Overview
New music festivals aren't the first thing that springs to mind when anyone thinks about the pandemic, but Brisbane did indeed score one back in 2021. To encourage River City residents to get out and support the city's live music scene, which needed the love during a tough period, Brisbane Winter Sessions was born — and it's now back for 2023.
During its first run, the fest ran for six days, held 30-plus gigs and took over 16 venues. The numbers are a bit different in 2023; however, the same aim and spirit remains. So, Brisbanites will have ten days between Friday, July 28–Sunday, August 6 to hit the dance floor around Fortitude Valley, Newstead and Woolloongabba, including at both free and ticketed events.
katexjean
The highlights start with two days of blues, roots and soul tunes at The Triffid, where the Newstead Roots Weekender will take over with two stages, more than 25 musicians getting behind the microphone, DJs spinning tunes till late and the venue's kitchen pumping out snacks.
Or, over at The Princess Theatre, a pair of big ticketed events will make the most of the revamped 130-plus-year-old space: Ngaiire teaming up with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra, which also falls under this year's Open Season program; and Set Roulette, another Open Season inclusion, this time featuring Kwame, Hatchie, Jesswar, RVG, BIG WETT, Andy Golledge, Party Dozen and Safety Club. At the latter, a giant wheel will be spun onstage to decide who plays when.
Zennieshia Butts
Brisbane Winter Sessions will also include a street party-inspired DJ night at Hey Chica!, Dizzy Days at Finn McCool's and Fluffy All Stars at Cloudland. The Tyrone Noonan Trio is headed to Black Bear Lodge, as is Some Folk Event feauturing Alivan Blu, Myki Jay and Milk Buttons.
This fest mightn't be debuting this time, but Brisbane is still scoring more new music events — such as Sweet Relief!, which is locked in for September during Brisbane Festival with Australian-exclusive Groove Armada and The Avalanches sets.
Black Bear Lodge
Brisbane Winter Sessions will take place between Friday, July 28–Sunday, August 6 across venues in Fortitude Valley, Newstead and Woolloongabba. For further details and to grab tickets, head to the Brisbane City Council website.
Top image: Zennieshia Butts.