Newcastle Post That's Entertainment 6 May

the newcastle post

THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT WED 6 MAY 2015

Printed on 100% recycled paper

PROUDLY INDEPENDENT

Count Basie Orchestra Amber Lawrence Lennie Tranter + Gig Guide Interview British India

The sun never sets

Wednesday 6 May 2015 « the newcastle post

2

WHAT'S ON This is 40

Sunday, 9pm • 7mate Pete (Paul Rudd) and Debbie (Leslie Mann) are turning 40. But instead of celebrating, they’re mired in a mid-life crisis with unruly kids, debt and unhappiness.

As Pete’s 40th birthday party arrives, Pete and Debbie are going to have to rely on family, friends, employees, fitness trainers, ageing rockers and ultimately each other to come to terms with life at age 40.

Blur The Magic Whip Out Now

Sixteen years after their last, lacklustre effort Think Tank, Britpop legends Blur are back with an album that pretty much everyone thought would never happen and while it never reaches the same dizzying heights as the likes of Modern Life is Rubbish, Leisure and The Great Escape, there is still quite a lot to like about The Magic Whip.

While Blur in 2015 is a much different band to the one that put out Leisure there are some moments, such as the opener Lonesome Street, replete with angular guitar riffs, that are a refreshing albeit fleeting harkening back to those heady days of Britpop brilliance.

While not the best record in Blur’s impressive canon, The Magic Whip is a pretty solid comeback record nonetheless.

A Good Marriage Out Now • RATED M

A happy and enduring marriage is shattered when a devoted wife, Darcy Anderson (Joan Allen), makes a horrifying discovery in the family garage while her husband (Anthony LaPaglia) is away.

The evidence reveals a stranger inside her husband exposing his monstrous true nature in this thriller based on a short story by Stephen King. King doesn’t have the best record when it comes to filmic adaptations and this is no exception.

Spandau Ballet

Friday, May 15 • Qantas Credit Union Arena Fans of the British New Wave - it’s time to start coiffing up those Flock of Seagulls-esque haircuts because one of the grand-daddies of the genre, Spandau Ballet, are heading our way!

It’s been five years since Spandau Ballet last graced our shores as part of their Reformation World Tour an this time around all five original members - Tony Hadley, John Keeble, Gary Kemp, Martin Kemp and Steve Norman - will be belting out such classic tunes as Gold and True.

Emerging from Soho’s ultra hip Blitz Club in 1979, Spandau formed at school in North London before becoming the hottest unsigned band on the planet.

From underground, fashion and music-obsessed working class Londoners, to global superstars, the band set the pace, the styles and the sound of the 1980s.

Not only did their albums sell by the millions, but their look and style impacted on the fashion world and beyond.

They created their own style, combining creativity with entrepreneurship and the spirit of the youth of the early 80s. Spandau Ballet defined the 1980s in the way that The Who defined the 60s, Bowie defined the 70s and Oasis defined the 90’s.

Having sold more than 25 million records worldwide, scored numerous multi-platinum albums and amassed 23 hit singles across the globe which have endured for more than three decades.

SSPECIALS VALID UNTIL 11/05/15

$47.99 EACH

TOOHEYS NEW CANS 30PK 375ML, CARLTON DRY 24PK 355ML

$20.99 4 PACK

CAPT MORGAN & COLA 375ML

$9

.99

EACH

$42.99 24 PACK

VICTORIA BITTER 375ML

$16.99 EACH

RED BEAR VODKA VARIETIES 6PK 375ML, WILD TURKEY & COLA 4PK 375ML

$7

.99

EACH

$38.99 24 PACK

CLARO CRISP LAGER 330ML

$15.99 4 PACK

BULLEIT & COLA 375ML

$10

.99

EACH

$17.99 6 PACK

UDL VODKA VARIETIES 375ML

$8.99 EACH

POKER FACE WINE VARIETIES 750ML

$12

.99

EACH

TUESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY -

TELEGRAPH STATION, RICHLANDS, THE INVENTORS WINE VARIETIES 750ML

$13.99 EACH

$11.99 EACH

SETTLERS ESTATE BAROSSA SHIRAZ 750ML

GRAND BAROSSA WINE VARIETIES 750ML

$14.99 EACH

GIESEN WINE VARIETIES 750ML

AMBERLEY SECRET LANE SAUV BLANC 750ML

KELLIE CAIN IN THE BEER GARDEN - 3PM

$34.99 EACH

JIM BEAM, BUNDY 5 WHITE RUM, CAPT MORGAN BLACK UP, SMIRNOFF 700ML

WW15080

MOLLYS CRADLE WINE VARIETIES 750ML

THE RUSTY CIGAR WINE VARIETIES 750ML

AUSSIE HOLDEM POKER LAKES UNITED MEAT RAFFLE HOUSE DJ IN THE BEER GARDEN PUNTERS BBQ - 4PM OVERLOAD DUO LIVE - 9PM POOL COMPETITION

BY STEPHEN BISSET

tation H S n o t l i otel m a H THE

Wednesday May 6

• SPENCER SCOTT, ALEX MARTTIN • FROM 9PM IN THE FRONT BAR Thursday May 7

A heroic cause Even if you only displayed a passing fancy for the fecund Newcastle music scene in the late 1970s and early 80s there’s a pretty solid chance that you would be familiar with The Heroes.

Formed from the ashes of glam- rock outfit Rabbit in 1977, and featuring the talents of Mark Tinson on guitar, Phil Screen on drums, Jim Porteus on bass and Pete De Jong (pictured) on guitar and vocals, The Heroes became one of the most formidable live acts on the Newcastle scene. They were also one of the first Newcastle acts to make an impression further afield, signing to the iconic Sydney label Albert Productions.

The boys caused quite a stir when they released their first album in 35 years, So Far to rapturous reception at the Cambridge Hotel earlier this year

and now they’re getting set to blow the doors off Wallsend Diggers - all for a good cause.

Dubbed The Rock Hero Party, the show will see one of Newcastle’s most iconic bands in full flight with all proceeds going towards the Hunter Breast Cancer Foundation.

If that wasn’t enough, Newcastle’s hottest swing/rockabilly outfit - Mitch Capone and the Wise Guys, whose tubthumping debut album Bad Blood has been kicking goals all over the shop - will be opening up proceedings and punters are also being asked to come dressed as their favourite ‘rock hero’so get those thinking caps on.

The Rock Hero Party will be on at Wallsend Diggers on Saturday, May 15.

Tickets are $15 and are available at the venue.

• MADHOUSE DJs • FROM 9PM IN THE FRONT BAR Friday May 8

• LIVE IT UP KARAOKE • FROM 9.30PM IN THE FRONT BAR Saturday May 9

• LIVE IT UP KARAOKE • FROM 9.30PM IN THE FRONT BAR • RENEGADE ARMADA (VIC)) SCARS HAVE FADED EAT YOUR HEART OUT • BAND ROOM FROM 9.30PM Sunday May 10

• BARFUNKLE • FROM 8PM IN THE FRONT BAR

THE ETNA Operation in full swing If there’s one thing you could say about the Newcastle muso community (well, just Newcastle in general, really) is that it really comes together in a crisis.

That’s why it’s not such a big surprise that more Newie bands than you can poke a stick at have put their hands up to throw their support behind locals affected by the recent woolly weather we’ve experienced as well as the Hunter Region SES. The Burwood Colliery Sports Club will be hosting the Operation Cyclone benefit gig on Sunday June 14 and the

list of Hunter-based talent that have put their hands up for this special show is impressive to say the least - Bob Corbett, Dave Carter, Voodoo Express, Glam Slam, Annie O’Dee and the Hotshots, Backfire, Nadine Quinn, Dai Pritchard and DV8 to name a few. With more acts being added at a fantastic speed, this one is shaping up to be a gig for the ages.

Operation Cyclone will be on at Burwood Colliery Sports Club on Sunday, June 14. For more information, visit the Operation Cyclone Facebook page.

Open 7 Days

$10 LUNCHES 2 FOR 1 SPECIALS

MONDAY TO WEDNESDAY WIL HOULCROFT - band bookings mon-sat 9.30am to 3am sun 10.30am to midnight

• 4961 3852 •

WW14561

the newcastle post » Wednesday 6 May 2015

SHORTCUTS

3

Wednesday 6 May 2015 « the newcastle post

4

MUSIC

Tracking the rise and rise of the British Empire STEPHEN BISSET

W

hile an 18-date national tour might be more than enough time on the road for most bands, for Melbourne rockers British India it’s merely water off a ducks’ back.

“I’m actually at home, enjoying some time off which is nice, but, this tour is still pretty small by British India standards,” guitarist Nic Wilson told TE. “So, after this run wraps up, we’ll probably have, like, a month off and then hit the road again for a much more substantial national tour.”

Definite contenders for the ‘hardestworking band in Oz’ title, it would possibly be better to think of British India as embarking on one mammoth tour since releasing their groundbreaking debut long player Guillotine, back in 2005.

“I suppose you could definitely look at it that way,” Wilson laughed.

“But we have always been about touring and it kind of works the same way with our

writing - if we’re out in the road promoting an album, we never stop looking ahead to the next thing. We’re constantly writing.”

British India will be making another welcome return to Newcastle, later this

STOCKTON RSL

ET’s BISTRO

TUESDAY NIGHT STEAK & OYSTERS ONLY $15.99 THURSDAY NIGHT KIDS EAT FREE

May Entertainment 9TH 16TH 23RD 31ST

Jake Rattle & Roll Blue Suede Rockers At The Hop Be Bop A Lula

SUNDAY LUNCH & DINNER Wednesdays from 7pm WIN CASH & PLAY YOUR WAY TO THE MAJOR TOURNAMENT

Just $18. Book now

MOTHER’S DAY RAFFLE DRAWN 1PM FREE RAFFLE DRAWN 5PM

DELICIOUS ASIAN & AUSTRALIAN MEALS

7 DAYS FOR LUNCH & DINNER FUNCTIONS, CHRISTMAS PARTIES, WEDDINGS - GREAT VARIETY OF FUNCTION MENUS TO SELECT FROM! EMAIL EVENTS.STOCKTONRSL@GMAIL.COM OR CALL THE CLUB

(conditions apply)

$9.99 DOZEN OYSTERS

MON TO FRI LUNCHES only $9.90!

MOTHER’S DAY SUNDAY 10TH Enjoy live music DONCASTER BISTRO - Special Lunch Buffet in the lounge with Including prawn & oyster entree and dessert selection the ever-popular

DONCASTER BISTRO

month, on the back of their fifth long player - Nothing Touches Me - a deeply layered and complex album that is being heralded as the band’s best work to date.

“We’re all absolutely over the moon with

how the album and the singles [Wrong Direction, Suddenly] have been received,” Wilson said.

“I’m not sure really what we were expecting but it really has exceeded all expectations. In the week after the release the record, went to number five on the ARIA album charts which was something we hadn’t achieved since [2008’s] Thieves so that was a huge weight off our shoulders.”

The impressive debut marked the band’s fourth consecutive ARIA Top 10, making them the first Aussie rockers since Grinspoon to achieve such a feat. For Wilson, though Nothing Touches Me was more about the band raising their own creative bar rather than bowing to any external weight of expectation to back up from the success of Controller.

“It can be tempting to think like that worrying about how it will be received in relation to everything else we’ve done, but at the end of the day you’ve kind of just got to shut all of that out and just get on with the business of making the best record you can.”

Catch British India at the Cambridge Hotel on Saturday, May 23.

MR MARK LEE from 1.30pm

15

$

ALL-YOUCAN-EAT BUFFET

THURSDAY NIGHTS

FROM 5.30PM & SUNDAY LUNCH FROM NOON

Try TERRIFIC

$12 TUESDAYS

WITH CHOICE OF CHICKEN OR VEAL SCHNITZEL OR LAMB CUTLETS

4928 2333

FOR ALL THE LATEST ON ENTERTAINMENT & EVENTS VISIT OUR FACEBOOK PAGE

WW15574

NOW AT $750

($450 claimed 12/3/15) IF NOT WON PRIOR PERMIT TPS/12/03104

TUESDAY & FRIDAY JOKER DRAW

NOW AT $3600 IF NOT WON PRIOR PERMIT TPS/14/06743

SATURDAY

BIG WHEEL $1500 IF NOT WON PRIOR PERMIT TPS/14/06742

MONDAY NIGHT

Beer & Burger

999!

$

Schooner of your favourite and a juicy burger

plus

Footy live on the

BIG SCREEN

LIVE BANDS THIS WEEK AT THE EDGY TAV FRIDAY 8TH MAY ATOMIC VINYL SATURDAY 9TH MAY LOCO

4958 1772 Main Rd, EDGEWORTH WWW.EDGEWORTHTAVERN.COM.AU

WW14560

Cnr Clyde & Douglas Street Stockton

MON & THURS KEYRING JACKPOT DRAW

5

MUSIC

STEPHEN BISSET

T

here is no doubt that when discussing legendary jazz and swing big bands the name Count Basie is one that will always loom large.

From Billie Holiday to Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra to Nat King Cole, Sarah Vaughn to Ella Fitzgerald, the Count Basie Orchestra has provided the supremely distinctive sound and swing behind some of the greatest singers of the modern age.

The man himself may’ve passed away in 1984, but his legacy is still well and truly alive in the Count Basie Orchestra, who will be heading to Newcastle next week as part of their historic eightieth anniversary tour.

“Man, I just can’t wait to get back down there,” orchestra director and trumpeter Scotty Barnhart (pictured) told TE. “I’m like a kid in a candy store right now, I’m sitting at my computer looking at all of the cool places I get to visit.”

While the great Count is no longer with us the current lineup includes a solid core of players hired by Basie himself including

sax player John Williams and trombonist Clarence Banks as well as former members of Stan Kenyon’s Benny Goodman’s and Lionel Hampton’s ensembles.

Barnhart, whose career has seen him work with such greats as Tony Bennett, Dianna Krall, Ray Charles and Tito Puente, said that playing with the orchestra still gives him plenty of ‘pinch me’ moments.

“Oh, absolutely - every single day is a ‘pinch me’ moment for me,” he enthused.

“Whenever I’m in my car, for example, I always have Basie playing and I’m often struck by the fact that I get to play with some of these amazing players - it’s definitely a dream come true.”

Barnhart, who joined the orchestra in 1993 before taking over as director in 2013, said Basie had always loomed large in his musical life.

“When I was a kid I used to listen to Basie quite a bit because my parents had the albums,” he said.

“I saw him live when I was 13 and again when I was 17 and while I didn’t get to meet him, on that second time I was lucky enough to get to meet the orchestra and I knew from that moment that I wanted to be a part of it.”

MAY ENTERTAINMENT FRI 8TH: JAMIE

the newcastle post » Wednesday 6 May 2015

The spirit of Count Basie

While he said that there was a palpable sense of fun surrounding the music and performance, Barnhart takes the role of the custodian of Basie’s legacy very seriously.

‘There’s a great responsibility with a role like this and one I do not take lightly,” he said.

“Basie and jazz music in general are such a huge part of the fabric of American musical culture, so it’s important that we live up to that by always being the very best orchestra that we can be.”

Catch the Count Basie Orchestra at the Civic Theatre on Wednesday, May 13.

MARTENS SAT 9TH: NIGHTWING

Jon Stevens LIVE Saturday 6th June

BEGINS MAY 7

Tickets $35 (pre-purchased) or $40 on the night

4980 9999

WW14653

7 MAWSON CLOSE CAVES BEACH www.cavesbeachsidehotel.com.au

Wednesday 6 May 2015 « the newcastle post

6 SEND YOUR FREE ENTERTAINMENT LISTINGS FOR THE GUIDE TO:

stephen.bisset@newcastlepost.com.au or phone 4032 8373

ABSOLUTE THAI, Charlestown: Saturday, Heather and Adam.

ANNA BAY TAVERN: Saturday, Purple Hearts.

AUSTRALIA HOTEL, Cessnock: Saturday, The Bad and the Ugly.

AVOCA BEACH BOWLING CLUB: Friday, Red Sweat; Saturday, Ellen Mara.

BAR 121: Thursday, Jam Night; Friday, Dave Owen; Saturday, The Years.

BAR PETITE: Friday, Truman Smith; Saturday, Crocq; Sunday, Kylie Jane.

BATEAU BAY HOTEL: Friday, The Ravens; Saturday, DJ PK. BEACHCOMBER HOTEL: Saturday, Duplexity; Sunday, Darren Rolling Keys.

BEAUFORD HOTEL: Saturday, Mick Boogaard.

BELMONT 16s: Wednesday, Patrick Brady; Friday, Matchbox; Friday, Girls of Country feat Amber Lawrence, Aleyce Simmonds and Christie Lamb; Saturday, Love That Hat; Sunday, Backbeat Duo. BELMONT BOWLING CLUB: Sunday, Wobbly Boot.

BELMONT HOTEL: Thursday, Clowns; Friday, DJs; Saturday, Overload Duo; Sunday, Kellie Cain.

BELMONT SPORTIES: Sunday, Ray O’Grady.

BELMORE HOTEL: Friday, Gareth Hudson Duo; Saturday, Grand Theft Audio.

BERESFIELD BOWLING CLUB: Friday, Phase III; Saturday, Snape Brothers; Sunday, Red Dirt Country Band feat. Guest Artist.

BLACKBUTT HOTEL: Thursday, Karaoke BRADFORD HOTEL: Friday, The V Dubs; Saturday,Viagro; Sunday, Kelly Griffith.

BUDGEWOI SOCCER CLUB: Saturday, Open Fire.

BURWOOD COLLIERY BLOWLING CLUB: Saturday, Andrew Strong.

CAMBRIDGE HOTEL: Saturday, Victoria Ave. CANTON BEACH SPORTS CLUB: Friday, Open Fire; Saturday, Tim Pringle Duo. CARDIFF RSL: Friday, Tangled Up Duo; Sunday, Gen X. CATHO PUB: Sunday, Steve Edmonds Band.

CAVES BEACHSIDE HOTEL: Friday, Jamie Martens; Saturday, Nightwing.

CBD HOTEL: Friday, Aqwa; Saturday, AGT. CENTRAL CHARLESTOWN LEAGUES CLUB: Friday, Jake Folbigg; Saturday, Daniel Arvidson.

CENTRAL HOTEL, Stroud: Saturday, Dean Dee. CESSNOCK LEAGUES CLUB: Friday, Matt Semmens; Saturday, ABBAsBACK, The Big Bang.

CHARLESTOWN BOWLING CLUB: Friday, The Levymen; Sunday, Tom Jones Tribute Show.

CLARENDON HOTEL: Friday, Chris Phillips; Saturday, Makaylie.

CLUB AZZURRI: Sunday, Latinova.

Melbourne-based five-piece post-hardcore newcomers, Renegade Armada, have made an explosive impact on the Australian music scene having released two music videos - We Are The Night and Ghosts in Glass Houses and their debut EP Violent Carousel last year.

The band’s sound owes its roots to the theatrical sounds of artists such as My Chemical Romance and Chiodos while blending in the modern energy of acts like Memphis May Fire and Pierce The Veil.

The Renegade Armada sound is a picture of post-hardcore blending rock inspired guitar riffs with symphonic elements, alluring choruses and well-timed breakdowns to concoct a message intent on directly hitting the hearts and souls of listeners.

Renegade Armada’s influences express a seamless fusion of heavy and pop while adding their signature “post-hardcore meets rock opera” vibe.

Their sound is signified by their lead single Ghosts in Glass Houses, from the first riff that rips into the atmosphere, to the driving and catchy melodic choruses that are signature of the Violent Carousel sound.

CLUB LEMON TREE: Friday, Kim and Mik; Saturday, Viper Creek, Katrina Burgoyne.

CLUB MAITLAND CITY: Sunday, Daniel Arvidson.

COLLIERY INN: Friday, Karaoke; Saturday, Pete Sneddon; Sunday, Live Music.

COMMERCIAL HOTEL, Boolaroo: Friday, Kirsty Larkin.

COMMERCIAL HOTEL, Morpeth: Friday, Mark Wells; Saturday, Gareth Hudson Duo. COUNTRY CLUB HOTEL: Friday, DJs; Saturday, Ben Woodham, Loose Bazooka; Sunday, Frets With Benefits.

CRICKETERS ARMS: Saturday, Aqwa.

CRITERION HOTEL, Carrington: Friday, Matt McLaren; Sunday, Bobby C. CUSTOMS HOUSE: Wednesday, AdzDrumz; Friday, Kylie Jane; Saturday, Perry Carter; Sunday, Matt McLaren.

D’ALBORA MARINA: Sunday, Kim. DENAMN HOTEL: Friday, Dave Carter.

BIG Available Sundays from 8am

WW14573

DIGGERS

BREAKFAST

15

HOME DELIVERY AVAILABLE

SUNDAYS YUM CHA TROLLEY

$10 LUNCH SPECIALS Monday to Friday includes schooner or beer or soft drink

Other options also available!

10% DISCOUNT

PLUS TRY OUR DELICIOUS MENU ITEMS . . .

on pick-up takeaway orders paid with cash

• Pancakes • Omelettes • Eggs Benedict on • Diggers Brekky Burger Sourdough • Banana Bread Brekky • Bacon & Eggs *Non members charged an extra 15%

5 Tyrrell St, Wallsend Ph: 4951 7000 www.wallsenddiggers.com.au

LOKO EDGEWORTH TAVERN SATURDAY, MAY 9

YUM CHA AVAILABLE EVERY DAY ngs on e Booki ay availabl r’s D Mothe

*

Served with . . .

2 Eggs, Bacon, Mushrooms Grilled Tomato, Hash Brown, Chipolatas & Toast

DOYALSON RSL: Friday, Back To Rock; Saturday, Tourmaline.

DUKE OF WELLINGTON: Friday, Iguana; Saturday, Ty. EAST MAITLAND BOWLING CLUB: Friday, 4 Letter Word; Saturday, Flying Mare; Sunday, John Allan.

EDGEWORTH SPORT AND REC: Friday, Led Zeppelin Show; Sunday, Kevin O’Hara.

EDGEWORTH TAVERN: Friday, Atomic Vinyl; Saturday, Loko.

EXCHANGE HOTEL: Saturday, The V Dubs.

FAMILY HOTEL: Friday, Spank N The Monkey.

FIVE SAWYERS: Friday, DJ Timmy Coffey; Saturday, DJ Patsan; Sunday, DJ Sean Andrews GATESHEAD TAVERN: Friday, Sundown; Saturday, Paparazzi.

GEORGE TAVERN: Friday, Holly Wilson; Saturday, Jack Daniels and Co Duo; Sunday, Luke Pittman.

GRAND HOTEL: Tuesday, Jazz GUNYAH HOTEL: Friday, Mardy Leith; Saturday,

HOTEL DELANY: Wednesday, Matt Meler; Friday, Sundays Record, AdzDrumz, Sean Andrews; Saturday, Mayhem 101.

HOTEL JESMOND: Friday, Vanderaa; Saturday, Shivoo.

HOTEL PREMIER: Sunday, DV8.

IRON HORSE INN: Saturday, Matt Semmens.

JEWELLS TAVERN: Saturday, Karaoke.

KOTARA BOWLING CLUB: Saturday, Saving June.

KING STREET HOTEL: Friday, Nemo; Saturday, Other Ideas; Sunday, Any Given Sunday Beastie Boys Tribute.

LAKE MACQUARIE TAVERN: Friday, Purple Hearts; Saturday, Jake Folbigg.

LAKE MACQUARIE YACHT CLUB: Friday, Allan Friehaut; Sunday, Jackson Halliday.

LASS O’GOWRIE HOTEL: Thursday, Creative Creatures Open Mic Night;’ Friday, Bouy Oh Bouy, Joey Equine and the Glue Factory, Daniel Allars;

WW15783

$

RENEGADE ARMADA HAMILTON STATION HOTEL SATURDAY, MAY 9

A seamless fusion

Defaced; Sunday, Josh Drinkwater.

GWANDALAN BOWLING CLUB: Friday, Karaoke.

HALEKULANI BOWLING CLUB: Saturday, Malihini’s Over 30s Nightspot.

HAMILTON STATION HOTEL: Wednesday, Spencer Scott, Alex Martin; Thursday, Madhouse DJs; Friday, Karaoke; Saturday, Karaoke, Renegade Armada, Scars Have Faded, Eat Your Heart Out; Sunday, Barfunkle.

HARRIGANS IRISH PUB: Friday, Saving June; Saturday, Brendan Murphy, Jimmy Craz Band; Sunday, Troy Kemp, Face Painters.

HEXHAM BOWLING CLUB: Saturday, Red Sweat.

HONEYSUCKLE HOTEL: Thursday, Crocq; Friday, 2 Good Reasons; Saturday, Dr Zoom Trio; Sunday, Mick Jones, The Snape Trilogy.

HOP FACTORY: Friday, Brown Bear and Hooves.

CHEF’S SPECIALS Peking Duck & Shan Dong chicken OPEN 7 DAYS FOR LUNCH & DINNER OP Ph h4 4951 951 6699

WW9899 182 Newca Newcastle Road, Jesmond (located in Hotel Jesmond)

7

Saturday, Lennie Tranter and the Bagism Revolution, Morgan Bain, Alice Williams; Sunday, Groovin the Moo Recovery Party feat. Dave, Auxfire, Dan Southward, Nick Connors.

LIZOTTE’S NEWCASTLE: Wednesday, Todd Bourke, Codi Pollock, Deanna Rose, Kallen Farley; Thursday/ Friday, Colin Hay; Saturday, Van The Man; Sunday, Official Blues Brothers Revue.

LONG JETTY HOTEL: Saturday, Jackson Halliday; Sunday, Open Mic with Casho.

MARY ELLEN: Friday, Ngariki; Saturday, The Steves; Sunday, Mark Wells.

MATTARA HOTEL: Friday, Karen Soper; Saturday, Disco & Karaoke.

MAVERICKS ON THE BAY: Friday, Lauren Arms; Saturday, Kylie Jane; Sunday, Damien.

MAYFIELD HOTEL: Wednesday, Open Mic Night; Thursday, Karaoke; Friday, Rag and Bone; Saturday, DJ; Sunday, Tania Murray.

MJ FINNEGANS: Friday, DJs; Saturday, Janey’s Alibi, DJs. MOONSHADOW CRUISES, Nelson Bay: Saturday, Edie Love.

NAGS HEAD: Saturday, The Ride Ons. NELSON BAY DIGGERS: Friday, Dr Zoom Duo; Saturday, Zane Penn Duo; Sunday, Anthony Lee. NEWCASTLE UNITED SPORTS CLUB: Wednesday, Karaoke; Friday, Karaoke.

NORTHERN STAR HOTEL: Friday, Allison Forbes; Saturday, Adam Gear.

NORTHUMBERLAND HOTEL: Friday, Kenny Jewell.

OLD PUB, Woy Woy: Friday, Trataka; Saturday, Angel Gear.

ORANA HOTEL: Friday, Full Throttle; Saturday, Krossfyre.

PEDENS, Cessnock: Friday, Shawn Lidster; Saturday, Swamp Foggy Blues Band.

PELICAN RSL: Sunday, Peter Stefanson.

PIPPI’S AT THE POINT: Friday, Troy, Zane Penn Duo; Saturday, GenR8; Sunday, Holly Wilson.

PLOUGH INN: Friday, Dean Dee. POTTERS BREWERY: Friday, Pistol Pete.

PRINCE OF WALES: Friday, Phonic Duo; Saturday, Mick Jones; Sunday, Bearded Gents; Sunday, Eoin Smith.

QUEENS WHARF HOTEL: Friday, Jason Bone; Saturday, Troy, Perry Carter; Sunday, Ben Travis, AdzDrumz, Timmy Coffey.

RACECOURSE HOTEL: Friday, Maykalie; Saturday, Karen O’Shea.

RAILWAY HOTEL, Cessnock: Saturday, Kirsty Larkin.

REGAL HOTEL, Kurri: Saturday, The Piranha Brothers.

RIVER ROYAL, Morpeth: Friday, Mick Jones.

Touché O’Shea Karen O’Shea has been mesmerising her audiences with her amazing vocal talents since an early age.

Having been working professionally since leaving school in her home town of Darwin, O’Shea has cut her musical teeth in various projects including the 50s and 60s rock and roll-inspired The Sublimes, the soul-tinged trio Thin Arthur and the funk-heavy Sydney Sound Machine and Temple of Groove through to the jazz stylings of the Phil Stacey Trio and the duo Cat in the Hat (that duo were even asked to perform for the Sultan of Barunei’s wife!)

O’Shea was also one-third, along with Kate Ballantyne and Lyn Bowtell, of the beguiling country trio Bella and has performed with the likes of Randy Crawford, Wilson Pickett, James Morrison, Christine Anu and Jimmy Barnes.

When it comes to her formidable set of covers, O’Shea leaves virtually no stone unturned, offering up stellar renditions of hits from the likes of The Eagles, ABBA, Elton John, Neil Diamond, Queen, Joni Mitchell, and Daryl Braithwaite. All killer, no filler.

KAREN O’SHEA WINDALE GATESHEAD BOWLING CLUB SUNDAY, MAY 10 ROYAL CROWN: Thursday`, Dan Beazley; Saturday, Bobby C; Sunday, Jack Dawson.

ROYAL FEDERAL: Saturday, Twinsanity ROYAL HOTEL, Denman: Saturday, 4 Letter Word.

ROYAL HOTEL, Singleton: Sunday, Outerphase.

ROYAL INN, Waratah: Saturday, Mardy Leith.

RUTHERFORD HOTEL: Saturday, Phil McKnight SALAMANDER SHORES: Friday, The Steves; Sunday, Mardy Leith.

SEVEN SEAS: Friday, Wesley’s Edge; Saturday, Gleny Rae and her Playboys.

SHAFT TAVERN: Friday, Rock Oz. SHORTLAND HOTEL: Friday, Karen O’Shea.

SOLDIERS POINT BOWLING CLUB: Saturday, TBA Trio.

SPINNING WHEEL HOTEL, Raymond Terrace: Sunday, Tim Broadway.

STAG AND HUNTER: Friday, James Thompson, De’May; Saturday, Chucks Wagon; Sunday, King of the North, Vyles.

STAR HOTEL: Friday, DJ Jonathan; Saturday, DJ Sean Andrews.

STOCKTON BOWLING CLUB: Sunday, The Liars.

STOCKTON RSL: Saturday, Jake Rattle and Roll; Sunday, Mark Lee. SWANSEA RSL: Saturday, Rendezvous.

SYDNEY JUNCTION HOTEL: Friday, Grand Theft Audio, DJ Dola; Saturday, Tres Hombres, DJ K-Rock; Sunday, Glam Slam.

TELARAH BOWLING CLUB: Friday, Paul Nickerson.

THE LUCKY: Sunday, Lauren Arms.

THE POURHOUSE, Maitland: Saturday, Dexter Moore.

TILLIGERRY RSL: Thursday, Darren; Friday, Jack Daniels and Co Duo; Sunday, Michael Mills.

TORONTO DIGGERS: Friday, John Jay; Saturday, Frank Wakewood; Sunday, Bob Hanley.

TORONTO HOTEL: Friday, Overload Duo; Sunday, Aqwa.

TORONTO ROYAL MOTOR YACHT CLUB: Sunday,

Kirsty Larkin.

TORONTO WORKERS CLUB: Saturday, Gold Cadillac.

WALLARAH BAY REC CLUB: Friday, D’Lish; Saturday, Gyrate.

WANGI HOTEL: Sunday, Tiali.

WANGI RSL: Wednesday, Carter Edwards; Friday, Karaoke; Sunday, Marrih.

WANGI WORKERS CLUB: Saturday, Solid Gold Party Night.

WARNERS AT THE BAY: Thursday, Tom Buckley; Friday, Moonlight Drive; Saturday, The Cruisers.

WESTS NEW LAMBTON PIANO LOUNGE: Wednesday, Peter Wall; Thursday, Angamus; Friday, Peter Wall; Saturday, Warren Hunter; Monday, Warren Hunter; Tuesday, Angamus.

WESTS NEW LAMBTON MARBLE BAR: Friday, The Rattle; Saturday, Phonic Trio.

WEST WALLSEND WORKERS CLUB: Sunday, Troy.

WICKHAM PARK HOTEL: Wednesday, Wicko Jam Night; Friday, The Milestones; Saturday, Back to the Wicko feat Jade Lee Wright, Crimson Tide; Sunday, Chikarma, Annie O’Dee and the Hotshots.

WINDALE GATESHEAD BOWLING CLUB: Friday, La Bomba Rock; Sunday, Karen O’Shea.

WINDSOR CASTLE HOTEL: Friday, Pete Gelzinnis; Saturday, The Levymen.

WYONG BOWLING CLUB: Friday, Line Wolf; Saturday, Ravens Duo. WYONG LEAGUES CLUB: Friday, Diversity; Saturday, VIP.

KEVIN O’HARA EDGEWORTH SPORT AND REC SUNDAY, MAY 10

FRIDAY 8TH MAY FREE ENTRY

Park St, Edgeworth Phone: 49 581 994 Restaurant: 49 589 153 We support responsible service of alcohol. Is gambling a problem for you? Freecall 1800 633 635

LazyKevin Sunday Arvo Live O’Hara

10 MAY:

FROM 2.45pm

BUCKETS OF CRUISERS $25 • BUCKETS OF CORONAS $18 Courtesy bus available Wednesday to Sunday

WW15577

Reeds By The Creek Restaurant Open 7 Days

Quizmaster TRIVIA

TUESDAYS FROM 7PM

the newcastle post » Wednesday 6 May 2015

6-12.5.2015

The best gigs in your area!

MUSIC

Setting country charts alight STEPHEN BISSET

W

hen TE last spoke to Amber Lawrence, back in February, the country star was riding high on the back of her mammoth best female artist Golden Guitar nod.

Well, it seems as though the plaudits keep coming with Lawrence since taking out the CMC (Country music Channel) Oz female artist of the year gong, seeing her single Lifesaver climb to the top of the CMC charts as well as her latest single I Will Love You snagging a country pick of the week on CMC. Not bad when you consider that makes her the first artist in CMC history to have a number one song and country pick in the same week. “When you put it all like that, it really has been a pretty great year for me so far - hectic, but great,” Lawrence told TE while gearing up for a big weekend of gigs, opening for Wendy Matthews and playing at the City vs Country NRL match in Wagga.

It’s been a pretty full- on ride for Lawrence since the release of her brilliant fourth long-player Superheroes.

Featuring the two chart-topping singles Superhero and The Lifesaver, album number four represents a bit of a change of direction for Lawrence - from the more country pop sphere of her previous long players The Mile, When It All Comes Down and 3 to a much earthier and rockier sound.

“I guess I really wanted to take a different tact with Superheroes,” she explained.

“It was more about writing the kind of album that I really want to make, not writing songs to, I guess, fit any expectations.

“I wanted to write a really honest album and there are a few songs on there, like Lifesaver that probably wouldn’t have made it on other records because it’s not really written in a traditional format.”

Never one to rest on her laurels, Lawrence will be heading back to our neck of the woods as part of the Girls of Country tour that will see her team up with good mates and formidable talents in their own right Aleyce Simmonds and Christie Lamb. The two- hour show will treat punters to all of the hits by three of the hottest female country stars at the moment as well as some trio perfor-

mances and the three covering each others’ songs.

“Look, it’s going to be so much fun - we’re all really great mates so it’s definitely going to be a ball for us - but hope-

fully not as much fun as the punters will be having.”

Catch the Girls of Country at Belmont 16s on Friday, May 8 and Hexham Bowling Club on Friday, May 29.

“THE FAMILY-FRIENDLY CLUB”

HEATON BIRMINGHAM GARDENS BOWLING CLUB TUCKED IN BEHIND STOCKLAND

D AL RE L FU E T NCTIONS CA

FO

R

Wednesday 6 May 2015 « the newcastle post

8

PIT STOP BRASSERIE

EURASIAN CUISINE $8 LUNCH SPECIALS

ENTERTAINMENT

LUNCH & DINNER EAT-IN OR TAKE-AWAY

10th May

OPEN 6 DAYS • CLOSED MONDAYS

SCHNITTY $ MADNESS 10

TUESDAY EVENINGS HOST A MURDER $200 PETROL BUY ONE SCHNITTY GET 2ND HALF PRICE VEAL, CHICKEN VOUCHER FISH, FUNCTIONS All meals served with chips & salad eg: Hen’s Nights, Birthdays, Business Dinners

DRAWN FRIDAY 29TH MAY

“Put on your Dancing Shoes”

John Noble is back Saturday 23rd May 7pm

FUN AND FRIENDSHIP! B

I

N G

O

EVERY MONDAY & FRIDAY • 11AM

new players receive their first book free on presentation of ad

KARAOKE

EVERY THURS • 6PM MEMBERS’ DRAW BETWEEN 6 and 8pm 48 MORDUE PDE, JESMOND PH: 4955 8725

COURTESY BUS AVAILABLE THUR & FRI FROM 5PM

WEDNESDAY EVENINGS Includes ONE MAIN MEAL (selected menu) and ONE FREE DRINK (schooner beer, 7oz house wine or middy Post Mix)

HAPPY HOUR $

TUESDAY

4.30pm

THURSDAY 10.30am FRIDAY

5.30pm

SATURDAY

11am

4 SCHOONERS SUNDAY

5pm

Courtesy Bus not available at this time

FREE WIFI WW14776

31st May

THU Travelling Bowlers 4.30-5pm Every $5 in raffle tickets gets you promo tickets for your chance to win up to $300 cash!

6pm – $50 draw, $7:30pm – $100 draw, 8:30pm – $150 draw Meat & Ladies raffles 5-6.30pm Belmont Swansea Soccer Club 7pm SAT Travelling Bowlers raffle 4.30-5pm

TUESDAY $10 SCHNITZEL NIGHT WEDNESDAY $10 STEAK NIGHT THURSDAY $12 PASTA NIGHT FETTUCCINI CARBONARA, BOLOGNESE, RAVIOLI. $2 Pizzetta

FREE BAREFOOT BOWLS WITH YOUR MEAL

BARE FOOT BOWLS B.B.Q. Available

HAPPY HOUR

from 5.30-6.30pm

9am - 12 noon EVERY DAY!

2 function rooms available

Schooners $3.90

CALL FOR INFO

4945 4724

FREE ROOM HIRE

1 High St, Belmont ABOVE WOOLWORTHS

WW14558

with Denniss

12

$

MEAL DEAL

24th May

Wobbly Boot Leadbellies Gary Doyle

BISTRO SPECIALS

Courtesy bus - friday, saturday & super sunday!

www.belmontbowlo.com.au

9

MUSIC

STEPHEN BISSET

I

t may’ve been 35 years since ‘Joliet’ Jake and Elwood Blues embarked on their ‘mission from God’ to get the old band back together to save a Catholic boarding school, but there’s no denying that love for the Blues Brothers is as strong now as it ever was.

The iconic film, starring comedy greats Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi, and equally iconic R n B soundtrack, featuring the likes of Cab Callaway, John Lee Hooker, Aretha Franklin and Ray Charles, will be celebrated in a special show at Lizotte’s this weekend.

There may be many acts that have donned the ubiquitous pork- pie hat and black Ray- Bans over the years, but the Official Blues Brothers Revue is the only one to have the blessing of Dan Aykroyd himself and John Belushi’s wife Judith Belushi Pisano.

“It really is a celebration of the spirit of the Blues Brothers,” Wayne Catania, who plays Jake Blues, told TE. “If you’ve seen the movie, you’d know Jake and Elwood are all about having a great time so that’s what we’re all about. Also, there’s all of that great music - we had Paul Shaffer, who was an original Blues Brother,

working with the band in the States, so it’s a very highly-polished show with some great players and a hell of a lot of fun.”

After cutting his teeth as a hard rock drummer, Catania, the natural Belushi look-alike, said he essentially fell into the role of ‘Joliet’ Jake Blues.

“I was doing my thing playing drums in various bands and people were always asking to take a picture with me because of my resemblance to John,” he explained.

“Next thing, I was asked to audition for a show in Vegas called Legends in Concert,

“small enough to care, large enough to entertain” Entertainment Saturday 16 May from 7.30pm

The Snape Brothers

BINGO

which is where I met Kieron [Lafferty, who plays Elwood] and we were asked to be part of an A&E documentary about the show and Dan and Judy saw it and called Kieron and I because they were putting together a Blues Brothers revival show and wanted us to audition and the rest, as they say, is history.”

Catania added that having Aykroyd and Judith Belushi in their corner was invaluable in his understanding of what made this iconic duo tick.

“Dan and Judy basically put us through Blues Brothers boot camp and, you’re right, the wisdom that they imparted was just amazing.

“You have to put the success of the film down to John and Dan’s amazing comic timing and great musical sensibilities so, learning from them was phenomenal.”

Aside from keeping the Blues Brothers’ flame alive on stage, Catania said the pair were also in the process of working on a pilot for a TV show based around Jake and Elwood’s R n B drenched adventures.

“Yes, Kieron and I have been working on a TV show with Judith and Anne Beatts, who was the head writer for Saturday Night Live back in the day, which is just so exciting because there’s still plenty of life in Jake and Elwood yet.”

Catch the Official Blues Brothers Revue at Lizotte’s on Sunday, May 10.

JEFF LAW’S

CHINESE RESTAURANT Open Tuesday - Sunday for Lunch & Dinner Come experience Jeff’s cuisine that has kept people coming back to Pelican for over 19 years.

BOOK FOR MOTHER’S DAY

Entertainment by

PETER STEFANSEN

MEMBERSHIP DRAW TUESDAY PAY-DAY

$650

Draws every 15 minutes from 6.30pm LTPM/14/00346

THURSDAY FAST CASH

3 BIG SESSIONS PER WEEK

MONDAY & FRIDAY 11AM “Cheap As....” First book is FREE

Wednesday 7pm – BILL BUSTER BINGO . . . Receive an entry with every book purchased for your chance to win $100 each month

$3,250

IF NOT WON 2ND APRIL 2015

Draws every 15 minutes from 6.30pm LTPM/14/00346

This week’s jackpot with three draws from 6pm. Plus $100 must be won at 5.30pm, 6.30pm & 7.30pm LTPS/14/02925 & LTPM/14/00376

1 PIRIWAL ST, PELICAN PH: 4971 2165 www.pelicanrsl.com.au

Information for members & their guests. Is Gambling a problem for you? Call G-Line (NSW) is a confidential, anonymous and free counselling service FREE CALL 1800 633 635

WW16282

the newcastle post » Wednesday 6 May 2015

They’re on a mission from God

Wednesday 6 May 2015 « the newcastle post

10

REDHEAD BOWLING CLUB

LIVE

T N E M N I A T ENTER y a M f o 3 2 y a d r u t Sa

D N A T S T H G I ONE N

MAY STAR RESTAURANT

$7.50

LUNCH SPECIALS CHOOSE SAUCE + BEEF, PORK OR CHICKEN + BOILED OR FRIED RICE BOOK NOW FOR FUNCTIONS OPEN: TUESDAY TO SUNDAY LUNCH & DINNER

ONLY

10

$

CHICKEN SCHNITZEL THURSDAY

STEPHEN BISSET

I

f you were lucky enough to catch Newcastle four piece the Havelocks before their untimely demise, you’d know that they could write the heck out of a hook.

Well, former Havelocks frontman Lennie Tranter is well and truly carrying on that tradition with his new ear-worm of a single, Molly May, that he’ll be launching at the Lass this weekend.

The track, produced at Sawtooth Studios, is a lushly produced, sunny psych number that recalls the likes of Barrett-era Floyd (Apples and Oranges et al) and Tranter told TE that it was a tune that had been kicking around for a while.

“I’ve had Molly for a couple of years now, just waiting to be recorded,” he said.

“I never really sit down thinking ‘I’m going to write a song.’ It’s just strumming a guitar and a couple of notes or something makes you think ‘oh, what’s this?”

Or I’m walking, or buying some groceries and a melody just pops up. I really have

no idea how it works. The good ones are never the ones you have to consciously think about.”

While this is ostensibly a solo project, Tranter is backed up, this time around, by a formidable band of players in the Bagism Revelation.

“If anyone would listen, I could spend a good week talking about how good the guys really are - and I still wouldn’t be done,” he said.

“For starters, the brothers Thorpe are Beatle-heads. At rehearsals once I said we should play Hey Bulldog. Nick straight up just started playing the riff, Alex jumped in on the bass, and it sounded as good as anything we’d rehearsed. Sam Smith is a great drummer as well - that roll leading into the last chorus on Molly is brilliant. I can’t say enough about them. And they like my songs, so I’m smitten.”

Catch Lennie Tranter and the Bagism Revelation at the Lass O’Gowrie on Saturday, May 9.

CLUB K TARA

2 Howell Street

KOTARA

4957 3385 www.clubkotara.com.au Ph

-Live-

ENTERTAINMENT THURSDAY 7TH MAY

SENIORS MORNING TEA SHOW SATURDAY 9TH MAY

ROAST DAY

SAVING JUNE

WITH A DESSERT

SATURDAY 16TH MAY

AC/DC ((BLACK JACK)) SATURDAY 23RD MAY

THE SMARTS

49 42 60 22

FRIDAY 29TH MAY

THIS IZ THE MOMENT KARAOKE SATURDAY 30TH MAY

WW16658

CODE RED

WW16634

www.redheadbc.com WW16702

Tranter’s new track in the bag

COMING UP IN MAY

TUESDAY

Burns St, Redhead NSW 2290 Ph:

MUSIC

this week

the newcastle post » Wednesday 6 May 2015

wgbc

WHAT'S ON GALLERIES Art Systems Wickham: By My Own Foot by Bronwyn Lusted, Jules Spokes and Sally Reynolds (image: Bronwyn Lusted Ormiston Gorge) until 17 May Back to Back Galleries: Searching for Shibui Curated by Kathy Heinrich until 24 May Cooks Hill Galleries: New faces - Surreal Good Art by Gillie & Marc, Robbie Robertson, Andrew Bennett, Yulia Pustoshkina until 11 May cstudios Art Gallery: Quiet Waters by Wayne Macartney; Reality to Fantasy by Marea Kozaczynski-McCaig 31 May Finite Gallery: KISS MY ARTS #3 fundraising group exhibition until 31 May Gallery 139: Sculptured OUT: group exhibition until 9 May Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery: Bodywork: Australian Jewellery 1970-2012 until 10 May; (in)visible: the First Peoples and War until 17 May; Contemporary Jewellery from the Hunter until 24 May Lock Up Cultural Centre: Art Bender 8 and 9 May Lovett Gallery: Outgoing Disability: photography exhibition by Belinda Mason until 30 May Maitland Regional Art Gallery: Just Paper: On

11

WINDALE-GATESHEAD BOWLING CLUB Good on the outside – Great on the inside

Paper: The Maitland Wonder: Les Darcy until 12 Jun; Just Paper: On the make: A Collection and Just Paper: The piano man has been drinking (not me) until 21 Jun NANA contemporary art space: Newcastle School of Art Group Show by First Year students until 6 May Nanshe studio gallery: 3rd Birthday Show until 30 May Newcastle Art Gallery: Capital and Country: the Federation Years 1900 - 1914 until 31 May Newcastle Art Space: Veritas III group exhibition until 24 May University Gallery: MULUBINBA: Place of Sea Ferns until 30 May All listed exhibitions are on now or starting week Monday 4 May

What’s on at Ducks Crossing Cottage Cuisine

Mother’s Day Sunday 10th May Come and enjoy

LAKE MACQUARIE

CASH HOUSIE Lunch, 2 for $50 or 3 courses for $60

EVERY WEDNESDAY 11AM • EVERY FRIDAY 7.30PM

BOOK NOW

May Entertainment

Burton Road, Eleebana 4947 3825 www.duckscrossing.com.au WW16690

Hooi's Recipe IS AT KOTARA

– – – –

LA BOMBA ROCK ROSS MCGREGOR SUMMERLAND KINGS VEGAS

FREE ROOM HIRE Don’t forget about us if you are holding a special event • Christmas / Work Functions • 18th or 21st Birthday Parties • Christenings, Anniversaries • Weddings • Corporate Meetings • Free room hire for Members • Tailored packages available

CAN’T DECIDE WHAT TO EAT?

Just ask Hooi to create one of his superb SURPRISE DISHES! WW15850

Our Functions Packages are available on the website at:

www.wgbc.com.au

If you would like a more tailored package or other options feel free to contact our Head Chef and he will assist you with your needs.

For inquiries call us on 4965 7888 Windale Gateshead BC, Lake Street, Windale

WW14803

OPEN - TUES TO SUN for DINNER 5-9PM

Shop 1/55 Joslin St Kotara • 4952 3333

8 MAY 15 MAY 22 MAY 29 MAY

12 Wednesday 6 May 2015 « the newcastle post

MOVIE REVIEWS Boy Choir [Rated PG]

Inherent Vice [Rated MA]

Who’d have thought a flick about a boy choir could be so gripping?

Starring Dustin Hoffman, Kathy Bates and Glee’s Kevin McHale, this comingof-age drama follows Stet, an angsty, small Texas town pre-teen with a sublime singing voice. After his mother is killed in a car crash, Stet finds himself enrolled at a prestigious private school, vying for a place in the famed American Boy Choir.

Stet’s formidable attitude brings bucket loads of tension to this film, whether it be between him and his absent father, his demanding Choir Master (Hoffman) or his privileged classmates. And, of course, the music is divine.

French-Canadian director François Girard has done an excellent job of capturing the politics and mechanics of a modern choir.

The trailer gives no indication of the drama that unfolds in this film and frankly does nothing to draw you in, but if you enjoyed films like Mr Holland’s Opus or Whiplash, Boy Choir may be well worth a watch.

If ever there was a director that could possibly tackle enigmatic author Thomas Pynchon’s sprawling psychedelic and almost unfilmable noir Inherent Vice it would have to be idiosyncratic auteur Paul Thomas Anderson (There Will Be Blood, Magnolia, Boogie Nights). Here, Anderson has given us a classic American noir - albeit more in the form of the Cohen Brothers’ Big Lebowski than any hard-boiled Elmore Leonard or Raymond Carver fare.

Set at the tail-end of the Love Generation in late 1960s LA, Inherent Vice tells the story of hippie stoner detective Larry ‘Doc’ Sportello (Joaquin Phoenix) who is approached by ex-flame Shasta Hepworth (Katherine Waterston) to help solve the disappearance of her shady real estate mogul boyfriend (Eric Roberts). In typical noir fashion, things quickly spiral out of control and Sportello finds himself wading through a mire of Nazi bikers, FBI agents, weird dentists and drug lords. Trying too hard to work out the intricacies in this meandering plot could potentially be a fool’s errand. You’d be best just letting it all wash over you.

Featuring a stellar ensemble cast including Josh Brolin (who gives one of his best-ever performances as Lt. Det. Christian F. “Bigfoot” Bjornsen), Eric Roberts, Reese Witherspoon, Benicio del Toro and Martin Short, much of this film’s success is due to Phoenix’s subtle-yet-spontaneous turn as the drug-addled private dick.

TOWER CINEMAS, NEWCASTLE AMELIA PARROTT [3/5]

TOWER CINEMAS, NEWCASTLE STEPHEN BISSET [4/5]

WW15715

where the ocean meets the lake

Mother’s Day

Delicious Lunch Buffet Bread rolls Honey Mustard Chicken Barramundi with lemon dill sauce Marinated lamb leg with minted jus Indian style beef curry served with jasmine rice

Cheesy bacon potato bake Steamed seasonal vegetables Caesar salad, Greek Salad Including platters of petit fours, assorted cakes and fruit

Upstairs overlooking beautiful Swansea Channel

Bridge St SWANSEA 4971 1329 - ATM - COURTESY BUS SERVICE IS GAMBLING A PROBLEM FOR YOU? G-LINE (NSW) IS A CONFIDENTIAL ANONYMOUS & FREE COUNSELLING SERVICE - FREE CALL 1800 633 635

WW16623

$39pp 4-12 years - $15.00pp Includes a glass of champagne for the mums Bookings essential – 4971 1329 Sunday 10th May

13 the newcastle post Âť Wednesday 6 May 2015

WW16703