Forte #609

ISSUE #609 ball ar at | bell arine | Bendigo | ca stlemaine | geelong | surf coa st | warrnambool |

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british india “It pumps me up, it’s an incredible stamina potion!” pg.21

silvers circus pg.33

STEVE SMYTH

pg.22

kingswood

pg.36

super best friends

pg.38

jeff martin

pg.46

ALSO FEATURING: Guttermouth, Colin Hay, Mark with the Sea, Tijuana Cartel, Donavon Frankenreiter and heaps more!

10 0 % l o c a l ly o w n e d & o p e r at e d

Plus all the latest local entertainment news, music and movie reviews and all your favourite Forte columns!

available from 850+ outlets every fortnight

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1_Bianca and Rhianna PRINT.pdf

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27/02/2015

1:59 pm

15 pictures of young people are featured on buildings around Geelong as part of

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8_Ainsley PRINT.pdf

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27/02/2015

celebrations for National Youth Week (NYW)

2:04 pm

8/15

10-19 April 2015.

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STREETFACE 4

Ordinary extraordinary young people of Geelong

Bianca and Rhianna both age 15.

We met each other because we’d both had problems with mainstream schooling. Together we went to a new school which was much better. Over the years our friendship has grown stronger and stronger.

Before we had to change ourselves to fit social standards but when we're around each other we don’t care about what each other has or doesn’t have – we can just be ourselves. We don’t have to try to be someone else.

For more information about STREETFACE 4 visit

We are both on the same page and we help each other.

streetface4.geelong.social

Most importantly, we don’t judge each other.

For more information about National Youth Week Geelong 2015 visit youthcan.vic.gov.au

That’s true friendship.

You are viewing a ‘STREETFACE’ picture.

Find ‘STREETFACES’ at The Old Post Office,

15 pictures have been chosen to be featured on

Geelong Performing Arts Centre, The fOrT,

buildings around Geelong, as part of celebrations

Corio Library, Ocean Grove Library, Leisurelink,

for National Youth Week 6-19 April 2015.

Splashdown, The Carousel at The Waterfront,

STREETFACE 4

These pictures are 5 metres squared, and bring

Ordinary extraordinary young people of Geelong

West Townhall, Civic Carpark, City Hall, The

STREETFACE 4 is produced by the City of Greater

Pulse, Johnstone Park, Wholefoods Cafe and

Geelong Youth Development Unit and brings

Geelong West Senior Citizens Centre.

positive stories of young people who ‘live, work or play’ in Geelong.

Young photographer, Natalie Evans photographed this project.

We thank her for kindly donating her time and creativity.

Hire Natalie for your event at www.natalieevansphotography.com STREETFACE was an original project between Diversitat and the City of Greater Geelong Youth Development Unit. Started in 2010, this is its fourth incarnation.

you positive stories of young people who ‘live,

Ainsley, age 22.

I wanted to do something about human rights issues and social injustice, so I first volunteered in East Timor, then Kenya for

work or play’ in Geelong.

two months. When we first walked into the village it was really shocking to see the poverty. I noticed the only extra-curricular

activities were sports, so I started an art class. We cleared out a room and on my last day we did a mural and organised for some shelves to be donated and that became the library.

They’ve got nothing but they are the loveliest, friendliest people

See them from Corio to Ocean Grove and read

and they kept thanking us for what we were doing.

What they’ve given back to me is amazing.

about them and more happening for National Youth Week at www.youthcan.vic.gov.au

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You are viewing a ‘STREETFACE’ picture.

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15 pictures have been chosen to be featured on

buildings around Geelong, as part of celebrations for National Youth Week 6-19 April 2015.

STREETFACE 4 is produced by the City of Greater Geelong Youth Development Unit and brings

STREETFACE was an original project between Diversitat

positive stories of young people who ‘live, work or play’ in Geelong.

and the City of Greater Geelong Youth Development Unit.

Find ‘STREETFACES’ at The Old Post Office, Geelong Performing Arts Centre, The fOrT,

Corio Library, Ocean Grove Library, Leisurelink,

Started in 2010, this is its fourth incarnation.

Splashdown, The Carousel at The Waterfront, West Townhall, Civic Carpark, City Hall, The Pulse,

Johnstone Park, Wholefoods Cafe and Geelong West Senior Citizens Centre.

For more information about STREETFACE 4 visit streetface4.geelong.social dna

nA suA o L c il a r t ,na o G la ta tS r ev T ,e n e m n t ti r re y r o i ta i t in I ev

For more information about National Youth Week Geelong 2015 visit youthcan.vic.gov.au Young photographer, Natalie Evans photographed this project.

We thank her for kindly donating her time and creativity.

Hire Natalie for your event at www.natalieevansphotography.com STREETFACE was an original project between Diversitat and the City of Greater Geelong Youth Development Unit. Started in 2010, this is its fourth incarnation.

FOR ALL GEELONG YOUTH WEEK EVENTS WWW.YOUTHCAN.VIC.GOV.AU OR WWW.FACEBOOK .COM/TEENACTIVITIESGEELONG itaN

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ed's note I can already hear the tinfoil crinkling as you all unwrap your Easter eggs, and while it may be a few days early, on behalf of the Forte team I’d like to wish everyone a Happy Easter. I’m sure we’re all dreading the aftermath where we have to wean ourselves off chocolate and back into the regular diet, but for me, the biggest sadness comes from the knowledge I’ll have to wait a whole year to eat Safeway hot x buns again. It’s going to be a tough few weeks, so forgive me if I start going through the grieving process in this piece of editorial.

forte issue #609 t h u r s d a y 2 APRIL 2 0 1 5

FREEBIES!

Ph: 03 5229 7969 PO Box 978 Geelong VIC 3220 fortemag.com.au

enquiries@fortemag.com.au Publisher

McNamara Publishing DIRECTOR

Luke McNamara

luke@fortemag.com.au

steve smyth pg.22

editor

Amanda Sherring

The Easter weekend – and the holidays that come with it – serve as the perfect time to head out to your local pub with family and friends and catch a gig. If you flick to page 17 I’m sure there’s a show that will tickle your fancy.

amanda@fortemag.com.au

Keeping in theme with our past few issues, we have a few more changes in our lovely issue 609. Splinters has sadly left us but we’re not just leaving Forte with a gaping whole, instead we’ve brought in the team behind Torrent This to share some wisdom – head to page 47 if you feel like being enlightened. Also in this issue Natalie Rogers had a chat with Guttermouth, Jessica gave us a lesson in wearing monochrome in her fashion column and I’ve spent the past few days in Geelong’s finest cafes as part of our new cafe feature – the most recent of which was Bear & Bean. Chances are you’ll see me around the place sipping on coffees and taking pictures, if you do, come say ‘Hey’, I’m friendly I swear.

artwork@fortemag.com.au @yo_ jimbo

Amanda & the Forte Team

@forte_mag @amanda_sherring

advertising

Abbey King

abbey@fortemag.com.au @abb_king _ Art director

James Dulce

contributors

kingswood pg.36

super best friends pg.38

Win a double pass to see Silvers Circus at either Colac (April 15-19) or Warrnambool (April 22 - May 3)!!

To enter send your name and mobile number with the code ‘SILVERS’ to amanda@fortemag.com.au.

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. Forte accepts no responsibility for errors or omissions. Forte reserves the right to edit all articles and letters.

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Anthony Morris, Adem Ali, Alastair McGibbon, Amanda Sherring, Andrew Pretorius, Cameron Brogden, Chris Cruz, Chris Lambie, Daniel Lock, Emily Hurst, Jessica Alves, Dr John Lamp, Kara Ready, Montana Agustin, Natalie Rogers, Paul S Taylor, Tex Miller, Wylie Caird, Xavier Fenell, Tony Montana printed by

Fairfax Media Printing, Ballarat bookkeeping by

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know!

in the

t h e l a t e s t n a t i o n a l & INTERNATIONAL music & enterta inment ne w s

wave in St Barts. His shoulder was dislocated and broken in the incident – a pretty big deal for a drummer. Refunds are being offered for certain shows, please refer to the outlet for more details.

sequel to the original was a success and US$2million was raised in a day. So for those of you that were too young, or weren’t yet born, to see the original on the big screen, make sure you keep track of this one.

Lee Lin Chin Gets Mean

King Parrot Spread Their Wings

We’ve all seen the Celebrity Reads Mean Tweets format but we haven’t quite seen it like Lee Lin Chin did it on The Feed. Armed with a camera, her Twitter account and an acid tongue she blitzed through insult after insult.

Sorry for the pun on that one but it would be a sin not to. We heard just recently that the band signed to EVP Recordings for Australia and were planning on a new release in May. Well good news is the date has been set for May 15 and there’ll be a national tour to support it, perfect chance to pay back and support them by attending.

Soko Back For More

Alison Wonderland Off to a Sprint Alison Wonderland doesn’t seem to do things half-arsed. With her debut album Run just released with launch shows at various strip joints across the country, Alison has now launched a second go of the Wonderland Warehouse Project. The Melbourne show will take place in a secret location on May 30, hit up WonderlandWarhouseProject.com for tickets.

Save the Date It seems like Soundwave Festival has only just been and gone, but they’ve already locked in the dates for 2016. This time around the festival will be missing Adelaide and Perth though there’s a bit of excitement for Melbourne punters as the event just so happens to

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land on Australia day. We couldn’t think of a better way to spend the public holiday, could you?

Through the Looking Glass Quickly becoming known for her involvement in directing and choreographing clips, FKA

Twigs has come out with yet another for her new track ‘Glass & Patron’. The song is the first release from her new EP due out later this year. The clip itself was made for the YouTube Music Awards and features the young musician flexing her dancing muscles like never before.

Black Times for Bluesfest In sad news The Black Keys have cancelled their scheduled performances in Australia, New Zealand and Japan due to drummer Patrick Carney’s shoulder injury that he obtained body surfing a massive

She may be known as the French singer who sung sweetly of threatening to kill some girl in 2007, but Soko is back for more with a new album titled My Dreams Dictate My Reality – we’ve been assured there is less talk of killing in the release.

It’s a dark pop album that takes a look at what lays between femininity and masculinity and is worth a listen.

Super Crowdfound There are certain cultclassic films that we all revisit every couple of years: Super Troopers, I’m sure, is one of them.

Luckily, the crowdfunding campaign to create a

No Pain From Sarah Blasko Sarah Blasko has partnered up with Sydney-based composer Nick Wales to release a collective album titled Emergence out June 5. ‘Pain Is A Number’ has just been released ahead of the album and the dark experimental pop music is unlike anything you’ve heard from Sarah Blasko and well worth a listen. This is one partnership that’s going to push boundaries that’s for sure.

Split Direction Bad news One Direction fans, Zayn has called it quits to become a normal 22-year-old, if only there were such a thing. Here’s the news straight from the publicist’s mouth, or should we say keyboard?

“After five incredible years Zayn Malik has decided to leave One Direction. Niall, Harry, Liam and Louis will continue as a four-piece and look forward to the forthcoming concerts of their world tour and recording their fifth album, due to be released later this year.”

Vin Diesel Pays Tribute In a touching act Vin Diesel has named his newborn daughter Pauline in honour of close friend and fellow actor Paul Walker who died in 2013.

know!

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t h e l a t e s t n a t i o n a l & INTERNATIONAL music & enterta inment ne w s

No More Rage-ing

That’s Nuts, Deez Nuts

Sign Me Up Warner

With a new album comes a new tour, and Deez Nuts are another one of the bands ready to embark around the country in support of Word Is Bond, due out April 24. Along for the ride will be Antagonist A.D, Relentless and Earth Caller. Deez Nuts will play Arrows in Melbourne on June 12, bonus is this one’s an all ages show.

Melbourne folk-pop duo the Pierce Brothers are a familiar face down our way, so we thought it was quite fitting to give the boys a shout out with their newest acheivement – something the past 12 months seemed to be filled with. The boys have just signed a major record deal with Warner in Aus/NZ, not bad guys, not bad!

Lollapalooza Who? It seems news of international festival line ups won’t be stopping anytime soon and we’ve got another to add to the list: Lollapalooza in Chicago from July 31 – August 2. The headliners are as follows: Paul McCartney, Metallica, Sam Smith, Florence + the Machine, The War On Drugs, FKA Twigs, Father John Misty, The Weeknd,

Alt-J, Bassnectar, TV On The Radio and A$AP Rocky. There’s even a few Aussie’s to spice up the mix: Tame Impala, Peking Duk, Chet Faker, What So Not, Hermitude, Angus & Julia Stone, Alison Wonderland, DMA’s and Sheppard. How much were flights to America again?

The Greatest of Cheech & Chong They’re cult royalty

and over the decades have blazed a trail as one of the most loved comedic duos of our time. So it’s only fitting they head around the country sharing their greatest hits with fans – young and old. The duo will play The Palais in Melbourne on June 20.

The Best ‘90s Comeback Good news all you sci-fi, thriller and alien-believing lovers

Leaving the Bloc

out there: X-Files are making a comeback.

Yes, you heard me correctly, time to free yourself of commitments for the next several years. In even better news David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson will be back for their roles of Mulder and Scully in the six-part season predicted to air sometime around 2016.

Bloc Party are one of those bands you just wish could stay together, for their innate ability to create sweet, beautiful tunes. But news that a second original band member has gone separate ways, this time bassist Gordon Moakes, we can’t help but question how it will affect the band. Kele Okereke has revealed there will be a fifth LP in the works, but who knows.

Nick Cave is Fully Sick Nick Cave is well aware of the book publishing process, and in true Nick Cave style, it couldn’t follow the normal means.

Nick is publishing a book that he wrote entirely on airsick bags – a pioneering move for the publishing industry we’re sure.

The limited edition (available June 4) will

cost $1440 but also comes with two vinyls of cave reading the book and a hardcover and paperback edition.

However, there will be a standard edition available April 8.

T-Swizzle Me In a strange turn of events Taylor Swift has taken to buying adultthemed domain names.

Why? It was sparked from the internet’s expansion where sites

Listening to music on TV on a Saturday morning used to be commonplace for teens and hungover people a-like.

When the ABC cut Rage’s Saturday morning program it was a day of morning for the music lovers of the nation. Alas, the Saturday morning was brought back but now they’ve also made a return of the Top 20 ARIA countdown between 6-8am on Saturday morning. will soon be able to start using domains like .food and .music, though T-Swift with her business savvy mind knows all too well .porn and the like will be where it’s at. Everyone can start buying the domains from June 1, though celebrities and major corporations have been given a grace period where they can buy them ahead of time.

So who plans to hit up TaylorSwift.porn or TaylorSwift.adult?

LIVE MUSIC THIS EASTER

AT GEELONG'S NEWEST GARDEN BAR Good Friday Eve:

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TH E THURSDAY 2ND APRIL BABUSHKA BAR (Ballarat): James Ramsay BARWON CLUB: Tony Joe White BARWON HEADS HOTEL: Trivia Night from 7:30pm BEAVS BAR: Karaoke & Levi Anderson BIRD ROCK CAFE (Jan Juc) - Live and Local, $13 Pizza night BRIDGE HOTEL (Castlemaine): Cosmic Psychos, Black Aces EDGE GEELONG: Live Music and DJ ELEPHANT & CASTLE: $20 Asahi Seafood & Chips Night EUREKA: Thirsty Thursday with local resident DJ’S THE GROVEDALE HOTEL: Good Faces 4 Radio HOMEHOUSE: Zac Depetho, Less Moar, DJ Horizon THE LOFT (Warrnambool): Echo Drama LORD OF THE ISLES: Trivia in the courtyard MARTIANS CAFE: $25 International Night including drink ODYSSEYTAVERN AND BREWERY: Jimmy Graham THE SPHINX HOTEL: Schnitzel Night from $13 SUTTONS HOUSE OF MUSIC (Ballarat): Hopscotch on the Rocks TORQUAY HOTEL: Skeggs, Globe Movie Premiere

FRIDAY 3RD APRIL - GOOD FRIDAY BABUSHKA BAR (Ballarat): Ritchie Langford BEAVS BAR: Dave Anderson BIRD ROCK CAFE (Jan Juc): Happy Hour 5-7pm BLACK HATT: Good Friday Hot Rod Show THE GROVEDALE HOTEL: Dean & Jason KAROVA LOUNGE (Ballarat): Darren Hanlon THE LOFT

fo r t n i g h t ly c a le n d a r (Warrnambool): Buddha in a Chocolate Box ODYSSEYTAVERN AND BREWERY: Ben Ford Davies TORQUAY HOTEL: Tijuana Cartel, Yolande Be Cool WHALERS HOTEL: 360

SATURDAY 4TH APRIL - EASTER SATURDAY BARWON CLUB: April Lad Fest, Bound

by Hound, Famous Will, Altitude, City at Midnight and more BARWON HEADS HOTEL: 360 BEAVS BAR: Luke Biscan BELMONT HOTEL: Cal Young BIRD ROCK CAFE (Jan Juc): Live Music and Happy Hour 5-7pm BRIDGE HOTEL (Castlemaine): Larissa Tandy, Strine Singers THE EASTERN: Live Music EDGE: Live Music and DJ EUREKA: $5 Night, Live DJS GEELONG RSL: Grasshopper THE GROVEDALE HOTEL: THOM HOMEHOUSE: Teddy Cream, Katie Valentine KAROVA LOUNGE (Ballarat): Pants Party LAMBYS: Live Band MARTIANS CAFE: Jessey Jackson MAX HOTEL: Entourage ODYSSEYTAVERN AND BREWERY: Eric Stribley OLD HEPBURN HOTEL: Michelle Parsons PISTOL PETES: Sweet Felicia and the Honey Tones SAINTS & SAILORS (Portarlington): Live Music ST JAMES: Kid Kenobi SUTTONS HOUSE OF MUSIC (Ballarat): Ultrafox TORQUAY HOTEL: DJ Jesse James, Courtney Mills

SUNDAY 5TH APRIL - EASTER SUNDAY BARWON CLUB: Hola Full Venue Party: Los Chicos, Spencer P Jones and the Escape Committee, Powerline Sneakers and more BEAVS BAR: Jack Harman BIRD ROCK CAFÉ (Jan Juc): Kids Eat Free 3:30-6:30, Steak and Parma Night, Happy Hour 5-6pm CITY QUARTER: Perfect Sunday Sesh Live music and DJ from 4pm EDGE GEELONG: Live Music and DJ ELEPHANT & CASTLE: Live Jazz from 3-6pm and Parmi Night GEELONG RSL: $13 Carvery lunch GROVEDALE HOTEL: Luke Biscan, Joss Russell HOMEHOUSE: Apax, Dixie, Shameless and more KAROVA LOUNGE (Ballarat): Northeast Party House LAMBYS: Live Band THE LOFT (Warrnambool): Skyscraper Stand, The Commission Flats ODYSSEYTAVERN AND BREWERY: Bethany Lyall Green SAINTS & SAILORS (Portarlington): Live Music ST JAMES: Live Music & DJs SUTTONS HOUSE OF MUSIC (Ballarat): Michael Gate THE SPHINX HOTEL: Carvery from $17 TORQUAY HOTEL: Kingswood, My Echo, Grenadiers

MONDAY 6TH APRIL BENDED: Steak night ELEPHANT & CASTLE: $20 Steak & Drink night GEELONG RSL: Members Draw, over $3000 in prizes to be won!

OLD HEPBURN HOTEL (Hepburn Springs): Parmi night THE SPHINX HOTEL: Meals for $11

TUESDAY 7TH APRIL BENDED: Parmi night BLACK HATT: Bachata Dance Classes ELEPHANT & CASTLE: $20 Steak & Drink night GEELONG RSL: Steak Night $13 OLD HEPBURN HOTEL (Hepburn Springs): Parmi night PISTOL PETES: Open Mic (book now) SOOKI LOUNGE (Belgrave): Jeff Martin

WEDNESDAY 8TH APRIL BABUSHKA BAR (Ballarat): Karaoke BARWON CLUB: Guantanamo Baywatch THE BARWON HEADS HOTEL: Master of Dartness and Poker from 7pm BEAVS BAR: Open Mic, Karaoke BENDED: Second chance & pub quiz BIRD ROCK CAFE (Jan Juc): Shit Trivia Mexican Night ELEPHANT AND CASTLE: Trivia Night from 8pm.

GEELONG (52 Garden St): No Lights No Lycra GEELONG RSL: Pot and Parmi Night $13 GOLD DIGGERS ARMS: Spinning Wheel and a lot of Parmi’s from $14.50 GPAC: Great Songs of the War Years KAROVA LOUNGE (Ballarat): Laura Palmer MA X HOTEL: Lukey’s Open Mic Night OLD HEPBURN HOTEL (Hepburn Springs): Roast night PISTOL PETES: Food and Blues

THURSDAY 9TH APRIL BABUSHKA BAR (Ballarat): Shaun Kirk BEAVS BAR: Andy Forster BIRD ROCK CAFE (Jan Juc): Live and Local, $13 Pizza night BRIDGE HOTEL

(Castlemaine): Clint Boge, Glenn Esmond CORNER HOTEL: Pokey LaFarge EDGE GEELONG: Live Music and DJ ELEPHANT & CASTLE: $20 Asahi Seafood & Chips Night THE ESPY: Jeff Martin EUREKA: Thirsty Thursday with local resident DJ’S GPAC: Great Songs of the War Years KAROVA LOUNGE (Ballarat): Bootleg Rascal LORD OF THE ISLES: Trivia in the courtyard MARTIANS CAFE: $25 International Night including drink ODYSSEYTAVERN AND BREWERY: 6pm Jazz n’ Blues OLD HEPBURN HOTEL (Hepburn Springs): Roast night THE SPHINX HOTEL: Schnitzel Night from $13 ST JAMES: Paces SUTTONS HOUSE OF MUSIC (Ballarat): The Virginia Slims

Homehouse Fridays Party with DJs KAROVA LOUNGE (Ballarat): Jeff Martin LAMBYS: Live band LIGHTHOUSE THEATRE (Warrnambool): Kelly THE LOFT (Warrnambool): Miss Quincy THE LORD NELSON: Happy Hour 5pm-7pm MA X HOTEL: 3 On the Tree ODYSSEYTAVERN AND BREWERY: Live Music PISTOL PETES: Diddy Reyes and Electric Larry SAINTS & SAILORS (Portarlington): Live Music SUTTONS HOUSE OF MUSIC (Ballarat): The 3D’s THEATRE ROYAL (Castlemaine): Pokey LaFarge THE WORKERS CLUB GEELONG: Steve Smyth YAH YAHS: Smoke Stack Rhino, The Ugly Kings, Stone Revival, Two Headed Dog

FRIDAY 10TH APRIL

SATURDAY 11TH APRIL

BARWON CLUB: Mason’s Way BARWON HEADS HOTEL: Happy Hour 5-7pm, Meat Raff le & Members Draw BEAVS BAR: Luke Biscan BELMONT HOTEL: Dave Johns BIRD ROCK CAFE (Jan Juc): Happy Hour 5-7pm CITY QUARTER BAR: Friday Unwind from 5pm. Live with live entertainment and DJ THE EASTERN: Live Music EDGE GEELONG: Live Music and DJ ELEPHANT AND CASTLE: Thank Guinness It’s Friday EUREKA HOTEL: Live DJs GEELONG RSL: Grasshopper GPAC: Swan Lake THE GROVEDALE HOTEL: Dean & Jason HOME HOUSE:

BABUSHKA BAR (Ballarat): Zinnia Blue, Girl Friday, Ari & Rhiannon BARWON HEADS HOTEL: Donavon Frankenreiter BEAVS BAR: Butters BELMONT HOTEL: Peter Chapman BENDED: Live Music BIRD ROCK CAFE (Jan Juc): Live Music and Happy Hour 5-7pm CHERRY BAR: Bootfest: My Left Boot, Sheriff, Batpiss, Sun God Replica, Sons of the Ionian Sea and more THE EASTERN: Live Music EDGE: Live Music and DJ THE ESPY: Divine Ascension EUREKA: $5 Night, Live DJS THE GATEWAY HOTEL: Puppetry of the Penis GPAC: Swan Lake THE GROVEDALE

HOTEL: Where’s Joss (covers duo) HOMEHOUSE: Rave Radio, Rimmy, DJ Shook HOWLER: Steve Smyth LAMBYS: Live band THE LOFT (Warrnambool): The Peeks MARTIANS CAFE: Southern Light MA X HOTEL: This Is For Abbey ODYSSEYTAVERN AND BREWERY: Live Music OLD HEPBURN HOTEL: Cam Kettle PISTOL PETE’S: Baron Franco, The Travelin’ Road SAINTS & SAILORS (Portarlington): Live Music SUTTONS HOUSE OF MUSIC (Ballarat): Motor City Sounds THE WORKERS CLUB GEELONG: Jeff Martin

SUNDAY 12TH APRIL BEAVS BAR: Clint Boge, Glenn Esmond BIRD ROCK CAFÉ (Jan Juc): Kids Eat Free 3:30-6:30, Steak and Parma Night, Happy Hour 5-6pm CITY QUARTER: Perfect Sunday Sesh Live music and DJ from 4pm THE CORNER HOTEL: Frank Turner EDGE GEELONG: Live Music and DJ ELEPHANT & CASTLE: Live Jazz from 3-6pm and Parmi Night GEELONG RSL: $13 Carvery lunch GROVEDALE HOTEL: Levi Anderson KAROVA LOUNGE (Ballarat): Steve Smyth LAMBYS: Live band LORD NELSON: Sunday Funday Live Music ODYSSEYTAVERN AND BREWERY: Live music SAINTS & SAILORS (Portarlington): Live Music THE SPHINX HOTEL: Carvery from $17 SUTTONS HOUSE OF MUSIC (Ballarat): Chooka Parker

MONDAY 13TH APRIL BARWON CLUB: $10 Parmis BENDED: Steak night CHERRY BAR: Cherry Jam Monday’s ELEPHANT & CASTLE: $20 Steak & Drink night GEELONG RSL: Members Draw, over $3000 in prizes to be won!

OLD HEPBURN HOTEL (Hepburn Springs): Parmi night THE SPHINX HOTEL: Meals for $11

TUESDAY 14TH APRIL BENDED: Parmi night ELEPHANT & CASTLE: $20 Steak & Drink night GEELONG RSL: Steak Night $13 OLD HEPBURN HOTEL (Hepburn Springs: Parmi night

WEDNESDAY 15TH APRIL BABUSHKA BAR (Ballarat): Karaoke THE BARWON HEADS HOTEL: Master of Dartness and Poker from 7pm BEAVS BAR: Open Mic, Karaoke BENDED: Second chance & pub quiz BIRD ROCK CAFE (Jan Juc): Shit Trivia Mexican Night THE CORNER HOTEL: Frank Turner ELEPHANT AND CASTLE: Trivia Night from 8pm. Have fun win prizes book a table GEELONG (52 Garden St): No Lights No Lycra GEELONG RSL: Pot and Parmi Night $13 GOLD DIGGERS ARMS: Spinning Wheel and a lot of Parmi’s from $14.50 GPAC: Kelly KAROVA LOUNGE (Ballarat): Super Best Friends MAX HOTEL: Lukey’s Open Mic Night OLD HEPBURN HOTEL (Hepburn Springs): Roast night PISTOL PETES: Food and Blues

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Plate 4 plate Zambrero does not believe anyone in this world should go hungry. We have found a vehicle (which just so happens to be a Mexican food chain) through which we can empower a social movement dedicated to the provision of food for those in need.

By finding something everyone has to do (eat) we give our customers the opportunity to help others who don’t enjoy the same privileges. We call it the Plate 4 Plate initiative.

For every burrito or bowl you purchase at Zambrero, we donate a plate of food to someone in need. Thanks to our customers, we have donated 5 million plates of food.

Zambrero Geelong West Pakington Strand, Cnr Waratah & Pakington Street Geelong West VIC 3218 03 5221 5595 / geelongwest@zambrero.com

present this to recieve $2 off any bowl or burrito at zambrero geelong west

until 15th april 2015

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BRITISH INDIA FEATURE STORY Written by Amanda Sherring

Tell a band they’ve outdone themselves with a release and they then want to road test it and prove its success as much as possible. This seems to be the ethos behind British India’s new album, Nothing Touches Me, and with critics claiming it as the best British India release, they’re not sold on the statement until they’ve had the chance to take it to the fans in a live setting.

“This is kind of the best period of what we do, you work hard on putting the record out and you feel terrified for months upon its release. All the critical acclaim is really lovely but you’re really proved by your public acting and we won’t really know how this album is until we take it out on the road,” frontman Declan Melia says.

“But watching people react and singing back lyrics that you wrote on a whim, when you were walking home drunk on a Wednesday three years ago, and to see people be moved by it is a pretty unique and awesome thing. We’re going with our friends Tired Lion and Grenadiers so it’s going to be a real travelling circus.”

Talking to Declan it seems the band are a lot tougher on themselves than they should be, but with every criticism they place on themselves it garners a brilliant release – much like their newest. Though in saying that, Declan is quite proud of what they’ve come out with.

“We’ve always kind of promised that if we put out a record that wasn’t as good as the last one then we should reassess whether we should keep the band going, but it definitely felt as we were making it that we were doing

good work,” he says.

“I think we’re feeling really good, when you’re making a record and with the other record we really felt like we were doing good stuff. It was coming easily and sounding good to us, but there’s always that X factor as to whether or not it can connect with the audience at large. That’s why great records come out and nobody notices them and terrible records come out and they receive all sorts of accolades, so it’s a pretty testing time on your nervous system during pre-release.”

Having spent a considerable amount of time in Berlin, it’s allowed for a new influence on the album that could be one of the reasons behind why Nothing Touches Me has received so much praise.

“It’s just amazing, I’m not sure if you’ve been, but it just seems to be a city in it’s adolescence that’s just in a good place. It felt for the first time since we made our first record in Sydney that we were in the right place at the right time.

The production of every other album had felt slightly compromised but this one just felt like we were exactly where we needed to be,” Declan says.

The release also saw them pen such songs as ‘Wrong Direction’ that was recorded completely in the moment, something that doesn’t seem to come around much in the perfection of the recording process these days.

“I would love to record everything like ‘Wrong Direction’. It’s just beautifully easy and when you look up at each other and you see that spark and feel that the song has worked – it’s a real magical feeling. But the one thing I’ve learnt after doing this for so long, or just writing songs, is that no two songs ever work the same. ‘Wrong Direction’ and ‘Angela’ came instantly and it’s really hard to be logical about it and really tempting to think, ‘Well where did this song come from?’ But you’ve just pulled it out of your sleeves,” Declan says.

“Then there are songs like ‘Suddenly’, ‘Come Home’ and the ‘Departure Lounge’ that seemed to take months.

They take on different identities every time you play them and you really have to work at them to get them where they need to be. So you’ve got to approach each song differently. You’ve really got to have an elastic mind when you’re coming at songs in this way because if you have a certain vision for a song it can really hamper it. The songs as you like them you’ve got to try not to box them in and just let them do what they’ve gotta do.”

Through the speakers Nothing Touches Me sounds like a brilliant 12-track release that is best taken as a whole. As Declan has already said, the ultimate test is how it will go on stage with a couple hundred listeners to judge.

Luckily playing live is something Declan thoroughly enjoys, so even if things don’t pan out as well as planned – though they surely will – then at least there’s some joy to be had from the experience.

“It pumps me up, it’s an incredible stamina potion.

I’ve seen Nic and myself curled up in balls with agonising hangovers, the flu or just tiredness and you get up on stage, you take on that persona – I suppose – and it just cures all ills. By the time you come off stage you feel much much better,” he says.

At each gig, while Nothing Touches Me will be going through a test run, Declan welcomes any and all requests for songs. Though don’t count on Declan to look you in the eyes while singing it.

“I don’t look at the crowd, I’m usually too terrified to see anything, I’m usually blinking my eyes and praying that I don’t lose my voice. I just look around on stage and usually after everyone will be like, ‘Oh did you see that guy or that girl on someone’s shoulders?’ and I’m just oblivious – it’s like it never happened. I think you kind of just go up on stage and you’re in your own world, or I certainly am anyway,” he says.

When&Where: Karova Lounge, Ballarat – May 6, 170 Russell, Melbourne – May 29 & Workers Club, Geelong – May 30

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Guttermouth Written by Natalie Rogers

Veteran punks Guttermouth are set to atone for sins of the past when they touch down in Australia this week. Controversial front man Mark Adkins made no bones about the fact that things got a little out of hand at a booze-soaked run of shows in 2013 (all backed up by grainy footage of the crowd turning on the band at a show in Colorado, after an audience member was allegedly attacked after jumping onstage). Thankfully though, Guttermouth lived to tell the tale and chose to share the story with us.

“We’re very happy and completely together,” says the relaxed and friendly singer. “We’ve been through rough patches but let me tell you, the press have exaggerated some of these stories to no end! Sensationalism runs rampant, you know?”

Scandal surrounded the band once more after details emerged of Adkins being holed up in a Mexican jail – and he welcomed the opportunity to shed some light on the murky situation. “Trust me when I say I was a victim of circumstance. I mean, would you believe that for walking across the road on a red light a cop picked me up and threw me in the back of his car for two and a half to three days! Then every time it chimed midnight I had to get more money out of the ATM and give it to him – that kind of thing actually happens down there!” he laughed sardonically.

“Believe me I understand that I put myself in a pickle when I went to Mexico and started mouthing off down there. But at the same time, it’s so exciting to be there, to be out in the unknown and the craziness of what can and can’t happen,” Adkins continued. “Luckily I have some good friends who just told me to ‘Get the fuck out of there! Quit hanging out down there and get back to reality’, so I did – I heeded the warning,” Adkins smiled.

These days Guttermouth are all about the fans and wanting to show a few Aussie punks some old fashioned Californian hospitality.

“We’re doing a bunch of BBQs at people’s homes after the shows and what not. We’ll go and cook food, barbeque and serve

food to people. We may even play a couple of songs,” Adkins teased.

“And we plan to make skate ramps so we can skate with the locals. That’s what I love about being in this band – it’s not just about playing music, it’s about meeting people and making lifelong friends. That’s just one of the rewards we’ve been given. We will never be elitist rock band scum who don’t identify with their audience and think that they’re above their fans. It’s as simple as that.”

you know? So to those people who supported me through that, I wanted to give them something special and it’s grown over the last two decades.”

He continued making solo albums, however his major resurgence came about when the one time fan – and now friend – Zach Braff asked if he could use ‘Just Don’t Think I’ll Ever Get Over You’ (a track from Colin’s solo album Transcendental Highway, 1998) for his little indie movie, Garden State. Needless to say, it went on to become a cult classic and Colin found himself with a new generation of fans.

From there he appeared in the US sitcom Scrubsat Braff ’s request, playing an acoustic version of the Men At

Work hit ‘Overkill’ in three separate episodes. (He has since gone on to act in various small roles for TV and film, something he’s done so since the ‘80s.)

The recognition and exposure fuelled Colin’s resolve to continue on in his solo career (albeit independently). “I only produce my own records because there’s no-one else who wants to produce them!” he laughed. “It’s not like I particularly want to produce them – there isn’t the budget around anymore to have producers come in, so I just do it myself.” He set up his own label Lazy Eye Records, circa 2005.

Next Year People is Colin’s latest offering – 10 tracks of some of his finest work. Despite enjoying his careers renaissance, he deeply cherishes his long-term friendships and attributes much of his success to the support of his wife Cecilia Noel, a Peruvian singer once named the ‘Latin Tina Turner’. “She sings with me on this record and she has exceptional musical instincts. She helps me a lot in the studio and I’ve actually stolen a lot of compositions from her!” he grinned. “I’ve also got a couple of Cuban lads [San Miguel Perez and Yosmel Montejo] from her band playing on the record.

“And I’ve got a couple of dear friends who are very honest with me and steer me back when I go off track,” he continued. “But I think I’ll be alright as long as I remember that we’re all wandering around trying to figure out what the fuck it’s all about, you know?

Everyone has that to share – we’re on this journey together.”

When&Where: The Bawon Club, Geelong - April 1, The Bendigo Hotel, Collingwood – April 3 & 4 & Bar 12, Frankston – April 6

What hasn’t been so easy is deciphering fact from fiction when it comes to the follow-up to Shave The Planet, an album almost a decade in the making.

“Well, there are always a million rumours swirling and I start them usually, because my intentions are good,” he grinned. “But this time I can tell you that the good people at Bedlam records in Brisbane are actually holding us hostage in their studio for seven days. They’ve given us a week of studio time which is plenty for us, so we’re doing an exclusive Australia-

only release while we’re there. That’s a fact, it is actually happening, it will come out I promise!”

And to those who say Guttermouth have run their course, Adkins says unequivocally: “I have no plans of quitting – you can print that”.

Colin Hay Written by Natalie Rogers

Colin Hay has a tale or two to tell, whether it be his first impressions of Australia after emigrating from Scotland at the age of 14, or stories from the decades of success and excess that followed as the front man of one of the country’s biggest bands, Men At Work.

His first-hand accounts of redemption and re-invention are inspired, while his sense of humour – though self-deprecating at times – will leave you feeling uplifted and thoroughly entertained.

“It’s a form of release, like an energy release,” he says of his fondness for making people laugh. “A sense of humour is very important and storytelling has become an integral part of the show. When my old band broke up and I started playing shows on my own, very few people would come along. So I felt like I could tell the audience anything – about myself and what happened during those years [in Men At Work]. It was like letting them in on a secret. People seemed to really like that aspect of the show, so it grew from there.”

Colin freely admits that his struggle to find an audience in the aftermath of Men At Work weighed heavily on him and escalated his now defunct love affair with the bottle. “At times, it felt like everybody just wanted me to stay in my wee box and come out only to sing certain songs and then go away again,

When & Where: Her Majesty’s, Ballarat – April 25, Lighthouse Theatre, Warrnambool – April 26 & The Forum, Melbourne – May 20

Steve Smyth Written by Amanda Sherring

Moments before boarding a plane to America for SXSW, Steve Smyth gracefully took time out from the stressful pre-flight process for an interview. Heading overseas is just another one of the incredible opportunities the musician has been blessed with over the past few years.

“With every moment seems to come a new opportunity and each one I feel really privileged to be able to keep strumming a song and a tune. Many people have strummed them before and I guess I’m feeling pretty lucky to get to places and get to Geelong again,” Steve says.

Such opportunities have taken Steve to play beside a lighthouse, Secret Garden Festival and various regional locations. The beautiful thing about Steve’s shows is that he tries to ensure he can make the most of the town that he is in, making connections with locals at each stop he makes.

“There’s been a lot of times where you don’t even see a country, town or city because you fly in, you’re in the car then down into a basement somewhere. Then you play the gig, you’re back in the car and in an aeroplane again and you didn’t even breathe the air,” he says.

“So the peculiar places where somebody has thought to create a space that is not conventional always makes for a great time, always. I think that’s one of the best things about being in this particular trade is meeting so many incredible people. I think that’s the main thing 22 forte

that actually pushes me on, in the sense that it’s not the applause of the music it’s about being able to share the night with some people that you’ve met and gotten to know and obviously shared something with. And it’s always better the next time around when you come back because you just pick up where you left off.”

While he finds it tricky to give a definite answer on whether he believes in fate – stating that he believes in the human spirit and the ability to influence each other – there’s no denying that certain aspects of his life have been the result of a higher influence.

Meeting Jack Lowry at his house when he rocked up for a carpentry job was just the connection he needed to make to

When&Where: The Workers Club, Geelong – April 10 & Karova Lounge, Ballarat – April 12

spur him into following his dreams as a musician. The friendship is something that even Steve admits as an unusual coincidence.

“That is interesting because we weave into each others lives, and it’s certain people in your lives that you know you’re a better person for having spent time with them and most definitely Jack has been one of them.

Sometimes the most smallest of moments can be the most impacting as well,” he says.

“You never really know why you lead the path you lead, why you say no to certain things, why you say yes to others and finding yourself in situations where you find a best friend or you find a troubled time. I guess you always have to hold on to that burning sense of learning and of openness for ways to stay high – it’s all about how you catch those winds.”

Regardless of how Steve got to where he is, moments after this interview – a mere 30 minutes to be exact – he

was catching those winds over to the United States. His return to Australia will be for one final tour supporting his album Exits before he heads back to the states to record his next album. A decision that worked wonders for him in his previous release.

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A Letter to Taylor Taylor Henderson was always destined to be a star – with or without his time under the TV spotlight. From the way he speaks about music on his website it is clear music is in his heart.

Last year he released Burnt Letters, an album which saw him work with a stellar team of producers. Taylor: “There are some songs on the album that were written years ago, and other songs that are fresh, where I’ve tried new things, but at the core of all the songs is me. It all relates to the person I am, and the artist I am. It’s a pure undiluted reflection, and as far as I’m concerned, that’s the only way I know how to present myself.” Lighthouse Theatre, Warrnambool – April 19 & Courthouse ARTS, Geelong – April 21.

Kings of Easter There’s nothing better than a little bit of Australian rock to finish up your Easter weekend, and the lads in Kingswood are helping to make that possible. Known for showing us Geelong-ians a good time, the four-piece are back for another round, and possibly a few chocolate eggs while they’re here. Head down to the Torquay Hotel on April 5 aka Easter Sunday to see the band in action. They’ll also be supported by the likes of My Echo and Grenadiers, sounds like a Sunday fit for a king if you ask me.

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The Chocolate Alternative Easter isn’t just about eating chocolate and hot cross buns, it’s meant to be about spending time with family and friends.

How you do that is up to you, though there are some pretty good options around, including the set of shows for the whole holiday period at the Juke at the Grovedale Hotel. Good Friday Eve sees a set from Good Faces 4 Radio, Good Friday has Dean & Jason, Easter Saturday has THOM and for your mellow gut-filled Sunday there’s Luke Biscan.

Make sure you did a little bit more than just pig out on chocolate this Easter.

The American Invasion Sit back, the Americans are not taking over, at least not in that way. This invasion is the best possible, as American bands The Bellrays and the Supersuckers are both coming to our humble abode for a special show. As two bands making some of the best soul shaking, down and dirty rock n’ roll, the pair will verse each other in the ultimate crown for rock n’ roll. The only way to see the winner is to head there yourself, bets are on, but who will you lay down a 50 for? Barwon Club Hotel - May 27.

Top Ten with Karnivool It has been ten years since Karnivool released their debut album Themata, so the band is doing the right thing by their fans by taking it to the streets.

They will perform the album in its entirety.

Prior to its release, the band released a couple of EPs. Following the second of these EPs, 2001’s Persona, the WA band won the local leg of the National Campus Band Competition. Themata then took shape, with the album produced by Forrester Savell. Last year the band also made mention that they’re working on some new material, though not a great deal has been said since. You never know; you may hear some new tunes as well.

The Wool Exchange Entertainment Complex, Geelong – May 16.

We’re All Friends Here There are friends.

There are best friends forever. And then there are Super Best Friends.

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You may know them as the ‘Round and Round’ band. However, Australia’s finest politically-charged punk trio recently welcomed their debut album Status Updates, so now you will be able to get to know them a whole lot better. From the press: “Culturally aware lyrics and memorable melodies are balanced in accordance with sentiments of introspection, anger, ambition and the fury held by the thinking youth of Australia, with just the right dose of classic Besties humour … This album is an important and confrontational musical snapshot of modern social and political values in 2015.” The Karova, Ballarat – April 15.

Evil Knows No Bounds Melbourne heavyhitters Decimatus and Envenomed have combined their powers for the Catalyst of Evil tour. Decimatus will be powering through their debut album Catalyst for Rage, while Envenomed have their own debut EP to show off in Evil Unseen. Both releases have been received with open arms, so this is a sweet deal. Watch the guys having a bit of a laugh by searching ‘Envenomed and Decimatus 2015 Aus Video Tour’ through YouTube. They even managed to sweet-talk Frankenbok’s Nathan “Yetti” Amatnieks to appear in the video.

Music Man, Bendigo – May 15; The Barwon, Geelong – June 5; and Metal @ Your Break, Warrnambool – June 6.

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Hail to the Chief Everyone digs a little stoner-swirl jam-psych. And because everyone digs a little stoner-swirl jam-psych, everyone digs a little Lurch & Chief. Featuring five manly men and one womanly woman, the band recently announced a little tour in support of their brand-spanking new EP, Breathe. For those interested in the recording process, you can have a read of their journal over at lcepjournal.tumblr.com. Here is a snippet. “Breathe proved to be difficult, with my vocals not working as well as I had hoped. So I went through a brainstorming and recording phase for an hour, getting as many new melodies and harmonies down as possible. Tomorrow morning I will have to work my way through the entire mess of sound. What a time that will be … Lil did incredibly well with today’s recording session. She only has her vocals on Made Me Use to finish today. She rolled Breathe over in six takes. All of which are possible contenders for the final vocal track. Super solid effort … I am mentally almost at my limit with the lack of sleep and the 12 hour days. It’s been the best; however, I’m starting to lose my mind.” The Workers Club, Geelong – May 8; The Karova, Ballarat – May 14; and The Loft, Warrnambool – May 16. [Photo: Danny Cohen]

Life is Like a Box of Chocolates Buddha in a Chocolate Box is the link between southern stomp roots and a city once known as the ‘Wool Capital of the World’. Hailing from Hamilton (note: they recently changed their slogan to ‘Hamilton – One Place, Many possibilities’. You’ll be thanking me should that ever come up in Pub Trivia), members met through school – a not entirely uncommon scenario. They take their name from the 1974 Cat Stevens album Buddha AND the Chocolate Box. Catching up with Forte’s Natalie Rogers late last year, frontman Adrian Calvano spoke about the artist’s influence: “I grew up listening to Cat Stevens – my mum used to play it all the time. What I love about him is the fact that he’s not pigeon-holed. He’s not folk, he’s not rock, he’s not pop – and that’s how I base my writing. I want to make music about whatever I’m feeling at the moment, and I think Cat was a bit the same.” Starting out threw up a few challenges – chiefly being people seemed largely uninterested in giving a band from Hamilton a shot. It didn’t stop them, and the band released their appropriately titled debut, The Keep on Keepin’ On EP, in 2010. Last month the band began recording their debut full-length album. The Loft, Warrnambool – April 3.

Microwaved Goods Two is all it takes for the terrific sounds of Microwave Jenny.

Describing their music as “pop/folk/love”, this duo just happens to be the husband and wife team of Tessa and Brendon Boney.

Ah yes, this is a tale of love and music. It is a tale of a gal from Woy Woy and a fella from Wagga Wagga, both of whom travelled to Sydney for gigs. It was backstage at one of Tessa’s where the pair met. Music swelled, eyes sparkled, hearts pounded, and their story took shape. Music was written and gigs were played, including a cool little tour where they played in 20 nominated houses in six states. Halfway through this adventure they married. Some say love, it is a river…

Babushka Bar, Ballarat – April 16.

Death Becomes Them The children are our future, and that is why it’s great that bands like DZ Deathrays don’t ignore those not yet old enough to vote. Shane Parsons and Simon Ridley have been pretty busy touring the badlands of late, but their all-ages gig at The Karova, Ballarat on April 19 is going to be the best show of all time. Kanye West almost agrees. The show casts an eye on their 2014 release, Black Rat. The album, the follow-up to the ARIA-winning Bloodstreams, took shape over a two-year period of touring (and drinking), during which time they performed at festivals including Reading and Leeds. Speaking to triple j about the album last year, the band said: “We actually wrote the majority of the album out at Yass and we recorded it in Gosford at a studio up there. The time in Yass was us sort of trapped in this haunted house for two weeks, just the two of us and it was a ten bedroom homestead. The owner kind of told us... ‘We’re going away for a few days; if you hear any ghosts just give us a call’. We had no car and there was no way of leaving, it was just us, just writing.”

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A Groovin’ Upgrade It’s less than a month until Moo-time and the folks behind GTM have just made the experience that much sweeter. Added to the Bendigo line up, presented by triple j and Channel [V], are Ecca Vandal, Dan Sultan fresh from his tour and making their GTM debut the Pierce Brothers. The show has already sold out but it’s worth getting your hands on some with any means possible. (Please Note: Forte does not encourage murder or any illegal behaviour). Bendigo Showgrounds – May 2

Comedy Festival Roadshow Every year the Comedy Festival Roadshow makes its long way around Australia, shining the spotlight on a handpicked selection of home-grown talent and international wonders.

Some 80 destinations are on the map, so the chances are there is one next door to you.

At the time of writing performing details were unavailable, but seriously, how could it possibly be anything other than hilarious?! Wyndham Cultural Central, Werribee – April 25; APAC, Ararat – May 8; Aireys Pub, Aireys Inlet – May 9; Lighthouse Theatre, Warrnambool – May 10; Her Majesty’s Theatre, Ballarat – June 12; Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo – June 18; and COPACC, Colac – June 20. Laugh it up, fuzzball.

Breathe in the Flumes At the beginning of last month, The Flumes packed up their belongings and embarked on a nice little tour of the east coast. They decided to take the scenic route because, well, they’re not in any rush and you always see a little more.

So, what is the reason for their laid-back tour?

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release, Sweet, Sweet Rain. The album was recorded at Big Rock Studios in Coolum.

Not exactly the easiest of bands to pigeonhole, they have been described as an “eclectic blend of psychedelic folk laced with funk, blues, jazz, trip hop and a splash of reggae” – complete with a 36-string electric harp.

Cuda Bar, Lorne – April 10 & Babushka Bar, Ballarat – April 24.

I Won’t Let You Out of My Sight Oh what good times are sure to be had when Portland’s Guantanamo Baywatch arrive in Australia for their first shows on our soil. They’ve got just the kind of garage-surf-rock you have been looking for. The band has been around for a few years now – long enough to have released a tidy number of releases since 2010. Darling… It’s Too Late, due for release next month, will be their third full-length album.

The newie features the track ‘Too Late’, which features an appearance

by Curtis Harding whose name will be familiar to fans of Atlanta-based garage soul outfit Night Sun. He also used to be a back-up singer for Cee Lo Green. The Barwon Club, Geelong – April 8 & The Eastern, Ballarat – April 10.

Slam Dunk Punk It is gonna be an extra Good Friday at Ballarat’s Eastern on April 3 when their Garage-Punk Blowout serves up some of Ballarat and Geelong’s finest. The Living Eyes are going to be there. If you don’t already love them, you will after this gig. The Geelong quartet, who recently signed with Flightless, will use the opportunity to launch their second album, Living Large. Rick Moranis Overdrive will be there. The party-starting punksters had a little slumber following the release of 2011’s Honey, I

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Ate the Kids but they’re back in action and ready to go. Lime Lagoons will be there. They’re a bratty, jangly garage rock outfit that will steal your beer and shoot you a cheeky smile as they do it.

The King of Americana When Pokey LaFarge saunters up to Castlemaine’s Theatre Royal on April 10, lending a hand will be up-and-coming Americana artist, Luke Winslow King. Born in Cadillac, Michigan, King studied music theory and composition at the University of New Orleans. In his time he has also worked as a music therapist with the Institute of Applied Human Dynamics in the Bronx and taught music at the La Velle School for the Blind. He later co-founded Earthwork Music, releasing his self-titled debut in 2006.

His is an eclectic mix of delta-folk music, classical composition, ragtime and rock and roll. Everlasting Arms is his latest release, the follow-up to 2013’s The Coming Tide.

The One & Only Miss Quincy It’s always a treat when an artist makes their first trip to Australia, so please make feel welcome Canadian rocker Miss Quincy. Across the seven countries she has toured and the thousands upon thousands of kilometres she, along with her blistering band, has racked up, there is barely a type of venue she hasn’t played. From the dirtiest of barrooms to the festival stage, her brand of lowdown rockin’ blues has made the whiskey flow. Quincy has three albums under her belt, the latest being 2014’s Roadside Recovery.

Quincy will be joined by the killer rhythm section of Aurora Jane on bass and Cat Leahy on drums. The Loft, Warrnambool – April 10 & Old Hepburn Hotel, Hepburn Springs – April 19.

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That’s When I Think of 1927 As 1988 drew to a close, 1927 released their debut album …ish. In what remains one of the highest-selling Australia releases, the album spent four weeks atop the charts in early 1989 and remained in the Top 50 for forty-five weeks. The 1989 ARIAs also served the band well, scoring them ‘Breakthrough Artist – Single’ for ‘That’s When I Think of You’ and ‘Breakthrough Artist – Album’. Two more albums followed before the band disbanded. The band reformed in 2009 in support of the re-issue of their debut, and it wasn’t long before we heard some new tunes. Generation-i became their first album in 21 years, recorded at House of Rock Studio in WA. Music Man, Bendigo – May 17.

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In the Jungle Having showcased at Singapore’s prestigious music conference Music Matters Live, Perth’s Tired Lion has become a hot name. Fellow artists have certainly caught on, with the band becoming the go-to for support.

Throughout March they supported both Luca Brasi and Kingswood, and soon enough they will be getting the party started for British India. Their debut EP, All We Didn’t Know, can be thanked for this. Striking while the iron is hot, the band bunkered down with Dave Parkin (Emperors, Karnivool) on their second EP. Leading the way is the ‘90s throwback track ‘I Don’t Think You Like Me’. Frontwoman Sophie Hopes: “We’re all about the raw honesty in the music we make. If you sit back and take in the energy of what we are playing and what it’s all about, it’s a direct view into the looking glass that is collectively our lives – be it happy, sad or confusing. We’re passionate about bringing to people a fresh take on what is a nostalgic sound, keeping the guitars loud and trying to evoke some kind of feeling for the listener with dynamics and melody.” It’s doubtful that the band will be playing the warm-up role for much longer. The Workers Club, Geelong – May 30 (supporting British India).

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Moss is Boss

Blondes Have More Fun In 2001, Reese Witherspoon showed you don’t mess with blondes in the smash hit film Legally Blonde. In the movie, Reese played sorority girl Elle Woods who, after being dumped by the love of her life, ditched her plastic fantastic life and headed for Harvard Law School. Such was the film’s success it made its Broadway debut in 2007.

Now it is getting a local flavour. Presented by the Geelong Lyric Theatre Society and featuring a selection of Geelong’s brightest talents, Legally Blonde is a non-stop, highenergy production featuring songs including ‘Omigod You Guys’, ‘What You Want’ and ‘Whipped into Shape’. The Playhouse @ GPAC – May 1 through May 9.

One of the country’s most iconic musicians will be stopping by Bendigo as part of his Six Strings Classic tour.

A founding member of Cold Chisel, Ian Moss would make the solo move with 1989’s Matchbook. The album cleaned up at the 1990 ARIAs, winning five awards including ‘Album of the Year’ and ‘Best Male Artist’. 10 year ago, Moss released Six Strings. The album was recorded live during a four-week solo residency at Sydney’s Sandringham Hotel and features tracks including ‘Telephone Booth’, ‘Tucker’s Daughter’, ‘Bow River’, ‘Saturday Night’ and ‘Green River’. He is at it again, hitting the road for a handful of intimate shows where both Ian Moss and Cold Chisel classics will be played side by side. The Capital, Bendigo – June 6.

A Big Mac, Please Christine McVie’s lengthy absence from Fleetwood Mac has come to an end, with the singer-songwriter and keyboardist rejoining her bandmates Mick Fleetwood,

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John McVie, Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks. This is good news for fans; even better is that the band is heading to Australia for a handful of shows in 2015. You probably remember the band was supposed to tour here in 2013, but due to John McVie receiving treatment for cancer the tour was postponed.

The new tour, dubbed On with the Show, is a two-and-a-half hour set. Fleetwood Mac will take in Geelong’s Mt Duneed Estate as part of the A Day on the Green series.

November 7 is the date to keep free.

Los Chicos, Party Time You have a humdinger of a night in store at Geelong’s Barwon Club on April 5, my friends.

Los Chicos will be the king on the throne on a night which will also welcome Spencer P. Jones & the Escape Committee, Powerline Sneakers, Midnight Woolf, The Kremlings, Macondo Blowout, The Dipsticks, Wet Lips and Gonzo. The five-piece country-punk-rocksoul-gospel machine known as Los Chicos has been going strong for more than a decade, with their latest release

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being 2013’s In the Age of Stupidity. For those groovin’ on down to Boogie #9, you’ll be able to catch them there as well. This will be their third visit to our shores, a trip which will also see them get to work on a new album.

Pretty cool, hey?!

I’m Being Dead Set You’ve got to walk with a certain strut when Phil Anselmo wants to record with you. Aussie thrash specialists King Parrot travelled to Anselmo’s New Orleans studio, Nodferatu’s Lair, to lay down Dead Set, their second full-length release.

According to the press release, the album has all the King Parrot familiarity, “with high octane grind, thrashing riffs, pummelling beats and punk rock mayhem” thrown in. If you haven’t already checked it out, first taste, ‘Like a Rat’, is out now. If you have ever wondered what waking up next to Phil Anselmo is like, this is the clip for you.

The Loft, Warrnambool – May 14. The band has been storming their way around Europe and the US, so they’re going to be in tip-top shape for this one.

National Celtic Festival Tickets for the National Celtic Festival are currently on sale. Taking place at Portarlington from June 5 through to June 8, the festival is widely regarded as the premier Celtic festival in the southern hemisphere.

Music, song, dance, theatre, play-write, sessions, workshops, trad talk and master classes will all feature.

Program details aren’t quite here yet – they are due to come your way mid-May – but if you can judge a festival on its previous line-up, you have something pretty fantastic coming your way. Hit nationalcelticfestival. com for further information. Here’s to a long life and a merry one. A quick death and an easy one. A pretty girl and an honest one. A cold beer and another one.

Castlemaine Jazz Festival Join Your Local Cartel They’re from the Gold Coast. They are known for their tasty mix of world music and club beats. They are Tijuana Cartel. The band has been going strong for over a decade now, seamlessly fusing multiple influences to create their ‘east meets west’ sound. At the heart of this colourful soundscape are Paul George and Carey O’Sullivan. The two first started their musical partnership in the late ’90s. Cafés became their home away from home, and soon they were performing seven days a week. It became more like a party than a job, both for those in attendance and the boys. In their words: “We mix a lot of styles into our music. We’ve spent a lot of time honing the sounds into a set that transitions smoothly and seamlessly. We used to be fairly random and simply jammed, but as the years passed we found it more interesting to create a kind of musical movement for the shows.” Joined at their live shows by Yoav Mashiach on percussion (and occasionally Joshua Sinclair on trumpet), Tijuana Cartel have performed at festivals including Splendour, Laneway and Rainbow Serpent. Their latest album is 2014’s 24 Bit Guitar Orchestra. Torquay Hotel, Torquay – April 3.

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At the time of writing, 55 bands involving 200 performers have already put their hand up to perform at the Castlemaine Jazz Festival – and it’s not happening until June!

Among the performers so far is the Dandenong Ranges Hot Jazz Orchestra. They were a massive hit at last year’s inaugural event and are thrilled to be returning.

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The Ruby Rogers experience is another outfit set to make a return visit. You also have solo performers, including Gold Coast singer-songwriter Candice Skjonnemand, a name some may recognise from The Voice. The final lineup is due to arrive this month, so play it jazzcool and bookmark castlemainejazzfestival. com.au for updates.

Finding the Right Tone Have you heard the one about two Aussies forming a band in London? Jimmy O (guitar and vocals) and Mikey Sorbello (drums) met in the famous Tin Pan Alley. Three days later they played their first gig at the 100 Club. Their self-titled debut was recorded not too long after.

Going by the name of The Graveltones, the two-piece is all about heavy blues rock and roll. As well as their self-titled release, a second EP, Limited Collection, was released in 2013 – a year which also saw them receive a nomination for the ‘Best New Band’ award at the Classic Rock Awards.

Now they’re gearing up for the release of their debut full-length album, Don’t Wait Down. Aireys Pub, Aireys Inlet – April 4.

I’m Sorry Miss Jackson Surf Coast ‘one woman band’ Jessey Jackson is warming up her fingers for a performance at Martians Café, Deans Marsh on April 4.

Likened to artists including Janis Joplin, Melissa Etheridge, Tracy Chapman and Stevie Nicks, Jessey was given her first guitar at the age of seven. Like many, music lessons followed; also like many, they didn’t take.

At the age of eleven she only knew half-adozen chords, though this did not slow her down. Little by little, strongly encouraged by family all the way, she taught herself to play.

In 2010, at the age of 27, Jessey performed her first major gig at the Anglesea Music Festival. In early 2014 she released her self-recorded album, Deliver Me.

A Starfish is Born When five musicians from various Melbourne bands, each with their own unique style, came together, Chocolate Starfish was the result.

At a time when grunge was king, the band released their debut single, a cover of Carly Simon’s ‘You’re

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So Vain’. The track appeared on their selftitled debut, which also delivered ‘All Over Me’ and ‘Mountain’.

The band played some 700 gigs between 1993 and 1997 before parting ways. They would reform in 2010.

Tragedy struck when their guitarist Zoran Romic, widely regarded as one of the nicest blokes in the business, passed away following a battle with cancer.

Despite this, the band has found a new lease on life. The Sphinx, Geelong – July 11.

The Breast Show on Earth Ladies and gentlemen, Bareback Titty Squad are back. Remember when they mashed up every song from triple j’s Hottest 100 and uploaded it to YouTube?

Well, they’re back, only this time they have traded in their tidy-whiteys for jeans and singlets. And this time they’ve embarked on 30-minute police chase over land, sea and air culminating in the cabin of a light aircraft which sees the band jump out at 15,000 feet whilst bellowing Peking Duk’s ‘High’.

Shenanigans! Music Man, Bendigo – April 10; The Karova, Ballarat – April 11; The Workers Club, Geelong – April 24; Theatre Royal, Castlemaine – April 25; Mynt Lounge, Werribee – May 1; and The Loft, Warrnambool – May 2.

You’re Looking Slim Ballarat outfit The Virginia Slims is an acoustic soul trio with a country twist.

Once upon a time they were a five-piece funk outfit, though these days they find comfort as the trio of Angela Crebbin on guitar and vocals, Daniel Watson on drums and Andrew Fry on double bass. Despite only forming in mid-2013, all three are seasoned musicians. Watson has played in several bands around Ballarat and Melbourne, while Fry spent time in the John Butler Trio. Crebbin, meanwhile, spent many years as a professional musician in Malaysia.

Think Etta James around a camp fire, with a guitar and a glass of whiskey… that is The Virginia Slims. Suttons House of Music, Ballarat – April 9.

A Delicate Touch In 1999, following a show at the Ipswich Racecourse, Clint Boge met his future band of brothers, progressive rock outfit The Butterfly Effect.

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Clint would steer the ship until early 2012, when personal and creative differences led to his departure – Boge informed his former bandmates of his decision in September, 2011. Thousand Needles in Red and The Given Things followed, though it was through Like Thieves where he found a new home.

Like Thieves recently released their second EP, Autumns Twilight.

What is of particular interest, however, is Boge’s solo album, Songs of a Delicate Nature. Music Man, Bendigo – April 8; The Bridge, Castlemaine – April 9; and Beav’s Bar, Geelong – April 12.

Steve Smyth, Exit Left Ah, music lessons. If you can find a good teacher, you’ve struck gold. If not, a pleasure becomes a chore. For Steve Smyth there was only one man who he wanted to be his teacher: Bono. “I had a dozen lessons, but one day the teacher pissed off and left me with the only thing I wanted from him: the songbook for U2’s Joshua Tree.” Then when he discovered Dylan his true musical spirit was awakened. Skip ahead to 2014 and the release of Exits, an album which has kept him very busy. The album was inspired by his travels throughout the likes of Paris, London, Europe, Asia and North America. The Worker’s Club, Geelong – April 10 & The Karova, Ballarat – April 12.

With a Rebel Yell, She Cried More, More, More Oh, you’re getting more. Tapping into the likes of Fleet Foxes, Crowded House, Jake Bugg and Ben Howard, The Peeks formed out of Williamstown in 2012. They’ll be at The Loft, Warrnambool on April 11. The Thundamentals have a date with Bendigo’s Star Bar on April 23. Early bird tickets are available for the Queenscliff Music Festival. Get the goods through qmf. net.au. Jesse James and Courtney Mills will spin their magic at Torquay’s Torquay Hotel on April 4. Ian Zierk, who performs under the name Southern Light, lines up at Martians Café, Deans Marsh on April 11. 360’s rescheduled show hits Whalers Hotel, Warrnambool tomorrow night, April 3. With an album due for release in September, Bootleg Rascal will get down at The Karova, Ballarat on April 9.

Mark with the Sea

Q&A

When&Where: The Bridge Hotel, Castlemaine – April 24 Release: When the Blood Runs Dry is available via all good retailers.

Marc Oswin is a man of many talents. He’s a graphic designer, co-owns his own record label Heart of the Rat Records, has many music projects and happens to be partial to one day creating cupcake stands with old vinyls. We had a chat to the musician about his projects and Mark with the Sea’s new release.

Hey Marc, thanks for taking the time out to chat to Forte magazine, how are you and what have you been up to?

I’m well. Ridiculously busy with musical endeavours, running a record label, work and life in general.

We saw you shared the review of your new release, do you tend to pay much attention to the critics and what people say?

To be honest, I see

reviews as a necessary evil. To try and generate interest in releases, you need people to write about it, then publish those writings in a way that people who care about music will see it and then seek out those releases. I’ve read scathing reviews in the past (not of my music) and I just wonder what the reviewer hoped to achieve by doing that.

Perhaps they wanted to prove that they had

a great vocabulary containing negative adjectives. It can be so damaging to the artist, for both sales and fan potential as well as confidence. You can be negative without being a jerk about it. Having said that, thanks to Forte for reviewing the album.

It was a ripper, haha.

Heart of the Rat Records have been going for a little while now, but what made you want to start it?

Mark with the Sea’s album was definitely a catalyst for the label starting up. We also wanted to create an outlet for friends and like-minded artists to release their music and try and push it further than they may be able

to by self-releasing. It wasn’t to make money, that’s for sure.

By no surprise you’re quite a lover of records, but do you miss the old days where there was a lot more excitement over buying a record than compared to now where everything is so accessible?

It’s interesting because I’ve never really lost that excitement over new releases. I worked in music retail when I was younger and it was all about charts and people coming in to pick up a copy of their favourite artist’s album on the day it came out (or trying to sneak a copy before it was meant to come out).

That’s why we wanted to include as much value

with our vinyl pre-order as we could, as we do with all of our Heart of the Rat releases, to try and bring back that sense of excitement.

Was there any questioning as to whether or not you were going to release When The Blood Runs Dry on vinyl?

There was no doubt that WTBRD was going to be released on vinyl. I don’t get into the bucket list concept, but one thing I always had to achieve in life was releasing an album on vinyl. We’ll never sell all of the copies, but at least we can make some hipster layered cupcake stands out of the beautiful transparent, blood red vinyl left

over and try and sell them at markets.

Do you have a favourite record at home that you cherish?

Not really. One of my latest pick ups was the special edition version of Father John Misty’s, I Love You, Honeybear, which has a pop-up in the gatefold jacket and plays the title track when opened. He’s a personal favourite of mine at the moment. So much charisma, wit, sarcasm and sense of irony with the songs to back it up.

Recently you interviewed The Dead Salesmen for Mess + Noise, how was that experience?

It was brilliant.

Hap Hayward (Dead Salesmen vocalist/

lyricist) is such a cool, funny and intelligent guy. He’s been a huge supporter of Ballarat songwriters and an inspiration to many of us. The Dead Salesmen are just as popular today as they were at their peak. I think that speaks volumes for their music, the honesty and directness of Hap’s lyrics and the pure likeability of everyone in the band.

That serves as another experience you’ve had in a different section of the music industry, but was there ever any other career path for you?

In my day job I’m a graphic designer/web developer. Aaron and I also work together in this business, which allows us to squeeze in

as much record label stuff as possible when required. As I mentioned earlier, I also worked in music retail for a number of years. I worked for a life insurance company in Scotland too. To this day, I still have no idea what I did during my time there. The highlight was inventing a game called “Thimbleball” with a fellow contractor.

Thanks again for the chat, is there anything you’d like to add before we finish up?

Thanks, Forte, for supporting regional music and my musical endeavours over the years. Keep on keepin’ on. Hope to see everyone at the Bridge Hotel Castlemaine on Friday April 24.

Graeme “Leary” Lear Written by Sue Pope

Sleepy Hollow Blues Club supporters descended on the recent Motor City Music Festival, enjoying the fantastic blues on the program. In the midst of it all was Graeme Lear, Leary to one and all. The Monday after the Festival, March 9, Leary passed away in his sleep.

Leary will be recognised and remembered for his long term involvement in the Geelong music scene, playing in various bands and as a solo artist. He was the lead vocalist, guitarist and saxophone player in the popular Backstreet Blues Band.

Backstreet’s line up included Kelvin Plumb on guitar, vocals and harp, Steve Minotoli on drums and Craig Chiller on bass, and Gary Marshall (Pointy) on keys (at a later time JP on drums and Sandy Brady on bass).

Backstreet played at the first Bluestone New Year’s Eve blues festival at the Inverleigh Hotel 20 years ago this year.

They would have

everyone up and dancing during their Sunday night residency at the Delaville Hotel (now known as the Black Hatt) and many of his devoted followers would go wherever his band was playing.

Leary used to pride himself on having brought several of his band followers together – who went on to have long term relationships – and the band played at some of their weddings.

We also remember Leary at the crazy club camping trips and the many other Blues Festivals (Maldon / Port Fairy etc), where he would entertain us, not only musically but with his wicked sense of humour and his huge hugs!

Leary had many strings to his bow, being well known in his beloved community of Inverleigh – helping out, being MC and more recently with the Canoe Club.

He also helped Murray Walker to set up the now famous Tombstone Country Music Charity Fund raising events in Teesdale and entertaining his much loved Boat Club out at the Grammar School. He was also a well-known solo artist at the Geelong RSL, Buckley’s Entertainment Centre and Backstreet Blues band at the Lord Nelson Tavern.

Leary was a regular attender at the Sleepy Hollow Blues Club monthly gigs, and

would frequently jump into the lively jam sessions, which are a feature of those gigs.

No doubt others have many different fond stories of his antics and ditties, some of which were shared at his funeral and wake on March 20 held appropriately at the Inverleigh Hotel.

Leary was a larger than life personality, a great musician, and a good mate who added to the lives of those he mixed with. He will be missed by everyone that knew him and we will remember his last song of any gig with ‘Always Look on the Bright Side of Life’.

We extend our deepest sympathy to Graeme’s family. Vale Leary. forte 29

Café C B e ar & B e an C a f é In a time where we only look straight ahead, Bear & Bean is a café that’s forcing you to shift your focus. Look to the ceiling and you’ll see over 40 boards decorated with illustrations by family, staff and friends spanning the length of the venue.

“My kids have done a few bits on there, their names are up there and there are things that are relevant to the family and to each one of us,” co-owner Lauren Sault says.

“We had a mum and two kids and it was really quiet, so they were looking at the roof and so I said try to find Wally, and they were busy trying to find him for a while. So it’s been a real talking point as well.”

Aside from the entertainment that rests above, children can also be entertained by the blackboard at the back of the café, though – with kids of her own – Lauren didn’t want for Bear & Bean to become a kids play den, instead a place where families – and individuals alike – can come and enjoy a meal without the experience being tarnished.

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Culture Easter Opening times: Open for brunch Good Friday and Easter Monday (8am till 1pm). Also taking bookings.

The venue itself ticks all the boxes for a successful café; there’s a comfortable brown leather suite to the right for those wanting some time to relax, aged brick walls, old exposed timber beams above and a fresh take on a green wall.

Sift through the menu and you’ll find plenty of healthy options with many catering to those with allergies and dietary requirements. There’s even a bit of Lauren and her family thrown in the mix with her Middle eastern lamb tabbouleh salad – a favourite from home – and her daughter’s Vegemite and cheese toastie on the menu.

“We have a point of difference in that we’re not just a café, we’re not trying to be really fancy about it – we’ve even got a sausage roll on the menu which is great if you’re coming in with your partner. But then you can have the pumpkin quinoa salad. Our menu covers the bases of all sorts of people and what they’d like to eat,” she says.

There’s a definite family vibe of the venue and that isn’t at all surprising as Bear & Bean is a family owned business (Lauren owns it with partner Julian Sault, and family Trav and Kaela Beckley, and Reece and Emerly Beckley). For anyone who sets foot in the venue, you’re immediately treated like a distant cousin, making it a café that can easily become your regular.

37 Little Ryrie St (in carpark), Geelong

Open: Mon-Fri 7am-5pm Follow us @bear_and_bean and like us on Facebook.com/bearandbean Written & photographed by Amanda Sherring forte 31

Electronic Drumming Expo Day! Presented by Oxygen Music and Drumania

Playing the drums is no longer just about picking up the sticks and smashing the skins.

Electronic drumming has come a long, long way since the very first ‘Rhythmicon’ rhythm machine was invented in 1932 by Leon Theremin – which played a grand total of 16 different rhythms. Skip forward to the mid-’70s and electronic drumming began to feature more and more in popular commercial music. By the 1980s electronic drums and rhythm machines were almost a given on any album, especially in pop, dance and new wave music.

Now in 2015, electronic drumming and electronic rhythm making is bigger than ever, with not only drummers using electronics as part of their musical craft but also producers, DJ’s, game designers and just about anyone creating music at home. Electronic drumming is almost an imperative part of the home studio, practice room, recording space and stage. From dance bands, solo musicians to heavy metal drummers using drum triggers, electronic drumming is a big part of playing drums and it seems to just keep growing in popularity.

OXYGEN MUSIC and DRUMANIA are proud to present Geelong’s first Electronic Drumming Expo Day on Saturday April 18.

This FREE event will showcase some of the best

and latest in electronic drums, beat making and acoustic/electronic hybrid drumming. You will have the opportunity to see, hear and try out some amazing gear, talk to industry specialists, discover new ideas and catch some cool demos and performances.

Catch demos by very special guests such as Dayne Lawless (new Pearl E-Pro, Zildjian Gen16), Jamie Goff (Yamaha), Rob Boz (Native Instruments, Albeton, Korg), Jai Morrow and Mark Spies (Alesis) along with many other drumming industry specialists who will be demonstrating what’s cool and new in electronic drums and just how easy it is to set up and start playing on your own space ship! Take a look at new innovations by Zildjian’s new Gen16 electric/acoustic cymbals, new Pearl Epro and Truetrac heads, Yamaha DTX and electronic kit apps, Alesis, KAT, Native Instruments, Albeton, KORG and many others.

This Electronic Drumming Expo Day will be a unique opportunity to take your drums to a whole new level and possibly land on a planet you never knew existed. Come along to learn more about electronic drums, try out the huge range, bag a bargain and be inspired by the amazing technology of electronic drumming.

When: Saturday 18th April, 10am-3:30pm Where: OXYGEN College, Live Room, 22 Gordon Ave, Geelong West FREE Entry www.oxygenmusic.com.au Ph:5223 1724 for more details.

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Silvers Circus LOCAL FEATURE STORY Written by Abbey King

Silvers Circus has been touring Australia for four decades now and continues to deliver premier entertainment to crowds of all ages. The touring circus will be in Geelong until April 12 before moving on to Colac and Warrnambool, I headed down to the big top and spoke with The Ringleader himself, Mr Simon Tait.

“We always love Geelong, it’s beautiful! The foreshore, the restaurants, the people – it’s just gorgeous, we really love it!”

Simon beams.

Since its establishment in 1976 by circus couple, Anton and Anna Gasser, Silvers has very much stayed in the family, with their three children Tony, Rosita and Dominik and their families all playing their parts. This being said though, the circus endeavours to bring its audiences the cream of the crop in terms of international performers and acts.

“Silvers Circus is trying to be a cut above, to try and bring out the best performers. We have our stock crew, but we also have feature performers like Ramon (Kathriner) from Switzerland doing the high-wire, Gypsy Gomez from Argentina with the hula hoops – she spins up to 100 hula hoops at a time her act is unbelievable,” Simon, a performer of over 25 years tells me.

“As well as that, we put a lot of effort into production, we make it vibrant and up to date. We have illusions throughout the show as well as not only the performance ring but also the stage behind, to help give a nice theatre feel. We’ve done away with the dusty old circus ring and put in an elevated stage, so no matter where you sit you’re going to have a nice view.”

As well as Ramon and Gypsy, the circus also features acts including, The Globe Of Death featuring Dominik Gasser, Ricardo Costa-De-Araujo (Brazil) & Jean Michel Lyelzkorozky Cardona ,who speed around inside of a three and a half meter diameter metal globe on motorbikes. While they ride around they manage to miss not only each other but also brave Jessica Dobson by mere millimetres. Dominik and Ramon also perform in what is known as The Wheel of Steele, which is executed on an apparatus that “defies description” and has to be seen to be believed. Rosita Gasser does her thing on the Roman Rings and there is plenty more magic, mystery and entertainment from Simon and his crew.

The circus travels and performs for 11 months of the year, with just a four week break for the artists to either head home or go on a well deserved relaxing holiday. Simon insists though, however gruelling their performance schedules may be, the circus operates as a large self-sustaining community, “We’re like a really big family, we all look after each other and have a good time.”

Silvers is a show that is not just for young children. Simon insists groups of all ages should get a long and ‘roll up, roll up’ to the show, with tickets starting at just $30 for adults and $30 for children, it is quality entertainment at a very affordable price.

“It’s suitable for everyone, there’s something for all ages, from the little kids to the grandparents. It’s been surprising us the number of teenagers getting along, because we’ve got these thrill acts like the wheel of steel and the globe of death.”

Who knows when the circus will be in town next, but make sure you don’t miss out on this institution – after all it’s been around for over 30 years.

When&Where: Geelong Show Grounds – March 25April 12, Colac Showgrounds – April 15-19 & Gateway Plaza, Warrnambool April 22-May 3

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FROC K IT Making

Monochrome

Work

Written by Katherine Reynolds www.katthewanderer.com | facebook/katthewanderer | @katthewanderer

Written by Jessica Alves | @jessicazalves

If somebody told me that I had to choose one colour to wear for the rest of my life, it would be without any shred of doubt, black. My reasoning is that if you know what you’re doing, an all black outfit never fails to look sleek and put-together.

The techniques I use are so super simple, any kind of functional wardrobe could utilise them with any kind of monotone outfit, although I personally think these techniques would work particularly well with neutral mono-tonal outfits as well.

Firstly, you really want to mix it up with textures. If you do happen to be going for a an all black outfit, using different textures could be the difference between taking an outfit from becoming boring and predictable to exciting and fun. I love mixing in harsh fabrics like a leather jacket, and pairing it with contrasting fabric such as a chiffon top. The mix of textures will give the whole outfit a lift.

On the topic of textures, your choice in fabrics could make or break an outfit. A heavy black woolen midi dress might look totally boss in the middle of autumn, but in the summer it would look totally out of place.

If you’re planning on braving the black during summer, silk and linen are both much more breathable materials to rock during warmer months.

The fit of clothing is always important, but when putting

together a black-on-black outfit, a good fit becomes essential. Black is famous for being slimming, even more so in an all-black outfit. For that reason, I recommend taking advantage of a mono-tonal outfit and wearing it well fitted and flattering, rather than shapeless.

Accessories are key when you’re wearing one colour head-to-toe. If you want to add a touch of something extra, here is where you might want to add in a little bit of colour via a pair of shoes or a statement necklace.

Personally, I would stick with the monotone theme and put on a wide brimmed wool fedora in the winter, or stick with the statement necklace in the summer, but opt with something in silver hardware rather than colour.

What can I say? I love black.

People often forget about exactly how much make up can change up their look. You can dress your outfit up or down with something as simple as a change in lipstick colour. Go for neutral to natural pink tones if you want to keep an outfit casual, or if you want to dress something up, deep burgundy hues and loud reds are great at picking an outfit up.

For example, a classic little black dress can easily go from day time to night time by simply changing up your shoes and your lip colour.

So there you have it! Pretty much everything you need to know about putting together a monotone themed outfit. Of course, these techniques can be applied to different kinds of outfits as well. Don’t be afraid to experiment with mixing textures and adding accessories to any outfit that you feel needs a bit of a pick-me-up.

TIPS FOR FEMALE TRAVELLERS GOIN’ SOLO

self-conscious and lost, and have assertive body language and poise. I promise that you’ll learn to love the familiarity of feeling confident, and it will turn into a natural thing for you – making travelling on your own a whole lot easier.

TRUST YOUR GUT

You know yourself best, so this is all about completely trusting that feeling. You’re clever. You know when something isn’t right, or when you need to leave a situation, so don’t lose grips of that just because you’re in a foreign environment. Keep your guard up, but don’t let it hold you back. Be wary, yet open. Street smarts are key.

RELAX, EMBRACE AND ENJOY

So, you’ve decided to take the jump and travel on your own? You go girl. What a decision you’ve made! Now gents, I don’t want you to think I’m neglecting you – these tips can easily be applied to you too! I don’t want to single women out, or suggest that women are at more risk when travelling, but there are probably a few gals out there feeling a little bit hesitant about venturing off on their own, so I’m simply helping a sister out!

Here’s a list of some tips that I think are helpful for solo female travellers. Whether this is your first trip alone, or you’re a veteran traveller, I hope this gives you the confidence you need to travel alone successfully.

DO YOUR RESEARCH

Research is a vital step in your preparation before a trip, so I’d recommend writing a list of what you want to know before you leave. For me, it’s always transport systems, simple language phrases, safe areas, cultural norms and dress codes that I’ll look into. It’s awesome to arrive somewhere and know that you need to take the metro from the airport, or how much a cab will cost, or how to ask a simple question. Well done you, you’re rockin’ it!

BE CONFIDENT

You have every right to hold your head up high and look like you know the streets you’re walking on like the back of your hand. Avoid looking

This is the most important tip! You’re doing this for fun, aren’t you?!

It’s easy to get caught up in the small dramas of travel, and feel a little bit crap after a long day of museum after museum or a not so pleasant sleep the night before.

So relax, take a deep breath and embrace your time overseas.

Travelling is an extraordinary thing and you’re an independent woman (is anyone else singing Destiny’s Child?). You’ll meet new people, see some incredible things and learn so much about yourself and the world that surrounds you.

You’ll have the confidence to do what you want and make your own decisions. So live in the moment and be fearless!

Miss Quincy Q&A

Miss Quincy is part rocker, part cook and part explorer, but she’s coming Down Under for a purely music related venture – though as she tells us there are plans to cuddle a koala or two. We had a chat to the dirty blues and rock n’ roll musician about her trip to Australia.

Is this your first trip to Australia? What are you most excited to see or do Down Under?

This is my first tour in Australia. Of course I’m excited about the weather and obviously I’m going to get my picture taken with a koala bear and maybe a kangaroo. I get a lot of advice from fellow Canadians about which species to avoid in Australia as it seems like everything can kill you. I mean in Canada we have grizzly bears and such, but you can see them coming. Snakes, spiders – those things are terrifying.

I don’t know if I’m excited about those things, but I am curious.

You’re hooking up with local musicians for your Australian tour – how did your Aussie line up come about?

Musicians always seem to find each other. I met my Aussie Rhythm Section while they were on tour in Canada and the US over the last few years with a few different projects. I really wanted to play with them and it just seemed logical to come to Australia to do that. Music and adventure – that’s living the dream...

You’ve racked up over 100,000 kilometres on the road in Europe and North America with your all-girl band. What’s your favourite thing about touring?

Oh, I think I just answered that question: music and adventure. No two days are the same on the road. There are a lot of ups and downs, but it’s never boring. Also, the people that you meet on the road really make it or break it, and I’ve spent enough time on the road that I’m really good at finding the good ones.

Along with being a touring musician, you also spend a large part of the year working as a bush cook in northern British Columbia. Tell us about that side of your life.

I’ve been a bush cook in Canada’s far north my whole life. I started working in extreme wilderness hunting camps with my parents when I was four.

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It’s in my blood to spend a part of every year in the mountains. My bush life informs my music life and vice versa. It used to feel wildly extreme and somehow now it feels like the only way to balance the extremes. I have a blog that shows what that life is about www.rocknrollbushcook.com.

What can Australian punters look forward to at a Miss Quincy show?

We’re playing rock n’ roll shows. Expect a fun time, dirty guitar licks and below the belt grooves.

You’ll hear blues and gospel, you’ll hear throw back country roots and Americana flavours – all the things that make up rock n’ roll sung in three part harmony.

I suggest checking out a few songs so you can sing along.

When & Where: The Loft, Warrnambool – April 10 & Old Hepburn Hotel, Hepburn Springs – April 19

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Rites of Passage

Q&A

Tattoos aren’t just about fitting into a trend, rebelling your parents or looking tough, tattoos are about expressing yourself, remembering people and appreciating a unique art form that lasts forever – or at least as long as you’d like it to. Celebrating all that and more is the largest tattoo event in the Southern Hemisphere, Rites of Passage. We had a chat to managing director and events coordinator Kevin Mack about what to expect.

Hi Kevin, thanks so much for taking the time to chat to Forte, how are you and what are you up to at the moment?

I’ve been great, I’ve just been very busy planning the up and coming Rites Of Passage.

This is going to be your second Rites Of Passage festival, how did last years event go?

Last year’s event turned out great – we couldn’t have been happier with the outcome. We had such a great selection of artists, great art and a massive turn out for attendance.

Have you got many new ideas going into this year’s event and do you expect a bigger turnout?

We sure have, last years event was a great learning curve. During the course of the year we’ve had so much growth in ideas and planning. This year we have incorporated new elements to the event and we have been lucky enough to take on some great sponsors like Harley City, Sailor Jerry, Doss Blockos and Red Bull.

Held at the historic, Royal Exhibition Building, Rites of Passage is the largest Tattoo event in the Southern Hemisphere, just how big is it?

Here at ROP we strongly believe in becoming bigger and better, holding this

When&Where: Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton Gardens – April 24-26

event at the historic Royal Exhibition Building helps connect our patrons to the art enriched venue. ROP is recognised internationally for the integrity of the event, the array of world renowned artists, live art, and its raw connections to core values of the tattoo and art culture. When you think of Milan, Paris or London tattoo conventions, you’ll be sure to think of ROP in Melbourne, Australia.

Could you please tell us about some of the visiting artists and vendors?

This year we welcome the return of Nikko Hurtardo, one of the world’s most renowned realism artists. With Nikko’s extensive client base including Drake, Puff Daddy and The Game, his appearance on television shows such as L.A ink, Tattoo Wars and Ink Masters, Nikko Hurtardo may just be the most sought after tattoo artist of our time.

This year we’re also lucky enough to have the return of Shige, the master of traditional Japanese art and for the

first time in Australia Carlos Torress tattooing along side the talents of artists from Time Line Gallery based in L.A California.

You also have some great musical acts lined up this year, who can the public expect to see?

Hell yeah we do, we’re pumped to have Eso from Bliss n Eso on the mic hosting the event, Dan Kirby on the drums with DJ Ism on the 1’s and 2’s and to cap off our Saturday night we’ve got the boys back from 28 Days!

Everybody rip it up!!!

Do you have to have tatts to enjoy the festival?

Absolutely not, this event is open to all walks of life. It’s an all ages event and there’s something in it for everyone.

Running over the Anzac Day Weekend, would you recommend coming all three days?

With everyday offering a different highlight to the event, I’d be sure to get myself a VIP pass and get down there

for the whole three days.

Who should get along to the festival and why?

At Rites Of Passage we guarantee there is something here for everyone.

This event is created for the public and we encourage all personalities to attend.

2015

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THUR APRIL 9 WITH SPECIAL GUEST

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Ellyn Stern Written by Amanda Sherring

Deep down there’s a child inside all of us, some are just more willing to embrace it than others. Ellyn Stern is one such person and her career as a voice actress and children’s book writer serve as the perfect way for her to keep her young heart intact.

“I know the thing that compels me to be an actress – to be a voice actress – and to write is the child in me. I may have grown up intellectually though that’s questionable,” she adds with a cheeky laugh.

“But I’ve grown up and there will always be the child in me and I never want to lose that because that’s joy.

I think once we lose our inner child and we stop embracing that we lose the joy of who we are.”

Though things for Ellyn actually started out a little differently from where she is now, and her career in voice acting arose from a welcome suggestion. “I was one of the stars in this western and I was finishing the work when the casting director asked me if I’d be interested in doing some voice work,” she says.

“So I auditioned and I got the job and I asked if my boyfriend at the time – who was Richard Epcar [now Ellyn’s partner] – could come along and we both got the jobs and

so that was the beginning and it just flew from there. The work was very different, and getting work back then was really different because there wasn’t a large demand for people doing voice work so we just went from one project to another and it just kept going like that.“ Her unplanned beginning in the industry some years ago has since developed into a successful career, having voiced characters for Ghost in the Shell 2, Armitage III and Shadow Hearts: Covenant, amongst a seemingly endless list. Though her most recent role sits amongst one of her favourites.

“Actually it’s quite funny, I just did one of the leads in this new Disney cartoon, and it’s called Limon and Oli. I played a mother duck and she was a lot of fun and really wacky and crazy, and I love doing wacky crazy and outrageous characters,” she says.

The beauty of voice acting – and something Ellyn quickly came to realise – is that there are no

Masaki

Kingswood Written by Amanda Sherring

“We’ve been together for a long time and to be honest we have much bigger goals than where we are now. So we just keep our heads down and keep working hard, we’re not sort of saying ‘Oh how good is this?’ we have a long way to go,” says singer Fergus Linacre on their current popularity.

There’s no denying the bands seemingly sudden rise to fame, but truth is the band members have been

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playing in Kingswood for around six years now, despite their popularity in the last two years.

And the fame is something the band have fully come to embrace, with completely no ego in sight.

“The band is much more fun.

Say we have two weeks off and we all come home, we don’t really know what to do with ourselves.

We usually end up going to a café with each other,” he says.

“You’d think we’d be sick of each other but we’re not. We’ve been together for so long now that that’s just kind of what we do and we’re very used to it.”

Another thing the band have become known for across

limitations to who you can be.

The possibilities are simply endless and playing a zany duck is just the starting point of where voice acting can take you.

“That’s so exciting – the fact that there are no boundaries. I can play a baby, a little girl, a little boy, I can do an old lady, a teenage voice – I’ve even filled in for men’s voices because I do have that depth and I can go into that range, so it’s pretty limitless.

Of course on camera none of these would be in my wheelhouse,” Ellyn says.

Having the ability to manipulate your voice for such a variety of characters is a true skill, though something that is made easier for Ellyn with the experience and knowledge of where her voice can take her.

As a result recognising who she has voiced might be a tricky task, but look at her impressive resume and you’ll soon become aware of just how many times you’ve heard her, unbeknownst that it was the same voice actress from one of your favourite characters.

Ellyn will be bringing her beautiful vocals – something I can vouch for from her smooth voice over the phone – and her new children’s book It’s Hard to Give a Butterfly a Hug to Australian shores where she will attend Supanova Pop Culture Expo on April 10-12. And she couldn’t be more thrilled to be coming down to see her fans.

“You know it’s really wonderful, when I started out doing this I thought, ‘Who is going to be listening to this?’ I had no idea there was going to be such a fan base, that there was going to be such enthusiasm for the voice work I had done,” Ellyn beams.

“To see people hearing it, enjoying it and liking what I had done and then sharing their thoughts and appreciation for it – that’s amazing.

It’s just wonderful and I absolutely adore it and I’m just so grateful to all of my fans for supporting the work I’ve done. I really really appreciate it.”

various venues is their unusual request of a garden gnome on their rider. With leaks of bands outrageous requests a gnome is rather innocent, and it actually serves a specific purpose, as Fergus tells me. “[The rider] says ‘We need one garden gnome to lift the spirits of the band and crew in dark times’. Most of the time it does, which is wonderful, and if I turn my head left in my bedroom I can see a handful on a shelf, which is a bit creepy because I don’t really like them but often I end up keeping them in my room –but they’re good fun,” Fergus says.

“We also have a surprise which can be absolutely anything.

Most often Kinder Surprises, sometimes it’s even a piñata. It’s a good way to get a vibe for the venue, if it’s a really good crew of people and they’re all happy

When&Where: Supanova at the Melbourne Showgrounds – April 10-12

and they get a rider they go, ‘Oh that’s fun they want a surprise’ and say ‘What should we do?’

But sometimes they hand the rider back and they just put a line through it like we’re not getting you a garden gnome and we’re not getting you a surprise.”

It’s a sweet request but it really brings home that Kingswood aren’t a band of egos, they simply love their trade and bring as much fun to what they do as they can. See any live performance from the four-piece and it’s also instantly clear.

For Fergus maybe it stems from his early days in Sweet Garlic with Alex Laksa, or possibly the inspiration Rob Hirst gave him after a Midnight Oil gig when he was 15, either way the passion is still there years later and serves as the constant drive for what they do.

“I think we sort of just kept playing and then the band became more popular and it got to the point where we couldn’t work so much and it took off, but I’ve always wanted for this sort of thing and I guess I just never believed that it would happen – it just kind of came along and we’ve worked really hard,” he says.

Something that’s been a little bit harder for the band to accept is the constant exclamation that Kingswood have revived the Australian rock scene, something Fergus thought was far from dead before them.

“There’s always been rock n’ roll bands – good ones and bad ones. But I don’t think we’re responsible for any kind of revival. Look at Violent Soho and before them Wolfmother, I don’t think it’s ever been

dead so it’s just good to be a part of it,” Fergus says.

“There’s definitely less of it than I guess there was 10 years ago, but that’s because people are experimenting and there’s new ways to make music – I think that’s exciting. Rock n’ roll isn’t going anywhere and the more genres there are the more interesting things will be.”

Whether they revived the scene or not, Kingswood will certainly remain a linchpin in the genre for a long time to come. Hopefully inspiring future emerging bands to get into good ol’ Australian rock.

When & Where: Torquay Hotel, Torquay - April 5

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Closer Q&A

Chances are Liam Daly’s music is unlike anything you’ve heard in a long while.

Spanning around 10 minutes for each track, they unfold on themselves and are filled with layer upon layer of sound. We had a chat to the musician about why he creates what he does.

Hey Liam, how are you and what are you up to right now?

Hi, I’m great thanks! I’ve just finished making coffee all day once again, been for a run and am looking forward to a beer with my friends. I’ve been listening to Sleaford Mods all afternoon. Seemed apt.

So for those who mightn’t be familiar with your music, how would you describe your sound?

Underpinned by hefty sub bass. Driven by emotively charged melodic sounds. Intense pulsating drones and drenched with white noise. Music that warps time and makes you feel without choice.

It is quite an ambient style of music, are all of your tracks heavily influenced by your state of mind?

I can definitely only write music for Closer when I’m in the right frame of mind for it. Having said that, the frame of mind has to be quite an open one, not overly driven by specific mood or intent. Whatever noises present themselves are the ones I have to use.

Whatever form the song takes, then so be it. This causes a lot of artifacts and other hidden elements to become more prominent as I build a song. It’s actually usually

terrifying until a track is complete. You really have to trust that inner state of mind to know it’ll work out eventually.

Did you start making this type of music straight away or did you go through a couple of different ones to get you to what you currently create?

I’ve always dabbled with electronic music.

I started out using Fast Tracker writing really terrible hardcore techno and jungle! Now everything is done like a mess in Ableton Live.

After I finished playing and writing for my band These Hands it took a while to settle into something that worked.

It seems pretty natural now. I guess you can hear the progression of ideas from the album In Search of Life to the latest EP as fairly indicative of that.

Release: Heartache/Lifted is available from Bandcamp now.

I saw that you seem to be a fan of using “static tape hiss”, what made you start using it?

I like the idea of melding different artifacts into individual tracks. White noise or street sounds or whatever give things a spooky sense of being somehow “big”. You know how you hear really old music music and you can kind of sense the place where it was recorded? How that is sometimes quite chilling? For my full length In Search of Life it was kind of an artificial embedding of that concept.

It’s just kind of stuck as part of the sound for me since.

You seem to do a lot of the production, album design and promotion yourself, do you prefer to have that hands on approach to your music?

Honestly, I would love to work with more people on all these things. It can be a little bit hard to reach out to people

with Closer so far, but it’s definitely warming up. I think a lot of artists know how incredibly hard it is to find some recognition when they can only represent themselves, by themselves. Opportunities such as this really do mean a lot!

You sure keep yourself busy too with four releases since 2013, are you someone that’s got so many ideas you just have to get them out?

It’s important to keep moving and creating to me, that’s for sure. I am writing demos for a new band that sounds too much like Gang of Four, or maybe Talking Heads. I will be recording my solo album for Liam Daly very soon as well. I have no doubt it will sound too much like Sun Kil Moon – I’m totally okay with that. Closer though, continues to be exciting because each new thing I do with it feels truly original.

Seems like you’ve already set to work on your new LP, but what else can we see you get up to in the future?

I’ve been doing more live lately, in dark rooms with strobe lights and smoke machines! It’s been getting ravey. I’ll probably put out a couple of rave tunes.

Slowrave, drone and bass?

Keep up to date on future gigs with Closer’s Facebook page facebook. com/Closernoise.

Super Best Friends Written by Tex Miller

“I used to see Tony Abbott a lot around Parliament house and one time when I was working, there was a young journo and he’d be doing laps around the building. He ran past the coffee shop part of the building as I was coming out with a hot tray of coffees and he nearly collided into me and coffee nearly went everywhere. He didn’t stop to check if I was ok or even apologise. He is definitely an odd character,” Super Best Friends frontman Johnny Barrington relates as we begin to talk about their debut album Status Updates. The band is now infamous in the Australian music scene for their song ‘Round and Round’ which featured politicians throughout the video clip and lead to the coffee boy Tony Abbott story.

Johnny Barrington used to be a journalist for Hack the current affairs program on triple j, however decisions had to be made and he chose the opportunity to take his band – one of Australia’s finest punk outfits – Super Best Friends out on the road to play to the masses. Talking about the debut record on the day of release, Barrington is full of nothing but smiles.

“It feels really good to finally have this record out man. I’ve wanted to put together a full-length album since I was a teenager and so here we are.

Maybe we have done the band in the wrong way up

until now. We’ve always tried to make it pretty democratic and we could never decide past five songs. We may have had material for an album but some of us were unsure that it would work. Line up changes meant that we could get our arse into gear and to go for it. Nothing’s making me cringe yet though – I think we made a pretty solid album and I can’t wait to hear what everybody thinks about it,” he says.

The idea for the album originated when Barrington was housesitting for a friend in Collingwood and talking about how long the process was – Barrington was able to put it in simple terms for me.

“The album has taken about how long Tony Abbott has been in office

for. We are bagging out on all governments really in this band, because of the trouble with the country spills over to previous governments – not just Tony’s,” Barrington says.

In 2015, most of the tours around Australia include the regional centres as well as the big city dates and that is something that you just have to do when planning a tour. Based in Canberra, the band has quite a soft spot for playing regional shows. Also, as I am

Whilst Paul does have his favorite world musicians – check out Ravi Shankar on sitar – he explains there has been no real defining influence that originally sparked their interest in exotic rhythms and textures.

“It’s hard to pinpoint any one musician that’s influenced us. We like southern Indian music and Middle Eastern music — it’s pretty broad, but that’s how broad our taste is. And on top of that, we mix everything from hip hop, to rock, to dance music.”

The band is currently wandering around the country in anticipation of an upcoming studio release. Set to surface in August this year, Paul explains that while the new tracks will parallel some of their older vibes

(as heard on their 2014 album 24 Bit Guitar Orchestra), it is much more vocal driven, leaning toward a stronger indie feel. Hot tip: hop along to the Torquay Hotel to have a sneak peak of some of these new tunes.

With only Paul based in Byron Bay, this tour gives the boys a reason to come together, hitting the road and returning to what they know and love. “It’s our life – I can’t imagine doing anything else. It feels like [our fan base] is building, I think because we have such a niche and a different sound. Every year we do it we see the crowd growing and the music getting better, so it feels like it’s worth doing.”

This could be one of the last chances to catch these guys nearby for a while, as they are hoping to take their forthcoming album to Europe. So bring your best dance moves and an open mind, because Tijuana Cartel are guaranteed to pack some exotic treats and give you an experience like no other.

When & Where: Karova Lounge, Ballarat – April 15, The Black Swan Hotel, Bendigo – April 16 & The Reverence Front Bar, Melbourne – April 18

informed, there are some cracking venues around the smaller towns, which lead to outlandish experiences as a band. “I’ve only been to Bendigo once and that was supporting Calling All Cars. It was actually one of the first lessons in rock and roll I got. Nobody turned up to that gig but that didn’t stop Haydn from playing a show like the room was packed. Even if it is a Wednesday and everybody’s got to work tomorrow, we rock out just the same,” he says.

“I cannot wait to head out on the road in support of what we have done and so everyone should come rock out with us. There are some wicked bands supporting us along the way, so make sure you come down early to see them!”

Tijuana Cartel Written by Emily Hirst

Tijuana Cartel are in town and ready to serve up the flavours of foreign lands with their unique blend of funky broken beats and multi-layered grooves that span the globe. The home-grown threesome – working with percussion, keyboards, electronics, trumpet, guitar and vocals – deliver a psychedelic concoction of Middle Eastern timbre, synth vocals, flamenco guitar and pulsing bass. This shambolic combo blends seamlessly to produce a sound that’s energetic, captivating and so unique that front man Paul George struggles to define it himself.

“Our music is really hard to describe, because I think it weaves a lot of different sounds. We’ve really made our own genre in that sense – it’s just heavy beats and bass with some weird instruments thrown in … it’s hard to define unless you hear it,” he says.

Paul explains the abstraction of their work has evolved organically over almost a decade, with years of touring, travelling and collaborating all unconsciously influencing their musicality.

“We went to India for a while and I studied for the sitar, Carey and I spent about eight months there getting lessons from a guru. We started getting into that Hindustani classical sitar based sound and those scales are what we use throughout our songs,” Paul says.

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When&Where: Torquay Hotel, Torquay – April 3 & Howler, Melbourne – May 2

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Forte Columns

PULP LOL!

too heavy to hug

pop culture

Written by Paul S Taylor

Written by Anthony Morris

The Metallica Corporation teamed up with SalesForce.com (it’s probably the same one that was at the waterfront) to play a private corporate gig. On February 9 Metallica Corporation played the party in San Francisco to a bunch of SalesForce.com’s employees.

In 2011, Metallica Corporation played their first SalesForce. com corporate gig. Reportedly, the Metallica Corporation made anywhere between $500,000 to $1m. Apparently, SalesForce.com’s CEO is Kirk Hammett’s friend and neighbour – so I can imagine those two talking over their backyard fence like Tim “The Toolman” Taylor and his no-faced neighbour.

It’ll be like: “Yeah, come play my party man, we’ll pay you loads,” which the reply would be, “For sure, brother, can’t have too much green and I need an excuse to not to go the studio, man I’m all outta ideas”.

In related news, a new book entitled Into The Black by Paul Brannigan and Ian Winwood delves into “the inside story of Metallica 1991 – 2014” suggests Metallica Corporation has “lost more money than they’ve made since 2010”. The authors claimed in an interview that the two Orion Festivals and the movie no one’s seen Through The Never cost a lot more than they made back. The estimate is that Through The Never cost $34m to make but only recouped $4m at the box office. Looks like Metallica Corporation will be a lot more open for corporate shows or maybe Kirk can talk to his CEO neighbour friend about how to sell more albums, surely Death Magnetic’s sales haven’t stopped.

Then again, Metallica Corporation are rather good at re-releasing special anniversary albums. The band might turn around their fortunes later this year or early next year when their new album is supposedly due.

Slipknot guitarist Mick Thomson and his brother Andrew Thomson have been charged with disorderly conduct after having a knife fight on March 11. Both brothers were arrested on the date. The charge won’t impact the bands plans to tour.

RIP Twisted Sister and Adrenaline Mob drummer A.J. Pero In other news Gallows will release Desolation Sounds on Friday April 10.

The Ocean will play The Evelyn Hotel on Saturday April 18.

Suffocation and Decapitated will play the Corner Hotel on Saturday May 9.

Motley Crue will play their final tour Melbourne show at Rod Laver Arena on Tuesday May 12 and another show on Wednesday May 13 with special guest Alice Cooper.

Voyager will play The Evelyn on Friday May 29.

King Parrott will release their new album Dead Set on Friday May 15.

Karnivool will play The Wool Exchange on Saturday 16 May. Decimatus and Envenomed will play the Barwo Club on June 5.

The Black Dahlia Murder will play three shows at the Northcote Social Club, one of Saturday June 20, an all ages show on the arvo of Sunday June 21 and 18+ evening show on Sunday June 21.

Machine Head will play 170 Russell on Tuesday June 23.

For those bemoaning the decline of the video store, good news: its replacement has finally made its way to our shores. US online streaming giant Netflix is finally setting up shop locally (it’s estimated around 200,000 Australians already have accounts with the US branch via virtual pirate networks, or VPNs). While the local program line up isn’t quite as extensive as the overseas version – a lot of their shows are already licensed to other channels here – it’s still a pretty impressive collection of shows. Not that the local outfits have been sitting on their hands here: Fairfax and Nine have already launched their own service, Stan (currently based around Breaking Bad spin-off Better Call Saul), while Seven and Foxtel are working to revamp Foxtel’s online portal for previously aired series, Presto.

At the moment these streaming services are all offering low subscription prices (they’re all hovering around the $10 a month mark) and plenty of free trial offers (usually the first 30 days are a free trial) which means that canny consumers can jump on and off depending on which services have shows they’re interested in seeing – though you might want to wait until they’re finished up so you can binge watch before your deadline runs out, which does kind of defeat the purpose of these services as their big selling point is the chance to watch shows as they come out overseas.

There are other issues here as well: unlike the US – where the internet usually comes bundled with cable TV (which has a much greater penetration there than Foxtel does here) and unlimited downloads are the norm – most internet plans in Australia are capped, which is going to limit the amount of streaming for hardcore television fans (which you’d expect would be the kind of people taking these streaming services up). There are ways around this too – some service providers have offered unlimited downloads for various streaming services, but with various takeover bids in the ISP business it’ll be interesting to see what happens with these offers – but it’s still an issue. How all this will shake out remains firmly up in the air too: there’s been suggestions that Netflix is only starting up down here to show US content providers that they’re serious about cracking down on people using VPNs to access their content where it’s not officially available, so it’ll be interesting to see if Netflix makes their US content available here at the same time as overseas. Everyone else is basically just trying to block Netflix – Foxtel clearly isn’t that worried about having to offer a decent streaming service, as new episodes of popular shows like Game of Thrones won’t be available from them online.

The clear endgame here for all the players is to kill off online piracy by making legal downloads (well, downloads you can only watch once and can’t keep permanent copies off – you’re paying to join a library, not buying the shows themselves) a real alternative to the illegal kind. But for that, they’re going to have to offer the shows people want to watch; Pay TV in Australia doesn’t look like giving those up any time soon.

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Written by Alastair McGibbon

blues news So, I’ll be completely honest with you all – I found it really hard to work up the courage to read this week’s book. Cosmic Marvel stories have always left me feeling slightly confused (case in point: Ales Kot and Marco Rudy’s Bucky Barnes: Winter Soldier – yeah, he’s in space now) and rather dissatisfied. Even new powerhouses like Guardians of the Galaxy haven’t really grabbed me (at least in their comic incarnation, the movie was excellent). So, when the time came to find something new to babble on about for this week’s Pulp, I was pretty apprehensive about delving into Marvel’s little sci-fi corner. On the surface, the current Silver Surfer run didn’t seem that appealing – honestly, I hadn’t really paid that much attention to his movements over the years – and I wasn’t convinced that Norrin Radd was a character that could stand up as a viable and interesting character in the modern day.

Thankfully, Marvel had the sense to let Dan Slott (Amazing SpiderMan) loose on Silver Surfer, and he’s taken the task with great relish. Silver Surfer is clearly Slott’s pet project – as much as he loves his Spider-Man (and who doesn’t?), it’s pretty clear that Mr Slott is really, really keen on the Silver Surfer. He’s taken an aloof, alien character and made him much more relatable and interesting. Slott has described his run on Silver Surfer as a ‘soft reboot’ – the series’ previous continuity remains intact, but the new series serves as an excellent jumping-on point for new readers.

In Slott’s series, the Surfer, trying to atone for the years of terror he inflicted as the Herald of Galactus the World Eater (he’s that big bloke with the goofy headgear that likes to snack on planets, FYI). Blackmailed

into taking on a powerful (and pissed off ) entity known as the Never Queen by a three-eyed alien, Norrin discovers that the person he’s fighting to save is someone he’s never met before – an Earthling by the name of Dawn Greenwood.

After teaming up with Dawn’s fellow prisoners/abductees, Dawn convinces Norrin to take her out to see the universe, to see the far-flung places that not even the Silver Surfer has seen.

If that synopsis sounds a bit familiar, you’re right on the mark – Dan Slott openly admits his love for all things Doctor Who, and during production has received approval from Russell T. Davies himself, the guy who successfully rebooted the Doctor Who TV show back in 2005. It’s a great road to take the series down – having the Surfer attempt to atone for his past sins while showing Dawn around the universe really grounds him as a character, and makes him so much more relatable. Dawn provides the perfect grounding point for readers – asking questions, making puns and pointing out just how ridiculously overpowered the Power Cosmic actually is. Dawn, the Surfer and semi-sentient Toomie (Dawn nicknamed the surfboard, mishearing the Surfer say his catchphrase “To me, my board!”) make for an interesting team. It’s not like the TARDIS – there’s only really room for the two of them, and the board is essentially a shiny version of the magic carpet from Aladdin.

Overall, Silver Surfer is a little bit weird – as you’d expect, being about a silver man flying through space on a surfboard – but it’s also really endearing at the same time. Fans of the Doctor will love this one.

PUNK!

more plainly! The band also has a brand new greatest hits CD on offer.

Up The Punx will be happening again this year, possibly on a national scale!

Exciting stuff!

Mötley Crüe and Alice Cooper have added a second show to their Aussie tour itinerary. Bogans sure do like to go to “concerts”!

Blink 182 have commenced gigging with Tom DeLonge’s replacement, Matt Skiba (Alkaline Trio). Opinion seems to be split down the middle, but really, if they’re happy and want to carry on, it’s not really any of our business!

Scissor Sisters frontman Jake Shears may have only just been out here to perform solo for Mardi Gras, but isn’t it about time the band came back from their indefinite hiatus? Damn. And while we’re at it, any chance of bringing original drummer Paddy Boom back with you?

Ta. Much appreciated!

The Offspring have a new single out, and, um... Hmmmm... All I can say about it is that it’s called ‘Coming For You’, and it SCREAMS decemberundergroundera AFI. I honestly don’t know what they’re playing at. This brings to mind their completely pointless cover of AFI’s ‘Total Immortal’ many years back.

Just. No. KISS are touring again. Thursday October 8, Rod Laver Arena. Either you’re gonna go, or you’re sick to f***king death of them!

So the dates for Soundwave 2016 have already been announced. Seriously. The back-to-one-day event hits Melbourne on Tuesday January 26, right after Brisbane and Sydney. And as pointed out previously, Adelaide and Perth will miss out altogether. Boo-urns.

And is it true that the first headliner has already been booked? Very interesting!

Check back next issue for a full rundown of the Billy Idol/Cheap Trick show at Margaret Court Arena!

Written by Christopher Cruz

Heavy Montreal is happening again this year (funny that, as it’s an annual event!) and the line up is beyond ridiculous. NOFX, Lagwagon, Korn, Moneen, Billy Talent, Rocket From The Crypt, Testament, Iggy Pop, Faith No More, Alexisonfire (temporarily reunited), Glassjaw, Marky Ramone’s Blitzkrieg, Slipknot, Bullet For My Valentine, hair metal heroes Warrant, Dokken and Lita Ford and many, many more. Amazing! August 7-9, if you’re interested!

Don’t forget, Iron Reagan rock the Tote in Collingwood on Saturday April 11!

My debut novella, Deadtime (yep, I’m technically an author now!), is finally available via Amazon Kindle. It’s a pretty gross, creepy, funny read – even if I do say so myself. You could probably do worse than checking it out if you’re a horror fan!

Aussie rock favourites Airbourne, Jon English and Electric Mary are set to take part in the Sweden Rock Festival in, well, Sweden, on the 3, 4, 5 and 6th of June this year, alongside the likes of Def Leppard, Mötley Crüe, Ace Frehely, Slash, Judas Priest, Toto, Extreme, Dokken, The Darkness, Backyard Babies and countless other hard rock/AOR/metal legends.

Impressive stuff!

Speaking of Aussie rock, The Smith Street Band have released another pressing of their EP Don’t Fuck With Our Dreams on coloured vinyl in the US via Asian Man Records.

Friday June 19. Corner Hotel.

Jebediah. 20th anniversary tour. Special guests Fur. Be there. Couldn’t put it any

Written by John (Dr John) Lamp Proudly pesented by The Sleepy Hollow Blues Club

There’s no two ways about it, there has been a distinct improvement in the blues scene in Geelong over the past year or so. The efforts of committed individuals like Hugo T Armstrong, Pete Raimondo at Pistol Pete’s, Bernard at Harvester Moon and groups like Sleepy Hollow Blues Club are making a difference.

But wait! There’s more. Saints and Sailors in Portarlington, Will Wolesley at Wolseley Wines … and I could go on. But then there’s always that one night, there’s nothing that appeals – yes, these days that’s not too often, but we have to be brave and look it in the face.

Even worse, we could be stuck in that place up the road due to “work requirements” or the like.

But there is a silver lining to that predicament – the Melbourne Blues Appreciation Society, lovingly known as MBAS. MBAS formed in 1990 and has been affiliated with The Blues Foundation in Memphis USA for over 10 years. It was started by a group of music lovers who gathered each week at the Station Hotel in Prahran to hear Dutch Tilders and the Blues Club.

Dutch invited guest artists to perform with him, and from that early beginning MBAS grew and grew. Dutch Tilders – now sadly passed away – is the Eternal Patron of MBAS, with B. B. King as Patron and Geoff Achison as Australian Patron.

MBAS is now involved with a number of activities -- Youth In Blues, MBAS Blues Challenge, Victorian Tasmanian Blues Music Awards and other events throughout the year.

Their Youth in Blues program aims to help budding young Blues musicians and vocalists gain confidence and experience with the guidance and mentorship of established Blues musicians and music industry professionals.

Our own Wayne Jury – who runs the Blues Boot Camp down here – is heavily involved in the program.

The annual MBAS Blues Challenge (formerly Blues Performer of the Year) is worth special mention.

The aim of the event is to send the finest Blues artist/s to represent the MBAS at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, Tennessee. MBAS puts funds towards getting the acts to Memphis, both directly and by assisting in hosting fundraising events with the acts. You can find details of these activities at the MBAS website www.mbas.org.au.

Anyhow, this is all a rather roundabout way of introducing another of their regular activities.

Every Tuesday night MBAS conducts their Tuesday Night House of Blues event at the Royal Standard Hotel, at 333 William Street West Melbourne, over near Victoria Market.

These sessions have a Feature Artist every week at 8pm, followed by a jam session at 9pm. They are no slouches when it comes to booking their feature artist either!

Some of the bookings this year include Alex Burns, Willie and the Dixons, Nick Charles, Chris Finnen w/Greg Dodd & The Hoodoo Men and Kerrie Simpson. So, if you find yourself at a loose end on a Tuesday night, a quick trip up to the Royal Standard will put a kick into it.

THE NIGHT VIBE Written by Tex Miller thenightvibe.com.au

In 2015 there are some exceptional albums being released and we are living in the age of technology that is producing more and more electronic albums, but the age of the acoustic singer/songwriter is also coming back through artists such as Jake Bugg, James Bay, Sufjan Stevens and Noel Gallagher to name but just a few. It’s quite interesting to see how over the years, although the technology and instrumentation used to make music has changed, the power of a song and the meaning to its listeners hasn’t. A good song is a good song, whether it moves you to tears or just allows you to get up and have a boogie. The power of song writing has always been something very therapeutic.

Starting in the early ‘90s as the roadie for his brother’s band, Noel Gallagher developed into the voice of a generation.

Writing classic songs such as ‘Don’t Look Back in Anger’, ‘Lyla’, ‘Wonderwall’ and ‘The Masterplan’, all of the songs that he wrote were both perfectly written in terms of melody and lyrics. Despite feuds and fights with his brother, the songs are still seen 20 years later as some of the best of the ‘90s.

If we are talking about singer songwriters and the development of pop music over the years, then there is one character that we cannot simply forget. The one, the only, Robert Allen Zimmerman or to put it simply Bob Dylan. As a visionary for the folk rock movement throughout the ‘60s, no discussion of song writing over the years would be complete without a nod to Bob. Furthermore, I could probably take up a months worth of Nightvibe columns talking about the influence of the great man on pop culture and song writing.

Everybody has their favourite period of Dylan and I think if personal opinion has to come into it, then probably the Blood on the Tracks 1975 era Dylan is what shines through most for me. There is something very special about songs like ‘Tangled Up In Blue’ and ‘Simple Twist of Fate’ that moves me so much and nearly brings me to tears. The simplistic band arrangements on the recordings lead to thinking about the words and the meaning and the phrasing in which Bob Dylan sings his words.

There are many people that might disagree with me on this one, however this album was such a landmark piece of music and many classic songs were born off it. If you are reading this and you haven’t paid particular attention to this Dylan record, get it and put it onto your iPod or record player and listen to it from start to finish. A master class in song writing and lyric writing such as: “But I’ll see you in the sky above In the tall grass In the ones I love You’re gonna make me lonesome when you go” That said however, song writing and lyricism is still important throughout artists such as James Bay and George Ezra.

Having just released their debut albums respectively (which are stunning listens) they are true songwriters and it’s easy to see how Dylan has impacted them both.

James Bay with Chaos and the Calm has shown that he is a force to be reckoned with and although you have probably heard ‘Hold Back The River’ on the radio, he’s Dylan-esque moment is the track ‘Scars’.

Broody with its simplistic guitar line, the emotion of distance in a relationship and how hard that is shines through in his lyrics. I’m unsure whether that is going to be the next radio single or not, however, get onto YouTube and check it out.

Ezra’s shining grace is ‘Blind Man in Amsterdam’ and although it’s only two minutes in length, the story winds through the lyrics and the simplistic vocal melodies show that – although music is forever changing – the true essence of writing a song whether it’s a radio hit or not, is still here to stay.

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Refining the Palette

Kelly Written by Amanda Sherring

HIT THE STREETS THIS NATIONAL YOUTH WEEK This year as part of National Youth Week, stories about young locals doing incredible things are displayed on iconic buildings around the region. The stories will be up until April 19 and showcase achievements like creating a photo series for women post-baby, carrying on stories from an indigenous heritage and gaining a position as ‘The Voice State Convenor’ for the United Nations Youth Victoria. Various events will also run around the city in celebration of the week as well, visit the City of Greater Geelong website for details.

Your beloved brother has betrayed you and you’ve spent the past five months sitting in jail, your body filled with bullets wasting away from lead poisoning. It’s a take on Ned Kelly that we often don’t see, but one that the Queensland Theatre Company team are delivering.

“It’s the greatest play I’ve even been involved in and I can’t wait to take it to 39 venues. It’s the most excited I’ve ever been about being an actor to be honest,” Steven Rooke who plays Ned Kelly says.

Following on from a stellar premiere season in 2012, playwright Matthew Ryan has made a few changes this time around.

“The flow of it has been improved and it was difficult to make those changes initially because it was so much in my

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body from last time, but now that they’re there it just makes perfect sense why he’s made those changes,” he says.

“It’s a different interpretation of the characters this time around too, so it’s not the same Ned that I did in 2012. His brain and his emotions are stretched just a little bit further and worn a little bit thinner I think.”

“It’s more fun, because I think I played him a bit one-coloured in 2012 and he was just angry all the

time. Now I get to play with a lot more light and shade and there’s a lot more humour in it but he’s also a bit more emotional and he doesn’t hold himself together quite as well as he did last time.”

For us as audience members the depth given to each character is an entertaining watch, but actually being able to deliver those emotions is a whole other challenge for the actors. You can’t help but wonder, just how do the actors prepare for such a role as this?

“Kevin [Spink], who plays Dan Kelly, and I were speaking about it last night saying that this is just the greatest treat for an actor to do because you go to the gym you train and you get stronger – this is like going to the actors gym,” he says.

“You’re going through everything and the full range of emotions each time you do the show – it’s really just a gift. The only way to prepare for it is to look the other actor in the eyes and go, ‘Let’s go for it, let’s do it and not leave anything in the tank’.”

Thanks to brilliant casting for the crew, something that Steven describes as the perfect fit, Ned Kelly’s story is told in a new light, and helps raise the biggest question of all in the Ned Kelly debate.

“The question this play asks is, ‘Was he really a good guy or a bad guy?’

Nobody has really been able to answer that and I’m sure people have had their opinions but it’s much more complicated than that – it’s not a

simple black and white answer,” Steven says.

While there are an abundance of shows to attend – this just so happens to be the largest tour QTC has ever done – there will also be a “Facebook onslaught” to accompany it. Whether you attend a show or not it is definitely worth checking out their Facebook page (facebook.com/pages/ Kelly-National-Tour) to see just what Steven is talking about.

When&WHERE:

Lighthouse Theatre, Warrnambool – April 10, Her Majesty’s Theatre, Ballarat – April 13, GPAC, Geelong – April 15-18, The Capital, Bendigo – April 24 & Frankston Arts Centre, Frankston – May 16

WELCOME THE RIP As Easter comes around each year, what comes with it – aside from far too much chocolate and hot cross buns – is the annual Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach. The event doesn’t really need any reminding but it’s worth heading down to and joining in on the local tradition. This year, with three Bells titles to his name, Mick Fanning returns as the defending event champion. And with consecutive titles in 2013 and 2014, can Carissa Moore make it a hat-trick with a third consecutive win at Bells? The pro runs until April 12 with tickets purchased at the gate (starting from $5 for concession).

BAREFOOT BOWLS TO STAMP OUT SIDS Many will be familiar with Chloe Thornton and the work she does for Halfway to Healthy, but she also does a bit for Rivers Gift – a charity helping to raise awareness and work towards a cure for SIDS. Later this month she will be hosting a fundraising event where you can join in on a cruisy session of barefoot bowls at the Torquay Bowls Club on Sunday April 12 from 2pm. The cost is minimal ($20), and for all your entertainment at the event you’ll know that it’s going towards a good cause. To book visit http://www.trybooking.com/Booking/BookingEventSummary.aspx?eid=128850 or email Chloe on halfwaytohealthy@outlook.com.

A Few Good Men

By Aaron Sorkin • Directed by Greg Shawcross for Geelong Rep. Written by Sue Rawkins

Lt. Jr. Grade Daniel Kaffee, a rookie lawyer in the United States Navy, is marking time playing softball and plea-bargaining frivolous lawsuits until his three years of service are up. That is, until Division assigns him to be defense counsel for two marines serving at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, who are accused of murdering a young marine.

As Kaffee and his co-counsel delve deeper into the case; the careers, legacies and honour of many marine and navy officers come into question. Kaffee must decide whether to continue down the path of fast and slick outof-court settlements or to take a stand for his clients.

Screenwriter Aaron Sorkin got the inspiration to write the play from a phone conversation with his sister Deborah, who had graduated from Boston University Law School and signed up for a three-year stint with the U.S. Navy Judge Advocate General’s Corps. He wrote much of his story on cocktail napkins while bartending at the Palace Theatre on Broadway.

The movie, made in 1992, was directed by Rob Reiner and starred Tom Cruise, Jack Nicholson, and Demi Moore, with Kevin Bacon and Kiefer Sutherland (among others) in supporting roles.

“I’ve been a fan of Sorkin for a long time – having seen movies like The Social Network and watching every episode of The West Wing on TV. I knew of A Few Good Men, the movie, and discovered the play and thought that this was an amazing piece of theatre that would fit well in the intimacy of the Woodbin Theatre,” says Geelong Rep’s Director, Greg Shawcross.

“The best theatre works when an audience will go out into the foyer after the show has ended and start discussing the play. If ever there was a play worthy of this it’s this one, because the play is entirely about when is it right to do something and when is it wrong. When does an order become an illegal order? That’s the paradox of the play – it’s illegal to disobey an order, but it’s equally illegal to carry out an illegal order! That’s the dilemma

the characters find themselves in.”

This production features many of Geelong’s finest actors – three of which, Andrew Lorenzo, Rose Sejean and Steve Howell, coincidentally, have military backgrounds.

Andrew Lorenzo is playing the cocky Lt. Jr. Grade Daniel Kaffee (the role Tom Cruise played in the movie). “When I was 18-22, I spent four years in the US Army training recruits in the ROTC in bases in New Jersey.

I was part of 19 Delta Armoured Cavalry, so I got to operate tanks. I’ve been helping the guys in the cast know how to stand, speak, wear their uniforms,” Andrew says.

“With the role I want to give it some real tenacity. Character-wise, I’m playing Kaffee as the immature, conceited guy that he is, but moving into the kick-butt attorney that he knows he can be.”

Is the big, famous courtroom scene (between Cruise and Jack Nicholson in the movie) a moment of butt-clenching terror for you? He laughs. “Oh yeah! That’s an incredible moment. It gets your adrenalin going!”

David Mackay (Lt. Col. Jessep – the Jack Nicholson role) has the responsibility of saying probably one of the most famous lines in movie history in that scene. How does

he feel about saying it? “Very daunted!”

The only woman in the cast, Rose Sejean (Lt. Cmdr. Jo Galloway) has the military in her blood. Her grandfather was trained by the French in the Charles DeGaulle army in Lebanon, and her father was a gunner in the Australian Army.

“I’d like to bring strength to the character of Jo because she fights the entire show for a lot of different reasons. She finds Kaffee to be a massive challenge, and has to learn to be the bigger person and support Kaffee, instead of wanting to be Lead Counsel herself,” Rose says.

The outstanding cast of 17 have been practising their drills, standing to ‘ten-hut!’ and getting into the military and legal mind-sets over the many weeks of intense rehearsal. The dialogue is slick and fast-paced and the extraordinary staging makes this contemporary classic full of wit, intrigue and suspense a production absolutely not to be missed. Can you handle it?

WHERE: Woodbin Theatre,

15 Coronation Street, Geelong West.

WHEN: 17 April – 2 May. Shows start at 7.30pm. Matinees start at 2pm.

TIX: GPAC 5225 1200.

LIFE FORMS AT METROPOLIS

THE BALLARAT TASTER The Taste Ballarat Local Produce Dinner will be prepared by local chefs, consisting of eight small courses utilising produce direct from the gardens of the region. Guest speakers on the night are Dr Nick Rose and Tammi Jonas from the Australian Food Sovereignty Alliance. Finalists of the Paddock to Plate Awards will also be announced on the night. Tickets are $75 and can be purchased from The George Hotel, 27 Lydiard St Nth, Ballarat.

Linda Robertson’s dynamic exploration of the human form continues in this strong series of oil and graphite drawings that are both classic and contemporary. Astrid Stevens investigates ‘beauty and life overshadowed by the inevitability of decay’ in layered, mixed media paintings on store mannequins and Mary Koniavitis’ hybrid collages are part animal, part human and focus on socially gendered identities, female stereotypes and metaphors that define the feminine. Opening night is April 11 at 5-7pm with the exhibition running until April 25. Metropolis Gallery, 64 Ryrie St, Geelong.

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE! CALL ABBEY ON 0431 898 745

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Great Ocean Road Gifts Written by Amanda Sherring

While many of us claim to love our town, few can say that they’ve started a businesses based around it. After realising there wasn’t a spot for local creatives to showcase their wares, Andrew and Katherine’s business minds set to work to create Great Ocean Road Gifts, an online store stocked with homewares, jewellery, beauty products and more.

“We were just discovering after going into shops along the Great Ocean Road that a lot of it is locally made, but they don’t get the recognition.

I bought a pair of earrings and it wasn’t until a lady was in the store and said her daughter does those that I knew they

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were local, otherwise I would never have known,” Katherine says.

“We wanted to set up an online store where every piece would have its place in a designer giftware shop. We also wanted to find people that were ready to propel themselves further

than just being a local supplier,” Andrew adds.

Andrew, with a background in graphic design and marketing, and Katherine with strong skills in retail, gave the couple the perfect background knowledge to start a business.

What started with the discovery of Loosha soy candles – based in Torquay – soon jumped to 12 suppliers, all found through word of mouth, the help of social media and each a product that Andrew and Katherine respected in some way or another.

“We do sort of have a strict policy where if it’s not something we’d buy or think is of value then we don’t want it on the site,” he says.

“We really want to keep the quality up there. Some of the things we wouldn’t necessarily have in our home but we’re still really attracted to them, and obviously the more passionate you are about a product the more likely you are to sell it.”

As it’s a business, there is a lot of ‘talk’ from the couple, though looking deeper there is a clear passion for what those around them are creating. As Katherine sips her coffee and answers questions a brightly coloured The Little Mill necklace bounces around her collarbones – one of their first stockists.

“The people that we’ve been working with have just been fantastic,” Katherine beams.

While Katherine is a clear supporter of their stockists, she goes on to tell me that her mother loves the Loosha soy candles – all her friends have been gifted them – and Katherine and Andrew’s son is a lover of the Peggy & Fin wooden bow ties, even taking to modelling them for the supplier.

That’s part of the beauty about Great Ocean Road Gifts, they want more than just locals to enjoy in what their region has

to offer. Each item on the site serves as the perfect souvenir for the Great Ocean Road, and something you’re bound to still cherish later on. Or even an ideal gift for those outside Victoria, and you’re still buying local and giving local – a phrase that stems from the heart of what the couple do.

As for the wrapping – after much Pinteresting later – Katherine has that covered, and your beautiful parcel will be sent off by her – the stress of gifting completely taken out of your hands.

Now with local chocolatier on board El Grande Chocolato, the couple are hoping to introduce hampers to their website – another gifting possibility for family and friends.

Though another goal for Andrew, lies all in the space that they’re creating: “I kind of hope that if we can set up the right kind of space for people to sell their products that it can actually encourage some people that are creating amazing things but people don’t know about them. And for them to see that there’s an avenue for them to sell their stuff via our site.”

To purchase gifts and products visit http:// gorg.com.au/, but to simply stay in touch visit www.facebook.com/ greatoceanroadgifts or their Instagram (@ greatoceanroadgifts).

JOLT

brood Written by Abbey King

Kieran Nolan is in his mid 20’s, he’s grown up in Geelong doing the usual stuff, like playing footy and going to Uni, however after a chance encounter with a print screening opportunity he decided to create some of his own labelled clothing.

When it came time to come up with a label name, he did what many of us have done before, “I googled ‘words I wouldn’t know the meaning of ’ and ‘BROODING’ was the first word I

saw,” Keiran says.

With the name ‘Brood’ decided upon, a term with multiple meanings for those playing at home, he cleverly and effectively reversed the letter ‘R’ and his label was born.

“I started by making a few tees that I designed, and wanted for myself, and people began to ask where I got them.

So I thought I would print a few up and distribute to friends and family,” he said.

“Once I sold a few more I approached Navaho clothing store on Pakington street and Sally agreed to stock a few to see how they go.

A small amount sold in a

matter of days. So from there I have designed and produced five designs in T-shirts, caps and long sleeve tees with a winter range almost ready to hit the shelves.”

If you headed along to any music festivals or hit up the Surfcoast over the summer, chances are you would have spotted a ‘BROOD’ singlet or two, after the designs all sold out in a flash. Kieran is currently juggling his classes at Deakin University – where he studies finance – with his print and design work for Brood as well as the occasional game of footy for his beloved St Joeys FC. With big winter plans ahead he has

been busy preparing hoodies, beanies and socks for stock.

While Brood clothing is largely focused on the guys, items are unisex and can be found exclusively at Navaho (Shop 2/118 Pakington Street, Geelong West) or online at www. broodclothingco. com.au Instagram – broodclothingco https://www. facebook.com/ broodclothingco Special offer for 40% off any orders online in the use the code ‘forte’ at the check out.

Q&A

On a day-to-day basis we often waste our 24 hours. Can you think of the last time you did something truly incredible? The last time you created something you were proud of ? Well Courthouse Youth Arts are giving you the best chance to create in the 24-hour creation event JOLT. We had a chat to Jack Griffiths from the Courthouse on what to expect.

So first thing’s first, how will this event go down exactly?

Well, everyone is to meet at Courthouse Youth Arts (CHYA), 60 Little Malop St, at 8pm on April 10 to receive the stimulus to be able to commence the 24-hour competition.

Then participants have the next 24 hours to complete a masterpiece and return it back CHYA by 8pm Saturday the 11th (we will not accept submissions after 8pm). From there the artworks will be on display at CHYA’s gallery during Youth week, and for the closing night. All films will also be shown for the final presentation for the winners of the competition.

What sparked the idea for running JOLT? We wanted to generate a competition around National Youth Week that would allow people’s imaginations

to soar. A lot of artists procrastinate, which stops their creative juices from flowing freely. The 24-hour constraint stops this, allowing a rawer creative piece.

When the competition says ‘multi-disciplinary’ are there any limits to what entrants can and can’t do?

No, we are willing to accept all types of art. Whether it be film, a story, sculpture, painting, photograph or even textiles, no artist is limited to one thing. If someone has an amazing idea we are happy to accept it in any form.

As the competition is 24 hours, are the entrants locked into the building or are they free to roam around to create their piece?

Absolutely roam – go far and wide. Find interesting places that inspire you, or use a location to film. Use

CHYA more as a home base, a place to come back to and regroup.

How important is it for emerging artists to get involved in something like this?

I’d say very important.

It’s not about the prize but more about the exposure to an audience as well getting use to the idea of having your work on display and then getting people from all over being able to view your idea, opinion, message or thought through your work and remember – you never know who will see your work We saw there’s a mystery stimulus, has it been decided yet and can you give any clues to what it is?

The stimulus is in a sealed envelope in our safe, marked top secret – so it’s pretty serious stuff. I’m afraid that we can’t give anything away because of fear from our

boss, but I can say this, people treasure it.

As it’s a first for Courthouse, what are your predictions for how the event will run?

I believe that we have put enough planning and thought into the event that it will be a success and a lot of fun for the participants. I’m a little annoyed that I know what the stimulus is because I would enter it if I was allowed to.

Are there awards in place for the winners of each category?

We are excited to say that there are prizes for each category (Visual Arts, Film and Writing).

Each award will be tailored to the category and will fit the chosen discipline.

WHERE&WHEN:

Courthouse Youth Arts, Geelong – 8pm (sharp) April 10 with 8pm April 10 finish and exhibition to follow

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Johnny Cash: In Solitary

When&Where: Ararat Performing Arts Centre, Ararat – April 30 Wesley Performing Arts Centre, Horsham – May 01 Colac Performing Arts Centre, Colac – May 03 Flying Saucer Club, Elsternwick – May 14 Bridge Hotel, Castlemaine – May 15 & Main Bar, Ballarat – May 16

Written by Kara Ready

Taking on the role of one of the world’s most famous musicians in history is no easy task, but that’s exactly what Daniel Thompson does when he steps on stage as a Johnny Cash tribute artist.

After performing in Johnny Cash The Concert for the past five years, Thompson has decided to change things up a little and shine a light on a different side of the legend and his music with In Solitary. With a new show comes a new set of songs, something that Thompson thinks Cash fans will really appreciate.

“Of course you get to hear the big hits… But also some of my favourites and favourites that the people want to hear out of the huge Cash catalogue. I think people will be surprised by some of the songs – they’ll have the things they want to hear but maybe also some songs they don’t know or haven’t heard before,” he says.

While Thompson’s previous Cash tribute shows have seen him accompanied by a four-piece band, In Solitary has him perform acoustically – a decision that compliments the more intimate nature of a show that delves deeper into Cash’s life.

“We’re always trying to tell stories,” he says, “but being an acoustic show it really sort of lets the songs stand up for themselves.”

However, portraying the troubled side of such a well-known figure can be a tough job, and one

that Thompson says is made harder by the fact that there are so many dedicated fans who already know so much about the musician. Because of this, the road to playing Cash on stage is paved with the many books, interviews and videos that go into researching his personality and performance style.

Taking it in his stride, Thompson says this research is simply part of the job when you’re playing in a tribute band.

“I think it’s my responsibility as a tribute artist to know your subject really well, because there are people out there who know more about it than you do,” he says.

Although In Solitary provides a deeper insight into the life and troubles

of Johnny Cash, fans need not worry that it portrays the musician in a bad light. When putting together the show, Thompson made sure that it didn’t focus on any negativity the singer faced but rather celebrates the experiences that made him who he was.

“The songs he chose to record and the songs he wrote, it can tell his story. So we’re not focusing on the negatives as such, more just using those darker songs to explain a bit of his character or tell part of his story,” he says.

One needs to simply look at the popularity of Johnny

Cash tribute show – like the ones Thompson has lent himself to over the years – to understand the influence and popularity Cash’s music continues to enjoy since his death in 2003.

When asked why he thinks Cash has had such a profound impact on the world, Thompson immediately points to the musicians ability to connect with people on a far-reaching scale.

“If you ask a hundred different people you’d get a hundred different answers as to why they love his music,” says Thompson.

“He’s a rare artist like that, he’s got a really broad appeal across all walks of life and that’s probably more than anything why his popularity is growing.”

You can see In Solitary when it comes to venues around regional Victoria in May, tickets are available through the venues.

Donavon Frankenreiter Written by Abbey King

Having arrived in the country just hours before, I caught up with muso and sufer Donavon Frankenreiter ahead of his big Byron Bay Bluesfest performances and 21 date Aussie Tour.

“It’s been a while since I have been down here with the full band. I came over in October and I played here in Byron at the surf festival, then about eight months before that, me and my buddy opened up for Xavier Rudd – we just did some acoustic stuff,” Donavon says.

“But this is the first time in a while that I have my band so we can do a bit more electric and more variety of stuff.”

Donavon is no stranger to our lands having played many times before at Byron. As both a musician and surfer he loves making the trip out to Australia, especially when he also gets the opportunity to catch up with other friends from the industry.

“It’s amazing because this is the first year we’ve been booked two days in a row, usually they only get you for the one show, then you’re straight outta there. We’re on a tight schedule in that we have gigs pretty well almost every night, so it’s going to be cool to be at Byron for at least two days.

It’s the kind of festival you love to play at then run around and watch all your other friends’ bands,” he says.

“Just being a part of that, there’s a great energy. It’s a cool festival with a cool vibe and I’m really looking

forward to getting back up there.”

His latest album, Start Livin’ was released back in 2012 and explores his family life in Kauai, Hawaii with his wife and two sons, who have unfortunately not made the trip out with him this time as he and the band have a whopping 21 shows in just 23 days.

“It was written about seizing the moment, you know? A lot of it was about my family and living in Hawaii. It’s about not sweating the small things and trying to laugh in life as much as you can,” he smiles.

“My life is really blessed, I Iove playing music and touring the world and surfing, but there’s kind of this downfall when you have children and a family.

I’ve never been home

for a birthday or wedding anniversary, I miss all that stuff. You take the good and the bad, but you have to enjoy the journey – otherwise there’s no point in it all.”

Donavon himself has been professionally making music as a solo act for well over a decade now, catching his big break back in 2004 through good friend, Jack Johnson’s label Bushfire Records.

He has also had an impressive pro-surfing career and was even signed to Australian label Billabong for a number of years. The Barwon Heads Hotel show just so happens to be on the eve of the Bell’s Beach Rip Curl Pro, something that he was so pleased about, once I explained how Barwon Heads was just a 25 minute drive from Bells.

“Oh really is it? No way, is it really close to Bell’s? That’s epic!” he laughed.

“Wow! That really excites me, that’s gonna be great. I wasn’t sure one of my concerts would line up with one of the events. I love Bells and that whole area! That would be a highlight if I got to watch a final and see some of my friends surf in one of their heats, that would be huge! It’s going to be a big night then for sure!”

There will be no rest for the band after the tour, with the studio all booked for their return. The recording process will be a little different this time with fans having the opportunity to watch the creative process, with the help of a very special sponsor.

“We’re going into the studio right after this tour in the first two weeks of May. What’s really cool about this is Sanuk Sandals have financed the making of this album. If you log on to their website in the first two weeks of May, they have this amazing sound and video capabilities and you will actually be able to stream the making of our record live, it’s going to be like an event. For eight hours a day, 10 days in a row we will be recording a song a day – I can’t wait!”

National Hotel,” he says.

This tour is going to be very raw and intimate and will showcase songs off the latest Tea Party record The Ocean At The End in acoustic mode, which will be something very unique and memorable. “After this tour, it’s going to be quite some time before I can play in Australia again – because I am starting up a record and I have two albums; one is called The Black Diamond Express and another one is Revelator, and that is going to be taking up my time for the next little while. I encourage everyone to get out and see me on this tour, because I don’t know when it will be happening again. No one has ever heard this album done acoustically,

so it’s going to be quite a spectacle for the audience,” Jeff says.

The latest record The Ocean At The End is the most recent release for The Tea Party and is a stunning listen from start to finish. The production and players on the album are second to none and the album even features the legendary Ian Anderson on the title track. Speaking about having rock royalty play on the record, it was quite a pinch yourself moment.

“I met Ian many years ago when The Tea Party toured England and he was one of our first ever fans over there. I can’t recall how he had heard of us, but he came out to a lot of our shows. When it came time to record this new record, we thought it’d be cool to get some flute. It was a no brainer who we should get and he recorded it in London and then emailed us his parts. It was quite a moment to get him to play on our record,” he says.

In terms of a new Tea Party record, we can expect that some time in 2016 and Martin has divulged that Jimmy Page might be involved within the project. For all the upcoming news keep your eyes peeled to their social media and th head out to the Workers on the 11 , because who knows when Jeff Martin will be back in town again.

When&Where: Barwon Heads Hotel, Barwon Heads – April 11

Jeff Martin Written by Tex Miller, Photo by Jade Martin

Jeff Martin is best known as the frontman for ‘90s rock outfit, The Tea Party and he is about to head out on the road once again before focussing on his upcoming record label commitments. Chatting from WA, Martin is filled with excitement as we begin to talk about his upcoming Geelong performance at the Workers Club on April 11. Having been open for just a few weeks, Martin can’t wait to get up on stage in Geelong’s newest venue to play a variety of tracks from his esteemed back catalogue.

As a playful smile and little laugh spreads across his face Martin assures me that he will “definitely put the venue through its paces” with his solo acoustic show. However, no one should be fooled by the basic instrumentation of the show. Although it’s Martin with a guitar and vocals, it’s the highly energetic performance that Martin puts in night after night that keeps people coming back.

“I’ve heard some very good things about The Workers Club and I can’t wait to take to the stage man. The PA will be rocking because you’ve seen my shows you know that my acoustic shows are hardly that. I rock harder than most rock bands when I take to the stage – it’ll be fun. I’ve always had a good time in Geelong stretching back to the days of the 46 forte

When&Where: The Espy, Melbourne – April 9, Karova Lounge, Ballarat – April 10 & The Workers Club, Geelong – April 11

Forte Columns

COLLECTIBLE CORNER 1. Blinky Bill Finger Puppet

TONY JOHNSTON Exclusive interview with

This puppet was part of a set of 5, originally available from Pizza Hut in 1990. The set also featured Splodge, Flap, Marcia and Nutsy.

2. Fozzie Bear Muppet Babies Figurine

6 THINGS YOU COULD’VE GOOGLED ABOUT POWER RANGERS 1. The majority of fight sequences and Zord

battles are actually re-used stock footage from a Japanese show titled ‘Super Sentai’.

2. Super Sentai was in its 16th season when

Mighty Morphin Power Rangers began airing.

3. The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles once

appeared in an episode of Power Rangers In Space.

4. Jason David Frank holds the record for the

Ranger to go through the most changes.

He has been a Green, White, Red Zeo, Red Turbo and Black Dino Thunder Ranger.

THE TOP 10 HOMER SIMPSON QUOTES OF ALL TIME 10. “To start push any key... where’s the any

key?” (‘King Size Homer’ S07E07)

9. “I have misplaced my pants.” (‘Bart After

Dark’ S08E05)

8. “You’ll have to speak up, I’m wearing a towel.”

(‘Bart Gets Famous’ S05E12)

7. “No TV and no beer make Homer go crazy.”

(‘Treehouse Of Horror V’ S06E06)

6. “If something’s hard to do, then it’s not worth

doing.” (‘The Otto Show’ S03E22)

5. “ I’m having the best day of my life and I

owe it all to skipping church.” (‘Homer The Heretic’ S04E03)

4. “To alcohol; the cause of and solution to all of

life’s problems.” (‘Homer vs The Eighteenth Amendment S08E08)

3. “You want the truth? You want the truth?

You can’t handle the truth! Cause when you

Youtube:

“Mighty Morphin” was censored and removed from the logo, due to the word “morphin” being too similar to the drug Morphine.

6. In a special episode of

Power Rangers Wild Force, every single version of the Red Ranger appeared in one almighty fight sequence.

For more factual goodness, watch ‘Things You Could’ve Googled’, airing bi-weekly on torrentthis.tv/tv

reach down into a pile of goo, that was once your friend’s face, you’ll know what to do! Forget it Marge, it’s Chinatown!” (‘Secrets Of A Successful Marriage’ S05E22)

3. WWF Masked Kane figurine

This figure came from a double-pack alongside The Undertaker, promoting the WWF Summerslam 1999 PPV. NOTE: All our collectibles live happily in the Torrent This studio, where they are appreciated by guests on a daily basis. For daily photos, follow us on instagram.com/ torrentthis

DO YOU REMEMBER? World 4 Kids Geelong

Before closing down in 1996 due to being one of the biggest financial blunders in Coles/Myer history, ‘World 4 Kids’ was heaven on earth for every kid privileged enough to walk through its doors. Not only were there thousands of toys to choose from, but they even let you play the Nintendo and Sega consoles for free!

Originally created to counteract the introduction of U.S toy chain ‘Toys R Us’ into Australia, the stores were forced to close after losses of over $100 million in 3 years. In Geelong, you’ll now know this building as the home of Officeworks.

2. “Kids, you tried your best

and you failed miserably.

The lesson is, never try.” (‘Burns Heir’ S05E18)

1. “ Tell him I’m going to the

backseat of my car with the woman I love, and I won’t be back for ten minutes!” (‘Life On The Fastlane’ S01E09)

For more Simpsons countdowns and episode reviews, watch ‘Four Finger Discount’ every Sunday night at torrentthis.tv/tv

TOM & KIAM TOLERATE MUSIC “Hey Tom, have you heard about Motorhead’s gig on a boat?”

“Is it called Boaterhead?”

“No it’s called Motorboat. It’s more their thing.”

“But wearing small hats would be so much better!”

Tom & Kiam Tolerate Music airs weeknights on torrentthis.tv/tv

SEAN’S FINAL CUT “HAVE...YOU...GOT...WHAT...

YOU...PAID...FOR?

I don’t know about you, but video stores just aren’t the same anymore.

In the late 80’s, I was one of the last kids at my primary school to own a VCR. I used to resent the snide little bastards, when if I asked “Did you watch so-and-so last night?” they’d respond with “Nooooo, we TAPED it!” Seriously, get stuffed.

Oh those days, when if you missed out on watching a show, you missed out entirely.

I’ll never forget stepping into my first video store with my dad.

It was an independent place in Detroit Crescent, Corio, with a huge selection with three rows. My curiosity had me wandering into the horror section, simultaneously admiring the brilliance of the artwork and the gore I was confronted with. Even when the art was already disturbing for a young 8-10 year old, they saved the worst stuff for the screenshots on the back. Oh and don’t even get me started on the VHS cover for Carrie.

Sissy Spacek surrounded by white curtains, covered in blood, those wide eyes staring at me. Every time I went in there, she always locked eye contact with me. EVERY DAMN TIME. It took me years before I could psych myself up to watch it.

Then there was the adult section.

Myopically positioned near the counter at the back of the store, so when my dad went to pay for the videos, I copped an eyeful of nudity.

It was somewhat of an education.

Not being comfortable about the birds and the bees around dad, it was weird at first. As puberty later kicked in, going to that counter was almost something to look forward to. The dust, the old smells, the oversized plastic covers, it may be a dated environment but I miss it.

Don’t you?

Sean Watts writes a weekly column for Torrent This. For more articles, go to torrentthis.tv/articles

If you grew up in the 90s, Tony Johnston will always be known as the host of kids’ game shows like ‘Time Masters’ and ‘Wipeout’.

Here are some highlights from Dando’s recent chat with the man himself: On dating somebody behind the scenes back in 90s:

“It’s probably a little known fact that I was actually dating the makeup lady, so she used to work her magic on me. We had a great time, it was a real era of kids television production in Australia.”

On what he learnt from his early years working on kids television:

“I first started on a Saturday morning music show, and Jamie Dunn (Agro) was my producer.

I look at this time as a real apprenticeship for my career in television and now radio. There were things I learnt then that you couldn’t have learnt at university, with kids TV you never know what’s going to happen next, they say never work with kids or animals, I was doing both every single day.”

On the frantic filming schedule of Time Masters:

“We were recording five episodes in one day, three days a week, and we were alternating with James Sherry and A*mazing who was my colleague back then. They would do a series and then we would do a series, so we’d have to get it done quickly. The kids would arrive on buses around 9-9:30 in the morning, and we’d have to get them back by 2:30 so that they’d arrive on time to go home. It was just go go go, honestly I’d get to the end of it and I couldn’t talk.

The upside of it though was that we would get long weekends every week.”

On working with kids:

“Occasionally you’d get some quiet ones, some rowdy ones,

some who made it a bit of a struggle to talk to them, but that was part of the spiel in just trying to tease out a response. If they didn’t respond to that question then you’d try a slightly different one, meanwhile the floor manager is telling you to wind it up. They were big days, but I must say I’m proud of what we were able to achieve back then.”

On the impact of 90s kids game shows:

“I was in my early twenties at the time so I was just having a blast, but you didn’t realise the depth of the impression you were having on the lives of so many young Australians.

I was just doing my job, having a good time and getting paid for it.

Sometimes I get people walking up to me and saying they use to race home from school to watch us, looking back I wish I could do it all over again, I’d probably try and do a better job this time around though.”

On the freedom when hosting Time Masters and Wipeout:

“For each show, I would get information on the contestants a few days beforehand which we would go over in production meetings, then we’d have these cards on set that would have the information as well as the answers, so you had to be careful how you held it to make sure you weren’t giving the answers away. Everything else was made up, you had the skeleton of the program, and then you had to add the meat and flesh.

It’s all about flow, getting to the break and making it as seamless as you possibly can.”

Tony goes on to discuss many other topics, including today’s brand of Australian kids game shows, his work on World Radio Switzerland, plus a story he has never told anybody before! To hear the full interview, check out ‘The Torrent This Podcast’ at torrentthis.tv/ podcasts

/torrentthistv

Facebook: Twitter:

5. In Malaysia, the phrase

Originally available in McDonalds Happy Meals in 1987, this figure was in a set featuring Kermit, Miss Piggy, Gonzo and Animal. Each figure came with its own wheeled-vehicle.

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Film Reviews

Films reviewed by Anthony Morris

Cinderella

Black Sea

Disney’s doing Cinderella again?

What spin are they putting on the classic tale this time? Turns out the spin here is that there is no spin: director Kenneth Branagh sticks close to the bright colours of the animated classic, the cast rarely test the bonds of their cartoony characters and the special effects are used to bring the story’s magic to life rather than create a world tipped too far over into fantasy.

With no real twists, updates (past the multi-racial kingdom) or surprises – this avoids the more gruesome versions of the originals, so no stepsisters cutting off their toes to fit into the glass slipper here – the performances have to carry a bit more weight as far as keeping us watching, and both Eloise Webb (as Ella) and the prince (Richard Madden) certainly look the part while making their outsized characters seem both likeable and

If you want to get your audience on the edge of their seat, there are few more sure-fire ways to do it than the submarine movie.

Unfortunately, while they’re surefire, they’re also all pretty much exactly the same once they dive under the surface. As a tale of a rag-tag bunch of salvagers, who charter a rusty Russian sub to retrieve a wreck full of Nazi gold at the bottom of the titular body of water, Black Sea ticks all the boxes; running silent to avoid detection, crew tensions in cramped quarters, diving too deep, people being sealed off to die in flooding compartments, trying to steer the sub through too-narrow channels and a captain

at least slightly plausible. Cate Blanchett as the stepmother gets to chew the scenery a bit, but she also gets a back story that at least partially justifies her treating Ella like a slave – which does tend to blunt the fun of her villainy at least a little.

There’s enough humour here to give this a bit of spark – the lizard coachmen on the pumpkin carriage are scene-stealer, as is a one-scene

appearance from Rob Brydon as a royal artist – and Helena Bonham Carter gives a winning performance as the Fairy Godmother. But overall this feels like little more than a totally satisfactory rock-solid retelling of the classic tale, done in such a way that Disney will be able to crank money out of it in every format they can think of for a decade or more.

Get Hard Anyone remember a Rob Schneider movie titled Big Stan? It’s probably best that you don’t, as it had pretty much the same premise as Get Hard: wussy white guy gets arrested and is so scared of what’s going to happen to him in prison he hires a guy to toughen him up. The difference here is, well, it doesn’t star Rob Schneider and isn’t quite as obsessed with prison rape.

Instead our white guy is James King (Will Ferrell), a smugly oblivious millionaire financial planner who’s more than a little surprised when he’s arrested at his engagement party for fraud.

His fiancé (Alison Brie) swiftly kicks him to the curb; his one-time almost father-in-law, and boss, say they’ll do everything they can to clear his name. Now he’s facing 10 years in San Quentin, and only Darnell (Kevin Hart) – who runs his local car wash – can teach him how to survive inside the big house. Not that Darnell’s ever been to prison: King just assumes he has because he’s

SpongeBob SquarePants Movie: Sponge Out of Water This latest SpongeBob SquarePants movie has a lot to live up to: his previous big screen outing in 2004 was a brilliant mix of the silly and the extremely silly, the kind of

Leviathan When a small town fisherman takes the local council to court to

Shaun the Sheep Pretty much all you need to know about the Shaun the Sheep movie is that it’s from Aardman.

Much like their biggest hit Wallace & Grommit, this is a dialogue-free effort based around sight gags, big action sequences, charmingly likeable characters (apart from the bad guys) and a whole lot of fun. Following in the tradition of roughly 80% of animal-themed kids movies, this sees Shaun and the rest of his sheep cohorts heading into

The Book of Life

black, and for $30,000 (enough to get his daughter out of the ghetto school she’s attending) he’s willing to play along. This is pretty uneven at the best of times, with a script that never really gets much beyond a string of sketches – the idea behind this seems to have been “how much dumb stuff can we get these guys to do and say”. The short answer: a lot, and while some of it stumbles – the racial politics here do not stand up to any close examination whatsoever and the gay panic stuff falls flat –

both leads are more than funny enough to keep this from becoming an embarrassment.

Ferrell gets the big laughs (his unorthodox approach to trash talk is a highlight: “Son, you’re a big disappointment to your parents – who I just f**ked”) but Hart does more than his fair share as the exasperated straight man. The two make a good team: if Hollywood can come up with another reason to throw them together, that might be a film worth seeking out.

gleefully demented kids movie that only comes along once in a decade.

Well, it’s been a decade, and when this opens with Antonio Banderas moonwalking around booby-traps to steal a book so he can read a story to a bunch of talking seagulls it quickly becomes clear that “sensible” is not a word you’ll be needing to describe this one.

When the secret formula for Crabby Patties – the hamburger that the residents of Bikini Bottom are addicted to – is destroyed during a battle between SpongeBob (employee at the Krusty Krab, home of the Crabby Patty) and Plankton (evil owner of rival fast food outlet The Chum Bucket) – there’s only one way to get it back: a time

machine. Well, there are probably other ways but they don’t have time to figure them out because without Crabby Patties Bikini Bottom has turned into a Mad Max style post apocalyptic wasteland. Much silliness follows. For example, this is a movie that features a time wizard named Bubbles who is a cape-wearing dolphin. It also features a trip inside SpongeBob’s cotton-candy brain (where everything is super-cutesy) and an ending sent on dry land where the main cast (all secondary characters having happily taken themselves out of the picture) turn into super-heroes. It’s fun for kids and funny for adults: it’s more satisfying than a Crabby Patty with cheese.

prevent the compulsory acquisition of his land, it’s the kind of underdog story that we in the west tend to assume will have a happy ending.

Not in today’s Russia it doesn’t, and what follows is an utterly compelling look at the way evil – in the form of corruption, blackmail, violence, and a society where the rule of law is nothing but a longwinded pretence – wins out with

ruthless efficiency. Director Andrey Zvyagintsev (The Return) pulls no punches in this devastating look at Russian society, but this is never preachy or heavy-handed. Instead, it slowly and carefully shows when a man’s downfall as one act of defiance – more standing up against authority – gradually snowballs and crushes everything before it. This is shattering film-making.

A Mexican Day of the Dead themed film animated so all the cast look like hinged wooden puppets, The Book of Life isn’t quite your average kids movie. Of the three kids films covered this issue (all of which involve quests of some kind of another), this is probably the closest to a straight adventure, though there’s plenty of jokes mixed in. When two boys – Manolo (the voice of Diego Luna) and Joaquin (Channing Tatum) – both fall for Maria (Zoe Saldana), the spirits of the underworld decide to make a wager on the outcome.

Manolo grows up to be a great bullfighter, though he really wants to be a musician; Joaquin becomes a military hero (which is handy, considering bandits are terrorising the countryside), thanks to a medal

Big Eyes It’s the 1950s, and Margaret (Amy Adams) is new in San Francisco. With a young daughter and a husband she left back east, life is a struggle. But she always loved art, and it’s while trying to sell her paintings of big-eyed children on a weekend that she meets fellow artist Walter Keene (Christoph Waltz). He’s charming and a smooth talker, and by the time Margaret notices a few cracks in his story they’re already married and he’s taking the credit for her paintings – for publicity purposes, of course.

ELEANOR RIGBY (HIM) Apr 02 – 7pm / Apr 04 – 5pm / Apr 08 – 9pm / Apr 10 – 9pm / Apr 11 – 3pm ELEANOR RIGBY (HER) Apr 02 – 9pm / Apr 04 – 7pm / Apr 08 – 7pm / Apr 10 – 7pm / Apr 11 – 5pm THE DARK HORSE Apr 04 – 12.30pm / Apr 06 – 7.30pm ROSEWATER Apr 03 – 9pm / Apr 11 – 7pm / Apr 13 – 7.30pm WHAT WE DID ON OUR HOLIDAY Apr 03 – 7pm / Apr 05 – 8pm CITIZENFOUR Apr 04 – 9pm / Apr 05 – 3pm / Apr 13 – 9.30pm ELSA & FRED Apr 04 – 3pm / Apr 05 – 1pm / Apr 11 – 12.30pm / Apr 12 – 11.30am HUMAN CAPITAL Apr 05 – 5.30pm ($15) / Apr 14 – 9.15pm X+Y Apr 09 – 7.30pm / Apr 11 – 9.15pm / Apr 12 – 1.30pm / Apr 14 – 7pm

52 forte

( Jude Law) who pushes things too far, risking a mutiny from the crew.

Some class consciousness enlivens things a little: the captain is pushing things to the limit in part as revenge for being dumped by his former corporate bosses – they tried to salvage the wreck but failed, so these guys are stealing it from under their noses. The weaselly money man (Scoot McNairy) is a coward from the moment they submerge, while the working class crew (especially Ben Mendelsohn) are often greedy, racist and stabby, both back - and the literal kind. If you haven’t seen a sub movie in a while, this is a fun reminder of what you’re missing; if you remember the genre all too well, there’s nothing special about this trip under the sea. the big city after an attempt to get a day off results in the Farmer taking a one-way ride in a caravan into town and waking up with no memory of who he is. You can’t have a farm without a farmer, but their efforts to find him are hampered by being sheep (their disguises are a comedy highlight) in a city patrolled by a ruthless animal control officer. Full of jokes both broad and subtle, and with the warmth that comes from stop-motion animation, this is a charming romp you’d have to be dead inside not to love. It’s a classic. one of the gods slipped him that makes him invulnerable to harm. The love triangle that follows is a complex one, with bandit raids, Manolo refusing to kill a bull, marriage proposals, underworld scheming and eventually a trip to the land of the dead, it’s the kind of story that looks over-stuffed when written down, but the central love triangle is strong enough to ensure that you’ll be fine so long as you stay focused on it. Likewise, the animation style is a little too busy in parts – most of the supporting characters seem a little over designed – but as they’re mainly comedy relief they work ok. It’s a decent enough slice of entertainment, but there’s probably a narrow range of kids for whom this’ll work: little kids might be confused, kids old enough to get it might not be far off wanting to watch Fast & Furious 7 instead.

Director Tim Burton leaves a lot of his usual bag of tricks behind for this one, but while there’s two interesting angles to this story – Walter Keene being a con artist exploiting Margaret, and the idea that mass reproduction in the ‘60s opened “art” up to the general public (there’s more than one reference to Andy Warhol) – Burton isn’t able to make either one seem all that dramatic. The performances are great and the film itself looks wonderful (especially the recreations of beatnikera San Francisco) it’s just that the film never really gives us a reason to care about any of it.

Tickets: $10 concession $12 adult Licensed Candy Bar More movie times and info available online pivotcinema.com.au The Ukranian Community Hall, 57 Pakington St, Geelong West

the wr ap Fast and Furious 7 Ok, so this hasn’t been seen by anyone here at the time of going to press, but advance word is pretty darn strong (and reportedly the death of Paul Walker before filming was completed doesn’t throw the film off balance) so what are you waiting for?

The Duff It’s been a long, long time since we had a high school comedy, so even if this one (about a girl who discovers she’s the Designated Ugly Fat Friend of her group and decides to move upmarket socially) is a bit iffy it’s still going to be worth checking out

Run all Night Liam Neeson’s latest thriller is him doing what he does best – growling and scowling as he kills bad guys – only this time the bad guys used to be his friends and he’s doing it to keep his son alive.

A few flashy touches aside this is meat-and-potatoes action, but the New York setting adds some authentic grit, while Common’s role as a quasi-Terminator seems from another movie entirely.

Chappie It’s a mix between Robocopand a coming-ofage movie and despite some uneven storytelling it all kind of works… unless you happen to take a dislike to Chappie himself, in which case much of this movie is close to unbearable.

Focus Will Smith and Margot Robbie are both very good looking people, so a movie in which they just hang around each other flirting in glamorous locations is pretty much a sure thing.

Insurgent This isn’t quite as impressive as Divergent, but this slowly builds to become an engaging YA drama as the aura of unreality around the divided society (which initially feels like clumsy scriptwriting, and may well be) is revealed to actually be relevant to the characters struggle for freedom. Put another way, there’s a reason why all this takes place in what feels like a generic YA setting.

Home Aliens conquer Earth (don’t worry, they’re nice aliens), but one little girl is still on the loose, and when she teams up with the only alien who actually likes socialising (and who may have accidentally let the alien’s arch-enemy know where they’re hiding out) there’s a whole lot of havoc to be wreaked.

Music Reviews

Super Best Friends

and Closure in Moscow.

Having had a chat to Johnny Barrington, which you can read in this issue, you should go and see these guys when they come to town. They are top blokes playing real aussie punk rock n’ roll and there is no auto tune or electro

beats here, just heavy rock n’ roll. Over the course of the 11 tracks, you’re able to submerse yourself in their quirky lyrics and thundering riffs. ‘ A Billionaire’s Club’ with the lyric ‘we want your brains’ is one of the most intriguing on this release.

Both political and thought provoking, Status Updates is something that you should hear. They are headed out on the road and this is one of my favourite local releases of the year, so take my advice, head out and see them live and buy the album. Then head bang around your lounge room until it hurts because the Status Updates debut album is awesome.

Written by Tex Miller

be on the cusp of breaking. ‘1923’, ‘Curve’ and ‘Cadence’ are great tracks to hear this come to fruition. It soon becomes clear that backing each track with an unwavering power of emotion is where Deena shines brightest.

‘Uncut Diamons III’ comes in like

a blurry dream, percussion, gentle strumming and Deena’s vocals creating the overall allure. It’s a great way to finish off the release as it adds another element to the eight tracks.

From that mesmerising track of ‘Cupid’ things slow down considerably, and aren’t really matched from that point on. Instead things slow down and the emotions of each song become the focus point for the rest of the album. It’s a great album for those after a slow-emotive listen, but don’t be fooled by the first track.

Written by Amanda Sherring

The production on this EP is awesome. The sound of the band is great. The drums are tight, the guitars are heavy and the vocals just take you to another place. Inspired

by Violent Soho, The Audition, and Against Me! You should head

out and see these guys live.

If their EP is anything to go by, their live show will be nothing but electric.

My favourite track is ‘I Dare You To Contradict Me’ it sounds a little like early Grinspoon and, as the second shortest song on the release, it’s addictive and intriguing to hear some synth in the choruses. On tour over the next month all around the country, you should definitely head out and support one of the best Australian punk bands of the moment. This EP has many highlights and offers many air guitar moments, so what are you waiting for?

Written by Tex Miller

Status Updates Gun Fever Records

You might remember Super Best Friends from their song ‘Round and Round’, it featured all the politicians and was a massive hit back in the last election. Well, they have released their debut album and it is one brutal affair.

We got our first taste of the album last year with the song ‘Out Tonight’ and that is just one of the highlights from this album.

Huge drums and snarling vocals are at the front of the mix, which was captured by Tom Larkin who has produced the likes of Bodyjar

Deena BLACK CAT Independent

A deep guitar riff opens the album, Deena’s sultry voice slips into the track and ‘Cupid’ has instantly become the best way to start off Black Cat and mesmerise all.

It’s the kind of bluesy-rock number that you have to thrash your long hair around to – in slow-mo. Deena’s voice is powerful and her ability to manipulate her vocals is clear early on.

Throughout the album her emotions run raw, her voice always seeming to

The Controllers Animals EP Independent

Blasting through my laptop speakers with ‘Nina Fell In Love’ is the opening track to The Controllers new EP Animals. With a healthy mix of heavy drums and bass that makes me smile at this punk rock sound the band has been working hard on these past couple of years. Animals follows up from their debut EP which spawned the single ‘Regression’ which is their most commercially successful song.

Alison Wonderland RUN EMI

There’s something so magical about listening to anything from Alison Wonderland, maybe it’s because she clearly has a passion for what she does or maybe it’s just because she’s damn good at it, either way, her new release Run is the bi-product of both.

Beyond the popular releases of ‘U Don’t Know’ and ‘I Want U’, Alison has created a whole album worthy of hits. ‘Take It To Reality’ is a slow-burner that breaks out in parts offering a chance to get lost in the track.

‘Games’ is a highlight of the album, Alison manipulates her voice in quite original ways and the backing beat just works.

Ironically ‘One More Hit’ falls a bit flat, it seems to hover below the level it needs to really break out. But it’s pretty much the only one that misses the mark.

‘Back It Up’ offers something a bit different, the child-like rapping “back it up” carries the song here with the intensity

the grammar nazi in everyone I’m sure is dying. All grammar comments aside, Run is a pretty great release and just the kind of thing you should put on before a night out.

Written by Amanda Sherring

While ‘Eat It Up’ is a favourite of mine it’s worth giving ‘Dry Spell’ a mention as well as a contender for the highlight of the album.

Ultimately this is the kind of album that is best listened through from start to finish,

letting the noise take over and begin to jangle in your mind.

The Living Eyes is a great band to listen to for anyone who can’t seem to find the right kind of garage-rock to scratch their itch.

Written by Amanda Sherring

the drums also sound massive.

My favourite moment on the record is without doubt ‘Age of Miracles’ it sounds like a pop single and something that could be played on triple j or maybe even Triple M. When you’ve got Paul Epworth

behind the controls – the man behind Adele, Bruno Mars, Paul McCartney and Coldplay – you know you’re in good hands. This album has more highlights than a replay on a football game, and why isn’t it in your CD player yet?

Written by Tex Miller

The Living Eyes LIVING LARGE Flightless

There’s a lot of people out there trying to make the garagepunk-rock genre work for them, but there are few who get it quite as right as Geelong band The Living Eyes do. Living Large is the sophomore release from the four-piece and if there’s anything we know about sophomores it’s when shit gets serious.

‘Eat It Up’ is a highlight on the release, with a fitting guitar riff in the perfect spot. The vocals aren’t perfect, there’s a raspy pitchiness to the song but that’s what slots these guys into the garage-punk genre so well.

The fast pace is maintained throughout the album, so if you’re looking for an easy listen – this isn’t it. But easy often means it isn’t all that good, a good album should be one that grabs your full attention and that’s what Living Large does.

For those after the noisy, messy traditional sounds of garage rock, flick to ‘Guilty Pleasures’ and you’ll find what you’re after.

The Prodigy

The Pop Group

THE DAY IS MY ENEMY

Citizen Zombie

Take Me to the Hospital/ Cooking Vinyl

As pioneers of the post punk scene, The Pop Group are back with their third album. It has taken the most part of 35 years to put together, however it is here and it is awesome. With three of the original members back in the line up, this is the fruits of five years labour since they got back together in 2010. Produced by the legendary Paul Epworth, opening with ‘Citizen Zombie’ this album, right from the get go is huge.

It’s a massive and an impressive opening track.

Keep in mind that this is the first taste of music that anyone has got from the band in 35 years, but there is a certain energy that The Pop Group has that modern day bands just don’t seem to have anymore. From watching some live clips, these guys are one of the most electric bands I’ve ever watched. The sound of this record is just like a live performance.

45 minutes of just killer with no filler. The guitars and the bass bops along on ‘Mad Truth’ and

Listen to The Prodigy’s new album, actually any of their releases, and you’ll sense the anger that wafts through the lyrics, making each track an audio assault.

It’s something that’s become a trademark for the band and a factor they are fully aware of.

Though while each album plays out this way, it gives us the best insight into the underground world and the city at night: a tale that their new album The Day Is My Enemy is well adept at telling.

Title track and opener ‘The Day Is My Enemy’ gives you a taster of what we have come to expect from the band, but the noise grabs are taken a bit far. You get the sense the band thought to each other, ‘Yeah throw that in’ and the resultant sound comes off almost game-ish.

‘Nasty’ makes up instantly for any wrong-doings and is a track that you simply want to lose it to. What follows is an onslaught of Prodigy tunes that I’m sure

increased through Alison’s ability to know the right sounds to use and when.

If there’s only one thing that’s frustrating about Alison Wonderland’s album, it’s her need to abbreviate ‘you’ to just ‘u’ –

Freaks R Us

would fit perfectly into any party scene.

‘Ibiza’ featuring Sleaford Mods adds a new element with a bit of rap breaking up the album. ‘Wild Frontier’, ‘Rhythm Bomb’ and ‘Get Your Fight On’ earn their places as album highlights.

With such a strong following behind them the pressure is pretty immense to

create a release that supersedes the others, and while it mightn’t be their best – that’s always a hard label to give – the album creates a scene, stays true to their style and gives you a look into the British nightlife. I’d say that’s the formula for a great release.

Written by Amanda Sherring

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Music Reviews

Castlemaine State and Fringe Festivals March 13-22 2015 From the refined to the frivolous, the twin Castlemaine events saw halls, theatres, homes and streets buzzing with activity. The State Festival traditionally kicks off with a large scale public launch in the centre of town. This year’s theme was ‘Before & Beyond’. The launch (‘The Big Bang’) celebrated 40 years of CSF in perhaps its most inclusive form yet. One and all were invited to bring picnic fare and chairs for Friday evenings party at the Western Oval. From a raised central stage, long tables radiated out in a wheel of colour. Volunteer gatekeepers/greeters handed out coloured party hats. If you got purple cone, you sat at one of the purple tables. A fun, simple icebreaker. A line up of local musos, indigenous dancers, school bands, movers and groovers began with the yellow, meandering percussive Samba Band. With stages dotted around the oval, the party wound up with Cuban group El Son Entero arriving in vintage automobiles before cranking out Afro-Cuban brassy rhythms. Over at The Fringe Hub, ‘L’Amaze 2015’ music ranged from avant-garde to funk and DJ set.

Every two years, the town and surrounds see programs bulge with innovative events, concerts, exhibitions, tours, mega-parties and you-had-to-be-there happenings. Theatre highlights included John Romeril’s play Going Through.

‘Uncle’ Jack Charles’ told the story of his time served in the venue (Old Castlemaine Gaol) decades earlier. Co-stars James Benedict, Sue Ingleton and Lisa Maza helped tell the story in the former exercise yard, with violinist Nigel MacLean stationed above in the watchtower. Verity Higgins’ The Freda Experience also stepped outside the usual theatre affair. Telling the story of a pioneering Aussie mountaineer, ticket-holders became part of the show set in 1910. Divided into three ‘trekking’ groups, we were led, roped together, through chapters of Freda’s story with actors, evocative projections (by Jim Coad) and an inspired use of the Senior Citz Hall and recently revamped Phee Broadway Theatre. I was censured for my inadequate footwear but can happily report that my strappy sandals allowed no frostbite en route to the ‘summit’ of Mt Cook. Music included an intimate concert by local larrikin Broderick Smith. While Castlemainiacs know his repertoire well, all were touched and amused with Broderick on vocals, yarns and harmonica and Richard Tankard on a gorgeous Kawai grand piano.

The Theatre Royal filled for the psychedelic pop rock of The Cambodian Space Project. As captivating singer Channthy shimmered and shimmied along with Khmer dancers The Spacettes, we were equally mesmerised by groovy Cambodian ‘60s film footage on the big screen behind – funky fabulousness. Charles Jenkins solo set was ideal for the sunny laid-back Sat’dee arvo in Victory Park, ‘Carnival of Community’. Between hula-hoops, high tea, and hay bales, you could kickback, catch up or chow down with ease. Among the range of art displayed by both fests: ‘Mt Renouf: A Truly Unbelievable History’ (hilarious), ‘Loomusica’ (apt and impressive interactive use of the Old Woollen Mill site), ‘Fridgehenge’ (you can guess), CASPA group show, photography celebrating the ‘70s ( Julie Millowick and Carl Dziunka), Neville Cooper’s ‘A Head A Day’ sculpture project at the Old Gaol, Trefor Prest and Family at their Strangways studios, The White Shoebox Gallery and ‘Unsettled’ at the Pennyweight Flat Cemetery.

Director Martin Paten tells me estimates of opening night attendance came in at 4000-5000. I suspect TV ratings were down dramatically in the shire for the duration of festivities. Planning for 2017 starts…now! By Chris Lambie

Last Words

grog watch Tony “The punishment fits the crime” Montana

There’s no better example of the fraught relationship between servant and master than the one on public transport. Specifically that of the bus driver and the poor chumps he or she carries around. On the one hand, the passenger is totally at the mercy of the bus driver: they need to go somewhere and their only option is to stand by the side of the road and hope that a bus will a): come along, b): stop for them and c): take them at least somewhere close to where they want to go. Unlike trains (and if you’re in Melbourne, trams), which run on rails and have stops they pretty much always stop at, buses are a service delivered more on the whim of the driver, as anyone (which is pretty

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much everyone who’s taken a bus) who’s stood at a stop and watched a bus go sailing by without showing the slightest interest in stopping knows only too well. Add in the bonus that buses have a tendency to wander all over the place and occasionally not even arrive at their destination and you have a pretty good idea why buses are the shittiest form of public transport there is if you are a passenger. Everything else filed under “public transport” is more reliable in one way or another, which is just another way of saying everything else filed under “public transport” involves a system that forces the driver to do their job properly. The bus driver is all too often the weak link in the chain. On the other hand, who in their right mind would want to drive a bus? At best it’s repetitious work in a dangerous workplace, at worst you’re dealing with the general public – which makes any job a nightmare – at

their most sullen and criminal. The bus is a lose-lose situation: now my tale can begin in earnest.

I knew something was wrong when the bus arrived early. Actually, that’s not strictly true: a bus arriving early is just part of the crap service you expect when you try to go anywhere by bus, which is why I was at the stop early enough to catch it despite it being five minutes early. Early buses are the worst: with a late bus all you have to do is stick around and eventually it’ll arrive, but with an early bus (especially one that’s been and gone before you get to the stop) you’re left standing there waiting for a bus that isn’t going to arrive without even knowing you’ve been screwed over.

If a bus is late the worst thing that’s going to happen is that you’re late; if a bus is early you’re not going to get there at all. Plus an early bus is a sign of a shitty bus driver: if a bus is held up it’s rarely the bus drivers fault and

there’s not much they can do about it.

Someone with a pram or wheelchair takes ages to get on, an elderly person needs help getting off, a traffic accident holds things up – these things aren’t the drivers fault, and there’s only so fast the bus can go to try and make up the time. But when a bus is early, all the driver has to do is pull over to a stop and wait – in fact, they actually have stops (called timing points) where the bus is meant to do that if it’s running ahead of time. So to be early means the bus driver is 100% responsible for providing a bad service. You can’t stick to a timetable?

Get another job.

Then when I boarded the bus, there was music blaring. This was a worry for two reasons – first, it was 7.30am so what the hell? And second, no one else was on the bus – it was the driver playing music so loud you couldn’t speak to him even if you’d wanted to. Which was something he

clearly wasn’t encouraging. Still, it’s not like I wanted to start up a chat with him so I sat by the back exit as per usual and we raced off. And by “raced off ”, I mean this guy put his foot to the floor, slammed on the brakes every time we reached a stop where someone was waiting (which was pretty much every second stop) and somehow managed to actually gain time from an early start so that by the time we approached the train station we were actually going to get there before the 7.42am to Melbourne – not by much though.

As we reached the station so did the train, so I moved up to the front so I could make a run for it the second we arrived – which we did at the usual breakneck pace. At which point the driver started yelling, and over the blaring music it took me a moment to realise he was yelling at me: “I’m trying to line the bus up and you’re blocking my view!” I looked at him.

I looked out the door. I looked back at him. I looked down at the floor where my feet – and the rest of me – was firmly behind the line they paint on the floor that you’re supposed to stand behind. “Sorry if I made your day any harder,” I said as the doors opened, “mate.” Oooh, sick burn, I thought as I ran for the train (which I caught). And then I spent the rest of the day feeling bad: sure, he was acting like a dickhead, but he was also driving a bus. And no one’s a big enough dickhead to deserve that.

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