Platform Arts upcoming exhibition explores the construction of our personal worlds
Contemporary and experimental arts organisation Platform Arts has the mind cogs turning again with their upcoming exhibition WORLDING. Bringing the works of eleven esteemed national and international contemporary artists to Geelong, the visual arts show explores the broad concept of world-building, inviting its viewers to consider how they consciously—or unconsciously—build, design, and organise a personal world.
Taking on a less terrestrial definition of world, curator Dr Amber Smith provides a fascinating take on the psychological and emotional practices that people cultivate to affirm their selfhood, agency, politics, and even personal myths. WORLDING also demonstrates the growing calibre of contemporary artists presenting in Geelong, including Madison Bycroft, Katthy Cavaliere, Alex Rizkalla, and Patrick Pound. The exhibition and public programming runs from 8 June to 19 July at Platform Arts.
WORLDING
- When: 8 June – 19 July 2024, with an opening event from 4pm Saturday 8 June
- Where: Platform Arts, 60 Little Malop Street, Geelong
- Artists: Brook Andrew, Madison Bycroft, Katthy Cavaliere, Daniel Crooks, Julie Davies, Patrick Pound, Alex Rizkalla, Si Yi Shen, Kieren Seymour, Batia Suter, and Tarryn Love, Lisa Couzens, and Dr. Vicki Couzens.
Stay up to date with what’s happening within the region’s art scene here.
Under the curation of Platform Arts’ Dr Amber Smith, the collection of works reflects how people reimagine their immediate world and what they are signalling to themselves and others, often ranging from acts of curating the past through memorabilia to crafting speculative future worlds. The art mediums span video and digital media as well as installation and sculptural works from an impressive cohort of artists including Brook Andrew, Madison Bycroft, Katthy Cavaliere, Daniel Crooks, Julie Davies, Patrick Pound, Alex Rizkalla, Si Yi Shen, Kieren Seymour, Batia Suter, and Tarryn Love, Lisa Couzens, and Dr. Vicki Couzens.
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These themes are familiar territory for Dr. Amber Smith who completed extensive research into the area during their 2022 PhD, Collecting, Display, and World-Building in Contemporary Art Practice: Putting the Wunderkammer back to work. This research saw Amber investigate the more unconscious motivations behind ‘accumulation’ as an art form, which further unravelled their interest in why people ‘collect what they collect’. Through WORLDING, Amber invites viewers to contemplate how one exists among, between, and surrounded by a deliberate network of material things.
“WORLDING is proposed as a life-long project where one is always thinking about and acting on what they desire their world to entail. By confronting our own attempts to world-build, we gain insight into the purpose of worlding being about identity and creating an environment that signals back to us—sometimes unconsciously—our identity and essentials like security and self-actualisation. We like to know that our immediate world fulfills our needs and desires,” explains Smith.
WORLDING runs as a six-week program that begins with a curator floor talk at 3.00pm, followed by an opening event at 4.00 pm on Saturday 8 June. Platform Arts will also host free public events in partnership with The Centre For Reworlding, including a screening and Q+A session on Friday 28 June; a cross-sector panel discussion drawing on worldbuilding expertise from an architect, author, game-designer, and exhibiting artist on the Saturday 15 June; and a film screening of Harry Hooton (1971) through Australian Film Workshop on Friday 21 June.
For more information and to register for events, visit here.
Olympia announces intimate shows and drops new single and EP
Olympia is having an incredible couple of months as an Australian artist, rocking out with Something For Kate at the AFL Essendon verses Collingwood ANZAC Day clash, launching her own record label Reach Around Records, and releasing new solo music for the first time since 2019’s monster Flamingo, with singles ‘Try Be Good’ and ‘Creep’.
Today the songbird has dropped the EP that the songs belong to, Love For One, with new single ‘Everybody Leaves’, as well as announcing three intimate shows in Melbourne, Castlemaine and Sydney to celebrate.
Love For One EP Launch Show Dates
- Thu 30 May – Toff In Town, Melbourne/Naarm – TIX
- Fri 31 May – The Bridge Hotel, Castlemaine/Djadjawurrung Land – TIX
- Sat 1 June – Low 302, Sydney, Eora – TIX
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Love For One is a capsule of songs from the singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalists time in London as the pandemic loomed and Olympia was motioning through her father’s passing. Recorded with long-time collaborator Burke Reid, the album centres on grief, self-discovery and female artistry.
The accompanying single ‘Everybody Leaves’ touches directly on Olympia’s fathers passing, leaving no areas of discomfort untouched. The music video, which was also released today, as directed by Alex O Smith, is a minimalist masterpiece, capturing the raw emotions of the song.
Olympia says, “It’s like sitting alone in an airport with the sound of people greeting each other echoing across the expanse of tiles. Of being stationary within a world of movement. Of planes looping around the globe and families reuniting and folding into their cars to go home and reconnect, while your heart is completely broken and you wish the world would just stop for a moment.”
Whilst an emotional raw journey as compared to Flamingo and the 2016 Self Talk, tracks on the Love For One EP are paired with percussive loops, Olympia’s signature melodies and metaphors coming together to build a unique world of candy floss, sticky carpets and tissue boxes by the bed.
This EP will translate impeccable in the live setting with Olympia opting for three intimate solo shows to share the songs from Love For One for the first time, before embarking on a full-band national tour later in the years. Playing Melbourne, Castlemaine and Sydney at the end of the month, Olympia will showcase some new and unreleased work, as well as treat you to some special surprise guests.
Keep up to date with all things Olympia, including Reach Around Records and their amazing merch here.
Childish Gambino adds new Melbourne date to upcoming Australian tour
The American renaissance man – actor, comedian, producer, writer, director and superstar rapper Childish Gambino – has added an extra Melbourne date to his highly-anticipated The New World Tour taking place in January and February 2025.
Before being announced earlier this week, the tour was teased when Frontier Touring released a cryptic Instagram post, which featured part of his world tour artwork pasted over Australian and New Zealand cities.
Childish Gambino Australian tour
- Jan 28 – Spark Arena, Auckland
- Feb 1 – Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane
- Feb 4 – Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney
- Feb 5 – Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney
- Feb 7 – Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne
- Feb 8 – Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne (NEW SHOW)
- Feb 11 – RAC Arena, Perth
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
The first Childish Gambino Melbourne tickets are set to go on sale on Friday, May 17 at noon. Tickets to the newly-announced show, happening at Rod Laver Arena on February 8, will open to the public on Monday, May 20, with a presale opening today. He will be supported at his Australia and New Zealand by special guest Amaare.
Last month, Gambino revealed that he would be re-releasing his fourth studio album, 3.15.20 as a finished record, which dropped today.
Tickets to the Childish Gambino The New World Tour go on sale to the general public beginning Monday 20 May from 11am AEST (staggered times, see below) at thenewworldtour.com.
TICKETS ON SALE
Begins: Monday 20 May (staggered timings as below)
Sydney & Brisbane: 11am local
Perth: 11am local
Melbourne: 1pm local
Auckland: 2pm local
Further tour and ticket information can be found here.
Mr Emergency unpacks how winter affects your plumbing
Though our winters are relatively mild in most regions, they can pose significant challenges to your home’s plumbing system.
Fluctuating temperatures, combined with the occasional cold snap, can result in numerous problems. These can range from frozen or burst pipes to added strain on our hot water systems. As homeowners, knowing just how these seasonal changes impact your plumbing and what measures you can take to prevent them is essential. By staying informed and being proactive, you can keep your plumbing in prime working condition throughout the colder months. So let’s explore how winter affects your plumbing and what you can do to protect your home.
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here.
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Temperature Fluctuations
Across Australia, winter brings temperature fluctuations that can dramatically affect your plumbing. Yes, the weather may not be quite as harsh as in other parts of the world. However, your plumbing pipes can expand and contract from even moderate temperature changes. This constant movement can result in your pipes forming small cracks or weaknesses that eventually lead to leaks or bursts. Older homes, particularly those with outdated plumbing systems, are more vulnerable to these temperature-induced issues.
Regular pipe inspections that involve checking for signs of wear and tear are something that all homeowners should do. Proper maintenance, which includes insulating exposed pipes, can help protect your plumbing from the ravages of winter’s fluctuating temperatures.
Frozen Pipes
As we’ve mentioned, winters in Australia can often bring about unexpected cold snaps. For your plumbing pipes, these cold snaps pose a significant risk of them freezing, even in milder areas of the country.
When temperatures venture below freezing, any water inside exposed or poorly insulated pipes can solidify, resulting in unwanted blockages. Not only does this obstruct the flow of water, but it also adds unneeded pressure on your plumbing system. Pressure that can cause pipe leaks or bursts.
Homeowners should be aware of the common signs of frozen pipes, such as reduced water pressure or unusual plumbing noises. To prevent frozen pipes from bursting, insulate any pipes that may be open to the elements, particularly in basements or crawl spaces. It’s also worth letting taps drip slowly to keep water moving – this will reduce the risk of freezing.
Burst Pipes
Equally as significant a winter concern as frozen pipes are burst pipes. As the days and nights get increasingly cooler, older pipes that have suffered wear and tear – or repeated expansions and contractions – can weaken and eventually burst. This is especially true for older homes with outdated plumbing systems.
A burst pipe can cause major flood damage to your home, damage that often comes with a hefty repair price tag. To nip this risk in the bud, homeowners should regularly inspect their plumbing, looking for indicators of damage, such as leaks or corrosion.
Being proactive and addressing potential issues early can save you from significant inconvenience and expenses.
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Strain On Your Hot Water System
It probably comes as no real surprise, but we tend to use our hot water systems more in winter. It might be a slightly longer shower in the morning or even for heating purposes. This increased demand can put added pressure on hot water heaters, possibly resulting in:
- Lower efficiency
- A build-up of sediment in tank-based systems
- Potential system breakdowns
Homeowners should monitor their hot water systems for signs of strain. These can typically include fluctuating temperatures, unusual noises, or extended heating times.
You can improve system efficiency and lifespan by keeping to a regular maintenance regime, including flushing the system to remove sediment. It’s also worth keeping your hot water pipes insulated to keep heat loss to a minimum. Doing this will also reduce the system’s workload, ensuring reliable hot water throughout the winter.
Prevention and Maintenance
Regular preventative maintenance is crucial for safeguarding Australian homes from common winter plumbing issues.
- Start by inspecting pipes for cracks or leaks. Insulate any that have been exposed to the elements.
- Regularly clean drains with baking soda and vinegar to prevent clogs.
- Steer clear of putting fats, oils, or food scraps down the sink.
- If you have a tank-based hot water system, flush it to clear out any sediment build-up.
Now, homeowners can handle some basic maintenance tasks. However, for anything that requires altering any pipework or connecting to your mains water supply, it’s essential to call a licensed plumber. They’ll be able to detect potential problems early, resolve issues safely and ensure your plumbing system remains in top shape throughout winter.
Winter-Proof Your Plumbing for Peace of Mind
Winter can bring numerous challenges to Australian homeowners, impacting plumbing systems through fluctuating temperatures, increased hot water demand, and burst or frozen pipes.
By adopting proactive measures, largely involving preventative maintenance, you can confidently protect your home against these seasonal issues. Regularly inspect pipes for signs of wear and tear, insulate exposed sections, and keep drains clear of debris to prevent clogs. For significant maintenance and repairs, get a licensed plumber on board to guarantee that your plumbing system remains reliable throughout the oncoming cooler months.
By winter-proofing your plumbing, you can avoid costly repairs, ensure uninterrupted water flow, and enjoy peace of mind, knowing your home is well-prepared for winter’s challenges.
For more handy tips or to book assistance, head to Mr Emergency.
This article was written in partnership with Mr Emergency.
Charm of Finches offer a daring gothic-folk songwriting masterclass with album Marlinchen In The Snow
Navigating cinematic landscapes, atmospheric vocals and gothic-laden blood harmonies, Marlinchen in the Snow, sees Melbourne-based sisters Mabel and Ivy Windred-Wornes (Charm of Finches) traipsing between gothic folk, tepid indie-pop and disconsolate lyricism to deliver a masterclass of dejected folk.
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
With each track, Charm of Finches invite us into their world, allowing us to find solace in the beauty of their shared vulnerability. The pillow-murmured ‘If You Know Me’, embraces the sisters natural penchant for pessimism, acknowledging “I know I can be a downer, a pessimistic killjoy frowner” with refreshing candour, ‘Middle Of Your Mess’ delicately discusses the wobbly knees desire and ache of rejection from watching a newfound love choose another partner over you.
‘Atlantis’ maintains a refined and wistful approach through its delicate, yet temperamental overlays of vocals dramatically droning alongside string arrangements; ‘On My Own’ melds Roland S Howard-esque darkwave drum machines and dual vocal harmonies so entwined they sound hauntingly singular, while the marvellously unhinged ‘Human’ balances reverb-laden guitars and sombre vocal arrangements amid themes of alienation.
Yet, while the album traverses themes of isolation, dysmorphia and the fragility of relationships one encounters while living a transient life on the road, it’s never a heavy listen, with the observational wit of the sisters’ songwriting shines through to give each song a self-deprecating sense of relatability that you can’t help but love.
Marlinchen Of The Snow is out now via Spunk! Records/ Virgin Music Group. Keep up to date with Charm of Finches here.
Belmont’s Archive Wine Bar is a place of bottles and bliss
They say sharing is caring, and this story all started with a love of wine and sharing their collection with loved ones, to then building their collection to add whisky, gin, and rum. The founders of Archive Wine Bar want to share their collection, their archive, with us all.
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Archive is the culmination of a lifelong passion for wine shared by founders Ingrid and Graham. With over 20 years of experience in the wine industry spanning Brisbane to Edinburgh, their dream of creating a wine sanctuary became a reality in 2018. What began as an idea for a modest wine shop with a small bar has blossomed into a sprawling establishment, complete with a spacious beer garden and versatile function space.
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Nestled in the heart of Belmont, Archive stands as a beacon for those seeking to explore the boundless world of wine. With over 180 wines available by the glass, it is believed Archive holds the title of offering the most extensive selection in all of Australia. From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, Archive offers a venue like no other—a place where every glass tells a story, and every moment is infused with warmth and hospitality.
Complementing their exceptional wine selection is a delectable grazing menu designed for sharing and pairing. Featuring some of Australia’s finest imported and local cheeses, as well as charcuterie sourced from esteemed Victorian producers like Salt Kitchen in Ballarat, who only source free-range pork for their delicious jambon and capocollo. Indulge in the signature Archive Grazing Platter or treat yourself to the newest winter delights, including Gin Cured Salmon and the irresistible Million Dollar Mac ‘n’ Cheese.
Beyond serving as a sanctuary for wine enthusiasts, Archive is a hub for learning and exploration. Ascend to their drinks education school, where they offer internationally recognized Wine & Spirits Education Trust (WSET) courses, led by their lead educator Graham Sutherland DipWSET. Archive have also recently launched Australia’s first WSET Beer course with resident beer expert Ryan “Lofty” Loft.
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Join the team for monthly wine tastings, ranging from intimate gatherings, to their legendary Garden Parties, where importers and winemakers showcase a curated selection of wines paired with some delicious bites from the kitchen.
Don’t miss their upcoming Viva Italia Garden Party in June—it’s sure to be a celebration to remember!
To learn more about Archive Wine or to book a table head here.
Vale Norm Jurrawaa Stanley, Kurnai / Wotjabaluk musician, artist and storyteller
On 15 May 2024, beloved Wadawurrung Country community member, educator, leader and artist, Norm Stanley lost his battle with cancer.
Diagnosed with stage four kidney cancer just days before Christmas and a month after marrying his long-time partner and co-owner of Wurri – ki Art and Wurri – ki Culture, Wadawurrung woman Nikki Stanley (formerly McKenzie), Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation announced Stanley’s passing on Thursday morning.
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The announcement read,
“We acknowledge the pain and sadness felt by our First Nations community and the wider community, with the passing of Norm Stanley. We recognize Norm’s huge contribution to Ceremonies, Art, Education and Culture. We say Nyatne (thank you) for everything he did with Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation, where he was always well respected and valued – he will be dearly missed. We send our condolences, love and support to Wadawurrung Woman Nikki Stanley and children, and to all Norm’s family and the community.”
Long-time friend and collaborator, Xavier Rudd also posted a tribute to Norm Stanley on his Instagram this morning, acknowledging Stanley’s profound impact on the artist.
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Leaving behind his wife and young family of five children, Stanley will be remembered both as a family man and as a generous contributor to the Wadawurrung community. Stanley regularly led Welcome To Country ceremonies and smoking ceremonies alongside Nikki Stanley for council and community arts events along with cultural training sessions for organisations and community groups.
Stanley’s artwork has shaped the Geelong surrounds, contributing work to the City of Greater Geelong NBN Box Art Project and undertaking wall murals in Labuan Square as part of Platform Arts YOOKAPA program, Chilwell Primary School and Geelong Grammar. Last year Norm and Nikki Stanley also presented their first major solo arts exhibition, Keepers Of The Flame, at Platform Arts, sharing works that represent their ancestry and story.
Norm Stanley was also an advocate and educator for First Nations people, running cultural programs in schools, and was last year awarded the 2023 LIMElight Award for Excellence in Community Engagement through Deakin University.
A fundraiser was setup for the family when news of Norm Stanley’s diagnosis first came to light and is still active to help Nikki Stanley and her children as they navigate this difficult time.
Contributions can be made here. Vale Norm Jurrawaa Stanley.
Leaps and Bounds: Fitzroy, Collingwood and Richmond’s winter music festival drops killer lineup
Including the reopening of a historical venue that has been dormant for decades, this year’s festival strives to highlight the diversity of bands, performers and songwriters that attract an equally diverse audience of music lovers across all ages.
“Much loved for over a decade, Leaps and Bounds is a favourite in the Yarra calendar,” Mayor Edward Crossland said.
Leaps And Bounds
- A celebration of local music with a diverse line-up of live shows
- Venues across Fitzroy, Fitzroy North, Collingwood, Abbotsford and Richmond
- Returns 25 – 28 July
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
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“We’re so proud to continue hosting this spectacular festival and supporting local musicians, venues and workers, particularly in light of recent challenges that the industry is facing relating to rising rents, cost of living pressures and increasing public liability insurance.”
A celebration of local music, the diverse line-up of live shows will hit venues across Fitzroy, Fitzroy North, Collingwood, Abbotsford and Richmond from Thursday 25 July to Sunday 28 July.
Spanning four days and nights, the festival boasts a succession of parties and performances for all age groups and every budget, including plenty of free and family-friendly gigs on the program.
This year’s program provides a platform for venues to program a diverse lineup from LGBTIQA+ and First Nations musicians and to build audiences across generations.
Leaps and Bounds’ unmissable events
Exceptional tribute shows
Tribute shows to Mazzy Star at Lulie Tavern, Gillian Welch at The Gem and John Prine at Catfish Bar.
Amos Roach Unplugged
Amos Roach Unplugged featuring the award-winning musician, dancer and director, for an intimate performance at the Railway Hotel Fitzroy. An unmissable opportunity to also see the newly refurbished bandroom, which hosted dances for returned soldiers in the 50s through to local rock acts like Weddings Parties Anything in the early 2000s, but has sat dormant for decades, until now! Other First Nations shows include Tjum Tjumba Fundraiser at Glamorama and Kiwat Kennell at Bodriggy Brewing Co.
Berada by Nighthawks x Rama Parwata
Berada by Nighthawks x Rama Parwata promises to deliver an unforgettable experience as a showcase of Southeast Asian artists that merges cultural influences, experimental sounds and dynamic performances including Hantu, the solo project of multi-instrumentalist and ethnomusicologist Isobel D’Cruz which draws on her Western and Indian classical training and Malaysian background.
PBS Presents ‘Swinging City’
PBS Presents ‘Swinging City’ Live from The Corner Hotel: To celebrate and launch Leaps and Bounds 2024, PBS will continue their tradition of a live broadcast from one of Yarra’s finest establishments the Corner Hotel, presenting not one, but two PBS radio shows live-to-air from the rooftop bar and courtyard. Join hosts Crispi Winsor and Myles O’Neil-Shaw for four hours of live music, special guests and rare records as Radio City and Swinging Doors combine for this special broadcast.
GRRLS to the Front
Successful events from last year will also return for another exciting instalment in 2024:
GRRLS to the Front at Bad Decisions Bar – a hip hop show spotlighting female identifying, non-binary, and LGBTIQA+ rap and hip-hop artists, and their passionate fan bases.
FLIGHT!
FLIGHT! – a showcase featuring the new generation of Naarm’s best artists, featuring nine acts from culturally diverse backgrounds. Presented by The Boite & The Evelyn Hotel.
Leaps and Bounds Record Fair at Collingwood Town Hall.
There will also be shows for young families and teenagers including: Baby, you’re a star at Lulie Tavern: a gig for parents, pals and kids in conjunction with Yarra Youth DJ Skills plus Horsepower Two Year Anniversary Show (All Ages) at The Tote featuring Horsepower and a host of acts from Melbourne and Sydney with J.O.Y (SYD), Bozo (SYD), Mindrace and Tarnished.
For more information and the full program, visit Leaps and Bounds Music Festival.
Rapper, advocate, and ultimate thrift-shopper, Macklemore brought the energy to Rod Laver Arena
A sold-out crowd made their way to Rod Laver Arena – upgraded from John Cain Arena due to overwhelming demand – on 15 May, for Macklemore’s only Victorian gig of his 2024 Australia and New Zealand tour. Those of all ages were in attendance, even including kids who were yet to be born when Macklemore was top of the charts, showing how his discography continues to infiltrate every generation. Macklemore, or Ben to his friends, has a diverse collection of tracks, ranging from fun and boppy tunes about mopeds, to spitting hard-hitting words about social issues, and this is all part of his wide-reaching appeal.
The energy of a Macklemore show is truly indescribable. Although I went in excited to see what I anticipated would be a great show, Macklemore’s gig absolutely exceeded my expectations. It seems this was not unique to me, as walking down Richmond’s Swan Street afterwards I overheard person after person talking about how this ended up being one of the best concerts they have been to, and reflecting the sentiment that it was even better than they had expected. His vocals were clear and even better live than on his recordings, his advocacy for love, acceptance and kindness was peppered throughout, his dance moves were exceptionally engaging, there was fire, confetti, and there was not a single moment in the almost-two-hours that lulled. A big shout out to his dancers and band is also well deserved, for their seamless performances that never faltered on energy.
With ‘Thrift Shop’ early in the set which saw Macklemore don his “big-ass coat”, the crowd knew they were in for a high-energy and fun show. The set list included some of the big and more classic hits, like ‘Same Love’, ‘Wing$’, ‘Glorious‘, ‘Downtown‘ and ‘These Days’, as well as some more recent favourites, like ‘1984′. Two lucky young girls were brought onto the stage from the pit, given 20 seconds each to show off their best moves during ‘Dance Off’, which did not disappoint. Returning to the stage in an Aussie guernsey, his encore consisted of ‘Good Old Days’ and ‘Can’t Hold Us’, which perfectly rounded out a show of his best hits.
Never shying away from tackling the big issues, Macklemore recently revealed a new track calling for a ceasefire and condemning the genocide in Palestine. In addition to this being an act of advocacy, the proceeds from ‘HIND’S HALL’ are also being donated to support Palestinian refugees. This song has made it onto the tour set list, and was a powerful moment in Macklemore’s gig that was overwhelmingly well received. Just prior to this song, someone in the mosh pit had passed out. Those around them lit up their phone lights to get Macklemore’s attention, and he was able to organise for help to get them out of harm’s way and ensure they were able to recover safely. This is of course not uncommon in the pit. A perfect segue, Macklemore highlighted that moment in the crowd as an example of humans helping humans, without conditions, without questions, and because it is simply the right thing to do – something that, he said, should be seen in all parts of the world.
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Appearing to be genuinely grateful for the role that his fans, and particularly those in Australia (and in his favourite city, Melbourne – right, Ben?), have played in his life, Macklemore took time to reflect and thank everyone for going on the journey with him. Macklemore will now finish up his Aussie/NZ tour with three sold out gigs across Brisbane and Perth, before jetting back to Europe. For those who haven’t had the chance to see him yet, put going to a Macklemore gig on your future to-do list.
To keep up to date with all things Macklemore, click here.
RocKwiz Live adds more dates as their massive Australian tour sells fast
RocKwiz is an Australian music institution, with many a-music fan historically trading pre-gig drinks on a Saturday night to stay at home and watch the show instead. Well, for the past 14 years, we definitely haven’t had to.
The RocKwiz gang are back on buses, trains, planes and automobiles and coming to a theatre near you! Julia, Brian, Dugald and the ever-expanding RocKwiz OrKestra are coming your way, revelling in the chaos and quizzery that is RocKwiz LIVE!
If you’ve seen a RocKwiz LIVE! show you’ll know what we mean. If you haven’t, buckle up for a fantastic night of musical and comedic treats from Australia’s premiere Rock and Roll Trivia show.
RocKwiz LIVE! Australian tour dates and venues
- Tuesday, 8 October 2024
Orange Civic Theatre, Orange NSW - Wednesday, 9 October 2024
Dubbo Regional Theatre, Dubbo NSW - Friday, 11 October 2024
Tamworth Town Hall, Tamworth NSW - Saturday, 12 October 2024
Glasshouse Theatre, Port Macquarie NSW
SOLD OUT - Sunday, 13 October 2024
Saraton Theatre, Grafton NSW - Tuesday, 15 October and Wednesday, 16 October 2024
The Art House, Wyong NSW - Saturday, 19 October 2024
Odeon Theatre, Hobart TAS - Wednesday, 23 October 2024
Riverside Theatre, Parramatta NSW - Thursday, 24 October 2024
The Pavilion Performing Arts Centre, Sutherland NSW - Friday, 25 October 2024
Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre, Nowra NSW - Saturday, 26 October 2024
Anita’s Theatre, Thirroul NSW
SOLD OUT - Tuesday, 29 October 2024
Townsville Civic Theatre, Townsville QLD - Thursday, 31 October 2024
Cairns Performing Arts Centre, Cairns QLD - Tuesday, 5 November 2024
Pilbeam Theatre, Rockhampton QLD - Wednesday, 6 November 2024
Moncrieff Entertainment Centre, Bundaberg QLD - Thursday, 7 November 2024
The Events Centre, Caloundra QLD - Friday, 8 November 2024
HOTA Theatre, Gold Coast QLD - Saturday, 9 November 2024
The Fortitude Music Hall, Brisbane QLD
NEW MATINEE SHOW – on sale at 10.00am, Friday 17 May - Saturday, 9 November 2024
The Fortitude Music Hall, Brisbane QLD
EVENING SHOW SOLD OUT - Sunday, 10 November 2024
Empire Theatre, Toowoomba QLD - Thursday, 14 November 2024
Frankston Arts Centre, Frankston VIC - Friday, 15 November 2024
Costa Hall, Geelong VIC - Saturday, 16 November 2024
West Gippsland Arts Centre, Warragul VIC - Sunday, 17 November 2024
Gippsland Performing Arts Centre, Traralgon VIC - Wednesday, 20 November 2024
Anita’s Theatre, Thirroul NSW
NEW SHOW – on sale 10.00am, Friday 17 May - Thursday, 21 November 2024
Civic Theatre, Newcastle VIC - Friday, 22 November 2024
Canberra Theatre, Canberra ACT
NEW SHOW – on sale 10.00am, Friday 17 May - Saturday, 23 November 2024
Canberra Theatre, Canberra ACT
SOLD OUT - Sunday, 24 November 2024
Enmore Theatre, Sydney NSW - Tuesday, 26 November 2024
Albury Entertainment Centre, Albury VIC - Wednesday, 27 November 2024
Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo VIC - Thursday, 28 November 2024
Ballarat Civic Hall, Ballarat VIC - Friday, 29 November 2024
Palais Theatre, St Kilda VIC - Saturday, 30 November 2024
Swan Hill Soundshell, Swan Hill VIC - Tuesday, 3 December 2024
Chaffey Theatre, Renmark SA - Wednesday, 4 December 2024
Northern Festival Centre, Port Pirie SA - Thursday, 5 December 2024
Her Majesty’s Theatre, Adelaide SA
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Australia’s premiere Rock n Roll Trivia show takes the pub trivia night and adds leather, leopard print and a whole lot of attitude in the most outrageous night of musical and comedic treats. At this point RocKwiz Live! is an institution, with sold-out concerts across the country and added extras of the annual RocKWiz’s Really Really Good Friday at Melbourne’s Hamer Hall, a fixture of the years event calendar, and their permanent position on the Delta Stage at Bluesfest being a major draw card for the annual Byron Bay blues and roots festival.
Why wouldn’t it be when the makeup includes Brain’s hilarious contestant selection process kicking of the hilarity as he scopes out audience members rock knowledge (and any additional singing and dancing skills they may have), before the show even starts! The top scoring members go on to be the contestants, seated alongside famous and up and coming musicians for a magical night of music and trivia. It all climaxes in a final score with duets and ensemble performances.
Of the return Julia Zemiro says, “Getting back on the road and touring around the country is what RocKwiz does best! If life is all getting a bit much, and you need to have a laugh and hear some fabulous music, come join us! We guarantee we’ll make you feel better.”
“So excited to be doing this big run of RocKwiz shows! ‘On The Road Again’, ‘Roadhouse Blues’, ‘Hit The Road Jack’, ‘Freeway Of Love’ … you know the tour bus will be rocking!” adds Brian Nankervis.
“There’s something very special about being on the road, playing beautiful theatres with a travelling company of artists, inviting audience members to be part of the action. On a RocKwiz tour, performing night after night, the shows develop and consolidate, but also twist and turn. We’re constantly refining, evaluating the shows in hotel rooms and airport lounges. Late night singalongs might be rehearsed the next afternoon and performed that night. There’s nothing quite like a RocKwiz show.
“It’s a thrill to travel around Australia with this show we love. See you in the foyer!”
The Victorian list includes Frankston Arts Centre, Costa Hall in Geelong, West Gippsland Arts Centre, Gippland Performing Arts Centre, Civic Theatre, Ulumbarra Theatre in Bendigo, Ballarat Civic Hall, Palais Theatre in St Kilda and Swan Hill Soundshell. The tour kicks off 8 October and concluded in Adelaide on Thursday 5 December.
Tickets to the outrageously fun concert quiz commence at 10am AEST, Friday 10 May via rockwizlive.com.au. Presale tickets are available via the RocKwiz Kwizlist from Thursday 9 May at 10am AEST. Click here to register.
Allday announces Australian tour and new single featuring Cub Sport and Ben Lee
With his fifth studio album The Necklace set to be released August 2nd via Dew Process, today, Australian rapper, singer and songwriter Allday announces his national album tour and releases his new single Miss You Still featuring long-time friend and fellow artist Tim Nelson (Cub Sport) and includes an interpolation of Ben Lee’s classic hit Cigarettes Will Kill You.
Miss You Still is the third offering from The Necklace, following Drip Drop and debut single Access. The Necklace Tour, presented by triple j, will kick off on Friday August 23rd at The Gov in Adelaide and travels through Perth, Melbourne, Sydney with his final destination, Brisbane playing the Princess Theatre on Saturday September 3rd.
Allday Australian tour
- Friday, 23 August 2024 – The Gov, Adelaide, SA TIX
- Saturday, 24 August 2024 – Magnet House, Perth, WA TIX
- Friday, 30 August 2024 – 170 Russell, Melbourne, VIC TIX
- Saturday, 31 August 2024 – Liberty Hall, Sydney, NSW TIX
- Saturday, 7 September 2024 – Princess Theatre, Brisbane, QLD TIX
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
For Allday, Miss You Still marks a special moment of graduation for both him and Cub Sport, who’ve risen through the music ranks in tandem, cutting their teeth as young artists and evolving into creatives defined by their own unique artistry. This collaboration is a masterclass in blending the delicate nature of Nelson’s ARIA-winning pop vocals and Allday’s distinctive bars, all set to warm nostalgia echoed through the familiar piano chords of Cigarettes Will Kill You.
“I’d always loved that song [Cigarettes…]; I’ve always loved the piano. I think people will just like the piano, even if they haven’t heard the original song. [Ben Lee] was cool with it. I’ve known everyone from Cub Sport since 2012 or 2013, so that is a cool friendship,” Allday said.
Ben Lee says, “I’ve always been inspired by artists who sit in their own space, carving out their own territory, beyond competition because they are playing their own game. Allday is that type of artist and I’m honoured he sampled Ciggys and made it his own. It’s so cool. And Cub Sport on the track too! Top day for me. Proud to be associated with this current wave of cutting-edge Aussie artists who are in the process of taking over the world!”
The single comes alongside an official video directed by ARIA Award winning director Kyle Caulfield. Kyle says, “… Naturally the combination of the colour blue and the themes of the track, birthed this concept of ‘The never ending waiting room.’ We wanted to build a transitional/liminal style space that allowed us to watch as others would come and go but Allday was seemingly stuck in time and space. I guess it kind of takes the feeling of being lost, stuck and unsure of closure in an emotional sense, and explores that in a physical world.”
Allday’s enduring longevity is a testament to his appeal and relatability. For nearly a decade, his music has resonated with listeners, earning him an incredibly dedicated following. Allday’s authenticity and humour has struck a chord with fans, whether through his social videos or his down-to-earth persona. His storytelling prowess uncovers universal truths in the everyday, from suburban life to our interactions with the world and each other.
After a string of successful self-released singles, EPs, mixtapes and four studio albums, the Adelaide – via- Melbourne – via LA – via London artist has amassed 300 million global streams and scored three Top 10 ARIA charting albums.
Follow Allday here.
Bellarine Estate have Kings Birthday long weekend sorted with a stellar live music lineup
With the Kings Birthday long weekend just around the corner on Friday 7 June through to Monday 10 June, Bellarine Estate are celebrating in style, bringing beats to the Bellarine.
Cementing its reputation for excellence, Bellarine Estate is set to kick off a spectacular winter program of live music, showcasing talented bands from the local and interstate scene, against the backdrop of its stunning winery and cellar door, nestled in the picturesque Bellarine Peninsula with the long weekend set to be a show stopper. Phil and Denzil Para will be playing the Friday evening from 6.30pm, and Bill Barber & The Holding Cell will be following up on the Saturday.
Bellarine Estate Winter Music Program
- Saturday 25 May 2024: The Hornets
- Friday 7 June 2024: Phil and Denzil Para
- Saturday 8 June 2024: Bill Barber & The Holding Cell
- Saturday 22 June 2024: Hot Ice
- Saturday 13 July 2024: Is Don
- Saturday 27 July 2024: Oscar LaDell
- Saturday 24 August 2024: Elvis to the Extreme
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
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Melbourne’s King of the Blues, Rock and guitar wizardry Phil Para is joined by his multi-instrumentalist and vocalist son Denzil for an evening of all the classic favourites with a twist of some more modern tunes as well. Showcasing a good dose of originals, the vocal play and harmonies between the two is sublime and this father and son duo have no shortage of musical talent swapping instruments as easily as they swap repartee. Their set starts half an hour after the dinner rush opens at 6pm with booking and tickets required for the event.
The following night the four-piece blues rock powerhouse of Bille Barber & The Holding Cell might just become your new favourite band. Having just won their way through to the International Blues Challenge in Memphis for 2024, performing their way to a tight semi-final, narrowly missing out on the final to rave reviews. Hailing from Victoria, the sound you’ll hear is bigger, louder, more energetic and driving than anything you’ve heard before. From the old school storytelling and intensity of singer and guitarist Bill Barber, to the exquisite technicality and voicings of guitarist Shaun Klinger, if you’re a fan of the six strings.
These music sessions continue every Saturday throughout winter with The Hornets opening thing up on Saturday 25 May, Hot Ice taking over on Saturday 22 June, Is Don on Saturday 13 July, Oscar LaDell on Saturday 27 July and finally Elvis To The Extreme on Saturday 24 August.
James Kenny, General Manager at Bellarine Estate says of the upcoming shows, “We are lucky at Bellarine Estate that we have the ability to host both large-scale outdoor gigs as well as small, intimate indoor shows. The Bellarine area has a vibrant live music scene and we’re stoked to contribute to its success. As well as our award-winning wines, we also have in-house gin distillery Thirty Acres, our famous authentic Texas BBQ which attracts diners from far and wide, and now we can say we’re a live music venue. It’s an exciting evolution for our family-owned and run business as we work towards positioning ourselves as more than an exceptional wine producer – but an exceptional destination.”
What a great excuse to head down to the Bellarine for an award-winning wine, a tantalising dinner and a show! Further information and bookings can be found here.
Luca Brasi are back on tour and they’re all about the underdog
And yet their passion for being on tour and sharing a live show with audiences around the country has never wavered. Next month will see them commence an Australian Wide tour, stopping in most major cities including Canberra and Newcastle.
They play the Northcote Theatre in Melbourne on Friday 17 May, and although excitement is building in anticipation for the tour that will see Los Angeles based Indie-punk outfit Spanish Love Songs support them, what remains paramount in its importance for the band is providing the opportunity for audiences to bear witness to their show in cities that wouldn’t otherwise attract many acclaimed acts.
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
“It’s always nice to go and play places where they don’t get big bands coming to play a show,” says Tyler Richardson. “Like Canberra, or like Newy for example. We are really looking forward to playing Perth though.”
“We always love going to Perth, it feels like Tassie in a way, it gets left off a lot because it’s further away. So, there’s always this thing for us, like, we always make sure we go back to Perth. So, it’s nice to go back and they’re always really stoked to have us there.”
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For a band from the unassuming township of St Helens, Tasmania this attitude has stemmed from them having little opportunities at their disposal in the north of that state, and instead forcing them to cultivate their own opportunities to make a name for themselves as a band.
“You know, we never had a leg up being from Tasmania,” says Richardson. “It’s never felt easy for us. We always wanted to do these things. We wanted to tour Australia, we wanted to tour the world. We wanted to do festivals, and like, nothing ever happens unless you make it happen.”
“We didn’t have a choice back in those days, you know? Tassie has always been the underdog state.”
It is this very attitude that accounts for the theme of the most recent album, a concept that encapsulates the experiences the band have been subjected to over the years, but also experiences that keep unfolding too.
It seems like adversity has never ceased for Luca Brasi; it was just 10 months ago that Richardson’s son required treatment only accessible in Melbourne, resulting in a subsequent relocation of his family to the metropolis to ensure his son could receive the medical attention he needed.
“I guess how you deal with those blows that come,” he says. “A lot of the time you wish that something would be handed down to you, you feel like “Damn, that didn’t go the right way for me, I wish that did and maybe I deserve better” but it’s kind of supposed to be both a realisation and a reminder that the world doesn’t owe you anything. When I was writing this album, it really hit home that no one’s gonna really give you anything.”
“The world doesn’t actually owe you anything, you know, like things just happen. With this latest record it was a really strange circumstance because that record came out and then literally as it was coming out, we had to move to Melbourne for treatment for my son because he’s sick. So, we’ve been living here for the last year.”
What Luca Brasi have embodied in their artistry and the way they live their lives outside of their music is to keep moving forward. An approach that has seen them make a name for themselves in the world of Australian music, as well as have significant impacts on the communities they collide with around Australia.
“It’s like, I wish the world did owe me something, but that line of thought got me nowhere. The only time that I had good in my life is when I fucking had a go and tried to make something good happen, and then things happened.”
Lucas Brasi is playing Northcote Theatre this Friday 17 May. Tickets available here
Win: We’re giving away 10 x double passes to see Bad Boys: Ride or Die
This year, the world’s favourite Bad Boys are back with their iconic mix of edge-of-your-seat action and outrageous comedy but this time with a twist: Miami’s finest are now on the run.
Bad Boys: Ride or Die sees resident Bad Boys Mike Lowrey played by Will Smith and Marcus Burnett played by Martin Lawrence returning as the dynamic duo for the fourth movie in the franchise. This time the two stars appear alongside Vanessa Hudgens, Alexander Ludwig, Paola Nuñez, Eric Dane, Ioan Gruffudd, Jacob Scipio, Melanie Liburd, Tasha Smith with Tiffany Haddish and Joe Pantoliano.
Directed by Adil & Bilall, Bad Boys: Ride or Die is out in cinemas 6 June. To celebrate, we are giving away 10 x double inseason passes to lucky readers. These passes will be valid for use from June 6 ( by 2 people at the same session) at participating cinemas screening the film nationally and for the duration of the film’s season.
Simply enter your name, email, address and phone number below to be in the draw.
By entering, you agree to receive marketing collateral from Forte and competition partners. For more info, check out our privacy policy.
#BadBoys ©2024 CTMG. All Rights Reserved.
‘Australia has lost more than a quarter of its live music venues’: $8.6m budget funding no substitute for tax offset, says APRA
“This urgent funding comes at a crucial time. Australia has lost more than a quarter of its live music venues and stages across the nation since the pandemic,” said APRA AMCOS Chief Executive Dean Ormston.
In last night’s federal budget, the Australian Government announced $8.6 million in 2024–25 for Revive Live, aiming to bolster Australian live music venues and festivals showcasing local talent, while also enhancing accessibility and inclusion at live music performances.
“We applaud Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Minister for the Arts Tony Burke for their commitment to music, which also includes ongoing funding for music through the new national music development Music Australia.”
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Tax offset ‘the most important solution’
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In an APRA AMCOS survey of live music venues, nightclubs and promoters this month, almost 80 per cent said support through a tax offset was the most important solution to the current crisis.
“A tax offset to support the growth of live music would not only be a catalyst for the social and cultural development of live music it would also provide an injection of confidence across the tourism and hospitality economy,” Dean Ormston said.
“The role live music plays in the economic, social, and cultural fabric of Australia cannot be overstated. A healthy live music scene in our cities, suburbs, regional centres, and towns provides a competitive advantage and is the feeding ground for Australia’s fast-growing musical exports.
“When a venue closes and gigs and festivals are cancelled, the artists, DJs, supply chains, and local economies that support live music are affected. There is also that intangible cost when artists are unable to bring communities together, connect with their fans, and when they miss out on the career development that literally can only happen on stage.
“As the Treasurer said in his speech, we need to ensure we secure a future for the nation that taps our ‘confidence, compassion and creativity’. It is songwriters, artists and creators that will help create that future.”
Funding across the arts sector
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APRA AMCOS also welcomes the vital $53.8 million investment in two new First Nations Language Centres, $7.9 million to support people with disability to access and participate in the creative arts, $14.5 million for the production of children’s television and $117.2 million for Australia’s arts training institutions including NIDA and the Australian Film, Television and Radio School.
“The $8.6 million investment in Revive Live is timely. We know there are many reasons for the continuing closure of iconic venues and festivals across the country: these include substantial increased costs associated with supply chains, soaring public liability insurance premiums, as well as changes in consumer behaviour with cost-of-living pressures.
“Live music venues, especially smaller establishments, find themselves squeezed between rising operational expenses and diminishing profit margins. As a result, many venues are forced to either pass on the increased costs to patrons through higher ticket prices or cut back on live music events altogether. Or worse, they shut their doors and turn off the lights.
“APRA AMCOS once again calls for a sustainable long-term measure to ensure the viability of the live music venues and festivals. Australia urgently requires a national catalyst in the form of a tax offset to revive Australian live music.”
Discover the support for the arts industry in the 2024 federal budget for yourself, here.
Spiderbait celebrate 20 years of ‘Black Betty’ with a national tour
20 years ago a ’55 chevy zoomed through suburban streets becoming synonymous with the thumping drum beats of Kram and reviving the African-American work song ‘Black Betty’. Spiderbait made the song their own, as a massive hit from their seminal studio album Tonight Alright.
To celebrate the longevity of the song and the bands mammoth career, Spiderbait have announced a national headline tour, The Black Betty 20th Anniversary Tour, taking to ten cities around Australia from August through to October.
The tour will start in Brisbane on Tuesday 13 August, making its way through Adelaide, Hobart, Newcastle, Wollongong, Perth, Melbourne, Sydney, Gold Coast and finishing in out capital city, Canberra on Friday 25 October.
Spiderbait – The Black Betty 20th Anniversary Tour Dates
- TUESDAY 13 AUGUST – The Fortitude Music Hall | Brisbane, QLD (Lic. All Ages) with Polish Club
- FRIDAY 16 AUGUST – Hindley Street Music Hall | Adelaide, SA (18+) with Polish Club
- SATURDAY 17 AUGUST – Odeon Theatre | Hobart, TAS (Lic. All Ages) with Polish Club
- FRIDAY 30 AUGUST – Bar On The Hill | Newcastle, NSW (Lic. All Ages) with Polish Club
- SATURDAY 31 AUGUST – Waves | Wollongong, NSW (18+) with Polish Club
- SATURDAY 14 SEPTEMBER – The Astor Theatre | Perth, WA (Lic. All Ages) with Abbe May
- FRIDAY 20 SEPTEMBER – Forum | Melbourne, VIC (18+) with Private Function
- SATURDAY 21 SEPTEMBER – Enmore Theatre | Sydney, NSW (Lic. All Ages) with Polish Club
- SUNDAY 20 OCTOBER – Miami Marketta Laneway | Gold Coast, QLD (Lic. All Ages) with Adalita
- FRIDAY 25 OCTOBER – UC Refectory | Canberra, ACT (Lic. All Ages) with Adalita
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Recorded in California, Tonight Alright (2004) leant into the hard rock sound of the early-2000’s, stealing the scene and cementing the band as Australian rock icons. The album debuted at No.14 on the ARIA Album Chart that year and featured the band’s most popular song to date, ‘Black Betty’ alongside ‘Fucken Awesome’ and ‘Alright’. Defying age and genre, ‘Black Betty’ arrived fifteen years into Spiderbait’s storied career after tracks like ‘Buy Me a Pony’, ‘Calypso’, and ‘Shazam!’ had built the bands name on a global scale. The song continued to climb the charts after release, reaching the top of the ARIA Singles Chart two months after its debut and hitting the US Top 40 Rock Chart.
To celebrate the massive milestone for Tonight Alright, Spiderbait will issue the album on vinyl for the first time. The 20th Anniversary edition – released on 26 July– arrives on limited edition red vinyl, with alternative artwork, imagery and an alternate version of the single, ‘Tonite’. Preorder the vinyl HERE.
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In continued celebrations, the Black Betty 20th Anniversary Tour will see special guests of Australian rock royalty join Spiderbait for specific dates on the leg. ‘Clarity’ and ‘Breakapart’ builders Polish Club will join the tour for the Brisbane, Adelaide, Hobart, Newcastle, Wollongong and Sydney shows, Abbe May will jump up in Perth, Private Function make an appearance in Melbourne and good friend of the band and collaborator, Adalita will step into the Gold Coast and Canberra shows.
Presale will be run through promoters Frontier, with members presale going live Monday 20 May from 10am local time, with tickets going live for general public on Wednesday 22 May from 10am local time. Further ticketing information can be found here.
Eureka Hotel reopens rooftop with launch party this Friday
Little Malop Street has yet again struck gold. In September of 2023, the 1850 building where stood post-gold rush named pub for over 100 years was given back its name. The Eureka Hotel had life breathed back into it, taking back its stake as the premier live music and entertainment venue. Now the hotel is returning to its full former glory and growing as they reopen that rooftop venue.
Eureka Hotel Rooftop Launch
- When: Friday 17 May 2024
- Time: 7.00pm – late
- Location: The Eureka Hotel Rooftop, 98 Little Malop Street, Geelong VIC 3220
Keep up with the latest food and booze news across the region here.
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With freshly stained floorboards, exposed beams and brickwork, a view of the sky, and greenery, the space looks a million dollars, ready for the eager entertainment lovers to make their way back into the space.
To celebrate the Eureka Hotel is throwing a party, enlisting DJ’s Chook and Moluck to spin tunes into the night. Taking off at 7pm and continuing until the stars burn out, the night promises to be history making.
In addition to the rooftops return, Eureka Hotel is bringing back their Magic takeaway window at the front bar. Running from 9PM – 12PM, this patron favourite will be slinging out hot salty food, perfect for those big nights out. It will be back in full swing at the opening event.
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For further information on the Eureka Hotel rooftop launch, head here.
Maple Glider, Genesis Owusu, RVG lead 2024 AIR Award nominees
Minister for Arts, Andrea Michaels MP said: “The Malinauskas Government is proud to support the AIR Awards and Indie-Con Australia Conference. It is fantastic to be hosting the awards here in Adelaide again – Australia’s only UNESCO City of Music – and I congratulate all of the nominees. It’s a wonderful opportunity to recognise the work the independent music industry does in providing talented and emerging artists and music businesses with a platform to share their art with a wider audience.”
The AIR Awards recognise, promote, and celebrate the success of Australia’s Independent Music sector. Over 250 individual Awards have been presented to date and for many winners and nominees, it has been their first industry recognition that has helped facilitate national and international attention. Some of these artists include Genesis Owusu, Courtney Barnett, Vance Joy, Flume, Sampa the Great, Amyl and the Sniffers, Sheppard, Confidence Man, G Flip, Tones and I, A.B Original, King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard, Violent Soho and Telenova.
The 2024 AIR Awards will be held at the Queen’s Theatre, Adelaide on Thursday 1st August 2024.
The 2024 Nominees
Best Independent Blues And Roots Album Or EP
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Dan Sultan – Dan Sultan
Dope Lemon – Kimosabè
Georgia Mooney – Full Of Moon
Leah Senior – The Music That I Make
The Teskey Brothers – The Winding Way
Best Independent Jazz Album Or EP
Elixir – A Small Shy Truth
Grievous Bodily Calm – Cascades
Lance Gurisik & Jeremy Rose – Cull Portal
Mike Nock – Hearing
The Rookies – Feed The Fire
Best Independent Classical Album Or EP
Australian Chamber Orchestra / Richard Tognetti – Beethoven Symphonies 1, 2 & 3 ‘eroica’
Karen Jacobsen – Misogyny Opus
Neil Gaiman & Fourplay String Quartet – Signs Of Life
Russell Morris – The Real Thing Symphonic Concert
Slava Grigoryan – Gratitudes
Best Independent Children’s Album Or EP
Amber Lawrence – A Very Aussie Aussie Christmas
Emma Memma – Ballet Time
Josh Pyke – It’s Gonna Be A Great, Great Day!
The Wiggles – Ready Steady Wiggle
Whistle & Trick – Bananas And Other Delicious Things
Best Independent Country Album Or EP
Fanny Lumsden – Hey Dawn
Henry Wagons – South Of Everywhere
Maple Glider – I Get Into Trouble
The Wolfe Brothers – Livin’ The Dream
Travis Collins – Any Less Anymore
Best Independent Soul/RnB Album Or EP
Bumpy – Morning Sun Ep
Immy Owusu – Lo-life!
Ruby Jackson – Sweeter For Me
Wilsn – Those Days Are Over
Women Of Soul Collective – Feel Good
Best Independent Pop Album Or EP
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Hatchie – Giving The World Away (Deluxe)
Jack River – Endless Summer
Kate Ceberano – My Life Is A Symphony
Molly Millington- 5 Stages
Nat Vazer – Strange Adrenaline
Best Independent Rock Album Or EP
Alex Lahey – The Answer Is Always Yes
Pacific Avenue – Flowers
Royel Otis – Sofa Kings
Rvg – Brain Worms
Teen Jesus And The Jean Teasers – I Love You
Independent Marketing Team Of The Year
Domestic La La – Teen Jesus And The Jean Teasers, I Love You
I Oh You, Mushroom – Dma’s, How Many Dreams?
Ivy League, Mushroom – The Teskey Brothers, The Winding Way
Slow Clap- Private Function, 370hssv 0773h
The Annex, Ourness, Awal – Genesis Owusu, Struggler
Breakthrough Independent Artist Of The Year – Presented By PPCA
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BIG WETT
Chloe Dadd
Enola
Pacific Avenue
Royel Otis
Best Independent Hip Hop Album Or EP
Genesis Owusu – Struggler
Jk-47 – Revision For Regrowth
Teether & Kuya Neil – Stressor
Urthboy – Savour
Ziggy Ramo – Sugar Coated Lies
Best Independent Dance Or Electronica Album Or EP
BIG WETT – Pu$$y
Cub Sport – Jesus At The Gay Bar
Haiku Hands – Pleasure Beast
Simona Castricum – Sink
Skeleten – Under Utopia
Best Independent Dance, Electronica Or Club Single
Confidence Man – On & On (Again)
Fisher & Kita Alexander – Atmosphere
Memphis LK – Black And Blue
Odd Mob & Omnom – Losing Control
The Jungle Giants – Trippin Up
Best Independent Punk Album Or EP
Enola – All Is Forgiven Ep
Luca Brasi – The World Don’t Owe You Anything
Private Function – 370hssv 0773h
Radio Free Alice – Radio Free Alice
Teenage Joans – The Rot That Grows Inside My Chest
Best Independent Heavy Album Or EP
C.O.F.F.I.N – Australia Stops
Glitoris – Glitoris
Polaris – Fatalism
Redhook – Postcard From A Living Hell
Void Of Vision – Chronicles
Independent Album Of The Year
Cub Sport – Jesus At The Gay Bar
Genesis Owusu – Struggler
Jen Cloher – I Am The River, The River Is Me
Maple Glider – I Get Into Trouble
RVG – Brain Worms
Independent Song Of The Year
Genesis Owusu – Leaving The Light
Jem Cassar-daley – King Of Disappointment
Maple Glider – Don’t Kiss Me
RVG – Nothing Really Changes
Teen Jesus And The Jean Teasers – I Used To Be Fun
Independent Label Of The Year
AbC Music
Dot Dash Recordings
Ourness
Poison City Records
Spinning Top Records
Independent Publicity Team Of The Year
I Oh You, Mushroom – Dma’s, How Many Dreams?
Janine Morcos – Teenage Joans, The Rot That Grows Inside My Chest
Jessica Searle – Jen Cloher, I Am The River, The River Is Me
Thinking Loud – Genesis Owusu, Struggler
This Much Talent – Nat Vazer, Strange Adrenaline
Independent Music Video Of The Year
Adam Munnings – Cub Sport, Keep Me Safe
Chris Cowburn – Emma Donovan, Blak Nation
Hayden Somerville – Rvg, Nothing Really Changes
Sean Higgins – Adam Noviello, Fumbling
Tobias Willis – Georgia Mooney, War Romance
Independent Producer Of The Year
Bonnie Knight – Enola, All Is Forgiven Ep
Konstantin Kersting – Dma’s, How Many Dreams?
Oscar Dawson – Teen Jesus And The Jean Teasers, I Love You
Pnau – Multiple Singles In 2023
Tom Iansek – Maple Glider, I Get Into Trouble
Focusing on issues that are specifically relevant to the independent music sector, AIR’s Indie-Con Australia conference will be held from Wednesday 31st July to Friday 2nd August at Mercury Cinema and will be followed by Scouted.
Details about speakers and the program to be announced in the coming weeks here.