Beat 1708

JUNE 2023 #1708

RVG bring Brain Worms to RISING Festival

“I wouldn’t have written this album four years ago … but this time around there’s breathing space.”

PAMBULA BEACH, NSW 29 SEP - 1 OCT 2023

OCEAN ALLEY

DJANGO DJANGO (UK) • THE JUNGLE GIANTS

THELMA PLUM • SPIDERBAIT

KEVIN MORBY (USA) • SON LITTLE (USA)

ART VS SCIENCE • BABE RAINBOW

BEN OTTEWELL & IAN BALL (GOMEZ / UK) • C.W. STONEKING

KIM CHURCHILL • LISA MITCHELL

MELBOURNE SKA ORCHESTRA • MONTAIGNE

STEPH STRINGS • URTHBOY & MORE + CIRCUS, COMEDY, THEATRE & DANCE

TICKETS ON SALE

wanderer.com.au

5–6 July / 7.30pm

Arts Centre Melbourne, Hamer Hall

Experience an evening of powerful song and sublime storytelling, One Song will celebrate the enormous legacy of Archie Roach AC AM, as part of the MSO’s NAIDOC Week program.

BOOK NOW

MSO.COM.AU

ACTING EDITOR

Sidonie Bird

de la Coeur

EDITOR-IN-SPAIN

Lucas Radbourne

ASSISTANT EDITORS

Kaya Martin

Talia Rinaldo

DESIGN

Riley McDonald

GIG GUIDE

Jacob Colliver

CONTRIBUTORS

Bryget Chrisfield, Ben Lamb, Jacob McCormack, Coco Veldkamp, Matt Parnell, Luke Carlino

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They’re not the only critical darlings set to rock the Forum this month, we also sat down with King Stingray to discuss their meteoric rise before their upcoming Melbourne show. Nor are RVG the only RISING act in this month’s edition - we speak with the mastermind behind Speak Percussion before they perform a series of compositions at Melbourne Recital Centre as part of the broader RISING program.

Looking further afield in a music-packed issue, we delve into Illuminate Adelaide’s sensational 2023 lineup, and feature Cash Savage, Thandi Phoenix, Nicholas Allbrook, The Deadbeats and VOIID.

We also preview the Reclink Community Cup’s 30th anniversary with Megahertz staple Chris Gill and Rockdogs freshman Carlson - it’s always a cracking time with those two. Finally, we have a special guide to the best Pride Month events, plus our usual roundups of the best gigs, art exhibitions and stage productions to check out this month.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF TRADITIONAL OWNERS

Our magazine is published on the lands of the Bunurong Boon Wurrung and Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung peoples of the Eastern Kulin Nation, and we wish to acknowledge them as Traditional Owners. We pay our respects to their elders, past, present and emerging.

DISTRIBUTION

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COVER

Our June cover stars are RVG, photographed by Nick McKinlay.

One of the standout bands to come out of this city in the past decade, RVG headline our magazine and RISING Festival this month in the wake of their third album, Brain Worms.

GHOST ANNOUNCE HEADLINE TOUR

Get ready to rumble, because Ghost are booked in for a rapid fire three-date Aussie tour in a few months. The Nordic rockers will be heading to Melbourne on October 4, sandwiched between dates in Sydney and Brisbane.

A DREAMTIME OPERA IS COMING TO ARTS CENTRE

Parrwang Lifts the Sky: A Dreamtime opera by Deborah Cheetham Fraillon AO, is coming to Arts Centre Melbourne for NAIDOC Week. Catch this family-friendly opera at the Playhouse at Arts Centre Melbourne on July 7 and 8.

ROCKWIZ ANNOUNCES SPECIAL TOUR FOR MUSHROOM’S 50TH

RocKwiz Salutes Mushroom 50 will be a special live series of RocKwiz shows to honour all the massive hits the Australian music company has launched over the last five decades. From Sunbury to Skyhooks, Paul Kelly to Kylie Minogue, Jimmy Barnes to Vance Joy: the Mushroom Group have been behind many of the greatest Australian artists ever. It’s no surprise then, as the renowned company celebrates 50 years, the country’s most iconic music quiz is paying tribute on Wednesday, August 2 at Palais Theatre.

CABLE TIES ARE HEADING ON A NATIONAL TOUR

Known for their electrifying energy and raw passion, they’re set to showcase their new material and classics from their previous releases. Catch them when they head to Melbourne for a show at Max Watt’s on August 4.

NOAH REID IS HEADING TO AUSTRALIA

After finding a place in Australian homes through the multi-award-winning TV hit Schitt’s Creek, acclaimed Canadian actor and musician Noah Reid will soon find a place on Australian stages, as he announces his debut tour down under. Catch him when he heads to Melbourne for a show at the Forum on October 2.

TROPHY EYES ANNOUNCE AUSTRALIAN TOUR

Hailing from Newcastle, the four-piece continues to edge away their own path selling out shows across the globe. Touring to support the band’s forthcoming studio album, Suicide and Sunshine, due to drop June 23 via Hopeless Records, catch them when they perform at Northcote Theatre on June 24.

NOW OR NEVER FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES FIRST LINEUP

Melbourne Music Week and Knowledge Week are combining into Now or Never festival, a 17-day event taking place between August 17 and September 2. The Royal Exhibition Building has been announced as the first major venue for an inaugural music and arts lineup that features Kelela, serpentwithfeet, Âme, Axel Boman, CC:Disco!, Ayebatonye, dameeeela, Autechre, Max Cooper, Giant Swan, Orchestra Victoria and more. The full lineup will be revealed in late June.

THE CHICKS ANNOUNCE AUSTRALIAN TOUR WITH ELLE KING

The legendary sister trio formerly known as the Dixie Chicks is an unstoppable force of music – as well as being extremely talented, outspoken and enduring, they’re also the biggest-selling American female band of all time. Catch them when they head to Rod Laver Arena for a show on October 16.

FREEENTRY FLIP:

A SECTION 8

SUNDAY 3PM - LATE

WITHJUDGESAMINPAYNE,JONQUIL,

JUNE 11

SADIVA+WALLAC,NIKODIMOS

MUSIC BY AMINPAYNE(LIVE), NAYNAY,JONQUIL, SADIVA + WALLA C

PRIZES TO BE WON!

NGV FRIDAY NIGHTS RETURNS THIS WINTER WITH A VIBRANT LINEUP

The immersive NGV Friday Nights returns to the National Gallery of Victoria this winter, bringing along a huge lineup of incredible performers including ARIA award winner Adrian Eagle. The 19-week season from June 9 to October 7 celebrates the Melbourne Winter Masterpieces exhibition Pierre Bonnard: Designed by India Mahdavi.

KYE UNVEILS NEW EP RIBENA AND TOUR DATES

Born in Zimbabwe, raised in London and currently calling Melbourne home, the effervescent RnB pop singer has become a mainstay, gracing the lineups of gigs and festivals throughout the city. She’ll be performing at Melbourne’s own Corner Hotel on June 3.

SPLENDOUR SIDESHOWS ANNOUNCED: YEAH YEAH YEAHS, TOVE LO, LIL SIMZ AND MORE

Can’t make it out to Byron Bay but feeling a little envious of the impressive Splendour in the Grass 2023 lineup? Now you can get in on the action yourself. A whole heap of side shows have just been announced for Melbourne and Sydney (as well as a few for Perth, Adelaide and Auckland).

JEN CLOHER LEADS WINTER SOUNDS FESTIVAL

From August 17 to 20, Winter Sounds is returning to Daylesford and the surrounding hills with shows taking place in the soaring churches, grand towns halls and quaint villages of Victoria’s spa country. This year’s lineup will include Mo’ju, Gareth Liddiard, Jen Cloher, Tex Perkins & Matt Walker, Adalita, Watty Thompson and more.

LAST CHANCE ROCK & ROLL BAR HITS FUNDRAISING GOAL

WANDERER FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES FULL 2023 LINEUP

The one-of-a-kind Wanderer Festival is set to return to Pambula Beach on the Sapphire Coast of New South Wales this September. From September 29 until October 1, the boutique three-day event will be headlined by British indie rock band Django Django, Ocean Alley, Son Little, The Jungle Giants, Thelma Plum, Spiderbait and Kevin Morby.

ONE ELECTRIC DAY UNVEILS 2023 LINEUP

Held in Werribee Park on November 19, One Electric Day is just that – one day of music, community and celebration. This year’s lineup is well worth the drive, featuring Icehouse, Belinda Carlise, Jon Stevens, Daryl Braithwaite, Mark Seymour and Boom Crash Opera.

LOYLE CARNER IS BRINGING HIS HUGO TOUR TO AUSTRALIA

The tour comes on the back of the release of his latest album, hugo, which has been widely celebrated by critics and fans alike. Catch his show at the Palais Theatre on July 27.

In an absolute nail-biter, the owners of Last Chance have hit the $3 million fundraising goal to preserve The Tote as a live music venue, bringing their bid up to $6 million. But the deal isn’t done yet – the current owners of the venue have taken to social media to state that their asking price is actually $6.65 million. The two parties are currently in discussion.

THIS NEVER HAPPENED FESTIVAL HAS ONE RULE: NO PHONES

The new day-long festival series aims to foster in-person connections and help fans live in the moment by taping up everyone’s phone on entry. The lineup features electronic favourites Le Youth, Paris and Sultan & Shepard. It’ll be coming to 170 Russell on July 14.

JOHN CLEESE IS COMING TO MELBOURNE

Legend of comedy and founding member of British comedy troupe Monty Python, John Cleese is on his way to Australia. Cleese will take over Hamer Hall in Melbourne for one night only on July 31, reporting on his experiences in the afterlife and what the audience can expect when they get there.

LISTEN OUT LINEUP UNVEILED

The travelling hip-hop and electronic festival has announced a banging 2023 lineup featuring Skrillex, Ice Spice, Lil Uzi Vert, Four Tet, JPEGMAFIA, Kenny Beats, Metro Boomin and more.

GENESIS OWUSU ANNOUNCES DECEMBER TOUR

The Ghanaian-Australian artist is gearing up for his most extensive Australian tour yet. Accompanied by the sensational duo EARTHGANG, Genesis Owusu will captivate audiences across the country with his electrifying performances. You can catch him when he heads to Festival Hall for a performance on December 8.

NYE ON THE HILL FESTIVAL CONFIRMS 2023 RETURN

ELECTRIC FIELDS AND MSO REUNITE FOR NAIDOC WEEK

The performance, taking place at Hamer Hall, will showcase Electric Fields’ original compositions and traditional Inma songs, with their music arranged for orchestra by Alex Turley, the MSO 2022 Cybec Young Composer in Residence. This rich showcase of Australia’s Indigenous cultures takes place during NAIDOC week, on July 8.

DOM DOLLA ANNOUNCES TWO MELBOURNE SHOWS

Renowned Australian house music producer Dom Dolla (aka Dominic Matheson) has announced his largest-ever headline hometown shows on December 15 and 16 at the Sydney Myer Music Bowl. “I never thought something like this would really be possible, this really is a dream come true,” he says.

THE EIGHTY-SIX FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES FIRST LINEUP

Running from October 23 to 31, the brandnew Eighty-Six festival will be taking over Northcote and Preston with live music. So far, they’ve announced artists including Connie Constance, Otoboke Beaver, Makaya McCraven, Los Bitchos, Built To Spill and the How Long Gone podcast.

FALLS FESTIVAL CANCELS 2023 EVENT

The award-winning camping music festival, which has been running for almost three decades, will not be returning this year. They have taken to Instagram to announce the team will be “OOO” this festival season, citing the need to “rest, recover and recalibrate”.

The beloved camping music festival will return from 30 December 2023 to 1 January 2024, once again welcoming a bunch of bands and performers as well as late night DJs, a deck disco, comedians, art installations, morning yoga, curated food trucks and licensed bars.

ODETTE ANNOUNCES JULY ANNIVERSARY TOUR

To A Stranger introduced listeners to Odette’s deeply personal songwriting, influenced by her mixed heritage and mental health advocacy. Supported by Aotearoa/ New Zealand’s very own Paige, catch her at the Northcote Social Club on July 6.

CERES IS HOLDING A WINTER SOLSTICE PARTY

To honour the winter solstice on June 24, the CERES environmental park, education centre and urban garden will be hosting its annual party – a celebration of all of the joys of winter. It’ll feature massive fire sculptures, UV face painting, lantern making and hot drinks and snacks.

ALEX LAHEY ANNOUNCES NATIONAL TOUR

Fresh off the release of The Answer Is Always Yes, the Melbourne singer-songwriter has announced a seven-date jaunt across Australia with LA indie rock favourite Illuminati Hotties. They’ll be playing at The Night Cat on August 19.

RED HOT SUMMER TOUR UNVEILS 2024 LINEUP

The Aussie-centered music festival has announced it will return with eight events across the country. This year, the show will feature Jimmy Barnes, The Living End, Birds of Tokyo, Pete Murray, Kasey Chambers and Barnes’ daughter’s band Mahalia Barnes and the Soulmates. They’ll head to the Mornington Racecource on January 13.

EVANESCENCE ARE COMING TO ROD LAVER ARENA

The American goth-rock band will be touching down on Australian shores for the first time in over five years to commemorate their wildly successful debut album, Fallen, which hit the record shop shelves two decades ago. See them at Rod Laver Arena on August 30.

THE LUME PRESENTS CONNECTION

Opening on June 23, Connection: Breathtaking Stories Through First Nations Art and Music will show off the world’s oldest culture in a contemporary way. The Lume has assembled more than 550 pieces created by First Peoples’ artists to be displayed in the massive digital gallery.

MICHAEL GUDINSKI DOCUMENTARY TO PREMIERE AT MIFF

The long-awaited documentary chronicling the extraordinary career and profound impact of Michael Gudinski on Australian music and culture will make its world premiere at the Melbourne International Film Festival on August 10.

THE WAR ON DRUGS, SPOON ARE COMING TO AUSTRALIA

The American indie rockers will be heading on tour with Texas experimental rock group Spoon and the rising Sydney folk-rock star Indigo Sparke. See them at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl on December 7.

Opening Hours: Wed-Thur 3pm till late Friday 3pm till 1am

OCEAN ALLEY ANNOUNCE HEADLINE TOUR

Beloved Australian rock outfit Ocean Alley have just announced a string of Australian headline shows with Winston Surfshirt in support of their 2022 album Low Altitude Living. The band will perform at John Cain Arena on October 13.

GRETTA RAY ANNOUNCES POSITIVE SPIN TOUR

Gretta Ray is a hometown hero through and through. Raised in Melbourne, she grew up singing in a children’s choir and performing gigs across the city. Catch the show at Northcote Theatre on September 22.

hello@babysnakes.com.au

R V G

Ahead of RVG’s RISING show, with dream supports Iceage and Batrider, Romy Vager discusses creating the band’s career-defining third album Brain Worms (on which she played an acoustic guitar

Tears

WORDS BY BRYGET CHRISFIELD

Æ Singer-guitarist Romy Vager admits Brain Worms – RVG’s brilliant third record (also Beat’s June feature album) – is definitely her “favourite” thus far. So what did the band do differently this time around? “We did a lot of rehearsal leading up to [recording] it, which we didn’t really do for the other two records,” she reflects. One of this scribe’s favourite album tracks is the lyrically absurd Squid, with its thrashing drums, shrieking keys and fuming vocal delivery: “Don’t. Go back. In time/ It’s not worth it!” – cannot wait to experience this track’s full fury in a live setting. “It’s been going really well live,” Vager teases. “Reuben [Bloxham] does a little trick where he plays guitar and keyboards at the same time, so it’s like his party trick; it’s very impressive visually as well as sonically.”

In the record’s accompanying press release, Vager is quoted as saying Nothing Really Changes, the hypnotic lead single, started its life as a songwriting experiment “to write something catchy with an obnoxious riff, a cross between Divinyls and Smoke On The Water.”

“We have riffs, but they’re sort of like buried in the whole structure of the song,” she elaborates. “But to build something on a riff was something I maybe hadn’t done, creatively, before.” Does Vager love Divinyls? “I fucking love Divinyls,” she extols. So what’s her favourite song by this legendary Australian group? “Oh, I like Science Fiction a lot. It’s interesting, it’s got that [sings melody] “WOO-ooh-WOO-ooh” kinda synthesiser – it’s great.”

When RVG flew over to record at London’s Snap Studios, Vager tells us they only had “skeleton versions” of both Squid and Nothing Really Changes. “We had tried to play Nothing Really Changes with Marc [Nolte] drumming the whole way through it and that didn’t quite work,” she recalls, “so we ended up just incorporating the basic drum machine that was on the original demo I made and kind of fleshing it out more, which was due to James [Trevascus, producer] taking the lead and saying, ‘You should do this, you should do that’.”

After happening upon an acoustic guitar that once belonged to Kate Bush – “according to the guy who owns the studio, she got it from Tears For Fears” – the band immediately knew this instrument belonged on their record. “We were just like, ‘We need to put this in the background of every song we possibly can’,” says Vager. “So there’s a lot more bright little acoustic strums because of it, because I feel like it’s a good omen, you know?”

Since RVG formed in 2017, they’ve often been compared to bands such as The Smiths, The Cure, Echo & The Bunnymen and The Go-Betweens. Does that ever get old? “I mean, I love all the bands that we’re compared to,” Vager ponders, “but I don’t want us to be seen as a, you know, ‘80s throwback revival thing. I think the things that I’m singing about are quite modern and sometimes

you’ll read something and someone goes, ‘This sounds exactly like The Go-Betweens,’ and you’re like, ‘Does it? Are you sure? I don’t think it does.”

When told that Shivers by The Boys Next Door sprang to mind when I listened to another standout Brain Worms track, the downcast You’re The Reason, Vager responds, “Oh, yeah, totally; I can hear that. There’s a bit of all of that in there somewhere, just kinda circling around. I love that song [Shivers]. I used to love seeing Rowland S Howard live back in the day when he used to play at The Tote.”

once owned by Kate Bush and

For Fears), her preference for preserving the mystery of their songs and her mad love for Divinyls.

RVG’s debut album, 2017’s A Quality Of Mercy, was actually recorded at The Tote. “We released the first album three times, in different ways,” Vager recounts. “We released it by ourselves, then we released it on Our Golden Friend and then we released it on Fat Possum overseas, and it all got stretched out – you know, a year and a half of this album sort of weirdly coming out. And there was a lot of love for it and a lot of hype for it, which was lovely. But when it came time to write the second album [2020’s Feral], I think I did struggle with that; it became quite difficult. And this time around it’s like, you know, I don’t think any of us have anything to lose, really. We don’t have all that pressure on us so we just kind of did it the best we could do, which is nice.”

On whether she thinks songs can be ruined for listeners once the true meaning behind the lyrics is revealed, Vager shares, “I learnt that lesson with the first record, ‘cause I feel like if you just have to keep explaining stuff it sort of takes away the preciousness of the song.”

“You can give hints, but I think it’s nicer to preserve the song and have a bit of mystery. And I don’t think songwriters really know, either. You have some songwriters who are like, ‘Oh, no, I intended this,’ and I don’t really believe that’s true. So I think it’s sort of, you know, the front of your brain taking credit for the back of the brain whereas, yeah, I’m [of the opinion that] songs happen by accident. Like, lyrics happen by accident in a lotta cases – they come from somewhere that I’m not in control of all the time – so I don’t feel like I have the right to feel like it’s exclusively about ‘this’.

“I think a lot of our best songs have come from me being like, ‘I have this song,’ and then the band goes, ‘It’s quite good,’ and I’m just like, ‘Ah, actually, nah’. But stuff like Photograph, from the second record – which is, I think, one of our best songs – just takes a lot of, like, prying it out of me, from everybody.”

Lyrically, Brain Worms is sublime. “My main focus, personally, is the lyrics,” Vager admits. “They’re very important to me. They have to be right; I can never half-arse it.” So did Vager approach lyric writing differently while creating this album? “Yeah, I think on the last record I was quite depressed and very much putting the lyrics onto myself, and I think this time I’m trying not to do that.”

Sometimes humorous lyrical twists caught me by surprise, almost in a ‘you’ve gotta laugh or you’ll cry’ kinda way, about which Vager observes, “I’ve definitely improved my sense of humour in the last couple of years, and I think I wouldn’t have written this album four years ago, because I would’ve been a bit too hard on myself maybe. But this time around there’s breathing space and you can step back and be like, actually, you know what? That’s pretty surreal when you think about it.”

After teaming up with Julia Jacklin to record an inspired cover of Björk’s Army Of Me (for the RISING Singles Club series in 2021), RVG went on to support Jacklin on her Pre Pleasure national tour, which included a couple of Melbourne dates at the Forum. Vager says she’s chuffed RVG will return to this same venue for a headline show, supported by Iceage and Batrider, as part of the upcoming RISING festival.

RVG had mentioned they’d love to share a bill with the Danish punk band Iceage. “They said yes,” Vager tells, “and that’s insane!” Of Batrider joining the party, she enthuses, “I would never have thought that Batrider would get back together to play with us, but I’m so excited that they have – that’s huge!… It’s a really great lineup, I’m very excited for it.”

WHERE: FORUM, MELBOURNE

WHEN: JUNE 14

On whether she thinks songs can be ruined for listeners once the true meaning behind the lyrics is revealed, Vager shares, “I learnt that lesson with the first record, ‘cause I feel like if you just have to keep explaining stuff it sort of takes away the preciousness of the song.”

RVG, AT RISING FESTIVAL

ILLUMINATE ADELAIDE

Yothu Yindi, KLASSIK Underground, Oneohtrix Point Never and Tourist feature in an eclectic lineup that pushes Adelaide’s winter event into new territory.

WORDS BY LUKE CARLINO

Æ For those that may be unaware, the Fringe festival in summer isn’t the only time Adelaide flexes its artistic muscle.

In fact, it gets even weirder and more experimental when the rain clouds arrive, thanks to Illuminate Adelaide, which is back with its most expansive program ever. The major winter event celebrates art, light, music and technology as the city’s streets, laneways and architecture meld with free and ticketed events by local, national and international artists.

Some of Illuminate Adelaides’s highlights include Mirror Mirror, a playground of interactive technology which will have its first Australian experience fresh from its premiere run in Montreal, the transformation of Adelaide’s botanic gardens for Resonate, the 10th anniversary of Unsound, the festival of experimental music and performances from Yothu Yindi, Oneohtrix Point Never, Tourist and more.

We caught up with creative director Lee Cumberlidge before his flight to Montreal to see Mirror Mirror to discuss Illuminate Adelaide’s most adventurous program to date.

“This year, we’re building on what we have done the past few years as we establish Illuminate Adelaide,” says Lee. “The event has many different streams, but this year City Lights, our free program, has more than 40 new interactive installations and artworks focusing on the nexus between creativity, art and technology.”

City Lights runs for two weeks (conveniently over the school holidays), offering everyone a chance to get out, embrace winter and explore the city of Adelaide, which will be completely transformed with video mapping, projection works and installations in public spaces.

Illuminate Adelaide saw 700,000 people access the free program last year, and Lee is expecting even more this time around. Once again, the event will infiltrate the Botanic Gardens with another breathtaking transformation called Resonate. “Resonate is an experience brought to life by a range of technologies and techniques from the Montreal-based multimedia studio Moment Factory with whom we’ve been collaborating each year, but this year is in entirely new areas with a 1.8km trail through the gardens that will no doubt be very popular this year.

“Moment Factory is also working in our Illuminate Pavillion to present their new work called Mirror Mirror. We’ve been involved in this project since its inception; it’s an interactive journey through the human imagination with a series of different experiences giving a chance to play interact and input thoughts and memories, connecting the audience to the artwork and the tech.”

Illuminate Adelaide has always been interested in artists and art forms that engage technology in their practice. “We’re interested in both individual artists or bands as well as creative studios that are working in this space. There’s so much beautiful and amazing work. We want to throw the doors open on this work while helping artists work with technologies they may not have access to.”

One example of this in a previous Illuminate Adelaide program was the commissioning of Adelaide’s Rising Sun Pictures, who have been responsible for visual effects on huge Hollywood blockbusters. Illuminate Adelaide had the studio collaborating with projection artists to bring their skills out onto the buildings of Adelaide and in front of the public.

“We love including both existing works and new commissions for people to see here first in Adelaide, keeping it at the cutting edge of what is going on in this realm.”

Illuminate Adelaide’s music lineup, much like the program as a whole, reflects diversity and accessibility to different audiences. When it came to the music, the goal was to look at a mix of genres, especially with artists that are engaging in technology.

“For us, Oneohtrix Point Never is a fantastic example of an artist pushing the boundaries and including tech in his work. We want to give audiences the opportunity to see this and his new live show will be just astounding.”

Lee’s musical pick this year is the Ukrainian artist Heinali, who caught many people’s attention after streaming a concert live from a bomb shelter soon after the Russian invasion.

“He’s playing a set drawn largely from music made from the bomb shelter over the past year or more since the conflict started. That’s going to be really, really beautiful.

“Plus, Yothu Yindi, which will be a celebration of NAIDOC week. It’s been 30 years since they released Treaty, so it’s a poignant time to celebrate that leading up to the referendum, showing how important acts like that are to the Australian music scene.”

Illuminate Adelaide’s program is out now and celebrates art, music, technology and invention from around the country and the world, running from June 28th to July 30th with a range of free and ticketed events.

ILLUMINATE ADELAIDE

WHERE: VARIOUS VENUES, ADELAIDE

WHEN: 28 JUN–30 JUL

This article was made in partnership with Illuminate Adelaide

Credit: Moment Factory

RECLINK COMMUNITY CUP

Although it’s Carlson’s Rockdogs debut, he’s played under coach Cash Savage before for the Old Bar Unicorns. “Cash and I have never lost a game of footy with her coaching and me playing,” he states. “The scoreboard might read one thing, but in our hearts, we’ve never lost a game.

“Heart beats scoreboards every day of the week and we’ll be winning hearts. We’ll be taking home the heart points and maybe the other ones.”

WORDS BY MATT PARNELL

Æ What started as a philanthropic showdown between the esteemed Espy Rockdogs and the spirited Tote FC in 1993, the Reclink Community Cup has since evolved into an indispensable fixture of Melbourne’s music scene.

Ahead of the fast-approaching match that raises over $200k annually for Reclink Australia, I spoke to representatives of each team. Chris Gill is the owner of Northside Records and a 15-year veteran of the Megahertz, a team made up of community radio hosts. Carlson, from Our Carlson, is a Reclink debutante representing the Rockdogs, Reclink’s team of musos.

Carlson even mentions he wants to be matched up on Gill, laying early seeds for a potential “battle of the hair”.

Despite coming from opposite sides of the field, they both hit on similar notes about what the community cup means to them and what they rate about the day out, specifically community, diversity and the value of a good rousing speech.

“It’s been really fun getting to know everyone - people you’ve watched their band play and been like ‘they’re fucking sick’ and you get to hang out and meet ‘em and see what they’re like, how they tick, how they kick the footy,” says Carlson. “Music’s really about community, the music we’re all into is a real community vibe. It’s really nice to come together without booze and get to know each other better out of the pubs and the venues.”

From a radio presenter’s standpoint, Chris Gill agrees that “it forms a beautiful bridge that joins all community radio stations together and keeps them co-committed to one another always. Because we interact with all the different radio announcers we’re there to support them on the field and off the field at all times, too.”

Becoming increasingly more diverse each year, inclusivity is a staple of the Reclink ethos. “To play [football] with all genders is incredible and it’s incredible that we make it happen,” Gill continues.

Chris Gill has a few more stories from his years with the Megahertz, but none more compelling than this tale of coaching brilliance. “It was the first year that the Megahertz had won and Crispi Windsor [from Radio City] came in and gave us one of the most incredible speeches. That was the year we actually won by a point.

“It was this beautiful anti-hero speech that left everyone mystified, stupified, groupified … we went out there floating on air.” Despite the casual nature of the game, don’t be fooled into thinking that these two don’t want a win. Carlson’s talk about heart points belies a steely demeanour, while Gill’s beloved Megahertz are pushing for a fifth consecutive Community Cup win. As such, they were both keen to give this match a bit of extra buzz in the form of inciting the rumour mill.

Chris Gill mentioned that he believes the Rockdogs are stacking their team, and that Izy’s Ryo Montgomery was once scouted by the Brisbane Lions. In response, Carlson accused Chris Gill of wearing a wig, going all out with double-sided tape for the game to keep up the facade.

In addition to this hotly contested match, the 2023 iteration of this family and dog-friendly Community Cup will see live performances from Close Encounters, Gut Health, Teeny Tiny Stevies, Our Carlson, The Merindas (“Our Beyonce, per Carlson”), Mzrizk and Cosmic Psychos.

RECLINK COMMUNITY CUP

WHERE: VICTORIA PARK

WHEN: 18 JUNE

TICKETS: COMMUNITYCUP.COM.AU

‘Community, diversity and the value of a good rousing speech’: Megahertz staple Chris Gill and Rockdogs freshman Carlson weigh in ahead of the Reclink Community Cup’s 30th anniversary.

“Music's really about community, the music we're all into is a real community vibe.”

Credit: Carbie Warbie

KING STINGRAY

WORDS BY BRYGET CHRISFIELD

Winning awards, showcasing at SxSW, selling out two all-ages shows at Sidney Myer Music Bowl, performing (and having yarns with) Colin Hay – King Stingray are having one helluva busy year, so their next single is about “finding those little peaceful moments.”

Æ Hailing from Yirrkala in north-east Arnhem Land (population approx. 800), King Stingray is composed of five Yolŋu (First Nations) and balanda (non-Indigenous) mates. They sing in both English and Yolŋu Matha, the native language of the band’s Yolŋu contingent. King Stingray’s guitarist Roy Kellaway and frontman Yirrŋa Yunupingu, whose name translates to ‘place of stingray’, are descendants of the ground-breaking musical collective Yothu Yindi: Roy is the son of bassist, Stu Kellaway, and Yirrnga is the late frontman Dr M Yunupiŋu’s nephew – both of these boys have been jamming onstage with Yothu Yindi since they were toddlers and became official touring members in 2017.

Roy Kellaway moved to Ballina “almost a year” ago, but the other King Stingray members still call Yirrkala home – when they’re not touring, that is. Earlier this year, King Stingray showcased at SxSW in Austin, Texas, and Kellaway points out, “It’s a full day’s travel to get to anywhere in Australia from Arnhem Land, let alone overseas.”

“All of a sudden kids are looking up to us!”

King Stingray’s self-titled debut record took out the 2022 Australian Music Prize, about which Kellaway extols, “That was incredible! We flew in - the flight was delayed and there was all this craziness - and we were like, ‘Far out, we’re gonna miss this thing!’ We got there just in time, ran into the venue and it was a pretty turbo environment to pull into. All these musicians who are super-excited and other people and we were kinda rabbits in the headlights just off the plane and then, yeah! We won the award, which we couldn’t believe, and we were walking home with this massive fake cheque thing [laughs] – it was so cool! We tried to keep it: Dima [Dimathaya Burarrwanga, guitarist] tried to fold it to put it in his luggage and it just snapped in half.”

Kellaway reckons Raypirri – written when they were still in high school (“or even middle school, potentially”) – was the first song King Stingray wrote that made it onto their first album. “I remember Yirrŋa singing that in the Yirrkala music room and, you know, rockin’ out, gettin’ up onto the tables, pushin’ off all the pencils on the desk and playing guitar – he was goin’ nuts!” Kellaway reflects, laughing. “Yeah, it was a vibe.”

When asked whether he’s noticed King Stingray’s success inspiring kids from their local community to pick up musical instruments and maybe even start their own bands, Kellaway says, “It’s funny you should say that, because we’ve had a lot of that going on recently. A good friend of ours Azza [Arian Ganambarr-Pearson] – he runs The Mulka Project, which is this awesome facility and recording studio in Yirrkala [at Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Art Centre]. Whoever’s got a song can go in there and track it, so he’s recording lots of local bands and, you know, lots of kids are coming in wanting to sing and play guitar.

“And that’s how we kinda started, as well – we grew up recording songs with The Mulka Project as kids – and it’s amazing, ‘cause not so long ago we were the little guys looking up to our parents and family who have played music in different bands and stuff, and then all of a sudden kids are looking up to us! It’s pretty cool.”

King Stingray played two sold-out, all-ages gigs at Sidney Myer Music Bowl in March, about which Kellaway says, “It blew our minds, like, we had 35 school buses coming in from – some were four hours drive out of Melbourne. So these schools were doing excursions to come and see us and the response from the kids and the schools has been amazing.

“A big part of our joy of music is definitely sharing it with little guys; we love that. Any opportunity to do an all-ages show we’re frothing to do, because kids are such a vibe. And we love kids – we’re kids ourselves – and, you know, we grew up in a community where the boys have such a big family, so many young kids in their lives. It’s so much fun for us. The kids are so innocent and really just crack you up.”

Their song Lupa was nominated in the peer-voted Song Of The Year category at the 2023 APRA Music Awards. At the ceremony, Lupa was performed by Yirrmal, Darren Middleton, Benjamin Hakalitz, Andy Schrav, Chris Pearson and Dallas Frasca. “It was really awesome to see,” Kellaway enthuses. “We were lovin’ it, filmin’ it and just laughing and loving everyone. ‘Cause, I mean, we’re a band that are really, really hard to cover; especially since we’ve got Yolŋu Matha in some of our songs. Yolŋu Matha’s only spoken by, not a heap of people in the world. But Yirrmal is an amazing Yolŋu musician. He is such an incredible fella and a very dear friend of ours that we love so much, and he absolutely smashed it.”

So was that the first time he’d heard someone covering a King Stingray song? “We’ve had some amazing videos sent to us of kids in schools learning, like, Milkumana and Get Me Out,” Kellaway enlightens. “Some of our songs are online – like, the chords and stuff; someone’s tabbed them up on the guitar, or whatever it’s called. So the kids can learn the songs and have a crack at playing them; people put different spins on our music and we’ve seen some really awesome versions.”

As part of Tourism Australia’s global Come And Say G’day campaign, King Stingray released their rendition of Men At Work’s Down Under – titled Down Under (Under One Sun) – which they performed to close out the APRA Music Awards alongside a very special guest: Colin Hay. “We got to hang out with Colin Hay from Men At Work!” Kellaway gushes. “He’s such an amazing guy – so resilient – and he just had so much good oil to share about music and making songs… And he’s just one of these guys who have played music for, I dunno, 30, 40, 50 years that we’ve kinda run into and had the opportunity to have a yarn with – it’s incredible!”

Can Kellaway please give readers some insight into King Stingray’s upcoming single release and first taste of album number two? “We have been touring around, travelling, and we’ve been real busy and so we thought it’d be cool to write a song about finding those little peaceful moments where you’re just removing all the thoughts that come through your mind – letting them go – and you’re just focused on looking at a beautiful outlook,” he reveals. “For some reason things like a big, deep ocean or a campfire can really do amazing things for just, like, re-centering yourself. I guess it’s a pretty global, human feeling.”

KING STINGRAY

WHERE: THE FORUM

WHEN: 01 JUL

STAGE GUIDE

Stage productions happening this June

WORDS BY BEN LAMB

MIDNIGHT: THE CINDERELLA MUSICAL

It wouldn’t be a stage guide if it didn’t mention a brand new musical hitting one of our big four stages this month. Midnight: The Cinderella Musical is an exciting new show hitting the Comedy Theatre this month, featuring a selection of our most popular performers including Brianna Bishop, Lucy Durack and Shane Jacobson, among many more. THE COMEDY THEATRE SUN 25

BLEACHED

Coming to our stages courtesy of Wit Incorporated, BLEACHED is a brand new play diving into a world facing a climate catastrophe, where bees are gone, colours cease to exist and everything’s been washed out. The play follows Australians trying to savour the last of the world in a final effort to reverse the climate impacts.

MARY COUSTAS: THIS IS PERSONAL

Perhaps better known as her beloved character Effie, there’s no question that Mary Coustas has had a long lasting impact on the world of comedy here in Australia. This show is set to dive into the woman behind the wig in a journey through life and motherhood.

ARTS CENTRE MELBOURNE TUE 27 JUN

TRACKER

THE DAN DAW SHOW

Another show making its way to our stages this June thanks to RISING. Dan Daw is a queer, disabled performer, who is the artistic director for this show, in which he also performs alongside Christopher Owen. It’s a dance and movement performance that has received critical acclaim, nominated for the 2021 National Dance Awards.

THE MEAT MARKET FROM THU 15 JUN

MICHAEL MCINTYRE

It’s been a hot minute since a comedian has played Rod Laver Arena - Michael McIntyre set to break the drought this month. The popular comedian has played to sold out arenas across the world, audiences loving his relatable approach to comedy. The show is an attempt to make sense of the world after the craziness of the last few years.

ROD LAVER ARENA MON 12, TUE 13 JUN

HAND TO EARTH

With the widely popular RISING festival on its way to our stages, there are a plethora of exciting events happening in Melbourne. One of those is hitting the Forum; Hand To Earth is a celebration and dedication to Yolŋu manikay: song cycles. David and Daniel Wilfred make up Hand To Earth and will be joined by a trumpeter and vocalist.

THE FORUM THEATRE WED 07 JUN

This show hits the stage courtesy of the Australian Dance Theatre alongside the popular and talented ILBIJERRI Theatre Company. It’s based on the story of Alec Riley, a Wiradjuri Elder and former police officer, who forged a bond between a community of First Peoples and colonial rule at the time. The show will be performed by Riley’s great-great nephew Daniel Riley, who is now artistic director of the Australian Dance Theatre.

ARTS HOUSE FROM WED 07 JUN

IS GOD IS

Penned by Aleshea Harris, Is God Is follows two sisters who witness their father nearly kill their mother, whose dying wish is for her girls to then murder their father in retribution. It stars Henrietta Enyonam Amevor and Clare Chihambakwe, among many more.

SOUTHBANK THEATRE FROM MON 19 JUN

MARK NORMAND

Popular New York comedian Mark Normand is heading to Australia very soon for his Fanny Guy tour. He’s performed on some of America’s most popular TV programs, including The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, Conan, Late Show With Stephen Colbert, and Last Comic Standing, among many more.

THE PALAIS THEATRE FRI 09 JUN

THANDI PHOENIX ON ARETHA FRANKLIN’S LEGACY

Aretha: A Love Letter To The Queen Of Soul celebrates the music and legacy of one of music’s greats

WORDS BY KAYA MARTIN

Æ That voice – it has an almost supernatural quality to it, an undeniable and enduring power that has impacted generations of listeners. It’s no wonder they call her the Queen of Soul. But Aretha Franklin is more than just a once-in-a-century talent – the story of her life is inseparable from her music.

Aretha: A Love Letter To The Queen Of Soul seeks to shed light on that story. Narrated and directed by the ever-talented Jada Alberts, the live show celebrates the music, life and legacy of the legendary artist.

As paying tribute to such an icon is no easy job, Jada has pulled together an all-star cast of some of Australia’s most renowned vocalists including Emma Donovan, Thandi Phoenix, Montaigne, Thndo and Ursula Yovich. They’ll be accompanied by a nine-piece band directed by Joe Accaria.

“Oh, there’s some powerful voices!” says Thandi Phoenix. “You can expect nothing less when celebrating Aretha, you know? You have to bring in the big guns.”

The Eora-based dance pop singer-songwriter says her love for Aretha has only deepened since being brought on to the project.

“Obviously she was one of the greatest of all time so I was across her work, I had her CDs growing up,” she says. “When I landed this, I had to do an even deeper dive into her discography, like – wow. She’s just had so many songs. She’s such an inspirational person, not just an inspirational singer, but just her journey and the strength that she continued to show in the face of adversity and setbacks.”

After recently branching out on her own as an independent artist, Thandi has a newfound admiration for Aretha’s courage to stand up for herself and what she believed in.

“Looking at her journey just as a woman in the industry and especially at the time when she was doing it – civil rights movement, women’s movement – she was an incredible advocate for those issues as well. She really had to push on the social side and try to fight injustice as well as being this monster singer.”

A hybrid of concert and memoir, the show takes audiences through Aretha’s life, from singing in her father’s gospel choir to becoming one of the most widely adored vocalists of all time. Rather than attempting to recreate what made Aretha special, it offers its own original take featuring creative vocal arrangements and deep cuts from the artist’s discography.

“We’re not trying to be Aretha, we’re not playing a part and dressing up like her. We’re just being ourselves as our own individual artists,” Thandi says.

“I mean, come on, who is doing Aretha like Aretha? There is only one Aretha. But we will do our humble, humble best.”

Every member of the vocal team is an impressive artist in their own right. Thandi had met a few of her collaborators before – she’d done a session with Montaigne and performed at the 2018 Commonwealth Games closing ceremony with Emma Donovan – but she says the first time the whole team came together in person, it just felt right. “There was just no ego, so much love, and everyone who’s involved just has a real respect for Aretha. Ha, not meaning to throw that one in there.”

“It’s going to be a really incredibly powerful evening of song and celebration and spirit because everyone who’s involved in the project has a really beautiful heart and soul, and that’s what Aretha did – she had heart and soul and she was so genuine and authentic with everything she expressed and delivered.”

Aretha: A Love Letter To The Queen Of Soul will travel to Sydney and Brisbane before finishing up at Hamer Hall on July 2. It’ll be the same week Thandi celebrates the release of Rebirth – her first EP since going independent. She’s looking forward to stepping into the exciting new phase of her career.

“For me, with music, it’s instinctual – it’s your energy, your essence, and your spirit. Her songs, you just feel that power in them.”

ARETHA: A LOVE LETTER TO THE QUEEN OF SOUL

WHERE: HAMER HALL

WHEN: 02 JULY

This article was made in partnership with Rix Management

“Looking at her journey just as a woman in the industry and especially at the time when she was doing it – civil rights movement, women's movement – she was an incredible advocate for those issues as well. She really had to push on the social side and try to fight injustice as well as being this monster singer.”

THE DEADBEATS

There’s a new

WORDS BY KAYA MARTIN

Æ You may have seen them around, playing gigs across the city and putting in hours at the studio. But they’re about to take it up a notch.

The Deadbeats’ debut album, Sedatives For The Cynic, comes out on June 23. Raw, relentless and full of attitude, it’s punk rock at its finest.

“In a nutshell, you’ve got four mates, all from the same high school that share the same lust for punk rock and that love writing and playing music together,” says the band. Their sound calls back to the glory days of Californian punk. Drawing influence from NOFX, Rancid, Bad Religion, the Dead Kennedys and Lagwagon, the new album is “a social commentary of the boys’ dubious and adventurous years”.

“The greatest thing about songwriting is the fact that you can write about things you wouldn’t necessarily say out loud otherwise… for a number of reasons,” says the band.

“More often than not, the process begins with a good old-fashioned vent scribbled down on some paper and occasionally repeating a chorus out loud like a lunatic talking to themselves until it sticks. If you’re good enough, these ramblings are converted to lyrics of substance which often result in songs containing the highest volume of both purity and honesty.”

The Deadbeats will be laying it all on the line with a matinee launch party at The Workers Club on July 22 where they’ll play the album live in full for the first time. They’ll be joined by The Thorazines, This Sinking Ship and The Wash.

“It’s been a lot of work to get to this point so we are ready to share our blood, sweat, tears and other juices with the world.”

VOIID

THE DEADBEATS, SEDATIVES FOR A CYNIC LAUNCH

WHERE: THE WORKERS CLUB, FITZROY

WHEN: 22 JULY, 1PM

This article was made in partnership with The Deadbeats

WORDS BY SIDONIE BIRD DE LA COEUR

Æ With the post-punk/alt-rock band shifting their gaze internally, Watering Dead Flowers captures a divinely feminine perspective on mental health, friendship and generational growth.

“I think we’ve just been through more shit as people,” Anji muses. “You know, going from 19 years old to 23. It’s a very formative period of your life. You’re an adult, instead of just being a teenager.”

Anji explains the use of garden metaphors throughout the album, sharing that “I’ve always had this thing where I refer to my mental health as a garden. When I feel like shit, I’ve always just kind of said, ‘I feel like a wilted flower.’”

The album features the lullaby-esque interlude Daisy, which holds a special significance for Anji. “My mum used to sing it to me when I was a kid,” she says. “We also have this through-line of motherhood throughout the album, you know, having a mother being there for you. It just happened really organically.”

Feminine When? stands out as a burst of frustration in the album. Anji describes it as a successor to Swallow, explaining, “Swallow is about the idealisation of a person, and then Feminine When? is the shattering—the realisation that they weren’t actually as good as you thought they were.”

Watering Dead Flowers was recorded by Matt Cochran at Birthday Boy Studios and the creative process was characterised by spontaneity. “I would just be like - ‘we have these wall mics, any chance that I could just yell at them?’ In (Delete), where there’s the high part where I’m screaming - I just screamed at a wall.”

They’re heading to Melbourne for a show at the Northcote Social Club on June 16. “This tour is just going to be the album in full - I’m so excited for that.”

VOIID

WHEN:

16 JUNE

WHERE: NORTHCOTE SOCIAL CLUB

player in Melbourne’s punk scene and they’re not afraid to go full-throttle.

“The greatest thing about songwriting is the fact that you can write about things you wouldn’t necessarily say out loud otherwise… for a number of reasons.”

Anji Greenwood, the vocalist of VOIID, reflects on the introspective shift that Watering Dead Flowers represents for the band.

BAND ROOM

Saturday 10

Bud Rokesky

Friday 16 Jacktet

Thursday 22

September Barker

Friday 23

Aine Tyrell

Tuesday 27

Jack Earle Bigband

Thursday 29

Shake It (Burlesque)

Friday 30

FJ Steele

FRONT BAR

Thursday 8 Triplikatz

Sunday 11 Martin Lartigau

Tuesday 13 Connor Moore

Friday 23

Steph Brett

Saturday 24 Doggerel

Thursday 29

Liaden Zane

ARTS GUIDE

Exhibitions to see this June

WORDS BY BEN LAMB

MITHU SEN: MOTHERTONGUE

Coming to the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art this May, Mithu Sen is a New Delhi based artist who will bring mOTHERTONGUE to Melbourne, which includes a collection of her best works over the last two decades presented as a mind map.

AUSTRALIAN CENTRE FOR CONTEMPORARY ART 22 APR–18 JUN

SEAN LYNCH: DESIRE LINES

Sean Lynch is a popular Irish artist who’s been featured in galleries across England, Mexico and Italy, and now he can add a Melbourne curation to the list. Desire Lines is used to describe an improvised path, with the exhibition showcasing a journey through Melbourne in the form of objects. This exhibition features work from artists such as Hossein Valamanesh, Laresa Kosloff, Sonia Kretschmar and Miles Howard-Wilks, each bringing something interesting to the gallery.

CITY GALLERY 15 MAR–26 JUL

REMBRANDT: TRUE TO LIFE

The new exhibition making its way to the NGV this month follows the work of the titular master throughout his life, starting in the 1620s through to the 1660s. The exhibition will feature around 100 etchings, paintings, drawings, and pieces from a selection of the world’s best museums, the Rijksmuseum, Louvre, National Gallery of Art and many more.

NGV 02 JUN–10 SEP

PHIL NOTO

If art isn’t really your cup of tea, this exhibition hitting the Outré Gallery in June is one you might want to check out. If you haven’t heard of Phil Noto before, he’s a US based illustrator who’s worked with iconic comic producers like Marvel, DC Comics, Walt Disney Animation.

OUTRÉ GALLERY 02–25 JUN

PETER THOMAS: FIELD MEMORIES

Peter Thomas is a Melbourne artist who has quickly gained traction in the art world, with this new exhibition focusing on his oil paintings and sculptural works, which are full of interesting history and meaning.

FOX GALLERIES 01–25 JUN

GRAHAM DOYLE: MEDICATED MAN

Graham Doyle was a popular performer, especially in the worlds of art and music. He lived his 70+ years with schizophrenia and this exhibition shows how with the right support, people can live with the disease, as Graham Doyle did. For this exhibition, there has been collaboration with Peter Wegner, a portrait artist, who showcases a different side to Doyle.

DAX

SEKALA NISKALA

Coming to the Footscray Community Arts Centre, Sekala Niskala will showcase work from five Indonesian artists: Agus Saputra, Kuncir Sathya Viku, Ni Luh Pangestu, Satya Cipta and Septa Adi. This exhibition focuses on art styles that have originated in Bali. If you love what you see during a visit to this exhibition, you will also have the opportunity to be able to join in Sekala Niskala, where you can take part in Line Drawing and Linocut Workshops run by the artists involved.

FOOTSCRAY COMMUNITY ARTS CENTRE 18 APR–25 JUN

SOPHIA WHITNEY

HEWSON: DEATH DRIVE

Sophia Hewson brings an interesting take to the world of art as a psychologist and member of the Australian Centre of Psychoanalysis. Back in 2019, she reached a finalist position in the Ramsay Art Prize, so you know you’ll be seeing some high-quality work. If you don’t feel like heading in to the gallery to catch this exhibition, much of the catalogue can be viewed over on the MARS Gallery website.

MARS GALLERY UNTIL 25 JUN

OpENiNG NIgHT

Two MANY CHEFS

CENTREPIECE alcaRrÀS

SPECIAL PRESENTaTION PRISON 77

FESTIVal HIGHlIGHTS MY FaTHER’S

MEXICAN wEDDING

PRIDE GUIDE

Events for queer people, by queer people happening in June.

WORDS BY BEN LAMB

BINDING TIES

Found at the famous Heide Museum of Modern Art, Catherine Opie’s Binding Ties celebrates and showcases images of “leather dykes, drag performers and transgender members of the queer community”. Opie started this topic of photography back in the 90s and the exhibition showcases artworks that delve into ideas of gender and sexuality and non-nuclear notions of family.

HEIDE UNTIL SUN 09 JUL

T4T TRANSGENDER COMEDY SHOWCASE

With the excitement of the recent Comedy Festival still in the air, it’s the perfect moment to discover some exceptionally talented emerging comedians. Hosted by the iconic Anna Piper Scott, this showcase will feature a variety of different trans performers - across everything from drag to burlesque, comedy, music and much more.

VICTORIAN PRIDE CENTRE 08–10 JUN

PRIDE COMEDY

One of the biggest queer comedy events in the West is heading to Pride of Our Footscray this June. Featuring a lineup of different stand-up comedians each and every month, you can grab an easy $30$39 ticket as part of a package, as well as some pizza, cocktails and drinks.

PRIDE OF OUR FOOTSCRAY THU 29 JUN

PRIDE WITHOUT PREJUDICE: LGBTQIA+ SHOWCASE

This showcase, which sold out at last year’s SKFF, will feature a selection of the best LGBTQIA+ short films of 2023. The shorts that will be shown include Good Times and That’s Okay, Fearless: Jazmin Theodora, Tuī Ná, Hen, Tarneit, Cusp and The List.

VICTORIAN PRIDE CENTRE SUN 11 JUN

SHAKE IT

Shake It brings the best cabaret, burlesque and cabaret from the Adelaide Fringe Festival to Footscray this month. Hosted by Minnie Andrews, this show has been wowing and confusing audiences for the past six years.

PRIDE OF OUR FOOTSCRAY FRI 09 JUN

QUEER SOCIAL: THE ART OF SHIBARI

There’s no shortage of exciting and interesting events making their way to the Victorian Pride Centre this June. If you’re familiar with Shibari, this bondage practice has been around for many years, having originated in Japan. This event dives into the art form and will teach attendees basic knots. This class is taught by queer people and is suited for queer people.

VICTORIAN PRIDE CENTRE THU 22 JUN

PRIDE: A NIGHT OF CHORAL MUSIC CELEBRATING THE QUEER COMMUNITY

Embark on a remarkable musical journey with ROCS, as they present a captivating fusion of contemporary and timeless choral melodies. Sung by Queer artists and composers, they will unveil the hidden Queer narratives within classical choral pieces.

RMIT UNIVERSITY STOREY HALL SAT 24 JUN

LEARN, TRY, JOIN. ROLLER DERBY WITH KINGSTON CITY ROLLERS

Ever wanted to attempt Roller Derby? The Kingston City Rollers is opening up their league and is allowing everyone to come and have a go; no matter what gender you are or how experienced you are on the skate. Also, all equipment is there ready for use, you only need to BYO mouthguard.

SPRINGERS LEISURE CENTRE SUN 18 JUN

TRANS AND GENDERDIVERSE CLOTHES SWAP

Swap out old garments for ones that celebrate your identity and make some friends along the way at The Trans and Gender Diverse Clothes Swap. The event is freebring along any items of clothing that you’re keen to trade.

VICTORIAN PRIDE CENTRE SUN 25 JUN

CASH SAVAGE AND THE LAST DRINKS

During their recent overseas tour, Cash Savage and The Last Drinks found themselves with a rare three-night break. Seizing the opportunity, they decided to tackle all the keyboard parts for their album in a French château (“château is a very fancy word for what was an AirBnB in a small village,” she corrects me. “But it was definitely a French house.”)

This unique setup and the “incredibly thick walls” of the château - sorry, the house - allowed for a collective recording process. It involved not only Savage, Roshan Khozouei, Nick Finch and Nao Anzai but also the rest of the band members in Dougal Shaw, Kat Mear, Rene Mancuso and Ed Fraser - whose contributions enriched the final result.

“It’s not something you’d plan for - because three nights off in Europe cost the band a lot of money. It just worked out like that,” she reflects.

“Each day, we would record all through the day and then we’d have a big cook up and sit on this huge long table and eat together. We made up a card game - we would argue over the rules of the card game. And then do it again the next day.”

Although they have been playing together for over a decade, the intensive nature of their last European tour took the band’s friendship to new heights.“You get to know each other pretty intimately - I mean, you’re side by side on a tour bus for hours on end. It adds a real level of camaraderie to the team. There’s a lot of respect in our strengths, we’re all very respectful of each other as humans and as musicians.”

WORDS BY SIDONIE BIRD DE LA COEUR

Æ The album opens with its titular, mournfully cathartic track, So This Is Love - where Savage explores the aftermath of her marriage dissolution. “I intentionally was really vulnerable in the lyrics - more vulnerable than was comfortable for me,” she admits.

“As much as I wasn’t intentionally trying to highlight fragility, I was fragile,” Cash continues. “But for me, one of the hardest parts of this album is how vulnerable and open I’m being, which is a very uncomfortable space for me to be in. “And it may come across as it isn’t - but really, it is. Anyone who knows me knows that I’m actually quite private.”

Singing “I’m not mine / You’re not yours / So this is love / It’s everything I wanted it to be”, Savage captures the essence of the album’s title, which stems from her reflections on love. “If you measure a relationship by time, it doesn’t actually measure how happy the people are in it, or whether it’s good for either for them.” Cash explains. “It’s like - so this is everything I wanted in my love. I’ve got it all. But it isn’t working.

“I had a really successful relationship with my ex. And we still have a relationship, but it’s just in a very different phase. We loved each other and still do - but it’s just not what either of us need now. So, it’s changed.”

In the end, the closeness among the band members created an environment where Savage could comfortably share vulnerability within her songwriting. “I feel pretty held by them,” she acknowledges. “I’m not presenting these songs for the first time to the world without having given them first to my friends, you know?”

“I’ve been working with Nick since I was 14. Some of the members are also my best friends and my confidants. When I bought these feelings to them as songs, we had already been discussing them as, as people, you know - just as conversations.”

Through Savage’s raw vulnerability and the collaborative efforts of The Last Drinks, the album encapsulates a cathartic journey of self-discovery, resilience and the bittersweet beauty of love’s complexities. “I hope that people can identify and relate with the songs. But that’s about as far as I go when it comes to what I want out of it.

“Because the songs aren’t mine anymore. I do think of it as giving them away - it’s actually part of processing my feelings, to give those songs to everyone else.”

CASH SAVAGE AND THE LAST DRINKS

WHERE: THE CORNER HOTEL

WHEN: 23 JUNE

Through its exploration of the depths of lockdown-induced isolation and the tumultuous journey of a relationship breakdown, So This Is Love serves as a testament to Cash Savage’s extraordinary capacity for heartfelt expression.

Credit: Anne Marzeliere

SPEAK PERCUSSION

WORDS BY JACOB MCCORMACK

Æ Their new show Sonic Eclipse, a collaboration with RISING and Melbourne Recital Centre, is no exception.

Comprised of four unique compositions, all created by Australian composers, the concert inspired by the intricacies of space and its planets will be played live on Thursday, June 15 at the Melbourne Recital Centre.

But what to expect? Eugene Ughetti, artistic director of Speak Percussion can assure audiences that any preconception or archetype will be dismantled, challenged and in a way reformed.

“We’ve got a team of 12 professional percussionists that are doing a series of spatial works,” says Eugene. “Augmented on top of those players we have a team of about 70 wind, brass and percussion players joining us for this marching piece.

“The whole show happens inside the Melbourne Recital Centre, but it’s a takeover of the space. We are across four foyer spaces, as well as the Murdoch Hall and other nooks and crannies across the whole Recital Centre.

“When the audience arrive, they step into an active performance. Then they get to walk through a mobile music piece. There will be musicians staggered across the various foyer spaces, all playing in sync with each other.

“As the audience moves through the space, they will walk through the music, and it will take them into the hall.”

Despite the scale of Sonic Eclipse being a new actualisation for Speak Percussion, Eugene, throughout his involvement in the world of percussion, has maintained strong ties with a pursuit of experimentation.

“All of the seeds were laid for that to happen,” he says. “I was definitely interested in new and experimental music. As I moved into the profession my interest in multi-disciplinary work grew and the scale and ambition of what Speak Percussion did has been one long journey across those 21 years. All of the foundation was laid whilst I was at university, but a lot of the bigger more ambitious projects didn’t really come into fruition until later.”

And 21 years later, obstacles a plenty overcome, Sonic Eclipse will be a performance like no other. From an inter-disciplinary standpoint, there will an accompanying lighting display created by Bronwyn Pringle.

“We have got Bronwyn Pringle as the lighting designer working on the show,” says Eugene. “She has some beautiful ideas in mind. Atmospheric is perhaps too soft a word, but I think she will be doing beautiful lighting sets to articulate the spatial nature of the work.”

The lighting will visually explicate the idea behind the multi-disciplinary performance.

“The whole project is one big palindrome,” says Eugene. “So, the whole concert starts with this big exploded out sound world, and then gets stuck right into this very focused point and then explodes back out. So, it’s a big sound journey, almost starting in out-of-space, moving down to a single point and then blowing out again. There is a real sense of symmetry to the way those pieces interact.”

All of this will be performed by a selection of conventional, and obscure instruments.

“There are some really beautiful instruments,” says Eugene.

“We have got a whole range of different tuned almglocker, which are a type of traditional cow bell. We are also using the lowest octave of the federation hand bells, which are pretty big instruments. We are also using tuned tai gongs, custom made aluminum tubes, which are suspended and tuned to very specific micro tones. There’s a whole range of gorgeous colours in that piece.”

For a musical organisation that are historically still young, Speak Percussion are trailblazing their way into leaving their rhythmic mark on history in spectacular fashion. For Eugene Ughetti though, he remains humbled by his experiences, opportunities and the closeknit percussion community in Melbourne/Naarm and Australia. “We have got a really close relationship with ANAM. Peter Neville, head of percussion at ANAM, has been really supportive and there is a really great community of percussionists around.”

SONIC ECLIPSE, BY SPEAK PERCUSSION

WHEN: 15 JUN

WHERE: ELISABETH MURDOCH HALL

This article was made in partnership with Melbourne Recital Centre

Credit: Bryony Jackson

23 years on from their inception, Speak Percussion have slowly been acquiring funds and resources to bring to life their most ambitious and experimental sonic worlds.

NICHOLAS ALLBROOK

Allbrook is back with his fourth solo album

“Oh, man, I just hope it really drives a dagger into people’s hearts,” Allbrook half-jokes.

“Honestly, I’d be so happy if people chucked it on and put on the poppiest song on repeat to drive around with their mates. That would be sick. But if I’m being honest, I really want people to cry their eyes out.”

The creation of Manganese was not without its challenges. Allbrook openly admits moments of self-doubt where he questioned the quality of his work and contemplated abandoning the project entirely. However, with the support of a “shitload of people”, he found renewed enthusiasm to resurrect the album.

“There were maybe several times that I decided that it was all shit and didn’t want to put it out. That’s always what I do, especially with solo albums…But I’m sure everyone else who works

WORDS BY COCO VELDKAMP

Æ Speaking over Zoom from his coastal home in Fremantle - Allbrook is full of energy and immediately captivates. His musical talent is extraordinary; he’s an acclaimed songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer. But perhaps more compelling is his apparent state of mind. The way he sees the world is indicative of someone far older than the 35-year-old - but his eccentricity, fervour and lust for life are intense.

Set to be released on June 9 via Spinning Top Records, Manganese builds on Allbrook’s already impressive discography, having previously co-founded and fronted Pond and toured as the bassist of Tame Impala.

Allbrook emphasises his open-mindedness and passion for blending musical styles in his conception of the 11-track album, heeding his own enjoyment and allowing it to usher his artistic direction.

“Everything’s inspiring, I guess... I just go with what I enjoy and where it takes me, and that’s where it took me,” Allbrook explains.

Manganese is a deeply personal and introspective album for Allbrook, akin to a collection of diary entries. Each track offers a glimpse into his thoughts, emotions, and experiences, culminating in a mosaic of self-expression. Allbrook finds power in words, even when their meaning may seem elusive or intangible. This approach gives the album its distinct character.

“For me, the only way things ever become conceptually concise is by complete accident,” he said.

“This is just a vomit of things that I think or even don’t think. Sometimes words just feel good - even when the meaning is a bit vaporous or whatever.”

Among the tracks on Manganese, a few hold particular significance for Allbrook. Released in February to preview the album, Jackie is a poignant tribute to a departed friend. The track serves as a cathartic outlet for Allbrook to process his emotions - a reasoning which resides behind many songs on the album.

“[Jackie] is about a friend of mine who died. It almost seemed like a way of legitimising her death for me and all the things that you think when a friend passes. Like, I didn’t see them enough, or I didn’t call them enough,” he said.

“A lot of people have a way of writing in a diary or talking to a friend or doing therapy to figure things out by putting them outside of your own brain.

“And I think it was a way of figuring out the loss and tragedy of it. And how that is not always the case - that there is beauty and transcendence to it.”

With lyrics like “Somewhere silent, free from violence/ Attended by angels, as you float ‘tween the islands” Allbrook does just that. And it is tracks like this - scattered throughout the album - that promise a sonically and emotionally enriching experience for listeners.

on anything by themselves has to go through that kind of self-doubting. And now I know that it’s a valley, not the edge of the world.”

Manganese is a testament to Allbrook’s ability to capture complex ideas and feelings in his sound; a power he is grateful for. Through his music, he creates an intimate connection with listeners, inviting them to embark on a reflective journey alongside him.

“Music gives the opportunity to be vulnerable with yourself and the listener,” he resolves.

NICHOLAS ALLBROOK

WHERE: THE WORKERS CLUB, FITZROY

WHEN: 15 JUNE

Manganese is out on 9 June

“And I think it was a way of figuring out the loss and tragedy of it. And how that is not always the case - that there is beauty and transcendence to it.”

Manganese promising a fusion of pop, psychedelic rock and experimental elements while delving into everything from existential musings to the complexities and nuances of relationships.

Credit: Dana Trippe

RVG

Brain Worms

Æ In the presser for Common Ground – RVG’s latest single and also this album’s jangly, atmospheric opener – singer-guitarist Romy Vager shares, “Something that Sarah [Thompson] from Camp Cope said to me years ago has always stuck with me: ‘No matter what we do, they’re still going to hate us’.”

“I think I’m giving up/ Enough is enough/ You don’t want me…” – from this opening resignation right through to closer Tropic Of Cancer’s final strum, Brain Worms is an immersive, thought-provoking listening experience. There’s exactly zero filler here; every single song is vital and captivating.

While bushfires ravaged Australia in 2019, Vager poured her frustrations over climate change deniers – many of which steered the discourse towards “how much they hate immigrants or queer people” – into another of this record’s stunning singles: the roaring Midnight Sun.

RVG – which is rounded out by guitarist Reuben Bloxham, bassist Isobele Wallace and drummer Marc Nolte – sound more explosive and instrumentally in sync than ever before on album number three. And Vager’s vocal delivery – frequently tinged with despair – unleashes defiant force as required: “I know what I’m like, and I know how I get/ If you think I’m strange, you ain’t seen nothin’ yeeeeeEEEEEEET…”

There are also occasional moments of gallows humour, which add levity while somehow never diminishing the record’s overall poignancy: “And I don’t wanna see you go/ Through a tab on Google Chrome” – although Tambourine’s Zoom-funeral subject matter hits us where it hurts, we also find ourselves grinning ‘cause it’s just so goddamn poetically put! Then when Vager repeats, “I wish I had’ve said I love you,” at this song’s conclusion – a grand total of eight times – her heartbreak is palpable.

Lyrical repetition is used to spectacular effect throughout Brain Worms: when Squid’s irresistible manic energy ebbs slightly, a hypnotic breakdown underscores Vager’s rhythmic singing (“I’m under the water/ I’m under the water…”). Also, during Nothing Really Changes – a new-wave strut resplendent with synth solo – she repeats, mantralike, “No, I don’t wanna fight/ I don’t wanna fight/ I don’t wanna fight/ I don’t wanna fight…”

Elsewhere: the ferocious title track is about falling down an internet rabbit hole “and finding comfort in conspiracies”; You’re The Reason (“...I can’t have nice things”) – a downcast, downtempo palate cleanser – navigates spiritless, rock-bottom depression; and Vager uses humour to expose the ridiculous (Giant Snake).

Abrasive, beautiful, illuminating and despondent all at once, Brain Worms is as multifaceted as life itself. Can. Not. Stop. Listening! Totally in awe of this record’s brilliance.

From Melbourne, With Love

Æ A nine-track curation of unreleased tracks by Section 8-approved local artists, From Melbourne, With Love (as the title suggests) is “a love letter to the city’s vibrant music culture”. And this Melbourne institution’s aim for their inaugural vinyl release was to “make a record that was something you could cook a nice meal to or lay back on the couch and chill to”.

Soothing, harmonised “OOOoooh-ohoh”s and crisp fingersnaps glide through Water (Nikodimos and Elysia), before a cheeky flute solo carries this pulsing opener away. “We dive through deep water” – Adam’s ale also permeates Get The Gold (walla C feat. Thamson. P), with Thamson. P’s rhythmic flow and what sound like wind chimes twinkling in the mix.

Love Come Round (Local Knowledge feat. Emma Volard) boasts an irresistible, laidback groove – is it beergarden weather yet? And is that a Roots Manuva sample –“Well well well” from Witness (1 Hope) – we detect in the funky, brass-infused Amnesia Haze (Amin Payne feat. OJ KUSH)? During the closing Fire (Culture Evolves), didge vibrations and birdsong transport us out bush.

“Section 8/ Watch me as I levitate” – SADIVA drops a pin during the floaty highlight, Hold Me Down (feat. Soul Journal). And can we picture ourselves at this hip inner-city container bar, perched on a repurposed crate, cradling a generous pour of wine while soaking up these sounds? Hell, yeah.

SECTION 8

DZ DEATHRAYS R.I.F.F.

Æ As is their wont, DZ Deathrays deal countless expletives (especially “motherfucker”s), thrilling riffs, drum demolition and rallying vocals throughout R.I.F.F. (an acronym for Remember, It’s For Fun). “Oi! Oi!/ You’re paranoid!/ Just bought a ticket, to get destroyed!” – R.I.F.F.’s opening lead single, Paranoid – with its well-timed “OOH!” hitting like an unexpected gut-punch – is lethal moshpit fuel.

DZ pull the reins in slightly during King B – with its acoustic guitars, piano plonks and blazing synths – before their trademark stank face-inducing riffs hijack the scene. My Mind Is Eating Me Alive – a stomping glam-rock highlight resplendent with clap-happy, mid-song breakdown – is T.Rex on steroids. Elsewhere: DZ’s carnivalesque belter Tuff Luck channels their recent tourmates, Regurgitator; Love & Destruction’s “Ah-ah-ah-AH-ah”s summon Kasabian; and siren-like riffs elevate No Talk – “I’m gonna need you to look away!”

It’s exhilarating to imagine young Heartbreak High reboot watchers discovering DZ for the first time (the band’s 2018 single, Like People, features in an EP and one of this show’s main characters, Harper, even rocks their merch!). DZ Deathrays create ideal smash-room soundtracks. And 15 years’ experience as touring mad dogs translates to all-time-high technical chops, which makes album number six their best set yet.

Did you know? To celebrate the release of their sixth record, DZ Deathrays ran a presale comp offering fans the chance to win a free R.I.F.F. tattoo at a parlour in their closest city. And just when you thought these Brisvegas-bred legends couldn’t get any more rock’n’roll, they go and release a premium tequila coffee liqueur, Café Deathray.

JACK RIVER

Endless Summer

Æ Jack River (real name: Holly Rankin) has described her previous album, 2018’s Sugar Mountain, as “a place to escape the past”, whereas Endless Summer “is for escaping our future”. And although this record was written before she fell pregnant, Rankin – also an activist – acknowledges, “The reality of the Endless Summer we are entering globally has become even more tactile for me after the birth of my child.”

“I wanna take you out into the sunshine/ Make it real life, baby” – have you ever heard a more syncable song than Endless Summer’s opener, Real Life? (Warning: the film clip stars old men in budgie smugglers sunbaking.) Lie In The Sun (“Do you wanna lie in the sun tonight?/ Do you wanna, do you wanna, can you do it right?”) is an irresistible, sun-kissed earworm and the title track (feat. Genesis Owusu’s suave guest vocals) is about running away with that special someone.

So many new releases contain gloomy, Covid-influenced material at present, but Endless Summer instead sends postcards from aspirational Hot Girl Summers. The record isn’t just about escapism, however: softly strummed closer Stranger’s Dream, featuring elongated strings, reflects on the untimely death of Rankin’s younger sister.

As its title suggests, Jack River’s second album – mostly produced by Matt Corby – contains lashings of sugary pop confection (think: Steal My Sunshine by Len) and hooks for days.

NEIL GAIMAN & FOURPLAY STRING QUARTET

Signs Of Life

Æ In 2010, Sydney Opera House’s Graphic Festival commissioned FourPlay String Quartet to score a live reading of award-winning English author/screenwriter Neil Gaiman’s novella, The Truth Is A Cave In The Black Mountains, which prompted ongoing collaborative endeavours; their project reimagining the zodiac – for which traditional signs were replaced with new objects – birthed Clock, this album’s opener, amongst its resulting suite of songs. And how’s this for a creative process? To emulate a clock ticking, FourPlay set a metronome to 60 bpm and then composed this entire piece – resplendent with haunting, repeated strings motif – “in one improvised run”. Then when they shared Clock with Gaiman, he immediately thought a reading of Shakespeare’s Sonnet #12 (“When I do count the clock that tells the time…”) would be complementary – such genius!

The quartet replicate seagull cries and birdsong to open the harrowing Poem First Read On January 26th 2011 At The Sydney Opera House, which details “casual genocide” and should be added to our school curriculums: “We’re transients, the land remains/ Until its outlines wash away/ While night falls down like drop bears don’t/ To swallow up Australia Day.” Then closer Oceanic evokes being lost at sea before trilling strings inject thrilling motion, like swelling waves threatening to engulf a small vessel.

Seeped in nuanced, atmospheric instrumental detail, Signs Of Life will delight fans of Nick Cave and Warren Ellis’s soundtrack work.

WORDS BY SIDONIE BIRD DE LA COUER AND KAYA MARTIN

CACTUS ROOM

LIVE MUSIC is brash, loud and unforgiving at Cactus Room – most of the time. The space is known as a DIY punk mecca. There’s a good chance you’ll be dodging flying elbows and other debris in the pit. Look alive.

FAMOUS FOR giving the Northside music community a place to meet, hang out and work on new material. Alongside the venue space and the cozy beer garden, they also have rehearsal space where musos can sharpen their skills without worrying about making too much noise.

INFAMOUS FOR its stageless stage design. Founders Dave Houston and Neil Smith wanted to channel a house party vibe, so bands play on the floor while the fans pack in close. It’s a bit looser, more rambunctious and more unhinged.

Æ Maybe it’s a bit out of the way unless you’re a Thornbury local, but it’s well worth the journey. If you dig live music, cold beer, art and general good times, you’ll definitely want to save this spot to your Google Maps.

Scratch that music-making itch any day of the week by bringing your bandmates down to one of their three rehearsal rooms. Offering drum kit rentals and one of the most reasonable rates in town, it’s an easy choice.

If you’re good enough, you might even score a chance to drop an EP through the venue’s own up-and-coming record label, Cactus Records. Plus, you can always grab a drink from their fully-stocked bar and catch a gig when you’re done practising.

To ensure that you’re fully immersed in the creative spirit, the bandroom also features regular art exhibitions. At any given time, the walls will be decorated with murals, paintings, and digital art displays beamed up by the projector. If that doesn’t get those juices flowing, we don’t know what will.

HOTEL RAILWAY

FAMOUS FOR serving up the best Sunday roast in town and featuring the biggest outdoor screen in Brunswick for all you footy fiends out there.

INFAMOUS FOR subverting expectations and adding a contemporary twist to the traditional corner pub experience in Brunswick.

Æ You just can’t keep a good pub down. After reopening in 2020, Hotel Railway has reclaimed its rightful place at the beating heart of the ever-vibrant Brunswick.

Step inside and you’ll discover a pub that effortlessly blends old-world charm with a modern twist. Featuring an eclectic mix of multi-era furniture, quirky memorabilia and eccentric artwork, this old local creates a truly unique atmosphere with their contemporary touches the likes of custom carpets, Italian-inspired murals and sleek lighting.

Hotel Railway is the place to be in the heart of AFL season; with the biggest outdoor screen in Brunswick, you won’t miss a single minute of the footy action. With a dedication to showcasing the AFLW, multiple screens spread across the venue mean you can catch various games and sports simultaneously.

One of the highlights of Hotel Railway is their traditional Sunday Roast. With their Yorkshire pudding and triple-cooked potatoes adding the perfect touch to what is arguably the best Sunday roast in town, this classic corner pub might just become your local haunt on a Sunday arvo.

With a rich history of serving locals for over a century, this fun, casual, and inclusive venue offers a range of sharp local spirits, seasonal and quality cocktails - as well as a wine list with an organic, bio, and natural twist. And, of course, there’s plenty of beer to choose from while you enjoy a game of footy or compete in their trivia nights.

WHERE: 614 HIGH ST, THORNBURY

OPEN: DAILY FROM 12PM

WHERE: 291–293 ALBERT ST, BRUNSWICK OPEN: 12PM–1AM FRI–SUN, 4PM–11PM MON–THU

THE LAST CHANCE ROCK & ROLL BAR

LIVE MUSIC takes place in its intimate, 185-capacity bandroom and is the beating heart of this late night punk watering hole that electrifies the atmosphere and keeps the crowd rocking all night long.

FAMOUS FOR showcasing both up-and-coming local bands and established acts, providing a platform for diverse musical talents and fostering a vibrant music scene. Oh - and their Pozible campaign to save The Tote from developers.

INFAMOUS FOR its grungy and edgy vibe. The Last Chance has also gained notoriety as the go-to spot for those seeking an unapologetically rebellious and punk rock experience, where the authentic and unconventional thrives.

Æ If you’re craving an authentic rock bar experience, The Last Chance has you covered. The bar regularly hosts gigs, ensuring that the rhythm of live music never fades away. Sip on craft beers and indulge in American-inspired snacks as you immerse yourself in the diverse sounds of the local music scene.

This late-night punk rock hole, owned by the dynamic duo Shane Hilton and Leanne Chance, has become a haven for intimate gigs and unforgettable nights out.

Step into The Last Chance and feel the energy pulsating through the air; with up to eight live shows a week, this venue is a rock lover’s paradise.

The Last Chance feels like a home away from home, attracting a diverse crowd of music lovers. With its post-modern punk-rock theme, the venue oozes authenticity and street-smart charm, providing the perfect backdrop for the young rock ‘n’ rollers, punk warriors, and gothic goddesses of Melbourne.

You won’t go hungry at The Last Chance either. The kitchen serves up classic pub food that hits the spot, and they even have great vegan options for those with a taste for plant-based delights. Don’t miss out on the $10 Monday schnitzel and gravy special—it’s the best value meal in Melbourne.

The Last Chance is your best chance for a late-night party that lasts until the sun comes up. Keep the energy flowing as the beer keeps pouring, and when dawn breaks, head across the road to the Queen Victoria Market for a well-deserved breakfast.

THE TOFF IN TOWN

LIVE MUSIC is a mixed bag at The Toff. From country rock to hyperpop, the stage welcomes all kinds with open arms.

FAMOUS FOR its curated cocktail menu. Sure, they’ve got beer and wine, but make sure to sample some of their elegant Thai-inspired cocktails if you’d like to make the most of your experience.

INFAMOUS FOR that bloody staircase. Thankfully The Toff is only on the second floor of Curtin House, but if you’ve downed a few too many bevvies at the gig, it can be a treacherous descent back to Swanson Street. Multiply that by a thousand if you’ve snuck off to the rooftop for a smoke.

Æ The Toff in Town is the live music centrepiece of our favourite adult playground: Curtin House. If you’re on a night out in the CBD, there’s a solid chance you’ll end up there. The building really has it all – designer clothing shops, a bookstore, two restaurants and the famous rooftop, where the cool kids sit on the staircase and gaze out at the city.

The Toff is our favourite piece of the puzzle. With cozy booths and balanced, foam-topped cocktails, the intimate space offers a classy listening experience. You can even order a few Thai-style bites from Cookie next door to be delivered to your carriage. We recommend the crispy pork belly and fried egg salad.

Otherwise, jump in the crowd and boogie down. There’s something to see almost every night they’re open (Thursday to Sunday, by the way). Both DJs and live bands often make appearances at The Toff and despite the swanky setting, it’s been known to get a little rowdy. Local legends are always at home on The Toff stage, but lately it’s become a bit more of a hotspot for avant-garde international acts as well – we’re especially looking forward to Iglooghost’s show on June 8.

GIG GUIDE

JUNE 2023

THU 8 JUNE

SUPERCAB. NOLESS

Bar Oussou, Brunswick. 8pm.

JO MEARES’ SILVER BULLETS + GARETH SKINNER

George Lane, St Kilda. 7pm. $23 - 35.

KEENAN TE

Howler, Brunswick. 8pm. $34.90.

JOSIE LAVER + MISTY HARLOWE

One2three Bar, Clifton Hill. 7pm. $16.

TRIPLIKATZ

Wesley Anne, Northcote. 6pm.

THE WAIFS. MAMA KIN SPENDER

Northcote Theatre. 7.30pm. $91.80.

HAIL MARY

JANE. FLOOD, THEY MIGHT BE DEAD FROGS

The Tote, Collingwood. 8pm. $11.25.

OPEN MIC

Ragtime Tavern, Preston. 6pm.

WINNIE LANE. REPLACEMENT DRIVER, LUNA THE MOON

The Bergy Seltzer, Brunswick. 8pm. $11.75.

GLASSHOUSE

JAM

303 Bar, Northcote. 8pm. Free.

THE STANDALONES. THE DAILY COMMUTERS, CAL

The Old Bar, Fitzroy. 8pm.

THE DELINES.

JIMBO MATHUS

Brunswick Ballroom. 8pm. $59.77.

ANGELA LIBRANDI & CARMEN HENDRICKS

Paris Cat Jazz Club, Melbourne. 7pm. $45.

EMILY WILLIAMS: WOMEN OF COLOUR

Bird’s Basement, Melbourne. 6pm. $40.

JONATHAN SKOVRON TRIO

The Jazzlab, Brunswick. 7.30pm. $20 - 25.

CHER: THE MUSIC - A TRIBUTE BY FANNY ADAMS Pride Of Our Footscray Community Bar. 8pm. $15.

SHAKY STILLS

The Merri Creek Tavern, Northcote. 8pm. Free.

PARENTS BATTLE OF THE BANDS #1

FEAT: Assembly, Double Denim, The Nits, Westgarth Idol Northcote Social Club. 7pm. $29.10.

MURPHNICK BAND. SIMON

JULIFF BAND Cactus Room, Thornbury. 7pm. Free.

KAREN & THE MANAGERS. DIRTY GWEN, BRUNETTE RED DRESS Retreat Hotel, Brunswick. 7pm. $12.25.

RESTLESS: CLICKBAIT BIRTHDAY EDITION

FEAT: Clickbait, Anyo, Luke Vecchio, No Era, Joey Coco, Pooks, Addzy Section 8, Melbourne. 6pm.

RISING: DESIRE

MAREA. DEBBY FRIDAY

Max Watt’s, Melbourne. 8pm. $62.25.

INNER

SANCTUARY: DJ JNETT + JIMMY JAMES Whitehart Bar, Melbourne. 3pm. Free.

SECRET SHOW

Gem Bar, Collingwood. 8pm. Free.

FRI 9 JUNE

BODIES + KRUL + GENTLES

The Catfish, Fitzroy. 7.30pm. $10.

PANIK. RIOT AFTER MIDNIGHT, KATANA CARTEL, CARTHUS

Evelyn Hotel, Fitzroy. 7pm. $15.

BLACKBIRDS F.C

George Lane, St Kilda. 7pm. $23 - 35.

NATHAN GABRIEL

Inkerman Hotel, St Kilda East. 7.30pm.

FLANNEL MOUTH

Musicland, Fawkner. 7.30pm.

BUTTERED

Gasometer, Collingwood. 7.30pm. $17.85.

CRAYFISH & JOEL YORKSHIRE

Stingo, Abbotsford. 7pm.

ALICE BISSCHOPS TRIO

Wesley Anne, Northcote. 6pm.

SIMPLY DIVINYLS

Cherry Bar, Melbourne. 8pm. $22.59.

THE CAP GUN KILLS. THE JIVES, THE ASTROTURFS

The Tote, Collingwood. 8pm. $11.25.

HUMAN JUKEBOX

Ragtime Tavern, Preston. 8pm.

GUN LAWS. NERVOUS TENSION, THE INSTITUTE FOR GOOD GIRLS

The Bergy Seltzer, Brunswick. 8pm. $11.75.

THE POOR

Leadbeater Hotel, Richmond. 8pm. $25.

THEE CHA

CHA CHAS

Bar Open, Fitzroy. 6pm. Free.

SIN CITY. ALEX

HAMILTON BAND, MAXI & THE BOYS

The Old Bar, Fitzroy. 8pm. $11.25.

SOUTHERN RIVER BAND

Brunswick Ballroom. 8pm. $33.76.

SWIMCART

The Thornbury Local. 8pm.

LACHIE GILL

Bird’s Basement, Melbourne. 6pm. $25.

FLOODLIGHTS

Corner Hotel, Richmond. 8.30pm.

HTRK. JOSHUA WELLS & KARINA UTOMO, UNCERTAIN REGARD

The Curtin, Carlton. 8pm. $36.55.

LONGBOYS. SUNDAY HONEY, DAY DREAMERS

The Workers Club, Fitzroy. 8pm. $15.05.

DISCOVERY: DAFT PUNK TRIBUTE SHOW - 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF RANDOM ACCESS MEMORIES.

MACK MOSES, DEANNA

Hotel Esplanade (aka

The Espy), St Kilda. 9pm. $35.20 - 44.40.

WINTER SERIES: APHRODITE

Stay Gold, Brunswick. 11pm. $32.64.

CHRISTIAN BURKHARDT

OneSixOne, Prahran. 9pm.

CLAPS & SNUGGLES

Whitehart Bar, Melbourne. 4pm. Free.

SWAYFEVER. WU KUSH, M80

Baby Snakes Bar, Footscray. 7pm.

DAN BRODIE & THE SHADOWS OF LOVE. HANA & JESSIE-LEE’S BAD HABITS

Gem Bar, Collingwood. 8pm. Free.

SAT 10 JUNE

THE MIRRORS. SOS ICEBERG

Rainbow Hotel, Fitzroy. 10pm. Free.

LO!. BLACK LAVA, CLASS TRAITOR

Evelyn Hotel, Fitzroy. 8.30pm. $26.15.

INTI RAYMI / WE TRIPANTU

FEAT: Rodrigo

Gallardo

Howler, Brunswick. 7pm. $38.76.

SADDLE CLUB

Gasometer, Collingwood. 9pm. $12.25.

BUD ROKESKY

Wesley Anne, Northcote. 8pm. $17.35.

ASTRODEATH

Cherry Bar, Melbourne. 8pm. $22.59.

LIVE PIANO

Ragtime Tavern, Preston. 8pm.

RAGING HORMONES. THE VOVOS, FAN GIRL, TUDOR CLUB

The Bergy Seltzer, Brunswick. 8pm. $20.

CHERISH. HACKER, REAKSI, FRAME, MORE 303 Bar, Northcote.

8pm. $15 - 20.

ALLI AVENUE. OZONE, UNCLE UMMA

Leadbeater Hotel, Richmond.

8.30pm. $15.85.

LOSTII. DIRT HAND, MILKSICK Bar Open, Fitzroy.

8.30pm. $17.35.

FOREVER YOUNG: BOB

DYLAN 82ND BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

Brunswick Ballroom.

8pm. $59.77.

JUNE LOW + MOSES LEIGH JONES

The Thornbury Local. 8pm.

MITCH JAMES. CASSIE HENDERSON

The Workers Club, Fitzroy. 8pm. $30.

SLOMO. HEARTS & ROCKETS

Gem Bar, Collingwood. 8pm. Free.

RODEO NIGHTS

Daylesford Hotel. 6pm.

CHRIS PICKERING EXPERIMENT

Edinburgh Castle Hotel, Brunswick. 6pm.

PINCH POINTS.

GUT HEALTH, BILLIAM, BILLIAM & THE SPLIT BILLS

Northcote Social Club. 8pm. $24

HUMAN INTRUSION.

TWINS SPORT, BLANCO TRANCO, THE TECHNO BIDDIES

Cactus Room, Thornbury. 8pm. $15.

THICK AS THIEVES & MAMI PRESENT RESONANCE

The Night Cat, Fitzroy. 9pm. $29.46 - 34.56.

HELL FUCK

YEAH: IT’S AN ARTS FEST

The Fitzroy Pinnacle, Fitzroy North. 2pm. $17.19.

CONDENSED

MILK PRESENTS TAIJAE & AMIN PAYNE

Whitehart Bar, Melbourne. 4pm. Free.

RHUS QUARTET

Retreat Hotel, Brunswick. 7.30pm. $10.

NANEMEI

The Jazzlab, Brunswick. 8pm. $30 - 35.

IRIE

Post Office Hotel, Coburg. 9pm.

PURE FUEGO EUROVISION PARTY

Stay Gold, Brunswick. 11pm. $13.30.

SHED ZEPPELIN

Dogs Bar, St Kilda. 8pm.

THU 15 JUNE

SONIC ECLIPSE FT. SPEAK PERCUSSION

Melbourne Recital Centre, Southbank. 8pm. $60

WOMEN @ LOWY LIVE LAUNCH: SARITA MCHARG

Lomond Hotel, Brunswick East. 8pm. $25.

SCI FIGHT COMEDY DEBATE: WE SHOULD SEARCH FOR LIFE OUT THERE Howler, Brunswick. 6.30pm. $34.68.

GABRIELLA COHEN

Gasometer, Collingwood. 7.30pm. Free.

NATURE IN THE CITY

Wesley Anne, Northcote. 6pm.

COY FOX. SOFIA, CONVENIENCE STORE

The Tote, Collingwood. 8pm. $15.30.

OPEN MIC

Ragtime Tavern, Preston. 6pm.

MELBOURNE TRAP

ORCHESTRA.

BIG CHOCOLATE, BABE

The Bergy Seltzer, Brunswick. 8pm. $15.

MOUNT KUJO

303 Bar, Northcote. 8pm.

THE CLEVER REFERENCES.

BLACK DIME

CABARET, MAC & STEEZE

The Old Bar, Fitzroy. 8pm. $10.

BRUNSWICK BALL

Brunswick Ballroom. 7pm. $43.96.

BASEMENT SPACEMAN

Edinburgh Castle Hotel, Brunswick. 6pm.

RISING:

REAL LIES

Max Watt’s, Melbourne. 8pm. $57.15.

INNER

SANCTUARY:

DJ JNETT +

JIMMY JAMES

Whitehart Bar, Melbourne. 3pm. Free.

BLAKE SCOTT & BAND. KATE ALEXANDER BAND

The Curtin, Carlton. 8pm.

NICK ALLBROOK

The Workers Club, Fitzroy. 7pm. $23.20.

THE CHURCH

Palais Theatre, St Kilda. 7pm.

NATURE IN THE CITY

Wesley Anne, Northcote. 6pm. Free.

SHAKY STILLS

The Merri Creek Tavern, Northcote. 8pm. Free.

SECRET SHOW

Gem Bar, Collingwood. 8pm. Free.

FRI 16 JUNE

HEADROOM

Rubix Warehouse, Brunswick. 10pm. $10.

SYML

Howler, Brunswick. 6.30pm.

ROCK SOLID

Musicland, Fawkner. 7.30pm. $15.

TIG LIESCHKE

Gasometer, Collingwood. 7pm. $17.85.

MATT HOYNE TRIO

Wesley Anne, Northcote. 6pm.

LAST CHANCE TO SAVE THE TOTE FUNDRAISING SHOW

FEAT: Area 7, 28 Days, Loin Groin, The Resignators, more The Tote, Collingwood. 8pm. $108.15.

BOOF!

Ragtime Tavern, Preston. 8pm.

JACK CHAMPION

The Bergy Seltzer, Brunswick. 8.30pm.

RAMONA SKY. CREATURE FEAR, PRIMAL

The Bergy Seltzer, Brunswick. 8pm. $25.

THE TONALISTS 303 Bar, Northcote. 8pm. $20.

EMOTION

PICTURE. CAHILL KELLY, LAURA NORDA

The Old Bar, Fitzroy. 8pm.

BOOM CRASH OPERA

Brunswick Ballroom. 8.30pm. $45.

OH! DAISY. THE FLYING SO HIGH-OS, GRASS STAINS, AMBULANCE, APPREHENSIVE Bad Decisions Bar, Fitzroy. 8pm. $15.

VOIID. BLIND GIRLS

Northcote Social Club. 8pm. $24.

FRANJAFEST

FEAT: Franjapan, Holly Hebe, Tough Break, Floozy, Mother Culture, Pretty Bleak, Spenser Hotel Esplanade

(aka The Espy), St Kilda. 6pm. $22.95.

DEVILLE

Stay Gold, Brunswick. 7pm. $44.90.

HOWLING MOUNTAIN.

BASTARD NÖRTH, LONG HOLIDAY

Cactus Room, Thornbury. 8pm. $15.

CAITLIN HARNETT & THE PONY

BOYS. QUEENIE, TAMARA & THE DREAMS

The Curtin, Carlton. 8pm. $38.70.

SARAH MCLEOD

The Workers Club, Fitzroy. 8pm. $33.40.

DONNY BENÉT

Corner Hotel, Richmond. 8.30pm. $55.20.

BRICK JAMES WITH KUFA

Whitehart Bar, Melbourne. 4pm. Free.

THE OPERATIVES

FEAT: JPS, Nam, more Section 8, Melbourne. 6pm. Free.

GYPSY KING JONES

The Thornbury Local. 8pm.

PHISHA

The Mersh, Yarraville. 5pm.

BOY & BEAR.

FELIVAND, BOO SEEKA

Palais Theatre, St Kilda. 7.30pm.

CORKSCREW

Edinburgh Castle Hotel, Brunswick. 6pm.

BIG LEAGUE + TRUE SOUND

Gem Bar, Collingwood. 8pm. Free.

SAT 17 JUNE

AUS VRS VIBES WITH CROWN HEIGHTS VS. RAS

JAHKNOW BAND

FEAT: Jah Tung, Shottaz, Zare Demus, Jesse I, DJ Emporer Sativa, more

Croxton Bandroom, Thornbury. 9pm. $25.50 - 29.60.

TIMOTHY WOLF & THE HOWLERS

Rainbow Hotel, Fitzroy. 10pm. Free.

T.Y. JUST SHY, MAREYA

The Catfish, Fitzroy. 7.30pm. $15.

LA FURIA PRESENTS: ROCK

AL BAILE. THE NEW MONOS

Evelyn Hotel, Fitzroy. 8pm. $22.

SELFISH SONS. CHLOE DADD

Gasometer, Collingwood.

7.30pm. $30.60.

REMAINS. RESISTANCE, SLIME CITY, CLOGGED

Whole Lotta

Love, Brunswick East. 8pm. $15.

WAVE JAZZ TRIO

Wesley Anne, Northcote. 6pm.

BRAD COX. AUSTIN MACKAY

Northcote Theatre.

7.30pm. $61.20.

RIOT ACT

Cherry Bar, Melbourne. 8pm. $22.59.

TAXI KIDS. PIGEON

The Gem Bar, Collingwood. 4pm. Free.

BONNIEMUSE + REFLEJOS

Ragtime Tavern, Preston. 8pm.

DAREBIN SONGWRITERS GUILD 303 Bar, Northcote. 3.30pm. Free.

WOODY PITNEY

Leadbeater Hotel, Richmond. 8pm. $22.94.

CHERRY FACTORY. THE TAEKWON BAKEHOUSE, PRETTY MOI

Bar Open, Fitzroy. 8.30pm. $17.35.

LOTHARIO. SCREENSAVER, STREETSWEEPER

The Old Bar, Fitzroy. 8pm.

THE DOLLY PARTON EXPERIENCE

Brunswick Ballroom. 8pm. $38.86.

MANGROVE + BIG REEF. JIM DUSTY

The Workers Club, Fitzroy. 1pm. $13.

WAVYLAND PRESENTS GEORGE CLANTON

The Night Cat. Fitzroy. 8pm. $65.15.

FANTASEA WITH PALAZZO + TOCCA

Whitehart Bar, Melbourne. 4pm. Free.

THE BONE FOLDERS

The Thornbury Local. 8pm.

COTERIE. BEN SWISSA

Corner Hotel, Richmond. 8pm. $39.90.

ALEX LLOYD

Hotel Esplanade (aka The Espy), St Kilda. 5.30pm. $44.40.

FUJI ROCK

Stay Gold, Brunswick. 11pm. $13.30.

JAMES REYNE + ELLA HOOPER

Palais Theatre, St Kilda. 7pm.

CAP CARTER

Northcote Social Club. 8.30pm. $40.40.

THE GOOCH

PALMS + BILLIAM

Gem Bar, Collingwood. 8pm. Free.

THU 22 JUNE

SHOL QUARTET

Wesley Anne, Northcote. 6pm.

OPEN MIC

Ragtime Tavern, Preston. 6pm.

THE LACHY

DOLEY GROUP

Brunswick Ballroom. 8pm. $38.86.

WILSON & WHITE

Edinburgh Castle Hotel, Brunswick. 6pm.

SHAKY STILLS

The Merri Creek Tavern, Northcote. 8pm. Free.

BEDDY RAYS. SOUTH SUMMIT, BETTY TAYLOR

Corner Hotel, Richmond. 8pm. $40.40.

INNER SANCTUARY: DJ JNETT + JIMMY JAMES

Whitehart Bar, Melbourne. 3pm. Free.

FRI 23 JUNE

ISUA. GOAT SHAMAN, PROKOP, AGLO

Evelyn Hotel, Fitzroy. 8pm. $20.

REIGN: THE AUSSIE CRAWL & DRAGON TRIBUTE Musicland, Fawkner. 7.30pm. $15.

AINE TYRRELL

Wesley Anne, Northcote. 8pm.

TO OCTAVIA

Yah Yah’s, Fitzroy. 9pm. $15.

PUTRESCENT SEEPAGE + DRIPPED

The Tote, Collingwood. 7.30pm. $17.35.

PARTY PEST. HANA & JESSIELEE’S BAD HABITS

The Gem Bar, Collingwood. 8pm. Free.

JAMES MARPLES & FRIENDS

Ragtime Tavern, Preston. 8pm.

DARN MATTER: 40TH BIRTHDAY SHOW. SAPPHIRE STREET, DOPPLERHAUS

The Bergy Seltzer, Brunswick. 8pm. $13.80.

THREE BASE HIT Bar Open, Fitzroy. 6.30pm. Free.

SONDER. WELL, GIL CERRONE

The Old Bar, Fitzroy. 8pm.

THE GROGANS. AUNTIE LEO & THE BACKSTABBERS, FREYA JOSEPHINE

HOLLICK Brunswick Ballroom. 8.30pm. $43.96.

AMONG THE RESTLESS

The Night Cat, Fitzroy. 7pm. $29.46.

CASH SAVAGE & THE LAST DRINKS. GUT HEALTH Corner Hotel, Richmond. 8.30pm.

BLACKFIRE. ANDREW MCSWEENEY

Memo Music Hall, St Kilda. 7pm. $20.

THE ANGELS: SYMPHONY OF ANGELS

Palais Theatre, St Kilda. 7pm.

OSCAR LADELL

The Thornbury Local. 8pm.

SUNSHINE & DISCO FAITH CHOIR PRESENT SOUL TRAIN

Hotel Esplanade (aka The Espy), St Kilda. 8pm. $54.60.

ROSARIO DE MARCO

Edinburgh Castle Hotel. Brunswick. 6pm.

SAM ALFRED Max Watt’s, Melbourne. 9pm.

HUDSNJMSJR

Whitehart Bar, Melbourne. 4pm. Free.

WINTER SERIES: POLA + BRYSON NEW GUERNICA. Collingwood. 10pm. $32.64.

TÍYKHÍA: RNB NIGHT

Paris Cat Jazz Club, Melbourne. 6pm. $40.

JESSE REDWING Dogs Bar, St Kilda. 8pm.

THE DOLPHINS. SYLVIA

Rainbow Hotel, Fitzroy. 10pm. Free.

FLITCRAFT. THE VENDETTAS, DRACOREX, DAY OF CLINT

Evelyn Hotel, Fitzroy. 8pm. $15.

PURPLE REVOLUTION: IN LOVING MEMORY OF PRINCE

Musicland, Fawkner. 7.30pm. $25.

RETURN OF THE YOUTH

FEAT: Fever Shack, Wolfpack, Blood On

My Hands, Threshold, Grave Risk

Gasometer, Collingwood. 1pm. $14.30 - 17.85.

DOGGEREL

Wesley Anne, Northcote. 6pm.

TROPHY EYES. ELIZA & THE DELUSIONALS

Northcote Theatre. 7.30pm. $49.90.

THE SHADOW MINISTERS. LONG HOLIDAY

Cherry Bar, Melbourne. 9pm.

STONER LIBERATION

VOLUME VII

FEAT Death By Carrot, Spawn, Heavy Amber, Zelkova, Neon Goblin

The Tote, Collingwood. 7pm. $22.45.

ANYPLACE RADIO PRESENTS CRYBABY + CAUCASIANOPPORTUNITIES. VAN RULLEN, OCCASUS

The Toff In Town, Melbourne. 11pm.

270 DEGREES + MEG MCINTOSH

Ragtime Tavern, Preston. 8pm.

THE MAGGIE PILLS. THE HOT BLOOD, HEARTS & ROCKETS

The Bergy Seltzer, Brunswick. 8pm. $16.85.

EVENING NEWS. EMMA VOLARD, ALL STAR

JAM, SKINNY WIZARD (DJ SET)

The Old Bar, Fitzroy. 8pm. $20.

HARD-ONS

Brunswick Ballroom. 8.30pm. $38.86.

ANY THOUGHTS?

The Thornbury Local. 8pm.

HEAVY CHEST Northcote Social Club. 8.30pm. $20.

BAD//DREEMS. CHILDREN COLLIDE, DR

SURE’S UNUSUAL PRACTICE, DOE ST Corner Hotel, Richmond. 8.30pm. $49.50.

EAGLE EYE JONES. THE MIRRORS

The Curtin, Carlton. 8.30pm. $28.55.

THE ASCENDED

The Workers Club, Fitzroy. 8pm. $20.

STRIBORG + KLAVIERKRIEGER. ANOCHT, HEADLOPPER

The Toff In Town, Melbourne. 7pm. $15.

BRITTLE SUN.

TAYLOR PROJECT, PETER O’SHEA

Retreat Hotel, Brunswick.

2.30pm. $16.

NATTY FEAT: Charles-Eddy, more

Section 8, Melbourne. 6pm.

GENKI + NAOTO

Whitehart Bar, Melbourne. 4pm. Free.

GAS BABIES

The Gem Bar, Collingwood. 8pm. Free.

SKELLINGTON

JACK & THE PUMPKIN BONES

Dogs Bar, St Kilda. 8pm.

THU 29 JUNE

DRAX PROJECT

Howler, Brunswick. 8pm. $39.90.

SHAKE IT

Wesley Anne, Northcote. 8pm. $33.70.

POLYPHIA

Northcote Theatre.

7.30pm.

OPEN MIC Ragtime Tavern, Preston. 6pm.

THE PUTBACKS

303 Bar, Northcote. 8.30pm.

POSSUM

The Old Bar, Fitzroy. 8pm.

THE BEAUTIFUL MONUMENT.

EAT YOUR HEART OUT, HEADSTRONG Northcote Social Club. 7pm. $24.

THE RONSON HANGUP. NAYLS & PINKO

The Workers Club, Fitzroy. 7pm. $28.30.

INNER SANCTUARY:

DJ JNETT + JIMMY JAMES

Whitehart Bar, Melbourne. 3pm. Free.

SHAKY STILLS

The Merri Creek Tavern, Northcote. 8pm. Free.

FRI 30 JUNE

INSTYNKT. THE CROOKEDS, THE VALIANTS, EVADE

Evelyn Hotel, Fitzroy. 7.15pm. $20.

NIKKI NICHOLLS

George Lane, St Kilda. 7pm. $25 - 38.

MOTOWN MAGIC Musicland, Fawkner. 7.30pm. $15.

LUCA BRADING

TRIO

Wesley Anne, Northcote. 6pm.

MIDDLE KIDS Northcote Theatre. 8pm. $65.

SLOAN PETERSON

Yah Yah’s, Fitzroy. 9pm. $10.

JUMPIN’ JACK JORDAN

Ragtime Tavern, Preston. 8pm.

THE BELAIR LIP BOMBS. PROPAINE, MÒRAG

The Bergy Seltzer, Brunswick. 8pm. $22.95.

KARINA LEHMAN TRIO + SORBO AMPLIO

303 Bar, Northcote. 8pm. $28.60.

EMMA YUE

Bar Open, Fitzroy. 8.30pm. $17.35.

SUNEATER. GHOSTSMOKER, CHOOF, BEGGAR

The Old Bar, Fitzroy. 8pm. $17.35.

FLOODLIGHTS

Corner Hotel, Richmond. 8.30pm. $35.30.

ELECTRIC MARY

Hotel Esplanade (aka The Espy), St Kilda. 8pm. $33.15.

DARK FOMO 4

FEAT: Neon Goblin, Brown Spirits, David Balaban’s Sitar Freak Out

Cactus Room, Thornbury. 7pm. $23.

JAMES HARVEY

The Thornbury Local. 8pm.

JUNGLE JIM

SMITH

Edinburgh Castle Hotel, Brunswick. 6pm.

GYPSY KING

JONES

The Mersh, Yarraville. 5pm.

TIME UNLIMITED

FEAT: Alessio Latina, more

Section 8, Melbourne. 6pm.

HONEY WITH MSRIZK

Whitehart Bar, Melbourne. 4pm. Free.

LASTLINGS. FOREST CLAUDETTE

Forum, Melbourne. 7.30pm. $54.90.

TAMARA KULDIN’S DIRTY MARTINI

Paris Cat Jazz Club, Melbourne. 9pm. $45.

LABCATS

The Jazzlab, Brunswick. 8pm. $30 - 35.

SAT 1 JULY

THIRD EYE PRESENTS COLD FLUORESCENCE

Howler, Brunswick. 8pm. $44.37.

POIZON’US: THE AUSTRALIAN MOTLEY CRUE SHOW + ROCK OF AGES

Musicland, Fawkner. 7.30pm. $30.

ROYEL OTIS

Gasometer, Collingwood. 7.30pm.

PINKO COLLECTIVE

303 Bar, Northcote. 3.30pm. Free.

CLAYMORE Brunswick Ballroom. 8.30pm. $38.86.

SAM + SAM Memo Music Hall, St Kilda. 7pm. $50.

CLOSE COUNTERS

Corner Hotel, Richmond. 8.30pm. $24.

DARK FOMO 4 FEAT: User, Scattered Order, Velatine

Cactus Room, Thornbury. 7pm. $23.

GIRL & GIRL

The Curtin, Carlton. 8.30pm. $22.85.

SWING TRAIN WITH GIANNI MARINUCCI & EMMA GILMARTIN

Paris Cat Jazz Club, Melbourne. 9pm. $45.

KARISE EDEN

Bird’s Basement, Melbourne. 6pm. $40.

CAMILLA BURROWS

The Jazzlab, Brunswick. 8pm. $30 - 35.

GROOVE NATION + DJ SHAWN KING

The Mersh, Yarraville. 9pm.

THE CONNIE LANSBERG QUARTET WITH JEX SAARALAHT LIDO

Jazz Room, Hawthorn. 8pm. $30.

THE RESIGNATORS - THE PIRATESKA REBELLION

MISTER COFFEE - OPERATION IBIS (NSW) - THE OVERITS (SA)

AADD - THE DONALD TRUMPETS (WA) - THE KITTYHAWKS

ESS EM (NSW) - OPERATION BIG JAKE BOSSTONE

DJ CON DODGIE and more

CAMPING OPTIONS * MARKET * FOOD STALLS

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EARLYBIRD TIX www.SKANATION.com