Cinema Nova is celebrating acclaimed indie film studio A24 with a month of screenings

The Melbourne arthouse is celebrating the films of the acclaimed American independent film studio with a program of select A24 favourites, screening across the month of May, from May 2-29.

MAY24 Program (May 2-29)

Find Melbourne’s latest film, TV, literature and gaming news here.

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Since its establishment in 2012, film and TV distributor A24 has developed a cult-like following among cinephiles, and Melbourne movie-lovers are no exception! From the release of Harmony Korine’s Spring Breakers at Cinema Nova in 2013, trailblazing cinemagoers have found themselves repeatedly drawn to the edgy and exciting projects A24 acquires for the US market. While their films are distributed by local film distributors in Australia, the A24 name carries enormous cultural weight.

Being Melbourne’s exclusive venue for the release of several early A24 titles, including, but not limited to Under the Skin, Ex Machina, and The Witch, and the highest-grossing Australian location for A24’s (and Roadshow Films in Australia) Best Picture winning Everything Everywhere All At Once, it is only fitting that the Carlton venue be the go-to location to celebrate the studio’s impeccable line-up.

For the full program, head here.

Sonic Youth icon Kim Gordon is touring Australia in July

Kim Gordon’s second solo album The Collective (out now on Matador via Remote Control) advances her world building with producer Justin Raisen’s (Lil Yachty, John Cale, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Charli XCX, Yves Tumor) damaged, blown out dub and trap constructions playing the foil to Gordon’s intuitive word collages and hooky mantras, conjuring communication, commercial sublimation and sensory overload.

“On this record, I wanted to express the absolute craziness I feel around me right now,” Kim Gordon said. “This is a moment when nobody really knows what truth is, when facts don’t necessarily sway people, when everyone has their own side, creating a general sense of paranoia. To soothe, to dream, escape with drugs, TV shows, shopping, the internet, everything is easy, smooth, convenient, branded. It made me want to disrupt, to follow something unknown, maybe even to fail.”

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

Since co-founding the seminal Sonic Youth in the early 80s, Kim Gordon has remained at the nexus of music, art and (more recently) books and film. To quote Kathleen Hanna: “Kim Gordon is kind of like a shark, in that she needs to keep swimming. She needs to keep making art. It’s just who she is. What Kim’s doing is totally, absolutely normal. What’s not normal is when women or people who are marginalized in other ways have stopped making art for reasons having to do with ageism or sexism. We’re not witnessing a miracle, we’re witnessing what happens when the thing that’s supposed to happen is just allowed to happen.”

Kim Gordon’s debut album No Home Record (2019) received wide-ranging critical acclaim. Her artistic output includes her 2015 memoir Girl In A Band which debuted in the #1 spot on the NY Times Bestseller List; acting in Gus Van Sant’s film Don’t Worry, He Won’t Get Far On Foot; making music as one half of Body/Head alongside Bill Nace; opening multiple solo exhibitions at internationally renowned museums; and hosting a public sale of her iconic wardrobe, with all proceeds going to the Downtown Women’s Centre in Los Angeles.

Find out more here.

Joanna Lumley is touring Australia for the first time: ‘I think it will be fabulous’

Joanna will take to the road for the 5-city tour on October 9 at the Concert Hall, QPAC in Brisbane and will then perform at major venues around the country throughout October.

Joanna’s new show Me & My Travels, will take audiences through her hilarious and interesting adventures from her incredible career spanning more than four decades, recounting some never heard before stories.  Later in the show, she will be joined on stage by friend and producer Clive Tulloh, who will put to Joanna the questions that you’ve always wanted to ask – submitted by the audience – making the show a unique and hilarious night to remember.

Joanna Lumley’s Me & My Travels tour

• Wednesday 9 October – Concert Hall, QPAC, Brisbane
• Friday 11 October – Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne
• Wednesday 16 October – Festival Theatre, Adelaide
• Saturday 19 October – Riverside Theatre, Perth
• Tuesday 22 October – Sydney Opera House

Explore Melbourne’s latest arts and stage news, features, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

On announcing Me & My Travels, Joanna said: “The thought of this tour in October, travelling across Australia, has completely taken over my waking hours. It’s utterly thrilling to start planning the stories I can tell, and the rapture (and gratitude, to be fair) with which I shall greet the audiences. Nothing like this has come my way before, and I may have to be dragged off with a hook at the end of each show. Oh people! This is especially for you from me, with masses of love. I think it will be fabulous.”

Excited to be promoting Joanna’s Australian tour alongside Phil McIntyre Live Presents, Paul Dainty AO, President and CEO of TEG Dainty said, “Joanna Lumley stands out as one of the world’s greatest entertainers, audiences are in for an unforgettable and hilarious evening at the theatre.”

Joanna Lumley icon, national treasure, activist, comedy actress and all-round top girl is barely off our TV screens and appears to have been a permanent fixture in our sitting rooms since she burst onto our screens as Purdey in the New Avengers in 1976. Now in a nationwide Australian tour she will take us through the random journey that started in London in the swinging 60’s. Beginning as Jean Muir’s house model and muse, progressing to becoming a full-blown photographic model, featuring in knitting patterns, mini-skirts, toothpaste commercials and the occasional front cover.

From there Joanna will share her stories of her acting career that includes Coronation Street, On the Buses, Dracula and as a brainwashed Bond Girl in Blofeld’s lair in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. Joanna’s breakthrough role was as Purdey, a part for which over 800 girls auditioned.  Purdey propelled her to instant fame and created one of the “must-have” hairstyles of the 1970s — the Purdey bob. She became a pin-up figure for a generation of British males who grew up watching her as the high-kicking action girl.

Alongside iconic hairstyles Joanna started to develop a nice side line as adventurer and activist; popping up all over the globe she was often seen gasping at the Northern Lights, turning her bra into espadrilles and finding the source of the Nile.

Then as Patsy Stone in Absolutely Fabulous she became a degenerate role-model for a generation. Winning two BAFTAs, Joanna emerged as one of the best comedy actresses of her generation. For 25 years the adventures of Patsy and Edina have sporadically lurched across our screens culminating in AbFab The Movie in 2016.

For more information visit:  https://www.tegdainty.com/

A new gallery specialising in collectible design is opening this month for Melbourne Design Week

The gallery, underpinned by a designer partnership model, presents the work of vital and dynamic designer-makers. Part of Melbourne Design Week, the inaugural exhibition Desire x Design will take place from 15 May 2024 to 15 June 2024.

Participating designers:

• Elliot Bastianon
• Danielle Brustman & Edward Linacre
• Jordan Fleming
• Lisa Gorman
• Trent Jansen
• Jay Jermyn
• Marlo Lyda
• Joanne Odisho
• Marcus Piper
• Dean Toepfer

Explore Melbourne’s latest arts and stage news, features, festivals, interviews and reviews here.

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Addressing a gap in the Australian collectible design market, Useful Objects was established to work with designers to tell compelling stories of our time through objects that challenge the norms of function and materials in sophisticated and unexpected ways. Dr Simon Maidment founded Useful Objects as a gallery, retail platform and interlocutor to the public; it will function as a point of contact, attractor, and advocate for the makers and their works.

For the opening show Desire x Design, desire is the subject of the first thematic exhibition. Through materials, ideas and forms, a group of influential designers flesh out the impulse to want – found at the heart of the Design Week prompt ‘Design The World You Want’ – and question whether the object of desire is the catalyst or endpoint of this fundamental force. The first half of the exhibition is a rejoinder to the influence the rampant drive has over the design industry. In contrast, the second half celebrates the sensation itself, as a source of meaning and transcendence.

Useful Objects will showcase a twelve-month program of exhibitions and present objects that engage with the issues and conversations of today, and contribute to the conversation about art and design in Australia.

The inaugural Useful Objects exhibition, Desire x Design, will open on 15 May 2024 and is part of the Melbourne Design Week program.

For further details, visit the website here.

Lorenzo Raganzini, Paolo Ferrara and more are coming to Melbourne this month

The European hard dance success story that is HEX is set to take Melbourne by storm as part of its 10-year world tour, scheduled for Saturday, May 18th, at The Melbourne Pavillion in Flemington.

HEX 10-year world tour in Melbourne

• Date: Saturday MAY 18th
• Time: 1:00 PM – 1:00 AM
• Venue: The Melbourne Pavillion, Flemington

List of Australian dates

• May 17 Fri – Sydney. Darlinghurst, Australia
• May 18 Sat – Melbourne. Kensington, Australia
• May 19 Sun – Brisbane. Fortitude Valley, Australia

The full Hex tour lineup

• Lorenzo Raganzini (IT)
• Paolo Ferrara (IT)
• Angy Kore (IT)
• Gabriel Padrevita (IT)
• Jason Cluff (UK)
• Pawlowski (FR)
• A selection of talented local artists

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

Running from 1:00 PM to 1:00 AM, HEX offers a lineup of international talent including Lorenzo Raganzini, Paolo Ferrara, Angy Kore, Gabriel Padrevita, Jason Cluff, and Pawlowski, representing Italy, the UK, and France respectively. Melbourne is just one stop on HEX’s Australian leg of the tour, with performances also slated for Sydney on May 17th and Brisbane on May 19th.

Grab tickets here.

DYEN, Callush are headlining a day party in Port Melbourne next month

The six big-name international DJs are being joined by local legends like Papa Smurf at the 5,000 capacity warehouse venue next month.

Dangerous Goods XXL 3.0

• Sat, 22 Jun 2024 2:00 PM – 11:00 PM
• PICA (Port Melbourne Industrial Centre for the Arts)

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

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Lineup

• DYEN (Nl)
• Callush (De)
• Jan Vercauteren (De)
• Lokier (Mx)
• Needs No Sleep (Au)
• Nik Kastel (Au) Live
• Novah (Be)
• Papa Smurf (Au)

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

“Prepare to be transported into the heart of a techno revolution at Dangerous Goods XXL 3.0 – a 360 immersive experience like no other,” the organisers stated. “Get ready for an electrifying journey through sound, light, and motion as we push the boundaries of entertainment to new heights.

“Featuring an epic lineup of six international artists, Dangerous Goods XXL 3.0 promises to deliver a sonic adventure that will leave you spellbound. From pulsating beats to mesmerizing visuals, the production will blow your mind.

“With the last two events selling out in record time, Dangerous Goods XXL 3.0 is set to be the biggest event of the year. Get ready to lose yourself in a whirlwind of music, lights, and euphoria at Dangerous Goods XXL 3.0 – the ultimate celebration of techno excellence.”

Tickets here.

The Bright Autumn Festival heats up this weekend with its grand parade

Bright and the surrounding districts are blessed with the perfect climate for magnificent autumn colours.

The Bright Autumn Festival

• The 2024 dates run until Sunday 5th May 2024
• The highlight is the Gala Weekend
• There’ll be a market, music in the streets and a grand parade on Saturday 4th May

Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around Melbourne here.

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The 2024 dates are Friday 26th April through Sunday 5th May 2024. The highlight is the Gala Weekend with a market, music in the streets and a grand parade on Saturday 4th May 2024. Other key events of the festival are the Wandi Nut Festival, the Open Gardens, Historical Tours and the Autumn Art Exhibition at the Bright Art Gallery.

The Bright Autumn Festival has been running since 1962 making it one of the oldest continuous running festival in Australia. In 1962, Bright celebrated its Centenary and the town organised various activities to mark the occasion.These included an art and photographic exhibition, visits to places of local interest and a Gala Day street parade.

Since that time, Bright has continues to celebrate each Autumn. The Art Exhibition has become very well known and is the largest exhibition at the Bright Art Gallery. The Gala Day Parade continues to be one of the highlights of the festival.

There’s a world-first underground light show and a fire festival coming to Melbourne in June

As part of the much-loved Firelight Festival, the ticketed Firelight Labyrinth experience will make its world debut in Melbourne, designed by international creative lighting specialists, Mandylights.

Transforming the underground space at Marvel Stadium, visitors will weave their way through a mythical maze of light and sound – through cutting-edge technology, dynamic audio and over 144,000 lights. The City of Melbourne’s free Firelight Festival will once again illuminate New Quay Promenade, Victoria Promenade and Harbour Esplanade in Docklands, offering a diverse range of tasty eats and entertainment.

Firelight Festival and Firelight Labyrinth

• Dazzling fire performers, African drumming, live music and storytelling
• Fire pits and drums, flame jets, fire sculptures and arches
• Food and drink offerings including dumplings, smoked meats, paella, hot chocolate and churros.
• Firelight Festival will spark into action as the school holidays begin, from Friday 28 June to Sunday 30 June
• The all-new Firelight Labyrinth experience will run from Friday 28 June to Sunday 14 July.

Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around Melbourne here.

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“Firelight Festival will once again set Docklands ablaze with activity in June, with a world-first underground light experience, dozens of fire performers and a smoking-hot line-up of delicious eats,” Lord Mayor Sally Capp said.

“The festival is a firecracker for the local economy – injecting $4.7 million last year in three days. We’re expecting to see double the support for traders this winter with the Firelight Labyrinth experience spanning 17 days.

“Unique and spectacular celebrations like Firelight are why Melbourne firmly holds the torch as the events capital of Australia.”

General admission tickets for Firelight Labyrinth will be priced at $37.50, and child tickets at $22. Concession and family discounts are available, and people will be given the opportunity to win free tickets as part of a unique, all-inclusive Docklands experience.

Exclusive pre-sale tickets will be available from Wednesday 1 May, with general sale beginning Thursday 2 May. To stay up to date, or to sign up for pre-sale access to Firelight Labyrinth, visit Firelight.

This former Melbourne landfill is set to be turned into a six-hectare new park

20 Wangara Road was a former quarry and landfill and the council admit that this limits what the land can be used for. Nevertheless, their vision is to transform it into six-hectares of passive open parklands for the community to enjoy. Many popular and viable community ideas in the draft masterplan have been noted.

Potential upgrades for the new park

• a natural path network for walking, running, all ability biking and exercise
• open grassed areas for community gathering, kick-about, reflection
• informal active play zones
• safe, fenced, secure off-leash dog area
• extensive planting of native vegetation
• native wildlife habitat and refuge
• BBQ areas, benches and picnic tables
• interactive community garden beds
• opportunities for public art
• provision for additional carparking

Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around Melbourne here.

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They now want to hear what residents think about the draft masterplan. Visit Have Your Say to review the draft plan and share your feedback before the consultation closes on 26 May 2024.

The constraints-based draft masterplan is designed with consideration of the significant development limitations at the former quarry and landfill, and the extensive rehabilitation and ongoing monitoring required by the EPA.

The draft masterplan is designed to regenerate the six-hectares of land after we undertake actions in the rehabilitation plan. The masterplan will transform the former waste site into a tranquil destination and deliver a passive open space where native vegetation, wildlife and visitors can thrive.

Have Your Say here.

Savannah Sounds On The Reef: Local heroes celebrated during Great Barrier Reef’s first-ever live gig

Tickets weren’t made available to the general public for Savannah Sounds On The Reef. Instead, a nationwide competition earned 100 community-nominated local heroes a ticket to this once-in-a-lifetime floating music experience – the first live gig ever to be hosted on the Outer Barrier Reef.

Many on board demonstrated bravery during the devastating storms and floods connected to far north Queensland’s back-to-back tropical cyclones, Kirrily and Jasper, this past summer.

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

Brett “Magoo” Little piloted a rescue helicopter during the floods, saving 16 people from the roof of the Lion’s Den Hotel.

At just 12 years old, Charlie Erlewein lobbied to local councils and businesses about the harmful effects of single use plastics on turtles and marine life. She has also raised thousands of dollars for wildlife rehabilitation centres by applying for community grants, and saving bottles and cans. Be more like Charlie, kids!

For those concerned about the effects of bass vibrations on the reef ecosystems, Savannah Sounds festival organiser James Dein has assured, “Everything was measured and planned with exacting detail.”

After a surprisingly turbulent trip on the Reef Magic vessel – yep, spew bags were distributed – we arrived at the pontoon. Once we board, it’s time for some in-water activities with snorkelling, glass bottom boat and semi-submersible cruises plus an underwater observatory available for all. While looking down to thread one raised leg through a wetsuit, we notice a plethora of fish swimming by underneath and note that the spacing between the slats is easily wide enough to swallow mobile phones. Note to self: take extra special care while taking snapshots.

We learn about the importance of reef-safe sunscreen. Branded reusable water bottles, which double as cool souvenirs, are distributed. Apparently local Cairns musician Drew Brauer, who co-founded and runs the Kick On mental health charity (also a MAFS Season 7 contestant) is on board lapping up the good vibes.

Before taking the plunge, we’re informed that Wally – an affectionate, vibrant aquamarine-and-yellow Maori Wrasse known for planting fishy kisses on unsuspecting cheeks – has been spotted in the area. But, sadly, none of today’s snorkelers that we chat with reported Wally sightings/smooches.

Savannah Sounds headliners Sheppard arrive via helicopter, landing on the nearby helipad, and wave to revellers while being transferred to the pontoon via boat.

Having crossed paths with the legendary Auslan interpreter Mikey Webb on the galley stairs, we already know today’s entertainment will be further elevated by his spirited signing and fully-committed dancing. A hero in his own right, Webb and his trademark manbun were regulars on TV screens in Australian households during the pando as he fronted countless press conferences with Queensland authorities.

Needless to say, many smartphones pointed Webb’s way to capture the magic throughout the course of the day. Sweating bullets while bopping away in full sunlight, Webb’s joyous presence is infectious as he not only translates lyrics but also captures each song’s essence through movement.

Kairos Kin’s “futuristic” Acknowledgement of Country draws punters away from their buffet lunches and upstairs to the performance area for the first-ever live music experience to happen on the Great Barrier Reef, kicking things off with some beats-enhanced didge – maximum bass vibration occurs early on.

One half of this electronic duo, Terry Cassels (aka Kazm), tells us Kairos King believes in “Manifestation of the good”. The pair also share some important lyrical messages throughout their set (eg. “Bring in the love, put down the guns”). Then Kazm observes, “Men should be looking out for their sisters,” which is timely given that Violence Against Women protest rallies are scheduled to take place all around the country this weekend.

We certainly appreciate Kairos Kin’s unison chorey, during which the unique styles of Kazm and Blue MC (aka singer/rapper Marisa Lock, who you might recognise from her stint with The Potbelleez) are celebrated, their individuality shining through. When The Robot is incorporated, some punters in the crowd even follow suit. Kairos Kin sprinkle contemporary flavour atop ancient culture and instrumentation. We also fully endorse their song about dancing away your demons as well. Be sure to check ‘em out when they tour your way.

“The shearing sheds and bending backs/ Australian dreams under battered hats…” – Lee Kernaghan’s music is in our blood. And his songs are the perfect soundtrack for this celebration of some of our nation’s unsung heroes.

After reminding us we’re currently partying on one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Kernaghan enthuses, “It’s a privilege to be here on the Great Barrier Reef and an even bigger privilege to play for you.”

While singing, “We get high when the sun goes down…” Kernaghan mimes toking on a spliff – what a cheeky chappy! Also during Boys From The Bush, we clap eyes on one-to-watch country star Max Jackson – who’s up next, but also excels in her role as this event’s MC – singing along with gusto, a giant smile on her dial. Hat Town embodies the community spirit and generosity of country folk: “Have the locals pass the hat around and pull each other through…” – Kernaghan yodels during this one, then faces Webb, asking him to demonstrate the Auslan interpretation of yodelling. Webb completely nails it – somehow transporting us to the Swiss alps amongst the herders – and Kernaghan beams approvingly while patting him on the back.

Kernaghan’s wife Robby excels on BVs and their duet cover of Fire by The Pointer Sisters goes down an absolute treat. The ocker delights continue with Damn Good Mates (Kernaghan’s collab with The Wolfe Brothers), Let There Be Cowgirls – before which he initiates a toast for the ladies (“especially those from the country”) – and The Outback Club, where we’re all inducted as life members (“We don’t back down and we don’t give up”).

So that Jackson doesn’t have to introduce herself to the stage, twin sisters Stack and Mel Wilburn (from the TV show Travel Guides) do the honours. Wearing denim on denim, Jackson is accompanied by her husband Jeremy Minett (The Viper Creek Band’s guitarist) and has the It factor in abundance.

Her Little More Country covers series – which comprised countrified versions of Jimmy Barnes (Working Class Man), Queen (Another One Bites The Dust), Lady Gaga (Poker Face) and ABBA (Dancing Queen), to name but a few – blew up on TikTok and this arvo’s medley transforms Reef Magic’s state-of-the-art reef pontoon into mass karaoke.

“This is a song about country people and why I bloody love ‘em,” is how Jackson intros Someone In A Small Town: “Out here you’ll never be a no one in a crowd/ ‘Cause everyone is someone in a small town.”

Having charmed our socks off all day – we can immediately see why she’s been Tamworth Country Music Festival’s ambassador for multiple years – Jackson closes with Chasing Down The Dream, which is surely super-close to being realised. As 2024’s CMAA Golden Guitar Winner for New Talent of the Year, it’s fair to say Jackson’s future is blindingly bright.

Needing to find out more about Jackson, we tracked down an event publicist. She kindly agreed to a last-minute interview in the Green Room.

“I just can’t believe that we’re here playing on the Great Barrier Reef,” Jackson marvels while we find somewhere suitable to sit. When told we clocked her enthusiastic Kernaghan singalong earlier, Jackson gushes, “It was definitely people like Lee who inspired me to be doing what I’m doing today. I grew up in a little country town called Coonamble [NSW] and we were pretty much starved for anything – being a long way from everything. So people like Lee Kernaghan, Gina Jeffreys and Troy Cassar-Daley would tour to Coonamble [and perform at] our little RSL Club.”

During her own set, Jackson spoke about the heroes within her own family.

“I wrote this song called Someone In A Small Town about the fact that I think the thing that makes growing up in the country so different to anywhere else is that everybody plays such an important role in the community – everyone’s bringing something to it – and that’s pretty much how small towns survive, because of people like that.

“My pop was actually the fire captain, so if there were any bushfires he was out fighting them. And my grandma was a teacher and changed so many kids’ lives, was always just encouraging people. And my mum’s a hairdresser, so she would’ve known everything about everyone,” she acknowledges, laughing. “And she is just an absolute legend and the most trustworthy – she’d just lock it up and throw away the key.

“I always say in places like that you’re famous for something and my nan was famous for her Ginger Fluff Sponge Cake, the greatest cake you’ve ever tasted; honestly, I can taste it now thinking about it. But I just grew up around people who really cared for others – and really focussed on that community spirit – and I’m so grateful for my upbringing, ‘cause I wouldn’t be the person I am today without that.”

Post-interview, we join the dunny queue line behind aforementioned young hero Charlie. She expresses her concern that Sheppard are about to hit the stage, but thankfully no one’s spending a second longer than absolutely necessary in those cramped facilities. Charlie is later spotted front and centre, against the barrier, living it up during the Brisbane indie-pop trio’s headline set.

Absolutely everything about this sibling band comprising Amy, Emma and George Sheppard is extra and fancy: outfits (that snazzy sequined gold two-piece, though!), guitars (Emma’s a glittery silver and George’s all hand painted in swirly multi-colours) and hair colour (currently the trio’s chosen hues are musk pink, platinum blonde and a vivid aqua that almost matches the reef water).

From opener Coming Home, the band’s setlist rolls out bop after bop: (“Keep runnin’ with the…”) Animals, Kiss My Fat Ass and Edge Of The Earth, which pretty much describes our current locale. The latter, Sheppard’s brand new single, features anthemic choruses that make us feel like we’re flying rather than floating. Their cover of blink-182’s All The Small Things, with its pogo-friendly “Na-na-na-na” refrain, absolutely goes off, winning audience reaction of the day.

Whether or not you know anything about Geronimo, Sheppard’s closing smash hit hits the sweet spot – good luck extracting that chorus melody from your internal jukebox for the next week or so!

It just has to be said that the more tipsy heroes among us do enjoy blaming their staggers on the motion of the ocean.

Once safely back on board the Reef Magic vessel, seasickness-prone punters head straight to the outside lower deck for some fresh air and horizon gazing. An

Indigenous crew member points into the distance before (correctly) forecasting heavy rainfall. We brace ourselves.

There’s nothing quite like a dopamine-boosting live music experience in nature, with a little bit of adventure thrown in, to remind us of the importance of community connection.

During this event, it was also announced that all four Savannah Sounds On The Reef acts will join the lineup for Savannah In The Round, an annual three-day festival staged in Mareeba, Cairns, which runs from 11 – 13 October. Previously announced artists for Savannah In The Round 2024 include Kip Moore, The Living End, Hoodoo Gurus and Vika & Linda.

Savannah In The Round tickets can be purchased here.

Ross Wilson, Floodlights, Kaiit lead Reclink Community Cup lineup

This is a family friendly, dog friendly event that has something for everyone, including free sporting activities and face painting before the game, a Kidz Zone with cheap family fun and the epic showdown between community radio giants.

Reclink Community Cup 2024 lineup

The mighty Megahertz (Triple R 102.7FM & PBS 106.7FM) and Melbourne band royalty, the rugged Rockdogs (musicians). Plus tunes being spun all day but the dynamic duo DJ Lauren Taylor and DJ Simon Winkler from 3RRR’s Breaking and Entering.

East Gippsland Winter Festival has everything for the perfect winter escape

Dubbed one of the largest winter festival programs in Australia, East Gippsland Winter Festival returns for a fourth year, celebrating ‘How We Winter’ in the region through a dedicated program of art, performance, music and gastronomy.

As the winter solstice marks the onset of winter on 21 June, the month-long East Gippsland Winter Festival invites visitors to the region for a winter escape full of cosy activities.

East Gippsland Winter Festival Details

• When: 21 June – 21 July 2024
• Where: Various locations across East Gippsland including Bairnsdale, Bruthen, Orbost, Paynesville, Swifts Creek, Marlo, Lakes Entrance, Omeo, Cann River, Metung, Buchan and Mallacoota

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

Originally created in response to the devastating 2019/20 Black Summer Bushfires by festival founder Adam Bloem, East Gippsland Winter Festival has become a spirited celebration in the community. In 2023, the festival saw 25,393 attendees explore the program which included 149 individual events across 33 towns.

2024 has a stacked program with over 100 confirmed events spanning the region, showcasing the natural splendour of East Gippsland. There is something for everyone with the festival coinciding with the Victorian school holidays. From family-friendly free events such as live music in majestic surrounds to lakeside wellness experiences and winter feasts, the 2024 East Gippsland Winter Festival is bursting.

Some highlights of the festival include a deliciously relaxing sunrise bathes at Hilltop Escarpment of Metung Hot Springs followed by a breakfast picnic overlooking Lake King on 21 June, the sword-wielding excitement of Medieval Winter Fire Festival at Bruthen on 22 June, and the whimsical world of illumination at Lake Lights: Enchanted Shore at Lakes Entrance Foreshore on 6 July. The lights continue in Paynesville for Water & Lights; a magical lantern-lit installation parading off the jetties, followed by a cosy outdoor cinema session and a food truck fair. Over in Orbost, dive into Deep In The Weeds, an annual music festival hosted by Sailor’s Grave Brewing.

The gastronomy guide is elevated with events from Guy Grossi and Sodafish for collaborative winter feast ‘Inverno’, and Moscow Willa Hut will be hosting a High Country Lunch presented by well-regarded local chef Stuart Derham.

This richly diverse festival is not one to be missed.

The 2024 East Gippsland Winter Festival will run from 21 June – 21 July. For more information including ongoing program updates head here.

There’s an awesome warehouse party happening in Thornbury this weekend

They’re partnering up with Totalno Zeleno for a day-long warehouse party in Thornbury this Saturday, with a killer lineup featuring the likes of Vanessa Worm and Genevieve Fry, the co-founder of the wonderful Eastmint Studios who’s performed with the likes King Giz.

Expect everything from gothic synth-punk to the best in Melbourne’s experimental club scene.

Cease And Desist X Totalno Zeleno

• Sat 4th May 2024, 4:00 pm – Sun 5th May 2024, 1:00 am AEST
• 260 Dundas St, Thornbury

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

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The fantastic lineup

• Tongue Dissolver
• Vanessa Worm
• Flame J
• Mike Midnight
• Local Woman
• Genevieve Fry + Blu Jay
• Rain Dogs
• Shock Corridor

Interstitial DJs

• Bridget Small
• Nick Ure Vartan

Tickets are available here.

No May-be about it: The Bergy is your one-stop-shop for music this month

It’s a place you can go on any given weekend and know that something good will be on. This month at The Bergy is packed with talent. Huge shows every weekend, and even some in the middle of the week! Read on to get the downlow on a few highlights from The Bergy Bandroom this May.

Angus Legg

●      Thursday 2nd May

●      With Seb Szabo & Mathilde Anne

Driving guitars and punchy drums are simply the backup dancers to Angus Legg’s euphoric voice, that fights to the front and tells you exactly what it thinks of you. The pop songster will have you on your feet for the entirety of his set. Supported by indie rocker Seb Szabo and the indie-pop of Mathilde Anne.

Portal Gun

●      Saturday 4th May

●      With Milou Moon, Sweet Nothing

Psych rock four piece Portal Gun are gonna send the Bergy Bandroom back in time on the 4th of May with their retro take on the new-age wave of funk and psych music. Launching new single ‘Virtual Reality’, this one’s sure to be a boogie fest. With support from psych-noise artist Milou Moon and synth-dance outfit Sweet Nothing.

Screamfeeder

●      Friday 10th & Saturday 11th May

This one’s BIG. 90s/00s kids gather round! Aussie fuzz-pop darlings Screamfeeder are back to bring their ever-reliable, beautiful chaos of sound to the Bergy Bandroom for 2 nights at the Bergy. A perfect blend of classic aussie rock, with pure, unadulterated 90s grunge. These ones are sure to sell out, so get in quick.

Seb Szabo

●      Thursday 16th May

●      With Holly Hebe & Janie Gordon

Fresh off winning the Sofar residency program, Seb Szabo is bringing his backyard style shows to the Bergy. Producing music that rivals the likes of Springsteen and Coldplay, the charm and electricity of his set is sure to illuminate the stage. Supported by indie-soul songwriter Holly Hebe and pop-folkster Janie Gordon.

thedelirious.

●      Friday 17th May

●      With Ramona Sky, Kite Vendor

Primarily known as an indie-rock outfit, thedelirious. have made a shift on their newest single into a heavier, shoegaze-y sound – still the familiar floating vocals and guitars but with a darker undertone that drives the band into a new soundscape (very cool, just to clarify). Supported by funk-rockers Ramona Sky, who are known for their enigmatic live shows and quartet Kite Vendor, who emit the influence of bands like Beach Fossils and DIIV effortlessly into their music to create their unique dreamgaze sound.

TAPES

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●      Saturday 18th May

●      With DJ Succulent Funk Duo & TBC

The neo-soul four piece play music that makes your top lip raise on one side and involuntarily make a “euurrghh” sound. The Bergy Bandroom will be a live dancefloor come 18th of May when TAPES light the stage up. The party will go on all night with DJ Succulent Funk Duo kicking the show off and setting the mood early.

WALTA

●      Sunday 19th May

●      With Kevin Collett

Pop banger pilot WALTA flies her music so smoothly across the plains, even the birds get jealous. Ease into your Sunday night with the upbeat, powerful flow that WALTA emits, giving you the feelings you didn’t know you had. Supported by alt dance-pop artist Kevin Collett, who will float in and put a dance-spell on the crowd.

The Last Martyr

●      Friday 24th May

●      With Ultraviolet, NTH Rd & Nightlight

HOLY HELL! Your face may just melt when you experience The Last Martyr. Their cyber-pop metalcore does not play nice. They play music that feels like a release, but you won’t be feeling empty when you leave The Bergy on the 24th of May – if anything you’ll be craving more. Heavy hitters Ultraviolet, NTH Rd and Nightlight will help that craving, opening the night with a bang!

Destrends

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●      Saturday 25th May

●      With Baby Mullet, Young Offenders (SA) & Operation Karma

Destrends unique genre of music seems somehow so nostalgic but like nothing you’ve ever heard before. Blending elements of aussie post-punk, brit-pop and 80s new wave to a beat that finds the perfect midpoint between Blur and Midnight Oil. Supported by punk rock 3-piece Baby Mullet, post-punk outfit Young Offenders and aussie-punk quartet Operation Karma.

Bloom

●      Sunday 26th May

●      With Saving Face & Fallweather

Australian metalcore force Bloom are set to launch their album “Maybe in Another Life” at The Bergy and this one will be MASSIVE! High energy, melodic music that flows through you like water but at the same time hits you like a ton of bricks. The room will be rocking, definitely come knocking cause you don’t want to miss this one. With support coming from melodic hardcore groups Saving Face and Fallweather.

Keep up to date with all things Bergy Bandroom. Follow them on IG here.

This article was made in partnership with Bergy Bandroom.

In May, The Toff will be with you: live music, cabaret and release parties meld the month together

Highlighting some stellar live music, comedy and arts entertainment this month – you’re in for a treat if you head upstairs in May.

The Toff in Town has always done it different. May at The Toff is no exception to the rule. Some killer live music acts, sci-fi celebration shows and popstar release parties – just to scratch the surface.  Get to The Toff this May if you’re in need of a good time. 

Jazz and Jaffles

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• Thursday, 2 May
• Boubacar Gaye Qaurtet (Ausecuma Beats), Firetail (modern jazz fusion), ON – LY (modern jazz fusion) and Moor Street DJs each week

Every week, Moor Music’s Jazz and Jaffles takes over the Toff, offering a blast from the past in the best way. Bringing together a rotating cast of local musicians and a nostalgia-tinged menu, the event makes for the ultimate date night or get-together with friends. Jazz and Jaffles is a feast for the senses: toasty bread and melty cheese wafting out from the kitchen, sweet grooves echoing from the stage, the warm and inviting atmosphere in the Toff’s cozy lounge… chef’s kiss.

Bubble

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Austral

• Friday, May 3rd
• With Maggie Rigby

As their song suggests, Austral are turning The Toff into a Throwdown Hoedown on May 3rd and taking no hostages. The enigmatic four piece produce high-energy celtic tunes that will set the dancefloor alight with pipes, fiddles, percussion and even the odd didgeridoo. Supported on the night by folk songwriter Maggie Rigby.

Friday Club

• No Era, Hijack and Mizhap selecting in May
• Every Friday night from 11pm until 5am, free entry before midnight

Mizhap, No Era and Hijack are all exceptional DJs with plenty of hip hop and RnB credential, many decades of combined experience behind the decks. Mizhap in particular has a unique highly-rhythmic style and plenty of confidence and attitude. They all combine for a high-tempo club night every Friday this month.

Rhythm Express: DJ JNETT and friends

• Every Saturday in The Carriage
• Kiti and Dan Beck on May 4
• DJ JNETT and Colette on May 18
• DJ JNETT and Tai Jae on May 18
• DJ JNETT playing all night May 25

You’ll recognise DJ JNETT from ABC’s Recovery or heard her voice on Melbourne’s PBS.fm. She’s known for carting crates of wax around Melbourne and spinning deep house, techno, funk, soul, disco, dub, reggae and hip-hop throughout the club scene by night while helming the iconic Central Station Records by day. She curates every Saturday in The Toff’s Carriage and this month, will be playing all night long herself on May 25.

Star Tease: Episode 6

• Saturday May 4th

Annual Star Wars day (or May The Fourth) is being celebrated in style at The Toff this year. A huge lineup of talented drag, burlesque and cabaret acts will be performing a matineé show inspired by all your sci-fi favourites; Star Wars, Star Trek, Doctor Who – you name it, it’s probably being referenced. Oh, there’s also a prize for best dressed – so come in your best cosplay!

Ballare

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• Saturday May 4th
• Hosted by Mondo Ritmo

The Toff is going to BOUNCE on May 4th. Mondo Ritmo is back to host an evening of deep global rhythms. Part world music, part discotheque, all parts groove. Come for the music, stay for the party! 

Now. Here. This.

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• Tuesday, 7 May
• DJ Colette 9pm and closing set
• NHT All Star Band live from 11:30pm
• Free entry

Now.Here.This at The Toff in Town is a Melbourne community fueled by passion and innovation, transforming jam sessions into a global phenomenon. Each week the underground jazz scene grows, and queues of punters gather down Swanston Street eager to gain entry. The venue peaks at capacity, and music pulsates. It goes late and it gets wild!

The Consonance of Hip Hop and D&B

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• Friday May 10th
• With JÄEGER and Rosella (MASH UP), MC Melroid (Hip Hop MC), HankSkorpio (Hip Hop MC), Reality Never Dies (Poet & MC), Mannix (D&B DJ), SK4NK (D&B DJ), The Flow Faerie Faeded Faerie

An absolutely STACKED lineup of MCs, DJs and poets will be manning the decks/stage come May 10th at The Toff. A massive night of Hip Hop and D&B will revolutionise your status on beats. There is truly something for everyone on Naarms, Hip Hop, D&B, inner-city night-of-nights. 

Bel Kil

• Saturday May 11th
• With Mood Spill 

Bel Kil produces pop music that transcends the “pop” genre. Funky basslines smother the soft, laden vocals with gravy, as squealing synths scream for attention overhead. Set to launch her new single Rose Street, Bel Kil’s funk, synth heavy pop music will surely turn heads and get hearts racing on May 11th. Supported by smooth indie-rockers Mood Spill.  

Decadance 

• Saturday May 11th
• With The D Word & Jack Popper

Hop aboard the Decadance express! DJs, The D Word and Jack Popper are your co-pilots for the night; stopping no stations, express to euphoria. Your in-flight entertainment is ‘body-moving’ performed by you, and your in-flight meal is 5 star house music, served on a bed of all things disco. 

Hit Me Hard and Soft – Billie Eilish release party

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• Friday May 17th

Billy Eyelash. Bill E.Lidge. William Wile-ish. However you say it, Billie Eilish is a household name and will be for a while yet! Her huge new album, Hit Me Hard and Soft, is set for release on May 17th and The Toff has you covered with a massive release party – where you can share all your sad-girl stories with like-minded individuals.

PJ Bridger (UK)

• Friday May 24th
• With Osmosis Jones, IsGwan, KJONES & Trustee

Bristol’s own PJ Bridger is gracing Australian shores this May and his luggage ain’t just carry-on. He’s got a LARGE suitcase filled to the brim with eclectic beats of all genres; garage, house, electronica, d&b. His back catalogue of big-name artist nods, has him purchasing extra baggage allowance on its own. May 24th is set to take-flight and you’re invited to an all-expenses-included trip like no other! With support from Osmosis Jones, IsGwan, KJONES & Trustee.

Pizza Death

• Saturday May 25th
• With Totally Unicorn & R.U.B

The death of pizza may not have come about just yet, but you might want to smash a slice after you’ve been absolutely annihilated by crusty, pizza-themed heavy metal outfit Pizza Death. You’ll completely forget that they’re food themed while you’re thrashing about in the mosh, but will subconsciously be craving some cheese, pepperoni and tomato. Supported by math-rock/hardcore outfit Totally Unicorn and D.I.Y punkers R.U.B.

Olympia

• Thursday May 30th

You might be there thinking, “Olympia? How do I know that name?”. Well, it could be the small town on the Peloponnese peninsula in Greece or, you could remember the 2016 hit song Smoke Signals by unique indie-pop artist Olympia. Back with new music in 2024 with some awesome hard-hitting rock songs, Olympia is bringing her funky, upbeat indie-pop to The Toff to launch her new EP with an intimate solo set.  

Keep up to date with all things Toff in Town. Follow them on IG here.

‘Amplifying the entirety of Australia’s musical brilliance’: 2024 APRA Music Awards winners announced

Hosted by APRA AMCOS, Australia’s primary music rights management organisation, the annual APRA awards showcase the country’s most exciting and enduring talent. This year’s event, held in the Sydney CBD, saw music industry professionals, special guests and artists across all genres come together for a night of community and celebration.

It’s no surprise that Melbourne’s Troye Sivan took home the prize for Peer Voted APRA song of the year for his smash hit Rush co-written with Styalz Fuego. Labeled by many as the ‘song of the summer’, this upbeat bop was an instant sensation, beloved not just at home, but around the world.

APRA Music Awards 2024 winners

• Peer-Voted APRA Song of the Year – Rush by Troye Sivan
• Ted Albert Award for Outstanding Services to Australian Music – Bart Willoughby
• Songwriter of the Year – The Teskey Brothers
• Emerging Songwriter of the Year – grentperez
• Most Performed Australian Work – How Do I Say Goodbye by Dean Lewis
• Most Performed Alternative Work – Daylight by Birds of Tokyo
• Most Performed Blues & Roots Work – Dancing in the Dark by Ziggy Alberts
• Most Performed Country Work – Summer Nights by Casey Barnes
• Most Performed Dance/Electronic Work – Never Let You Go by Jason Derulo & Shouse
• Most Performed Hard Rock/Heavy Metal Work – Darker Still by Parkway Drive
• Most Performed Hip Hop / Rap Work – COMMA’S by ONEFOUR ft. CG
• Most Performed Pop Work – How Do I Say Goodbye by Dean Lewis
• Most Performed R&B / Soul Work – Cinderella by JKING
• Most Performed Rock Work – Good Time by Polish Club
• Most Performed Australian Work Overseas – Unstoppable by Sia
• Licensee of the Year – Australian Calisthenic Federation Inc
• Most Performed International Work – Anti-Hero by Taylor Swift

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

Sydney singer-songwriter Dean Lewis scored two awards – Most Performed Australian Work and Most Performed Pop Work – for his track How Do I Say Goodbye. Detailing the fallout from his father’s cancer diagnosis, the track became a favourite due to its heartfelt lyricism and the artist’s impressive vocal range.

Songwriter of the Year went to The Teskey Brothers. Fusing Motown, soul and blues, the family duo create a unique and instantly recognisable sound, as can be heard on their most recent album, The Winding Way.

The night also features many first-time winners, including indie pop internet sensation grentperez who took home the first-ever award for Emerging Songwriter of the Year, Birds of Tokyo who won Most Performed Alternative Work for Daylight, Byron Bay rockers Parkway Drive who won the inaugural Most Performed Hard Rock/Heavy Metal Work category with Darker Still and ONEFOUR who won Most Performed Hip Hop / Rap Work with COMMA’s.

“As a Filipino Australian artist I feel seen, as well as coming out from Western Sydney,” said grantperez, “The creativity is emerging from everywhere and it really goes to show, I think ‘emerging’ is the perfect word for it. For me, it’s been three to four years in this career and hopefully many, many more so thank you all so much. Take care, peace out.”

Tasmanian singer-songwriter Casey Barnes took home the award for Most Performed Country Work for the second year in a row and Adelaide pop idol Sia won Most Performed Australian Work Overseas for the fifth time.

“Congratulations to all the nominees and winners, each of them outstanding songwriters and music creators who are the living epitome of what it is to be born global in their success,” said APRA AMCOS CEO Dean Ormston.

“In recognising the incredible talent in Australia’s music landscape, it’s important to acknowledge that as an organisation that champions gender diversity through advocacy, funding and creative opportunities, there’s more to do to address the disparity in the industry of male to women, non- binary and gender diverse award winners.

“We must continually question the absence of diversity in every facet of the industry—whether in rooms, executive offices, on stages, or across airwaves and streaming platforms—and commit to amplifying the entirety of Australia’s musical brilliance.”

Find out more about APRA AMCOS here.

Sunflower Jam

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