Tributes to the greats and some of the greats themselves.
MEMO’s got a mixed bag for us this month, from emerging artists to living legends and genuine rock stars. Whether you’re in the mood for Motown, feeling jazzy, searching for soul or need some good old new wave, there’s a gig waiting for you this May.
Keep up with the latest music news, features, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Kathleen Halloran
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- May 8
- Tickets here
Kathleen Halloran steps into the spotlight at the intimate Ember Lounge. Known for her standout guitar work and captivating onstage presence, Halloran has earned her place as one of Naarm’s most exciting new artists. She’s already performed alongside some of the country’s most respected musicians, here joined by longtime collaborators Darryn Farrugia on drums and Jonathan Zion on bass. Expect rich grooves, heartfelt moments and a show that captures the energy and artistry of a rising star hitting her stride.
Mi-Sex
- With Camino Gold
- May 9
- Tickets here
Party like it’s 1979. Mi-Sex returns to MEMO for a one-night-only celebration of Graffiti Crimes’ 45th anniversary. It’s a high-voltage live show packed with hits from across their iconic catalogue of explosive fusion of post-punk, avant-garde and new wave. From Computer Games and But You Don’t Care to Blue Day and Castaway, expect wall-to-wall classics, a few surprises and pure sonic nostalgia. Following their sold-out national tour with The Angels, Mi-Sex is back where they belong – on stage and on fire.
The Royal Motown Review
- With The Horns of Hip
- May 10
- Tickets here
The Royal Motown Review brings the iconic era of 1960s Motown to life in a soul-filled reimagining of timeless hits from legends like Marvin Gaye, The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, Al Green and The Temptations. They’re joined by special guest vocalist Joys Njambi and The Horns of Hip. With deep funky grooves and powerful vocals, it’ll be a feel-good night reliving the magic of Motown.
Ripper Rock: Hits of the 70s and 80s
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- With Michael Zammit, Jenn Allas and The Tequila Bros
- May 11
- Tickets here
Ready for a throwback? Ripper Rock is bringing the best of the 70s and 80s straight to the stage! Join Michael Zammit, Jenn Allas, and The Tequila Bros as they tear through classic tracks from Queen, Bon Jovi, Fleetwood Mac, Kiss, Blondie, Tina Turner and more. Whether you grew up on these songs or just love a good party, this night is for you. Relive the glory days of rock at MEMO.
Claymore
- With Tolka and Glòr
- May 16
- Tickets here
It’s gonna be a Celt-er of a night. The Melbourne launch of The National Celtic Folk Festival sees Celtic Folk Rock band Claymore hit the stage with special guests Tolka and Glòr. Claymore brings a dynamic mix of Celtic tunes and rock, with strong vocals, top-notch musicianship and an epic stage presence. The National Celtic Folk Festival is a highlight of Australia’s cultural scene. Plus, ticket giveaways and some sweet festival promos.
Hank Marvin Gypsy Jazz
Legendary UK guitarist Hank Marvin is back in Naarm for two exclusive shows with his Gypsy Swing ensemble. Known for his work with The Shadows, Hank brings his signature precision and groove, joined by longtime collaborators Nunzio Mondia (accordion) and Gary Taylor (rhythm guitar). Expect a night full of timeless tunes, with tracks from Django’s Castle and Foolin’ With The Feds, and new takes on classic Shadows hits. Plus, the chance to meet the artists and grab a signed CD after the show.
Karise Eden: The Janis Joplin Songbook
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- May 23
- Tickets here
One for the die-hard Janis fans. Powerhouse vocalist Karise Eden is hitting the MEMO stage with a brand new show dedicated to Janis Joplin classics. She delivers songs like Cry Baby, Maybe, Mercedes Benz and Kozmic Blues with raw emotion, bringing these iconic hits to life with her own twist. Backed by a killer live band, they’re blending classic rock energy with Eden’s unmistakable style – and a whole lot of soul.
Into the Mystic: The Music of Van Morrison
- With Lindsay Field, Steve Wade and Brett Garsed
- May 24
- Tickets here
Be swept up in the timeless sound of Van Morrison via renowned bassist and vocalist, Joe Creighton. Creighton brings decades of experience to the stage, having worked with bona-fide legends like John Farnham, Olivia Newton-John and Ray Charles. Backed by an 8-piece band, he’ll give us Van’s biggest hits alongside deeper cuts from the Astral Weeks era. Come for a powerful showcase of Morrison’s legacy and Creighton’s own musical mastery.
Normie Rowe
- May 25
- Tickets here
Normie Rowe regales MEMO with The Story So Far…, a live show packed with music and memories from one of Australia’s most significant pop performers of the 20th century. From his chart-topping heyday in the 60s with hits like Que Sera Sera and Shakin’ All Over to his dramatic career shift after serving in Vietnam, Normie’s story is one worth hearing. With a full band behind him, he’ll revisit a lifetime of music, theatre and TV. It’s a rare chance to hear stories that shaped a national treasure straight from the man himself.
Guitar Wars returns!
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- May 30
- Tickets here
The ultimate guitar showdown. Legendary guitarists Simon Hosford, Kathleen Halloran and Tim Henwood battle it out for one night of mind-blowing riffs and fiery solos. It’s a virtuoso face-off as they rip through powerful hits from AC/DC, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, Jeff Beck, Joe Satriani, Van Halen and more.
Soul with a Capital S
- May 31
- Tickets here
Spend the night with Grand WaZoo and Jeff Duff in a rare reunion. Through the legendary 6-piece WaZoo Horns, Jeff Duff and soul stars Wylie Miller and Waler Saluni, this gig will take you straight back to the golden age of soul and R&B. You’ll groove to hits like Soul Vaccination, What is Hip, Spinning Wheel and more. Step back into the 70ss.
Keep up to date with all things Music Memo Hall here.
This article was made in partnership with Memo Music Hall.
