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ed's note Given it was our Cheap Eats feature last issue, how did you all go making your way through the list? We’d be lying if we said we weren’t still going through it because we are. Keeping on the food theme but at a different angle we had a chat with Rohan Anderson of Whole Larder Love for our local cover story. It’s not often that we really think about what we eat, how we get it and exactly the process it’s taken to get to our plate. Talking with Rohan was a bit of an insight onto the reality of food consumerism, but
forte issue #616 thursday 9 JUly 2015
just the tip of the iceberg on the discussion. He’ll be chatting at the Bendigo Writers Festival for those interested or you can read more on page 31. On the cover this issue we spoke to Matthew Wright from the Getaway Plan, who told us a little bit more about why the band broke up (then reunited) and their newest release on page 21. But it’s not all deep and meaningful discussions this issue as we also had a chat with The Grates, Josh Pyke, Rick Price, Rod Paine and many others.
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It’s still a little while away yet, but for those who are going to Splendour it’s just a mere 15 days away. I’m sure I’m not the only one but I’m certainly not prepared – and by not prepared I mean not only have I not bought my plane tickets, I don’t have accomodation either. Let the fun begin. Let’s hope by this time next issue I’m a bit more prepared. Also, I went to a party on the weekend and someone took a shit in the bath, seriously what’s up with that? What happened to party etiquette?
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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
Little Homesick Have you ever had that sense of missing home? Of not really knowing exactly where home even is? Well these feelings and more are touched on in Little May’s new single ‘Home’, also with a killer new clip. The band say of the single: “’Home’ was one of the first songs we recorded with Aaron [Brooking Dessner]. It’s an old song, revisited. It had been written three years prior, from a place where a sense of belonging was being constantly chased. I think we will always associate this song, and this whole album, with Hudson and the time we all spent there.”
PLONK!
This Is Your Jam
WHEN: For those who are unfamiliar, OXJAM is a month-long music festival with funds from gigs going towards Oxfam to help fight poverty and injustice. Having its Australian debut, the festival has just announced its list of gigs for the month of August. The ‘Gigs for Good’ feature some of the stellar bands below: Cosmo’s Midnight,WHERE: Fortunes, Feki, Airwolf, Hey Sam, I OH YOU Djs, Joyride, Set Mo, World Champions and Worlds End Press. Though this is merely the shortlist, head to www.oxjam.org.au to see the full list of gigs. MORE INFO:
OXJAM is one unforgettable month of music events across Australia, all in support of Oxfam’s vision of a just world without poverty.
Photo: Dan Medhurst/Oxfam
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Starring Chris Taylor from Chaser’s War on Everything, Joshua Tyler and the show’s creator Nathan Earl, PLONK has officially began screening its second season on Stan. Joining the already stellar cast will be cameos from Maggie Beer, Greg Fleet, Andrew Hansen and more. Follow the trio as they fumble through Australia’s most iconic wine regions leaving a trail of destruction in their path.
Double Trouble Two minds are clearly better than one, and that’s certainly the case for Nathan Williams (Wavves) and Dylan Baldi
(Cloud Nothings) in their collaborative album. The release, titled No Life For Me, was a surprise present to fans. Baldi speaks of the collaborations creation: “I woke up one morning hungover in Paris, which is where I usually live, and I just had a text on my phone that was like, ‘Yo, wanna make a record together?’ I was like, ‘...Okay!’ And that was it. It sounded fun.”
Northlane Signings Want to get up close and personal with Northlane and the scent of sweet permanent marker? It just became possible thanks to the band’s new release, Node. Get yourself a copy of the new album (out July 24) and get to 24Hundred in Melbourne on July 26 at 2pm to get it signed.
Iggy’s Not So Social Let’s be honest, social media hasn’t exactly been kind to Iggy Azalea in the past, what with her fight on Twitter with Azealia Banks and all that. Since then the star has had her Twitter taken under control by management, but has since been able to squeeze out a homophobic tweet and have her tour cancelled as a result. In the newest ‘Iggy Socials’ instalment, it seems she may have pissed off fellow collaborator Britney Spears by saying ‘Pretty Girls’ had no content. Whoops..
A New Community, Maybe When Donald Glover originally left Community it was partly to sign on with FX Networks to create and star in his own comedy show. A few years later and some serious performances, Childish Gambino and Glover have gone on board with FX Networks. His new show will be titled Atlanta and tell the tale of two cousins trying to make it in the Atlanta rap scene. The show is underway, but dates are yet to be released. Uhhhhh....Yes!
Get Intimate with Nick Cave Do you love Nick Cave so much that you wish you could stroke his wild dark mane and look into his intense blue eyes on a daily basis? Well it’s not going to happen. At least not with the real Nick Cave. There’s a pretty good substitute of Cave now in toy form, and in between your children having a play you can share some intimate moments with the [err.. plastic] man himself thanks to Plasticgod.
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A Melbourne Tumbleweed Tumbleweed have been through a bit in the past year or so, but that hasn’t stopped them touring their incredibly riff-laden tunes since their debut in 1992. Taking to the stage once again, the band will hit the Corner Hotel in Melbourne on August 21.
Roll In the Splendour
Rihanna, Bitches and Money Over the years Rihanna has been getting tuffer (yes, tuffer), more explicit and heavier in her music and all without a care in the world. ‘Bitch Better Have My Money’ is no exception and is perhaps Rihanna’s best release to date, covering just that. Pair this with her shoving a lady in a box, tying her up naked and stroking some pointy weapons in the accompanying clip and it’s an absolute yes. If there’s anything we learned from this clip, it’s don’t ever borrow money from Rihanna.
Maybe three days of music is too much for your ears to comprehend, and if that’s the case, Splendour have got your back. The festival have just dropped the details of its Splendour Comedy Club and Splendour Form (presented by The Guardian) bringing you many laughs and juicy topics to discuss. There’ll be a Splendour Q&A with Tony Jones, a keynote interview with director of CIA counterterrorism operations in Pakistan after September 11, John Kiriakou, and many laughs to be had with the likes of Matt Okine, Steen Raskopoulos, Alex Dyson and more. Visit splendourinthegrass.com for more.
Thin Green Line This year, to mark World Ranger Day, The Thin Green Line Foundation will bring you yet another stellar event. This year the event is ‘Declan Kelly Presents Dieseln’Dub’ with performances from soul singer Emma Donovan, Soul hip-hop vocalist Radical
Son, vocalist Pat Powell, front-man of reggae band Kingtide, Tony Hughes and on drums and vocals Declan Kelly – among many others. The event is to support the foundation who work worldwide with park rangers in anti poaching and species protection on the frontline of conservation. The event will be at The Gasometer in Melbourne on July 24 & 25.
Oh, Liberty!! Love them or hate them, the Libertines are a stallmark in the British rock scene, creating guitar anthems and a carefree attitude with everything they do. It’s been 11 years since the band’s last album, but a new one is on the way, and we’re sure the wait will be more than worth it. New single ‘Gunga Din’ is already out, but the album Anthems For Doomed Youth won’t be available until September 4.
Top Gun 2 Is Apparently Happening Who could forget that volleyball scene? Am I right? Regardless of whether you remember the rest of the film, Top Gun is supposedly getting a sequel. Tom Cruise is said to be back in the pilot’s seat, and the news of Top Gun 2 was revealed by Skydance Pictures’ CEO David Ellison, who said Justin Marks is writing the screenplay as we speak.
Courtney Kills It Is there anything Courtney Barnett can’t do? She’s conquered America, created a killer album, mastered the casual T-shirt and jeans combo and has most recently won the heart of The Tonight Show host Jimmy Fallon with her second performance on the show. Her first performance on the show was what contributed to her success over in the States, but with 12 months of experience under her belt, this performance seriously amped things up.
Guitar Lovers Unite Do you love guitars? Of course you do, what a silly question. How could you not love one of the most played and loved instruments in the world? The instrument and its versatility will be celebrated in the upcoming Melbourne Guitar Show on August 8 & 9 at Caulfield Racecourse. Featuring the country’s largest pop-up guitar shop, with hand-made items, one-offs and a stack of your favourites, the show will also feature the cream of the crop of Melbourne performers and seminars, demos and other quality learning opportunities. Maybe you’re already a bit of a pro, or your just starting off, either way this is one show that’ll help you get to that next step a whole lot quicker. Visit australianmusic.com.au/ melbourne-guitar-show for more info.
Rise Up Down Under One of the few socially conscious punk-rock bands remaining, Rise Against will be heading to Australian shores, and hopefully they’ll have a bit to say about what’s up ‘Down Under’! The band play the Margaret Court Arena in Melbourne on December 2, tickets on sale today ( July 9)!
LIVE MUSIC. COMFORT FOOD. WARM FIRE. COLD BEER. DO IT.
Lanks’ Banquet All we need to say to sum up how incredible Lanks is, is to say that he was triple j unearthed’s feature artist last week. That’s it. But to give you a little more, as if you really need it, Lanks has just released his debut EP Banquet mixed by Andrei Eremin (Oscar Key Sung, Chet Faker) and featuring such hits as ‘Hold Me Closer’ and ‘Settle Down’. The release is also supported with a few shows, one in Werribee at Mynt Lounge on July 10 and another at the Workers Club in Melbourne on July 18.
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T H E THURSDAY 9TH JULY
BARWON HEADS HOTEL: Trivia Night from 7:30pm BEAVS BAR: Levi Anderson BENDED: Happy Hour 4-6 BIRD ROCK: Mexican Night; Mi Casa Su Casa, Taqueria and Tequila CHERRY BAR: Soul in the Basement 15th Birthday EDGE GEELONG: Live Music and DJ ELEPHANT & CASTLE: $20 Asahi Seafood & Chips Night EUREKA HOTEL: Eureka Thursdays with local DJs GPAC: Exit the King KAROVA LOUNGE (Ballarat): Dangers, Staunch, Eyes Wide Open, The Orchies LORD OF THE ISLES: Trivia in the courtyard MARTIANS CAFE: $25 International Night including drink MAX HOTEL: Parmi night, Trivia Night PISTOL PETES: Lounge Lizard THE CAPITAL THEATRE (Bendigo): Mary Poppins THE SPHINX HOTEL: Schnitzel Night from $13 THE TOTE: PHAECES, Aktion Unit, Penguins, Necking, Nerve, Peter Bibby & His Hippy Squatters, Gorsha, Half Mongrel ST JAMES: Live DJs SUTTONS HOUSE OF MUSIC (Ballarat): Reef Love: Finding Nemo YAH YAH’s: Black Cobra & Jucifier
FRIDAY 10TH JULY
BABUSHKA BAR (Ballarat): Jessey Jackson BARWON CLUB: Black Cobra & Jucifier BARWON HEADS HOTEL: Happy Hour 5-7pm, Meat Raffle & Members Draw BEAVS BAR: Jack Harman BELMONT HOTEL: Zane Carroll BENDED: Happy Hour 4-6 BIRD ROCK: It’s Friday B!tches BLACK HATT: House Wreckers THE CAPITAL THEATRE (Bendigo): Mary Poppins CHERRY BAR: Knock off Friday’s, Rusty James & His Hellfire Flames CITY QUARTER BAR: Friday Unwind from 5pm. Live with live entertainment and DJ
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THE EASTERN: Ciggie Witch, Cool Sounds, Chips Calipso EDGE GEELONG: Live Music and DJ ELEPHANT AND CASTLE: Thank Guinness It’s Friday EUREKA HOTEL: Live DJs GPAC: Exit the King, Coodabeen Champions THE GROVEDALE HOTEL: Levi & Cody HAMILTON PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE (Hamilton): The big guns of country HOME HOUSE: Homehouse Fridays Party with live DJs KAROVA LOUNGE (Ballarat): Fiver Night, THE LOFT (Warrnambool): Halcyon Drive THE LORD NELSON: Happy Hour 5pm-7pm THE TOTE: Steve Lucas: A tribute Show, Mercies End, Sealed our Fate, Headless, The Nuremberg, Spaulding, Mr Wolf MAX HOTEL: Adventure Playground ODYSSEYTAVERN AND BREWERY: John Henderson THE PALMS AT CROWN: Damien Leith PISTOL PETES: Nick Charles ST JAMES: Live DJs SUTTONS HOUSE OF MUSIC (Ballarat): The 3D’s YAH YAH’s: Fierce Mild
SATURDAY 11TH JULY
BARWON CLUB: Mitchell Troy and The Dogyard Boners BEAVS BAR: Butters BELMONT HOTEL: Peter Chapman BENDED: Happy Hour 4-6 CHERRY BAR: The Mercy Kills Video Launch THE EASTERN: Ben Salter, Ridge Town Porch Band EDGE: Live Music and DJ EUREKA: $5 Night, Orkestrated, GPAC: Exit the King THE GROVEDALE HOTEL: Dean & Jason HER MAJESTY’S THEATRE (Ballarat): Roy Orbison And The Everly Brothers HOMEHOUSE: Winter Pass Launch Party, Keesh, Best Hip Hop & RnB KAROVA LOUNGE (Ballarat): Godwolf
LIGHTHOUSE THEATRE (Warrnambool): The Merger, The Big Guns of Country THE LOFT (Warrnambool): Entitlements, Pridelands, Spooked MARTIANS CAFE: Red Whyte MAX HOTEL: Hey Charger ODYSSEYTAVERN AND BREWERY: Live Music THE PALMS AT CROWN: Mashd N Kutcher PISTOL PETE’S: Jack Derwin SAINTS & SAILORS (Portarlington): Live Music THE SPHINX HOTEL: Chocolate Starfish, Regular Boys ST JAMES: Afterlife ft Handsdown, Live DJs: House, Hip Hop, RnB SUTTONS HOUSE OF MUSIC (Ballarat): Mick Dogs Bone Yard THE CAPITAL THEATRE (Bendigo): Mary Poppins THE TOTE: Striper, Power, Leather Lickers, Mulitple Man, Lucy Cliche, Lakes, Regional Curse, Kokpit DJ’s, City of cool, The Church of Hysteria, The Girl Fridas YAH YAH’s: Torrential Thrill, Glen and the peanut butter men
SUNDAY 12TH JULY
BARWON CLUB: Test Pilot Molly BEAVS BAR: Aine Tyrrell BENDED: Happy Hour 4-6 BIRD ROCK: Sunday Sessions $9 Pizzas 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: Jason Hoekstra GPAC: Exit the King, The Fairies ODYSSEYTAVERN AND BREWERY: Rachel Brennan SAINTS & SAILORS (Portarlington): Live Music ST JAMES: Live Music & DJs THE CAPITAL THEATRE (Bendigo): Mary Poppins THE SPHINX HOTEL: Carvery from $17 THE TOTE: Lehmann B Smith, Pleasure Dome, Disparo!, Graves, Hailgun,
Bombs Over Brunswick, Pagan, Years of Abuse YAH YAH’s: Passerine
OLD HEPBURN HOTEL (Hepburn Springs): Roast night
MONDAY 13TH JULY
THURSDAY 16TH JULY
BENDED: Happy Hour 4-6 ELEPHANT & CASTLE: $20 Steak & Drink night CHERRY BAR: Jerry Jam Mondays GEELONG RSL: Members Draw, over $3000 in prizes to be won! OLD HEPBURN HOTEL (Hepburn Springs): Parmi night THE CAPITAL THEATRE (Bendigo): Cushion Concert THE SPHINX HOTEL: Meals for $11
TUESDAY 14TH JULY
BENDED: Two Choice Tuesdays CHERRY BAR: From Oslo w Angry Seas, A Basket of Mammoths ELEPHANT & CASTLE: $20 Steak & Drink night GEELONG RSL: Steak Night $13 OLD HEPBURN HOTEL (Hepburn Springs): Parmi night
WEDNESDAY 15TH JULY
BABUSHKA BAR (Ballarat): Karaoke THE BARWON HEADS HOTEL: Master of Dartness and Poker from 7pm BEAVS BAR: Open Mic, Karaoke, Dave Anderson BENDED: Parmi Paradise & pub Trvia BIRD ROCK: Drinks Specials, Ping Pong Challenge CHERRY BAR: Black Cobra & Jucifier ELEPHANT AND CASTLE: Trivia Night from 8pm. THE EASTERN: Warm up Wednesday 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: Love, Love, Love HAMILTON PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE (Hamilton): The Dancers Company MAX HOTEL: Lukey’s Open Mic Night, $10 Burger night ODYSSEY TAVERN AND BREWERY: Live Music, Crafty Burger Night
BEAVS BAR: Andy Forster BENDED: Juggernauts Back to School Party BIRD ROCK: Mexican Night; Mi Casa Su Casa, Taqueria and Tequila CHERRY BAR: Fulton Street EDGE GEELONG: Live Music and DJ ELEPHANT & CASTLE: $20 Asahi Seafood & Chips Night EUREKA HOTEL: Eureka Thursdays with local DJs GPAC: Exit the King, Love, Love, Love LORD OF THE ISLES: Trivia in the courtyard MARTIANS CAFE: $25 International Night including drink MAX HOTEL: Parmi night, Trivia night ODYSSEY TAVERN AND BREWERY: Live Music, Crafty Burger Night PISTOL PETE’S: LIVE MUSIC THURSDAYS: Kay Gibbons & The Bluedogs THE SPHINX HOTEL: Schnitzel Night from $13 ST JAMES: Live DJs THE CAPTIAL: Rick Price, YAH YAH’s: Tomb Hanx
FRIDAY 17TH JULY
BABUSHKA BAR (ballarat): Melody Pool BARWON CLUB: Seth Sentry, BARWON HEADS HOTEL: Happy Hour 5-7pm, Meat Raffle & Members Draw BEAVS BAR: Luke Biscan BELMONT HOTEL: Lach Cartledge BENDED: Happy Hour 4-6 BIRD ROCK: It’s Friday B!tches BLACK HATT: Public Nuisance CHERRY BAR: Knock Off Friday’s, Sun God Replica, Powerline Sneakers, The Empties CITY QUARTER BAR: Friday Unwind from 5pm. Live with live entertainment and DJ THE EASTERN: Rotten Cheek, Cynical Fuckwit, Drain Life, Crossed, Smack Baby EDGE GEELONG: Live Music and DJ ELEPHANT AND CASTLE: Thank Guinness
c alendar It’s Friday EUREKA HOTEL: $5 Night, Live DJS GPAC: Love, Love, Love, Evita THE CAPITAL THEATRE (Bendigo): The Women of Wool THE GROVEDALE HOTEL: Levi & Cody HER MAJESTY’S THEATRE (Ballarat): HOME HOUSE: Homehouse Fridays Party with DJs KAROVA LOUNGE (Ballarat): 11th Birthday THE LOFT (Warrnambool): Soul Safari, Tank Dilemma THE LORD NELSON: Happy Hour 5pm-7pm MAX HOTEL: After Five ODYSSEY TAVERN AND BREWERY: James Sidebottom PISTOL PETES: Luke Watt SAINTS & SAILORS (Portarlington): Live Music SUTTONS HOUSE OF MUSIC (Ballarat): The People THE TOTE: The Television Addicts, Fire Escape Goats, Hits, Power YAH YAH’s: Tarantinos
SATURDAY 18TH JULY
BABUSHKA BAR: Disco Computer & Symmetrix BARWON CLUB: Morth BEAVS BAR: Jack Harman BELMONT HOTEL: Matt Baird BENDED: Happy Hour 4-6 BLACK HATT: 4 Local Bands CHERRY BAR: Crowestory: Black Crowes Tribute THE EASTERN: Wildeornes, Holy Serpent, Good Time Aussie Bogalars EDGE: Live Music and DJ EUREKA: $5 Night, Teddy Cream GPAC: Love, Love, Love, Evita THE GROVEDALE HOTEL: Dear Ivy HAMILTON PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE (Hamilton): Scottish Fiddle Workshop HER MAJESTY’S THEATRE (Ballarat): The New Astaire Rogers: I Wont Dance HOMEHOUSE: Live DJ’s Best Hip Hop & RNB KAROVA LOUNGE (Ballarat): 11th Birthday ft Smith Street Band, THE LOFT
(Warrnambool): The Pretty Littles MAIN BAR: Benny C and the Associates MAX HOTEL: This’s for Abbey ODYSSEYTAVERN AND BREWERY: Eric Stribley OLD HEPBURN HOTEL: Matt Gurry THE PALMS AT CROWN: Bjorn Again, Who Killed Mickey PISTOL PETE’S: Zevon Hiltz SAINTS & SAILORS (Portarlington): Live Music ST JAMES: Live DJs: House, Hip Hop, RnB SUTTONS HOUSE OF MUSIC (Ballarat): Salty Dog CD Launch YAH YAHS: Hugo Race & The True Spirit, Sisters Doll THE TOTE: Striper
SUNDAY 19TH JULY
BARWON CLUB: Good Faces for Radio BENDED: Happy Hour 4-6 BIRD ROCK: Sunday Sessions $9 Pizzas BLACK HATT: Sydney Hotshot Show CHERRY BAR: Housewreckers, Benny C & The Associates, Leez Lido, Divine Fluxes, Bianca Jane 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 EUREKA: Teddy Cream, GEELONG RSL: $13 Carvery lunch THE LORD NELSON: Sunday Funday Live Music ODYSSEYTAVERN AND BREWERY: Bethany LyallGreen SAINTS & SAILORS (Portarlington): Live Music THE SPHINX HOTEL: Carvery from $17 SUTTONS HOUSE OF MUSIC (Ballarat): The Little Brass Brand THE TOTE: Doors, The Glory Box, Autohaze, Underground Lovers, Snowy Life, Pleasure Dome
MONDAY 20TH JULY
BARWON CLUB: $10 Parmis BENDED: Happy Hour 4-6, Steak night CHERRY BAR: Cherry Jam Mondays
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 21ST JULY
BENDED: Two Choice Tuesdays CHERRY BAR: From Oslo w Cosmic Kahuna, Low Fly Incline ELEPHANT & CASTLE: $20 Steak & Drink night GEELONG RSL: Steak Night $13 KAROVA LOUNGE (Ballarat): Seth Sentry OLD HEPBURN HOTEL (Hepburn Springs): Parmi night
WEDNESDAY 22ND JULY
170 RUSSELL: MSMR, George Maple, Tigertown BABUSHKA BAR (Ballarat): Karaoke THE BARWON HEADS HOTEL: Master of Dartness and Poker from 7pm BEAVS BAR: Open Mic, Karaoke, Luke Biscan BENDED: Parmi Paradise & pub trivia BIRD ROCK: Drink Specials, Ping Pong Challenge CHERRY BAR: The Mary Godsmiths 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 HAMILTON PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE (Hamilton): The Winners Tour KAROVA LOUNGE (Ballarat): Seth Sentry THE CAPITAL THEATRE (Bendigo): Fashion Festival MAX HOTEL: Lukey’s Open Mic Night, $10 Burger night ODYSSEY TAVERN AND BREWERY: Crafty Burger Night OLD HEPBURN HOTEL (Hepburn Springs): Roast night PISTOL PETES: Food and Blues
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What do you miss most about being a kid?
Not having responsibilities and not even knowing what stress means. Cat café: yes or no?
I don’t know enough about it. I would have to be sure that they were being treated well by everyone at all times. But fuck yeah, hanging out with cats and drinking coffee is amazing! A band you wish had never broken up and why?
Shit, that’s a tough one. I dunno us, because we probably should have just gone on hiatus or something. Recording or performing?
It’s hard to say, they’re both as equally awesome to me for completely different reasons. Recording because the pressure isn’t there as much but playing live is kind of where you lose yourself the most. What’s the first thing you do when you get home from tour?
Try and find my cat basically. That or generally face-plant on my bed, and let out a nice big death rattle as I fall onto it.
The Getaway Plan FEATURE STORY Written by Amanda Sherring
In 2009 to many fans’ surprise – and horror – The Getaway Plan went separate ways at the peak of their career. “I don’t blame people [for being upset], it was totally out of the blue. We didn’t give much of an explanation at the time and it was a bit rude the way we broke up for sure,” frontman Matthew Wright says. Behind the scenes things were much more tense, band members came and went (Benny Chong left in 2006 with original band members not returning for the reunion), Matt was diagnosed with depression and it was all a case of too much too soon. The band was young, and things just simply weren’t working out how they’d expected. But with time the group could reflect on where they went wrong. “We’ve matured
so much and worked so much in our time off that we’ve learned to be so much more appreciative of what we have now,” he says. “Before we kind of took it for granted because we came straight out of school and instantly we were a touring band that was away for eight months of the year, and our success came on pretty early for us. But things were very easy for us from the beginning and we just really took
things for granted and having the time off we realised what we missed. It’s worth a lot.” Their growth individually as musicians and people sparked the idea of a reunion – which at the time wasn’t meant to be a permanent thing. “At the first reunion show we had the response we received at that show had a massive part in us choosing to stay together from there on,” Matt says. “There was also the fact we’d discussed between us that we felt
we weren’t finished with making music just yet – that we needed to write more together. But the crowd response at that show was absolutely incredible, and we knew as soon as we got off that stage that it was 100 per cent from there – we had to continue.” Now having been together (for the second time) for almost five years, there’s a new album on the way: Dark Horses. The 11-track release features much of the Getaway Plan sound
we’ve come to love, but also touches on what they’ve experienced over the past few years. For Matt, the album was so much more than the album to follow on from 2011’s Requiem, it was a means of getting his passion back for making music – something he lost sight of during the tougher moments of his depression. “I don’t think I’d be in the place that I am now having overcome a lot of that without this record. There’s no way I’d be where I am,” he says. For anyone who’s suffered from depression, or known someone who has, facing the diagnosis to begin with can be one of the biggest hurdles before getting better. For Matt, he made that hurdle even bigger in telling his fans on social media. “I was very
apprehensive, but more so because I didn’t want people to think that it was like a ‘woeis-me’ story,” he says. “I really wanted to do that because I had recognised and I had experienced how difficult it was to share that with other people. I wanted to show people how important it was to be able to make that step and do that, and the response was really really lovely.” While labels have never interfered with creating albums in the past, this time around the band have chosen to be completely label free – enabling them to decide exactly how they want to be seen, whether that’s through artwork or the singles that are released to radio. It’s refreshing to know that the haunting silhouette in a run down
building that graces the Dark Horses cover was hand-picked by the band members. Talking to Matt it’s clear that it’s all a relatively recent project, and one that’s very fresh in his mind. “We actually only finished it about a few weeks ago, because we had to go back and make some changes to the masters,” Matt says. “We mastered it about a month and a half ago and then after we mastered it we found out one of the songs couldn’t be on the record, so we had to go back and put another song together. So we only finished just over two weeks ago and last week when I was driving in my car I had a really good experience listening to the whole thing.” To support the new release they’ll soon be heading out to capital cities. And if there’s
anything that Matt’s going to miss while on tour it’s his cat – who unfortunately won’t be hitting the road with the band. “No way he would fucking hate that!” Matt adds laughing. “Of course, we all have cats that we miss heaps while we’re away.” If you’re feeling depressed or simply want someone to talk to, call Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14. Release: Dark Horses is available at all good retailers now When&Where: Corner Hotel, Melbourne – May 22, Werribee Plaza Hotel, Werribee - October 29, Workers Club, Geelong - October 31 & Whalers Hotel, Warrnambool November 27
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Morten Granau Q&A
DJing and producing at a barely legal age, the Danish talent has been listed as one of the most up-and-coming talents in the scene. We had a chat to the producer ahead of his performance at earthcore – a festival he’s thoroughly looking forward to.
Hi Morten thanks for taking the time out to chat with Forte, how are you and what are you up to at the moment? Hi there, I am good thanks. At the moment I’m working in the studio and travelling a lot around the world. We saw you’ve been hitting up the studio with Royal Flush recently, any chance you could give us a little insight into what we can expect from the collaboration? Yes, I started a track together with Royal Flush who are two really talented producers from Israel. They really are very inspiring to work with. I can’t say too much just yet but the collaboration has been going great so far. I can say that you can definitely expect some ‘Kick ‘n’ Bass’! Though you have collaborated with others as well, do you prefer to work with others and share ideas? To be honest I like both. Sometimes it’s better to work alone and sometimes it’s better to work with others – it really depends on the scenario and the collaborator. Everybody has their own way of producing, so the good thing about working with other producers is that
you always learn new production tricks. I guess collaborating certainly helps to mix things up but you also have your own label 432 Records, how have things been going? The new label 432 Records is something I started with three of my best mates (Phaxe, Joel & Martin Vice) and it’s going really well. Our first release Phaxe & Morten Granau ‘The Collective’ was number one on the global Beatport chart for more than a month! So that has been a really good framework to build up from and it’s just been expanding from there on in! Is it easy for you to be able to juggle your numerous projects? Yes, to be honest for me it’s not a problem as I enjoy making music.
When&Where: Earthcore, Pyalong – November 26-30
You’ve been announced as one of the artists performing at Earthcore in Australia, is this your first time at the festival? Excited? This will be my first time at Earthcore and I’m really excited! I’ve heard so many good things about the festival, and from what I’ve seen it looks like an awesome event! Given you’ve performed all over the world, how do us
Aussie’s compare? Do we know how to party? The Aussie’s for sure know how to party, that’s also why it’s one of my favourite countries to play in. One thing I have noticed when playing in Australia is they are much more into organic sounds, and not these small breaks all the time. They sure like to dance! Out of everywhere you’ve performed, who has been the craziest crowd?
It’s hard to say because crowds can be good in so many different ways. However, I can confidently say that Australia is definitely one of the craziest crowds on the global scene.
Coodabeen Champions Written by Abbey King
They’ve been on the airwaves for 35 years now and will be hitting the road with a brand new live stage show to celebrate, I spoke to Ian Cover of the Coodabeen Champions about their upcoming opening show at GPAC on July 10. “All the features that we have on our radio show we will be bringing to the stage, so there will be plenty of banter from us, with audience participation, a segment with our footy talkback, a whole heap of songs by Greg Champion and the opportunity for a communal sing-along of some of the most popular footy songs,” Ian says. The Coodabeens first hit the airwaves in 1981 on 3RRR and over the years their line up went through a number of changes – just like a football team would go through a number of line up change – before eventually establishing their final line up which includes Billy Baxter, Geoff “Torch” McGee and musician Greg Champion as well as Ian. They have managed to stay at the top of their game, finishing off 2013 and 2014 at number one position in their timeslot and so far in 2015 continue to dominate. Geelong has long been of great interest to the Coodabeens, with Ian growing up in Geelong – now living in Barwon Heads – and even starting his career at the Geelong Advertiser. “Myself and Billy Baxter, we went to Belmont High School and have been mates ever since – that was back in 1968. Back in those old school days we appeared in what was the old Plaza Theatre in various school concerts and stuff, which is actually now the GPAC Theatre. I’ve
been back on that stage a few times hosting various things but this will be the first time Billy and I will be back on that stage together since year 12 in about 1973,” Ian says. A very similar show the Coodabeens did last September at the Arts Centre was a great success, so the guys have been very much looking forward to taking their Anniversary Tour to towns including Geelong, Dandenong, Hamilton, Colac, Sale and Warrnambool and a number of others. “We’ve been talking about what we’re going to do for a while, there’s a few emails floating about – it’s like a football match, we’ve got to put in an effort of two halves, the first half and second half we’ve got a structure then what happens after that is a bit like
our footy show. We have a format for the footy show, a running sheet, then whatever happens after that is pretty much spontaneous. We did a similar show to this last September at the Playhouse at the Arts Centre, it went well and was a sell out, so we decided to take it on the road and do a similar thing at some of the theatres around the state.” The shows content will be similar to their radio show and encourage as much audience participation as possible. “As has been the approach to the show throughout the years, we don’t have a script, we just sort of turn up of a Saturday morning for our radio and just make it up as we go, so it will be pretty much the same format with our concert show. We’ve got a million things to talk about, it will just depend on what’s in the news that day so who knows where it might go, we may recognise someone in the audience or they may raise something that provides as a catalyst for a segment,” he laughs. “Greg will be pulling out all his best Geelong songs, like to the tune of It’s A Long Way To The Top by AC/ DC, It’s A Long Way To Geelong When The Cats Are On At Home. It would be great if everyone that’s coming along could don some footy colours, scarves or jumpers or whatever, we had that in Melbourne and it was really great, that way it makes it easier for us to target people.”
When&Where: 10 July- Geelong Performing Arts Centre, Geelong – July 10, Colac Otway Performing Arts, Colac – August 26 & Lighthouse Theatre, Warrnambool – September 15
Holy Serpent Q&A
Worshippers of the ‘70s psych rock sound, Holy Serpent are bringing it back in true ‘70s fashion. We had a chat to the legends in the midst of their Shroom Doom tour, where antics were plentiful!
Hey guys, thanks for taking the time to chat with Forte magazine, how are you and what are you up to at the moment? Hey! We are good thanks, just chilling in the back of the tour van on our way to Sydney for a couple shows there over the next two nights. So the album’s been out for a little while, congrats, how are you feeling now that it’s out in the world? It’s an amazing feeling having an album out, especially on vinyl and having it released by the coolest label. What’s the feedback been like so far? Everything’s been extremely positive, no bad reviews... was kinda expecting someone to pan the record but everyone’s just been stoking out on it! We are bloody thrilled! It always seems to be the case, once a band release their album they never listen to it again, has that been the same for you guys? Hah, we’re not sick of the songs yet. We definitely are focusing on the future though, looking forward and not slowing down. You’re currently in the midst of your ‘Shroom Doom’ tour, have you experienced your own bit of shroom doom? Any memorable tales? 22 forte
Absolutely. Not sure how much we can say but..... we have had our fair share of psychedelic drugs and wild nights... Reality has seemed a bit warped these past few days. We all know touring can be crazy times, how have the past shows been? Are you all holding up okay? This is our first tour so obviously we’ve been partying super hard and yes we are feeling pretty tired and out of mojo, nothing a few beers and a joint can’t fix though! It seems you’ve been hanging out with quite a few other talented band members, do you like spending time with likeminded individuals? Everyone’s just so friendly and cool as fuck, so many God-damn talented people. It’s always
cool hanging out with cats that are into the same things as you! How’d you go translating the album into a live setting? We pretty much play it exactly as it is on the record. There’s a few changes, some parts go a lil’ longer live. We wrote and recorded it before playing a show so kinda had to learn it for the live show in a way yeah...
Now that one’s done and dusted, have you made plans to start writing for the next one? Yep, it’s well on the way. We wanna release album #2 early next year so have been writing as much as we can. Any final words of wisdom you’d like to share with our readers? Make sure you pick the right kinda mushrooms and enjoy the festive season!!
When&Where: The Eastern Station Hotel, Ballarat – July 18 & Brunswick Hotel, Melbourne – July 19
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If You Like a Ukulele Lady
Party in the House
Ukulele players unite! The ‘Ukulele Queen of the Bellarine’, Sarah Carroll, has teamed with Ukulele Carnivale for a couple of shows to spread the joy of the little instrument that could. Sarah Carroll is well known for her work with The Junes, The Cartridge Family and The Pirates of Beer, as well as her partner Chris Wilson. She also teaches guitar and ukulele and is a tutor at the popular Blues Boot Camp. Ukulele Carnivale is the combined talents of Narelle Jolley and Susan Russell. In their short time (they formed in mid-2013), they have supported the likes of Tex Perkins and Shane Howard. Old Church on the Hill, Bendigo – July 25 & Old Hepburn Hotel, Hepburn Springs – July 26.
There comes a time in every band’s life where they need to put on their big boy pants (or indeed big girl pants, if it be) and head out into the big, wide world. And that time has come for Northeast Party House. After five years of doing their thing in Australia, the band has lined up some dates in Europe, the UK and the US later in the year. However, they have a little business to do on local soil before they check out. Say hello to the Later ’Straya tour. The Karova, Ballarat – August 14 (with The Pretty Littles and REIKA) & The Barwon, Geelong – August 15 (with The Pretty Littles and Osaka). Oh, the band felt you should know that they have been working on new material.
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Shake Off the Blues The Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival takes place this month. Have you got your ticket yet? Well, you don’t need one, as the majority of the festival is free! That’s the best news you’ll receive all day. More than 40 acts will perform throughout the event which is expected to attract crowds approaching 20,000. Performers include Louis King & the Liars Klub, Dreamboogie, the George MacFloyd Blues Band, White Lightning, Genevieve Chadwick, Sean McConnell, Tex Miller, Three Kings, Safari Motel, Marshall Okell, Andrea Marr and Geoff Achison. The festival takes place across July 24, 25 and 26 with further information available through winterblues.com.au.
Step Right Up Circus Quirkus is a modern take on traditional circuses of the past. The circus is one of the fundraising bodies of International Entertainment, an organisation that works on behalf of IDFA (Immune Deficiencies Foundation Australia). By purchasing a ticket to one of their shows, donors enable children and families whose lives are difficult due to illness, disability or poverty, to have a great few hours of firstrate entertainment. Circus Quirkus performers include Kane Peterson (tightwire), Jess McCrindle (tight-wire and hoops) and Haileyesus Wendesen (bounce juggler). The Arena, Geelong – August 5 & Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo – August 6. Ticketing information is available through circusquirkus.com.au.
On the Regional Warpath Okay, campers, rise and shine, and don’t forget your booties ’cause it’s coooold out there today … It’s coooold out there every day. What is this, Miami Beach? Not hardly. But you know, you can still expect some blistering performances from thrash metal kings King Parrots as they make their way through regional Australia. In the Know readers, I am looking at you. No seriously, I am looking at you. What were you thinking with that top? 2015 has seen the release of Dead Set, their second album and one to feature a dude you may know called Phil Anselmo. Yes, the former Pantera, now Down, frontman. The Barwon, Geelong – August 13 & The Karova, Ballarat – August 15. 24 forte
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Shades of Red He surfs and sings, sings and surfs, does Red Whyte. Born in Geelong, Whyte was a drummer in a former life, providing the beat for reggae outfit Beatnik Boulevard. Inked Factor was another of his bands, a surf rock Sonic-Youth inspired outfit who released three albums. You can throw Surfusion in there as well, a band that was born out of the surf of Bells Beach back in 2002. As a solo artist, Whyte, whose multi-genre music is inspired by nature and the ocean, comes armed with guitars, drum and percussion, bass, harmonic flute, mandolin, didge and sitar. He also has a collection of a dozen or so albums under his belt. You can share a drink with him at Martians Café, Deans Marsh on July 11.
In the Light of Day The second annual Light of Day Australia concert is to take place a little later in the month at The Piping Hot Chicken Shop, Ocean Grove, July 24 & July 25. Light of Day Australia is the local offshoot of the US organisation that grew out of a 40th birthday for music industry veteran Bob Benjamin, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 1998. The first official Light of Day concert took place in 2000 at Asbury Park and featured Bruce Springsteen and Joe Grushecky and the Houserockers. Last year, Ocean Grove and Geelong communities came together for the local leg, with their events raising several thousand dollars for Parkinson’s Victoria. Keep an eye on lightofdayaustralia. com for further news.
The Ballifornian Highway The Ballifornian Highway Patrol will be out in full force for Disco Computer and Symmetrix who are set to deliver a night of beats, breaks, guitars and dancing at Ballarat’s Babushka Bar on July 18. The brainchild of Tony Irvine, Disco Computer formed in 2006 with a heavy influence of dance, pop and electronica. However, ditching the laptop in favour of keyboards and recruiting Monika Ciura on vocals proved to be the real masterstroke. Marita Ryan is behind Symmetrix, a vibrant mixture of indiepop and electronica. What started out as one person making beats on a laptop has evolved into an electro-pop fusion of layered samples, beats and guitars. And this show, my friends, is yours for free.
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Hometown Evangeline Music, as we know, can be a great healer, both for the listener and often those behind the music. Geelong gal Evangeline recently released her debut single ‘Chemicvl’, a dark electro-pop number about the loss of a friend to drugs, written while she was still at school. “The song is almost an inner war with myself. It delves between substance abuse, how it can seem like a magical thing, how it is an escape for some and how it affected the one person this song was about,” she told The AU Review. “This song was just a bittersweet reflection. In ten words, this song is a mixed reality and an honest reflection.” Pip Norman (TZU) is behind the track’s production, while the likes of Jan Skubiszewski (Way of the Eagle), The Amity Affliction’s Dan Brown, Neal Sutherland (Bertie Blackman) and acclaimed singer-songwriter Mark Wilkinson have all lent their services in one way or another. Born and raised in Geelong, Evangeline is a classically trained singer and pianist. After three years of intense study, she achieved the highest classical grade in opera. However, the pull of pop music proved too great, leading her to the direction of Razor Recordings who were unable to deny her talent. Make sure you head on down to her hometown launch at Bended on July 19.
The Suburbs of Perry Keyes Songman Perry Keyes has been referred to as “Redfern’s answer to Bruce Springsteen”, while Peter Garrett has said, “Peter is the real deal; songs from the heart, from the Aussie street. He is a rare talent.” The Sydney Morning Herald, meanwhile, said “Perry Keyes is a Sydney romantic who can see the battered beauty beneath the gloss.” Yet, despite this, his name is not as familiar as many Australian songwriting greats, though it probably should be. Keyes’s dad was a part-time SP bookie and full-time streetsweeper, while his mum worked at the WD&HO Wills cigarette factory in Kensington. His first band was the Stolen Holdens, originally dubbed Leb Zetland because three of the band’s members were Lebanese. Throughout the ’90s he remained largely absent from music, later picking up work as a taxi driver. In 2002, Bek-Jean Stewart and Grant Shanahan of Sydney band Eva Trout helped him break out of his musical hibernation. On his fourth album, Sunnyholt, the songman paints a picture of life in Sydney’s western suburbs; a life he knows from growing up in Redfern. The Eastern, Ballarat – July 24. Sunnyholt is the first of a two albums series, with part two, The Great Western Highway, also due this year.
Ewes, Brews & Plenty of Blues It’s ‘number five is alive’ for the Bendigo Blues and Roots Music Festival in 2015. For those late to the party, the festival is the brainchild of local Colin Thompson and features four days of performances and workshops throughout Bendigo and surrounding towns. Putting on an event like this isn’t easy, so scattered throughout the year are several artist showcases and festival fundraisers. Ewes, Brews, Stews & Blues is a ripping family-friendly day out. It’s run in partnership with the Bendigo Festival of Lamb and Bendigo Beer and features plenty of great music and grub. Lining up you have Alawishus Jones & The Outright Lies, Alister Turrill & The Vagabond Brothers, Andy Garlick, CASS (Cassie Ward & Bianca Maes), DIGG, Josh Cashman, Josh Owen, Luke Harrington, Luke Watt, Sleepy West ( Joel English & Band), Talisa Jobe and William Alexander. A highlight is sure to be the second heat of the Lazenby Young Blues Guitarist Award. At the time of writing the menu was being finalised, but you should be good to go now. Tickets are cheap, too, with adults $15, U18 a cool fiver and under 12s free. Goldmines Hotel, Bendigo – July 19. Further information on the showcase/fundraiser, as well as the festival, can be found through bendigobluesandroots.com.au.
Birds of a Feather Towards the end of last month, Jacqui Sterling, Kelly Breuer (The Brouhaha) and Ria Loof climbed aboard Kelly’s bus for an intimate ‘boutique’ two-week tour under the Birds of a Feather banner. The tour is just about done and dusted, but those who call Ballarat’s Babushka Bar their local have a chance to catch a performance on July 11. With inspiration brewed in the small coastal town of San Remo, Jacqui Sterling creates acoustic soul music through a blend of progressive folk, Celtic roots and storytelling. She released her debut EP, Bird in the Hand, in 2005 and hopes to release the album Birds of a Feather before the year closes. The album features ‘Holy Ghost’, a track featuring Clare Bowditch. Known as the ‘Adelaide roots warrior’, Kelly Breuer is feel-good soul music – with foot percussion. She is currently crafting a four-track EP for 2016, with a double album (if all goes according to plan) for 2017. With a passion for singing, dancing and acting, Ria began her songwriting career in her teens. As well as her own music, Ria has become one of Adelaide’s most sought-after backing vocalists, sharing the stage with the likes of Michael Bublé, Daryl Braithwaite, James Reyne, John Schumann and Lisa Edwards.
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Front Rowe Centre The son of musicians, folk/ roots artist Jed Rowe grew up in rural NSW but has called Melbourne home since 2003. He started life as a solo performer, releasing his debut, Life, in 2006, before forming The Jed Rowe Band. His latest release is The Last Day of Winter, an album produced by Jeff Lang and one that features Can Canteri and Justin Bernasconi of The Stillsons. Lang also produced Rowe’s 2012 album The Ember and the Afterglow. Ararat Live, Ararat – August 21. If you want a greater insight into the creation of the album, you can check out the interview he did with Australian Musician’s Greg Phillips through australianmusician.com.au.
Sitting Aloft 11 Years of Heaven So, The Karova is turning 11. They’re pretty excited about it, as we are too. We love us a good birthday at Forte. Hell, we love us a bad one. But it’s not about us. It is about the wonderful Ballarat venue that continues to open its doors to music of all types. There are two big, big days coming your way this month – July 17 and July 18. July 17 welcomes The Babe Rainbow (pictured), Them 9’s, White Bleaches, Robot Fox, Desert Mules and Chips Calipso among others, while July 18 welcomes The Smith Street Band, Horris Green and Gangz among others. There will probably be all sorts of celebratory-type behaviour happening as well. You may even find the love of your life … or at the very least a good beer or two.
One to Rule Them All There was a time when Ja Rule and Ashanti ruled the music world. Ja Rule made his debut with 1999’s Venni Vetti Vecci, an album alluding to the Latin phrase ‘veni, vidi, vici’ meaning ‘I came, I saw, I conquered’. Throughout his golden years, the Hollis, Queens, rapper teamed with the likes of Christina Milian on ‘I’m Real’, Jennifer Lopez on ‘Ain’t it Funny’ and Steven Seagal on Half Past Dead. He also teamed with Ashanti, who will be Ja Rule’s touring buddy. Ashanti released her self-titled debut in 2002, which sold over 500,000 copies in its first week. ‘Foolish’ was a monster track, coming in at #19 in Billboard’s ‘Hot 100 Songs of the Decade’. The Pier, Geelong – July 19.
The Loft in Warrnambool has a couple of ripping shows this weekend. Tomorrow night, July 10, welcomes Halcyon Drive. Halcyon Drive is Michael Oechsle and Max Pamieta, two music lovers from two sides of suburban Melbourne who discovered good things can happen when they are together. Armed with one guitar and one-and-a-half drum kits, the pair’s alt-pop sound gave birth to their debut EP, Cruel Kids, last year. On July 11, it is local outfit Entitlements’ turn. Last month the band wrapped up a tour with Adelaide’s Hindsight which took them to Canberra, Newcastle, Adelaide and Melbourne. They also recently released their debut EP The Change in Me.
Time to Get Loud Bendigo’s Music Man rolls out another of their Live N Loud specials tomorrow night, July 10. Doors open at 8 p.m. before Makeshift gets the music going at 9 p.m. The Lost Tacos, Eater of the Sky, $2 Peeps and Dipsticks also get a
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run. Much merriment is assured, while the first ten people through the door will be the first ten people through the door. Seriously, the music is enough.
Slow Gum Gorman It was a magical month of May for Fraser A. Gorman, who spent his time gigging around the UK as he became hot property. Growing up in Torquay, a place widely known for its surf scene, Fraser instead found his home in music. With his old-world style of storytelling, the young songman falls into the Dylan/Woody Guthrie camp, strumming his way across wry poetry, bent Tropicália, country-soul and rock. Since 2012 he has released an EP and a dose of singles, but recently he dropped the biggie: his debut full-length release, Slow Gum. NME gave it a ripper review, ending their write-up with the pretty darn good score of 8/10. The Barwon, Geelong – July 24.
Throw a Dog a Bone Formed in 2013, Mick Dog’s Bone Yard is the old blues from the swamp and the hot nights of the Deep South. Featuring Mick Dog (‘the Wild man shaker and Chancellor of the Holy Ghost’) and Dan Watson (‘The Sainted Mayor of Tom Tom City’), the two-piece has played all across the country, for V8 lovers to surfer kids. At the time of writing, the band had been accepted into the MBAS Blues Challenge. Their performance took place on July 6 at the Royal Standard Hotel, so we’re hoping things went okay. As for upcoming gigs, the lads have a couple taking place in Ballarat – one at Suttons House of Music on July 11 and the other at the Art Gallery of Ballarat on July 24.
WHO WANTS FREE STUFF? Check out the Forte Freebies on page 10!
Saving Grace When Chris Cornell toured solo in 2011, accompanying him on stage was a red phone. Depending on the show, and perhaps on the curiousity of those in attendance, he addressed its significance. At his Melbourne show (October 19, The Palais), he said it was Jeff Buckley’s phone, before raising it to show the faded writing where Jeff had written his name. A YouTube clip tells a different version, so believe what you will. Whatever the story, there is no doubting the lasting influence the singer-songwriter has on his fellow musicians, not to mention the wider music public. Jeff worked as a session guitarist for a decade before gaining a following by playing cover songs at venues in Manhattan’s East Village, later discovering his own voice. In 1994 he would release what would be his only studio album, Grace. While readers will have their favourite track, ‘Hallelujah’ is arguably the song that shaped it. The Leonard Cohen cover was inducted into the Library of Congress’s National Recording Registry in 2014. In honour of Jeff, who passed away in 1997, Danny Ross, The Bean Project, Jennifer Kingwell & the Garland Thugs and Mark Spano will reinterpret his songs and those he helped inspire. Beav’s Bar, Geelong – July 26.
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Anglesea Music Festival Thank you for holding. The news is in, well some of it anyway, with the Anglesea Music Festival set to take place on Saturday, January 23. It’s also got a new venue, that being the Anglesea football ground. And it’s 12 hours of bliss, kicking off at midday. There is no line-up news yet, but at last we’re getting going. The festival is also on the prowl for those who want to lend a hand on the day. If you reckon you have what they’re looking for, shoot an email through to angleseamusicfestival2016@hotmail. com. Please note that this is not the email point for performers and market applications. This is for those with a heart of gold; like Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman, but not quite like Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman.
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In the Heat of the Night The bio of Closer, aka Liam Daly, makes for interesting reading. A founding member of post-rock outfit These Hands, Closer’s sound is described as the “oscillation between ignorant paralytic obliteration and the violent effort it takes to break free from the grasp that has enslaved us. It is this slow and silent struggle that permeates the sonic landscape of Closer’s lush experimental and neoclassical drones”. If that has you scratching your head, you can always check out ‘Night Heat’, a live set he recently uploaded to SoundCloud and Facebook. He also has a couple of EPs and a fulllength album to check out. His latest release is ‘Heartache/ Lifted’. Hit facebook. com/closernoise for more.
In the Navy
All Day with Adalita To paraphrase Men at Work: How can it be now? At the time of writing, tickets remained for Adalita’s show at The Bridge in Castlemaine tomorrow night, July 10. What’s up with that? After Magic Dirt went on hiatus, Adalita released a self-titled album in 2011. A little soul searching followed, as did album number two, All Day Venus. “It is a very personal record to me, but I know that people will get different things out of it. The songs represent what I’ve been going through over the last couple of years. It’s a journey of psychological exploration, trying to understand my own behaviours and emotions. I wanted to document these new awakenings and transformations.” [Photo: Warwick Baker]
We have got to give a shout-out to Bendigo’s Navy Blue, a band who is making a big name. The coming together of mates Tyler van der Schaaf, Lewis Rainford, Andrew Gillespie and Jackson Jones, the band released their debut single, ‘Alice’, not too long ago at Bendigo’s Music Man Megastore. Bigger than that, the track has received attention from music lovers in the UK, France and India. In an interview they did with the local rag, the band tells how they have only been together for six months. They have also got plans to complete an EP and line up an eastern tour – both hopefully by the end of the year. Drop by facebook. com/navyblueau and say hi. Yvan eht nioj, yvan eht nioj.
As We Wait for The Drones
The Perfect Shot Lucinda Goodwin’s Passion to Pit is an exploration of a music lover and photographer. At the age of 18, and new to both the live music scene and photography, Lucinda began a journey which has seen her collect images of One Direction, Molly Meldrum, The Wiggles, Passenger, Roxette, Jimmy Barnes and Bluesfest among others. Courthouse ARTS – from July 24.
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As you probably know, The Drones are in celebration mode. It has been ten years since the group released Wait Long by the River and the Bodies of Your Enemies Will Float By, the band’s second album and the one that really got things going for the Melbourne via Perth outfit. While it lost out to Wolfmother for triple j’s inaugural J Award, it took the honours with the inaugural Australian Music Prize. In 2009, album single ‘Shark Fin Blues’ was voted ‘Greatest Australian Song’ through a triple j poll of contemporary Australian musicians. Missy Higgins would release a version of the single on her 2014 covers album Oz. Theatre Royal,
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Castlemaine – September 6. Joining them will be the Steve Miller Band.
1.21 Luke Watt With fingers so nimble, folk-bluesman Luke Watt would make one fine pickpocket. Fortunately, he has decided to apply his skills to the guitar instead. Counting Chris Whitley’s Dirt Floor, Kelly Joe Phelps’s Sky like a Broken Clock and Matt Walker’s Listen to the Night among his favourite albums, Luke employs finger-picking and slide guitar as he draws on folk melodies and blues grooves. He has performed at the national Music Muster in Gympie, the Queenscliff Music Festival, the Brunswick Music Festival, the Australian Blues Festival and the Port Fairy Folk Festival, as well as performing shows across Europe and the legendary Terra Blues Club in New York. Suttons House of Music, Ballarat – July 23.
There’s a Storm Coming Brisbane’s Timothy Carroll and Melbourne’s Oscar Dawson are Holy Holy, two fellas who were living the transient lifestyle in Europe when they reconnected in 2011. A little later this month the band so good they named themselves twice will release their debut album When the Storms Would Come, and they’re touring it with some buddies. “We’ve played a lot of shows in the last two years and have played with some of our favourite bands and in some incredible venues along the way. During that time we have come up with a sound that represents us, a sound we’re proud of and a style of music that we love to play.” The Workers Club, Geelong – September 3 & The Karova, Ballarat – September 4.
Cleveland Rocks One plays the guitar like a demon possessed; the other bangs the drum like a crazed convict. And all the little chicks with their crimson lips go ‘Cleveland Blues rocks’, ‘Cleveland Blues rocks’, or something to that effect I am sure. The dirty swamp rock’n’stomp duo has been taking things easy for the past eight months. Prior to their break they had been on the road for a good three or four years, so
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they can be forgiven for recharging their batteries. But now that the batteries are recharged, the twosome is back on the road. Torquay Hotel, Torquay – July 17 & The Loft, Warrnambool – July 23. You can also catch their sweet tunes at the Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival.
Bendigo Writers Festival Friday, August 7 opens 2015’s Bendigo Writers Festival. This year the theme is ‘The Good Life’ – a collection of ideas from eating well to getting the most out of reading and writing, plus a few other things thrown in for good measure. Guests include John Clarke, Robert Dessaix, Brenda Niall, Amanda Lohrey, Max Gillies, Susan Butler, Latika Bourke, Nam Le, Tim Entwisle, Cate Kennedy, Graeme Simsion, Kris Olsson and Lyndon Terracini. In all, more than 70 events have been planned for the festival. A highlight, however, is sure to be opening night, featuring a conversation between Bob Brown and Melbourne Writers Festival director Lisa Dempster. More through bendigowritersfestival. com.au.
In the Sky Tonight Upon its release, In Hearts Wake’s album Skydancer was the highest-selling Australian release of the week. It also debuted at #2 on the ARIA chart, bettering the still very impressive #5 of their previous album, Earthwalker. As you may have guessed, there is a connection. Frontman Jake Taylor: “I’d been searching for a concept that could explain the relationship between the masculine and feminine worlds and how we needed to be at peace with both in order to be whole.” The Barwon, Geelong – September 13.
Washington and Victoria Collide It’s been a little while since we’ve had the chance to listen in awe to the beautiful music stylings of Megan Washington, but the wait is over. It’s time to practise that slightly agape mouth-look, as you’ll be doing a lot of it in her upcoming tour and you’re going to want to look damn fine doing it! Already selling out her first Melbourne show (the second has been announced for August 27 at the Northcote Social Club), Megan will also perform at the Bridge Hotel in Castlemaine (August 19), Music Man in Bendigo (August 20), Karova Lounge in Ballarat (August 21) and the Barwon Club in Geelong (August 26). Tickets on sale now from meganwashington.com.
Seth Sentry’s Strange Days It’s big, it’s bold and it is beautiful. It is Seth Sentry’s Strange New Past tour, named after his second album. The 40-plus-date tour, which kicked off in the first half of June, is the biggest tour ever undertaken by an Australian hip hop artist – and it includes a nice little collection of dates in Forte territory. Strange New Past is the follow-up to 2012’s This Was Tomorrow and sees Sentry once again teaming with Styalz Fuego. Theatre Royal, Castlemaine – July 15; The Black Swan, Bendigo – July 16; The Barwon, Geelong – July 17; The Karova, Ballarat – July 21; and Whalers Hotel, Warrnambool – August 2. Joining Seth throughout his run will be Dylan Joel and Ivan Ooze.
All That We Want is Another Gig Dead, Clowns and Curly Wurm will get jiggy with it at The Bridge, Castlemaine on July 26 Cool Sound and Ciggie Witch bust a move at The Eastern, Ballarat on July 10 while Ben Salter will skip the light fandango at the same venue on July 11. Melody Pool will make you jump jump at Babushka Bar, Ballarat on July 17. GodWolf will kick off the Sunday shoes at Ballarat’s Karova on July 11. The lovely Áine Tyrrell will dance with somebody at Beav’s Bar, Geelong on July 12.
Rudd Comes Home The Rolling Stones were right when they described Xavier Rudd and the United Nations as a “beautiful celebration of a global sound”, so we’re pretty stoked such a sound is heading to Costa Hall in Geelong on September 18 and The Capital in Bendigo on September 15. The show is part of a 35-date tour in which they cross every state. Xavier Rudd started of the year with the announcement of the dream project with the United Nations and then a sellout tour. This time around things are surely set to follow suit. “In a time when Australia is digging deep, marching together and standing strong for our threatened communities in the Northwest and simply the long awaited need for positive change for reconciliation in our country, I feel the spirit of this band is very important. This album, this tour, this family, The United Nations is an example energetically and spiritually of where we need to be as a nation. We will be touring regional places in Australia; some we’ve never been to, some we haven’t been for a long time, in order to deliver this message and celebrate the energy of one people with our fellow Australians. Its time to Boogie!” Xavier Rudd says.
Fast Five with tuka! One part of the Thundamentals, but a respected hip hop singer in his own right, we had a chat to the legend about the bigger things in life. Namely, sniffer dogs at festivals, living forever and the age old question of scrunching or folding. Who’s a rappers career you envy and why?
I really really think Mos Def has had a crazy ride, he’s had a little bit of commercial success but he’s been able to forge a career out of being really honest with himself – which I respect. So Mos Def.
Sniffer dogs at festivals, yay or nay?
Look they have a job to do, if they’re finding meth on people then I’m stoked. I don’t want people taking violence inducing drugs at a peaceful festival. But I kind of feel like there’s bigger fish to fry than a 16year-old kid with a joint or an 18-year-old guy with a pill. These guys are just having a good time and they’re not the ones who have sold it to anyone, I just feel like the police are making a big payday out of it. It’s a pisscake, there’s so many police there. If I was a criminal I would go rob peoples houses on the day of a big festival because all the police are there. That being said, drugs are illegal and it’s their job to find people doing illegal things and I can respect that.
Scruncher of folder? Definitely a folder.
If you could live forever, would you do it? No, definitely not. Nup.
Three things you couldn’t live without? Love, light and music.
Anywhere/ Nowhere with Magic Bones!
Eating out alone:
As they’ve just released their new track ‘Anywhere, Anytime’ we thought what better chance to see what the band would actually get up to anywhere (or nowhere).
Being drunk and disorderly: Anywhere
Wearing a panda suit:
Anywhere
Anywhere
Smoking: Nowhere
Having a tantrum: Nowhere
Getting to third base: Tummy tickling? Anywhere
Anywhere
Getting changed/dressed: Anywhere
Working out: Anywhere
Getting touchy feely with your significant other: Wearing a mankini:
Anytime Anywhere! What’s the girl equivalent to a mankini?
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Café Culture B U R G E R JOHNNY
There’s a new burger joint on the block and they’ve upped the anti when it comes to high quality and delicious burgers. With a promise to deliver the best day in, day out, Burger Johnny are a spot that’s sure to become one of your regulars. “Burgers are on trend but we’ve just taken it that little bit further, not ahead but to the side I guess, with our commitments in the quality of food. We won’t sacrifice a system, product or flavour to get it out the door,” manager and chef, James Fuller says. “Our core value is the best quality beef we can get, it’s local and that’s all we’re going to use. We’re not going to use cheaper things to cut our costs. “We’re just sticking to our values which is good food, done well over and over again.” Beyond the beef, which is sourced locally and grass fed, the quality is clear throughout the menu, with free range eggs and organic free range chickens used in their burgers. And the care placed on selecting their ingredients shows through in the final product served up on your plate. Just as much consideration has been placed on the menu with the whole team contributing to the final selections. For James, his favourite stands as the Johnny Burger, an American inspired creation with beef, lettuce, tomato, red onion, house made pickles, American mustard and garlic aioli. Though there’s a burger to satisfy your cravings no matter what time of day (or night) it is or whatever your dietary requirements may be – there’s even a paleo burger called The Cave Man on the menu. And plenty of sides to complete your meal – the salted caramel milkshake is a firm favourite among customers. Burger Johnny have only been around for just over a month, but they’ve already established a tight-knit community and comfortable vibe that’s welcoming to any generation. “We’re definitely well on our way to pushing a vibe here to become a night venue,” James says. “We’ve got local art installations coming on in the next week, and they’re going to be on a rotation system and we’ve applied for a liquor license so then it’ll be beats, burgers, beers.” With evolution of the venue a key aspect of its future, Burger Johnny is set to be a favourite for years to come.
Where: 141 Ryrie St, Geelong When: Mon-Sat 11am till late
Contact: 03 5221 7599 Website: facebook.com/burgerjohnny/
Written by Amanda Sherring
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Whole Larder Love:
Rohan Anderson LOCAL FEATURE STORY Written by Amanda Sherring Photo by Kate Berry
On the side of the road in his broken down car somewhere between Ballarat and the Otways, Rohan Anderson picked up the phone to do this interview. The trip was set to be a few days hunting for deers in the Otways, one aspect of Rohan’s way of life as documented in his blog Whole Larder Love. “I’m just trying to go and shoot some deer because I don’t have enough deer in the freezer for when veggies start coming in – which normally for us at our house is not until November,” he says. The hunter gatherer way of life wasn’t something that Rohan was always such a firm practiser of, and while he grew up in a household with homegrown produce, his adulthood was spent in a much more unhealthy fashion. “Like many modern Australians I just got caught up working a busy corporate lifestyle six days a week and clearly not looking after myself,” he says. “I just ate convenient supermarket food, I ate takeaway food, and years
of that with no exercise and just sitting at a desk catches up with you. And so I had hypertension, anxiety and depression and a whole lot of other issues, I was quite obese and it was a combination of all of those things that made me want to change and see how I could fix that without doing a seven day bikini diet.” The side effects of an unhealthy diet slowly piled up on Rohan, and while the realisation was sudden, the steps towards his new life were slow and meticulously thought out. “There was no real point where I was like ‘This is it, I’m going to leave my desk job and live off the land’,” Rohan says. “I was growing loads of vegetables in my city backyard for years before I took the plunge and
changed my lifestyle completely. It was kind of like dipping my foot in the water to see what the temperature was like. Slowly I took a couple more steps in and ended up in the deep end.” The deep end for Rohan was living off the land at his home in Ballarat with only the absolute necessities or basics like flour bought from the farmer’s market. It may sound like a difficult life, especially during winter and the limited crops, but if anything Rohan has plenty of food to share. “The other day is a good example because I shot three rabbits for people that were visiting, butchered the back straps off and the legs. The carcasses that were left over I roasted those and made a rabbit stock out of that,” he says. “That rabbit stock went into braising a pork hamhock I braised that with some onions and the stock from the rabbit, so you know the rabbit fed two different meals of backstraps and of legs and then the stock made something else. It just goes on and on. You’ve just got to use everything you can get your hands on.” The transition into ‘practiculture’ – as Rohan refers to it – couldn’t have seemed more seamless. And while he claims that writing about it wasn’t an easy process for him, with his natural tone and honest comments on food culture, it’s allowed
him to continue his blog, write regular pieces for The Guardian and release a second book, A Year of Practiculture (out August 1). “I just think that’s the kind of bloke I am, I’m relaxed and I’m conversational and I think that kind of reflects in my writing I guess,” Rohan says. His newest release is said to be an approachable look at how to live like he does, what to plant and when, how to cook it and some little bits and pieces in between.
“A lot of people want to embrace the lifestyle which I call practiculture, but a lot of people want to embrace elements of that lifestyle into their life whether they live in Brunswick, St Kilda or out in the country,” he says. “The idea of this book is there to hold in peoples hands and to say, ‘Come on I’ll lead the way’, with a little bit of support through stories and a little bit of encouragement. You can read what I’ve done and see it’s not that difficult.”
Beyond sharing his way of life through his books and food blog, Rohan spreads his message at numerous events, whether that’s through an intimate workshop or a Q&A opportunity like the upcoming one at the Bendigo Writers Festival. “I love the conversation about food and trying to fix food problems, but sometimes when you get in front of a big crowd and you’re really passionate about conveying the right message it can be really intimidating,” he says.
“But you will never, ever see on a packet of pork loin at the supermarket the pictures of the shitty conditions that those pigs live in. You will never see on the pack of chickens the shitty conditions that they live in either, so it’s kind of my duty to tell people that this stuff is happening.” Ultmately, Rohan is one of the few people trying to make a shift in the way we see and consume food. He’s keeping things simple and bringing them back
to the old times – for all our sake. “There’s something wrong with the system and we have to do something about it,” he says. Rohan is one of the many guest speakers at the Bendigo Writers Festival (August 7-9), to find out more and to purchase tickets visit www. bendigowritersfestival. com.au. When&Where: Capital Theatre, Bendigo – 10am Sunday August 9
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FROC K IT Four Lipsticks Everybody Should Own
Written by Katherine Reynolds www.katthewanderer.com | facebook/katthewanderer | @katthewanderer
Written by Jessica Alves | @jessicazalves
If you happen to be someone who couldn’t think of anything worse than mascara and bronzer, and you never quite got the whole contouring thing down, this may not be for you. However, if you’re a lipstick hoarder like I am, or if you’re just starting to get into makeup, then hello, my name is Jess and I’m a makeup addict. There have been many occasion when I’ve got my outfit together with my face on, but struggle to decide on a lipstick to wear. If you don’t own many lipsticks you might also struggle to find one to ‘match’ with your outfit. If this is something you’re all too familiar with, consider investing in my top four lipstick shades everybody should have in their makeup arsenal. Firstly — and this is a given — you need a good nude. No, we’re not talking about sexting. Everybody’s ‘perfect’ nude will differ, based on skin undertones and shades, but the ideal nude lipstick can give your look the lift it needs without being overpowering. It’s essential for day-to-day wear and is always appropriate for work. If you’re not into bright lipsticks, it’s understandable, however if you’re only going to have one bold lip, it
absolutely has to be a red. Again, the shade best suited for you will be different from everybody else’s. But when you find it, a red lip has the ability to transform a look in seconds. Red lips come in all different shades, from super bright orangereds to deep wine-reds. The intensity is unimportant, what matters is that when you put it on, you feel like you could take over the world. Pink lipstick can be a tricky one, but when done correctly, it can be a super fun addition. Personally, it isn’t often that I whip out my pink lipsticks, but when I do I know I’m going to have a fun time. Go as bright or as subtle as you like, but pink lips are a fun pick-me-up to an otherwise simple outfit. In my opinion, pink lipsticks are a match made in heaven for dates, at parties or getting drinks with friends. It’s easy to get settled in to your favourite colours and stick to what you know suits you best, but sometimes change can be refreshing. Purple shades are definitely bound to turn heads, simply because it’s not the most common colour to rock. However, whilst being different to the norm, it’s also not so hugely different to look — for lack
The London Lowdown
of a better explanation — weird. And it’s always good to have fun options for days when you’re feeling brave. I bow down to people who are brave enough to put on blue or green or black lipstick in the morning and go about their things like nobody’s business. For now I’m happy sticking to my ‘safe’ shades, however I can see my collection expanding to accommodate more daring and bold statement lips. The first step is admitting you’ve got a problem.
Ah, London town. It’s one of those magical places in the world that one can only ever dream of reaching. For us Australians, it’s a little unfair that it happens to sit on the other side of the world! So having lived both in and near the shiny capital for nearly three years, I thought I’d shed some light on what it’s all about. London is like an emotional rollercoaster. It’s an irresistibly enticing city, with the bright lights of the West End, and the famous fashion forward streets, but it’s also awfully busy, a little grubby and overly populated. Though I can’t deny that it’s bloody beautiful. So, what will I find when I come to London, I hear you ask? (Because after reading this, I’m
hoping you’ll consider it for your next vacay). You’ll find all the things you could have ever imagined and much, much more. Yes, you’ll see the glossy double deckers, the sleek black cabs and the traditional local drinking holes. But, you’ll also experience the extensive and celebrated multiculturalism around the bustling city, finally witness that smooth, velvety London accent, or realise that the cockney accent is actually a real (and not so attractive) thing. See? Emotional rollercoaster. There’s always something going on, so you’ll definitely never be bored. Whether it’s a new hipster café pop-up in Shoreditch, or a huge concert in Hyde Park, London will always have you covered any time of the year. It’s such a lovely part of the world to be in during the winter,
with cosy pubs and scrumptious mulled wine, but it’s also fantastic during the warmer (I use that word loosely) months, with rooftop bars and canals to wander down. You’ll finally be able to hit up those world famous iconic London landmarks like Piccadilly Circus, Oxford Street, Covent Garden, and maybe even spot a visit with Queen Lizzy, at Buckingham Palace. Exploring London so much and finding the little things and the small moments are just as awesome; with the hidden streets and mews, hole in the wall restaurants in Soho, and quiet picnics in undiscovered parks. Acting like a Londoner is fun, too. Things like becoming a master of the Tube and realising you’re another frustrated commuter, or drinking fruity Pimms while watching Wimbledon (if it’s not raining, that is), and meeting friends at the local pub on a busy Friday night while paying way too much for disappointing beer. Ah, so much fun! Being in London can also allow you to see so much more of the UK while you’re there. The train system over here is phenomenal, (sorry V-Line). It’s so easy to pop over to Oxford for a day of afternoon tea, or head up north to the historical York and embrace the sights. There’s a tonne to do over here, I promise! Having been living over here for so long I feel I’ve barely even scratched the surface when it comes to ticking things off my London list, so hopefully you can head on over and see it all for yourself, too!
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Bass Player Wanted for dynamic (gigging) blues rock three-piece. Contact 0430971319 for more info.
Singer wanted for original band doing a mix of retro styles - soul, funk, latin rock, gospel, R&B, groove based stuff. Over an album's worth of material already written, studio recordings, gigs etc. Looking for the right voice so drop us a line and we'll take it from there! ben@ bellemusique.com.au
Bass Player Wanted Experienced Bass player required for established working covers band: think Blondie, Free, Cream, SRV, CCR, Fleetwood Mac, Garry Moore and popular ‘60s/on wood bands.Own gear and transport a must. rehearsals at Ocean Grove.Call Ray on 0418512975 for more info.
Experienced 22 y/o singer, songwriter, guitarist looking for a drummer, bassist and lead guitarist to start up an original rock band based in Geelong. Inf luences: QOTSA, Sublime & Dave Grohl. Contact Tom at: 0487067083
Local Bendigo Band Looking for Female singer, cover music, gigs waiting, phone Chris 0403258151 DRUMMER WANTED! Any age is ok, as long as you can play. Call 0430971319
ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE! CALL LUKE ON 0422 809 042
When&Where: Queenscliff Town Hall, Queenscliff - 24-26 Jul
Bellarine Lighthouse Fine Art Film Festival Winter has arrived so it’s time to settle in to the Queenscliff Town Hall for some serious film watching this July, to shake off the cold with the St Kilda Film Festival Regional Tour and the Bellarine Lighthouse Fine Art Film Festival. The fourth annual Bellarine Lighthouse Films Winter Program promises a highly entertaining, thought provoking and indulgent festival including short films, fine art films, food, wine and conversation to alight all your senses. Back for the third year, the St Kilda Film Festival
Regional Tour will again feature as part of this year’s winter program. Screening on Saturday July 18 this event will showcase exceptional short works by Australian emerging and industry professionals and is a great warm up before the main festival. On opening night, special guest Richard
Moore will take centre stage in a rare audience with one of Australia’s leading Film Curator’s and former Director of Melbourne International Film Festival. As both a mastermind and an agitator, Richard’s name is synonymous with bold and daring programming so this will be an event not to
be missed as we discover just what it takes to challenge, provoke and entertain an Australian film festival audience. The main festival program is a highly charged, romantic and adventurous mix of cinema from around the globe. Five critically acclaimed films will screen over the weekend of Saturday July 25 and Sunday 26. Academy Award winners Juliet Binoche and Marion Cotillard along with Isabelle Huppert
captivate and inspire this year’s Bellarine Lighthouse Films winter program. Dine under the big screen and soak up the festival atmosphere for a pre-movie dinner on Saturday 25 July at 6pm. Dinner costs $30 pp and bookings are essential by contacting Janine Hurse on 0409 584 244. Purchase a weekend pass for great value at $65 (includes opening night) or attend a single session from $15. Whatever you decide,
tickets are strictly limited so get in fast to secure your spot. All tickets are fully transferable. The full festival program with synopsis and trailers of each film can be viewed on the festival website. Tickets are on sale and available from The Bookshop at Queenscliff, 30 Hesse Street 03 5258 4496, or Online at www.bellarinelight housefilms.com.au - follow the links to TryBooking.
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Echuca-Moama
Winter Blues F E S T I VA L
Echuca-Moama will come alive as the veritable who’s who of the current Australian blues scene flock into town for the 16th successful annual Echuca-Moama Winter’s Blues Festival July 24-26, 2015. A free event presented by the Echuca-Moama community, this year’s Winter Blues will see an amazing 30+ blues artists performing.
(only 2 ½ hours north of Melbourne) from all over Australia, the line-up this year includes the Three Kings, Cleveland Blues, Rod Paine & the Full Time Lovers, Andrea Marr & the Funky Hitmen, Geoff Achison, The Piano Wizard, Chris Wilson, Jimi Hocking and many others that are part of the cream of Australia’s Blues scene.
Crowds approaching 20,000 will get to enjoy an eclectic fusion of the country’s best blues musicians with a staggering 145 live blues performances.
The best venues in EchucaMoama will take part by providing the entertainment, with the old Port of Echuca Precinct as the perfect backdrop.
“We are Australia’s premier free blues festival,” said Peter Williams, chairperson of the Winter Blues Festival organising committee.
People are encouraged to meander from venue to venue, or use the shuttle bus service to enjoy the bounty of styles offered in perfect balance from past favourites and soon-to-be new favourites.
“Google free music events and you’ll find that there are very few on offer, especially in the country. “It’s all about the music, and we are very proud to see this great event go from strength to strength every year, as it makes all the hard work we the committee put into it worth it.” Heading to Echuca-Moama
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Full line-up available at http://winterblues.com.au. For accommodation enquiries phone Echuca Moama Tourism on 1800 804 446 or visit www.echucamoama.com When&Where: Various
locations in Echucha – July 24-26
Three Kings If it’s a trip to the sweet sounds of American roots music in Louisiana you’re after, then the Three Kings are the ones to take you there. Made up of some of the most authentic blues performers this country has seen, Ian Collard (vocals, guitar, harmonica), Benny Peters (vocals, guitar) and Jason Lui Soon (drums), the band have created an award winning sound that sounds just like an old 45. Shamrock Hotel (Back Room) – July 24 at 9.30pm, Nik’s Sunago – July 25 at 9.30pm and Antonios – July 26 @12.30pm When&Where:
Geoff Achison After years of living in America’s deep south, Geoff has returned with an onslaught of new songs, awards and tales of his travels. Known for his ability to please a crowd with his rich vocals and immense guitar skills, Geoff is by no surprise a firm favourite in the blues community. Throughout his career Geoff has won countless awards ranging from album of the year to best blues release and each are well deserved. Antonios – July 24 at 6pm, High Street – July 25 at 12.30pm, Shamrock Hotel (Front Bar) – July 25, Harvest Hotel – July 25 at 8.30pm and Tindarra – July 26 at 1.45pm. When&Where:
Alister Turrill & the Vagabond Brothers Since winning the 2011 Melbourne Youth in Blues award, Alister Turrill has done nothing but good things. With a sound much wiser than his age, Alister has previously shared the stage with the likes of Jeff Lang, Geoff Achison and Lloyd Spiegel – on numerous occasions. Recently teaming up with Toby Johnson on drums and Jaron Mulholland on bass to form Alister Turrill and the Vagabond Brothers. The Odd Captain – July 25 at 3pm, Radcliffes – July 25 at 6pm and Nik’s Sunago – July 26 at 11am. When&Where:
Andrea Marr Band The Andrea Marr band is one that hardly needs introduction. Fronted by Andrea Marr the multi-award winning five-piece have been creating their unique brand of energetic, soulful blues since 1999. The band recieved Blues Performer of the Year in 2005 and 2012 and Australian Female Blues Artist in 2009. Radcliffes – July 25 at 2.15pm, Bridge Hotel – July 25 at 8.15pm and Radcliffes (Wrap Party) – July 26 at 6.30pm. When&Where:
Benny Walker No stranger to the stage, having played Woodford, Australasian Worldwide Music Expo, St Kilda fest, Blue Mountains Music Festivals and numerous others, Benny Walker is a man with a well formed live show. Also an indigenous singer/songwriter, his love of the land and people are told through thoughtful lyrics and epic tales. Delivered with his velvety vocals listening to Benny Walker is a dream. When&Where: Shamrock Hotel (The Underground) – July 24 at 7.15pm, Star Hotel (Stage) – July 25 at 1.15pm, American Hotel (Courtyard) – July 26 at 8.15pm and Shamrock Hotel (Front Bar) – July 26 at 2.30pm.
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Jeff Lang Written by Tex Miller
Jeff Lang has become a legend around these parts. Over the course of his 20 year career he has released 11 studio albums and in the process, become one of the most accomplished and loved guitarists in the country. When I spoke to Lang in March this year, he was very excited about the prospect of the project that he was going to take on the road. Maru Tarang, played at the Brunswick Music Festival as well as Port Fairy and it is the first thing we speak about when we begin to chat. “That run of shows, was just spectacular. It always is mighty and a complete honour to play at Port Fairy. I played a couple of solo shows and a few with Maru Tarang and it was great fun. The audience reaction to what we were doing was quite great because we were doing something a little different – my one criticism about those shows was that the tour was too brief. I Could have done with more of it. It’s always great fun to play with those guys and I will jump at any opportunity to play with them again,” he says. From just one look at Lang’s website, I am quick to ask about the lifestyle of a travelling musician in 2015. It seems that you do a lot of driving in the commodore to get to the gig. “I think that it really depends on your schedule because some weekends I am driving all around the place and then you get a gig where you fly in and fly out of a show and you play two or three shows in a
weekend. It’s definitely different to when I was just starting out in the ‘90s, where I was playing 250+ shows and living in the back of a van. I don’t know whether you would call that easier, but in my 20s I just needed petrol money to get to the next gig – I have a whole lot of other responsibilities now,” Lang says. Over the weekend of the 8th and 9th of August, some of Australia’s finest are set to converge on the Caulfield Racecourse for the return of the Melbourne Guitar Show. Featuring the likes of Nick Charles, The Davidson Brothers, Lloyd Spiegel and Jeff, he can’t wait to get up on stage and play. “It will be awesome to play at this festival, there are some of Australia’s best players and I highly urge everyone to come out and
“ ...I pick the song I want to start with and the instrument and the show evolves from there. I can’t wait to see what is going to happen!”
without the synth it wouldn’t be complete – so there are no rules. Never say never. Whatever makes the song sound the best. I write the songs on guitar and then when it gets produced it takes on a completely different life and I’m happy to go with that over the sake of continuity. You have done quite a bit of travelling over the years, do you think those experiences have shaped your music into what it is today? Definitely. I wrote what would be my first ever single, ‘Run You Down’, in Lake Tahoe, in the US and I wrote most of ‘Hypercolour’ and ‘Blood’ during various trips to India. I love travel, it’s something that I have done from a young age when I grew up in Papua New Guinea, moving to far north Queensland then
finally settling in Melbourne. Travelling heightens your senses. If you are lonely, it can make the loneliness so much more intense or if you are in love and away from that person, the love seems so much more heart wrenching. It’s a great time to get perspective and also completely lose perspective. What was the biggest thing you learned about yourself from travelling? I guess I learned to trust my own instincts. It taught me to be self sufficient. From those times you also confessed to be a ‘rat-bag’ what were the characteristics that made you say that/made you one? Oh, I was just naughty. Drinking/partying too much and too often, behaving badly. I gave up music and just bummed around being a pest. Not contributing! Ha, basically just being someone in their early 20s! It took me a while to get out of that phase and figure out what I wanted to do. My dad died suddenly when I was 24 which was a big wake up call and it was then that I started writing music. I finally had the feeling that if I didn’t start doing something now, then life would past me by and I’d be a little shit bag forever. Your new track ‘Hypercolour’ was partly inspired by someone wanting to live life to the fullest, do you feel that you are currently? Or are you still wanting bigger/better? Yeah it’s more about finding strength in yourself instead of looking for external stimulation or validation. I feel great at the moment. I think it can take a long time for some people to be comfortable with themselves and only just recently I have felt a sense of calm and purpose. I’m happy with what I’ve got. I know it will lead to bigger and better in
embrace such an experience. There will be quite a few guitar makers exhibiting and I will be playing a solo set. The thing about my solo shows is that they are quite often loose and spontaneous and I pick the song I want to start with and the instrument and the show evolves from there. I can’t wait to see what is going to happen,” he says. For many years, Lang has played David Churchill guitars exclusively and if you have been to the stage show, you will know that Lang puts 100 per cent into the performance. Talking about his rig, it has over time become known as the ‘Australasian experience’. “On the road, I play a flat top acoustic, that David Churchill made, and he also has made me an acoustic resonator. For bottleneck playing, I have a resonator made by Steve Evans from New Zealand,” Lang says. This guitar show is set to be a highlight of the Melbourne music calendar and leads into events such as AWME, Face The Music as well as the summer festival season. Having been to similar shows in the past, I cannot recommend this two-day event enough. Great if you are in the market to purchase or just in the mood to check out some stunning playing.
When&Where: Melbourne Guitar Show, Caulfield Racecourse – August 8 & 9
Ali Barter Q&A
Ali Barter is many things, she’s a traveller, a questioner, an ethereal presence but most importantly she’s a musician who defies genres. We had a chat to the singer about how travelling has shaped her music and her ‘rat-bag’ years.
People often struggle to describe your music, why do you think that is? I guess that’s because I don’t fit into a box. I know this and I struggle to describe my music too! I guess I’m finding my sound as well. I’m very much torn between rock and pop and trying to find a happy place in the middle. I usually just say to people, when they ask me about my music, that there are lots of guitars, drums and epic choruses. I love a catchy hook and I also love a wailing guitar solo. I identify with artists who don’t necessarily fit into a genre, like David Bowie and Ariel Pink. They move around, change their sound, write what they’re feeling at the time. I’m lucky too that I’m independent so I can really explore styles without upsetting anyone. Do you personally put yourself into any sort of category or are you just purely creating what you enjoy? At the moment I’m experimenting. I said at the beginning of this EP that I wanted to get rid of all the synths and just make it about guitars. However, on the odd occasion I wasn’t in the mixing room, the two boys I work with (Oscar Dawson and Stephen Mowat) would put a keyboard line in sneakily and it would just totally make the song. There is one song called ‘If You Go’ that has become like our magnum opus. It’s a randy epic rock journey and
RELEASE: ‘Hypercolour’ is available digitally via Ronnie Records/MGM Distribution now, AB EP will be available in September.
it’s own time. I’m exactly where I need to be. Of late you’ve been working with Holy Holy’s Oscar Dawson, what’s it like working with him? Oscar is amazing. From the time we started working together at the beginning of 2013 it just clicked. He is a complete freak at the
guitar (and every other instrument) but so humble and encouraging at the same time. He often lets/ makes me play the guitar solo (my guitar solos are shit btw) and I never feel embarrassed in from of him - even though he is a guitar guru. We both love classic rock and pop
so it works well. We write together. Sometimes he will write chords and I’ll write the melody and words over the top, other times I will bring a written song to him and we will arrange guitar lines, bass lines and drums together, to make it a complete song. It’s a good setup.
Rod Paine Written by Natalie Rogers, Photo by Jovian Projects - Sam Tilder
“I was dragged into a blues band at 18 years old,” explains Paine with a grin. “I was quite happy playing guitar in the garage with my mates, writing music and listening to the Hoodoo Gurus.” Despite his early resistance, Paine admits that from there his love of the harmonica and electric blues began to grow – a quarter of a century later he has become an icon of the Melbourne blues scene.
“When I first picked up the harmonica I didn’t really know what I was doing,” he laughs. “I guess you could say I got my chops from watching other people play, and listening to musicians like Junior Wells, Little Walter and Howlin’ Wolf. I certainly can’t say that I’m a student of the harmonica at all, and I’d be a terrible teacher – but I’ve learned when enough is enough and when to let the guitarist take over, because otherwise I’d get myself into all sorts of trouble! “There are a few masters around Melbourne though,” Paine continues. “I’d put Chris Wilson and Ian Collard into that category.” The Australia blues fraternity has continued to go from strength to strength in recent years. “I’ve been part of the community for 25 years and it’s the same for a lot of my peers. We’ve all got our own bands, but we’re always calling on one another to help out at any given gig. It’s great fun, especially when 36 forte
we play festivals. Instead of seeing those people once or twice a week or twice a year, you’re touching base with them for three or four days. It’s fantastic.” Rod Paine and the Fulltime Lovers are returning to the Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival next month. “The Fulltime Lovers is an off-shoot of The Redliners,” Paine explains. “Tony Harwood, our bass player, and David Birtwell [guitars] were part of The Redliners and, along with Ray Tully, we started the Fulltime Lovers. Ray Tully deserves a paragraph of his own – he’s an extraordinary drummer and he’s been around for a long time. I have a great band.” Paine describes their
sound as “just a dirty little electric blues combo”, heavily influenced by blues records of the 1950s. “That was when the amplified harmonica first burst out through the speakers. Even if you listen to those recordings now there’s a level of distortion that you can only achieve from using the ‘one microphone in a room’ technique, and we still do that now. “In fact, I think a lot of bands in the blues/roots vein still like to lean on that old way of recording,” he adds. “There’s something organic about it, and I think the recorded sounds of the ‘50s were just so gritty and cool – and it’s addictive listening.” To the delight of all Lovers’ fans, like last year, Paine, Harwood, Birtwell and Tully will be joined by a fellow blues brother, renowned guitarist Co Tipping. “He’s a fantastic guitarist – all six feet seven of him!” Paine quips. “He’s an ex-native of New Zealand and a successful recording artist in his own right. We’ve played with him on and off around Melbourne, and he’s travelling up there with us for the festival which is exciting. He’s got a unique sound and an excellent ability to make the guitar sound like a pedal steel when he wants to, especially when we occasionally play some West Coast swing stuff. We’re really looking forward to having him come along.” For your chance to see Rod Paine, plus a handful of others, head to www.winterblues.com.au for more information on the Winter Blues Festival on in the last weekend of July.
When&Where: Echucha-Moama Winter Blues Festival – July 24-26
Forte Columns
PULP Written by Alastair McGibbon
too heavy to hug Written by Paul S Taylor
Welcome to THTH, Forte’s premier source of all things heavy, hard, fast and metal. What a month of celebrating THTH’s milestone it has been! If I told you what my June, 2015 was like you wouldn’t even believe it so I won’t. Somehow, a long time ago someone wrote a memo to all music writers that said something along the lines of, “Hence forth thee metal music scribes, thee shalt take Queen under thou wing and scribe about them as they are metal.” I know this memo was circulated because I read shit and it seems to me that the metal press covers stuff Queen does. And, the metal press covers beer so when the two converge in the one, well, it’s a gift from God. Queen will be releasing Queen Bohemian Lager to celebrate the 40th anniversary of ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’. The lager will be brewed in the Czech Republic, the very country that Bohemia is a part of as a fitting tribute to hippies and alcoholics alike. To add irony to drinking, if you’ve ever been to a house party where beer was present and music was playing and people were drinking the beer that was present, then you’d have come across the all in drunken wailing to ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’, complete with synchronised low murmuring during the bits no one is really sure what is sung and triumphant singing with stubbies in the air to the bits everyone knows. Queen now join the long and prestigious list of bands who have put their names to beer labels including Motorhead, ACDC, Kiss, um, there’s more but you get the picture. And what good would a couple of hundred words about a beer and Queen be without a joke about you know who? Right. Yeah, him, so why did Brian May ever think it was a good idea to have hair that made him look like he put his fork in a power point then have someone attack his hair with the very same fork? In other news Lamb Of God will release their seventh studio album VII: Sturm Und Drang in July. Cradle Of Filth will release their new studio album Hammer Of The Witches on Friday July 10. Baptiss will play Melbourne’s Howler on Friday July 17 and The Eastern in Ballarat on Saturday August 1. Graveyard Rockstars will be at Yah Yah’s on Saturday July 18. Counterparts will release their new album Tragedy Will Find Us on Friday July 24. Orpheus Omega will play The Barwon Club on Thursday July 30, The Corner on Friday July 31 and an all ages show at Musicland on Sunday August 9. King Parrot will be at The Barwon Club on Thursday August 13 and Ballarat’s Karova Lounge on Saturday August 15. Bullet For My Valentine will release their new album Venom on Friday August 14. Ghost will release their third album Meliora on Friday August 21. Grave Pleasures (ex Beastmilk) will release their new album Dreamcrash on Friday September 4. Devin Townsend Project and Periphery will be at 170 Russell on Sunday October 25. Nightwish will play only one show per capital city on their Endless Forms Most Beautiful Tour 2016 and the Melbourne show will be at The Forum Theatre on Monday January 11.
blues news Written by John (Dr John) Lamp Proudly pesented by The Sleepy Hollow Blues Club
When I moved to Victoria in 1998, one of my new colleagues told me I had to listen to Marco Goldsmith’s Blue Heat. He lent me two CDs, one of which, Marooned, has remained a staunch favourite since then. I put up with a copied CD for quite a few years until a bloke at the Wangaratta Jazz Festival pulled one out from under the counter and placed it in my hands. He had a huge grin on his face, and so did I. He understood precisely! Blue Heat played their debut gig at the 1991 Ballarat Blues Festival. In 1995 Marco Goldsmith won Best Male Artist and their first album Marooned won ‘Australian Blues Album of the Year’. In 1996, their second album Irresistible Behaviour (remastered 2011 with bonus tracks) also won the award whilst Blue Heat won the ‘Australian Blues Band of the Year’. Over the years I have travelled down to Warrnambool and back to see them, and one of my most vivid memories is a gig at the long lost Limelight. To understand this, you have to know that Blue Heat back then was not just three guitars and drums, it had a keyboard and a horns section. Marco took one look at the stage at the Limelight, which was rather on the “compact” side, and whipped out a tape measure. The band returned with wood and tools, and quickly and efficiently fabricated an extension to the stage. I mean, really, how many bands do you know of that would do that? The night was a great success, the band had sufficient elbow room, and the Limelight had a useful add on! So, I was completely taken aback when I received this media release from Marco. “Hello everybody, it is with regret that I am compelled to inform you that I have Throat Cancer and commence Radiotherapy on the 6th of July. Thus far, I have had two operations to remove a growth from my left vocal cord, the first being 12 months ago which proved to be benign. I then had to do a lot of work to get back singing again and managed to get through the last summer season of gigs with only 2/3rds of my original voice left. Regular checkups ensued and after 8-9 months regrowth had engulfed my whole vocal cord once again. I then had the 2nd op’ hoping for a ground hog day result only to find out it was malignant. I have been given very good odds of beating it and scans have shown that it hasn’t spread anywhere else. I intend to get back on the stage singing and performing again as soon I can. Thanks to my amazing wife Kelly, the fabulous Blue Heat team and my lovely friends who have been supporting me from the start. Love you guys xxx MG” Hang in there Marco, we’ve got your back, all the best to Kelly and the rest of the mob down there.
What up, Pulp peeps?! This week I’m coming to you from good ol’ Radelaide – that’s right, not even a trip interstate can keep me from rambling about all things comic-y. Unfortunately I wasn’t able to make it to Oz Comic-con due to exams and whatnot (mostly I forgot it was on) but hopefully I can make it to the next convention that graces Melbourne with its presence. Anyway, enough waffle – it’s time to talk about this week’s comic! I decided to risk alienating some of you this week – I finally got around to reading Days Gone Bye, volume 1 of Robert Kirkman’s (Invincible, Marvel Zombies) powerhouse series The Walking Dead. I know plenty of people that are huge fans of the TV show, and while I’m not aware of as many fans of the comic, I’d heard positive things. Now, I’m not the biggest fan of the zombie apocalypse genre. I’ve only ever really enjoyed two zombie movies: the excellent Shaun of the Dead and the gloriously pulpy Dead and Breakfast, neither of which are ‘serious’ zombie flicks, so you could say that I’m not really the target audience. That being said, I couldn’t help but be rather underwhelmed – given the vastly positive feedback I’d heard about the TV show in particular, I expected rather more than what I read. Don’t get me wrong – it’s certainly not bad, by any means – but I don’t think The Walking Dead really lived up to the hype. It’s possible that I’m merely confusing show hype for comic hype – or the TV adaptation could just be really, really good – but I wasn’t particularly engaged by the first volume. If, like me, you’ve missed the pop culture powerhouse that is The Walking Dead, here’s the low
PUNK! Written by Christopher Cruz
It’s that time again already? Jeez Louise, let’s dive right in, shall we?! Remember the Taste of Chaos tour that used to make its way around the world each year? Sure you do. It even came to Australia a few times, and featured some of the hottest punk/emo/ screamo/metalcore bands of the era, including The Used and My Chemical Romance. Anyways, after an extended hiatus, the brand is coming out of retirement for one last hurrah. And by one last hurrah, I literally mean one. One show. Total. In San Bernardino, California, on the 3rd of October. The line up is a bit of a corker, too: The Used, The Movielife, Jimmy Eat World, All American Rejects, Thrice, Saves The Day, Story of the Year, Glassjaw and Dashboard Confessional. Blimey! I’m no emo kid, but I’d be there with bells on. You all know how partial I am to Saves The Day and The Movielife! That said, I’d probably still pick It’s Not Dead over Taste of Chaos. I hype a LOT of festival line ups, but this one is just too RIDICULOUS to even be true: Agent Orange, DxIx, Manic Hispanic, CJ Ramone, The Descendents, Pulley, Sham 69, TSOL, Pennywise, NOFX, Riverboat Gamblers, Swingin’ Utters, Devils Brigade, Goldfinger, The Vandals, Left Alone, Total Chaos, Reel Big Fish, 7 Seconds, Less Than Jake, Lagwagon, Anti Flag, H2O,
down. Out on patrol with his partner Shane, Deputy Rick Grimes is seriously wounded after a confrontation with an armed suspect. When he wakes up in hospital some time later, however, the world is a very different place. A zombie apocalypse is in full swing – the dead are everywhere, his town is all but deserted and Rick has absolutely no idea where his family are. After gathering supplies – and getting hit on the head by a shovel wielded by a concerned survivor – Rick sets out to find his family, struggling to stay ahead of the ever-advancing tide of the undead. With an opening sequence not unlike the “rage zombie”-lovin’ 28 Days Later and an overall tone about as bleak as George Orwell’s dystopic 1984, it’s pretty clear that The Walking Dead is not a happy book. Between the zombies, the fight for survival and conflict between the survivors themselves, there’s a lot going on, and very little of it is good. Kirkman does an excellent job of portraying Rick’s desperation and the physical and emotional fatigue of the survivors in general. This is helped considerably by Tony Moore’s (Fear Agent, The Exterminators) artwork – who knew that greyscale artwork could show gore so damn well! While volume 1 left a bit to be desired, I get the feeling that this is the kind of series that you need to stick with for the long haul – at last count, there are 24 volumes! Don’t take my word for it; get out there, pick up a copy and check it out for yourself. Bouncing Souls, The Briggs, Strung Out, Fishbone and many, many more. Are you SHITTING me? Jesus H. Christ. And THIS one, too, is taking place in San Bernardino on Saturday October 10 at the San Manuel Amphitheatre Festival Grounds. I just may have to move there! Speaking of Taste of Chaos (a little earlier on, remember?!), Sunday August 30 sees one of their alumni, Motion City Soundtrack, return to Melbourne for a one-off show at 170 Russell (formerly known as Billboard). If you like quirky, synth-driven emo pop along the lines of Regurgitator, get along and dance your freakin’ brains out! The punkest looking, whitest rapper EVER, Machine Gun Kelly, rocked it at the BET (Black Entertainment Television) Awards last week in Los Angeles. Dude was looking super skinny, though. His new girlfriend Amber Rose is clearly not feeding him very well. Either that, or she’s hiding his food in that big-ass booty of hers! Google her. This chick has the craziest dimensions! And that’s coming from a gay guy! Melbourne merch heroes Stack The Cards are going into the retail industry, opening a store at the Campbellfield Market. If you dig punk and rockabilly/ greaser fashions, you may need to make the journey out there to take a look! It’s kind of like Off Ya Tree. Only not! Don’t forget! Skinpin (NSW), Strawberry Fist Cake (Melbourne), The Half Pints and In The Esky rock the Bush Inn on Saturday July 18! Rad! Also back on this year- two killer home-grown punk festivals- Up The Punx (venue TBA) on Saturday October 24, and Nevermind The Warp’d Tour on Saturday December 5th at the Brunswick Hotel. Can’t freakin’ WAIT! Expect line ups to be announced in coming weeks, so keep checking back here each issue for the skinny, because you’re gonna hear about it here first! More next time, kids! Love ya’s!
pop culture
THE NIGHT VIBE
Written by Anthony Morris
Written by Tex Miller thenightvibe.com.au
In one of the more extreme cases of “better late than never” seen on Australian television, Channel Seven has decided to start showing season two of Hannibal from Monday August 13 (at 10.30pm). Anyone left hanging on after the cliffhanger ending of season one probably got caught up when season two was released on DVD towards the end of last year; hardcore fans are already well into season three – which is currently screening in the US. But all snark aside, anything that puts Hannibal in front of audiences is a good thing, because it’s a very good show indeed. It’s based loosely on novelist Thomas Harris’ infamous serial cannibal shrink Dr Hannibal Lecter. Harris’ novel Manhunter is the basis of the show, though characters from the later book Hannibal also appear (it’s The Silence of the Lambs that’s meant to be the big hurdle when it comes to licensing – the rights holders reportedly want big money to let the TV series use Clarice Starling). It started out as a dark parody of the typical “murder of the week” police procedurals but has rapidly evolved into one of the most unsettling, and beautiful, shows on television. Season two begins with the show’s premise tipped on its head: FBI profiler Will Graham (Hugh Dancy) is in the Baltimore State Hospital for the Criminally Insane, framed for the murder by Dr Lecter (Mads Mikkelsen), who has taken his place as the FBI’s go-to guy when investigating serial killers. As you can probably guess, this is a setup that doesn’t spell good times for anyone apart from Lecter, but even though the series opens with FBI agent Jack Crawford (Laurence Fishburne) and Lecter having a drag-out fight, exactly how we get to the stage where his murderous nature is out in the open remains a mystery. Time for the traditional disclaimer when it comes to Hannibal: this show does things to bodies that is hard to believe – and watch – and while it’s never gratuitous (and most of the gore is so abstracted it works more as macabre art than anything else), it can be a bit tough to take in if you’re not in the mood. But it’s well worth finding your way into that mood, as the show itself manages to be both hauntingly beautiful and utterly terrifying (with a side serve of dry wit) in a way few other shows can even come close to. So, of course, it’s just been cancelled by its US network, NBC. Fortunately, thanks to the way Hannibal is produced – it’s made by a European company that largely covers its costs with overseas sales – it seems likely that one or another US cable network will pick it up and throw in enough cash to ensure its survival. But a bunch of Australian viewers couldn’t hurt: if you have even the smallest interest in a show that’s like nothing else out there – or you just like dramas about serial killers, which seems like a much larger demographic going by how long the various CSI shows have been on the air – Hannibal is something you won’t want to miss.
You might remember a few issues ago, I was talking about the greatest movie soundtracks of all time, and yes I still think that The Blues Brothers and Almost Famous are up there as the best, because well, they were my childhood and nothing can take that away from me. If for some reason you have up until this point, heeded my advice and not checked them out, what are you thinking? Classic fun times ahead for you my good friend. You may also remember that when I was talking about the greatest movie soundtracks, I was later on going to discuss the importance of music in TV. This is that very moment. No matter how hard you look at it, music is always around us and important and we all get addicted to TV shows – that’s no lie. So the soundtrack on which a TV show is based, is also essentially important to both character development and story progression. So without further ado, here is a brief list of some of the TV shows that I think have the most important music soundtracks. Starting out with the mid 2000s teenage years, The OC was one of the biggest teen dramas of the noughties and the soundtrack that went along with it was simply astounding. There are many fine moments in the series where the music is stellar and starting to think about the start of season one (partially because that is where I am up to with rewatching the epic drama series) there is some great bands that many people discovered and fell in love with due to The OC. One such band is Mazzy Star, who have over their 25 year career released four albums. So Tonight That I May See, is their second studio record that was released in 1993. Opening with just acoustic guitar and the sweet sorrowful vocals of ‘Hope Sandoval’, the only accompaniment in ‘Into Dust’ is a sparse violin line that weaves beautifully alongside the other instruments in the track. Used four times throughout the series at very intense emotional moments, in thinking about my favourite songs of all time, I think that ‘Into Dust’ by Mazzy Star would definitely have to be up there. The track funnily enough has also been thought of as an OC all time favourite. If you haven’t heard the beauty in this track, I highly recommend that you get on it, I wholeheartedly guarantee that the song will be included on a chill out relaxation playlist. Although it’s a mid 2000s drama, it’s well worth the re-watch just to indulge in the awesome music. Right from the very first moment that I saw the opening scene of season one, episode one I knew that if I had to write a column about the best TV music, that Sons of Anarchy would be included in the list. From the Black Keys’ ‘Hard Row’ to Battleme’s ‘Hey Hey, My My’ , the music supervisors on this show are quite simply geniuses. There is a healthy mix of cover songs and original music allowing you to discover new music from bands such as Battleme who were virtually unknown before being featured on Sons of Anarchy. Alexandra Patsavas was the music supervisor for the OC and introduced many people to the sounds of Death Cab for Cutie, Alexi Murdoch and Sufjan Stevens – bands who were all taking off at that point. She has since worked on the likes of Gossip Girl, Grey’s Anatomy and Mad Men. Although I haven’t seen Gossip Girl or Grey’s Anatomy, I can assure you that the music in these shows are sure to be nothing but stellar due to her amazing work with The OC and Mad Men. There are so many other TV shows that could get a mention and given that there are new TV shows to indulge in popping up every single month, this could quite easily become a regular column for The Night Vibe. Everyone has their favourite TV shows and undoubtedly they will all have great music to them too. Here’s to great music in TV and discovering new bands along the way. Who knows, your favourite might just be around the corner. forte 37
Oxygen College’s Electronic Music Production Course words by Phil Kearney
With the massive rise in popularity of electronic music, more and more musicians are turning to software such as Ableton Live to create, produce and perform their artistic visions. I caught up with Chris Wheelwright, who runs the Electronic Music Production (EMP) program at Oxygen College, to find out about the course and how to begin the journey into electronic music.
course. The use of electronic production techniques is very prevalent in dance music but it is not the only application open to you. Ableton Live can also be used for film scoring – we cover such a project in our Cert III course – and can be incorporated into a band setting so it has relevance to any genre.
Tell us a little bit about the course?
What types of projects will the students be involved in?
What are the essential tools needed to create electronic music?
We begin with some fundamental DJ and sequencing techniques to come to grips with how Ableton Live operates. We look at all of the aspects involved in creating new, original works, from recording MIDI and audio tracks to sampling and mixing. Performance aspects are also covered looking at how Ableton Live can extend out of the computer onto a MIDI controller unleashing its live performance potential. Each project focuses on building an ever-wider skill set in creating music with Ableton Live.
It all starts with enthusiasm and a desire to express yourself through music. The technicalities of working complex programs like Ableton Live are easily overcome with the right guidance and supervision. Musical training helps but is not a prerequisite. Our course covers some basic music theory that is specific to the needs of programmed music. Then there is the equipment: the computer, the software, and audio interface, a MIDI controller and headphones. There is a vast amount of gear out there that can facilitate electronic music production and this is one aspect that a novice may find daunting. Doing our Cert II course gives you the chance to see how a full working set-up operates and we
Electronic music production is the art of creating music using computer technology. Our course focuses on Ableton Live, a leading digital audio workstation (DAW). This software allows the user to create, perform, edit and record music. It’s all about introducing students to the software, explaining its workf low and layout, the basic workings of the program and exploring its vast potential for creativity. There is no bias to any music genre in the course. Ableton Live includes features that allow it to integrate into a conventional band setting as well as being a powerful tool for creating innovative DJ sets. It has many possible uses and our course aims to equip students with enough confidence in using the program to take it into whatever area of music interests them the most.
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What are the key outcomes for the students? The freedom to use this software to explore their own creativity is the main goal of the
can advise students on an individual basis as to what their own requirements would be. What advice would you give to someone who is beginning to create electronic music? If you bought yourself a piano you would not suddenly turn into a performing pianist. That would require lessons and hours of practice pursued over many years. Ableton Live is essentially a new kind of musical instrument. One that contains a vast expanse of sonic possibility and has its own technical requirements to operate it with assurance, just like any other instrument. If you want to get involved in electronic music the best thing you can do is to invest in the right equipment and to enrol in a suitable course. Oxygen College’s Electronic Music Production course commences in mid-July. Government funded positions start from $159* for this one night per week program. For more course information and enrolment details visit oxygencollege.com.au or call 1300 195 303. *Subject to meeting Government funding criteria
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Refining the Palette
Made by Morton Written by Amanda Sherring
Even dressed all in black, there’s a vibrancy that seeps out through Lauren Morton’s personality. The kind of smile and effortless banter that makes you feel right at home. While Lauren may be wearing black for this interview, she assures me that colour is usually her standard attire. “It’s the Melburnians wardrobe and I do feel like I have converted to the Melburnian wardrobe a bit,” Lauren adds with a laugh looking down at her outfit. “But I always wear something colourful, even if it’s just jewellery – I love colour. I may own a few fluoro things, which probably isn’t very on trend. I like mismatched colours as well and being unexpected in fashion. Making really interesting colour combos where you’d think that wouldn’t normally work but it does.” And of course, hanging from Lauren’s neck is one of her own jewellery creations, a splash of beads and colour cut into angular shapes – a feature making her work unique. “A lot of people do make stuff out of polymer clay and it’s just so fun and so easy, and I do encourage anyone to have a go of it because it’s so fun. But the real task is trying to make things different enough and just really professional in whatever you do,” she says. For Lauren, her fascination with jewellery began in high school. It was something she always did, and would often scrounge around the house to find the materials for her next creation. “I used to try and make jewellery in high school and I used to think I was so cool,” she says smiling. “I’d make these big
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earrings out of things I’d find around the house like chains and keys. I thought it was the coolest thing and I’d make them for all my friends. “I tried to bring in the whole, wearing one big earring as a fashion statement thing, but of course you couldn’t wear it because it was against school rules. I just kind of liked to make jewellery and I guess clay was just really fun and I kept at it.“ Years later and Lauren has stuck with the polymer trend but has taken it beyond just beading and string work. She’s now experimenting with the material she’s become so fond of and will be debuting her polymer desk clocks at the Finders Keepers Market in Melbourne alongside her new polymer prints. “At the moment I’m stepping a little away from jewellery. I’ve got the core pieces that I love to make – they’re my favourite and customers love them – but I’m trying to see what else I can make out of polymer clay. So I’ve been making art, bowls and clocks and just seeing where the possibilities are with that,” Lauren says. “I’m just trying to see what else I can make out of it and surprise people,” she adds quickly. In each of her products, new and old, at face value they appear to be perfect. But on closer inspection you’ll see the pieces of Lauren she’s left behind – accidental or not. A fingerprint will be
faintly visible on the blue bead or one of the angles will be cut slightly ajar to the rest. “At the end of the day, everything is handmade so there may be thumb prints and that sort of thing, but that’s nice and people like to see that,” she says. “I feel like it adds a bit of character and in that sense it’s definitely unique. There are a few designer things that are a mass production, using a laser cutter or whatever, but I like the fact that everything is unique and totally one of a kind.” If you’d like to pick up some of Lauren’s pieces, head to the Finders Keepers Market at the Royal Exhibition Building in Melbourne, July 17-19. Website: madebymorton.com Facebook: facebook.com/ madebymorton Instagram: @madebymorton
Lauren Morton Pictured
Refining the Palette
NAIDOC at Courthouse As part of NAIDOC Week ( July 5-12) Courthouse Youth Arts are giving Nathan Djerrkura’s stunning works a second life. The gallery ran earlier in the year but will be shown again until July 13 in celebration of NAIDOC Week. Come learn about Nathan’s home of Gove in the Northern Territory or just get lost in the vivid colours of his paintings. The gallery will be open Monday – Friday from 9am-5pm.
St Joey’s Gets Crafty Rather than brave the cold of outside, St Joseph’s College have set up an indoor Artisan Market where you can pick up some quality handcrafted goodies and one-off artworks for the special ones in your life. The market will run from 10am-3pm on July 18 and 19 in the gymnasium. Gold coin donation required.
3,3,3
After the Boom Some pretty amazing things were created after the ‘Big Boom’ but luckily for Boom Gallery, there wasn’t a Boom as such but just incredible artworks regardless. Its next exhibition will feature three talented artists; Eliza Feely, Amanda Carson and Janne Kearney (pictured). Opening celebrations will be held on July 17 with the exhibition running until August 8.
It’s true that good things come in threes, and for Jared Drever his three are architecture, fine art and photography and they’ll all come together for his solo exhibition ‘3’. Over the three mediums Jared reveals his talent as an artist with a photographic journal depicting his journey as an artist. The exhibition will run until July 12 at Analogue Academy.
Gender in Writing
French Lovers Are Gin Lovers
What does it mean to be a male or female writer? Emily Bitto, winner of the 2015 Stella Prize for her book The Strays, will discuss how gender affects the process and response to works of writing. Why Women’s Writing Matters will run at 6.30pm on July 13 at Courthouse Youth Arts. Tickets are free but registrations must be made via Eventbrite.
It’s Bastille Day! Hoorah! Well, at least it is on July 14. To celebrate the occasion, Elena Gabrielle has paired up with Gin & Co to give you a night of cabaret and burlesque entertainment at 9pm on July 17 – the French simply wouldn’t have it any other way. Tickets start at $20, get yours now (www.trybooking. com/133609).
Found It While it’s a little further from home, the annual Finders Keepers market hits the Royal Exhibition Building in Melbourne next weekend ( July 17-18). With plenty of fancy wares, kooky handcrafted items and detailed artworks, there’s bound to be something whether you’re looking for it or not. Make the train trip there, we assure you it will be well worth your time!
AUS VS USA with arj barker! Arj Barker is originally from California but spends plenty of his time these days ‘Down Under’. We pitted the two against each other to see which Arj liked the best... Budweiser or, hipster drink of the moment, Melbourne Bitter?
Ummm I don’t know Melbourne Bitter that well, so I’ll have to say Budweis...errrrr, but it’s really not that great so I’ll go with Melbourne Bitter because Budweiser is a pretty shit beer. Santa Monica or Bondi?
Oh Bondi is a much more beautiful beach for sure! AC/DC or Guns N’ Roses?
Errrr, I like them both but I have to say, if I had to get stuck on an island with one, like only the music of one band, I would have to go AC/DC! AFL or NRL?
I don’t think I give a fuck about either. Meat Pie or Pizza Slice?
A pie is nice, but pizza slice all day long!
Looks like that’s 3-1 to Australia! We love you too Arj!
WWW.COURTHOUSE.ORG.AU
What’s on this month at
CHYA
#VOICEBOX15
WINTER ARTS PRIZE
Be Seen. Be Heard. Be Moved.
$5,000 prize up for grabs!
Applications now OPEN, See website for details.
Applications now OPEN, See website for details.
P: 5224 2815
WE ALL STAND ON SACRED GROUND. A NAIDOC Week Exhibition.
6th–12th July
FREE
E: reception@courthouse.org.au
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Refining the Palette
Written by Amanda Sherring Photography supplied by Amy Kennedy and Harry Kennedy
Look into any one of Amy Kennedy’s pieces and it’s a reflection of something she’s seen in nature. Even as a creative three-year-old, Amy already had a keen eye for what was beautiful in the world around her. “My mum told me that when I was three I wanted to be an artist. We’d often go for walks – because we lived down in the bush – and she’d get a piece of masking tape and put it sticky side out around my wrist like a bracelet,” she says. “Then as we’d go for walks I’d pick up pretty things from nature and make a bracelet. It’d just be full of pretty leaves and flowers, so that’s probably where my love for nature comes from. “I actually think that most patterns, if you look at them further, are inspired by nature anyway, because we came from only nature anyway so everything goes back to nature if you really trace it.” In the pendant necklace that sits around
Amy’s neck as we speak, its surface is filled with geometric flowers, and in the bracelet around her wrist a delicate leaf pattern stretches its way across the pale metal surface. Both are part of Amy’s collection, but each are from a different brand; one from her pattern printing jewellery called Leif, in which she presses leafs and lace patterns onto metal and the other from her fine jewellery brand Amy Louise where she makes detailed works and engagement/wedding rings. “If you look really closely it’s not perfect,” Amy says holding the pendant in her hands. “But I made this one probably five or six years ago now. I always rush my own pieces because I’m
and the experience still affects her today. “I had numb fingers, I still have numb fingers now from the way you hold the engraving tools. I’d hold it and put my head down for four hours and engrave and then I’d look up and be like, ‘Oh, it’s been four hours’, and I’d actually have to peel my hand open because it was so clamped,” she says. While the trip to Italy was a mere three weeks, Amy has spent five years all up perfecting her trade to become a jeweller and gemmologist, and it looks that learning new skills is something she’ll continuously pursue during her career. “I think jewellery is the kind of thing that you never stop learning, even if you’ve perfected all the skills there’s always new skills and new techniques to learn. Especially at tafe you’re just like, try this, try this, try this – it’s very exciting,” Amy says. It’s clear that anything Amy puts her mind to soon becomes a firm reality, and sticking around for a little while longer is most definitely on her list. Website: amylouise.com.au Instagram: @ helloamylouise Facebook: www. facebook.com/ AmyLouiseJewellery
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too excited to wear them. It’s really hard to not keep everything.” Though these imperfections are ones that only Amy can see, as on looking at the pendant all I see is a detailed and geometrically accurate pattern. If Amy’s childhood is anything to go by, she’s always paid attention to detail. “As a two-year-old mum told me that everyday I would empty my drawers and refold everything and put it back,” she says laughing. “I think I just liked having it neat and I can’t work in a messy space so I have to clean it before I do anything. I’m that weird sort of person who would actually enjoy getting a bowl of M&Ms and sorting them into colours – I don’t know why.” That perfectionist streak in her has enabled Amy to come second nationally in the WorldSkills Australia competition, and soon after with the desire to further her skills, Amy set off for Italy on a three week study tour after raising the funds through a Pozible campaign. For the three weeks Amy worked with master jewellery makers in engraving and jewel setting, with neither of them speaking much English – if any at all. The experience taught her an abundance of new skills
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The Grates Written by Amanda Sherring
While there will be many people questioning the future of The Grates with a new baby on the scene from band members Patience Hodgson and John Patterson, the only interference she’s caused so far in The Grates’ musical career is through the occasional gurgle and grunt during this interview.
“She’s started making these screams before that I’ve never heard in my life,” Patience laughs as she holds Soda in her nursery. “I want to give her a musical childhood, but it’s more than just a musical childhood. I just want to give her a childhood that’s authentic to her – whatever she’s into. Obviously I’m going to try and get her into music but if that’s not her jam and she’s really into kicking balls around then we’ll just roll with that.” While Soda is blessed with the possibility of having a highly musical upbringing, for Patience it wasn’t until she met John and Alana Skyring (past drummer) that her eyes – and ears – were opened to what was out there in the music world. “When I became friends with them they kept sending me mixed cassettes and that was it,” she says. “I remember when I heard Pearl Jam ‘Evolution’ and I was like, ‘Holy shit, that songs rules’. Then when we moved out there was just all sorts of music they were involved in. They were doing all these punk festivals at the skate park and once they moved over to study at tafe they knew all the places to go in the Valley and I guess that’s
when I got involved in the music scene.” The moment the three decided to form a band, came from a casual, normal day watching a garage rock band’s clip on rage. “I was just like, ‘Guys I could do it, why don’t we start a band? I love hanging out with you guys’. The whole time I was watching this garage rock band I was thinking: ‘I could do that. That doesn’t look hard at all it just looks like fun’,” she says. Thus The Grates were made, but with limited experience in singing, let alone in a band, getting her vocals up to scratch was something that took a bit of practise. To begin with her voice was weak, a mere glimpse of what her vocals are now, but it was through perseverance and practice that gained Patience her gusto.
When&Where: Splendour In the Grass, Byron Bay – July 25 & The Corner Hotel, Melbourne – August 15
“I’d done heaps of singing to the radio at night while I was in London because I lived in this tiny bedroom the size of a nursery actually – I’m sitting in one now and my bedroom was the size of a nursery. All I had was the radio so I just listened to that and had heaps of fun. When I came back John only had to have my voice at like a quarter of what the sound used to be and he was like, ‘Aww, your
voice has gotten stronger’,” Patience says. While there have been a few changes in drummers, Alana was soon replaced by Ben Marshall and now Ritchie Daniell, the ethos for the band has stayed the same: to have fun in what you do. “It’s not just Ritchie who helped form the concept of Dream Team, it’s all of the people we’re surrounded by
now,” she beams. “It’s just really fun. There’s a lot of good people who have come into our lives now, we’ve always had good people but now we see them on a daily basis.”
Josh Pyke Written by Kara Ready
Over the past eight years, Josh Pyke has established himself as a permanent fixture on the Australian indie music scene. And while all his previous success indicates that he’s doing something right, you can be sure that he doesn’t let himself become too comfortable.
A perfect example of this is his upcoming record But For All These Shrinking Hearts, a project born out of a desire for creative exploration. After building a recording studio in his backyard,Josh says he felt completely reenergised knowing that he could create music whenever he wanted, completely stress free. As it turns out, such a simple idea became a catalyst for an entirely new chapter in his career. “I just feel like I’m on a new path musically. I feel like I want to dig a bit deeper and I want to flesh ideas out a lot more,” he says. “In the past on records I deliberately left things stripped back and I don’t regret that at all, but I really feel like I want to explore those things a lot more now.” That urge to delve deeper into his music has seemingly uncovered what he thinks could be some of the best song writing he’s done to date. While he admits that it is difficult to be completely objective when it comes to analysing his own music, Josh attributes this artistic growth to becoming more carefree both as a musician and as a person. “I feel like I’m still getting better at writing and still learning different techniques to write lyrics in different
ways. I feel a bit braver in exposing more, which I guess is part of the process of getting older and not caring what people will think of me,” he says. Certainly not one to stay inside the lines, Josh’s hunger to explore the creative realms of song writing lead him to some slightly unconventional methods. While he recalls reading many books and writing a lot of prose poetry during the making of this album, the biggest inspiration came from the process of speaking complete nonsense into the microphone. “I was reading an interview with Jeff Tweedy where he said he sings gibberish on his recordings and then he goes away and listens to the gibberish and makes the lyrics out of what he’s interpreted,” Josh explains.
“ I feel a bit braver in exposing more, which I guess is part of the process of getting older and not caring what people will think of me,!”
He possessed the look of a rock star, thanks to his long flowing locks, and the voice of an angel. “I do get a lot of lovely feedback from people who were fans in the ‘90s. I realise these songs have taken on a life of their own, and it’s always nice to hear that something I have written has resonated with someone,” he says humbly. Price spent most of the ‘90s travelling the world, while continuing to release music (including the much-loved ‘Tamborine Mountain’). In the 2000s he spent time writing, recording and producing with other artists such as Melinda Schneider, Lisa Chappell and David Franj. In 2009 after completing a sold-out run of shows in Tasmania with good buddy Tommy
Emmanuel, Price settled in Nashville Tennessee, where he currently resides – proving you can take the boy out of the country, but you can’t take the country out of the boy. Tennessee Sky is his 10th studio album (out July 10). It celebrates his love of gospel music and showcases his versatility as a songwriter on toetapping tracks like ‘Work That Fire’, or the moving ‘You Are Not Alone’. Price produced it himself in Nashville with the help of a wildly successful PledgeMusic Campaign. “It was extra exciting to do it that way because it was purpose driven in that I really felt like I had a job to do, and that I had to bring it home for my fans. I’m super proud of the record, it’s the best I can do right now that’s for sure, I left no stone unturned,” he laughs. Price says he sought out some of the best musicians in Nashville to play on Tennessee Sky. “I found some quite renowned musicians. A wonderful pedal steel guitar player, and a beautiful upright cello and violin player. I also worked with some Australians, my mate Tommy Emmanuel, [Golden Guitar winner] Tamara Stewart and Anthony Snape.” To celebrate the release of his highly-anticipated album Price is returning to Australia as part of the Tamborine Mountain to Tennessee Sky tour. He will be joined by song writer and comedian Greg Champion, and musician/song writer Mike Rudd. “I’m delighted to be sharing the stage with these guys and we will certainly be there doing our best.”
“I decided to give that a go and I just found it this really liberating, exciting, creative process where you’re not bound by any restrictions or your own natural tendency to censor yourself. So you’re just interpreting what’s bubbling up from your own sub-conscious.” This creative pursuit inspired three songs on the new album and is completely indicative of the wonderful innovation of sound fans can not only expect from the recorded tracks, but also from the live versions. While Josh says there is no tour planned as of yet, the thought of adapting these new songs to a live format is just another task for him to accomplish. “The album is one thing and then I’ll have to figure out a way to play them solo acoustic, then putting it together with the band is another challenge that I relish – so it’s definitely an excitement.” For Josh Pyke, the challenge of breaking down the walls he’s created for himself and rebuilding them again is what keeps him driven. As luck would have it, it’s also what will keep him on the same path of success that he’s been on since 2007.
Release: But For All These Shrinking Hearts, available for pre-order, released July 31
Rick Price Written by Natalie Rogers
Heaven knows Rick Price has enjoyed the type of enduring success that many struggling young artists will only ever dream of. His musical journey started early on in Beaudesert, a small semi-rural community south of Brisbane. “I was a child performer, we played at all the barn dances around the little country town I grew up in. We had a family band called Union Beau, everyone loved music and we were all self-taught. I played with my brother and sister, and uncles and aunties – it was really tremendous.” he smiles.
He began writing his own songs in the late ‘80s and from there his career was on an upward trajectory. By 1992 he was one of the most played artists on Australian radio. His debut single ‘Not a Day Goes By’, peaked at #5 on the Australian charts and sat comfortably in the Top 40 for 20 weeks, but that would prove to be only a taste of what was to come. Price’s next single ‘Heaven Knows’ was his second Top 10 hit that went gold, making him the only Australian artist with two songs in the Top 10 at the time. It wasn’t long before the industry heavy-weights took notice and announced ‘Heaven Knows’ as the APRA Song of the Year. Almost overnight the soft-spoken young man from country Queensland became instantly recognisable. 44 forte
Release: Tennessee Sky will be available at all good retailers from July 10 When&Where: Chapel Off Chapel, Prahran – July 12, The Capital, Bendigo – July 16 & GPAC, Geelong – July 25
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VIDEO GAME Review:
Batman Arkham Knight If there’s a sentence that defines my last 24 hours, it would be, “Yep, I’ll be there soon, I’ve just got to do this one last thing.” In the time I’ve spent playing Batman: Arkham Knight I must have said that sentence to my wife 20 times. I understand that life needs to go on, but this game does such a brilliant job of making me want to keep moving on to the next task that I have often found it difficult to find a break point. Truly, like Batman, my work is never done. Crime in Gotham doesn’t sleep. Let’s get the particulars sorted for the uninitiated. You are Batman, and the game is taking place after the events of Arkham City, which took place after Arkham Asylum, which both took place after (yet, before?) Arkham Origins. The events of the prior games are referenced throughout, and while Arkham Knight can be enjoyed as a standalone story without feeling lost, it does give a rather nice reward to
20 USELESS FACTS ABOUT GOOSEBUMPS 1. In Italy, Goosebumps is called
‘Piccoli Brividi’, which stands for Little Shivers.
those who have followed the series through from the start. For those who haven’t kept up, Arkham City is being redeveloped after the madness of Dr. Hugo Strange was thwarted. The Joker has been dead for months, and crime in Gotham has been on the decline. Or had been on the decline. The game commences with Scarecrow threatening to detonate a bomb containing his fear toxin over Gotham. Batman goes to investigate, where he has a run-in with the mysterious titular character Arkham Knight. To say more would spoil things, so we’ll leave it at that. As I said, the game does a great job of making you want to keep pushing ahead. The stakes are set high early with a hostage situation at Ace chemical plant. The gameplay is a huge reason for not wanting to stop playing, as the game makes saving the day so much damn fun! Ingenious level design forces you to think on your feet, with the fighting finding a good mix between feeling all-powerful but against a powerful force. Is there a more satisfying feeling than walking casually into a room full of 20-30 villains and knowing, not hoping, knowing that at the end you’ll be the only one left standing? That’s the theory anyway. The game is challenging enough that you can occasionally feel more like the clumsy knight. Fighting combos have been lightly tweaked, but are much the same in concept to
Living Dummy’ was partially inspired by the British film ‘Dead Of Night’, which saw a dummy take control of its ventriloquist.
winner was decided by who had the most points at the end (or bananas, or balls of yarn, etc). They would then receive 50 points towards their team score. Shit got real at this point.
12. There were plans to film a
2. The Game Boy Key
Goosebumps movie back in 1998, with Tim Burton set to be the director. Unfortunately it didn’t eventuate. 13. The anonymous man holding
the suitcase in the TV shows opening intro is in fact R.L. Stine.
3. Ryan Gosling once starred in an
14. Stine has been known to give
4. *Spoiler Alert* – no kids die in
15. Goosebumps was the #1
episode of Goosebumps, he played Greg in ‘Say Cheese And Die.’ any of the Goosebumps books. 5. In 1996, the book series
out free copies of his books to trickor-treaters on Halloween. children’s TV show in America for three years in a row.
accounted for almost 15% of Scholastic’s annual revenue.
16. The R.L. stands for Robert
6. R.L. Stine has a fear of jumping
17. The inspiration for ‘The
into water.
7. In the book ‘The Girl Who Cried
Monster’, the librarian originally ate a child. However that was changed to a bowl of turtles for the final publication. 8. Goosebumps was originally
signed for a 6-book deal.
9. When Goosebumps books were
Lawrence.
Haunted Mask’ came from when Stine’s son Matt had trouble removing a Halloween mask as a child. 18. Before writing the Goosebumps
series, Stine was the head writer of a Nickelodeon show called ‘Eureeka’s Castle.’ 19. Over 350 million copies of
first released, it took around 3-4 months before sales started to pick up. They were almost deemed a failure, however word of mouth saw them become the eventual success we know them to be.
Goosebumps books have been sold worldwide, and written in 32 different languages.
10. A fan once asked R.L. Stine to
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sign a potato chip.
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history’s coolest vehicles. In some cases you may feel as though the game is forcing the car upon you, but the same could be said of any gadget in the series. The Batmobile is used excellently within the level design, adds to problem solving, and even The Riddler has incorporated a few challenges specifically for it. On top of all that, as we well know, chicks dig the car. Fans of the series may have been a little disappointed by Arkham Origins’ lackluster side-missions, but they should hold no fear for the same to happen here. A couple hours in and you’ll find your mission options filling up with unexplained fires to put out, serial
11. The story for ‘Night Of The
2. R.L. Stine originally wrote under
the name Jovial Bob Stine.
previous games, and act as a driver towards perfectionism. Few things are more annoying than missing a flawless combo by one errant punch or missed counter, but few things make you want to seek out the next fight as strongly to atone. The show piece of the game, aside from the sheer size of Gotham, is the Batmobile. Kind of a mix between Christopher Nolan’s tumbler and the more traditional models. The game relishes the opportunity to be able to place you in the driver’s seat. Luckily, driving it is great. It feels always on the edge between chaos and control. A battle mode allows for strafing and weapons firing, allowing you to feel the awesome power of one of
20. R.L. Stine’s favourite
Goosebumps book is ‘The Cuckoo Clock Of Doom.’
7 THINGS I LOVED ABOUT A*MAZING Let’s not kid ourselves, A*mazing was the greatest Aussie game show of the ‘90s. I’m not just talking about children’s game shows either. This is a show that brings a smile to the face of anyone who mentions its name. The fact it hasn’t been given a second chance for today’s generation of kids is a travesty, for it would most certainly be a ratings hit. So without further ado, here are seven things I loved most about it: 1. The Nintendo Battle To The Death
It was perfect product placement for Nintendo, since literally every kid in Australia was watching this show (I honestly don’t think that’s too much of an over exaggeration.) I mean how many SNES games do you refer to as “that game they used to play on A*mazing”? That’s what Bubsy is forever known for. Basically for those who don’t know, the final round of the show saw a member from each team battle it out on a SNES game. The most common being the likes of Bubsy, Donkey Kong, Mario Kart and Super Mario. Also in later seasons they moved to the Nintendo 64. Besides the racing games, the
Out of the seven keys hidden in the maze for the final segment, only one of them would secure the team members going home with a Game Boy. Now let’s be honest, at the time, a Game Boy was about the greatest prize any of us could have imagined winning. The show would inform viewers where this special key was hidden, so tensions would rise when you knew contestants were getting close to finding it. It would often lead to loud screams of “look behind the cactus you idiot!”, or “look in the wall of cheese!” You knew if a contestant had actually watched A*mazing, purely by their ability to know where to look for things. 3. The Outfits
Looking back now, these outfits are terrible. It’s your typical ‘90s skateboard get up, complete with elbow and knee pads, plus a bandanna for good measure. Oh and let’s not forget the helmets, which were more often than not too big for the heads of the contestants. In saying that though, owning an original one of these would be one of my proudest achievements, without fail. 4. The Lame Weekly Prize
As amazing (it’s hard to avoid this pun) as winning a Game Boy was, the weekly prize given to the winning school always seemed pretty lame. With how far technology has
killings to investigate, officers to rescue, bat-like creatures to catch (a very cool nod to the animated series), and that’s on top of the usual pile of Riddler Trophies to find and solve. You get the feeling that not an ounce of memory has been wasted nor unused in the making of this game. It will keep you coming back time and time again to complete everything. The other bonus is that because the city is so large, the side missions are spread well apart, so you won’t find yourself suffering from Riddler boredom as on your way from one trophy to the next, you’ll stumble across a bomb to be dismantled. The voice acting from Kevin
Conroy and Mark Hamill has always been the stand-out of these games, even beyond the gameplay, as they create a great sense of character. I’m happy to say that in this game both are at their best again. These games tend to show a darker, occasionally brutal Batman than Conroy portrayed throughout the animated series, and this is no different. Batman is still suffering from guilt of the Joker’s death in Arkham City. This game literally opens with you handling Mr. J’s cremation to make sure you feel his death every bit as much as our Dark Knight. This guilt, coupled with a dose of fear toxin, causes Joker to show up in hallucinations, acting as Batman’s inner monologue. It’s so great to watch these two bounce off of each other, that at times the game feels more like a Batman movie that we never got to see. My time of playing on the PS4 saw no real performance issues, although there has been a bit of a disaster with the PC release, so if you have both methods available to you, stick with the console purchase for now. The Arkham series is a high water mark not just for Superhero games, but for console games in general. In Arkham Knight, next gen consoles have just seen the benchmark set higher yet again. Hot on the heels of The Witcher 3, we are finally starting to see the full potential realised of just what developers can do with modern tech. You won’t find better games to spend your money on than this. 10/10 Written by Mitch Grinter. Read more at http://torrentthis.tv
DO YOU REMEMBER CHEEZ TV? If you spent your mornings watching Jade and Ryan introducing the likes of Pokemon and Dragonball Z, then you’ll LOVE the latest episode of the Torrent This Podcast, featuring an hour-long interview with Ryan Lappin! Tune in and listen now at torrentthis.tv advanced since the mid nineties, the prizes seem ever worse when you look back now. I mean after a week of gruelling Mario Kart battles, scraped knees and spelling errors, the school with the highest score at the end of the week usually went home with education software. It was either Encarta or Encyclopedia Britannica. Those were the days. 5. James Sherry’s Awkwardness
He may be a beloved part of the memories of thousands of kids from the ‘90s, but there is no denying the awkwardness of James Sherry. In saying that, I guess it would be hard to engage in a conversation with a child saying they’re cool because “they don’t read” (see below). 6. The Giant Keyboard
As a child, I always felt like the keyboard was rigged, I mean half he time the contestants would step on letters and nothing would happen. NOTHING! However I’ve since learned that it was the contestant’s fault, since apparently there were little
buttons in the corner of each letter, and only one could be pressed at any given time in order for the board to work. I wonder if Sherry briefed the contestants about this before filming? A part of me hopes he didn’t, just so that he could sit back and watch the stupid kids fail for shits and giggles. 7. The Maze
Would it be wrong to say that every Australian ‘90s kid has at least once dreamt of running through this maze? I mean, it was the ultimate. It had so much going for it; giant penguins, Donkey Kongs, a foam pit, a wall of cheese, a pirate’s cove, even a broken car that was seemingly impossible to find anything in. It was the best. I’ll soon be getting a payout from Ford when they close down in 2016, so I’ve had serious thoughts about investing my money into building a replica version of this maze. If anything, at least I’ll have an excuse to invite James Sherry over for dinner. Written by Dando. Read more articles at http://torrentthis.tv
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homehouse
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odyssey tavern
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Film Reviews
Films reviewed by Anthony Morris
the wra p Jurassic World Dinosaurs! Sure, there are humans in this film too, but we all know it’s the dinosaurs that you want to see. And a good thing too, because all the human stuff here is firmly average at best.
Inside Out
Amy In director Asif (Senna) Kapadia’s documentary about the all-tooshort life of Amy Winehouse, it’s not hard to figure out who the bad guys are, because they’re pretty much everyone. Winehouse’s parents were ineffectual (her mum) or flat-out exploitative (her dad), her first husband got her onto hard drugs then broke her heart, her promoter kept her touring when she desperately needed a break, and Winehouse herself was clearly someone who did what she liked, and what she liked was booze and drugs. All that makes her life all the more tragic. Throughout this documentary it’s hard not to think that if only
someone had stepped up things might have been a lot different. Then again, on the brief occasions where her friends get a look-in they’re constantly saying they tried to turn the ship around. While Kapadia’s extensive use of actual footage (everyone either appears in contemporary footage with Winehouse or provides voiceover – there are no talking heads) gives the impression of the story as it happened, there’s no doubt that a lot of shaping has gone into creating the story we see. Still, some things are hard to refute: seeing Winehouse on an island holiday trying to pull her life together only to have her dad arrive with a reality show camera crew in tow is one of the sadder things you’ll see this year.
Pixar returns to their tearjerking best in this often very funny look at what happens inside a little girls head – basically there’s feelings, and those feelings have feelings, and a lot of those feelings can be pretty sad.
Minions A fast-paced comedy caper film (and prequel to Despicable Me) this often very silly film is pretty basic stuff – but that doesn’t mean it’s not a lot of fun.
Far From the Madding Crowd This Thomas Hardy adaptation turns the source material into a relatively straightforward romantic drama, but the focus on the characters’ emotional lives makes the love triangle here come alive.
Entourage
Terminator: Genisys For a franchise that hasn’t actually delivered a decent film since Terminator 2: Judgement Day back in 1992, the Terminator series sure does seem hard to kill. Oddly, this time-travelling reboot in which Kyle Reese ( Jai Courtney) is sent by resistance leader John Connor ( Jason Clarke) back in time to 1984 to protect his mother Sarah Connor (Emilia Clarke). Only to discover Connor has been raised by a T-800 named “Pops” (Arnold Schwarzenegger) and everything he thought he knew about everything is all messed up all largely harks back to the first film,
while everyone knows it was the second instalment that made the franchise what it is today. So while the future war scenes continue the Terminator tradition of largely being rubbish – there’s a reason why Terminator: Salvation, the only instalment set entirely in the future, is easily the worse – the early 1984 scenes provide both extreme fan service as they re-enact scenes from the first film word-forword and the film’s only moments of real tension as our human heroes battle against killbots who just want to kill them. Later scenes where they face off against a more chatty killer are a lot less effective, and the film eventually collapses in a series of depressingly ineffective
CGI-heavy action sequences. It’s tempting to dismiss many of the performances here as misjudged – of the new guys only Jason Clarke is really convincing, while Schwarzenegger (playing an increasingly aged Terminator) uses his age well as easily the stand-out performer here – but the fault really lies with the script. A decent Terminator movie should move so fast that the characters barely have time to chat; instead this plods along, giving us plenty of time to see the characters as the B-movie cyphers they are as they clumsily bump up against each other while we twiddle our thumbs, waiting for a legitimately thrilling sequence that never arrives.
All your favourites are back in this aimless, pointless, dragged out version of a once-halfway decent television series. The weather sure does look nice in LA this time of year.
San Andreas
Ruben Guthrie Ruben (Patrick Brammall) is an award-winning advertising creative who likes a drink. Okay, not much “a” drink as all the drinks. So when a drunken rooftop dive into his pool leaves our mid-30s hero with a broken arm, his 21-year-old model girlfriend (Abbey Lee) – who he’s been seeing for five years (you do the math) – walks out. But there’s hope: Zoya tells him that if he can stay sober for a year, she’ll consider taking him back. It doesn’t take all that much for him to give up the booze. The real problems start when he has to try and live without it blurring the edge of the unpleasant people he finds himself surrounded by. Not that he’s a saint either: Guthrie is an arrogant smart-arse trying to improve but most of the drama in this film comes
Madame Bovary
Ted 2 The biggest surprise with the first Ted film wasn’t that it was funny – writer / director Seth MacFarlane’s scattershot approach to comedy (as seen in Family Guy and American Dad) might not hit every target every time, but he sprays around enough jokes to ensure everybody’s going to laugh at something – but that it was an actual coherent story. Unfortunately, the return adventure of everyone’s favourite magically animated potty-mouthed teddy bear is much more of a patch-up job than the first film, feeling more often than not like a big screen version of Family Guy down to the cut-away jokes and 52 forte
bits that lack even a basic ending – let alone a punchline. The film begins with Ted (voiced by MacFarlane) marrying his longtime girlfriend Tami-Lynn ( Jessica Barth), only when their relationship rapidly goes downhill Ted figures the solution is to have a baby. His former owner (Mark Wahlberg), who’s even more dim-witted this time around, presumably because of his unfunny depression over his failed marriage, decides to help out. Cue much hilarity at a sperm bank – only when he turns to adoption there’s a catch: it turns out that Ted isn’t legally a person, and trying to adopt has brought this to the attention of the authorities. The rest of the story involves Ted’s various
court battles to be legally recognised as a human – yes, it’s a Civil Rights struggle – which are largely treated as filler between various jokes about smoking dope, blind people’s butt cracks, various bodily fluids, and… well, you get the idea. It’s still funny in parts (the strike rate sketch-wise is roughly one good one out of three) and the celebrity material works more often than not (Liam Neeson has a hilariously intense scene involving buying cereal), but it’s still just a bunch of jokes thrown together rather than an actual film. So unless you really want to see a lot of big-screen bong-smoking, feel free to wait a few months for all the best bits to appear on YouTube.
Often the hardest part of adapting a novel isn’t figuring out how to transfer the story to the big screen, it’s finding a way to carry across all the subtle nuances that make a novel more than just a collection of events. Or at least, you’d be forgiven for thinking that after watching this adaptation of Madame Bovary, a film that manages to convey the basic thrust of Gustave Falubert’s novel firmly and clearly yet somehow misses out on everything that brings the story to life. Brought up in a convent after the death of her mother and married off to a country doctor she’s never before met, Emma Bovary (Mia Wasikowska) does her best to be a good wife. But rural France in the 19th century isn’t exactly a hotbed of excitement, and with her husband (Henry Lloyd-Hughes) rapidly revealed to be the dullest man alive, it’s not long before she turns to home
from those around him, especially his needy and manipulative hippie sponsor-slash-girlfriend (Harriet Dyer) and his gay, bitchy party boy parody BFF (Alex Dimitriades). Writer-director Brendan Cowell (adapting his play) seems unsure of the points he’s making: Alcoholics Anonymous is attacked by almost everyone as a cult, but it seems to help Guthrie… who spouts AA mantras like he’s in a cult. Strong performances make the characters watchable, but often the script’s origins as a play make the characters hard to swallow (at one stage one literally tips booze down Guthrie’s throat to get him off the wagon). And if you’re trying to give up the booze, would you really have a literal wall of alcohol set up in your house? Guthrie’s tragedy isn’t that his life is falling apart, it’s that in a sea of arseholes he ends up just more of the same. decoration to keep herself amused. A young law clerk (Ezra Miller) professes his love, then leaves town when she rebuffs him. When a local nobleman (Logan MarshallGreen) does the same, she’s learnt enough to return his affections. Meanwhile, her decorating and fondness for fashion has her getting into serious debt with a local store owner (Rhys Ifans); any sense that her life is spiralling out of control is fully justified. Despite strong performances and a lot of beautiful countryside, this is a surprisingly lifeless effort that rarely evokes the boredom and confinement that motivates Emma Bovary’s actions. Without that, she’s just a wilful woman who can’t see the trap she’s made for herself. There’s passing pleasure to be had in watching her decline and fall, but for all the skill and care that’s gone into this film, it lacks the heart – or even just the basic sympathy – required to bring it to life.
When an earthquake flattens LA, it’s a good thing The Rock is in a helicopter. Especially as the earthquake is heading north to San Francisco – where his daughter is. Rescue time! Well, the effects look okay at least.
Mad Max: Fury Road If you like brilliant car chases and non-stop action, then this is easily the movie of the year. If you don’t, you should probably stay away as this film knows exactly what it wants to be and isn’t interested in doing anything else. Romance? Comedy? Anything that doesn’t involve a howling pack of nutters racing around the desert? You’ve come to the wrong film.
Spy Melissa McCarthy’s latest comedy is her strongest and funniest outing yet, as she plays a back office support staffer sent out on a mission to prevent an arms dealer (Rose Byrne) from peddling a nuke to the bad guys. An all star cast provides valuable back-up, but Jason Statham is hilarious as a parody of his usual tough guy roles.
Music Reviews
Batpiss
The Getaway Plan
Godsticks
Fraser A Gorman
BIOMASS
DARK HORSES
EMERGENCE
SLOW GUM
Poison City Records
Dope Mountain
Independent
Milk Records! / Caroline
The new LP from Batpiss is heavy, full of big dirgerock sounds, with dark lyrics that’ll send chills down your spine and shake you to the core. Recorded over just five days in Melbourne’s very own Cellar Sessions Studios and produced by Max Ducker, Biomass doesn’t fuck around or beat around the bush. It tells you straight, about living life on the streets, home drama and the general mess that is life. To get into this LP you’ve got to love a bit of hardcore punk because it’ll knock your socks off. If you’re not into punk in the first place I reckon you might find it a little much to take in and digest, but hey, I’d love you to prove me wrong. Standout tracks on Biomass is ‘Death Will’... which has some absolutely killer guitar and just has a great sound to it in general. Track five, ‘Orchard’ is one of my favourites, it’s got everything a good punk song should have; kick arse drums, amazing guitar riffs and wicked vocals. The best track hands down though has to be ‘Pulling Out’, it’s got an ultra slow build up that’s dark and menacing and then just when you’re least expecting it, BAM! It gets dirty and heavy, fast. Personally, I think it’s got the best sound on the entire LP and the lyrics are genius. Sonically, this LP is high energy, raw and rocking, lyrically it’s dark and twisted and vocally, well let’s just say this guy has lungs. Batpiss, get amongst it. Reviewed by Montana Agustin
We never thought we’d see it happen, but against all odds The Getaway Plan are back and ready to take on big things. After band break ups, personal obstacles and nearly five years of not a single track recorded, the guys have released their third and highly anticipated LP, Dark Horses. Dark Horses is full of experimental sounds, great rock riffs and lyrics that insinuate a turbulent couple of years. The introductory track, ‘Landscapes’ is full of big sounds and soul and pain all at once. Track two wasn’t my thing, instrumentally it was rocking but dare I say that the vocals made it sound a little ‘pop boy band-like’ and track three was much the same. I’m going to get hate mail for those last comments. The last track, ‘Exodus’ is really cool, it’s melodic and melancholy, almost reflective in sound. It was the stand out on the LP and lyrically, it’s pretty genius. Dark Horses is a great LP and definitely worth a listen, especially if you want to hear some great rock music. However, I feel the vocals really take away from the overall attitude that the instrumentals work so hard to build up, which is a bit disappointing really. Reviewed by Montana Agustin
Have I said before how much I love progressive rock? No? Well I do. Godsticks luckily falls into that category, so to say I was excited about reviewing a prog rock release was an understatement. Opener ‘Below the Belt’ has great instrumental, heavy guitar and a steady drum beat, but the lyrics seem clunky. At times there are almost too many words thrown in and it seems a bit of a rush for Darren Charles to get them all out. Though the missteps in the first track are made up for in ‘Ruin’. The lyrics are smart, simple and have that bitter irony underpinning each sentence. There’s something about the guitar intro in ‘One Percent’ that couldn’t be more perfect. It’s a slow building kind of track and once the vocals come in it doesn’t lose momentum. This is the definite highlight on the album so check it out. Title track ‘Emergence’ is a pretty close second too, heavy on guitar, with a slow and solid drumbeat throughout the track. Overall Godsticks are onto a good thing, they just need to simplify a few of their lyrics here and there and it’d be top marks from me. Instrumentally though they’re spot on. This is a bit of a heavier take on prog rock, so if you like you’re guitar amped up, then pick this one up. Reviewed by Alexander Lightfoot
Having grown up around the Bellarine Peninsula and Geelong region, I have always been aware of Fraser A Gorman. Since his humble beginnings in Revolver and Sun back in the mid 2000s, it’s very exciting to see him now in 2015 releasing his debut solo album Slow Gum. Having got in with Courtney Barnett and travelled around America and Europe and met Ellen Degeneres, Gorman is set for the big time with this release. Many readers out there may have heard the singles ‘Book Of Love’, ‘Broken Hands’ and ‘Shiny Gun’ and they all appear on this album. Starting out with ‘Big Old World’ this album definitely sounds like early Bob Dylan, during the ‘Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan’ days. This album is intimate and beautiful to the core. Years away writing in the bedroom and travelling around the world has produced Fraser A. Gorman with a record to be incredibly proud of. Whilst ‘Book Of Love’ is mellow with electric piano and slide guitar, the slow build of this album is present throughout ‘Dark Eyes’, which uses a melancholy horn line to finish the track. The album closes with ‘Blossom and Snow’ which is probably the best way to close out a debut record. Acoustic guitar, vocals and Harmonica combined with brutal honest songwriting about his hometown, gives me the tick of approval that this is one of the best songs on the record. ‘My Old Man’ is also a highlight on an album that will push Fraser A. Gorman further into the Australian stratosphere of awesome music. I love supporting local musicians and I highly recommend you get behind this local lad. He may have moved on to other music scenes, however he will always be a local in my eyes. Top stuff, Mr Gorman on an incredibly beautiful and inclusive listen, it draws you in with the songwriting and beautiful melodies and will have you hitting repeat immediately after the conclusion of ‘Blossom and Snow’. Reviewed by Tex Miller
Alpine The Barwon Club, Geelong – WED June 24 Supports: Olympia, DARTS
It’s always a pleasant surprise when you head to a gig, not fully knowing the supports, and then leaving said gig with a new favourite musician. If you haven’t heard of Olympia, I suggest you look her up, as her pristine and angelic vocals sound just the same live as they do in her recordings. Playing the first support slot is always tricky, as convincing what few crowd there is to come forward is something you’ll constantly be responsible for. It’s almost as if with the first band there’s a barrier that forces punters at least three metres from the stage. Though while no one was within touching distance of the singer, all eyes were squarely focused on her and her purple one-piece get up. Whether it was the outfit or her vocals, she was an unforgettable aspect of the night. Second up was DARTS, and as much as I hate to give bad feedback to a band, tonight just simply wasn’t their night. The lead vocals were far too low and with her already soft voice it became lost as soon as the guitar and drums came into full effect. Some of the band members look disinterested, simply like they were gazing at the bar counting down the minutes until they could hold a chilled drink in their hands. That’s not to say they didn’t play well, from what I could hear (vocals excluded, unfortunately) their instrumentals were pretty true to their songs. It’s just a bit hard to get really into it when not all the band members look as if they want to be there. Though stage presence wasn’t a problem at all when Alpine began. Squeezing all six of them onto the Barwon Club space looked like a well planned task, but it all worked and with enough space for Phoebe and Lou to writhe around on stage. Alternating between singing at the crowd, singing at each other and generally giving one hell of a theatrical performance – the band had the crowd eating out of their hands from the very first song. They seamlessly mixed in their older tracks with their newer songs, to which both had the whole crowd singing along. If it wasn’t only halfway through the year, I’d say Alpine easily are the top live act of the year for me. Though I better not get ahead of myself, there’s still another five months of fitting into packed out rooms and rubbing up against sweaty bodies before that title can be claimed. Reviewed by Amanda Sherring
Barenaked Ladies SILVERBALL Vanguard Records
Cobain: Montage of Heck Director/Writer: Brett Morgen
As the opening footage of a sickly Kurt takes the stage you can’t help but feel for the singer. Did we do this to him? Was our obsessive fandom too much for the musician to bear? The documentary rolls on and these feelings don’t subside. While it’s not something you’d want to feel on any normal day, getting an insight like
this into Kurt Cobain’s life is hardly ordinary. Cobain: Montage of Heck flicks through old footage, interviews with family and friends (Courtney Love, Don Cobain and Kim Cobain are highlights), Kurt’s diary entries and scribbles animated and a retelling of incidents in his life through cartoons. There’s even the reworking of the Nirvana classics to play in the background as you watch of Kurt’s difficult teen years – there’s clearly not one element of this documentary that’s been overlooked. If there’s one thing
to pick on it’s that some of these many elements don’t flow on seamlessly from the other, though if it’s a reflection of Kurt’s life, there really wasn’t anything smooth about it. From his older years, his sketches of bodily organs, demons and mutilation are brutally juxtaposed against the home footage of him as a blonde haired blue eyed toddler. How did such a sweet kind meet the fate that he did? It’s something that I feel will never be answered, and while this documentary gives the best glimpse of an answer yet, we can’t know for
certain unless talking with the man himself. For fans of Nirvana this is likely to leave you with mixed emotions. You’ll feel joy at the chance to reminisce of the good days – to feel as if you were part of the action. But there’s so much sadness in what could have been; his life with Courtney, or with his child, or just generally with Nirvana. Regardless of your emotions in watching the release, this is one to watch if not just to see what those around him had to say of his life. Reviewed by Amanda Sherring
Titled ‘Get Back Up’ the opening number for the new Barenaked Ladies release could easily be a comment on the band’s history. It’s know that negativity made its way into the band and Ed Robertson has said Silverball was a return to the joy of writing. Echoing: ‘You’ve gotta get back up, gotta get back up’ through the song it sounds almost like a personal mantra. For those who are wanting to hear the old Barenaked Ladies that they sung-a-long many years ago, this time things have changed. While there’s still the confidence and positive vibes flowing through each track, there’s also a heavier country influence, whether it’s in Robertson’s vocals or the twang of the guitar, there’s a definite influence. ‘Matter of Time’ is a sweet release with some cute rhyming lyrics – I can’t really describe it any other way. It’s an easy listen and that’s the main charm of this track. ‘Say What You Want’ is a highlight for it’s rockier edge. The guitar is heavier and the main carrier through the track and Robertson’s vocals are a bit deeper and darker than in the previous sugary country tunes. ‘Hold My Hand’ and ‘Silverball’ are also a pretty standout tracks and ‘Narrow Streets’ is quite possibly the closest you’ll get to the older Barenaked Ladies sounds. Ultimately this is a great release for those wanting a modern take on country with a strong rock edge, but for anyone wanting to reminisce of ‘One Week’ best you don’t pick up this album. Reviewed by Alexander Lightfoot forte 53
Last Words
grog watch Tony “did you just see a really bright light?” Montana
So there’s a brand new Terminator movie out and I, for one, am very excited. Well, maybe not as excited as I was before I went and saw it because it’s just good, not great, but still. You know how there are people out there you generally try to avoid who are just a little too heavily invested in one movie franchise or another (usually Star Wars; almost never Mission: Impossible)? Well, I am that guy when it comes to The Terminator… which is kind of weird, as according to my hardline stance all the Terminator movies (apart from the first) are disappointments to some extent or another. This is increasingly weird as the years go by and people tend to come to movie franchises out of order – I can’t be the only person who’s noticed
this, can’t I? That, for example, it’s increasingly rare to find anyone who first saw the Star Wars movies in order? And by order I mean first Star Wars, then The Empire Strikes Back, then Jedi, then the prequels (obviously they come later – they’re called prequels). Or the Indiana Jones movies, or the Jurassic Park movies, or any other franchise that’s been going a decade or two. Unless you’re there right at the start you tend to get into a series by seeing one at random – not so much on TV these days, but maybe a friend wants to watch one, or a parent, or whatever, and then you maybe go back to the start or you just watch them as you come across them and you put the story together in your mind and end up thinking crazy thoughts like maybe Terminator 2 is the best Terminator movie. Ugh. See, the thing is that if you watch the Terminator movies out of order then Terminator 2 does seem like it must be the best one, because all the
ones that follow take its lead. Which is understandable because it made a billion dollars and changed the way we look at movies – it wasn’t the first blockbuster to be built around special effects but it was the first action movie to lean on them so heavily they became a major selling point and there’s a direct line from it to the superhero movies of today, what with it being full of “action” that doesn’t actually mean much and only seems like it should be violent. While it’s easy to look at The Terminator after having seen T2 and think “T2 did everything bigger and better”, that’s because T2 is actually a totally different film to the first Terminator. All you need to know from the first Terminator to totally understand Terminator 2 is that there’s been a killer robot from the future once before, Sarah Connor killed it, and it takes her a while to realise this new killbot is on her side. And she’s not even the main character in the movie
so who cares? T2 is about a kid who gets a cool robot dad and they pal around while being chased by a nerdy blob of metal that’s kind of impressive up close but once you get away from it, it isn’t really scary at all. It has some cool chase sequences, Sarah Connor is a great action heroine, and if you try to tell me that final thumbs up from the T-800 as it’s dunked in liquid steel is a great moment in movies you’re in for a kicking. Meanwhile, in the first Terminator there are no cuddly dad-bots, or smart-arse kids, or computer special effects. You know what Arnold Schwarzenegger does in the first Terminator? Shoot innocent people. ALL THE TIME. He’s terrifying. The whole movie is basically a grimy slasher film, only the killer just shoots you. It’s the movie that gave him his career and the second it was over he never made anything like it again. It’s so packed with good ideas all the sequels have been based on
just one or two of them. The special effects may look crappy now, but the (few, brief ) future war scenes are so effective they turned them into a whole new (shit) Terminator movie. The romance stuff is efficiently covered in a scene and a half, yet the new Terminator film bases almost all its character interactions on those brief moments. Then there’s the buddy cops investigating the Terminator’s kill-spree: the new Terminator tries for a bit of that with a cop played by J.K. Simmons, but it’s nowhere near as good. The first Terminator is the best because it’s full of good stuff that doesn’t outstay its welcome (unlike when they reuse all its parts in later films), plus it’s full of good stuff they never did again. Having the Terminator swear is awesome in the first film: never happens again. What about the way the Terminator seems to be slowly coming apart from all the damage so you think, “Hey, maybe they can just wear him down” – plus
the great scene where he removes a damaged eye, ewww – only for the big reveal that hell, he really is all robot? What about the way that, unlike every other Terminator film that follows, in the first one the Terminator is constantly just one step behind, always figuring out what they’re up to next? In the second one, they get away scott-free: the liquid metal killbot only finds them when they go back and blow up an office block, which is kind of hard to miss. “But in T2 the Terminator says Hasta la Vista, Baby!” Oh, shut up.
Pub Werewolf Trivia! There’s a new trivia game hitting Saint Regis Food and Wine Bar and we thought it’d be great to get them on board for our trivia this issue. If you like what you see, you can play the game for real tonight (Thursday, July 9) at 6pm. 6:00 pm, Thursday July 9 and August 13, Saint Regis Food & Wine Bar, 35 Waurn Ponds Drive. Check PubWerewolf.com for details.
4. In Buffy, when did the show first encounter werewolves? Who 54 forte
9. W hich continents have legends of werewolves?
6. Aside from being bitten, how did people believe you could become a werewolf?
10. Werewolves have influenced the Academy Awards. How?
7. Name some of the potential signs of a werewolf.
11. What big-budget movie riffed so closely on World of Darkness
themes and plots that White Wolf, publishers of the World of Darkness games, sued its producers and won an undisclosed settlement? 12. What other game about werewolves has recently taken off? 13. W hen and where can you try Werewolf?
9. Werewolf mythology is found pretty much everywhere wolves are. European (especially Greek, Germanic, Scandinavian, and Slavic) and to a lesser extent North and Central American folklore feature legends of people turning into wolves or wolf-like creatures. 10. A new category, Outstanding Achievement in Makeup, was created specifically for the 1981 film An American Werewolf in London. 11. Underworld. 12. A social mystery/ deduction game about working out who in the group is on a hidden team (the Werewolves), simply called Werewolf.
3. Ancient Greek myth says King Lycaon was turned into the first werewolf as a punishment by Zeus. Why?
5. Bonus question: name the better-known warriors who wore bearskins instead of wolfskins.
8. Which real-world disease might have been mistaken for lycanthropy?
belt), being cursed, drinking rainwater from a werewolf ’s pawprint, or being mistreated as a young child. 7. Strangely long index fingers, hairy palms, anger management issues, low-set ears, a monobrow, water aversion, poor vision, over-sensitive sense of smell, dry tongue, nighttime walkabouts. Also growing fur and fangs and trying to eat people, but those are more definite than potential. 8. Hypertrichosis, which produces excessive hair growth. There’s also a rare psychiatric condition called “clinical lycanthropy” where people believe they are turning, have turned, or can turn into an animal.
2. What’s the fancy, pseudo-scientific term for the condition of being a werewolf?
was the source of lycanthropy?
ANSWERS 1. From Old English - wer originally meant “man”. 2. Lycanthropy (lie CAN throp ee) - from Ancient Greek lycos (wolf ) and anthropos (human). 3. He served Zeus a meal containing human flesh to test Zeus’s omniscience, and Zeus caught him. (Though if Zeus was so omniscient one wonders why he couldn’t have cursed Lycaon before he killed and cooked someone.) 4. In the 1998 episode “Phases”. Oz was the first on-screen werewolf, but Oz’s baby cousin Jordy was the source. 5. Berserkers - from ber (bear) serk (shirt). 6. Being born one, wearing a wolfskin (or even just a wolfskin
1. Where do we get the word “werewolf”?
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