ALWAYS Live, album launches and the return of the Blues Train, gigs are gigantic this November
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31.10.2024

ALWAYS Live, album launches and the return of the Blues Train, gigs are gigantic this November

Image Credit: Alex Da Corte
Words by Chester Ogilvie

As the moustaches grow, so do the list of gigs hitting regional Victoria this month.

Not all moustaches are created equal, but all those who sport these majestic lip snugglers crowd surf on the hands of gods. Okay, not all clearly. That Hitler was a real skuzzbucket. More like Shitler, if I was to employ a touch of profanity. Genghis may have had a Khan-do attitude, but the makings of a good man he did not have. And then there is Chris, who refused to enquire if I needed assistance even though it was abundantly clear that I did.

Still, there are many examples of those who house a nose neighbour who are on the right side of history. Albert Einstein kept his loosey-goosey like a boss, while baseballer Rollie Fingers’ handlebar is behind seven All-Star titles and an MVP for the 1974 World Series. Nietzsche went the whole ‘without an uber moustache, life would be a mistake’ look. Then there is old Teddy Roosevelt, who received the Nobel Peace Prize for mediating the Russo-Japanese War, was a strong advocate of the conservation movement and helped night guard Larry Daley to calm the chaos when the American Museum of National History came to life during the mid-2000s.   

So, as Movember kicks off to raise awareness of men’s health issues, let’s get around those who proudly present a crumb catcher – particularly those whose mos walk alone. Throw them a ‘what’s up, mo man’, a thumbs-up, a nod or even finger guns if you’re feeling bold. No, not all moustaches are created equal, but all moustaches strive for greatness. 

Enjoy your Movember gigs…   

Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

 

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Bob Log III – The Eastern Hotel, Ballarat on November 1

Some say Bob Log III is a slide guitar one-man band. Others say he is more a slide guitar one-man party machine. Little Stevie is your special guest. 

Bodyjar – Torquay Hotel, Torquay on November 1

In a reminder that time waits for no band, Bodyjar’s No Touch Red turned 25 last year. They’re celebrating it here. Joining them will be The Spit, Dry Wasabi and DURRT.   

Andrew Farriss – Golden Vine Hotel, Bendigo on November 1

As the co-founder of INXS, Andrew Farriss holds a special place in the big book of Australian music. He will perform iconic hits as well as tracks from his forthcoming 2025 album, The Prospector

Daniel Champagne – Minerva, Ballarat on November 1 & Golden Vine Hotel, Bendigo on November 2

Singer-songwriter and guitar whiz Daniel Champagne spends a lot of time on the road. After spending a chunk of time on international roads, he is home and ready to mingle with the locals. 

Pisco Sour – The Bridge Hotel, Castlemaine on November 1 & Barwon Club Hotel, Geelong on November 3

The band may be named Pisco Sour but the sounds will be sweet as this high-energy Melbourne five-piece get around their latest single, ‘Kids and Voicemail’.

Confidence Man – Torquay Hotel, Torquay on November 2

The fun starts in the wee hours of the morning. Following a tour abroad, Confidence Man settles in for a few local shows in support of their third album, 3AM (LA LA LA)

Australian Outlaw Wrestling 

Get in the ring with AOW Heavyweight Champion Maddog, Jordan Samson, ‘Madman’ Hex, Valido, Robbie Parker, Terry Shaw and Adam Crowe. Bands were yet to be announced at time of writing. 

The Dreggs – Civic Hall, Ballarat on November 2

Released earlier in the year, Caught in the Reverie is the new album from The Dreggs. After letting it shine for just long enough, they’re hitting the regional road to show it off.    

The Go Set – Rafferty’s Tavern, Warrnambool on November 2

Last year, The Go Set celebrated 20 years in the game. And all these years later the band continues to turn the dance floor into sawdust. They’ll be supported by Boogie Van. 

BBQ & Blues – Bellarine Estate, Bellarine on November 2

Texas BBQ and music come together for this little nugget featuring Joe Camilleri & the Black Sorrows, Phil Para Band, Collard Greens & Gravy and Sweet Water Blues. 

The Meanies – Volta, Ballarat on November 2

Given they have been around since the late ’80s, there is nothing mean about The Meanies when it comes to giving. Double A-side single ‘Zamboni’/’I Agree’ is their latest. 

Singer-Songwriter Showcase – Barwon Club Hotel, Geelong on November 2

How much talent can you fit in one room? A lot, as Daisy Kilbourne, Lucy Lorenne, Hassall, Rach Brennan, Jasmin Adria and Catie Alison link arms to do their thing. 

Abbie Chatfield – Costa Hall, Geelong on November 2 & Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo on November 9 

Whether it’s to her closest people, her dentist or a room full of strangers, Abbie Chatfield isn’t afraid to overshare. You’ll learn more than you should on her The Trauma Dump Tour.

Operation Karma – Bells Beach Brewing, Torquay on November 2; The Eastern, Ballarat on November 15; and Bendigo Records, Bendigo on November 16 

You can all suck it. Each and every one of you. At least when it comes to Suck It, the debut album from the all-female, all-power outfit Operation Karma. 

Marina Prior & Michael Cormick – Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo on November 3

They have some 50 stage productions between them, but this is the first time Marina Prior and Michael Cormick have teamed up for a full-length tour. 

MAXON – handle bar, Bendigo on November 3

MAXON and her trio will be winding up for the year shortly. Before that, a few more rounds of folking queer with some country pop remain. Her debut record is set for 2025. 

Goatzilla – Medusa Bar, Geelong on November 3

With new album Alien Nation available now, Goatzilla is amping things up on their Austr-Alien tour. XCalibre, The Half Pints and Apollo Project will get busy as well.  

Brothers Harvest – The Bridge Hotel, Castlemaine on November 3

Sunday afternoons were made for Brothers Harvest and their swampy and cosmic blend of Americana and blues hot sauce. They’ll be joined by Smokers Run Faster. 

Ben Ottewell & Ian Ball – Theatre Royal, Castlemaine on November 3 & Lorne Hotel, Lorne on November 4

Break out the silver because it has been 25 years since Gomez released the album Liquid Skin. Here to celebrate the milestone is Ben Ottewell and Ian Ball.  

Buzzcocks – Lorne Theatre, Lorne on November 3 & Theatre Royal, Castlemaine on November 4 

Legendary outfit Buzzcocks return to Australia with a swag that includes ‘What Do I Get’, ‘Orgasm Addict’ and ‘Ever Fallen in Love (With Someone You Shouldn’t Have Fallen in Love With)’.

Hard-Ons – Barwon Club Hotel, Geelong on November 4

40 years as a band comes with a lot of stories, including the time they shared bills with the likes of Ramones and Nirvana. The punk rock is still humming with Hard-Ons. 

Me First and the Gimme Gimmes – Torquay Hotel, Torquay on November 8

Hey, ho, it’s time to go to Me First and the Gimme Gimmes as punk rock’s premier cover band touches down in Australia for another visit. Dwarves support.

Isaac Butterfield – The Capital, Bendigo on November 8

He is the master offender who isn’t afraid to tackle any subject without padding. He also has more than two-million YouTube subscribers and a new book titled Better Man

Lisa Mitchell – Theatre Royal, Castlemaine on November 9

It seems like just yesterday Lisa Mitchell took her first musical steps. They were instead the early years of Australian Idol and Myspace. The joy in her performances remains the same. 

Red Hot Summer Tour – Victoria Park, Ballarat on November 9

The Red Hot Summer Tour helps celebrate 50 years of Cold Chisel with the support crew of The Cruel Sea, Birds of Tokyo, The Superjesus and Karen Lee Andrews.

Barefoot Spacemen – Volta, Ballarat on November 9

Blending disco, funk, R&B and Latin-inspired beats, Barefoot Spacemen will take you out of this world and back again. Their debut album is Tailspin

Nektar Records Presents – Torquay Hotel, Torquay on November 9

Nektar Records will drop it like it’s hot as they welcome a big night featuring the UK’s Thelma, Melbourne techno queen Laura King, CRTB and Hayden Trotter.   

Sally Ford & the Idiomatics – Northern Arts Hotel, Castlemaine on November 9

Get into the groove with Sally Ford & the Idiomatics. With flutes, alto sax, synth, cello, valve trombone and more, it’s an eclectic mix for your music fix.  

All Quiet on the Eastern Front – The Eastern, Ballarat on November 9

It’s going to be anything but quiet in this triple treat spearheaded by Spider Goat Canyon. The line-up is rounded out by Agonhymn and The Pass. 

The Blues Tram – Bendigo on November 9 

Enjoy the sights of Bendigo from aboard a restored vintage class tram #610 as you enjoy the sounds of Sherri Parry and George Kamikawa.   

AstroFuzz – Medusa Bar, Geelong on November 9

Doom/heavy gaze outfit AstroFuzz has available for your hot little hands their self-titled debut album. Catch them here with Gush and Echo Social Club.  

Delaney Davidson & J.P. Shilo – Red Hill Hotel, Chewton on November 9

They say if you meet at a midnight kebab joint in Prague and visit the grave of Dvorak together, you are bound for life. Come and explore the worlds of Delaney Davidson and J.P. Shilo. 

Software Update – Bendigo Records, Bendigo on November 9

Click on update now as Software Update spread the message of garage-punk and garage-rock. Their shiny new album is Ducks. The Chans supports. 

Folk Bitch Trio – The Bridge Hotel, Castlemaine on November 9 & Major Tom’s, Kyneton on November 10 

Behind the indie-folk of Folk Bitch Trio is the strong friendship of Gracie Sinclair, Jeanie Pilkington and Heide Peverelle. ‘God’s a Different Sword’ is their latest single. 

River Rocks & River Rocks Rehab – Barwon Club Hotel, Geelong on November 9 & 10

The mighty River Rocks returns with Pat Todd & the Rankoutsiders, Los Chicos, Dick Move, Stiff Richards and so many more. The following day’s Rehab is perfect for your hangover. 

 

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Joe Camilleri & the Black Sorrows – Riverlinks Eastbank, Shepparton on November 9; Kyneton Town Hall, Kyneton on November 10; and Queenscliff Town Hall, Queenscliff on November 21

It has been 40 years since the world was introduced to the roots-soaked blues rock of Joe Camilleri & the Black Sorrows. A BBQ mix just isn’t the same without them. Freya Josephine Hollick supports.

Skyscraper Stan and the Commission Flats – The Bridge Hotel, Castlemaine on November 10

Taking inspiration from Motown and Stax-era soul, ‘Talk to Me’ is the new single from Skyscraper Stan and the Commission Flats. With it, the band tackles conversations in an age of conspiracy. 

Tess Birch – Mozart Hall, Warrnambool on November 10

Tess Birch and her partner started the Loch Hart Music Festival. How NOT to Run a Music Festival is her warts and all show about all the ins and outs of festival life. 

SummerSalt – Torquay Common, Torquay on November 10

Let the sun shine upon you as you enjoy the beachside festival SummerSalt and their line-up of Hozier, Angie McMahon, Joy Oladokun and more. 

Joshua Batten – The Taproom (Shedshaker Brewing), Castlemaine on November 10

Whether it’s layering intricate loops in his solo acoustic show or shredding away on electric guitar with a backing band, roots-rocker Joshua Batten’s sole purpose is connecting with his audience. 

King Parrot & Weedeater– Volta, Ballarat on November 12 & Barwon Club Hotel, Geelong on November 13

One is built for speed and the other is built for weed. Ferocious heavy-hitters King Parrot and North Carolina stoner-sludge-doom metal outfit Weedeater are hitting the road together. 

The Pingers & Speedball – The Eastern, Ballarat on November 14

You have oi punksters The Pingers. You have punk-rock meets metal outfit Speedball. It’s a match made in heaven. Not to mention you also have The Coolabahs and RQTBL. 

Dan Vogl – Bombora, Torquay on November 14 & 4 Pines, Torquay on November 15

High-vibe singer-songwriter Dan Vogl struck gold when, as a ten-year-old, he picked up a beat-up acoustic guitar from a hard rubbish collection. Music has been by his side ever since. 

Kita Alexander – Torquay Hotel, Torquay on November 15

From releasing her debut album Young in Love to selling out its tour, it has been a good year for Kita Alexander. But the year is not over, and nor is she.

Painters and Dockers – Volta, Ballarat on November 15

In 1984, Painters and Dockers would release their debut album Love Planet featuring one of the band’s favourite songs, ‘The Boy Who Lost His Jocks on Flinders Street Station’. 

The Saint(s)! – Theatre Royal, Castlemaine on November 15

Founding members Ed Kuepper and Ivor Hay have wrangled in Mark Arm of Mudhoney, Peter Oxley and Mick Harvey to recreate the sound of The Saints ’73-’78. 

Fruit Tones – Medusa Bar, Geelong on November 15

Doctors say a serving of Manchester’s Fruit Tones is equivalent to three normal servings of fruit. The rock and roll gang is swinging by with help from Winksy and Dialog. 

Alanna and Alicia – Odessa at Leaver’s, Creswick on November 15

Following a chaotic time of lockdowns, broken bones, moving houses and births, identical twin sisters Alanna and Alicia finally got around to completing their fifth album, Heart Song Listen

Six of the Best – Barwon Club Hotel, Geelong on November 15

Fake News, Judo Chop, All Hope Remains, In the Esky, Relays and Dirty Wasabi will all vie for your attention and affection at this spiffy six-band stack.  

World Music Series – Northern Arts Hotel, Castlemaine throughout November 

The Northern Arts Hotel’s World Music Series continues with performances from Thieving Magpies on November 15 and Kavisha Mazzella on November 16. 

Van Walker – Major Tom’s, Kyneton on November 15 & Ararat Town Hall, Ararat on November 20

Recorded last year in just a few days during a break from touring Canada, Healing Descent is the latest release from prolific Tasmanian songman Van Walker. 

RocKwiz Live – Costa Hall, Geelong on November 15; Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo on November 27; and Civic Hall, Ballarat on November 28 

Do you know more music trivia than anyone you know? Ultimate bragging rights are on the line as Julia, Brian, Dugald and the RocKwiz OrKestra hit the road for RocKwiz Live. 

Adam Harvey – Gateway Hotel, Corio on November 16

With a career that spans more than two decades, nine-time Golden Guitar winner Adam Harvey is a bona fide country star. His latest album is Let the Song Take You Home.

Jeremy Beggs & Stefanie Duzel – Odessa at Leaver’s, Creswick on November 16

Heartfelt storytelling and a rich blend of country, rock and blues combine for the double single launch of Jeremy Beggs (‘Cover Me’) and Stefanie Duzel (‘Ain’t Gon Be Me’). 

Krave – Barwon Club Hotel, Geelong on November 16

With their new EP Only Human fresh out of the oven, alt-metal trio Krave will be heading out to show why they’re a band to keep an eye on.

GBOMM Party – The Eastern, Ballarat on November 16

There will be murder on the dance floor as GBOMM presents Girls on Deck. Your line-up is MJ Dangerboots, Mizzy and Wishy Washy. 

Bella Deer – Barwon Club Hotel, Geelong on November 16

Indie-pop artist Bella Deer will take to her local as the Geelong singer-songwriter welcomes her debut EP, Age of Alchemy. She will be joined by Alaska and Howlite. 

TSHA – Torquay Hotel, Torquay on November 16

Get a hit of serotonin and a piece of Strawberry Fields in one as London-based DJ and producer TSHA (Teisha Matthews) serves up a night of feel-good dance and underground house. 

Emma Holland – Bendigo Bank Theatre, Bendigo on November 16 & Mozart Hall, Warrnambool on November 17 

Comedian Emma Holland is welcoming you with open arms to visit her sick and twisted mind. How sick and twisted will she go? Find out in her Here Comes Mr. Forehead tour.  

Grinspoon – All Seasons, Bendigo on November 16 & Barwon Heads Hotel, Barwon Heads on November 17

After more than a decade, Grinspoon stepped out with new album Whatever, Whatever. The accompanying tour is well underway and it has been going, forgive me, just ace.

Marcia Hines – Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo on November 16; Lighthouse Theatre, Warrnambool on November 22; Her Majesty’s Theatre, Ballarat on November 24; and The Play House, GAC on November 30

Musical treasure Marcia Hines still shines as bright today as when she first hit the stage as a sixteen-year-old. Join her as she looks back at it all.  

LIV LOUD 2024 – Barwon Club Hotel, Geelong on November 17

Dust off your favourite Australian music t-shirt in celebration of Ausmusic T-shirt Day and head on down for LIV LOUD and a night of tunes from Sargent Baker, Dental Plan, Winksy and more.  

Tom Harrington – Backyard Show, Torquay on November 17

Indie-folk songman Tom Harrington is celebrating the release of album When Time is On Our Side in laidback style by playing backyards of mates made along the way. Venue will be emailed.

Charlie Lane – Shedshaker Brewing, Castlemaine on November 17

Indie-pop singer-songwriter Charlie Lane uses writing as a form of therapy, which lends itself nicely to the title and music of debut album, I’m Okay Now But I Wasn’t.  

aleksiah – Volta, Ballarat on November 17

The stage name of Alexia Damokas, aleksiah keeps going from strength to strength. Enjoy new music and old favourites. She will be joined by the upcoming Ixaras. 

Fink – Geelong on November 21

Fin Greenall is a singer-songwriter, guitarist, producer and disc jockey better known as Fink. Ticketholders will receive a text or email with the gig address about 36 hours before the show.

Jungle Jim Smith – Bells Beach Brewery, Torquay on November 22

Armed with a three-string cigar box guitar, his trusty six-string and stompin’ foot drums, Jungle Jim Smith is a one-man-blues show with a rock and roll heart. 

Ripple Effect – The Bridge Hotel, Castlemaine on November 22

You will find stories as mothers, daughters and sisters, sung in the languages of their people, on the debut album from Ripple Effect, Mayawa.   

Andy Golledge – Major Tom’s, Kyneton on November 22

Born in Tamworth, you could say it was inevitable that Andy Golledge would walk the country roads. His latest album is Young, Dumb & Wild.  

The Ferguson Rogers Process – Theatre Royal, Castlemaine on November 22

More than ten years since Tim Rogers (You Am I) and Lance Ferguson (The Bamboos) released the everywhere track ‘I Got Burned’, they’re releasing their debut album in Style and or Substance

A. Savage – Anglesea Memorial Hall, Anglesea on November 23

Following a self-imposed exile in Paris, Parquet Courts frontman A. Savage returns to Australia with his new album, Several Songs about Fire

Willaris. K – Torquay Hotel, Torquay on November 23

Made across a period of four years, Everything is as it Should Be is the debut album from electronic producer Jack William McAllister, better known as Willaris. K. 

Triple Kill – Barwon Club Hotel, Geelong on November 23

You don’t have to be mad to love metal, but it’s a nice slice of metal madness as Triple Kill will be joined by Get Rekt and metal/metalcore covers outfit Thrash Gordon. 

ALARMS – Medusa Bar, Geelong on November 23

After a recent acoustic performance at Phoenix FM, Bendigo’s ALARMS are back with the full noise-rock experience. Blue Fur, Clifford Parade and Apollo Project will also get in on the act.  

Alex Lloyd – Volta, Ballarat on November 23

When Alex Lloyd released the single ‘Amazing’ in 2001, little did he know it would take out top spot in triple j’s Hottest 100. It is as loved today as it was then. 

Blues Guitar Roadshow – Theatre Royal, Castlemaine on November 23

Here is a gig that’s sure to strike a chord. Enjoy this all-star celebration of blues featuring Geoff Achison, Lloyd Spiegel, Jimi Hocking, Lisa Baird, George Kamikawa and more. 

The Rions – Torquay Hotel, Torquay on November 24

May you find joy where you can. Join The Rions as they head out for a tour in support of their recently released EP, Happiness in a Place it Shouldn’t Be

Custard – Theatre Royal, Castlemaine on November 24

Open up those curtains and let the light in as Custard head out to celebrate their new double album, Suburban Curtains. Joining them are The Fauves and The Stress of Leisure. 

Tom Woodward – Northern Arts Hotel, Castlemaine on November 24

Between a two-and-a-half month walk up the east coast of Australia and being deported from the US, Tom Woodward wrote and recorded his new album, Revolving Doors

Troy Cassar-Daley – Anglesea Memorial Hall on November 24

40 Golden Guitars, five ARIAs and nine Deadlys are just a selection of the honours received by legendary country songman, Troy Cassar-Daley. 

St. Vincent – Her Majesty’s Theatre, Ballarat on November 26

Anne Erin Clark, better known as St. Vincent, is making her return to Australia for the first time since 2018 as part of ALWAYS LIVE. Her latest album is All Born Screaming

Katchafire – Barwon Club Hotel, Geelong on November 28

Combining classic roots reggae, R&B, funk and modern dancehall, Maori reggae-rockers Katchafire are on an ongoing mission to raise your spirits and soul.

John Williamson – Civic Hall, Ballarat on November 29

Performing for five decades, there are few that can paint a musical picture of Australian life quite like journeyed songman John ‘True Blue’ Williamson.  

Ronnie Simmons & the Redback Spiders – Golden Vine Hotel, Bendigo on November 29

When your band features Ronnie Simmons of Rose Tattoo and Richie Ramone of Ramones, you know you have something going on. Their new single is ‘Alone with You’.  

Consedine – Barwon Club Hotel, Geelong on November 29

Following the release of album Hanging Out to kick off the year, it has all been about practising for Consedine ever since. Joining in on the night will be Left at the Avenue and Forrer. 

Jeff Lang – Northern Arts Hotel, Castlemaine on November 29

Even with three decades in the game and more than thirty albums, roots visionary Jeff Lang still has some petrol in the tank. His latest album is More Life.  

Mick Thomas’ Roving Commission – The Bridge Hotel, Castlemaine on November 29

Deck the halls with boughs of holly as Mick Thomas’ Roving Commission hit the road for their annual Christmas tour. A few new songs will find their way between old favourites. 

Embers of Tragedy Tour – Volta, Ballarat on November 29 

Melodic death metal outfit Orpheus Omega and symphonic gothic metallers Carmeria will showcase their new releases on the Embers of Tragedy tour. 

Buena Vista Social Club Tribute – Theatre Royal, Castlemaine on November 30

An eleven-piece band comprised of some of the country’s finest Latin music musicians are set to honour and celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Buena Vista Social Club movie. 

Playlunch – Volta, Ballarat on November 30

Play lunch is truly one of the greatest times in our lives. When it comes to Playlunch, there are those who find listening to their bogan funk to be among the greatest times of their lives. 

Steve Balbi – The Taproom (Shedshaker Brewing), Castlemaine on November 30

A founding member of Noiseworks and Electric Hippies, Steve Balbi is set to revisit his catalogue in a night of songs and stories. This includes his fourth album, Breakdown

ALWAYS LIVE Grid Series Showcase – Barwon Club Hotel, Geelong on November 30

As part of Victoria’s 17-day ALWAYS LIVE music feast, Geelong will host an event featuring Baraka the Kid, Wild Gloriosa, Ridzyray, Daisy Kilbourne and Manny Lado. 

Heresy at Medusa Bar – Medusa Bar, Geelong on November 30

Sinners are grinners at Heresy at Medusa Bar, a night of the heavy stuff featuring Spacegoat, Coffin Carousel, Distorta and Thrash Gordon.