A music meets wrestling tour to a unicorn festival: 22 Victorian festivals happening in April
Where are all the Easter songs? Mr Cool Stuff over there in December has plenty of them, but with Easter the pickings are slim. There’s no Last Easter. There’s no Easter in Hollis. There’s no All I Want for Easter is You. Mariah Carey would make a killing. Maybe Beastie Boys’ Egg Man should get the nod.
Sure, it was written about the trio’s liking for throwing eggs at people, which isn’t cool, but perhaps if this egg was chocolate and filled with a surprise it is something one could get around? Easter needs something, that’s all.
Take a break from your Easter egg hunting for a festival or two…
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival
Macedon – throughout April
You in your autumn sweater
Following their 2022 ‘Events and Festival’ Victorian Tourism Award win, the Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival is back to show they’re worthy winners. The month-long festival features free and ticketed events, including the Autumn Gardens Trail, Pie and Tart Trail, Edgy Veg Trail, Creatures of the Night and Gardener Puppets.
More through visitmacedonranges.com
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Growing Our Future Festival
Bellarine Secondary College, Drysdale – April 6
From little things, big things grow
Farm My School is a not-for-profit organisation that transforms unused school land into regenerative market gardens that provide food to the local community. Special guests include Costa Georgiadis, Matt Germanchis (Captain Moonlite) and Jo Barrett (Little Picket), as well as music from Formidable Vegetable.
More through humanitix.com/au
Easter Blues Bender
Bendigo – April 6-9
I’ve got the blues for you
There is so much blues coming your way this Easter that you are going to wish for more time – which you have, with four days full of the good stuff. Your line-up includes Grim Fawkner, Liz Frencham & Co., Rory Phillips, Bill Barber, Out of Abingdon, Georgia Rodgers, Jarrod Shaw, Sherri Parry, Jay Howie Band, Charlie Bedford, Mariah McCarthy Trio, Funk Junkies, Sons of the Blues, Nathan Schifferle, Luke Harrington, Rhyley McGrath, Chenai Boucher, The Ratbags, Jared Healy, The Rattlers, Mia Mazzarella, Jake Fry and Sam Pollock.
More through facebook.com/bendigobluesroots
Bendigo Easter Festival
Bendigo – April 7-10
Here comes Peter Cottontail
151 years old and still going strong, the Bendigo Easter Festival is a joy for all ages. Across the Easter weekend, Rosalind Park and surrounding streets will be filled with family-friendly entertainment, including the always popular Bendigo Gala Festival Parade on Easter Sunday. The Good Friday egg hunt will involve 80,000 chocolate goodies, while the Easter Saturday Torchlight Procession includes a fireworks display. Don’t forget about Carnival Central, either.
More through bendigoeasterfestival.org.au
The free Chinese-inspired Bendigo Easter Festival returns for 2023
Unicorn Festival
Kryal Castle, Ballarat – April 7-22
They’d run around free while the earth was being born
A wise man once said, never play leapfrog with a unicorn. The most magical of mythical creatures is getting a festival that will fill the world with sparkling delight. Unicorn petting, unicorn-themed arts and crafts, themed food, face painting, live performances and showbags will be part of the wonderland.
More through kryalcastle.com.au
Sunset Sounds
Torquay Common, Torquay – April 8
Sunsets over the beaches
Ten of Australia’s long-time greats are heading to Torquay for a one-day festival that will take you back to your summer compilation tapes. Your line-up is Daryl Braithwaite, The Black Sorrows, Russell Morris, Richard Clapton, Ross Wilson, Wendy Matthews, Eurogliders, Jack Jones, The Chantoozies and Matt Finish.
More through empiretouring.com.au
Beachside festival Sunset Sounds is bringing Aussie music legends to Torquay in April
The Great Barwon River Duck Race
Barwon River Mouth – April 8
Rubber duckie, you’re the one
There are more than 130 species of ducks worldwide. And while some may argue a yellow plastic duckie is not one of those, the Great Barwon River Duck Race values good times and a good cause over facts. Cost per duck for the charity raiser is $10, with prizes awarded to the first ten place-getters. This year, a Quaker Kids category is open to primary school children and under. The cost is also $10, but here the ducks are a cool blue.
More through allevents.in
Bluesfest Melbourne
Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre – April 8 & 9
I guess that’s why they call it the blues
NSW isn’t having all the fun anymore, with Melbourne getting a weekend of Bluesfest bliss. Your line-up for the inaugural event is Ash Grunwald, Backsliders, Buddy Guy, Chain, Christone ‘Kingfish’ Ingram, C.W. Stoneking, The Doobie Brothers, Eric Gales, Eugene Hideaway Bridges, Fools, Geoff Achison & the Souldiggers, Greensky Bluegrass, Henry Wagons, Kaleo, Kasey Chambers, Keb Mo, Lucinda Williams, Melbourne Ska Orchestra, Paolo Nutini, Robert Glasper, Shaun Kirk, The Soul Rebels, Talib Kweli, GZA, Big Freedia, Southern Avenue, Steve Earle and Xavier Rudd.
More through bluesfestmelbourne.com.au
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Malamiya Mang Art Festival
Dudley House, Bendigo – April 12-17
You’re standing on solid rock
From paintings to weavings, jewellery to artefacts, the five-day Malamiya Mang Art Festival is a showcase of Aboriginal art, design and culture. Experience and learn about the history of the Dja Dja Wurrung people as you enjoy a festival of arts, stories, workshops and markets. Support local Indigenous artists by purchasing direct from the artist.
More through eventbrite.com.au
Ultra
Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Melbourne – April 15
It starts in my feet, reverbs up to my brain
The electronic music festival juggernaut Ultra Music Festival has their passport ready for another visit to Australia. Your headliners are Hardwell, Deborah de Luca, Timmy Trumpet, Darren Styles and Sub Zero Project, while other performers include Ferry Corsten, Jonas Blue, Sneijder, Acraze, Juliet Fox, Ben Gold and Solarstone. They will be ably supported by a huge crew that includes Sarah Thomson, Dean Dee, Teddy Cream, No Chasa, Eric Sidey, Fluke, Brynny, Ian Buller and Isabelle Deltore.
More through ultraaustralia.com
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Australian Heritage Festival – Shared Stories
Throughout Australia – April 18 through May 18
So you look into the land, it will tell you a story
For more than four decades, the National Trust and the Australian Heritage Festival has celebrated built, natural and cultural heritage. It’s about sharing stories, what makes them important to us and how they can help shape the future. Events will take place in Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo, Warrnambool, Castlemaine, Maldon and more.
More through nationaltrust.org.au
Geelong Pride Film Festival
Pivotonian Cinema, Geelong & Platform Arts – April 20-30
Your true colours are beautiful like a rainbow
Another bumper program of screenings and events are in store for the 6th Geelong Pride Film Festival. The shorts-fest Rainbow Shorts will kick off the festival, while other screenings include Best in Show, The Accidental Archivist, Esther Newton Made Me Gay, Lonesome, Manscaping, Of An Age, NextGen+ Shorts, In Her Words, Gender Frontiers, Lesbian Shorts, The Venus Effect, Where Butterflies Don’t Fly, Will-o’-the-Wisp and Happy Endings Shorts.
More through gpff.ferve.tickets
Boardwalk Country Music Festival
Kryal Castle, Ballarat – April 22
Moving to the country
One World Entertainment is behind the new travelling festival Boardwalk Country Music Festival, where a Cattleman is not compulsory, but it doesn’t hurt. Your line-up features international headliners Gavin DeGraw and Jimmie Allen, as well as Kasey Chambers, Busby Marou, Shannon Noll, The Wolfe Brothers and Darlinghurst.
More through oneworldentertainment.com.au
Dreamstate
Flemington Racecourse, Flemington – April 22
Dream baby dream
Under the umbrella of global event promotor Insomniac, Dreamstate is dedicated to trance music. Your line-up is Cosmic Gate, Infected Mushroom, MaRLo (tech energy set), Ciaran McAuley, Ben Nicky presents Emotional Havoc, Maddix, Blastoyz and Achilles.
More through insomniac.com
Bendigo Winemakers Festival
Rosalind Park, Bendigo – April 22
More wine, waiter please
The end of vintage will be celebrated in the heart of Bendigo. Sample the region’s best wines and learn from those who make them. More than 100 wines will be available to taste, while a generous selection of food, entertainment, competitions and music will keep the day rolling nicely.
More through bendigowine.org.au
Stars & Bars Festival
Palling Bros Brewery, Heathcote – April 22
You must be their lucky star
The hospitality of Heathcote will be on full display as they host the latest instalment of the Stars and Bars Festival. Your line-up is The Seven Ups, Karl S. Williams, Leslie D. King and the Trembling Shakes, Jungle Jim Smith, Nathan Seeckts, Riley Catherall, Rhianna Fibbins and Pete Daly.
More through starsandbars.com.au
The World is a Vampire
PICA, Melbourne on April 22 and 27 & Kryal Castlemaine, Ballarat – April 23
Get on board like a bullet with butterfly wings
Music meets wrestling as Smashing Pumpkins deliver their The World is a Vampire tour to ten cities around the country. Jane’s Addiction will be along for the ride, as will local favourites Amyl & the Sniffers, RedHook and Battlesnake. Wrestling matches between NWA and WAOA will also feature.
More through oneworldentertainment.com.au
Whisky Live
St Kilda Town Hall – April 28 & 29
Where streams of whiskey are flowing
Whether you know your regions like the back of your hand or you’re just entering the whisky world, Whisky Live is the perfect place to experience the spirit world. Your ticket price includes access to top-shelf whiskies from around the world, a quality glass to sample, multiple classes and an assortment of food on which to graze.
More through whiskylive.com.au
The Bubbles Festival
Bells Hotel, South Melbourne – April 28 & 29
A champagne supernova in the sky
Here’s a festival that’s all about Champers, The French Burp, the Golden Gargle, Millionaire’s Mouthwash, Rapper’s Delight. We’re talking champagne. Ticket price includes tasting sessions, a tasting introduction by The Bubbles Review founder, Natalie Pickett, your very own Riedel champagne tasting glass, canapés and more.
More through thebubblesreview.com
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MICF Roadshow
Kyneton Town Hall, Kyneton on April 28; Geelong West Town Hall, Geelong on April 29; and Ballarat Mechanics Institute, Ballarat on April 30
I started a joke
For those who enjoy bang for your buck, the MICF Roadshow is a cracker of a sampling plate. Now in its 25th year, the Roadshow will be delivering some of the best and brightest as they work their way around the country.
More through comedyfestival.com.au
Groovin the Moo
Prince of Wales Showgrounds, Bendigo – April 29
Everybody’s moovin’, everybody’s groovin’, baby
Groovin the Moo has been going strong since 2005, steadily growing into one of the country’s favourite festivals. Your line-up is Alt-J, Amy Shark, Ball Park Music, Barkaa, bbno$, The Chats, Choomba, Confidence Man, Denzel Curry, Eliza Rose, Fatboy Slim, Laurel, Luude, Ocean Alley, Omar Apollo, Royel Otis, Skegss, Skepta, Slayyyter, Slowly Slowly, Sophie May, Teen Jesus & the Jean Teasers, Teenage Dads and Teenage Joans. Lex and Pookie are your hosts.
More through gtm.net.au
CherryRock
Cherry Bar, Melbourne – April 30
They’ve got the way to move you, Cherry
After an absence of four years, Australia’s only dedicated street rock and roll festival returns. And, as Vern Tessio can attest, cherry is the greatest flavour. At the time of writing, your line-up consisted of Mudhoney and Cosmic Psychos. Keep an eye out for more, but that is a solid start.
More through cherrybar.com.au
WIN! We’re giving away double passes to party cabaret Dirty Laundry by Briefs Factory in Castlemaine this week
You’ll be picking glitter out of your smalls for weeks thanks to Briefs Factory, the Australian collective known for their outrageous queer cabaret shows.
Arriving as part of Australia’s flagship regional arts event The Castlemaine State Festival, Dirty Laundry will take place under the Big Top in Castlemaine on Tuesday, 4 April at 8pm.
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here.
Led by Fez Faanana, aka Shivanana, Dirty Laundry features a lineup of the most beloved Briefs boys, as well as some shiny new talent, and you can expect a night of exceptional drag and ‘boylesque’ turns, as well as acrobatics and raucous, unapologetic comedy.
This crew has being selling out festivals worldwide for 10 years, so don’t even think about missing out on your opportunity to party.
With more glitter stains and ballsy attitude than ever before, your favourite Briefs misfits give you a night of intoxifying physicality, gob-smacking comedy, unapologetic truths, and ridiculous showmanship.
Turn your cycle to HOT as you watch these boys tumble dry and experience a night of irreverent comedy, unapologetic truths, and ridiculous showmanship.
To celebrate the show’s arrival in Castlemaine, we’re giving away two double passes to the show under the Western Reserve Big Top at 8pm.
All you need to do is fill in the form below to be in the running. You’ve got to be in it to win it.
The competition closes Tuesday, April 4. By entering, you agree to receive marketing collateral from Forte and competition partners. For more info, check out our privacy policy.
Find out more about the show here. Castlemaine State Festival runs from March 24 till April 9 in Castlemaine, Victoria. For a full program guide and tickets visit www.castlemainefestival.com.au
The Hard-Ons announce new album and national headline tour
On the back of the crazy success of their last album – the 2021’s #4 ARIA Album charting I’m Sorry Sir, That Riff’s Been Taken, the Hard-Ons have announced the release date of their new album, Ripper ’23, slated for June 2, as well as the April 20 release of the album’s first single “Apartment for Two”.
To celebrate the new album, they’ve also announced their Ripper ’23 tour, which will take place June 22-July 8, in between the album’s release and their 20th European tour.
Hard-Ons Ripper ’23 Tour
22/6 – Ballarat, Volta
23/6 – Torquay, Torquay Hotel
24/6 – Melbourne, Brunswick Ballroom
25/6 – Castlemaine, The Bridge Hotel (matinee)
30/6 – Wollongong, La La La’s
1/7 – Sydney, Crowbar
6/7 – Maroochydore, Sol Bar
7/7 – Brisbane, Brightside
8/7 – Gold Coast, Vinnie’s Dive
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
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While I’m Sorry Sir, That Riff’s Been Taken was the first record made by the band’s current line-up, Ripper ’23 – their 14th studio album – is the first one made from start to finish by the current line-up. New kid/old fan Tim Rogers came on board when most of the songs were already written last time; this time he’s been involved from the start.
Ripper ’23 is 100% Hard-Ons though, which means that, like the cheap and nasty TV-advertised ’70s hits compilation the album takes its title and cover art inspiration from, it is all over the shop (in a good way), highlighting the group’s stylistic versatility.
From the punky attack of first single “Apartment For Two” to the big balls riffing of “In Falls Everything”, the record is shot through with big hooks and a surging sonic power along with some sweet production touches.
The Hard-Ons Ripper ’23 is out June 2 on Cheersquad Records & Tapes. Tickets for the tour are on sale now.
Geelong’s Country Discovery Good Friday Race Day arrives with an Easter egg hunt, live music, farmers market and more
The annual Bet365 Geelong Country Discovery Good Friday Race Day comes to the Geelong Racing Club for the very first time in 2023, bringing along plenty of FREE family fun, hospitality packages, food and entertainment, $1.4 million dollars in prize money and MUCH more.
This is Geelong Racing Club’s first stand-alone race day and competitive racing is a guarantee on Good Friday, 7 April.
Keep up with the latest in local news and entertainment here.
Perfect for the whole family, there will be a FREE kid’s zone including a giant easter egg hunt, carnival rides, pony rides, Kelly sports activities, face painting, and a jumping castle. There will be food trucks, a local farmers market, live music and much more to make it a fun day out for all racegoers.
Punters can attend the races in luxury with a number of hospitality and dining options available to purchase prior to Good Friday. Dining experiences start at $99 per person and are available in the Silks Dining Room where kid’s meals will be available. Or, gather your friends and enjoy a lawn experience trackside in your own private marquee or umbrella package, or just opt for general admission which is an easy $25 for an adult. There is an option for everyone on Good Friday at Geelong!
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“It’s a big one-off chance for us to make this a great day out. We are making sure we will have something for everyone to enjoy. After such an amazing Geelong Cup in 2022, we hope to continue the momentum and expect this to be the next big thing!” said Geelong Racing Club Manager, Sarah Start.
Across the eight races of the day, there will be a total of $1.4 million worth of prize money, including the $500,000 main event ‘The Country Discovery’.
“The Geelong Racing Club are very excited for the opportunity given by Country Racing Victoria to host this years Country Discovery event and hope to host an outstanding day for all visitors and participants,” says Luke Rayner, CEO Geelong Racing Club.
In partnership with Country Racing, Geelong Racing Club have gifted a total of 500 free tickets to community organisations such as Barwon Health and the CFA to recognise their contribution to the community during the COVID pandemic.
$5 from all admissions of the day will go towards the Good Friday Appeal, helping provide world class care to children at the Royal Children’s hospital. This is a day not to miss at the Geelong Track!
You can purchase tickets and find out more here.
The 2023 Byron Bay Bluesfest Set Times are here for one epic Easter long weekend of music
In just a few days, the 34th annual Bluesfest’s gates will open for what promises to be the most exciting Bluesfest ever.
Some of the finest contemporary and legendary blues, roots, soul, rock, hip hop, R&B, world and Americana music artists (and more) are set to appear for the first original style Bluesfest since the world’s borders re-opened.
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
After a hugely successful if somewhat muddy 2022, that featured the best of predominantly Australian and NZ artists, it’s time to mix it up again. For the first time since 2019, Bluesfest is free and unencumbered to showcase the finest genres of music from all over the globe, including the likes of Bonnie Raitt, Mavis Staples, Elvis Costello & The Imposters, GZA, Lucinda Williams, Counting Crows, The Doobie Brothers, Beck, Gang of Youths, Marcus King, Michael Franti & Spearhead, Joe Bonamassa and more.
Byron Bay Bluesfest Set Times
Thursday 6 April
Friday 7 April
Saturday 8 April
Sunday 9 April
Monday 10 April
Since last year, Bluesfest has invested over $500k upgrading and waterproofing the Bluesfest site, with upgrades to the VIP area to raise the experience to new heights.
“A five-day season ticket at Bluesfest can be a life changing experience, and with our site improvements, stunning line up and improved food and beverage suppliers, five days is the way to go.”
Bluesfest Lineup 2023
- Bobby Alu
- Buttered
- Clarence Bekker Band
- Coterie
- Dami Im
- Daniel Champagne
- Dog Trumpet
- Electric Cadillac
- Frank Sultana
- Frank Turner
- Hussy Hicks
- Lisa Hunt’s Forever Soul
- Loose Content
- Ray Beadle Stax of Blues
- Roshani
- Round Mountain Girls
- Steve Poltz
- Steve’n’Seagulls
- Beck
- Paolo Nutini
- The Angels
- Ash Grunwald
- Backsliders
- The Bros. Landreth
- Eugene ‘Hideaway’ Bridges
- Trombone Shorty & The Orleans Avenue
- Yirrmal
- 19-Twenty
- Beth Hart (Exclusive)
- The Black Sorrows
- Bonnie Raitt
- Buddy Guy
- The Cat Empire
- Chain
- Christone ‘Kingfish’ Ingram
- Elvis Costello & The Imposters
- Eric Gales (Exclusive)
- Femi Kuti & The Positive Force
- Gang Of Youths
- Greensky Bluegrass (Exclusive)
- Jackson Browne
- Jason Isbell And The 400 Unit
- Joe Bonamassa (Exclusive)
- Joe Camilleri Presents a Star-Studded Tribute to The Greats of The Blues
- Jon Stevens
- Kaleo
- Keb’ Mo’
- Lachy Doley And The Horns Of Conviction
- Larkin Poe
- LP
- Lucinda Williams
- Marcus King
- Mavis Staples
- Michael Franti & Spearhead
- Nikki Hill (Exclusive)
- Robert Glasper
- RocKwiz Live
- The Soul Rebels & Friends with Special Guests Talib Kweli • GZA • Big Freedia
- Southern Avenue (Exclusive)
- Spinifex Gum Feat. Marliya
- Steve Earle & The Dukes
- Tash Sultana
- Xavier Rudd
Bluesfest will take place over 5 days from Thursday 6th to Monday 10th April 2023 at the Byron Events Farm, Tyagarah, NSW. All 5-Day Season tickets, including festival entry, camping & add-ons, parking and VIP are on sale now via the Bluesfest website.
Arj Barker is bringing his ‘Power Hour’ comedy show to Geelong in October
What do you get when you take your very best jokes from over the last 30 years, lovingly restore, refine and remaster each one, jam them all into a single hour, and finally, sprinkle in some brand-new material with a hint of improv? You get the best of Arj Barker. Also known as Power Hour.
This year, Australia’s favourite American comedian Arj Barker is bringing his Power Hour show to Geelong on Saturday 28 October 2023.
Keep up with the latest in local news and entertainment here.
In recent years, he has spent more time in our country than his own and has come to understand our culture perhaps better than we understand it ourselves. His stand-up is both insightful and pointed, like a mind-reading thumb tack, if there were one of those.
Arj has gained major International exposure from his role as ‘Dave’ on HBO’s Flight of the Concords. This, as well as dozens of appearances on popular Aussie TV shows like the original Hey Hey It’s Saturday (yep, he’s been coming here for a while) Thank God You’re Here, The Glasshouse, Good News Week, Rove Live, The Project, Talkin’ Bout My Generation, Spicks and Specks, the Great Debate and of course the MICF Gala, he has become a household name in Australia. He was also the very first guest ever to appear on Gordon St. Tonight with Adam Hills, and nobody can ever take that away from him, no matter what happens.
In his home country (well, country of birth at least), he has appeared regularly as a guest on many popular shows including those hosted by David Letterman, Jay Leno, Conan O’Brian, Jimmy Kimmel and Bill Maher. He has also had three of his very own comedy specials on Comedy Central.
Arj has been a popular act at the most celebrated comedy festivals worldwide, including the Edinburgh Fringe, Just For Laughs in Montreal, and the Melbourne International Comedy Festival now for almost two decades. A prolific and hardworking comic, who tours constantly, Arj has released five DVD’S, two of which have been nominated for ARIA’s in Australia although he ain’t won yet. But winning ain’t everything. There can be only one winner, but there are many losers. So all we’re saying is, maybe there’s something to be said for strength in numbers??
Some of Arj Barker’s other projects include The Marijuana-Logues (co-creator), stony parody of the Vagina Monologues which ran off-broadway in NYC for an entire year, and the whimsical animated web series Ari and Poopy (co-creator}, which has a cult online following of fans ranging from 3 to 76 years. ‘Turns out everybody loves a farting cat!
General public tickets go on sale 9am, Wednesday 5 April. Head here for tickets.
In a larger-than-life metallic gold jacket, Rod Stewart turned back time at a highly-anticipated day on the green in Geelong
The threat of chilly weather and a drizzle could not dampen the spirits of an excited crowd keen to relive iconic moments of music history with legends Jon Stevens, Cyndi Lauper and Rod Stewart.
Stevens got the crowd moving with his most celebrated anthems from the Billboard charts, before a now 69-year-old Cyndi proved age was absolutely nothing but a number with her still pitch-perfect vocal cords and vibrant energy that a double shot coffee spiked Gen Z’er would envy.
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
There was an air of activism that echoed through the night with Cyndi’s ‘Girls Just Wanna Have Fun’ accompanied by thought-provoking imagery of women’s rights activists worldwide, before seemingly clearing the skies with a beautiful sunset-lit rendition of her ‘True Colours’ ballad.
If anyone was ever worried about Stewart’s health after his previous delay for this concert, they needn’t have been. Rod, donned in a larger-than-life metallic gold jacket, stormed the stage with otherworldly gusto. Escorted by glittering members of his stunning 13-piece band, he announced his arrival with ‘Addicted to Love’ – a Robert Palmer cover, but you wouldn’t have known it. Stewart made it sound as if it has been his song for the last three decades.
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A heartfelt ‘Forever Young’ pulled on the nostalgic heartstrings of the crowd before Stewart unfroze the moment with light-hearted quips and his customary charm. An apology to the crowd for the concert delay, a joke about having to crash a wedding earlier that day, and repeated referrals to a lit-up dumpling van in his eyesight from the stage (coincidentally my neighbour’s business) kept the crowd laughing and connected in good spirits. Yes Rod, we all love dumplings, even those of us in very expensive golden jackets.
Known for his passionate ballads, he did not disappoint with ‘The First Cut is The Deepest’ followed by a gorgeous extended version of ‘Maggie May’ which had the crowd singing along fervently.
A soulful tribute to the late Christine McVie of Fleetwood Mac expressed in ‘I’d Rather Go Blind’ showed off the skills of his band and proved just how well his signature voice has lasted throughout his illustrious career.
Crowd favourites ‘Young Hearts’, ‘People Get Ready’ and a special version of ‘Stay with Me’ featuring a surprise guest from the audience sporting a miraculous set of pipes had everyone on their feet and kept the positive energy alive that had been set by Jon and Cyndi earlier that day.
The night came to a close in a flurry of dancing leopard print, technicolour and disco sparkles with a light-hearted ‘Da Ya Think I’m Sexy’, before a sweet encore of ‘Sailing’, bidding goodnight and safe travels home to the happy fans.
Stevens, Lauper and Stewart appeared to have turned back time itself with their obvious entertainment know-how, presence and musical skill. A Day on the Green was a fantastic celebration where all were reminded exactly why these have been solid household names since their arrival on the scene decades ago.
Nominations open for Australian Women in Music Awards, celebrating the fierce talent of women in the music industry
Prestigious, empowering and entirely inspiring, the Australian Women in Music Awards (AWMA) returns for 2023, calling for women in music to nominate themselves or someone they know to shine the light and celebrate women in the industry.
Since its inaugural event in 2018, the awards has become one of the most important events on the Australian music industry calendar, acknowledging the vast contributions and shining a light on the incredible accomplishments of women across all areas of industry from onstage to those working behind the scenes, technicians, leaders, elders, performers, songwriters, producers, engineers, film-makers and photographers, music journalists, stylists, managers and more.
Nominations for 18 AWMA categories opened in early March and close on 26 April, with the Award Ceremony, Concert and Conference to be held in Meanjin/Brisbane on September 26 and 27. The full 2023 Australian Women in Music Awards and Conference Program will be announced soon.
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Founding Executive Producer and Program Director Vicki Gordon said, “AWMA has become a powerful industry leader, to connect people and communities and to break down the systemic issues which have held women back for decades. Through AWMA we have effectively raised the collective voice demanding equitable access, safety and recognition for women in the Australian music industry. This is reflected in the 936 women nominated, the 136 finalists and each of the 50 recipients who have been recognised for their extraordinary achievements since our inaugural event in 2018.” said Gordon.
“This year we are excited to announce the Inaugural Women in Heavy Music category created in direct consultation with industry to reflect the depth and breadth of influence women are having on music in this country. Powerful female figures, artist managers, booking agents and label managers are putting their stamp on a genre that’s been historically male-dominated. Women have become a driving force for Heavy Music across many sub-categories from folk to black metal, and we look forward to shining a light on their extraordinary contribution,” said Gordon.
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AWMA 2023 AWARD CATEGORIES (includes 2022 recipients):
Lifetime Achievement Award – Presented to a female artist or musician who has made an outstanding artistic contribution to the field of recording and/or live performance during her lifetime. In 2022 this award went to Deborah Cheetham OAM.
Tina Arena Special Impact Award – Honours an unsung champion of the Australian music industry. In 2022 this award went to Dina Bassile for her work creating disability access for live music and arts events.
Humanitarian Award – Recognises an individual (female, male and GNC) who has made a significant and lasting contribution to the field of music education, and/or assisting female artists working in remote and/or regional communities. In 2022 this award went to songwriter, composer, educator and performer Leigh Carriage.
Diversity in Music Award – Recognises individual artists or female-driven musical collaborations for their contribution to advancing a culturally diverse and inclusive music industry. In 2022 this award went to disability activist and musician Eliza Hull.
Excellence in Classical Music Award – Recognises a mid-to-late career female classical music artist who has demonstrated musical excellence throughout her career. Includes conductors and artists working in the field of opera. In 2022 this award went to Genevieve Lacey.
Inaugural Heavy Music Award – Recognises a female who has made contributions of outstanding significance as an artist, musician, music practitioner, agent, artist or label manager, supporter and/or advocator of Heavy Music.
Creative Leadership Award – A curatorial award recognising excellence in creative programming from women working in broadcast media (radio, tv, online, streaming services), a music festival or live performance/venue to champion female artists. In 2022 this went to musician and festival director and programmer Emily Ulman.
Artistic Excellence Award – Recognises exceptional creative achievement from a female artist/musician across any genre. In 2022 this award went to the internationally acclaimed classical musician and composer, Elena Kats-Chernin AO.
Studio Production Award – Recognises a female sound engineer or producer who has made contributions of outstanding significance in the studio recording environment. In 2022 this award went to electronic producer and musician Alice Ivy.
Live Creative Production Award – Recognises a female working in a live production environment making significant impact in her field: includes but is not limited to roles such as Live Sound, Lighting & Visual Design, Set Design, Show Producer etc. In 2022 this award went to outspoken advocate for women in the music industry Kait Hall.
Live Production Touring Award – Recognises a female working in a live production or touring environment making significant impact in her field: Includes Tour/Operations/Promotions Management, Tour Assistant, Backstage, Roadcrew, and other related support roles. In 2022 this award went to Casey O’Shaughnessy for her advocacy for safe and inclusive spaces for women in the industry.
Music Leadership Award – Recognises a female CEO, Managing Director, Label Manager, A&R Director, Artist Manager or Publisher making significant impact in music industry leadership. In 2022 this award went to Frontier Touring’s Sahara Herald.
Songwriter Award – Recognises an outstanding female songwriter or composer. In 2022 this award went to prolific artist Tania Doko.
Emerging Artist Award – Acknowledges an outstanding emerging female artist. In 2022 this award went to newcomer Martha Marlow.
Music Photographer Award – Recognises a female music photographer currently working in the field and to acknowledge her body of work. In 2022 this award went to the prolific, creative arts photographer Cybele Malinowski.
Film Maker Award – Recognises a female music videographer, clip-maker, film-maker, or music animator currently working in the field and to acknowledge her body of work. In 2022 this award went to rising star Lucy Knox with honourable mentions to finalists Natalie van den Dungen and Aimée-Lee Xu Hsien Curran.
Music Journalist Award – Recognises a female music journalist, blogger or editor who has made a creative contribution and courageous impact in truth telling and innovative reporting in the Australian music industry. In 2022 this award went to Music Industry Observer’s Poppy Reid.
Excellence in Styling and Makeup (previously Image Maker award) – Recognises a female hair and/or makeup artist and/or stylist* working to change the face of music visually to break down gender, race and social cultural stereotypes. (*Stylist to include those working within costume and/or wardrobe activity). In 2022 this award went to Australian fashion innovator and designer Cindy Vogels.
The 2023 AWMA Honour Roll recipient will also be announced.
Head to womeninmusicawards.com.au to find out more and nominate. Nominations close 26 April, 2023. *AWMA encourages nominations from non-binary, GNC and anyone who identifies as a woman.
Astrodeath announce their first headline Australian tour for new album ‘Vol.2’
Astrodeath are primed, locked, loaded, and firmly in the hot seat after a few years, solidifying themselves as one of Australia’s most revered heavy bands.
The monolithic duo will embark on their first full-scale headlining national tour in support of the new album “Vol.2” this June, locally hitting up Barwon Club in Geelong, Cherry Bar in Melbourne and Sound Systems Studios in Sunbury.
Astrodeath Vol. 2 Australian Tour
Friday June 2 @ Baroque Room – Katoomba
Saturday June 3 @ House of Music and Booze – Sydney
Sunday June 4 @ La La La’s – Wollongong
Friday June 9 @ Barwon Club – Geelong
Saturday June 10 @ Cherry Bar – Melbourne
Sunday June 11 @ Sound Systems Studios – Sunbury
Thursday June 15 @ Crown and Anchor – Adelaide
Friday June 16 @ Amplifier Bar – Perth
Saturday June 17 @ Prince of Wales – Bunbury
Friday June 23 @ Mo’s Desert Clubhouse
Saturday June 24 @ Bad Luck Bar – Brisbane
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
With the album release slated for 12 May through Tuff Cuff Records in Australia and Heavy Psych Sounds worldwide, Astrodeath leave no stone unturned on their quest to bring sonic mayhem to audiences all over Australia. Weaving an otherworldly musical alchemy that belies their earthly origins and underpins the ritualistic hypnosis of Astrodeath’s furious and intimidating sound, a titanic reverberation that far exceeds the sum of its twin parts.
“We’ve been sitting on this record for too long, We want to thank all the fans that have purchased Vol.2 for being so patient, we’ve had to make some big decisions that resulted in the delay, but we’re finally locked and loaded and Records are heading out soon, and in June we are bringing the head bangs to a town near you,” says frontman Tim Lanken.
“We’re shooting to make this tour the biggest and best Astrodeath tour we’ve ever done and have already booked some of the best support bands to help us with that. We’ve included the often forgotten Adelaide and Perth on this run and were stoked to make some more friends around the county and check in on the legends we’ve met over the last couple years.. Full Pawaaaah!!!”
Not only are Astrodeath causing an absolute stir in Australia, their infectious grooves are catching on internationally, with a signing to Europe’s leading boutique stoner label Heavy Psych Sounds, a tour to the continent slated for the second half 2023 and a further journey to the US for more festivals.
Ticket links for all shows here.
Lime Cordiale announce new headline show in Torquay this April
Fresh from performing at Wine Machine over the weekend and part way through their regional tour, Lime Cordiale have just announced a special local date as part of their Fantastical Country Club Experience, now heading to Torquay in April.
They’ll perform on Saturday 22 April at Torquay Hotel in Torquay in what is one of the few chances for you to see them in a headline appearance in Australia in 2023, and perhaps the only chance you will ever see them in such an intimate venue.
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
The tour will feature all their hits, new songs, and a few surprises and is one of the few chances for you to see Lime Cordiale in a headline appearance in Australia in 2023. Coming along for the ride are a rotation of the finest new talent that the Country Club officials could muster.
Arrive early and enjoy, Bella Amor, Aleksiah plus special guests New Zealand’s Coterie.
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The band had a stacked 2022 with an ARIA nomination for Best Video for their single ‘Apple Crumble’, headline Australian tours which saw them perform to 34,000 Australian fans on the 14 Steps to A Better You and Facts of Life tours, alongside festival sets at Groovin’ The Moo, NYE in the Park and more.
2022 also saw the release of a trio of singles ‘Colin’, ‘Country Club’ and ‘Facts Of Life’ which will all feature on the bands upcoming third studio album.
In January 2022 Lime Cordiale released Cordi Elba, their acclaimed collaboration with actor/musician/DJ and record label boss Idris Elba. The mini album debuted at #9 on the ARIA album chart and spawned the hit singles Apple Crumble and What’s Not To Like, which landed at #14 and #41 on the triple j hottest 100 respectively. The track ‘Holiday’ on this album was later remixed by the legendary Fatboy Slim.
Lime Cordiale has amassed over 350 million streams on Spotify, 29 million Apple Music streams, with YouTube views exceeding 20 million. Their infectious performances and genuine, generous interactions with their fans have made them one of Australia’s most in demand acts, playing to wildly enthusiastic crowds across Australia and overseas.
Tickets can be purchased here.
Crafting a wholly intoxicating style, Immy Owusu is without a doubt an artist to watch in 2023
Surf Coast-bred multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Immy Owusu has been making waves over the last couple of years with his utterly contagious personality, impressive musical abilities and electric brand of ‘Afrodelik’ fusion.
Growing up in two worlds, the sea-bleached lifestyle of Torquay and the Surf Coast with its rock n roll soundtrack, and the musical heritage of his Ghanaian / Dutch family, Owusu has reintroduced himself through a colourful and striking new music direction.
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Building on his signature African psychedelic rock foundations, Owusu emerges more confident than ever in his ‘Afrodelik’ and ‘lo-fi highlife’ approach to music, a sound that spans psychedelic rock, funk and West African roots.
“Lo-fi refers to me coming from a bit of like a lo-fi psych background with a lot of my earlier stuff and since I’ve been working with a band, we’ve been getting into a lot of high-life music, which is this West African style of music that has a lot of percussion and a lot of groovy things,” Owusu explains. “So we’ve been calling it lo-fi highlife.”
A synthesis of his Ghanaian roots and his family’s musical traditions with his own explorations as a 21st-century troubadour in the vein of Rodriguez or Mano Chao, Owusu has captured the magic of lo-fi highlife with his dreamy new single ‘Flashback’, where spacious cinematic psych meets pulsing Afro disco.
Released on 30 March through Hopestreet Recordings, ‘Flashback’ is the first single lifted from Owusu’s forthcoming debut album due later in 2023.
“I’ve been chipping away on this new LP that’s coming out this year for just over a year and a half so it’s very exciting,” Owusu explains, “and this was the first demo I ever made way back in the day, about seven years ago. So it’s also fitting that it’s the first single off this LP.
“My mum put on this house concert in Torquay with Moussa Diakite, this awesome Malian guitarist from Sydney who used to play with Salif Keita in the 90s. In an impromptu guitar lesson in the lounge room, he taught me this really cool Malian guitar scale. I first wrote ‘Flashback’ as a way to practice that scale. I used to walk my dogs down on Spring Creek in Torquay playing this song on uke. So when they heard ‘Flashback’ they knew it was time for a walk.”
You can sense a quality within this textured offering, which can be credited to its live-tracking with an all-star band, featuring members of Surprise Chef and Karate Boogaloo as well as some of Australia’s most accomplished Ghanaian musicians.
Across the soothing four-minute track, Owusu’s voice is resonant and commanding and the hypnotic refrain “maybe I should have listened” takes us away to an ethereal dimension while the band weaves its magic around him. Owusu’s delicate fingerpicked electric guitar dances around Lachlan Stuckey’s hypnotic riff on the second guitar while Henry Jenkins’ pulsing bass and Julius Sackey’s deft drums sit in the perfect pocket.
Jethro Curtin’s quirky mono synth leads take center stage when Owusu isn’t leading and Kojo Noah Owusu, Immy’s father and one of Australia’s best-regarded West African musicians, blesses the sessions with Kpanlogo drum rhythms and a rambunctious talking drum overdub that interjects and comments throughout. The final touch is provided by delicate backing vocals by Kuukua Acquah, Pia Nesvara and Izzy Adjei.
Proving something of a breakout for the artist, this latest offering from Owusu marks the first time collaborating with his renowned father on music.
“My dad never wanted me to be a musician at all. He like toured the world with my grandpa [Koo Nimo – a legend of Ghanaian Highlife and Palm Wine music] back in the day,” Owusu shares. “But I think the music was probably a bit too strong. I didn’t think I’d pursue it as a career, but I went on tour with one of my bands when I was 19 and then when I got back I was like, ‘this is what I want to do’. He’s settled on it with me now and we’ve really grown close together working together.”
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The latest release from Owusu follows previous singles ‘Mantra’ and ‘Brown Supremacy’, tracks spawned from the 20-21 lockdowns where Owusu holed himself up in a caravan deep within a bush property out the back of Bells Beach, took up surfing and wrote songs with Liam McGorry of Ex-Olympian/Dorsal Fins.
With the raw depths of his fast-rising talent well and truly on show, and a debut album primed to be shared with the world, Immy Owusu seems poised to take 2023 by storm.
To witness the raw energy and radiant outpouring of ‘Afrodelik’ and ‘lo-fi highlife’ passion, catch Immy Owusu and his new band at his residency at Shotkickers every Wednesday in April.
‘Flashback’ is out now Hopestreet Recordings.
Private Function announce national tour, heading to Ballarat and Torquay
After instigating a truly peculiar marketing campaign that attracted international attention for its string of world firsts, including a limited edition scratchie record sleeve, an unexpected Government exemption, and a recently unveiled urine-filled Gold record variant, Australia’s glorified pub-rock freaks Private Function have today unveiled their hotly anticipated third studio LP 370HSSV 0773H.
To celebrate the new release, Private Function will take their dynamite live show on the road for the Hello A$$hole National Tour, dragging Melbourne’s glam-rock renegades Smooch along for the ride.
Private Function Australian Tour
Thursday 11 May
Pelly Bar, Frankston
Friday 12 May
Jive, Adelaide
Thursday 18 May
Crowbar, Sydney
Friday 19 May
Cambridge Hotel, Newcastle
Saturday 20 June
Secret Venue, Wollongong
Sunday 21 May
Beer Deluxe, Albury
Friday 26 May
The Brightside, Brisbane
Saturday 27 May
Vinnies Dive Bar, Gold Coast
Friday 2 June
Max Watts, Melbourne
Saturday 3 June
Volta, Ballarat
Friday 9 June
Torquay Hotel, Torquay
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
370HSSV 0773H is the third full-length from Private Function, a band notorious for its rambunctious facetiousness and introspective subtleties. On this release, Private Function brings their penchant for fierce hilarity and their septic tank of sonic influences to the fore, cramming them all into a bite-sized fever dream.
Akin to Private Function’s marketing antics and explosive stage presence, the range of influences on this record lends itself to its thrilling unpredictability and showcases the band’s ability to swiftly zig-zag between genres, leaning into decades of music past for inspiration.
Leaping between high-octane garage-punk (‘Jusavinageez’), ‘70s style rock’n’roll (‘I Dunno What I’m Doing Anymore’, ‘Good Fight, Good Night’), brutal thrash metal (‘Time For The Urn’, ‘Seize and Destroy’) and stadium-rock numbers (‘Don’t Wanna Go Out On The Weekend’, ‘Yellow’), the album is as impulsive as it is intoxicating.
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Expect rebellious debauchery and wall-to-wall hits from a band who’ve spent the better part of six years carving out a solid reputation as Australia’s most explosive and essential live bands, with a feverish following to be reckoned with.
If you’re yet to jump aboard the Private Function train now, best hop onto it – the carriages are filling up fast.
Tickets are on sale now.
Gippsland’s stunning new winery restaurant and accommodation Carrajung Estate opens
Gippsland’s brand new destination spot Carrajung Estate is set to launch today, on Friday March 31, when the restaurant doors will open, together with bookings for ‘The Nest’ from 7 April onwards.
The Carrajung Estate is the new owners of the old Tom’s Cap winery, a 40ha property surrounded by the forests of the Strzelecki Ranges, the Ninety Mile Beach at Woodside, and the Tarra Bulga National Park, one of the four major cool-temperate rainforests regions in Victoria.
Keep up with the latest food and booze news across the region here.
Delivering a stunning makeover across the property, the first phase of the new winery spot includes the launch of the restaurant and renovation of one of the cabins, The Nest, which can be booked through the Carrajung website. This cozy and intimate space has long been a favourite for guests, offering a perfect romantic getaway with views of the serene rolling hills, and now, with a full makeover, The Nest is more inviting and luxurious than ever.
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With one step inside you’ll be met with a beautifully appointed interior complete with a traditional wood fireplace, comprehensive kitchen and breathtaking sunset views which can be enjoyed from a new outdoor bathtub on the deck, allowing guests to soak in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.
As for the restaurant, this will be led by head chef Patrick Haney, a master of his craft with more than 20 years culinary experience, and will showcase the unique flavours of the region’s bounty, from heirloom vegetables to pasture-raised meats and artisanal cheeses.
Carrajung Estate co-founder Ivy Huang explains, “With an emphasis on seasonality and sustainability, our dishes feature fresh ingredients sourced directly from nearby farms that celebrate the natural beauty and culinary richness of Gippsland. Through our food, we want to share these growers’ stories.”
Honing his skills across a collection of USA and Australia’s much-loved kitchens including Sydney’s Opera Bar and Cruise Bar’s Dinner in the Sky, and most recently, The Growers in Shoalhaven, Haney’s dishes are a feast for the senses, with a focus on bold flavours, vibrant colours, and elegant presentation. Expect to indulge in the likes of garlic bay bugs, duck breast, ricotta gnocchi and beef short ribs, among many other tantalising options.
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The first-ever release of Carrajung Estate wines will be served as part of the restaurant opening, which is a culmination of two years of vine management between Carrajung Estate co founder Adrian Critchlow, Toms Cap founder Graham Morris and Marcus Satchell, an iconic award-winning Gippsland winemaker of Inverloch’s Dirty Three Wines fame, which will include Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc.
The first phase opening of Carrajung Estate is just the beginning of an ambitious vision by Ivy Huang and business partner Rebeka Morgan of BuildHer Collective fame, together with Rebeka’s husband John Morgan of Beirin Projects, to create a one-of-a-kind travel destination in the heart of Gippsland.
The team plans to renovate the remaining four cottages at breakneck speed in order to have all five renovated and ready for wedding bookings for the summer of 2023/24.
Find out more and book your next visit here.
WIN! We’re giving away 10 double passes to see The Pope’s Exorcist starring Russell Crowe
Inspired by the actual files of Father Gabriele Amorth, Chief Exorcist of the Vatican (Academy Award®-winner Russell Crowe), The Pope’s Exorcist follows Amorth as he investigates a young boy’s terrifying possession and ends up uncovering a centuries-old conspiracy the Vatican has desperately tried to keep hidden.
Directed by Julius Avery and starring Russell Crowe, Daniel Zovatto, Alex Essoe, and Franco Nero, The Pope’s Exorcist is a historical horror thriller you need to see.
Keep up with the latest in local news and entertainment here.
To celebrate the film’s arrival, we’re giving 10 lucky Forte readers the chance to win a double pass each to The Pope’s Exorcist, which is screening in cinemas from April 6 2023. The double pass can be used nationwide at participating cinemas screening the flick throughout the duration of the film’s cinema season, excluding cinema discount days, public holidays and gold class sessions.
To be in the running, all you have to do is enter your name, email and postal address below (so the tickets can be mailed to you).
By entering, you agree to receive marketing collateral from Forte and competition partners. For more info, check out our privacy policy.
©2023 CTMG. All Rights Reserved.
Dark Mofo reveals 2023 program featuring Thundercat, a Winter Feast, motocross and nude solstice swim
Featuring an impressive list of performers, including Thundercat, Ethel Cain, Sleaford Mods, Trentemøller, HEALTH, Sonic Youth’s Lee Ranaldo, Laurel Halo, King Woman, Drab Majesty, Eartheater, Witch and Molchat Doma, Dark Mofo is back baby, commemorating 10 years of darkness.
Marking the festival’s tenth iteration, Dark Mofo will run from June 8 to 22, showcasing a range of international acts across two huge weeks.
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Week one for music will see performances from visionary composer Max Richter (DEU), bass-playing extraordinaire Thundercat (USA), Witch (USA), Ethel Cain (USA), punk-rock icons Black Flag (USA), Drab Majesty (USA), Eartheater (USA), pioneering English electronic artists Squarepusher (GBR), Plaid (GBR), Deafheaven (USA), Zheani (AUS), Tasman Keith (AUS) and more.
Night Mass: Exstasia is the festival’s epic late-night event, this year bigger than ever, taking over three city blocks where artworks, performances, cocktail lounges, punk theatre, cinema cabarets, clubs and junkyard raves will create a sprawling metropolis. The packed program will be announced soon.
Throughout the second week, the music program will feature the likes of Trentemøller (DNK), King Woman (USA), Belarusian viral TikTok stars Molchat Doma (BLR), Drowning Horse (AUS), Extortion (AUS), Ironhawk (AUS), Caterina Barbieri presents Spirit Exit (ITA), Blackhaine (GBR), Amnesia Scanner & Freeka Tet: kaaos.ooo (DEU), Rainy Miller (GBR), Naarm/Melbourne post-punks RVG, and HEALTH (USA), while Hymns to the Dead returns with a brutal multi-band metal lineup, featuring Dødheimsgard (NOR), Uada (USA), Zuriaake (CHN), and Haunter (USA).
Borderlands also returns for week two, with three nights of electronic exploration featuring Carl Stone (USA/JPN), Rama Parwata (AUS/IDN), Lydian Dunbar (AUS), Lee Ranaldo (Sonic Youth) + Leah Singer (Contre Jour) (USA), Julia Reidy (AUS/DEU), Tujiko Noriko (FRA), Hiro Kone (USA), KMRU (KEN), and Hüma Utku (TUR).
With a packed two-week schedule of events, Dark Mofo 2023 venues include the Odeon Theatre, In The Hanging Garden, Altar, Dark Park, Federation Concert Hall, Princes Wharf 1, MAC2, the Goods Shed, MyState Bank Arena, the Baha’i Centre, Hobart Town Hall, Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, Contemporary Art Tasmania, Good Grief Studios, Plimsoll Gallery, Hobart Library, and Long Beach in Sandy Bay.
Week one of the festival will also feature an opening ceremony called The Gathering that celebrates First Nations artists, including BARKAA, Tasman Keith, dameeeela, DENNI, MARLON X RULLA, Uncle Dougie Mansell, Katarnya Maynard, and Rob Braslin.
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The festival’s theme this year is reflection, and Dark Mofo’s lineup aims to provide an immersive experience that encourages introspection. In addition to the music program, the festival will also feature art installations, food events, and a range of other performances that showcase the unique spirit of Tasmania.
Highlights include Silent Symphony, a large-scale art installation of kinetic light and sound instruments mimicking planetary orbit; the City of Hobart Dark Mofo Winter Feast; an installation featuring hundreds of jailbroken musical toys forming a tragic opera about consumption and materialism; and Giant Teddy, a new commission from EJ Son (AUS)—a giant Korean pop culture-inspired teddy bear with lasers for eyes and a camera feeding live surveillance to a separate space in Hobart.
Another highlight will be when Florentina Holzinger (AUT) presents the Australian exclusive performance of A Divine Comedy, a large-scale theatrical performance consisting of a cast of 17 female performers, over 2 hours. Motocross, woodchopping, nudity and bodily fluids will feature strongly at this performance, taking over MyState Bank Arena. Content warning: Nudity, live sex scenes, hazing and strobing effects, adult content.
Of course, there is also the Nude Solstice Swim which returns at sunrise on June 22, welcoming back the sun after the longest night, offering renewal and resurrection to the 2000 or so courageous participants.
Tickets for Dark Mofo are already on sale, and fans of music and the arts are encouraged to book early to avoid disappointment. With such an impressive lineup, this year’s festival is sure to be a highlight of the Australian cultural calendar.
This year will be the final for visionary founder and Creative Director Leigh Carmichael at the helm, who is pulling out all the stops with exclusives, new artwork commissions, the return of Dark Park, Night Mass, and the festival’s debaucherous masquerade ball.
“We’re excited to announce our tenth Dark Mofo lineup today,” state’s the festival’s creative director, Leigh Carmichael. “The last few years have been challenging, and heavily impacted by Covid, so to finally be in a position to again release a full two-week festival program feels overwhelming.
“The tenth edition will include the return of Dark Park, a large-scale art program, eight nights of Winter Feast and a massive music program. Night Mass will be expanded to five nights and will be Dark Mofo’s wildest party in our ten year history. While visitors can expect old favourites, we also have a few new surprises to unfurl.
“This year’s festival will be a reflection of the past decade, and while much has changed, our desire to celebrate the longest nights and embrace winter in Tasmania hasn’t wavered. We can’t wait to light the fires again this June.”
Get spooky in Hobart from June 8 to 22. Find out more information by heading here.
Ásgeir is heading to New Zealand and Australia in May and June
Icelandic singer-songwriter and musician Ásgeir has announced his long-awaited 2023 New Zealand and Australian tour, bringing his acclaimed discography to the stage with headline dates in Auckland, Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth across May and June.
Ásgeir New Zealand and Australian Tour
Tuesday, 30 May – Hollywood Avondale, Auckland
Thursday, 1 June – Melbourne Recital, Melbourne
Friday, 2 June – City Recital Hall, Sydney
Saturday, 3 June – Powerhouse, Brisbane
Sunday, 4 June – Rechabite, Perth
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
At only 20 years of age, Ásgeir released the fastest-selling debut album in Icelandic history – ‘Dýrð í dauðaþögn’ / ‘In The Silence’. The album was made up of 10 tracks of soul-searching folk featuring lyrics penned by his father, Einar Georg Einarsson – a retired school teacher and poet. Winner of the 2012 Album of the Year at the Icelandic Music Awards, it sold so many copies that it is estimated one-tenth of the population in Iceland owns the album.
By the time the elegiac sounds of the album’s 2014 re-release, titled In The Silence, were done rippling through the top 40 charts in the UK, France, Japan, Australia, Denmark and beyond, Asgeir’s stardom had become truly international. The re-release included lyrics translated by acclaimed musician John Grant. Sell-out shows across the world beckoned, including two sold-out headline dates at the Sydney Opera House in January 2015.
In 2017 Ásgeir returned with the daringly electronic album Afterglow, ambitiously balancing icy electronic shades of Bon Iver, James Blake and Anohni with soul, R&B and even gospel influences from different eras and places. February 2020 saw the release of Ásgeir’s third album, Bury The Moon – or ‘Sátt’, to give the record its Icelandic title, at times a bruising, achingly personal experience, with shades of endless isolation. In 2021 Ásgeir released a stripped-back and intimate EP ‘The Sky is Painted Gray Today’, marking something of a return to the artist’s deep roots.
His 2022 fourth studio album, Time On My Hands, sees Ásgeir in a state of self-reflection and experimentation, having spent much of the last few years in his home and in the studio deeply engrossed in writing, recording, translating and producing. On this album, he’s entered new realms of composition, sensitively layering acoustics with electronics and brass. As with some of his previous work, most notably 2017’s Afterglow and 2020’s Bury The Moon, Ásgeir plays with euphoric and choral elements of electronic pop music while keeping a tight grasp on the introspective, vocal-lead style of the acoustica that made him famous.
Pre-sale starts Tue 4 April at 11am (local) and General On-Sale starts Wed 5 April at 11am (local). Head here for more info.
The Snuts announce their debut headline Australian tour this August
Scottish rockers The Snuts are bringing their rapturous live show back to Australia to headline for the very first time.
Hitting the road with promoter Frontier Touring, The Snuts begin their tour in Melbourne at the Corner Hotel on Saturday 12 August. Heading north to Brisbane, the band will then play The Zoo on Sunday 13 August, before finishing with a Sydney gig at Manning Bar on Monday 14 August.
The Snuts Australian Tour
Saturday 12 August
Corner Hotel | Melbourne, VIC
Sunday 13 August
The Zoo | Brisbane, QLD
Monday 14 August
Manning Bar | Sydney, NSW
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Jack Cochrane (vocals and guitar), Joe McGillveray (guitar), Callum ’29’ Wilson (bass) and Jordan ‘Joko’ Mackay (drums) formed the band when in school and draw influences from the likes of the Libertines and Arctic Monkeys.
The Snuts debut album W.L. stormed the charts in 2021, making them the first Scottish band in 14 years to release a debut #1 album. They released their sophomore album Burn The Empire to rave reviews in September 2022. Produced by collaborators Detonate and Clarence Coffee Jr [Dua Lipa, Years & Years], the album – which claimed another Top 3 for the band – continues their evolution both sonically and lyrically, with NME describing it as ‘A fearless evolution’.
Infectious, euphoric, heartfelt and packed to the brim with hooks, Burn The Empire is the work of a band living in the moment, with an eye to the future. On title track ‘Burn The Empire’ and second single ‘Zuckerpunch’, lead singer Jack Cochrane attacks subjects affecting the youth of today, addressing corrupt corporations and politicians, as well as the lethal effects of poverty across Britain and its impact on society.
Frontier Members and Artist Fan Club gain access to the exclusive pre-sale on Monday 3 April (12pm local time), before tickets go on sale to the general public on Tuesday 4 April (1pm local time) via frontiertouring.com/thesnuts.
From today, you can take the V/Line anywhere in Victoria for less than $10
Victorians can now experience cheaper fares on V/Line train trips in a move championed by the Victorian Labour Government, with the regional fare cap now in effect to make regional public transport fares fair.
The cost of a daily ticket on the entire regional Victorian network is now capped at the same prices as metropolitan daily fares – currently $9.20 for a full fare or $4.60 for a concession. On a weekend or public holiday, daily fares are capped at $6.70 and currently just $3.35 for concession.
Keep up with the latest in local news and entertainment here.
That means more money in regional Victorians’ pockets, and more opportunities for families in Melbourne and visitors to the state to explore everything Victoria has to offer. It also ensures families living in rural and regional Victoria can visit loved ones, and access health and education services in other regional cities and in Melbourne.
For those who take long-distance V/Line journeys, the regional fare cap can save people more than $40 for each and every one-way journey on the regional public transport network.
From late March, V/Line fares for regional Victoria will be capped to metro prices
The cap also applies to interstate travel within 60 kilometres of the Victorian border, as well as Albury, Merimbula, Deniliquin and Mt Gambier, to ensure those living in border communities in New South Wales and South Australia benefit as well. The fare cap applies to all PTV regional buses, town buses and V/Line trains and coaches.
The Labor Government is continuing to boost the public transport network across regional Victoria, running more trains, more often – investing nearly $1.5 billion in 59 new VLocity trains since 2014, which has created around 500 jobs.
Since 2014, an extra 800 V/Line train services have also been added – with a record 2,200 regional train services now operating every week. Almost 200 extra weekend services are set to be added to the V/Line timetable from 2024 – with a further order of 23 VLocity trains to meet the demands of a growing network.