The last time I witnessed Damien Rice serenade a crowd was in 2019 at Hamer Hall. It was his first tour to Australia in over a decade and it did not disappoint. Tears trickled down my cheeks during the heartwrenching piano ballad of ‘Accidental Babies’ then, and they flowed again last night. This time the setting was Geelong’s Costa Hall on a dreary Thursday night; a space that just three weeks ago projected graphic footage of Jackass alum, Steve-O. Whilst opposite in nature, surprisingly, both shows shared some discussion points: masturbation. Bear with me…
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Taking our seats to the solemn sounds of Elliot Smith, the mood was set for the single-act show with Rice appearing at 8.15 PM and kicking into things with ‘I Stepped Out in the Rain’ projected with no microphone, no amplification. A solitary man, his four guitars and an upright, backlit by the warm-yellow glow of a floor fixture enhanced each and every honey-coated word that exited Rice’s throat. The crowd was silent, albeit a few coughs, which continued throughout the night as if desperately clinging to each vowel, note, and Irish inflection. Stepping in front of a microphone and plugging in, Rice delivered a triplet of tear-jerkers all too soon; ‘Delicate’, the aforementioned ‘Accidental Babies’ and crowd-pleaser ‘Cannonball’.
View this post on Instagram
Keeping with his 2002 debut O, ‘Amie’ was prefaced with a narrative about his first experience staying at a female friend’s house (his first tongue-in-cheek reference to self-pleasure). He slid the outro into a partial cut of ‘Eskimo’, bringing Rice to his knees, channelling his emotions into his guitar work as he barely whispered “down, down, down”. The operatic crescendo of the album’s closing number was substituted for a barebones fade that drove home Rice’s lyrical discourse.
The next portion of the set saw Rice joined by Francisca Barreto on cello and delivering chilling vocal performances for souring tracks ‘My Favourite Faded Fantasy’, ‘Astronaut’, ‘I Don’t Want To Change You’, their first duet live attempt at ‘9 Crimes’ (with astounding success), and ‘Older Chests’. Within there was also the crowd request of the unreleased ‘Stoic’ and the energetic ‘Coconut Skin’ which saw the two front the stage sans microphone with Barreto on the hand shakers.
Outside of the post-song cheers, the only singalong came at the end of ‘Volcano’ where Rice coordinated a crowd-harmonised call and response to glorious effect. ‘I Remember’ saw Barreto take on vocal duties again for a stunning duet of the two part song that documents the honeymoon period of a relationship that takes a turn when you both parties reveal their true self, or as Rice put it, “You show them who you really are and they show you who they really are – fuckers”. The explosive build was mirrored with strobing stage lights representing that chaotic emotional downturn.
By request, Rice closed out the set with ‘The Professor & La Fille Danse’, another song he prefaced with a tale of mastabation using a pile of briefcases containing millions of dollars as an analogy for the needs and desires associated with hitting puberty as a thirteen year old boy. Rice’s charisma and humorous storytelling was the perfect balance between his melancholic melody, something he acknowledged during the post-standing ovation encore.
Responding to an audience members “We love you” comment, Rice candidly admitted “Don’t talk to me about love, you’re all at this concert because somebody hurt you”, before explaining that he is actually a happy person despite the stigma because he funnels his pain into songwriting; “Then I gave my depression to you”. The final send off came with the swells of none other than ‘The Blower’s Daughter’, the pinnacle of Rice’s repertoire, closing out a nearly two hour celebration of the Irish songwriters catalogue.
As he approaches his 50th birthday, Rice proves his voice, his onstage demeanour and his ability to collect tears is still strong. When he is onstage, you truly cannot take your eyes off of Damien Rice.
Keep up with the latest from Damien Rice here.
American rockers The War On Drugs are heading back to Australia and New Zealand for the first time since 2018 this year.
With special guests Spoon, plus Indigo Sparke, the band will tour the region in December 2023 in support of their most recent album I Don’t Live Here Anymore, praised by GQ as “the band’s clearest, most vibrant, and upbeat.” Throughout the tour, The War On Drugs will play some of Australia and New Zealand’s finest venues, including Wellington’s Anderson Park, Auckland’s Spark Arena, the Forecourt of the iconic Sydney Opera House, Melbourne’s Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Brisbane’s Riverstage, and Perth’s stunning Kings Park and Botanic Garden.
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Led by Adam Granduciel, the GRAMMY-Award winning band has steadily emerged as one of this century’s great rock and roll synthesists, removing the gaps between the underground and the mainstream, between the obtuse and the anthemic, making records that wrestle a fractured past into a unified and engrossing present.
The New Yorker called them “the best American ‘rock’ band of this decade” in support of 2017’s A Deeper Understanding while Stereogum hailed The War On Drugs as “one of the greatest American bands of their generation” following the release of I Don’t Live Here Anymore. It landed on numerous 2021 best albums of the year lists and garnered a second GRAMMY Award nomination (Best Rock Song) and BRIT Award nomination.
Throughout their career, The War On Drugs has steadily evolved into one of rock’s most compelling live acts.
Joining The War On Drugs for the tour will be one of rock’s most acclaimed acts, Spoon, Austin’s most esteemed rock ambassadors, and Australian singer songwriter Indigo Sparke.
Tickets for all shows go on sale at 1pm Friday 26 May. Find out more here.
Stewart Reeve, star of last year’s Potato Shed hit show Rebel is back with Chameleon, an award-winning one-man show displaying an amazing array of breathtaking vocal abilities.
Showcasing his unbelievable vocal range and ability to mimic unique voices and sounds, Chameleon will take over the Potato Shed stage on Saturday, 27 May in Dysdale, treating audiences to an evening that spans decades of hit songs and celebrity voices, ranging from Frank-N-Furter to Annie Lennox, Depeche Mode, Simply Red, Macy Gray, Tones and I and many more.
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
This show has something for everyone, with an amazing back catalogue of tricks up his sleeve, Stewart has the ability to mimic an eclectic array of sounds and voices ranging from a self-service check-out counter to Donald Trump and of course Bowie. But there is more to the story than meets the eye.
An impressions show like no other, powerhouse vocalist Stewart Reeve has always struggled to find his voice, his one unique sound. Chameleon allows Stewart to share these sounds and voices as vignettes through time which have helped shape and change his life forever. It is sure to be a night of celebration and fun for the whole family, singing and laughing along to the famous voices and classic hits.
Stewart points out early on in the show that he is not an impersonator, but rather reproduces the sound of a particular artist or object. If you close your eyes, you could be forgiven that all the greats have slipped onto the stage to support Stewart as he belts out hit after hit.
The show kicks off from 8pm. Book now here.
Following a massive run last summer with Paul Kelly, Bernard Fanning and Missy Higgins, the Aussie-centered music festival Red Hot Summer Tour has announced it will return this summer for eight events across the country as part of its Series One instalment.
This year, the show will feature the legendary Jimmy Barnes, as well as The Living End, Birds of Tokyo, Pete Murray, Kasey Chambers and Barnes’ daughter’s band Mahalia Barnes and the Soulmates, bringing along the same lineup as the recently announced By The C in Torquay.
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Spanning the summer holiday season, the Red Hot Summer Tour brings a banging day of music to some of the most scenic and serene towns across the country. It’ll start out in WA’s Swan Valley in late 2023 before heading over east in the new year and finishing up in Tasmania, with more dates to be announced soon.
For tour promoter Duane McDonald, the announcement of Series One is the start of what will be one of the biggest years for the RED HOT SUMMER TOUR yet.
“We are so excited to start off the 2024 RED HOT SUMMER TOUR with Jimmy Barnes and friends,” he says. “Thank you to everyone who continues to support live music at the RED HOT SUMMER TOUR year after year. We look forward to seeing you again this summer!”
View this post on Instagram
Affectionately known by all as Barnesy, Jimmy Barnes is the heart and soul of Australian rock and roll. He has more #1 albums under his belt than The Beatles and has sold more records in Australia than any other rock and roll artist. For over 40 years, he has delivered some of our most intense and iconic live performances. He is truly in a league of his own.
The Living End are considered Australian rock legends, and for good reason. Their blistering live performances have seen them perform far and wide and their reputation precedes them – they rock from the first note to the last. They have been nominated for an incredible 27 ARIA Awards.
Birds of Tokyo are considered the soundtrack of contemporary Australia. With three chart-topping albums jam-packed with Top 10 hits such as Good Lord, Plans, Unbreakable, and Lanterns, they have grown from their independent roots to become one of our most popular bands.
Pete Murray is one of the only few Australian artists with more than 1.2 million album sales. A multi-platinum-selling performer, he has received 17 ARIA nominations and has released seven albums and two EPs. His first three albums were all #1s on the Australian music charts and his debut album Feeler not only reached #1 but remained in the Top 100 for two and a half years.
Kasey Chambers is one of Australia’s most revered singer-songwriters. Her 1999 album The Captain is still considered one of the most extraordinary and lauded debuts from any artist, and she hasn’t stopped since. Her follow-up – Barricades & Brickwalls – saw her become the first Australian country artist to have a simultaneously #1 single and album.
Born into Australian rock royalty and influenced by the music her father, Jimmy Barnes, recorded and played, Mahalia Barnes naturally began singing at a very young age. As an artist, she’s drawn to guitar-driven gusty soul, rock and blues, and inspired by acts like Tina Turner and legendary Queen of soul Aretha Franklin.
Tickets for the Red Hot Summer Tour 2024 are set to go on sale on May 25. To grab yours, head here.
Fresh from delivering a huge edition back in February with the likes of Hoodoo Gurus, The Living End, Wolfmother and more, By The C – the travelling music festival renowned for featuring an array of enduring Australian bands – is back in December to deliver an epic day of entertainment at one of the most beautiful locations in the country.
Taking to the Torquay Common on Saturday, 2 December 2023, the coastal venue promises to deliver a picturesque backdrop for a music-drenched soiree with some of the best Aussie favourites featuring Jimmy Barnes, The Living End, Birds of Tokyo, Pete Murray, Kasey Chambers and Mahalia Barnes and the Soul Mates.
Keep up with the latest music tours and festival news here.
Courtesy of Zaccaria Concerts & Touring, the touring festival will be bringing along the same lineup as the sister event Red Hot Summer Tour, which launches in Western Australia at the end of 2023, and rolls into 2024 with shows in New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, and Tasmania.
View this post on Instagram
Gifting the region an epic excuse to embrace the summer, the show will bring a tidal wave of epic live music with the most stacked lineup yet! This beachside festival event is the perfect place to kick back or dance the day and night away with these era-defining and iconic tracks, topped up with food trucks and a pop-up bar for the ultimate beachside experience.
Jimmy Barnes, affectionately known by all as Barnesy, is the heart and soul of Australian rock and roll. He has 20 #1 albums under his belt, more than The Beatles, has sold more records in Australia than any other rock and roll artist, and for over 40 years, he has delivered some of our most intense and iconic live performances. He is truly in a league of his own. His third book, Killing Time: Short Stories from the Long Way Home, was released in 2020 and debuted at #1 on the non-fiction book charts, as did its predecessors, Working Class Boy and Working Class Man. Never one to slow down, Jimmy also has penned two books – a children’s book, Rosie the Rhinoceros, and a cookbook with his wife Jane, Where the River Bends.
The Living End are considered Australian rock legends, and for good reason. Their blistering live performances have seen them perform far and wide, and their reputation precedes them, they rock from the first note to the last. When The Living End first smashed onto the scene in 1997 with their double-A single Prisoner of Society and Second Solution, they embraced a new Australian sound and fans and critics sat up and listened. Since then, they have released seven studio albums, two of which have debuted at #1 on the ARIA Chart – four of those are Platinum and two are Gold. They have been nominated for an incredible 27 ARIA Awards.
Birds of Tokyo are considered the soundtrack of contemporary Australia. With three chart topping albums, jam-packed with Top 10 hits such as Good Lord, Plans, Unbreakable, and Lanterns, they have grown from independent roots to become one of our most popular bands. They’ve performed at the AFL Grand Final twice, the NRL State of Origin and performed with the likes of Bon Jovi, Muse and Midnight Oil. They are one of Triple J’s three most played artists of the millennium and the only to have won Rock World of the Year on five separate occasions at the APRA Awards.
Pete Murray is one of the only few Australian artists with more than 1.2 million album sales. A multi-platinum selling performer, he has received 17 ARIA nominations, has released 7 album and 2 Eps. His first three albums were all #1s on the Australian music charts, and his debut album Feeler, not only reached #1, but it also remained in the Top 100 for two and a half years.
Kasey Chambers is one of Australia’s most revered singer-songwriters. Her album The Captain in 1999 is still considered one of the most extraordinary and lauded debuts from any artist, and she hasn’t stopped since. Her follow-up – Barricades & Brickwalls – saw her become the first Australian country artist to have a simultaneously #1 single and album. She also continued to win accolades, drawing music fans in with her honesty. Kasey hasn’t stopped since and is considered one of Australia’s gifted and enduring talents.
Born into Australian rock royalty and influenced by the music her father, Jimmy Barnes, recorded and played, Mahalia Barnes naturally began singing at a very young age. As an artist, she’s drawn to guitar-driven gusty soul, rock and blues, and inspired by acts like Tina Turner and legendary Queen of soul Aretha Franklin.
Tickets on sale Saturday, 27 May at 10am AEST thru Ticketmaster. Sign up for pre-sale tickets here.
Australian artist Golden Features has announced his return home for the Sisyphus national tour in August 2023.
The DJ and producer will be bringing his highly anticipated tour to Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane, his hometown Sydney and Perth with special guests SILK (all shows except Perth) and GURPAAL.
Margaret Court Arena, Melbourne – Saturday, August 5
Hindley St Music Hall, Adelaide – Friday, August 11
Fortitude Music Hall, Brisbane – Tuesday, August 15
Hordern Pavilion, Sydney – Friday, August 18
Metro City, Perth – Saturday, August 26
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Golden Features has turned out to be an apt name for the artist born Tom Stell, a nod to the gold mask he wears while performing, and the literal golden run since bursting onto the scene in 2014.
Since his 2018 debut album SECT and the launch of 2020’s collaborative project BRONSON, Stell felt creatively spent and needed time to recoup. Instead of opting for the traditional R&R approach, Stell immersed himself deep into clubbing mecca of the world, Berlin. There, he lost himself in the city’s renowned techno bunkers and hedonistic clubs, dancing with strangers, stripped of phones and returning to the apartment in the early hours to hunt for the tracks he’d heard the night before. Four nights a week spent raving only came to an end when COVID closed the clubs down. But Stell returned to Australia revitalised and most importantly, inspired.
Now with two platinum and six gold ARIA certifications for his tracks, 275+ million global streams, an acclaimed and beloved debut album in 2018’s SECT (#1 ARIA Dance Albums Chart, #1 iTunes, Triple J’s Feature Album), selling out two shows in hours at the Sydney opera House, headline slots at major festivals both at home and abroad as well as forming the BRONSON project and releasing their self-titled album with stadium-conquering duo ODESZA under his belt, Golden Features has cemented himself as Australian electronic music royalty, returning now as an artist at the top of their game.
Tickets for all shows go on sale at 10am Friday May 26 (local time). Find out more here.
Get ready to immerse yourself in a celebration of all things Pinot Noir as Geelong hosts the highly anticipated Pinot Affair weekend in May 2023, running 19 – 21. This highly anticipated wine-tasting event, now in its 4th year, showcases the world-class cool climate Pinot Noir of the Bellarine, Surf Coast, and Moorabool Valley of Geelong.
This event promises an unforgettable experience for wine enthusiasts, gastronomes, and lovers of all things Pinot.
With a wide array of events taking place across Geelong, we’ve curated a list of the top activities to ensure you make the most of your Pinot Affair weekend.
So, grab a glass of Pinot Noir and let’s explore the must-attend events!
Join Bellarine Estate Winery Saturday night the 20th of May for a night of BBQ, Blues and Pinot noir.
There will be a range of back vintage Pinot Noir on by the bottle and glass. Bellarine Estate’s Pinot Noir Gin will also be available by the bottle or try one of their specialty cocktails. Alister Turrill will be playing the blues for a truly memorable night.
Buy a ticket and find out more here.
Expand your knowledge and refine your palate by attending the exclusive Pinot Masterclasses happening across the weekend. Led by renowned winemakers and industry experts, these classes delve into the nuances of Pinot Noir, exploring its different styles, regional variations, and aging potential. Learn to identify the characteristics that make a great Pinot and take your appreciation of this captivating varietal to new heights.
A real highlight will be Scotchmans Hill’s Pinot Noir Masterclass with Chief Winemaker, Robin Brockett. Here you’ll enjoy a Pinot Noir tasting of current and specially selected back vintages of some of Scotchmans Hill’s finest vintages. One of Australia’s pre-eminent Pinot Noir Winemakers, Robin Brockett will lead the Masterclass, answering any questions you may have.
A real highlight of the weekend will be the exclusive event at Austin’s Wines. For one weekend, during the day on Saturday and sunday, the team are transforming the winery into an Italiano paradise, featuring delicious pasta dishes cooked up by the talented team at Pasta Face. You can expect mouth-watering options such as Gnocchi with Pinot Ragu, Meatball Sliders, and even delicious Cannoli to satisfy your sweet tooth.
As you savoir your meal and mingle with friends, you can enjoy the rich flavours of the signature Pinot Noir, perfectly paired with every dish. And with live music, the atmosphere will be buzzing with the sounds of Italia. The cellar door will be toasty warm and inviting, providing the perfect backdrop for a weekend of fun.
Table Bookings with A La Carte Menu from 11am to 4pm. Italian tunes by Francesco Music.
No ticket required – reservations open for lunch and wine tastings.
View this post on Instagram
Meet the Del Rios winemaker Gus del Rio on 21 May and taste the beautiful range of past and present vintages of Pinot Noir between 2-4pm. However, it doesn’t have to end there join them for lunch and enjoy our amazing view, staff, and food.
WINE – del Rios will be offering a museum Pinot Noir tasting
FOOD – Regular a la carte menu
ACTIVITY – Sit down with the winemaker
Find out more here.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Pinot Affair by visiting the stunning wineries scattered across the Bellarine. These stylish venues provide an opportunity to taste an extensive selection of Pinot Noirs in a relaxed setting. Engage in conversations with fellow wine enthusiasts and swap recommendations as you savor the best Pinot wines in a convivial ambiance.
Spence Wines will host tutored Tasting of Selected Vintages on both days, Lethbridge @ Hat Rock Vineyard will host Pinot Noir International Benchmark Tasting on 20 May, Bellbrae Estate will host Premium & Museum Pinot Noir Flights for the duration, Mermerus will host Back Vintages with the Winemaker, Scotchmans Hill’s Wine Tasting Specialists will offer a special Pinot Noir Flight of current and back vintages, Terindah Estate will host a Guided Museum Wine Tasting, and Oakdene will host Pinot Affair Museum Flights & Tasting Experiences.
View this post on Instagram
At del Rio’s Winery and Restaurant on 20 May, del Rios will be showcasing a beautiful range of past and present vintages of their Pinot Noir.
Accompanying the wine will be a delicious paella dish and live music (a Spanish guitarist to be exact) between 12-3pm.
Find out more here.
Dive into the full program here.
Created by the Natural History Museum in London with Warner Bros. Themed Entertainment, the acclaimed exhibition Fantastic Beasts™: The Wonder of Nature at Melbourne Museum.
Combining science, nature and fantasy, this extraordinary exhibition demonstrates how the natural world has ignited myths, legends and incredible stories for generations, inspiring a new-found sense of admiration for the diversity of life on Earth. Study the connection between animals that roam our planet and their fictional counterparts: the magical creatures from the fan-favourite film series Fantastic Beasts and Harry Potter, and celebrate the real-world scientists who help us understand our planet’s extraordinary creatures so we can protect them for the future.
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here.
View this post on Instagram
“We are delighted to be collaborating with London’s Natural History Museum once again to present Fantastic Beasts™: The Wonder of Nature at Melbourne Museum,” said Lynley Crosswell, CEO and Director at Museums Victoria.
“This exhibition is sure to invoke a sense of wonder and awe, as visitors will see science and fiction collide in this one-of-a-kind experience of the fantastic beasts and the precious wilderness around us. We hope this exhibition will inspire the inner environmentalist in everyone.”
Diverse specimens and artefacts from the world-leading scientific collections of London’s prestigious Natural History Museum will be on display alongside custom-made models from the Wizarding World, original artworks from Bloomsbury Publishing, and props from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts film series.
This exhibition has been developed to shine a light on beasts, both real and mythical, in all their fantastic forms. Upon entering, visitors will be guided through an enchanting museum gallery to discover how real animals may have inspired tales of mythical creatures, such as dragons, merpeople and unicorns. Leaving this enchanted world behind, visitors will pass through a hut reminiscent of scientific field stations and enter the wilderness to discover the incredible behaviours both real and enchanted animals share. And finally encountering some of the many animals facing similar threats to the magical creatures in the wizarding world.
Throughout the exhibition, hear from real-world scientists and conservationists who are working to protect some of our planet’s most vulnerable creatures.
Fantastic Beasts™: The Wonder of Nature opens at Melbourne Museum from Friday 19 May 2023. For more information and to book tickets, head here.
Every year, the Richmond and Essendon footy teams come together to play each other in a massive celebratory match honouring Aboriginal and Tores Strait Islander communities in Australia.
As well as the big game, the event features a ton of live entertainment and ceremonies throughout the evening. The artists have now been announced for the upcoming event, set to take place at the MCG this Saturday May 20.
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
At the beginning of the night, Aria-nominated singer-songwriter Mo’Ju and Butchulla songman Fred Leone will collaborate on a musical performance. Wurundjeri dance groups Djirri Djirri, Bandok Tati and Dreamtime Contemporary Dancers will join them on stage for a moving and unforgettable show.
Aunty Joy Murphy AO will hold a Welcome to County to open up the match, followed by a Dreamtime ceremony dance done by members of both competing football clubs.
The halftime show will be performed by The Archie Roach Band, lead by Archie Roach’s own son, Amos Roach. He will be joined by Mo’Ju, Noongar artist Bumpy, and Kamilaroi and Tongan singer Radical Son.
For the first time ever, a dramatic light display will add to the spectacle, combining tradition with technology.
The annual event is one of the biggest on the footy calendar.
“We know storytelling is an important part of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and we’re excited to bring this tradition to life on the hallowed turf of the MCG, on the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri people, like we’ve never seen before,” says AFL Executive General Manager Customer and Commercial Kylie Rogers.
To grab your tickets to the Dreamtime at the ‘G football event, head here.
The Queen Victoria Market is well known as a donut hot spot – those jam-filled delights from the American Donut Kitchen are an absolute must-try for foodies visiting the city.
But next month, they’re kicking their dough game up a notch with a full, two-day festival dedicated to our favourite bready snack. The event is in its third year and has become a beloved fixture of the QVM’s winter calendar.
Keep up with the latest food and booze news across the region here.
Find nutella-topped churro donuts, traditional Greek loukoumades, Golden Gaytime glazed creations and even savory spaghetti and mac-and-cheese donuts. Is the world really ready for that kind of food fusion? We’re not sure, but it’ll have to be.
View this post on Instagram
The donut extravaganza will bring together some of the city’s finest bakers in the market’s C and D sheds. Shortstop, Jamm’d Dessert Bar, St Gerry’s, OMG Decadent Donuts and Daniels Donuts will be among those offering up their goods.
To celebrate the versatility of the humble treat, the market will feature donuts of every shape and form. Sweet and savory, simple and extravagant, holey and cream-filled: there will be something to suit every craving. Peruse through the rest of the market to grab a coffee or hot cocoa to wash it all down.
For more on the Queen Victoria Market donut festival on June 3 and 4, head here.
Whether you’re a fan of winter or wish it would go away, you can’t deny the beauty of the Winter Solstice. Also known as midwinter, the Winter Solstice occurs when the Earth’s poles has its maximum tilt away from the Sun. It happens twice yearly, once in the middle and once at the end. The Winter Solstice is the day with the least daylight and the longest night of the year!
To celebrate the annual event, this Winter will see the culmination of one of Geelong’s most exciting collaborations, with the launch of ‘After Dark’ at Federal Mills. 1915 Restaurant and Bar has joined with Anther Spirits to create an innovative, culinary celebration of Winter Solstice, set in the evening of Friday 23rd June, 2023.
Keep up with the latest food and booze news across the region here.
The two established icons of Geelong’s food and drink scene are inviting patrons to join them in celebrating the longest night of the year, by way of a delicious 3-course candle-lit dinner at 1915 paired with finely crafted Anther Spirits cocktails. The menu will have killer combinations of earth and fire.
Dinner will be crafted by Chef Andy Symeonakis from 1915, inspired by the traditions of Winter Solstice while the gin cocktails to match are designed specifically by Anther Spirits Chief Distiller, Derv McGowan.
Tickets are $145 each and include a fiery gin cocktail on arrival, a decadent three-course meal and three drinks to pair perfectly with the food – either three gin cocktails or three wines.
Indulge in some ancient traditions, bask in the candlelight, connect with community, and be surprised at what the Solstice can provoke for you!
It all goes down from 6:30pm on Friday 23 June, 2023 at 1915 Restaurant & Bar, 33 Mackey Street, North Geelong. Tickets are on sale now here.
Australia’s foremost bluesman Ash Grunwald is heading to the beautiful Bellarine this October with an intimate show at Queenscliff Town Hall.
Taking place on Saturday, 14 October 2023, the legendary singer-songwriter will take to the stage at Queenscliff Town Hall – a music venue created by the team at QMF – the music jewel of the Bellarine.
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
A journeyman, storyteller, and troubadour at heart, Australia’s foremost bluesman Ash Grunwald has inspired a generation to hit the road in an old beat-up Bedford to ‘surf by day jam by night’.
With six Australian Top-50 albums to his credit, alongside five ARIA, four AIR Award Nominations, two APRA Awards, and gong for Best International Act at the 2014 LA Music Critic Awards, Grunwald is cast in bronze among Australia’s most successful blues musicians.
Enshrined by Australian folklore, his live shows are known to rock the house yet touch the soul, serving a tsunami of dance, beats, roots, bass ‘n’ blues.
You won’t want to miss this.
Tickets are on sale now here.
The genre-bending modern rock back will be coming down under this summer for a quick three-date jaunt.
Starting with a few shows over in New Zealand, they’ll head on over to Melbourne’s Stay Gold on November 23 before making their way over to Sydney and Brisbane.
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
In 2022, the American five-piece released their latest album, The Midnight Demon Club – fans can expect to hear songs from this release on tour in November. The new album features the singles Pink Lullabye and Natural Born Killer.
With it, the band added an electro-pop twist to their traditional alternative rock sound, giving them a fresh edge and keeping fans on their toes.
Highly Suspect got their start as a local cover band, playing songs by classic rock favourites including Sublime, Pink Floyd and Jimi Hendrix.
After dropping a series of EPs in their early days, they released a self-titled compilation album that saw them rise to new heights, touring with Stone Temple Pilots and the Deftones.
With four studio albums, a handful of Grammy nominations and years worth of world tours under their belts, it’s likely the guy will deliver a rockin’ live show when they come to town.
Presale tickets to see Highly Suspect on their Australia and New Zealand tour are set to unlock on May 22 at 10am AEST. General admission will go on sale the following day.
To sign up for the Highly Suspect presale, head here.
Sydney electronic kings The Presets have announced a huge national DJ tour throughout July, August, and September in celebration of their 20th anniversary.
Kicking off in July in Mulgrave, the ’20 Years 20 Nights’ tour will take the duo across the East Coast with various stops in the likes of Brisbane, Gold Coast, Cairns, Torquay, and Sydney before jetting over to Darwin where they’ll finish the tour in September. Armed with a huge DJ set, they’ll be playing at small clubs and bars, reconnecting with the electric spirit that got them making music in the first place.
Friday, July 14 – Village Green Hotel, Mulgrave
Saturday, July 15 – Pier Bandroom, Frankston
Thursday, July 20 – Beach Hotel, Byron Bay
Friday, July 21 – Friday’s Riverside, Brisbane
Saturday, July 22 – Kings Beach Tavern, Caloundra
Friday, July 28 – Burleigh Bazaar, Gold Coast
Saturday, July 29 – C.EX, Coffs Harbour
Friday, August 4 – Shoal Bay Country Club, Shoal Bay
Saturday, August 5 – Drifters Wharf, Central Coast
Thursday, August 10 – Gilligan’s, Cairns
Friday, August 11 – Kirwan Tavern (Outdoors), Townsville
Saturday, August 12 – Magnums Hotel, Airlie Beach
Friday, August 18 – Beer Deluxe, Albury
Saturday, August 19 – Torquay Hotel, Torquay
Friday, August 25 – UOW Uni Bar, Wollongong
Saturday, August 26 – Kambri Anu, Canberra
Wednesday, August 30 – The Station, Perisher
Friday, September 1 – Miranda Hotel, Sydney
Saturday, September 2 – Dee Why RSL, Sydney
Saturday, September 9 – Monsoons, Darwin
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
In 2003 two young Sydneysiders started making beats together at their inner-city studio. They began by banging out DJ sets in small clubs, testing out tracks they’d made together at home alongside tunes that were inspiring them at the time.
In the 20 years since, The Presets’ live show has grown into an audio-visual behemoth that’s dominated festival main stages around the world, but a recent visit to a legendary Sydney nightclub where the duo cut their teeth inspired the guys to celebrate their anniversary by going back to where it all began.
“We’ve been lucky enough to play the biggest stages and festivals in the world over the past 20 years”, explains Kim Moyes, “but nothing compares to the buck-wild intensity of an intimate party. They are an entirely different beast and we can’t wait to unleash over these 20 nights.”
“DJing in small clubs is a whole different experience to performing our usual live show on the big stage with the lights and visuals and things like that”, adds Julian. “It is more freewheeling and immediate – we feed off the energy of the crowd, weaving our own tracks in with classic jams by our favourite artists. So it’s a 20 years celebration of not only our music, but also all the incredible tunes that inspire us. Plus we get a chance to throw in a few unreleased surprises too.”
Special guests will appear each night, handpicked by The Presets to create a series of one off events.
Tickets for The Presets 20 Years. 20 Nights. DJ Tour is on sale now here.
Australian ARIA-award-winning act Boy & Bear are coming out swinging in 2023, today sharing a new single and video ‘Strange World’ ahead of their self-titled fifth studio album, Boy & Bear – available May 26 independently. Alongside the release, the band have announced a huge list of regional Australian tour dates across September to November, following their national headline tour dates in June and July.
The band’s regional tour will see them hit Castlemaine, Torquay, Albury, Newcastle, the Blue Mountains, Mackay, Townsville and more.
Wednesday, September 13 – Theatre Royal, Castlemaine (VIC)
Thursday, September 14 – Gippsland Performing Arts Centre, Traralgon (VIC)
Friday, September 15 – Pier Bandroom, Frankston (VIC)
Saturday, September 16 – Torquay Hotel, Torquay (VIC)
Thursday, September 21 – Beer Deluxe, Albury (NSW)
Friday, September 22 – Anita’s Theatre, Thirroul (NSW)
Thursday, September 28 – Civic Theatre, Newcastle (NSW)
Friday, September 29 – Drifters Wharf, Central Coast (NSW)
Saturday, September 30 – Blue Mountains Theatre + Community Hub, Blue Mountains (NSW)
Friday, October 6 – The River, Margaret River (WA)
Wednesday, October 11 – Seabreeze Hotel, Mackay (QLD)
Thursday, October 12 – Magnums, Airlie Beach (QLD)
Friday, October 13 – JCU Uni Bar, Townsville (QLD)
Saturday, October 14 – Tanks Arts Centre, Cairns (QLD)
Thursday, November 9 – Kings Beach Tavern, Sunshine Coast (QLD)
Friday, November 10 – Burleigh Bazaar, Gold Coast (QLD)
Saturday, November 11 – Empire Theatre, Toowoomba (QLD)
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
The forthcoming album’s opening song, “Strange World” reverberates with a quintessentially Australian chorus of cicadas as the band enter their homecoming era. A warbling synth bordering psychedelia oozes a warm aura as the song progressively builds to a harmonious groove, while the track’s lyricism explores the universal emotion of struggling to operate in a world where nothing seems fair.
Speaking to “Strange World”, Boy & Bear’s Dave Hosking shares: “‘Strange World’ was written just as COVID hit. Jon and I were working on an idea and it was during this period that COVID came and wiped out our Australian tour. After a previous forced break due to illness kept us from touring for a long time, it seemed that finally we were going to be able to get back to what we loved and then it all got canned. It was at this moment where the lyrics for ‘Strange World’ just started flowing out. I particularly love this song – it might even be my favourite on the album. I love the moment the drums hit and it feels like we’re really moving, as if the intensity of the rhythm section symbolising a sense determination and propulsion. Even though it was a tough moment, we were going to push through.”
Following four ARIA top-10 charted albums, including two to take out the number one slot – Harlequin Dream and Limit of Love – it is with high anticipation that the indie band release their fifth studio LP next week, on May 26. A new body of work, each of the 11 tracks were self-produced and recorded at Golden Retriever Studios in Marrickville, Sydney, and mixed by Craig Silvey at Toast Studios in London.
The band’s fifth self-titled album arrives following a jubilant return to music in 2022, with its previous singles “State Of Flight”, “Just To Be Kind”, “State of Mind” and “Apex” receiving widespread global press adoration. Prior to its release, Boy & Bear enjoyed an extensive national and regional tour, a European and UK tour, and a 10-year anniversary celebration of their ARIA double platinum album, Moonfire. Most recently, Boy & Bear were nominated for Reader’s Choice at the Rolling Stone Awards 2023.
Head here for tickets and more info.
Music lovers are in for a real treat tonight as Popcultcha Records, the newly opened but already renowned independent record store, is hosting a sensational pop-up gig featuring the incredibly talented Ben Mastwyk, ahead of his headline slot at Lighting and Rhinestones Festival next month.
Prepare to be mesmerized by an evening filled with captivating melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and an intimate musical experience like no other. The gig will kick off in-store (upstairs of the Ryrie Street building) from 6pm on Friday, 19 May and is entirely free.
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
View this post on Instagram
Melbourne’s cosmic-country-rocker, Ben Mastwyk, is a rising star in the Australian country and Americana music scene, with a growing reputation as a dynamic entertainer and applauded songwriter. Gold-suited and rhinestoned, Mastwyk is known for his passionate voice, authentic storytelling, and captivating performances, leading his seven-piece band The Millions into bold sonic territories where songs erupt into swaggering, psychedelic bar-room gems.
Twice nominated for Best Country Album (Music Victoria Awards), Mastwyk has received high nation rotation on ABC Radio and toured his songs around Australia, NZ and the USA. His third album, 2021’s LIVIN ON GOLD STREET, debuted at #1 on the Australian Independent charts, #2 on ARIA Australian Country charts.
Popcultcha Records, a haven for music enthusiasts, provides the perfect backdrop for this exclusive pop-up gig. The store’s cozy atmosphere and impressive collection of vinyl records create an intimate setting, allowing fans to get up close and personal with the artist and his music. It’s a rare opportunity to witness a talented musician in such an intimate and authentic setting.
This pop-up gig promises to be an unforgettable night of live music and connection, where music aficionados can immerse themselves in Mastwyk’s soul-stirring tunes and experience the magic of live performance. The event is a testament to Popcultcha Records’ commitment to fostering the local music community and showcasing exceptional talent.
It’s an evening not to be missed, where music and passion converge to create an unforgettable experience for all who attend.
Popcultcha Records is located at Level 1 (Upstairs) / 96/98 Ryrie St, Geelong.
Train experiences can vary widely. On the bottom end of the scale, there’s riding a tightly-packed PTV train while trying to dodge stray crumbs as the guy beside you munches on a sandwich.
On the top end, there’s the Puffing Billy’s first-class dining package.
Keep up with the latest in local news and entertainment here.
This winter, visitors will have the chance to experience everything the Puffing Billy has to offer with a glamorous, three-hour dining experience, cruising from Belgrave to Lakeside and then back again. On Fridays and Saturdays starting on July 14, the tables will be set in the train’s decadent first-class carriages for the exclusive rides.
On the ride out, guests are invited to take in the views while sipping on glasses of crisp Yarra Valley wine and snacking on a grazing platter featuring cured meats, pickles, vintage cheddar and brie, and all of the accompaniments.
Tea will be served on the way back to the station, with fresh scones, locally made jam and chantilly or coconut cream. There will also be vegan and gluten-free options available.
Located in the beautiful Dandenong Ranges, the historic steam train is a favourite for tourists and locals alike. Built over a century ago, it chugs through the rugged countryside, giving visitors a glimpse of what things would have been like back in the day.
The first-class carriages will have you feeling like royalty, with plush velvet chairs, lush drapery and a glossy wooden interior.
Tickets to the Puffing Billy First Class Dining Experience, starting July 14, are on sale now.
To pick up yours, head here.
Of all the transformations we’ve witnessed over the past few years, the Portarlington Grand Hotel is hands down one of our favourites.
Built in 1888, the Portarlington Grand Hotel has been sitting pretty on the main street of Portarlington, boasting incredible views of the popular and scenic harbour area. While it had certainly been a while between cocktails at the 132-year-old gem, new operators Franco Biasuzzo and Mark Henderson have transformed the venue over the past two years, bringing the grand lady back to life through an extensive $10M renovation.
Check out the best wineries, distilleries, breweries and hot spots to visit on the Bellarine here.
View this post on Instagram
Restoring the prominent main street structure to its original glory, as well as adding additional features like boutique accommodation, unique dining spaces and open-air spaces, modernised to meet the highest standards of luxury, while still enclosed in stunning historical architecture, the Portarlington Grand Hotel has become the shining glory of this region.
Now, just over a year on from officially opening its shiny new doors, the grand lady has achieved recognition of the state’s highest status, taking out not one, but two wins at the recent 2023 Australian Hotels Association, Victoria (AHA Vic) State Awards for Excellence – the pinnacle event of the Victorian hospitality industry.
Alongside local favourites The Torquay Hotel, who were crowned the Best Live Entertainment Venue, the Portarlington Grand Hotel has taking out top honour for Best Hotel Accommodation in Victoria AND the Best Redeveloped Food and Beverage Hotel in Victoria.
View this post on Instagram
The Best Hotel Accommodation is an approving nod to the grand elegance of the venue’s 18 boutique rooms. With a few different rooms on offer, our personal favourites are the Grand Bay rooms, where you can take in priceless vistas from your own outdoor balcony, behold the views over the sapphire bay, mostly unchanged throughout the hotel’s long history, and breathe in the fresh seaside air, all with a comfortable King size bed and grand size bathroom inside.
The development award is no doubt an acknowledgement of the incredible $10M renovation from the venue, inclusive of the front bar’s stunning new renovations, textured walls, beautiful greens, and elegant yet simple black furniture; the incredibly designed Atrium’s open-air dining and drinks area that is the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere, enjoy a seaside view and socialise; the lawn area and the sensational food and beverage offering.
Recapturing an era when paddle steamers traversed Port Phillip Bay, the historic yet newly refurbished Portarlington Grand Hotel offers a boutique experience with a local welcome for all. If you haven’t had the pleasure of visiting yet, add this award-winning venue to your list – we guarantee you’ll love it!
Congratulations to the whole team at the Portarlington Grand Hotel – so well deserved!
Keep up with the latest from this stunning destination, or book your next visit, here.