Forte #694

BALLARAT BELLARINE

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Supporting one another and those struggling with life is something we all need to do. Ahead of R U OK? Day on September 13, The R U OK? Conversation Convoy is stopping by Geelong this month to inspire our community to invest more time in the people around them and give them the skills, motivation and confidence to start a conversation with anyone they might be worried about. What they’re trying to do is show Australians everywhere that every day is the day to ask, ‘Are you OK?’ It’s so simple. In the time it takes to have a coffee, you can start a conversation that could change a life.

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

Publisher Furst Media Pty. Ltd.

FREEBIES This issue we’ve got three family passes to Eroni’s Circus that’s performing at Moolap from Friday July 27 - Sunday August 19.

T O EN TE R :

So, check on your strong friends. Check on your quiet friends. Check on your ‘happy’ friends. Check on your creative friends. Check on each other… because that’s what friends do. A simple message, a chat, a smile, a coffee date... however you check in on your friends, keep doing it and if you think it’s time to check on someone, maybe today is the day.

For your chance to enjoy the stunning two hour show under the heated big top, email your name, your number and the code word ‘CIRCUS’ to talia@fortemag.com.au

Editor Talia Rinaldo

talia@fortemag.com.au

Advertising Josh Dowling

josh@fortemag.com.au

General Manager Glenn Lynch

glenn@fortemag.com.au

Editorial Assistant Helena Metzke Art Director Nathan Mossop

artwork@fortemag.com.au

This issue we have Florence + the Machine on our cover for a day on the green! Off the back of their new album High As Hope, this marks Florence Welch and her band’s return for the first time since their epic sold-out November 2015 tour, which featured four back-to-back Sydney Opera House Forecourt performances.

Now while we don’t get to chat to the goddess that is Florence, we did score a chat with Marlon Williams who will be supporting her at Mt Duneed next January! Check it out.

Interns Hannah Kenny, Chloe Cicero, Lauren McKinnon.

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

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Further in this issue, we chat to one of Brisbane’s best-loved bands, Regurgitator; Geelong ’90s band Warped; ARIA Awardwinning rapper 360, we take a look at two of the mainstays in the Geelong bar scene, the brains behind Raw Remedies Wellbeing, plus heaps more!

Contributors Anthony Morris, Alastair McGibbon, Amanda Sherring, Chris Lambie, Dr John Lamp, Natalie Rogers, Paul S Taylor, Tex Miller, Wylie Caird.

Advertisers and agents are advised that all advertising copy is their responsibility under the trade practices act. Advertisements are published in good faith and on the understanding that the content is legitimate and lawful. Advertisers and or agents submit advertisements at their own risk. The editor and creators hold no responsibility whatsoever for the content of the magazine in the case that it may offend. Forté accepts no responsibility for errors or omissions. Forté reserves the right to edit all articles and letters.

Talia and the Forté team xx @courthouseyoutharts

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WHAT’S ON

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MELBOURNE CITY BALLET

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TUESDAY 7 AUGUST, 10.30AM

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NOCTURNAL CHANNELS HARLEM FOR MEL&NYC EDITION

IRON MAIDEN SINGER BRUCE DICKINSON AUSTRALIAN SPEAKING TOUR

The August edition of Melbourne Museum’s beloved Nocturnal (the adults-only after dark party at the Museum) series is here. Invoking the incomparable thrill of New York City next month, Nocturnal is broadening musical and cultural horizons as it transforms into Harlem for an evening through live entertainment such as spoken-word performances, dance and projections as well as Southern food and live music performances. Leading the night is jazz, RnB, soul and reggae outfit Rakiem Walker Project who are flying in from Harlem especially for the event. They’ll be joined by 1/6, ‘Round Midnights and MzRizk for a jam-packed evening full of genre-diverse music. Nocturnal is happening on Friday August 3 from 6pm.

That’s right legends, Iron Maiden lead singer Bruce Dickinson has announced a special oneman speaking tour of Australia this October in support of his autobiography, What Does This Button Do? On the tour, Dickinson will be reading excerpts from his book, delivering slides and hosting a Q&A in which you can ask all the questions you’ve been dying to know about what it’s like to front one of music’s most iconic bands. Spending much of his career notoriously closed off when it comes to his personal life, this event is bound to be filled with juicy details. Catch Ian Dickinson at Palais Theatre, Melbourne on Friday October 19. Ticket purchasers will also receive a signed copy of the New York Times Best-Selling autobiography!

YLVA ANNOUNCE ONLY MELBOURNE HEADLINE SHOW FOR 2018

A WINTER BEER OASIS IS HEADING TO QUEEN VICTORIA MARKETS

Melbourne underground noise makers YLVA released their crushing debut album, M E T A in December last year via Pelagic Records.

Since then, YLVA have had an epic year, sharing stages with black metal icon Ihsahn, Encircling Sea and Departe on some of the years most extreme events. Now they are set to lay waste to the Bendigo Hotel next month!

With their focus shifting to writing up M E T A’s highly anticipated follow up, this may be the bands only headlining show for the remainder of the year! Joining YLVA are Canberra sludge lords, Mental Cavity, Melbourne post punkers, Masses and Newcastle hardcore merchants, Post Truth. It all goes down on Saturday August 11 at the Bendigo Hotel. FYI - it is very much advised to wear hearing protection.

A new winter beer oasis will pop up in the heart of Melbourne’s Queen Victoria Market every Weekend from August 4 until September 9, celebrating Melbournian’s love of craft beer.

Led by new independent brewery, Brick Lane Brewing Co, Central Beer District will gather a community of well-known microbreweries from across the city to bring a craft beer extravaganza to Melbourne’s favourite market over six weekends. Guest breweries include Brewmanity, Hop Nation, Two Birds Brewing, Stomping Ground and Coldstream Brewery.

Each brewery will showcase their own favourite beers, seasonal and experimental brews, plus Coldstream will be offering cider. There will also be the best of BBQ and street food from various food trucks to pair with each brew and a bunch of live music! We’ll cheers to that.

“A DEEPLY FELT REFLECTION OF THE MAN. SAVOUR EVERY MINUTE.” NEW YORK TIMES “LENNON’S SPIRIT SHINES THROUGH.” NEW YORK POST

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JOHN WATERS with STEWART d’ARRiETTA THURSDAY 11 & FRIDAY 12 OCTObER

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GRAPEVINE RETURNS FOR 2018

A VIRTUAL DAVID BOWIE EXHIBITION IS COMING TO YOUR HOME

It’s time to stop and smell the Rosè as Grapevine brings the party to Rochford Winery this November. This year they team at Grapevine have gone above and beyond for Victorian wineries (and NSW for the very first time) with one massive line-up! 2018 Grapevine welcomes The Wombats, Client Liaison, The Jungle Giants, Tkay Maidza, MK, Miami Horror, Lovebirds, Dom Dolla, Young Franco, Joy and Arroyo to their stages... How grape is that?

Not too Chablis! Drink in some of the grape-est musical acts on the vine as Grapevine follows up on its sold out inaugural event with an experience that’s already better with age. The grape-ness happens on Saturday November 24 at Rochford Winery, Yarra Valley.

After visiting 12 cities across the world, the David Bowie Is exhibition, featuring a huge range of material from Bowie’s personal archives, has come to an end, however the musician’s legacy will live on through headsets and phones. The hugely popular exhibition has announced it will be continuing on through a virtual reality experience. Due for release later this year, the exhibition will be available on smart devices so that users can browse 3D scans of memorabilia, wander the exhibition and even ‘try on’ some of the musician’s most famous outfits. Sign up to the David Bowie Is mailing list to receive updates as they come.

SHAWN MENDES ANNOUNCES RETURN TO AUSTRALIA

CLOWNS ANNOUNCE NEW SINGLE AND AUSTRALIAN TOUR DATES

He’s back... After selling out world tours in 2016 and 2017, multi-platinum singer-songwriter and global sensation Shawn Mendes will bring his wildly-anticipated world tour to Australia and New Zealand next year, touring in support of his new third album. Mendes will arrive armed with a slew of new hits from the self-titled LP which, debuted at #1 on both the US Billboard 200 chart - his third album to do so, making him the third youngest solo artist of all time with three #1 albums – as well as #1 on the ARIA Album Chart. These shows are sure to sell out, so don’t miss your chance to nab tickets now! He’ll hit up Melbourne’s Rod Laver Arena on Tuesday October 29 next year. Tickets on sale Friday 27 July via ticketek.com.au.

A punk band not bound by genre, Clowns have built a career spanning eight years, three critically acclaimed albums that blend punk with all flavours between psychedelia, garage, hardcore and power pop as well heading out on countless tours all over the world, including their current 23 date Europe tour. Their new single ‘Freezing In The Sun’ is a taste of what is yet to come from Clowns and it sees bright and jangly guitars juxtaposed with politicised lyrics of discontent. To celebrate the track, they’re heading home for a run of shows around Australia. They’ll hit The Corner in Melbourne on October 6. For tickets and information go to www. damagedmusic.com.au

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

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

NICK TABONE

Nick is a hard working musician and perfectionist. A great example of this was as a contestant on X Factor as he made it all the way into the top 24 artists.

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Nick and Michelle are a vibrant young duo who perform a constantly evolving repertoire of classic and current hits in a broad range of music styles.

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FLORENCE + THE MACHINE, MARLON WILLIAMS AND BILLIE EILISH ARE HEADING TO GEELONG FOR A DAY ON THE GREEN BRINGING TOGETHER THREE UNIQUE, TALENTED AND CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED ARTISTS, A DAY ON THE GREEN IS HEADING BACK TO MT DUNEED ESTATE NEXT JANUARY FOR A VERY SPECIAL PERFORMANCE. Famed for a breathtaking and powerful live show, the unstoppable Florence Welch and her band are returning to Australia for a string of national headline dates including this one-off ‘a day on the green’ performance.

Known for worldwide hits including ‘You’ve Got The Love’, ‘Dog Days Are Over’, ‘Shake It Out’, ‘Spectrum (Say My Name)’ and ‘Never Let Me Go’ among many others across three celebrated studio albums, this marks Florence and her band’s return for the first time since their epic sold-out November 2015 tour, and comes in celebration of their recently released fourth album, High As Hope.

Featuring collaborations from the likes of Kamasi Washington, Sampha, Tobias Jesso Jr, Kelsey Lu and Jamie xx, the album showcases a mix of high and low - from a tribute to Patti Smith one minute, to being ghosted over text by a date the next.

High As Hope is made up, says Florence, “of joy and fury”…but with the joy arguably winning out, in the end. “It’s always a work in progress, and I definitely don’t have everything figured out. But this feels like quite a pure expression of who I am now, as an artist, and an honest one. I’m just more comfortable with who I am.”

It’s clear this album encompasses the sound of an artist who appears more certain than ever of herself – and it’s a certainty we can expect from her live show.

Now, Florence writes about her teens and twenties with a renewed, more mature perspective of growing up in South London, of family, relationships and art itself, which has resulted in a record that is as intimate as it is epic, with the more restrained sound - relatively speaking. “I’m never going to be minimal,” she says, mirroring this sense that happiness doesn’t always have to be big and dramatic: it can often be found in the mundane, in the everyday things that 12

aren’t always celebrated in songs. “There’s a lot of love in this record, loneliness too, but a lot of love.”

With her innocent speaking voice, she sings like a heavenly god has taken over on this album and frankly, it’s just incredible. Mesmerising doesn’t begin to cut it and rest assured, once you see this absolute stellar performance in the surrounds of Mt Duneed Estate, you won’t be disappointed.

It doesn’t stop there though. Joining Florence next January will see New Zealand singer-songwriter Marlon Williams bring his effortlessly distinctive voice to the winery surrounds.

For the past few years Williams has been busy captivating crowds across America, Europe, Australia and New Zealand, impressing the world with his uncanny ability to turn his classically trained voice into an effortless, worldly, seductive instrument of storytelling.

would be like to be a solo artist travelling the world “She’s [Florence] always existed just on the periphery and that really helped pave the way for me.” of my musical listenership. I have massive respect Inspired to go in the direction of a solo artist, for the way she navigates her way and maintains her Williams went on to release his solo self-titled album integrity within the pop ouvre. I’m super excited to in 2015 to immense critical acclaim, selling more watch how she works night in and night out and try than 30,000 albums worldwide. It’s his most recent learn a thing or two.” release however that marks Williams’ exponential growth as a songwriter, with Make Way For Love Breakout 16-year-old sensation Billie Eilish is being hailed as ‘one of the best breakup albums in another name joining what is looking to be an largera long while’. than-life concert at a day on the green.

Led by the singles ‘Nobody Gets What They Want Anymore’ (a duet with Aldous Harding - Williams’ ex-partner and presumably the subject of most of these songs), ‘What’s Chasing You’, and ‘Come To Me’, the 11 original songs expose Williams as you’ve never heard him before – exploring new musical terrain and revealing himself in an unprecedented way, in the wake of a fractured relationship.

As one of the most prolific and exciting artists around, Eilish is heralding attention from all over the world following the release of her debut EP Don’t Smile At Me (2017).

Her meteoric rise began after she uploaded her first song ‘Ocean Eyes’ to SoundCloud, to send to her dance teacher for an upcoming recital. The song quickly caught the attention of the blogosphere, The finished result not only sees Williams created gained support from Spotify on a global scale and a timeless classic, but also moves the musician was championed by the likes of Zane Lowe (Beats 1), Finding his way into music at a young age as a several paces from “country” – the genre that has Annie Mac (BBC Radio 1), Jason Kramer and Chris choirboy in New Zealand, which no doubt has been affixed to him more than any in recent years – Douridas (KCRW). contributed to the establishment of his beautiful with forays in to cinematic strings, reverb, rollicking and soothing vocals, it was his father who originally guitar and at least one quiet piano ballad.

Catapulting her into the music limelight, Eilish introduced Williams to music and whom we can has since joined festival lineups all over the world, thank for encouraging Williams to pursue his love “I don’t know if I would call it ‘rock’ per se,” he including Australia’s Laneway, and has just recently of music. explains of Make Way For Love. “It was an intense wrapped up her three month long sold-out Where’s outburst, creatively, and I’m still trying to piece My Mind tour which took her across the world “My dad always introduced me to new music and together what happened exactly. Regardless, genre visiting Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Europe, encouraged me to follow my interests when he saw and direction are not something an artist should Great Britain, and the United States. that they were such,” he reveals. “Because he was hope to narrate to themselves. I just want to make better music, whatever it is.” a singer too, it always seemed like an obvious and Touted as the future of pop, especially with the respectable path to pursue” release of ‘Lovely (with Khalid)’ earlier this year With a voice that gets compared to everyone from that has become officially certified platinum, Eilish, It wasn’t until the end of high school however that Elvis to Roy Orbison and Johnny Cash, Williams alongside Florence and Williams, is sure to set fire Williams began making music with his first band The is elated to be on the bill for a day on the green to the stage at a day on the green next year.

Unfaithful Ways, alongside becoming one half of a alongside Florence + The Machine, following his duo with acclaimed country singer Delany Davidson. previous a day on the green stint alongside Paul As Williams puts it, “It’s a fun concept. Music, sun Kelly, Lucinda Williams and Kasey Chambers back and wine, what can go wrong?”

“When The Unfaithful Ways disbanded I was about in 2015.

18. I had already started working with Delany a little It all goes down at Mt Duneed Estate, bit and we started making albums together. At that “I never imagined it, but at the same time, I don’t point, he had come from a lengthy career as a solo wake up every morning bless my lucky stars,” he says. Geelong - January 19. Tickets are artist so I got a lot of inspiration from watching him “It’s just what’s happening. It’s just my life. I’m just on sale now via Ticketmaster. work as a lone wolf. I just got this glimmer of what it another guy trying to pass the time.

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B A L L A R AT BELLARINE

BENDIGO CASTLEMAINE

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

Big Ears JULY 27TH CAM BRYCE

TUESDAY - PARMI NIGHT WEDNESDAY - PIE NIGHT THURSDAY - STEAK NIGHT / LOCALS NIGHT / SPIN THE WHEEL

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FRIDAY - LIVE MUSIC SATURDAY - LIVE MUSIC SUNDAY - SUNDAY ROAST 15

MEREDITH MUNCHIES

I DON’T WANT TO MISS A GIG

There is some important news about the Meredith Music Festival, which comes your way from December 7-9. We’re talking about the ballot. It is currently open, but shuts and locks the gate on August 6 (10:28pm, to be precise). As friends of the festival know, this is the best way to ensure you grab yourself a piece of Meredith gold.

Non-subscribers who sign up now have a chance at second-round offers, and you have until August 14 (10:28pm).

The Southern River Band – Karova Lounge, Ballarat on July 27; O.R.B – The Eastern, Ballarat on July 28; The Constables – The Loft, Warrnambool on July 28; Lava Lakes – The Loft, Warrnambool on August 3; Death by Carrot – MusicMan, Bendigo on August 4; Gradual – Piping Hot Chicken Shop, Ocean Grove on August 4; and Mihra – The Loft, Warrnambool on August 4.

RUNK-A-DUNK-DUNK

EASY AS FRASER A. GORMAN LIKES Fraser A. Gorman has a shiny new album called Easy Dazy. Obviously a likeable fella, the follow-up to Slow Gum features appearances from members of King Gizzard, Leah Senior, Anika Ostendorf (Hachiku) and Hollie Joyce.

Anglesea Memorial Hall, Anglesea – August 25 & Major Tom’s, Kyneton – September 1.

The songman also supports Paul Dempsey at Castlemaine’s Theatre Royal on August 4.

HAYLEY MARSTEN & ARNA GEORGIA

Four-piece funk/hip hop outfit RUNK love getting out among the people. Since releasing their debut single ‘Speed Dealer Sunnies’ to triple j’s Unearthed, the band has had a blast playing gigs across the state and supporting the likes of The Bennies and The Hard Aches.

The band is taking new single ‘Sight’ on the road. The Loft, Warrnambool – July 27; Karova Lounge, Ballarat – August 4; and Barwon Club, Geelong – August 10.

Hayley Marsten and Arna Georgia have lined up dates with Bendigo’s Music Man on September 14 and The Loft, Warrnambool on September 16 where country is the hot menu item. Hayley has released two albums, her most recent being 2017’s Lonestar. She has a video for track ‘Money Can’t Buy Class’ out now. Building a name through various festivals, Arna released her debut album, Midnight Carousel, last year.

NOW WE’RE COOKIN’ ON 3 BURNERS Any takers for a night of sweet soul and dirty dance floor funk? Good news, Cookin’ on 3 Burners have a show at Castlemaine’s Theatre Royal on August 31. Being in a band for more than 20 years requires you to shake things up every now and again. In 2016, the band teamed up with French electronic music-maker Kungs for a version of ‘This Girl’. Reaching #1 in Europe, it was the most Shazamed dance track of 2016.

OI, HANK WOOD AND THE HAMMERHEADS A wrecking ball of NYC punk is coming for Geelong. Featuring current and past members of Cheena, Crazy Spirit, Barbed Wire and Murderer, Hank Wood and the Hammerheads last toured Australia in 2015 and the dust has only just settled. The band released their new self-titled album earlier in the year. They will be joined by UV Race, Cereal Killer and Sex Ed. Barwon Club, Geelong – August 3.

THE AUDREYS CAN’T QUIT The debut album is often one a music fan holds most dear. The Audreys discovered this late last year when they took their 2006 ARIA-winning album Between Last Night and Us out for a spin.

The people said ‘yay’, the tour sold out. They then added more to their repertoire earlier in the year as part of a special Spiegeltent tour, and now they’re playing even more shows to keep warm the hearts of fans. The Bridge, Castlemaine – August 25.

ECHUCA-MOAMA WINTER BLUES

THE DREAMY CHARM OF FINCHES It seems appropriate that sisterly dream-folk duo Charm of Finches launch their new single ‘The Bridge’ at the Castlemaine venue of the same name on August 26. Mabel and Ivy Windred-Wornes started singing before teenage-hood, outside a veggie shop in Fairfield, Melbourne. ABC Radio National called their 2016 debut, Staring at the Starry Ceiling, one of the best releases of the year. Their music has featured on the ABC series Mustangs FC.

The Echuca-Moama Winter Blues Festival has arrived. Taking place across this weekend, more than 50 blues and roots performers from around the country will perform to an expected crowd of around 20,000.

Artists include 19-Twenty, Benny James & the Blue Flames, Shaun Kirk, Toni Swain, Chubby Rae & the Elevators, Collard Greens & Gravy, Steve Boyd’s Rum Reverie, The Turner Brown Band and Geoff Achison.

WE DEMAND MORE WINTERWILD We feel we should tell you about WinterWild as much as possible. Apollo Bay’s dark arts festival is looking to be something special, with two weekends in August (10-12 & 24-26) full of many, many delights. We mentioned Adalita last issue, but more music comes your way in Tropical Fuck Storm, Mesa Cosa, Sid O’Neil, Nina Buchanan, Alister Turrill, Post Percy, Golden Syrup, RVG and Mike Elrington. Explore winterwildapollobay. com.au for more.

ST KILDA FILM FESTIVAL TOUR Australia’s longest-running short film festival, the

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St Kilda Film Festival celebrated its 35th stroll in the

Thursday 26 Andy Forster and DJ

Thursday 2 Andy Forster and DJ

Friday 27 Luke Biscan

Friday 3 Dave Anderson

Saturday 28 Dave Anderson

Saturday 4 Jeff Jordan

regional Victoria, split across two programs with a

Wednesday 1 Open Mic Karaoke Luke Biscan

Wednesday 8 Open Mic Karaoke Luke Biscan

winners. Theatre Royal, Camperdown – August 4;

park in May. Movie buffs will know that the festival is an Academy Awards® qualifying event, and past films screened at the festival have been recognised internationally, including at the Oscars and Cannes.

A dozen of 2018’s finest have been selected to tour short interval in between, including those curated

by Festival Director Paul Harris and festival award Star Cinema, Eaglehawk – August 8; and Showbiz Cinema’s, Ballarat – August 19. Further information is available through stkildafilmfestival.com.au.

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RHST, TAKE TWO One is not enough for the Red Hot Summer Tour, with the touring festival announcing another set of artists and another set of dates. The line-up pretty much runs as the one that toured earlier in the year, but there is nothing wrong with sticking with a winner. You have rock queen favourite Suzi Quatro, The Angels, Baby Animals, The Screaming Jets, Moving Pictures, Chocolate Starfish and Jon Stevens. Bendigo Racecourse – February 23.

TH IS STAT E W E’RE IN INDUSTRY UPDATES FROM MUSIC VICTORIA Dearest Forte friends!

We hope you’re all keeping warm and rugging up when en route to all the great live music that’s been happening over this chilly month! I know we went on about CHANGES Conference & Festival a lot last month but it was such a great few days, we just had to tell you all about how it went down (and why you should all come along next year).

RIVER ROCKS ’18 In the words of Yello: Oh yeah (chick chicka chicka). River Rocks has released its line-up for 2018, and it is a thing of beauty. Artists include Rose Tattoo, Hard-Ons, Front End Loader, SixFtHick, Hits, I Spit on Your Gravy, Juliette Seizure & the Tremor Dolls, The Chats, Dr. Colossus, Grindhouse, Totally Unicorn, Jaws of Deaf, Ute Root, Bad Batch, Hot to Rot and Hobo Magic. Barwon Club, Geelong – November 17.

The conference and festival was officially held over two days, with local and international speakers focusing on new and innovative ideas and current states of play within the music industry worldwide.

Speakers included Jenn Pelly (Pitchfork), Cherie Hu (Billboard & Forbes), Joseph Edward Keyes (Bandcamp) and Alex Zaccaria (Bolster) all inspiring the audience with their wealth of knowledge within their areas of expertise. There was an overwhelming desire from the listeners to learn and discover new ways of thinking about where our industry is headed in relation to audience development and engagement, technology, diversity and marketing.

SLUM SOCIABLE ENCOURAGE ACTION

There was a particular focus on interactive sessions and opportunities for all sides of the industry to actively learn and gain knowledge for individual benefit which was particularly beneficial to everyone attending. Being its first year, it was an incredible event and we can’t wait for how it develops next year.

If music is about relating to the listener, Melbourne lo-fi jazz hop outfit Slum Sociable has hit the mark with single ‘Do Something About It’. From the duo: “Do Something About It was written from the perspective of a feeling, of when time stands still and your stomach drops, when you don’t know how to cope in a split second scenario, while still prompting you to act.”

Barwon Club, Geelong – July 27 & Karova Lounge, Ballarat – July 28.

The Fawlty Towers Dinner Dance Prepare yourselves. The Fawlty Towers Dinner Dance is here, bringing the much loved characters of Fawlty Towers to life in a fun filled night of mayhem and music!

If you’re unaware of what Fawlty Towers is (seriously, where have you been!?), it refers to the title of a British television sitcom broadcast on BBC2 in 1975 and 1979. Set in Fawlty Towers, a fictional hotel, the plots centre on tense, rude and put-upon owner Basil Fawlty, his bossy wife Sybil, comparatively normal chambermaid Polly who often is the peacemaker and voice of reason, and hapless and English-challenged Spanish waiter Manuel, showing their attempts to run the hotel amidst farcical situations and an array of demanding and eccentric guests and tradespeople.

While there was only 12 episodes (two series of six episodes each), the show was an absolute hit and is now a cult-classic. It was even ranked first on a list of the 100 Greatest British Television Programmes.

Bringing the fun-filled and unforgettable havoc to Geelong this August, the Fawlty Towers Dinner Dance is an interactive dinner service filled with

Music Victoria’s Regional Showcase at the Grace Darling Hotel as part of CHANGES was a fantastic event (the best, we reckon!). It was great to see so many people attend and support such incredible artists from all over regional Victoria, and all the artists performed killer sets including Bones and

Jones, Nancie Schipper, Yergurl, Chapel and White Bleaches. Curated by Shaun Adams (Karova Lounge, The Barwon Club Hotel) the diversity of acts was especially exciting, with the audience listening intently, head-bopping, and then dancing.

So, if you missed out on all this fun, it’ll be back next year so make sure you keep an eye out and jump on it as soon as it’s announced.

We’re looking forward to jumping into all the gigs this month to keep warm and hope you are too!

Until next time rockers, Al & The Music Vic Crew Member Moment Nancie Schipper One of our newest members, and also one of the great artists who performed as part of our CHANGES Regional Showcase, is the wonderful Nancie Schipper! She has just released a new song, ‘Long Fall’ that all of us in the office are obsessed with.

It’s available to listen to on all the things (Spotify/ Apple Music) and we suggest you go and listen to it RIGHT NOW! Gig of the month Sean McMahon at Major Tom’s, Kyneton on Saturday August 11 One of Victoria’s finest songwriters and live performers Sean McMahon has just this week released a wonderful, country laden ballad ‘Spring’.

Luckily for us, Sean will be making his way across the state this August to plug this great new single, including an intimate show at Kyneton’s favourite music hall Major Tom’s on Saturday 11 August.

comic mishaps, mayhem and mischief from Basil, Sybil and Manuel... in Fawlty style of course!

You are greeted at the door by Sybil who tries hard all night to keep order and just a little bit of sophistication to the proceedings; you will be fussed over and ordered about by Basil as he tries to run a profitable restaurant, and you have everything go wrong that possibly can as Manuel mucks up all the orders and then goes searching for his pet rat.

As if their mad cap antics weren’t enough, Basil, Sybil and Manuel are also joined by the fabulous music duo ‘The Baby Boomers’ presenting classic hits and memories from the 50’s, 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. With a combination like this, attendees are guaranteed to be singing and dancing the night away.

With sold out shows around the country and with actors that look and act just like the real cast of The Fawlty Towers, you’ll feel like you’re back in 1975.

There is never a dull moment, and you never know what is going to happen next as the Fawlty Towers Dinner Dance takes over The Sphinx Hotel on Saturday August 25.

Call 5278 2911 to book your tickets today!

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AGAIN THESE TALENTED LADIES WILL HAVE THE C ROW D S DA N C I N G I N T H E A I S L E S W H E N T H E Y P E R F O R M H E R E, P L AY I N G A N D S I N G I N G S O M E OF THE GREAT HITS WITH THEIR FRIENDS IN THE BAND. JUST THE ONE SHOW ON TUESDAY AUGUST 7 AT 10.30AM – AND THAT INCLUDES MORNING TEA. WE WELCOME BACK THE WONDERFUL MELBOURNE CITY BALLET WITH MADAME BUTTERFLY. ARTISTIC D I R E CTO R M I C H A E L PA P PA L A R D O W I L L TA K E AUDIENCES ON A JOURNEY. CHO-CHO ( NICKNAMED “ B U T T E R F LY ) M A R R I E S U S N AVA L O F F I C E R P I N K E RTO N O N LY TO H AV E H I M D E PA RT F O R THE AMERICAS. AS THE YEARS PASS, BUTTERFLY AWAITS HIS RETURN WITH HOPE, REFUSING ANY NEW SUITE BUT HER PINKERTON. IT IS ONLY UPON

LOTS ON IN AUGUST AT THE SHED

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fix of The Cat Empire before they board a plane for international duties. And why would you not want your

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MORNING SHOWTIME RETURNS IN AUGUST WITH

a go, plus they’ll be bringing Odette along for the ride. Theatre Royal, Castlemaine – September 9.

THE CAPITAL NEWS The Nexus Bendigo Youth Theatre takes on a musical favourite kicking off tonight, July 26, with dates running through early August. You’ll be doing well not to mouth the words to The Sound of Music. August 28, meanwhile, features a production of Julius Caesar starring Kenneth Ransom (Gods of Egypt). Both productions take place at Bendigo’s Capital Theatre. A full Capital program is available through thecapital.com.au.

FOLLOW THE HOLLOW MAJORS Proud Mary, Help Me Mary, Along Comes Mary, Tough Mary, Mary in the Morning, Mary Don’t You Weep, Crazy Mary, Now Mary, The Wind Cries Mary… This Mary is a real character. Anything anyone else can do, former cover band, now original outfit The Hollow Majors can do better. ‘Mary Jane’ is their new single. Workers Club, Geelong – July 27. They will be joined by local act Trick Gypsy and Ballarat outfit Sound Mountain.

CITY AT MIDNIGHT SAY City At Midnight have decided to come out of hibernation to release their newest single, ‘So You Say’.

Alongside the single, they’ll be premiering a few new tracks that they have been cooking up with all of the traditional secret herbs and spices. With the African roots, surf rock vibes from Geelong locals Immy Owusu’s Magic Butter Machine and the bluesy goodness of Miles Recommends the night will take you on an up and down, side to side loopdiloop rollercoaster ride. Workers Club, Geelong – August 11.

GOOD FOR WEDNESDAY, GOOD FOR YOU Good for Wednesday have been pretty quiet this year.

Depending on which rumour you believe, they could have been picking blueberries or teaching interpretive dance to senior citizens. The punk rock band (with a touch of the heavy) is feeling the mood to play again, and will line up at Geelong’s Workers Club this Saturday, July 28, for their first gig of the year. Note they also support L E E D E N at the same venue on August 10.

MEGAN COOPER GOES HIKING Megan Cooper has shopped around for the best trekking shoes with her new album, Wild Mountain. The

CL ASSIFIEDS

For individual use only, not for commercial purposes.

TIME CHANGES IVAN OOZE

Male looking for players to form a band

Drummer Wanted

THREE SPOONFULS OF ELVIS For when one Elvis isn’t enough, Elvis ‘An American Trilogy’ returns to Australia for a third time in two years.

The show begins with Vic Trevino Jnr, who brings to life the Elvis the people fell for: the one with that rockabilly sound and those raw dance moves. Gino Monopoli features next, capturing movie Elvis. Greg Miller completes things, capturing White Eagle jumpsuit Elvis. With full live band and choir. GPAC – September 22.

EDDIE SPAGHETTI RETURNS Everybody’s got that pal they turn to whenever they need a party, and for a long time Eddie Spaghetti, of Supersuckers, has been that guy. Revelling in the center stage spotlight and the wallop of thousands of PAs for thousands of shows across the land, Eddie’s learned how to coax the inner life of the party out of all of us.

His solo career is an extension of his life-long love of roots music, but full of pop hooks and wiseguy humour delivered with a brain, a heart, and a beer. Catch him at The Eastern, Ballarat on August 18.

THE WAIFS ROLL ON Grey skies will have cleared up by the time beloved folk-rock outfit The Waifs continue their Ironbark run, so put on a happy face. The largely regional tour shares its name with the band’s 2017 album, a 25-song release that serves as a tribute to the nature and people of Australia. The album also celebrates 25 years as a band. Lighthouse Theatre, Warrnambool – October 7 & GPAC – October 10.

HALLOWEEN METAL MADNESS Unlock your door and open your windows because Bendigo’s MusicMan is holding their Halloween Metal Madness bash on October 27. It’s a while off yet, but the line-up has been announced and features As Flesh Decays, who dropped their debut, The Horror of it All, on Halloween of 2017. Vulture Culture, Apotheosis, Grudge, Munt666, Callous, Smashed Pie, Atomic Death Squad, Cuck Lord and Dread the Winter also feature.

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put up their hand for a gig. August 5 is the date, with entry by donation. Keep an ear out for local gigs. Further information is available through oxjam.org.au.

Melbourne rapper Ivan Ooze is in a different place these days, something you can discover on his new single WARPED IN THE WILD ‘Deserve’, a collaborative effort with Plutonic Lab and While at times we look more favourably on history Kingswood guitarist Alex Laska. Ivan: “When I started than it might otherwise deserve, 1991 was a crack- writing it was mainly to get the aggression out. Now ing year for music. Nevermind, Blood Sugar Sex Magik, I’m way more chill. I don’t like raising my voice because Badmotorfinger and Use Your Illusion I & II were among I like it mellow.” Taphouse, Bendigo – August 10 & the albums released, while locally Benny Watkins and Karova Lounge, Ballarat – August 11.

Cris Wilson formed Warped out of Geelong. Get your GEOFF ACHISON GOES TO TOWN hands on their newie, Bolt from the Blue. Barwon Geoff Achison is one of Australia’s finest guitarists.

Club, Geelong – August 4 & The Bridge, Castlemaine From serving an apprenticeship with late, famed blues– August 10. man Dutch Tilders, to winning the coveted ‘Albert King DANDECAT’S DEBUT Award’, the blues-roots musician has had a very proLush with jazz, rock and soul, Dandecat have spent the ductive musical life. Sovereign Town is his new album. last couple of years making their name known around Recorded in Ballarat, the album is inspired by the early days of Victoria’s gold rush. Piping Hot Chicken Shop, Melbourne, and now they feel the time is just right to release their debut single. It’s called ‘Meat’, but far Ocean Grove – September 1. from being a song dedicated to or against the eating AUSTRALIAN ROCK ROYALTY of a delicious treat, the song is about all those feelings that take place while being toyed with emotionally. Countdown was compulsory viewing for many Give your heart up to the band at Geelong’s Workers Australian households throughout its long run, and Ian ‘Molly’ Meldrum the host with the most. It doesn’t have Club on August 4. to end. The Australian Rock Royalty Tour features Mark A THIRD FOR HIDEOUS SUN DEMON Gable (Choirboys), Brian Mannix (Uncanny X-Men), WA psych-punk outfit Hideous Sun Demon drop their Scott Carne (Kids in the Kitchen), Sean Kelly (Models), third album, Fame, Erotic, Dream, tomorrow, July 27. Ally Fowler (Chantoozies), David Sterry (Real Life) and The album follows the single ‘Antithesis’, which the Eurogliders. Bendigo Stadium, Bendigo – September 1. band describes as “one of our most explosive tracks Molly is your host. we’ve written; inspired by a certain kind of person who MMM-MMM, IT’S CUSTARD does malevolent or selfish things under the guise of Sure, absence can make the heart grow fonder, but a good intention”. Barwon Club, Geelong – August 4 & good thing is always a good thing. Brisbane’s Custard The Eastern, Ballarat – August 25. was a major player in Australian music of the 1990s, OXJAM, PUMP IT UP making as wiggle and jiggle with songs including OXJAM is a month-long musical party for a good cause. ‘Apartment’, ‘Music is Crap’ and ‘Girls like That (Don’t The deal is that crew from around the country curate their Go for Guys like Us)’. They broke up in ’99 but reformed own gig, with every dollar raised donated to Oxfam’s fight in 2015. They are back with their second album since against global poverty. This year, emphasis is on Oxfam’s regrouping, The Common Touch. Theatre Royal, Right to Refuge campaign. The Loft in Warrnambool has Castlemaine – September 8.

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Brisbane-based singer-songwriter’s new album was led with track ‘Running with Ghosts’, a song about the retirement of a local footy hero struggling with wishing to impart knowledge on the next generation but not wanting to let go of their glory days. Pistol Pete’s, Geelong – July 29. She’ll be joined by Gretta Ziller.

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BALL ARAT BLOG

BLUNT SHOVEL & SHATTER BRAIN Melbourne’s Blunt Shovel and South Australian outfit Shatter Brain are keeping it simple with their new split 12” release.

They have called it Twelve Inch Split, and it’s a perfect heavy metal marriage. Each band has provided three tracks, which include originals and covers of some of their favourite metal songs. The Eastern, Ballarat – August 3. Note they’re also the companions of King Parrot at The Loft, Warrnambool on August 11.

WRITTEN BY GLEN ANDERSON

The coldest week EVER has just inflicted pain on us locals up here in the Rat and when the temperature hits four degrees as a top, you really wonder why you have set up camp in such a place!

Well…here’s why!

There are plenty of venues putting on entertainment and their heaters at the same time so you can still get out amongst it and enjoy all that Ballarat has to offer.

The Lost Ones might be the place to ease into the weekend with Paige Duggan playing the tail-end of her residency there on 27 July. With her diverse contemporary voice, Paige channels the essence of some of the female jazz greats and Wayne Parker joins her on her guitar to present jazz with a whole lot of heart! It’s free entry which is always a bonus.

Karova Lounge is putting on comedy on July 26.

Jonathan Schuster and Billy Stiles will take the stage and you can cack your pants for only $10.

Ivan Ooze exploded onto the rap scene in 2014 and has continued to turn hip hop heads with a huge tour recently touring with Seth Sentry, Dylan Joel and Thundamentals... just to name a few. Ooze is

BEDFELLOWS WITH MASCO SOUND SYSTEM “Progressively regressive reverse-engineered analogue dance music with live, improvised painting” is a bit of a mouthful, but it is how Masco Sound System describes their thing on their website. The band dropped their new single ‘Waking up Next to You’ earlier in the month, which one can check out for a taste of their forthcoming debut album. The Eastern, Ballarat – August 11. They’ll be joined by Strawberry Hick.

really pushing the boundaries and connecting with his audience so get along to see his Deserve Tour as it makes a stopover in Ballarat on August 11.

Karova turned 14 on July 14 and a wild night of celebration was had by all who attended the venue.

Yours truly was fortunate enough to get along to see the wonderful Didirri play the night before and I couldn’t help but think what a great institution this place has been for locals and touring acts. Hats off to management and the ever friendly staff at one of Ballarat’s best!

Here is an interesting event to possibly attend.

The Ballarat Cabaret Club are presenting the film Kangaroo (A Love Hate Story) on August 9. The Animal Justice Party will present the film and the screening will begin at 7.30pm. Tickets are $15.

The Griffin Burger Bar has finally opened on Armstrong Street North and people have been flocking to sample the many burgers that are on offer.

Here is a cool place to grab a bite to eat in the Rat. Little Square’s Garage at 81A Humffray Street.

Great coffee, glorious pots of tea and a good old fashioned toasted sandwich can be found here. The place was an old warehouse and has been renovated into an eatery/clothes shop. Really cool little place this one... you must get in there for a look!

FOOTY IS BACK IN BALLARAT Have you heard? The Western Bulldogs are legends and are expanding the Club’s community beyond the suburban fringe of Melbourne’s West to include Ballarat and Western Victoria. Yay for us! As part of this, they’ve committed to bring two AFL Premiership games to the region in 2018. Already delivering one earlier this year, they’re back for round 19 against Port Adelaide on Sunday July 29. It all goes down at Mars Stadium from 3.20pm.

Tickets are available on ticketmaster.com. au or westernbulldogs.com.au/ballarat

GEELONG’S

FIRST

DEDICATED

A Chris Wilson benefit is happening next month Celebrating the incredible blues musician with a huge night of performances CHRIS WILSON HAS BEEN AN ESSENTIAL PART OF BLUES AND ROCK MUSIC IN AUSTRALIA SINCE TAKING THE STAGE WITH THE SOLE TWISTERS OVER 20 YEARS AGO, AND BY THE END OF THE 80S, WAS ESTABLISHED AS ONE OF AUSTRALIA’S FINEST VOCALISTS, HARMONICA PLAYERS AND SONGWRITERS. Appearing at every major Australian festival and his performances, filled as they are with his own brand of sensuality and the dynamic power that leaves his audiences so satisfied, are always a highlight. Chris’ stage presence, voice and talent are all as big as the country he lives in, truly a master of his craft.

Now, the time comes for the life and music of

the Australian bluesman to be celebrated by an array of musicians and friends at the forthcoming Chris Wilson benefit, which comes in the wake of the musicians recent cancer diagnosis.

The benefit, hosted by Cherry Bar’s James Young, will feature performances by Barb Waters, Barry Palmer, Steve Lucas, Kerri Simpson, Ash Davies, Jerome Smith, Tim Rogers, Matt Dwyer, Shane O’Mara, Dave Hogan, Jo Jo Smith, DJ Max Crawdaddy and many more special guests yet to be announced.

Though Wilson is not well enough to attend the show himself, the benefit will raise money for him and his family in order to provide financial support during this difficult time.

The event, which will take place at the end of next month at the Corner Hotel, is set to be filled with heartfelt tributes and loving performances so be sure to come down and show your support.

The Chris Wilson benefit will take place at

GOT OUR

10

TO

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CRAFT

BEER.

ROTATING TAPS

FAVOURITE

INTERNATIONAL

BAR, WE’VE

FEATURING

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& PLUS

BLACKMAN’S BEERS BREWED IN TORQUAY.

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the Corner Hotel on Friday August 24.

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BIG EARS The new bar in town

‘CHEERS, BIG EARS’ IS A PHRASE COMMONLY USED IN AUSTRALIA AS AN ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF ONE’S MATES BEFORE HAVING A LARGE SWIG OF AN ICE COLD BEER... NOT ANY OTHER DRINK, NOT ANY OTHER TEMPERATURE. BEER ONLY. ICE COLD. How fitting that this inspired the name of Geelong’s newest bar that has opened up on Little Malop Street.

Introducing Big Ears – a bar dedicated to good beer and good food.

Pioneered by the team from the far-famed Piano Bar, it was the rise in craft beer both here in Australia and around the world that inspired the creation of Big Ears.

With more than 40 beers already on the menu, the beer list is an ever-evolving collection of stellar finds.

Ranging from locally made small batch craft beers to boutique treasures from some of the oldest breweries across the globe, there is just one thing constant on their changing menu; passion. The team love what they do and they love what they serve.

“The beer menu is always going to be changing,” explains manager Tyson Whytcross, who has spent the last few months trialling and sourcing a number of different brews to curate the beer list. “The taps are going to be changing, and the bottle range especially 20

is going to be changing. We just thought that there’s so much nice beer, not even just from Australia, but also Belgium, Asia, and all over the world, and we wanted to share that.”

On the beverage menu, you’ll find it all. With a select few options on tap and a number of bottled beer, they’ve got something in every beer category you could think of – ale, pale ale, red ale, lager, witbier, dark/ porter/stouts, IPA, sour/gose, neipa, pilsner, saison, trippel, lambic, ginger beer, mid-strength, strong beers and even gluten free beer. There’s truly something for everyone. They even have some fruity options on the menu too such as Mango Beer and Apple Cider for those with a bit of a sweet tooth.

“We just want to keep it fresh,” Tyson explains. “We’re not just going to have the same beer menu; it’s always going to change as we put on seasonal releases and find new beers.”

Along with the ever-changing beer list, rest assured the team are catering to all drinkers with a carefully selected concise wine and spirits menu – so if you’re not into beer, no fret! All the spirits are made in Victoria and the wine list is a selection of local growers and producers. You’ll find a good range of vino from esteemed wineries including Koonara, Jack and Jill, Lethbridge and Cape Banks, as well as spirits including Teddy and the Fox Gin and Here’s Looking at You, Kid barrel-aged vodka.

It’s not just alcohol, however, that has Big Ears earning it’s stripes. They’ve also mastered the recipe for the best meatballs using only the best ingredients.

Comforting in every guise, the lure of a meatball is hard to beat – and why would you want to? Big Ears is quickly becoming Geelong’s Meatball Mecca, revolutionising the humble meatball you were once served alongside three serves of vegetables.

Embracing a ‘build your own dinner’ concept, for $16 you choose a ‘Mama Julie’s house-made meatball (chicken kiev, beer, lamb or vegan), a sauce (Italian red, Swiss gravy or green pesto) and something for your balls to sit on (fresh Otway pasta, potato gratin, vegetable ragout or rice pilaf). If you’re feeling extra hungry, you can finish it off with some lotus root crisps, some cheesy ciabatta or a snow pea and mushroom salad. We recommend trying the chicken kiev with green pesto and potato gratin for a wholesome and satisfying dinner option. It’s also no stress if you’ve got some dietary requirements with a number of gluten free, vegetarian and vegan options. Win, win and win.

The moment you smell the heavenly aroma from the kitchen, you won’t be able to help yourself from devouring these round morsels of awesomeness.

Along with the brews and balls, the décor is just as intriguing. Since operating as the original Piano Bar, the venue has undergone an entire transformation since closing at the end of last year.

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“We’d always had the idea, but we were really busy with Piano Bar. Once we shut this [the original Piano Bar venue], and realised it was just sitting here, that’s when it all started coming together,” Tyson explains.

With a creative curved wall feature, a number of intimate bar tables, and hanging racks filling out the space, the bar wall is the real focal point of the room, which features artwork from local artist Jae (aka My Heads A Jungle) who is well known her the ink work, and enamel, aerosol and stencil on the walls and doors at Malop Street’s Piano Bar. “That wall, that’s all her; it’s her trash wall,” Tyson explains of the bar wall at Big Ears. “She’s just going to keep slapping up posters and graffiti it; whenever she can find something she wants to stick up there, she will stick it up. If she ever gets bored with it, she’ll paint something different over it, and with summer coming up, we might change it again.”

Opening earlier this month, Big Ears is already becoming a clear favourite amongst the locals... and we can absolutely see why.

Cheers, big ears! Now, who’s up for a pint?!

Located at 86 Little Malop Street, Big Ears is open Wednesday to Saturday from 11:30am – late.

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pregnancy in general. I had to do a lot of research pieces first, then teaming up with a tight-knit and talk to a lot of midwives about it, and find out production crew - long-time collaborator Styalz the actual specifics of what actually happens in Fuego, executive producer Nic Martin and chief those situations.” instrumentalist Carl Dimataga - the album pairs With the approval of his close friend, 360 tackled 60’s trademark charm, honesty and razor sharp the often taboo topic, using his voice to raise the raps with a lush sonic backbone of guitars and live instrumentation fused with contemporary rap profile of stillbirth in Australia. “It’s really full sounds, replacing the heavy synths and electronic on,” he explains of ‘Tiny Angel’. “Recording it was the hard part. I think I recorded about 20 times drops his music is traditionally known for. Clearly taking on new challenges and directions with his before I actually got; I was recording it and then sound, as well as marking three years since his last listening back and it was like I was telling the story release, Colwell describes Vintage Modern as a new but it wasn’t emotional enough, it wasn’t the right emotion,” he continues. “I had to get it; if I was beginning. going to be in that situation, how would I sound?

“It was definitely a new thing. I’d spent so much “I only did one take, which is the version that time away, it really felt like I was just starting out again to be honest; it was strange,” he says. “I’ve you’ve heard on the album. There might be a few been at it for so long, yet I felt like I was coming out little minor things in there that aren’t right, or that with my first release which is really kind of weird... I didn’t mean to do flow wise, but the real emotional is there.” but that’s how it felt.”

Featuring collaborations from Perth singer/ Following an epic sold-out national tour earlier Almost six years to the day since songwriter Sydnee Carter, long-time friends PEZ this year, Colwell is taking these inspired tracks and Seth Sentry and Sydney singer/songwriter Hein revolutionising Australian hip-hop with the to towns all over regional Victoria, New South Cooper, among others, Vintage Modern sees the Wales, Northern Territory, Western Australia and multi-platinum Falling & Flying, 360 (aka Matthew James Colwell) announced the release re-invigorated artist holding nothing back on the Queensland before concluding in Tasmania, further of his fourth studio album, Vintage Modern late topical and unfiltered album. ‘Yesterday’ tells the marking his triumphant return to the spotlight. last year. tale about taking the higher ground, his track ‘Dem “It was really touching,” he explains of his previous The album, which debuted at #1 on the ARIA Gainz’ pokes fun at gym-bro culture, ‘Money’ sees tour. “I had my doubts and I really didn’t know what Australian Album Charts and #3 on the ARIA Albums to expect; that’s sort of part of the reason I felt like I Colwell weaving in and out of personal tales about Chart in October and garnered a slew of enthusiastic was just coming out. I had no idea how the reception his triumphant rise and rapid fall, and the financial reviews around the country, tells a tale of heartbreak, consequences and lessons learnt; and then there’s of these shows was going to go down because in fallouts and drug addiction. It’s Colwell’s approach ‘Drugs’, a clear favourite from Vintage Modern, is a the past, all my songs have had at least one or two clever, cautionary tale written from the perspective to the album however that is most inspiring, as he songs on high rotation or on major radio, but with unravels—with incredible irreverence—overcoming of alcohol as if it were a hitman, a metaphor for the this album, none had at all. addiction and understanding mental health, impact drugs and alcohol have on society.

“I was going in really hoping that people weren’t It’s the powerful song ‘Tiny Angel’ that truly just coming to hear my old stuff,” he continues. while tackling social issues like misogyny and Islamophobia. reveals 360’s maturity and his role in communicating “Coming out, it was mind-blowing to have people “When I write, I usually write from personal important messages through music. Inspired by the singing along to the new album, and rapping every experience, and in this album, I didn’t really want stillbirth of a close friend’s child, ‘Tiny Angel’ breaks word. It was really cool, I was super inspired by that. to not do that,” he explains. “I’ve done that on every down the stigma around stillbirth and presents a I felt like I was back, I was definitely back.” album and virtually every song is about myself and male perspective on an issue that takes the lives of When & Where: something that I’ve gone through. I wanted to six children every single day in Australia.

“That was a song was the one that took the switch it up on this album, so some songs are a Karova Lounge, Ballarat – August 22 & October 4 bit of social commentary, and some of it is putting longest, most definitely,” he explains. “Because it myself in another person’s shoes and writing it from was something I hadn’t gone through, and I really Taphouse, Bendigo – August 23 & October 12 another perspective other than my own.” knew nothing about the whole process of what The Wool Exchange, Geelong – August 24 Writing the bulk of the album as acoustic would happen in that kind of situation; even just

360 on his triumphant return to music

R U OKAY? 2018 Conversation Convoy WRITTEN BY TALIA RINALDO

Supporting

one another and those struggling with life is

something we all need to do. Ahead of R U OK? Day on September

13, The R U OK? Conversation Convoy is hitting the road again on a six week Conversation Convoy, travelling 14,000 km and visiting 25 communities to show Australians that every day is the day to ask, “Are you OK?”

Kicking off in Geelong, The R U OK? Conversation Convoy aims to inspire everyone, no matter their location, to invest more time in the people around them and give them the skills, motivation and confidence to start a conversation with anyone they might be worried about.

Essentially, what they’re trying to do is show Australians everywhere that every day is the day to ask, ‘Are you OK?’ It’s so simple. In the time it takes to have a coffee, you can start a conversation that could change a life.

The event itself in Geelong signals the official launch of the Conversation Convoy, and will see a range of activities on the day including a chance to meet R U OK? Ambassadors Steve Bastoni and

22

Steve ‘Commando’ Willis, performances from Tyller Fischer and the Torquay Men’s Shed Choir, a delicious free BBQ, interactive ways to learn the 4 Steps to an R U OK? conversation, children’s activities, and more!

“It’s so important to ask someone if they’re okay,” says Tyller Fischer, a young, up-and-coming singer/songwriter from Melbourne who will be performing at the official launch. “Just asking if someone is okay helps them realise that they aren’t alone; that someone does care about them.

A lot of the time people don’t feel that they have anyone that they can talk to or that cares about them.”

With a distinctly unique sound that comes straight from her heart and experiences, Tyller is known for her positive and motivational songs relating to her own journey with mental health, including songs like ‘The BattLe Inside’, which is about fighting mental illness.

“I was in hospital when I started writing my first song,” Tyller explains.

“It started off just singing about all the pain that I was feeling and that helped me understand what it was that I was actually feeling and then helped me realise I didn’t want to feel that way any more and I wanted to fight it.”

However, Tyller admits that still has her bad days, and that’s okay. In a post to Facebook, she stated: ‘There is no quick fix for mental illness. Some days are good, others are a challenge, but every single day I get stronger.’

Mental illness is tricky, and breaking down the stigma and starting conversations is crucial to supporting those struggling. An important part of the ‘R U OK?’ Conversation Convoy will be touching on the ‘4 steps to an R U OK? Conversation. Sometimes it can be difficult for not only the people we’re asking, but for those doing the asking, as they may not feel confident if the person does say, “No I’m not ok.” But that’s ok, you don’t have to be an expert to show you care; no one expects that from anyone. It is however important not to use fear as a reason to avoid starting that important conversation.

“Just asking the simple question, it’s so beneficial because it could actually save their life,” Tyller reinforces. “It doesn’t have to be something really difficult, it’s just letting them know that you care.”

To help you out and lend a guiding hand, the R U OK? campaign recommends following four steps and asking the following questions to have a conversation with someone who is not feeling too good.

Ask R U OK? You can start by asking someone if they are OK and tell them you are here to listen. It could be as simple as asking ‘are you ok?’, ‘are you feeling OK?’ or event just asking ‘how are you going’ or ‘how are things’ is a great place to start a conversation as well as communicating that someone cares.

Listen with an open mind It’s so important for people to know they are cared for. Be prepared to listen patiently and encourage them to explain what’s bothering them.

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An eclectic banquet of talent promised as Queenscliff Music Festival 2018 drops its second lineup WRITTEN BY AINE KEOGH

The first lineup released for 2018’s Queenscliff Music Festival certainly sparked up excitement amongst the masses and now with another wave of bands added to the mix, QMF is anticipated to put on one of their best spreads to date.

Joining the already announced Courtney Barnett, Sarah Blasko, Kasey Chambers and the Whitlams, ARIA award-winning rock legend and vocal powerhouse Dan Sultan and the Sahara’s Sultan of Shred Bombino are leading an incredible second lineup.

QMF will also be showcasing a huge array of local rock, reggae, jazz, folk, blues, roots and RnB, exploring a vast range of ethnicities and genres.

Representing Melbourne will be a range of talents, with singer-songwriter and Milk Records! Co-founder, Jen Cloher bringing a terrific showcase of her own. Triple-J favourite, Ali Barter will also be taking the spotlight, performing her 70’s styled indie rock tunes, while Indigenous Australian talent, Skinnyfish Sound System will blow away crowds with tribal vocals, heavy beats.

Zimbabwean born singer-songwriter, Thando, will bring to the stage sweet soul.

Swinging grooves will be flowing thanks to The Senegambian Jazz Band and Ella Trinidad.

With such diversity, QMF is sure to bring you both beloved and new music that’s promised to amaze and excite.

The 2018 Queenscliff Music Festival will be held from Friday 23 – Sunday 25 November.

Three Day tickets are selling fast! Single Day tickets on sale Sunday 1 July.

View the full line up online.

Take what someone is saying seriously and listen with an open mind.

This can be done by expressing your concern in saying ‘I’m worried about you’, encourage further conversation by asking them to ‘start from the beginning’ or just show you understand by saying ‘it sounds like you are going through a stressful time’.

Encourage action The next important step is to try and encourage the person to take action. This can be done by asking ‘how can I help you?’ or ‘how can I support you?’. Sometimes people also find it comforting to share experiences. This can be done by saying ‘When I was going through a difficult time, I tried this... You might find it useful’. However, if you are really worried, it is important to encourage them to see a health professional. You could say, “It might be useful to link in with someone who can support you. I’m happy to assist you to find the right person to talk to.” Be positive about the role of professionals in getting through tough times; it is so, so, so important.

Check in It’s always a good idea to check in on anyone going through a hard time. Pop a reminder in your diary to call them in a couple of weeks. If they’re really struggling, follow up with them sooner. It can be as simple as saying ‘I’ve been thinking of you and wanted to know how you’ve been going since we last chatted’. The idea is just to stay in touch and just be there for them; genuine care and concern can make a real difference.

At the end of the day, it’s all about opening the discussion and letting someone know that you care. So, check on your strong friends. Check on your quiet friends. Check on your ‘happy’ friends. Check on your creative friends. Check on each other… because that’s what friends do.

A simple message, a chat, a smile, a coffee date... however you check in on your friends, keep doing it and if you think it’s time to check on someone, maybe today is the day.

The free official launch will be happening on Monday July 30 from 7:30am to 9am at Steampacket Gardens on Eastern Beach Road, Geelong.

Invite your friends, your family, your colleagues. Let’s come together to open the discussion and encourage everyone to ask ‘are you OK?’.

The Conversation Convoy will depart from Geelong on 30 July 2018 and reach its destination in Sydney on R U OK?Day, Thursday 13 September 2018.

If you, or someone you know, is in crisis, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit www.lifeline.org.au

fashion, style, humour and classic entertainment of the 1920’s along with it. It’s going to be a real swing, burlesque and gangster extravaganza, encapsulated by dark suits, moneybags, cigars and pistols (fake of course).

Keeping live music alive, Amped will provide three bands over two levels. You’ll find Hot Club Swing, Georgia Brookes trio (upstairs), Mr Meaner and DJK on the rooftop, all bringing the good vibes. On top of this, there will also be FX Gatsby Guys and Dolls entertainment + Kit Amore Burlesque for a night of magical mayhem.

Nibbles and platters will be rotating all night from 5:30pm, promising to keep you full and fuelled for a dance party that will have you feeling straight out of 1925.

The night will take place on October 6, allowing plenty of time to hunt and perfect the best Gangster costume possible – think Gangster, flapper, Burlesque, elegant vintage, gambler etc. Anything from the 1920s to the 1950s goes so get creative!

AMPED are hosting a Gangsters Ball

to Sunday. Amped recognises the importance of keeping the live music scene prominent and jumped on the opportunity to bring individuals of all ages together for fun-filled evenings each week.

Get your Gatsby on

Guaranteed to provide fine dining, great drinks and of course, lots of dancing, Amped likes to keep their atmosphere vibrant, exciting and everchanging, with past events covering themes such as 80’s countdowns, Robbie Williams Tribute, AC/ DSHE and many more. There’s no other place like it in the Geelong region and the venue turnouts week after week just prove that there doesn’t need to be!

WRITTEN BY AINE KEOGH

Winter proves to often be a hard season to party in. Freezing nights, rain that ruins the hair you spent an hour straightening and a log fire that crackles “please don’t leave me”, but thanks to Amped you can say goodbye to all of these things with not a worry in the world.

Launched in 2017, Amped has become one of Geelong’s hottest music venues. Since its inception, the bar has received a terrific reception, and has proved to be a popular hangout spot each Thursday

HIDEOUS SUN DEMON Returns with their thrashing brand of psych-punk music WRITTEN BY ALEX CALLAN

Trying to get your band up and running can be a pretty tough gig, especially when you are trying to be a functioning human and still maintain a solid income...

But the odd few get lucky, like Jake Suriano, bassist from Hideous Sun Demon, who luckily scored one the most accommodating bosses in Melbourne.

“I work at a fabric store in Glenn Huntley,” he begins. “I actually got the job from our booker because Jake from Clowns also works here and so does Abbie from Würst Nürse; it’s kind of their parents’ business... so because Lauren, my boss, has two touring children, she is pretty chill with tours.”

And luckily so, because the Perth (now Melbourne-based) psych lords and currently gearing up for an absolutely mammoth regional tour in support of their third studio album, Fame, Erotic, Dream.

“Our live shows are pretty fun and rowdy and we kind of tried to do that for the album. We have always tried to track that live intensity and the last record was pretty noisy. It was recorded to tape and was recorded pretty hot and pretty raw; some people like it, some people don’t. Personally, I like a

Tickets are $60 direct from the venue or can be purchased over the phone (52211634) during business hours. There are limited tickets so get in quick!

AMPED Bar is located at 71 Yarra St, Geelong.

As one’s to always encourage a good night filled with dining, drinking and dancing, Amped is now excited and proud to present its first ever Gangsters Ball. Inspired by the popularity of Gangsters Balls in Melbourne, the team at Amped thought it was time to bring the party to Geelong, bringing the

DON CLAUDE DEVIOUS: TWILIGHT DIES A new rock musical is being released as an album later this year featuring a pool of exciting talent drawn from both Geelong and Melbourne. The musical’s book and lyrics are written by Ryan Letizia and the music composed by Adam Parsons; two local musicians who have been writing together for half their lives since they met in high school in Geelong.

“Twilight Dies” is actually the first musical in an epic rock musical collection of musicals and stories which also includes “Cannibal Rapture” which was performed several years ago at the Potato Shed in Drysdale, Geelong. This production was funded through the City of Greater Geelong Community Arts Grants Program and auspiced by Theatre 3Triple2. It received two Entertainment Geelong Virtual Oscar nominations and won Most Refreshing Newcomer Co-Writer and Performer. A professional DVD was filmed by four cameras at the shows final performance.

Two singles from the “Twilight Dies” album have already been released, including the title song “Twilight Dies” performed by local musician BreeArne Manley, and “Crunch” performed by three local musicians Dominic Crea, Christina Hunter and Matthew Jelley.

The photography for the album and singles was done by local Jamie Lee De Wit who worked with Adam and Ryan on “Cannibal Rapture”.

lot of low-fi music where as others want a lot more clarity,” Suriano says. “We are pretty damn happy with how this album sounds to be honest.”

Touching on the importance of the bands third album, Suriano highlighted the differences that fans may experience on Fame, Erotic, Dream.

“I think it’s a bit tighter and the songs are more to the point. Some of the other albums were a bit jammy with really long outros, really long sections with lead work and that sort of stuff. I think there was a bit more of a punk song-writing element in the sense that we kept things short and to the point.

We have done a lot of different stuff, but when fans come to see us live they seem to really like the fast heavy songs,” he says. “It’s cool that we now have a few albums of different sounds because it’s nice to change up the set a bit.”

With a new album set for release tomorrow, Suriano has still managed to find the time to record some of his solo-work and on top of that has been in preparation for their huge 14-date regional tour.

“It should be interesting as we are now a threepiece but we recorded as a four-piece. We are going to meet in Adelaide and have a day and a half to practise it. I think at this point we have already been playing three to four of the new songs on our live sets so we just need to figure out what other ones to throw in,” he laughs before touching on his excitement for the bands first Geelong show.

“The last time we went to Geelong, we went to the Barwon Club and had a parma and it seemed like a really cool place. We are playing the Warped Small Town Disease and heaps of bands are on there; The Living Eyes are playing which is cool, BIN are playing, I don’t know what they are like but I know Cal from The Murlocs is in them so that should be good,” he smiles. “We are all really keen to get down there. We are going to be based out of Melbourne now so hopefully we will tour the East Coast a lot more.”

When & Where: The Barwon Club, Geelong – August 4 The Eastern, Ballarat – August 25

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23

Warped are back with a brand new record Prepare for face melting guitar wizardry WRITTEN BY ALEX CALLAN

In terms of Geelong rock acts, can we ever really go passed Warped? Releasing their first album, Slimeax, in the mid 90’s through the iconic indie label Au-Go-Go it was evident that there was an incredibly bright future ahead of them.

Forging out the Melbourne rock sound, Warped went on to sign with Mushroom Records and release two highly acclaimed albums; On The Make (2001) and Quicker Ways to Blacker Eyes (2003). Now many years later, the lads are back with their latest offering, Bolt From the Blue. With seven tracks of blistering droney rock and roll, it’s an absolute ripper.

Catching up with the bands newest recruit, Sammy Crawford, who undertook the role of bass about 10 years ago, Forté caught a glimpse of what it was like to finally bring out such a long-awaited album.

“We recorded it at Head Gap Studios with Neil [Thomason, producer/

engineer] and it was easily the best recording that I have ever been a part of,” Crawford explains. “Everyone was so relaxed and we all had our individual ideas of what we wanted and Neil was an absolute legend who was really accommodating with any of our wacky ideas.

“We took our time; I think it was about five days tracking but we rarely had any moments where we didn’t like what we were playing. I feel that’s because we did have these strong pre-existing ideas of what the album should be; we didn’t have to stop and discuss, we could just play it how we wanted it.

“One funny thing that Cris [Wilson, drummer] always says is, ‘it’s gone from the garage to the lounge room.’ It’s just a bit more defined with a bit more musicality to it,” he laughs before continuing. “We wanted it to sound tough, but we also wanted to show an evolution of the band.

There aren’t as many screaming back up vocals, it’s a lot more creative nowadays. We didn’t put any boundaries on ourselves, it just ebbed and flowed, which is what you want from any recording process but there’s just something special about this one.”

And indeed it is a special recording, especially considering it marks the first album in the Warped catalogue that Crawford is part of the recording process. So just how did Crawford find his way into Warped after they had already been a band for quite some time?

“I think that would be going back about 15 years,” he recalls. “A friend

It is very hard to get past the melancholy entrenched in this album. It’s not something I necessarily set out to achieve, but there are certainly chords and sounds that my ears are attracted to and this has historically steered my lyrical content to a somewhat sad place.

After a few songs started coming together I started to develop a narrative for the album that fitted with the robotic overtones. A Miner began to take on a robotic persona, this lead me to contemplate robotics and artificial intelligence. People are becoming so wary of these advancements in technology and there is certainly a fear that one day the machines will take over. In the

A Miner on his debut album

case of A Miner, the machine is not equipped to deal into a world of despair.

More on this, there is a disclaimer on the CD case

A Miner, the guitar-less solo venture from Mark his debut album As Water Fills My Lungs. We sit down with Oswin as he lets us in on everything A Miner.

Hey thanks so much for chatting to Forte!

Congratulations

on

the

debut

album, As Water Fills My Lungs, can you tell us a bit about the creation process?

Thank you. It was a new piece of sound equipment that kick started the creation process. I purchased a vocal harmoniser after seeing Ben Salter (The Gin Club, Giants of Science, The Wilson Pickers) use it to amazing effect at The Eastern in Ballarat. The idea was to use it to fill out my vocal sound at solo shows, but I got hooked on the hard tune sounds and really dialled it up to be as robotic as possible, whilst maintaining decipherable lyrics. I also wanted the instrumentation to reflect the machine-like nature of the vocals. For the first time I used keys as my primary writing tool and this helped to shape a very different sound. Whilst I have been performing these songs live for the past three years, it has been a stripped back version with just keys and vocals. I used these elements as the foundation and then built upon them with keyboard and software soundscapes. Some songs changed completely from how I originally envisioned them once I started recording them, but I was happy to take an organic approach to a process that was built on synthetic sounds.

Is there an overarching theme to the album that you’re trying to communicate on the album?

24

When & Where: Small Town Disease @ The Barwon Club, Geelong – August 4, The Bridge Hotel, Castlemaine – August 10 The Eastern, Ballarat – September 21

my classical training to become a song-writer.

Congratulations on releasing your album Shiner earlier this year. Can you give us an overview of the album; is there an overarching theme?

Shiner means ‘bruise’ and that is what writing this album was in some ways. It was about exploring a hurt in the same way that as a kid you poke a bruise over and over again until you get bored of it. I wrote out my pain but also the pain of those dear to me who were having their own struggles. Desire arrived about half-way through the writing process as well as hope in love. I wrote from the perspective of someone who knows love doesn’t work out but hurls herself over the romantic cliff anyway. The music shifts between my many musical loves - jazz influences, folk, dream-pop, 40’s sweeping piano and string ballads and electronica.

I worried when I made it that it would sound like six different artists. I think my voice and lyrical style are First up, can you introduce yourself to our the constant. readers and tell us a bit about your music?

What’s the perfect place/situation that Breckin is my moniker as a solo artist. My real someone should listen to the album ‘Shiner’ to name is Heather Marsh. I’m a visual artist, writer and musician. I’ve been making music for a while - get the complete experience?

I wrote Shine (the title track) while driving home at first playing violin in a band and then in a duo late one night through forest. I feel like that would making art-pop. I have wanted to make a solo album have to be the perfect way to listen to the album now; for so long and when the songs finally came, they in a car alone (and if you really want to re-create it, were surprisingly really personal. I didn’t set out to take the Geelong/Anakie back road to Ballan but make a heartbreak album or to write in a dark-folk watch out for the roos!). If you get the vinyl then or dream-pop style. I just wrote out the pain of what was happening in my life at the time - losing people, listen on a rainy night when you’re feeling nostalgic.

We love working with and admire the resilience deep disappointment, sorrow, hope.... of independent artists as they follow their dreams.

Where did the moniker Breckin come from? Is For you, what’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced there a story behind that one? thus far, and how did you overcome it?

Breckin means ‘freckled or speckled’. It is from the I overcome this challenge every week, every month Irish. I’ve always been red-haired, fair and freckled.

When I was growing up in Queensland everyone - trying to find the time and space to write songs or make art in between earning a living and caring for wanted to be blonde and tanned, but I love my two small people as a single parent. I worry about colouring and my speckles now. revealing that I am a mother - because children don’t How did you first get into music; has it always figure in the romantic image of an artist at work. That been in your blood? is my reality though and the reality of many male My Dad plays guitar and is a fan of old-jazz. He and and female artists I know. It is part of who I am and I make music together when I go home, with him on it makes me proud to acknowledge the creative life I his 1920’s banjo ukulele or guitar. That is something make possible in our messy, wonderful little family. so precious to me - I love the grin he gets on his face when he’s playing and I’m singing. I learned violin as Release: Shiner is out now. a child - it was terrifying. My teacher had been taught

Breckin on her bruised and brilliant debut album

with the complex range of human emotions and delves

With the Sea frontman Marc Oswin, has just released

who was starting a country band called ‘The Palenecks’ approached me and Cris was the drummer so we did that for quite a few years. Cris and I just gelled, him and I are like ‘putting on an old boot’ - it just clicks.

When the guys were thinking about getting Warped back together, Cris gave me a call and told me. My first reaction was ‘sweet, can my other bands play gigs with you?’ and he said ‘no, we want you to play bass.’ I just slotted in nicely; they are my two best mates. We really get along, there’s never any beef or anything like that so it’s good to be a part of.

“I’m actually a bit younger than the other guys, I’m 34 and the other guys are in their early 40’s,” Crawford continues. “I first heard Warped when I moved to Melbourne from Queensland. A mate gave me one of their CD’s and said ‘mate, this is the Melbourne rock sound.’ I was a bit of a fan-boy for many years so playing with them now is like a school boy dream come true.”

Touching on the long wait fans have experienced in the build-up to Bolt From The Blue, Crawford reveals how the album eventually came together.

“Because of work and stuff, we would just play gigs here and there and do our best to get out there but we were slowly writing songs. Early last year something just clicked and we started writing profusely so we just smashed the album out. Whenever we would get together it would be out on the road playing gigs and we would end up at an Airbnb and straight away get the guitars out and start writing,” he continues, “but like any album, the process of writing and recording all takes time. It’s taken a little bit longer than we thought but it’s all been worth it in the end. We are so stoked with the finished product.”

And it seems the band aren’t the only ones happy with the finished product, with the album scoring some rave reviews and sparking sell-out shows. Next up on the album launch tour is quite a special one though with a hometown launch at the one and only Barwon Club featuring an absolutely stacked lineup.

“Because we are a Geelong band, we are saving the big one for The Barwon Club,” Crawford smiles. “It’ll just be a big party. We’ve got River of Snakes which is Raúl from Magic Dirt, The Poppin’ Mommas who are a classic Geelong band (I think my first ever show with Warped The Poppin’ Mommas played), and a bunch of new acts like Bring Up The Spirits. It’ll just be a great party, the lineup is insane. It’s kind of like our version of River Rocks. The BC always sells out, the staff there are amazing, you always feel looked after and have an unreal time, so I dare say our little shindig will be much the same.”

about anxiety and depression etc. Is it your aim to evoke these feelings with your music?

I thought it was important to put the disclaimer in the liner notes purely because it is an emotional listen. It is 52 minutes of fairly unrelenting darkness.

Although my writing rarely a first-hand account, I generally tell stories from a first person perspective, so this probably makes the experience more relatable.

Heath McCurdy, who mixed and mastered the album, sent me a message during his part of the process and half-jokingly remarked he had to take a break for a few days as it was effecting his mental health. I laughed it off until I got into his first mix, that was when the underlying sadness really hit me. I had some teary moments. I think it’s important to feel something when you listen to music and I’m certainly not opposed to music inducing feelings of happiness - that’s just not my particular style.

Thanks so much for chatting. To finish up, what comes next for you?

The idea is to align a run of shows to coincide with the release of the second single from the album, ‘Did you see the lights?’. I’ve recently shot a music video for it with Ballarat video production house, Mass Motion.

It’s having the final editing touches applied. I’m excited to get it out into the world and to get out into the world myself.

Release: As Water Fills My Lungs is out now via Heart of the Rat Records.

by nuns and was very strict. I almost had to un-learn

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Regurgitator on the imminent arrival of their ninth album WRITTEN BY PAUL S TAYLOR

FOR MANY OF US OLDER FOLKS, WE MAY LOOK BACK ON 90’S AND EARLY 00’S REGURGITATOR GIGS AND ALBUMS THROUGH NOSTALGIC LENSES, BUT IN THESE MODERN TIMES WE STILL HEAD TO THEIR GIGS AND CHECK OUT THEIR ALBUMS FOR GOOD REASON... BECAUSE IT’S LIKE CATCHING UP WITH OLD MATES, SEEING HOW THEY’RE GOING, WHAT THEY’VE BEEN UP TO, AND THE STORIES THEY TELL. THAT’S WHO REGURGITATOR ARE TO US OLDER FOLKS. AND TO YOUNGER FOLKS, THEY’D BE SAME TO YOU AS WHAT THEY WERE TO US WHEN WE WERE YOUNG; A GREAT BAND WITH A GREAT SENSE OF HUMOUR AND GREAT STORIES TO TELL. AND MOST OF ALL, THEY’RE A LOT OF FUN. I CAUGHT UP WITH BASSIST AND VOCALIST BEN ELY FOR A CHAT.

was not confirmed. However, ten years after the fact, Ben confirmed it. “We just found that out recently, ‘coz a friend of mine helped organise a show,” he says. “He does foreign aid work over there, and he just heard that gossip just recently, it’s just kind of ‘fresh off the press’.”

Now Regurgitator are about to release a new album, Headroxx, after five years. In doing so, they’re continuing to do what they have always done best by going against the flow of the current popular music industry style. “Because we’re older, we just don’t get played on triple j,” he explains. “It is kind of liberating for us right now because we just feel like ‘oh, no-one’s going to play us anyway so let’s just make it as weird as we possibly can’. So we kind of did that; we could probably make it even weirder.”

I asked Ben about the themes on the new album, out of curiosity. He explained that the band members generally write songs alone then bring them to the table to share and workshop for possible inclusion on the album. “We found out that a lot of the songs Having previously caught up with vocalist and we liked had a similar kind of theme about being a guitarist Quan Yeomans in 2011, I brought up the bit anxious and kinda crazy in the modern world, same story with Ben about how I saw The ‘Gurge and the stresses and pressure that the modern live in 2008 in the Laos capital Vientiane. The band world brings, with pressure with money and bills were headlining a free sponsored gig entitled the and family and everything,” he says. “Every song ‘Tiger Beer Rock Your Passion’ gig. Four local bands had a similar kind of theme, that’s why we called played then the ‘Gurge closed the show. Problem was it Headroxx. It’s kind of like rocks in your head or at the very start of their set, there was what seemed kind of like your head being rocked, or this idea that at the time, a power outage. Ten to fifteen minutes you’re a little bit mentally kinda crazy; driven a bit later the band re-emerged from behind the scenes, crazy by your situation in the world so that’s why with all power surging, and kicked out a sweaty and we called it Headroxx. It’s like a fun play on feeling powerful set in the National Circus, the venue which a bit strange.” was a concrete structure built like a circus tent.

Considering it has been 22 years since The ‘Gurge A laughing Ben on the other end of the phone released their first album (they released two EPs explained what happened that night with the power prior) Tu-Plang, and considering the crowds they outage. “That show was sponsored by Tiger Beer, still draw, I had to ask Ben what’s in it for the band. which is a Thai beer company, and the most popular “We just really enjoy each other’s company and enjoy local (Laos) beer is Beer Lao and apparently Beer playing and touring. People still come out and see us Lao sabotaged our power and went back and cut which we’re flattered by, and we just really enjoy it... the electricity. They broke into the electricity box Then we thought why don’t we do new a new record.” and then they cut the power and then they put a padlock on it, so someone’s had to find an axe, and Regurgitator will perform at The Wool we’re standing out the back and this dudes there Exchange on Thursday August 9. with an axe chopping the electricity box open to get to the power to flick the mains back on,” he explains. Release: HEADROXX is out August 1.

Whilst Quan explained this to me back in 2011, it

TOP FIVE TIPS FOR TOURING BANDS From nine piece band Black Bird Hum Sydney roots-reggae band, Black Bird Hum, are no strangers to the live stage relentlessly touring the country regularly. This has not only won them legions of fans but also made them a favourite amongst festivals. As veterans of touring circuit, they share their best tips.

1. Get a really, really big van (we have nine people on tour). How ever many people you have, just get a couple spare seats. Gigs in Australia are hours apart and you don’t want to be sitting on top of each other for consecutive 10 hour stretches. Plus, you’ll have room for hitchhikers who can provide a distraction when you’re getting sick of talking to each other.

2. Take ear plugs in case your drummer snores really badly. I learnt this hard way at Nimbin Mardi Grass, and ended up taking a blanket and pillow and sleeping on the floor of our (really uncomfortable) van to escape our old drummers epic snoring.

“We’re The Chats, Get Fucked” WRITTEN BY DARBY-PERRIN LARNER

3. Elect a new Tour Manager everyday based on who is last on the bus that morning. We’re late to

EAMON SANDWITH AND JOSH PRICE, TWO THIRDS

everything. Soundchecks, gigs, interviews. No one

OF THE CHATS, COME BOUNDING DOWN THE

wants to be tour manager, so this rule helped speed

STAIRS OF THE NORTHCOTE SOCIAL CLUB AS

us up each morning.

FORTÉ ARRIVES. THE CHATS ARE ABOUT TO START SOUND-CHECK FOR THE FIRST LEG OF THEIR FIRST

4. Make it a rule that everyone has to shower

HEADLINE NATIONAL TOUR. THE SHOW TONIGHT

before getting on the bus. On day one, the bus is a

IS SOLD OUT. THEIR NEW SONG ‘DO WHAT I

source of excitement. By day three, the novelty starts

WANT’ HAS JUST BEEN RELEASED. IT’S ALREADY

to wear off and you realise it stinks.

RECEIVING GOOD FEEDBACK, EVEN THOUGH “IT’S A BIT DIFFERENT FROM SMOKO”. THE BOYS ARE

5. Talk to people who come to your shows. After your mums, they’re your next biggest fans. There’s people who we talked to after shows we played four or five years ago who still keep in touch and check in on when our next track is coming out.

Black Bird Hum’s new single ‘Say You Want’ is out now.

WARY OF THIS. THEY’RE FROTHING.

Nothing can equalize their rough-as-guts energy, even as they tune their bright-red guitars and toy with the sound tech. They pick up from the chorus of WOD’s ‘Top 5’ in a burst, as if someone has flicked a switch. And then they stop again.

“That ok with youse?”

It is.

The Chats are Eamon Sandwith (lead vocals/ guitar), Josh Price (vocals/guitar) and Matt Bogis (drums). They met in high school, in a music class where they got away with murder. Luckily, not literally.

Bogis is an accomplished skater, Price isn’t too bad in the surf, and Sandwith is “too unco” for anything other than walking on flat ground. But what Sandwith can do is wrangle a microphone.

The facial contortions he makes throughout their set put Jim Carrey to shame. The placid, albeit distracted Sandwith of hours earlier, turns into a tyrannosaurus on stage.

The Chats serve up that Cabana-stick kitsch that is an all-Aussie guilty pleasure. Songs like ‘Pub Feed’ are, well, pub rock at its finest happy hour. After all, this is a band that only lists on their triple j Unearthed profile under influences, “Beer”. They’ve even penned an ode to VB. Though they insist their tastes are changing, as Sandwith quips “I walked in on him (Price) having a glass of Rosé last night”. But when pushed for more influences, they oblige.

Bogis tells us, “I’m into my blues; everything,

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LISTEN: NEW CENTRE OF THE UNIVERSE VOL. 3 Anti-fade records is releasing a compilation album of 17 Victorian bands, acts and artists WRITTEN BY AINE KEOGH

Since its inception in 2011, Anti-fade records has come a long way, spawning an array of mental records from Victorian based artists such as The Living Eyes, Orb, Ausmuteants and various others.

For its third year, Anti-fade is thrilled to announce the release of the ‘New Centre of the Universe, Vol.3’ LP; the third installment (and first to appear on vinyl) in the series. The compilations showcase local sounds to the likes of garage rock, punk, psychedelic and pop rock of which have received an excellent reception since the first release.

Previous volumes have comprised of tracks from much loved bands such as King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard, The Murlocs, The Frowning Clouds, just to name a few and Volume 3 is anticipated to be even greater. The new addition features 17 Victorian bands and artists, shying away from any ‘punk’ bands that may have previously featured on earlier volumes.

Made up of the likes of Terry, Parsnip, Vintage Crop, Gonzo and many more, the LP has been compiled over the past 12 months by Antifade Records, mastered by Mikey Young and encapsulated within the hand-painted artwork of Carolyn Hawkins.

New Centre of the Universe is out worldwide on LP and digitally through Anti Fade Records from August 3 so get on it!

anything, anything with real talent. Fuck the DJ’s”.

This starts a rapid back and forth between the boys.

Sandwith: “See, I like music with the least talent involved”.

Bogis: “That takes talent though”.

They go on until they realise what’s probably most important for any band to have, even more so than talent: “we just learnt to put up with each other”, as Sandwith concedes.

One thing is for sure; The Chats have learnt a lot more than just getting along in the past six months.

They’re not long home from touring with Aussie legends Cosmic Psycho’s, which was a real education.

“We had some ups and downs along the way, “me (Sandwith) and Pricey got real sick”- Sandwith with food poising and Price self-inflicted with Tequila.

“They taught us a few lessons on pushing on with a hangover.”

“We definitely grew a lot as a band on that tour.”

“Without even noticing it either,” they all concede.

The boys have come a mile from a shed-studio in Peregian beach, Noosa. After three consecutive national tours, The Chats are heading to Europe later this year.

“Even a year ago we were just getting small shows on the coast we were like fuck yeah we’re hyped.”

“You’d have like twenty people turn up and we’d be like YES, we’ve pulled a crowd boys.”

“I think we got paid a carton of beer for a year before we started getting real.”

During Forté’s chat, they mention they’re working on a full-length album and that we can expect new music on the tour. When the unavoidable Smoko question comes up, they’re not fazed. “What’s a band without a hit?”

When it’s time for the show, the boys begin their set with that same kick in the nuts, “We’re The Chats, get fucked.”

And when they treat us to a new song never played live before, CCTV, they tell us “count yaselves lucky”.

The Chats will be supporting Queens Of The Stone Age at Melbourne’s Margaret Court Arena on September 7 & 8. www.thechatslovebeer.com

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you can do in a lonely living room at midnight with a hot chocolate so it’s amazing to have both.

How did you originally get into music, has it always been in your blood or was there a defining moment for you?

I think it’s something to do with being an anxious kid and seeing artists on Video Hits being so comfortable with being weird and bold and selfexpressed. Who doesn’t crave that?

MIHRA From the solo project of Chevaunne Keleher to a full band, alternative pop outfit Mihra released their debut album, Hoping for Gold, in 2016 Their follow-up album, Girl and Her Symbols, is coming, teased as a concept album detailing “an individual dream from a month long period of keeping a Carl Jung inspired dream journal”.

We chat to Mihra ahead of a gig in Warrnambool.

Hi Mihra, thanks for chatting to Forte. First up, can you give a quick intro to our readers about your music?

Our music aims to capture the night-time dream world but make it rhyme. On our upcoming album you’ll find abstract dream stories and experimental song structures, with snappy rock grooves, synths, guitars, quirky instrumental hooks and as much delay as we could get away with.

While you started your solo project back in 2014, you are also part of My Elephant Ride. What made you want to also explore music as a solo project?

I appreciate the balance between the more collaborative writing with My Elephant Ride and doing more of the directing with Mihra. We are still collaborative in Mihra, but I have a great opportunity being supported to fulfil an ambitious vision without compromising. On the other hand, collaborating can help vibrate ideas beyond what

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Tell us about the album that you’ve been working on recently; we hear the album is a concept album with ‘each song details an individual dream from a month long period of keeping a Carl Jung inspired dream journal’... can you tell us about that?

Yes dreams are an endless source of intrigue and it’s great because you get new ones all the time! I found journaling daily made me remember them every morning and I could spend the day reflecting and interpreting them. It’s art your brain makes for itself! And this album is art about brain art. Jung knows where it’s at too- if you like thinking about it check out Man and His Symbols.

What do you love about performing live on stage?

Performing live is great because you can look the crowd in the eyes and feel something with them on another level than real life. I mean sometimes that level is them feeling awkward that you’re looking them in the eyes but it’s still beyond the norm and that’s wild. And I love when people dance. So come dance at The Loft on Aug 4th!

We’re looking forward to the gig in Warrnambool! What’s next for Mihra?

Next we are releasing our new album! It’ll be out in November on Wigwam Records. We’ll be playing a bunch of shows in the mean time, so come say hi!

When & Where: The Loft, Warrnambool – August 4.

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PLAY IT AGAIN SAM WRITTEN BY SAM YOUNG

It is funny how life works sometimes. Sammi Constantine was enjoying her life as a full time dancer when she became sick. Hospitalised with anorexia, Sammi had to stay in bed for six weeks. It was during this time that she began writing. Her whole world changed. Dancing and everything that came with it was her universe.

She started doing something different to help her express her emotions.

Sammi wrote and wrote and wrote. When the time came for her to be released from hospital, she got back on her feet, picked up a guitar and from there began hustling. She found a new passion and fell in love with it. The best medicine for her now was the guitar.

Along the way, Sammi found it amazing what music can do when you feel down and everything else doesn’t seem to be working. Especially when you can write and get everything out. This was so powerful in her eyes and her thoughts.

A new single is being released and with that comes excitement; her new song ‘Feel Your Body’

has Sammi living happy in the moment. The new single has taken two and a half years to get to this point. It was relevant to her during that particular time but, she held onto the song. Trying at here.

Trying it there. Tour with it. Test it out. There have been several versions of this song before reaching the sound she now has.

Although Sammi hasn’t released anything for over a year, this has not been a year off for the singersongwriter from Central Coast, New South Wales.

She just needed to lock down and find the sound she was after. The time off was just the boost she needed to re-ignite herself. A lot of self discovery and time to mend whilst writing. Initially thinking she might take a three month hiatus, it turned into one year. However, that is fine with Sammi. It takes the time it is supposed to take and she doesn’t look back with any regrets.

Attending an alternative school, Sammi found herself the black sheep of her hometown. Her music may reflect this. Her songs are written from a dark and deep place. Her songs are for herself and hopefully that resonates with people more than lyrics that are empty and hollow because they are just words. Always trying to put as much of her heart into it as possible, if people relate to that, they will enjoy her music.

Early on in her music pathway, a gig at Groovin’ The Moo saw her on stage with her friends ‘Bad Decisions’. They are a DJ duo who allowed Sammi to join them for their set to share the experience.

She pretty much stood in the corner of the stage the entire time. It was a learning opportunity where she could envisage herself where she wanted to go from that point in time. Now she is unable to keep still. Always on the move and confident with her stage presence.

Artists like Amy Shark are paving the way for new Australian musicians to spread their own sound as a solo artist and if Sammi’s dreams come to fruition, a set at Coachella Music Festival is just around the corner.

For now though, she is planning on winging it after the single, letting the wind to take her as she lets go a little bit. Let everything that is supposed to happen, happen. Watch out for Sammi Constantine.

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THE SWEETEST INTERACTIVE EXHIBITION TO HIT MELBOURNE

brainstorming as we do what we do! And the best ones make it to the brewhouse.

“It’s about process, quality ingredients and time,” Jess continues. “At Blackman’s we have qualified Brewers who have studied brewing. We use only the best ingredients we can get our hands on to, not the cheapest. And we give the beer the time in needs in Tank, we don’t rush beers through to hit deadlines.”

Sugar lovers unite!

As brewery that continually pushes the boundaries on flavour combinations and creative collaborations, Blackman’s Brewery also has a strong local connection recognising the hard work that goes running a local business and bringing something new to the Geelong community, which sees the bar often host event nights collaborating with some of Geelong’s hottest eateries.

Sugar Republic is a delicious pop-up museum dedicated to the celebration of desserts, candy and all things sweet through 14 amazing sensory exhibits.

Relive your childhood with a life-size gumball machine, which you can climb into and play

So far they’ve already teamed up with locals like Wah Wah Gee for a four course beer and bao pairing night, a collaboration with Sober Ramen to bring punters a night of beer and dumpling combinations, Armageddon Cake for a perfect night of cake and beer, and even some outrageously awesome match ups with a beer and donut pairing night with Uncle Donut. Their most recent collaboration saw the Blackman’s crew team up with the guys at Mexican Republic for a Mexican feast matched with their beers.

around in; play in a huge grown-up ball pit, swing in a fairy floss room or make yourself a soft serve ice cream with sprinkles. There’s also a room where colourful Slinkys drop from the ceiling and another where you can shoot a confetti cannon over a giant birthday cake... we’re already drooling.

You’ll also get to peek into a pop-up cinema screening sweet old-school flicks (think Willy

enjoy lollies, ice cream and snacks along the way.

The Good Beer Bar by Blackmans Brewery

It’s this winter’s ‘must see’ exhibition for any-

The home for great beer and greater chill sessions.

Wonka and the Chocolate Factory) and climb under an inflatable doughnut canopy. And don’t worry about eating before you go, because as you explore the 14 fun-filled spaces; you can

Geelong legends who weren’t as familiar with all of our beers,” Jess Blackman explains. “This was awesome, but after the entire Blackman’s crew went to Ballarat Beer festival early 2018, we got a taste of some pretty epic beers and knew we had to bring them to Geelong. We decided to give five of our taps over to other breweries, so that we can make sure Geelong and the surfcoast has a place to go to taste Australia’s best beer.”

one who ever hit a sugar high, slammed a Tim Tam or jumped for joy at the sound of a Mr. Whippy van.

Sugar Republic is open at 379 Smith Street, Fitzroy until August 17. Tickets start at $25 and need to be purchased in advance online.

FOR CLOSE TO FOUR YEARS NOW, BLACKMAN’S BREWERY IN TORQUAY HAS BEEN HELPING FUEL THE EXCITEMENT AROUND THE CRAFT BEER INDUSTRY. IN THE SURF COAST TOWN JUST 500 METRES FROM THE BEACH – JESS AND RENN BLACKMAN GET TO BREW BEER, AND THEY’VE CREATED A QUALITY AND WELL-LOVED SPACE TO DO SO. With craft beer well and truly on the rise in recent years, the couple decided to bring their beloved brew to the heart of Geelong with their very own brewery bar in 2016. Located in Denny’s Place behind Beav’s Bar, the venue created a new drinking destination inspired by Melbourne’s laneway bars. With original wood panels, a stylish tin roof and a chipboard ply bar, the venue features both new and old styles, bringing a little piece of the original brewery to Geelong by embracing certain finishes from the Torquay venue such as the eye-catching light box, the tap wall and the brewing design mural.

As Geelong’s first bar dedicated craft beer, the bar is designed to showcase a range of Australian and international breweries with 10 rotating taps pouring new beers each week.

“We started off serving our entire range on tap which was an awesome introduction of Blackman’s to the

BOTTLES & BARRELS IS NOW ON DELIVEROO...

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With the Good Beer Bar’s 10 taps on a constant rotation, you’re guaranteed to always find something new to try. At the moment, they’ve got Holgate, Modus Operandi, 3 Ravens, 8 Wired and Green Beacon ready for pouring.

As for their own range, Blackman’s make their beers with the best quality ingredients they can get their hands on. The core range is made up of beers that cover a variety of flavours and styles, however the team are well known to all as the local brewers who are all about creating new batches with interesting flavours while maintaining the highest quality of craft beer, Blackman’s Brewery has come up with some pretty famous brews in their time. Partnering with Cartel Coffee Roasters and Long Miles Coffee, the brewery created an espresso martini kölsch which proved to be a hit, along with ‘Blackberry Gose’, the ‘Juicy Banger’ which is BIG on aroma and juicy flavours with the crisp finish of a Lager (and also took home gold at the 2018 Independent Brewers Association Awards), and The Zinger Slinger NZ Pale Lager – just to name a few.

“We absolutely love a collaboration and there’s nothing better than working with people who are as excited about what they do as we are. And we don’t have to venture to far to find that in Geelong. There are so many passionate small business owners surrounding us, it’s awesome.”

In true Blackman style, where there’s good beer, there’s equally good food. Serving food from The Hot Chicken Project and with a range of fun tabletop games on hand, and highly trained staff that know and love the beer industry - it’s the perfect place for after work drinks in the CBD or a quiet beer or cider with friends.

At Blackman’s brewery, their philosophy is this: ‘we love good beer’, and the Beer Bar is a true reflection of just that, continually bring their best to Geelong and Torquay and showing a love and appreciation of good beer from fellow brewers.

The bar is located at Dennys Place, Geelong (down the laneway off Little Malop Street), and open Tuesday-Saturday.

“We have seven permanent beers we brew year round, and then we brew about 10 seasonals / one offs to keep things interesting and exciting for everyone,” Jess explains. “We all pretty obsessed with beer and are constantly throwing around ideas on the daily. So it’s the whole team just bouncing around

Deliveroo has been providing us homebodies with delicious cuisine off the back of a bike for around a few years now, so it’s only fitting that they take on the responsibility of delivering our alcohol too.

One of our favourites, Bottle & Barrels, has teamed up with Deliveroo to step up the game in alcoholic convenience. You can now officially order your beer, cider and wine from your phone and have it show up on your doorstep... welcome to the 21st century.

Choose from a Furphy six pack, a four pack of Rodenbach cans, Blackman’s lager, the delicious Pirate Life IPA or you can get your hand on the Colonial Bertie cider six pack. You can also indulge in their Craft Beer Mixed Six Packs – all you need to do is choose the type of beer (sours, sessions, pale, IPAs, darks) and the team will provide a mix of their best for you to try at home.

As for the wines, you can get some Oakdene NV Brut, Koonara Rosé and Sauvignon Blanc, Between Five Bells FORTE 694

Pinot Noir or even some Cape Barren McLaren Vale Shiraz.

Best of all, once you’ve selected from the on-demand app your favourite beer or wine, they’ll show up at your door in the next 30 minutes (if specified as ASAP) – all for just a $5 delivery fee! The time has come where you can have your steak cooking with its matching bottle of red on the way, how good is that??

The days of food delivery are old news, but the days of alcohol-only home delivery are only just beginning here in Geelong. Treat up Forté readers; imagine a life where you actually never have to leave the house (unless attending local live music, of course).

Heads up though, they may ask for ID on delivery.

Check it out at deliveroo.com.au. Bottles & Barrels is located at 132 Aberdeen Street, Geelong West.

lounge area that will be fully facilitated for attendees to make connection and meet other people and businesses. Further in the expo, you’ll also find a crafty market where you can stock up on gifts and goodies or you can undergo a health check and even some yoga in the Wellness Pop-Up. The biggest drawcard this year is the genU Fashion Show where you will see local designers and boutiques hitting the runway with the most amazing models, including indigenous models, models with disabilities, models both young and young at heart, models of all sizes and of all backgrounds. With a focus on diversity and with a local angle, the show will see hair and makeup taken over by The Gordon students, while the models whilst Kim Cooper (Aus Idol) performs and Daryl Reader (Bay 93.9) MC’s.

Meet me at the Expo…

Geelong has a lot to offer in the way of small businesses, with creative, innovative and motivated minds aplenty. After their debut appearance in 2016 and successful follow up last year, the Geelong Business Expo is back this weekend, giving small businesses the opportunity to network and connect with likeminded entrepreneurs.

Going down at the Federal Mills Park in North Geelong this Saturday, the Pivot City Geelong Business Expo will see more than 100 businesses from in and around our local area. Pioneered by a trio of three amazing and intelligent women from Geelong Women in Business - Samantha Krajina, Samantha Wilson and Kirsty Whitehead - the expo

Foodie Traveller WRITTEN BY STEWART CLARKE

Moules Mariniere On a recent drive down to Portarlington, I was reminded of the time I backpacked through France and enjoyed so many new culinary delights. What reminded me most were the sea fresh black mussels, which are sold on the Port pier for a cheap $5 per kilo.

These salty, tender mussels are harvested right there in the bay so they are super fresh. If you fancy a nice drive to the Bellarine, get to it! While you’re there, grab some crusty sour dough, oven-baked at the Portarlington Bakehouse. Also while you’re down that way, ‘do yourself a favour’ and check out some of the best wineries in the country - just a stone’s throw away.

Here’s my quick and easy recipe for cooking these delectable morsels. It’s so simple with just a few fresh ingredients and literally takes 10 minutes to make. Just remember to de-beard the mussels and rinse beforehand.

is designed to facilitate a gathering where small businesses are able to network and connect with like-minded entrepreneurs.

The focus of the expo will be the rows and rows of stalls from Geelong’s best and brightest small business owners. Here, attendees can buy, order or simply peruse products from the represented businesses, with particular attention being paid to small businesses who collaborate and connect with each other.

You’ll find everything from small historic research businesses, candles, award-winning wineries, to accounting services and financial education, baby and toddler accessories, skincare treatments, personal training services and even hand crafted cultured butter and a retro caravan bar – plus so much more. No matter your interest, taste or need, there will be something for you at the expo.

With a passion of fostering local relationships, the team have also created a dedicated networking

Another exciting addition to this year’s expo is The Food & Wine Enclosure, brought to you by Elderberry Event Hire, showcasing some of the best wines, food, pastries and cakes from around Geelong, the Surf Coast and Bellarine Peninsula.

Take your ticket around the expo and enclosure and gain access to specials, samples and goodies to experience the real taste of Geelong from some of our favourites, including Mt Duneed Estate, Provenance Wines, Terindah Estate, Boutique Event Co, Wah Wah Gee, Pickers Union, Mexican Republic, Cakesmith and more!

In the enclosure you will hang out to some sweet tunes, ease into some live music, snap away in their photo booth and kick back with friends and Geelong’s finest cosying up on a Saturday afternoon.

We hear Denny’s Restaurant are celebrating their new menu and new chef by giving away some cheeky bottles of French champagne...You couldn’t ask for a better way to spend a Saturday in winter if you tried.

Entry is FREE to the expo with a voluntary gold donation to Vinnie’s which will go to supporting poverty and homelessness in Geelong. Tickets must be purchased to access the Food & Wine Enclosure.

Moules Mariniere (mussels in broth) 1/2 to 1 kilo of fresh black mussels 1 tomato (diced) 1/2 brown onion (diced) 1 large clove garlic (chopped) 2 sprigs parsley (chopped) 1/4 tsp. cracked black pepper 1/4 cup white wine 1/4 cup cream 1 tblsp. olive oil In a large saucepan, heat oil and add onion, then add garlic and sauté until slightly browned. Add in mussels, stir and place lid on for 1/2 to 1 minute.

Add the tomato and wine, and put lid back on for 2 to 3 minutes. Next stir again and add parsley and cream with lid on for one last minute. All mussels should be open now. Grind black pepper over and serve in a nice big bowl with crusty bread and a beer. Yummo!!

Stewart is a local chef and traveller of the region.

Follow Stew’s adventures, dishes and recipes via foodietraveller361691779.wordpress.com/

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Be a Super Hero!

Curl up with a good book and help save the planet at the Monster Book Fair On these cold and often wet weekends, there is nothing better than curling up in front of the fire with a good book. But who knew you can be a Super Hero by doing just that?

This August sees the return of The Rotary Club of Geelong West’s major annual fundraiser, the Monster Book Fair.

Having been a large success in previous years, so far the annual book fair has raised tens of thousands of dollars that have been channelled back through the Club’s supported projects such as Barwon Health Patient Transport, Samaritan House, Operation Newstart, Christ Church Meals Program, Geelong Kokoda Youth Program and Interplast, not to mention all of the many smaller charitable programs that apply to the Club for grants each year. Supporting those who need it most, you’re doing your bit to change the world just by picking up

some great books at the Monster Book Fair.

Who thought you could achieve so much sitting down!? If the cheap prices and social benefits are not wonderful enough, there is also the added bonus of book fairs being environmentally friendly.

Purchasing books at the Rotary Club of Geelong West’s Monster Book Fair helps to recycle books and prevents them from being sent to landfill, helping reduce waste and thus benefiting the environment.

Win, Win, Win! Whether it is a novel, cookbook, biography or children’s book, buying a book here will not only give you hours and hours of great reading, it will ensure that these books are being recycled in an efficient and effective way.

With thousands of books on offer across almost all possible genres, there is bound to be something to impress even the most demanding of readers.

With entry at just a gold coin donation, and books for ridiculously cheap prices ($1 for paperbacks and children’s books, or $2 for hardcovers), it’s definitely worth checking it out.

It all goes down at the Geelong West Town Hall from Friday August 3 to Sunday August 5 from 9am.

WHAT’S ON AT COURTHOUSE YOUTH ARTS ‘YOU ARE ALL THE COLOURS’ IS THE DEBUT SOLO SHOW OF LOCAL EMERGING PHOTOGRAPHER, GABRIELLE BARNES. AFTER EXPERIENCING A RELATIONSHIP BREAK-UP, GABBY BEGAN INVESTIGATING THE WAYS IN WHICH LOVE IS DEPICTED ON SOCIAL MEDIA AND IN THE PHOTOGRAPHIC MEDIUM. IN THIS EXHIBITION, SHE AIMS TO DEPICT NOTIONS OF ‘FALLING OUT OF LOVE’ AND ‘DISCONNECTION’ THROUGH THE POWER OF HUMAN GESTURE AND THE EMOTIVE PLAY OF COLOURS. A STUDENT AT RMIT, GABBY IS CURRENTLY STUDYING A BACHELOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY AND IS EXPLORING LIGHTING AND POST-PRODUCTION TECHNIQUES AND IS ENTHRALLED BY THE AFFECTIVE NATURE OF PHOTOGRAPHY. THE EXHIBITION RUNS UNTIL AUGUST 22.

WE ALSO HAVE BRAND NEW OPENING TIMES! THE CHYA GALLERY IS OPEN TUESDAY TO FRIDAY 10AM – 6PM AND SATURDAY FROM 10:30AM LOCATED AT 60 LITTLE MALOP STREET, GEELONG. YOURS IN ART, CHYA.

and director Terry Gilliam’s long-awaited and near-mythical riff on Cervantes’ fantastic tale, The Man Who Killed Don Quixote, starring Adam Driver alongside Gilliam stalwart Jonathan Pryce in the story of a cynical ad man trapped in the delusions of an old shoemaker who believes himself to be Don Quixote.

The festival will also present the world premiere of Jimmy Barnes: Working Class Boy – Mark Joffe’s in-depth portrait of one of Australia’s most well-known musical figures. Based on the best-selling memoir of the same name, the film follows Barnes as he retraces his early life through the hard streets of Glasgow and revisits childhood ghosts in South Australia There’s also a wide range of individual programs within the festival itself, gathering films on various topics into theme - including Fashion x Cinema, focusing on design; Night Shift, MIFF’s traditional look at the latest and greatest in cult film; African Film Rediscovered; an ItalioCrime retrospective; and the always attention-grabbing line ups of MIFF short films, animation, and Music on Film.

The full MIFF program is online at miff.com.au and tickets are on sale now.

MIFF 2018 The best of the Melbourne International Film Festival WRITTEN BY ANTHONY MORRIS

As the last month of winter rolls around Melbourne becomes (in a manner of speaking) with the 67th annual Melbourne International Film Festival – or as it’s better known, MIFF. Featuring 254 feature films, 120 shorts and 19 virtual reality experiences, screening over eighteen days and nights, this year’s festival promises to provide audiences with a wide-ranging and robust snapshot of world cinema today. the centre of the cinematic universe

This year MIFF kicks off August 2nd with the opening night screening of Paul Dano’s highly anticipated Opening Night Gala film Wildlife at the Regent Theatre. For the first time MIFF will be taking over the Regent for the entire opening weekend, with a series of headline film screenings and live soundtrack event Hear My Eyes based on Nicholas

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Winding Refen’s Drive.

Marking the midpoint of the Festival with a Centrepiece Gala screening is the world premiere of Australian comedy The Merger. Based on comedian Damian Callinan’s acclaimed stage show of the same name, it’s the tale of a struggling small town footy team that recruits refugees to survive, and stars John Howard, Josh McConville, Fayzaal Bazzi, Kate Mulvany and Callinan himself.

MIFF wraps up on August 20th, but the Closing Night Gala on Saturday August 18thn is built around a screening of the highly anticipated The Coming Back Out Ball Movie. Directed by Sue Thomson and supported through the MIFF Premiere Fund, The Coming Back Out Ball Movie is a triumphant and life-affirming love letter to Australia’s original fighters for queer equality.

Stand out films of the festival include: Mandy, touted as Nicolas Cage’s most Nicolas Cage performance ever (screening both separately and as part of the Cage-a-Thon retrospective marathon at the Astor cinema); Climax, an ecstatic and nightmarish orgy of sex, drugs and 90s club music from legendary provocateur Gaspar Noé; Leave No Trace, the latest feature from Oscar nominated Debra Granik (a guest of this year’s festival), described as a humane depiction of the bond between father and daughter and the universal desire to live by your own rules;

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Raw Remedies Wellbeing Locally hand-crafted products for health and positive wellbeing When it comes to improving your physical and mental health, essential oils are truly a gift from nature. If you’re in need of a boost, they can increase energy levels, speed up metabolism and aid digestion. If your moods are low, there are essential oils to balance your hormones and cortisol levels, alleviate stress and decrease feelings of anxiety. Specific essential oils can even reduce acne, prevent skin ageing, aid hair growth or stimulate weight loss. If you need to fight off bacteria, there are antibacterial oils that fight infections and aid in healing too.

“Essential oils are proven to enhance emotional health through our sense of smell,” explains Geelong’s Hayley Fisher, the 25 year old behind Raw Remedies Wellbeing. “The products I create each use a unique combination of essential oils to target specific health concerns. My products aim to alleviate symptoms of stress, anxiety, low mood and sleep difficulties.”

Explained simply, essential oils are the natural pure essence extracted from botanicals such as

plant’s leaves, flowers, stems or roots. For thousands of years, people have used essential oils as an alternative form of medicine known as aromatherapy due to their antioxidant, antimicrobial and antiinflammatory properties, as well as the effects they have on mental health and wellbeing.

Being a social worker with experience working with mental health, Hayley soon discovered a passion for essential oils.

“I’m passionate about mental health, positive wellbeing and holistic health. I also love essential oils and the amazing natural impacts they have on our health and wellbeing. I wanted to use my knowledge as a social worker and my love for essential oils in a way that could assist people in a natural, holistic way. That’s how Raw Remedies was born!”

Starting out by simply creating products for her own benefit and use, Hayley spent a lot of her time experimenting with different ingredients and oils, and then extending her trials to family and friends who had shown an interest in natural remedies and products.

“I loved having a creative outlet for my passion of positive wellbeing and being able to produce my own products, so much so that I had the idea to put Raw Remedies Wellbeing on Instagram and Facebook,” she explains. “Within a few weeks it took off and I had people from all over Australia showing interest and supporting me. It was really cool to see the amount of support and encouragement other people have for hand made, Australian products!”

Using ingredients sourced from surround local businesses, Hayley uses certified therapeutic essential oils to create organic, non toxic and chemical free products; individually hand-crafting every single product you see from Raw Remedies Wellbeing.

With so many benefits and have few, if any, side effects; essential oils sound pretty amazing right?

However, with so many oils available and so many possibilities for use, deciphering which to choose seems like a daunting concept.

“Stick with a small number of the most important essential oils to you; learn how to use them well and how to incorporate them into your life,” Hayley explains. “Always consider the quality of the oils you

The 2 Worlds ‘Not For Profit’ Festival returns to

choose to use too. You really don’t need a huge essential oil collection when you’re getting started.

“Personally, my top three oils are Lavender, Peppermint and Lemon oil. These oils offer a wide variety of health benefits. They don’t just smell good, they have the ability to make you feel really good too.”

One Raw Remedies product we’re particularly fond of is Hayley’s Stress Less Roller, which uses the perfect combination of Ylang Ylang, Frankincense, Bergamot and Geranium to reduce stress and chill you out. All you have to do is roll it onto your wrists, temples, behind the ears, back of the neck and the chest, and voila!

For those of you that suffer from headaches, another cool product is the Headache Roller. Combining Rosemary, Lavender, Eucalyptus and Peppermint, this magical combination helps to eliminate sinus pressure, stimulate circulation, release tension and stress, and induce relaxation.

From bergamot to peppermint or lemongrass to patchouli, there are hundreds of types of essential oils with hundreds of health and wellbeing benefits so it’s definitely worth trying. With some exciting products coming soon, you can find Hayley and all her products at the Piccadilly Market on Sunday 29th of July at Deakin Waterfront Campus from 9:30am – 3pm. Come and say hello.

If you’re interested in Hayley’s range of Raw Remedies, get in touch with her via Instagram (@rawremedieswellbeing) or Facebook (www. facebook.com/rawremedieswellbeing).

this there will be a variety of workshops, activities

the Fyansford Paper Mills and this one is set to be

for kids, dance demonstrations, visual light shows, silent disco plus much more.

After a highly successful inaugural event which

The Festival aims to bring our cultures together

saw 1500 attend, this year’s event will go up a notch

in a fun, entertaining and interactive festival

with more headline acts, more stages and more

atmosphere and is a fundraising event for the

activities. Just how big you ask? Well wait ‘til you

Märrma’ Rom Foundation. The event entertains,

hear the killer lineup!

educates, stimulates and promotes interaction and

2 Worlds will be showcasing multiple headliners Shane Howard, Tim Rogers, William Crighton,

understanding across two cultures.

The 2 Worlds Festival takes place at the Fyansford Paper Mills, Geelong – October 20.

Yothu Yindi, Yirrmal and the Miliyawutj, amongst many others (local and national) performing

2 Worlds Festival to bring cultures together WRITTEN BY LAUREN MCKINNON

across five stages.

The 2 Worlds Festival will showcase a variety of

Staring into the void with Paul Compton and Michael Needham Known for its heritage appeal, The Lost Ones Contemporary Art Gallery exhibits artworks from artists who pose thought-provoking ideas through their visual flair for studio crafted aesthetics, challenging the generic conventions of society.

Coming up this August, the gallery are hosting the joint exhibition ‘Conjurings’, commencing on August 8.

Featuring new works by Kyneton artist Michael Needham and Melbourne artist Paul Compton who are drawn together by a darkness, ‘Conjurings’ dives into the void and what may lie beyond, invoking a sense of unease and uncertainty through a collection of collage, ink on paper and sculptural work. These works, inspired by spiritualism, religious iconography, death, loss and mourning, will take visitors on a compelling journey as the artists play on the fragile nature of our own existence and ego.

Paul’s work is as much about meditation and exorcising personal thoughts and experiences as it is about the finished piece, with his titles reflecting personal tales where real life happenings blend with imagined and spiritual tones, eg. “I was a teenage wet blanket”, “jealous jerk” (a self-portrait) and “I stole from your medicine cabinet”. With his pieces consisting of small, repetitive line strokes, cut out sections and layered up areas of paper, the finished forms tend to evoke broken, ghostly apparitions or playfully conjured portraits.

even bigger than the last!

including Adalita, Baker Boy, Darren Percival,

CONJURINGS AT THE LOST ONES CONTEMPORARY ART GALLERY

Visit www.2worldsfestival.org.au for all the details. Tickets on sale now.

Photo by Ferrne Millen photography

indigenous and western performers, art, traditional

Michael Needham, however, presents a playful plunge into the uncanny, deliberately delving into strangeness as a force holding attention by disturbing the ordinary. His practice expands upon symbolic conventions around death, melancholia, loss, mourning and remembrance, all of which feed a corresponding examination into cultural machinations of memorialisation.

For ‘Conjurings’, Michael presents a new body of sculptural work, both cast and carved, that stage psychological unease laced with a quiet yet waggish humour taken from the likes of Tales from the Crypt, The Twilight Zone and other B grade horror productions from the 80’s and 90’s.

The powerful exhibition will draw you into the void and take a peak into the strange and captivating beyond.

The exhibition runs from August 8 – September 16 at The Lost Ones (located at 14 Camp St, Ballarat Central).

and not so traditional activities, Indigenous and modern multicultural food offerings. As well as

2018 Geelong contemporary art prize until 19 August Showcasing the best of contemporary Australian painting practice, this $30,000 acquisitive award and biennial exhibition feature works by Natasha Bieniek, Seth Birchall, Amber Boardman, Andrew Browne, Jon Campbell, Nancy Constandelia, Yvette Coppersmith, Ann Debono, Troy Emery, Emily Ferretti, Patrick Francis, Nyarapayi Giles, Peter Graham, Camille Hannah, Katherine Hattam, Euan Heng, Gregory Hodge, Carissa Karamarko, Madeleine Kelly, Mason Kimber, Anna Kristensen, Darren McDonald, Laith McGregor, Fiona McMonagle, Amanda Marburg, Sam Martin, Tully Moore, Jan Murray, Louise Paramor, Sally Ross, Huseyin Sami, Andrew Taylor, Kate Tucker, Sharon West, Bradd Westmoreland and Alice Wormald.

Geelong Gallery Little Malop Street Geelong VIC 3220 T +61 3 5229 3645

Free entry

Open daily 10am – 5pm Drop-in tours: Sunday between 2pm – 4pm

geelonggallery.org.au FORTE 694

Exhibition sponsors Dimmick Charitable Trust

Fiona McMonagle Princess (detail) 2017 oil on linen Courtesy of the artist and Sophie Gannon Gallery, Melbourne, Hugo Michell Gallery, Adelaide and Olsen Gallery, Sydney

31

FILM REVIEWS

BY ANTHONY MORRIS

DISOBEDIENCE

THE EQUALIZER 2

THE BREAKER UPPERERS

When New York photographer Ronit (Rachel Weisz) learns that her rabbi father has died, she returns home to London where the tight-knit community she once called home is now a lot less welcoming of her. She’s not shut out exactly, and former close friend Dovid (Alessandro Nivola) seems glad to see her, but it’s his wife Esti (Rachel McAdams) who seems thrown off balance almost as much as the grieving Ronit – which, we gradually discover, is because the two were once lovers, and it was the discovery of their relationship that saw Ronit leave town. It’s clear the fire hasn’t gone out, and while as adults you’d think they have more agency, in their closed off community – and with a lot more now at stake – the path ahead is in no way clear even if their feelings are. It’s been said that love stories are increasingly difficult to tell now that there are fewer barriers to romance; this film finds one, and tells a stirring story around it.

The first Equalizer – a loose remake of an 80s TV series starring Edward Woodwood as a retired spy who used his skills to help regular folk as a kind of vigilante-for-hire – was something of a surprise hit. This sequel (star Denzel Washington’s first) is even more TV-like, with a number of loose subplots swirling around Robert McCall (Washington) as he works his day job as a Lyft driver in between rescuing kidnapped little girls and beating down sex pest office bros. Eventually a plot coheres around a seemingly random murder in Brussels that ties in with McCall’s old boss (Melissa Leo), who’s the only person who knows he’s not dead. The occasionally spurts of violence also slowly escalate, though this never quite hits the demented heights of the first film, and while the bad guys turn out to be slightly more articulate this time around they’re not quite sleazy enough to make their deaths enjoyable. And yet this still largely works thanks to Washington’s ability to really lean into the unstoppable killing machine angle of this grumpy old man (a niche left wide open since Clint Eastwood basically retired and Liam Neeson recently quit action). A decent final battle doesn’t hurt either: it’s a sequel that’s not quite an equal.

New Zealand has been serving up a steady stream of comedy gold over the last few years (Australia, on the other hand, has been serving up Shane Jacobson), and this bubbly film about a dynamic duo making their living helping people escape their relationships is no exception. Mel (Madeleine Sami) and Jen (Jackie van Beek) – the duo also wrote the script and direct – break up relationships any way they can; fake deaths, bad songs, bogus romances, you name it. Their only rule is to not get attached, which doesn’t last long in the face of charming yet dim 18 year-old rugby player Jordan (James Rolleston). The chemistry between him and Mel is tangible; meanwhile Jen is “enjoying” loveless flings and doing coke at family dinners. A rift gradually grows between the best friends; having a former victim (Celia Pacquola) hanging around thinking they’re real police officers doesn’t help. This is basically a loose collection of comedy bits and at barely 80 minutes it definitely doesn’t outstay it’s welcome, but the entire cast is so charming and the comedy bits so funny this is a delight from start to finish. It’s Sami and van Beek’s connection that makes it all work: they’re the kind of charismatic besties you can’t help but love.

RECORD WATCH

STAFF PICKS

Christian Death – Halloween 1981

TALIA

Jukebox musicals make sense on stage: they’re basically a live concert with talking bits. As a movie though, they need a little extra. The first Mamma Mia had star power in the form of Meryl Streep and a bunch of name brand handsome guys; with Streep out the door and all the good ABBA songs used in the first film, why exactly are we coming to the cinemas for this one? It’s been ten years since Sophie (Amanda Seyfried) first asked her mother Donna (Meryl Streep) about her three dads (Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth and Stellan Skarsgard) and got a whole bunch of ABBA songs as a reply.

Now her mother is dead and in tribute Sophie is about to open a hotel on the Greek island she called home. Then there’s a storm and nobody can make the launch. Then everybody shows up anyway. There’s no story here, despite extensive flashbacks explaining exactly how young Donna (Lily James) slept with three separate hot guys within a month (basically, it was the 70s). It’s a slow starter but eventually it turns into fun, forgettable fluff with a few decent jokes scattered about. At one stage someone says ‘Jesus Christ, what kind of island is this?”; who cares, as long as everyone’s singing.

OCEAN ALLEY - Chiaroscuro.

(LP - CLPLP2202)

NATHAN

Label: CLEOPATRA / UPC:

DEICIDE - Excommunication,

0741157220216

JOSH

Limited edition purple vinyl reissue of the earliest known recording of this legendary

HYPER - Lies.

gothic death rock band fronted by the inimitable

GLENN

Rozz Williams performing an entrancing

INNSMOUTH - Consumed By Elder Sign.

live set on Halloween October 31 1981.

Available from Gifts For The Geek.

LAUREN

155 Ryrie Street, Geelong.

FRIENDLY FIRES - Pala.

BREATH

BORDER POLITICS

THE BOOKSHOP

SAT 28: 11:00AM SUN 5: 1:30PM

SUN 29: 5:40PM TUES 31: 6:00PM SUN 5: 8:30PM TUES 7: 3:00PM

THURS 26: 11:00AM FRI 27: 3:00PM SAT 28: 1:15PM SUN 29: 3:30PM MON 30: 1:00PM TUES 31: 3:30PM WED 1: 11:00AM, 8:00PM THURS 2: 5:15PM SAT 4: 1:00PM SUN 5: 11:00AM TUES 7: 4:45PM WED 8: 11:00AM

BACK TO BURGUNDY THURS 2: 11:00AM, 3:00PM FRI 3: 3:00PM SAT 4: 8:15PM SUN 5: 4:00PM MON 6: 12:45PM TUES 7: 11:00AM, 7:00PM WED 8: 5:45PM GURRUMUL SUN 29: 1:30PM

BORDER POLITICS - FUNDRAISER THURS 2: 7:30PM TEA WITH THE DAMES THURS 19: 11:00AM FRI 20: 5:15PM SAT 21: 2:00PM SUN 22: 3:30PM MON 23: 11:00AM WED 25: 4:15PM

TWO IS A FAMILY THURS 26: 3:15PM FRI 27: 12:45, 9:15PM SAT 28: 3:30PM, 8:15PM SUN 29: 11:00AM MON 30: 7:30PM TUES

CNR. MOORABOOL & VERNER ST. SOUTH GEELONG | WWW.PIVOTCINEMA.COM.AU 32

MAMMA MIA: HERE I GO AGAIN

FORTE 694

31: 11:00AM WED 1: 3:30PM FRI 3: 11:00AM, 7:00PM SAT 4: 3:30PM SUN 5: 6:15PM MON 6: 3:00PM, 7:30PM DISOBEDIENCE FRI 27: 7:00PM SAT 28: 6:00PM SUN 29: 7:30PM MON 30: 3:15PM TUES 31: 8:00PM WED 1: 1:15PM THURS 2: 9:10PM FRI 3: 9:15PM SAT 4: 6:00PM MON 6: 5:15PM TUES 7: 9:10PM WED 8: 1:30PM

SKYSCRAPER To answer the only question anyone has about this film: yes, Johnson’s character - a one-legged ex-Special Forces-turned-security-consultant family man named Will Sawyer - spends plenty of time dangling from very high up. There are explosions, a massive fire, various computer tablets that are Very Important, and a lot of duct tape. There are also Bad Guys: their plan is to set fire to The Pearl, a super-high Hong Kong skyscraper built by Zhao Long Ji (Chin Han) in the hope that when he flees, he’ll take the thing they’re really after with him. But while they’re happy to machine-gun dozens of people to sabotage the security systems, they’ve also planned to set fire only to the unopened part of the building and as that’s where Sawyer is staying with his family, their plan involves waiting until both he and his family are safely out of the building before lighting the fire. Of course, the family end up trapped anyway, so Sawyer has to bust into the burning building to bust them out. It’s basically a disaster movie with occasional fight scenes, and like pretty much all of The Rock’s solo efforts it’s solidly competent without standing out in any way. If he wants to stay a star, eventually he’s going to have to do better.

his impressive mic-stand twirls and impeccable vocal range it appeared that punters where mesmerised.

Songs such as ‘Carrie’ proved the be a huge ‘singalong’ favourite while the riff and synth combo from ‘Stormwind’ packed the punch that the 80’s powerhouse has built their craft off.

Europe: Walk The Earth Where: Palais Theatre, Melbourne When: May 19 Reviewed by Alex Callan Photo by Gilles Simon After having a 40 year long tenure as one of the worlds most esteemed rock acts, it was truly a memorable occasion witnessing the raw intensity of Europe whilst they performed their first ever Melbourne show.

The ‘Walk The Earth’ tour wasn’t what fans have come to expect from bands who have had a career as long as Europe. This wasn’t a half-hearted ‘best of’ set where the band shy away from hit songs because the vocalist can’t hit the high notes any more. Instead, this was Europe in their entirety, playing with sheer intensity as if the songs on their set list had just been released a week ago.

Opening with 2017’s visceral ‘Walk The Earth’ before

going straight into ‘The Siege,’ Europe showed fans immediately that their new songs are just as deserving of praise as their older classics. Having no support act and instead performing two sets as a band, gave fans the chance to really enjoy what was happening in front of them, leaving the audience in awe, it was surprising to not hear at least one drunk punter yelling out in between songs for the band to play ‘the Final Countdown,’ instead, fans seemed happy to let the band do their thing and show the audience why they are deserving of being a top tier stadium rock act.

Quickly moving on to ‘Rock The Night’ which marked the first classic song of the set, fans where ecstatic, cheering and singing in a frenzy it was really made evident how much this band meant to some of the older fans.

During the intermission it seemed apparent that everyone was absolutely gobsmacked at just how much Europe rocked as a live act, a common conversational point that seemed to only enhance the hype for what was to come in the second set of the night.

Returning for an encore, the band blasts into ‘Cherokee,’ which leaves every crowd members head banging in unison to the hard-hitting riff. By the time ‘Cherokee’ finishes both the energy from the crowd and the band couldn’t be beaten, the Palais was no longer a live music theatre but instead a stomping ground of punters who have waited 40 years for this night to come and now that it’s here their mindset couldn’t be broken. And then the opening synth of ‘The Final Countdown’ comes in… It was like a bomb went off, middle age punters began loosing their minds, running away from their wives so that they could dance freely, skulling drinks, singing along to the synth line as if it was a soccer chant, it was truly a unique live music experience. By the time the chorus set in and the crowd got the chance to sing back the words ‘IT’S THE FINAL COUNTDOOOOOWNNNN’ there wasn’t a single person in the crowd left unsatisfied.

All in all Europe played two impeccable sets and solidified yet again why they are such a damn good band. Hopefully we don’t have to wait another 40 years for them to grace the shores of Australia again.

Coming back on stage with ‘Ready Or Not,’ a hit single of 1988’s ‘Out Of This World,’ Europe played with the intensity as if they had never stopped for a break. With Joey Tempest commanding the crowds attention with

The Aints! Play The Saints (73-78) The Barwon Club Hotel, Geelong Saturday June 23 2018 Supported by Ausmuteants Reviewed by Aine Keogh Celebrating the 40th anniversary of the release of The Saints’ album ‘(I’m) Stranded’, founding member, guitarist and songwriter Ed Kuepper relived his material in rocking form at the Barwon Club on the 23rd of June and delivered a night filled with classic favourites.

The early 1990’s saw classic punk band, The Saint’s guitarist, Kuepper form another band, ‘The Aints’, employing a titled pun. The aim was to recapture the early energy of the Saints and this certainly proved true at their latest show.

Supported by Melbourne punks, Ausmuteants, the night opened with a frenzy of warped and synthy futuristic punk, warming the crowd nicely. The room begins to fill and beer is flowing by the time The Aints take to the stage and the crowd rustles in anticipation.

After a quick introduction, Ed and the Aints begin, slightly stiff and rigid but it doesn’t take them long to get into the groove, exploding on the stage with classic punk-rock ferocity. Backed with the punch of the four piece horn section, the Aints performed tracks like ‘(I’m) Stranded’, ‘Know Your Product’ and ‘This Perfect Day’, getting the crowd rocking as they would have back in the day.

A mixed crowd of old and young punk fans filled the room but by the end of the night, everyone was head banging and thrashing in the same punk rock manner, creating a wild and dirty scene for all. Overall it was a wild night of noisy rock’n’roll fun – great to see old rockers are keeping the punk flame burning.

AME NOIRE

GEOFF WATT

BRECKIN

RED BEE

The Tree That Bears Rotten Fruit

And Then We Fly

Shiner

Silent Enemy

Independent

Independent

Independent

Dinner For Wolves

Reviewed by Paul S Taylor

Reviewed by Aine Keogh

Reviewed by Aine Keogh

Reviewed by Chris McEwin

Shiner by Breckin is a dreamy soundscape, intertwining folky vocals and synth like instrumentals.

This is the sort of album I can imagine accompanying Alice as she explores her sweetly surreal wonderland.

Whilst maintaining classic folk notions, Breckin has also employed a more modern sense of synth-pop, creating a unique and decorative set of sounds.

‘The Story Bridge’, released earlier this year as a single, is smooth and flows like a sweet spring dreams.

Percussive tones of a drum beat and tambourine decorate Breckin’s vocals beautifully, whilst the occasional inclusion of xylophone really creates a magical notion.

The album changes its tone in ‘Life of the Party’, engaging in a slightly rockier mood, establishing an array of variation from track to track. All in all the album is dreamy and sweet, setting a scene much to how the beautiful album artwork does visually.

The way I’ve always seen the commercial side of the music scene might be different to most. One thing I’ve always been certain of though is that bands like that of Red Bee should be getting A LOT more radio play and attention than they actually get. This is where heavy rock should be going, and the people deserve to hear it.

Red Bee is a three-piece from the Blue Mountains in Australia and they capture a truly unique energy with their second full length offering. Silent Enemy is full of progressive-influence, power-riffing, soaring melodies and tasty musicianship.

I could imagine this release appealing to an extraordinarily diverse audience base. It is obvious the creative process for Silent Enemy was a workhorse experience, as it seamlessly weaves through an abstract of styles, genres and time signatures without losing an ounce of hook or feel along the way.

Epicly huge sections like ‘Autumn Blood Horizon’ have you silently screaming to the skies, before dragging you back down to hell with a fist clenching metal riff. While the title track would be a commercial gem if the greater population was actually given the chance to hear it.

I cannot overstate Red Bee’s creative talent and musicianship enough. If you like Aussie progressive hard rock then you should definitely give Silent Enemy a listen... and then you’ll probably find yourself going through it again.

It has taken only ten months between the formation Geoff Watt’s (former guitarist and songwriter for of Melbourne blackened death metal band Ame Noire Blackbird) has returned with a stunning collection of songs, spanning acoustic compositions to full band and the release of their debut EP The Tree That Bears performances. His 15 track album, And Then We Rotten Fruit.

The blackened death metal sub-genre is a tricky Fly showcases an array of musical and lyrical talent, one to navigate, get either the death metal part or black speaking narrative from start to finish. metal part wrong and everything suffers, immensely.

The opening track, ‘Friends’, is light hearted, Ame Noire have nailed down both parts pretty well; warm and dreamy, much resembling the cover art, there’s a decent mix of the two styles of vocals and while the second track, ‘Satellite’ introduces the there’s enough death and black metal riffage flying folky and hauntingly sweet vocals of Amy Joseph, around and some pretty impressive drumming. who proceeds to be present on four songs across the Having said that, stitching all the parts together album. ‘A tear’ is one song that especially stands out. can be the tricky and considering that none of the The emotion within this track alone is a testament to five songs on the EP is longer than five minutes, it’s a Watt’s powerful songwriting abilities and teamed with Joseph’s vocals, it’s a mesmerising two minute track. really short listen and each song flows onto the next without much to distinguish between them, except The album progresses into rockier territory with for ‘The Wayward Home’ which features a refreshing ‘You’re My Fire’, adding a new dimension to Watt’s soundscape. This heavier sound is evident across tracks point of interest.

Each song has the potential to be fleshed out more like ‘Say You Don’t Need It’ and ‘Scattered’, creating than what is on offer here, especially the stand out diversity on the album, breaking up the 15 tracks nicely. closing title track ‘The Tree That Bears Rotten Fruit’.

Moving between electric and acoustic guitar, Conversely, however, ‘Slave To The Grave’ is a short, occasionally decorating tunes with female vocals and fast and punchy track that needs little fleshing out. piano tones, And Then We Fly tells an incredible story Considering the short time between the formation of human existence: love and loss, healing and destiny of the band and the release of their debut EP, the guys – and is as lyrically moving as it is to listen to. Definitely have showcased how, in such a short time, they’ve been worth a listen on a lazy afternoon. able to deliver a really tight and seriously heavy debut they will be able to build from in the future.

FORTE 694

33

POP

PULP

WRITTEN BY ANTHONY MORRIS

WRITTEN BY ALASTAIR MCGIBBON

If you like old films – and these days by “old” we’re talking anything from last century – we’re increasingly returning back to the bad old days. With video libraries all but extinct (shout out to Geelong’s Manifold Video, still going strong), and rental kiosks barely holding a month’s worth of new releases, it’s up to streaming services to put the classics within reach.

Increasingly, they’re not interested, with the numbers of old titles available constantly in decline. Which means the days of sitting on the fence when it comes to classics is over: either you accept the status quo and consign history to the dustbin of, uh, history, or you do what most people already do when it comes to books and music and start a collection of your own.

Surprisingly, considering the previously stated doom and gloom, there’s never been a better time to get into collecting: as it’s become increasingly clear that the people still buying DVDs and blu-rays are in it for the love, various distributors have lifted their game as far as putting a little extra care where their titles are concerned.

Umbrella in Australia have always gone the extra mile when it comes to extra features – in fact, they took so much care in curating extras for their Australian titles their research and interviews led to the hit Ozploitation documentary Not Quite Hollywood – but in recent years they’ve branched out into trashier cinema with an international flavour, including excellent local releases of the original Punisher movie and the final four Death Wish films.

Now they’re focusing on cult classics with their new line of “Beyond Genre” titles, and for fans of 80s monster horror of the H.P. Lovecraft kind the first three blu-ray titles are a must: the original Re-Animator, Bride of Re-Animator and Beyond Re-Animator, and Dagon.

While the debt to Lovecraft’s original short stories is best described as “slight”, they’re firmly classics in their own rights.

The tale of a scientist who discovers a way to re-animate the dead and somehow things bringing back everything he can is a good idea, the Re-Animator series is bolstered by a memorable performance from Jeffery Combs as Herbert West, Re-Animator, some surprisingly effective special effects make-up, and the kind of offbeat dark humour that’s a hallmark of the 80s. Dagon, on the other hand, is more serious and crazier for it, as a small fishing village turns out to be home base for a race of monsters that worship an unholy sea god.

Umbrella’s gone all out with the extras, with the original Re-Animator receiving the two-disc treatment featuring both the original unrated version and the extended integral cut, plus commentaries, interviews, deleted scenes and documentaries. The two sequels are packaged together with an equally extensive collection of extras, while Dagon comes with a wide range of interviews and making-of-featurettes.

Often with more mainstream films the (increasingly sparse) extras are little more than advertising fluff, but with these films – where, let’s be honest, a lot of the appeal comes from how much fun it seems everyone was having taking things too far – having the cast and crew spill their guts only adds to the fun. If you’re any kind of horror fan these are well worth tracking down; here’s hoping Umbrella keeps the weird titles coming.

Hey there, guys ‘n’ gals! PULP is back once again, ready to serve as Forte’s own little corner of capes, cowls and convoluted storylines that’d make a Trekkie blush. This week, I’ve picked up a truly satisfying fantasy romp written by comics maestro Mark Millar (Kick Ass, Wanted) and drawn by one of my favourite artists, Greg Capullo (Batman) – Reborn.

Reborn is a really interesting take on the fantasy genre, and I found myself drawn into it very quickly. It’s also relatively new; Reborn was first published in October of last year, so assuming it does well (and I think it probably will), there’s plenty of space for growth.

Bonnie Black is an old woman, living out of a stroke ward in her local hospital.

She’s lived a long life, but now her body is failing her. Her children have grown up, her grandchildren are getting older, and she’s lonely without her husband Harry, who was taken from her by a serial-killing sniper some years earlier. She’s scared to go to sleep at night; she’s afraid of dying, because she doesn’t believe in an afterlife, and fears what lies beyond. When she finally dies, however, she’s amazed at the truth; she awakes in a fantasy world as a 20-something, where two kingdoms are locked in perpetual combat. She’s even more amazed to be reunited with her deceased father and beloved pet dog, and to learn that she is the prophesized saviour of the kingdom of Adystria. Determined to be reunited with her husband, Bonnie sets out with her father and loyal dog Roy Boy to save the love of her life from the clutches of the dark lord Golgotha.

Boy oh boy, does Reborn have a slightly convoluted premise. That said, the end result is one hell of a story. I’ve been a fan of Millar’s for a while; I think I first read Wanted a few years ago, and really got on board with his over-the-top use of violence.

Reborn seems to be a more mature effort; the story carries some real emotional weight – particularly with regards to family and grief – and ultimately comes off as more polished and well thought out than some of Millar’s previous ventures. Greg Capullo’s art plays a big part in portraying Bonnie’s adventures – his stellar world on Batman’s New 52 run is just a hint of his talent. Reborn allows Capullo to shine, and his art style works amazingly well in a fantasy setting.

Reborn manages to achieve something very few stories have managed to do in recent times – its first volume actually tells a complete story. There are a few unanswered questions left at the end of the volume – for example, the fate of Bonnie’s mother – but the vast majority of story threads are wrapped up while still allowing room for expansion. A lot of the stories I’ve read recently have focused more on ensured engagement over a long period of time, and while longer-form stories have their appeal, it’s becoming a pet peeve when I’m left with glaring questions at the end of a trade.

All things considered, Millar and Capullo have put together a fantasy story that’s combined some truly great artwork and a story that will draw you in to the Reborn universe and keep you there. If you like Fables or Birthright, Reborn will be right up your alley – make sure you check it out!

34

BLUES NEWS

WRITTEN BY JOHN (DR JOHN) LAMP

Since 2013, the blues community has been coming together annually to donate time, talents and enthusiasm to generate funds for the homeless and less fortunate.

Blues for Lost Souls is a fundraising, change making, event organised by Greg Dodd and a cast of, well, not thousands, but it feels like that with the donations which come in for the silent auction and such like. Live bands play for free, donated items are sold in the silent auction or raffled and a collection point allows everyone to contribute food and clothing for the homeless.

To date, Blues for Lost Souls has raised over $100,000 and supported a range of charities. In 2018 the recipients of the funds raised will be Melbourne based Anonymous X (75 per cent of money raised) and Bali based charity Solemen Indonesia (25 per cent of money raised).

The founder of Blues for Lost Souls has had life changing experiences as a volunteer with both of these charities. He encourages us all to make a difference not just for the less fortunate but for ourselves... so get involved.

The Anonymous X Team is a small group of devoted voluntary team leaders who in addition to managing both the administrative and warehouse needs, also offer practical and emotional support in a variety of different and unique ways. They are a registered

TOO HEAVY TO HUG

SURFBEAT

WRITTEN BY PAUL S. TAYLOR

BY JOHN FOSS

WELCOME TO THTH, FORTE’S PREMIER SOURCE OF ALL THINGS HEAVY, HARD, FAST AND METAL. I never considered Deftones to be a massively popular band like Metallica or Ozzy. Sure, I love a lot of Deftones’ older stuff and some of their newer stuff but are they the sort of band to spawn their own music festival? The answer, according to (probably) the Deftones is yes, because they’re going to hold their own music festival in San Diego in November this year. Sure, it’s not a big festival, but it’s something nonetheless.

Which gets me asking, which Aussie metal band out there is going to start a new metal fest? Sure, we get smallish fests around the traps which is brilliant, don’t get me wrong, but where is the big festival?

Which Aussie act(s) would put their money where their mouths are for a big fuck-off type festival. We’ve had Soundwave in the past and we’ve had one Download to date. The fests we get here in Oz are either massive or on the smaller scale. I’ve harped on this for a long time and yes there is a lot of research and questions to be asked by folks more smarter than I, but we here in Oz need to properly identify the niche that exists in heavy music and create a medium sized festival for all.

NICK BARKER…. BOARDS AND BLUES. Melbourne singer/songwriter recently celebrated 30 years in the music industry with a special gig at the Yarraville Club.

Back in the eighties Nick Barker and The Reptiles were one of the hot up and coming bands playing heaps of gigs in Melbourne and Geelong.

I caught up with Nick Barker a few years ago and found out that before music, he was right into surfing.

Nick Barker: ‘I was about seven when I got into surfing. My parents used to always take us for holidays down to the West Coast area especially Aireys Inlet. My first real surfboard was a custom made by one of my sister’s boyfriends and it was called a ’Shark’ and I think he only ever made about four boards. It was a five foot eight swallowtail and then after that I got a Klemm-Bell surfboard.

We used to surf a place called ‘Grinders’ which is near the Jamboree Camp at Anglesea and we used to surf Bells a bit and other weird places like Eastern View and places like that which don’t happen very often. I used to do a lot of surfing around Gibsons Steps too and around the coast a bit more, Johanna occasionally.

The most amazing thing that I saw down that way, there is a break called ‘Suicide’ where you have to jump off these rocks and I saw Wayne Lynch surf it one day. I was too scared to even go out on the ledge and all of a sudden he has just walked down with his board and just jumped off and I didn’t hang around long enough to see how he got in but it was pretty amazing.

Originally I got into surfing just to get out in the water. I think that it has changed a lot over the years and I’ve noticed the guys who are fitter do better whereas years ago it was never as competitive or quite as radical as it is now. There is a lot more emphasis on fitness and training.

The reason I got into surfing was just to get outdoors, get into the water you know although you have to be pretty keen to surf in the temperature of this water though!

If I had a choice between being a professional surfer and being a musician, I’d taking surfing for sure. When your in a band it is great but if you had a choice between being a musician and working in an asbestos mine for your health, you’d probably be better off working in an asbestos mine. You just get sick of being out at night in pubs all the time whereas it would be really nice to be outdoors and be out in the water for a living and just travelling around the world surfing. If you had a decent sponsorship it would be fantastic!’

Nick Barker and The Reptiles are still gigging 30 years on. I wonder if he is still surfing???

charitable organisation based out of Port Melbourne, where they provide assistance

In other news

for people experiencing homelessness in and

++ YLVA will perform their only headline show for 2018 at Melbourne’s Bendigo Hotel on Saturday August 11.

around Melbourne, in addition to supporting those less fortunate via clothing, sanitary and essential items.

What differentiates Anonymous X from other grassroots organisations is they maintain relationships with people we meet on the streets, offering comfort and support doing their best to help.

Solemen Indonesia, an Indonesian nonprofit foundation, provides direct support and funding for the disadvantaged and ‘diffabled’ (differently abled) in Bali. Established in October 2010, Solemen is one of Bali’s most trusted and visible charities. The Governor of Bali is Solemen’s ‘Pelindung’ (Guardian/ Patron) and the charity is endorsed by the Bali Government Tourism Office and the Bali Hotels Association.

Despite very often operating on a shoestring budget, Solemen’s fast acting Outreach Team of volunteer doctors, nurses, therapists, nutritionists and social workers shoulder an ever-growing caseload of ‘Solebuddies’ (people under their care).

Solemen provide effective and targeted help where it will have the most impact.

Appearing this year will be: The Detonators, Rhythm X Revival, The Kevin Buckingham Band, Greg Dodd and the Hoodoo Men, The Great Unknown, Kelly’s Blues, Phil Manning and our own Chris Wilson.

The silent auction features many musically based items, including an amazing David Temby flute plus jewellery, guitar straps and the like.

If you’re coming to the event, feel free to bring and donate sleeping bags, blankets, and practical street clobber – jeans, track pants, socks, scarves, mittens and beanies. After chats with outreach teams in Indonesia, they decided that both Melolin adhesive dressings and Nit Combs would be ideal to be donated on the day for Solemen.

Blues for Lost Souls is on at the Newport Bowls Club, 2pm August 11. Buy a ticket, even if you’re not going!.

Proudly presented by the Sleepy Hollow Blues Club FORTE 694

++ Psycroptic with special guests Archspite and Hadal Maw will be at Max Watts on Sunday August 18. ++ Satyricon will tear Max Watts to shreds on Thursday September 6. ++ The Sword will be at Max Watts on Saturday September 8. ++ Therion will play their first ever Melbourne show at Max Watts on Wednesday September 12. ++ Tesseract will play 170 Russell on Friday September 14. ++ Sumac will release their new album Love In Shadow in Friday September 21. ++ The Black Dahlia Murder with special guests Aborted and Zeolite will crush Melbourne’s Max Watts on Sunday September 23. ++ Bruce Dickinson will perform his one man spoken word show, What Does This Button Do – A Conversation with Bruce Dickinson at the Palais Theatre on Friday October 19. ++ Anthrax’s Scott Ian will bring his One Man Riot spoken word tour to Oz and will be at Goldfields Theatre – MCEC on Wednesday September 26. ++ Dimmu Borgir will headline their first ever Oz tour this October and their SOLD OUT Melbourne show will be at 170 Russell on Wednesday October 17. Fortunately, the band have announced a second show on Tuesday October 16. Get in quick before this one sells out as well! ++ Parkway Drive, Killswitch Engage and Thy Art Is Murder will play Margaret Court Arena on Friday November 2. ++ Conan and Bell Witch be at Melbourne’s Max Watts on Thursday November 8. ++ An Evening With Steven Wilson will take place at the Palais Theatre on Saturday November 10. ++ The Ocean will release their new album Phanerozoic in two parts, the first part to be released in October, and the second part to be released next year. Phanerozoic will pick up off where Precambrian left off some ten years ago. ++ .If you have any news about local metal bands, shows or albums, let THTH know by emailing to tooheavytohug@ hotmail.com or get in touch via Twitter at @TooHeavyToHug

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