Forte #731

#731 16.01.20 FREE

T A G N I M R O F R E P N O H A M C M ANGIE

W O D A E M

SATURDAY 18 JANUARY upstairs

DOWNstairs

MACKIE

AUSTRALIA DAY WEEKEND

UPstairs

NATHAn THOMSON

DOWNstairs

DE MUNARI / MC JANIK

Australia Day Sun Jan 26

40-42 MOORABOOL ST, GEELONG 03 5222 7333 2

@homehouseNIGHTCLUB FORTÉ 731

@homehousegeelong

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Visual Arts Graphic Design

Get creative and study local. Apply now!

Portrait series by Emily Scott - Diploma of Graphic Design

Real skills. Real experience. Real outcomes. thegordon.edu.au | 8373 9193 Government funding for eligible students. TAFE 3044.

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www.nightjarfestival.com.au TORQUAY - THU 4-10pm - torquay common Geelong - fri 4-10pm - johnstone park

FOOD, MUSIC, ENTERTAINMENT & design market

TORQUAY

jan 2nd OPENING NIGHT

VICTOR CRIPES • TIM HENSHALL • LESLIE D. KING & THE TREMBLING SHAKES • TRICKBOX

jan 9TH FEMALE FATALE

ANNA SCIONTI • THE FEATHERHEADS • TESS GUTHRIE • THE MAMAS

jan 16TH IT’S A ROCKY KIND OF NIGHT

TALLL PAUL • DIRT HAND • THE KITE MACHINE • Z-STAR TRINITY (UK)

jan 23RD FOLK/BLUES NIGHT

FLYNN GURRY • THE OCELOTS (IRL) • DOC HALIBUT • OLIVER NORTHAM & THE ELSEWHERES

GEELONG

FEB 7TH BOYS NIGHT OUT

JACK MEREDITH • THE TEQUILA MOCKINGBIRD ORCHESTRA (CAN) • THE NEW SAVAGES • SKYSCRAPER STAN

FEB 14TH FOLK

PHIL & TRUDY EDGELEY • THE OLD MARRIED COUPLE • BRADLEY STONE • BROOKE TAYLOR

FEB 21ST LOCALS

PINK WOOL PRESS • RACH BRENNAN & THE PINES • THE ETHAN FARMER BAND • ZUMA

FEB 28TH IT’S A WRAP

THE BLACK SWANS OF TRESPASS • NATHAN POWER • JOSHUA BATTEN BAND • THE MOJO CORNER THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS & SUPPLIER PARTNERS

admission adults $10 13-17 $5 12 & under free FORTÉ 731

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ERICK MORILLO • MARK KNIGHT CHELINA MANUHUTU EDDY M • VIVIANA CASANOVA SUPPORT FROM ANDREA GUADALUPI • ANDREW REEVES • CHRIS MATTO ETWAS • FLAVIO • HANDSDOWN & LEIGH BOY • JESPER ROBINSON KORY GRANT • MARKET MEMORIES • MATTEO FREYRIE • S&M

SAT 1 FEB SHOWGROUNDS TICKETS VIA TICKETBOOTH

Doors open 2pm. 18+ event, photo ID required. www.hardwaregroup.com.au

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Feature Story

The Loop

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Local Feature News Food

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Creatives

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Reviews

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Columns

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The Guide

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FREE SHIT

As bushfires continue to rage across Australia, a number of homegrown acts and the music industry at large have been pitching in with donations and fundraising efforts. Whether that be through direct monetary contributions, a donation of proceeds from merch, or coordinating benefits, big and small, it is one of the most beautiful things to see the music community coming together and stepping up to raise the necessary funds to help during these kinds of crisis. Our hearts go out to those who have lost loved ones, have loved ones missing, have had their homes, businesses, and livelihoods destroyed, are displaced and don’t know what’s to come. To all of the emergency services staff and volunteers, we say thank you. Without you so many more lives and homes would have been lost.

NEXT MONTH KITTY FLANAGAN AND SAM PANG TAKE TO THE STAGES ACROSS THE REGION IN A PAIR OF COMFORTABLE ARMCHAIRS ON VALENTINE’S DAY TO DISCUSS HER BEST-SELLING BOOK, 488 RULES FOR LIFE. IT’S LIKE BOOK CLUB BUT FUNNY. AND BEST OF ALL, YOU DON’T HAVE TO READ THE BOOK FIRST. BUT IN CASE YOU WANT TO, WE’VE GOT TWO SIGNED COPIES OF 488 RULES FOR LIFE TO GIVE AWAY!

TO E N T ER EMAIL THE CODE WORDS ‘KITTY’ TO TALIA@FORTEMAG.COM.AU, ALONG WITH YOUR NAME AND NUMBER!

Publisher Furst Media Pty. Ltd. Editor Talia Rinaldo

talia@fortemag.com.au

General Manager Glenn Lynch

glenn@fortemag.com.au

Sales Executive Matt Wilkinson

matt@fortemag.com.au

Creative Director Nathan Mossop

Kicking off 2020, we’re celebrating the new year and new issue with much-loved boutique music festival Meadow (previously known as By The Meadow) which is back for its seventh year.

Gracing the cover is incomparable indie song chef, Angie McMahon, who will be taking to the stage when the annual three-day and two-night celebration returns to the lush farmland hamlet of Bambra (Victoria’s enchanting Otway Surf Coast region). We spoke with Angie ahead of the festival so make sure you check it out.

artwork@fortemag.com.au

Interns Jess Sercombe, Thom Devereux, Chloe Cicero, Olivia Hurley.

FORTÉGRAM Tag us @Forte_mag or #Fortemag to be featured!

@paradeespressobar

Further in this issue, we chat with innovative prog-metallers Between The Buried and Me, Adelaide songwriter George Alice, Aussie punk rockers These New South Whales, Adam Thompson of Chocolate Starfish, Australian pub rock royalty Dragon, Melbourne nu-metal band Ocean Grove, plus heaps more.

Keep it regional fam.

Talia & the Forte team!

X @tammywalters

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

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@sleuthmusic11

Contributors Anthony Morris, Alastair McGibbon, Chris Lambie, Dr John Lamp, Kim Price, Renee Abbott, John Foss, Alex Callan, Paul S Taylor, Tammy Walters, Daniela Koulikov, Lynette Walker, Kim Cooper, Wylie Caird, Chris Michaels, Adrian Aloi.

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.

KRUSH IT

THIS SUMMER

TO VOTE!

WITH KAIJU! AND DON’T FORGET

Vote for us as one of your fave beers of the year in the GABS Hottest 100 Aussie Craft Beers poll. You could win tix for you and ten mates to GABS Festival!

Vote now at www.gabsfestival.com.

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WAKE UP FRESH IN 2020 WITH BAE JUICE Say goodbye to getting smashed on the weekend and arriving to work hungover. Well - more specifically - say goodbye to the hangover bit.

If you’re a party animal, Bae Juice is a god-sent miracle. The secret? Pear juice. Yep - 100% Korean pear juice. Research shows this humble fruit speeds up the alcohol detox process which helps prevent hangovers. It’s juiced and packaged in South Korea and sent straight to Australia for you! For max results, wrap your lips around Bae before you wrap them around an alcoholic bevvy. It should be the first thing you drink on a night out, and the first thing you thank in the morning. You can purchase these little lifesavers at baejuiceaus.com.au with the option of a 6, 12 or 24-pack. Thanks bae.

PACK YOUR BAGS, COACHELLA’S 2020 LINEUP IS HERE In case you missed it, the most Instagramworthy event in the world is back with Coachella announcing its 2020 lineup… and it is HUGE! Leading the pack (and confirming months of speculation) Rage Against The Machine, Travis Scott and Frank Ocean are locked in to headline. Joining them will be the likes of esteemed colleagues Bishop Briggs, Lana Del Rey, Lewis Capaldi, Jai Wolf, Thom Yorke, Disclosure, Calvin Harris, Run The Jewels, FKA Twigs, DaBaby, Lil Uzi Vert, Rex Orange County, Megan Thee Stallion, Fatboy Slim and so much more. Sweetening the deal, the California festival has a stack of Aussies on the bill too including Flume, King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard, Sampa The Great, The Chats, Skegss, Dom Dolla, Hayden James and Amyl & The Sniffers. Just huge.

ST KILDA FESTIVAL REVEAL WHOPPING LINEUP FOR 40TH ANNIVERSARY To celebrate four decades as Australia’s biggest free live music festival, St Kilda Festival is going big for 2020, bringing over 50 acts to its various stages on Sunday Feb 9. The Main Stage will be showcasing the likes of Melbourne favourites Cash Savage and the Last Drinks; the high priestess of Soul Kylie Auldist; stack-blowing rockers Stonefield; electro-pop ensemble The Kite String Tangle; infectious four-piece rock band Port Royal and blues-inspired melodic pop duo Busby Marou. As an extra special treat, there will be a secret special guest who will be revealed on Friday, January 31. The festival will also host a spread of workshops, community group activities, carnival rides and food and market stalls to keep attendees of all ages and interests entertained. You can have a look at the full lineup via stkildafestival.com.au/ FINAL ACTS REVEALED FOR AO LIVE STAGE The 2020 Australian Open is kicking off in Melbourne this month and the final acts have been revealed to complete the bloody huge lineup. Prolific UK DJ Fatboy Slim (known for ‘Praise You’ and ‘Weapon Of Choice’) will be performing a DJ set on Sunday, 26th January while he’s in town for his Aussie tour, while two of 2019’s biggest Aussie artists - Thelma Plum and G Flip - will be taking the Australian Open stage on Tuesday, 21st January. They join an already rich lineup of artists including Brisbane pop outfit Cub Sport, dynamic duo The Veronicas, Lismore rockers Grinspoon, Kate Miller-Heidke, Matt Corby and UK punk legend Billy Idol. Punters can get into the AO Live Stage performance with a stadium ticket, or you can nab a ground pass for access to all outdoor courts and the ballpark. Tickets to the AO Live Stage are on sale now via Ticketmaster.

IRST F ’S A I R O T C VI

E L P I R T ERSLIDE T A W L E N N FU

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N E P O W O N

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URBNSURF MELBOURNE IS OFFICIALLY OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

PBS DRIVE LIVE HAS DROPPED A STELLAR 2020 LINE-UP

Filling every day with perfect conditions, Australia’s first surfable wave park, Urbnsurf, has officially opened in Tullamarine, located just a three-minute drive from Melbourne Airport.

With 1000 perfect waves rolling through every hour and conditions adaptable at the push of a button, there are waves for everyone - from small gentle whitewash for first-timers, to twometre barrels for those that can really shred.

The two-hectare surfing lagoon will be offering surfing lessons and with the state-of-the-art sporting lights, will run all day and into the night.

Great food and drink will be available for spectators or those needing a break (including the fifth outpost of Sydney cafe Three Blue Ducks, by newly-appointed Masterchef judge Andy Allen), and a surf shop for those after some gear. Book your visit via www.urbnsurf.com

PBS 106.7FM’s Drive Live is back for its 10th year, and to celebrate this momentous occasion they’ve put together a scorching line-up! Taking place Monday, February 3 til Friday, February 7, between 5 and 7pm every night, the 2020 edition of Drive Live delivers another spectacular line-up of local artists currently dominating international and Australian stages, including the likes of Sleep D, Bad//Dreems, Angie Mcmahon, Birdz, Coda Chroma, Clowns, Baby 8, RVG, and Surprise Chef, among others. The free series of in-studio performances will see three acts performing daily to a lucky studio audience and a live-toair broadcast via the PBS 106.7FM frequency.

Anyone can attend PBS Drive Live, but space to each show is strictly limited. Punters must RSVP via the PBS website.

THE PROSECCO FESTIVAL 2020

THE ASCOT LOT ARE HOSTING AN ICE CREAM FEST

Fact: Life is better with bubbles. And if you love Prosecco, then you’ll LOVE The Prosecco Festival! Returning for its third year in a row, the bubbly festival takes over Northcote Town Hall Arts Centre on Saturday, February 29 for a fun-filled day tasting a range of Prosecco, thanks to Melissa Brauer, The Prosecco Queen.

Bringing together Italian and local Prosecco producers, guests can explore a great selection of 45 quality bubbles - think Col Fondo (cloudy, bottle-fermented) or Brut Nature, which is bone dry and delicate and probably like nothing you’ve ever tasted. As well as Master Classes hosted by festival founder, the festival provides an opportunity to meet with individual growers, winemakers and importers, an Aperol Spritz Bar, wines by the glass, information on food matches, the chance to sample oysters, caviar and local cheeses, and even Prosecco-themed cannoli and gelato. Pop this one in the calendar!

If you’re anything like us, you’ll treat yo’self to a good old Ice Cream binge on the couch all year round whilst polishing off a few re-runs of Friends or The Office… however we feel Summer is the perfect excuse to leave the house, and boy have we got the festival to motivate you.

This February (Saturday the 1st), Melbourne’s best Ice Creameries will be coming together to celebrate all things Icy (no, not your mother in laws heart) - think larger-than-life creations and theatrical desserts made before your very eyes.

The ice cream lineup of legends so far includes 196 Below, St.Gerry’s, Sorborium: Sorbet Lab, Cold Rock Ice Creamery, Yo-get-it Frozen Yoghurt with plenty more to be announced!

Savoury Food Trucks also available, and there will even be indoor and outdoor bars slinging Paddle Pop Martinis all day and night.

Oh, and bring your Dog. They love Doggos.

~ ~ GEELONG'S ARE YOU

: BU SK ER APPLY NO W S BE S T

BES T BUSKER?

Little Malop Street Central Geelong

11, 14 and 18 February Finals: 21 February

ALL AGES AND PERFORMERS WELCOME

G E E L ONG

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MCMAHON AT MEADOW LAST YEAR THE MURLOCS AND FRASER A. debut album, ‘Salt’, feeling a bit restless at home given Ideally, I don’t know if I’ll ever make 20 records but it’s GORMAN REUNITED ON THE LINE-UP OF BAMBRA the hectic nature that is the music industry that she that kind of long term career plan where I just get to BASED MUSIC FESTIVAL, BY THE MEADOW. FOR was thrust into. However, McMahon has found solace keep writing about the world around me and what that 2020 THE FESTIVAL IS BACK WITH A SLIGHT looks like to me is developing into a better writer as I go. in the opportunity that awaits her creatively.

NAME SHORTEN AND AN EVEN JUICER LIST OF ACTS. TAKING PLACE FROM FRIDAY 27 – “This is the first stretch of time where I don’t have any “One of the things I’m trying to think about in this time SUNDAY 29 MARCH 2020, MEADOW WILL PLAY tours booked in so what I’m going to try to do is write a off is practicing my music skills more and becoming a HOST TO ROLLING BLACKOUTS COASTAL FEVER, whole bunch of songs but at the same time, I don’t want slightly better guitarist and writer as time goes on. I them to turn out shit because I’m pressuring myself. It’s want it to be slightly more interesting than the last FRANKIE COSMOS (US), SHEER MAG (US), DYSON record and less interesting than the next one I will STRINGER CLOHER, ELIZABETH, SURPRISE CHEF going to be writing and recording time but I’ll be figuring AND THE ‘FOREVER YOUNG’ YOUTH GROUP. out how to navigate that as I go,” McMahon explains. make and grow with it as I’m growing as an adult and AND THAT’S JUST AN APPETISER OF WHAT have a narrative to refer to. All of my growth over the IS ON OFFER. THE MAIN DISH WILL BE PASTA “I’m trying to think about it like I’m making a bunch of last couple of years as a young adult has been around albums in my life and this is just going to be the second SERVED WITH A SPRINKLE OF SALT IN THE Salt and how that has shaped my career as a musician.

FORM OF INCOMPARABLE INDIE SONG CHEF, one. Not THIS is going to be the second one. Hopefully, It feels like a really big piece of me. We made something it will slot into a whole narrative of developing what that we are proud of and we put it out into the world ANGIE MCMAHON.DFGDFGDGDFGDFGDFHGD and feels like a strong brick in terms of building a strong kind of artist I want to be and whatever comes out is “My life is food puns,” McMahon laughs. But in all meant to come out. I want it to be rewarding for my foundation of work.” seriousness, Angie McMahon is excited to be beginning own mind and I want it to be what I’m going through her 2020 Victorian shows in a regional space, given and thinking about and what’s happening around me.” While McMahon mansion is under construction, the devastation overcoming the Australian rural site inspections at Meadow are on offer. The spaces over the last couple of months, alongside other The kind of artist that McMahon aspires to be is quite festival goes down March 27-29, 2020 – Bambra, simple; an artist who sees value in, and strives for, Victoria. Tickets at www.meadowmf.com with 20% incredible talents. development and extension as a musician, as an artist, of profits from 2020 ticket sales going to the CFA “I’m pumped to be out in a rural setting and be able to be and as a person to have a long and fruitful career. Make in Victoria. in the land. With everything that is going on [Australian no mistake, she is already well on her way.

Written by Tammy Walters bush fires], you just want to be in the natural world and out of the city and I want to be on festival campsite “I feel like it’s such a privilege to make records because Cover photo by Jacq Justice where people are helping the local community and for me it’s all I’ve ever wanted to do and so ultimately Meadow 7 Lineup people are supporting each other and looking after that’s what I want to do. I want to make one after the nature and I feel that that is what this festival is going other and keep on creating and some of my favourite Angie McMahon to be, just a real community spirit. I think it’s going artists like Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen, I look Rolling Blackouts Coastal Fever to be great and I’m really excited. I want to do more at their catalogue and they’ve made so many albums regional shows,” she says. and that helps me take the pressure off because even Frankie Cosmos (US) though they may have had the same sophomore album Sheer Mag (US) Currently, McMahon is on a well-deserved break pressure, they’ve had ten or twenty albums after that following an exhausting touring schedule for 2019’s and people love different records for different reasons. Dyson Stringer Cloher 12

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Close Counters

Youth Group Loure Elizabeth

Emily Wurramara Cool Sounds 3k Darcy Justice Sweet Whirl First Beige Elle Shimada Collective Colette Egoism Surprise Chef 100 Swazi Gold + More To Come

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THE LOOP

A Geelong Gallery exhibition

B A L L A R AT BELLARINE

BENDIGO CASTLEMAINE

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

23 Nov 2019 to 23 Feb 2020

Stephen Bram— abstract painting Stephen Bram Untitled 2014 synthetic polymer paint on canvas © Stephen Bram. Courtesy of the artist and Anna Schwartz Gallery Photographer: Christian Capurro

Exhibition partner

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EVES KARYDAS SHEDS HER SKIN

SUNNYSIDE PICK UP MOMENTUM

Featuring the singles ‘Further than the Planes Fly’, ‘Couch’ and ‘Damn Loyal’, summerskin, the debut album from singer-songwriter Eves Karydas, is doing the kind of things every musician hopes for. Landing attention both locally and abroad, the album has been a triumph for Eves as she survived a dingy (and cramped) flat in London and an awakening of confidence.

Torquay Hotel, Torquay – February 14.

Having dropped their second album Momentum late last year during a 2019 that also included two sets at Japan’s Fuji Rock Festival, Melbourne sextet Sunnyside are looking forward to playing some shows to break in 2020.

Playing the kind of funky, jazzy music you can dance to, the band has dates at The Dart & Marlin, Warrnambool on January 17 and The Eastern, Ballarat on January 18.

MASON GIVES YOU AN OPTION Announced last year, the time has now come for thrash specialists Mason to make their way around the country on their Kill or Be Killed tour. The band has spent the last few years touring Europe, North America, Canada, Japan and Australia, while still finding time to work on a new album that will drop in 2020. Metal loves company, so Mason will bring along Flaming Wreckage and Vexation for the ride. Barwon Club, Geelong – February 14.

GREAT AUSTRALIAN BEER FESTIVAL

LATE NIGHT WITH KATIE NOONAN People can be pretty critical when it comes to covers, meaning it can be tricky territory for an artist. That hasn’t stopped Katie Noonan, who shared to Instagram a short video of her learning a Hunters and Collectors classic. Its popularity led to Katie expanding to the likes of Crowded House, Archie Roach, You Am I and Powderfinger – and new show Late Night Tunes with Noons is the result. The Palais, Hepburn Springs – May 15.

Can a festival that calls itself great have a mediocre music line-up? I don’t think so. The Great Australian Beer Festival, due to raise a glass at Geelong’s Johnstone Park this Saturday, January 18, has announced just who is going to be supplying tunes – and you are going to love every one of them. Sneaky Sound System, Kim Churchill, The Kite Machine and The Run will be joined by the 2019 Geelong Best Busker, Gary Jones.

PORT FAIRY JAZZ FESTIVAL Port Fairy will step back in time to the roaring ’20s with the 2020 instalment of the Port Fairy Folk Festival (February 7-9). More than 100 bands and artists are on the line-up, while an open mike session gives a chance to those wanting to showcase their hidden talents. For those who want to be a world record holder, the ‘Largest Charleston Dance’ is on offer, currently sitting at 1096 people. Full details are available through portfairyjazz.com.au.

KRMF KILMORE ROCK MUSIC FESTIVAL What better place to hold a rock festival than in an old gaol. The Old Kilmore Gaol will unlock its doors on February 1 for the KRMF Kilmore Rock Music Festival. The headliner is Melbourne hard rock outfit Riff Raiders, who are looking to release their second album in coming months. You also have The Vendettas (also armed with new tunes), plus more to be announced.

Throw in some food trucks and your day is sorted.

PORCH SESSIONS The acclaimed Adelaide-based travelling series Porch Sessions has announced ten dates throughout January, travelling to VIC, SA and NSW with three fine acts. Merpire, Hannah Blackburn and Forever Son will hit the road with a full event crew and media team where they will perform in backyards, farms and creative spaces.

Dromana will host a leg this Sunday, January 19. Learn more through theporchsessions.com.

NIGHTJAR 2020 Independent artists’ festival NightJar is upon us, providing music, food and markets to the good folk of Torquay and Geelong, and anyone else who may be up for a little nourishment of the soul.

The events take place in Torquay each Thursday night throughout January and in Geelong each Friday night throughout February. Take a look at nightjarfestival.com.au for who will be performing each night. Please note, entry this year is $10 cash.

OH, IT’S GOING TO BE A NICE DAY TAY OSKEE IS A FIGHTER When the first half of your 2019 included a sold out tour, and the second half included bunkering down in the UK and a twenty-date European run, it’s going to be a tough year to beat. But Tay Oskee seems up for the challenge. Written while adjusting to a change in life’s pace, new song ‘Floating’ is about the point where a relationship stagnates and you go about fighting to keep the spark alive. Workers Club, Geelong – March 28.

If there is one thing that you should know as you strap yourselves in for the year, it is that the Torquay Hotel will once again host A Nice Day to Go to the Pub on January 25. And there will be those who rightfully say that one band whose company is a must on a nice day at the pub is Cosmic Psychos. They will be joined by Private Function, Bitch Diesel, The Living Eyes, Mr Teenage and Chook & Moluck.

Put the drinks on my tab.

SUMMER IN THE PARKS Summer in the Parks still has a lot left on its calendar across the remainder of the month and February. A highlight is the outdoor cinema screenings, which will take place at the Elmore Recreation Centre on January 17 (Dumbo), the Axedale Recreation Centre on January 24 (The Lego Movie) and the Heathcote Barrack Reserve on January 31 (Toy Story 4). For a full list of what’s on, visit bendigosummerintheparks.com.

MADE IN AUSTRALIA CONCERT

COSTAL JAM

It doesn’t get much more dinky-di than the Made in Australia Concert, and it is heading to Lorne’s Lorne Hotel on January 25. The Absolutely ’80s Made in Australia event is a two-hour celebration of one of the finest decades in Australian music – where big hits were matched with big hair and loud clothes. Lining up at the Lorne Hotel will be Brian Mannix (Uncanny X-Men), Sean Kelly (Models) and Scott Carne (Kids in the Kitchen).

Following showings at Lorne and Warrnambool, Coastal Jam makes its way to Torquay for the second time, hitting up Torquay Hotel on January 26. The idea is pretty simple: carefully select a team of electronic artists and set them loose in some of the country’s most iconic coastal venues. The line-up features Northeast Party House (DJ set), Kilter (DJ set), Spacey Spacey and Dean Turnley, plus a stack of top-notch supports.

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SKY EATER REACH FOR THE CLOUDS There have been many colourful and wonderful ways bands have come up with to describe their sound, but mermaid trip-hop dub is a good’un. Sky Eater is the duo of Chelsea McNelliey and TK Bassdread, a couple of talented multi-instrumentalists whose influences range from Bob Marley to Bjork. In November 2019 they released the EP Pyrocumulus. Handle Bar, Bendigo – January 31

THE OCELOTS WILL BRIGHTEN YOUR DAY From Wexford, Ireland, to Western Australia, The Ocelots get around. New single ‘Colours in the Dark’ was recorded in the WA desert, and now the brotherly duo is set to perform a huge run of shows around the country. The Old Church on the Hill, Bendigo – January 31; The Lost Ones, Ballarat – February 1; and Ararat Live – February 5. The lads will also perform at Torquay’s NightJar Festival, as well as Newstead Live.

THE LIGHT SHINES ON AMISTAT So, here is a little background information on Amistat. The outfit is comprised of Josef and Jan Prasil, twin brothers born in Germany and raised in Italy.

With parents originating from the Czech Republic and Australia, they moved to Australia in 2012 to boost their music profile.

More recently, they relocated to Europe to do the same. And now here they come with new EP, Love & Light. The Bridge, Castlemaine – February 2.

STAMP OUT AND ABOUT DO I H AV E COMPASS ION FATIGUE? “Is this guilt that I’m feeling?”

I did not have to battle a blaze with my own two hands. I didn’t lose a home. I didn’t have to escape with my kids and the clothes on my back.

I feel guilty because I have compassion fatigue.

We want to support those communities who are right now experiencing very real hardship. These recent bushfires have been some of the worst natural disasters in our country’s history.

We’re overcome with emotion as images of ferocious flames engulfing towns fill our Facebook feed. We see photos of homes completely flattened by the heat and the force of the fire. TV shows replay footage of distressed koalas, seriously burnt and crying for water.

We cry. We point the finger. We question how we’ll move forward. And for many across Geelong, the healing process begins by contributing to the rebuilding of the towns affected by the ongoing New Year’s fires.

For weeks I’ve witnessed compassion, love and willingness beyond your means to help someone you have never met. Businesses making direct donations. Small businesses using their platform to host an event or hold a fundraiser. Geelong locals donating proceeds and selling products to raise vital funds. Musicians are putting on benefit gigs while celebrities are making sizable donations.

I applaud your heart and your spirit. It’s kind. It’s generous.

It can also be overwhelming and suffocating. Let me explain.

The problem can seem so big. It can feel consuming, to the point of feeling powerless. You don’t want to sit back. I don’t want to stand back.

However, it seems that with every idea, comes with the expectation that people will join the campaign.

Followers will join the cause. People will pledge.

People will purchase.

How far can our generosity stretch? Will I let

someone down?

I hope no one is using this devastation to leverage their own profile or grow their business. I believe (and sincerely hope) people are putting the needs of others before their own ego.

So, to you reading this, feeling the same way I am. It’s ok to donate within your means. Whatever you donate, it is enough. No one is expecting you to sell your home. No one is asking you to go without dinner.

Thoughts and prayers do not restore communities alone. It is positive and proactive action now and long term that will regenerate these towns. And that’s just as simple as giving up a morning coffee #fiverforfiries or something much larger. Plan a trip to the fire-affected communities when it is safe, book accommodation and buy from their shops.

Keep their economy going. Think about where your money will help and who it will help. And think about what you are passionate about. Donate your money there.

But once you’ve made your donation, get off social media, close your laptop and go outside. Read a book. Take a walk. Breathe. Because compassion fatigue is real and you need to look after your mental health first. Do not underestimate the mental and emotional toll these fires will have on you. And do not feel guilty!

Stampsy is the K rock Music Director and one half of the Drive Show ‘Departure Lounge’. You can read more on IG @lee_stamps and FB @ StampsyKROCK

MAMA KIN SPENDER SWELLS IN NUMBERS There will be musicians as far as the eye can see at Castlemaine’s Theatre Royal on February 14 when Mama Kin Spender is backed by 40-person choir Macapella for a special onenight only performance. A collaboration of long-time friends Danielle Caruana and Tommy Spender, Mama Kin Spender joined forces in 2016 and released their debut album in 2018. New music is coming soon. Support comes from Elana Stone.

MUSIC AT TORQUAY COWRIE MARKET The Torquay Cowrie Market started up in the late 1990s with live music being one of its features and drawcard. Supporting local artists and musicians has always been on the radar of market organisers and the supporting committee Surf Coast Arts Inc. At the very start, local artist Mark Trinham’s band Moonah would perform for the day. This soon led to other bands knocking on the door and Mark became stage manager, sound engineer and programme booker. 20 years on and he’s still in the job.

On the third Sunday of the month from September to April, Mark hosts five acts on the South Stage, each with 45-minute sets, ranging from soloists to large bands, whilst providing the PA and doing the mixing. Hundreds of musicians, local and touring, have performed on the stage, from beginners and emerging talent to seasoned and experienced musicians.

The live music creates an atmosphere that makes the ‘Cowrie’ vibe. As we have seen many music venues disappear or cease to support live music, demand on the Cowrie programme has increased.

One of the young performers and composer showed an interest in sound engineering and took on the

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job to create a second stage at the north end of the market. Callum Watson has been running his stage for seven years.

This Sunday, Mark will be performing with Lucy and the Night Sky, an eight-piece original band which includes the original members of Moonah, 20 years on. The Cowrie has given them the opportunity to perform and keep the bands going strong. Weather permitting, the team guarantees large and appreciative audiences who gather to enjoy live music on both stages.

The market is free to the public, but bring some cash to throw into the guitar case.

This Sunday, January 19th, the market will feature One Spirit Africa, Immy Owusu, Fredland, Lucy and the Night Sky, Inked Factor, Krazy Koala Puppet Show, Kinnon, Lukey Luke, Paige and Harrison, Carlo Muncey and Julia Winkler.

Come along and enjoy all on offer including over 200 stalls with quality art and craft, food, produce and more.

Band bookings for next season are now open via cowriemarket@yahoo.com.au if you’re keen on joining in on the fun.

The Cowrie Market pops up every third Sunday of the month, 10am to 3pm, September to April at the Torquay Esplanade.

17

WRITTEN BY WYLIE CAIRD

TRAVIS COLLINS THROWS DOWN

TELL IT LIKE IT IS

It has to feel pretty good to be able to say you’re a seven-time Golden Guitar winner. It has to feel pretty good to be able to say you’re a back-to-back CMC Male Artist of the Year winner.

Country-rock songman Travis Collins has announced the first dates for his Weekend Throwdown tour, which includes a stop at Gateway Hotel, Corio on February 14. He will be supported by Liam Brew and Mickey Pye.

VESSEL IS FEELING THE BLUES It was meant to be a solo project for guitarist Jordan Forster, but the voice of Mason Matheson was too good to waste. Performing under the moniker Vessel, Forster is inspired by his travels, while the Bendigo-based band is a healthy serving of desert rock and psych metal.

Vagabond Blues is their upcoming new release, due to drop early February, with a launch locked in at local venue The Vine on March 13. ‘Twenty Twenty’ is the lead single.

MACEDON RANGES MUSIC FESTIVAL Grab your tickets while you can for the Macedon Ranges Music Festival, a fantastic one-day event hosted

by Gisborne Street Park on March 14. The line-up includes Kylie Auldist, Geoff Achison & the Souldiggers, Shaun Kirk, Michael Dunstan, One Spirit Africa, John Flanagan Trio, Electric Blues Collective, GraceJean, MRMC Funkateers and Jack Lyall.

All ticket sales will be donated to the Cambodian Kids Foundation.

SUMMER BEACH PARTY FOR LITTLE MALOP CENTRAL Little Malop Central will rock to the sounds of summer on Friday 17 January, with renowned Geelong entertainer Andy Pobjoy to perform as part of a free ‘Summer Beach Party Fiesta.’ The fiesta, to begin at midday, will feature the Piano Bar owner and band performing hits from their extensive repertoire, with a range of tasty food options adding to the beach party atmosphere. It headlines a series of free live entertainment planned for Little Malop Central during January and February, continuing the City of Greater Geelong’s efforts to activate the area as a safe and appealing meeting place. Check out the gigs listed in the gig guide.

THE MANY COLOURS OF EILEN JEWELL Castlemaine’s Theatre Royal will enjoy one of Eilen Jewell’s eight Australian dates next year when the singersongwriter hits the venue on March 21 in support of her new album, Gypsy.

The newie comes four years after Eilen’s last album of original material and features a little of everything: electric guitar-driven rockers, classic country, ballads, a protest song, and a cover of Pinto Bennett’s ‘You Cared Enough to Lie’.

ZINNIA BLUE PULL YARD DUTY Let the sun shine down on The Garden, the recently released debut album from Melbourne vintage folk and country roots duo Zinnia Blue. Drawing their inspiration from historical moments, Zinnia Blue is the combined talents of married couple Kate Tucker and Matt Ellis. The Garden is four years in the making and features a tidy collection of original songs as well as the odd cover. Blue Bean Love, Hepburn Springs – February 15.

THE DROP People have been so enthusiastic and so well-behaved that travelling festival The Drop returns to Torquay for a third year in 2020. Taking place April 11, the all-ages event (there are of course some basic age requirements that can be found through thedroplive.com) dedicated to great music, community, culture and the ocean welcomes Boy & Bear, The Presets, Ball Park Music, Allday, DZ Deathrays, Kita Alexander and Graace. Photo by Daniel Boud.

APOLLO BAY SEAFOOD FESTIVAL 2020’s Apollo Bay Seafood Festival will kick off on Friday, February 14 with the annual ‘Ocean to Plate’ seafood gala dinner, this year hosted by Alejandro Saravia.

Harbour Day, which takes place the following day, is the festival’s main event. Kicking off at 10am, festival-goers will be able to buy their product straight from those who caught the catch. A full program is available through apollobayseafoodfestival.com.

Jerkfest is growing up right before our very eyes. Celebrating its sixth outing, the line-up includes Golden Pelicans (USA), DJ Meltdown (Japan), Amyl & the Snifters, Power Supply, Lowlife, Straightjackets Nation, Civic, Parsnip, Hierophants, The Living Eyes, Constant Mongrel, Ausecuma Beats, Bananagun, RMFC, J McFarlane’s Reality Guest and Rapid Dye. Barwon Club, Geelong – March 21.

NEWSTEAD LIVE It has been a stellar start to the year for music, and Newstead Live (January 24-27) keeps the winning streak going. A shuttle bus will run between the campground and venues, for the cost of a gold coin donation. Please note that Newstead does not have an ATM, so bring enough cash if needed (most, but not all, businesses take card). You can get a little more familiar with what else you need to know through newsteadlive.com.

Music practice space wanted

For individual use only, not for commercial purposes.

BATTLE OF THE BANDS Our music loving friends at Black Hatt are putting on a summer addition of their loved Battle of the Bands for bands of all genres, sizes and ages. Heats are starting 24th of January to 13th of March, with final slated for 20th and 27th of March with 3rd of April being the Grand final. There’s a $2500 cash prize and a paid gig for the winner. There is still some slots left to fill but you’ll have to be quick!

SLEUTH TO THE LANEWAY Soulful vocalist and electro-synth-pianist Sleuth continues her summer solo tour and the launch of her third EP for 2019, playing at Warrnambool Laneway Bar on January 17 in support of Libby Steel. Expect deep, dark beats and electro grooves, epic moody vocals, and raw storytelling through songs. Sleuth is an artist that will show you her soul through her music, and at the same time make you feel like she’s seen yours. CD’s are available for sale on the night with 100% of proceeds (online streams/purchases/hard copy CD purchases) donated directly to supporting the RFS in NSW and VIC.

SINGER/SONGWRITER WANTED

Female guitarist/ vocalist wanted

BASSIST/SINGER NEEDED

space to practice music in.

Drummer / percussionist / Kongo

Looking for a female singer lyricist/

Looking for a female guitarist/vocalist

work on a Glam/Hard Rock/Metal band with. Must be male, must

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songwriter for a recording project. Email

to work with experienced rhythm

clubs, churches, schools, community

We’re looking for someone who is

waterfall.walshe@gmail.com for details

guitarist on two piece with a focus on

have hair, must have strong vocals.

theatres – just a space that’s both

committed to regular rehearsals once

lyrics and harmony, tasteful selection

Contact Glenn on 0407563638

of alternative and classic rock, country,

suitable and that won’t disrupt others.

a week, and to join us with open mics

Any day of the week – I

and paid gigs, who likes singing if

soul, R&B cover songs, some originals.

have a wide availability.

possible, and will join us in songwriting.

Ability to play reasonably accomplished

Within 30 minutes of the Geelong

Contact Marie from Intrepid

lead guitar essential. Availability to

CBD would be ideal. Contact

Soul on 0402310353

play most weekends is important.

Call Kit 0427999107

Sam on 0407347444

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Funkfest is full steam ahead. Due to its location in Victoria’s Alpine Valley, the festival and venue have been severely affected over the last three weeks by the devastating bushfires in the region, and after much consideration it’s been determined the festival, headlined by the likes of Alice Skye, Thando, The Seven Ups, and The Public Opinion Afro Orchestra, will go ahead. The beautiful Alpine Valley region has been hit very hard by the loss of tourists to the area at the very start of the summer season so FunkFest would love for funk and soul fans to do their part to help after these economically devastating events. It’s time to support this beautiful part of the state – buy a ticket, book some accommodation and bring your mates with an empty esky to enjoy the cream of Australia’s Funk and Soul Music scene at the Feathertop Winery in North-East Victoria’s Porepunkah, complete with breathtaking views of Mt Buffalo.

Drummer / percussionist/ Kongo player wanted

I’m looking for a cheap/free

Send your info to: enquiries@fortemag.com.au

FUNKFEST WILL GO AHEAD

FIELDSY’S TOUCH OF GREEN Irish-born Fieldsy is a heavily Celtic-influenced singersongwriter who has supported the likes of The Beautiful Girls, Daniel Champagne, Shaun Kirk and Irish band Hermitage Green. In 2018, she was a semi-finalist at the International Songwriting Competition for her track ‘Neverland’. ‘Love’ is a more recent creation. There is a solid chance you will hear one of, or even both of, these tracks when Fieldsy hits The Vine, Bendigo on February 15.

JERKFEST VI

CL ASSIFIEDS

THE MAMAS HIT THE DANCE FLOOR

Frustration, anger, hope, love and despair help to fuel Your mama don’t dance and your daddy don’t rock and sci-fi hip hop duo TELL, the new collaborative project roll – except for here. Blending soul, RnB and funky of Melbourne emcees Mantra and Grey Ghost. Now, fem hop, The Mamas having been working overtime following the release of some hyped-up singles, the to fill dance floors. And they do it in fabulous sequinduo has released their debut album, Soundtrack to the studded style. It makes sense, then, that their latest End of the World. And just as the title suggests, the duo single is titled ‘Dancefloor’. Workers Club, Geelong wants the album to be the kind that is played when the – February 7; The Eastern, Ballarat – February 8; ship is going down. and Macedon Railway Hotel, Macedon – February 9.

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THE UPLIFTING BELL ENDS, III Good news for fans of bands that aren’t shy in combining folk, garage, psychedelia and whatever else pleases them while also introducing people to Chris Isaak’s ‘Wicked Game’. Sydney band The Uplifting Bell Ends continue with their common theme with the release of Super Giant III. The Eastern, Ballarat – January 24. They’ll be getting support from Luke Spook (Small Town), The Thing from Spring and Honey Hunter.

GOOD MORNING 2020 Good Morning - the Melbournebased recording project of Stefan Blair and Liam Parsons – have announced their first ever full Australian Headline Tour. In February 2020 the beloved songwriting duo will take their four piece live band all the way around Australia including stops at Ballarat, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, Fremantle, Sydney and Canberra with more dates to be added. The Eastern - January 25.

B END IGO AU G O GO

SUMMER SUNDAYS FINAL SESH

WR IT TEN BY LYNE T TE WA LKE R

The Summer Sundays sessions at the Ballarat Botanical Gardens is back for its last weekend and boy, does it look like fun. Sunday, January 19 will see Ballarat’s Anna Bilbrough and Torres Strait Islander songbird Kee’ahn ease us into the afternoon, while local purveyors of funk and dedicated disciples of the groove Sunnyside and Australian rock royalty and You Am I frontman Tim Rogers, headline the gardens for the last hoorah. There will be a tonne of Ballarat’s favourite food vendors as well as some cheeky beverages from the Garden Bar.

All the hard work local singer-songwriter Sherri Parry put in during the last six months of 2019 is about to bear bountiful fruit in 2020.

Parry released her current single ‘Greed’ on December 28, a taster of what to expect from her forthcoming album, out next month. She says it is actually the oldest song on the record, penned when she was just 15.

“It was written during a time in my adolescence where I realised that particular people who persistently spoke to me and sought my attention only did so for their own gain and benefit, often being a romantic one,” she says. “I quickly learned that I wasn’t fond of that at all.”

‘Greed’ has been a staple in Perry’s setlist for the past six years. “It’s one I let loose on each show and throw all my anger and frustrations at the world into it, and I like to think others do, too,” she says. But she adds that her fans have “never heard it like this”.

“With a full band backing, incredible production and a hell of a lot of work, it’s the first tiny sliver of the delectable cake that is this new album,” she enthuses.

Perry says the new album has been “years in the making”; she spent six months working on it last year, clocking up more than 200 hours of studio time.

It will be launched at The Old Church On The Hill – Perry’s self-proclaimed “favourite venue on earth” - on Saturday, February 8, with her band comprising Jaspar Austin-Gray (bass), Thomas Hadlow (electric guitar), Patrick Barton Grace (keyboards), and Kane Watts (drums).

“The vibe is so welcoming and warm, and every performance there is always incredible,” she says.

“The people are there for the music – not to chat, just to listen.”

Perry says the songs on the album – which follows on from her 2016 EP EQUAL and 2017 Ukulele Sessions singles – reflect her personal and musical growth. “I’ve evolved so, so much, experienced more of life and the joys and travesties that come with it, and learned more about my sound, and music in general,” she says. “And you can hear all of that and more in these songs.”

Perry’s new single ‘Rot’, which she describes as “an absolute heart-wrencher” and her favourite new song, will be released as a precursor to the album.

It’s the most devastating and powerful song I think I’ve ever written,” she says. “It’s also the biggest, with 79 tracks layered on it.”

Prior to her own album launch, Perry is supporting The Havea Brothers at The Old Church On The Hill on Saturday, January 18. From 8pm; tickets $15 (via Sticky Tickets).

Another event not to miss is Sons Of The Blues (with Jerry Spieser), with Alawishus Jones and the Outright Lies, who bring their foot stompin’, rump shakin’ blues to the Shiraz Republic, Cornella, on Sunday, January 26. From 2pm; free entry.

Contact: nettee136@gmail.com

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19

APOLLO BAY SEAFOOD FESTIVAL 2020

WHETHER IT’S PEELING FRESH PRAWNS, CRACKING OPEN A CRAB, DINING ON A FRESH LOBSTER, SLURPING UP PLUMP MUSSELS, OR SHUCKING OYSTERS, EVERYONE HAS A SWEET SPOT FOR SEAFOOD. Eating the ocean’s finest bounty is one of life’s simple pleasures, and we know the region thrives on getting together for a community festival, so when we discovered an event that naturally combines the two, it was love. And if the idea of a road trip to a picturesque fishing port to enjoy both sounds appealing, the Apollo Bay Seafood Festival is your Nirvana.

From February 14-16, the festival will be taking over the picturesque Apollo Bay Harbour, where food and travel lovers will be able to feast on pescatarian treats, surrounded by the stunning sea view backdrop of the Great Ocean Road region.

Kicking off on February 14, the day of love, the festivities begin with a Submerged Gala Dinner hosted

by Peruvian chef Alejandro Saravia (Pastuso, Farmer’s Daughters). Widely credited with introducing Peruvian cuisine to Australia’s culture, Alejandro delivers a high-grade Peruvian-focused dining experience that concurrently celebrates locally-sourced ingredients, offering a sustainable approach to sourcing produce year-round. Forget the ridiculously expensive flowers, exuberant soft animal toys, and those desperate, 20

last-minute dinner reservations, and treat your love (or yourself, self-love is important too) to a banquet of share plates, accompanied by drinks and dessert at this delicious gala.

Coined the main event, the Apollo Bay Harbour will transform into an ‘Off the Boat’ Seafood Market on Saturday, February 15 from 10am where festival punters will be able to buy fresh seafood straight off the fishermen who caught the catch. With the spirit of the local fishing community at the heart, being able to buy direct is as fresh as you can physically get and a great way to share the world-class seafood that these fisherman source locally.

As the fresh fish sell out, harbour will then launch into a free and packed day of live music, interactive demonstrations, harbour expeditions, sailing lessons, casting competitions, and pop-up restaurants, boasting delicious lobster rolls, seafood dumplings, huge paella pans, southern rock lobster, abalone sashimi, octopus, freshly shucked oysters among much more. Think award-winning Oysters from Wapengo Rocks, Yarra Valley Caviar and freshly cooked local Rock Lobsters from The Apollo Bay Fisherman’s Co-Op, as well as Smoked Mussels in whiskey cream sauce by Sticks & Bones BBQ, Seafood Paella by La Bimba, Mushiki Dumplings and delicious squid from Flyying Callamari Brothers. Festival-goers will also be able to quench their thirst with local craft beer Pricky Moses, the finest

from Apollo Bay Gin, and cocktails from Boutique Event Co, just to name a few.

and its inhabitants, while the afternoon will see ‘Submerged in the Land’ explore the impact that eating animals – or not – can have on our environment. The For great vibes and music to feast to, there will be two session will examine concepts such as using native stages showcasing a wide range of talent, including grains and grasses as future food sources, soil carbon tropical shaking six-piece Nicky Bomba’s Bustamento, capture and other strategies for farmers. electric four-piece The Beachniks, Ballarat bred band Crepes, Victorian five-piece Sagamore, smart casual The Apollo Bay Seafood Festival has grown jazzy pop experience Dreamin’ Wild, the seasoned exponentially over the last six years, now attracting muso’s from The Rank Outsiders, and local legends up to 8,000 visitors over a weekend, championing fresh, The Fillmores. local seafood and the rugged beauty of the coastal town.

The 2020 event will once again host conversation sessions on Sunday 16 February, drawing in a range of speakers including fishermen, scientists, farmers, chefs and Indigenous knowledge keepers to explore the hot button issues that affect the ocean and the land, and how we as humans can live with both in harmony rather than depleting and destroying. Hosted by festival MC’s Richard Cornish and Hilary McNevin and feature special guest speakers including the likes of Matthew Evans from Fat Pig Farm, Bruce, and Jack Pascoe speaking on Learning from Country, Shane Buckley from Wapengo Rocks discussing post-fire land recovery, Lisa Deppler, local activist with Fight for the Bight and Chefs David Moyle, Nick Mahlook and Steve Earl – among many others!

The morning session ‘Submerged in the Ocean’ will have a strong focus on the current state of the ocean

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Fun, information and the bounty of Bass Strait over three seafood-filled days, what could be better?

The Apollo Bay Seafood Festival runs from February 14-16. Tickets are now on sale via www. apollobayseafoodfestival.com Photos by Belinda Van Zanen

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THE REGIONAL MUSIC COMMUNITY HAVE STEPPED UP TO RAISE FUNDS IN LIGHT OF THE BUSHFIRE DISASTER If there’s a good cause, then you will find musicians right at the front, turning their fans out for a fundraiser.

The massive bushfires we have had in the past few months have devastated whole regions of Victoria. On every form of media from newspapers to social media, we’ve all seen it, now we can do something to get much-needed assistance into these areas.

Here’s just some of the events in our region to get you out.

BALLARAT’S BEST FOR BUSHFIRE RELIEF Ballarat’s best artists and musicians have come together to create this rapid response concert to raise money for the Victorian Bushfire Disaster Appeal. All money from ticket purchases (excluding ticketing fees) plus donations will be donated to Bendigo Bank’s Foundation established for the Victorian Bushfires. The Mechanics Institute will be donating all profits from bar sales to the appeal. The line-up for the night includes:

GOOD VIBRATIONS FOR THE ‘BOOL Prepare yourself for a weekend of sensory overload. Non-stop dancing, music of all genres, art installations, food trucks, and delicious cocktails are all on the Goomfest 2 menu.

Set on a picturesque farm in Wangoom, 10 minutes outside Warrnambool, the festival brings together alternative up-and-coming musical acts and artists. The two-day camping festival allows for bring-your-own food and glass-free drinks and has been a popular inclusion into the growing southwest music and creative scenes.

Festival director Samuel Pyers is thrilled to bring Goomfest back for its second year.

“We aim to create a space to expose the community to the world-class artists and musicians in the area,” he said. “Our main goal is that people leave feeling inspired. I’m looking forward to grabbing a cocktail and having a boogie.”

22

Motor City Sounds, Vondabouys, Dead Salesmen Duo, St Ivory, Ballarat Ska Union, plus more. All artists, musicians and other personnel will be donating their time and services to this cause.

5pm, 17 Jan - Ballaarat Mechanics Institute, Ballarat BUSHFIRE BENEFIT SHOW AT THE DECK The Deck will be hosting DJ’s, musicians, artists, athletes and more to be announced. A percentage of all sales going towards a range of bushfire relief funds incl: Salvation Army, Australian Red Cross, NSW rural fire service and the CFA. A ‘Silent Auction’ will be happening from 11am.

11am, 18 Jan - The Deck, Geelong MUTANT DANCE BUSHFIRE FUNDRAISER Hosted by Mutant Dance, Captain will come alive with music and performances from President Press, Eddie Example, Alexander Luc, DJ Deen Ariff, Dhunt, Nitro and Pleasure Machine. A collection of artworks from a number of Geelong & Melbourne based artists will be silently auctioned over the evening. All 100% of the door take, performance/DJ fees & artwork sales from this event will be donated towards the Country Fire Service (CFS) Foundation.

8pm, 18 Jan - Captain, Geelong LUCY AND THE NIGHT SKY RAISE FUNDS FOR WILDLIFE Lucy and the Night Sky will be performing at the freshly refurbished beautiful Birregurra Hall this Saturday. If you wish to have a sing and be part of the nights performance, come along to the afternoon choral session with Lucy to learn, in harmonies, Patti Smiths “Power to the

Join musical acts Antiphon, Dumb Punts, Dr Sures Unusual Practice, Smarts, Aika, School Damage, Auntie Leo and the Backstabbers, Girlatones, Andre Agony and Boolumwal Gulka alongside DJs Jim Westlake, Rukkus, AOTS, DJ Carly, DJ Co-Dee and DJ Life Admin. Cake Industries, Virus Sound System and D.I.Y. HiFi will create their masterpieces throughout the day.

Goomfest 2 runs from January 18-19.

But wait, there’s more.

Client Liaison are taking their DJ decks and offwhite limousine all the way to the south-west to celebrate the January long-weekend.

The ultimate party popping duo have a catalogue of funky tracks up their flared sleeves and will take to the Warrnambool CBD stage on January 26.

Client Liaison’s recent release Champagne Affection has already become a firm favourite on dance playlists alongside their hits The World Of Our Love, Feed The Rhythm and Survival In The City.

Organised by Raglan Presents, a Warrnambool group aiming to raise the profile of music events in the south-west, the seasoned performers will be joined by an array of local DJs throughout the day.

Supporting the band iconic for their preservation of Australian identity are a swag of south-west DJs including Angus McKinna, Corey Ryan, Daniel Johnstone, Good Intentions, Toby Timms, DJ Carly, James Kol and Dizzy Daryl.

Harvey Miller and Monte Morgan will bring their DJ-ing skills to Warrnambool for the car park party with limited tickets are still available to the Raglan Presents Client Liaison (DJ Set).

This is definitely one summer dance party you don’t want to miss.

Written by Kim Price

People”, which kicks off at 4pm prior to the gig at 7pm. All money raised will go towards the injured wildlife affected in the Mallacoota fires.

4pm, 18 Jan - Birregurra Hall, Birregurra BUSHFIRE BENEFIT SHOW AT THE BARWON CLUB There’s quite a few events are happening over the Australia Day weekend, and, of course, the BC is right in there. $10 entry and 100% of the door sales from this show will be donated to Australian bushfire relief funds.

Bands so far include Caution: Thieves, Modern Divide and The Archanan.

8pm, 25 Jan - The Barwon Club, Geelong GEELONG FIRES UP On January 26, Geelong Fires Up will be at The Pier, trying to raise $1 for every citizen in Geelong, that’s $260,000! All 100% of all proceeds going towards The Bushfires Disaster Appeal for immediate relief. Buy an attendance ticket or a non-attendance ticket if you can’t make it on the night. Entertainment by the Piano Bar, grazing food, and you’ll have an excellent view of the Australia Day Fireworks. Includes Geelong’s biggest silent auction and fire walk sale where businesses will auction items in support of the event. Supported by Geelong City Council, Geelong Advertiser, The Pier Geelong and Piano Bar. 7pm, 26 Jan - The Pier, Geelong BAND TOGETHER - BUSHFIRE BENEFIT CONCERT Band Together is an opportunity set up by Spaceman Productions alongside the Pier Geelong for local artists and music fans to rally together and show the community what this music scene is made of.

The lineup includes Taylor Henderson, The Run, Momoko Rose, Channel Marker 6 & More TBA. Tickets are a $20 minimum donation per person but more opportunities to donate will be present and encouraged with 100% of proceeds going towards The Bushfire Disaster Appeal.

3pm, 26 Jan - The Pier, Geelong THEATRE ROYAL CASTLEMAINE BUSHFIRE BENEFIT CONCERT The Theatre Royal is hosting this concert in support of the volunteers and the wildlife lost in recent bushfires. Entry is by donation and there will be performance by The Maine Groovers, Felicity Cripps Band, and more. There will be special guests and a raffle. Proceeds will go to the CFA and Wildlife Victoria.

7:30pm, Jan 31 - Theatre Royal, Castlemaine THE RUN AND THE KITE MACHINE Two of Geelong’s finest and funkiest musical outfits are joining forces for an evening jam-packed with musical mastery and infectious riffage.

Both bands will play headline sets, with proceeds from the night going directly to bushfire relief services. Come down and support local music and make a difference to those touched by the fires.

8p, Feb 29 – Workers Club, Geelong With all these events, you have no excuse to stay at home.

Written by John Lamp

party where we’ll be singing like a Choir Girl and drinking cheap wine all night long.

Coined All the Cheap Wine, this party will be headline by none other than Flame Trees – the ultimate Cold Chisel tribute act.

Known also as the Cold Chisel/Jimmy Barnes show, Flame Trees compromises of members from Scat (a successful cover band from Melbourne) alongside the original Flame Trees to present the “second generation” of Flame Trees and put on a pure representation of the #1 hits of Cold Chisel and Jimmy Barnes.

LAMBYS ARE THROWING A ROCKIN’ COLD CHISEL INSPIRED AUSTRALIA DAY PARTY 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 our mates at Lambys.

Most of you would agree that there’s nothing more Australian than hot sun, warm waves, sausages sizzling on the barbecue, and a playlist fuelled with Cold Chisel classics like ‘Khe Sanh’, ‘Flame Trees’, ‘Bow River’, ‘My Baby’, ‘Cheap Wine’, ‘Saturday Night’ and ‘You Got Nothing I Want’.

With “The last plane out of Sydney’s almost gone” becoming an iconic lyric tattooed on the brains of a generation of Aussie rock fans, these are the songs tracks that have become the soundtrack to our summer, year after year.

Alongside all the Barnsey tunes, Abe Anderson will be doing his thing in the Back Bar and Liam Blackwell will be on the decks for the night.

Prepare your singing voices, this is going to be helluva Lambys Sunday sesh.

It all kicks off on Sunday January 26. Doors at 9pm & free entry before 10pm.

This is a strictly 18+ event.

Knowing that Cold Chisel are one of this country’s most revered rock outfits – crème de la crème of classic pub rock some might say - with a history that spans forty years and a catalogue of songs and albums that have become part of the nation’s psyche, the legends at Lambys have decided to throw a rockin’ Cold Chisel inspired Australia Day

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where our focus and attention has been going at the moment. We’re working on getting it up and putting that out sometime this year,” Timony explains.

“We’re really following our noses at the moment.

This project that we’re working on at the moment isn’t something we ever had in our vision and the idea came up and we chased it down really hard and it’s become a legitimate thing so we definitely would like to work on season three [of the comedy series] this year but we’re just following our noses.”

That seems to be TNSW style over the years, taking opportunity as it comes. Season two of their comedy series saw an impromptu guest appearance from The Cure’s Roger O’Donnell who is now the show’s executive producer.

“There have been some people like Roger from The Cure who we weren’t planning on having and we got a phone call from a friend in Australia saying Since they arrived on stages across Australia ‘hey, I’m with Roger from The Cure and he wants to back in 2011 as an urn of ashes from other group be in your show’ so we went to his hotel that day, formations, These New South Whales have so that wasn’t a planned thing at all. We’re always well and truly pushed the boundaries of their super grateful for moments like that. band. With their black nipple tape and mesh “I’ve been making films and stuff since I was twelve top attire, outrageous live shows, bewilderingly and acting in theatre and film and TV stuff later unconventional song content choices on and it’s always been something that I really (‘Mumma’s Tit’ anyone?) and their satire Spinal enjoy doing and comes quite naturally to me,” says Tap-esque comedy series, the boys know no Timony who was a regular on H20: Just Add Water bounds. While they’ve since traded in the bold and has appeared in Blue Water High and Willem Dafoe’s, The Hunter. “I’m definitely very grateful outfit choice, These New South Whales remain that this band has allowed for an outlet like that. at the top of Australia’s punk-rock food chain and in 2020 they have even more up their sleeves. I don’t think that other musical projects would be During their press run for the November 2019 able to have a comedy show. It works beautifully release of TNSW sophomore album, I Just Do What for us. What I love about These New South Whales God Tells Me To Do, frontman Jamie Timony teased is that I kind of get to create my own work in that to Scenestr that the band had a three-fold focus for sphere which is great.”

Along with their busy art-project focused the new year; songwriting for their album number three to take place over January, writing and filming movements for the year, the band plan on touring for season three of their comedy series and jumping internationally and will be appearing at music into a brand new film project. We spoke to Timony festivals across Australia. They will be joining Julia Jacklin, Ecca Vandal, DRMNGNOW, Maddy Jane, to check on their progress thus far.

“We haven’t started [songwriting] yet, we’re in the Elizabeth and Clypso at the picturesque Grampians midst of another project but in the next couple of Music Festival 28 – 29 February 2020. months for sure. The other project is a film project and it’s These New South Whales related and Tickets via grampiansmusicfestival.com we’ve been working really hard on that this month, Written by Tammy Walters basically since the very start and that’s pretty much

THESE NEW SOUTH WHALES PUNK WAVE

A NICE DAY TO GO TO THE PUB 2020 I don’t ask for much when Australia Day comes around. A sleep in, BBQ breaky, some tunes, and (most importantly, in my opinion) ice cold beer. This year, come Saturday January 25th, the Torquay Hotel is hosting A Nice Day To Go To The Pub again. Named after the song from legendary Cosmic Psychos, the day celebrates everything great about Torquay, booze and fantastic live music. Those lucky enough to have gone last year might remember (but judging from the footage, many might not) killer bands, shoeys and schooners, and rubber thongs flying through the air.

Melbourne veteran punks Cosmic Psychos will headline again in 2020, ensuring screaming ears and insane moshing. If you don’t already know the Psychos, this will be them in their element: in a packed Aussie pub. Last year they had the audience climbing the rafters, so there’s no doubt that security will have their work cut out for them this year.

Private Function will also bring their fast-paced punk sound amid their ‘I’ve Been Radicalized Tour’.

ROSS WILSON & THE PEACENIKS Come, Said The Boy – we’re steppin’ out into the Cool World of Ross Wilson, where the State Of The Heart is warmly imbued with A Touch Of Paradise from the Daddy of Cool himself!

Entertaining with entrancing energy of enlivenment and eagerness, the egalitarian Eagle of Rock is embracing further stages of success; and while lavishing audiences with over half a century of hits, alongside his current accompanists The Peaceniks, the winning of wild applause will once again be a piece of cake!

With unassuming amiability, Ross offers the reflection “I’ve got a long history of playing around the Geelong area; and, of course, Barwon Heads – I played at the Spiegeltent one time before about two years ago, so we know what’s happening down there!”

As founder of the monumental bands Daddy Cool and Mondo Rock; and a double Inductee into the ARIA Hall Of Fame, Ross has created compelling compositions and musical contributions to align with world-class standards; as proven by the Mondo Rock magnum opus ‘Come Said The Boy’, which has been valued among the works of Elton John and Van Halen as one of the most outstanding pieces of its time. “Come Said The Boy has really stood the test of time – it still gets a lot of airplay, streaming through

VOLTA - THE NEW & IMPROVED KAROVA LOUNGE

For those that haven’t heard these guys, they have a heavier, Dead Kennedys sound that is going come across especially live. Bitch Diesel, the female three-piece, will belt out their Aussie punk. Selfdescribed as “a couple of broads chasing down fame and fortune in a liquor infused haze”, not much else needs to be said.

Geelong’s own The Living Eyes, who have a heavier, surf punk sound, will also make an appearance. Newcomers Mr. Teenage are also on the bill, their recent demo ‘Neighbourhood’ was recorded by Cosmic Psycho’s Dean Muller. The track is definitely worth checking out, with hints of The Ramones heard throughout. Chook & Moluck will also be DJing following the live music.

A kissing booth will also be running on the evening at $2 a kiss, with all proceeds going to the bushfire appeal. Doors open 7:30, January 26th and DJing will continue well after midnight. There are less than half of the final release tickets left for this gig, so don’t miss out. Tickets are available for $45 through Eventbrite.

If you’re looking for a great way to spend your January 25th, surrounded by great people, cold brews and banging bands in picturesque Torquay, don’t miss A Nice Day To Go To The Pub 2020.

It’s a sad day when any live music venue shuts its doors and when Karova Lounge announced they were joining the list of fallen venues back in May, it was an especially hard blow to the region.

Probably Ballarat’s most iconic live music venues, this spot has attracted some of Australia’s most renowned musicians and performers over the past 15 years including Okkervil River, Paul Dempsey, Birds of Tokyo, Ben Kweller, Peking Duk, Wolfmother, You Am I, Something for Kate, Thirsty Merc, King Parrot, and Architecture in Helsinki, just to name a few.

Not only has the venue played host to a seemingly endless list of Aussie and international talent, but they also prided itself on promoting the local acts that were well on the way to making themselves known across the country, including the likes of Yacht Club DJs, Hunting Grounds, and Goldfields.

With the closure being a huge blow to both local musicians and fans, the Karova spirit will live on under the new name, Volta – Arts & Culture. Slated to open at the start of February following major renovations, the live music venue will be Ballarat’s answer to sustainable arts and culture, showcasing talent and diversity in a clean approachable atmosphere, providing a dynamic space for people to socialise in a low-risk environment.

“We’re not continuing with Karova Lounge, but we’re paying homage to it,” says Volta booking agent

Written by Thom Devereux

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the roof… I feel pretty good about that one,” Ross says.

In a chuckling recollection, Ross comments upon the recording process of the 1980s – a time when Mondo Rock was achieving its superb status. “Well, It was a bit different because you actually spent a lot of money in studio time, which is not necessary these days. In the eighties it was a great time for Australian music, because everybody had learned how to write good songs so there was an amazing kind of outburst of Split Enz; Mental As Anything; Midnight Oil; INXS – everyone was churning out these really good songs. Mondo Rock was part of that; and before that I’d been with Daddy Cool; and so I’d already had a bit of a foundation to build on then.”

With thoughtful humility, Ross evaluates “It’s interesting…so many guitarists who I admire, that are much more skilful than me, stated that they were inspired to pick up the guitar because of Daddy Cool; and…that’s the biggest tribute I’ve ever had. It was a particularly great quartet that made an indelible mark, so I owe it to the other members as well.”

For a musician who has produced preeminent acts such as Skyhooks; and whose songs have been recorded by similarly astronomical artists such as Joe Cocker and John Farnham, a continual evolutionary avenue may seem involuntary; but simultaneously, as Ross assures, “I always go back to the blues…and that’s affected some of the songs that I’ve been writing lately. You’ve got to wait for the muse to strike; but then other times, songs just write themselves…I’ve always got a pen next to the bed if I think of a good title, because titles are like a little key that unlock what’s in there in your subconscious.”

With soaring sentiment, we implore this Cool Daddy to Come Back Again for many more rocking performances!

Ross Wilson & The Peaceniks perform at The Wonderland Spiegeltent at Barwon Heads on Friday January 24. Check out the full program atdwww.wonderlandspiegeltent.com.au/ barwon_heads Written By Renée N. Abbott

Lachy Anderson. “Karova’s obviously had such a strong culture and we’d like to continue that legacy on in Ballarat but now as a little hub for art and culture, where people just spawn ideas – whether it’s music or comedy or dancing.

“With Ballarat already having The Eastern Station there, I think it’s extremely important that this venue continues as well with live music for the touring circuit. It just gives the opportunity for people to see bands that they might not ever see, or see in a regional setting. It’s exciting for the town, and the bands, to have this venue back up and running.”

Upholding the Karova tradition of bringing quality music to the region, the venue already has a slew of high caliber acts locked in for the upcoming months, including the likes of Melbourne songwriter and guitarist Ali Barter, Australian rock legend Tex Perkins, Melbourne-based alt-pop duo Eternal Crush, powerhouse singer-songwriter trio Dyson Stringer Cloher, and modern-day storyteller Josh Pyke.

While there’s clearly a focus on music, Volta is designed to stimulate and promote creativity through the arts with no limitations, open to people from all walks of life.

“There will be a number of those touring acts that the audience will see that have potentially played in the past in Ballarat, or have always wanted to play in Ballarat, so those bands will be still touring through, but we’re looking to book a more of a diverse range of acts and performances, occasionally appealing to different demographics.”

So far, it’s looking like we’ll be seeing everything from live music and comedy to open mic nights and Q&A’s, all with the aim of embracing art and culture in Ballarat.

“It’s about opening a space up for people to strive and create ideas, giving them the ability to be able to perform on a stage – that’s what is really important in this region.”

For those of you that missed out on heading to a gig at 15 Field Street, now is your time with Volta’s opening set for February 1 featuring the multi-genre mini orchestra TEK TEK Ensemble.

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RAINBOW SERPENT FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES DAY PARTY IN THE CBD AND A MULTI-DAY FESTIVAL OVER EASTER Rainbow Serpent Festival has long been one of the favourites on the calendar and since launching back in 1998 where it all started out as a psychedelic trance festival in a secluded paddock in Daylesford, it has grown into the internationally recognised melting pot of music, art, dance, culture, and food that it is today.

Last week, just two weeks out from its 2020 event, the festival decided to cancel its four-day experience because of Victoria’s bushfire crisis.

In a statement released via Facebook, a festival spokesperson said the decision was made after a meeting and site inspection with the CFA, Victoria Police, Forest Fire Management Victoria and Pyrenees Council staff.

“It hasn’t been an easy decision to know what is the right path forward – as much as we all love RSF, the health and safety of patrons and crew is our number one priority. This is key to any decisions made and of course, we always consider our impact and commitment to the land and the local community… Due to a number of safety concerns stemming from the fire that affected the site and the wider bushfire impacts across the

THE EAST POINTERS An ocean of emotion in motion, fervent folk revivalists The East Pointers could very well be the True North of Canadian Celtic musical innovation. As recipients of the Juno Award For Traditional Roots Album Of The Year, this triumphantly tenacious trio are breaking boundaries with their newest release entitled Yours To Break.

As The East Pointers banjo player Koady Chaisson reflects, “the music we play is deeply rooted in the Celtic tradition of the East Coast of Canada… with some traditions, they seem very guarded. We wanted to make music that felt good to us and that came across as authentic. We needed to break some boundaries, in order to kind of break those boundaries we needed to feel confident that we could do that and still go back to where we come from. We’re just trying to evolve it and move forward.”

With decorative elements including banjo and electronica, the band’s aspiration to preserve; yet revise, the identity of Celtic tradition is certainly pointing in the right direction. As Koady comments, the composition of a song “changes from piece to piece really; but we definitely like to do it collaboratively. I think always, you know, the

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country, it was agreed that holding RSF over the scheduled weekend in Lexton simply isn’t the right thing to do,” the statement says.

It’s unfortunate for the festival, but no one could have predicted the intensity of the fires we’ve witnessed around the country over the last two weeks, with nearly 30 million acres of land burned – much of it bushland, forests and national parks, home to the country’s beloved and unique wildlife, at least 27 people killed and more than 2,000 homes destroyed by the blazes. Lorne’s Falls Festival and NSW’s Lost Paradise were both cancelled in December due to bushfire threats. It’s been a sobering experience for us all.

But the good news for music lovers is Rainbow Serpent Festival 2020 will still go ahead, with festival organisers hosting not one, but two replacement festivals which aim to honour the gravity of the fires, assist the local community and give music lovers double the opportunity to celebrate the Rainbow Serpent spirit.

The first event will take place on Sunday, January 26 in Melbourne’s CBD, coinciding with the festival original dates of January 24–27. Named the Urban Edition, there will be multiple stages featuring artists from the original RSF lineup, including the likes of Infected Mushroom, Metronome, Tara Brooks, Freedom Fighters, The Librarian, Dekel, plus many more, with proceeds donated to aid the recovery of the recent bushfires around Victoria.

“We wanted to make the event in the city more than about us, there’s a lot of people hurting around the country and if we can gain some help for them from our own circumstance it’s an opportunity we couldn’t miss,” explains communications manager Loretta Agius.

“The music will be in true rainbow style,” she continues. “We’ve got as many of the international artists coming and some local artists as well from the original rainbow lineup. We’ll be announcing more artists in the coming days.”

Alongside the stellar lineup of artists, there will also be roaming performers and all the market bazaar culinary treats Rainbow Serpent regulars would be used to!

“While we’re in a different environment, we’re not going to be out in our trusty paddock, but we’re still looking at having as much of the Rainbow experiences that we possibly can.”

The second festival will be taking place in the original location over the Easter long weekend, April 10–14, promising a showcase of the best that Rainbow has to offer! Coined the Regen Edition, these are all the deets we have at the moment but stay tuned. What we do know is this event will be crucial for the rebuilding of the local communities that were directly impacted by the fires and boosting their local economy.

Alongside Rainbow favourites, the festival will be hosting a number of community related events including tree planting, a community working bee and the delayed opening of the Servo@23 Arts Hub. “We’re looking forward to being back on our Rainbow home in Lexton for our Regen Edition of RSF2020 over the Easter long weekend,” Loretta

strength in numbers type thing – the piece becomes stronger the more voices that are put into it. We’ve always taken little pieces here or a chord progression there or a melody here and brought it to the other two members of the band. I think with us we’re on the road so much, and there’s no better place to be inspired.” Deriving rich musical material from scenic stimuli is also a common practice of the band; as is evident in their piece ‘Halfway Tree’, where soft drops of guitar seemingly fall like water in a forest.

Further global matters of an ecological nature are exposed through pieces such as ‘S.O.S. (Save Our Sharks)’; and as Koady informs, “The inspiration behind that had a lot to do with a fella from Toronto, his name was Rob Stewart, and he wrote a couple of documentaries – Sharkwater and Sharkwater II which kind of just drew attention to the declining shark populations around the world – you know; Shark Fin Soup. “It’s one of those things that you can do as a musician – is try and keep somebody’s legacy alive in some small way by writing something for them. We’re big believers in [being] minimalistic on the road; reduce plastic. We all have reusable cups and reusable water bottles… sustainable touring is something we believe in passionately; [and] mental health is something that is near and dear to everybody in the band.”

For much of his life, Koady has experienced the symptoms of Bipolar Disorder; and with a prominent campaign towards generating awareness and compassion for the illness, his openness about the topic reveals the stigma that is around mental health. “People feel ashamed. The stigma is getting better but it’s certainly still there and when you have a platform to speak honestly about it, it can save lives. Seeing strength in somebody that doesn’t see it in themselves is something that’s really important.

“Every day that we’re on the road I feel so thankful and blessed that I get to do what I do; [as music is] the best mood stabiliser that you could ever be on.”

Port Fairy Music Festival goes down March 6-9.

Written By Renée N. Abbott Photo by Bill Reynolds

says. “It’ll be a more intimate affair, with changes to the formatting and layout to respect the land. It wouldn’t be Rainbow without music, with an array of international and local artists from the original line up on offer, along with a large amount of Arts and Village content.”

With Rainbow Serpent Festival long being a huge contributor to the Lexton community, bringing a diverse genre range of hundreds of artists over multiple stages for the past two decades, alongside one of the largest markets in Australia and an overall amazing outdoor four-day experience, the disruptive effects of this shift are far-reaching.

“The support that the local community has shown us, that the Rainbow community and the broader festival community as well has just being phenomenal,” Loretta explains. “The amount of love and respect that people have for Rainbow, it really is what’s keeping us going and making sure the team has the energy to do what we need to do. Just cancelling Rainbow was never an option, because we know it would just have detrimental impact on the local community there.”

“We have the most amazing crew, I’m really proud to be working with the Rainbow team,” Loretta continues. “At the drop of a hat they’ve just been able to produce what’s set to be not one, but two incredible events.”

It’s looking like a double Rainbow to remember.

The two events will be treated as Rainbow Serpent Festival 2020 with your tickets gaining entry to both. Ticket holders unable to attend one or both of the new events will be offered full and partial refunds while new tickets have been released for those now wanting to head along.

DERRIN NAUENDORF

First up, can you give us some brief insight into your musical journey?

It started in high school. I started late at about 15 years old, but I took to it quite easy; I was lucky.

Within 12 months I began to form a band and play live.

You’ve got an interesting style with how you tap your harmonics, especially in ‘All Over The World’. Who influenced your style?

That song is from my previous album Crazy World.

I was hanging out in Italy for a while with some hyper level guitar players. I was spending a lot of time with Luca Stricagnoli who is an Internet guitar star now, but then, just becoming known. We would bounce off all these crazy sounds and guitar styles off each other. I always saw myself as a singer/ songwriter and a guitarist. That was my tenth album, and I thought I’d do something different and let the guitar come to the fore and take centre stage.

Playing at the edge of my ability I guess… that song was born from that.

Congrats on the recent album, The World Within. Can you tell us a bit about how this one came together?

A big change in life. I was married and living in England, then things changed and I was on my own again. I decided to leave England and I went to live

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in Andalusia, Spain. I had a house in the middle of nowhere with no neighbours and a swimming pool.

I sat down to learn slide guitar finally, something I’d promised myself I’d do for at least 20 years. I’d sit there, watch the sunset, learn lapslide and write songs about the past few years of life. All these stray animals from the area would visit me and they were my audience. It was a lovely time.

Recording with legend Jeff Lang over the space of a few months would have been a great experience! What did Jeff bring to the recording?

It was a great experience and very easy. The first obvious thing for me was Jeff brought was his extensive experience of working with slide guitar and recording it. It is still relatively new to me, so his experience was invaluable. I learned a lot of little things about the instrument, and all those little things add up to a lot. We would have similar ideas what to do with the recording, but then there were things I hadn’t thought of that Jeff did that really worked, namely a few guitar effects and things like that. I’m really glad it all worked out. This album would not have been the same with someone else.

Musically, what has moving back to Australia meant for you?

It’s home. There is no place like home.

You’ve performed more than 2500 shows in countries all over the world! What is your favourite part of the world?

I think in my travels, my favourite part of Europe was Andalusia in Spain, hence my decision to move there for a while. I felt a connection with the people, the land, the lifestyle. I still do and always will. Music-wise, I spent a lot of time touring and performing in Britain, and I loved the folk scene and blues scene there. I definitely feel some of those scenes has permeated my music to some degree.

You’re launching your album at Pistol Pete’s in Geelong. What have you got in store for us?

A mix of old and new stuff. I guess because I haven’t been around a lot, I’ll try to give the whole spectrum of what I do.

Help Derrin celebrate his return to Oz at Pistol Pete’s, Geelong on Thursday, January 30.

SUNNY IN OCEAN GROVE We’re not talking about the summer sun on the Geelong surf coast when we say it’s sunny in Ocean Grove. We’re talking about the Melbourne nu-metal band Ocean Grove and the release of their third single, ‘SUNNY’, for their sophomore album Flip Phone Fantasy.

Following their ARIA #5 charting The Rhapsody Tapes in 2017, 2019’s ‘Ask the Anthem’ and the October release of ‘JUNKIE$’ marked a new era for the band with the introduction of new member, Twiggy Hunter. ‘SUNNY’ cements that welcome dynamic shift and transition with its melting pot of sound and Brit-pop undertones. “‘Ask For The Anthem’ was the song to reintroduce the band with sort of a clean slate of thought,” vocalist Dale Tanner explains. “‘SUNNY’ gave us a chance to really show off and demonstrate a new aspect and a new angle to Ocean Grove that no one has ever heard of before and it comes with the inclusion of Twiggy [Hunter] to the band. The writing style and the expertise that he brought into the band, we’ve swallowed that and included it in our amalgamation style and I guess it was our first chance of really showing it to the public and leading them into a sound that is quite prevalent throughout the album. I think the singles that we have released so far are quite a good overall

BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY Bohemian Rhapsody gets an Aussie chocolatecovered makeover as 90’s powerhouse performer Adam Thompson of Chocolate Starfish puts his sweet flavour on the killer Queen classics.

The world relived the magic of flamboyant frontman Freddie Mercury in late 2018 in the Bohemian Rhapsody biopic which saw Rami Malek deliver an Oscar-winning performance and now it’s time for Thompson to step into the role in the live setting. Alongside the We Will Rock You Band, consisting of fellow Chocolate Starfish member, guitarist Zakk Zedras, musical chameleon, Ben Grayson, on keyboards, jazz junkie, Jonathon Zion, on bass guitar, and with drummer Andy Swann, who was a member of the original “We Will Rock You” band, Thompson and co will perform the film soundtrack in its entirety across Australia.

The shows have been off to a flying start with dates in Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney already been and gone with rave reviews from audience members, and it’s no wonder with Thompson taking lead. Punters of the Red Hot Summer Tour Ballarat earlier this year witnessed Thompson embody Mercury to a tee from the moment he set foot on the stage in his bold statement ASOS suit and silver crocodile skin boots, recreating the infamous Live Aid call and response vocal gymnastics with the sea of 5000. Doing Mercury justice is no easy feat,

indication of the sound to expect from the album and I think ‘SUNNY’ ticked that box of a sector of the album that can be attributed to more of Twiggy’s contribution in terms of songwriting. It was definitely uncharted territory for us but I think it came at the right time and it felt very natural to us and taps into influences of Sam, Matt and my own already. Twiggy was the little push that we needed!”

Along with the single releases, the members of Ocean Grove and their Unified team have curated a Spotify playlist for Flip Phone Fantasy, consisting of the current releases and some major teasers of influential tracks by other artists that correlate to a song off of the upcoming record.

“That playlist was really fun to put together. It was a chance for us to really have a little bit of fun and give a bit of a clue and a teaser to fans as to what to expect in terms of sound and influences. Each song on that playlist definitely resembles a song off the album. They’re the kinds of artists that we have referenced and who we grew up listening to and have influenced the style of Ocean Grove,” Tanner says.

Many of the songs included are major throwbacks, including the angst-intense stripped back ‘Cemetery’

by Silverchair, ‘Song 2’ from Blur, Rage Against The Machine’s ‘Know Your Enemy’, ‘A Certain Shade of Green’ by Incubus and Pink Floyd’s ‘Breathe (In The Air)’. Tanner says it’s no accident that the majority of the tracks are classic songs from the past century.

“I wrote a note in my phone, ‘Nostalgia is my crutch’, and I think that really resonated with me and I think it’s something that is very powerful emotionally, nothing else can quite deliver it and it gives us hope and happiness and brings upon memories of good times and to kind of insight that through music comes to us very naturally. We’ve made a conscious decision to tap into that.”

Flip Phone Fantasy is set to drop in the coming months.

Ocean Grove will be supporting The Amity Affliction at The Torquay Hotel on January 18 & 19.

Written by Tammy Walters Photo by Ed Mason

but Thompson is undoubtedly the man for the job.

“Back when Chocolate Starfish started, I wanted to entertain like Freddie and I wanted to dress in that sort of flamboyant style. The way I engage a crowd is always Freddie-esque. It’s always been very inspired by that for the last 25 years of performance and he really was my own and greatest influence in terms of how to reach an audience and how to turn an audience on and that’s something that I’m always indebted to him for because he was the master of it,” he explains. “His range was incredible so I took a lot of lessons on how to extend my range and preserve my voice but also in his songs and the way they were constructed, the emotion comes from a lot of that – he takes a lot of those vocal leaps but not in a pretentious way, but in a powerful and impassioned way. There’s vocal gymnastics and there’s vocal passion.”

Thompson is also no stranger to covering the greats. Chocolate Starfish’s version of Carly Simon’s ‘You’re So Vain’ powered the fish to stardom while their live shows never cease to include outstanding renditions of classic songs. In 2017 the band took on the monstrous voice of Meat Loaf in their ‘Bat Out Of Hell’ Tour, sampling the set at this year’s Red Hot Summer Tour, and followed suit in their Classic Album Series with Australian new sensations, INXS with ‘KICK’ across 2018/19. But these shows are not your standard tribute concert – Thompson doesn’t become the artist; he celebrates them and their music.

“This band is theatrical in its essence and we’re going to get up there as passionately as Queen would have ever delivered them,” Thompson says. “It’s watching a recording artist do Queen in his own flamboyant way but not trying to copy the dress, the mode, the teeth, the way Freddie holds the mic – that’s not me. To be in a band that plays the stuff the way it should be and with the energy and the vibe and the passion that it needs to be – that’s what we’ve got.”

Shepparton will get a taste of Queen Friday 7 February at Eastbank Centre, before stopping at Bendigo on Saturday 8 February at the Ulumbarra Theatre.

Written by Tammy Walters

THE BEST OF DRAGON

Australian pub rock royalty Dragon is back in 2020! This time it’s the 20/20 Tour, fuelled with the top 40 songs that you know and love in a glorious musical mashup over two 20 song sets which will be coming to the BC next month. We sit down with bassist Todd Hunter ahead of the gig.

Geelong is very excited for you to perform at The Barwon Club in February, have you ever played in Geelong before?

We used to play Geelong a lot in the 80s. It’s good to be back doing it in the 20s.

Dragon has been performing since the 1970s and the band has undergone a lot of evolution, how different is the experience now that you’re touring your top hits than it was back when you were making them?

We don’t look at it like that. We are a working band that can and does play anywhere every weekend of the year apart from a few. We feel lucky that we can play for two hours and the crowd sings every song.

And how much do you feel the influence of past Dragon members in the music you play now?

On any night whether we are playing a huge festival or a tiny pub or theatre where the crowd is belting out the words, you can feel how Marc and

INXSIVE: PAYING TRIBUTE TO INXS If they can never tear you apart from the kick of INXS, then an excessive dose of rock, courtesy of tribute band INXSIVE, is definitely what you need this January!

From the “high-energy” propulsion of INXSIVE founder and lead singer David Graham has emerged a conscientious and convincing live production, fuelled by a lifelong appreciation of the music of INXS. “I have always been a fan, from a young age, of INXS; and a similarity was noticed in my voice as a teenager, actually; so it sort of blossomed into the first INXS band that I joined many years ago. I formed INXSIVE about 20 odd years ago... it’s been a journey for me,” he reveals.

As the dynamo behind his active band for over twenty years, David reassures the portrayals of each personality are “something we’re very comfortable with. We drop the pretense, and our main priority is to be audience-engaging and an entertaining band… we’re very mindful of getting an audience involved and engaging them.”

As a perfect accompaniment to the well-conserved musical portrayals, the band’s mannerisms also authentically capture the original INXS qualities of lead singer Michael Hutchence; the Farris Brothers; and Kirk Pengilly. As David rationalises, it is “obviously quite important to have a fairly accurate portrayal of Michael; obviously being

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Paul live on in their music. It’s great fun to play the dragon songs and it’s an honour to be able to keep them alive.

You recently had to cancel your Mudgee gig because of the bushfires, how much were you guys affected by that?

We hated not being able to get to that show. We drove from Penrith that morning until they closed the roads at The Hydro Majestic and we had to turn back.

It’s the only show we couldn’t get to in living memory.

Audiences will hear the top 40 Dragon songs throughout this tour, but can you tell us some of your top career highlights from over the years?

It would take 40 years to tell of our ups and downs.

The best is yet to come.

Apart from your current tour, including the upcoming appearance at The Barwon Club, what else does Dragon have planned for kicking off the decade?

An album of new songs for the middle of the year and to play every weekend till the end of time.

Guitarist Bruce Reid adds, “I’m very honoured to be in the 30 plus group of musicians who have been part of this band’s history. It’s an impressive list and I’m always aware and grateful to all of them for keeping the songs alive for Dragon fans all these years.”

Dragon 20/20 will take to The Barwon Club in Geelong on Saturday, February 1.

Written by Olivia Hurley

the key member of the band… we certainly sound a lot like them, but we do give a nod to the style of them as well.” He adds, “They’re all very competent players. We play so often actually that I do have a number of players for each instrument, but they’re all fabulous people to play with… all very aware of the style of INXS.” With thousands of gigs to boast; together with over 9,000 followers on their recently-established Facebook page, INXSIVE thrives on the enthusiasm so constantly churning amid avid audiences; and whether the venue be a nightclub, a festival of 10,000 or an event like Festival of Sails in Geelong, people just love the music. “It still stands up very well today,” David explains. “We try to be true to the albums – people really like to hear the songs as they’re presented on the albums; [but] we do incorporate some of the live performances over the years”, including the iconic Live Baby Live performance by INXS. Of course, an essential element for the band is to honour the INXS image through appropriate costume selections; and as David imparts, the sources and methods of procuring such clothing can be quite diverse! “One of my greatest resources are op shops. I have some fabulous stuff that I personally get from op shops, but a lot of the time we do need to get stuff created. Some of the things I have to actually make...I’ve made myself certain jackets that are specifically Michael!”

A special combination of appearance and vocal quality creates a marvellous synergy which is fundamental to devotees of the music. David reviews, “I think it’s very important for any tribute show to have their singer be somewhere in the vicinity. It’s very hard to sell [otherwise]; to gain that sort of popularity that perhaps we have over the years, [it is] something we really get a kick out of doing; and you never get tired of the audience reaction.”

You’ll be able to witness the best of Aussie Rock legends INXS when INXSIVE take on the Festival of Sails which runs from Saturday, January 25 to Monday, January 27, 2020 Written By Renée N. Abbott

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BUSHFIRE RELIEF GIGS ACROSS THE NATION

BUSH FI RE RE LI E F GIG S AC R O SS THE N ATI O N W O RKER’ S CLUB BUSHFI RE FUN DR AISER

WHO: INDYANA, EARNEST JACKSON, JIMMY HARWOOD, SEPTEMBER BARKER, DANI ELLA WHEN: SATURDAY 18TH JANUARY WHERE: THE WORKER’S CLUB, FITZROY

WRITTEN BY OLIVIA HURLEY

FOR: NSW RFS AND FIRE RELIEF FUND FOR FIRST NATIONS COMMUNITIES

IN THE FACE OF THE DEVASTATION CAUSED BY BUSHFIRES ACROSS THE COUNTRY, THE AUSTRALIAN MUSIC AND ARTS COMMUNITY IS COMING TOGETHER TO SUPPORT FIRE AFFECTED COMMUNITIES FOR A NUMBER OF DIFFERENT EVENTS. CHECK OUT THE LIST BELOW FEATURING SOME OF THE BIGGEST LINEUPS EVER ASSEMBLED.

WHO: COSMIC KAHUNA, RAMBIN’ GOLD, RUMOURS (FLEETWOOD MAC TRIBUTE), PLUS DJS.

B USH F IR E BE N E F IT

BUSHFI RE A NI M A L REL I EF BEN EFIT WHEN: SATURDAY 18TH JANUARY WHERE: FEEFEE’S BAR, COLLINGWOOD FOR: WILDLIFE VICTORIA TICKETS: FREE ENTRY

THE A MIT Y A FFL I CTI O N B USH FIR E BEN EFIT SH OW WHO: THE AMITY AFFLICTION, NORTHLANE, TONIGHT ALIVE, OCEAN GROVE, WINDWAKER WHEN: MONDAY 20TH JANUARY WHERE: CORNER HOTEL, MELBOURNE FOR: BUSHFIRE RELIEF (TBA) TICKETS: CORNERHOTEL.COM

STA ND UP FO R BUSHFI RE R ELIEF WHO: HANNAH GADSBY, WIL ANDERSON, DAVE HUGHES, JUDITH LUCY, TOMMY LITTLE, JOEL CREASEY, CAL WILSON, NICK CODY, RHYS NICHOLSON, NAZEEM HUSSAIN, TOM BALLARD, DENISE SCOTT, FRANK WOODLEY, AND MORE. WHEN: MONDAY 20TH JANUARY WHERE: PALAIS THEATRE, ST KILDA FOR: VICTORIAN BUSHFIRE APPEAL TICKETS: TICKETMASTER

RA I SE THE RO O F – BUSH DAN CE WHEN: THURSDAY 23TH JANUARY WHO: OH PEP!, THE MAES, JOHN FLANAGAN AND THE EARTHWORKER BUSH BAND WHERE: THE SPOTTED MALLARD, BRUNSWICK FOR: REBUILD UPPER MURRAY TICKETS: MOSHTIX

RO CK AGA I NST THE FI RES WHO: DALLAS CRANE, BATZ, ROCKET SCIENCE, DRAUGHT DODGERS, BABY 8, AND MORE.

WHO: JEN CLOHER, ROMY VAGER (RVG), SUI ZHEN, LAI, JESS RIBEIRO, COOL SOUNDS

WHEN: FRIDAY 24TH JANUARY

WHEN: FRIDAY 31ST JANUARY

WHERE: THE SPOTTED MALLARD, MELBOURNE

WHERE: THE TOTE, COLLINGWOOD

FOR: RED CROSS AND CFA

FOR: FIRST NATIONS FIRE RELIEF FUND, VICTORIAN BUSHFIRE DISASTER FUND, RFS, WILDLIFE VICTORIA, WIRES, SA COUNTRY FIRE AUTHORITY, TASMANIAN FIRE AUTHORITY.

TICKETS: MOSHTIX

TICKETS: OZTIX

B USH F IR E BE N E F IT WHO: TOTAL CONTROL, HTRK, ALICE SKYE, CIVIC, DISCO JUNK BANK, THE SNAKES WHEN: SATURDAY 1ST FEBRUARY WHERE: THE TOTE, COLLINGWOOD FOR: FIRST NATIONS FIRE RELIEF FUND, VICTORIAN BUSHFIRE DISASTER FUND, RFS, WILDLIFE VICTORIA, WIRES, SA COUNTRY FIRE AUTHORITY, TASMANIAN FIRE AUTHORITY. TICKETS: OZTIX

FRIE N DLYJ O R DIE S B U SHF I RE B E NE F IT SHO W WHO: JORDAN SHANKS A.K.A FRIENDLYJORDIES WHEN: SUNDAY 9TH FEBRUARY WHERE: THE COMIC’S LOUNGE FOR: WILDLIFE VICTORIA TICKETS: HUMANITIX

FI R E F IG HT AU ST RA L I A WHO: QUEEN + ADAM LAMBERT, ALICE COOPER, AMY SHARK, BAKER BOY, CONRAD SEWELL, DARYL BRAITHWAITE, DELTA GOODREM, GRINSPOON, GUY SEBASTIAN, HILLTOP HOODS, ICEHOUSE, ILLY, JESSICA MAUBOY, JOHN FARNHAM, LEE KERNAGHAN, OLIVIA NEWTONJOHN, PEKING DUK, PETE MURRAY, TINA ARENA AND WILLIAM BARTON + MORE WHEN: SUNDAY 16TH FEBRUARY WHERE: ANZ STADIUM, SYDNEY FOR: NATIONAL BUSHFIRE RELIEF TICKETS: TICKETEK

DO WN TO E ART H – A F I R E A N D C L I M ATE RE L I E F CO NCERT WHO: ANGUS AND JULIA STONE, BRIGGS, GANG OF YOUTHS, JACK RIVER, RUBY FIELDS, TASH SULTANA, THELMA PLUM WHEN: WEDNESDAY 26TH FEBRUARY WHERE: SIDNEY MYER MUSIC BOWL, MELBOURNE FOR: RED CROSS, WIRES, EMERGENCY LEADERS FOR CLIMATE ACTION, FOUNDATION FOR RURAL AND REGIONAL RENEWAL, FIRESTICKS TICKETS: TICKETEK

DO N ’T BE A SC O M O WHO: BURN THE HOSTAGES, PISSRASH, REAPER, GELD, AND MORE. WHEN: FRIDAY 6TH MARCH WHERE: THE TOTE, COLLINGWOOD FOR: BUSHFIRE VICTIMS, FOOD OF TODAY COLLECTING FOOD DONATIONS TICKETS: $20 ON THE DOOR

SO U N D R E LIE F ALL DETAILS TBA WHERE: MELBOURNE + SYDNEY WHEN: END OF FEB/START OF MARCH 26

TICKETS: $15 ENTRY ON THE DOOR

RO CK FO R REL I EF WHO: ATOMIC RIOT, THE UGLY KINGS, THE MERCY KILLS, SHEWOLF, AND MORE. WHEN: SATURDAY 25TH JANUARY WHERE: GLOBE ALLEY, MELBOURNE FOR: SELECTED FIRE AND WILDLIFE FUNDS TICKETS: FREE ENTRY

RA I SE ‘ EM UP WHO: MEGAN WASHINGTON, MATT CORBY, THE KITE STRING TANGLE, NGAIIRE, ROHIN JONES, THE RIOT, ASHA JEFFERIES, DJ BLACK AMEX, AND MORE. WHEN: SATURDAY 25TH JANUARY WHERE: THE TIVOLI, BRISBANE FOR: THE RED CROSS AND WIRES TICKETS: TIVOLI.COM.AU

FI RES FUND RA I SER WHO: MICK THOMAS, THE ORBWEAVERS, ANGIE HART, CHARLES JENKINS, POLLYMAN, OPELOUSAS, SARAH CARROLL, HOLLIE JOYCE, HAMISH COWAN, DOMINIC BYRNE,SKYSCRAPER STAN, DAN WARNER, SIME NUGENT, BROOKE RUSSELL, RUBY JONES, THE DUSTY MILLERS, LISA MILLER, DIRT HAND, LES THOMAS, THE PHEASANTRY WHEN: SATURDAY 25TH JANUARY WHERE: THE SPOTTED MALLARD, BRUNSWICK FOR: CFA, THE BUSHFIRE DISASTER APPEAL AND RED CROSS. TICKETS: MOSHTIX

BA ND TO GE THER WHO: PALACE OF THE KING, BAD MOON BORN, ECHO DEL TUSKER, THE RADIO SUN, EL COLOSSO, AND MORE. WHEN: MONDAY 27TH JANUARY WHERE: STAY GOLD, BRUNSWICK FOR: WILDLIFE VICTORIA AND CFA TICKETS: EVENTBRITE

TO NES A ND I BUSHFI RE BEN EFIT CON CERT WHO: TONES AND I – SUPPORTED BY ADRIAN EAGLE AND MORE WHEN: TUESDAY 28TH JANUARY WHERE: 170 RUSSELL, MELBOURNE FOR: RED CROSS, RFS, CFA TICKETS: MOSHTIX

FI RE A I D WHO: JOHN BUTLER, SAN CISCO, STELLA DONNELLY, THE WAIFS WHEN: FRIDAY 31ST JANUARY WHERE: FREMANTLE ARTS CENTER, FREMANTLE FOR: WIRES, NSW RFS, VICTORIAN BUSHFIRE APPEAL TICKETS: OZTIX

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Australia so hopefully that’s the case. Even the Bleeding Through tour, that tour was 14 days or something – and we were in a van so we got to see a lot of the country whereas now you just do... like, for instance, this tour is just three dates and you fly in everyday and kind of don’t get to check out the land. That Bleeding Through tour, it was so cool to see the small towns, and the pretty seaside towns and the middle of nowhere. See I think maybe because of that we’ve always had quite a strong connection to the country and I think maybe even people that were around back then kind of have a connection with us because of that.

It was kind of a weird tour for us as far as the type of bands, but it was a really good tour for us, it was a great experience. We’ll see what happens.

Over the years your musical style has evolved significantly as well.

Could you run us through the journey as to how a band writes an album like say, ‘The Silent Circus’ which edges into progressive elements while basing itself essentially in the modern metal genre, to where the journey has found you to be now with the release of the ‘Automata’ volumes?

Oh man, the thing is just like anything you kind of take it one step at a time and when I think about an album like The Silent Circus compared to now, I’m almost 17 years older since that record. We’re going to be 20 years into the band next year and just like anything, you grow and your taste changes; I understand music more now, I hope to think I’m better at my craft now. I think as a band we work together better now than we used to. I think what’s exciting about our albums is that they’re very genuine in that time period and I think albums should represent One of the most innovative prog-metal bands in the game, the musicians in that moment of time and I think when I listen to an Between The Buried and Me are bringing their frantic, theatrical album like The Silent Circus or the self-titled, it’s absolutely perfect for feast of intense, riffing raw energy to Australia for three intimate where we were at that time, the music we wanted to write at that time. shows only this summer. The shows will see Between The Buried Up to this point, I feel like we’re writing the kind of music we really And Me play two sets each night of almost 20 years of music. We want to write now, and I take pride in the fact that we’ve always kind sat down with the North Carolina quintet’s lead vocalist and keys of being a band that you know goes by the beat of our own drum and we’ve never really taken a path that we thought would lead to success, we Tommy Giles Rogers, Jr for an in-depth chat. always took a path that kind of felt good for us, and was very organic for The first time you guys came out to Australia was back in 2009 with Bleeding Through, which followed the release of the ‘Colors’ us. That’s been the journey, we’ve always just tried to be really genuine in our writing and as a group. It’s slowly evolved into something different album and preceded ‘The Great Misdirect’ release. Since then you guys have been a regular visitor with each release and even for than it was. Back then we just wanted to write crazy-ass, weird music. I special event tours such as the one coming up next year. Being not think the only thing that has really been at the core of all of our albums the easiest of places to visit, is there a reason it has been important and how we write is we’ve always wanted to, since day one, be a band that to continue regularly visiting Australia, and how do you think the isn’t afraid to branch out and try new things. Even when you listen to Australian fanbase has changed and evolved along with your own ‘reaction’ off Silent Circus, it was such a weird type of song for a band like us, especially in that time period so it’s cool to kind of look back and see evolution since that first tour?

I mean hopefully the fan base has gotten bigger. We’re very lucky that that it’s always been in our DNA. We’re all huge fans of different types we’ve had continued interest over there. We’ve always had a really good of music and to hear that we’ve always incorporated it into our sound relationship with Australia, and it is quite a journey but we always try slowly and I think now we’re more comfortable, we have the skill now to fit it into all our album cycles. We wanted to do something special to incorporate even more things in our music than say what we did in over there, do the ‘evening with’ thing which we just did in Europe and the past. It could have been a total disaster if we tried certain things we it was a really good experience for us and we thought it would do well in do now back then. It’s all about knowing your limits and your comfort

AN EVENING WITH BETWEEN THE BURIED AND ME

GEORGE ALICE To be able to say you spent your summer supporting Broods and Tash Sultana, as well as performing at Laneway Festival and Hot Dub Wine Machine is a feat for any artist – especially at just 16 years old. Let us introduce George Alice – Adelaide songwriter and winner of this year’s triple j Unearthed High competition.

Her debut song ‘Circles’ climbed to #1 on Australia’s viral charts for over a week, holding its place in the top three on the viral charts for over a month in Australia, New Zealand and Ireland thanks to its captivating hooks, electronic edge and old school songwriting, cementing her place in the Australian music industry. We sit down with the young artist ahead of her upcoming performance on the Live Stage at the Australian Open this month.

Having won triple j Unearthed High this year and having released your debut single, how do you find the balance between your music and your education, having just finished Year 11?

I actually made the tough decision to leave school soon after Unearthed High. I’d been presented with such an amazing opportunity, I was soon getting tangled in the mix between high school life and a sudden global music career. So far it’s been the best decision I could’ve made, I’ve achieved a lot of things I wouldn’t be able to if I were still in school.

Unearthed High was definitely a shock but I just take everything in my stride and surround myself

with good people.

‘Circles’ is a brilliant, catchy track that you released this year. What was the process behind writing and recording that?

It was one of my first writing sessions ever with my friend Maribelle in Melbourne. We both were experimenting with sounds and concepts, Maribelle hadn’t really produced a track before and the demo sounds exactly the same as the released version. We wrote it about being a typical 15 year old confused with life and the feeling of going round in circles with the same people every day, a constant confusion.

How does it feel to be supporting Broods at the Australia Open Live Stage?

It’s still really crazy to get my head around. I love Broods and never thought I’d be able to support them or play the Aus Open live stage - it’s all such a dream. I’m so grateful to have the opportunity.

I’m going to make sure I bring my all!

Are there any other acts at the Live Stage that you’re hoping to see?

We’re all split up over different days, but I would absolutely love to see The Veronicas they rock so hard. And Matt Corby has been on my bucket list for so long now also!

We love listening to your covers on Instagram, are then any new tracks out that you’re looking forward to covering?

I’m always looking for new songs to put my twist on. Lately, it’s been a lot of Post Malone, I really love him and his music. Maybe some Dua Lipa; the pop world right now is so beautiful it would be great to dive into and strip back.

With ‘Circles’ debuting last year, and a series of Summer shows on the horizon, can we expect some exciting new material in 2020?

I’ve been working on new music for months, we’ve got a bunch of tracks now that really sound and feel right. I’m excited to see what the new year brings, and I’m excited for you all to hear what I’ve been doing.

The Australian Open 2020 takes place from 20 January – 2 February. Punters can get into the AO Live Stage performance with a stadium ticket, or you can nab a ground pass for access to all outdoor courts and the ballpark.

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zones and being genuine in writing what just comes out of you naturally.

With a style that explores so many diverse genres and clearly has a massive range of influences across members, it almost seems like each individual member of the writing process has their own unique influences and roles in what ends up becoming a BTBAM song. Can you give us an idea of the different members’ musical influences, and how each person’s role in the writing process contributes to the overall process?

That’s very true. I think that’s what’s so cool about being in this band, we constantly kind of surprise each other with things we write. We all individually write normally before we start putting songs together and I think that’s one of the exciting parts about the creative process is kind of seeing where the other guy’s minds are in that time period. We were all kind of changing, we all write differently in certain moments in our lives and I think a lot of times we surprise each other with the kind of stuff we’re writing.

I wouldn’t say we all have a certain style per se but I guess Dan [Briggs, on bass, keyboards] is like the prog guy, he writes a lot of the weirder, kind of proggier stuff. Paul [Waggoner, lead and rhythm guitar, backing and lead vocals] is a lot more classical metal and cool intricate layered guitar stuff, I write a lot of the weird electronic stuff and the real brutal, grindy deathly guitar stuff, and Dustie [Waring, rhythm and lead guitar] is always being a death metal guy and cool kind of rock riff guy. Blake [Richardson, drums] is really good at really helping shape a song and helping with structure and transitions and trimming the fat. I think he’s got a really good grasp on the end result of a song and not to mention his drums have, he’s written a lot of stuff that’s spawned some really cool moments because of his drumming. But all that changes, each album, and each song, it differs how we write. I’ve always found it silly when people are constantly trying to prove to the world that they write; we’re a band. We write. It’s our band and we’re all a very important part of the puzzle, and without any of us it would be a very different thing. We’re very lucky that we work well together. Hopefully the next record will be a great puzzle, and hopefully, the others ones were to people as well.

Between The Buried And Me will hit the Corner Hotel in Melbourne on Saturday February 29. Tickets via livenation.com.au.

SIENNA WILD’S TOP 5 INDIE ARTISTS

unbelievably gentle and powerful vocals. It is rare that you’ll find such touchy lyrics and feels in an indie pop-rock outfit that also delve into folk and bluegrass but they do it effortlessly. Arguably the biggest surprise packet coming out of Australia for some time. Definitely a group you need to hear when you wanna feel something!

Middle Kids This band has to be on here for us, simply because of their immediate impact on us as songwriters and as musicians in the Australian music scene. It is easy to get caught up in trying to sound a certain way, to write and play to your strengths, to be influenced by the outside expectations or trends, etc but every now and then a band comes along that just writes and plays good indie rock, and that’s Middle Kids. Their songs tell a concise and clear musical and lyrical story without sounding too simple or contrived. From a personal perspective, I feel really inspired when I hear their stuff and it drives me to write better songs and use their blueprint as a guide. They deserve everything that comes their way.

Rolling Blackouts Coastal Fever Such a cool band! Strong guitar-driven no bullshit indie rock. These guys have toured all over the world in the last 12 months and rightly so. Really strong melodies and punchy sound that harks back to the early 2000’s “new rock” movement, which is arguably one of our favourite periods of music. High in energy at times and also really versatile listening for different times and places. These guys are on a really steep rise!

Pickwick Pretty much a perfect sound if you love surfy soulful indie rock! And who doesn’t? Driving beats, swirling guitar effects and really catchy melodies. Reminds me a bit of those really cool early 60’s California garage surf bands with a psych vibe and a driving Black Keys-like sound. Great minimal-production on their album that helps keep things energetic and simple. These guys will take you to the coast and leave you there to your own devices! Definitely a band to look out for.

A swirl of soaring guitars and searing vocals, supported by the tightest of rhythm sections, the boys from Sienna Wild play it their way.

Born and bred in Melbourne, the last few years have seen the band support the likes of White Summer and Columbus, play Federation Square’s Summer Series, and play a bunch of cracking headline shows and residencies, as well as spending time in the studio with Oscar Dawson.

After dropping their latest gritty single ‘You Wouldn’t Know’ late last year, the boys have spent the first few weeks of 2020 taking their live show through Sydney, Adelaide and Brisbane before they wrap it all up with a hometown show in Melbourne.

Ahead of their Melbourne gig, we had the guys share the top five indie artists we should be listening to.

Jade Imagine This band is kicking some serious goals! Signed to Milk Records recently and released their album Basic Love this year, but their music is anything but basic, full of strong instrumentation and really cool lyrics. Has a C Barnett feel, with a more laid back musical vibe and some really cool production tricks.

Jade Imagine are really firming themselves within a really strong musical movement, driven by powerful female front men. Really easy listening indie rock, in the best sense of the word.

Oh Pep! This Aussie duo really hit us hard when we first Catch Sienna Wild live at The Tote, Collingwood heard them! Really beautiful melodies delivered by – January 31. Tix via Oztix.

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THE MARCUS KING BAND If I told you that Marcus King has been playing blues live for fifteen years, how old would you guess he is? If you guessed 23, you’d be correct and I would be surprised. King has been playing professionally since age 11, working his way across his home of the United States.

In the last year, he has appeared on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, undertaken an arena tour with ‘Tennessee Whiskey’ singer Chris Stapleton, and has headlined at a series of festivals across the world, including The Marcus King Band Family Reunion.

Having made his Australian debut last year, The Marcus King Band will return again for Bluesfest, including a sideshow at Melbourne’s Croxton

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Bandroom, on Wednesday, April 15th. The band have released three albums together, the last of which (2018’s Carolina Confessions) reached #2 on Billboard’s Blues Chart. Now, to welcome the new decade, King is releasing his first solo album, El Dorado, on January 17th. As a preview of this album, King released the EP Beautiful Stranger just last week.

From the opening notes and lyrics of the EP’s title track, it is easy to tell this album is going to be something special. From the soulfulness of ‘Beautiful Stranger’, to the grungey blues-rock ‘Say You Will’, to strained vocals of ‘The Well’, Marcus King has again created a blues sound that is often overlooked in the modern age. With a producer like Dan Auberbach (The Black Keys) at the helm, this album promises to be explosive. King is a showcase of a sound not defined to one genre. From blues to funk, to the soul, even rock, there are elements of each sound on show, and this translates to the live shows of The Marcus King Band.

The Marcus King Band is made up of King on lead guitar and vocals, Jack Ryan on drums, Stephen Campbell on bass, Justin Johnson playing the trumpet and trombone, and saxonophist/steel guitarist Dean Mitchell. Having played over 140 shows in the last year alone, these guys are practised and tight. Described by countless publications as an “electrifying rock performer”, this is a great opportunity to see King and his Band in a smaller venue and is their only other Aussie show other than Bluesfest in Byron.

ELROW RETURNS TO AUSTRALIA

when you finally leave the party grinning from ear to ear. From Barcelona to London, from Ibiza to Amsterdam and now also from Perth to Melbourne, going through Sydney, it’s one helluva party.

In 2018, elrow brought their ‘psychedelic trip’ and ‘Sambowdromo do Brasil‘ shows to Australia which featured performances from Nic Fanciulli, FISHER, B. Traits, Marc Maya and more.

The elrow family returns for another round of Now, elrow will return with its biggest Australian dance-floor theatrics and a carnival atmosphere shows to date and featuring some of the biggest this month when it takes over Melbourne names in house music including platinum-selling Showgrounds on Saturday February 1. artist Erick Morillo, Mark Knight, Chelina Manuhutu, elrow (founded in Barcelona, Spain back in Eddy M and Viviana Casanova.

Described as a sublime, highly entertaining, 2010) have taken the world by storm with their unforgettable party style, pairing elaborate groundbreaking and group experience, elrow is a MUST. production, interactive performers and zany characters with the best electronic music, placing It all goes down at Melbourne Showgrounds on them as a global reference for circus inspired Saturday February 1. Tickets can be purchased parties! atgevents.ticketbooth.com.au/event/elrowIt’s epic but elrow has to be experienced personally melbourne to truly understand just how epic. Nobody can explain to you the feeling of being at one of its shows from start to finish, up to the moment

It all goes down at the Croxton Bandroom, Melbourne – April 15. Tickets are available through Oztix.

Written by Thom Devereux

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DERRIN NAUENDORF ALBUM LAUNCH • THE WORLD WITHIN PISTOL PETE’S, GEELONG TH JANUARY 30

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February 4-9th 2020 A celebration of diversity and inclusion geelongrainbowinc

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FOODIE NEWS DID SOMEONE SAY LEMON SOUR SORBET BEER? Blackman’s Brewery’s passion project The Barrel Farm is launching beer number two in the Summer Sour Series.. and it’s pretty damn sweet!

Introducing Lemon Sour Sorbet… a fruited kettle sour, with Torquay seawater made to evoke memories of Lemon sorbet at the beach. You’ll get a gentle sourness with lemony notes and a soft mouthfeel from the lactose. The team recommends serving with a scoop of lemon sorbet in your glass to enhance drinking experience!

The beer will be launching this Saturday (January 18) at the Great Australian Beer Festival Geelong Blackman’s Brewery in Torquay, Blackman’s Burger Bar Ocean Grove and The Good Beer Bar by Blackman’s in Geelong CBD. And yes they’ll be serving it with sorbet if you want it!

IT’S TIME AGAIN TO WALK FOR WINE

OUR GUIDE TO THE BALLARAT BEER FESTIVAL 2020 The Ballarat Beer Festival is back for its eighth year and is looking to be the best one yet.

Showcasing over one hundred and fifty of the world’s finest craft beers, this is a day festival that craft beer lovers won’t want to miss. We’ve rounded up a few of the highlights.

GETTING THERE Ballarat Beer Festival has moved to a totally new location this year with the easily accessible and beautiful Northern Gardens (the corner of Zoo and Nursery Drives), transforming the gardens into a craft beer lover’s paradise.

If you are coming from Geelong, it’s roughly a 90km drive via the Midland Highway (A300) which is just over an hour, and if you are driving from Melbourne, it’s about 120km drive along the National Highway (1.5 hours). Road-tripping is perfect if you have a crew by your side. If you need to park your car, there are plenty of free parking spots within walking distance of the event.

If you can’t find someone willing to be the designated driver for the day, hit up the public transport direct from Southern Cross or Geelong Station with the V/line. This will take you directly into the heart of town. The gardens are then about a ten-minute walk from the station or you can then

Calling lover of all things wine, food and music.

The APCO Foundation are once again bringing some of our region’s finest wineries and distilleries to the heart of Geelong for an afternoon of exceptional wine, delicious food and great local entertainment at the Geelong Wine Walk 2020 on Saturday, February 15.

Giving you exclusive access to a handful of historical venues in Geelong (including Sailors’ Rest, Fishermen’s Pier, Geelong Library and Heritage Centre and frankie.), each venue will be matched with different wineries for multiple tastings as you make your way around the town!

While you’ll, of course, see the best from the likes of BAIE Wines, Provenance Wines, Terindah Estate and Scotchmans Hill, among many others, this day is not just for wine lovers with the likes of Blackman’s Brewery, The Whiskery / Bellarine Distillery, Timboon Railway Shed Distillery and Great Ocean Road Gin also making an appearance.

What better way to start your weekend than with a walk – and one which involves wine, live music, and canapes. Gather your friends for this self-guided tasting tour and help raise money for the people who need it most.

Tickets via Eventbrite. All proceeds from this year’s event will be donated to those affected by the recent Australian bushfires.

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AUSSIE GIN DISTILLERY FOUR PILLARS HAS BEEN NAMED THE WORLD’S BEST Four Pillars Gin was established in 2013 in the Yarra Valley on the outskirts of Melbourne and has become one of the world’s benchmark distilleries, Australia’s No.1 craft spirit and a leading light in the Australian gin revolution.

The Yarra Valley-based distillery Four Pillars Gin has just been presented with the industry’s greatest accolade, the 2019 International Gin Producer of the Year at the 50th Annual International Wine and Spirits Competition in London.

At the event widely considered the Oscars of the international drinks industry, Co-founder and Distiller Cameron Mackenzie received the award at 10.00pm, 28 November 2019 (UK Time) at the blacktie gala at The Guildhall in front of 600 leaders of the global drinks community.

“To win this award, on the eve of our sixth birthday is really, truly, bloody incredible,” Mackenzie said.

“When we started making test batches of gin back in 2012 we never in our maddest, wildest dreams thought this could happen so quickly. To

take a tram or a good ol’ Uber.

THE BREWERS The family-friendly festival is filled with almost 40 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.

You will find brews from local brews from The Mallow Hotel, as well as well known favourites from Forte territory Blackman’s Brewery, Bells Beach Brewing, Flying Brick Cider Co. and Daylesford Brewing Co. Brewers travelling from across Victoria this year include Bright Brewery, Bridge Road Brewers from Beechworth, Taltarni winery from Moonambel, Shedshaker Brewing from Castlemaine, Cheeky Rascal Cider, Eddies Cider and Jetty Road Brewery all from Mornington Peninsula.

Alongside these legends, BentSpoke Brewing Co is making the trip from Canberra, Philter Brewing is coming from Marrickville in NSW and Modus Operandi Brewing make their way from Sydney’s Northern Beaches. Matso’s Broome Brewery is even joining in on the fun all the way from Western Australia.

With heaps more brewers making their way to the gardens next month, this really will be the ultimate boulevard of beers (and cider!).

THE MUSIC There will also be music to keep the good vibes flowing, with Melbourne singer/songwriter Michael Meeking, Melbourne Blues Institution Blues Roulette, Irish singer and songwriter Alan Boyle, up and coming bluesman Nathan Beretta and distinctive fingerpicking and slide guitarist Fiona Boyes all taking to the stage. Joining them, the festival will also witness the live energy from the likes of party-starters Amber Gamblers, alternative pop singer-songwriter Libby Steele and her Band, the dark Australiana and shaky Louisiana swamp blues band Jess Parker & The Troubled Waters, and the brand new force of Bitches Brew.

Rocking out to music in the sunshine and sipping on fresh beer – say no more.

EATING IS NOT CHEATING Mixed in with many of Australia’s finest large, small and emerging independent breweries, you’ll find a dozen food stalls all serving up global culinary

say that I am in a state of disbelief would be vastly understating the true state of my disbelief.

“The previous two winners of this award are Hernö from Sweden in 2017 and Kyoto Distillery in Japan last year so we couldn’t be in better company. They are two of the greatest distilleries and two of our best mates in the world of gin.”

The IWSC Award for International Gin Producer of the Year is recognition of Four Pillars Gin’s leading role in the world of gin up to and including 2019, creating some of the most awarded gins on the planet, and leading the way for craft spirits producers around the world through its commitment to collaboration, creativity, design and world-class experiences, all anchored by its home in Healesville, Yarra Valley.

The IWSC is the world’s largest and most prestigious international competition for spirits with more than 3000 entries from all corners of the globe& Four Pillars is the first Australian distillery to win the award.

The award for International Gin Producer of the Year caps off a pretty epic 2019 for Four Pillars, who, among a bagful of accolades both local and international, became the first ever local distillery to be awarded Australia’s Liquor Brand of the Year at the Australian Liquor Industry Awards.

The team at Four Pillars makes a range of gins headlined by its original Rare Dry Gin, the unique Spiced NegroniGin, the cult favourite Bloody Shiraz Gin, and the world’s most awarded Navy Strength Gin. They also produce a range of barrel-aged gins, including the much sought-after Australian Christmas Gin, and limited release collaborative gins made with distillers, bartenders and friends.

Four Pillars was founded by Cameron Mackenzie alongside drinks industry veteran Stuart Gregor and creative brand strategist Matt Jones in 2013 and the business took on Lion (a subsidiary of Kirin) as a 50% shareholder in April 2019. The three founders remain at the helm of the business and Four Pillars is today distributed in more than 30 markets across the world.

Visit www.fourpillarsgin.com.au/

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delights you can match with your favourite brews – and with a big day of tasting, you’ll need your energy.

There’ll be everything from Spanish Gourmet Caterers, The Happy Mexican, Mr. Squidgy and Smokehouse 720, to Just Chips Victoria, Tims Toasties, The Forge Pizzeria and even Traditional Baked Potato Co. EDUCATE YOURSELF Don’t be fooled. The festival isn’t just about drinking (unless you want it to be). As part of the festival, there will also be a series of free seminars over the day with the esteemed Professor Pilsner and Beer Diva, giving beer lovers the opportunity to meet and mingle with the brains behind the brands, indulge in beer, cheese and opera, suss out beer-innovation and even witness the blindfolded beer experience.

Prizes and samples will be on offer throughout the day so make sure you pop by and learn a thing or three.

LEAVE THE CASH AT HOME This year, the Ballarat Beer Festival will operate a digital currency to ensure speed of service, increased security and ease of transactions at the Bars, Food Outlets and Vendor Stalls.

Most importantly, there will be reduced need to wait in lines, counting out coins to buy a beer, as your friends get thirsty for your round! As such, all food, merchandise and drinks purchased at BIG will need to be paid for using the simple, tap-and-go Festival Currency Wristbands. Festival Currency can be purchased at Ballarat Beer Festival via currency stands or the roaming top-up currency sellers, or to save even more time and queuing, you can even pre-purchase your wristband and currency online via the website.

What’s even more rad is that after the festival you can get a refund on the festival currency you don’t use at the event – just make sure you keep your wristband!

Craft beer, ciders, fine wines, live music and food trucks – The Ballarat Beer Festival is the best way to spend a Saturday this summer.

It all goes down on Saturday, February 15.

For tickets and further information visit ballaratbeerfestival.com.au.

WEDDINGS? GIGS? SPORTING EVENTS? AIRPORT TRANSFERS? WE HAVE YOU COVERED!

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YUMMY DELUXE TUESDAY 14 JAN - SUNDAY 19 JAN

TEX PERKINS & MATT WALKER THURSDAY 16 JAN

KATE CEBERANO THURSDAY 23 JAN

ROSS WILSON & THE PEACENIKS FRIDAY 24 JAN

KINGS OF QUEEN: A QUEEN EXTRAVAGANZA SUNDAY 26 JAN

FAMILY EVENT ^

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day, there is no substitute for the real thing,” says Graphic Design course coordinator Jose Rodriguez.

“Graphic Design is a competitive industry, and we aim to give our students the best competitive advantage we can.”

The Design Centre of Excellence’s founding industry project partners includes 3iD Architecture, Austeng Engineering, Cotton On Group, and Goop Digital.

The Gordon offers courses in visual arts, graphic design, interior design, and building design, and are now offering past and present students the ability to upskill with a new course in multi-disciplinary design.

The new course will provide opportunities for applied research and industry mentoring, new curriculum and training resources, including four new accredited units of competency.

DO YOU HAVE DESIGNS ON A CAREER? If you’re dreaming of doing something creative, then look no further than The Gordon. Widely known as a leading art and design institute with a high graduate employment rate, The Gordon has graduates working all over the world.

So what’s The Gordon difference? The answer is REAL experience.

DEEPSWELL AUDIO

Wayne Ketchen, Head of Centre – Design and Construction said, “This new course will connect design-focused programs across the Institute, enhance design student collaboration, develop new courses, and, through applied research, strengthen partnerships with industry to lead in the development of the skills required for Geelong to thrive as the first City of Design.”

Stop thinking about the future and start to make it real.

It is an immense amount of work to become a successful musician. Long hours, hard work, little reward for a long time. From picking up an instrument (or singing) for the first time, to being happy with the way you sound, to the next big step: recording. I, for one, have countless Voice Memos saved in my phone, trying different lyrics and sounds, looking for a sound far better than my old iPhone 6 is capable of. Even if you have got the pieces and software required to record each track you want for a song, the next process is an even bigger challenge: mixing.

Enter Deepswell Audio, the newest in online music mixing based right here in Australia.

Utilising industry-leading equipment and software, Deepswell will take your tracks and mix them to a release-ready standard. For all you tech-heads out there, Deepswell uses products from leading brands including Alesis, Beyer-Dynamic, Eventide, and Roland. It’s easy enough for you or your band to record each track, but this service goes the extra mile to produce a sound for you that will appeal to a wider listening demographic and will work until you’re happy with the final track.

Applications are now open for 2020, but don’t leave it too long as positions in these popular courses fill quickly. Get your folio together and apply online today before February 3. Go to www.thegordon.edu.au/courses/all-courses

At The Gordon’s Design Centre of Excellence students can take advantage of industry-based design challenges, collaborative learning and cutting-edge training solutions.

“We can teach students the fundamentals of design, teach them creative software programs and give students real client briefs, but at the end of the

Album Pack. Ranging from $130 to $1500, each package is built for what you need, mixing a single song, six, or twelve tracks respectively. As well as offering each track in multiple release formats (including WAV, MP3, and FLAC) and a lifetime archival of your work, Deepswell Audio offers recalls for tracks, ensuring your satisfaction with the resulting sound.

If this wasn’t enough reason to work with Deepswell, they also work closely with charities. 20% of all sales go directly towards the purchase of musical instruments and equipment for children whose families cannot afford them. Currently, Deepswell are working on purchasing a drum head and cymbal for a boy located in Hosea, in The Philippines.

If you need any more persuasion to look to Deepswell Audio for all your mixing needs, just head to their website and check out the ‘Portfolio’ section to get an idea of the services that they offer.

If you have any more questions or queries, feel free to visit www.deepswellaudio.com/ or contact Stewart on 03450 45036.

Written by Thom Devereux

Deepswell offers three packages at the moment, appropriately titled the Mix Pack, EP Pack, and

Meet Orby!

Go on a free augmented reality journey with Orby and learn more about Geelong Gallery artworks these school holidays.

A self guided tour Children must be accompanied by an adult Suitable for ages 4 to 10 years

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Program partners

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GEELONG WEDDING GUIDE WEDDING EXPO The good news is that there were a lot of good filWhen you first start planning your big day, the list of things involved in a wedding can feel seemingly endless. You’ve got the venue, photographer, catering, cars, invitations, music, photo booth, favours and more; not to mention what you will wear for the big day — the list of things to book or buy and decisions to be made goes on and on.

While there are tonnes of magazines and blogs out there, there’s something special about face to face interactions with those playing a part in your big day, especially if you’re wanting to keep it local. If you’re hoping to make more of a personal connection, be more efficient with your planning efforts (and money), or you’re just keen for a fun day out with your bride tribe (or groom squad), the Geelong Wedding Guide Wedding Expo has you covered with the very best of what the local wedding industry has to offer.

We sit down with the brains behind the expo, local boss babe Dani Fontana of Geelong Wedding Guide and Boutique Event Co. First up, can you give us a basic rundown of the business at the helm of the expo – Geelong Wedding Guide.

Geelong Wedding Guide started when we realised there wasn’t anything specific to the Geelong region online for weddings. There are a few Victorian-wide blogs, however, nothing really targeted Geelong, especially the real weddings of Geelong (not just your insta-worthy weddings).

What was the drive behind wanting to put on a wedding expo for the Geelong reg ion?

We found that the existing expos were lacking something, we weren’t really sure what exactly but we wanted to make it an expo that brides and grooms actually wanted to come to and stay. When I was getting married we went to one, paid $15 each to enter and left about 10 minutes after arriving because nothing took our fancy.

What can we expect to see? Are all these businesses all local?

You can expect to see a whole range of amazing vendors – 70 in fact! Most are local to Geelong with a couple from Ballarat who also service the region.

You’ve got an absolute slew of interactive sessions. Any must-sees that you’d definitely recommend for those in the beginning stages of planning a wedding?

You’re correct – we have 16 interactive sessions (this has doubled since last year!). We would highly recommend Lou from One Day P.A as one of your must-see’s. Lou focuses on the ‘on the day coordination’ which in my opinion is one of the most important vendors you could choose for you day to make it as stress-free as possible. Another highlight would be Big Love Elopements – Jessie & Jake from Big Love are offering an Elopement service that is becoming quite popular in our region so I would not miss this one if you’re a little curious about what an elopement entails.

Who is the expo designed for? Is it the brides, the grooms, the bridal party, the guests, etc.

Absolutely everyone! Even non-wedding related

attendees. If you’re an event planner or are the token person to organise events for your workplace, you’re bound to find heaps of vendors that can assist you in pulling together an amazing event.

For future brides, grooms or couples who are planning their weddings in 2020, 2021 or 2022 (or beyond) – do you have any advice to make sure they get the most out of the expo?

Take your time and visit every stand. You never know what you’re looking for until you come across it! Also, make note of the interactive session times (available on our website) that you’re wanting to see so you don’t miss out.

You’ve clearly got a passion for weddings and all that they encompass – what’s your favourite part of a wedding?

I absolutely do! Being in the wedding industry with our own business Boutique Event Co makes me love weddings so much. I love post-ceremony when the bride and groom return from getting photos. This is when you truly see them relax, grab a cocktail and mingle with their loved ones.

We hear there will be some goodie bags valued at over $4K for the first 50 couples through the door (definitely an incentive to get there early!).

Can you give us any hints at what might be in them?

We highly recommend getting there early! Last year we had people lining up at 7am (I thought they were lost but they were waiting in line!). This year’s goodie bags are unreal…! With vouchers, samples, cookies, cupcakes and so much more!

Any last details we should know?

Come along and see it for yourself, it’s free entry and there will be plenty of people to chat to about your big day. And we’ve got lots of breakout spaces

by Elderberry Event Hire where you can sit and chill with your partner or bride tribe.

“HELP ME FIND MY FUREVER HOME” DUCHESS Hi! My name is Duchess and I’m a sweet but savvy lady! Yes, I know what I want and I’ll let you know!

I don’t mind a pat and scratch behind the ear but I’m not too fond of being picked up and cuddled. I can get easily irritated when I don’t get my own way and I’ll let you know when I’m unhappy!

I’ve really had enough of being in the shelter. I don’t like it here and I really need to get out and find a home. I’d prefer a home without other pets although I will tolerate a quiet feline companion providing they know I’m the boss! I’m not tolerant of small children so a quiet home where I can do my own thing and laze in the sun would be ideal for me. I wouldn’t even mind a home on a farm where I can go in and out as I please. That way I can help keep your rodent population under control too!’

Animal Id: 47486 Microchip: 956000003748146 HEAD TO WWW.GAWS.ORG.AU/ TO ADOPT YOUR NEW BEST FRIEND. BY OFFERING YOUR HEART AND HOME TO A RESCUED ANIMAL, YOU’LL NOT ONLY BE ENRICHING YOUR LIFE — BUT SAVING THEIRS! TO MEET YOUR NEW BEST FRIEND, VISIT GAWS AT 325 PORTARLINGTON ROAD, MOOLAP.

The Geelong Wedding Guide Wedding Expo will be held at Deakin University Waterfront Campus on Sunday, January 19, 10am – 2pm.

Entry is free. More info available via www. geelongweddingguide.com.au/expofaqs Photo by The Flying Brick Cider House

MEET ORBY— GEELONG GALLERY’S DIGITAL GUIDE Kicking off the new year, Geelong Gallery welcomes a new digital tour guide.

Affectionately named ‘Orby’, the free augmented reality tour guide will take children on a journey through the Gallery.

Created in partnership with local creative agency Pillowfort, this fun and light-hearted program will provide new and interesting ways for children to enjoy the Gallery, encouraging not only their engagement with the collection but also conversations between children and adults.

Designed to be shared with family, friends and school groups, Orby will captivate children aged 5–10 years in the company of an adult.

Beginning with four works of art—with more works set to be added in the months ahead—Orby finds three key features in each work and brings the viewers’ attention to stories behind the artist or artwork in the form of animation, sound and voiceover, all in the digital realm of augmented reality.

Orby’s lessons are playful and lively with the hope that it encourages more families to visit the Gallery and engage with Geelong Gallery’s collection.

This is a free event, all you need to do is pick-up an iPad from the Visitor Services desk.

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DOUBLE DELICIOUS Taking over the Geelong Arts Centre this February, Double Delicious is a sumptuous storytelling and culinary experience from the creators of the critically acclaimed 2014 Sydney Festival hit, The Serpent’s Table, that gives you the unique opportunity to literally taste the story straight from The Playhouse stage.

Five stellar storyteller-cooks will share the secrets behind the dishes that have proved significant in their lives. Bitter and sweet, each story culminates in an authentic recreation of the storyteller’s chosen dish.

Join cooking legend Elizabeth Chong, writer and media personality Benjamin Law, kim chi specialist Heather Jeong, performance maker Valerie Berry and choreographer and dancer Raghav Handa as they reveal intimate glimpses into their lives in an immersive performance that will tantalise all the senses.

Be part of the experience at Geelong Arts Centre from February 19 – 22. Tickets via geelongartscentre.org.au/

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REVIEWS BY ANTHONY MORRIS

SORRY WE MISSED YOU

BOMBSHELL

1917

UK director Ken Loach isn’t exactly known for his cheery upbeat tales of people doing it easy, so the idea of him tackling the current gig economy should send a shiver down the spine.

But while Sorry We Missed You is far from upbeat, it’s hardly a onenote screed; rather, Loach and his collaborators focus on the way that without safety nets our society becomes one giant poverty trap. Working class striver Ricky Turner (Kris Hitchen) decides to become a delivery driver, hoping that the money to be made as a contractor will enable him to buy a house for his family. But buying a van requires his wife (Debbie Honeywood) to sell the car she uses for her job as an in-home carer; things slowly start to unravel for the Turners, and not in the ways you might expect. The result is a powerful and crushing look at a society determined to keep the poor down.

A decade or more ago, documentaries were the way people told real-life stories that dug down into the politics behind the news. These days satire is back in style, with films like The Big Short and Vice mixing fact and knifesharp gags to tell the story behind the story. Bombshell looks to be more of the same, telling the timely story of Fox News chief Roger Ailes (John Lithgow) and his downfall due to multiple sexual harassment suits last decade. But the trouble with turning real life into a movie is that the stories don’t always follow the traditional three-act structure; by focusing on the women involved – a trio of excellent performances from (a near-unrecognisable) Charlize Theron, Nicole Kidman and Margot Robbie as presenters (or would-be’s) on Fox – this wobbles a bit after a strong start, as each one only has a part of the story. It doesn’t help either that the humour, which initially starts off as self-aware and third-wall breaking, gradually fades as the issues become more pressing. But there are a number of powerful sequences here, especially the ones that deal front-on with Ailes (and his cronies) sexual harassment; The film as a whole never quite works, but there are too many good parts to discard it entirely.

If you want to make a movie that says war is nothing but pointless slaughter, you set it during World War One. The twist with writer/director Sam Mendes’ 1917 is that the meaningless horror is shown in one long take, as British soldiers Schofield (George McKay) and Blake (Dean Charles Chapman) are sent on a dash across and behind recently abandoned German lines to warn another unit that their upcoming attack will lead them into an enemy trap. The “one take” gimmick is only loosely adhered to (their dash takes two days but the movie runs two hours, though there is a black-out in the middle) but together with a string of extremely tense and effective action set-pieces, it makes this film consistently gripping and thrilling viewing. Distractingly, every British officer features a big-name UK actor (Mark Strong, Andrew Scott, Colin Firth, Benedict Cumberbatch) doing a cameo, but McKay and Chapman’s performances add greatly to the film’s immersive feel. They’re the heart of the film, and even when things veer towards the action-adventure side of the trench their performances ensure the whole thing firmly remains grounded in what’s important: reminding us that all too often war is nothing but pointless slaughter.

A SHAUN THE SHEEP MOVIE: FARMAGEDDON Of all the kid’s movies currently screening, Shaun the Sheep’s latest outing might the one that most deserves the term “family-friendly”.

Aardman studio – home of Wallace & Gromit, amongst others – have always gone above and beyond when it comes to making their stop-motion animation packed with gags, and while TV series Shaun the Sheep is more clearly aimed at the younger end of the viewing spectrum, there’s more than enough jokes and references in his second cinema outing to keep adults firmly entertained. The story isn’t quite a parody, but you’re bound to recognise many of the elements: an alien spaceship crashes near Shaun’s farm, a creature emerges to terrorise (well, slightly scare) the locals, and when it ends up in Shaun’s barn it’s up to the animals of Mossy Bottom Farm to help it find its way out of the clutches of a mysterious government agency and back home. Aardman’s ability to turn lumps of clay into charming characters in large part comes from their skillful comic timing, and while like all Shaun’s outings this is a dialogue-free affair, it’s so full of quality sight gags and some surprisingly expressive Claymation creatures you’ll hardly notice. It’s a delight from start to finish.

THE GENTLEMEN It always comes back to crime with Guy Ritchie. The British writer-director made his name with Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels in 1998; two decades later he’s back with another convoluted crime caper packed with oddball geezers out to make a quid.

Drug lord Mickey Pearson (Matthew McConaughey) is a US ex-pat growing dope across the UK, but wants to ditch the business before it becomes legal (he feels his shady part might be a problem under the legal spotlight). He’s the star of this story, but the story is being told by an amazingly sleazy tabloid journalist (Hugh Grant) to Mickey’s fastidious number two (Charlie Hunnam), which opens the door to all sorts of amusing twists and surprise reveals as an ever-expanding web of shady characters and out-of-theirdepth toffs plot and scheme to cash in on Pearson’s departure. Aside from Ritchie’s choice to focus for once on a Mr Big rather than his usual up-andcoming hustlers there’s nothing much new here (this feels like a fallback he planned in case his big-budget Aladdin remake flopped). But the plotting is tight, the performances are gleefully over-the-top, and Ritchie’s energetic style powers it all nicely; the flash may have faded, but the formula still works.

wax wash presents

record watch

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Pre-loved Vinyl

While we usually talk about the latest releases in this column, we thought we would mention Pre-loved vinyl.

Be it an original Beatles album, some weird jazz album, a heavy metal classic or even a budget compilation like Ripper ‘77! There is always something available for everyone’s taste. When going to any record shop, you will never know what you will find when you have a dig!

There’s no greater feeling than finding that “Grail” record you’ve been looking for in the wild.

COMING SOON

SESSIONJanuuy TIMES 16th - 29th

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

pivotcinema.com.au

JOJO RABBIT

THE T R U T H

T hu 1 6 t h 1 p m & 5 . 2 0 p m Fri 17th 11am & 3.40pm Sat 18th 2.15pm & 8.40pm Sun 19th 11am & 5.45pm Mon 20th 11am & 3.15pm T u e 2 1 s t 1 p m & 7. 4 0 p m We d 2 2 n d 2 p m & 6 . 3 0 p m T hu 2 3 r d 1 . 3 0 p m Fri 24th 3.40pm & 8.30pm Sat 25th 5.40pm Sun 26th 3.45pm Mon 27th 11am & 8.30pm Wed 29th 5 . 3 0 p m Fri 31st 6pm

T hu 1 6 t h 3 .1 0 p m Fri 17th 6pm Sat 18th 4.30pm Sun 19th 8pm Mon 20th 5 . 3 0 p m Tue 21st 3.10pm We d 2 2 n d 8 . 4 0 p m T hu 2 3 rd 3 . 4 5 p m Fri 24th 11am Sat 25th 3.30pm Sun 26th 11am Mon 27th 3 . 4 5 p m Tue 28th 3.30pm Wed 29th 1 p m

SMASH HIT N Z / U S A N a z i C o m e d y 9 9 m i n s M

NE W J A PA N / F R A N C E D r a m a 1 0 6 m i n s P G

S O R RY W E MISSED YOU

NE W U N I T E D K I N G D O M D r a m a 9 8 m i n s M

Thu 16th 11am & 7.30pm Fri 17th 1.20pm & 8.10pm S at 18th 6.40pm 19th 3.40pm Sun 19t Mon 20th 1.10pm & 7.40pm Tue 21st 11am & 5.30pm Wed 22nd 4.20pm T hu 2 3 rd 6 p m Sat 25th 11am Sun 26th 6pm T ue 28th 1.30pm & 6pm Wed 29th 1 1 a m T hu 3 0 t h 3 . 1 5 p m

Januuy 11th - 30th January 16-29th

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LIT TLE WOMEN

NE W U N I T E D S TAT E S D r a m a 1 0 9 m i n s M

T hu 2 3 r d 1 1 a m & 8 p m Fri 24th 1.10pm & 6pm Sat 25th 1pm & 8pm Sun 26th 1.10pm & 8pm M on 27th 1 . 1 5 p m & 6 p m Tue 28th 11am & 8pm Wed 29th 3 p m & 7. 4 0 p m

PA I N & G L O RY S PA I N D r a m a 1 0 8 m i n s M A

Sun 19th 1.20pm

FINAL

EUROPEAN OUTDOOR FILM TOUR 2020 SPECIAL E VENT V a r i o u s S h o r t F i l m s 9 9 m i n s G

Wed 5th & Wed 12th Feb 8 p m

COMING SOON

Jan 30th BIGGEST LITTLE FARM Feb 6th STRINGYBARK Feb 13th PEANUT BUTTER FALCON Feb 13th MEETING GORBACHEV Feb 20th H IS FOR HAPPINESS Feb 27th B E A T S

Prrdly SSving

wines and

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bees...

From the get go, Spiderbait showed they were ready to roll, with Kram giving us a taste of his brilliant drumming in the sound check, before opening with ‘Straight Through the Sun’ and pop-punk favourite ‘Outta My Head’.

It wasn’t long before punters become joyfully boisterous – crowd surfing to the likes of insanely catchy ‘Hot Water and Milk’ and the roller coaster ride of bubble-gum-pop track ‘Calypso’, from the chart topping album Ivy and the Big Apples.

Spiderbait didn’t let up and kept the set alive rolling on with a wide range of crowd favourites including ‘Fucken Awesome’ and early Primusinfluenced ‘Old Man Sam’.

This high energy paced gig with its rafter hanging, table- top dancing crowd, proved yet again rock is not dead and even though it was 23 years ago when Spiderbait reached number one on triple j, the grungy 90’s generation still knows how to party.

AUSSIE LEGENDS SPIDERBAIT LIVE IN TORQUAY WHEN: SATURDAY DECEMBER 28 WHERE: TORQUAY HOTEL, TORQUAY REVIEWED BY SALLY POEHLAND PHOTOS BY JONTEE LANGTON From Kram’s first smash of the drums, renowned Aussie rockers Spiderbait sent the crowd surfing back to the height of the 1990s thrashing live alternative scene.

KATE CEBERANO, STEVE KILBEY & SEAN SENNETT The Dangerous Age Universal Music Australia

Like no time had passed, Spiderbait belted out a killer set with raw and random energy from start to finish to a fist pumping crowd.

Vocal duties were once again shared by drummer Kram and bassist Janet English, accompanied by guitarist Damian Whitty.

Spiderbait was originally formed by the three friends in the rural township of Finley. Having learned their trade bashing out thrash-pop tunes in the shed on Janet’s family’s farm, they soon relocated down to Melbourne and made their mark on the Australian live scene. Since then, they have released seven acclaimed albums, taken home numerous ARIA Awards, chalked up a number one single with their 2004 cover of Leadbelly’s Black Betty and even topped Triple J Hottest 100 for Buy Me A Pony in 1996.

And this gig proved they still got it.

ABBEY STONE DROPS ‘SAY ANYTHING’ WRITTEN BY THOM DEVEREUX Abbey Stone has been hard at work for the past few years, spending time between her home of Melbourne, New York, Nashville and LA, developing her popsoul-rock sound. Since Stone’s 2017 EP, Complete, she hasn’t taken it easy, writing and recording for her next release. Following 2019’s single ‘Badlady’, a soulpop number with mellow keys and smooth vocals, comes Stone’s latest single from her forthcoming EP BADLADY, ‘Say Anything’.

With a pulsing synth bass backing the song along, rehearsed vocals flow through keys, electric guitar licks hovering behind the lyrics. Stone can single beautifully, and she does, each note lingering, stretched out in high pitches. Even the wavering backing vocals stand out. One of the best sounds are the resonating electric guitar notes and short riffs that are distorted, sitting respectfully behind the vocals.

Claude Carranza (of Black Sorrows and Kids in the Kitchen) lends his electric guitar talents to the track.

The lyrics tell a story of communication problems between two lovers. Rather than saying what you mean, letting anxiety speak for you and talking from emotion. The chorus of “I hate you, I’m sorry, I love you too. I need you, I’m worried, I don’t love you” flows well and as such is catchy. However, in another sense, it’s a song that we can all relate you: saying things you don’t mean.

‘Say Anything’ is the second single from Abbey Stone’s upcoming EP release BADLADY, set to drop in February.

SUN SALUTE

THE STATE SYSTEM

DERRIN NAUENDORF

Time Has Come

The State System

The World Within

Firestarter Distribution

Independent

Independent

Reviewed by Chris Michaels

Reviewed by Jess Sercombe

Reviewed by Alex Lynch

A fresh and cool start here with No More, an ode to the world and what we’ve done to it and what will happen to it. A lovely reggae-infused track with a lovely groove and well sung.

Time Has Come has a real joyous feel to it, with a nice energy and ensemble singing. Highs And Lows has a beautiful guitar line running throughout the track, without it being overpowering.

Fresh voices blend together and the musicianship here is of a high standard. This is a group that know themselves, and their music perfectly well and play within their means. It’s a winning way to be in this circumstance.

Hold On towards the end of the album features a nice sexy feel, some lovely interplay between guitar and horns and a great back porch funky feel that is instantly likeable.

This is definitely a balmy Summer evening record, and a beauty at that.

A joyful and fresh record.

Formed by a trio of public servants in 2018, Melbourne stoner metal jammers The State System have been sticking it to the man and changing the system from within one politically-charged, cosmic riff at a time.

Their latest weapon; the debut self-titled album released mid-November this year. Described as a “sonic riff highway” by the band, The State System is full of heavy fuzz, penetrating socio-political commentary and, just as it says on the box, some real killer riffs.

They attest to drawing significant inspiration from the OG Californian stoner rock pioneers Kyuss and Fu Manchu, yet the band is distinctive in its broodier, doom-metal vibe.

While they do have some serious messages to convey about the harsh Australian political climate, make no mistake they’re definitely down to jam and have a good time too. ‘Follow the Sun’, ‘Look So Good’ and ‘One Step’ are solid mid-tempo, classic stoner rock headbanging material, great for a bad-ass highway cruising playlist. ‘Dangerous’ and ‘Riff Highway’ bring the heat with Fu Manchu-rian high energy, fast and fun riff shredding. ‘Riff Highway’ absolutely takes the cake for me from this album, perfectly blending heavy stoner fuzz goodness with a constantly winding, hardhitting pace - it’s a solid head-banging trip along a hyperspace highway. Suss the album and enjoy the ride, folks!

2015 saw the release of Derrin Nauendorf’s 10th album – Crazy World. After a much-needed break, Derrin returns to us with his 2019 album The World Within, a package of clean riffs, sizzling licks and a lot of slick tricks. It is no doubt that Derrin’s years of experience and wisdom gathered from around the globe give him insight and understanding to be able to create such a solid gem of an album.

The World Within holds nothing back from beginning to end – for example; intro track ‘Desert Wedding’ - an instrumental - showcases Derrin’s superb ability on guitar from extremely precise sliding to incredibly dexterous finger work. But it’s not all about showcasing his capabilities on guitar.

Track eight ‘Who Put the Blues in You’ is almost a transient experience, suggesting you to be entranced by the deep vocals, catchy licks, and outstanding progression through the song.

Whether you prefer slow-paced, faced paced, instrumentally focused or vocally focused blues, you will find it within (that was intended) The World Within. Ten tracks of quality ear-pleasing musicDerrin Nauendorf’s The World Within is a class act that would garner the respect of any blues fans that get the chance to listen.

Reviewed By Tammy Walters

What happens when you combine the iconic musical talent of ARIA Hall of Fame inductee Kate Ceberano, The Church’s Steve Kilbey and industry allrounder Sean Sennett? Pure magic! No surprise really.

What is surprising though is the sonic landscape that they dwell in for The Dangerous Age. The Dangerous Age is a blend of each artist’s personalities and stylistic backgrounds. Glimmers of the seductive cabaret Ceberano centre ‘The Losing Game’, ‘My Restless Heart’ and ‘Whatever Happened To Steven Valentine’, and her bold rocker side appears on ‘Not The Loving Kind’. With undeniably the biggest female voice in Australia, the trio opted to hold the reins on the powerhouse to capture the delicacy of the storytelling for the most part so when Ceberano is let loose the jet-fuel projection punctures your chest.

Give ‘All Tied Up’ and brace for impact.

Kilbey’s theatrical and haunting soars are notable on the title track and ‘Girl On The Highwire’ while Sinnett country twangs are unmistakable on ‘Shot From Memory’. Different background aside, the trio mould into one another like wet concrete, but the chemistry sets them into solid gold.

The most surprising element of The Dangerous Age is that Ceberano and Kilbey never once stepped foot in a room together. Could have fooled us!

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BTV: BEYOND YOUR WILDEST FESTIVAL DREAMS REVIEWED BY TALIA RINALDO PHOTOS BY ARMAND EGHANIAN When we said goodbye to the Pyramid Rock Festival all those years ago, we perhaps didn’t think our little music hearts could love again.

But then we met Beyond the Valley - the boutique music festival that just celebrated its sixth anniversary as a heavyweight in the NYE camping festival scene.

Set amongst the beautiful scenery of Lardner Park, Beyond the Valley (BTV) was host to an array of cutting-edge musical lineups and incredible festival experiences. Showing courage in the face of adversity thanks to mainstream media and ill reporting, the festival organisers, the fully equipped paramedic teams and the festival volunteers and staff should be praised for their ability to pull off a hugely successful and safe event for the sixth year in a row.

BTV threw open its gates on Saturday December

28, inviting punters to set up and settle in the day before the music really kicked off. It was a warm welcome too with temperatures soaring into the high 30’s, which was to endure throughout much of the four-day festival, but it did little to blister the enthusiasm of keen festival-goers.

Day two (Sunday December 29) got the ball rolling at around midday. Avoiding the heat for the most part of the day, we ventured into the main site to catch Confidence Man and sweat it out under the sweltering glare of the sun. Boasting an unmatched no-fucksgiven, ravey vibe, the electronic four-piece brought all the party vibes with recent track ‘Does It Make You Feel Good’, and a handful of numbers from their 2018 debut album Confident Music for Confident People.

There was a decent crowd gathered on the hill which grew in size once the breathtaking and soulful Meg Mac started playing, showcasing her vocal and lyrical talent while dance star Jordan Brando injected a fresh wave of energy into hot and tired punters over at the Dance Tent.

Perth alternative-rockers Methyl Ethel were up next and brought their enthralling live show to the BTV main stage as the cool change swept through the festival site. With a five-member live unit, the band treated the swarming crowd to a solid collection of new tracks from their

CONRAD SEWELL JAN 30

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recent third album, Triage and the fan favourites.

Day three (Monday December 30) brought excessive heat, strong winds and rumours surfacing on the internet, which was even more exhausting when paired with a hangover. Luckily, Sydney foursome I Know Leopard brought the slow-growing crowd back to life with their bold looks, poptastic fusion and a sprinkling of tracks from their standout debut album Love Is A Landmine, while sibling duo Amy Dowdle and Josh Dowdle of Lastlings took revellers on a tense and euphoric journey as each song weaved into one another.

Making way for Bag Raiders, it was the Sydney electronic boys who managed to pull the masses out of the campsites and to the main stage, where the electro-pop tunes took hold. From the euphoric comeback tracks ‘Lightning’ and ‘Wild At Heart’, to the exotic, groovy ‘Snake Charmer’ and iconic ‘Shooting Stars’, they proved they’ve still got what it takes to get the world moving and feeling good - a whole decade since their initial stardom!

One of Australia’s most-adored talents Matt Corby brought the soulful sounds of Rainbow Valley to the BTV crowd, creating a light, relaxed, and almost dream-like atmosphere before Germany’s mysterious house sensation Claptone turned the festival site into a euphoric, up-tempo and explosive dance party for more than an hour with in his slick grooves and elegant house anthems.

Brisbane powerhouse Mallrat kept the totally buzzed crowd up and about delivering her usual bubbly electronic style with delicious pop-infused twist, but it was Brisbane four-piece Cub Sport who earned the best and most enchanting performance of day three. The cool chill within the BTV site complemented the heavenly vibes of Cub Sport’s music, as songs from their most recent album were brought to life, further enhanced by lead singer Tim Nelson’s mesmerising stage presence, ethereal dance moves, and his dual wielding of two microphones in certain songs.

This was soon followed by acclaimed producer, rapper and singer Tyler, The Creator, who was headlining Monday’s festivities with his unique and gratified stage presence, exuberant dancing and energetic crowd interaction, and for those not ready

S I V A TR S N I L L CO FEB 14 TH

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to call it a night, the Dance Tent was the place to be with Chicago house and techno legend Curtis Jones aka Green Velvet throwing down floor filling house and techno beats until the early hours of the morning.

Day four (Tuesday December 31) dawned and the end of BTV neared, but everyone seemed to be riding a new wave of energy, ready for those New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Melbourne’s London Topaz brought the beats to the main stage in the early afternoon, proving his place in the electronic music scene, while Melbourne’s Big Words took punters on an epic wild ride as they shredded their way through a brilliant set fuelled with their hip hop influenced hybrid of soul and RNB. The set from The Veronicas were perhaps one of the most anticipated of the entire festival and the pop duo certainly lived up to the hype. With performances of ‘Everything I’m Not’, ‘Hook Me Up’, ‘In My Blood’ and ‘4ever’, it was of course their performance of Australia’s unofficial national anthem and certified banger, ‘Untouched’, that everyone was waiting for, and it did not disappoint.

Hayden James brought the beats and the crowd back over to the main stage as the day turned to dusk.

Known for his flawless electronic beats, the slick Aussie producer turned it up to 11 as he delivered track after track of his signature club-pop stylings and immense summer house jams, many from his debut album Between Us. Sending in the final moments of 2019 was Sydney three piece Rüfüs Du Sol ready to redeem the countdown crown with their psychedelic tracks of dreams with catchy hooks, soaring vocals and entrancing dance vibes. Delivering a larger than life performance with raised platforms and blinding light displays, the trio kicked straight into their 2018 album ‘Solace’ with the energetic ‘Eyes’. With the entirety of the BTV crowd producing an electrifying energy that only continued to flourish, the trio welcomed the new year with ‘No Place’ which was met with echoing chorus cries, punters taking to each other’s shoulders and a flood of Insta story recording, before finishing the full-blown dance set with ‘Treat You Better’ and ‘Innerbloom’.

Until next time friends, Happy New Year!

You can read the full review on fortemag.com.au

FEB 21ST

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

WRITTEN BY JOHN FOSS

As television, streaming or otherwise, has increasingly become where we turn for quirky or unusual viewing (and even blockbusters – I finally wrapped up Game of Thrones with the final season now out on blu-ray, and that really dark episode really did look a lot better), movies have become more predictable.

And the run up to Christmas is often my least favourite time of the moviegoing year, because it’s usually the most predictable.

There’s a bunch of mildly inoffensive Oscar bait films, a quirky prestige drama (or comedy), a blockbuster - once James Bond or Harry Potter or Lord of the Rings, now Star Wars - and some of those kids films that angle themselves as something grownups can sit through as well.

The names change, the stories stay the same.

There are obviously good reasons for showing these films at these times, mostly to do with marketing or attracting the widest possible audience and so December is predictable because December is when the big money is to be made. But predictable is boring, even when the films are good, and I think you know where I’m heading with this because I’ve seen Cats.

Look, while I totally understand why nobody in their right mind would want to pay money for a decent night’s entertainment and get that served up to them instead and I would in no way recommend it to anyone for any reason, seeing a film that messed up was a vital reminder that there is still some humanity involved in all this. Crazed humanity that was making wild and clearly erroneous assumptions regarding what people can cope with visually and intellectually, but better that than the scriptbots that turn out those kids movies where some sassy pre-teen is teamed up with a disgruntled action hero.

And the really good news is that January is the dumping ground month where cinemas are full of shockers like Cats. Well, not exactly like Cats because nothing is really like Cats aside from some demented horror stories I read in the 80s, but if you’ve seen the trailers for Bad Boys For Life and thought “wow, Martin Lawrence quit acting a decade ago and he’s not starting up again now”, then you’ve still only just scratched the surface of what’s to come.

Kirsten Stewart has a movie called Underwater where she’s trapped underwater! There’s an Australian movie about go carts called Go! And then there’s Dolittle, which has largely flown under the radar but if you’ve read literally anything about it then you know there’s a very good chance Cats is about to lose that crown that reads MOST MESSED UP ANIMALS across the front. When a director is basically fired in part because he refuses to understand how CGI works in a movie full of CGI animals, and in part because he has a - I’m not making this up, the internet is aflame - racist dog, not even Robert Downey Jr talking to random animals for a hundred minutes can save a film. Especially if there’s a chance those animals might also turn out to be racist.

Hey gang, and welcome to the first Pulp of 2020! Hopefully you’ve all had a chance to rest and relax over the Christmas/New Year break, and if you haven’t (shout out to the fam in retail and hospo!) I hope your break is fast approaching. I had the luxury of two full weeks off work, and I loved every second of it – plenty of time to work on my “to-read” pile!

This week, I’ve picked up a relatively new and utterly enthralling book by one of my favourite comic writers of all time – Cemetery Beach, written by Warren Ellis (Transmetropolitan, Hellblazer and more recently Injection) and drawn by Jason Howard (Trees, The Astounding Wolf-Man).

Set in an alternate future, Cemetery Beach is a sci-fi action romp that reminds me of Mad Max: Fury Road in all the right ways.

Mike Blackburn is a professional pathfinder. He’s a highly-trained military operative with nothing left to lose, and he’s been sent on the mission of a lifetime. Over a hundred years ago, a secretive, powerful group of industrialists and scientists found and operated a method to leave Earth, establishing a colony that they were able to secretly fund and resupply.

Now, Earth has rediscovered the colony, and Mike has been sent in to work out what the hell they’ve been up to all this time.

The problem? They found him, and there’s no way the President is letting him return home and ruin their carefully established dictatorial “paradise”. Busting out of his prison cell, Mike recruits local political dissident and murderer Grace Moody to get him back to his transport, and back home – assuming they’re not gunned down first in the name of national security.

Cemetery Beach wears its Mad Max inspiration on its metaphorical sleeve. Ellis himself has talked about how Fury Road in particular influenced his storyline, and while the overall “chase movie” structure is a handy storytelling crutch, what interests me more is the world building and unique setting that came out of it. Of particular interest is the weird, haphazard technology and bizarre mutants that Mike and Grace encounter midway through their journey, as well as the history of the colony itself that was left more or less unexplored bar the basics. There are so many aspects to the Cemetery Beach world that are of interest that I would love to see expanded on, but as far as I know the series was designed to be a limited run.

It would be remiss of me to talk about Cemetery Beach and not make special mention of Jason Howard’s artwork. I was impressed with his work on Trees, and he continues to excel here. A lot of the pressure is on him to continue Ellis’ momentum; there are quite a few instances where dialogue is minimal at best, and Howard has to convey the urgency of Mike and Grace’s flight on his own.

While I’m obviously a big fan of Ellis’ work, I was still surprised by how much I got into Cemetery Beach, and how disappointed I was to learn that I’d already read all there was to offer. It’s a fantastic premise, and I highly recommend you check it out if you’re a fan of Fury Road. Now all I need to do is hold out for a sequel!

And a Happy New Year to you all.

Except, for a lot of people, it wasn’t.

Being caught in the middle of a major bushfire is no joke, as I can personally testify. There are some truly amazing stories coming out of the fires – amazing strength and determination and amazing loss.

The thing is it will take a lot of support over a lot of time before those areas get back to any semblance of normal.

As I’m writing this, comedian Celeste Barber has raised over $45 million, but even if we can’t match that, we can do something too.

The music scene always comes to the party with fundraisers, and the first cab off the rank I’ve found is at the Spotted Mallard.

Their Fires Fundraiser is sending all proceeds to the Red Cross and CFA. It’s quite a lineup – Mick Thomas, The Orbweavers, Angie Hart, Charles Jenkins, Pollyman, Opelousas, Sara Carroll with Shannon Bourne, Hollie Joyce, Skyscraper Stan, Dan Warner, Sime Nugent, Brooke Russell, Ruby Jones, The Dusty Millers, Lisa Miller with Shane O’Mara, Dirt Hand, Les Thomas, The Pheasantry. It’s on Saturday 25th Jan, The Spotted Mallard, doors at 2pm, entry $30.

Way Out West Roots Music Club is putting together a special benefit gig in response to the ongoing bushfire crisis. A fantastic list of blues artists are donating their time in support of this unprecedented tragedy. Confirmed so far are Phil Manning, Jesse Valach, Kelly Auty, Brendon Mason and Rod Paine as well as Blues Roulette.

The venue is Newport Bowls Club on Friday the 17th of January, entry is $25 and all money raised on the night will go to relief agencies.

OK, something a little more upbeat now.

Those of you who made it to Pistol Pete’s Xmas party would have seen D Henry Fenton. The good news is that he’s coming back for a solo gig at Pete’s on the 18th of January. D Henry Fenton is a singer-songwriter originally from Sydney Australia who is now based in the USA. He has opened for acts including John Mayer, Kasey Chambers, Colbie Caillat, Lissie, Ed Kuepper, Pete Murray, The Corrs, Jeff Lang and Keith Urban. His music blends Americana, Folk, Blues and Indie-Rock, bringing to mind bands like Wilco, Neil Young, and Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers.

He plays a vintage Harmony H78 guitar.

“I bought an H-78 in Winston-Salem NC in 2004 and didn’t know much about it, I didn’t like the bridge, so I got an adjustable one put on for play-ability and that made all the difference. It is, without doubt, one of the sexiest guitars ever made and has a tone that will make people come out of the crowd and ask you what kind of guitar it is.”

It certainly sounds amazing and goes well with his voice. His songs are tuneful and well-polished.

D Henry Fenton claims he once tossed seven coins into the air and they all landed on heads, but I don’t know about that!

Definitely keep your eyes open for the bushfire fundraisers, and definitely get along to D Henry Fenton at Pistol Pete’s on the 18th.

Welcome to THTH, Forte’s premier source of all things heavy, hard, fast and metal.

At time of writing, Metallica just announced that they are pledging to donate AUD$750k to the New South Wales Rural Fire Service and to the Victorian Country Fire Authority to aid in relief efforts for the fires that are currently burning across both states.

I’m unclear if that’s $750k per state or if that’s $375k per state they have donated via their All Within My Hands Foundation, but it’s still a pretty decent donation from a band that would have visited Australia late last year had they not cancelled the tour at the last minute due to James’ need to go back to rehab.

However much money the band is donating is commendable, as are all the donations from all over the world, and as someone who has in the past advocated for mental health, with all of the donations coming in for all sorts of causes such as relief and recovery, I hope that the volunteer firefighters themselves are looked after during and after the fires are extinguished. And by looked after I mean offered access to mental health programs and that the costs be covered via donations.

Not only the volunteer firefighters but all of the firefighters who assisted throughout the months.

Might also be worth extending these offering of mental health programs to all communities who have also been affected.

This could have been a good opportunity for Metallica to donate directly to a relevant mental health cause, as mental health issues obviously directly link with James’ addiction issues which are a direct result as to why I didn’t get to see the band last year, but hey, maybe they don’t want to labour that point too much.

Just letting everyone know that it hasn’t gone unnoticed, nor has the large donation they have put forth. And at the time of writing this, it is expected that the fires will continue to burn across both states for a lot longer, so the money will definitely be put to a good use.

Good guys Metallica strike again!

Summer is here. The sun is out, our beaches are crowded and surfers are riding waves from one end of the coast to another so it must be the perfect time to talk about… football!

With the 2020 football season still a fair way off surfers from all clubs have been descending on the Surf Coast and Bellarine Peninsula to catch a few waves and escape the demands of the AFL. Lachie Henderson from Geelong is a regular to the Surf Coast. A quick surf is often followed by a coffee in Juc. Dangerfield is a well-known surfer down Moggs Creek way. He only has to literally step out the front door and the surf is there for him to enjoy (nice surfing in the suit by the way). Carlton/Collingwood legend ‘Daisy’ Thomas has also been seen hitting the waves around Jan Juc a fair bit this summer.

Cats Captain Joel Selwood has been seen cruising around the Rip Curl Pro at Easter time while former Cats Captain Cameron Ling loves hitting the waves.

Back in the day, Gary Ablett Jnr was a keen surfer and his Dad was spotted on the odd occasion paddling a ‘goat boat’ out the back at Torquay.

Dermie was also a keen surfer in his day and could occasionally be spotted out at Bells and Winki Pop. Former Cat legend Michael Turner was another who loved to hit the waves when he wasn’t streaming down the wing and kicking goals at Kardinia Park.

Surfing during the offseason is the way to go. A few years ago Fremantle dropped young gun Connor Blakely who pretended he was sick so that he could skip training and go surfing.

Surfing Cats made the news a few years back when Lachie Henderson was surfing at Bells with good mate Jarrod Waite when a surfer was attacked by a shark. Rather than paddle in, both AFL players chose to stay in the water and wait for the shark to leave.

When nominating the best surfing footballer, many can’t go past Phil Read who played for West Coast and Melbourne.

Upon retiring from the AFL, Read took to riding many of the big wave spots south of Perth near Margaret River. In 2014 he was nominated for the Billabong Ride Of The Year after catching a monster at The Right.

Next time you’re down the coast you might spot a surfing footballer or two… or a surfing tennis player or two…. I’ll save the Mark Philippoussis story for another day.

In other news + Obituary will be at Melbourne’s Max Watts in Saturday, January 18. + Geoff Tate and his band will play Operation Mindcrime in its entirety, plus more, at Melbourne’s Croxton Bandroom on Saturday, February 1. + Okilly Dokilly and Dr Colossus will be at the Corner Hotel on Saturday, February 15. + Cattle Decapitation will play Melbourne’s Max Watts on Wednesday, February 19. + Download Festival featuring Deftones, Carcass, Testament, In Flames, Lacuna Coil, and not much else, will be held at the Melbourne Showgrounds on Friday, March 20. + Blacken Open Air festival will be held over Easter weekend, 2020. Easter Sunday will be April 12. Handy to know if you’re looking for cheap flights to NT well in advance. + Iron Maiden will play Rod Laver Arena on Monday, May 11. + Venom Inc. and Exciter will be at the Northcote Social Club on Saturday, June 13. + Check out this edition’s of THTH’s Spotify playlist by searching for playlist: THTH731 or by searching spotify:user:TooHeavyToHug

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 FORTÉ 731

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THE GUIDE

PRESENTED BY

395-399 MOORABOOL ST, SOUTH GEELONG OPEN 7 DAYS (03) 52233322

THURS 16TH

GOLD DUST LOUNGE: THE RAT BAGS

BEAVS BAR: ANDY FORSTER

GREAT AUSTRALIAN BEER FESTIVAL GEELONG FT SNEAKY SOUND SYSTEM, KIM CHURCHILL, THE KITE MACHINE, AND THE RUN.

CORNER HOTEL: ORVILLE PECK THE EASTERN: BOB LOG III EDGE GEELONG: LIVE MUSIC AND DJ THE ESPY: LET’S RAISE, BUSHFIRE APPEAL. THE LAST CHANCE ROCK & ROLL BAR: BONE GRAFT, KILL BELL LITTLE MALOP CENTRAL: TIM SMITH (BRIGHT & BREEZY) THE LOST ONES BASEMENT BAR: OUT OF COPYRIGHT NIGHTJAR FESTIVAL – IT’S A ROCKY KIDN OF NIGHT, TORQUAY OLD BAR: GUN LAWS (ALBUM LAUNCH)

GROVEDALE HOTEL: DELLA HOME HOUSE: BRYNNY & MACKIE

LITTLE MALOP CENTRAL: KIERAN TOBIN

THE LAST CHANCE ROCK & ROLL BAR: CUTTERS, SHOVE, REIGNER

OLD BAR: TERRIBLE SIGNAL RESO 3 W SAGAMORE

THE LOST ONES BASEMENT BAR: BASEMENT SESSION, COLD FEET

WORKERS CLUB: WAYNE’S WORLD TRIVIA

MAJOR TOM’S: PAT DEVLIN MANCHESTER ARMS: KARAOKE NIGHT

QUEENSCLIFF BREWHOUSE: THE LEAJETS

SPORTING GLOBE: LIVE MUSIC

SPORTING GLOBE: 456 SATURDAYS

WORKERS CLUB GEELONG: SOLO SESSIONS

TORQUAY HOTEL: AMITY AFFLICTION

TORQUAY HOTEL: LIME CORDIALE

YARD BIRD BAR: STEPH BITTER

FRI 24TH THE BARWON CLUB HOTEL: DRUMMOND, SPOOKS, SIREN

SUN 19TH

EDGE GEELONG: LIVE MUSIC AND DJS

THE BRIDGE HOTEL: HOUSE DEPOSIT, REWARD FOR EFFORT TOUR

ELEPHANT & CASTLE: MATT EASTWOOD

EDGE: LIVE MUSIC AND DJ

GOLDEN VINE: LLOYD DODSWORTH

ELEPHANT & CASTLE: WILL AND OSCAR

GROVEDALE HOTEL: HARLOW & HART

THE ESPY: THE WEREWOLVES

LAMBYS: ADAM 12 + JAMES KERNICK + RESIDENT DJS

THE FOX AND THE HEN: SUNDAY SESSIONS

THE LAST CHANCE ROCK & ROLL BAR: CARCINOID, NECK GRIP, NEMBUTOLIK

GROVEDALE HOTEL: TASH & ADRIAN

PISTOL PETE’S: GEOFF ACHISON QUEENSCLIFF BREWHOUSE: DJ JIMI CRISP RECESS: FABULOUS FRIDAY SPORTING GLOBE: ACOUSTIC FRIDAYS TORQUAY HOTEL: THE GROWLERS VALHALLA BREWING & TAPROOM: LIVE MUSIC WORKERS CLUB GEELONG: CITY AT MIDNIGHT, SPOOK & LACHIE SAGERT YARD BIRD BAR: JOSH DEARAUGO SAT 18TH BEAVS BAR: CORY HARGRAVES, DAVE ANDERSON, CHICKEN & CHIPS BIRREGURRA HALL: LUCY & THE NIGHT SKY, THE ONE NIGHT CHOIR BLOOM: BUSHFIRE APPEAL / 2ND BIRTHDAY. THE BRIDGE HOTEL: BLUE LUCAS, APLEGATE, JESS PARKER THE TROUBLED WATERS CORNER HOTEL: HOLLOW COVES EDGE: LIVE MUSIC AND DJ THE ELEPHANT & CASTLE: TOTALLY 80’S THE ESPY: SOCPOP #48

THE LOST ONES BASEMENT BAR: DRAW THE NUDE

WORKERS GEELONG: AFRO PSYCHEDELIC SUMMER

THE EASTERN: SUNNYSIDE LP RELEASE

OLD BAR: BONE GRAFT, CRY CLUB

THE LAST CHANCE ROCK & ROLL BAR: WALKEN, KEGGIN

NIGHTJAR FESTIVAL – FOLK & BLUES NIGHT, TORQUAY

BARKING DOG: GUITAR BAR

MURPHYS: PIRATE LIFE – TAP TAKEOVER, IVAN & TONY

BEAVS BAR: ANDY FORSTER THE ESPY: PRUDENCE & ZUMA

PISTOL PETE’S: D HENRY FENTON

CORNER HOTEL: ANGELS WITH BOOM CRASH OPERA

LITTLE MALOP CENTRAL: ANDY POBJOY SUMMER BEACH PARTY FIESTA

THURS 23RD

OLD BAR: JAMES BROOK, KYLIE PHILLIPSON

PISTOL PETE’S: B3 BREAKOUT

BEAVS BAR: RYAN BELL

BEAVS BAR: DAVE ANDERSON

BEAVS BAR: LUKE BISCAN

CORNER HOTEL: JOHN GARCIA & THE BAND OF GOLD EDGE GEELONG: LIVE MUSIC AND DJ THE ESPY: KILLING HEIDI GOLDEN VINE: MARC LEON’S LAT HOORAH GROVEDALE HOTEL: CRAIG & DARA

THE GOOD BEER BAR: TEQUILA, TACOS & BEER LAMBYS: ABE ANDERSON, LIAM BLACKWELL THE LAST CHANCE ROCK & ROLL BAR: CATHOLIC GUILT, ZENA MOHAMAD, FRANKIE DALY THE LOST ONES BASEMENT BAR: BASEMENT SESSION, THE BARNACOYLE BAND OLD BAR: DAN CHALLIS PISTOL PETE’S: BLUE SUNDAY QUEENSCLIFF BREWHOUSE: JUSTIN KEENAN SPORTING GLOBE: SUNDAY SESSIONS SUMMER SUNDAYS: BALLARAT BOTANICAL GARDENS

LAMBYS: ADAM12, LUKE BISCAN & RESIDENT DJ THE LAST CHANCE ROCK & ROLL BAR: BUSHFIRE FUNDRAISER MANCHESTER ARMS: MAKE SOME NOISE BUSHFIRE VICTIMS BENEFIT MAX WATT’S: CRITICAL SOUND MURPHYS: NICK TABONE

OLD BAR: THE STAINED DAISIES QUEENSCLIFF BREWHOUSE: DJ JIMI CRISP TORQUAY HOTEL: LIME CORDIALE VALHALLA BREWING & TAPROOM: LIVE MUSIC

TERINDAH ESTATE: SUNDAY SESSIONS TORQUAY HOTEL: AMITY AFFLICTION

YARD BIRD BAR: CHRIS DERAUGO SAT 25TH

YARD BIRD BAR: TARA MUSCATELLO MON 20TH LITTLE MALOP CENTRAL: SUSAN ARDERN OLD BAR: BOLLARD, IF SO WHY, CUT WIRE TUES 21ST CORNER HOTEL: GARETH REYNOLDS LIVE THE ESPY: OPEN MIC LITTLE MALOP CENTRAL: JOSH DANCE PIANO BAR: LIVE MUSIC

HANDLE BAR: STEVEN HAMMER

NORTHCOTE SOCIAL CLUB: THE MAMAS - DANCEFLOOR TOUR

PIANO BAR: PITCH PLEASE

OLD BAR: HUMANITY

BEAVS BAR: KARAOKE, LUKE BISCAN THE LAST CHANCE ROCK & ROLL BAR: ADORE, NOVA, ASHBEL, GREAT AUSTRALIAN BANK

LAMBYS: BEDROCK + LUKE BISCAN + RESIDENT DJS

PIANO BAR: LIVE MUSIC

BARWON CLUB: THE VELVET CLUB, LOCALLES, TELESCREEN

WED 22ND CORNER HOTEL: GARETH REYNOLDS

PIANO BAR: AN EVENING WITH DOLLY DIAMOND

FRI 17TH

VALHALLA BREWING & TAPROOM: POETRY NIGHTS

THE BARWON CLUB HOTEL: BUSHFIRE RELIEF! CAUTION:THIEVES, MODERN DIVIDE, THE ARCHANEN BEAVS BAR: JEFF JORDAN BLOOM: JORDAM BRANDO, ALL NIGHT LONG CORNER HOTEL: HOTTEST 100 ROOFTOP PARTY

GOLD DUST LOUNGE: MIN AND THE COLIN BND GROVEDALE HOTEL: DELLA HOME HOUSE: NATHAN THOMSON, DE MUNARI, MC JANIK LAMBYS: BEDROCK, TROY BARRETT, RESIDENT DJ’S MAX WATT’S: BODY SLAM MURPHYS: UN-LIMITED THE LOST ONES BASEMENT BAR: BASEMENT SESSION, ELLE T DUO OLD BAR: BABY & THE KICKS PISTOL PETE’S: TRAMWRECK QUEENSCLIFF BREWHOUSE: GABS HOTTEST 100 AUSSIE CRAFT BEERS COUNTDOWN SPORTING GLOBE: 456 SATURDAY’S TORQUAY HOTEL: A NICE DAY TO GO TO THE PUB, COSMIC PSYCHOS +MORE YARD BIRD BAR: EASY CONNECTION SUN 26TH (AUSTRALIA DAY) BEAVS: DAVE ANDERSON, DJ CHICKEN & CHIPS CORNER HOTEL: POP CRIMES EDGE GEELONG: LIVE MUSIC THE ELEPHANT & CASTLE HOTEL: LIVE MUSIC THE ESPY: HEINOUS SOUNDS, LAST DINOSAURS THE FOX AND HEN: SUNDAY SESSIONS LIVE MUSIC FYANSFORD HOTEL: AUSTRALIA DAY CARPARK PARTY GROVEDALE HOTEL: MADZ GOT RICH HOME HOUSE: TIGERLILY LAMBYS: ALL THE CHEAP WINE, FLAME TREE’S, ABE ANDERSON, JOUBIN, LIAM BLACKWELL THE LOST ONES BASEMENT BAR: BASEMENT SESSION, THE MICHAEL WESTLAKE TRIO MANCHESTER ARMS: OZ DAY WITH MATT GIRI OLD BAR: ED FRASER, ALERTINE SARGES, ROSA MERCEDES PIANO BAR: PITCH PLEASE! QUEENSCLIFF BREWHOUSE: RAW4 SOUTH GEELONG FARMERS MARKET SPORTING GLOBE: SUNDAY SESSIONS THE TAPROOM: LIVE MUSIC THEATRE ROYAL: COSMIC PSYCHOS, ADALITA, STONEFIELD + MORE TERINDAH ESTATE: SUNDAY SESSIONS TORQUAY HOTEL: COASTAL JAM YARD BIRD BAR: DRE AND HARVY TUES 28TH LITTLE MALOP CENTRAL: POSSUMS ON THE PORCH WED 29TH BEAVS: KARAOKE & LUKE BISCAN QUEENSCLIFF BREWHOUSE: LIVE MUSIC

THE EASTERN: GOOD MORNING 2020 WORLD TOUR EDGE GEELONG: LIVE MUSIC AND DJS THE ELEPHANT AND CASTLE: LIVE MUSIC THE ESPY: TRIPLE J HOTTEST 100 AT THE ESPY

TORQUAY VINTAGE torquayvintage

VINTAGE CLOTHING MENS & WOMENS

VINYL RECORDS VINTAGE & NEW

COLLECTABLES ADRESS: BOX PARK UNIT 13 / 31 BAINES CRES, TORQUAY OPENING TIMES: THURS - SAT 11-4 / SUN 11 -2

PH: 5278 2911 42

ENQUIRIES: 0448 614 075

SPHINXHOTEL.COM.AU FORTÉ 731

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FRI 17 JANUARY:

SAT 18 JANUARY:

SUN 19 JANUARY:

TRIO ACOUSTIC SET

SOLO ACOUSTIC SET

DUO ACOUSTIC SET

HARLOW & HART This all girl trio perform acoustic covers complimented by angelic harmonies. Their repertoire spans classics from the 50’s, disco, old school RnB, 90’s and hits of today.

DELLA

One voice, one guitar, one stomp box – and many happy ears. Della the pro has supported legendary artists Jimmy Barnes, Guy Sebastian, Dragon and many more.

TASH & ADRIAN Tash Melody (vocals) and Adrian Montagnese (on keyboard) know how to pack dance floors by taking you on a journey through the 70s to today, performing all your favs.

* FRIDAYS

7PM-8PM *

ESPRESSO MARTINIS

— $12 —

GROVEDALEHOTEL FRI 24 JANUARY:

CRAIG & DARA DUO ACOUSTIC SET

Come on down and treat yourself to this dynamic duo. Craig and Dara have a diverse repertoire and an uncanny knack for playing the perfect song at the right moment.

SAT 25 JANUARY:

DELLA

SOLO ACOUSTIC SET One voice, one guitar, one stomp box – and many happy ears. Della the pro has supported legendary artists Jimmy Barnes, Guy Sebastian, Dragon and many more.

SUN 26 JANUARY:

GROVEDALEHOTEL.COM.AU 1300GROVEDALE (1300 476 833)

WEB.

MADZ GOT RICH

PHONE.

DUO ACOUSTIC SET

With Madeliene on vocals and Richard on guitar a great night is guaranteed. Their repertoire covers a range of top 40 hits as well as classics from over the decades.

JAN 17 THE GROWLERS (USA) JAN 18 THE AMITY AFFLICTION JAN 19 THE AMITY AFFLICTION JAN 23 LIME CORDIALE JAN 24 LIME CORDIALE JAN 25 A NICE DAY TO GO TO THE PUB 2 SELLING FAST!

SOLD OUT

SELLING FAST!

SOLD OUT SOLD OUT

SELLING FAST!

FEATURING COSMIC PSYCHOS AND FRIENDS

JAN 26 COASTAL JAM FEB 07 SUNNYBOYS FEB 14 EVES KARYDAS FEB 21 CASH SAVAGE & THE LAST DRINKS SOLD OUT

SOLD OUT

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