Julia Winterflood

Optus Flix in the Stix Tour

WHO: James Reyne
WHEN: Sat Feb 25
WHERE: National Botanic Gardens

Highly respected Australian singer-songwriter James Reyne will perform as the headline act for Optus Flix in the Stix Tour. The former Australian Crawl frontman will be accompanied by bush poets Murray Hartin and Peter Mace forming a fantastic line-up of entertainment for the regional tour. Reyne, along with Australian Crawl, is renowned for a host of songs such as Reckless, Boys Light Up and Downhearted. 
Heralded as one of Australia’s funniest bush poets, Murray Hartin was selected as part of the line-up because of his unique Australian storytelling. Flix in the Stix audiences will also get a taste of some of the best short films from Australia and around the world. Tickets are available from www.flixinthestix.com.au, from Moshtix, or over the counter at Landspeed Records in Garema Place.

Miss Kitka’s House of Burlesque

WHAT: Special Valentines Burlesque Bazaar
WHEN: Sun February 5 from 11am to 4pm
WHERE: Canberra Irish Club

All things burlesque can be found at the Burlesque Bazaar, from retro, vintage, pin up, recycled and alternative costumes and accessories, burlesque pasties and tassels, hair fascinators, jewellery, cupcakes, corsets, lashes, lingerie, shoes and much more.

There’ll be raffles and performances every hour, as well as a pin up photo booth with make up and hair artists available for that special moment. Entry is $5 and customers will receive a $5 Kitka discount voucher they can use if they purchase items worth $20 or more in a single transaction. The first 50 people through the door will also receive a free show bag with samples, local business information and more surprises. For more information email burlesquebazaar@hotmail.com .

Windows on Europe Film Festival

WHO: European filmmakers
WHEN: Sat Feb 10 – Fri Feb 16
WHERE: Dendy Canberra Centre

An illuminating and thought-provoking program of award-winning European films will delight audiences when the Windows on Europe Film Festival returns to Dendy Cinemas Canberra from February 10 to 16. Returning for its seventh season, the Windows on Europe Film Festival will showcase films and talent from 14 countries. This year audiences will have the opportunity to explore cinema from Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Greece, Ireland, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, UK, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden. The versatility of European cinema is reflected in the many genres represented including comedy, drama, thriller, romance and documentary. For a full list of films and synopsis, visit www.dendy.com.au .

Exhibition Transition - A Captured Moment

WHO: Masahiro Asaka
WHEN: Now until March 15
WHERE: Canberra Glassworks

Recent Thomas Foundation Artist in Residence at Canberra Glassworks and winner of the 2011 Ranamok Prize, Masahiro Asaka is exhibiting his new series of works that includes the winning piece from Ranamok, Surge 12. Masahiro is inspired by nature and the tensions people create with the natural environment. He uses the raw qualities of glass to express fragility, strength, illumination and power as a metaphor for man's relationship with the natural world. His striking work highlights the transparency and the beauty of glass and exposes the notions of energy and gravity which are the fundamental elements for glass to be formed and the effects of which are so essential to his art.

Fash ‘n’ Treasure Market

WHAT: Kicking off in 2012
WHEN: Sat Feb 4
WHERE: Old Bus Depot Building

The first Fash ‘n’ Treasure market for 2012 is kicking off on Saturday with a great range of vintage, recycled and designer fashion stalls. The market is held at the Old Bus Depot Building on Wentworth Avenue, Kingston on the first Saturday of each month from 10am to 3pm. As well as fashion there are a number of stalls selling records, magazines, comics and books. International food stalls, great coffee and live music make this a great way to spend a day with friends or just take the time to browse and find a treasure or two. Bypass the malls and the derivativeness of retail shopping and discover the joy of pre-loved and vintage fashion, accessories and collectables. www.fashntreasure.com.au .

Exhibition Solstice Eyes

WHO: Lisa Twomey
WHEN: Opening 6pm Fri Feb 3 and continuing ‘til Sun Feb 12 
WHERE: Canberra Contemporary Art Space, Manuka

Solstice Eyes is a work of art that crosses the boundaries between fashion, painting, installation and performance. The gallery space will be transformed into a solstice night’s dream where ritual meets rock royalty and reality is bent, gilded, and made into fantasy. Twomey’s portraits have a feeling of the historical and are filled with symbolism, but unlike traditional portraiture they present the sitters as complex and beautifully flawed. Fruit, flowers and moths are upheld like icons of fecundity against a background of gold. Twomey’s elaborately decorative clothing climbs across the walls of the gallery, saunters in the corners, and floats through the air. On opening night the dream will become reality with a performance where the characters of Twomey’s art will burst to life, exaggerated and wild. Entering Lisa Twomey’s world audiences will be dazzled, dazed, and depart with solstice eyes.

Five copies of Bunraku on DVD

Bankura is a city and a municipality in Bankura District in the state of West Bengal, India. It is the headquarters of the Bankura District. In the 2011 census it had a population of 138,036 out of which 70,734 were males and 67,302 were females.

Wait – wait –wait. I’ve got this all mixed up.

Bunraku is the name commonly used for ningyo-joruri, literally puppets and storytelling. It is also a film set in a dystopian metropolis under a tyrannical regime, two vengeful strangers (Josh Hartnett, Gackt…yes GACKT!) who join forces with a volatile bartender (Woody Harrelson) in a plot to overthrow an evil dictator (Ron Perlman). In a battle for supremacy over the city, only one side can be victorious. In the style of Sin City and from the makers of Watchmen, Minority Report and Fight Club, this visually stunning flick features a stellar cast and non-stop action sequences. Thanks to Icon, we have five DVD copies to giveaway if you can tell us which animal Ron Perlman most resembles.

Five copies of the Battle of Britain on DVD

As Winston Churchill said, “Never was so much owed by so many to so few.” To commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, a defining moment of World War II, the much-loved British actor Sir David Jason presents this documentary account of that pivotal moment in the Second World War. In this uplifting programme, he recounts the astonishing story of the small band of heroic pilots who fought and won what was arguably the most crucial battle of the whole war. David Jason is on a journey in the landscape over which the battle was fought. He goes to find the people and places that made that victory possible. He will meet the last of the 'few' and some of the 'many', the unsung heroes who also played a vital role in winning the Battle of Britain. Finally he will get rare opportunity to fly in a legendary Spitfire and scramble in the footsteps of fighter aces of the past. We have five copies to give away thanks to Shock. To win, email allan@bmamag.com and tell us the most heroic WWII story you ever heard.

Eight copies of Spicks and Specks – The Finale on DVD

When historians look back on this decade they will wonder where it all went wrong. iPhones? Cheap milk? iPads? Annoyingly capitalised P’s? Who knows. One thing they will be able to figure out though is how 150 people spent their evenings one night, centuries ago, because it was recorded. ON FILM! Adam, Alan and Myf invited a cast of more than 20 special guests to celebrate with a raft of their favourite games in a grand final of epic proportions. Guests include Geoffrey Rush, Ella Hooper, Dave O'Neill, Darren Hayes, Rhonda Burchmore, Brian Cadd, Jimeoin, Shane Bourne… The list goes on.

Thanks to Roadshow Entertainment we have eight copies on DVD to give away if you can tell us who the lead singer of the Uncanny X-Men was. It’s that simple, folks. And no – you may not phone a friend. Wait, wrong show. As you were.

Five copies of 13 Assassins on DVD

Dateline: Japan, 1844.

Lord Naritsugu Matsudaira, the Shogun’s illegitimate brother, is rising to power. But when his tyranny runs rampant, secret plans are laid to end his reign, and his life. It’s Japan in the 1800s after all. Even blind Yamamoto could predict bloodshed. Enter veteran samurai Shinzaemon Shimada (Koji Yakusho from Memoirs Of A Geisha and Babel) is charged with assassinating Naritsugu and puts together a small band who agree to lay down their lives to ensure their nation’s future. Facing danger and impossible odds, the 13 assassins set a trap for the sadistic Lord in a remote village… But an army of samurai dedicated to protecting Naritsugu now stand in their way.

Dateline: Circa, Now.

Thanks to Icon we have 5 DVD of 13 Assassins up for grabs, so if you would like to see how this all ends then tell us what numbers are traditionally unlucky in Japan.

Uninhibited

I set off on a summer holiday to Hong Kong full of arts-related excitement. Aside from a plan to eat my bodyweight in dim sum, most of my intention was to get a look at the burgeoning HK art scene. I’d been reading about how big name art fairs such as Frieze had set up in HK, using the city as a bridge from their traditional European markets to the east. HK, so I’d read, was the perfect intermediary – officially Chinese and yet kinda not, free enough to allow sales of Chinese artists to the west and Western artists to the newly minted east.

In light of this, my expectation was that the small gallery scene in Honkers would be pumping. This was in error. And it got me thinking about cities and scenes, energy and action, and most of all the elements in a city’s infrastructure that allow the arts to flourish.

HK is a major and magnificent world city, but it doesn’t contain a major and magnificent gallery. I saw a good show at the HK Arts Centre and a couple of fun, tiny things in the Sheng Whan precinct – really, really small shows in spaces the size of living rooms. A Damien Hirst show was opening the day after I left, but that was about it. The problem? Money and space, as always.

Turns out that the art world in HK is a market-based affair – the big events come a couple times a year, but year round the artists and galleryists struggle for space and cash in the world’s most expensive city to rent. There is no shortage of skilled practitioners keen to make a mark. But, thanks to the difficulties in getting seen and shown, they’re either migrating elsewhere, or making do on a shoestring. Sound familiar?

In a market-dominated city such as HK, the argument against the arts is one of fundamentals – what’s in it for us? Why should the city give up scarce real estate for marginal practices? Viewed through a Friedmanonic lens, this argument makes sense.

After HK I flew to Singapore, and found a different take on economic fundamentalism. Singapore has struggled for years against a reputation of staid conservatism (fact – it remains illegal to publically chew gum in Singapore). Yet in recent times the Singaporean government has poured millions into public art programs, galleries and art schools. They realised that the thing missing in their city – soul – could come from a healthy investment in the arts.

In Singapore I saw spaces of real power and excellence. The work wasn’t quite world class. But the spaces were, and the work will come from those eager kids studying in the new and vast purpose built practice spaces. Don’t be surprised to read of Singapore as a centre for the best in world arts in a decade or so. Testament to the power of investing in activities that don’t reap obvious rewards on a spreadsheet, but enrich the unseen heart of a place.

Patrick Larmour

What do you do?

I am primarily a painter but like messing around with all sorts of things – sculpture, installation, drawing, print. I will try pretty much anything put in front of me.

When did you get into it?

I’ve been doing this since I could hold a pencil. My favourite oldest drawing is a tiny one of a Power Rangers villain.

Who or what influences you as an artist? 

I like artists that stretch or play with the medium they use.

What’s your biggest achievement/proudest moment so far?

Getting through art school, being happy and proud of the work I made there. A couple of awards at graduation didn’t hurt either.

What are your plans for the future?

Keep making work, that’s the main thing. I’ll be taking up Megalo and CCAS residencies this year so I should be pretty busy on that front. Try to rustle up some space for a show or two on the side as well.

What makes you laugh? 

Art jokes and the absurd/mundane. I met a lady who told me about seeing a seal that painted pictures at Seaworld and how people were paying a whole $50 for them. If only I was born a furry marine animal, then I’d be set for life.

What pisses you off?

Losing that thing I just put down a second ago.

What’s your opinion of the local scene?

I think there’s some really great stuff happening, especially now that it feels like everything is gathering a bit of momentum.

Contact info:

patricklarmour.wordpress.com

pat.larmour@gmail.com

Locality

Yep, it’s true. BMA Magazine Is Seking A Editorr. (That’s the Bossman for you, never short of a laff). After three years in the ed’s chair and nigh on 70 issues I’ve decided it’s time for change. It’s true what I said in my previous column, I am moving to Vietnam, but first I’m heading home to Alice to hang with my family a while.

“Oh what a beautiful morning, oh what a beautiful day, I’ve got a wonderful feeling that everything’s going my way”. The chorus of Oklahoma!’s opening number played on repeat in my head when Allan Sko’s email arrived in November ’08. I’d been offered my dream job at 20; I deferred uni and floated around in an elated haze for days.

Before taking up the position I spent three months backpacking in India and Nepal. Towards the end of my trip anxiety about becoming editor trickled in. I’d just turned 21; surely I wasn’t old enough, wise enough or experienced enough to edit a music magazine!? Not long ago I was reminded of these fears by the close friend I was travelling in India with. “You were consumed by self-doubt; you doubted your writing ability, you doubted your music knowledge, you doubted everything. And now look at you,” he said smiling. This is my 66th issue. 66 dragons dead on the floor. I’m pretty proud of that fact.

These irrational fears didn’t fade immediately though, dear readers. Ohhh no. There were more than a few moments within my first month when I honestly thought Al had made a huge mistake and had hired the wrong gal. I spent late, late nights in the office during my first few deadlines oft on the verge of tears; the terrifying thought of missing a print deadline or forgetting to place an ad always on my mind (the latter happened, but only once). It was the selflessness of previous editor Peter Krbavac that saved me; he gave countless hours of his time to help me find my feet and I’ll forever be indebted to him. So thanks Pete. 

Naturally the super late nights in the office gradually disappeared. When I made it to five issues I was so thrilled I had a little party to celebrate; five issues, when ten weeks prior I’d wholeheartedly doubted my ability to produce any at all. I was one happy lass.

And then came the day I discovered I could get my name on the door for almost anything. I could barely believe it. After countless trips to the ANU Ticketek outlet in first year where I’d hand over the majority of my youth allowance every fortnight, this revelation came as a surge of euphoria. Free gigs. Free gigs! I could go to anything and everything I wanted! Living the dream, thought I.

And it has been a dream, this job. And not just for the three years of free gigs and films and festivals and theatre, but more importantly for the family I’ve gained. More on them next issue. Ohhh yeah. You know it. I’m gonna drag out this self-indulgent nostalgia bollocks right up until my very last ish. Cos I’m the editor of a street rag baby and I can print what I want! sdlruthstuhsesrdtsertselritsdrliughsdrt. Travis H Heinrich eat your heart out.

All Ages

Funny Sydney man Akmal will be coming to The Courtyard Studio at The Canberra Theatre Centre to test out some new jokes on us Canberrans. Due to popular demand he will be doing 12 shows from Tuesday-Sunday February 7-19. Tickets are a rather cheap $25 (+bf) through The Canberra Theatre.

In case that isn’t enough comedy for you, later in the month you could be witness to the magic of master ventriloquist David Strassman’s hilarious new show Be Careful What You Wish For. Accompanied of course by his companions Chuck and Ted E. Bare, you’re in for a great night of laughs. Strassman will be doing six shows at The Playhouse Theatre of The Canberra Theatre Centre from Tuesday February 28 until Sunday March 4. Sunday through Thursday adult tickets cost $54.90 and concession tickets cost $49.90. For Friday and Saturday night performances, the prices have been pushed up a bit making adult tickets $59.90 and concession tickets $54.90. All tickets should be purchased through the venue. This show has been rated MA 15+, and is not suitable for children under 12. Those between 12 and 15 must have a responsible adult present with them.

Corinbank is back! You can be part of this unique three day festival at the breathtaking Corin Forest Mountain Resort from Friday-Sunday March 2-4. The line-up for 2012 is a spectacular one, including Josh Pyke, Busby Marou, Bonjah, Skipping Girl Vinegar, The Bamboos, The Barons of Tang, The Crooked Fiddle Band, D’Opus & Roshambo, Ganga Giri, Jen Cloher, Sietta, The Little Stevies, Thundamentals, Tinpan Orange, Beth n Ben, Cracked Actor, Fred Smith Band, Fun Machine, Julia & The Deep Sea Sirens, Lucie Thorne, The Beez (Germany), The Ellis Collective, The Fuelers, The Pigs, Alice Cottee, Big Score, Caity Sarah, Cilla Jane, Hashemoto, Jack Carty, James Fahy & His Trio, Matt Dent, One Foot in the Gravy, Pocket Fox, Rafe and the Well Dressed, Sidney Creswick, Son of Rut, The Burley Griffin, Waterford and more to be announced closer to the event. But the vast array of music isn’t all that’s on offer. You can also enjoy a number of other creative performers, attend one of the many interesting workshops on offer, fill your stomach with great food, or just browse the market stalls! This is an all ages event, but people under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult. The second round of 16+ event passes are on sale now for $139 (+ bf). Under 16s only pay $5 (+ bf). If you can’t stay for the whole event, day passes are also available. For more ticketing and event information visit www.corinbank.com.

Unfortunately we don’t have many gigs on the list since the tragic end to music events at The Tuggeranong and Weston Creek Community Centres, but we have some comedy to tide us over and a spectacular festival on the horizon.

With this all time low in the all ages music scene, I would like to encourage all artists, bands, venues or even members of the public to shoot me through an email if you know of any upcoming events. If you let me know in advance I would love to include it in the column, as I’m sure the public would like to know about it.

Van Walker at The Front

Van Walker moved from the wilds of Tasmania to the big smoke of Melbourne in 2001. Word soon spread that this troubadour was bringing a new energy into the well-worn roots genre, which culminated in his first solo album The Celestial Railroad. 

From here literally hundreds of songs followed and so did the releases. Van produced nine full length albums in just over two years, and independently released five, without management or funding, building his own name and audience through passion and hard work, a one man cottage industry personified. Van Walker is a prolific songwriting talent, a brilliant performer and a star worthy of wider recognition. Catch him at The Front on Thurs Feb 9. $10, $7.30pm.

David Guetta at Stage 88

On Friday May 4 Canberra will play host to one of the world’s biggest DJs David Guetta, brought to you by Canberra’s hit music station, 104.7 and Kicks Entertainment. Stage 88, set in Commonwealth Park, is a unique outdoor venue which David Guetta will set alight with his full live show, including fireworks and blistering visuals. This will be the very first time this iconic venue has hosted such a large youth driven event, which is all ages with 18+ licensed areas. With in excess of 25 million fans on Facebook and over half a billion views on YouTube, multiple Grammy Award Winner David Guetta is one of the most watched people on the planet. Joining him at Stage 88 are Bombs Away, Timomatic and local heroes Jared de Veer and Rawson. Pre release tickets are available to kicksentertainment.com.au subscribers. The first round of general release tix go on sale Thurs Feb 9 through Moshtix.

Red Cross Pal-Ups Program

Red Cross is looking for committed volunteers aged between 18 and 25 who are interested in mentoring newly arrived young migrants and introducing them to life in Canberra. The program matches a trained volunteer with a teenage migrant, refugee or asylum seeker (12 to 21 years old). The mentor and participant pair meet every fortnight, spending time doing fun activities as a way of getting to know each other, breaking down some of the cultural barriers typically faced by migrants as they settle into a new life. For more information on volunteering as a Pal-Ups mentor, contact Red Cross Client and Volunteer Assessment on 6234 7634 or email volunteernow@redcross.org.au .

BMA Magazine and ENLIGHTEN present the West Side Stage

ACT Tourism and BMA Magazine team up to program the ENLIGHTEN stage on the weekends of March 2–3 and 9–10. The program will deliver a fantastic line-up of Canberra’s best musicians alongside some of Australia’s beloved emerging acts. Head to the stage in the ENLIGHTEN Entertainment Precinct’s West Zone for rumbling blues, laid back reggae, hip jiggling pop and oh-so-whimsical folk. On Friday March 2, the West Side Stage will be lovingly hijacked by a phenomenal line-up of Australia’s best electronic artists playing alongside Canberra favourites. It’s a fully licensed, fully free event (minus paying for your beverages and food of course) located near the National Library of Australia (corner of Enid Lyons Street and Mall Road West). Full line-up details for all four nights will be released shortly.

Each night will run from 6.30pm through to 11pm as part of the wider ENLIGHTEN program featuring over 35 free and ticketed events spanning music, art, cinema, light projections, food, drink and more. You can find out more at enlightencanberra.com.au

James Fahy

WHAT: BMA Magazine presents The Bootlegs
WHEN: Mon Feb 13
WHERE: The Phoenix

From the Ed: For the third BMA Magazine Bootlegs I’ve roped in my good friend James Fahy (whose erudite words often appear in these pages), my good friend Gemma Nourse, my new favourite band Cracked Actor and the nutty men of nozl. James calls his music “indie-soul-folk” but the man sure can belt out a song. Gemma of Ah! Pandita is now performing love songs with electric guitar and loops under the name No Stars. Cracked Actor’s EP Solar Driftwood is my most spun record of the year so far and nozl, well… seriously, you’ve just got to come and check ‘em out. There is no band like them in the country. So head on down to Phoenix on Feb 13 for some excellent local music and maybe buy me a beer cos it’s my birthday!

Treehouse & Blahnket

WHAT: Killer double header of Hudson Mohawke and Ras-G
WHEN: Thurs March 1
WHERE: Transit Bar

Treehouse & Blahnket bring it to you real with a killer double header of Hudson Mohawke and Ras-G. Glaswegian producer Mohawke’s ascent has been swift and steady over the past few years, with The Guardian calling Hudson Mohawke “the new J Dilla” while placing him atop a new generation of producers including Mark Ronson and Jamie xx. Ras-G has been a fixture on the underground hip-hop scene in Los Angeles since the early ‘90s. He is a proud South Central LA resident and cofounder of the Poo-Bah Label as well as having releases on Flying Lotus’ Brainfeeder label. Presale tickets $35 + BF from Moshtix.

The Lighthouse Keepers

WHAT: Last Ever Canberra Show
WHEN: Fri Feb 3
WHERE: White Eagle Polish Club

From Greg Appel, one of the Canberran members of The Lighthouse Keepers: “There was a small punk movement in Canberra in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s and a very eclectic group of young people were making their own punk inspired sounds. Amongst them were the core of The Lighthouse Keepers. But their music was almost an opposite reaction to all this sweaty male electric stuff. They began as exiles in far away Sydney – playing country music covers and rediscovering melody. They are briefly reforming as part of the release of their best of CD Ode to Nothing. Come and see some Canberran history. 8pm, $25 at the door.

Canberra Roller Derby League

WHAT: 2012 season
WHEN: Kicking off Sat March 31
WHERE: Southern Cross Stadium Tuggeranong

Missing your favourite roller girls? Well, come March 31 they are back! Canberra Roller Derby League’s Black ‘n’ Blue Belles, Brindabelters, Red Bellied Black Hearts and Surly Griffins will be returning to the flat track in CRDL’s 2012 home season. The 2011 Grand Final saw the Griffins beat the ‘Belters for third place, and the Black Hearts narrowly defeat the Belles to reign as season champions. The first bout of the season will see the ‘Belters up against Black Hearts – a pairing that will pit the team on the bottom of last year's ladder against the team at the top. Doors for each game open at 5pm with the game starting at 6. Tix through Oztix.

Raw City Rukus

WHAT: Genesis EP Launch
WHEN: Fri Feb 10
WHERE: ANU Bar

PHOTOGRAPH BY: Rush

After more than two years of countless live shows and multiple festival appearances (including Groovin the Moo and Foreshore 2011, Raw City Rukus are proud to finally release their anticipated debut EP Genesis. On Friday Feb 10 the ANU will play host to a massive night of live music to celebrate the occasion. Joining Raw City Rukus on stage are Canberra’s finest hip-hop duo D’Opus & Roshambo, DJ Rush, MoneyKat (Melb) and Onetalk (Syd). Doors open at 8pm and entry is $12, or pay $20 for entry and a copy of the EP. Tickets are only available at the door so head down early to avoid disappointment.

The Get-Up Club

WHAT: Punk & hardcore club night
WHEN: Fri Feb 10
WHERE: Laneway Bar (upstairs Bar 32)

To make use of Bar 32’s upstairs Laneway Bar, the team at REV is firing off the year with some new club nights to satisfy the diverse musical tastes of its crowd. First up is the new monthly night The Get-Up Club featuring local DJs jamming the dancefloor with punk and hardcore. Throw in some pop plus giveaways and special guests, and The Get-Up Club is definitely one to keep in your monthly calendar. Best of all Canberrans will no longer have to head interstate to get their punk and hardcore fix. Instead you can stay in town, get loaded and still wake up on a stranger’s floor, and now it’s only a short bus ride home in the morning. 

Album of the Issue

Noah Taylor's up there with my fav Australian actors. I find his thin pallid face and occasional lisp alluring, and who can deny his outburst of sharehouse fury in ...Felafel is one of the funniest moments in Australian cinema. When I saw his name on the Homebake line-up in the guise of Noah Taylor & The Sloppy Boys I did, however, cringe a little; why’s he doing the actor-turned-singer thing? Turns out he’s actually been in various bands over the past few decades. This incarnation is the winner.

So the story goes Noah was on hols in Sydney (he’s lived in England for the past ten years) when a friend’s recording studio (BJB no less) suddenly became available. He penned six tracks in a week and recorded them with musical mates Ed Clayton-Jones (The Wreckery) and Cec Condon (The Mess Hall) in 24 hours. The result? Well, in the words of Nick Cave, it’s “a flat-out, freaked out masterpiece.”

The first time I spun Live Free Or Die!!! was on the Wednesday of our final working week of the year. By Friday it had bumped an unlucky contender and made it into my Top Ten. It’s become one of my favourite records of the year in the space of three days; such is the power of its ferocity and tenderness, salacious sentiments and crude humour, and unadulterated execution.

Second track Fuck You, with its smashing cymbals and simple chords is the raunchiest, most honest confession of insatiability (“I wanna fuck you all night long / And all the next day too”) since QOTSA’s Make It Wit Chu. Holiday Sidewinder (what a name) from Bridezilla, who is Taylor’s goddaughter, lends her honeyed tones to Scary which really highlights Taylor’s lyrical genius: “I’m shittin’ my britches / And life is a bitch cos / I’m scared of falling in love”, while Dark and Lovely is as beautiful as it is menacing.

Live Free Or Die!!! is raw rock ‘n’ roll. It’s also bratty, occasionally incomprehensible punk (said Cave of the opener and title track “it surpasses all understanding… it’s thrills and chills all the way”). And in its quieter moments it’s whispered post-coital poetry.

It’s not often that a record can grab you by the hair and have its wicked way with you and become a true fav in a matter of days, but Live Free Or Die!!! has done exactly that.

Brenton K

Describe your sound:

Deep tech and house with a splash of disco.

Who are your influences, musical or otherwise?

Musically I listen to a fair bit of jazz. Both the classic artists like Miles, Coltrane and Bill Evans but also more modern like Robert Glasper. I also really like nu jazz which is a fusion of jazz and electronic music.

As far as electronic music goes at the moment I’m really into the beatdown disco and slow house sound that’s being really pushed by labels like Sleazy Beats, Dikso and Wolf Music. There are some great Australian acts at the forefront of this sound as well, especially down in Melbourne.

What’s the weirdest experience you’ve had whilst performing?

I had a set outside in the ANU beer garden and just happened to look up from the decks for a moment and saw a guy in nothing but his underwear run through, past the decks and out the back. It was so quick I wasn’t sure if it had actually happened for a moment!

What’s your biggest achievement/proudest moment so far?

Proudest moments for me are really any gig where you get to support an artist you really respect and admire. Standouts for me though would have to be Butch, Marc Romboy and Jaytech.

What are your plans for the future?

I’m running uniVibes this year which has already been hectic. We have some great events planned both for O-Week and for the rest of the year and its going to be full on but I think really rewarding at the same time.

What makes you laugh?

Almost everything. I have a habit of laughing at awkward situations or laughing at inappropriate moments.

What pisses you off?

People requesting David Guetta. Just please don’t do it...

What’s your opinion of the local scene? 

People give Canberra a lot of stick but it’s more about finding those select parties and events that will be awesome. In my experience these are often run by the smaller promoters that just do it for the love. You could say Canberra has some amazing diamonds buried in amongst the rough.

As far as individuals go, Canberra has some great veterans who are so consistently good as well as some young guys who are really talented and really looking for ways to push their performances. I think that while many people would like the scene to be bigger/better etc, while there are these individuals pushing their sound and performing there will always be great parties to go to.

What are your upcoming gigs? 

I will be playing all around the ANU for O-Week along with other uniVibes DJs and bands.

Contact info:

brentonkalisch@hotmail.com

http://soundcloud.com/user1724688

Five copies of Carjacked on DVD

Lorraine is a working single mum with an abusive ex-husband who even after separation continuously creates problems for her and her eight-year-old son, Chad. On a seemingly normal evening, Lorraine makes a pit-stop at a gas station. When she returns to the car, Chad has company in the back seat! Roy is a dangerous man on the run who after robbing a bank needs Lorraine and Chad to get him to the Mexican border. Their edge of your seat journey forces her, however unwilling to become a stronger person and fight for a better life for both her and Chad. We have five copies to give away. To win, email allan@bmamag.com and tell us a rollicking road story. 

Five copies of Tanner Hall on DVD

From dramatic first loves, to envious “frenemies”, Tanner Hall, starring Rooney Mara (The Girl with a Dragon Tattoo, The Social Network), Georgia King (Twilight-Breaking Dawn, The Queen) and Brie Larson (Scott Pilgrim vs The World, United States of Tara), is a provocative peek into the private, sometimes reckless, and always scandalous world of a privileged all-girls boarding school. As Fernanda (Mara) enters her senior year at Tanner Hall she’s faced with unexpected changes in her group of friends when a childhood acquaintance, the charismatic yet manipulative trouble maker Victoria appears. Shy and studious, Fernanda is usually the voice of reason among her friends; adventurous and sexy Kate and tomboy Lucasta, but when she begins a complicated friendship with Gio, an older family friend, she decides it’s finally time to take some risks. Thanks to Anchor Bay Entertainment we have five copies to give away. To win, email allan@bmamag.com and tell us a sordid boarding school tale.

Three copies of Johnny English Returns on DVD

The man with the rubbery face is back! Rowan Atkinson returns as Johnny English in the…um...aptly titled Johnny English Returns. Mr English – also known as Agent MI7 – has all but vanished from the Secret Service and is now on sabbatical, honing his skills at an isolated Asian temple. However, when his agency learns that a Chinese dignitary is in grave danger, Johnny must return reborn and ready for action. Bet you didn’t see that coming. We have three copies to giveaway courtesy of Universal Pictures. To win, email allan@bmamag.com and name two other TV characters Rowan Atkinson has played.

Three copies of The Hours on DVD

You’ve seen him crash cars and steal hearts as McNulty in The Wire, you’ve seen him induce swoons in men and women alike in the homoerotic nightmare that was 300 but now is your chance to catch Eton oldboy Dominic West in BBC’s new six-part 1950s politico drama The Hours. The suits are crisp, the dialogue snappy and the drama is dramatic. We have three copies to give away courtesy of Roadshow Entertainment. To win, email allan@bmamag.com and tell us who was your favourite US Vice President from the 1950’s and why?

Five copies of Submarine on Blu Ray

In his head, 15-year-old schoolboy Oliver Tate (Craig Roberts) is a cool literary genius. The reality, however, is quite different. Despite his uphill battle with popularity, Oliver really only has two objectives: to lose his virginity before his next birthday, and to save his parents' marriage. The directorial debut from Richard Ayoade (The I.T. Crowd) and based on the best-selling novel by Joe Dunthorne, Submarine brings to life a quirky, touching and often painfully realistic story about growing up in small-town Wales in the eighties. Featuring a killer soundtrack by the Arctic Monkeys’ frontman Alex Turner, Submarine is destined to become a cult-comedy classic. We have five copies to give away courtesy of the good folks at Mad Man. To win, email allan@bmamag.com and tell us what your life objectives were when you were 15.

One Soundgarden Sydney BDO sideshow double pass / One Soundgarden Melbourne BDO sideshow double pass

Our sister site Metal as F*ck is currently running a comp so awesome we wished to share it with you - http://metalasfuck.net/zine/ .

It’s been 15 years since they last graced our shores and for the first time since 1997 Soundgarden will again play outside the USA. Chris Cornell, Kim Thayil, Matt Cameron and Ben Shepherd, the Seattle foursome known as Soundgarden have chosen the Big Day Out to mark their triumphant return to the international stage. We have one double pass to give away to the Sydney sideshow (Wed January 25 at Sydney Entertainment Centre) and one double pass to the Melbourne sideshow (Wed  February 1 at Sidney Myer Music Bowl. The Bronx will be joining them on both dates. To score, email allan@bmamag.com and tell us why you’re dead keen to catch Soundgarden.

ACT Writers Centre

2012 is bristling with a diverse range of invaluable workshops for writers of all levels at the ACT Writers Centre. I caught up with Communications Officer Kimberley Gaal  to find out exactly what’s on offer, as well as the bountiful benefits of becoming a member.

Can you give me a run down on the workshops?

Our first two workshops coming up in February are about how to sell your book to an Australian publisher so it’s looking at if from the business perspective. One of them is actually a free workshop that we’re running with support from Writing Australia which is specifically for writers from a non-English speaking background. The other one is open to everybody. We try to run it every year but it tends to be every two years as Rhonda Whitton, the woman who runs it, is a very in demand woman. It’s just brilliant. She wrote the book that is our ‘go-to’ whenever anyone has questions about submitting to publishers.

Following on from that are two editing workshops held specifically because we want people to say ‘this is a new year, and the year that I want to turn my writing from a hobby into something more’. But in order to do that people have got to let go of the idea that writing is just the creative process and they have to be able to look at it with a little bit more of an objective eye.

Every year we schedule editing workshops for the beginning of the year. You should write because you love it, because even with the absolute best writing there’s never quite a guarantee that you’re going to end up published and even if you are published there’s no guarantee that your next book will be published. Very, very few writers have that 100% guarantee. So you should do it because you love it and then you’re going to be guaranteed to enjoy it no matter what, but the next step up from there that we’re trying to explain to people the importance of is that if you want to be published and if you do have that dream – even if you want to self publish which is becoming more and more viable – you need to look at it as a profession.

What other topics do they cover?

Following on from the editing workshops we’ve got all the workshops that focus on the creative side of writing. We find people don’t give themselves permission to just love writing and love learning about writing. Some of our most popular workshops are the ones about ‘how do I get published?’ and some of our most popular events are the ones where we have publishers and agents come and talk and that’s wonderful but none of that’s actually going to be any good if you can’t actually write well. Good writers really appreciate learning from other good writers.

What is the format of the workshops?

Workshops tend to be between ten and 12 people. Each tutor has their own style. We want to make sure that everyone who comes to our workshops are getting value and are really getting something that they can appreciate. We have a new thing in place again this year that we started last year called Tuesday Chats, more informal lunchtime sessions that are held on Tuesdays. New tutors must do a Tuesday Chats first so we know that they’ve got some experience and charisma and are alright at talking in front of groups, and then they have to submit a workshop plan so they’re all proper workshops.

The majority of them tend to be relaxed and the tutors are very good at reading the room and working out what people want. Very few of them that I’ve come in contact with will have their set sheet and ‘this is my guideline I will do this, this and this’.

Tutors differ in their use of creative exercises. Some will be 50/50 with them talking and then the creative exercises, while some will vary more one way than the other.

What are some of the benefits of being a member of the ACT Writers Centre?

Members get generally about a $60 discount on every workshop. Members also get invited to member-only events, and they get discounts on our other services like our manuscript appraisal service. They get invited to join our Invite A Writer database, which is a database of members that are freelance writers and editors. We are very selective about that because writing and editing is a profession as well as a craft, and a lot of people work really hard to be really good at it. It’s not something that you can go and do a 12 month course in editing and then call yourself an editor. We meet a lot of people who don’t understand that so we’re trying to use Invite A Writer to really stress the importance of putting in the hard yards.

Members also receive 12 issues a year of our magazine, which has come a long, long way in the last couple of years. Each issue contains articles which are all on a theme. Last year we ran a series called How did I get here? which was a serious of Q&As I did with people who were writers who wrote for a living. So people who always knew that they loved writing. 

It’s one of those things… In high school in particular, if you’re good at science you go on to uni and you do science. If you’re good at maths you might go on to do engineering. But if you’re good at writing it’s a good skill but it’s not considered a ‘thing’. So a lot of people leave high school and they go on to uni or TAFE and they might do a creative writing course and that’s fantastic, we recommend it thoroughly to do one if you’re passionate about it but it’s not one of the things where you leave with the job of author. It just doesn’t exist. And a lot of people don’t quite understand that so we put out that series to give them the idea that you can find jobs that are about writing that are actually about writing. It’s something that you can actually love and it can be a skill that you can nurture and it can take you places. You just have to sometimes look beyond what’s right in front of you.

So we’re looking at ways to encourage young writers but also people who have always had that dream of writing and that love of writing but have never been able to either have the confidence to take it anywhere or really know where to go. We’re trying to give them both inspiration and excitement and enthusiasm but also the reality of the situation. 

For more information head to www.actwriters.org.au .

Locality

The day after our end of year issue hit the streets I flew to the capital of Vietnam, Saigon, then up to the beautiful city of Hanoi. For two weeks I traipsed solo down the long narrow country, and then flew to Bali to meet my boy for ten days of island hopping across Indonesia. On my first day in Saigon I sat in a bright yellow wicker chair at a bar on the corner of a crossroad in the backpackers district, drank a giant Bia Saigon and smoked a Champion, and watched a million motorbikes zip by. The Beatles crooned in the background. I was in a foreign country and yet somehow, listening to the music I love the most, I felt at home.

I had the same feeling in a restaurant on my first night in Hanoi. The music was faint so I had to strain an ear, but after a few seconds it became clear: Clare Bowditch. And following Divorcee by 23, some Bernard Fanning. Not even Powderfinger, but Fanning. “Who’s going to be next, Bob Evans!?” I wrote in my little black journal. Nope, it was Finley Quaye’s Even After All, which the Bossman had played during the final hours of the work year to calm my deadline nerves. And then, later that night at the reception of my hostel, Birds of Tokyo on the stereo. And then, a week later in the bar of my hostel in Hue, Augie March. I may have been far from home but each time I heard music from home it didn’t feel like it.

Throughout Vietnam I kept waiting to run into someone I knew; everyone who’s traveled abroad has at least one of those ‘uncanny coincidence’ stories. Three years ago at a sitar concert in Kerala in Southern India I heard an Australian voice. I didn’t know the girl but it turned out she lived a few streets away from me in Watson and was the cousin of one of the members of Me and the Grownups, the first band I interviewed face to face for BMA. It didn’t happen in Vietnam, but in Ubud in Bali I received a Facebook message from an old mate from back home in Alice whom I hadn’t seen for years: “Dude! I’m working at Manta Dive Gili Air! I just saw your name pop up on the computer I logged in to!” I’d left Gili Air the day before so my old mate and I didn’t catch up, but the uncanny coincidence I was expecting occurred, and was yet another reminder of home.

I’ve always loved the SBS News slogan “News from home, if you live in the world”. Some of us spend so long in the one place we sometimes forget there’s a whole world of new places to visit and perhaps one day call home. I made friends with a Californian guy who was working at the backpackers in Hue. He recently posted this on Facebook: “It is so amazing to be accepted into a local community in a country that is not your own. The people here have shown me not only acceptance but friendship and love… There is so much world to experience outside of our limited day to day life perspective that many seem to hold to in America. To all who have not truly traveled (not talking about vacation), I encourage you to immerse yourself in another culture, and if possible, share some of the benefits that we are blessed with living in the most wealthy country in the world.”

Mum, Dad, I’m moving to Vietnam!

All Ages

Welcome back, everybody!

To my disappointment, the first column of the year is not bearing the greatest of news. After years of watching the all ages scene in Canberra struggle to keep its head above water, I am sad to report a major loss. The youth services team of the Tuggeranong and Weston Creek Community Centres have unfortunately announced an end to all music events due to their funding not being renewed.  
The Youth Services Team were kind enough in their grief to issue the following press statement regarding the defunding:

“Over the past five years, Communities@Work’s Tuggeranong and Weston Creek Youth Centres have successfully presented All ages Music Shows to meet the current shortfall in venues in the ACT. These drug and alcohol free events offered young people access to live music performances in safe and supervised environments. The shows were often technically supported by young people involved in the live music production mentoring program The Live Sound Crew provided by Communities@Work. The program gave participants the opportunity to work alongside professional touring artists and gain valuable skills and experience, with the aim of opening up future employment pathways within the music industry.

Over the past five years, The Tuggeranong and Weston Creek Youth Centres hosted international, national and local artists, with combined audience numbers exceeding 6000. Artists included names such as Propagandhi, Four Year Strong, Evergreen Terrace, The Red Shore, Attack Attack, Heroes for Hire, Emmure, Dream on Dreamer and many more. Communities@Work’s Youth Services forged strong relationships with local and interstate music promoters during this period.

Due to recent changes in funding of the Youth Sector in the ACT, Tuggeranong and Weston Creek Youth Services will no longer have the capacity to host these music events. However, there will continue to be a Communities@Work Youth Engagement Worker in the Tuggeranong region who will be able to assist young people with referrals to other services and conduct limited activities.

The Communities@Work Youth Services team would like to thank the many young people who have attended its gigs, been involved with the Live Sound Crew and made our jobs so much fun. We would also like to thank all stakeholders for their support, as well as BMA Magazine. We have greatly enjoyed our involvement with Canberra's All Age music and look forward to any opportunities to be involved in the future.

For more information in regards to youth engagement in Tuggeranong please email youthservices@commsatwork.org or call 02 6126 9059.”

The Youth Services Team deserves a huge amount of appreciation for what they have given the community over the past five years. They have given us great entertainment, and even through their struggle remained 100% involved in the Canberra all ages music scene. I personally would also like to thank them for their commitment and hard work over the years, which unfortunately quite often goes unrecognised and for their constant involvement with BMA Magazine and with the all ages column in particular. This news comes as a huge shock and is a massive loss to the entire Canberra community. Sorry to have to deliver such horrible news in the first issue of the year, but I feel that it is very important to recognise the great work that they have done. Thank you.

Shaun Kirk

WHAT: Boogie blues extraordinaire
WHEN: Fri Jan 27
WHERE: Old Canberra Inn

Since the independent release of his award winning debut Cruisin’ in 2010, Shaun Kirk has been captivating audiences across the country with his charming style of boogie blues and soul. Kirk’s first full-length album Thank You for Giving Me the Blues sees the 23-year-old troubadour take a leap in musical maturity. His new release has all the passion and vigour you can ask for in a contemporary blues/soul record, and surrounded by a stomp box, tambourine, high hat, cymbal, kick and snare drum, his flair for playing six percussive sounds with his feet while delivering quality guitar and blues harmonica performances is undeniably impressive. 

Jungal and Faye Blais

WHAT: All girl double bill
WHEN: Sun Jan 22
WHERE: The Front

Melbourne all gal favourites Jungal and Canadian indie folk princess Faye Blais are returning to smash the socks off The Front. This will be the girls’ first and last tour for 2012 before leaving Australian shores to tour North America. Blais will hypnotise crowds with her mesmerising folk tunes and internationally praised vocals, while Jungal jump to the stage with a powerful rock roots set, pumping up crowds with foot stomping melodies. These two acts have been touring the globe together and the combination serves audiences a magical spread of sonic delights. 7.30pm, $10.

The Barons of Tang

WHAT: Your new favourite gypsy band
WHEN: Sun Jan 29
WHERE: The Phoenix

The Barons of Tang eat music and spit notes. They have toured all over the world with nothing but a dream to carry them and a collective bruise to keep them warm. They write music that is both obscure and eternal with themes of dirt and the underdog. The Barons of Tang are, in fact, a mini orchestra with the taste of blood on their lips and the devil in their hips and they will not go quietly into the night. Mixing Klezmer and Balkan feels with the jagged edges of punk and whatever’s lying around the kitchen, these guys are making waves in the duck pond.

Ungus Ungus Ungus supported by Yes/No

WHAT: Funk rock gypsy pop psychedelia
WHEN: Wed Feb 1
WHERE: The Front

Sydney-based Ungus Ungus Ungus are celebrating the forthcoming release of their second more-than-full-length album, Time For Your Bath. This progressive funk rock gypsy pop psychedelia outfit crafts a unique fusion of styles, leaping from one genre to the next without ever settling down for long enough to be pigeonholed. The band creates music that is at once accessible and challenging, familiar and weird. As explorative in their lyrically cryptic protest songwriting as they are in their genre-defying, multi-directional and technically profound instrumental explorations, Ungus Ungus Ungus are dedicated purveyors of original music. 7.30pm, $8.

100 hours of free music in five days

WHO: uniVibes
WHEN: Mon Feb 13 – Fri Feb 17
WHERE: All over ANU

During last year’s ANU O Week uniVibes put on 78 hours of live music in five days. All local, all free. This year there’ll be a third and larger stage running on the grass of Union Court, as well as a jazz/solo/duo stage under the willows at Teatro Vivaldi, an electronic stage on the deck of the ANU Bar, and a band/DJ stage in the centre of ANU. Throw in some house parties and it’ll be over 100 hours of free local music. Want to play? Get in touch now at univibes@gmail.com.au. Students are preferred but all local musicians are invited to this open community.

BMA Magazine Presents a Laneway Festival Sideshow

WHO: GIVERS and Portugal. The Man
WHEN: Wed Feb 8
WHERE: UC Refectory

Having been announced for Laneway’s Sydney and Melbourne events, GIVERS and Portugal. The Man will also be bringing their bright breed of psych-pop to Canberra along with special guests Guineafowl. All three bands are as renowned for their dynamic live performances as for their irresistible tunes. GIVERS’ In Light is a vibrant debut, bursting with invigorating melodies, shifting rhythms and an abundance of energy, while Alaskan quartet Portugal. The Man’s latest album In The Mountain In The Cloud is filled with pulsing riffs and rings true to the buoyant rock and roll style that has permeated each album since the band’s ‘06 debut. Tix through Ticketek.

Kick off 2012 with UC Live!

UC Live! are set to kick off 2012 in style with the return of O Yeah! on Friday Feb 3 and O No! on Friday Feb 10 in the brand spankin’ new university bar – Zierholz @ UC. O Yeah! was established in 2010 and its sibling gig O No! followed the year after in 2011, coming alive to celebrate O Week at UC for new uni students, returners and the greater Canberra music scene alike. This year O Yeah! is set to feature some of Australia’s freshest indie pop talent in Hungry Kids of Hungary, Loon Lake and Atluk. To keep the party going after O Week UC live! have brought together some of Australia’s finest party starters in Bumblebeez, Koolism and the Sosueme DJs for O No!. Tickets for both events are available through Moshtix. UC Live! is responsible for many of Canberra’s favourite music events. In the past two years they have delivered Groovin’ The Moo, Stonefest, All Our Friends, MAKEPOVERTYHISTORY 2010 and concerts from such artists as Lupe Fiasco, Dizzee Rascal and the Kaiser Chiefs to name a few. With a busy schedule on the calendar for 2012 with acts such as Lamb of God, GIVERS and Portugal. The Man it is looking to be yet another epic year for UC Live!  

For more information and to sign up for exclusive news and special offers head to uclive.com.au .

Roller Skate in the City

Garema Place is set to ignite this summer with a 450m2 open air roller skate rink – the first ever in Canberra. Skaters will be able to keep cool at the Garema Place ‘oasis’ with the large leafy trees that over hang the rink, multiple fan and mist machines and ‘skate through’ drinks stand. Special programming features from Wednesday to Sunday nights will include roller derby demonstrations, retro video discos, outdoor movie screenings and feature skate shows. The fun takes in the summer school holidays and continues right through to Sunday February 5. For all the info head to inthecitycanberra.com.au/skate .

Gum Ball Festival Line-Up

Rolling back into the secluded bush land confines of the Hunter Valley NSW, the eighth annual Gum Ball Music and Arts Festival is well and truly back for 2012 and will be held on Friday-Saturday April 27-28. Organisers have released a first round line-up that’s sure to entice the festival connoisseurs among us. It includes Brisbane’s favourite indie-pop heroes Custard, Sydney’s dreamy jungle folksters Jinja Safari, blues legend Ash Grunwald featuring critically acclaimed vocalists Vika and Linda Bull, Melbourne’s finest alt-country outfit Wagons, Darwin’s biggest soul export Sietta and a whole lot more. The festival provides camping and BYO options in a beautiful kick back country environment. Second round early bird tix are available through thegumball.com.au and Oztix.

Corinbank Crafternoon

Continuing the tradition of community art on site at Corinbank, the festival is proud to announce their first Crafternoon, which is happening at the Cook Community Hub from 10am ‘til 4pm on Saturday January 21. Ever since Corinbank first burst onto the scene in 2008, the art of the community has been celebrated on site. This year, Corinbank is throwing open its doors during the school holiday period for artisans of the Canberra community to join them in creating sustainable art to delight the eye and amaze the senses. The day is split up into two sessions and each one is limited to 20 spots. To register email visualarts@corinbank.com. Corinbank is running from March 2 – 4 in the Brindabella Mountains, with headliners including Josh Pyke, The Bamboos, Bonjah and Sietta. For full details visit corinbank.com .

Australia Celebrates Live

INXS will headline the Australia Celebrates Live concert on the lawns of Parliament House on January 25, and will be joined by Katie Noonan and The Captains, Sneaky Sound System, Spiderbait and The Potbelleez in the concert’s strongest line-up yet.

Irish born and Grammy nominated songwriter/performer Ciaran Gribbin, INXS’s new frontman, has worked with a range of artists including Snow Patrol, Madonna, Groove Armada and Paul McCartney. Since Gribbin joined the band in 2011 INXS has been touring solidly and continues to write and record new songs for their next album. Their new song UNITED in Australia will be launched at the Australia Celebrates Live concert, a treat for the Canberra audience. The celebrations kick off with the announcement of the Australian of the Year Awards at 6pm. The concert will commence at 7.45pm so arrive early, pack your picnic and get ready for a night of great Australian music. Visit www.australiaday.org.au for updates or follow them on the  Celebrate Australia Day facebook page.

Rachael Thoms & Luke Sweeting Duo

Members: Rachael Thoms (vocals) and Luke Sweeting (piano).

Describe your sound:

R: This is a tricky one as I think our sound is something that only happens when Luke and I play together. I find that I sing differently and I think differently when I'm working with him. We're definitely inspired by the New York contemporary jazz scene, as well as a more European, classically influenced sound. One thing is for sure, we don't ever try to sound like anyone else. We're just trying to be ourselves.

L: Chamber jazz, ethereal textures meeting sweet melodies and interesting harmony.

Who are your influences, musical or otherwise?

R: Personally, I am influenced by current jazz musicians/singers like Esperanza Spalding, Gian Slater, and Becca Stevens, as well as jazz greats like Carmen McRae and Wayne Shorter. At the moment I'm really inspired by some amazing 20th Century french classical composers like Lilli Boulanger, Francis Poulenc, and Olivier Messian. I think there are a lot of parallels between these composers and the jazz composers that I most admire.

L: Rach and I are both really inspired by some of Australia’s great duos: Macklin/Newcomb and Gian Slater/Will Poskitt. My composing style has been influenced by Florian Ross, Brad Mehldau, Avishai Cohen and various Aussie legends like Miroslav Bukovsky, Sandy Evans and others.

What’s the weirdest experience you’ve had whilst performing?

R: There is one weird experience that sticks in my mind...  Some mad Irish mates of mine (a brother - D, and sister - A) used to dare each other to do really crazy things in public for money. One night when I was gigging at a local pub, D dared A to flash her nipple at me without anyone else noticing. The thing was that I was supposed to see it and totally lose it without anyone knowing why. It worked so well on that one occasion that it became a bit of a regular occurrence at my gigs when the two of them were out together. Evil mates!!! 

L: One day I was performing for a charity auction, and the prize piece of the night was sitting on this large easel right next to us. We were on a bit of a break while the main speaker was working up some meaningful speech before auctioning the famous glass framed photograph, and we got the nod to move our gear off-stage. While moving I heard this unison gasp of about 100 people, as the crowd could obviously see it all happen in slow-mo: somehow by moving my keyboard stand away, it let the easel drop violently to the floor, smashing the glass frame, killing the speaker's mood, and ruining the main auction piece of the whole night!!

What’s your biggest achievement/proudest moment so far?

R:  Obviously, recording and releasing the album The Great Unknown with Luke was a huge achievement. I think we both learnt a lot about the process, the industry, ourselves, and each other. I had the opportunity to be part of some really cool gigs in 2011 too...  Supporting George Benson, opening the Capital Jazz Project, as well as playing a private dinner party at Dick Smith's property in Gundaroo.

L: Heading over to China to perform solo piano for the Shanghai World Expo was a great honour as well as winning the Sprogis Woods Composition Competition for my large jazz ensemble piece Sound Canvas.

What are your plans for the future?

R: I've just accepted my offer for Masters of Music at ANU, so that should keep me fairly busy for the next year or so. Luke and I are pretty pumped about getting the album on the road, so we hope to be doing some shows in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane, etc...  I have some ideas for recording projects and hope to continue collaborating with Luke, and I would really love to get overseas at the end of this year.

L: I’m heading up to Sydney next month to record a bunch of new tunes with my sextet, and I am heading to Korea in April to do some gigs with drummer extraordinaire, Namhoon Kim.

What makes you laugh?

R: My son, 30 Rock, Ricky Gervais, the sexy sax man on Youtube with his Careless Whisper prank (hysterical!!!).  Luke and I laugh a lot!  It doesn't take much to make me laugh...

L: I just discovered Waiting For Guinness’ The Southern Cross Song. Check it out for some Australia Day laughs!

What pisses you off?

R:  Luke is one of the most chilled and peaceful kind of guys that I know so he keeps me in check. Thankfully we work really well together and we're really close mates so there's not too many conflicts, and when we do disagree we just keep at it until we figure it out. I definitely bitch and moan about little things that piss me off on a regular basis...  But Luke is one cool customer.

What’s your opinion of the local scene?

R: Not being a local, I wasn't sure what to expect when I moved here four years ago, but I'm still regularly surprised and impressed by the wealth of diverse talent here. There is no shortage of great muso's around (although we could always do with a few more bass players) and there are a number of really interesting regular gigs worth supporting, as well as some really supportive venues. From a musician's perspective it can still be a bit of a struggle getting people to take music seriously as a job, so I think musicians can be really undervalued, but that's going to happen anywhere in Australia.

L:  I’ve noticed a big boom with the jazz/improv scene in the last little while. The amount of high quality bands and performers coming through Canberra has really blossomed in the last year. The birth of places like Jazz at the Loft and the new Capital Jazz Project are pretty exciting ways to get out and discover what’s going on.

What are your upcoming gigs?

Poachers Pantry, Feb 12, 12pm-3pm. Poachers Pantry, Feb 25, 12pm-3pm. The Pond, Spring Bank Rise Feb 22, 6.30pm-8.30pm. Alliance Francais, July 27, 7.30pm.

Contact info:
thoms.sweeting@gmail.com
www.facebook.com/rachaelthomslukesweetingduo
www.rachaelthomslukesweeting.bandcamp.com
www.rachaelthoms.com
www.lukesweeting.com

Noah Taylor & The Sloppy Boys - Live Free or Die!!! [Z Man Records]

Noah Taylor’s up there with my fav Australian actors. I find his thin pallid face and occasional lisp alluring, and who can deny his outburst of sharehouse fury in ...Felafel isn’t one of the funniest moments in Australian cinema. When I saw his name on the Homebake line-up in the guise of Noah Taylor & The Sloppy Boys I did, however, cringe a little; why’s he doing the actor-turned-singer thing? Turns out he’s actually been in various bands over the past few decades. This incarnation is the winner.

So the story goes Noah was on hols in Sydney (he’s lived in England for the past ten years) when a friend’s recording studio (BJB no less) suddenly became available. He penned six tracks in a week and recorded them with musical mates Ed Clayton-Jones (The Wreckery) and Cec Condon (The Mess Hall) in 24 hours. The result? Well, in the words of Nick Cave, it’s “a flat-out, freaked out masterpiece.”

The first time I spun Live Free Or Die!!! was on the Wednesday of our final working week of the year. By Friday it had bumped an unlucky contender and made it into my Top Ten. It’s become one of my favourite records of the year in the space of three days; such is the power of its ferocity and tenderness, salacious sentiments and crude humour, and unadulterated execution.  

Second track Fuck You, with its smashing cymbals and simple chords is the raunchiest, most honest confession of insatiability (“I wanna fuck you all night long / And all the next day too”) since QOTSA’s Make It Wit Chu. Holiday Sidewinder (what a name) from Bridezilla, who is Taylor’s goddaughter, lends her honeyed tones to Scary which really highlights Taylor’s lyrical genius: “I’m shittin’ my britches / And life is a bitch cos / I’m scared of falling in love”, while Dark and Lovely is as beautiful as it is menacing.

Live Free Or Die!!! is raw rock 'n' roll. It’s also bratty, occasionally incomprehensible punk (said Cave of the opener and title track “it surpasses all understanding… it’s thrills and chills all the way”). And in its quieter moments it’s whispered post-coital poetry.

It’s not often that a record can grab you by the hair and have its wicked way with you and become a true fav in a matter of days, but Live Free Or Die!!! has done exactly that.

Five copies of The Trip on DVD

The Trip is a largely improvised sitcom in which Steve Coogan plays a food critic for the UK's Observer who is joined on a working road trip by his friend Rob Brydon who fills in at the last minute when Coogan's romantic relationship falls apart. It’s a wickedly funny British comedy about the importance of friendship, fame and great food. We’ve got five copies to give away thanks to Madman. To win, email allan@bmamag.com and tell us who’s your favourite UK comedian of all time.

BMA Magazine Albums of 2011, The Antlers - Burst Apart

[Pod]

I have this job to thank for many things, namely nigh on three years of free gigs, festivals, film and theatre, an Olympic pool’s worth of tears of laughter, and the close friendship of some incomparable characters. I also have it to thank for this album.

I’d never heard of The Antlers before Burst Apart arrived at BMA HQ, its jewel case adorned with a sticker proclaiming “…Bon Iver’s intimacy, Arcade Fire’s ambition, Sigur Ros’ other-worldly reach and Flaming Lips’ psych experimentalism collide” – Uncut Magazine. I knew I’d love it before hearing a note.

Opener I Don’t Want Love is devastating; a heart-wrenching wallow in lead singer and guitarist Peter Silberman’s morning after despair. “I should have built better walls / Or slept in my clothes” he laments in a piercing, soaring falsetto that occasionally sounds feminine; the hint of androgyny augmenting the album’s ethereality. Parentheses conjures a rancorous ex lovers’ argument; its distorted guitars rip back and forth while a river of echoing electronic percussion and tweaked piano surges and swirls around Silberman’s indignant howl. “So close up your knees / And I’ll close your parentheses”. He’s been through relationship hell, but who hasn’t?

Extraordinarily, despite the album’s harrowing lyrical content, its atmosphere is strangely elevating, often reaching euphoric heights. The almost beatless Corsicana is the most beautiful song I’ve heard all year, and its transition into closer Putting The Dog To Sleep is sublime. Burst Apart’s glistening synth-laden melodies, sumptuous down-tempo dreamscapes and tender intimacy combine to create a master class in how to feel good about feeling bad. A vital lesson indeed.

BMA Magazine Albums of 2011, TV On The Radio - Nine Types of Light

[Interscope]  

Allan: There's something so reliable about a new TV On The Radio album, and at the level they operate at, that's nothing short of astounding. They release LPs with no dud tracks, not even mediocre ones; each song that ends has you immediately yearning to hear it again until the next one plays and you're swept up once more. They take full advantage of their five core members and 17 guest instrumentalists to deliver joyous ‘rock’ that has their music described in a manner usually reserved for wines (depth, complexity, richness) without resorting to experimental ethereal nonsense; their songs are inclusive and will have you gleefully braying along. Nine Types of Light also serves as a timely testament to bass player Gerard Smith, who died shortly after the album's release. I could think of no greater legacy to leave behind.

Julz: TV On The Radio must be one of the most reliable bands on the planet. Everything they release is magic. Fourth LP Nine Types of Light is nine types of awesome. It’s diverse, it’s intricate, it’s frenetic, it’s laced with ridiculously good falsetto, it’s got luscious string and vibrant horn sections and effortlessly cool beats, it’s explosive, it’s intelligent, it’s funky and it’s beautiful. Nine reasons to go and buy it now. Their set at Sydney’s Harvest Festival was my live music highlight of the year; Repetition and Caffeinated Consciousness had me dancing like a frenzied loon. This is music to soundtrack your life with, so get on it. You’ll never look back.

Uninhibited

If you take stock of your efforts over the past set of 12, and if you’re anything like me, you come up short. So much was planned. Many good intentions. Perhaps I got halfway there in 2011. And maybe that’s a fair result. But in a place like Canberra it always seems like there is so much more to do.

Over the past few months I’ve attempted to claim a little space in this column for the exaltation of the local. To focus your eye on what’s under your nose. A flick through these efforts seems to reflect a voice hell bent on all that is good in this town, but don’t assume that it’s easy to be upbeat. These columns mask a suite of frustrations that won’t be unfamiliar to residents. This place brims with potential, occasionally nails it, but more often than not seems hamstrung by its own icy reputation.

The point of my monthly missives, and of a lot of the work I’ve seen and loved this year is the same – to put a rocket under those living here, and stake a claim for the capital as a premier creative space.

If I’m pushed to list some highlights I could point toward the You Are Here Festival which casually articulated everything that passionate art freaks in this town want and need – grassroots, brimming with vitality, providing satisfying and challenging work across the spectrum.

Another was an out of town event that will probably live in the memory of the few who made the road trip to Braidwood in deep winter. A bunch of Canberry locals shoehorned themselves into the Braidwood pub and saw blistering, heart-rending sets by The Hoodlum Shouts and Voss. The Shouts look poised to have a huge 2012, with the advance word on their LP Young Man Old Man being that it’s a cracker. Voss were playing their final show that night, before a hiatus that will hopefully end sometime soon. The night itself though was bigger than all that.

What I think we want from our musical experiences is that congregational, massed voices thing. The communal exchange. Braidwood reflected everything that is good and great about the Canberra arts community by presenting two bands as good as any you’ll find in the land, and a small band of friends and strangers who sang along, magnified by the out of town aspect. The singing was especially loud that night. The road trip and the Braidwood ale smashed the familiar Canberra diffidence. It was good to hear these acts receive some adulation, and to hear a full voiced crowd who knew the words to songs penned here, without the guarantee of an audience to hear them. It felt like the culmination of some work, and a hint at what could be. More please.

Locality

"Well with this and stonefests “re-organization” I think we can pretty safely say goodbye to music festivals in Canberra. Dam Shame.” (sic)

This was one of the comments made in response to Mission to Launch’s announcement on their Facebook page that the NYE festival had been axed. 2011 was the year for it, with Great Southern Blues, Funk n Grooves (rural NSW), Rewind ‘80s and Perth’s One Movement suffering the same fate: poor ticket sales. Sydney’s Good Vibes sent out a last minute SOS offering half price tickets, Splendour failed to sell out for the first time in years, and at the time of writing not one leg of Big Day Out 2012 has sold out, despite being on sale since mid-October. When you’ve grown accustomed to virtually instant sell outs that’s gotta put a furrow in your brow.

‘Festival fatigue’ is the term most often employed when discussing the downturn of major festivals. Audiences have contracted because as they’ve grown and their ticket prices along with them, they’ve failed to grow better. Headliners are recycled and have become ho hum, and Southern Cross tattoos and borange brigades (bronzer + orange fake tan = borange – thanks to Chanel Cole for that one) reign supreme. When I went to my first BDO in ’04 I doubt The Festival Bogan even existed, and it was honestly one of the best days of my teenage years. I’ve been to ten since, and this is the first year as editor I’ve gladly offered up my media accreditation.

When I was halfway through penning this column I received a PR with the subject “Festival of the Sun sells out”. FOTSUN is a two day, 3,000 capacity, 18+ BYO festival held at Port Macquarie. I shot an email to their PR person asking if their programmer could answer a quick Q. Now that the majors are starting to struggle, is the time of the boutique festival now? Says Scott Mesiti, “I think festivals need to think like the bands that play at them… people fall in love with you on their own terms. Fan loyalty goes a long way and I think is a big key to having a sustainable event in this current climate. We’ve found with FOTSUN, not only do we want loyalty from our customers but they also expect loyalty from us in ensuring that we continue to offer a unique and intimate experience.”

Goodbye to music festivals in Canberra? Far from it. We’ve got two unique and intimate festivals of our very own. Summer Rhythm Festival and Corinbank have been two of the shining stars in my lengthy list of fests. If you long for stimulating music in gorgeous, environmentally conscious surrounds, with a friendly and considerate atmosphere that is, in my experience, devoid of the clientele that trashed the Parliamentary Triangle at the end of November, you needn’t look further than these two.

I hope you enjoy our end of year issue, dear readers. I said in my end of year column last year that it would be the last time I ever put together a 72 page street rag. I guess I kept that promise to myself as this edish is a whopping, record breaking 88. Oof. It’s been a right royal laff, believe me. For the hundredth time this year: I love my job.

All Ages

To raise money to go tour over in New Zealand, one of Canberra’s most adored pop punk acts, Drawing North, will be holding a Christmas party at Alliance Youth in Calwell. Joining them on their mission and Christmas celebrations will be local acts Martha Moxley, The London Town Fire, When Giants Sleep, Ameliah Brown and Flynn. The boys have also instructed their audience to come dressed in anything Christmas themed, and by doing so you have a chance to win a number of great prizes. The party starts at 6.30pm on Saturday December 10. Tickets cost $10 (+ bf) online or $15 at the door.

I regret to inform you all that the New Year’s Eve party Mission to Launch has been cancelled due to poor ticket sales.

From Saturday-Sunday December 10-18, Australian stand-up icon Carl Barron will hit the capital with all his comedic force on his latest tour A One Ended Stick. You can laugh ‘til you cry. Doing a huge eight shows at The Canberra Theatre Centre due to popular demand, you know that you are in for a great time. Tickets cost $49.50 through Canberra Ticketing. Each show starts at 8pm.

Coming up in the heat of January is the annual Summernats Car Festival at Exhibition Park. This festival has become an icon of Canberra, attracting car lovers from all over the country for this three day event starting Thursday January 5 at 12pm. Alongside the array of car-related competitions, there will also be a well chosen line-up of bands to set the mood, including Drapht, The Screaming Jets, Children Collide, Nat Col & the Kings, Syndicate, Atlantis Awaits, Heaven The Axe and Night Train. Please go to the Summernats website for ticket prices and purchases.

In 2012, the Alliance Youth Hall will have the pleasure of hosting a unique act all the way from Los Angeles. The Red Paintings will bring to Canberra what they call orchestral art rock, which will take you on an unforgettable journey from the second you step through the door. They will pass through the capital on their Black Paintings tour at 5pm on Thursday January 12. Tickets cost just $22 (+ bf) through any Moshtix outlet, and believe me, it is worth every cent.

The Melbourne International Comedy Festival is on the hunt for Australia’s funniest teen as part of the 2012 Class Clowns competition. Think this could be you? Registrations are now open for anybody between 14 and 18 years old! All you need to do is create an original five minute stand-up, sketch or musical parody routine, and make it through the heats! You could then find yourself at the 2012 Class Clowns competition grand final in Melbourne. So register now for your chance to perform your routine in front of a real audience live at The Canberra Theatre Centre on Friday March 2, after a workshop with a professional stage comedian. You can register and perform as a solo act, a duo or even a trio. For more information or to register go to the Class Clowns section of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival website.

With 2011 coming to a close, I hope that it has been a great year for all of you. This being the last issue of BMA Magazine until 2012, I wish you all a Merry Christmas and all the best in the New Year!

Elaine Camlin

What do you do?

I am a visual artist primarily working in print media and drawing.

When did you get into it?

Even as a child I had always wanted to become an artist but I really started focusing on the area in high school.

Who or what influences you as an artist?

I am fascinated by bones, skeletons and carcases, and by the nature of decay ever-present in the Australian landscape. Georgia O’Keeffe has become an important influence; akin to my art practice she has collected bones, isolating the subject from its natural environment, in doing so she can focus on representing its structure. Her use of negative space has animated her imagery of bones; the coloured grounds she creates allow the form to float in space, abstracting it.

What’s your biggest achievement/proudest moment so far?

My biggest achievement would have to be completing Art School. In this environment I was able to develop my practice and be involved in many student exhibitions.

What are your plans for the future?

I am excited to begin Honours in Fine Arts next year, and am hoping to exhibit with some other graduates from Art School. Eventually I would like to own my own art studio to help establish other emerging artists.

What makes you laugh?

My friends and family make me laugh but I also often laugh at myself. I have an odd sense of humour…

What pisses you off?

People who are arrogant, selfish and who put other people down piss me off.

What’s your opinion of the local scene?

I think there are a lot of talented local emerging artists and I am excited for the future of contemporary art in Canberra and hope to be a part of it.

What are your upcoming performances/exhibitions?

I have work in the Graduating Exhibition at the Canberra Art School and am also involved in a student exhibition titled Never Mind the Painting which is to be held in an empty shopfront at Baileys Corner, Civic in mid-December.

Contact info:

elaine_camlin@hotmail.com

The Final BAD!SLAM!NO!BISCUIT! for 2011

WHO: Canberra people who like to SHOUT things into microphones
WHEN: Weds Dec 21
WHERE: The Phoenix

BAD!SLAM!NO!BISCUIT! is to Canberra's poetry scene what your Uncle Reg is to the brandy meant for the Christmas pud – we secretly drink it all while locked in the women's toilets of the leagues club, waste it, so no one else gets any, and then vomit it up on your shoulder while you're trying to watch It's A Wonderful Life. The last BAD!SLAM!NO!BISCUIT! for the year promises to be even more ramshackle than usual with people disappearing for the Christmas break. Bring your poems, rants, and that graphic series of sexy letters you wrote to Allan Sko that were seized by the AFP, and get down with Hadley, Andrew Gayland, The Master of Conflict and The Score Adder, and super special guests The Brass Knuckle Brass Band. Free. Sign up from 7.30pm, poetry starts at 8. Probably.

RAW Comedy National Heats

WHO: Budding comedians
WHEN: Now open!
WHERE: Canberra heat is at Tilley’s on Thurs March 8

What do Chris Lilley, Josh Thomas, Peter Helliar and Tim Minchin all have in common?

Before becoming some of Australia’s most recognisable names in comedy, they all finessed their funny and took on RAW Comedy, Australia’s biggest and most prestigious annual open mic comedy competition. RAW Comedy, a Melbourne International Comedy Festival initiative has been launching the careers of countless comedians since 1996. Once again they are set to scour the country in a bid to lure out humourists hiding in the offices, workplaces, classrooms, pubs and homes throughout our neighbourhoods. For all the info and to register head to rawcomedy.com.au .

Exhibition – Wall Works

WHO: Six local artists
WHEN: Wed Dec 7 – Thurs Dec 22
WHERE: ANCA Gallery

Six local artists will transform the gallery by working directly on the walls. Byrd with Hanna Hoyne, Mariana del Castillo with Gus McGrath and Alex Asch, Nicci Haynes, Tess Horwitz and Paul Summerfield. The exhibition is curated by Narelle Phillips. The gallery will be open to visitors from Wednesday December 7 onwards, to observe some of the wall works being created. The official opening will be on Wednesday December 14 from 6pm, with live local music.

Exhibition - Snap!

WHO: Young people aged 10-14
WHEN: Mon Dec 12 – Fri Jan 13, opening Dec 15
WHERE: Belconnen Gallery

Back in the old days photos were made of light reacting with chemicals. You couldn’t see them instantly but had to wait for them to develop. Participants aged 10-14 in the Snap! project were loaned 35mm film cameras that were donated by community members. Award winning Belconnen based photographer Lee Grant taught them about film photography as art and as journalism and about how to tell a story with photos. Now these works are being exhibited. Snap! is an initiative of Belconnen Community Service’s Community Development Program.

Us Folk Magazine

WHAT: Call for submissions
WHEN: Now until Sun Jan 15, 2012 
WHERE: Canberra and the surrounding region

Are you a young and emerging writer, artist, designer or photographer seeking to have your work published? Us Folk is a new bi-monthly magazine aimed at young Canberrans who have a keen interest in the arts, and aren't ashamed to call this city home. They are currently seeking submissions of articles, short stories, art, comics, photography and illustration for the first issue of Us Folk. They are also interested in featuring community groups and small businesses that support the arts in Canberra. To find out more about contributing, advertising or sponsorship visit usfolkmag.com or email email@usfolkmag.com. Submissions of content close Sunday January 15, 2012.

The Tall Man

WHO: Director Tony Krawitz
WHEN: Four screenings throughout December
WHERE: Arc Cinema, National Film and Sound Archives

Some of the story is familiar: the death of Cameron Doomadgee in a police cell on Palm Island. The coroner’s case that decided Senior Sergeant Chris Hurley had no case to answer; the aftermath as community outrage led to the burning down of the police station. The Street commission that reversed the coroner’s decision, then the subsequent trial – the first for manslaughter of an active Queensland police officer – with horrific revelations that Doomadgee’s injuries were like those of a fatal car crash, although the police claimed he had tripped on a step. Queensland police union’s threats of strike action, and the unsatisfying and controversial not guilty verdict that resolved little… given on the same day the Howard government announced the Intervention. This is a very different social justice documentary, which takes on a much wider brief than just the facts of the case. nfsa.gov.au .

Three copies of Zombie Flick The Dead on DVD

BMA Magazine head honcho Allan Sko said this of zombie flick The Dead: "The Dead switches the familiar American city setting for the wide sunny plains of Africa and does away with the trend of running zombies/infected to favour the slow, shuffling kind. And to great effect. The flat sunny setting forces the Ford Brothers to be clever with creating tension, relying more on an effective slow creeping dread and less on cheap shock moments where the soundtrack is clumsily ratcheted to 11. The characters are intelligent and sympathetic thus doing away with many frustrating moments of the genre, allowing us to genuinely fear for their well-being. This is a solid zombie think piece with an apt ending that lingers in the mind afterwards. And yes vouchers for viscera; it’s not without moments of genuine gorey awesomeness.”

And he slapped a four star review on it to boot. If that sounds like your thing, we have three copies to give away. To win, email allan@bmamag.com and your plan for the zombie apocalypse.

Three copies of The Beaver on DVD

Jodie Foster directs and co-stars with Mel Gibson in The Beaver, an emotional story about a man on a journey to rediscover his family and re-start his life. Plagued by his own demons, Walter Black (Gibson) was once a successful toy executive and family man who now suffers from depression. No matter what he tries, Walter can't seem to get himself back on track... until a beaver hand puppet enters his life. No beaver jokes please. We have three Blu Ray copies to give away courtesy of Icon Home Entertainment. To win, email allan@bmamag.com and tell us about the kind of hand puppet that you’d employ.

Five copies of Terrence Malick’s Tree of Life

An impressionistic story of a Midwestern family in the 1950's, Terrence Malick's Tree of Life follows the life journey of the eldest son, Jack, through the innocence of childhood to his disillusioned adult years as he tries to reconcile a complicated relationship with his father (Brad Pitt). Jack (played as an adult by Sean Penn) finds himself a lost soul in the modern world, seeking answers to the origins and meaning of life while questioning the existence of faith. You know, the easy stuff. Terrence Malick people. Malick! Terrence Malick! We have three Blu Ray copies to give away courtesy of Icon Home Entertainment. To win, email allan@bmamag.com

Five copies of Tim Minchin and the Heritage Orchestra - Live at the Royal Albert Hall

Comedy rock super star, recent Helpmann Award winner and musical comedy genius, Tim Minchin brings his biggest live show ever to DVD and Blu-Ray. This show includes brand new songs as well as those much loved Minchin classics, but this time, as you've never heard them before – with the backing of a 55-piece Heritage orchestra in England’s most prestigious venue; Salford Tesco's. No, wait. Royal Albert Hall. That's better. We have five copies to give away courtesy of Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. To win, email allan@bmamag.com with a Youtube link to your favourite musical comedy sketch.

The Hangover Part II prize pack

The Wolfpack is back in The Hangover Part II. Phil (Bradley Cooper), Stu (Ed Helms), Alan (Zach Galifianakis) and Doug (Justin Bartha) travel to Thailand for Stu's wedding. However, things don't go as planned, and a night of wild partying leaves the Wolfpack with no memory of the night before and no idea how to find the bride’s missing brother. Or his finger. Oops – delayed spoiler alert. Sorry. The prize pack includes:

1 x Hangover Part II on Blu-Ray combo pack
1 x Hangover Part II T-shirt
1 x Hangover Part II Hat
1 x Pack of Hangover Part II iPhone stickers
1 x Hangover Part II Travel Mug

Thanks to Warner Home Video we’ve got one of these babies to throw your way. To win, email allan@bmamag.com and tell us about your worst hangover ever.

Five copies of Army of Darkness: Screwhead Edition

Cult star Bruce Campbell (Evil Dead) reunites with director Sam Raimi (Spider Man) to battle the lethal forces of evil in Army of Darkness – the outrageous, effects-fuelled action epic that will make you scream with fear and laughter. Forced to lead a makeshift Dark Ages army against the demonic Deadites, who possess all the deadly magic of hell, the shotgun-toting, chainsaw-armed, reluctant 20th Century time traveller Ash (Campbell) must save the living from the dead, rescue his medieval girlfriend and get back to his own time. One of the most popular horror-comedies of all time, now digitally remastered with bonus features and featuring 5.1 surround sound, Army of Darkness Screwhead Edition is drop-dead fun. Thanks to Via Vision we’ve got five copies to throw your way. To win, email allan@bmamag.com

Five copies of B5 Bonanza: The Official Season One

The most iconic Western Series of all time has been digitally remastered. Welcome to The Ponderosa! The Cartwright's thousand-square-mile Ponderosa Ranch is located near Virginia City, Nevada, site of the Comstock Silver Lode, during and after the Civil War. Each of the sons was born to a different wife of Ben Cartwright, each helping protect the ranch and local community from Lynch mobs, outlaws and claim jumpers. Now digitally remastered, this larger than life iconic western TV show is a must have for collectors as this set features loads of bonus footage and 17 previously unreleased episodes. Thanks to Via Vision we’ve got five copies to throw your way. To win, email allan@bmamag.com and tell us about your favourite Western of all time.

Cell Block 69 annual Chrimbo show

Cell Block 69 are back! Unbelievably, the band are reforming for the tenth year in a row to perform at ANU Bar on Friday December 23. Once a year Cell Block 69 return for a night of glorious pop rock complete with back-lit Venetian blinds, coloured-smoke machines, sax solos, stadium rock poses and audience members falling to their knees with fists clenched tight in the international rock language for “feelin-it”. Cell Block’s patented Last Ever Show will see the ANU transform into a Rock Stadium, as the band guide the audience through a cornucopia of hits that were ‘tragically stolen’ from them by other, more celebrated, artists. The band, whose stunning ‘80s musicianship is matched only by their wardrobes, will perform their new wave masterpieces, ‘90s mega-mixes and trash rock anthems. This will be a truly unmissable night of retro pop. Cell Block 69 will be joined by legendary Viking rock maestros Knight Hammer. Tix through Ticketek.

MusicACT accepting members from Jan 1

MusicACT is a new peak body providing a voice for Canberra’s music industry. Its current activities include standing up for small venues on the issue of liquor licensing, pushing for the inclusion of a music presence at the proposed Kingston Arts Precinct, professional development workshops in 2012 covering music production, touring, management and promotion, and delivering a comprehensive ACT venue directory. They’re accepting members from Jan 1 so head to musicact.com.au to get involvedand stay tuned to these pages for regular updates.

National SLAM Day

On February 23 last year, the SLAM rally saw 20,000 people march through Melbourne in protest against the Victorian Government’s misguided policy link between live music and violence. The SLAM rally was the largest cultural protest in Australia’s history. Now all of Australia has the opportunity to participate in a national event that celebrates our local musicians in our small venues. Music communities around Australia are now invited to unite in support of our thriving live culture by hosting their own National SLAM Day on Thursday February 23. Support your local artists and venues by getting out and experiencing the spontaneous excitement and intimacy you can only get at a small venue. For all the info head to slamrally.org .

The Beautiful Girls down the coast

At the precise moment it’s no longer possible to walk across the bitumen barefoot, a ripple effect happens – mangoes fill the esky, seat belts start to scald and The Beautiful Girls hit the highwayto bring their summer glow to the South Coast. Join them for a chilli mojito at Narooma Golf Club on Wednesday December 28.

Cavalera Conspiracy at ANU Bar

Performing for the first time in Oz, Cavalera Conspiracy are peeling off a Canberra sideshow from their Big Day Out tour. Cavalera Conspiracy was created by Max and Iggor, the brothers who formed the legendarily trailblazing heavy metal band Sepultura. Across six albums they perfected the art of metal while exploring the underbelly of third world political issues culminating with the landmark Roots album in ‘96. Max left Sepultura and formed Soulfly in the late ‘90s, with seven albums under the studded belt. Iggor stayed in Sepultura for a few more albums before splitting himself in ‘06. Less than two years later the metal world was turned upside down by the debut album from Cavalera Conspiracy. You can see Max and Iggor Cavalera unleash Cavalera Conspiracy in Canberra at the ANU Bar on Friday Jan 27. Tix through Ticketek.

Incubus at Royal Theatre

Multi-platinum alt/funk rockers Incubus are heading our way in Feb in support of their seventh album If Not Now, When?. They’ll be playing the Royal Theatre on Saturday Feb 4. It’ll be a greatest hits affair with the likes of Drive, Pardon Me, and Wish You Were Here as well as songs from their latest offering. Frontman Brandon Boyd describes it as “darker, slower, more rich, more refined, and more involved than anything Incubus has birthed to date.” Tix go on sale at 9am on Thurs Dec 8 through Ticketek.

Andrew Mayo, Rock Photographer Extraordinaire

Long time BMA Mag family member Andrew Mayo snapped our cover shot of Iggy at the Sydney Big Day Out on Australia Day this year. Says Mayo, “It was close to 40 degrees and I was on the verge of vomiting from heatstroke… And there’s Iggy, at the ripe old age of 63, showing the young ‘uns how it’s done.” Mayo, we salute you. Thanks a million mate.

Bass in the Place

WHO: Band, DJs, fireworks
WHEN: Sat Dec 31
WHERE: Garema Place

Count down the year to the beat of Australia’s best DJs. Local stars VJ Insan3 and DJ Rush will get the party started at 9pm, before DJ Rawson dominates the dancefloor with his creativity and skills behind the decks. See in 2012 with dance legend Chris Fraser, spinning the biggest dance hits of the year. From 7pm Civic Square will be the place for families and music lovers of all ages to enjoy performances by Ian Moss and Canberra bands The Bridge Between and Heuristic. There’ll be fireworks at 9pm and midnight, with the midnight fireworks set to a soundtrack bringing in the New Year. Both events are free.  

Summer music lovers

WHAT: Summer Sounds in the Gardens
WHEN: Saturdays and Sundays throughout January
WHERE: National Botanic Gardens Eucalypt Lawn

Relax and enjoy Summer Sounds in the Gardens, Canberra’s popular outdoor summer music concert series running every Saturday and Sunday from 5.30pm – 7.30pm throughout Jan. Bring your family and friends, a picnic and enjoy a sensational line-up of live music in the beautiful surrounds of the Eucalypt Lawn. A new feature for 2012 will be the vibrant dance demonstrations which will feature everything from swing to salsa. Cold bar sales will be provided by Friends of the Gardens and sizzling BBQs by Rotary and Lions Clubs. There’ll also be free children’s activities. Entry is by donation to Friends of the Gardens. For the full line-up head to anbg.gov.au/gardens .

Beth n Ben

WHAT: Summer of Balmy Bandy Festival Fun and Tour Times
WHEN: Various dates
WHERE: Various locations

Beth n Ben have been getting a bunch of love off the back of the first single Back of the Line from their recently released sophomore EP Economy Class. It’s been picked up by radio and attracted the attention of festival directors and venue bookers. Having only ever toured as a duo, Beth n Ben are looking forward to taking the band on the road for a series of festival slots and gigs including Summer Rhythm Festival, Peats Ridge, venue gigs around Northern NSW and South East Queensland in Jan and the brand new Northern Beaches Festival in Sydney in February. For all the dates head to myspace.com/bethnben .

Juke Baritone & The Swamp Dogs

WHAT: Psycholonial stomp
WHEN: Sat Jan 14
WHERE: The Front 

"Maniacal". "Brilliant". "Belligerent". "Legendary" – these are just some of the words used to describe the utterly intoxicating Juke Baritone as he's travelled the world with his rascally troupe of manic noisemakers, assaulting audiences with his tall tales of bad love, good times and the evils of the world. They’ve played The Famous Spiegeltent at Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide Festivals, they’ve played The Sydney Opera House, they’ve played Woodford, Harvest and Corinbank, and now they’re set to play The Front. Horns will scream. Guitars will screech. And the audience will go wild as they dance and chant along to this uniquely Australian sounding "psycholonial stomp". Supported by Cat Dog Monkey. 8pm, $10.  

The Red Paintings

WHAT: Prog/theatrical rock
WHEN: Thurs Jan 12
WHERE: Tuggeranong Alliance Youth Centre

The Red Paintings are a progressive rock/theatrical performance group who incorporate themed costumed stage shows, live art, visual projections (working with local and international artists), and human canvases. The bands’ sound and live show is described by fans and press as orchestral art rock. At each show, artists and audience members are encouraged to join the band on stage to express (through painting) their individual visions through connecting with the music.  In addition to painting on traditional canvases, the artists also paint on human canvases. Each Red Paintings stage show is a unique collaboration between the audience, art and the band. Tix through Moshtix.

The Woohoo Review

WHAT: Furious gypsy music, with Fun Machine in support
WHEN: Thurs Jan 12
WHERE: Transit Bar

It’s hard to believe it but The Woohoo Revue, the fiendishly talented sextet who always create an adrenalin-fuelled celebration fit for dancing, drinking, and ignoring tomorrow, have not played Canberra this year. In previous years you could have been forgiven for thinking they’re a local band considering the number of times they’ve played here. But no, 2011 will not see a notoriously rambunctious Woohoo gig, but 2012 will. Two days before this gig they will have finished recording their second album and will be celebrating their trumpeter’s birthday, so you can be assured of one hell of a party. $10 at the door.

The Architect DJs

WHAT: NYE at Transit
WHEN: Sat Dec 31
WHERE: Transit Bar

Architect DJs and friends have your New Year’s Eve covered. 2011 saw a massive year at Transit where indie was king, and The Architect DJs are having one last blow out to finish off the year in style. Join them for a night of straight up party jams with a focus on all the music that made 2011 great. The night will feature all your favourite Transit party starters and of course The Architect DJs who have had a massive 2011 on the back of a number of residencies at Transit. In their own words, “get ready for some midnight pashing and dancefloor thrashing.”

Party By Jake

WHAT: A Very Shady Xmas Eve
WHEN: Sat Dec 24
WHERE: Transit Bar 

The silly season is upon us, and according to Party By Jake, a bender on Christmas Eve is about as silly as it gets. PBJ invites you to throw on some rubbish shades and come on down for a good ol’ romp at Transit Bar. A sack-full of party tunes will be supplied by Party By Jake's lil helpers: Eddie Shaggz, Chairman Wow, Princi, Chachachar and Celebrity Sex Tape. Throw in a few Christmas surprises and A Very Shady Xmas Eve (sunglasses at night theme) will be the best preparation for your Steve Buscemi eyes come Christmas morning. Free.

Fred Smith Band

WHAT: Fred Smith's Orphan’s Christmas
WHEN: Sat Dec 24
WHERE: The Phoenix

It's been a massive year for Fred Smith with rave reviews in the national papers for his album Dust Of Uruzgan, a collection of songs inspired by his 18 month tour of Afghanistan as an Australian Diplomat. After a lengthy tour of Oz, Smith returns for his annual Christmas Eve gig at The Phoenix with the old gang of Pete and Fiete and Gregor Murray (The Fuelers). It's always a big night as locals and ex-pats catch up and prepare for the days ahead with a little night cap and three sets of rock and roll all for the cost of naught. From 9pm.

Aeroplane

WHAT: Touring in support of In-Flight Entertainment
WHEN: Sat Dec 10
WHERE: Trinity Bar

For the last two years Aeroplane has been carefully selecting the best electronic music released every month to turn it into the Aeroplane Chart Mixes. These mixes have gained a lot of attention on the Aeroplane Soundcloud, with each mix getting between 30,000 and 45,000 plays and quickly becoming blogosphere favourites. The next step was to make it ‘official’. It became a stupidly popular radio show called In-Flight Entertainment, and then a mix CD of the same name. With this history, an Aeroplane compilation couldn’t be anything simple, it needed to be special; experience just how special when he plays Trinity in support of it.

Fox and Fowl, Lavers, and Fun Machine

WHAT: FasterLouder Christmas Party
WHEN: Sat Dec 10
WHERE: The Front

To celebrate another great year in local music, FasterLouder Canberra is throwing a Christmas bash complete with the finest in local talent and copious quantities of tinsel. On December 10, head down to The Front, grab yourself a cider and jive to the sounds of Lavers, Fox & Fowl and Fun Machine, and help FasterLouder toast a year of fantastic talent and amazing gigs. Leave your inner Grinch at home as it’s time to deck the halls and get all kinds of merry. Tacky Christmas earrings are optional, but encouraged. Bands kick off at 7.30pm. Free.

Rapskallion and Mr Fibby

WHAT: A night of true mayhem
WHEN: Thurs Dec 8, 8pm, $10
WHERE: The Front

Rapskallion will be launching their new EP The Cat and Fiddle in a blaze of sweat, colour, feathers and accordion powered riffage. The EP is a collection of musical vignettes from a realm inhabited by back alley gangster felines, femme fatales, and silver moon maidens, with a soundtrack somewhere between a Chicago speakeasy, a Hungarian hoedown, and a Halloween party at a South Seas pirate haven. Joining them will be Mr Fibby, who on the following Saturday night (Dec 10) will be having their fourth listening party at Smiths for their radio play Mr Fibby’s Excellently Disappointing Adventure Time, which you can also hear on 2XX at 9pm or stream on mrfibby.com .

Hence the Testbed

Where did your band name come from?

We tried for ages to think of an awesome band name but couldn’t come up with one. In the end we had to settle for Hence the Testbed as it confused instead of polarised. There is a whole story behind how the phrase came about too but we have been court ordered not to speak about it until 2019.

Group members:

Sam (guitars and vox), Ad (drums and vox) and Kirky (bass and vox).

Describe your sound:

Grunge, prog, folk, metal, lounge, rock and stoner to name a few but I guess it might just depend on what one of our songs you might like and on what night you catch us.

Who are your influences, musical or otherwise?

The super corny but truthful answer to this at the moment is each other. We never really try to write a song, they just seem to bumble out of their own accord and we wrestle them to the ground and kick them in to shape.

What’s the weirdest experience you’ve had whilst performing?

Two girls making out. That’s not the weird part though. We didn’t see what was happening at the time and discovered that when the crowd is cheering, they aren’t necessarily cheering for you.

What’s your biggest achievement/proudest moment so far?

Playing at Summer Rhythm 2011 will be a massive highlight for us and one that is going to be hard to top in 2012, but we will try. Maybe Sam could do a nudie run through Civic!

What are your plans for the future?

We really need to record soon so we can clear the current rotation and beat another bunch of songs into submission. Other than that it’s just the usual stocking up on zombie killing supplies. It’s going to go down, it’s just a matter of when. We aren’t going to get caught out.

What makes you laugh?

That awesome face that someone makes the second they realise they have done something really, really stupid and there is no way they can recover.

What pisses you off?

Running out of beer.

What’s your opinion of the local scene?

We haven’t had too many gigs yet as we are pretty fresh out of the garage, but it seems pretty good. Every time we play there are some other amazing bands on the bill blowing us away.

What are your upcoming gigs?

Summer Rhythm 2011 is our next show! We also try to update the website as much as is humanly possible so all our upcoming gigs should be there.

Contact info:

hencethetestbed.com

Graduating Exhibition of 2011

WHO: ANU School of Art Graduates
WHEN: Opening on Fri Dec 2 at 6pm. Duration Sat Dec 3 – Sun Dec 11.
WHERE: ANU School of Art

With over 130 exhibiting artists across the entire ANU School of Art, the Graduating Exhibition is one of the biggest exhibitions in the ACT Arts programme. This year’s exhibition features the works of students completing their studies in Bachelor of Visual Arts Honours, Bachelor of Visual Arts, Bachelor of Digital Arts and the Diploma of Art. Students have majored in wood, textiles, sculpture, print media and drawing, photography and media arts, painting, gold and silversmithing, glass and ceramics. The works are displayed in the School of Art Gallery, Foyer Gallery, Photospace and in Workshop spaces throughout the School. Many of the works are for sale and provide a great opportunity to support the recent graduates.

Six RocKwiz Prize Packs

The RocKwiz Christmas shows in 2007 and 2009 are sparkling jewels in the RocKwiz Live crown ... held at St Kilda's Palais Theatre, they have featured Australia's brightest stars, extra songs and festive surprises along with all your favourite segments. This year Julia Zemiro, Brian Nankervis and the expanded RocKwiz Orkestra are taking their Christmas shows on the road. Dugald is loading the sled and sourcing some high quality frankincense and myrrh and they are all hitting The Royal Theatre on Thursday December 1. Tickets through Ticketek. We have six prize packs to give away. The winner will receive a double pass and Series 1 and 2 of RockWiz on DVD, while five runners up will receive the DVDs. To win, email editorial@bmamag.com and tell us your favourite moment of RocKwiz.  

Three copies of Ganga’s Forget Gravity

Danish downtempo producer Ganga is fully charged and ready for lift-off with his latest studio album Forget Gravity, which is layered with his east-meets-west signature flavour. Ganga aka Christian Ronn is known the world over for his trademark downtempo music. Recorded in Copenhagen and Goa in India, like all of Ganga’s albums before, Forget Gravity features a host of vocal and musical talent from far corners of the globe. To win, email editorial@bmamag.com and tell us what you would do if we all were able to forget gravity.

One copy of Girlosophy – Inspire by Anthea Paul

"When you pick up a camera, you are symbolically and literally changing the direction of your focus and therefore reclaiming the power of your gaze. Looking outward at the world, rather than into the mirror let’s say, is a fundamentally important step in becoming empowered. This is Inspire; to me it is the essence of Girlosophy.” Girlosophy – Inspire is an art and photography book with a focus on travel and culture, for young women everywhere. We have one copy of the beautiful hardcover coffee table book to give away. To win, email editorial@bmamag.com and attach the best travel photo you’ve ever snapped.

Festival of Cricket Manuka Oval Doubles Passes

This Summer Canberra, and Manuka Oval, are blessed with one of the busier cricketing calendars seen in the nation’s capital in years.

On Sunday December 4 the RTA Speedblitz Blues take on the evenly matched Tasmanian Tigers in a one day match. Shortly after on Tuesday December 6 through to Friday December 9 the two teams are at it again with a four-day Sheffield Shield encounter.

Then on Thursday December 15 and Friday December 16 there’s a warm up Chairman’s XI vs India before a gritty three-day match from Monday December 19 through to Wednesday December 21. Promising to feature international cricket legends such as Sachin Tendulkar (in likely his last ever Australian appearance before retirement), MS Dhoni, VVS Laxman, Rahul Dravid, Harbhajan Singh and Ishant Sharma, it’s sure to be an electric few days of cricket at the intimate Manuka Oval setting.

We have five double passes to every day of every match listed above to giveaway. If you want the chance to win a double pass, or multiple doubles passes, send an email to allan@bmamag.com and tell us who your favourite cricketer of all time is, and why.

Gurrumul

WANDERING STAR

Nigh on three years ago for a feature in this fine rag I spoke to Michael Hohnen, GEOFFREY GURRUMUL YUNUPINGU’s close friend, fellow musician and producer, just after Gurrumul’s debut self-titled album went gold. Since then it’s gone double platinum, and his sophomore album Rrakala, released in April this year, went gold a couple of months back.

This time when we speak Hohnen’s voice is vastly different; no longer bright and cheery he’s obviously worn down and weary. It’s entirely understandable; Gurrumul played for Obama the day after our interview, and was the only Australian to perform for the Queen a month before. “Everyone’s running around like mad chickens. There’re more logistics than you can imagine. I know they’re closing the entire air space so it must be an incredibly major exercise.” Oof.

Gurrumul, the blind Yolngu Mata man from Elcho Island in North East Arnhem Land has dominated world music in Australia since the release of his debut, and is frequently affixed with the phrase “world music superstar”. In reality, Hohnen tells me, this couldn’t be further from the truth.
“Gurrumul’s in a more humble place than he was [three years ago]. He lives on Elcho now with his family, his mum and dad and about 15, 16 other people. He’s surrounded by family the whole time, and he loves that. They bring him seafood and he’s involved in community life, which is quite a healthy, positive environment. It’s a beautiful, beautiful place where he lives. So his situation hasn’t blown out of proportion in any way. He’s very much the same – he’s probably happier now, because he understands what’s going on, whereas it was all very new then.”  

Gurrumul is an industry phenomenon. His massive swag of awards; ARIAs, Deadlys, AIR Awards, virtually every music award there is to win in this country he’s won (his portrait even won the ’09 Archibald), and flock of famous fans; Elton John, Sting, Björk (and now surely Obama – “Gurrumul calls him a blackfella. It means a bit more to him that he’s black”), do not hold a candle to the happiness he finds in simply being in his homeland. “He likes making money because he loves giving it to his family. But when you’ve no desire for fame and fortune it changes the picture entirely,” muses Hohnen.

Without Hohnen – his collaborator, translator, spokesperson, seeing aid and label Artistic Director – it is fair to say Gurrumul’s success as a solo artist may not have been as great. “It’s overwhelming, but because of the way Gurrumul is it’s not nearly as overwhelming as it could be. It’s just pulled back from that overwhelming stage because of how humble he is.” Did I mention Hohnen also has three very young kids? He, along with Gurrumul, are true heroes of the Australian music industry.

Gurrumul plays The Royal Theatre supported by Dewayne Everettsmith on Saturday November 26. Tickets are $81.65/$71.65+bf through Ticketek. Doors at 7pm, show starts at 7.30pm.

Locality

When this ish hits the street The Phoenix will be at day three of their 18th Birthday Party Week, all geared up for the launch of Super Best Friend’s new single Karma Karma. Thursday heralds an eve of Phoenix bands of yore The Way Hip Antelopes, The Pete and Fiete Band, Fred Smith and The Fuelers, while the Saturday celebrations kick off at 2 with highlights including Mr. Fibby at 3.30, blues pilot Jonno Zilber at about 7.30 and Tom Woodward’s new project Judge doing their first ever gig around 9. Sunday afternoon sees a special session of BAD!SLAM!NO!BISCUIT! which – as the ad to the right pitches it so perfectly – is  “Canberra people who like to SHOUT poems into microphones”. To get warmed up for the birthday bashes I threw the call out to Facebook for folk to throw me their first time at Phoenix tales. The following is a selection of the G rated anecdotes printed verbatim. We may be street press, but as I assured The Phoenix when it posted “Oh sweet jesus, please be gentle”, BMA Magazine always adheres to the loftiest of journalistic standards. Damn straight.   

Vorn Doolette: The first time I went to the phoenix I was just 18. I was taken there by a friend. It was life changing. The people there were kind of like me. I looked at them....they looked at me. We fell in love. I fell in love with this strange fish bowel like experience. You didn’t have to be perfect to be accepted at the phoenix. This was a place for artists, poets and musicians. This was home.

Adam Hadley: One time Mr. Fibby were playing a gig and we were being mostly ignored by the audience, and there was a blonde girl right next to the stage talking really loudly with her friends, and I yelled something like “I wish this blonde douchebag would stop being all up in my grill” and she jumped up and punched me in the ear. Also, I actually don't remember the first time I went to the Phoenix. I assume I went there for a first time, but it's all caught up in the rich, tequila-scented tapestry that is being a piece of furniture at the Phoenix. I would also describe my experience of the Phoenix like being in a fish bowel.

Catherine Keely: The first time I went to the Phoenix a mysterious man read my palm and advised strongly never to wear anything with concentric circles.

Alistair Erskine: The first time I went to the Phoenix, I couldn’t find a seat. This happened the next 3 times, and then finally I decided to make friends with another seatless drinker. Eventually, I got a seat, but I also gained something you can never lose - friends made at the Phoenix.

Marissa Paine: My friends and I wanted Midori Splices (because we were 18 and that’s what 18 year olds drink). They didn’t have cream at the bar, so we went to the petrol station to buy some. Came back and they didn't have any Midori. I've since learnt that the Phoenix is for beer, not cocktails. And I'm better for it.

Karuna Gurung: The first time I went to the Phoenix, I was supposed to meet a guy, but I had left my phone at home, and had had a stupid day, AND the boy was an infuriating five minutes late, so I fled and stood him up. The guy would go on to become my husband.

BMA Magazine Presents Darren Hanlon

WHAT: Chrissie tour
WHEN: Wed Dec 14
WHERE: The Street Theatre

After spending most of 2011 touring across the USA and Europe, the now homeless Darren Hanlon will end the year with his customary Christmas shows. Usually Darren's Christmas tours consist of a few scattered dates, but for the first time this December Darren will play a substantial lap of the country, stopping in most capital cities and starting with a rare, extensive tour of North Queensland. As always Darren will perform solo, playing stripped back versions of the songs from his extensive canon with a little help from surprise guests. Also along for the ride is David Dondero (USA), Darren's first signing to his own label Flippin' Yeah Industries. Tix through the venue.  

Atluk

WHAT: Saccharine-folk
WHEN: Thurs Dec 1
WHERE: Transit Bar

Hannah, Catherine, Andy and Frank all moved from Canberra to Melbourne in early 2011. Whilst finding their feet in a new city they found each other again and this reunion lead to the formation of Atluk. Dubbing their style as saccharine-folk, their music mixes the narrative style of Belle & Sebastian and the light-hearted romance of She & Him. They also have the occasional group harmonies of Boy & Bear and the warm melodies of Angus & Julia Stone. Every song is a quest to tell you a story and a tune get stuck in your heart. They’ll be joined by Fox and Fowl and The Streelight Parade. Free, 8pm.

The Gaslamp Killer

WHO: Treehouse and Blahnket Presents
WHEN: Thurs Dec 1
WHERE: Top floor of UniPub 

Los Angeles-based The Gaslamp Killer is a DJ whose electric style ranges from psychedelia and world music to dubstep and left-field hip-hop. Associated with Flying Lotus’ Brainfeeder Records, he’s a resident DJ at the world-renowned Low End Theory club night, has received global acclaim for his magnificent turntable skills and larger-than-life stage presence, and is a raw revolutionary who is a true Australian favorite. The Gaslamp Killer is coming to UniPub supported by a swag of Australia’s most promising beat makers, MoR, Paqman, Roleo, Onetalk, Deaf Cat, 2Fuddha, JPS, and Faux Real, making this an absolute gem on the calendar for anyone interested in live electronic music performance. Tix through Moshtix.

His Merry Men

WHAT: 9-piece funk machine
WHEN: Fri Dec 2
WHERE: Potbelly Bar

Nine-piece funk machine His Merry Men are set to tour Australia's east coast to celebrate the launch of their new single Super Secret Spies. Hailed as Brisbane's latest darlings of funk, His Merry Men contemporise a classic sound with influences from surf rock, electronica and hip-hop. Their energetic new single brings back the hey day of pop rock with an infections spy/funk theme. HMM will be hitting the Potbelly armed with local juggernauts The Brass Knuckle Brass Band, a New Orleans style funk outfit. One thing's for certain, there'll be an outrageous horn party at this gig with a total of 10 horn players busting ridiculous funk chops all night long. Awww yeah.

ARTillery Festival

WHO: Amnesty International
WHEN: Thurs Dec 1 – Sat Dec 10
WHERE: Locations around Civic, Braddon and New Acton

Amnesty International’s ARTillery Festival is taking over Canberra with its unique fusion of cutting edge art and human rights activism. The not-for-profit festival, run entirely by volunteers, started in Perth in ‘08 with the goal of using art to get young people thinking and speaking out about human rights. Enlisting an army of established and up-and-coming artists from a variety of disciplines, ARTillery has been proving to locals that human rights activism can be inspiring as well as a great night out. ARTillery promises to deliver the same electricity and fight-for-your-rights spirit to the national capital. For the run down of all the exciting events, head to artilleryfestival.com .

23rd Tuggeranong Festival

WHO: South side dwellers
WHEN: Sat Nov 26
WHERE: Tuggeranong Town Park

Doc Neeson, previous frontman of The Angels will be headlining the Tuggeranong Festival this year. The free family friendly event will be held on Saturday 26 November from noon until 10pm, with the main act commencing at 7.45pm followed by a monster fireworks display over Lake Tuggeranong. The festival will also include children’s activities, rides and amusements, community and commercial stalls, free sailing, an antique car and bike exhibit, the RAAF Tethered Balloon and Canberra’s own Town Crier. I didn’t even know we had one. Check out the full program at tuggeranongfestival.org.au .

BMA Magazine Presents a Laneway Festival Sideshow

Having been announced for Laneway’s Sydney and Melbourne events, Givers and Portugal. The Man will also be bringing their bright breed of psych-pop to Canberra along with special guests Guineafowl. All three bands are as renowned for their dynamic live performances as for their irresistible tunes and musical prowess. Givers’ In Light is a vibrant debut album, perfect for the warm summer months ahead and bursting with invigorating melodies, shifting rhythms and an abundance of energy as many will know from their revitalising first single Up Up Up and new single Meantime. Alaskan quartet Portugal. The Man released their much anticipated sixth album In The Mountain In The Cloud in July. The album is filled with pulsing riffs and rings true to the buoyant rock and roll style that has permeated each album since the band’s ‘06 debut. Got It All (This Can’t Be Living Now), the infectiously catchy first single was played on high rotation at triple j, and the momentum continues to build. It’s all happening in the UC Refectory on Wednesday February 8. Tix through Ticketek.

Sand Pebbles at The Front

Melbourne flower-punk luminaries Sand Pebbles embark on a national tour next month to launch their acclaimed new album Dark Magic. When Wes Holland joined Sand Pebbles a couple of years ago at the age of 18, Andrew Tanner had just turned 50. The band quickly realised they ran a unique age gamut; a member born in each decade in the history of rock ‘n’ roll – ‘50s, ‘60s, ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s. Far from disowning this unique fact, they decided to use it to inform their next album. The result, Dark Magic, speaks from many minds and many times. It's hypnotic, cosmic, kinetic and freewheeling. Catch them at The Front with The Sun Blinde on Friday December 2.

Henry Rollins at The Street

For more than a quarter century Henry Rollins has toured the world as a spoken word artist, as frontman for both Rollins Band and Black Flag and without a microphone, as a solitary traveller with insatiable curiosity bypassing the resorts in favour of places like Siberia and Senegal, or Burma and Bangladesh. Or Canberra. His curiosity and hunger for experienced based knowledge, teamed with his willingness to travel, his no-holds-barred delivery of his opinions and observations, and wicked sense of humour make him one of the most inspiring and interesting commentators/entertainers of a generation. He returns to Australia in 2012 for The Long March tour, a month long national odyssey, which is stopping by The Street Theatre on Sunday May 6. Tix through the venue.

THE SLOG calendars

THE SLOG has 2012 calendars for sale that showcase interstate and local musicians such as Abbie Cardwell, Beth‘n’Ben, Brothers Grim, Cash Savage, Fun Machine, Graveyard Train, Grinspoon, Julia & the Deep Sea Sirens,  Mikelangelo and Saint Clare, MoJo JuJu, Snowdroppers and many more. Calendars are available through Smiths Alternative Bookshop and featured artist’s shows, but you can also purchase them online for $14.95. Each calendar sold raises funds for THE SLOG site and makes the back of your toilet door damn sexy for 12 months. To check them out and secure yourself a copy, head to slogmusic.com .

Heatwave Festival Hits Canberra

The hardworking KP Records crew are at it again, bringing to Canberra their biggest venture to date; all out hip-hop festival Heatwave, so called due to its summer date of Saturday January 21 and its hot hip-hop line-up. This truly international affair, playing out at Epic Arena Canberra, plays host to Tech N9ne (US), D12 (US), Obie Trice (US), Koolism, Big Dave and Grantwho?, DJ Rush, D’Opus And Roshambo, Kodak, N2W (NSW), Dlinkwnt (NSW), Kitty B (NSW), Bishop, DJ Skae (NSW) with Eitha, Deon and Collossuss, and is hosted by the BRB. We have also been assured there will also be beer gardens, overnight camping facilities, stalls, merchandise, street art displays, live graffiti demonstrations, food, and just one stage so you don’t miss a set. There are also at least two big internationals still to be announced. It’s an 18+ event, with first release tix on sale now costing $110 + bf, second release $140 + bf and VIPs $160 + bf from Moshtix.com.au, Landspeed Records and Co-op Bookshop in the city. For more info, details and messages from the artists head to kokyprik.com .

Artists Unite

WHO: Canberra Youth Theatre
WHEN: Previews Nov 22, 23; performances Nov 24, 25, 26; matinee Nov 26
WHERE: C-Block Theatre - Gorman House Arts Centre

Throughout Canberra Youth Theatre’s 40 year history the organisation has always strived to nurture young talent. Artists Unite by emerging playwrights, and produced by emerging directors, designers and technical designers, is no exception. CYT’s emerging artists were all college and university students, but when presented with a play written by ten and 11-year-old budding playwrights, Gabrielle and Loren Emerson, the opportunity to have a young director was too good to pass up. Four short plays make Artists Unite. The Last Dragon’s Tooth is a thrilling adventure story that sees the reluctant young hero Tom, set out on a dangerous quest to bring back the only cure for his dying father, the last Dragon’s Tooth. The play joins Silver Gelatin by Camilla Sheather-Neumann, Frogs Body by Olivia Hewson and Circcestra by Farnoush Parsiavashi. cytc.net .

Yulyurlu exhibition

WHO: Yulyurlu Lorna Napurrurla Fencer
WHEN: Now until Sun Dec 18
WHERE: Drill Hall Gallery

Warlpiri artist Yulyurlu Lorna Napurrurla Fencer (c.1924-2006) was a senior law woman who started painting in 1986. This is the first major survey of Yulyurlu’s work and it illustrates her exuberant and innovative approach to traditional Warlpiri imagery. The works in this exhibition have been chosen to show her artistic development over 20 years, in particular her contribution to the Lajamanu region, but also her relationship to the western desert art movement. Often likened to the great Emily Kngwarreye, Yulyurlu achieved considerable acclaim during her lifetime as one of the northern desert region’s most prominent and original artists.

Handwritten: ten centuries of manuscript treasures from the Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin

WHO: History's great thinkers
WHEN: Opening on Sat Nov 26
WHERE: National Library of Australia

Unique and precious documents from history’s greats will go on show in Handwritten: ten centuries of manuscript treasures from the Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin, a blockbuster exhibition to open the NLA’s new Exhibition Gallery. Handwritten will feature 100 unique manuscript treasures from Germany’s largest library, the Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin, which celebrates its 350^th anniversary this year. The exhibition, a who’s who of history’s greatest thinkers, spans more than 1,000 years. It features a handwritten document by Michelangelo – a receipt for a portrait of the Virgin Mary commissioned in 1519, Einstein’s anti-militaristic article, My Opinion on the War, written in 1915, Mozart’s original Marriage of Figaro manuscript, a battlefield letter by Napoleon, and Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony score from 1808 plus many more handwritten treasures will be on display.

nla.gov.au/media/handwritten

Bone Idol

WHO: Performance artists
WHEN: Fri Nov 25
WHERE: Canberra Contemporary Art Space, Gorman House

Roll up roll up for the first ever Bone Idol performance art contest! Get ready to have your mind blown and your standards overthrown (hopefully not literally). Bone Idol is a new event on CCAS’s calendar and combines the talent, laughs and general embarrassment of Australian Idol and Red Faces, with the startling magic of performance art. Contestants will battle it out for the highly coveted Bone Idol Trophy and a prize of $500. Don’t think that this guarantees that the quality of the performances will be high, as part of the fun will be acts by those who dare to take performance art to new lows. At the end of each performance the artists will be judged Australian Idol style; expect humiliation, shrieking and unapologetic praise. 

Miss Kitka’s Kitten of the Year

WHO: Burlesque lovers
WHEN: Sat Nov 26 – Sun Nov 27
WHERE: Canberra Irish Club

Come along to Miss Kitka’s Kitten of the Year and vote for the Audience Choice Kitten of the Year while enjoying Miss Kitka's house band The Matadors. Each solo performer in Kitten of the Year is required to research and where possible contact the performer, and then pay tribute to a burlesque performer pre circa 1965. The winner of Kitten of the Year then becomes the public 'face' of Miss Kitka's House of Burlesque for the following 12 months, and is also given performance opportunities and teacher training. Tickets for the Saturday night show are available through Moshtix, and for the Sunday night dinner and show, through the Canberra Irish Club.  misskitka.com.au .

The Glaciers

Where did your band name come from?

When the band was first formed it was a three-piece all girl band and we hadn’t quite settled on a name yet. One day our drummer Laura was rounding us up to go somewhere and said “come on glacier girls” as she thought we were moving at glacial pace. It stuck! When we took on two male members we shortened the name to The Glaciers and we’ve been that ever since.

Group members:

Adelyn (lead vocals, guitar), Laura (vocals, drums), Ray (bass/keys) and Matt (lead guitar).

Describe your sound:

Definitely diverse! Our sound seems to morph seamlessly between soft, acoustic ballads with sweet vocals and harmonies to screaming high energy guitar rock. If you had to pigeonhole us, we’d fit in the rock/indie/pop box. Boxes… shudder.

Who are your influences, musical or otherwise?

The best thing about The Glaciers is our diversity. Everyone comes at it from a different place. Adelyn loves indie sounds and adores PJ Harvey, Laura is a pop queen, Matt IS rock and Ray comes from a rockabilly background. Adelyn and Ray also have a side electronica dance project so it’s quite the tapas menu.

What’s the weirdest experience you’ve had whilst performing?

Definitely having bras and blow up dolls thrown at us on stage (on separate occasions!).

What’s your biggest achievement/proudest moment so far?

Debuting our video clip for The Garden on Landed Music.

What are your plans for the future?

Touring the east coast, which we hope to do early next year.

What makes you laugh?

Our drummer Laura’s accident prone antics. Hipsters. Popped-collar pastel-coloured polos. Cyclists in spandex who walk around shopping centres with their helmets on.

What pisses you off?

Not being able to read BMA’s You Pissed Me Off column.

Also, the following: drunken yobbos, grammatically challenged individuals, A Current Affair, Canberra’s aversion to late night dining, people who won’t dance at gigs and the steady decline of the quality of toys in Kinder Surprises.

What’s your opinion of the local scene?

So many great bands, so little time! Would be nice to see a few more venues open their doors to live music. We need more venues like The Phoenix. And thank goodness for BMA, CMC and Cardboard Charlie!

What are your upcoming gigs?

Friday December 16 supporting Alithia at The Maram. More coming up in January/February.

Contact info:
contact@theglaciers.com.au
theglaciers.com.au

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Free salsa workshops in Garema Place

From the street corners of Colombia come the award winning dancers of Swing Latino, here to pass on the secrets of salsa to dance lovers as part of Salsa: We are the Colombian Pacific. The Swing Latino dancers will be showcasing the best of that exciting corner of the world. Edwin Villalobos – twice the national salsa champion of Colombia – and his partner Leidy Carolina Giraldo bring performances, demonstrations and workshops that look set to make the dancefloor sizzle. With workshops for beginners, seniors, and more experienced dancers, as well as demonstrations and performances in every city, Salsa: We are the Colombian Pacific will benefit dance lovers of all levels. Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to learn about Colombia and its people, to discover one of the most fascinating rhythms in the world, and to dance with the best salsa artists on the planet! The Canberra workshop will be held in Garema Place at 5pm on Wednesday November 23 and is free.

Five copies of Catch .44 on DVD

Stocking filler ahoy! Catch .44 stars Bruce Willis, Forest Whitaker, Malin Akerman, Nikki Reed, Deborah Ann Woll. When three friends are sent by their boss to intercept a drug deal at a desolate diner, they think nothing of it... until a standoff ensues and the mystery of what brought them together slowly starts to unravel. To win, email editorial@bmamag.com and tell us about your boss, and whether they’d ever get you into a situation like this!

Two doubles to Wil Anderson at Canberra Theatre Centre

Having spent six months gigging in America and already a regular on US late night comedy talk show, Chelsea Lately, it won’t be long before Wil Anderson takes on The World. So, with that in mind, he’s starting by taking on Man. Socially engaged, politically aware and bloody funny, Wil Anderson performs his award winning new show, Man Vs. Wil, touring the country this October and November. We have two doubles to his show at CTC on Friday November 11. To win, email editorial@bmamag.com and tell us why it is that you love Wil.

Five copies of the Wide Open Road soundtrack

Wide Open Road is a new Australian documentary series from Paul Clarke, the maker of Bombora. Wide Open Road: The Soundtrack of the Series is a ‘car tape’ of tracks from and inspired by the series. It features a diverse array of artists from Australia and  overseas including Billy Thorpe & The Aztecs, Cold Chisel, The Saints, The Cruel Sea, The Stranglers, The Ramones, The Triffids and many more. A perfect Chrimbo pressie for your Dad, no doubt. And your Mum. To win, email editorial@bmamag.com and tell us about your best road trip of all time.

The Phoenix's 18th Birthday

FOR OLD TIME'S SAKE

Canberra wouldn’t be Canberra without THE PHOENIX, I say to Sean Hannigan, the manager of the much loved said pub, and Fiete Geier, the band booker. “It works the other way too,” says Geier. “Phoenix wouldn’t be Phoenix without Canberra. It’s that mix of public servants, students, bus interchange people; a lot of people who come from Europe who are searching for a nice pub in the evening and they’re lost for a few weeks until they find this place and think ‘thank god, a normal place where I can drink and just talk to people’.”

The Phoenix is celebrating its 18th birthday from Monday November 21 to Sunday November 27. Not only is it a celebration of its coming of age but a joyous reminder that over the past 18 months The Phoenix has been brought back from the brink. How could we frequenters forget that fateful week in May last year when The Phoenix closed its doors, displaying only an A4 sheet of paper with an unnervingly ambiguous edict? The anxiety amongst Canberra’s live music community was palpable; panicked and fear stricken the rumours spread fast. Was this the end?

The collective angst compelled the illustrious Adam Hadley to compose a disquisition in the form of a Facebook note to quell our heartache and smooth our furrowed brows. He concluded with, “The Phoenix will return in all its ridiculous, over the top, vortex of time wasting, cider downing glory, and in the meantime I think it's important that we draw together as a community and celebrate The Phoenix... In the end, everyone knows that the only thing that rises from the ashes of a phoenix is a phoenix.” And it did.

Not without hard work though. The Phoenix copped a massive financial blow when the ACT Government changed its Liquor Licensing legislation in March last year. Because its capacity of 94 is above 80, the Government’s maximum capacity for the small pub category, it was placed in the same basket as larger venues in the 500+ capacity range. “Our license fee quadrupled,” says Hannigan. “And we found that unsustainable. So we had to get Fiete up from Melbourne to revamp the pub and the entertainment and basically turn it around, so that’s been our focus for a year.”

One of the changes was the introduction of door charges for certain Sunday gigs, which, while understandably ruffling the wings of a few regular bar flies, has actually been quite successful. “It means we can get in bigger acts and give them a more intimate setting than they could get anywhere else in Canberra, except maybe The Front. We’re really happy with it because we want to keep supporting as much local original music as we can.”

Of all Canberra’s venues it is without doubt The Phoenix is the greatest supporter of local original music. The institution that is The Bootleg Sessions has seen countless young bands get their first gig beyond backyards and livingrooms, while the intimacy of the stage area offers the rare opportunity for both corybantic and cosy performances. It is truly unique in our town, I tell Hannigan and Geier. “It’s almost unique nationally,” replies the latter.

“All the touring bands that come through, they’re doing 20 gigs and the next time they come back they say [their Phoenix gig] was their favourite of the tour. When you’re touring, inevitably you’re gonna get a lot of shit gigs. Especially if it’s one of your first tours. So if you play at a pub where you get a great response and a nice setting, it’s always a good thing, and I can say from experience.”

The birthday celebrations will see a swag of bands who “haven’t played [Phoenix] for a very long time, who played here many years ago,” says Geier. One act on Thursday November 24’s line-up, The Way Hip Antelopes, caught my eye. I’d never heard of them but with a name like that they had to be good; I confessed my ignorance to Geier. “You don’t know The Way Hip Antelopes? Seminal late ‘90s Canberra band. They started playing around ’97. The bass player was a barman here for about a decade. They probably stopped playing around early 2000s but now they just happened to find themselves back in Canberra. So they’ll be playing for old time’s sake.” The Phoenix fam is a close one indeed.

For those who consider themselves family the trivia night on Tuesday November 22 is a must. All the questions will be Phoenix and booze related. Cardboard Charlie, who once booked Bootlegs full time are back with another instalment on the Monday; Wednesday sees the launch of Super Best Friend’s new single; Saturday is a smorgasbord of Phoenix faves old and new from 2, and Sunday is BAD!SLAM!NO!BISCUIT!, or as the most recent Phoenix poster proclaims, “Canberra people who like to SHOUT poems into microphones”. If you haven’t been to a BAD!SLAM! before, go. 

Sean Hannigan has been with The Phoenix since ’93. “It’s been fascinating,” he says with his charming Irish smile. “To see the changes both inside and outside the bar. Canberra’s gone through a number of changes. What’s lacking around Civic… is a hole that we fill with an alternative nightlife. There are certainly plenty of bars around that will give you $2 shots but we provide something completely different and luckily the Canberra population seems to agree. We had a whole number of challenges to get through during the last year, but with Fiete’s guidance and expertise and knowledge of Canberra’s live music scene we really came through and we’re delighted with how it’s all worked out. What better way to celebrate than an 18th?”
Happy birthday, Phoenix.

For all the info on the week long birthday shenanigans, find PhoenixPub Canberra on Facebook or just drop in and read the blackboard above the bar. Make sure you have a pint or two while you’re at it, mind you.

Mr Fibby

RADIO FIBBY

Not many groups can claim that one of their festival performances has undergone a diligent dissection in a blog almost entirely dedicated to flora. The Nature of Robertson is, as its title suggests, “a blog about the nature of Robertson, NSW... and about life in Robertson, too.” The blog’s detailed analysis (there’re dot points! there’s a photo of Hadley’s foot!) of MR FIBBY’S performance at the 2008 Robertson Irish Afternoon contains one of the most luminous lines of editorial gold I’ve read in my nigh on three years as ed.: “Mr Fibby [are] an inappropriate act to stage in Robertson, on a Sunday afternoon, after a children’s dance performance.”

“Brilliant!” I bellow to Adam Hadley, whose nom de guerre is Not Important when he is fronting Fibby, possibly the world’s only sinister storytelling, ramshackle carnivale clad Slav-core quartet.

The Nature of Robertson’s punitive stance on Fibby’s appearance at the Irish Afternoon is, Hadley explains, “the jumping off point” for their next big project, Mr Fibby's Most Excellently Disappointing Wireless Adventure Time. “It chronicles our adventures on our way to the Robertson Irish Music Festival, which is a true story; we were asked and did play at it. It was one of our first tours. It was lovely, but also very surreal and bizarre.” For the uninitiated, this is the essence of a Fibby show.

Yep, they’ve done it again folks; they’ve gone and made another radio play! 2009’s Ship of Fools went down a treat with Canberra audiences (“the audience fucked up but we were ok,” says Hadley, po-faced). In true Fibby fashion they’ve shaken things up the second time ‘round, and have recorded six eps to be broadcast on 2XX and streamed from their site every Saturday at 9pm from November 19 onwards. Also in true Fibby fashion, to launch the season there’ll be an “awful listening party” at Smiths Alternative Bookshop, which recently evolved into a wine bar. “People can get a bit boozy and we’ll have some stupid games and a little bit of a Fibby set. We have plans for the most cheap awful port we can find to be a little giveaway; little thimbles of port and Fibby makeovers and all kinds of stupidity. It just depends on how much dirt and ash we can bring into Smiths.”

It comes as no surprise Mr Fibby have pursued the charmingly retro format of the radio play as their live performances bristle with theatrics rarely found amongst most groups today. Explains Hadley, “all of the awful banter and abuse between the four of us is completely expanded and the storytelling kind of dropped. We still have moments of that fairy tale thing and the music is still going to be very Fibby; beautiful, weird, intricate stuff.” ?But if Fibby are inappropriate for an Irish Afternoon, are they befitting for broadcast? “So long as there’s a solid warning at the start, we’re all right.” Here’s my solid warning: DRINK A THIMBLE OF PORT WITH MR FIBBY.

Mr Fibby's Most Excellently Disappointing Wireless Adventure Time will be launched at Smiths on Saturday November 19 at 7.30pm. $5 on the door. Bargain. The remaining five episodes will be broadcast on 2XX 98.3FM at 9pm every Saturday up until Christmas Eve, with a repeat of the final ep on Christmas day. You can also stream online at mrfibby.com. O, and they’re gigging with good friends The Barons of Tang at the Polish Club on Fri Nov 11.

Locality

On Thursday October 27 I attended a workshop called Take the Lead for Canberra, held by the ACT Chamber of Commerce and the Australian Institute of Management. It was facilitated by Charles Landry, whom The Canberra Times have dubbed “the city whisperer”. He’s a “creative and urban planning guru” according to the workshop invite and an interesting character; I was initially affronted by his ostentatious air but by the end of the three and a half hour session I was mighty glad I went. There was a column in it for starters, and I feel I put up a pretty good fight on behalf of Canberra’s creatives.

Landry’s developed what he’s dubbed a Creativity Index for cities. It consists of ten categories for which cities are given a score out of ten, with the average being the city’s Creativity Score. The categories range from political and public framework to distinctiveness, diversity, vitality and expression, from openness, trust, tolerance and accessibility to liveability and wellbeing, and so on. Some of the comments made when we were discussing the second category – distinctiveness, diversity, vitality and expression – really riled me. As Landry passed the mic around comments like “there’s nothing unique about Canberra” and “it’s really dead” piled up. Groan!

I was sitting at the side of the room with my close friend Dave Caffery; we’d arrived late and hadn’t found a spot at a table. After the fifth comment about Canberra being devoid of vitality I nodded to Landry with my hand aloft, grabbed the mic and vented. These young people had been recognised as future leaders of Canberra for chrissakes, “dynamic people with big ideas”. There’s no need to write what I actually said as I’m sure you can imagine the myriad examples I listed to counter their complaints. Dave grabbed the mic after me and did the same, concluding with the comment “Canberra is bustling”.

Landry chided us as we became more vocal; a colluded team of two defending our city’s scene. Just like mates in a tute we were told to split up so I joined a nearby table. I can honestly say I have never been more appalled by the opinions of a stranger nor been so bold with my ripostes. One of the three young lasses, I’ll call her Jane, severely dislikes Canberra. Actually that’s putting it politely; she fucking hates the place. Why? Because there’s no shopping. Now each to their own; I know not everyone’s in love with the ‘berra like I am but to completely trash it because of a lack of retail outlets is, in my opinion, pathetic.  “Perhaps we like to create more than we like to consume,” I proffered to Jane. A supercilious remark on my part, yes, but I was truly vexed by this girl, and it saddened me to think she’d been identified as a ‘young leader’ when she was actually a total non-believer.

The 55 young people at the workshop gave Canberra a Creativity Score of 6.31, up from 5.43 which is what 150 “established leaders” gave it during Landry’s session last year. At least we had it over the older folk, but really, 6.31? Dave and I gave it a 9. We oft make our own fun, and you get out what you put in.

All Ages

From Thursday November 10 until Monday November 21 is the 2011 Japanese Film Festival, celebrating its 15^th year running. This event will bring a range of spectacular award winning films to The National Film and Sound Archives. From drama to comedy, animation to live action, the Japanese Film Festival has something to suit all tastes. To get more for your money you can buy a ‘Max’ pass giving you ten tickets for $80 or if there are just one or two films that take your fancy, standard ticket prices are $11 and $9 concession. The festival has attracted huge crowds in the past, so to avoid disappointment reserve your tickets in advance from the venue. For information on each of the films and session times go to the National Film and Sound Archive website.

Iconic Australian comedian Carl Barron is coming to the capital on his newest stand-up tour A One Ended Stick! In December, the man himself will bring to us comedy-hungry fiends his refreshing brand of observational humour. Yes, I know, it’s a while away, but this advanced warning is coming to you for a good reason. Preparing already for the overwhelming popularity of his performances, Carl Barron will be doing seven shows, one per night (except on Monday and Thursday) from Saturday December 10 until Sunday December 18. The man will take to the stage at The Canberra Theatre Centre, with each show starting at 8pm. Tickets can be purchased through Canberra Ticketing or from the venue. Concession costs $39.90 and $44.90 for adults. The prices are raised slightly for the Saturday night show, costing $44.90 for concession and $49.50 for adult admission. These tickets will sell incredibly fast, so book as soon as you can.

As yet another reminder, do not forget to buy your tickets for The Spicks and Speck-tacular - The Finale. “Adam, Alan and Myf are back on stage for the last time with a brand new show.” Now doing a third show due to popular demand, this is one of the promising shows for the remainder of the year. You can experience the dynamic trio live at The National Convention Centre from Saturday-Monday December 10-12, each with varying starting times. Specky reserve tickets cost $99, full priced tickets cost $85 and $65 for concession. You can snatch them up from any Ticketek outlet, but only if you act fast!

Don’t forget to pick up your tickets for the most entertaining New Year’s Eve Party in Canberra. To usher you into 2012, Mission To Launch will bring you an exciting array of local and international artists including The Living End, Sneaky Sound System, Ian Carey, Cloud Control, The Beautiful Girls, The Herd, The Potbelleez, British India, Yacht Club DJs, Bag Raiders, Grafton Primary, Andy Murphy, The Novocaines, Naysayer & Gilsun, Softwar and some soon to be announced local acts. Enjoying the sounds of this spectacular line-up you can greet a brand new year by the shores of Lake Burley Griffin at Weston Park. There will also be a variety of different stalls and delicious food stands, thus providing you with everything you need for a great New Year’s Eve. Tickets cost $130 (+ bf) general admission. For a VIP pass (unfortunately only available to those 18+), the price rises to $165 (+ bf). This is a 16+ event and ticket sales are strictly limited. So get in fast for your ticket to the best New Year’s Eve party that the capital has to offer this year.

Greg Haines at The Loft

Greg Haines is an English musician and composer currently living in Berlin who specialises in exploring the middle-ground between the academic world of contemporary classical music and the freedom found in the desire to manipulate and experiment with sound itself. In the wake of his debut Slumber Tides, Greg toured Europe extensively and began to develop as a live performer, and in particular as an improviser. With his most frequent collaborator, Danny Saul, the duo Liondialer was formed around the concept of purely improvised music, with no discussion in advance of performances and no pre-ordained strategies. On Thurs Nov 17 at The Loft in Dickson, hellosQuare presents a special evening of contemporary classical and improvised music featuring Greg Haines on his first Australian tour and Pollen Trio in support of their upcoming album Roll Slow. 8pm, $15/$12.

Mission To Launch Bands and DJs Comp

Mission To Launch is giving Canberra bands the chance to play at this year’s New Year’s Festival alongside some of the biggest names in Australian music. The competition kicks off on Wednesday November 9 and voting is open to everyone. Head to the Mission to Launch Facebook page for all the details.

Made in Japan at Transit Bar

Made in Japan's sound has been compared to early ‘90s British bands like Ride, Slowdive and The Stone Roses – although the band members cite more contemporary influences such as Foals and Bombay Bicycle Club. Whatever your take, Sights and Sounds is a richly layered and atmospheric yet accessible album, characterised by warped and swirling guitars, a precise rhythmic drive and intimate and melodic vocals. The four young men from Sydney’s Inner-West begin a mini launch tour in mid-November. Fans can expect to see Made in Japan in peak form, having spent most of 2011 recording and performing in some of Sydney’s favourite small venues. Catch ‘em at transit on Nov 12. japanmade.bandcamp.com .

After the Fall at Bar 32

No, not the one's who sing Mirror Mirror. Established in 2003, After The Fall play melodic hardcore in the vein of Bad Religion, Paint It Black, NOFX, Propaghandi and Kill Your Idols. After crisscrossing the USA many times ATF topped off 2010 with a tour of Central America alongside Millencolin and A Wilhelm Scream before hitting Europe and are tidying the end of this year up with their inaugural Australian tour covering the East Coast of Australia.

Joining them on all dates fresh off the boat from a Japanese tour will be Melbourne’s sweatiest dudes Anchors, along with Yoko Oh No and Snakepit. Check ‘em out at Bar 32 on Wed Nov 23.

Nantes at Transit Bar

Arriving with the same effortless charisma as their post-punk influences, the four members of Nantes came together in late 2010 and burst onto the scene in 2011 with the commanding single Fly. The song’s drum-driven, keys-laden sound and pulsating backbone demanded the attention of both radio and audiences alike, with its call-and-response refrain providing the perfect hook. Second single Charlie is similarly captivating with a piano bounce and compelling vocals sitting atop with a fresh optimistic flavour. With the band just turning a year old, the accomplishments are certainly stacking up quickly. Slots at Parklife and triple j’s Unearthed digital radio launch in Sydney have been highlights but the best is still to come. Catch them at Transit on Sat Nov 12.

Capital Dub and Strangehours Present Heart Tribe

Heart Tribe are a slammin' dance band with spicy world and reggae flavours hailing from Bellingen, NSW. Their fresh sound, tight improvisatory style and frequent changes in tempo lead to spontaneous explosions of dancing, and the addition of a sexy jazz flute is sure to have punters busting a groove. Joining them will be local Latin reggae legends Los Chavos who blend Latin rock, cumbia, ska, reggae, and samba, a funky fusion that always keeps audiences on their feet. Spinning tunes throughout the night will be Suz Da Fuze, Jayo and Rafa Chango. It’s all happening at Transit Bar on Thurs Nov 17. $12 at the door.

Gum Ball Festival applications open

The time has come for the gates of the great Gum Ball Festival to swing open and welcome in a new posse of performers and stall holders. The Festival will run from April 27 – 28 2012 and applications are open ‘til the end of November. Situated in the Hunter Valley, Gum Ball is loved by fun loving folk who enjoy the pleasure of a 2,000 capacity boutique festival with room to dance and kick back with your friends. Open fires, two stages under the stars and amongst the trees equals a whole lot of good vibes. First round tickets going on sale on Nov 16 with the line-up announced mid-December. Gum Ball proudly supports The Black Dog Institute. For more info go to thegumball.com.au .

April’s Caravan Garden Party

The gorgeous April invites all her dearest blossoms to a garden party on Saturday November 12 at April’s Caravan on Wattle Street (opposite the Lyneham chemist). It’s time to return to the Astro Turf for another delightful afternoon tea party with an abundance of vintage delights. There’ll be everything on sale from 1940s satin gowns to 1980s lurid knitwear, sweet spring frocks for the lasses and rockin’ summer shirts for the lads, two and three piece suits, vintage kiddy clothes, shoes, bags, scarves, hats and plenty of retro bric a brac. There will also be vintage sounds to get you rocking and rolling provided by Little Mac and the Monster Men at noon, and The King Hits at 1. Feel free to bring along a picnic; tea and scones provided. O goody! Find April’s Caravan on Facebook for all the info.

Sunchaser & the Wayward Orchestra

WHAT: Film clip launch
WHEN: Sat Nov 12, 8pm
WHERE: The Maram Bar

A collaboration between Canberra film and video production company SilverSun Pictures and local band Sunchaser & the Wayward Orchestra has resulted in a film clip set to be released in mid-November. Frontman Jason Campbell-Smith says “it’s been an amazing creative journey. SilverSun Pictures has given us an opportunity to do something we could not afford to do otherwise!” The film clip is directed and edited by Douglas Kirk and filmed by Roger Price, and features the animation of Katie Ryan and brilliant character designs by illustrator Kieron Pratt. The launch is $10 on the door and will also feature an array of local bands.

Hatchet Dawn

WHAT: Playing at Metal Fiesta
WHEN: Sat Nov 19
WHERE: The Basement

Melbourne’s Hatchet Dawn have just released a debut album of spooky dark modern heavy rock and metal titled Rebirth. After touring the south coast of Oz with Marilyn Manson in ‘09, Hatchet Dawn are now inviting you into the creative world that has attracted the failsafe collaboration of celebrated Grammy award-winning mixer Neil Kernon (Cannibal Corpse, Nile, Sex Pistols) and the mastering genius of Alan Douches (Mastodon, Misfits, Killswitch Engage).  Catch them as part of the epic Metal Fiesta at The Basement which features ten bands across two stages, including Frankenbok, Witchgrinder, House Of Thumbs, Na Maza and more.

Anarchist Duck

WHAT: The Gold Coast’s finest reggae/funk trio
WHEN: Nov 20 and Nov 24
WHERE: The Polish Club and Transit Bar

The Gold Coast’s finest reggaefunk trio swoops into Canberra this November to rock the city with their world music grooves and powerful messages. They will play a show at the White Eagle Polish Club on Sunday November 20 from 3pm and also one at Transit Bar with Beth n Ben and fellow Queensland crooner Reichelt on Thursday November 24. Anarchist Duck are renowned for their explosive live shows, which fuse funk, reggae and groove with soaring vocal harmonies. Having recruited Dan Briffa (Roger That) on drums, the Ducks are pumped to bring their new sound back to their favourite haunt.

Hoodlum Shouts

WHAT: Single launch
WHEN: Fri Nov 25
WHERE: The Potbelly Bar

Canberra's Hoodlum Shouts return with their new single Guns Germs Steel, taken from their upcoming debut album. Embracing the charms of bands such as Midnight Oil and Fugazi, this corrosive three minute blast follows on nicely from their first EP Horses And Human Hands as it trawls through the history of domination. Hellosquare Recordings are offering Guns Germs Steel on 7” and digital. They will join Melbourne's Harmony who kick off a tour in support of their new single Heartache; with Sydney punks EPICS (Of Grand Fatal fame) and local sluggers Outcome Unknown rounding out what should be a cracker of a night. 8pm.

Alison Avron

WHAT: Playful and upbeat tunes
WHEN: Thurs Nov 10
WHERE: The Loft, new jazz venue in Dickson

Alison Avron makes her way back to her old stomping ground of Canberra to show off tracks from her recently released debut EP Wrong Notes & Anecdotes. It was recorded and produced with the super sound engineer Richie Belkner at Free Energy Device Studios in Sydney and is a collection of playful, upbeat but sometimes heart-wrenchingly beautiful tunes inspired by SIA, Muse and Massive Attack. The gig is being held at The Loft, the hip new jazz venue found in the upper room studio of the Majura Medical Centre. Entry $15/$12. Doors at 7.30pm.

The Monotremes and Gabe Gilmour

WHAT: A strange Canberran five-piece band and one of Canberra's most prized young electronic personalities
WHEN: Fri Nov 25, 10pm-late
WHERE: Check Facebook for details

The proudly Canberran band Monotremes, The would like to present a highly enjoyable evening of charming original music. Bring your ears and/or brain to hear them artfully juxtapose disparate musical styles and intriguing ideas distilled into an exciting listenable format, in greater clarity than vinyl, cassette and even MP3! Gabe Gilmour, Esq., a celebrated local traveller of the workings of your mind, will then invite you on a cerebral road trip wherein your limbs will fall off because you have been dancing so hard, and your brain will dribble out of your ears because you are having just the best time.

Short+Sweet Dance

WHO: Short Sweet Family
WHEN: Thurs Nov 17 – Sun Nov 20
WHERE: The Courtyard Studio, Canberra Theatre Centre

The exciting international festival of ten minute, bite-sized dance works was a huge success in Canberra's 2010 season. High quality dance works created by local and interstate choreographers took the audience on a ride through various styles from contemporary to classical and themes looking at political to personal events. This year they are back with new exciting choreographers, concepts and movement, so if you’re a dance fan make sure you don't miss out. Short+Sweet Dance is part of the ever expanding Short Sweet Family which includes programs for theatre, cabaret, song, and comedy throughout Australia and internationally including Malaysia, Singapore, New Zealand and India. For all the info head to canberratheatrecentre.com.au .

The Table of Earthy Delights exhibition

WHO: Paul Jamieson
WHEN: Tues Nov 15 – Tues Dec 6
WHERE: The Front

After a year of April’s Caravan in residence, The Front Gallery and Cafe in Lyneham has returned to an exhibition program. Owner of The Front and sculptor, Paul Jamieson brings a new selection of sculptures to The Front with an exhibition focused on and around a dining table made from a huge slab of elm wood. Paul makes sculptures and furniture from salvaged timber and found or recycled objects. The exhibition opens on Tuesday November 15 at 6.30pm and continues until Tuesday December 6. The Front is now accepting exhibition proposals for the 2012 program. front.gallery@gmail.com or 02 6249 8453.

Photowalk

WHO: Hilary Wardhaugh
WHEN: Sat Nov 19
WHERE: Opposite the National Portrait Gallery

Says local photographer Hilary Wardhaugh, “I was reading about Louise Hawson’s photographic essay 52 Suburbs in which she photographed people and places in various Sydney suburbs and has recently published a book about it…”. Hilary wants to do the same thing. “I see this as an opportunity for all Canberrans of any age or ability to get out their cameras or phones and document their bit of Canberra. It is a way to show what and who we are, that there is diversity and loads of untapped creativity.” On Nov 19 she’s holding a Photowalk, so bring your cameras and take a stroll, snapping all the way. For more info email Hilary at hilary@hwp.com.au .

In the light of day exhibition

WHO: Robert Boynes
WHEN: Until Sun Nov 13
WHERE: Beaver Galleries, Deakin

In the light of day explores the sounds, sensations and movement found in our urban spaces and streetscapes. The paintings feature fractured images, shards of light and express the transience of what we see and what we record. For over four decades Robert Boynes has confirmed his place as an important artist of the urban environment. Robert was Head of Painting at the Canberra School of Art for 27 years and his work is represented in the National Gallery of Australia as well as all Australian state galleries. (Apology and correction: in the October 26 issue we ran a feature on Boynes titled Street Wise. It was incorrectly credited to Ben Hermann, when the author of the feature was actually Chloe Mandryk).

Japanese Film Festival

WHO: Arc Cinema
WHEN: Wed Nov 9 – Thurs Nov 24
WHERE: Arc Cinema, National Film and Sound Archives

The 15th Japanese Film Festival returns to Arc Cinema in 2011 with a broad showcase of new, best and wildest films from Japan. This year’s program ranges from kooky comedies like Honeymoon in Hell: Mr and Mrs Oki’s Fabulous Trip (u/c18+), through box office hit action films like the Gantz series (MA15+) to the stunning anime from Studio Ghibli (Arrietty (G)) and new works from master directors like Lee Sang-il and Kobayashi Masahiro. The 2011 program also features a timely sidebar of two documentaries made 80 years apart – Yamakoshi (u/c18+) and Rebirth of the Capital (u/c18+) – showing the rebuilding of two very different Japanese communities after devastating earthquakes. For all the info head to nfsa.gov.au .

Cinderella

WHO: West Australian Ballet
WHEN: Nov 15 - 19
WHERE: Canberra Theatre Centre

West Australian Ballet are set to wow Canberra audiences with the highly anticipated Cinderella, brought to life in the magical full length ballet at the Canberra Theatre from November 15-19. Jayne Smeulders, currently a leading artist with West Australian Ballet, has been commissioned by artistic director Ivan Cavallari to choreograph a classic ballet with a fresh new look. The stunning set and costumes have been created by Allan Lees to conjure up a magical world reflective of a European Principality in the 1930s, performed to Sergei Prokofiev’s evocative score.

The production also returns to the essence of the Grimm brothers’ fairytale, instilling a certain purity and simplicity as the classic tale unfolds. canberratheatrecentre.com.au .

Fox and Fowl

Where did your band name come from?

For a while we had more band names than gigs. We realised this wasn’t working and went with one name, more gigs. We settled on Fox & Fowl late one night whilst watching a documentary on the Red Fox.

Group members:

Lachlan Smart (vocals, keys, guitar), Mitchell Gardoll (vocals, guitar), Tim Dyer (vocals, bass), Elliot Goard (guitar) and Matthew Smail (percussion).

Describe your sound:

It sounds like putting 15 sour Warheads in your mouth at once.

Who are your influences, musical or otherwise?

Though there are five in the band we have pretty similar tastes in music, some just a little more refined than others… haha. Jinja Safari, Whitley, Eagle and The Worm, The Local Natives, Oasis, Mum’s lasagne and weather conditions.

What’s the weirdest experience you’ve had whilst performing?

An audience.

What’s your biggest achievement/proudest moment so far?

As a band, getting through to the Foreshore Sound Search finals is a biggie. We can thank our splendid friends and family for that.

What are your plans for the future?

Four of the five are headed to the states early next year for six months to travel and study. Returning home we hope to head into the studio.

What makes you laugh?

Jokes. Smail.

What pisses you off?

That water that comes out of the bottom of the fridge.

What’s your opinion of the local scene?

To be honest we are pretty green on the local scene. At times it can appear like not a whole lot goes on, all you have to do is scratch the surface and you’ll find it. And it’s good!

What are your upcoming gigs?

Phoenix Bar – Monday November 14, fingers crossed for Foreshore at the Sound Search Finals on Saturday November 26, Transit Bar – Thursday December 1.

Contact info:

contact@foxandfowl.com

0430 371 795 – Lachlan

www.foxandfowl.com

Ten doubles to The Rolling Stones: Some Girls, Live in Texas ‘78

The Rolling Stones: Some Girls, Live in Texas is a never-seen-before concert movie which captures this world famous band at the height of their musical career. Shot on 16mm at Fort Worth, Texas in 1978, the film has been upgraded to high definition with a 5.1 audio track. Featuring many Stones classics including: Honky Tonk Woman, Tumbling Dice, Brown Sugar, Jumpin Jack Flash, Miss You and Beast of Burden. Thanks to Hoyts we’ve got ten double in-season passes to give away. To win, email editorial@bmamag.com and tell us what your fav Stones track is and why.

15 in-season passes to Shark Night 3D

A group of friends spend a weekend at a lakeside house only to find that danger lurks beneath the waters. Yet their biggest fear is realised when they discover that the lake’s shark inhabitants are not their only enemy. When attempts to skip town fail one by one, these college kids - or the ones who are left - will have to battle their enemies head-on in order to survive. Thanks to Icon Films we’ve got 15 in-season doubles to give away. To win, email editorial@bmamag.com and tell us a good shark spotting story. You can view the trailer here.

Two doubles to Ladysmith Black Mambazo at Canberra Theatre Centre

Be captivated by a cappella group Ladysmith Black Mambazo's stirring bass, alto and tenor harmonies. For more than 30 years, Ladysmith Black Mambazo have married the intricate rhythms and harmonies of their native South African musical traditions with the sounds and sentiments of Christian gospel music. The result is a musical and spiritual alchemy that has touched a worldwide audience representing every corner of the religious, cultural and ethnic landscape. Their wonderful performances, and their aim to break cultural barriers by sharing musical beauty, have earned the group a dedicated world-wide following. We’ve got two doubles to give away to their show at Canberra Theatre Centre on Wednesday November 3. To win, email editorial@bmamag.com and tell us how Ladysmith Black Mambazo got their name.

Five Father of Invention DVDs

Robert Axle, an eccentric inventor turned egomaniacal infomercial guru loses it all when one of his inventions maims thousands of customers. After eight years in a maximum security prison, Axle is ready to redeem his name and rebuild his billion dollar empire. But first, he must convince his estranged 22-year old daughter to let him live with her and her quirky, over-protective roommates. What a wild ride that’ll be. We’ve got five copies of the DVD to throw your way. To win, email editorial@bmamag.com and tell us what you would invent if you had the power to invent anything in the world.

Two doubles to New Empire at The Maram

Straight off the back of a hugely successful national tour with US outfit Owl City, local rockers New Empire cracked the ARIA Album Chart Top 40 on debut, scoring a No. 39 entry with their sophomore album Symmetry. New Empire’s incredible chart debut is testament to the band’s solid fan base and the result of constant touring over the past months. With the new single Ghosts at radio now, New Empire are well and truly on the fast-track to becoming one of Australia’s most celebrated new independent talents. They’re now embarking on their own national headline tour so be sure to catch them at The Maram on Friday October 28. Tix through Moshtix. We’ve got two doubles to give away. To win, email editorial@bmamag.com and tell us why you reckon it is this band is creating buzz.

Fash’n’Treasure

WHAT: Everything second hand you could possibly want
WHEN: Sat Nov 5
WHERE: Old Bus Depot Building, 10am – 4pm

Saturday November 5 will be the last Fash’n’Treasure market for 2011. More than 70 individual stalls including great local and national designers, vintage clothes, jewellery and accessories as well as more than 40,00 vintage records,  books, CDs and DVDs will be on sale. There’ll be local milliners with the latest headwear just in time for the spring racing season and Canberra’s trendiest guys and gals doing the recycling thing and selling off their fabulous wardrobes. Add coffee and international food as well as live music all day long and you’ve got yourself a grand day out fashntreasure.com .

Canberra International Film Festival

WHAT: Mama Africa
WHEN: Thurs Oct 27 and Sat Nov 5
WHERE: Arc cinema, National Film and Sound Archives

An extensive assemblage of interviews, archival footage and clips of her greatest songs creates a detailed portrait of one of the world’s legendary voices – the queen of South African music, Miriam Makeba. The multi-lingual Makeba grew up in South Africa but was exiled after taking part in a 1959 documentary Come Back, Africa. Living in Europe, America and then Guinea with outspoken activist husband Stokely Carmichael, she was a tireless advocate for Africa – at much personal cost – finally returning to her homeland at the request of Nelson Mandela – with this emotional reunion captured on film. Special ticket prices apply.

Void without Void

WHO: serious theatre
WHERE: The Street Theatre
WHEN: Wed Nov 9 – Sun Nov 3

Launched into space through a portal you encounter a lone figure floating in the void. An immersive soundscape guides you on a personal voyage of pure discovery as you navigate the far reaches of space. Isolated from your fellow travellers by the infinite darkness, you begin to identify with the floating figure – your only reference point within your new environment. Invited through a series of shifts in time, scale and perspective to construct your own narrative, the external and internal begin to merge, resulting in a singular perspective of self. Part puppetry, aerial and physical performance, Void without Void is a new and innovative performance installation from serious theatre. Using sound, lighting, and sensory deprivation to create an enthralling immersive experience, serious creates a world that links observation with introspection. thestreet.org.au .

The Dark Side of Midnight

WHO: Free Rain Theatre Company
WHEN: Fri Oct 28 – Sun Oct 13
WHERE: Courtyard Studio, Canberra Theatre Centre

The Dark Side of Midnight takes place in late 1946 to early 1947 on the eve of Partition in India, somewhere on the Northwest Frontier. No one knows what will happen as the migration of people is beginning, with panic and violence a daily event. Inside a typical British Raj home, Geraldine, a young wife, is afraid of the danger from within. She feels safer with the Indians in the bazaar than at home. Her life as she has known it is being destroyed. Running parallel are the conflicts, stoic humour, and the consequences of political events of the time. For more information head to canberratheatrecentre.com.au .

Moon Festival 2011 - Devercity

WHO: Families and squiglets
WHEN: Sat Oct 29
WHERE: Tuggeranong Arts Centre

This year the Tuggeranong Arts Centre will put on a great show for the 13th edition of the Moon Festival, an event that celebrates diversity in our wonderfully diverse city. With artistic, educational and recreational activities aimed at children and families, this edition will focus on traditional cultural elements of a number of different ethnic and community groups in and around Canberra. Live music, modern and traditional dances, arts and craft activities, puppets, games and great multiethnic food will be the core elements of the celebration. The action starts at noon with the official opening,  then from Filipino music to Mexican folk dance, African drumming and traditional Indian rhythms, the audience will enjoy a variety of free activities until 8pm. tuggeranongarts.com .

Now Hear This

WHO: Local storytellers
WHEN: Wed Dec 7
WHERE: The Street Theatre

Do you have a great story? That story you tell at the dinner table, at barbecues and parties? The story you know people will laugh, cry and be spellbound at? Now Hear This is a night of people telling those stories; people from all around the region come together and tell their true story to a packed audience at The Street Theatre. ABC 666 record it, play it on the radio and get it on the web. Storytellers aren’t auditioned then thrown to the wolves – a pretty intensive workshop is held to get the stories ready for the night. The theme for the next instalment is ‘friendship’. Register your interest and catch some of the stories they’ve recorded at abc.net.au/canberra .

Mathew Abbott

What do you do?

The things that (don’t) need doing: poetry, philosophy, music, etc.

When did you get into it?

I remember studying Coleridge in Year 7 and hearing something click.

Who or what influences you as an artist?

I don’t know, but these are some of the people I’ve been reading recently: Prynne, Marx, Guest, O’Hara, Ammons, Sebald, Hegel, Creeley, Santner, Nancy, Dickinson, Hopkins, Bernstein, Adorno, Hejinian, Palmer and Duncan. This week my brain has been rewired repeatedly by a book called Better than Language (Ganzfeld Press).

What’s your biggest achievement/proudest moment so far?

I taught my dog a trick where she falls from a run and does a flip/barrel roll.

What are your plans for the future?

I like to think John Forbes was right:

if you take care of the art

your sister, Life

takes care of the human part.

If there’s a plan, that’s it.

What makes you laugh?

My wife Emilie. Mark Carmody. Kafka.

What pisses you off?

Cynical reason. The art/life distinction. Hard work considered as a virtue.

What’s your opinion of the local scene?

The poetry world is small, so I’ll take local to mean “Australian” and say that I have a high opinion of it: poetry here is stronger now than ever. If you don’t believe me, read Robert Adamson, Peter Minter, LK Holt, Jaya Savige, MTC Cronin, Jordie Albiston, John Kinsella, Paul Magee, Lionel Fogarty and Ania Walwicz (though you really need to see her perform!).

What are your upcoming performances/exhibitions?

My first book – wild inaudible – will be published soon by Australian Poetry.

My band Life and Limb has shows coming up: Saturday October 29 at Black Wire in Sydney and Saturday November 5 at The Phoenix in Canberra. We’ll be putting out a new record soon. We play punkish music.

Contact info:

mathewabbott@gmail.com

beetleinabox.tumblr.com

www.australianpoetry.org

lifeandlimbmusic.tumblr.com

Locality

On the afternoon of Saturday October 15 I cycled through the balmy spring air to the National Botanic Gardens for the Corinbank Garden Party, thrilled the forecasted thunderstorms were nowhere in sight. Normally I would’ve had a bike basket teeming with yummy things but the Corinbank team had kindly offered me a ticket to the sold out Slow Food Banquet. Massive win. 6pm gates opened for the Garden Party and by the time I arrived at 6.20ish a sea of picnic blankets was strewn across the lawns. Glowing lanterns garlanded the eucalypts, the queue for the bar and organic barbecue snaked up the hill, and a stretch of elegantly decorated tables laid out with compostable crockery wound its way along the back of the amphitheatre. Expressions of “isn’t this wonderful!?” and “what a perfect place for live music!” and “there are so many people here!” could be heard everywhere. The crowd was huge.

I’d first heard about the Slow Food movement at Corinbank 2010 but had never had the pleasure of tasting some ‘til this night. The movement’s manifesto is “good, clean and fair”; the three course dinner prepared by local chefs using local produce certainly ticked the first box, and I trust it did the others.

Three local bands performed at the Garden Party; James Fahy Trio, Beth n Ben and Fun Machine, all of whom are on the Corinbank 2012 line-up. Dining on marinated vegetables topped with goat’s cheese and mozzarella, followed by succulent beef with lashings of scrumptious viennoise sauce and a collection of prosciutto wrapped baby beets and carrots, and finally Grenadine-soaked strawberries and sorbet while listening to my favourite local acts in glorious natural surrounds was certainly my idea of a brilliant night out.

Just imagine three days of it in the Brindabellas…

The Corinbank Garden Party really was a little slice of Corinbank heaven; the family oriented celebration of local music, arts and food in the breathtakingly beautiful Botanic Gardens was a luscious taste of what’s to come in 2012. I will definitely be buying a ticket to the Slow Food banquet at next year’s fest.

Performing Arts Manager Elena Kirschbaum announced next year’s diverse arts program and Music Director Mark Bradley announced the line-up. A figure Mark mentioned made my eyes widen. “54% of the Corinbank 2012 line-up is local,” he beamed. We beamed right back.

More than half of a major festival bill being made up of local acts is an astoundingly admirable achievement. But Corinbank is not the only festival tipping its cap to the enormous amount of talent we have in the ACT. Summer Rhythm Festival, running from December 9 – 11 this year at Goolabri Resort, is doing the same. Of the 80 acts on its bill main man Dan Luton tells me over 60% are local. I can’t commend Mark and Dan’s support for our local industry enough. For all the info on Corinbank head to corinbank.com and for Summer Rhythm, strangehours.com.au .

The Phoenix

WHAT: Celebrates turning 18!
WHEN: Nov 21 – 27
WHERE: Where else?

In November The Phoenix comes of age, celebrating 18 years of serving pints in Civic and supporting live original music. Over the years Phoenix has been one of the few venues in town where young bands can get their first gig, but also where established local and touring acts keep coming back. To celebrate The Phoenix is putting on a week of birthday celebrations from November 21 – 27. There’ll be a night of Canberra bands from days past (including The Way Hip Antelopes, Pete and Fiete and The Fuelers on the 24th), a night of Phoenix Trivia (22nd) and a full day of local and touring bands (26^th). More details to come.

Gold Fields

WHAT: Rising Ballarat boys
WHEN: Thurs Nov 10
WHERE: Transit Bar 

With a debut, self-titled EP under their belts and fresh off the back of their Parklife dates, Gold Fields will be taking to the road to spread their “frantic dance-pop 'n' anthemic jams”. It's been a hectic 12 months since the quintet seemingly burst out of nowhere at the tail-end of 2010. Gold Fields hit the ground running when their debut song Treehouse was plucked off triple j Unearthed and instantly added to high rotation. Their accompanying live shows quickly gained them a word-of-mouth reputation for being a high-energy combo of pounding drums, rhythmic basslines and herky-jerky dance moves. Tix thorugh Moshtix.

Scissors Paper Pen

WHAT: Opening Party
WHEN: Thu Nov 10
WHERE: The Phoenix Pub

Scissors Paper Pen is a quarterly event dedicated to storytelling, music, discussion and tasty beverages, held in pubs, cafes, libraries
and elsewheres. It's also a zine, a gathering of all sorts of creative
folk and several other things. But first, it's emerging, bawling and
squirming into the world, and helping to get things happening will be the delightfully dulcet tunes of Drew Walky and Gemma Nourse and the wonderful wordage of Ashley Orr. If you've got a story, they'd love you to take hold of their open mic. Head to scissorspaperpen.com, follow ‘em on Twitter @scissorpaperpen, search for 'em on Facebook or simply head along and get involved.

Fun Machine, Crash the Curb, Nigel Wearne, Drew Walky

WHAT: BMA Magazine Presents The Halloween Bootlegs
WHEN: Mon Oct 31
WHERE: The Phoenix

It’s been a long time coming but Fun Machine and Crash the Curb are finally teaming up to play the second ever BMA Bootlegs. Ably supplying the support is local gem Drew Walky and Melbourne man Nigel Wearne. This’ll be a rather special gig for Fun Machine as it’ll be bassist Ramsay Nuthall’s first show after a three month jaunt in Berlin. The inimitable  James Fahy has been filling his shoes and has done a damn fine job of it too. The date just so happens to be Halloween, so if you’re into that kind of thing slap on the fake blood and fangs. It all kicks off at 8pm and as per ushe is free.

Henry Wagons and Joe Pug

WHAT: One off Canberra show
WHEN: Thurs Nov 10
WHERE: The Front

Melbourne’s Henry Wagons and Chicago’s Joe Pug will perform a one off show at The Front, alongside previously announced Melbourne, Meeniyan and Sydney dates.

The tour follows the North American and Canadian release of Wagons’ celebrated fifth album Rumble, Shake and Tumble, which recently won Best Independent Country Album in Australia’s 2011 Jagermeister Independent Music Awards. Joe Pug’s soulful, stream of consciousness songwriting and rich guitar work saw his debut album Messenger nominated for Best New & Emerging Artist at the Americana Music Awards. His candid live show has been honed alongside the greats – Steve Earle, Justin Townes Earle and M.Ward. Tix through Oztix.

The April Maze

WHAT: Playing at Woden Valley Festival
WHEN: Sat Nov 5 (sideshow on Fri Nov 4 at The Front supported by James Fahy)
WHERE: Eddison Park

Living on the open road in a 1976 Kombi, alt folk duo The April Maze have been touring Australia and New Zealand non-stop since April 2010. Having narrowly escaped fires, floods and earthquakes on their recent touring adventures, this newly wedded couple are hitting the road again to share their songs and stories in true folk style at the Woden Valley Festival. They’ll be joined by locals the Bridge Between and Minh Ha. There’ll also be a variety of music, dance and cultural performers plus interactive activities, circus acts, rides, roving performers, multicultural food and more. It all kicks off at 10. For more info head to wodenvalleyfestival.org.au .

Corinbank 2012

Corinbank Music and Arts Festival announced its 2012 program at a marvellous Garden Party on Saturday October 15, attended by an enormous crowd of live music, arts and picnic lovers. The festival is taking some of the best artists the nation’s capital has to offer and is showcasing them alongside carefully selected interstate acts (and even the odd international). In fact, as Musical Director Mark Bradley announced at the Garden Party, the line-up is 54% local, which is a remarkably admirable figure indeed. Corinbank’s renowned visual and performing arts programs will be bigger than ever in 2012, further strengthening Corinbank’s identity as much more than just a music festival. Here’re a few names to whet your quality music appetite: Josh Pyke, Bonjah, Busby Marou, The Bamboos (they’ll be one hell of a party), The Barons of Tang, The Crooked Fiddle Band, Ganga Giri, Jen Cloher, Tinpan Orange and so many more. There’ll also be Creative Camps, roving performers, myriad art installations and, you guessed it, so much more! Corinbank will run from March 2-4 in the Brindabella Mountains. Tickets are available from corinbank.com and start from $129.00 + BF, U16 $5 + BF.

Jericco at The Maram

Fresh from destroying stages all over Australia with Dead Letter Circus, Mudd Promotions are excited to bring you Melbourne based alternative rock outfit Jericco. They possess a sound and wisdom that is both ancient and eclectic in its origins, whilst highly modern in its outlook. Stylistically Jericco stands out from similar acts of its genre with great pride and power. The prominent Middle Eastern influence throughout the band’s thundering live performances is completely authentic, and resonates at the core with their rapidly expanding fan base. Catch them at The Maram on Friday October 28. $15 at the door.

Tristen Bird at The Front

Melbourne based singer-songwriter Tristen Bird deals in subtle, intimate, mood-driven storytelling. Tristen turned to his craft early, developing a method that utilises textured finger style guitar and stringed soundscapes. Armed with his debut album Horse To Water, Tristen is preparing to embark on criss-crossing the coun­try to promote it. Horse To Water was recorded with ARIA Award winning producer Shane O’Mara in Mel­bourne’s Yikesville studios. O’Mara has previously produced records for The Audreys, Lisa Miller and Tim Rogers, all of whom are inspiration for Tristen. He plays The Front on Sat Nov 5. 8pm, $10.

Frocktober Fundraiser

A fashion parade that includes dresses from the 1920s to the present day will be held at Old Parliament House on Saturday October 29 to raise funds for Frocktober, which raises money for and awareness of ovarian cancer research. According to the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation in 2011 more than 1,200 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer and 800 will die from the disease. Frocktober aims to help improve the outlook for women with ovarian cancer by supporting the quest for a suitable early detection test through fundraising for the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation. All dresses and hats in the parade will be available for purchase through a silent auction. For more information or to purchase tickets contact annika.hutchins@gmail.com or 0407 458 882.

Woden Alive

Canberra’s first whole of region week long celebration, Woden Alive, will see the Woden Valley community and everything it has to offer on display from Sunday Oct 30 to Saturday November 5. The highlight of the week will be the Woden Valley Festival in Eddison Park on Saturday November 5, which will feature local and interstate acts. Woden Alive is an exciting new initiative that takes the community festival concept to the next level. For a full listing of events head to wodenalive.org.au .

Women of Notes

Women of Notes comes dancing into the warm weather with its third instalment. BMA Magazine, in conjunction with Transit Bar, are showcasing Canberra's finest sirens and goddesses of the stage with a continual series of shows, with previous iterations featuring the likes of Simon Penkethman, Alice Cottee, Beth Monzo, and Julia Johnson, but we've only scratched the surface of what Canberra's been hiding. Featured this time around is Natalie Magee, Nichola Weatherly, Caroline Wallace and Cherie Kotek. It's all happening Thursday October 27 at Transit Bar from 8pm. Free entry.

Goji Berry Jam

Describe your sound:

An eclectic and improvised mix of six instrumentalists and a producer. Everything is completely live; violin, banjo, bass, guitar, keys, djembe, vocals, didgeridoo and a producer, all together in synergy. A fusion of organic and electronic.

What are your influences, musical or otherwise?

Everyone in this band comes from a different background – from rock to techno to jazz. Our inspiration comes from Hendrix to Beats Antique – the fusion masters.

What’s your biggest achievement/proudest moment so far?

From improv gigs at Union Court at ANU to boiling the dance floor at Opiuo in Clubhouse to a full rock out at Dragon Dreaming 2011; it was amazing.

What are your plans for the future?

BE THE GADDAFI OF THE MUSIC INDUSTRY (jks).

What makes you laugh?

(Anonymous) on three trips at Dragon Dreaming.

What pisses you off?

Mooseheads.

What’s your opinion of the local scene?

Canberra is seriously lacking in decent venues. Only with the right environment can the underground surface.

What are your upcoming gigs?

uniVibes at the Carillon with one of Australia’s best electronic producers, Sunday session, ridiculous sound system – TBA. Keep an eye out for this not-to-miss party.

Nigel Wearne

WHAT: Frayed poetic edges and honest grit
WHEN: Thurs Oct 13, Mon Oct 31
WHERE: The Front, The Phoenix

Nigel Wearne is an alt-country/folk singer-songwriter whose music has an intimate and poignant narrative. Equipped with personally handcrafted guitars, his music melds finger-style guitar, slide dobro, country twang and honest storytelling. Nigel's influences include Bob Dylan, Tom Waits, Gillian Welch and the spirit of Woody Guthrie. With frayed poetic edges and honest grit, Nigel delivers dynamic and inspired performances that will rattle your emotions. According to Beat Magazine he’s “starting to make waves in the Melbourne music scene”. There are two Canberra dates coming up for Wearne, the first is at The Front with Hannah Gillespie on Thurs Oct 13, and the second as part of the BMA Bootlegs on Mon Oct 31.

New Empire

WHAT: Home grown rockers
WHEN: Fri Oct 28
WHERE: The Maram

Straight off the back of a hugely successful national tour with US outfit Owl City, local rockers New Empire cracked the ARIA Album Chart Top 40 on debut, scoring a No. 39 entry with their sophomore album Symmetry. New Empire’s incredible chart debut is testament to the band’s solid fan base and the result of constant touring over the past months. With the new single Ghosts at radio now, New Empire are well and truly on the fast-track to becoming one of Australia’s most celebrated new independent talents. They’re now embarking on their own national headline tour so be sure to catch them at The Maram. Tix through Moshtix.

Atlantis Awaits

WHAT: Final gig before they head to Hollywood
WHEN: Fri Oct 14
WHERE: ANU Bar

Atlantis Awaits formed in mid 2009. Since then they have been building momentum and wowing crowds all over the country. They released their debut EP in July last year to rave reviews and followed it up with a massive national tour, and now they’ve just dropped their new single, which was mixed and mastered by Hollywood based, Grammy nominated audio whiz Brandon Freison. The band are about to jet off to LA to record an album, but before they go they want to party with you one more time. Joining them are very special guests Reigner, Final Lies, and Beneath a Broken Sky. Doors at 8pm, $12 on the door.

Living Green Festival

WHAT: Raising awareness about climate change
WHEN: Sun Oct 16
WHERE: Albert Hall

Canberra’s inaugural Living Green Festival, which coincides with the last day of Floriade, will focus on the relationship between climate change, the environment and animals and raise awareness about how the choices we make can affect not only the environment and other humans but cute little critters too. The theme of the Festival is ‘a kinder shade of green’, and it will showcase easy ways we can reduce our carbon footprint and be more considerate of the other animals we share the planet with. There’ll be live entertainment, speakers, children’s zones, plus many product and food stalls. More information about the Festival is at livinggreenfestival.org.au .

Oktoberfest

WHO: uniVibes
WHEN: Thurs Oct 22, 11am-11pm
WHERE: ANU Bar Beer Garden

Oktoberfest springs just before exam time. Perfect procrastination. Beer drowns memory, so studying becomes gazing out the window and continual trips to the pisser. So you might as well stay at the pub. One lunch time beer becomes one of the best nights of the year. The ANU Bar has sold out of beer for the past three years… with a bigger order again, can we drink them dry? Be outside the window: on the grass, in the sun, swaying to live music and happy that even the class whiz kid can’t study until tomorrow. ANU Oktoberfest 2011: endless lunchtime beers for the whole University. 

Women of Notes

WHO: BMA Magazine + Transit Bar
WHEN: Thurs Oct 27
WHERE: Transit Bar

Women of Notes comes dancing into the warm weather with its third instalment. BMA, in conjunction with Transit Bar, are showcasing Canberra's finest sirens and goddesses of the stage with a continual series of shows, with previous iterations featuring the likes of Simon Penkethman, Alice Cottee, Beth Monzo, and Julia Johnson, but we've only scratched the surface of what Canberra's been hiding. Featured this time around is Natalie Magee, who's been kicking up a bit of storm around our town, with three other women yet to be announced. It's all happening Thursday October 27 at Transit Bar from 8pm. Free entry, mind you.

Concert for Mental Health

Ten years ago local writer, musician, comedian and storyteller Duncan Sargeant was a patient in a psychiatric ward thinking he was Jesus, actively looking for intelligent, extraterrestrial life forms. Now he is playing and speaking candidly about his experiences with depression and psychosis. At 35, Duncan has been battling severe mental health issues for half his life, and over this time music has been his saviour. This is the seventh concert Duncan has organised and promoted to celebrate Mental Health Week, and as well as a performance from the man himself it will also feature Jenny Sawer and Sophie Attridge. It’s all happening at the Turner Bowls Club on Friday October 21 from 7.30pm.

National Swap Day

The Clothing Exchange, established in 2004, has changed the face of fashion by promoting swapping as an alternative to shopping that saves over 100 tonnes of carbon each year. The Clothing Exchange has declared Monday October 17 to be the second annual National Swap Day. The Canberra event will be held at Tilley’s Devine Café in Lyneham. Check in is from 6.30pm and tickets are $25 and available online at clothingexchange.com.au .

Two Mark Wilkinson dates

Whether on the street or arena stage, Mark Wilkinson’s lyrical depth, gift for melody, and soulful voice have been connecting with fans the world over. With regular comparisons to Tracy Chapman and David Gray, Mark’s record sales now exceed 20,000 – a remarkable feat for an unsigned artist with 2 EPs and a new album to his name. He’ll be at The Front on Sat Oct 22 and Canberra Southern Cross Club on Fri Nov 4.

Homemade Jam

A Bite to Eat in Chifley, which is renowned for its unparalleled vibe, cosy accoutrements, and regular music program every Sunday eve, will showcase some of Canberra's finest singer-songwriters under the banner of Homemade Jam on Wednesday November 3. The competition will show why A Bite to Eat is not only a top spot for food and drinks, but also for top class entertainment and local talent. The winner of Homemade Jam will receive prize money and will also go on to perform in a feature slot at the Woden Valley Festival on Saturday November 5. Contact contact@abitetoeat.net.au for more info and to submit a demo.

Georgefest 2011

It may not be a cast of thousands but it certainly will be a ripper day at The George (Ye Old English Pub in Gold Creek and one of the capital’s best kept secrets). There will be bands and music aplenty including The Funky Fedoras, The Bridge Between, Annie & the Armadillos and more at The George on Saturday October 22 from 2pm ‘til midnight. Georgefest marks the beginning of the Summer Music Festival at The George and, this year, will highlight the new Squire’s Square at the back of the pub.

BMA Magazine Presents Halloween Bootlegs

Fun Machine and Crash the Curb have finally joined forces to transform Phoenix into a heaving, sweaty mass on Monday October 31. It’s All Hallow’s Eve, so if you feel like busting out the fake blood and fangs then by all means do. The Funsters and the Curbsters will be joined by the ever delightful Drew Walky and out-of-towner Nigel Wearne, whose music melds finger-style guitar, slide dobro, country twang and honest storytelling. It’ll be a little bit of Column A and a little bit of Column B for the second ever BMA Bootlegs, so whether you’re into crooning or grooving you’re catered for.

Adam Veikkanen

What do you do?
I am a multi-media artist using bureaucratic materials such as bubble wrap, staples, tape, pencils, typewriters etc.

When did you get into it?
I have always shown an interest in art but it was not until I was 14 or 15 years old that I actually thought I could make ‘art’.

Who or what influences you as an artist?
I find reading thought provoking. I particularly enjoy reading sciences that border on philosophy, as these allow for elastic thoughts and interpretation.

What’s your biggest achievement/proudest moment so far?
Receiving the Qantas Encouragement of Contemporary Art award for 2011 has been the biggest highlight so far.  The award is set up to enable artists to travel overseas, make international connections, see important art exhibitions and attend residencies.

What are your plans for the future?
As part of my Qantas award I will be travelling to Brazil. I have found the art and culture there relates quite heavily to my practice, and both share a certain improvisational quality.

What makes you laugh?

Good jokes! Actually some of my favourite artists are the kind that use humour as a way of attracting or getting the attention of the viewer.  I think humour is a great way of tackling a deep issue as it allows people to face up to the issue as well as being entertained (although some people just want to be entertained).

What pisses you off?
A very general answer is people who write you off without giving you ‘a fare shake of the sauce bottle’.

What’s your opinion of the local scene?
I think the local art scene is the sort that demands involvement/effort, particularly from the visitor’s side.  Being small it’s a surprisingly fervent art scene that’s getting progressively busier.

What are your upcoming performances/exhibitions?

My next exhibition is a group show in Germany entitled Invasion. On a local level I will be doing a community drawing project titled Cumulous Cloud over the next few weeks. The project will be taking place in community places such as halls and market places; I am very excited to see how people react and how they participate. 

Contact info:

adam.veikkanen@gmail.com

www.adamveikkanen.com

Locality

Ahoy there dear readers! It’s been six weeks since I’ve had ink in this column and boy is it good to be back. Many thanks to Bossman Al for stepping in; I’ve had a lot on my plate of late so a three ish hol from my col was a blessing, but now I’m ready and raring to talk all things local again. Three things are on my mind this ish: Dragon Dreaming, the significant downsizing of Stonefest, and the launch of MusicACT.

In my column published just before Dragon ’10 this is what I espoused: “...after Dragon Dreaming last year I often found myself ranting about it being the best festival I had ever been to.” I stand by that comment after this year’s instalment, the fourth Dragon Dreaming and my third. 

I reckon you’d be hard pressed to find a festival crew more dedicated, tireless, creative and environmentally conscious than the Servants of Sound and Regen crews. Despite the inclement climes in the week leading up to Dragon, they once again transformed the Old Kowen Homestead grounds into a world unto itself bristling with wondrous artworks and installations. It sounds schmaltzy but everyone’s your mate at Dragon; during our drive out of the festival – cranking The Stones to counter the almost constant and enthralling electronic – every single person we passed waved or called out goodbye. It’s a very special place. How could it not be when you’re with old friends and new absolutely everywhere you go? So thank you, thank you, SoS and Regen, for creating the “festival of family” as one Dragon Dreamer wrote on its Facebook wall. I hope you all enjoy your ‘break’ next year and I look forward to what you so generously give us in 2013.

From that happy note to a not so happy one. Most readers will now be aware that Stonefest will not be going ahead this year and that the Stonefest Rock On Party has replaced it. There are numerous reasons why this had to happen and for an erudite insight into them read this issue’s From The Bossman.

Rather than reiterate what Al said I just want to say how in awe of Anna Wallace and the rest of UC Live! I am for not giving up completely but soldiering on despite the circumstances. That shows true grit. Punters often forget there are real people working 24/7 behind festivals so before you post caustic comments on Facebook think first about those who are most deeply affected. Anna, I salute you.

Finally, as this ish hits the streets I’ll be buzzing around The Deck at Regatta Point at the launch of MusicACT. The ACT was the only jurisdiction in the country without a peak music body within the Australian Music Industry Network up until now. I’m on the committee and this fine rag is heavily involved, so if you’re a muso, DJ, venue owner or anyone immersed in the ACT music industry, you should get involved too. Shoot me an email if you’d like to know more, stay tuned to this column, or head to our sexy new site at musicact.com.au. I’m excited. 

All Ages

Alternative-rock quad New Empire are soon to be passing through Canberra on their Symmetry Tour. At the Woden Basketball Stadium on Friday October 28 the Sydney boys will be joined by Melbourne six-piece For Our Hero, Love & Satellites along with successful Canberra bands Drawing North and The London Town Fire. Tickets to see this spectacular line-up will sell out fast, so please, save yourself the despair and book in advance. The experience will only set you back $20 (+bf) if you pre-book through Moshtix, Landspeed Records or The Co-op Bookshop, as opposed to $25 at the door. This is of course a drug and alcohol free event. Doors open at 6pm.

After proving a great success last year, The Woden Valley Festival is expanding in 2011! This year the festivities will take the form of a week-long celebration that they have called Woden Alive. From Sunday October 30 until Saturday November 5 the Woden Valley will show the rest of Canberra all that the community has to offer and more with a mass of exciting activities and even celebrity guests including Masterchef’s George Calombaris and Australia’s Got Talent finalist Timomatic. On Saturday November 5 the celebrations will come to a spectacular finish with the more traditional event at Eddison Park where you can be entertained by nationally renowned band April Maze along with local acts The Bridge Between and Minh Ha. You can also enjoy a number of cultural performances and activities, circus acts, delightful food, rides and loads more. The Liftoff Festival in 2011, unlike last year, will take place as a stand-alone event, allowing the Woden Valley Festival to continue into the spring night. Starting at 4pm as the other festivities wind down, you will get to see the finest up and coming acts that Canberra has to offer. Headlining the event will be Melbourne’s Confession, one of Australia’s most treasured hardcore acts. The best thing is, everything is free. For a full listing of events please see  wodenalive.org.au .

Registrations are now open for The 2012 Class Clown Competition. “If you have a flair for catching people unaware, tickling a funny bone at school and at home, love making unnecessary commentary or singing tunes that make you look like a loon, these are the type of teens that should apply!”

The Melbourne International Comedy Festival will ravage the country searching for Australia’s funniest teen. Anybody in any State between the ages of 14 and 18 are eligible to compete. You can enter as a solo act or in a group of up to three members. To be dubbed the winner of this national competition you first need to piece together an original five-minute stand-up routine, sketch, musical parody or something in between. You will then attend a workshop with a professional comedian. Then, finally you will be ready to present your creation to a real audience at a live and public performance. If you make it through the State heats, you could be performing at the 2012 Class Clowns National Grand Final at Melbourne Town Hall during the 2012 Melbourne International Comedy Festival. And if that doesn’t sound good enough, the winner will take home $1000 and another $1000 for their school.

State Heats take place between Saturday February 25 and Saturday March 17 2012, but you need to register to take part. Registration is free, so go to classclowns.com.au for more information or to register.

Forgotten Fridays

Where did your band name come from?
The beautiful combination of our love for alcoholic beverages and going big on Friday nights.

Group members?
Cameron Plum (vocals), Craig Lamberth (guitar, backing vocals), Jack Lovell (bass), Brad Williams (drums).

Describe your sound:
An eclectic mix of indie-rock infused with a punk attitude and beats you can dance to. We write music we feel people want to listen to, not just ourselves. We are givers not takers.

Who are your influences, musical or otherwise?
Music! But also art, girls, free spirited people and total life forever.

What’s the weirdest experience you’ve had whilst performing?
During our last gig at Phoenix Bar we were accompanied on stage by a slightly intoxicated member of the crowd who proceeded to start singing into the mic. First thing we thought was “new backing singer”.

What’s your biggest achievement/proudest moment so far?
Every gig we've had so far. We're all mates, so each time we get up there we have a party!

What are your plans for the future?
To discover more punters that will invest time in seeing a band they like, to make a little bit of cash to use for some studio time, and also to expand as much as possible locally and interstate.

What makes you laugh?
Brad: Watching other people dance after they have had a few drinks.
Cam: The misfortunes of others and oneself - you've got to see the light side.

What pisses you off?
Craig: People who think they know it all. Please stop making shit up, WE DON'T CARE!
Jack: Overpriced beverages!

What’s your opinion of the local scene?
We have only just dipped our toes into the local scene. More punters and more venues would be nice, but so far everyone that we have encountered has been very friendly and supportive.

What are your upcoming gigs?
Pot Belly Bar in Belconnen, Saturday October 22, and Phoenix Bar in Civic, Saturday October 29.

Contact info:  

facebook.com/forgottenfridays

soundcloud.com/forgottenfridays

myspace.com/forgottenfridays

Album of the issue

Growing up in Central Australia with Sunday afternoons soundtracked by Hank Williams and Paul Kelly, country music’s eternal companions harmonica, banjo and pedal steel cut right through me, while small town themes of isolation and breaking free resonate deeply. I love every note of this record.

Portland sextet Blitzen Trapper’s sixth LP American Goldwing is probably the most aptly titled of 2011. The Honda Goldwing was a popular touring motorbike introduced in the early ‘70s and the 11 tracks are pure Americana; the kind that make you want to grab your best mate and Easy Rider across the States. Eric Earley’s rich, wide-ranging vocals drip with wisdom as he weaves tales of whiskey loving, drug-running, gold hearted old boys, loves who walk away, and returning at long last to one’s hometown in a timbre that belies his age. It’s a diverse record; the rough and heavy rock and roll and raucous choruses are assuaged by lilting keys and wailing blues harp, gentle string plucking and pathos. Nostalgia permeates, but Earley’s lyrics look towards the horizon too while the instrumentation fuses old and new.
 
Mixed by Tchad Blake (The Black Keys, Tom Waits), American Goldwing is a modern classic. Gotta love a young Dylan soundalike.

The Delivery Vs Rattlehead

WHAT: Alt-country Showdown
WHEN: Sat Oct 8
WHERE: The Phoenix

There's gonna be one helluva showdown in the nation's capital as two of Australia's finest purveyors of alt-country, The Delivery from Sydney and Rattlehand from Brisbane, go head to head in a clash of cowboy boots and heart-crushing croons. Both groups have just released a split 7" single appropriately titled Seven Inch Showdown and it’s out now on Stanley Records. The show kicks off at 9pm and it's free to get in, which should free up some of your hard-earned cash for a few amber ales and perhaps a copy of the new single, which will be available on the night.

The Bon Scotts

WHAT: Ramshackle folk-pop
WHEN: Thurs Oct 6
WHERE: Transit Bar

Some may wonder why The Bon Scotts chose a name that often has them confused with an AC/DC covers band. They do too. For in reality their sound couldn’t be more different. The Bon Scotts play distinctively clamorous ramshackle folk-pop full of sweet melodies, arresting percussion and sing-along choruses. Theirs is an infectious blend of playful cynicism and youthful fancy, laced with irony and hype, unconventional hooks and a distinct, eclectic sound that has put them at the forefront of the new folk revival. Between stints on the road The Bon Scotts have spent a large part of 2011 writing and recording their sophomore album We Will All Die At The Hands Of CGI.

FloatingMe

WHAT: Raaaaawk
WHEN: Wed Oct 12
WHERE: ANU Bar

With their new track Breaking to Breathe about to hit the airwaves, FLOATINGME have announced a national tour in support of it. Since the release of the band’s self-titled debut album this year, the Sydney five-piece have supported Shihad, Dead Letter Circus and have sold out shows on a co-headline tour with Thousand Needles in Red. FLOATINGME comprises vocalist Andrew Gillespie, guitarist Antony Brown and keyboards Tobias Messiter of groundbreaking ’90s Sydney band Scarymother, along with drummer Lucius Borich of Cog and bassist Jon Stockman of Karnivool. Tix on sale now through Ticketek.

I Dream In Transit, supported by A Dead Forest Index

WHAT: Whispers in the walls
WHEN: Fri Oct 7
WHERE: The Front

I Dream In Transit are a three-piece from Melbourne. They make music with light, noise and reverb. They write songs about industrial lights and airports and try to replicate the sound of nightmares. It's a combination of naïveté and paranoia. They are launching a new 7" single called Explosion which was pressed in Germany and has a hand silk screened, 100% recycled cover. Said Ross Clelland of Drum Media, “.., it is quiet music, but no less unsettling for that. There are whispers in the walls. It is the music of waking from bad dreams you can't quite remember... it's in my head for hours.”

Corinbank

WHAT: Garden Party
WHEN: Sat Oct 15
WHERE: National Botanic Gardens

Join the Corinbank Crew in the beautiful surrounds of the National Botanic Gardens for a party under the stars and the announcement of next year’s line-up. Three of the local bands who are on the Corinbank 2012 bill, Beth n Ben, James Fahy Trio and Fun Machine will provide the scintillating soundtrack. Limited seats are still available for the Slow Food Banquet, a three course dinner prepared by award winning chefs using local produce. An organic sausage sizzle will also be available so bring a picnic blanket and get ready to boogie! For all the info and for $99 pre-release festival tickets head to corinbank.com .

Beth n Ben

WHAT: Local roots and reggae duo
WHEN: Sun Oct 16
WHERE: New track on Unearthed now, EP launch at White Eagle Polish Club

Dynamic and downright sexy Canberra roots and reggae duo Beth n Ben have just released the first digital single Back of the Line from their upcoming sophomore EP Economy Class on Unearthed to drum up a bit of buzz in the lead up to the launch at the White Eagle Polish Club on Sunday October 16. Dress in your finest vintage threads and witness the divine Cherie Kotek, Clever Sunday and some other very ‘special’ performances from 3 – 7pm. Head to triplejunearthed.com/bethnben and be sure to rate and review the track so it can climb up charts. 

triple j Unearthed Launch Party

triple j is launching brand new digital radio station triple j Unearthed and they want you to help them celebrate. Come and be part of Australian music history at the UC Refectory on Wednesday October 5 from 7pm, as D’Opus & Roshambo, Crash the Curb, The Fighting League, The Aston Shuffle and Hau from Koolism herald in the new all Australian station.

Charge Group at Phoenix

Charge Group are a Sydney art rock band who wield electric guitar, violin, bass and drums. Their 2008 debut Escaping Mankind won them broad acclaim, a European indie record deal, and colourful descriptions like “A transcendental bastard blend of Dirty Three, Fugazi and Nick Drake.” Awesome. Catch them at Phoenix for free on Thursday September 29.

Casey Donavon Pays Tribute to Mama Cass

Cass Elliot, better known as Mama Cass, was loved the world over for her humour, fashion and optimism, and was the powerful voice that drew together the lush harmonies of superstar group The Mamas and Papas. In an uplifting yet moving tribute Casey will perform all of Elliot’s tunes, as well as The Mamas and Papas favourites California Dreaming, Monday Monday and Dream a Little Dream of Me. It’s all happening at the Canberra Theatre on Friday September 30. For more info head to canberratheatrecentre.com.au .

Jack Carty at The Front

Indie folk darling Jack Carty is hitting the road again hot on the heels of the extraordinarily successful Hope, Smoke and Everything Tour with Leroy Lee and Jordan Miller. This time, leaving his friends behind, Carty returns to the East Coast with a string of intimate shows in some of Australia’s coolest café lounges. Following the release of his debut album One Thousand Origami Birds earlier this year Carty’s been ardently demoing new songs that he will be sharing with audiences across two sets – old and new – during his latest café voyage. He’ll be at The Front on Thursday October 6.

Ukestock – Canberra Ukulele Festival of Fun

Celebrating the instrument that continues to take the world by storm, on Saturday October 1 the Tuggeranong Arts Centre will host the inaugural Canberra Ukulele Festival of Fun. At long last, the National Capital will have its very own community ukulele festival with workshops, performances, sales, prizes and jam sessions. Whether an absolute beginner or seasoned performer, there's something for everyone including Ukestock, a free community massed ukulele play-along picnic presented by Ukelyptus, during lunch on the lawns beside the Arts Centre overlooking Lake Tuggeranong. For more info head to tuggeranongarts.com .

Two Pirate gigs at ANU Bar

Sydney’s avant-garde wonder kids Pirate have released their long-awaited debut album Left of Mind, the follow up to their 2009 self titled EP. First single In The Balance features the first significant use of melodic vocals by the band and evokes shades of experimental acts such as My Disco and PVT. The album veers between scathing riffs and rhythmic complexity to tightly focused tilts at experimental pop, yet is unrelenting in its scope. Catch Pirate at ANU Bar on Friday September 30 with sleepmakeswaves, Meniscus, Mornings and Looking Glass and again on Wednesday October 12 with Floating Me.

One Summer Rhythm Festival double camping pass

The beloved Summer Rhythm Festival returns for another year, with a new month and a new line-up. Spanning three days and four stages from December 9–11, this year’s event is another wonderful amalgam of international, interstate and local talent, playing host to over 70 acts including Salmonella Dub, Hook n Sling, The Bird, Hermitude, Van She Tech, Jeff Lang, Kingfisha, Dubmarine, Goodwill, Cassian, Ganga Giri, The Ellis Collective, Los Chavos, D’Opus & Roshambo, Magnifik, Black Samurai, Rodskeez, Beth n Ben, Dissect, Team Wing and many, many more. The event is once again at Goolabri Function Centre and Golf Course (10 mins outside Canberra off the Federal Highway) and first release tix are on sale now from Oztix for $85, (2nd round $95, $120 on the gate). They are still some limited street team positions left, so if you’re interested contact organiser Dan Luton at dan@strangehours.com.au The generous bastard has given us one double camping pass to give to you, dear readers, every issue up until the fest. To win this most excellent of prizes, email editorial@bmamag.com and tell us who your fav act on the line-up is and why.

Five Nirvana Live at the Paramount shirts

On Friday September 23 the previously unseen Nirvana Live at the Paramount Theatre concert film was shown at selected cinemas around the country to mark the 20th anniversary of Nevermind. You saw the film, now we’re giving you the t-shirt.

We’ve got three of these beauties to give away; one small, one medium and one large. To win, email editorial@bmamag.com and tell us what your fav Nirvana track is and why.

Five copies of Ministry of Sound’s Uncovered Vol. 3

Loved Uncovered? Thought MOS had covered them all? Think again. One of MOS’ most loved compilations returns with a third instalment of amazing covers from equally amazing artists. Artists such Phoenix, The Jackson 5, Nirvana, Chromeo, Frank Sinatra, Flight Facilities, Aaliyah, New Order and Radiohead lend their tracks to Adele, Mayer Hawthorne, Hot Chip, Angus & Julia Stone, Johnny Cash, Theophilus London, The xx, Blood Orange and The Killers to be transformed, revived, recreated and released on this two-disc, 38 track compilation. We’ve got five copies to throw your way. To win, email editorial@bmamag.com and tell us what you reckon is the best cover of all time.

Two double passes to New Empire

Incredible Australian buzz band New Empire are delighted to announce that they will take to the road for a national headline tour this October and November, to support the release of their anticipated new album Symmetry which dropped on Friday September 16. The mesmerising four-piece have been making waves in the Australian music scene over the past 12 months, having toured with Good Charlotte earlier in the year, followed by a national support for Owl City. They are getting set to embark on a string of East Coast shows with Simple Plan next month. They’re playing an all ages show with For Our Hero, Love & Satellites, Drawing North and The London Town Fire at Woden Basketball Stadium on Friday October 28. Tickets are now available online through Moshtix, Landspeed Records and The Co-Op Bookshop. We’ve got two doubles to give away. To win, email editorial@bmamag.com and tell us exactly why these guys are being hailed as a ‘buzz band’. 

Waterhouse Natural History Art Prize

WHO: National Archives of Australia
WHEN: Now until Sun Nov 13
WHERE: National Archives of Australia

This spring the National Archives of Australia will again host the ever-popular Waterhouse Natural History Art Prize from the South Australian Museum. It is Australia’s richest prize for natural history art, boasting a total prize pool of $114,500.

The National Archives is hosting the 34 winning and highly commended artworks from the competition, including paintings, sculpture and objects, and works on paper. Local artists also feature in this year’s exhibition and sculptures are a highlight, from beautifully formed ceramic rabbits to objects reflecting coastal plants and sea life. A muted colour palette dominates this year’s selection of winning paintings and works on paper, creating a unified feeling across the exhibition, contrasted with an occasional splash of colour. See nature’s beauty captured in art this spring at the National Archives, the only venue outside Adelaide showing the leading works from this prestigious competition.

Treasures Gallery opening

WHO: National Library of Australia
WHEN: Sat Oct 8
WHERE: National Library of Australia

The National Library of Australia’s greatest treasures will be on permanent display in the new state-of-the art Treasures Gallery. Opening on October 8, the Treasures Gallery will feature some of the National Library’s most prized items collected over the past 100 years. From Lieutenant James Cook’s journal of the Endeavour to Eddie Mabo’s papers, from Australia’s earliest existing printed document to Jørn Utzon’s model for the Sydney Opera House sails. This new display space will provide visitors to the National Library with a truly remarkable experience. Entry is free.

Close Range

WHO: Canberra Contemporary Art Space
WHEN: Sat Oct 8
WHERE: Canberra Contemporary Art Space, Gorman House

Close Range will reinvent the way you think about contemporary performance, dance, music, and visual art. The show will be a whole day event, beginning with cutting edge performance art films by local, national and international artists running during the day in the gallery space. Come 7.30pm the gallery will transform into a stage for local and national artists who will be literally leaping outside of their comfort zones, working in new fusions, mediums, and in a new space. All the works will be short and tight, quick glimpses of the possibilities presented when art forms combine. Each performer will cross the boundaries and drag you with them. Here the difference between performer and audience gets a bit blurry, and you might just find that you are a part of the art itself. $10.

New Korean Cinema

WHO: Arc Cinema 
WHEN: Thurs Sept 29 – Thurs Oct 27
WHERE: National Film and Sound Archives

This is the first survey since 2009 of the latest films from maybe the most vibrant, energetic and movie-mad popular culture anywhere. It re-confirms Korean cinema trying and succeeding at almost any kind of filmmaking. The sometimes confronting brutality hasn’t quite gone away, but even this trait dilutes itself through an incredible breath of genres; from K-horror, through dynamic actioners or gentle (but sometimes also bittersweet) romances, to uncompromising art cinema. The lessons of its success in dealing with many of the same commercial issues with which Australian cinema struggles also remain instructive. For the full program head to nfsa.gov.au/arc .

Love Song by John Kolvenbach, directed by Jordan Best

WHO: Centrepiece Theatre
WHEN: Weds Oct 5 – Sat Oct 15
WHERE: Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre

A fun, sophisticated and sexy story about love, life and loss, Love Song explores the power of imagination, and questions perceptions of reality and illusion. Written by John Kolvenbach for Chicago's Steppenwolf Theatre, and premiered in Australia by the Melbourne Theatre Company in 2008, Love Song is an off-beat romantic comedy.  The story concerns a small family – the hard-nosed and uptight Joan, her mentally ill brother Beane and Joan's husband, Harry. Love Song explores what it means to love and the feelings and emotions love provokes. Is love a delusion, or can the desire and energy of new love generate its own reality? Head to theq.net.au for all the info.

Exhibition Blot

WHO: Claire Pendrigh
WHEN: Opening Thurs Sept 29 6pm, running ‘til Sun Oct 9
WHERE: Canberra Contemporary Art Space, Manuka

Canberra is no stranger to abstract art, but when someone steps up and challenges the way we see abstraction, we pay special attention. Claire Pendrigh is an artist doing just that. Her new exhibition Blot straddles the border of abstraction and figurative art. Pendrigh investigates the way we see our world, and our place in it, both through seeing the abstract in the figurative, and the figurative in the abstract. Using this idea that people can interpret abstract shapes according to their view of the world, Pendrigh has created a series of paintings both abstract and figurative that are left open for interpretation.

Andrew Holmes

What do you do?

I do theatre type things, including a PhD. Crazy, I know…

When did you get into it?

It all started being three years old and watching a video of the ballet of Romeo and Juliet three times a week. The rest is history!

Who or what influences you as an artist?

I get really inspired by seeing how amazing other people’s work can be. Most recently, STC’s production of Blood Wedding.

What’s your biggest achievement/proudest moment so far? 

I loved the last play I did, Panic by Archibald MacLeish. I was really proud of how my cast approached an exceedingly difficult play and the way they challenged themselves.

What are your plans for the future?

Who knows?? Artistic Director of STC? I’m coming to you, Cate Blanchett…

What makes you laugh?

RON FREAKING SWANSON!

What pisses you off?

People who don’t realise how amazing they are. And Sucker Punch. Honestly, why the hell was that movie made?

What’s your opinion of the local scene?

There are some incredible young writers, directors and actors around that I feel the local scene is going to be bolstered by for a long time to come. It’s in great hands.

What are your upcoming performances/exhibitions?

Another PhD production of an Archibald MacLeish radio drama The Fall of the City. It’s a fascinating play, written in 1937 in response to the fries of fascism in Europe. We have a great cast and are going to create a killer atmosphere within the theatre space. ANU Drama Lab, Wednesday October 26 to Saturday October 29, free entry. Limited seating available, so bookings are essential.

Contact info:

andrew.holmes@anu.edu.au

All Ages

Floriade, Canberra’s famous celebration of Spring is here again. The iconic Canberra event in its 24th year has taken on the theme A Feast for the Senses – and that it is! Praised for its 1,000,000 flower bulbs carefully selected and designed in flowerbeds depicting different elements of each year’s theme, Floriade is the best way to welcome spring. But flowers aren’t the only thing that the festival offers. You can enjoy rides, delicious food, music, live performances, and a spectacular array of local and national business stalls and shops. To add to all of this excitement, this year Floriade offers the hottest chilli in the world! Australian owned chilli producers The Chilli Factory have officially broken the world record with the Trinidad Scorpion. Thankfully there are a number of beautifully located cafés on site that you can run to and get a drink and enjoy the colourful view of Floriade while you wait for the “20 minute burn” to wear off. Floriade is a free event, but I would recommend bringing some cash for delicious food and goodies, which believe me, are hard to resist from the second you walk in the gates. Floriade is open every day, 9am to 5pm weekdays and 9am to 5.30pm on weekends, until Sunday October 16. The festivities take place at Commonwealth Park, so get out there and enjoy the fresh spring air.

On Friday October 28 you can join Sydney alternative/pop/rock quad New Empire on the Canberra leg of their national Symmetry tour. The mind blowing line-up of supporting acts include Melbourne’s “soul pop/rock” six-piece For Our hero, Love & Satellites, as well as Canberra’s very own and very much loved pop/rock five-piece Drawing North and electro/pop/punk act The London Town Fire. New Empire’s debut album came in at the number one selling rock album in Australia and you can hear it all live! The action takes place at the Woden Basketball Stadium at 6pm. Tickets are available through any Moshtix outlet.

On the same night, alt-rock screamo four-piece For This Cause, will too be making their way through the capital city on their very own national tour, in celebration of their new album Journeys. These Brisbane boys will be shaking down the walls of the Tuggeranong Youth Centre, with hopefully some yet to be announced supporting acts. Ticket prices and times are yet to be revealed, although I doubt it will be anything unusual. Stay tuned for more info.

Coming up is the Woden Youth Centre’s Band Comp, opening doors for youth bands aged 12 to 25 years old. Bands have a chance at winning amazing prize packs that include two days recording time at Tru Sound Music Studios with the professional assistance of Ian Pav (of Pav Music), which is valued at $2,020, as well as a Press and Album Art Photography Package with Cole Bennetts Photography, valued at $2,000. The heats for the competition will run on the weekend of Friday October 28 and Saturday October 29 at the Woden Youth Centre. So if you’re in a band and want a chance to win everything you need to get an album going and pick up a form quickly from the centre today. Registration closes at 5pm on Friday September 30. For more info contact Sindy Perason at sindy.pearson@wcs.org.au or 6282 3037.

Pornstar Pretty

Where did your band name come from? 
A girl that we used to know who chose a career as a stripper influenced us to write a song and the name was catchy so we thought we would try it out. Although other sources say it was a combination of Chuck Norris and a cream pie made by Bear Grylls. 

Group members: 
Rinn (vocal distortionater and her own back up dancer), Tim (guitar string vibrationist and part time swan), Harley (extreme percussive melodist, ukulele, triangle, djembe, south eastern pipe, piano, button accordion, violin and rusty trombone, professional drumstick break artist), Rob (Payne in the Bass, pool cleaner, and pie warmer).

Describe your sound: 
Rock with and an edge of a bleeding unicorn and rainbows. 

Who are your influences, musical or otherwise? 
Rinn – Jem, Pizzazz, System of a Down, Jack Off Jill, Ani Difranco, Phil Anselmo

Rob – Charlie Sheen, Caligula and Aloysius Snuffleupagus.

Harley – HIM, Iron Maiden, Brian Vigleone, Wim de Vries.
Tim – Slipknot, Three Days Grace, Manson, HIM.

What’s the weirdest experience you’ve had whilst performing? 
Seeing an entire pool comp stop to come and watch us instead of play their games, 
and Rob. He is THE weirdest experience!

What’s your biggest achievement/proudest moment so far? 
Forming the band on Thursday July 2 and somehow playing a full one hour set on Monday July 27 with songs that we are pretty happy with! 

What are your plans for the future? 
Flying to Antarctica to play for the emperor penguins then probably going to chill for a while – after that, back to Canberra to work on recording  an EP and of course, getting out there and entertaining the locals as much as we can! 

What makes you laugh? 
Mashed potato heads.

What pisses you off? 
Bloody nits. You would think after all these years they would be extinct… apparently only children with clean hair get them. Assume these clean children come from clean houses and if the houses are so clean, why do these things keep coming back!? It’s as if some magical nit fairy comes in their sleep and WHAMMO! 

What’s your opinion of the local scene? 
Super duper with a chance of a dance off (Tim). Rob is starting the political drive against turning Canberra into the town from Footloose. 

What are your upcoming gigs? 
At The Maram for the new ownership party on Saturday October 15. Again at The Maram for the Women Who Rock Movember fundraiser on Saturday November 26.

Hope to see you there! 

Contact info: rinnethia@hotmail.com

sleepmakeswaves

WHAT: Insturmental rock
WHEN: Fri Sept 30
WHERE: ANU Bar

Sydney based instrumental rockers sleepmakeswaves have released their debut album …and so we destroyed everything. It’s a dramatic showcase for the band; glittering melodic hooks are embossed by Dax Liniere’s lush production and the band’s heaving musicianship. With an array of memorable and climactic sequences, …and so we destroyed everything signals the band’s continued desire to push into new musical territory. sleepmakeswaves will be performing at ANU with Mornings and Meniscus as part of an extensive Australian tour, before heading to Europe and Asia for their first international shows in 2012. Tix $12 presale through Ticketek or $15 on the door.  

Beni

WHAT: House of Beni tour
WHEN: Fri Sept 16
WHERE: Trinity Bar

Welcome to the House of Beni, a shape-shifting, solid state wall-of-dance sound and also the title of the imminent debut album from Sydney producer and DJ, Beni. Beni is a musical maestro of many guises. The last five years have witnessed Beni traipse the globe with vagabond disco pirates the Bang Gang Deejays, pop out stonking singles with (the now defunct) Riot In Belgium, craft tunes for Kitsune and remixes for Tiga, Digitalism, Fischerspooner, La Roux, and Alex Gopher to name a few. To celebrate the arrival of House of Beni, the man himself will be bringing his DJ skills to get down with you at Trinity Bar.

The Panics

WHAT: Rain On The Humming Wire tour
WHEN: Wed Sept 21
WHERE: ANU Bar

Following on from their sold out national tour and stand out Splendour performance, The Panics hit the road again in September and October for their official album tour. With Rain On The Humming Wire buzzing amongst the press with five star reviews and Feature Album at triple j, frontman Jae Laffer has proven his place as one of the strongest voices of the next Australian generation of songwriters. Critics and fans often say the same thing about The Panics: listening to their songs is like immersing yourself in the soundtrack to your own life. This show is definitely one not to miss. Tix through Ticketek.

Carly Fern and the Humicorn supported by Yes/No

WHAT: Sweet sticky folk pop
WHEN: Wed Sept 28
WHERE: The Front

A lover, a mystic, an artist and story teller, Carly Fern believes in the magic of imagination and together with her Humicorn bursts through and hugs your soul with her pink fluffy love. In late September Carly Fern and the Humicorn team up with their favourite sweet-hearted twinkle-tot Taylz the Pixie and with the help of their comfy yellow camper Henry, set sail for the shores of the East Coast. Promoting the launch of her debut LP Desire-Lines Carly Fern and the Humicorn will dazzle and delight, bringing a colourful mix of sweet sticky folk pop into all places and spaces in need of some puffy pink pizzazz. 7.30pm, $5.

Mortal Sin

WHAT: Australia’s first thrash metal band
WHEN: Sat Sept 17
WHERE: The Maram

Australia’s Mortal Sin began in 1985 and could be considered Australia’s first thrash metal band. All those years ago they recorded a demo at 301 Studios in Sydney that ended up as LP Mayhemic Destruction, which fell into the hands of Phonogram Records in London. The rep who got it was blown away. He actually thought it was the follow up to Kill ‘Em All by Metallica, and this thrust Mortal Sin into the limelight. The band have not stopped since and have a new record due in November this year. Catch them with Reign of Terror, Chud, Eyes To The Sky and Rise at The Maram. $15 at the door. 

Mikelangelo and the Tin Star, Saint Clare, Konrad Lenz, Fun Machine

WHAT: A night not to be missed!
WHEN: Fri Sept 16
WHERE: Polish White Eagle Club

Mikelangelo and the Tin Star just can't keep away, and are bringing their surf 'n' western sounds back to Canberra as part of The Return of Geronimo tour. The gig will be a welcome home to their lead guitarist Fiete Geier who just arrived back in Australia after an extended European sojourn. Various guest guitarists have been filling the hot seat in his absence, including Martin Cilia from legendary surf band The Atlantics. The group's debut album The Surf 'n' Western Sounds Of Mikelangelo and the Tin Star continues to get great reviews and airplay across Australia and has just sold out of its first pressing. Tickets $15/$20 at the door.

Beth’n’Ben release second EP Economy Class

Beth’n’Ben’s songwriting spans from blues, roots and reggae to jazz, soul and rock. Their fusion of genres and tongue in cheek writing style consistently turns heads and gets the crowd moving wherever they go. After doing the solo thing and playing in other bands around Canberra for six years the duo teamed up in mid-2009 and have had a ball with collaboration playing up and down the east coast of Australia. Beth’n’Ben released their debut EP Boarding Pass through Green Media last year after being signed to indie label Manga Republic. Their second EP Economy Class will released on Sunday October 16 at the White Eagle Polish Club in O’Connor with some very special guests. Dress in your finest vintage garb for this one and check ‘em out at myspace.com/bethnben and reverbnation.com/bethnben .

Jessamine at Phoenix

For the past three years Sydney solo artist Jessamine has been busy playing the local live circuit whilst working on the material for her debut album. Loaded with irresistibly infectious pop songs, the album treads a path of musical diversity. The softer moments feature acidic melodies laced with pretty harmonies and lullaby-like sweetness. Catch her at Phoenix on Thursday September 22.

Shake Your ACT

Like parties? Like bikes? Support clean energy? Want to take part in a global day of action? Like answering questions? Then circle Saturday September 24 on your calendar. Shake Your ACT! is part of 350.org’s Moving Planet Events. It is a day for people, world over, to show that they believe in the need to move beyond fossil fuels, are willing to do what it takes to achieve this, and are going to have some fun in the process. You could be part of the potential spectacle; thousands of people encircling national capitals, state houses and city halls. It kicks off in Garema Place at 12.30pm with inspirational speakers and live music, before the ride out to Parliament House from 2.50pm sharp. For more info check out shakeyouract.com .

Homebake Comedy Stage

The Homebake Music, Film & Art Festival announces the first instalment of their Comedy Stage presented by The Sydney Comedy Festival. With the first magnificent music artist announcement now well and truly embraced, Homebake Music, Film & Arts Festival’s return in 2011 will mark one of its most diverse array of exceptional antipodean talent in its history. Adding to the list of incredible performers, the brand new Homebake Comedy Stage will feature Tim “Rosso” Ross, Smart Casual, Daniel Townes, Matt Okine, Ronny Chieng, Rhys Nicholson, Dave Eastgate, Anthony Salame and Steve Philp with more comedy performers still to be announced. Tickets on sale now through Ticketek, Oztix and homebake.com .

Dusker at The Phoenix

Sydney are sending their folk rock finest to The Phoenix on Saturday September 24 in the form of three excellent acts: Dusker, Ranger Spacey and Briscoe. Dusker will be celebrating the launch of their new single The Well, the first release from their upcoming debut album 98 Beats of a Rapid Heart. Free promo copies will be available on the night, so come listen live to some brand new tales of ocean sprawls, things in the shadows, and space existentialism. Ooo-er. Canberra is the first stop on the showcasing tour, so you’ll get to hear them before anyone else. Win!

National Folk Festival Tix On Sale Now

Early-bird tickets for the National Folk Festival are on sale now, with ARIA award winning singer Zulya Kamalova among the first headlining acts announced for the 2012 event. Among the other performers announced are Canberra’s own Fred Smith, The London Klezmer Quartet, Uncle Bill (the band renowned for their work with Paul Kelly), ukulele virtuoso Daniel Ho, vibrant Queensland duo stringmansassy, and Gleny Rae Virus with her Tamworth Playboys for lovers of country music. Yee har! Early-bird tickets will only be available until Sunday October 30 or until sold out. More exciting acts will be announced in the coming months. Tickets can be bought online at folkfestival.org.au or by phoning 1300 235 849.

Australian Cinema’s Middle East

WHO: Arc Cinema
WHEN: Various dates in September and October
WHERE: Arc Cinema, National Film and Sound Archives

For the next month Arc Cinema looks at the 90 years of Australian cinema connections between our nation and the societies and cultures of the Middle East, beginning with the films of Frank Hurley and ending in the era of 9/11. Whether looking at the presence of Australian troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, the arrival of refugees from the region, the increasingly visible presence of Islamic belief and social custom, or episodes of communal tension and resentment in our big cities, these issues and themes have generated some of the best work of veteran documentarians. They’ve also drawn out new talent, often filmmakers themselves from an Arab-immigrant background. For all the info head to nfsa.gov.au/arc .

Fashioned Here

WHO: Canberra fashionistas
WHEN: Now until January 21
WHERE: Canberra Museum and Gallery

Fashioned Here unpacks the wardrobe of Canberra Museum and Gallery (CMAG). The exhibition shows the work of fashion designers and related private businesses that are represented in CMAG’s permanent collection, as well as selected current designers. In 1997 a generous donation spurred CMAG’s interest in collecting objects and stories of private commerce in Canberra. A study of decorative art, including what we wear, provides social historians with clues to the social values of a particular time and place; in the same way clothing can provoke memories of important events in our lives, so fashion can come to symbolise an era. C-Town’s got style alright.  

A Matter of Time exhibition

WHO: Kate Barker
WHEN: Opening 6pm Thurs Sept 15, continuing ‘til September 25
WHERE: Canberra Contemporary Art Space, Manuka

Photographs are a way of capturing and pinning down memories. We take photographs as aids for memory, but they in turn affect the way we remember. Kate Barker uses photographs as a basis for her paintings. By reinventing photographs through paint, Barker returns photographs’ coherent and informative remembrances into the disjointed, sometimes incoherent state of real human memory. Barker is a Canberra-based artist from Wagga Wagga, which was the focus of much of her previous work. With her new exhibition A Matter of Time, Barker will now be turning her sights on Canberra, looking at the way in which places and people interact and imprint on each other.

Centenary of Canberra - a legacy of good design competition

WHO: Craft ACT
WHEN: Now
WHERE: craftact.org.au/projects/centenary

Centenary of Canberra - a legacy of good design is a competition to design and produce a limited range of quality objects that will be sold as memorabilia for the  centenary in 2013. The competition will shortlist ten finalists who will each receive $1,000 to develop their design concept into a prototype. From these finalists four winners will be selected. Each of the winners will receive $10,000 for the production costs of the initial run of the memorabilia object. The competition is open to all Canberra and local region residents and closes on December 2. Competition guidelines and more info is available on the Craft ACT site.

Sing-A-Long-A Sound of Music

WHO: Sound of Music Tragics
WHEN: Sat Sept 17
WHERE: Canberra Theatre Centre 

Round up your favourite friends, frock up and get ready to sing your heart out when Sing-A-Long-A Sound of Music returns to the Canberra Theatre Centre. Have you ever been to a musical and had an uncontrollable urge to burst into song? Well now’s your chance. Sing-A-Long-A Sound of Music is more than just a movie; it’s your chance to sing along shamelessly and loudly to a film that we all know and love, and the song subtitles make it easy to join in. To start the evening celebrity host Katrina Retallick (The Chaser, Comedy Inc) will lead a vocal warm up, judge the costume parade and guide the audience through the use of the fabulous interactive fun pack. For all the info head to the CTC website, canberratheatrecentre.com.au .

Pecha Kucha Vol 10

WHO: Canberra Creatives
WHEN: Thurs Sept 29
WHERE: Craft ACT Craft and Design Centre

Volume 10 of the global gabfest Pecha Kucha will return to the capital on Thursday September 29. Pecha Kucha is a night for people to get together and witness presentations from local creatives aimed at inspiring, starting conversations and making connections. The previous volumes have featured artists, architects, musicians, performers, designers, publishers, ratbags and raconteurs, and Volume 10 promises more of the same. Pecha Kucha is an event that takes place in over 300 cities around the world and remains an excellent way for creative people to showcase their work and share their ideas. For more info head to pechakuchacanberra.com .

Soren Jensen

What do you do?

I act for free and learn lines for money. Professional actor, presenter and voiceover artist.

When did you get into it?

Around ten years ago, forming 19^th Hole Productions with friends from college after we finished school.

Who or what influences you as an artist?

The pursuit of giving an engaging, truthful and entertaining performance. Probably the most influential in this was Bobby Farquhar and the National Acting School which I first trained with in Canberra and helped set me on the path to getting into drama school and being a professional actor. I also look up to actors like Edward Norton, Sean Penn, De Niro, and Pacino.  

What’s your biggest achievement/proudest moment so far?

The production of Angels In America Pts 1 & 2 was a special undertaking as we put together six hours of theatre with such epic and challenging issues around homosexuality and AIDS during the ‘80s that really got a great response from those who saw it. The other would be my directorial debut with The Shape of Things, which won Best Play, Best Actor, and Best Actress 2008 in the CAT awards. Also recently becoming a dad to my daughter Lily Joy.

What are your plans for the future?

To be the best dad I can be for my little girl, and just keep on trucking doing what I do. I have been down in Melbourne for two years and am slowly making inroads into networks down there. In this industry it’s hard to plan too far ahead, but half the fun is the surprise of what opportunity may present itself next. I hope I continue to grow, learn, entertain and keep working with such fantastic people. Maybe I will put together a theatre company with all the fantastic Canberra artists that have moved to Melbourne. Half the people I meet down there seem to be ex-Canberra.

What makes you laugh? 

When my wife is making our baby girl giggle… It has been made clear to me that Mummy is much funnier than Dad, despite my best and professionally trained comedic efforts.

What pisses you off? 

Very little; I’m fairly Zen about the whole thing. But rude, inconsiderate people, or those who take advantage of others piss me off. Injustice seems to get a big rise out of me, maybe I was unfairly burnt at the stake in another life.

What’s your opinion of the local scene? 

Strong performers and companies; I have seen some great shows in Canberra, but the region struggles from having a lack of professional opportunities. It is unfortunate that to grow, and attempt to make a living off performing there is a need to leave Canberra. As always, there is more funding needed to attract professional performers to Canberra, and help grow the professional industry here, as there are many talented people that become an untapped resource for the industry.

What are your upcoming performances/exhibitions?

I have come back from Melbourne for a couple of months to perform in MP by Alana Valentine at The Street Theatre. A strong play about politics, gender, and disability services. They have put together a great cast and I am really excited about being able to perform in such a strong new professional work about Canberra in Canberra. It runs Saturday October 1 to Saturday October 15.

Contact info: 0415 513 930

jensen_soren@yahoo.com.au

The Monotremes

Where did your band name come from?

I wanted to come up with something colourful that represented the eclectic sound of the band  – The Monotremes worked brilliantly because zoologically, monotremes are a mindfuck. I guess I want this band to strike a similar chord. Plus monotremes are Australian and the word is an anagram for metronome, which is nice because we are rather fond of metric modulations and that kind of thing.

Group members?

Adam Cook – keys/vox, Matt Rankin – keys/vox/samples, Reuben Lewis – trumpet, Justin Bullock – bass, Adam Dickson – drums.

Describe your sound:

We use a jazz harmonic language and shift through many genres, a lot of them older, but we are using electronics so there's a kind of edge to it.

Who are your influences, musical or otherwise?

For a while now I've been a huge Zappa fan, but I'm also a professional classical muso, so I get into composers like Poulenc, Ravel, Weill, etc. I also love stride piano.

What’s the weirdest experience you’ve had whilst performing?

It was my birthday and we were headlining Bootlegs in the Pheno. There were balloons everywhere (courtesy of my friends) and then someone came up and shook my hand in the middle of a tune, and suddenly smacked a balloon into my face. I had a sneaking suspicion he'd been drinking. Then we finished the set and my band surprised me with happy birthday in 7/4 and my beautiful girlfriend gave a slice of birthday cake to every single person left in the pub.

What’s your biggest achievement/proudest moment so far?

It happens as often as we gig – there are a bunch of people asking us 'what the hell do you call that?', and most of the time they don't even mean to be rude. As of yet, there is not a single person I've met who has managed to assign anything to the sound, and that's one of the greatest sources of pride for the group.

What are your plans for the future?

Following a mad writing period, we're doing a few gigs, including Dragon, and we're having a recording session in late November/early December for a three-track album perhaps. Our songs are getting longer and stranger and we're all quite comfortable with the fact that we indefinitely will not get paid for our weirdarse shit, so we're in a good place really.

What makes you laugh?

My friends – that's why they are what they are. My family, which is nice. Clowns that frighten wolf puppies and are consequently savaged by the rest of the pack.

What pisses you off?

Oh the usual hamfisted nonsense. Man's inhumanity to man; the fact that our country (especially WA, where I'm from) is a spoilt brat.

What’s your opinion of the local scene?

I love it. In one day I will play in a recital hall in the ANU School of Music; see a gig at a pub with a lovely pint of cider; go to a CMC bash and listen to beautiful Canberran anthems sung by beautiful Canberran people; maybe finish the night in Civic and have a boogie to some home-made dubstep.

What are your upcoming gigs?

Saturday September 24 at the Polish Club for the CMC's third birthday, Sunday October 2 at the Dragon Dreaming Festival, Thursday November 24 at the somewhere-or-other; Wednesday November 30 in the Band Room, ANU School of Music.

Contact Info:

themonotremes@hotmail.com

facebook.com/TheMonotremes

Five copies of Meet Monica Velour

Featuring Sex and the City's Kim Cattrall in this irreverent comedy, awkward teenager Tobe (Dustin Ingram) sets off on a road trip to meet Monica Velour (Kim Cattrall), his favourite '80s porn star, at a rare live appearance hundreds of miles away. Instead of the glamorous sexpot portrayed on film, he finds a 49-year-old single mum living in a trailer in rural Indiana, performing at seedy strip clubs to make ends meet. A starry-eyed Tobe, still captivated by his crush, befriends Monica, further complicating her difficult life. Kim Cattrall gives a career defining performance in this offbeat love story that appeals to the dreamer-and the nerd-in all of us. We’ve got five copies to throw your way. To win, email editorial@bmamag.com and tell us what character Cattrall plays in Sex and the City.

Two doubles to Sing-A-Long-A Sound of Music

Round up your favourite friends, frock up and get ready to sing your heart out when Sing-A-Long-A Sound of Music returns to the Canberra Theatre Centre. Have you ever been to a musical and had an uncontrollable urge to burst into song? Well now’s your chance. Sing-A-Long-A Sound of Music is more than just a movie; it’s your chance to sing along shamelessly and loudly to a film that we all know and love, and the song subtitles make it easy to join in. To start the evening celebrity host Katrina Retallick (The Chaser, Comedy Inc) will lead a vocal warm up, judge the costume parade and guide the audience through the use of the fabulous interactive fun pack. For all the info head to the CTC website, canberratheatrecentre.com.au. We’ve got two doubles to give away. To win, email editorial@bmamag.com and tell us what your favourite scene is and why.

Five doubles to God Bless Ozzy Osbourne

God Bless Ozzy Osbourne is screening at Hoyts in Canberra over September 15 and 16. The film is a no-holds-barred look at the life of rock icon Ozzy Osbourne and includes a mix of never before seen footage from recent tours, archive footage of Black Sabbath, plus interviews with Ozzy’s Sabbath bandmates, Paul McCartney, Tommy Lee and others. We’ve got dive doubles to a session of your choice. To win, email editorial@bmamag.com and tell us the most hilarious thing Ozzy’s ever uttered.

Five Copies of Example’s New Album

The UK’s Example (aka Elliot Gleave… his initials are EG… geddit?) is geared up to realise his third LP Playing in the Shadows this September, which the man promises remains dance oriented, making a gradual move into the electronic and dubstep genres. After a spin of a preview copy, I can safely say it’s a smashing together of pop-dubstep-synthwave-handclap with occasional four-to-the-floor electro nonsense and vocals. Glad that clears that up. To get you warmed for his All Our Friends At Night appearance at the UC Refectory on Friday September 23, we have five copies of his new LP to wrap yer lobes around. To win, give us an example of a funny story involving dance music. Tix to All Our Friends (featuring Example, MSTRKRFT, Wolfgang Gartner and Nero) are $79.95 from moshtix .

Ten Project Nim Double Passes

From the Oscar-winning team behind Man On Wire comes the story of Nim, the chimpanzee who in the mid-‘70s became the focus of a landmark experiment which aimed to show that an ape could learn to communicate with language if raised and nurtured like a human child. Following Nim’s extraordinary journey through human society, and the enduring impact he makes on the people he meets along the way, the film is an unflinching and unsentimental biography of an animal we tried to make human. What we learn about his true nature – and indeed our own – is comic, revealing and profoundly unsettling. Based on the book Nim Chimpsky – The Chimp Who Would Be Human by Elisabeth Hess. We have ten in season double passes to give away. To win, tell us what name you would give your chimp butler. Project Nim will screen from September 29.

Five MoS Clubbers Guide to Spring 2011 CDs

With a new season comes a new Ministry of Sound release, and with the warmer weather comes the clothes-shedding vibes of MoS Clubbers Guide to Spring 2011. Emerging from a seasonal hibernation, Goodwill and Anna Lunoe have been selected for programming duties, throwing together a setlist of some 44 of the biggest tracks and hottest tunes that are destined to soundtrack your spring.

As expected, house music is in full bloom across the first disc, as Goodwill works his way through tracks and remixes from Example, Adele, Pnau, Ray Foxx, Azari & III, Afrojack, Ridney, Danny Daze and Friendly Fires. Anna Lunoe shoots us into the club with some loud, straight up, open-hat floor burners from Swedish House Mafia, Sneaky Sound System, The Subs, Green Velvet, Skream and DJ Fresh.

We have five copies to bestow upon your lovely selves. For your chance to win, tell us what your favourite warm weather track is and why.

Dragon Dreaming 2011

WHO: Doofers, dancers, dreamers
WHEN: Fri Sept 29 – Mon Oct 3
WHERE: Kowen Homestead Recreation Area, Kowen Forest

Dragon Dreaming Festival celebrates art, music and nature, and the freedom of self-expression in a safe, family friendly environment not far from Canberra. Their philosophy is one of nurturing Australia’s alternative artistic culture and the festival crew strongly encourage participation by all who attend. One of the best ways you can get involved is by dressing up for the Opening Ceremony, held on Saturday October 1. This year’s theme is Dream the Unseen, so dress as anything weird and wacky that doesn’t exist in the ‘real world’. For all the info head to dragondreaming.net .

Canberra Record Fair

WHO: Vinyl hounds
WHEN: Sat – Sun Sept 10 – 11
WHERE: Dickson Tradies Club

If you’re a vinyl lover don’t miss this as over 50,000 records will be on sale with stacks of gold to be found. Gold we tells ya! It’s a truly unparalleled event in Canberra town that’s the perfect place for music enthusiasts to expand their knowledge and their collections. This time ‘round there’s the added bonus of The Vinyl Junkie and John from Revolve Records joining forces to deliver smooth tunes while you peruse the countless crates. On top of the wax there will also be piles and piles of paperbacks and CDs. Open 9 to 5 both days.

Owl Eyes

WHAT: Indie pop darling
WHEN: Sat Sept 3
WHERE: Transit Bar

In the space of just a few months we’ve seen Owl Eyes blossom from a peripheral presence in Australia’s music landscape to one of its key players. She’s played with big name touring acts from around the world, enjoyed a healthy rotation of her single Raiders on airwaves across the country, won over countless hearts on a national headline tour of her own, and even had Devendra Banhart ‘give’ her his song Owl Eyes (from which she took her name) at Splendour. What a lucky gal. Canberra’s pretty lucky too as even though she was only just here in May, she’s back. Tix $12+BF through Moshtix.

A fundraiser for famine afflicted people in East Africa

WHO: Your charitable selves
WHEN: Fri Sept 2
WHERE: The Front

Says local gem Drew Walky: “Not dying of hunger is one of my favourite pastimes. It is with this in mind that I invite you to spend some time not dying of hunger with me. We’ll be collecting money to send to a charity so we can allow some people in Eastern African nations to also not die of hunger. We’re asking $10 entry or whatever you can afford and hopefully we can raise $1,000 or so. We have some great performers including Julia and The Deep Sea Sirens, Hadley and/or Jacinta, Rafe, nozl, and new band on the block Yes/No. I hope to see you there.”

NOZL

Hadley!
Yes/No

Rafe

Walky 

The Lucky Wonders

WHAT: Indie folk pop from Byron
WHEN: Sat Sept 3
WHERE: The Front

The Lucky Wonders have made a huge entrance onto the Australian music scene in the short time since they formed, with a trail of rave reviews left in the wake of their debut LP Thirteen O’Clock released in March last year, and mammoth touring efforts. The band found a warm reception for their beautifully crafted songs and warm, quirky, irreverent banter all over Australia, venturing to far flung reaches of WA and the Top End. They opened for Pete Murray, Paul Greene, Sal Kimber and The Rollin Wheel and Skipping Girl Vinegar, and played some premier venues around the country. $10 at the door.

BMA Presents Women of Notes 2

WHO: Beth Monzo, Alice Cottee, Paryce and Jude Kohn
WHEN: Thurs Sept 8
WHERE: Transit Bar

The first instalment of Women of Notes was a wonderful success – some 200 people braved the cold, inclement climes to witness some of the region’s finest female singer-songwriters. With Hannah Gillespie, Bec Taylor of Fun Machine, Julia and The Deep Sea Sirens and Simone Penkethman sublimely igniting the all-female vehicle, the second Women of Notes is set to further showcase the remarkable talent we have on offer. Circle Thursday September 8 in your calendar, where you’ll get the chance to see Beth Monzo, Alice Cottee, Jude Kohn and Paryce. It all plays out from 8pm at Transit Bar, and once again entry, for you my dears, is free.

Summer Rhythm Festival 2011

The beloved Summer Rhythm Festival returns for another year, with a new month and a new line-up. Spanning three days and four stages from December 9 – 11, this year’s event is another wonderful amalgam of international, interstate and local talent, playing host to over 70 acts including Salmonella Dub, Hook n Sling, Evil Eddie, The Bird, Hermitude, Van She Tech, Andy Murphy, Jeff Lang, Kingfisha, Dubmarine, Svelt, Goodwill, Tjupurru, Cassian, Ganga Giri, Shazam, Chardy, The Ellis Collective, S.E.T.H, Jono Fernandez, Los Chavos, Keirra Jade, D’Opus & Roshambo, Magnifik, Black Samurai, Rodskeez, Beth n Ben, Dissect, Team Wing, Fun Machine and many more. The event is once again at Goolabri Function Centre and Golf Course (10 mins outside Canberra off the Federal Highway) and first release tix are on sale now from Oztix for $85, (2nd round $95, $120 on the gate). They are still some limited street team positions left, so if you’re interested contact organiser Dan Luton at dan@strangehours.com.au .

RocKwiz Christmas Shows

The ’07 and ’09 RocKwiz Christmas shows are sparkling jewels in the RocKwiz Live crown. Held at St Kilda’s majestic Palais Theatre, they have featured Australia’s brightest stars singing extra songs and delivering festive surprises along with all your favourite segments. This year Julia Zemiro, Brian Nankervis and the expanded RocKwiz Orkestra are taking their Chrimbo shows on the road. As always, audiences can expect an all-star, mystery guest line-up, combined with some brand new theatrical flourishes and of course, the usual selection of brave audience members, sitting behind the buzzers, answering some curly Christmas quiz questions and bringing the house down with their legendary Contestant Karaoke. It happens at the Royal Theatre on Thursday December 1. Tix are on sale from Wednesday September 7 from Ticketek, and are likely $69.90 (price TBC).

Mission To Launch Announces Sneaky Sound System

With word quickly spreading about Canberra’s inaugural New Year’s Eve festival Mission To Launch, organisers are excited to announce the first act to be raising the roof at this year’s party in Weston Park… Australian dance powerhouse Sneaky Sound System. Returning from a world tour to Canberra for the first time in two and a half years, they will have the honour of bringing the party to its pinnacle as they lead the countdown to midnight. With SSS just the first of a stellar list of acts to be announced, Mission To Launch is set to give Canberra a jolly good New Year’s Eve shakeup. You can sign up to the newsletter and be the first to receive news on the full line-up, first chance tix, special offers, artist and event details and loads more – missiontolaunch.com.au. Tix on sale Monday September 19.

Pura Vida Latin Music Festival

Celebrating the diversity, eclecticism and sophistication of contemporary urban Latin culture, the Latin festival line-up includes internationally celebrated acts including ground-breaking techno folk ensemble Terraplén, Grammy Award winning Afro-Colombian hip-hop trio Choc Quib Town, and iconic ska come Latin rock band Desorden Público. The fusion continues with Victor Valdes & The Marin Brothers’ blend of Andean sounds and contemporary rock, and Brazilian hip-hop artist Renegado’s mix of reggae, maracatu, Cuban music and Samba with North American rap. Salsa and samba lovers will appreciate the fiery Chukale accompanied by legendary musicians from Cuba’s Buena Vista Social Club, plus the Brazilian Queen of nu samba, Aline Calixto, and world renowned Venezuelan salsa DJ, Dwight “Chocolate” Escobar. The festival also presents the dramatically unusual voice of Alda Rezende accompanied by master of percussion Esdra “Nenem” Ferreira with a mix of jazz, bossa nova, samba and pop, as well as Uruguayan boy-wonder Martin Buscaglia, who plays luscious candombe-funk music that is gentle, percussive and groovy. For all the info head to famaservices.com.au or call (02) 6247 1225.

Foreshore 2011 Sound Search

Want to play on the Foreshore stage alongside Gotye, Boy and Bear and Ladyhawke? Of course you do. And with Sound Search 2011, you and your ragtag bunch of musical misfits can do just that. Last year Fun Machine and Skin and Bones DJs took out the top gongs to share a stage with the likes of Cut Copy and The Temper Trap. The 2011 comp is extending to Wagga and Wollongong as well as Canberra to find the best young talent the region has to offer. Bands and DJs have until Friday September 9 to register at outingroup.com.au. The general public will then be able to head to the same site to vote for their favourite act. The four DJs and four bands with the most votes from each region will then play live in their respective region’s final. A panel of judges will then pick a winner from each region to play at Foreshore 2011 based on their performance. For more information, head to foreshorefestival.com.au .

2011 Canberra Short Film Festival

WHO: Short Filmmakers
WHEN: Sept 16-18  
WHERE: Dendy Cinemas

The 2011 Canberra Short Film Festival is the place where the creativity, originality and diversity of Australian Short Filmmaking is up for show. Each year it attracts filmmaking enthusiasts from around the country who want to experience for themselves the artistry of one of the nation’s premier film competitions. This year the festival will run over the opening weekend of Floriade. The Official Selection Sessions will begin from 6pm on Friday September 16 at Dendy and will then continue on Saturday before the Finals Night takes place on Sunday September 18. As well as an array of awards to be presented, this final night will also be an opportunity to see Yoram Gross’ – the creator of Blinky Bill – latest masterpiece Professor Filutek. Extraordinary! Head to csff.com.au for all the info. 

The Pig Iron People, written by John Doyle

WHO: Canberra Repertory Society
WHEN: Season runs Sept 16 – October 1
WHERE: Theatre 3

Australia, 1996. The winds of change begin to blow like a gale through the nation as a new government has taken the reins. Nick's out of step. He's a writer; no writer has ever lived on Liberal Street before. And the residents are making sure he knows it.

From now on people will have to make their own way in the world. People will no longer be rewarded for being weak. The madness is over... The people have spoken. This is what they want, this is what they voted for, and if you don’t see it like them, then you are out of step. So get used to it. In this suburban satire, John Doyle's infectious humour takes an affable yet sublimely sharp look at an Australia we all recognise. Book online at canberrarep.org.au or call 6257 1950.

2012 JUMP National Mentoring Program

WHO: You!
WHEN: Now!
WHERE: jumpmentoring.com.au

Young and emerging artists from across Australia are encouraged to make their artistic match and apply for JUMP 2012. As the Australia Council’s national mentoring program for young and emerging artists, JUMP identifies and promotes excellence in artistic practice for artists aged 18 – 30 who are in the first five years of their professional practice. You can accelerate your career through a one-on-one mentoring relationship with a leading arts professional of your choice, and join a diverse national network of program participants and alumni making their mark on the industry. To find out more, visit jumpmentoring.com.au. Applications October 28.

Exhibition Too Much Fun

WHO: Steve Roper
WHEN: Thurs Sept 1
WHERE: Watson Arts Centre

Steve Roper has painted landscapes, interiors and abstract work for many years and had expected to keep doing so for some time. As Too Much Fun shows however, his work has recently gone in a new direction. In his younger days Roper was a cartoonist for various small papers, and since then has continued to draw silly figures and scenes. The realisation that he actually liked these figures, and that other people were intrigued by them, led him to work them into bigger, finished drawings, paintings and sculptures. What was originally envisaged as a small project quickly expanded as Roper opened up the work, and his mind, to his unconscious imagination. The images in Too Much Fun draw on four main subject areas: music, street scenes, people and pets, and demons. Intriguing indeed.

Collective Passions: the Art of Festival Posters

WHO: National Film and Sound Archives
WHEN: Now until Dec 2011
WHERE: National Film and Sound Archives 

Graphic designers and festival fans will revel in the National Film and Sound Archive’s newly opened exhibition, Collective Passions: the Art of Festival Posters. From the earliest Australian film festival held in 1952 to the most recent online Portable Film Festival, from the Tamworth Country Music Festival to WOMADelaide, festivals and festival posters have become an integral part of Australia’s cultural scene. Designed to attract an audience and to project an identity, festival posters are an essential tool in the marketing and branding of festivals, with the additional challenge of representing a multifaceted festival experience. Many of the most engaging festival poster graphics featured in this exhibition were inspired by imagery and techniques drawn from art or film. The NFSA’s poster collection captures the variety and vitality of film and music festivals and is definitely worth a squiz for any film or music fan.

Exhibition Rubia! Rubia!

WHO: Emma Beer
WHEN: Weds Sept 7 – Fri Sept 16
WHERE: ANU School of Art PhotoSpace Gallery

The latest body of work by local emerging artist Emma Beer has become a means of transformation and abstract interpretation, of looking closely at the process of shifting the three dimensional and unfolding it onto the two dimensional picture plane as well as pushing the two dimensional into the third dimension. Beer flirts with the variables of different materials and forms of construction, but is best described primarily as a painter.

Annika Romeyn

What do you do?

I am a visual artist, illustrator and printmaker.

When did you get into it?

I have loved drawing for as long as I can remember, but it became my primary focus while studying art at university. Drawing forms the basis for all my work no matter the final medium or application.

Who or what influences you as an artist?

I’m interested in combining the experiences of observation and imagination and am inspired by the potential of small natural forms and structures to suggest vast or otherworldly realms. I’m influenced by a myriad of artists, including James Gleeson, Jörg Schmeisser and Shaun Tan.

What’s your biggest achievement/proudest moment so far?

In 2011 I have been very fortunate to be granted the opportunity to undertake a study tour of Spain through the Embassy of Spain’s Torres Travelling Scholarship as well as winning the Port Jackson Press Australia Graduate Printmaking Award.

What are your plans for the future?

I plan to continue building skills and concepts while enjoying creating new work. In 2012 I will be working towards an exhibition based on my recent journey to Spain as well as promoting my picture book to publishers, setting up a studio, travelling and exhibiting further afield.

What makes you laugh?

Good friends, dancing to the Mortal Kombat theme song and recently moonlighting as a shadow-puppeteer for Julia and the Deep Sea Sirens upcoming music video.

What pisses you off?

When all people are not treated with the kindness and respect they deserve… and that there are not enough hours in the day!

What’s your opinion of the local scene?

I returned to Canberra in late 2009, after four years studying in the United States, and have really enjoyed getting involved in the local scene. Canberra is home to lots of amazing artists and is a welcoming and supportive community. We also have access to some fantastic facilities and organisations, such as Megalo Printmaking Studio.

What are your upcoming performances/exhibitions?

My first solo exhibition of printmaking and drawing, Drift, opens at Belconnen Gallery (Belconnen Community Centre, Swanson Court) on Thursday September 15 at 6pm. I am also very excited to exhibit a picture book, Autumn Leaves, which I have written and illustrated, supported by the National Mentoring Program for Young and Emerging Artists (JUMP), opening at Canberra Contemporary Art Space Manuka on Thursday October 13 at 6pm.

Contact info:

annika_romeyn@hotmail.com

www.annika-romeyn.com

annika-romeyn.blogspot.com

Jude Kohn

Describe your sound:

I’d describe my sound as jazz vocals with a bluesy guitar, deceptively simple lyrics, and a smattering of rock ‘n’ roll beats.

Who are your influences, musical or otherwise?

Definitely the jazz masters ­– I learnt to sing by listening to Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holliday, and Mahalia Jackson incessantly as a kid. Too many others to count, I could go on and on. Led Zeppelin, the Beatles, Janis Joplin…

What’s the weirdest experience you’ve had whilst performing?

I still find it weird when I’m playing a gig in a noisy pub and after a few songs I look up and realise the pub has gone really quiet and people are actually paying attention. I still haven’t quite gotten used to that feeling!

What’s your biggest achievement/proudest moment so far?

Playing at Corinbank last year. I hadn’t been performing for very long and it was the biggest crowd I’d played for. I opened with an acoustic gospel number, and it was just so cool to sing in such a wide, open space.

What are your plans for the future?

I wish I knew. Get a real job, maybe.

What makes you laugh?

My friends are bloody hysterical.

What pisses you off?

Ignorance and prejudice in otherwise intelligent people. Also, paperwork.

What’s your opinion of the local scene?

Awesome! What a wealth of talent for a small town. Also, it’s incredibly encouraging for emerging performers – particularly the work done by The Canberra Musicians Club. I certainly wouldn’t have had half the opportunities I’ve had if the local scene wasn’t so friendly.

What are your upcoming gigs?

I’m playing at BMA Presents Women of Notes 2 at Transit on Thursday September 8, with Beth Monzo, Alice Cottee, and Paryce.

Contact info:

Judith.a.kohn@gmail.com

wix.com/judithakohn/music

Two double passes to The Bedroom Philosopher at Transit

BMA’s favourite musical comedian is stopping by Transit Bar for a special Sunday evening solo show on August 28, with CatBoy along for what will no doubt be a wild, crazy ride. Doors open 6pm, with the man set to hit the stage at 8pm. Tix are a mere $15 + bf from moshtix.com.au. We’ve got two doubles to throw your way. To win, email editorial@bmamag.com with some alternative lyrics to I’m So Post Modern.

Two CDs and double passes to khancoban

The second full length album for the Melbourne five-piece, Arches Over The Sun, is a grand, sprawling affair which sees the band effortlessly melding musical styles and genres to produce an album that is both richly textured and deeply moving. Produced by Nick Huggins (Mick Turner) and mastered by Casey Rice (Dirty Three), Arches Over The Sun is something of a departure from the style of khancoban’s previous alt-country and folk influenced releases. To celebrate the release of Arches Over The Sun, khancoban are touring throughout August and September, stopping by The Front on Saturday Aug 27. We’ve got two copies of the album and two double passes to give away. To win, email editorial@bmamag.com and tell us what khancoban’s namesake is.

Three double passes to Batrider

Batrider have released several critically acclaimed albums, including Tara and Why We Can't Be Together, numerous EPs and vinyls, and have toured Australia, New Zealand, Europe and the US repeatedly. Described as both beautiful and abhorrent, acidic yet hopeful, the sound of Batrider is one of considered noise and marked by brutal and passionate songwriting that has become a live favourite. They’re stopping by Phoenix on Sunday August 21, and this is one of those rare Phoenix ticketed gigs. It’s $10 on the door, but why not let us whisk away that tenner and put your name +1 on the door. We’ve got three double door spots to give away. To win, email editorial@bmamag.com and tell us where Batrider hail from.

Dance

Dear RnB music, I’m so sorry to hear about your break up with hip-hop. Your shared passion for chunky block party drum loops and catchy brass samples seemed like it would keep you in rhythmic matrimony forever, but unfortunately somewhere along the line I guess you just outgrew each other like an ill-fated high profile celebrity couple. As you wandered aimlessly through early morning music television on a forlorn quest for a suitably advantageous benefactor, you locked eyes with dance music and suddenly the commercial world as we know it was turned upside down. For the love of god, RnB (Beyonce, Jason Derulo and Chris Brown, I’m looking at you), please promise us that this is just a fling, for your tongue in cheek audio assault sees you riding the coattails of a popular genre all the way to the Bentley dealership.

Lucky for all of the self-respecting dance music spinners out there, there are a lot of amazing promoters who are willing to buck the trend of the commercial crossover and deliver some quality events for the genuine genre purist. One of the most respected local underground promotional teams is LollyGag & Effigy, who after a short winter hibernation are back with an absolute corker on Saturday August 27. The lads have facilitated the return of Scottish techno wizard Alex Smoke, who returns to Transit Bar for a mind-blowing assault on your eardrums. And if his last two performances in the ACT are anything to go by, this is one intimate show that you don't want to miss!
Every few years a crisp bunch of local talent rise up through the scene to become our new clubbing elite, and Saturday nights at Academy seem to be the ultimate breeding ground for the contemporary kings of Canberra. Next up on Saturday August 20 are dapper duo Dept. Of Defiance, who are amping up to rock the main room with their orgasmic blend of party mash-up and big room sounds, followed by the sleeveless wunderkind Jared de Veer on Saturday August 27, dropping a fresh set of electronic weapons sure to get your clean sneakers shrieking.

The new music just keeps coming on strong in August with a bunch of delectable dance music releases firing off to end the month in style. Swedish superstar Avicii delivers another atomic peak time monster with Levels, Bombs Away keep the quality remixes rolling in with a bouncy redux of the Stanton Warriors Turn Me Up Some, Laidback Luke returns with his huge festival bomb Natural Disaster, Dave Spoon reminds us why he is the king of the dark with 7.20 and Inpetto returns fire with a long awaited solo record in Hit Back. Support quality music, support quality DJs and keep the scene alive!

Women of Notes 2

The first instalment of Women of Notes was a roaring success – some 200 people braved the cold, inclement climes of a Canberra winter Thursday night to witness some of the region’s finest female singer-songwriters. With Hannah Gillespie, Bec Taylor of Fun Machine, Julia and The Deep Sea Sirens and Simone Penkethman sublimely igniting the all-female vehicle, the second Women of Notes is set to further showcase the remarkable talent we have on offer. Circle Thursday September 8 in your calendar, where you’ll get the chance to see Beth Monzo, Alice Cottee, Jude Kohn and Paryce. It all plays out from 8pm at Transit Bar, and once again entry, for you my dears, is free.

Live Evil benefit gig

Hot off the heels of their successful Big 4 show at ANU Bar, Live Evil are headlining a benefit gig coming up at The Basement on Saturday September 3. All proceeds are going to MND (motor neurone disease) NSW to provide support and information to people with all types of motor neurone disease, their family and carers. Also on the bill are local doom metallers Futility who are poised to release their second album, and are playing their first Canberra show for a long time, and local up and comers Venom Eyes. $10 on the door.

Homebake Classic Edition

Wowee… what a difference a year makes. When Homebake announced that they were skipping 2010 the nation groaned. After all, we know what a ‘year off’ in the festival world really means… It ain’t coming back again. Ever. It’s never felt so good to be wrong. Homebake is not only making a triumphant return to The Domain at Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney on Saturday December 3, but they’re bringing a mighty-mighty line-up to boot, which features Grinderman, Pnau, Gotye, Gurrumul, Cut Copy, Ladyhawke, Drapht, The Triffids, Eskimo Joe, Architecture In Helsinki, The Church, The Vines, Illy, The Jezabels, Kimbra, CW Stoneking and many more. Tickets are now on sale through Ticketek and Oztix. homebake.com.au .

khancoban

WHAT: Arches Over The Sun tour
WHEN: Sat Aug 27
WHERE: The Front

The second full length album for the Melbourne five-piece, Arches Over The Sun, is a grand, sprawling affair which sees the band effortlessly melding musical styles and genres to produce an album that is both richly textured and deeply moving. Produced by Nick Huggins (Mick Turner) and mastered by Casey Rice (Dirty Three), Arches Over The Sun is something of a departure from the style of khancoban’s previous alt-country and folk influenced releases. To celebrate the release of Arches Over The Sun, khancoban are touring throughout August and September, stopping by The Front on Saturday Aug 27.

Purple Sneakers

WHAT: Bel Air
WHEN: Fri Aug 26
WHERE: Transit Bar

You think you’ve seen Transit Bar go off? Sure, you’ve witnessed the walls sweat and the dance floor pulsate when Purple Sneakers takes over, but according to them you ain’t seen nothin’ yet. (Baby you ain’t seen nothin’ yet). Their last Friday of the month DJ parties have been renamed, revamped and re-amped into the “ghetto fabulous” Bel Air, the launch of which will feature PhDJ who’ll keep the decks sizzling, Indian Summer bringing the Melbourne love, along with local faves Eddie Shaggz, Princi and Celebrity Sex Tape. It all kicks off at 8 and entry is free.

Sydney’s newest venue: Upstairs Beresford

WHO: Upstairs Beresford
WHEN: Now
WHERE: The Beresford, Surry Hills, Syd

Upstairs Beresford is a music venue that has been inspired by some of New York’s finest and designed to give both the performer and patron a first class experience with decadent décor, state of the art technology and a full suite of amenities backstage.

It offers a first class space to perform in which was designed to enable the performer to connect with the audience while also boasting a large stage, tiered booths, a spacious dance floor and a state of the art sound and lighting system. If you’re a Canberra band on the hunt for somewhere quality to play in Sydney, contact Tony Gosden at tony@jammusic.com.au .

Art School Ball – Futures Past

WHO: ANU School of Art
WHEN: Sat Sept 3
WHERE: ANU School of Art

The theme of this year’s Art School Ball is Futures Past, which will inspire the work of several visual artists including video and performance artists Riley Post and Danny Wild, video artist Travis H Heinrich, and sound and video artist Luke Penders. On the bill are locals Assassins 88 with TV colours, The Fighting league, Crash the Curb (pictured), Badlifers, Bacon Cakes, Mornings, Orbits, M.A, RKPK, DJ Dead Joke and Onetalk, along with a set by Melbourne Italo DJ Fabio Umberto. Tickets are available at presale prices ($10 student/$15 non student) or at the door for $15/$17.

uniVibes Presents Opiuo

WHAT: Fusion Thursdays
WHEN: Thurs Aug 18
WHERE: The Clubhouse

Thursday August 18 sees the first instalment of uniVibes' Fusion Thursdays, which will showcase uncategorised genres and fuse students from ANU School of Music with DJs and producers. Opiuo is the perfect kickstart: imagine a precisely blended concoction of tight irresistible grooves, bouncy beats, luscious brooding soundscapes,  stomach-morphing bass and scrumptious glitch. A self confessed music addict with a light hearted approach to life and art, Opiuo incorporates sounds as varied as jazz, reggae, funk, rock, psychedelia, and down right chunky goodness. For presale tix email univibes@gmail.com. They’re $10 for uniVibes members and $15 for everyone else. $20 on the door.

Youth Start-Up Grants

WHO: artsACT
WHEN: Now
WHERE: arts.act.gov.au

The second round of Start-Up Grants, the ACT Government’s new grants program for young artists, is now open. The first round, announced earlier this year, supported 15 young ACT-based artists across a variety of projects including a dance film, a debut album and glass exhibition. Start-Up grants are designed to be responsive to the needs of young emerging artists and encourage young people to engage with the ACT Arts Fund. Canberra artists aged 18 to 25 who haven't previously received funding from artsACT are eligible to apply. For more information visit the artsACT website at arts.act.gov.au .

Now Hear This

WHO: ABC 666
WHEN: Apply now
WHERE: abc.net.au/canberra

Do you have a story? A story you tell at the dinner table, at barbecues and parties? A story you know people will laugh, cry and be spellbound at? Or do you know someone who spins a good yarn? Now Hear This is a night of people telling just those kinds of stories.

Storytellers from around the region come together and tell their true tales to a packed audience at The Street Theatre. There has already been two great Now Hear This events this year. Each night has a theme; so far they’ve covered ‘I learned the hard way’ and ‘Love is a four letter word’. Register your interest to tell your story and catch some of the stories ABC 666 has recorded online at abc.net.au/canberra . 

Canberra Playback Theatre

WHAT: Invitation to join
WHEN: Now
WHERE: The Playing Field Studio (in the demountable building next to The Street Theatre)

Canberra Playback Theatre is currently looking for new members and will open rehearsals in August and September to people who are interested in learning about playback and possibly joining the company. Canberra Playback is keen to get new people in the company who have a variety of skills, life experience and interests. Experience in theatre is not necessary and people with backgrounds in health and the community sector are encouraged to come along. The cost of the training is $50 to assist with hall hire costs and 80% attendance throughout the term is required if you are interested in becoming a member of the company. For more information or to register your interest contact Leigh on 0413 556 328 or letswatch@canberraplayback. canberraplayback.org .

Stranger than Fiction

WHAT: New Canberra based women’s fashion label
WHEN: Launching new collection Fri Aug 19
WHERE: itrip iskip, Lonsdale Street

Canberra based women’s fashion label Stranger than Fiction (formerly known as Grazed Youth) invites you to the launch of their latest collection. The label has a new name and a new look and would love to celebrate with you. The launch will be held at the gorgeous retail premises of itrip iskip and will include a fashion parade, accessories and jewellery for sale, as well as yummy baked goods and wine. The label’s new collection is called Bundle of Nerves. Inspired by Hitchcock style movie heroines and scientific and mathematical images from their childhood, the Stranger than Fiction team have collaborated once again with Sydney based digital artist Anna Madeleine to create a collection of unique, quirky and unexpected garments. strangerthanfictionclothing.com .

CCAS Members Show

WHO: CCAS Members
WHEN: Opening Thurs Aug 18, 6pm. ‘Til Sun Aug 28
WHERE: CCAS Manuka

This year is set to be bigger than ever with the theme of XXX. CCAS Manuka will be filled with everything from the wacky to the licentious to the downright raunchy, created by a great mix of established and emerging artists. With first prize being a juicy $500 there is sure to be some tough competition to win the title of the XXXiest work. This year’s judge is Canberra’s own Erica Seccombe, artist and Chair of Megalo Print Workshop. Not only is the show a fantastic opportunity to support CCAS and see some great new art, but also to purchase it, as all works will be available for the very reasonable price of $100.

In Every Home: The Australian Women’s Weekly 1933-1982

WHO: National Library of Australia
WHEN: Now until Aug 2012
WHERE: National Library of Australia

Have you lost your recipe for rabbit casserole or need to know what to do with butter extender? The NLA has the answer to these questions and so much more. In Every Home: The Australian Women’s Weekly 1933-1982 display recently opened at the NLA to celebrate the digitisation of the first 50 years of the magazine. There is little TAWW didn’t cover in its first 50 years; from its first issue on June 8 1933, the magazine told Australia’s story as only it could. Along with features about how to make a festive rooster – you needed a large banana and walnuts for its beak – it challenged the traditional role of women, including a series on careers for women, a campaign for divorce law reform and a push for more women in politics. Then there were the even bigger issues: whether tertiary-educated women scared off prospective husbands, as Kathleen Pitt put it in July 1933,

“because the average young man is alarmed when he learns he is dancing with a University student”. Ha!

Lucienne Rickard

What do you do?
I make obsessively detailed drawings of soldiers, birds and plants.

When did you get into it?
I started focusing on drawing around three years ago. Prior to that I’d made very large minimal sculptures, but felt I needed to reinvent myself as an artist.

Who or what influences you as an artist?
I’m very influenced by writers. My current work draws on Hemingway, Cormack McCarthy and David Malouf. I also draw a lot of inspiration from my students – I teach at a high school and the School of Art in Hobart.

What’s your biggest achievement/proudest moment so far?
In 2005 I was awarded the Rosamond McCulloch residency at the Cite des Arts Internationale, Paris, by the University of Tasmania. I lived in Paris for six months and it was a really formative time for me as an artist.

What are your plans for the future?
I’d like to make increasingly elaborate and ornate drawings, and am planning to focus on the eccentric flora and fauna and dark underbelly of my surroundings in Tasmania. I’d also like to try my hand at illustrating stories.

What makes you laugh?
Steve Coogan, particularly as Tony Wilson in the excellent film about the Manchester music scene 24 Hour Party People.

What pisses you off?
Blunt pencils.

What’s your opinion of the local scene?
It’s only my second showing in Canberra, but so far I’ve really enjoyed the passion evident in local exhibition go-ers. 

What are your upcoming exhibitions?
My solo show with Beaver Galleries All the Bright Company of Heaven (Thursday August 25– Tuesday September 13), and an exhibition at the University of Tasmania Gallery in October titled Unnatural.

Contact info:

My website, www.luciennerickard.com, or I can be contacted through Beaver Galleries, Canberra – www.beavergalleries.com.au.

Jason Derulo

So what exactly does Jason Derulo have to separate himself from the array of other equally serviceable urban singers out there right now like Chris Brown, Usher, Taio Cruz, etc? He dances. Well, they all do that. He trills dramatically. Yep, that too. He samples old club tunes that nobody thinks are cool anymore. Nope, they do that as well. So… nothing then? Cool, see you next time Kevin Lyttle 2.0.

Jack Vidgen

We should be nice to our child stars. If we’re not then they’re likely going to end up wrecked and decayed, hooked on prescription painkillers and doing episodes of 20-1 for rent money. And this Jack Vidgen seems like a more than amiable member of those ranks. So let’s be kind, considerate and caring this time around and just all quietly acknowledge that this song is balls and leave it at that.

Flight Facilities

So what if it took them 18 months to follow up Crave You? We should be lucky that Flight Facilities didn’t chuck it in then for all the pressure that was on them. Foreign Language isn’t too concerned with being a world-beating anthem but instead it’s just about good times, heightened disco-drama and a look at how far the lads have come in between dri, with extra bells and whistles making this one a memorable jam for sure.

Christina Perri

Euuuugh. Who likes this junk? I don’t even get it. This is music made expressly for those nauseatingly sad people that watch So You Think Can Dance for the ‘emotional journey’, have online handles that start or end in ‘xx’, know the history of the Cullens off by heart and think that the idea of Evanescence bathing in a pool of post-breakup tears and menstruation sounds appealing.

Metalise

So Soundwave Revolution is off. You will read any amount of conjecture, but here at Metallise I do not write fantasy, I ring a friend who works for Soundwave and quote AJ Maddah’s twitter directly. There are two key points. Why was it cancelled? “…We needed the second band to sell enough tickets to make it possible”. My source continued that Van Halen alone was not shifting the sort of tickets required to bring the festival home. The second key point is that the second band will not be named as that will make it “difficult to work together in the future”. There will still be a huge number of shows on during this period as the festival will now fragment into smaller shows and mini-fests.

Katabasis released their debut record back in June and started probably one of the more ambitious Australian tours I’ve seen with 29 dates that run through to November this year. They’re at the Basement on Thursday August 18 and they’re on with Tortured, fresh from their well received Slaughterfest appearance, and locals CHUD. Get along to that one to warm up for your weekend.

Mortal Sin are coming back to town on the Saturday September 17 and are hitting The Maram at Erindale with a band with almost as much history and almost as many line-up changes, the indomitable Reign Of Terror. The fine blokes at Mudd promotions are to thank for the show and I’m not 100%, but the new Mortal Sin album Psychology of Death is due out very soon. If you can’t wait to hear it, check out www.reverbnation.com/mortalsin for some select album teasers from Sydney’s thrash icons.

Aussies United is a non-profit association in Canberra looking to help out young musicians, and they’re looking to put on an all day concert for bands of all genre’s on Australia Day next year alongside established bands. If you’re interested in finding out more, check aussiesunited.com.au or email info@aussiesunited.com .

Bastardfest is ramping up for September with the first show on in Brisbane on Saturday September 3. Brisbane is a little out of range for most Canberra folks but the Sydney show at The Sandringham on Saturday September 10 features a huge range of the best of all Aussie bands. The full line-up is Psycroptic, Blood Duster, Extortion, Dreamkillers, Ruins, Claim The Throne, Pod People, I Exist, Bane of Isildur, Ouroboros, Daemon Foetal Harvest, Anno Domini, Chaos Heist and Ignite the Ibex. The Melbourne version might interest some travellers as it includes USA’s Ringworm and Mindsnare putting in their ten cents worth. That show is Saturday September 17 at The Corner Hotel.

Infinitum are coming close to wrapping work on their as yet untitled follow up to 2008’s Behold Eradication, an album that garnered richly deserved praise and attention from extreme metal fans everywhere. The new record weighs in at nine tracks and you will be able to get the record through Queensland label Obsidian Records, home to other Australian luminaries like Portal and Astriaal. Looking forward to this one from the vocal-less tracks I was recently treated too. Brutal.

Monster Magnet hits in Sydney on Wednesday September 14 to play The Metro Theatre on George St, playing the entire Dopes To Infinity record from start to finish. That is a Wednesday night’s fun and games well worth it and there’s a great interview to read with Mr Wyndorf about it on Metal As Fuck.net if you’re sitting on the fence about going to catch the show. They were excellent at Soundwave in the early arvo earlier this year.

Unkle K’s Band of the Week: Blasted Canyons - psychedelic garage-prog synth-punk space-pop radness.

Locality

On Friday July 1, I received a Facebook message from someone with the intriguing moniker of Shoulder Hawk: “A few of us are building a national website that aims to be a networking system for musos, venues and industry types with an overall theme of self empowerment through education… can we do coffee?” Natch. A few days later Shoulder Hawk (aka Jacq Rolfe) and I had a spirited discussion about Canberra’s music scene and the fact that many local artists and bands have difficulty taking the next step beyond backyard and small pub gigs, despite their undeniable talent and wide appeal. This is where THE SLOG comes in. I caught up with Jacq to find out how it’s kicking along. 

What is THE SLOG?
THE SLOG is a developing website catering to musicians, venues, managers, festivals and other music industry types. The long term features are pretty extensive; we’re pouring a lot of time and effort into building a site that will be absolutely packed with features, but initially we will be networking these groups by providing an interactive board that promotes gigs at music venues. Once the initial part is up and running effectively, we’ll expand to promote people such as photographers, those with equipment (in case an amp blows up and you’re 500k from home), session musos and other services so that bands on the road, or at home, can get quick access to what they want and need as they want/need it... somewhat like an interactive yellow pages, but one that caters for all in the industry.

Why did you establish it?
At first it was to help musician friends get around more easily and to make sure more interstate bands would stop by Canberra on their way to other cities. From there ideas kept developing and after doing some research, it became apparent that no one was doing these things despite there being great need.

What’s the background of people involved with THE SLOG and how has it helped gain an insight into the gaps in the industry?
I’ve been ridiculously lucky with the people who’ve come on board. Collectively we have years of experience in gigging, managing, media, technical development, designing as well as a solid network of good, reputable characters who just want to serve the music and not themselves.

How can people get involved?
Well, like any small business, we’re always open to sponsors and donations. To get the standard of quality we’re going to provide it’s pretty pricey. But other than that we’d love people to ‘like’ the Facebook page and spread the word to their friends. We currently have homegrown, Canberra based, James Grim from Brothers Grim & The Blue Murders as our display pic. They're our feature artist for this month, meaning that most of our promoting and support is focused on them for all of August. They’re playing at Transit on Thursday August 25 with The Toot Toot Toots, which will be awesome, you should definitely go. How’s that for a promo example? Aside from that we have a Twitter account @the_slog and a Reverb Nation profile at reverbnation.com/theslog .

Anything else you’d like to add?
Just that if you’re an artist and would like to have your stuff streamed/given away on our page, just head to THE SLOG on facebook and follow the instructions on our info tab. We have an email address listed there and everything is pretty easy to follow. Get involved!

All Ages

Alternative/hardcore six-piece Dream on, Dreamer have risen to fame quickly since their formation in 2008 – in fact the Melbourne boys were recently made the support act on legendary US rock/metal band Avenged Sevenfold’s national tour. But that’s not all that the boys have been up to. Having recently recorded their debut studio album Dream on, Dreamer are ready to embark on their very own Homebound Tour.

Canberra fans are anticipating the band’s visit to the Tuggeranong Youth Centre on Wednesday August 24. Sharing the stage with Dream on, Dreamer will be progressive hardcore band The Bride from Sydney and Canberra’s own Hands Like Houses with more local suppor acts still to be announced. Tickets cost $18.40 (pre-sale) from Oztix. This is worth booking ahead for.

On Friday August 26 you can be part of Jive n’ Astrochem at the Woden Youth Centre. If you’re keen for a dance, this is the gig to attend. So get on your groovin’ shoes because this funky-fresh local line-up will feature Pleased to Jive You, Astrochem as well as pop/jazz act The Sodapops and Sydney’s Crouching 80’s Hidden Acronym (I know, what a name!) with their special brand of what they call “feel good hipcore”. You can also be witness to a live rap battle. On this night The Sodapops’ debut album will be on sale for the first time, and you also have a chance to purchase Please to Jive You’s album Cheesman Place at half price, so bring a pocket full of change with you. Tickets cost a miniscule $6 at the door. But remember, folks, this is a drug and alcohol free event.

If for some absurd reason Jive and Astrochem isn’t your forte, there is a plan B for you on the night of Friday August 26. It is a night of choice. Alternative/rock quad Pyrene from Melbourne will make a stop in Canberra as part of The Diminutive tour, celebrating the successful release of their self-titled EP. Joining Pyrene for what they are calling an “All Ages Extravaganza” at the Tuggeranong Youth Centre will be an exciting line-up of local acts including Makeshift, No Longer I from Goulburn, stoner rock  act Blacksquire and six-piece Perpetual End. Tickets cost just $10 at the door at 6pm.

Now, remember, if you know of a gig don’t keep it to yourself! Whether you are in a band or are just a casual gig-goer, I’m eager to hear from you. If you let me know of an event in advance, I’ll be sure to include it. It will save a lot of confusion, and of course, the more I am made aware of, the more informative this column can be. My email is always at the bottom of this column, so use it. Whether it be a gig, a community event or just something all ages related that you feel deserves to be mentioned, just shoot through an email. I’m looking forward to hearing from you!

allagescolumn@gmail.com

Final Lies

Band Name: Final Lies

Where did your band name come from?
Final Lies is the replacement for our old band name Alone With You. When our singer and line-up changed, so too did our name, and Final Lies was the winner, picked from a short list of some very average band name ideas, including ‘Live Band’, ‘Free Entry’ and ‘$2 Schooners’.

Group Members?
Sally (vocals), Johnny (lead guitar), James (guitar), Evan (bass) an Josh (drums).         

Describe your sound:
Josh: To put it simply, I’d describe it as melodic guitar-driven rock. Our sound is slightly more refined now than in our previous EP.

Who are your influences, musical or otherwise?
Sally: So, so many influences, especially when I was young. In high school I was really inspired vocally by Killing Heidi, Silverchair, and Incubus, and later on stuff like SOAD, Deftones, Sevendust, Sunk Loto and Superheist.

What’s the weirdest experience you’ve had whilst performing?
Evan: We once had a streaker run through the crowd at The Basement.

What’s your biggest achievement/proudest moment so far?
Evan: Simultaneously having three songs off our first EP in the Top 10 of the triple j Unearthed charts for a few weeks in 2009.

What are your plans for the future?
Evan: We’re about to record our new EP at Electric Sun studios next month.  We’ve got some killer songs that will be on that one.

What makes you laugh?
Josh: Nothing. I was cursed last week and now have absolutely no sense of humour… Though ‘mum’ jokes and farts still slightly amuse me.

What pisses you off?
Sally: People. I studied psychology to try and figure out why people are so annoying. It didn’t help.

What’s your opinion of the local scene?
Sally: It’s pretty. Oh wait that’d be the scenery. The local music scene? It’s fucking awesome right now. We just need some more venues to pop up, not to say the current ones aren’t good but we could use some more.

What are your upcoming gigs?
Saturday 27 August with Johnny Roadkill, Mandala, Point of View and Activate Jetpack

8:00pm at The Maram; Thursday 22 September, 8:00pm at The Valve (Sydney), plus more in later months.

Contact info:
Final.lies@gmail.com
www.facebook.com/finallies
www.myspace.com/finallies

Dream On Dreamer

WHAT: The Heartbound Tour
WHEN: Wed Aug 24
WHERE: Tuggeranong Youth Centre

Post-hardcore kids Dream On Dreamer have turned heads around the world with the release of their Downfall single and the announcement of a worldwide release of their album via powerhouse international labels UNFD (Australia), Rise Records (North America, UK, Europe) and Triple Vision (Japan). The band only recently returned from the US where they crafted a modern, impressive debut that will continue to see them rise to the top of the post-hardcore heap. Joining them on The Heartbound Tour are up and coming acts The Bride and Canberra’s own Hands Like Houses. Tix through Oztix and on the door.

BMA lovingly presents Women of Notes

As you may have read on the News page of this ish, AIR recently conducted a small study into the percentage of male versus female artists receiving airplay on Australian radio. The results revealed that of the 2,000 most played songs in June this year 81.7% were sung by a frontman, while only 18.3% were sung by a frontwoman. Soon after the results were released an APRA rep stated that their songwriter membership is approximately 80% male and 20% female. This is a huge imbalance that begs the question, why are there not more female musos in the industry?

It’s a question with innumerable answers and though we don’t have a definitive one we’ve teamed up with Transit Bar to address the imbalance. Women of Notes is a series of female musician nights launching at Transit on Thursday August 11.

The first all local line-up features the inimitable Julia Johnson performing with her ethereal (female) Deep Sea Sirens, the always dazzling Bec Taylor of Fun Machine in rare solo mode, the rich song tapestries of Simone Penkethman and the warm folk country ‘campfire music’ of Hannah Gillespie. Entry is free and it kicks off at 8.

I imagine some readers may be rolling their eyes right about now. And fair enough too. As a renowned Canberra music man told me ‘round the fire drum at Saturday Night Hop last weekend, holding a girls only muso night sort of means you’re admitting defeat. I’ve certainly never heard of a guys only muso night. Julia Johnson agrees.

“I generally loathe the concept of girls only muso nights. They make me cringe,” she said. “Female performers are no better or worse than male performers, so why single us out? But I can’t remember the last time I went to see a female play in Canberra. We must all be hiding. Many of us have moved away or had families or something I suppose. So I’m interested in Women of Notes not only as a performance opportunity for myself (since Transit has really nice sound these days!), but to see who else is out there and what I’ve been missing.”

You said it Jules. Women of Notes isn’t just about acknowledging the imbalance, it’s also about showing Canberra audiences just how many wonderfully talented women we have in our town.

Although I named the series the concept was originally Jem Natividad’s and he’s the one steering the ship. “Being a music nerd, I’m very much into my Mitchells, Baezs, Ribeiros and Simones,” he said. “I really wanted to give Canberra the opportunity to discover her own.” You said it Jem. If you’re a female muso and you’re interested in being a part of Women of Notes, be sure to fling me an email and keep an eye on the BMA site and Facebook for more info.

Two double passes to Def Leppard at AIS Arena

Def Leppard are returning to Australia and will be stopping by the capital with American rockers Heart (in Australia for the first time). Def Leppard are one of the few rock bands to join the exclusive ‘diamond’ club, receiving two diamond accreditations (for sales in excess of ten million units) for Pyromania and Hysteria. Pyromania (1983) was recently named by Rolling Stone magazine as one of the 500 Greatest Albums of all time, while Kerrang! Magazine chose Def Leppard’s show as one of their greatest gigs of all time! We’ve got two double passes to their show at AIS on Tuesday October 25. To win, email editorial@bmamag.com telling us what your favourite Def Leppard song is and why.

Two double passes to Stevie Nicks at AIS Arena

Stevie's In Your Dreams tour comes to Canberra on Wednesday November 7 at AIS Arena. Joining Stevie will be celebrated musician and songwriter Dave Stewart from Eurythmics, who co-produced Stevie's new solo album, In Your Dreams. Fans of both Fleetwood Mac and Eurythmics will be thrilled to know that Stevie Nicks and Dave Stewart will be performing their greatest hits from their respective bands as well as highlights from their solo careers. We’ve got two doubles to give away. To win, email editorial@bmamag.com telling us what your favourite Fleetwood song is and why.

Five double passes to Faithless: Passing the Baton at Hoyts Belconnen

Dance music pioneers Faithless took their final bow before a sold out crowd in London on April 8 2011, but Canberra fans are invited to have one last dance with the band at a special cinema event at Hoyts Cinemas in Belconnen from August 18-21. 

Faithless: Passing the Baton captures the full arena production of the trio’s last ever concert. We’ve got five double passes to give away. To win, email editorial@bmamag.com and tell us

Five MOS Tableism CDs

In the words of celebrated American food writer Harold McGee, the art of cooking – at its most fundamental – “requires the selection, measurement, and combining of ingredients in an ordered procedure in an effort to achieve the desired result.” The same ethos can be applied to the art of mixing music. Our good friends at MOS have taken this idea and released a collection of dinner party music; forty one tracks across two CDs perfect for entertaining, and we’ve got five copies to throw your way. To win, email editorial@bmamag.com and tell us what your top five dinner party albums are.

One double pass to Mikelangelo and The Tin Star at Phoenix

Well known for his cabaret persona fronting The Black Sea Gentlemen, Mikelangelo formed The Tin Star in late 2009 as a channel for his love of instrumental guitar music of the ‘50s and ‘60s. Combined with a fascination for Western cinema soundtracks and Mikelangelo’s impressive baritone croon, The Tin Star could never be a purely instrumental band, and shades of Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley can be heard in the album’s vocals. Mikelangelo and The Tin Star are playing two shows in Canberra on Sunday August 7; the first one at the reopening of April’s Caravan at The Front which run from noon ‘til 5, and then later that evening at The Phoenix. If you’d like your name +1 on the door for this gig, email editorial@bmamag.com and tell us.

Three WWE DVD packs

You want wrestling DVDs? We got wrestling DVDs. Four of them in fact. The titles are Rey Mysterio: Life of a Masked Man 3DVD set, Capitol Punishment, Greatest Superstars of the 21^st Century 3DVD set, and Edge Tin Collection Limited Edition 5DVD set. So that’s four titles, but 12 DVDs altogether. To win one of three packs, email editorial@bmamag.com and tell us what your signature move would be if you were a WWE wrestler.

Five Daydream Nation DVDs

17-year-old Caroline Wexler is facing a teenager’s nightmare: her widower father has moved them from a big city to a tiny town in the middle of nowhere. When Caroline realises she has nothing in common with the losers in her new school, she pursues the one person who excites her interest – her handsome young teacher, Mr. Anderson. A bizarre love triangle ensues between Caroline, Mr. Anderson, and a sweet, but troubled classmate. Daydream Nation is filled with wry and wicked observations of teen angst and small town boredom, but best of all it’s scored by Ohad Benchetrit of Broken Social Scene and features a hit indie soundtrack with original music from the Canadian music scene’s hottest artists including Devendra Banhart, Metric’s Emily Haines, Constantines and Stars. We’ve got five copies the fling your way. To win, email editorial@bmamag.com and tell us what your teenage nightmare was.

One GA double pass to Foreshore

You know what it is, you know who’s on the line-up, and you mos def want to be there. So why not save your hard earned and go courtesy of the good ship BMA? To win a general admission double pass to Foreshore, email editorial@bmamag.com and tell us who you most want to see on the Foreshore bill and why.

All Ages

Unfortunately I have the misfortune of presenting you with a mere three events for August so far. Yes, we’ve hit another low. Although to my relief what we are lacking in quantity has been made up for in quality.

To celebrate Canberra band Atlantis Awaits’ triumphant return home from the US, the boys with their brand new female vocalist are already embarking on their national Rebirth tour. Joining them will be Sydney five-piece Sound of Seasons, pop punk five-piece City Lights Fade, following the successful release of their debut EP Strikes Back, as well as Canberra post-hardcore quad Martha Moxley. You can see this exciting line-up live at the ever faithful Woden Youth Centre on Saturday August 13. Doors open at 2pm, leaving room for a long eve of entertainment. Tickets cost $12 at the door.

Dream on, Dreamer’s fan base since the band’s relatively recent beginnings has grown rapidly across the country, so much so that they have recently been the support act on legendary rock/metal act Avenged Sevenfold’s national tour. But now, in support of their debut studio album, the Melbourne-based alternative/hardcore six-piece are embarking on their very own Homebound tour. Joining Dream on, Dreamer at the Tuggeranong Youth Centre on Wednesday August 24 will be progressive hardcore band The Bride from Sydney and Canberra’s very much adored Hands Like Houses. This is a spectacular line-up that is well worth booking ahead for. Tickets cost $18.40 (pre-sale) from Oztix. There is also a possibility that more local support acts will be announced closer to the date.

On Friday August 26, Melbourne alternative/rock four-piece Pyrene will come through Canberra as part of The Diminutive tour. They are doing this in celebration of the release of their self-titled debut EP. Pyrene will be at the Tuggeranong Youth Centre for an “All Ages Extravaganza” sharing the stage with a great line-up of locally based acts including Makeshift, No Longer I from Goulburn, Blacksquire and Perpetual End. Tickets cost a miniscule $10 at the door at 6pm. So come along and pick up a copy of their EP!

Now, there is one thing I feel I have to add: whether you are in a band or are just a keen gig-goer, if you know of a gig, just let me know! It will save a lot of confusion, and of course, the more I am made aware of the better. My email is always at the bottom of this column, so use it. Whether it be a gig, a family event or just something all ages related that you feel deserves to be mentioned, just shoot through an email. I’m looking forward to hearing from you!

MIKELANGELO AND THE TIN STAR

Melbourne-based band MIKELANGELO AND THE TIN STAR are coming back to Canberra on their Surf n’ Western Sounds tour. The band has produced a highly praised album entitled The Surf n’ Western Sounds of Mikelangelo and The Tin Star which has so far claimed Album of the Week from FBi Sydney, PBS Melbourne and Edge Radio Hobart. Mikelangelo’s sudden return to the ACT was explained by stating “Canberra is the centre of the universe, and all things must return there eventually.”

With their frontman often seen in elaborate suits with a ‘50s style quiff, the band have been described as sounding like Ennio Morricone and Dick Dale in a back alley music duel, and also as a blend of Elvis Presley and Nick Cave. It’s only surprising Johnny Cash was never thrown into the mix.

His rising popularity can be partly attributed to his occasional collaborations with American singer-songwriter Amanda Palmer of The Dresden Dolls, which included an Australia Day spectacular earlier this year at the Sydney Opera House. When asked if the two have planned any shows for the future, Mikelangelo reveals that there had in fact been such talk, but it’s much too early to say when Australia will see them together again.

In case you’re wondering where Mikelangelo’s other band, The Black Sea Gentlemen, are hiding, he promises they are still going strong, celebrating their tenth year together and making plans for a little further down the track. He assures fans he is simply focusing on The Tin Star because of this new album and its increasing popularity. “You can’t do everything at once,” he says.

Joining the band on stage at April’s Caravan Vintage Shop are The Toot Toot Toots, another Melbourne band that Mikelangelo himself could only categorise as “garage-country”. The Tin Star have temporarily replaced their lead guitarist, Fiete Geronimo Geier, for Mark Cilia of The Atlantics for these shows. And unfortunately bad news for all of you Saint Clare fans. She’ll be unavailable for the Canberra gigs this time around.

For anyone who misses out on this particular tour, it’ll be a shame, but never fear. Mikelangelo plans to keep appearing on Australia’s stages for the rest of his days. “That’s the great thing about being an artist, you never really have to retire… I have the hope that both The Tin Star and The Black Sea Gentlemen will be like the Buena Vista Social Club of Australia, doing gigs in our 80s and 90s. I’d love that.”

The band has two Canberra performances, both on Sunday August 7; at April’s Caravan Vintage Shop Reopening in the afternoon (free), and a second at The Phoenix at 7.30pm, featuring Konrad Lenz. Tickets are $15 or $20 at the door.

Don Quixote

WHO: The Australian Ballet’s The Dancers Company
WHEN: Tues-Wed Aug 17-18
WHERE: Canberra Theatre Centre

The Australian Ballet’s regional touring arm The Dancers Company is heading to Canberra to present a dazzling production of Don Quixote, an unequivocal ballet classic. Set against the backdrop of a Spanish fishing village, this colourful and cheeky romp will delight audiences with its comic spirit and technically challenging dancing. In an exciting casting coup, acclaimed Principal Artist Rachel Rawlins will perform the lead role of Kitri alongside 2008 Telstra Ballet Dancer Award nominee, Andrew Wright in the role of Basilio. For more information head to canberratheatrecentre.com.au or call 02 6275 2700.

Material Matters exhibition

WHO: ANU School of Art
WHEN: Various dates throughout August
WHERE: Various locations

Material Matters is a major exhibition focusing on works drawn from the ANU Ceramics Workshop Teaching collection. It links a broad range of community based events which will involve all members of Canberra’s ceramic networks. From professional masterclasses and open workshops, from community woodfirings to exhibitions, from guided school tours to the symposium there will be something for every ceramics fanatic. Some of the satellite exhibitions include Netty van den Heuvel’s Tintelingen at the Watson Arts Centre, Elaine Bradley’s Crucible at Craft ACT and Jane Crick and Jacqueline Lewis’ Not To Be Contained at Belconnen Arts Centre. For more info head to soa.anu.edu.au/materialmatters .

Elements

WHO: tACTile
WHEN: Wed Aug 3 – Sun Aug 14
WHERE: ANCA Gallery, Dickson

Elements is the new work by tACTile, the Canberra based group of quiltmakers who challenge themselves by working towards exhibiting together every two years. Jenny Bowker, Dianne Firth, Helen Gray, Ruth Hadlow, Beth Miller and Trevor and Beth Reid planned the latest exhibition during a time of extreme weather challenges in Australia, when fires were raging and floods were engulfing huge areas of the country. The group agreed to work with this inspiration individually and look at one or more of the elements, earth, air, fire and water. There will be a meet the artists session at 3pm on Saturday August 6. For more info email anca@canberra.net.au or phone 6247 8736.

Get your facts right: how science can help you write your book

WHO: ACT Writers Centre
WHEN: Sat Aug 13
WHERE: CSIRO Discovery Centre (Clunes Ross St, Black Mountain) 

Are you writing about crime? Does your novel have a futuristic theme? Does your story include forensic investigations, environmental apocalypse, genetic engineering or good old-fashioned space travel? Getting the facts right can make or break a good piece of fiction. The ACT Writers Centre is holding a free event at the CSIRO Discovery Centre to answer all your scientific questions. RSVPs are appreciated, to admin@actwriters.org.au. The ACT Writers Centre is grateful for support from National Science Week and the Discovery Centre for this event. For more information about this and other ACT Writers Centre events, visit actwriters.org.au .

Prototype exhibition

WHO: Andrzej Zielinski
WHEN: Now until Sat Aug 20
WHERE: CCAS

Nomophobia is the fear of being without your mobile, or being out of mobile or internet reception. The fact that this phobia even exists shows something very important about our relationship with technology. Andrzej Zielinski is from the US and is currently a visiting artist at the Painting Workshop at the ANU School of Art. His exhibition Prototype explores our strong relationship with technology and the constant desire to upgrade to the new model. It’s a collection of bright paintings which walk the line between abstract and representational, in which electronic devices that we depend on everyday are simplified. Represented in glossy paint, and removed from their ability to function, we see them for what they really are: modern day icons.

Youth Start-Up Grants

WHO: artsACT
WHEN: Now
WHERE: arts.act.gov.au

The second round of Start-Up Grants, the ACT Government’s new grants program for young artists, is now open. The first round, announced earlier this year, supported 15 young ACT-based artists across a variety of projects including a dance film, a debut album and glass exhibition. Start-Up grants are designed to be responsive to the needs of young emerging artists and encourage young people to engage with the ACT Arts Fund. Canberra artists aged 18 to 25 who haven't previously received funding from artsACT are eligible to apply. For more information visit the artsACT website at arts.act.gov.au .

Harvest Festival

Harvest follows a simple design: take the line-up of your typical European multi-day event, cut out the filler and the acts that everyone has seen one too many times and pack all the greatness into one incredible day for discerning music lovers. An amazing start would be to convince Portishead to return to Australia after a 14 year absence. Then augment that coup by gathering a collection of the planet’s most outstanding and unique artists and performers in The National, The Flaming Lips, Bright Eyes,

Hypnotic Brass Ensemble, Holy Fuck, The Family Stone, Mercury Rev, Death In Vegas, The Walkmen, Dappled Cities, PVT, The Holidays and more (with more to be added). It’s a damn fine line-up we must say. Sydney’s Harvest is happening on Sunday November 13. Tickets go on sale Thurs Aug 4 through harvestfestival.com.au, Oztix and Ticketek.

Dragon Dreaming 2011

Dragon Dreaming 2011 is fast approaching and this year the crew is welcoming back some old favourites as well as looking forward to some new friends. Joining the Dream are some artists from one of Australia’s best known psychedelic labels Zenon Records (Melbourne) including Tetrameth and Pspiralife. They’re also excited to announce that The Crooked Fiddle Band will be returning to the ACT after a standout performance at this year’s National Folk Festival. For more line-up info check out dragondreaming.net with announcements happening regularly as they work their way to welcoming over 100 musical acts. It’s all happening from Friday September 30 until Monday October 3. All ages are welcome. Tickets are on sale now from the website and from Loom in Bailey’s Corner. Presales are limited to 2,000 tickets so get in early.

Foreshore Line-up announced

The Foreshore 2011 line-up has finally been announced and what a crazy, eclectic one it is. With six distinctly non-dance acts included, it’s fair to say the Foreshore folk are continuing their smart shift from an all-dance event into a more varied affair (a move signalled by last year’s decision to have The Temper Trap as headliner). In the current uncertain climate for dance – the failure of We Love Sounds festival, the closure of beloved dance streetpress 3D World – this comes across as a shrewd move. And who could argue with the chance to hear Wally De Backer (Gotye) belt out song of the year Somebody That I Used to Know? Not to mention Salt N Frickin’ Pepa. Other acts include Armin Van Buuren, PNAU, Ladyhawke, Architecture in Helsinki, Boy & Bear, Gypsy & The Cat, Annie Mac and more, with more to be announced. Tix are now on sale from foreshorefestival.com.au, moshtix.com.au, Parliament Clothing, Landspeed Records, kicksentertainment.com.au and ticketek.com.au .

Summer Rhythm Festival

Summer Rhythm Festival has landed itself a new time slot. The Strange Hours team have moved the festival to Sat-Sun Dec 9-10 this year. The first instalment held in February was an extraordinary weekend of local and interstate funk, folk, roots, rock, dub, reggae, blues and swags more, at the brilliant close to Canberra location of Goolabri Resort. The line-up for the second instalment will be announced soon, but in the meantime ‘like’ the SRF Facebook page to be kept up to date, then go one better and mention BMA on their wall to go in the draw to win tickets. They’re also on the hunt for volunteers and street team members so email dan@strangehours.com.au if you’re keen. 

Pugsley Buzzard performing throughout Canberrang

Pugsley Buzzard (what a name) is a keys man and singer with a very distinctive sound. At the centre of his shows is his huge mesmerising voice and dazzling piano playing all delivered with a vaudevillian nuance and wry humour. Pugsley’s music spans the entire spectrum from dark hoodoo blues musings to good time rollicking boogie fuelled piano romps that never fail to get people stompin’ and shakin’. He’s a fascinating and versatile songwriter who also enjoys interpreting classic R&B, jazz and popular tunes giving them his own unique treatment. You can catch the big man at various venues throughout the capital during Canberrang, Canberra’s annual festival of swing. Head to pugsleybuzzard.com for all the info.

BMA Lovingly Presents Women of Notes

The Australian Independent Record Labels Association recently conducted a small study into the percentage of male vs female artists receiving airplay on Australian radio.

The results revealed that of the 2,000 most played songs in June this year 81.7% were sung by a frontman, while only 18.3% were sung by a frontwoman.

Soon after the results were released a representative of the Australian Performing Rights Association stated that their songwriter membership is approximately 80% male and 20% female.

Why are there not more female participants in the music industry?

It’s a question with innumerable answers and although we don’t have a definitive one, BMA Magazine has teamed up with Transit Bar to address the imbalance. Women of Notes is a series of female musician nights launching at Transit on Thursday August 11.

The first all local line-up features the inimitable Julia Johnson (pictured contemplating her overgrown garden) performing with her ethereal female Deep Sea Sirens, the always dazzling Bec Taylor of Fun Machine in rare solo mode, the rich song tapestries of Simone Penkethman and the warm folk country campfire music of Hannah Gillespie. Entry is free and it kicks off at 8pm.

Lollygag and Effigy present Alex Smoke (Scotland)

WHAT: Minimal techno
WHERE: Transit Bar
WHEN: Sat Aug 27

Lollygag and Effigy Entertainment are proud to announce the return of Alex Smoke to Canberra. This will be his third show in the capital, and once again he’ll be performing completely live. The young producer with a background in classical is pushing the boundaries of electronic music with his innovative style of fusing deep European minimalism with emotional strings and intelligent electro rhythms. A limited number of presale tickets for the tiny amount of $10 will be available through support DJs and Moshtix, while a special warm-up party will be announced in the coming weeks. Get excited.

BMA presents The Bedroom Philosopher

WHAT: Head Sex and Bed Socks tour
WHEN: Sun Aug 28
WHERE: Transit Bar

The good ship BMA is proud as goon punch to be bringing you the thinking woman’s folk-ruffian, The Bedroom Philosopher, as he cranks the electric blanket up to ten on his national Head Sex and Bed Socks tour. To combat winter he’ll be layering his thermals and his performance with a radical rumpus of wit, song smarts and madcap banter. The Head Sex and Bed Socks tour will see The BP in solo mode, aiming to connect intimately with his fans whilst previewing tracks from forthcoming album Man – a series of manthems for the modern day retrosexual. Tix are $15+BF through Moshtix and $20 at the door. Seeya there!

Ice Cube

WHAT: Pass The Mic competition
WHEN: Now
WHERE: kokyprik.com

Canberra’s premier MC contest is back with a brand new opportunity for the local scene. Last year the Pass The Mic contest gave Canberra MC Nix the opportunity to open a show for Bone Thugs-N-Harmony and the KP Crew in front of a full house here in Canberra. 

This time around they’re giving one lucky Canberra MC the chance to open for hip-hop legend Ice Cube at the AIS Arena on Friday September 16. Entry is free and simple. Get your best MP3 and head over to kokyprik.com to upload and for all the info.

Synthetic Breed

WHO: Industrial metal
WHEN: Sat Aug 13
WHERE: The Basement

Following the release of their annihilating 2008 debut, industrial metal band Synthetic Breed return in 2011 unleashing their second LP Perpetual Motion Machine. It’s an exciting, merciless, mind-numbing and overall thought-provoking experience, leaving the listener with no doubt that this band has achieved a musical zenith hitherto unattained. This perfect mix of nightmarish vocals, mind-altering lyrics, punishing guitars and pounding poly-rhythmic beats makes this one album well worth acquiring for any metal fan. The album has received praise from Australian and international media, attaining rave print and online reviews as well as regular radio play on triple j’s Full Metal Racket. Tix on the door.

Jumptown Swing

WHAT: Canberrang 2011 – Swingin’ Cities USA
WHEN: Thurs – Sun Aug 11 – 14
WHERE: Various venues

Jazz, big band sounds and swing dancing take over the capital again with Canberrang, Canberra’s annual festival of swing. Over four nights and three days swing dancers from all over Australia and overseas will take to the streets in celebration of the jazz era. This year’s festival has the theme Swingin’ Cities USA and will take us on a journey though the jazz history of America’s pioneer cities with ten events and 60+ jazz musos performing. Mobsters Ball looks set to be the highlight on Friday Aug 12, as two big bands battle it out. For all the info head to canberrang.org or call 0412 127 168.

Purple Sneaker’s new night Fresh Prince

WHO: Deep Sea Arcade and Fun Machine
WHEN: Sat Aug 13
WHERE: Transit Bar

Arriving in August is Purple Sneakers’ brand new live music night Fresh Prince, which will feature the hottest in Australian and international live indie music, as well as DJs who’ll have you dancing ‘til the wee hours. Fresh Prince is here to mess your head up – to see you mosh then grind, to clap along then grope along. To kick off our new monthly party, they’re bringing you indie darlings Deep Sea Arcade to melt your winter hearts, supported by local heroes Fun Machine. $15 on the door. Stay tuned to this page as we’ll bring you info of another new Purple Sneakers night, Bel Air, in the next ish.   

Raoul Craemer

What do you do?

I’m an actor.

When did you get into it?

In my late 20s when I was living in the UK. I used to be very nervous about speaking in public. Someone suggested I go to an adult drama group for fun, and everything snowballed from there... evening classes in London, then drama school full time.

Who or what influences you as an artist?

I grew up in Germany (Brecht), India (Gandhi) and England (The Goons) so there is a wide mix of influences, from early childhood experiences meeting artists such as Joseph Beuys, Timothy Leary, Nana Vasconcelos and Otto Muehl, to my later exposure to the Indian ‘way of life’... on the one hand ideas of self-negation, stripping away of the ego to let a character emerge organically as an actor; on the other hand, colour and exuberance, to express yourself fearlessly on stage. Alexander Technique has had quite a big influence on me as an actor too.

What’s your biggest achievement/proudest moment so far?

Writing, producing and performing the show Vidooshaka – The Indian Clown with David Finnigan at the Multicultural Fringe Festival in 2005. One of my personal highlights was getting people to throw money at us on stage!

What are your plans for the future?

I don’t plan too far ahead. I’d like to be involved in theatre that questions assumptions whilst offering hope.

What makes you laugh?

American politicians, Indian street signs (e.g. “Buy one shoe, get one free” or “Parking for the physically challenged”), my kids Leila (“I’m so pretty – stop it, face!”) and Tara (“What happens if your skin dies but your bones stay alive?”) and my partner Emily’s bawdy jokes.

What pisses you off?

Guns, selfishness, people who don’t believe in vaccination, religion interfering in public life, lack of punctuality, the drift towards private schooling, small pieces of food put into plastic containers that then gradually go off in the fridge.

What’s your opinion of the local scene?

There’s plenty of talent and good sporadic work. There is lots of potential, for example for a professional acting ensemble, but a change in ongoing financial support for the arts is required to retain promising young artists or to attract some of those who have left back to Canberra. The city I was born in (Bonn, in Germany) spends around five times the amount on the performing arts than the ACT currently does – despite having a smaller population and a lower overall budget!

What are your upcoming performances/exhibitions?

Destination Home at The Street Theatre from Tuesday-Sunday August 23-28 (tel. 6247 1223). Camilla Blunden, Liliana Bogatko, Noonee Doronila and I wrote this play over the last 18 months. Based on our personal stories and directed by barb barnett, this play examines migration, memory and belonging.

Contact info: raoul.craemer@econtext.com.au

New Navy - Zimbabwe [Future Classic]

Yeah, there’s more than a little Two Door Cinema Club shining through on this jam from the fresh faced Sydney kids but there’s still plenty to like on Zimbabwe, from the infectious whistling to the scattering percussion and breathy vocal intonations. If only it was summer already.

Bruno Mars - Marry You [Warner]

To call Bruno Mars ‘vanilla’ would be a slight to a very fine, if ordinary flavour. He is not vanilla. He makes vanilla taste like a magical rainbow made from God’s private Skittle collection. Remember when ‘classic’ M&Ms were called ‘plain’ and then the marketing people realised that was kinda unappealing? Bruno Mars is that. He’s plain. He’s pedestrian, he’s inoffensive, he’s spectacularly average. And yet here we are some four/five singles later and he’s still tilting his head and staring at us with those empty eyes and that fucking Jason Mraz fedora hat and spinning some other bullshit high school rhyme that’s so soft and saccharine that it’ll be on Glee next week.

Azari & III

After a pretty much flawless run of singles with Reckless With Your Love, Hungry For The Power and Indigo, Canadian house divas Azari & III show they’re human with Manic, a sadly soft opening salvo for their debut album. It’s not bad, it’s just a bit ordinary and far below the par set by their previous hedonistic club gems.

Azari and III - Manic [Modular/UMA]

After a pretty much flawless run of singles with Reckless With Your Love, Hungry For The Power and Indigo, Canadian house divas Azari & III show they’re human with Manic, a sadly soft opening salvo for their debut album. It’s not bad, it’s just a bit ordinary and far below the par set by their previous hedonistic club gems.

Metalise

By the time this column hits the press there will be an announcement of a surprise second headliner for the touring mega-fest that is Soundwave. Monday August 1 the announcement will be made and adds to an already ludicrous pile of international bands from Watain to Steel Panther.

One of those Soundwave acts is doing a special reissue of my album of the year for 2010 to celebrate their first Australian tour. Kvelertak are bringing a strictly limited release of their self-titled masterpiece out Tuesday September 27 including six extra tracks, a DVD with eight videos, live clips and studio doco with a brand new booklet and poster also designed by John Baizley, who did the original release’s artwork. If you’ve not bought this album yet, get this copy.

On the local reissue front, it was great to hear that South Aussie funeral doom black belts Mournful Congregation were putting out a multi format five track release featuring stuff formerly available on splits. The tracks include Left Unspoken, The Epitome of Gods and Men Alike, A Slow March To the Burial, Descent of the Flames and Thergothon cover Elemental. The release comes ahead of their December run of US dates culminating in the headliner position at the Rites of Darkness festival in San Antonio. Check www.20buckspin.com for more details.

Dr Duncan Beard does great work in helping raise money for Motor Neuron Disease in this country and to follow on from last year’s sold out event at The Basement in Belconnen, there’s another show on there on Saturday September 3 to raise money for the fundraising activities that Motor Neuron Disease Australia undertakes (www.mndaust.asn.au). This year Live Evil, Venom Eyes and Futility hit the stage with all proceeds on the night going to the MND Australia organisation. A worthy cause and a great night of metal – Saturday September 3 in Belconnen.

Thursday August 18 at The Annandale in Sydney is this year’s leg of the Progfest that has been steadily building since 2008. The line-up has been released now and you can catch Laurenz Pike, Avarin, Pirate, Meniscuc, Arcane, Branch Arterial, dumsaint, Solkyri, Grun, We Lost The Sea, Serious Beak, Sicaria and Mish. Doors open at 1.30pm and presale tickets are available from The Annandale’s website.

There’s been some conjecture over the future of The Annandale of late. I spoke to their manager playing a show up there recently and there’s life in the old dog yet, including potentially a month of shows to support the venue’s continued existence. Watch this space.

Forbidden have their thrashtastic show at The Bald Faced Stag on Parramatta Road on Friday August 5 with Hobbs Angel of Death, Hellbringer, Desecrator and Maniaxe. Hobbs is only doing the Sydney leg of the tour.

Church of Misery have tragically cancelled their Australian tour due to their new guitarist not gelling with the current line-up of Japan’s doom masters. 666 Entertainment are currently scrambling to fill the gap and we shall hopefully get some good news on a replacement for The Basement show by the next issue.

josh : Unkle K’s Band of the Week: Dead Language

http://ironlungrecords.bigcartel.com/product/dead-language-s-t-lp

Embers of Iron Lung, Pig Heart Transplant, No Comment.

Dance

Regardless of the fact that we have an ice skating rink on top of a chess board heavily guarded by relentless swarms of clipboard-toting travellers and friendly beggars, our city never really tugs at the reigns of its unique idiosyncrasy while trapped under the cold vice-like grip of winter. It is our subtly inspiring local music scene that makes our lovably oversized country town come alive, and one of the most conspicuous lumps of coal that is thrown in the industry furnace every year is the Foreshore Summer Music Festival. The Kicks Entertainment conglomerate has finally released this year’s hotly anticipated line-up, and in lieu of this momentous occasion I managed to catch Director Ryan Phillips for an exclusive chin wag. “Being the fifth year of the event we really wanted to provide something for everyone that had come to a Foreshore over the last four years. That meant delivering the best in electronic artists alongside up and coming bands, proven live performers and the super hot ‘now’ artists, as we have done across the last four years,” he says. “Our new event site which we first used last year has been tweaked to allow for a sideshow alley, much more food options and some sneaky little surprises on the day! Foreshore is going to be a carnival in 2011!”

The 2011 line-up includes current world number one ranked DJ Armin van Buuren, Aussie electronic balladeer Gotye, big room newcomer Avicii, old school hip-hop queens Salt N Pepa, chart-topping shufflers LMFAO and perennial absurd costume lovers PNAU. Tickets are available right now from your friendly local street team member or through the usual outlets, don’t miss out!

Benny Benassi said it best when he wrote You Are a Cinema, obviously referring to Academy, right? Their August line-up includes the return of Ministry of Sound legend Mark Dynamix on Friday August 12 for the Annual 10 Years tour, trance don Tydi swoops in for a long overdue main room set on Friday August 19 while the Young Blood crew build up even more steam with a double headline show on Friday August 26 featuring Oh Snap! (USA) and The Only.

Trinity raises the ‘bar’ in August with The Aston Shuffle coming back for another huge show on Friday August 19. The very next night DIM trundles his carry-on luggage all the way from Deutschland to the DJ booth and Friday August 26 heralds the return of Sydney funk junkie Wax Motif. Huge!

Records! Records! Records! With the pungent aroma of festival season tickling the nostrils of hungry music producers all over the world, the quality releases just keep piling up! Yves, Digital Lab and Henriques have teamed up on Forever, a pounding arena anthem sure to be heard in every headline set this year, Arias and Nael meticulously meld French electro with 4am trance on Alive, the Swedish house dream team of Dirty South and Thomas Gold turn out an absolutely mental main roomer, funnily enough also called Alive and my pick of the month is the way too cool classic house release from Oliver $, Doin Ya Thang.

The Streetlight Parade

Where did your band name come from?

It’s from the future. An apparition appeared to me (it was my future self) and said that I was to start a band. He said it would be moderately successful.

Group members?

Navid Sabet (rhythm guitar, lead vocals), Frank Pavey (lead guitar, backing vocals), Mark Burke (bass guitar) and Aidan Johnson (drums).

Describe your sound:

Sounds like five guitars. Except only two of the guitars are actual guitars – the other ones are drums, vocals and bass. And when they’re together they sound like five guitars.

What’s the weirdest experience you’ve had whilst performing?

By the end of a particularly evocative song, we were all naked. You put together the rest. We had sex.

Who are your influences, musical or otherwise?

Tea, Doritos, Harry Potter, pictures of things, friends/family, the films of Carol Reed, Audrey Hepburn, super-villainy, history! James Cameron’s Avatar, sitcoms, fast music, slow music, inspiring music, Spanish numbers, the casual morning debriefing with a friend after a night out, Donald Glover, each other (awww!).

What’s your biggest achievement/proudest moment so far?

When two of us passed Spanish 1A. Or when Kim Beazley gave us the thumbs up. Or when Frank helped the girl puking in the boys toilets at Bar 32. We accomplish a lot. We’re so proud of us.

What are your plans for the future?

Tonight I think we’re going for beers. Then clubbing, maybe? Will definitely do it at some point in the future.

What makes you laugh?

El Tigre Chino!

What pisses you off?

Nothing, none of us get angry. Ever.

What’s your opinion of the local scene?

It’s wicked wet!

What are your upcoming gigs?

9pm Thursday August 4 @ The Phoenix (23 East Row, Canberra) with Crash The Curb and Pelvic. Free entry!

Contact info:

Listen: Facebook.com/TheStreetlightParade

Email: thestreetlightparade@gmail.com

Doomriders / I Exist / 4 Dead

A Monday night in Canberra. A Monday night in Canberra in deep midwinter. A Monday night in Canberra in deep midwinter when the city’s beloved Raiders are at home to the mighty Dragons. Three things, which, when added to the fact that Canberrans really don’t like leaving their suburbs for the seething fleshpot that is Civic on a school night surely spelt disaster for the svengali-like promoters hoping to perform some sort of financial alchemy with tonight’s three pronged feast of heaviness…

Well, that shows what I know, eh? When BMA arrives at the ANU just as local openers 4Dead are starting to go about their destructive business, one thing becomes apparent – there’s a crowd here. By the time headliners Doomriders take the stage there is a bloody healthy turnout indeed, but that’s getting ahead of ourselves – back to 4Dead.

This band has been a staple on Canberran extreme bills for years now, their violent take on punk-informed metal always providing an RSJ-styled prop for those with seemingly bigger ambition to rest against. But the last two times that BMA has seen this band – coincidentally perhaps both times have been here at the ANU – 4 Dead seem to be heading upwards and onwards with a fire in their bellies that promises good things. There’s a nasty crunch to their sound tonight, and they lay the ground for their more illustrious bill sharers well.

Fellow Canberrans I Exist have yet to disappoint in the live arena, and tonight is no different. Riding high on the back of an album, II: The Broken Passage, which has seen them vault from well meaning local heroes to serious international class contenders in the blink of an eye, their second hometown show in as many weeks is, simply, a riot of violent entertainment that delights the partisan audience. Their chosen milieu is nothing new, but the way they weave the seemingly disparate strands of doom metal and old school hardcore punk into an eminently palatable maelstrom is a joy to behold. They’ll be headlining (and selling out) bigger venues than this before very long.

So, two down, and two very satisfactory results to boot. At this point, BMA is starting to feel its age and looking for a gap in the conversation to make its excuses and head off into the arctic night in search of a kebab and a bus. Sensing what was about to happen, BMA Metalise correspondent Josh Nixon (who also happens to sling an axe for I Exist) leans across and bellows “JUST STAY FOR ONE SONG!” before nodding sagely at me and returning to a Buddha-like repose. Needless to say – he’s a metal correspondent after all – he was right. For the next hour and a bit the Massachusetts quartet proceed to bludgeon the nation’s capital into submission with a set that combines pure heavy metal thunder with despondently doomy passages in a manner that’s hard not to enjoy if you’re a fan of extreme music. In an age where heavy metal has splintered into seemingly innumerable genres and sub-genres, what Doomriders present is in essence heavy metal in its purest (that’s to say least diluted) form – adamantine, stentorian, with traditional values of musicianship and dynamic songwriting fused to just enough punk fury to keep things from getting too stolid. After the band finishes an exhilarating set the audience doesn’t want them to go, and, quite frankly, neither do I. Why can’t every Monday night be like this?

Bruno Mars - Marry You [Warner]

To call Bruno Mars ‘vanilla’ would be a slight to a very fine, if ordinary flavour. He is not vanilla. He makes vanilla taste like a magical rainbow made from God’s private Skittle collection. Remember when ‘classic’ M&Ms were called ‘plain’ and then the marketing people realised that was kinda unappealing? Bruno Mars is that. He’s plain. He’s pedestrian, he’s inoffensive, he’s spectacularly average. And yet here we are some four/five singles later and he’s still tilting his head and staring at us with those empty eyes and that fucking Jason Mraz fedora hat and spinning some other bullshit high school rhyme that’s so soft and saccharine that it’ll be on Glee next week.

The Wombats - Our Perfect Disease [Warner]

It was just a couple of years ago that I screamed praise for these guys. And I was genuinely excited by them and their literate post-post-whatever-punk pop tunes. Now though The Wombats have become pretty hard to stomach with their sudden itch to include a kitchen sink’s worth of sounds in their productions. And there’s not even a hook to hold onto here. Snooze.

What do a DJ and a jukebox have in common?

What do a DJ and a jukebox have in common? If your answer was “nothing” rather than “one takes money and the other takes drinks”, then I think we are on the same page here. The art of music manipulation treads a perilous line between entertainment and education. On one side of the assertion, the person lugging their well-worn record box behind the turntables has probably been spending a great deal of their week hunting down a bunch of exciting new records to try out in the club, and on the other, their much anticipated set will probably be interrupted by about 50 tipsy requests for throw-away popular commercial cheese like Pitbull, Rihanna and David Guetta. This is the gawky conundrum which club jockeys face up to on a daily basis, whether to educate or to entertain.

Pred knows the correct answer to this question - both. The latest edition to Academy’s Saturday night man-family has been given a much lauded headline spot on the main stage on Saturday July 30 alongside regular ‘slashies’ Ashley Feraude and Jared De Veer. Fans of exquisite facial hair and proper house music should be forming a line already, so, what are you waiting for?

Even though we will never admit it, the InTheMix top 50 awards are a very important time of year for all DJs. It is a chance to harness the ostentatious glory of appearing more popular and well known than our peers. There is something illiberally glorious about seeing your name come up as one of the top five artists in your state that feeds the extrovert in all of us, and it is almost that time of year again! To kick things off, Academy have solicited the services of Victorian ‘smiley boy’ Andy Murphy to preside over the official InTheMix awards party on Friday August 5. Don’t forget to log on to www.inthemix.com/50 before Sunday August 14 to vote for your favourite party starter.  Last year’s national number one were our own local lads The Aston Shuffle, it would be great if our sexy duo were able to make it two in a row!

When the morning meander from your front door to your car incites a severe case of facial frostbite, you know the ski silly season is in full swing for our alpine neighbours. The Station Resort at Jindabyne is one of the hottest venues for local and national DJ talent and quasi-Irish pranksters the Potbelleez are appearing for an exclusive midweek show on Wednesday August 10… I think I feel a sick day coming on actually… *cough*.

Music wise, it’s been a mammoth month for new releases so I’ll leave you with a few speaker busting selections for August. The Phantom’s Revenge’s new Charlie EP is a smashing package of intense disco, Marco V has belted out an awesome remix of Sharam Jey’s new record More That I Do and Basskleph keeps it absolutely house-gasmic with his new mix of fRew’s Under the Sun.

Comadre and Quiet Steps

WHAT: US and Bris post-hardcore
WHEN: Thurs Aug 4
WHERE: The Pot Belly, Belconnen

Straddling the border of punk and hardcore, Comadre's brand of music is fast and chaotic, though never at the expense of melody. During July and August, the Californian five-piece is touring Australia with Brisbane power-trio Quiet Steps, who trade in unbelievably anthemic post-hardcore – and, it must be said, are streets ahead of any other band in that realm. Their debut album Think Aloud remains a highlight of last year. In Canberra, the pair of out-of-towners will be joined by locals Love Shy and Mammon. Doors open at 8pm, entry is $15. ?

Dizz1

WHAT: Ill ambassador of bass and beats
WHEN: Sat July 30
WHERE: Transit Bar

Strictly Party and Mercury Switch present one of Australia's illest ambassadors of bass and beats, Melbourne's Dizz1. Starting off as a DJ he has worked and performed alongside the world’s best such as Grand Master Flash, Jam Master Jay (RIP), Jazzy Jay, D Styles, A-Trak, Plus One, Melo D and JRocc (Beat Junkies). With his debut solo album due to drop late 2011 keep an eye out for this man from the land down under. Indeed, he’ll be dropping by Transit on Sat July 30, supported by D'Opus, Faux Real, and DFP. Free entry before 9pm, $10 after.

Children Collide and Drapht

WHAT: Playing at Summernats
WHEN: Fri Jan 6, 2012
WHERE: Exhibition Park

Summernats is turning 25 in 2012, and even though “Australia’s biggest horsepower party” might not be your bag, baby, Children Collide and/or Drapht surely are. They’re co-headlining the Friday night concert, with Nat Col and the Kings supporting with their unique blend of blues and classic rock ’n’ roll. Saturday night will be headlined by iconic Aussie rockers The Screaming Jets, making their second appearance at Summernats after rocking the crowd in 2010. Summernats 25 will be held at Exhibition Park from January 5-8 2012. For more information, visit the website at summernats.com.au .

Live

WHAT: New uniVibes night
WHEN: Fri July 29
WHERE: The Clubhouse

So it's easy to put on a gig these days. Find a venue, find a contact, tell ‘em you know some bands or DJs and voila: x presents y! No. No more emptiness; real nights without pretence. Real nights where people are alive, the music is live and the vibe is banging. That's what a gig should be. That's the philosophy of Live: intense activity though live art. Everything will be live: four fusion bands of producers and jazz musicians, three VJs, eight painters. No wall unmarked, no instrument idle, no person unengaged. Local producers + School of Music + School of Art + uniVibes = Live.

Lavers

WHAT: Home-grown cock rock
WHEN: Sat July 30
WHERE: The Basement

On July 30 Lavers will play their last headline show before heading into Loose Stones Studios on the Gold Coast to record their debut EP. The band will be joined by a range of special guests, including Cam McLennan, Acoustix and Activate Jetpack. LAVERS is a melting pot of The Who, Crowded House and The Beatles, and has a classic, anthemic sound with loads of guitars, powerful drums, and sing-along melodies. The band spent the first half of 2011 honing their sound and growing a loyal fanbase, and are keen to get their music to the masses. 8pm, $10.

Leo Joseph and Nightless Lovers

WHAT: Leo Joseph and Nightless Lovers
WHEN: Saturday July 23
WHERE: Tilley’s

Says Leo, “Percy Mayfield’s Specialty Records cuts from the early ‘50s always hit me like lightning. That 1950s West Coast blues sound and Mayfield’s lyrics about ‘50s America still ring true today. Maxwell Davis’ horn lines were gold then and still are today. As a blues piano player I homed in on Willard McDaniel’s keys work. Nightless Lover was a great song and hit me as a cool name for a band too. Nightless Lovers it had to be. Lost Love is our first CD of Percy Mayfield tunes and we’re downright chuffed to be launching it at Tilley’s.” Tix $15 from the venue. Doors open 6pm. No reserved seating. Kitchen open until 9pm. Show starts at 9pm.

Step into the Limelight

WHO: Students from ACT Government Schools
WHAT: Step into the Limelight
WHEN: Wed Aug 3, 7pm and Thurs Aug 4, 11am & 7pm
WHERE: Royal Theatre

The theme for 2011 is Seasons and will feature the premiere of Seasons, a play written for Step into the Limelight by Jessica Bellamy and developed in conjunction with Zen Zen Zo, DNA Aerial Dance Studios, Ainslie School and the ANU School of Music. It will also feature a strong line-up of instrumental and vocal musical performances, energetic displays of talent across many dance styles including hip-hop, aerial and contemporary, theatrical performances including dramatic pieces created in conjunction with Free Rain Theatre Company, digital media work from student animators, ?lmmakers and photographers and much more. Tix through Ticketek.

Activate 2750 exhibition

WHO: Ash Keating
WHAT: Activate 2750 exhibition
WHEN: Now until Sat Aug 20
WHERE: CCAS, Gorman House

Rubbish is a daily part of our lives. We buy, we eat, we consume, then we discard.  Ash Keating is a Sydney based artist who is determined to alert us to the whole process, including the negative parts we tend to ignore, and the inevitable build up of waste which is kept out of sight and out of mind. In early 2009 Keating undertook a large-scale installation and performance project in Sydney’s Western district. Where it had a direct affect on the local population, Keating recorded the project in film and photography to reach a wider audience, and it is this work which will be the focus of Activate 2750 at CCAS. 

Exhibition Something and Nothing

WHO: Mariana del Castillo and Paula Hilyard
WHAT: Exhibition Something and Nothing
WHEN: Now until Sun July 31
WHERE: ANCA Gallery

Something and Nothing is an exhibition by Mariana del Castillo and Paula

Hilyard, and is informed by their immigration from Ecuador and Jamica and the history of the women in their families. Both their mothers worked with textiles and sewing was a large component of their lives. These cultural and personal associations permeate and intertwine in their works. It is very much women’s business. Their borderline obsession with finding the relevant found objects and the never ending search for them plays a major role in the composition of this exhibition. The opening is at 6pm on Wednesday July 20.

Blast

WHO: Hip-hoppers, actors and poets
WHAT: Blast
WHEN: Fri July 29, 9.30pm, 15+
WHERE: Link Bar, Canberra Theatre Centre

Blast, the coolest event to hit Canberra Theatre Centre this year returns for round two, and this time it’s free! If you missed round one, Blast is an energetic and high octane night of words, poetry and hip-hop in the Canberra Theatre Centre’s Link Bar at the special time of 9.30pm. Blast features a mixed line-up of hip-hop, acting and poetry artists and Blast favourites Omar Musa, Adam Hadley and DJ Rush will be returning, this time teamed up with MC and poets Will Small and Tasnim Hossain. Punters can expect to see spoken word performances that are more akin to an energetic narration, which incorporate moving poems about consciousness, confession, religion, politics, sex and gender.

Untrained

WHO: Two pros and two non-pros
WHAT: Untrained
WHEN: Fri-Sat July 29-30
WHERE: The Playhouse, Canberra Theatre Centre

Locals Allan Marc Raeyers and Richard Merzian have been selected to perform in Lucy Guerin Inc’s acclaimed Untrained at The Playhouse. Untrained, conceived and directed by Melbourne based Lucy Guerin, brings together four men on a stage. Two are highly skilled, professional dancers who have performed in theatres across Australia and internationally, and two have no dance training whatsoever. Not your average contemporary dance experience, Untrained is a quirky and irreverent theatrical exploration. Each performer responds to a series of written instructions ranging from the banal to the hilarious. The complex, refined movements one can do with ease another can only approximate – but how they approach each task, even how they walk and stand – reveals an intimate portrait of each man’s character. Tix through the venue.

Hannah Gillespie

Aritst Name
Hannah Gillespie
 
Group Members?
Mostly just me and Matt Nightingale (guitar, double bass), but I was lucky enough to be joined by the wonderful Aaron Peacey and Kay Chinnery from Fire On The Hill for my CD launch at The Front. They're cool, they can definitely stay in my books!

Describe your sound
Some say folk, some say country, some say contemporary singer-songwriter. I've been compared to Marianne Faithful, Lucinda Williams and artists like that so I guess I'm all about authentic, hopeful, heartworn folk kinda music.
 
Who are your influences, musical or otherwise?
Actually, I'm a big fan of The Cure and The Smiths and guys like that. I'm a bit of an ‘80s alt-rock kinda girl, but really my influences are my family and the people round me. Dad was a founding member of the Majors Creek festival, so I've always had that sense of the folk tradition in what I do.
 
What's your biggest achievement/proudest moment so far?
Well, getting the album (it's called All The Dirt, in case you weren't too sure) together was a real achievement - I had Ken Stringfellow (Posies, Big Star, R.E.M.) come all the way from France to produce it, then I had players strewn all over Australia that I had to get - Matty, Kev Nichol from Noiseworks, Ben Gillespie from the Snappers/Hoodangers etc., but it all came together in the end!

Also, having mum, dad and all my supportive family and friends turn out for the album launch gig was great. It was a really special night.

What are your plans for the future?
Gigs, promoting the album, more writing.
 
What makes you laugh?
Things my dad says.
 
What pisses you off?
Things my dad says. :)

What's your opinion of the local scene?
A lot of good stuff going on, some really great bands/acts. Would be good to have a few more venues that knew what they were doing around town. Putting on live music is an undertaking and some venues don't really understand the implications before they go down that road. Fostering a musical scene or venue takes a lot of effort and time.

What are your upcoming gigs?
Supporting the wonderful Jane Sage at The Front on the Saturday July 30.
 
Contact info:
Get me on my website - hannahgillespie.com.au
Or on facebook - facebook.com/gillespie.hannah 

Ice Cube Plays Canberra

Rap legend Ice Cube, member of the notorious West Coast N.W.A crew and Hollywood dabbler (he was in Three Kings, remember?), will be touring Australia this September, and Canberra has landed a Friday gig to boot. The tour is being brought over by Hip Hop TV, MTV Classic and the amusingly named Kokyprik Records, the same folk responsible for the very-well-attended Canberra Bone Thugs-N-Harmony gig mid 2010. The Cube will also have fellow Westside Connection member WC by his side and there are unconfirmed rumours that DJ Crazy Toones and one of his sons will also perform (no doubt he’ll be a chip off the old block a yuk yuk yuk). It all plays out at the AIS Arena on Friday September 16. Tickets are on sale now from Ticketek and will set you back 88 ducats + bf.

Skate in the City a success

Now in its final weeks Skate in the City has brought a much need breath of fresh, and we do mean fresh, air to Garema Place. With many sessions running close to capacity it has exceeded all expectations of the event organisers Canberra CBD Limited. CEO Stephen Gregory says, “The first year of Skate in the City is shaping up as a huge success. The skate shows have been well received and the school holiday shows have had very strong demand. Planning will commence almost immediately for 2012.”

Many sessions are selling out so we suggested you pre book at inthecitycanberra.com.au/skate .

Saturday Night Hop

OK, so these two crazy girls we know, let's call them Lucy and Brigid, decided they wanted to put on a retro ‘50s night so people could dance, indulge in a bit of nostalgia, show off their pre-loved frocks, socks and hairdos and pretend that the world is a simple, Christian, pre-pre-apocalypse, post-war, optimistic, baby booming wonder zooming into a bright future and beyond. And thus was born Saturday Night Hop! So get out your Bodgie and Widgie gear, crank up your Bill Hayley records, locate a Brylcreem outlet, erase the last 50 years from your memory, grow a moustache, stock up on ultra thick frangers, refresh your jiving skills (come an hour early for a lesson), send your sweetheart a corsage, burn your Korea draft card, watch a few episodes of Mad Men and in any other way you feel suitable, get ready for Saturday Night Hop! Saturday July 30 is the date, Corroboree Park Hall, Ainslie the venue, and 8pm the start time. See you there!

Mandala at The Maram

Fast emerging alternative rock group Mandala are bursting onto the live scene in 2011 after much anticipation. Merging a diverse and original experience, the group’s consistency in producing big riffs, melodic vocal lines, ambient and thought provoking instrumental sections as well as driving, intricate beats establishes them as a potent and memorable force. With a highly energetic and hypnotic live show, Mandala unleash at The Maram with heavyweights My Own True Love and Eyes to the Sky on Saturday July 30. Don't miss the opportunity to witness what promises to be the unveiling of the next generation of alternative rock bands in the Capital.

New Transit Bar site

Transit Bar has a sexy new site, transitbar.com.au. It’s the first port of call for all Transit gig listings, news, competitions and product info. They’ve also got a fancy little blog for interesting tidbits and fascinating conundrums. If you’re keen to be alerted when new items are posted join the mailing list through which they’ll have weekly news and other bits of Transit info going out weekly.

Foreshore Festival 2011

Kicks Entertainment is proud to announce the return of Foreshore Festival. Taking place on Saturday November 26, Foreshore will again be held in the Parliamentary Triangle. Foreshore 2010 saw tickets sell out in record time – well over a month before show day – and the capacity crowd was treated to stellar performances by The Temper Trap, Calvin Harris, Tiesto, Cut Copy, Art v Science, Benny Benassi and more. Foreshore 2011's diverse line up of world-class national and international talent will be announced on Friday July 22. Limited pre-sale reduced price tickets will be available exclusively to Foreshore website newsletter subscribers from midday Monday July 25. Subscribe to the Foreshore newsletter at foreshorefestival.com.au to score the first Foreshore tickets. Tickets go on sale to the general public 9am Thursday July 28 and will be available online at the Foreshore site, Moshtix and Ticketek and in store at Landspeed Records and Parliament Clothing.

Pnau’s Soft Universe

On Friday July 22 Aussie electronic powerhouse Pnau return with their long-awaited fourth album Soft Universe. Featuring The Truth and new single Solid Ground fans are already getting a taste of what’s to come as the album was recently showcased as triple j’s feature album. Fun fact: when Pnau last played in Canberra at UC in ’07 (at least we think it was ’07) the Bossman had the honour of being one of the wild strawberries. What fun. We have five copies of the album to give away. To win, email editorial@bmamag.com and tell us what band you’d like to dance on stage with.

MOS: In the Club Vol. 3