beetroot gnocchi, eye fillet cooked in Chianti sauce and pan fried Tasmanian salmon. If you like your Italian, they are open for lunch and dinner from Thursday to Sunday. Osteria Fiorenza is located at 49 Gheringhap Street, Geelong THE GREEK CUSTOMS HOUSE Whether it’s cracking open a crab or grabbing the last calamari ring; slurping up oysters, or shucking fresh lobsters – everyone has a sweet spot for seafood, and Geelong now have a dedicated restaurant for it. Headed by Peter Conistis, a pioneer of modern Greek cuisine in Sydney, The Greek Customs House is the new seafood-focused taverna that’s taken over the heritage-listed Customs House on the Geelong waterfront. Inspired by Greek traditions and modern styles of cooking, the menu is as close to family style beach cuisine as possible. Oh and the best part about it all is that they have a big display of seafood near the front of the dining room, where you can select your meal and have it cooked over charcoal and olive wood on the big outdoor oven. How’s that for a unique dining experience? The Greek Customs House is located at 57 Brougham Street, Geelong. THE HOP INN Okay this one isn’t exactly an eatery as much as it is a watering hole, but it definitely deserves a mention. Previously known as Odyssey Tavern & Brewery, the Hop Inn is the newest place to go for a cold brew. Now under new owners, the bar has had a bit of an up-do, with new flavours and some new drinks to enjoy on tap and in the fridge. For the regulars, you’ll still find a selection of the Odyssey beers on tap, as well as Melbourne Bitter and many others. You’ll also find a tidy menu boasting bites like buffalo wings, New York style pizza, hot dogs and delicious burgers to see you through. The Hop Inn is located at 611-621 Surf Coast Hwy, Mount Duneed.

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UPCOMING GIGS

THE BLIXERS

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FRIDAY 28TH DEC F R O M 6 P M

NEW YEARS EVE OPEN UNTIL 1AM

COUNTING IN THE NEW YEAR

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GREAT MUSIC, GREAT BEER 12 - 14 UNION ST GEELONG FOR INFO ON OUR UPCOMING LIVE MUSIC: facebook.com/valhallabrew

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Sometimes (and if I’m really honest it’s often in the times that really matter and with those I love most) I feel like I’m just not strong enough to be as kind as my values would dictate. And my actions reflect this. The worst parts of me, my anxiety, my fragility, my fears and deep deep need for self preservation mean that sometimes I am sharp and snappy, selfish or defensive.

THE FURPHY OUTDOOR CINEMA RETURNS FOR ITS THIRD SUMMER Little Creatures Brewery in collaboration with Furphy Refreshing Ale are bringing a unique outdoor cinema experience to Geelong locals over four weeks in January with a series of cracking ‘Classic 90’s’ films. The cinema will launch on Wednesday 9th January with Spielberg’s original Jurassic Park, and continue weekly with a brilliant line up of Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction, Adam Sandler’s Happy Gilmore and finishing the summer off with Brad Pitt in Fight Club.

Now I’ve forgiven myself for this as I’m human and not meant to be perfect. But you know what I have learned? I’ve learned through the perspective of time, EVERY SINGLE TIME I haven’t felt strong enough to be kind, I look and wish I had been. I reflect and wish I could whisper in my own ear “Kim, you ARE strong enough”. plonk in what could be argued as a Willy Wonka’s Chocolate factory for beer with festoon lighting. The explosive growth of the 100 per cent Victorian beer has cultivated the event, inspiring the brewery to give back to the supportive community through local events.

THIS HOT MESS

As part of your ticket, you’ll receive a complimentary Furphy Refreshing Ale, entry into the Outdoor Cinema space, and your seat (on a first in best dressed basis). There is a bar within the space serving Furphy, of course, as well as Little Creatures’ Dog Days, Cider, house wine, soft drink, as well as a popcorn machine and an ice-cream bike.

You are strong enough to be kind Sometimes kindness comes SO easily to me. In fact, I’d go as far to say that mostly it’s my natural state of being, even sometimes some would say to a fault. I’ve often been lovingly teased by those closest to me about being kinder than I need to be and often when it’s not socially required. Like when I try to make our tables waiter laugh (sometimes with equality disastrous and hilarious outcomes), or when I insist on making small talk with the person packing my groceries because in my mind, now is always the best time to choose more kindness than needed.

The Furphy Outdoor Cinema will run weekly from Wednesday 9th of January through to the 30th of January, with gates opening around 8pm and movies beginning at sundown, around 9pm. Peep the session times below:

In alignment with Furphy’s mission to celebrate storytelling and bring mates together over an ice cold beer, the outdoor cinema will commemorate the incredibly popular Geelong beer by welcoming its drinkers in front of some of Australia’s most iconic screen productions. Appealing to ones comfort compass, moviegoers will be able to fetch a bean bag or deck chair and

Wednesday January 9 – Jurassic Park Wednesday January 17 – Pulp Fiction Wednesday January 23 – Happy Gilmore Wednesday January 30 – Fight Club

So this is my offering to you this issue Forte crew. Choose kindness. Even when you don’t feel strong enough. I’m not sure where this applies to your life right now, but I know a circumstance or person is coming to mind because you’re human and imperfect just like me. And even though you may not feel like it in the moment, you can choose a kinder tone. You can hold back from saying that harsh or snappy sentence. You can say, “yes” to helping that person again with something they should by now be able to do by themselves. You have have the strength within you. Our ability to choose our actions irrespective of our feelings is so much greater than we know. We sometimes simply need only try. So follow your gut. Trust your instincts right now about situation that came to mind and choose kindness, even though you don’t feel you can. Because I promise you, your future self is standing next to you whispering “You are strong enough to be kind.” ALL MY LOVE, KIM XX

Follow Kim’s blog @thishotmessau

Although like every “rule”, there is often an exception…

Tickets are available now from Eventbrite.

1. WHEN YOU RUN OUT OF DRUGS An absolute gold drug riddled parody of those emotional death scenes in films - only instead of death they’re coming down off a selection of party drugs. A guest appearance by another Forte favourite Frenchy makes this one to watch. 2. AUSSIE BOGAN & SACHA BARON COHEN Alex throughout his career has had the chance to interview several well known actors and performers but his interview with comedy legend Sacha Baron Cohen is a a real standout and worth looking at. 3. WORST THING IN AUSTRALIA If you’re familiar with Alex’s YouTube content this one is an absolute fan favourite, featuring some really great cameos from some of Australia’s most well known comics. It’s the promo for the Cow Downie Fair!

ALEX WILLIAMSON FUNNIEST VIDEO’S... SO FAR Aussie comic genius Alex Williamson cannot stop delivering laughs to the masses and with the announcement of his new tour for 2019 (Sin on my face) not to mention two sneaky performances of his previous show (So Wrong, It’s Wrong) in Horsham and Mt Gambier, he’s showing no signs of slowing down. We decided that in celebration of the new tour we’ve compiled a little list of our favourite Alex Williamson videos from his wildly popular YouTube channel - shooterwilliamson

GET ON RED THIS SUMMER

4. MY SLOW MATE A brilliant skit featuring the hilarious Stephen K Amos as a guest appearance, based around two friends, one of which isn’t the sharpest tool in the shed.

In exciting news for local sporting nuts, the Melbourne Renegades are bringing the juggernaut that is the Twenty20 Big Bash League back to our doorstep. In a massive coup for the City of Greater Geelong on the back of last season’s record crowd for a nonAFL match at GMHBA Stadium, the Renegades are returning for not one, but TWO huge double-headers this January. The Big Bash League (BBL) is a shortened version of cricket, where games usually last approximately three hours with each team having twenty overs to bat. This means entertainment right from the outset with inventive and big-hitting batting, quick and clever bowling, acrobatic and athletic catching and fielding, plus those moments that leave fans gasping on the edge of their seats. Even non-cricket fans are going to have a day out! If that all sounds good to you, it’s also a great event to take the family to as the Renegades provide plenty for the kiddies too. The first double-header on Thursday January 3 will have a Nickelodeon flavour, with the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles making a special appearance. For the second double-header on Sunday January 13, fans are encouraged to dress

5. COW DOWNIE CENTENARY! Cow Downie Fair is back for its Centenary celebration - come for the tumbleweed demonstration, stay for the window licking! some great Aussie comic and musician cameos present in this one. 6. IF POKEMON WERE REAL A dark and yet funny look into what the world would be like if Pokemon were real, total gold. 7. LOOSEST AUSSIE BLOKE EVER We couldn’t do a list of Alex’s funniest work without including the video that built his fan base! a YouTube classic.

Catch Alex Williamson’s So Wrong, It’s Wrong at Horsham Theatre on Friday February 8 & Mount Gambier’s Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre on Saturday February 9.

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up as their favourite animal for a Zoofari theme with plenty of prizes up for grabs. Check out the Renegades in Geelong: Double Header Game 1 – Thursday January 3 at GMHBA Stadium Women’s: Renegades vs Hobart Hurricanes from 2:50pm Men’s: Renegades vs Adelaide Strikers from 7:15pm Double Header Game 2 – Sunday January 13 at GMHBA Stadium Women’s: Renegades vs Sydney Sixers from 2:50pm Men’s: Renegades vs Brisbane Heat from 6:35pm If you’re keen to ‘get on red’, the Melbourne Renegades offer tremendous value for memberships and have created a package especially for its Geelong fans. For $80, you get seats to both Geelong doubleheader matches (four games) plus General Admission entry to one game of your choice at Marvel Stadium in Docklands. Simply call 1300 736 342 or visit getonred.com. au to sort out your membership, or for further information on all three event days in Geelong. It’s time to #GetOnRed and support your Melbourne Renegades this summer! If you head to page 8 of this issue, you might just find a cheeky giveaway to the second double header game...

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*LADY BIRD *CAN YOU EVER FORGIVE ME? *MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE: FALLOUT *THE DEATH OF STALIN *A QUIET PLACE *THE BOY DOWNSTAIRS *INCREDIBLES 2 *SPIDER-MAN: INTO THE SPIDER-VERSE *A PRAYER BEFORE DAWN *FIRST MAN WORST FILMS OF 2018

BEST AND WORST FILMS OF 2018

And outside of superhero movies, not a lot made much of an impact no matter how hard the marketing department went into overdrive: wasn’t there a Jurassic Park movie this year? Remember how there was that big push to make The Rock a big star when his two movies were Rampage and Skyscraper? There were plenty of decent films around, but when the big blockbusters are mostly duds – Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald was more a feature-length episode of a plodding television series than a movie WRITTEN BY ANTHONY MORRIS – it casts a shadow over the whole year. Whether you like them or not, blockbusters are what brings This year was a bit of a weird one for movies, in people to the cinema and gets them into the habit that a lot of the year’s biggest movies seemed to of checking out movies on the big screen. When they be movies that not everyone liked all that much. have a bad year, everyone else suffers. It’s always a worry when people seem to have been going to the movies out of obligation: it BEST FILMS OF 2018 might be great for the studios now – they get paid no matter what your reason for going – but While this wasn’t an amazing year for films in eventually if people start to feel like the only general, I easily could have listed twice as many reason they’re going to see the latest Avengers films here. While these are all in no particular order, just outside the top ten were a whole lot of films, film is because they’ve seen all the others, they might decide to cut their losses. Put another way, including Roma, Cold War, Upgrade, Won’t You be people liked Black Panther, but once the hype My Neighbour, Sweet Country, A Simple Favour, died down it felt like people admired it more for Teen Titans Go! to the Movies, First Reformed, The the statement it made than for the experience Breaker-Upperers, Juliet Naked, and Tully. But this of watching it. remains my top ten for 2018, for today at least:

DESIGN IS AT THE HEART OF PAUSE FEST 2019 If you haven’t heard of Pause Fest be prepared to feast your eyes and ears on some pretty spectacular displays with 7 stages, 30+ international speakers, 200 local speakers, 24 workshops, 18 panels, 30 startups and 21 tracks. For 2019, Pause Fest isn’t interested in where art meets design. Here, they are all about design in business, designing great teams, startups, business models, how creativity drives innovation, value and profits. It’s design meets business. Check out some of the design talks on offer below: THE POWER OF CREATIVES: BUILDING SUSTAINABLE GREATNESS Lydia Hummel // VP Design and Studio Director, Tiffany & Co. Whether you’re building new teams or revitalising old ones, there are a few things that can help create sustainable group dynamics. Creative Lead, Lydia Hummel, explores why it pays to empower your designers, and why an agile ‘Team of Thinkers’ is the best model for sustainable greatness. HOW TO NURTURE A CULTURE OF INNOVATION Juliana Proserpio // Co-Founder & Global Design Director, Echos - Innovation Lab

As designers, we’re constantly redesigning our relationship with our surroundings. Design is an action for creating new futures, new solutions and new business. In this talk, Juliana Proserpio from innovation lab, Echos, will explain what it means to build desirable futures, and how to foster an innovation ecosystem. INSIDE THE COMMODIFICATION OF INTIMACY Dr. Melis Senova // Founder, Huddle Warmth. Closeness. Togetherness. Join Huddle founder, Dr. Melis Senova, for a look at the nature of intimacy. What role does intimacy play in our lives? And how will emerging technologies affect that role in the future? In a world of fractured connection, intimacy might become the most valued attribute yet. DON’T UNDERESTIMATE THE POWER OF CRAZY Stephen Gates // Head of Design Transformation, InVision Today, creative people have the opportunity to affect businesses in ways we haven’t seen since the Industrial Revolution, but too few of us know how to take advantage of these opportunities. In this keynote, InVision’s Head of Design Transformation, Stephen Gates, will share unique insights on creativity and innovation that he has learned through leading creative teams for some of the world’s biggest brands and working with senior teams at Apple, Google, Facebook and beyond. DESIGNING FOR TRUST, GROWTH AND GETTING SH*T DONE Julia Khusainova // Experience Design Manager, Airbnb Airbnb has been a peer-to-peer platform since the beginning, but now we’re opening up to businesses and new product lines. How is design uniquely positioned to unlock the business growth and new opportunities, while challenging the fundamental model of Airbnb business at the same time? Pause Fest goes down 6-8 February 2019 at Fed Square. Tickets via www.pausefest.com.au

There were an awful lot of firmly average films out this year, most of which I’ve already forgotten (not Skyscraper though. Or Ladies in Black. Or all those films with Boy in the title). But average isn’t the same thing as bad, otherwise there’d be a lot more superhero movies on this list. An average film just leaves you feeling not a whole lot, but all of these films felt like a waste of time. You can make a lot of bad choices and still end up with an average film; to make a film that’s actually bad you have to actively work at it. *TRUTH OR DARE *FIFTY SHADES FREED *THAT’S NOT MY DOG *A WRINKLE IN TIME *MAMMA MIA: HERE WE GO AGAIN *THE HAPPYTIME MURDERS *FLIPSIDE *PEPPERMINT *THE PREDATOR *THE NUTCRACKER AND THE FOUR REALMS

PROJECT EMPIRE IT’S A STATE OF MIND WRITTEN BY SHAE LOUISE This one is for all you bosses in the making, so mark it on your calendar or put it on the fridge in BOLD because I dare say you wouldn’t want to miss this. Project Empire are holding their first Marquee event of 2019 and this one is going to be BIG. Held at one of Geelong’s coolest rooftops in town (Murphys of course), Thursday the 24th of January is the date to save. To start the evening right, one of our favourites Kim Elise Cooper will be providing the acoustic vibes alongside local guitarist Famous Will. During this time, guests are encouraged to network and mingle as well as enjoy finger food and a drink on arrival. From 6pm the panel will begin with guests including Social Media Influencer Abby Gilmore, CEO of Geelong Community Foundation Gail Rodgers, and Bay 93.9 Geelong co-host, Director of Plan.It Roxie and Roxie Bennett Life Changer Roxie Bennett. You’ll then finish up with a ‘Facilitated Brain Dump’ workshop presented by Lou Hammer of One Day P.A - Personal Concierge; aimed at getting all of the life and business tasks clogging up your brain onto paper and into an actionable list. Not only is this a great way to get organised, it’s also a really great way to calm the chaos that can occupy your thoughts on a daily basis. So after all that, you must be wondering what even is Project Empire? Project Empire is a member-based movement offering business coaching, mentoring and digital marketing workshops for people looking to get a start or grow an idea, while also creating a platform for like-minded people to support and follow each other on their journey to success. Sounds pretty cool right? Don’t wait, start your journey today. Head to www.projectempire.com.au

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THE ROCK STAR SIGNS WRITTEN BY THE ASTROLOGY SEER: CONNECTING TO THE COSMIC MACROCOSM. IT’S FORWARD MOTION FROM HERE ON IN AS ALL OF THE PERSONAL PLANETS TRAVEL THROUGH THE SKY WITH THEIR FRESH EYES OPEN. THE NEXT FEW MONTHS ARE A WONDERFUL TIME TO VOICE YOUR CREATIVITY AND YOUR HONEST TO GOODNESS TRUTH. CARIES: THE MOON IS LIGHTING A FIRE UNDERNEATH YOU THIS WEEK AND YOU BURN THROUGH THE BOOKS AS YOU PRIORITISE ACTION OVER WORDS. LET’S HOPE THERE IS ENOUGH HOURS IN THE DAY TO SATISFY YOU. TAURUS: FRIENDS AND FAMILY PROVIDE YOU WITH PLENTY OF LOVE AND SUPPORT AS YOU FOCUS INWARDLY ON YOUR PERSONAL GROWTH AND LIFE EXPERIENCES. YOU ARE READY TO SHIFT INTO THE NEXT PHASE OF YOUR LIFE. GEMINI: YOU HAVE LOTS OF WRITING, TALKING, TEXTING TO DO AND YOUR FINGERS ARE ON THE PULSE, AND THE COFFEE CUP. LIFE IS EXCITING AND YOU REFUSE TO MISS OUT ON EVEN JUST ONE SECOND OF IT! CANCER: YOU ENJOY THE SEASON OF GIVING BECAUSE YOU GET TO WEAR YOUR HEART ON YOUR SLEEVE UNASHAMEDLY. REACHING OUT AND CONNECTING WITH YOUR TRIBE IS PURE BLISS AND YOU LOVE THE LOVE. LEO: YOU CONTINUE THE PARTY OUT ONTO THE STREETS AND TAG ALL OF YOUR BESTIES IN THE PICS, AND THEN YOU PAMPER YOURSELF WITH ALL THOSE CHRISTMAS GIFT VOUCHERS. HECK, MAKE IT A DAY SPA DATE FOR TWO. VIRGO: ALL HANDS ON DECK AS YOU EFFICIENTLY CRUISE THROUGH DECEMBER, GATHERING MOMENTUM FOR CHRISTMAS BREAK. YOU’RE READY TO HANG WITH YOUR PEEPS AND LET YOUR HAIR DOWN. LIBRA: YOU KEEP YOURSELF CLOSE TO HOME AS YOUR NEED TO SPEND QUALITY TIME WITH YOUR FAVOURITE PEOPLE INCREASES. AND WHAT A LOT OF PEOPLE THERE ARE! YOU NEVER SHY AWAY FROM GOOD CONVERSATION. SCORPIO: YOU TAKE PLEASURE IN TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF AS THE YEAR COMES TO A CLOSE. YOU HAVE HAD HEAPS GOING ON IN RECENT TIMES AND YOU NOW APPRECIATE THE PEACE AND QUIET. SAGITTARIUS: YOU’RE BUSY LETTING LOOSE AND BEING YOU! YOU USE YOUR BOLD PERSONALITY AND NATURAL ENTHUSIASM TO YOUR ADVANTAGE AND MAKE A MINT! CAPRICORN: BUSINESS IN THE FRONT, PARTY AT THE BACK. LET THE WORLD SEE YOUR WONDERFUL AND QUIRKY SENSE OF HUMOUR AS YOU TAKE A LOAD OFF AND MINGLE WITH THE CROWDS. AQUARIUS: FOCUS YOUR LIGHT ON WHERE YOU ARE HEADING AND NOT WHERE YOU HAVE BEEN, WATER THE SEEDS THAT YOU WISH TO GROW THE TALLEST AND THEN REAP THE REWARDS YOU SEEK. PISCES: YOUR FEELY FEELERS ARE OUT AS YOU ARE CONNECTING TO THE WONDERFUL PHILOSOPHIES IN LIFE, THOSE THAT INSPIRE THE NATURAL POET WITHIN YOU. FEEL FREE TO DREAM A LITTLE DREAM.

BUMBLEBEE

Fiona Maye (Emma Thompson) is a British High Court judge used to tackling difficult cases. So when she hears a case involving Adam (Fionn Whitehead) a 17 year-old boy with leukemia whose doctors want to give him a life-saving transfusion against his religious beliefs, it’s initially just another tough day at the office. But when she takes the unusual step of visiting Adam in hospital, things start to drift off course: he bonds with her, and when she eventually passes judgement he continues to attempt to contact her. Meanwhile her husband (Stanley Tucci) is tired of her devotion to her job above all else and wants to make a change; are these the forces that will tear her life apart. Based on the novel by Ian McEwan, this is a slow burn film anchored by a brilliant performance from Thompson as a steely professional operating at the highest level of her profession. It’s a masterpiece of restraint, playing a type of character we rarely see.

The year is 1987, even on Cybertron, where the evil Decepticons are victorious in a civil war that leaves the Autobot good guys scattered across the galaxy. The plucky Autobot scout B-127 is dispatched to Earth to set up a base where Optimus Prime and the Autobots can regroup, but after a battle with a Decepticon – which is witnessed by the US military, scarring Lieutenant Burns (John Cena) for life – Bumblebee is left damaged, voiceless, without his memory and in the form of a 1967 Volkswagen Beetle. Meanwhile, Charlie Watson (Hailee Steinfeld) is a California teen with a fondness for The Smiths and fixing cars. While savaging for auto parts in a scrapyard she finds the Beetle and takes it home, then it turns into a robot in her garage and the fun begins – and not only because the transformer (which she dubs Bumblebee) accidentally sends out a signal that lures a pair of Decepticons to Earth. Charlie is an 80s cliché compilation and Bumblebee has no personality at all, but Steinfeld has charm to spare, the CGI makes Bumblebee a solid presence whatever form he takes, and the numerous Autobot – Decepticon fights are thrilling without being the jumbled mess of the earlier Michael Bay-directed films. It’s a step up, but a great Transformers m ov i e r e m a i n s t o b e m a d e .

RALPH BREAKS THE INTERNET

SPIDER-MAN: INTO THE SPIDER-VERSE

In the years since Wreck-It Ralph, Ralph (John C. Reily) and best friend Vanellope von Schweetz (Sarah Silverman) have settled into a rut: they live their video game roles during the day and hang out together at night. But Vanellope is getting bored with her game’s limited number of racetracks, and when Ralph decides to help out by making a new one, it’s no surprise that he ends up (indirectly) wrecking her game. Her game now needs a new controller, but with the company defunct there’s only one place they can find one: the internet, here imagined as a massively crowded future metropolis. What follows is a torrent of internet in-jokes, a broader look at the ways online life can change people (not always for the better), and a surprisingly deep look at a friendship between two people (okay, video game characters) who want to keep their friendship alive even as it becomes increasingly clear they’re on separate paths in life. Plus there’s a bunch of impressive chase scenes, Ralph literally breaks the internet, and there’s a scene with pretty much all the Disney princesses that’s the funniest thing Disney has done in years. It’s not quite as focused as the first film; then again, it’s not like the internet is all that focused either.

If super-heroes already work so well in live-action, what’s the point of animating them? Into the SpiderVerse answers by playing explicitly to animation’s strengths. It’s filled with high-energy stylised visuals that mashup comic book art, graffiti, and cutting-edge computer animation. The story piles on the twists and characters at a rate that live-action simply can’t match. Miles Morales (Shamiek Moore) is an African American-Hispanic New York high schooler who gets bitten by a radioactive spider during a subway graffiti session with his cool uncle. But this New York already has a SpiderMan – until he gets killed in front of Morales’ eyes trying to stop The Kingpin (Liv Schreiber) from using a giant super-collider to access other dimensions. As Morales wonders how he can live up to that legacy he stumbles across another older, shabbier Peter B. Parker (Jake Johnson), freshly dragged across from another dimension. There’s also Spider-Ham, a grim 30’s version called SpiderNoir, the anime-style Penni Parker and her Spider-Bot, and a spiderpowered version of (the original) Spider-Man’s girlfriend Gwen Stacy. And if they don’t find a way back home soon, they’re not going to survive. Thrillingly assured from start to finish, this is the superhero movie of the year.

RECORD WATCH

FORTE ALBUMS OF THE YEAR

Drunk Mums

TALIA

Urban Cowboy (Pissfart Records)

DREAM ON DREAMER - IT COMES AND GOES

The third album by Drunk Mums, some country boys who now call Melbourne home and this is some catchy as hell garage rock and punk with a dose of Stones swagger.

NATHAN METRIC - ART OF DOUBT GLENN

Just a really good straight up no-nonsense album which will appeal to many and I certainly hope this will propel the band to wider overseas audience.

JUDAS PRIEST - FIREPOWER JOSH

For fans of Dune Rats, Amyl & The Sniffers & Dirty Fences

ARCHITECTS - HOLY HELL

Available from Prehistoric Sounds in Warrnambool & The Amazing Mill Market Newcomb

ALEX HIGH TENSION - PURGE

SESSION TIMES Decembb 26th - Januuy 16th pivotcinema.com.au

T H E C H I L DR E N A C T

SHOPLIF TERS

MARY POPPINS RETURNS

We d 2 6 t h 8 p m T h u 2 7 t h 1 . 1 5 p m & 7. 1 5 p m F r i 2 8 t h 1 1 a m & 7. 3 0 p m Sat 29th 1pm & 5.15pm S u n 3 0 t h 1 . 1 5 p m & 7. 4 5 p m Mon 31st 11am We d 2 n d 8 . 2 0 p m Thu 3rd 6pm Fri 4th 3.30pm Sat 5th 8.20pm Sun 6th 3.40pm Mon 7th 11am & 6pm Tue 8th 8.30pm We d 9 t h 5 . 4 0 p m Thu 10th 11am Fri 11th 12.45pm Sat 12th 5.20pm Sun 13th 9.15pm Mon 14th 11am We d 1 6 t h 3 . 1 0 p m

We d 2 6 t h 1 . 1 5 p m & 5 . 4 0 p m T hu 2 7 t h 1 1 a m & 9. 1 5 p m Fri 28th 3pm S a t 2 9 t h 3 p m & 9. 2 0 p m Sun 30th 11am & 5.30pm Mon 31st 1pm & 5.15pm Tue 1st 5.40pm We d 2 n d 3 . 4 0 p m Fri 4th 8pm Sat 5th 3.40pm Tue 8th 3.40pm F ri 11th 9.15pm Mon 14th 9.20pm Tue 15th 7pm We d 1 6 t h 1 2 . 4 5 p m

Tue 1st 11am, 1.20pm & 8pm We d 2 n d 1 1 a m , 1 . 2 0 p m & 6 p m T hu 3 rd 1 p m , 3 . 3 0 p m & 8 p m Fri 4th 1 1 a m , 1.15pm & 5.40pm Sat 5th 11am, 1.20pm & 6pm Sun 6th 11am, 1.20pm & 5.40pm Mon 7th 1.10pm, 3.30pm & 8pm Tue 8th 11am, 1.20pm & 6pm We d 9 t h 1 p m , 3 . 2 0 p m & 7. 4 0 p m T hu 1 0 t h 2 . 4 5 p m & 5 . 1 5 p m Fri 11th 2.45pm & 7pm Sat 12th 11am & 3pm Sun 13th 11am & 5.10pm Mon 14th 2.45pm & 5.20pm Tue 15th 11am & 3pm We d 1 6 t h 7 p m Thu 17th 3.40pm

UNITED KINGDOM 104mins Drama M

COMING SOON Jan Jan Jan Feb Feb Feb

T H E N U T C R AC K E R & THE FOUR REALMS

17th S t o r m B o y We d 2 6 t h 1 1 a m 17th Pick of the Litter T h u 2 7 t h 5 . 2 0 p m 24th The Favourite F r i 2 8 t h 1 p m FINAL 7th P i g (Khook) 14th Caphar naüm 28th At Eternity’s Gate DISNEY U S A 9 1 m i n s Fa m i l y P G

Prrdly SSving 40

N E W J A PA N 1 1 4 m i n s D r a m a M

NEW U K / U S A 1 2 0 m i n s Fa m i l y P G

N OR M A N DY N U DE FRANCE 96mins Comedy-Drama M

We d 2 6 t h 3 . 3 0 p m Thu 27th 3.15pm F r i 2 8 t h 5 . 2 0 p m & 9. 3 0 p m S a t 2 9 t h 1 1 a m & 7. 2 0 p m Sun 30th 3.20pm M o n 3 1 s t 3 . 1 0 p m & 7. 3 0 p m Tue 1st 3.40pm Thu 3rd 11am Sun 6th 8pm W e d 9 t h 1 1 a m BUBS SESSION Thu 10th 9.20pm S u n 1 3 t h 3 p m FINAL

C O L D WA R

NEW P O L A N D 8 8 m i n s R o m a n c e D r a m a M

T h u 1 0 t h 1 p m & 7. 4 0 p m Fri 11th 11am & 5.20pm S a t 1 2 t h 1 . 2 0 p m , 7. 2 0 p m & 9 p m S u n 1 3 t h 1 . 2 0 p m & 7. 3 0 p m M o n 1 4 t h 1 p m & 7. 4 0 p m T u e 1 5 t h 1 p m , 5 . 2 0 p m & 9. 1 5 p m W e d 1 6 t h 1 1 a m , 5 . 1 5 p m & 9. 1 5 p m T hu 1 7 t h 8 . 1 5 p m Fri 18th 10am & 5.20pm

wines and 705

bees...

AQUAMAN In his first appearance in Justice League, Jason Momoa’s Aquaman made his mark by being the bro-est superhero around. In his own movie director James Wan actually dials down the bro-ness – and that’s pretty much the only thing dialled down here, because this is a film that’s going extremely hard in pretty much every direction and while not all of it works, its failures are part of its charm. There’s a real balancing act going on here: even for a superhero, underwater fish lord Aquaman is hard to take seriously, and yet treating him as a joke would be fatal. So this sets out to make him the most normal thing in the film, with a meandering story that takes in a sad lighthouse dad, seven distinct (and usually bonkers) undersea kingdoms, a royal feud, the title “Ocean Master”, a modern-day pirate bad guy, Nicole Kidman as a trident-wielding mum, killer fish, a desert quest, killer fish men, beach training sequences, dinosaurs just in the background because why not, trash tidal waves, and a racist sea monster – and that’s just the surface. The visuals are often stunning, the fight scenes (ranging from close quarter pummellings to gladiator battles to epic fantasy battles) solid, the dialogue serviceable and the whole thing is both entertaining and exhausting. It’s big: take snacks.

FILM REVIEWS BY ANTHONY MORRIS

THE CHILDREN ACT

Mark Lanegan: 2018 Australian Tour

the ball with the majority of operations- queues for toilets were acceptable, the layout of the grounds was accessible and stage viewing achievable for this 5ft1 punter. The only real dilemma was selecting which bands to go see. Here is a breakdown of my carefully curated schedule: 3.15 – 4.00: Baby Metal The most exciting act of the day. Even though I didn’t understand a word of their music, I spent the entire 45 minutes glued to the stage, captivated by the attention to detail. The intricate costumes paired with the fluid movements of the dance choreography, Baby Metal’s live performance is best described as K-Pop meets Norwegian black metal, with the most intense crowd of the day. Their cult following has definitely made its way down under. 4.00 – 4.45: The Used Between Bert McCracken reciting Shakespeare sonnets between songs and delivering an Australian first- no, world first- in starting a circle pit to the most recognised song Australia has to offer, the Playschool theme song, The Used set was a cross between being poetic, and wacky but nothing shy of entertaining.

4.45 – 5.45: Bullet For My Valentine Bullet For My Valentine hit the bullseye with their highly engaging set. The Welsh rockers went hard with their larger than life vocal performances, drum and guitar solos. You’re a liar if say you didn’t reach your hands to the sky screaming along with ‘Tears Don’t Fall’, remembering how hard life was at 14. 5.45 – 6.45: Dropkick Murphys Three words: Irish River Dancing. Toes were pointed and arms were swinging for these gents who looked like they had the most fun of their lives on stage, which translated directly into the crowd. 6.45 – 7.45: All Time Low Ladies to the front and sweaty bras flying as the dreamy lads took to the stage. Jack Barakat gave the ladies what they wanted, delving into the front barrier as a collections officer, wrapping one of the bras over his head and making a nice collection on his mic stand and even flashing a nipple at times. But this set wasn’t just about the thirsty. With people on shoulders, devils horns and pointers pumping and circle pits in full swing, All Time Low were the life of the party. And just like that everyone went back to their teenage years as they finished on Dear Maria: Count Me In. 7.45 – 8.45: Stone Sour ‘I told you f**kers to bring me back didn’t I Melbourne’ yells Corey Taylor to the crowd eager to be back on our shores. This set had it all from the get go with streamers and confetti launchers to pyrotechnics and massive blow up props. Crowd favourite: the highly emotional ‘Bother’. 8.45- 10.00: The Offspring The day turns to night just moments before The Offspring take to the stage. ‘Time to Relax’ plays over the speakers as Noodles, Pete Parada, Greg K and Dexter Holland take to the stage to play Smash in full and in order, leaving a gaping hole where ‘Self Esteem’ normally sits, which finished up their main set with an ear piercing ‘la, la, la la la, la, la, la la la’. But it wasn’t finished with Smash, the encore was huge with ‘You’re Gonna Go Far, Kid’, ‘All I Want’, ‘Why Don’t You Go Get a Job’, ‘(Can’t Get My) Head Around You’, an ACDC cover of ‘Whole Lot of Rosie’, ‘Pretty Fly For a White Guy’ and finishing a huge day with ‘The Kids Aren’t Alright’.

THE SWAMP STOMPER

NUN

THE 1975

VERTIGO

Shadows on the Wall

The Dome

A Brief Inquiry Into Online Relationships

Rhythm Section

AARGHT! Records

Dirty Hit Records

Anti Fade

Reviewed by Alex Lynch

Reviewed by Alex Callan

Reviewed by Meg Kennedy

Reviewed by Alex Callan

Good Things Festival 2018 Friday 7 December 2018 Flemington Racecourse Melbourne Reviewed by Tammy Walters Photos by Kane Hibberd It’s about time Australia had a rock festival return- a comment echoed by Dexter of The Offspring, Alex Gaskarth of All Time Low and Bert McCracken of The Used during each of their mammoth sets. Good thing Good Things Festival came to the rescue delivering a stellar line up. Summer festival season can be unbearable with the sweltering heat but the 38 degree day did not deter the festival goers from getting right into the Good Things spirit, especially as the event were well prepared for the heat wave with sprinkler mist walkways (the real hero of the day), plentiful drinking stations and security armed with hoses to cool down the barrier sitters. In fact, the Good Things organisers seemed on

Photos by William Adam Russ

Bring your listening ears, The Swamp Stompers Melbourne’s synth-punk front-runners Nun Following on from their successful sophomore 7 songs, 13 minutes; yeah, that’s fuckin’ hardcore. have returned with their new ear melting album - have dropped their long awaited sophomore release, album ‘I like it when you sleep…’, the 1975 have If you’re a fan of music that is hard, fast and Shadows on the Wall, full to the brim of pure blues ‘The Dome’, and it is an eclectic and atmospheric returned with an envelope-pushing third album which abrasive in the best possible ways then you need to roots and rock. Five(six) tracks of blues thunder will experience that will make you want to eat acid and is easily the most ostentatious in their discography suss Vertigo’s second release ‘V2.” go roller-blading. to date. V2 isn’t just a bunch of guys trying to emulate sure be having you support The Swamp Stompers as From spoken-word interludes, orchestral themes a sound that they weren’t around for the first time, Capturing an incredibly cinematic sound, the ten they pursue a standing in the modern era of rock and and 80s’ synths, it’s impossible to say that the record instead, it is Vertigo highlighting their influences tracks immerse you into the realms of dark-wave in a blues. Starting off the album, ‘Wishing I Had You’ melancholic yet mesmerising fashion that would be has a continuity – something that works in their favour. from the past but showing what they can add to it immediately showcase the deep groove, the slick riffs perfectly suited alongside film scores such as Drive They’re no strangers to experimentation; but single in a modern sense. and Blade Runner. ‘Give Yourself A Try’ is a punchy, guitar-driven track in ‘Hammer’ for example dabbles with riffs that and the high-octane drive that The Swamp Stompers possess. A catchy tune that you may find stuck playing ‘Wake In Freight’, the albums opener, kicks off with the vein of The 1975 that broke into the mainstream. could easily be found on a surf-rock album whilst back in your head, memorable and impactful. intricate synths and drum patterns reminiscent of Joy Although the track makes you ready to dance around ‘Closed Circuit’ opens with a very doom-esque sound As we move on to the self-titled track ‘Shadows Division’s ‘Atmosphere,’ with Jenny Branagan’s vocals immediately, the band continue their theme of up-beat before bringing back in the hardcore vibes. ‘Stain’ is on the Wall’, we are greeted with slower paced more omitting an ominous vibe. ‘Pick Up The Phone’ delivers tunes to melancholy lyrics. the EP’s longest track clocking in at just under four mellowed out tunes. Once again in the album the work deep grooves and whacked out extra-terrestrial effects‘A Brief Inquiry…’ doesn’t stray far from slower minutes. Opening with a semi art-punk drum pattern of Corey Legge’s lead guitar is something to behold, a very psychedelic infused dance track. moments, with tracks like ‘How To Draw/Petrichor’ it is quickly dictated by a very mysterious guitar riff sexy catchy and slick bundled into one, an absolute kicking off in the middle of the song. As the song ‘Fairhaven’ is ruled by heavy synth and shoegaze- and ‘Sincerity Is Scary’ incredibly chilled-out, but ‘Be treat for the ears. My Mistake’ is a stand-out from the album - not for progresses so does the riff and with each addition it esque vocals whilst ‘Turning Out’ highlights more of Continuing through the album, The Swamp its obscurity - but rather its stripped back sound and only becomes more intriguing. an 80’s pop vibe. The album’s closer ‘Debris’ is drawn ‘Neglect’ brings back the fast paced hardcore Stompers manage to maintain variety throughout, out to seven minutes and shows just how full and sweet, poetic lyrics. such as ‘Wave’, a slow paced but vastly poignant song impressive Nun’s sound is. The album finishes with a rather downhearted riffs and impressive vocals that perfectly embody standing on the edge of darkness, to ‘Hey’, a powerful Whilst ‘The Dome’ may be a slight bit too avant- touch, with ‘I Always Wanna Die (Sometimes)’, but everything hardcore is about as a genre, rough, hard rock/blues track that will get you moving and ready garde for commercial recognition at this point, I it’s a rousing finale that feels as though it belongs in and in your face. The albums closer, ‘Crumb’ kicks in for what may be to come. can see picking up a lot of steam in the Melbourne the final ‘prom scene’ of a teen rom-com movie. with the brutal line, “BLOW YOUR HEAD IN” before bohemian crowds, and truthfully, as it bloody should. ‘A Brief Inquiry Into Online Relationships’ sticks Shadows on the Wall is an album taking a chance delivering two minutes of a fast-paced frenzy. while still staying true to the soul of blue and roots and It’s an incredibly impressive album that deserves well and true to The 1975 brand, but it’s clear that rock, it succeeds in its production and in its relevance attention. even five years into their break-out, there’s still no Whether your style is punk, pop or electronic-make predicting what the band will deliver next. to the world of blues and roots. sure you check this one out.

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WRITTEN BY ALASTAIR MCGIBBON

BLUES NEWS

WRITTEN BY JOHN (DR JOHN) LAMP

TOO HEAVY TO HUG

SURFBEAT

WRITTEN BY ANTHONY MORRIS

POP

PULP

WRITTEN BY PAUL S. TAYLOR

BY JOHN FOSS

‘Tis the season to be writing lists. Everywhere you look best and worst movie lists abound (there’s even one elsewhere in this issue of Forte), music and television and books aren’t far behind, and pretty much everything that happened more than once this year has been arranged into a list somewhere by somebody. Exactly why so many people feel compelled to make lists remains something of a mystery: ideally it’d be a handy way to sum up the events of the year just gone and use that information to do better in the year to come, but if that was the case there’d be more than a few alarm bells ringing when it comes to those lists focusing on Australian film and television. Already at least one high-profile “Top Ten Australian Films of 2018” list has surfaced, which seems like a reasonable idea at first glance… until you wander over to Wikipedia and discover that in 2018 there were a grand total of eleven Australian films released. Sure, Wikipedia isn’t always the most accurate source of information, but even if they’re out by a third we’re still only talking about 15 or 16 Australian films making it to cinemas this year (and having seen a lot of films in 2018, 11 seems the more plausible number unless you’re factoring in film festivals). The problem is that by doing a flagwaving top ten, you’re making it look like the Australian film industry is doing pretty well – well enough to pick a top ten from at least – when the reality is that Australian film is struggling, audiences simply aren’t bothering, and the entire industry now relies on the occasional event film (see next year’s Storm Boy) to put up any resistance at all to US dominance. And if that’s the problem with the “ten” part of the top ten, the listicles covering Australian television show the problem with the “top” side of things: while there’s been plenty of new Australian television out this year to choose from, the idea that more than a very small handful of shows were in any way “top” of any objective list is increasingly laughable. If you like comedy, there was Mad as Hell and that was pretty much it; if you liked drama the ABC and SBS made some very serious and worthy shows that for the most part forgot to be entertaining. The idea of putting something like The Bachelor in a top ten seems a bit out there, but realistically it and shows like it were the only time Australian television actually attracted and held an engaged audience: people who wanted quality drama – that is to say, just about anyone writing a top ten list – were spoilt for choice thanks to the US’s massive output and the UK’s ability to still generate a few decent series of their own. Australian television might be making a number of drama series a year (it’s definitely more healthy than our movies), but aside from a couple of the trashier series (ie Wentworth) our serious shows can’t hold a candle to the imports and our comedy is pretty much a joke. The moral of the story is simple: it might be fun to make lists at this time of year, but unless those lists point out the underlying truths they’re not much use to anyone.

Welcome back, ladies and gents, to the last edition of Pulp for 2018! That’s right, the year is coming to an end, and just as I’ve come back from a hiatus, we’re breaking for the Christmas and New Year period. It’s a tough life, I swear. With that said, however, I’d like to take the time to thank you for continuing to wander back to my little corner of nerd-dom each issue – it’s much appreciated! Before we get stuck into Christmas celebrations, we have some business to attend to: we’ve got a comic to discuss! This week I’ve picked up a volume from Image Comics’ past; a relic from the faroff time of 2006, back when Saga wasn’t a thing and Image Comics was primarily known as the home of Spawn and not the creator-owned comic powerhouse it is today. Today, we’re talking about Hellshock: Definitive Edition, written and drawn by Jae Lee (Inhumans, Namor the Sub-Mariner) with Colourist June Chung fleshing out Lee’s artwork. Christina Marceau is an intern at County General, a psychiatric hospital. She’s relatively new to the job, and shows promise, but finds the day-to-day operation of the hospital confronting. Christina is dismayed by the revolving door of broken and destitute people that she assesses, treats and often releases to the ravages of the outside world. She struggles with the morality of rejecting those simply seeking somewhere to stay, and her resolve wavers even further when she meets Daniel. An enigmatic stranger reduced to a near vegetative state, Daniel believes himself to be an angelic presence, blessed with powers not of this Earth. As she spends more time with Daniel, Christina starts to believe him. Is she simply embracing the madness, or is Daniel really something from another world? I dived into Hellshock with basically no background, and I have to admit that I struggled a bit to get used to the setting. Hellshock has a decent bit of backstory – an entire volume, to be exact – but the Definitive Edition is marketed as a standalone entity. While the Definitive Edition is more akin to the Sandman Chronicles or Arkham Asylum: A Serious House on Serious Earth in terms of tone, Hellshock actually started off life as more of a Spawnlike superhero story, with Daniel – a.k.a. Hellshock – as the main character. I’m in two minds when it comes to the origins of the character; on one hand, I really like the dark, minimalist and horror-centric style shown off in the Definitive Edition, but on the other hand, having the extra details about the character available flesh out the story considerably and make it a bit more interesting. Lee pulls double duty on both writing and artwork and does an impressive job; I found myself quickly becoming invested in Christina’s moral quandary, and Lee’s artwork is dark, moody and detailed in a way that reminds me of Changing Ways from Aussie publishers Gestalt. Hellshock is a twisted exploration of the human psyche, and Christina’s dance along the line between reality and fantasy is fascinating to read. If you’ve found yourself drawn to similarly dark books like the aforementioned Changing Ways and Arkham Asylum titles, then Hellshock will definitely be up your alley. If you’re feeling like reading something dark and unnerving this Christmas season, pick this one up – otherwise, enjoy yourselves and I’ll see you in 2019!

We’re half way between Xmas and New Year, and it’s that time for reminiscing, and resolutions. This has been quite a year, for good and for bad. The year for me (apart from Bluestone) kicked off with OZAct’s “The Tempest” in the Geelong Botanic Gardens. Now strictly speaking, Shakespeare is not blues, but “The Tempest” has its strand of blues, and when the rain came, that certainly gave us the blues. The first Sleepy Hollow event was Wayne Jury with the students of his Blues Boot Camp. The camp is an excellent event which really brings along young musicians, not just with their music, but with the whole craft as well. It’s always great to hear them. In March, Lyn and I headed up the road to see the Carole King Musical. Anyone who lived through the 1970s remembers Carole King, and her music. The show was sensational. In April, Sleepy Hollow had the Buxom Blues Quartet, unfortunately one of their last gigs, as they departed to their new careers. In June, the Castlemaine Jazz Festival took place. This was a bit of a last-minute dash for us, as it took us by surprise. It’s small, cosy and a great event. It’s on the list for 2019. Incidentally, it was the easiest exit I’ve ever made from a prison, yes, two of the stages are in the old Castlemaine Prison. LeroyZ Hammond Trio placed at Sleepy Hollow. There’s nothing like that big Hammond sound. In July, Sleepy Hollow ran a special event “Women playing the Blues” featuring Suzanne Peterson, Andrea Robertson & Band, The Alice Effect, Sarah Carroll and Heyride. The Ethan Farmer Band is one of the spin offs from BBQ, and are making quite a name for themselves. Unfortunately, there were a few sad parts to 2018 as well as the good parts. Geelong said good-bye to Gary Quick. Gary was a very well-known keyboard player and played across many genres. It also brought the sad news of Chris Wilson’s health issues. The music community rallied around with fundraisers and messages of love. It’s still there mate. OK, now 2019, what’s the story for that? Locally, Sleepy Hollow, Pistol Pete, Elephant & Castle, the Chook Shop, Wolesley’s and the rest of our venues have started to fill their booking sheets – we couldn’t do without them. Then there’s festivals. Well, I’ve been a regular at Wangaratta. So maybe I might have a change. There are some good events over on the eastern side of the Bay. Castlemaine will definitely be on the to do list for this year. It’s been years since I’ve been to Maldon, never been to The Railway up at Linton, or Echuca-Moama, The Bendigo Festival always required an extension to the Wangaratta trip, but if I skip Wang … Look, there’s lots more, you just have to check around, and with the 21st century repository of wisdom driving those Google results, just do a single search and the machine will be throwing answers at you for months! Now for those resolutions … and when I say “resolve”, that’s a definite maybe!

Welcome to THTH, Forte’s premier source of all things heavy, hard, fast and metal. Let’s continue to count down THTH’s Top 5 albums of 2018: 5) Sevendust – All I See Is War 4) Sumac – Love In Shadow 3) Rivers of Nihil – Where Owls Know My Name 2) Inferi – Revenant A whirlwind of technical death metal with parts of melodic death metal and blackened death metal that spiral through, ridiculously heavy, a bit proggy and oh so layered with amazing production, Revenant rips through everything in its path. Gotta love an album cover that features a giant menacing beast, too. ‘Condemned Assailant’ is the album’s crushing lead single, and tracks such as ‘Malevolent Sanction’ and album closer ‘Behold the Bearer of Light’ showcase how well the band pepper jazzy and bluesy parts and riffs throughout. With so much going on here it’s easy to listen to the album over and over to search every corner for the hidden gems. Also, this needs to be listened to loud, especially loud. 1) Yob – Our Raw Heart Fans of Yob and this album will be well aware that vocalist Mike Scheidt was hospitalised early last year with an acute case of diverticulitis, and this health scare gave birth to Yob’s eighth studio album, Our Raw Heart. Weighing in at over 70 minutes, this album is loud, monstrous at times, heavy and thick whilst at other times it’s soft, beautiful, fragile and warm. ‘Beauty in Falling Leaves’ is the standout epic that weaves every amazing aspect of Yob into one track, and opener ‘Ablaze’ is a powerful, dense wave of sludge under Mike’s new amazing vocal styling, which he carries throughout this record due to the need to do vocals differently since his health scare, and these vocals give Yob’s music more colour and shade this time around.

FOAM, FROTH AND THE BEST SURF FILMS IN THE WORLD. Surf films are a summer tradition on the surf coast. For over 60 years surf film makers have travelled up and down our coast showing the latest films featuring the world’s best surfers getting barrelled around the world. The tradition of the travelling surf film maker may have dropped off, but it has been replaced by a network of surf film festivals around the world which screen amazing surf films each year. Locally the longest running surf film festival in Australia is the Bells Beach Surf Film Festival which will run in Torquay from Wednesday 2nd to Saturday 5th January 2019. The festival screens the best surf films and documentaries from Australia and around the world at the Australian National Surfing Museum in Torquay. Since 2010 the festival has shown over 100 surf films from diverse countries such as Morocco, Germany, Italy, Russia, Spain, Finland, Israel and Norway. This year the festival has a stunning line up of films starting with award winning films BEYOND THE NOISE and PRIBIO screening on Opening Night. PRIBIO is the first feature length surf film made in Russia. It features stunning footage of surfers looking for waves across Russia and Siberia. Snow, ice, vodka and surf… PRIBIO has it all! Thursday night features a number of exciting films including OUTRIDER, TAN, NORTH SEA HOLES and RAIL ROAD featuring Nic von Rupp as he travels four countries catching 20 trains and a heap of waves across Europe. OUTRIDER and TAN explore the roles of surfboard shapers and their dedicated to the art of surfboard making. Friday night is a big one with WHITE RHINO having its Australian premiere. WHITE RHINO tells the story of the world’s best surfers chasing the biggest waves in Hawaii and the surf photographers who follow them. Big waves and big spills on a big night of surf films! Also screening on Friday night is NEVER TOWN featuring Dave Rastovich and the Surf Coast’s own surfing legend Wayne Lynch. NEVER TOWN explores issues around community and environment as over development threatens many parts of Australia’s coastline. Closing night will see THANK YOU MOTHER screening with a series of short films.

In other news ++ Ballarat’s Blaze Music Festival featuring Hadal Maw, Dreadnaught, Whoretopsy, Frankenbok and many more will be held at Karova Lounge on Saturday January 26. ++ The 10th annual Progfest featuring The Ocean and Monuments, with more to be announced, will be held at Melbourne’s The Croxton on Saturday January 26. ++ Alestorm will be at Melbourne’s Croxton on Saturday February 9. ++ Watain will play Melbourne’s Max Watts on Friday February 22. ++ Devin Townsend will release his new album Empath in March 2019. ++ Ensiferum will be at Melbourne’s Max Watts on Saturday March 2. ++ Download 2019 will be held at Flemington Racecourse on Monday March 11. ++ Soilwork will be at Max Watts on Saturday March 16. ++ Philip H. Anselmo & The Illegals along with King Parrot will play Max Watts on Friday March 22. ++ Emperor will play their landmark album Anthems To The Welkin At Dusk in its entirety at 170 Russell on Wednesday April 3. ++ Sevendust will play the Forum on Saturday April 27. ++ If you have any news about local metal bands, shows or albums, let THTH know by emailing to tooheavytohug@ hotmail.com or get in touch via Twitter at @TooHeavyToHug

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RGYC REGATTA VILLAGE Saturday 26th January

Saturday 26th January 12:30 3:30 5:00 6:30 7:45 9:15

3:30 5:00 6:30 6:45 8:00 9:15 11:00

RAN Band Sweethearts The Mik Maks Jack & Charly Taylor Henderson Fireworks Display

Sunday 27th January 12:00 1:30 3:00 4:30 6:00 7:30

Sunday 27th January

Darcy Fox Chris Cavill & The Prospectors Jessica Lorraine Taylor Sheridan Libby Steel Church of Rock

3:30 5:00 6:45 8:00 9:15 11:00

Monday 28th January 12:00 1:30 3:00

Lucas Phelps Dom Italiano Passage Race Presentation Miss Lizzie and the Night Owls Geoff Achison Band Trio Russell Morris Whole Lotta Rosie

Francesco Melli Nardia Rose Duo Chubby Rae & The Elevators Canyon Vika & Linda Horns of Leroy

Monday 28th January

Tess Guthrie Maximillian Rudd Craig & Georgia Sayer

3:15 5:45

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BEAVS BAR: ANDY FORSTER EDGE GEELONG: LIVE MUSIC AND DJ GREAT AUSTRALIAN CARAVAN PARK COUNTRY MUSIC SHOWCASE (ANGLESEA) MUSIC MAN MEGASTORE: DYLAN JAKOBSEN QUEENSCLIFF BREWHOUSE: LUKEY LUKE FRI 28TH

MON 31ST AIREYS PUB: NEW YEARS EVE AMPED: NEW YEARS EVE COUNTDOWN 80S BEYOND THE VALLEY EDGE: NYE AT EDGE

BEYOND THE VALLEY BLACKMAN’S TWILIGHT POP UP BAR EDGE GEELONG: LIVE MUSIC AND DJS FALLS FESTIVAL GROVEDALE HOTEL: KATE DALEY GREAT AUSTRALIAN CARAVAN PARK COUNTRY MUSIC SHOWCASE (OCEAN GROVE)

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MANCHESTER ARMS HOTEL: NEW YEAR’S EVE

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PISTOL PETES: RATTLIN’ BONES BLACKWOOD

MOUNT DUNEED: MOVIES IN THE VINES TORQUAY HOTEL: SLOWLY SLOWLY UNIFY GATHERING SAT 12TH BEAVS: DAVE ANDERSON

HOME HOUSE: JDG, DJ PHILLY MT DUNEED: YOGA IN THE VINES PAKO FARMERS MARKET

THE ELEPHANT & CASTLE: THE AUSTRALIAN ROBBIE WILLIAMS TRIBUTE SHOW GROVEDALE HOTEL: DEAR IVY HOME HOUSE: ZAC DEPETRO, MACKIE THE LOFT: THE WOODLAND HUNTERS MANCHESTER ARMS HOTEL: ELVIS & FRIENDS

THE SPHINX: WOOSHKA TORQUAY HOTEL: SUMMER SERIES NYE PARTY

SUN 6TH

QUEENSCLIFF BREWHOUSE: DJ NIGHTCLUB2U DANCE PARTY, NYE FRIZTIE & RAUL

GROVEDALE HOTEL: MICHAEL MONEA

TUES JAN 1ST

ROYAL GEELONG YACHT CLUB: SUNDAY SUMMER SESSION

EDGE GEELONG: LIVE MUSIC PIANO BAR: PITCH PLEASE!

QUEENSCLIFF BREWHOUSE: JUSTIN KEENAN

NEW YEARS EVE ON THE HILL

PIANO BAR: B*TCHES WITH BALLS

ANGLESEA HOTEL BEACH PARTY BARWON CLUB: IN HEARTS WAKE, ALPHA WOLF, DROWN THIS CITY

GEELONG CRICKET GROUND: MELBOURNE RENEGADES

BARWON CLUB: PIST IDIOTS, THE CHATS, BIN POTATO SHED: THE 3 LITTLE PIGS

THURS 10TH

THURS 3RD

PORCH SESSIONS ON TOUR ANGLESEA TUES 15TH

FURPHY OUTDOOR CINEMA

BEAVS BAR: ANDY FORSTER

ROYAL GEELONG YACHT CLUB: SUNDAY SUMMER SESSION

MON 14TH

KAROVA LOUNGE: LET’S DANCE

THE SPHINX: KHE SANH

PIANO BAR: THE SONGS OF MATCHBOX TWENTY

UNIFY GATHERING

BEAVS: OPEN MIC, KARAOKE, LUKE BISCAN

PIANO BAR: B*TCHES WITH BALLS

SO FRENCHY SO CHIC

QUEENSCLIFF BREWHOUSE: LUKEY LUKE

WED 9TH

BEAVS BAR: OPEN MIC, KARAOKE, LUKE BISCAN

SUN 13TH

TORQUAY HOTEL: THE BEAUTIFUL GIRLS

BARWON CLUB: TROPHY EYES, PARADISE CLUB

WED 2ND

WORKERS CLUB GEELONG: CROSSTRACK

PORCH SESSIONS ON TOUR GEELONG

TORQUAY HOTEL: CONFIDENCE MAN

QUEENSCLIFF BREWHOUSE: JOSHUA BATTEN

THE SPHINX: THE UNCANNY X MEN

GEELONG CRICKET GROUND: MELBOURNE RENEGADES

WAH BAH: NYE AT WAH BAH

LET THEM EAT CAKE NYD

PORTSEA POLO QUEENSCLIFF BREWHOUSE: AFI JAMES

BALLARAT SUMMER SUNDAYS

FALLS FESTIVAL

PISTOL PETE’S: CREEK’S SUMMERTIME SLAM

UNIFY GATHERING

QUEENSCLIFF BREWHOUSE: TROJAN

CAPTAIN: PARADISCO - NYD

COTTAGE BY THE SEA ANNUAL FAIR THE EASTERN: CREPES GROVEDALE HOTEL: RACH & LIAM

EDGE: LIVE MUSIC AND DJ

TERINDAH ESTATE: SUNDAY SESSIONS – JANUARY UNPLUGGED

QUEENSCLIFF BREWHOUSE: COPYCAT KILLERS

QUEENSCLIFF BREWHOUSE: NADIA ROSE

COASTAL JAM LORNE

VALHALLA: LUKEY LUKE

BEAVS BAR: RYAN BELL

GROVEDALE HOTEL: CRAIG SAYER

HOME HOUSE: FREAKY FRIDAYS WITH GROVER, TUNASQUAD

BLOOM: ANNA, JULIET FOX, LAURA KING, BEX

SAILORS REST: NYE

VALHALLA: THE BLIXERS

GROVEDALE HOTEL: DELLA

BEAVS BAR: CORY HARGRAVES

LITTLE CREATURES: NEW YEARS AT THE BREWERY

ROYAL GEELONG YACHT CLUB: 2019 NYE PICNIC ON THE LAWN

KAROVA LOUNGE: WAAX, TRUCKS

BARWON CLUB: DJ PALEO DISCO

NEW YEARS EVE ON THE HILL

PISTOL PETES: BLUE SUNDAY

BEAVS: JEFF JORDAN

EDGE GEELONG: LIVE MUSIC AND DJ

SAT 5TH

LAMBYS: NYE AT LAMBYS

MUSIC MAN MEGASTORE: LAST BIG BASH

BEAVS BAR: JEFF JORDAN

TORQUAY HOTEL: DIDIRRI

HOME HOUSE: LOCKDOWN, CLUELESS, TUNESQUAD, DE MUNARI, CRYSTAL CARTIER, HOLMES JOHN, CHARDY, MC LORD PESO

MURPHYS: NYE VIP EVENT

AMPED: LIVE MUSIC

QUEENSCLIFF BREWHOUSE: DAYS GONE BY DUO

FALLS FESTIVAL

HOME HOUSE: HOMEHOUSE FRIDAYS PARTY WITH DJS

FRI 11TH

BARWON CLUB: DJ BLACKWAVE

PISTOL PETE’S: GWYN ASHTON

ELEPHANT & CASTLE HOTEL: NYE 2018 GEELONG HOTEL: NEW YEAR’S EVE

BEAVS BAR: JEFF JORDAN

PIANO BAR: PITCH PLEASE!

FRI 4TH

BLUESTONE BLUES FESTIVAL

PISTOL PETES: NADIA ROSE & ADRIAN

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WED 16TH BEAVS BAR: OPEN MIC, KARAOKE, LUKE BISCAN

BEAVS: ANDY FORSTER

FURPHY OUTDOOR CINEMA

KAROVA LOUNGE: TROPHY EYES

THE SWITCH – LIVE MYSTERY ADVENTURE GEELONG

NIGHTJAR TORQUAY

TERINDAH ESTASTE: SUMMER TWILIGHT SERIES

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