‘Everyone is finding their own identity’: A look into the exotic and psychedelic world of Sunfruits
With their first album One Degree released on April 28th of 2023, Sunfruits brought a unique blend of rock’n’roll that started in the direction of a 60s psych band, which eventually progressed to the addition of more 70s rock influences.
In just four months after the album’s release, an overwhelmingly positive reaction allowed the band to embark on a tour that began in Southampton, followed by a string of more gigs in the UK and Europe including places such as Scotland, Netherlands, Germany, France and a few others.
Keep up with the latest music news, features, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
The band members were thrown into the limelight at a relatively swift pace from the inception of their debut LP. We had the chance to speak to their bassist Elena and keyboardist Charlie about the project, the European tour and their plans for the band going forward.
“It was great. It kind of took us a few years to make,” says Elena. “We all got together in 2021 for 10 days working with a DIY home recording setup with our producer. It was amazing to have that amount of time just exercising freedom and doing whatever we wanted. The lockdown definitely delayed things, but we managed to still do our work digitally from a distance. If anything, the whole situation kind of inspired the songwriting process even more.”
“We didn’t expect it would take us to a European Tour,” She says with a chuckle. “Yeah, it’s crazy and definitely a dream come true.”
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Despite the hectic schedules that come with travelling between gigs, the band still keeps a positive work ethic when it comes to the songwriting process. Occasionally their impromptu creativity can even leak into the live performances themselves
“We still keep the process going,” says Elena. “Usually with voice memos and during sound-checks we like to jam a lot, so a lot of ideas are born from there too.” To which Charlie then adds, “Sometimes, we would even do jams during the live set itself. It’s really fun and puts a uniqueness to every gig we do that positively puts us out of our comfort zone.”
The band have always had a very attractive visual character from the colourful promo photos and cover art to how they dress on stage. These artistic values seem to be compounded by contributions from various sources, including each of the band member’s distinct personalities.
“The planning changes a lot as we work with different kinds of artists that we like,” Elena shares. “The fits are not coordinated, we somehow just manage to find a nice fusion. I think it’s because we hang out with each other a lot and kind of slowly absorb each other’s styles.”
To which Charlie then adds his point of view as the newest member of the group, “I thought about it a lot more when I first joined the band. “Like, ‘I have to dress up like the other guys in Sunfruits’ which I started out trying to do, but it just evolved from there. And as the music evolves too, I think the fashion does as well.”
“We’re also very lucky to have Evie in the band who is very passionate about the visuals,” He adds. “It’s kind of her side hustle. I found that being in Sunfruits, everyone is finding their own identity more and more through being in this space where you can just try out new stuff.”
Video premiere: Psych groovers Sunfruits celebrate their namesake song with a vibrant new clip
Despite what it seems, touring is not always a pleasant experience. A lot of time is spent sitting down on the road and sweaty venues. Both of them share how they deal with the uncomfortable parts of the experience and the activities they like to do when they are not killing it on the stage.
“I feel like whenever there is a chance to see a body of water like a beach or a swimming pool, we would go straight for that as a group,” Charlie responds.
“There were also a few shows where we were able to link up with some friends that happened to be in town. That was just so nice to be in this random place and spend it with our buddies.”
To which Elena then adds a surprisingly wholesome answer: “One of our favourite things is journaling. It was a big one for Europe. Me, Gene and Evie would share a room a lot and we would have journal time at the end of the day. We wouldn’t even talk to each other and just focus on doing the journals until it’s time to sleep.”
Their next European tour has them doing 32 shows across 14 countries including nine festivals, beginning on the 4th of May in Spain.
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“Yeah, we’re excited. There are a few places we want to visit,” Charlie says. “Eastern Europe is one, Latvia or Lithuania. Just places that we wouldn’t travel to otherwise. Would be nice to see some different scenery and meet new people.”
To which Elena adds, “The Eiffel Tower in particular is one we would like to see that we didn’t get the chance to before. I think we have a couple of nights in Bilbao before the show so I really wanna go to the Guggenheim museum.”
Charlie finishes the interview by vaguely teasing the band’s next move. “There’s things in the works, new material. We have been debuting a couple of newbies in our live sets that we are very excited to take on tour. It’s a good feeling around the air and there’s lots of things to look forward to.”
Keep yourself updated with Sunfruits and their upcoming tour here.
The Peach Fuzz comeback hit as hard as a head smashed into a gong
But, along with the release of some newer music as well as lots of talk surrounding a new EP, the inexplicably exciting indie-rock outfit are once again out to prove that a rolling peach gathers no fuzz… or something.
The atmosphere around the famed Gaso was, as always, relentlessly magnetic and reminded me why I, along with music lovers all around Melbourne, continue to frequent this venue. The charm is intangibly intoxicating, and when packed out, the Gaso rivals any venue in Melbourne.
Keep up with the latest music news, features, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Peach Fuzz weren’t alone in their Northerly ventures. Along for the ride were two incredible-in-their-own-right groups that made me feel like there were three headliners for the night.
Paisley Lace kicked off the night’s proceedings with the effortlessly charming Jasmin leading the act. There were incredible harmonies, face-melting guitar solos and even a happy birthday hymn to guitarist Darcy. They wrapped up with a song about gross BnBs, which (however unfortunate) could be one of the most relatable songs ever written.
Keeping the peach rolling was Terra Rouge and her professionally polished band. Smashing through a set of self-proclaimed “sick lesbian songs”, Rouge and her band piled on the musicianship and validated their angst by absolutely nailing a cover of Katy Perry’s I Kissed a Girl. Two more than adequate openers and I was ready for the main card.
I found myself wondering how a band would kick off a show, with a year passing since they last headlined. It would be a challenge no doubt, one that required careful thought and setlist consideration. Would they open with a crowd-favourite? Perhaps something new?
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Peach Fuzz marched out, strapped a Lime Scooter helmet on their bassist, and proceeded to ‘use’ it to smash a gong that they had brought along with them. That is in no way poetic licence: I saw it with my own eyes, a silly grin painted across my face.
The unusual opening was no kind of indicator of the quality of music to come. Peach Fuzz’s first few songs were pure elation. They have a noticeably devoted and excitable fan base that carried the band through the first part of the setlist.
By the time they reached their song (a personal favourite) Monster In My Room, we all had settled in. Lead singer Lucinda continued to boast a versatile vocal ability perfectly balanced with a charismatic stage presence. Monster In My Room was followed by a Blondie cover of Call Me, through which the La brothership flourished.
Ben La is nothing short of virtuosic on guitar, laying out complex rhythm sections and awe-inspiring solos all with the ease and swagger to match any musician. Call Me was perfectly upholstered by James La on drums, who even finished with a rudiment-filled headshaking drum solo that made the drummer in me excitedly squeal (maybe with jealousy).
Louis on bass recovered quickly from his gong-induced concussion to provide fuzzy, funky basslines throughout. He’s a musician’s musician, rocking a mullet and a playing face only matched in musicianship by his more than capable bass and keyboard work.
The band launched into crowd favourite Siren to ‘finish’ the show, before leaving the stage. We all know better by now, but that didn’t stop The Gaso from shaking with chants of “one more song”, which evolved into “three more songs” and then five.
They granted our wishes and returned to absolutely nail a rendition of their latest single What Do You Want From This, which is one of those you simply will not get out of your head. The crowd erupted, and La’s harmonic-clad guitar riff bounced around the adored Gaso walls.
Peach Fuzz are an incredible reminder of the sheer musical talent present throughout Melbourne. If you’re after a night of spine-tingling live music, they’re perfect for you.
Keep up with Peach Fuzz here.
A glance at what’s on at the Wesley Anne: Synthpop fusions, old school jazz and more
Famous for being located in a former church, Wesley Anne is one of Melbourne’s oldest and most beloved pubs. Various talents have been welcomed into its candle-lit interior ranging from indie rock to folk singer/songwriter and more. It’s a great mix of old and new with some killer bands hitting the stage every couple of nights.
For the next few days, the venue has scheduled an eclectic selection of music acts including traditional folk, country, Celtic pop and more. The following are some of the thrilling talents that will be taking the stage for the remainder of the month while you keep yourself warm with the pub’s fireplace and its great selection of drinks!
Keep up with the latest music news, features, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Since the early 2000s, the Northcote area has served as an icon of Melbourne’s music scene and Wesley Anne is certainly one of the venues that have contributed to that. Find out more about them here.
Salvador Peralta & Friends
- Friday, 19 April 2024
- 8:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Argentine-Australian singer-songwriter, Peralta will be bringing his nostalgic and calming sound in a set dedicated to the launch of his newest release This Makes Me Comfortable, which will display a sentimental evolution from his debut album That Makes Me Uncomfortable. Peralta will be joined by local acts Vulcara and Lucy Paterson for an intimate night of folk and ambient artistry.
Lucid Reunion Show
- Sunday, 21 April 2024
- 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Louise McCarthy and Elizabeth Moran will be joined by their long-time partner-in folk pop, Things of Stone & Wood frontman Greg Arnold. As the Lucid trio, they will present a long-awaited one-off reunion show of their moody Celtic fiddle pop vibe and soulful harmonies that revive their sound from the early 2000s.
Alice Bisschops Trio
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- Sunday, 21 April 2024
- 8:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Joining the stage with brass, bass, piano and undisputable flair are the Alice Bisschops Trio who plans to take you back to the good ol’ days of counterpoint and 1950’s West Coast Jazz, including a stroll towards the music of American saxophonist Paul Desmond. It’s a woodwind mayhem sprinkled with upright bass and a tickle of the ivories that will get you buzzing!
Anna O’Bryan + Jonesing
- Thursday, 25 April 2024
- 8:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Anna O’Bryan and Jonesing were both part of AIM’s Women in Music Mentoring Program, but despite being the synthpop maestros that they were, the two artists never got the chance to collaborate in the past. However, thanks to a mutual friend and the guys at Wesley Anne, the destined day is finally coming to fruition! With their combined efforts of forming ethereal beats and crystalline vocals, these two are guaranteed to give you an unforgettable night.
Stella Anning Trio
- Friday, 26 April 2024
- 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
When it comes to music styles, Stella Anning is not one to discriminate! From doing soulful folk/country licks for the John Flanagan Band, to being a guitarist and backing vocalist for blues singer ISEULA, she’s had her hands full in a a variety of projects. This time she leads the pack alongside bass and drum in an eclectic groove of jazz and blues instrumentals that will sweep you off your feet!
Cate Taylor
- Saturday, 27 April 2024
- 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Delicately crafted, hauntingly beautiful songs are an instant guarantee for Cate Taylor who sings about social, personal and environmental topics. This time, she will be bringing her brilliant folk and singer/songwriter artistry in a night dedicated to the launch of her second studio album Folk Joy! Exquisitely beautiful. She will be joined by folk duo The Lost Flowers who will be opening the night.
Michael J Brady Trio
- Sunday, 28 April 2024
- 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Bringing a silk-smooth combination of jazz and folk, The Michael J Brady Trio compounds guitar, double bass, and drums to another level balancing between warm reverb textures against the most infectious melodies. The band will be performing original compositions, including tunes from Brady’s debut record Brady//Donkin//Phipps released in late 2023. They will be joined by a set from the previously mentioned Stella Anning.
Check out everything else coming up and follow Wesley Anne here.
Play Squid Game in real life at this Korea Festival in Fed Square
Following last year’s banger event, the Melbourne Korea Festival will return next month for a two-day celebration of the food, music and culture of the East Asian nation.
Running from 11am to 8pm on May 10 and 11, the free Fed Square event is set to be packed with so many fun activities and delicious snacks that you could easily spend the whole day there.
Melbourne Korea Festival 2024
- The yearly event will be held at Fed Square on May 10 and 11 from 11am to 8pm
- Activities will include a cooking demonstration, traditional dances, music, crafts and games
- The event is free, but registration is required for certain events
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around Melbourne here.
After the morning’s opening ceremony, catch the Samul-Pangut percussion ensemble, a taekwondo and martial arts performance, the Waverly Children’s Choir and plenty of K-pop madness.
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Next, challenge yourself to Squid Game competitions including a Tug of War and the famous Red Light Green Light game. Competitors are invited to sign up online so they don’t miss out.
If you’re feeling a little peckish, snack on some tteokbokki, jigae and kimchi pancake from the food stalls, or learn to cook something for yourself at the cooking demonstration.
There will also be K-Beauty, traditional clothing and crafts on sale, as well as language lessons throughout the day.
The night will finish with a dramatic event full of dance and music: the K-Pop World Festival Melbourne round. The ultra-popular talent event goes around the world to find the top aspiring K-Pop artists. The finals, held in Changwon, South Korea, bring together K-Pop fanatics from far and wide.
For more information on the Melbourne Korea Festival 2023, head here.
‘It’s like a big farewell celebration’: The Vaccines and Everything Everything bring Brit-rock’s best to Australia
Not that you’d want to – their music is effortlessly likable, with just the right balance of old-school alt-rock charm and earworm pop melodies. After the release of their explosive 2011 debut, What Did You Expect From The Vaccines, their hit singles blared everywhere from house parties to cool cafes, and The Vaccines wedged themselves into the upper echelon of British rock.
Now, six albums and more than a decade later, they’ve proved they weren’t just a flash in the pan. In May, they’re heading to Australia on a whirlwind co-headline tour with fellow UK rockers Everything Everything, hitting Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne, Castlemaine, Brisbane and Sydney.
Keep up with the latest music news, features, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
The Vaccines’ Timothy Lanham (guitars, keys and vocals) credits a shared eagerness to get back to Australia and the rollout of a new record for each band as two of the main reasons behind the group making their return to the country for the first time since 2019.
“It was a serendipitous aligning of schedules and a shared eagerness to get back to Australia. We are both currently touring a record and knew it’d be fun to continue our history of playing shows together,” he says.
Over the years, the West London group has cemented themselves as one of England’s most adored and iconic indie rock bands. One only has to look at their hefty discography, packed with gritty singalongs and instant mosh pit igniters, to see just why fans have stood by the band for all these years.
With their tour fast approaching, the boys are especially keen to soak up the wild atmosphere Aussie crowds have become famous for. “There’s a real party mood that you can find in an Aussie crowd,” says Lanham. “I remember Triffid being a particularly rowdy one.” With a setlist that includes plenty of the anthemic choruses and infectious hooks The Vaccines have built their reputation on, fans across the country are in for a treat.
They shared their latest release, their sixth studio album Pick-Up Full Of Pink Carnations, in January this year. The record takes a walk on the fun side sonically, showcasing some of the UK outfit’s pop smarts, while also covering very raw and honest themes.
The result of this combination is a 10-track album packed with energy and passion, choruses too singable for their own good and melodies that’ll find their way into your head long after you’ve finished listening. Lighthearted and playful, the new material is sure to shimmer when the band takes it to the stage.
Lanham describes the album poignantly. “It’s like a big farewell celebration; it’s loud, it’s energetic and it’s fun, but when you really think about why you’re there, the nostalgia sets in,” he says.
Songs like Heartbreak Kid, Sometimes, I Swear and Love To Walk Away tick all the nostalgic boxes, reminiscent of that tell-tale Vaccines sound, with a fresh injection of pop sentimentality. “Live response is the best barometer for an effective arrangement”, Lanham says.
“Our audience seems thrilled to hear a return to roots as we embrace a band-in-the-room ethos. The raw and less polished approach from our end feels more honest and the audience senses that. We’re all good players and it’s good to utilise that too.”
Lead vocalist Justin Hayward-Young’s lyrics have inspired many a festival field and band room singalong. Songs from their first record, like If You Wanna, Post Break-Up Sex and Norgaard still hit just as hard as the day they were released and the latest album is packed with fresh bangers guaranteed to set the crowd alight.
The co-headline tour is one the band is particularly looking forward to, with the reward of playing with a band they have such a long history with so much too good to pass up. “We all love Australia. The sun, the food and the people are so much fun. We’re all just excited to be there. Sharing a headline is rewarding because you get to share each other’s audiences,” says Lanham.
Fellow UK rockers Everything Everything will be touring on the back of their highly anticipated seventh album, Mountainhead, finally bringing them back to the country, The Vaccines are guaranteeing “extreme energy and enthusiasm from the stage”.
What’s more, the band isn’t opposed to taking requests: “We often respond to persistent enough fans on the evening, if they heckle for a song hard enough and we can remember the chords we will deliver.”
Tickets to see The Vaccines and Everything Everything on tour this May are available here.
Straight from the heart: Emma Donovan honours her country roots on Til My Song Is Done
Like late greats before her, especially Archie Roach and Ruby Hunter, Donovan opens up important conversations and amplifies indigenous voices throughout Til My Song Is Done.
“No rest ‘til this voice is heard… Until the day that we see change/ Then I’ll keep singing my people’s pain…” – these title-track lyrics speak volumes about Donovan’s lifelong commitment to singing up for long-overdue positive change.
Keep up with the latest music news, features, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
After almost a decade spent fronting the multi-award winning soul-funk outfit The Putbacks, this proud Gumbayngirr, Dhungutti and Yamatji woman is now primed to share her own stories and this breathtaking solo endeavour was co-written and produced by Mick Meagher (The Putbacks’ bassist and Donovan’s creative collaborator since their shared Black Arm Band days).
Blak Nation, Til My Song Is Done’s lead single, uses back burning (“cool fire”) as a metaphor for the “new generation of Blak voices in Music industry today”.
Her exhaustion over having to spotlight the same issues through song over and over again – because, exasperatingly, there’s still so much work to be done – seeps into the bluegrass banjo-led opening number Change Is Coming (feat. Liz Stringer).
You know Under Pressure’s sing-off section during which Bowie and Freddie Mercury just keep upping the ante with each line sung? Well, the combined vocal force of Donovan and Stringer is similarly jaw-dropping. Imagine experiencing this show-stopping duet live!
Yet another album highlight, Sing You Over (feat. Paul Kelly), is derived from Donovan singing for her own mother while she passed on. Donovan hopes this gentle, harmonica- and lap steel-enhanced waltz will be sung by mob at community funerals down the track, alongside her grandfather’s songs, to help families grieve.
She also does her bit to preserve language by singing closer Yibaanga Gangaa (Sweet By & By) – a tribute to her Nan and Pop, Micko and Aileen Donovan, who founded their renowned family country band The Donovans – in the Gumbaynggirr language.
Donovan is descended from a long line of musicians and sang with The Donovans, alongside her mother Agnes and five uncles, as a child. Her mother’s “baby brother”, Uncle Ash, was brought in to supply rhythm guitar on this record. In releasing Til My Song Is Done, Donovan honours her family’s country music legacy – they must be so damn proud of her!
From her humble beginnings as a young satin-and-sequins-clad talent quest contestant singing Tammy Wynette and Loretta Lynne songs at Tamworth Country Music Festival, Donovan has bloomed into an artist of integrity and one of our nation’s most important voices.
Just when we think Donovan’s vocal performances have reached peak excellence, she goes and finds something extra. A once-in-a-generation voice such as Donovan’s must be heard, shared and celebrated.
LABEL: COOKING VINYL AUSTRALIA
RELEASE DATE: OUT NOW
Entries are now open for one of Australia’s richest poetry competitions
The prestigious Cloncurry Prize Poetry Competition is back, offering a remarkable $10,000 prize for the winning poem. Nestled in the heart of the Outback, Cloncurry sets the stage for this celebration of verse, paying homage to the rich literary tradition of the land down under.
Named after the iconic Cloncurry local, Dame Mary Gilmore, whose legacy continues to inspire, this competition beckons both budding and seasoned poets to weave their magic with words. With over 160 entries flooding in last year, the competition is a testament to the enduring allure of poetry in capturing the essence of life in the Australian Outback.
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around Melbourne here.
Reflecting on the theme of ‘Standing on the Shoulders of Giants,’ entrants are invited to explore the vast landscape of Outback Australia through the lens of their own experiences and imagination. From towering mountains to resilient communities, from legendary figures to everyday heroes, the Outback provides an endless well of inspiration for poets to draw from.
Mayor Greg Campbell emphasizes the competition’s significance in shining a spotlight on the Outback, promoting its natural beauty, rich heritage, and the indomitable spirit of its people. By honouring Dame Mary Gilmore’s profound connection to Cloncurry and her contributions to education and literacy, the competition pays tribute to her legacy while seeking to unearth the next iconic voice in Australian poetry.
“This year’s theme could see poems about a 30-metre-long Sauropod, or an unrideable horse, or even a child remembering their father. The Outback provides limitless inspiration, and it’s exciting to call both adult and junior poets, amateur and published to enter,” said Mayor Campbell.
As entries flood in from across the country, the anticipation builds for the announcement of the winner at a ceremony held in Cloncurry on 21 June 2024. With each verse penned, the Cloncurry Prize Poetry Competition continues to weave a tapestry of stories that capture the essence of the Australian Outback, ensuring that its beauty and spirit endure through the power of poetry.
Entries for the Cloncurry Prize close on May 3. Enter here.
What makes us who we are? Danielle Walker reflects on neurodivergence and family ties in The Lady Upstairs
This year, she brings us The Lady Upstairs, a collection of quirky stories reflecting on why Danielle is the person she is. Danielle gives the audience two options: is her eccentric family and upbringing in North Queensland to ‘blame’, or is it her recent diagnosis of Autism and ADHD?
That the question is never answered is perhaps Walker’s genius, or perhaps it is symptomatic of a show that falls short of having a cohesive narrative. Walker herself jokes “I don’t do segues”.
Danielle Walker – The Lady Upstairs
- Ends April 21
- The Victoria Hotel – Banquet Room
- Tickets are on sale now
Explore Melbourne’s latest arts and stage news, features, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
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The familial tales included in the 55-minute set are emblematic of Aussie humour, teasing those you love the most. However, Walker explains that family is also her neurodivergent special interest topic. Highlights include childhood photos, her father’s love of sunglasses and videorecorders, her straight-talking grandma, and Uncle Pete the prankster.
Walker imagines there is a lady upstairs controlling her brain, processing information differently to neurotypical people. This has led to obsessing over the Zoom camera and eating rosemary straight off a bush to avoid seeing children.
A slideshow with Walker’s own drawings adds an innocence to her off-beat stories. The most moving stories were written like essays and will improve with reduced reliance on notes.
At the show’s conclusion, the audience is overcome by an urge to be her friend and will be forever invested in the happenings of the Walker clan.
Grab remaining tickets to see Danielle Walker’s The Lady Upstairs here.
Neon Fields and a Human Library: South Side Festival is brimming with exceptional events this May
Held across ten days from Friday 10 May until Sunday 19 May, South Side Festival is set to thrill, challenge and entertain audiences across the south-east city, satisfying all creative cravings within the contemporary art and performance space. With an aim of delivering events for all entries of art experiences, the festival boasts something for everyone for all ages, budgets, genres and accessible needs.
To help you navigate the long list of events on offer, here is a breakdown of the key performances and activities you must see this year at South Side Festival.
South Side Festival details
- When: Friday 10 May – Sunday 19 May
- Where: Multiple locations across Frankston
- Program information and ticketing: All program information and ticket purchasing live here.
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around Melbourne here.
Neon Fields
Centred between High, Yuille, Park and Young Streets, Beauty Park will get a dose of its own name, transforming into a kaleidoscopic wonderland for Neon Fields. Wander through the colourful corridor of the neon light-illuminated gardens, settle in with a picnic next to the enchanting glowing works or snap a photo in front of the heavenly world-famous Angel Wings. This magical exploration is open to all ages but children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. Whilst this event is free, bookings are essential and filling up fast. Secure your spot here.
The South Side Sea Soak
Another free event, The South Side Sea Soak is for the brave bathers. The Port Philip Bay beachfront city has a rich winter beach culture with locals swearing by cold-water swims. It’s a ritual shared by those in Finland and Sweden so they must be onto something! To celebrate the Frankston Life Saving Club’s centenary, South Side Festival visitors are invited to jump in the deep in, partaking in the physical and mental health ritual of cold-water immersion.
This collective cold-water swim will be happening on the morning of Saturday 11 May between 8AM and 10AM. Registrations are required, and you can book here.
Human Library
Another activity shared by the Europeans is the Human Library. Starting in Denmark in 2000 and now established in over 80 countries, the Human Library offers a space to broaden your perspective through borrowing a person. That’s right, a physical being or in this context, a ‘Human Book’. The idea is to engage with a person through having a meaningful conversation about their life experience, absorbing life knowledge. This event encourages dialogue in the hope to have participants engage in challenging conversations and learn to un-judge, whilst promoting and providing a safe space to share with no topic left on the shelf. This practice takes the saying “You can’t judge a book by its cover” literally, with all of the ‘Human Books’ having experienced prejudice in the past. The experimental and participatory event will be happening on Saturday, 11 May 2024 with sessions running across the day from 11:00 AM until 7:30 PM. Book here.
House of Fast Fashun
About 227,000 tonnes of discarded clothing is sent to landfill in Australia each year. This is the unfortunate cycle of fast fashion. South Side Festival presents the House of Fast Fashun, where the team invite you to rummage through a pile of discarded clothes to make new outfits. Participants will become the designer, the maker and the catwalk model in this interactive event. With all materials supplied and no experience necessary, all you need is a creative mind! Partnered with workshops, the Fast Fashun team will be down at Frankston Arts Centre on Saturday, 11 and 18 May 2024 from 2PM – 6PM and Sunday 12 and 19 May from 12PM – 4PM. More information and bookings can be found here.
Songs, Stories and Soul From Family and Country
Wildly talented and wickedly captivating, ARIA Award-nominated, award-winning Indigenous sing and songwriter, Emma Donovan is currently on the road for her Song, Stories and Soul From Family and Country national tour. Celebrating her latest offering Til My Song Is Done, the renowned soul and country artist Donovan is sharing her culmination of song, storytelling and culture on stages across Australia and is making a special appearance as part of South Side Festival. Playing Frankston Art Centre on Tuesday 14 May from 8PM, this is a must see event on the South Side Festival program. Tickets can be purchased here.
Her Sound, Her Story
A story that needs to be shared time and time again is Her Sound, Her Story. From the minds of award-winning music photographers and content queens Michelle Grace Hunder and Claudia Sangiorgi Dalimore, Her Sound, Her Story captures the Australian music landscape through the female gaze. With interviews from more than 45 artists including Tina Arena, Julia Stone, Jen Cloher, Renee Geyer, Sampa the Great and Kate Ceberano, the film is a powerful dialogue that extends past the music industry to ask “Where do we want women’s voices to sit in the world today?”. The film will be screened at Cube 37 on Thursday 16 May, and will also feature a post screening Q&A with Director Claudia Sangiorgi Dalimore and special guests. Tickets are required and can be secured here.
Brenda Bressed
Bringing the glitter, glam and gorgeousness to an already glowing (literally) festival is Melbourne based (drag) queen, Brenda Bressed. In a suite of shows, the dazzling diva will be dressed to the nines for the South Side Gala on 17 May as the evening’s magical MC, with a cast of talented performers ready to entertain with musical acts, side-splitting comedy, dance and much more. The next day she’s doing a double dose of entertainment, for an anything-but-drab Drag Bingo, and then jumping up with Fanny Adams for a show titled Brenda and Fanny do the Divas. Expect the two to embody the diva-energy and vocal prowess of Judy Garland, Liza Minnelli, Tina Turner (including the leg action), Cher and more. Finishing off the weekend strong, Brenda Bressed is hosting a Sunday Session, toning it down from the high-octane theatrics for some soulful serenading to close out her time at South Side. Tickets to the shows can be purchased here.
Type-a-poet
“Come sit with me and my typewriter and I shall type a poem for your soul. Shhh…”
The top pick from the 2022 Melbourne Fringe Festival, type-a-poet is equal parts comedy, side show, and arty spiritual reading. A silent one-on-one intimate performance held inside the pop-up Temple of Poetry at Frankston Arts Centre, the ten-minute performance sees award-winning performer/writer Andi Snelling build a meditative experience set where he uses word wizardy to transform you to another realm. Participants will leave the session with their very own inked gift. Sessions on Saturday’s 11 and 18 May are free but require a booking via the website.
That’s just a taste of the spectacular program offered by South Side Festival this May. To explore more events head to the South Side Festival website, here.
‘Our sincerest apologies’: US rockers pull out of Pandemonium festival
A local act will now open each show and will be announced along with set times for all events on Friday, April 19.
“It is with heavy hearts that we are cancelling our performance at the upcoming Pandemonium Festival,” the band said in a statement. “We have encountered a family emergency that requires our immediate attention and presence. In light of this unfortunate circumstance, we extend our sincerest apologies to all those who were anticipating our performance. We are grateful for the understanding and support of our fans, as well as the organizers of Pandemonium Festival, during this challenging time.”
Pandemonium 2024 lineup
- Alice Cooper
- Blondie
- Psychedelic Furs
- Wheatus
- Wolfmother
- Cosmic Psychos
- Local Opening Act
Pandemonium dates and venues
- Saturday, April 20: Caribbean Gardens, Melbourne
- Tuesday, April 23: Alice Cooper, Blondie, Psychedelic Furs, Wolfmother side show. Entertainment Centre, Newcastle
- Thursday, April 25 (Anzac Day): Cathy Freeman Park – Sydney Olympic Park Precinct, Sydney
- Saturday, April 27: Broadwater Parklands, Gold Coast (new venue)
- Sunday, April 28: Eatons Hill Hotel, Brisbane (new venue)** Blondie not appearing
Keep up with the latest music news, features, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
We have received devastating news regarding our Mom. As many of you know she was diagnosed with stage 4 brain and lung cancer in July 2023. She fought hard and long but this past weekend our Mom had to be rushed back to the hospital to find out the cancer has torn through her…
— Palaye Royale (@PalayeRoyale) April 16, 2024
The news comes 10 days after Pandeomium festival confirmed Purple, Placebo, Dead Kennedys and Gang of Four will no longer be performing, along with new pricing and refund options.
“We have been hard at work ensuring we deliver events that provide fans with the best possible experience and we extend our thanks to those who have patiently waited for our good news,” the festival outlined in a statement at the time.
“Four festival dates with a couple of location tweaks and a formatting alteration, and one killer Newcastle side show will proceed later this month. We acknowledge the current state of the Australian economy and the cost of living crisis, of which we’re constantly reminded of by the media. This cost of living crisis has impacted the live music touring industry significantly and forced many other festivals and tours sadly, to cancel. Pandemonium is not one of those and despite aforementioned national issues our festival is moving forward.”
Tickets and information for all events can be found at www.pandemonium.rocks.
Sound advice: How to get the most out of your vinyl listening experience
If so, you’re undoubtedly familiar with the joy of spinning your favourite albums on your trusty record player. However, have you ever stopped to consider if your setup truly does justice to the music you cherish?
Let’s face it: while owning a collection of vinyl records is undeniably satisfying, the quality of your playback equipment can significantly impact your listening experience. If you’re like many aficionados, you might be playing your cherished records on a budget-friendly record player paired with basic speakers. While this setup may suffice for casual listening, it falls short of capturing the full depth and richness of the music you love.
Keep up with the latest music news, features, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Picture this: You’re at a concert, surrounded by the electrifying energy of live music. The sound fills the venue, enveloping you in a captivating sonic experience that resonates deep within your soul. Now, imagine bringing that same immersive sensation into your home every time you listen to your favourite records. You can transform your listening space into a personal sanctuary of musical delight with the right record player and stereo speakers.
Investing in a high-quality record player is more than just a luxury; it’s a commitment to elevating your listening experience to new heights. Imagine the satisfaction of hearing every subtle nuance, from the warm crackle of the vinyl to the crisp clarity of each instrument. A superior record player doesn’t just play music; it breathes life into your favourite albums, allowing you to rediscover them with a newfound appreciation.
Upgrading your record player and investing in stereo speakers isn’t just about enhancing sound quality; it’s about honouring the artistry and craftsmanship behind the music you love. Whether you’re listening to Miles Davis’s smooth jazz melodies or Led Zeppelin’s raw energy, every album deserves to be experienced in all its sonic glory.
But perhaps you’re hesitant, unsure if the investment is worth it. After all, there’s a wide array of record players and speakers on the market, and navigating the options can feel overwhelming. Rest assured, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Start by researching through HeyNow Hi-Fi’s website, brands like REGA and Lenco are known for their commitment to audio excellence. Look for record players with features like high-quality cartridges, precision tonearms, and sturdy construction that minimises vibration and distortion.
Remember, upgrading your audio setup is an investment in your musical enjoyment that will pay dividends for years. As you embark on this journey toward sonic nirvana, consider it a tribute to the artists who poured their hearts and souls into creating the music that enriches our lives.
With a premium record player, you’ll not only hear your favourite albums, but you’ll feel them in every beat, every riff, and every crescendo. Elevate your sound, and let the music transport you to new realms of auditory bliss.
Everyone needs a helpful guide when venturing into a new hobby or field of interest, Geoff at HeyNow Hi-Fi is here to help you, you can call or text through the website. Even fill in one of the e-forms on the site. He’ll always get back to you.
Find out more here.
This article was made in partnership with HeyNow Hi-Fi.
‘It doesn’t have to be this way’: Greens call for state public insurance for live music venues
On top of rising rents and the cost-of-living, astronomical public liability insurance hikes have put Victoria’s live music scene under enormous pressure. Many have already closed their doors and others are considering their options.
The Greens say offering venues affordable insurance through the government’s own provider would provide a lifeline to the many venues being pushed to the brink.
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around Melbourne here.
Victorian Greens arts spokesperson, Gabrielle de Vietri, said more and more venues would be forced to shut their doors as long as they are beholden to unreasonable and arbitrary insurance price hikes.
She said the state government could offer cheaper insurance through the Victorian Managed Insurance Authority (VMIA) as they do for the construction industry. In 2021 during COVID, the government directed VMIA to offer insurance for live music and community events to cover them in case of cancellation. There’s no reason they couldn’t do it again.
Ms de Vietri’s office has heard from several smaller live music venues in her electorate who are struggling to make ends meet, including The Old Bar, the Nightcat and The Tote. The Greens have also just launched a petition calling on the government to offer smaller live music venues affordable insurance, which has nearly 1,000 signatures already.
Over the weekend the government re-announced a live-music grant from the previous year’s budget, however the Greens have called this a band-aid solution that won’t provide live music venues with any long-term stability or reassurance.
“Live music is part of Melbourne’s beating heart,” Victorian Greens arts spokesperson, Gabrielle de Vietri said.
“Losing Melbourne’s iconic live music scene would hollow out our culture here in Melbourne. What would we be without Cash Savage, without King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard or Courtney Barnett?
“It doesn’t have to be this way – our government could provide a lifeline to these venues by providing cheaper insurance. Instead they’re proposing short-term, band-aid solutions that won’t provide the security the live music scene needs.
“With the State Budget around the corner, the Greens are calling on Labor to save live music in Victoria before it’s too late.”
Find out more about the Victorian Greens’ policies here.