The holiday season is great for a myriad of reasons – food, spending time with the people you love – but my personal favourite aspect of the holidays is that you can go to a party and not feel guilty about it the next day because hey man, it’s the holidays! Try that at work next time you rock up with a raging hangover on Tuesday morning because, as we all know, Halloween is this Monday. I’m still not too sure on the exact reason why we celebrate Halloween in this country but it’s probably because everyone under the age of 30 secretly enjoys dressing up as a zombie/piece of pizza/Superman/slutty cheerleader but doesn’t have a good enough reason to in their day-to-day life. Thus- Halloween gets integrated quite easily into our true blue standard of living. Cobra Kai is starting the party early at their Night of the Living Dead party this Thursday. As well as the standard tricks and treats (prizes for best costume), there’ll be sets by Some Knights, Kate & Max and Magic Spells. Sydney’s Jonathan Boulet will be headlining with his colourful pop outfit that’ll put a smile on even the deadest of the undead. Drag your limbs down to Oh Hello this Thursday to get your Halloween fix in early.
For the fashionably inclined, you’re probably less slightly less knowledgeable about the musical delights of the shakuhachi flute from Japan and moreso learned on the Melbourne label of the same name. While the musical shakuhachi has been making waves since the 6th century (it’s been used by legendary artists such as Sade and Linkin Park!) it’s the sartorial Shakuhachi that’s getting people’s heads turning in this day and age. Jessie White, the woman behind the label, created a three-piece shirt range for the first Shakuhachi collection, made on a $400 budget and sold through a couple of boutiques in Melbourne. Now, the much sought-after label is a household name and sold on a national and international basis. If you’re yet to own a Shakuhachi piece, no need to panic – current and previous collections will be on sale in the Valley at massively reduced prices, and for three whole days. If you miss out you better have been doing something pretty important - like polishing your bamboo flute for your Linkin Park cover band – because otherwise you’d be pretty silly to miss out.
Less than a year after opening, two high-profile eateries in Petrie Terrace's Barracks complex have closed their doors. Both coal-fire restaurant Burnt Ends Kitchen & Bar and Tuscan-style joint Nativo Kitchen & Wine Bar were run by the TJ Peabody-owned NKB Group, and follow similar closures amongst its other ventures. As reported by The Courier-Mail, staff and suppliers at both venues were informed via email that neither would continue trading this year. A statement on the group's website advises, "it is with a heavy heart that NKB Group has announced that Burnt Ends Kitchen & Bar, Nativo Kitchen & Wine Bar and Nantucket Catering will not reopen in 2018." Nickel Kitchen & Bar, NKB's Fortitude Valley restaurant, shut up shop in late 2017 and is currently looking for new owners. Meanwhile, NKB Express at Indooroopilly is up for sale but will remain open during the process, after its fellow Indro venue Nantucket Kitchen and Bar closed last May. With the fate of a number of Damian Griffiths'-owned sites in Fortitude Valley — Alfred & Constance, Kwan Brothers and Alf's Place — also up in the air, 2018 hasn't started well for the city's hospitality scene.
This April, Broadbeach on the Gold Coast will play host to a fun new addition in Arboria — a huge, blow-up sculpture featuring a walk-through labyrinth of winding tunnels and lofty domes. On exhibition at Kurrawa Park from April 5 to 15 as part of southeast Queensland's new arts festival running alongside the Commonwealth Games, the inflatable structure takes its inspiration from the forest. Incorporating tree-like spaces, stylised leaf patterns and a soundscape from Ecuador's Mindo cloud forest, it creates an immersive, multi-sensory experience for visitors young and old. A maze of pods and domes leads to a stunning central space, where massive columns and soaring Gothic-style windows mirror those of Chapter House at the UK's York Minster cathedral. It's the work of world-renowned group Architects of Air, who've created and exhibited a whole series of these 'luminaria' structures across the globe. Arboria took over Melbourne's Federation Square in January, even delaying its opening due to the city's heatwave. When it comes to the Gold Coast, it won't just bring a wondrous maze to the beachside — it'll do so for free. Arboria will be open from 9am–5pm daily between April 5 and 15. Entry is free, and visit the Commonwealth Games website for further details. Image: Jesus Fernandez via Architects of Air.
The Good Food and Wine Show. They don't dress it up, but they damn well should. I'll readily admit I love my food. I live to eat and not the other way around, and can definitely say I like the good food this show promises. In 2011, Brisbane will host world-class chefs, cooks, food lovers and wine connoisseurs for a three day feast. Manu Feildel, Tobie Puttock and Alastair McLeod will be showing attendees their mad skillz, but what's most exciting is the presence of Ainsley Harriott. You know, the guy who seems happier and more enthused than even our own Huey when he's cooking? The only thing missing is Nigella Lawson, but she's attended before. The Masterchef stars George and Gary will also be there to entice your tastebuds and make you wish you were 8 years old again to make it into Junior Masterchef (screw doing the adult version). If the following list is any indication of the absolute chaos and greatness of this show, then you actually really need to come and check it all out: there's a Fisher & Paykel Celebrity Theatre; the Riedel Decanter Bar for winos; cheese, wine, pasta, Woolworths, Sunbeam, and cocktail classes; coffee tips and chef book signings. Phew. Make sure you take full advantage of a ticket and check out the Good Food and Wine Show. They really should change that name.
It's hump day, which means it's time to start thinking about the weekend (if you're not already). And, excitingly, the weekend coming up is a long one. With all states, territories and capital cities copping an absolute scorching over the past couple of weeks, we thought we'd take a look at what's on the menu for the Australia Day long weekend. Our capital is going to be bearing the brunt of the heat with the Bureau of Meteorology predicting Canberra will remain in the near-40s from Friday through Saturday, with Sunday dipping to 35 with 30 percent chance of rain. We suggest hitting the sand in the early morning before it gets too hot (and before the UV peaks). Down the coast in Melbourne, Friday is expected to be a fiery 41 — luckily this all-vegan gelateria is giving out 1000 free ice creams to make it slightly more bearable — but Saturday's only hitting a max of 26, with 40 percent chance of showers. Sunday and Monday will also hover around the mid-20s, with minimal showers predicted, so it'll be perfect weather for a hike or splash around in a body of water. There'll be no near-40 temperatures in Sydney, instead just mid-to-low 30s across the board, with little chance of rain. Our mates at BOM are predicting extremely high UV during the day on Friday and Saturday, so do cover up (with clothes, zinc or sunscreen) if you plan to head outdoors to the beach or to Yabun Festival, an all-day celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Brisbane is expected to be equally subdued, with 33 degrees predicted all weekend. If this sounds like perfect gin-drinking weather to you, you'll be happy to know that two juniper-heavy parties will, in fact, be taking place across the weekend, as well as GABS' much-hyped top 100 craft beer countdown. Across the country, Perth is expected to be dry and balmy, sitting in the mid-20s, while Darwin should expect rain and thunderstorms every day for the next week. Adelaide folk will be cranking their air-cons with 45 predicted tomorrow, before it eases off to the mid-30s for the rest of the week. Hobart will be ten degrees cooler, with mid-20s expected across the weekend. To help you plan your beach trips, we've rounded up our favourite ten spots in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. Images: Lorne by Robert Blackburn; Manly by Paros Huckstepp; Currumbin via Flickr.
It’s kind of rare for the Valley to play host to exquisite nights of decadence. If I was to compare it to Southbank using a Toy Story 3 analogy (shut up, I watched it for the first time the other day and it really impacted me) then Southbank would be Barbie and the Valley would be that creepy Big Baby doll with a bung eye. There’s love for both of them but one is clearly cuter, cleaner and doesn’t get drawn or urinated on as much. Strange Toy Story analogies aside, the Valley’s rank in the postcode hierarchy is rising, playing location for a French-themed photography exhibition at the Sky Lounge, hosted by up-and-coming model agency Mirror Mirror Agencies. The exhibition, entitled Exposition, will showcase the latest works from six of Brisbane’s leading photographers, namely: Nyree McKenzie, Adam Finch, Elisabeth Harvey, Dex Anderson, Ian Chang and Christian Aas. This won't be your standard Thursday night out in the Valley - skip the bros and hos and get a culture injection of Parisian proportions.
Tea drinkers are an eclectic group that have come into their own of late. Their beverage of choice has quickly gained momentum from a drink favoured only by grannies and maths teachers, to a trendy liquid sipped out of fashionable cups by equally fashionable people. The Tea Centre is a perfect example of just how far tea has come. Featuring shelves and shelves of tea leaves along with a multiple page menu, the centre is the ideal place for tea lovers and tea novices to come together to try and test the numerous potions available. Hidden in the city's refurbished Albert Lane, The Tea Centre offers drinkers a relaxed nook to enjoy a quiet sip in Brisbane's CBD. Paper lanterns dimly light the red walled venue, while the shelves packed with tea leaves, pots and saucers provide an avenue for visual curiosity and tempting take home purchases. Patrons are seated along the window under decadent brass ceiling fans and are set the difficult task of choosing a tea to order. From classic blends,to green teas, Jasmine teas, flavoured concoctions, herbal and fruit infusions, The Tea Centre doesn't make the ordering process very easy but there is a sense of adventure in trying something new or unusual. To accompany your warm cuppa The Tea Centre offers a selection of sweets and savouries. For a light lunch try the delicious toasted wraps or Focaccia, or for a sweet treat order the sticky date pudding, macaroons or chocolate cake. For the traditionalists out there, the centre's scones are incredibly popular and have been known to sell out during a busy day.
In this day and age, writing – not the act of writing itself, but the pen to paper sort of writing – is becoming obsolete. Most people would scoff at the idea of penning a letter to a friend despite its sentimental qualities because they simply can't wait that long- 24 hours delivery is ages to wait for a bit of paper when they could just be emailed an amusing e-card right now! What we forget is that handwriting a letter is still a done thing and it is incredibly therapeutic as well as rewarding. For those of you who were lucky enough to have $500 sitting in your back pocket and got to attend Splendour in the Grass, or have seen the few Women of Letters shows that have been around our city, you will know how enjoyable and cathartic an experience it is. Women of Letters is a notion that plays on the idea that letter writing has been lost and we all need to sit down once in a while and write a letter to someone we hate, someone we love, or just someone we need to vent to. The chairwoman invites her lady friends to write and read out their letters on a topic and in the process invite attendees into their intimate thoughts. This time around though, Men of Letters has become its own event and takes on the same premise as its female counterpart. At The Zoo's early evening show you can expect an afternoon of literary prowess from the likes of our own Benjamin Law, Anthony Mullins, Daniel Evans and David Hinchcliffe. Prepare to laugh, cry and wince at the musings of these lads, but make sure to get your ticket ASAP, as these readings are very very popular.
The songs of Cults never really sounded like they belonged to some cheap, high-strung, underground indie scene. They bellow about break ups with a matter of fact stance, master sweet-tunes with devilish undercurrents, and emit a sound that borders on bubblegum rock, before receding into something of far more integrity. From the duo’s Go Outside – still a fixture on one in three TV ads, to their latest studio offering Static, they’ve got a musical track record near free of flaws. No strangers to the international performance circuit, with Lollapalooza, All Tomorrows Parties, Pitchfork and Bonnaroo under their belts, this New York duo are now hitting Australian shores for Groovin in the Moo. Better still, they’re side showing nationally, bringing their low-fi wave, rock-n-rolla, trappings of techno musical collage to the Zoo. Whether you’re deeply jealous that Cults are two 24-year-olds who’ve accomplished more in their lives than you may ever, or just really, really like to dance, check these Yankee rockers out.
Tired of stale old superhero stories with their predictable Hollywood plotlines? Wouldn't you rather watch a movie about a half-man, half-fish instead? If your answer to either one of those questions is yes, then it's time to dive into the program at KOFFIA, aka the Korean Film Festival in Australia. Merman comedies aside, the lineup at this year's festival is packed full of highlights. Held at Events Cinemas in the Myer Centre, genre fans can scream through exorcism flick The Priests, and be pushed to the edge of their seats by supernatural thriller The Wailing. Viewers after something a little less on the gruesome side won't be disappointed either. This year's program boasts a number of Korean rom-coms, headlined by Cho Sung-kyu's disarming relationship farce Two Rooms, Two Nights. For the full KOFFIA program, go here.
While going outdoors at the moment is mostly restricted to outdoor recreational activities, work and grabbing essentials, you'll need to throw on an extra jumper and bring an umbrella to do just that for the rest of this week, with the Bureau of Meteorology predicting rain, thunderstorms and frosty temperatures across most of Australia. A series of cold fronts are set to sweep the country and have, in fact, already hit Victoria. Last night, Tuesday, May 19, Melbourne copped damaging winds, heavy showers and hail, with a second cold front set to bring more showers and even snow to the Alps from later today. The rest of the week is looking, well, wet and cold. Temperatures are expected to hover around 13–14 until Saturday — which is three degrees under the average maximum of 16.7 for May — and there's a medium–high chance of showers every day for the foreseeable future. https://twitter.com/BOM_Vic/status/1262585286254567427 Moving slight north to Sydney, today's clear skies will be swapped for a high chance of rain and fog tomorrow, with the rains expected to persist for the foreseeable future, too. Temperatures are expected to sit around the average for May 19.5, with low 20s predicted until next Tuesday. So, if you're going to get wet anyway, now might be the time to go and swim a couple of laps at one of the newly-reopened ocean pools. https://twitter.com/BOM_au/status/1262568843853139968 Queensland is already getting a soaking, with 100-300 millilitres falling between Cairns and Ingham. The rains are set to continue for the rest of today and tomorrow, but will clear on Friday, ready for a cloudy but mostly dry weekend. The mercury isn't planned to rise as high as usual, though, with the BOM predicting temperatures six–ten degrees below average for parts of the state. If you go out on a hike or a day trip, pack a couple of extra layers. As is usually the case when rain and winds are predicted, keep an eye out for flood watches and severe weather warnings on the BOM website. For latest weather predictions and warnings, head to the Bureau of Meteorology website.
Coming to significant prominence in the 1980s, Lindy Lee became an acclaimed artist within Australia. Currently living and working in Sydney, Lee’s work explores her Chinese heritage and the teachings of eastern religions such as Buddhism. Her work is highly meditative and conceptual. Though hard to decipher at first, Lee’s work is rewarding to viewers and have been critically praised since her early years. A retrospective of Lee’s early work is taking place at the UQ Art Museum. The collection looks specifically at the early photocopy work and how her work shifted with her increased interest in Buddhism and Taoism. Also featured are some more recent works showcasing pyrographic techniques. This exhibition will run until late February, 2015. Be sure to check it out early as there will be some special events taking place throughout September; head to the UQ Art Museum website for specific information on these events.
The original 300 was a divisive film; a pantomime of hyper violence and fascist doctrine with as much historical accuracy as a university freshman piecing together his O-Week. Still, it was also wildly entertaining and, visually, one of the first to follow in the wake of the Sin City graphic novel framing and design mould. Fast forward seven years and we're presented with the somewhat unexpected sequel; unexpected because 99.3 percent of all characters in the first film were killed off, and not in any sort of ambiguous 'daytime soap, did he really drown?' kind of way. It was more beheadings, dissections and Spartans skewered on spears like 6'2 devils on horseback. Instead, Israeli director Noam Murro's sequel is, much like The Bourne Legacy, a concurrent tale with the focus on the Athenian response to the same Persian threat that felled the infamous 300. Leading the Greek defence is Themistocles (played by Aussie actor Sullivan Stapleton), a war hero and politician whose actions during the Battle of Marathon both earned him fame and set in motion the eventual Persian invasion by the demigod Xerxes and his naval commander, Artemisia (Eva Green). Green is the standout in 300: Rise of an Empire. Adorned in a series of full-length gothic gowns-come-battle armour, her fearsome stare and contemptuous smirk command the focus in every scene she inhabits, to say nothing of that sumptuous Franco-British accent that makes a word like 'sword' an aural blanket in which to wrap yourself. With a backstory so bleak you scarcely judge her for tearing off a man's head and then kissing him, Green's Artemisia out-menaces Xerxes entirely, rendering the gold-painted God a mere passenger sporting an (at best) conservative Mardi Gras outfit. Stylistically, the film faithfully adheres to Zack Snyder's original monochromatic approach, and employs so much slow-motion that without it, 300: Rise of an Empire would just be a four-and-a-half minute ab workout video. Every flesh-tearing strike is luxuriated in with three-dimensional, Dolby-enhanced ecstasy, an orgiastic fountain of blood sprayed across the battleground as though each combatant were a warrior Pro Hart festooning his rug. The action's so video-gamey at times, you feel yourself ghost-thumbing 'Up Up Down Up Y' just to help the hero navigate the chaos, and yet the whole affair remains an entrancing visual style that should more than satisfy the fans of the original. https://youtube.com/watch?v=2zqy21Z29ps
This Saturday, West End’s cosy nest of an art space, The Box, holds your one-stop-shop for all things unique, old and just a little bit thrifty. Pulling together a menagerie of one of a kind, independent artists, designers and talent, coupled with curated vintage and re-furbished collections, The Box Flea is Brisbane’s answer to the American, back alley flea scene. Catch some local tunes, scoff down an embarassing amount of baked goods, and sip on a tasty refreshment while scavenging through the collection of vintage bargains on offer. Like previous Box Fleas, record collections will be in abundance, and bric-a-brac will be flowing from the doors of this little West End hideaway. The Box Flea is cash only, so stock your wallet with a few tenners and a twenty, and head west to discover the avenue of vintage shopping that has long given IKEA and Pottery Barn a run for their money.
Interactive detective game CluedUpp has taken over Australia's streets before — and if you like the idea of true crime and Cluedo colliding while you run around town, then it's the pastime for you. Its next Brisbane event on Saturday, June 19 will bring the classic board game to life throughout the city once again, with a slight twist. The outdoor adventure will have you tracking a Jack the Ripper copycat — and while the serial killer was very real, everything else about this murder-mystery game will be fictional. Forget Colonel Mustard with the candlestick in the study — this event will bring you and your friends closer to reality and out onto the streets to solve the case. The game will kick off at a secret location, and you can choose to start whenever you like between 9am–2pm. Then, how long it takes depends on how good of a detective you are. The best news of all, however, is that the event is dog friendly — and there are prizes to be won by both human and canine detectives. All you need to play is some friends and your phone. Dressing up as a detective is encouraged, so you can really get yourself into character. A ticket will set you back $65 per team of six, but you only need two humans to play. With only 100 teams available, get in quick for your chance to solve the mystery.
If you thought lo-fi died out with Carles, well, you were wrong on both counts. Carles is still kicking it on hipsterrunoff (and I’m still not sure if that’s a good thing or a bad thing), and lo-fi is still ever-present though it’s currently in a stage of revival, one genre amidst a sea of nondescript genre titles (I’m not actually bitter about lo-fi but the thing is, genre names are stupid). Leading the way of the lo-fi revival is Times New Viking, probably the best thing to come out of Columbus, Ohio - if their Wikipedia page is anything to go by. Even Pitchfork backs them, claiming that ‘TNV's lo-fi skree and bounce will certainly shake your love shack.’ And if you need proof on that statement, head down to Woodland this Saturday to see for yourself – TNV are on their first Australian tour and Coniston Lane is their second stop. If their distorted drums and trebly guitarwork doesn’t make even a slight break in your foundations then nothing will! Try chillwave or post-shoegaze-hip-hop.
Before the pandemic, Brisbane's live music scene was one of the city's big drawcards. The Queensland capital doesn't host a huge annual music conference — that'd be BIGSOUND — for no reason, after all. But, with the past 18 months seeing lockdowns and restrictions pop up frequently in an effort to stop the spread of COVID-19, plenty has changed throughout Brissie. And, the live music industry has been struggling, unsurprisingly. To help live music venues during the pandemic, the Queensland Government launched the Live Music Support Program, which is targeted at assisting indoor live music venues to cover their losses and stabilise their businesses in these supremely uncertain times. The program has just launched its second round of funding, which comes after Brisbane has experienced three separate lockdowns so far in 2021. Venues can apply for grants valued between $40,000 and $380,000, which falls under a $7 million pledge for more funding to the industry as part of the 2021–22 Queensland Budget. It's open to dedicated indoor live music venues — so places with a primary function to host original live music gigs, and not spots like pubs and clubs that just regularly program live music on top of their other operations. To be eligible, venues need to have been up and running (and hosting gigs) prior to March 2020, and have to demonstrate a significant decrease to their revenues during the pandemic. Successful recipients will be able to use the funds to keep operating under pandemic restrictions — so, to cover costs, and to keep venue staff, technical crew and artists employed. The program also aims to ensure that the state's live music venues are in a strong position to resume full operations once restrictions are lifted, and to keep Queensland's live music scene healthy overall. Venues have until Monday, August 16 to apply under the program's new round, with applications assessed as they're submitted. Under current COVID-19 restrictions, which are presently set to remain in place until Friday, July 23, venues in southeast Queensland can only operate to 100-percent capacity if they're hosting seated, ticketed shows and have a COVID-safe plan in place. Otherwise, the one person per four-square-metres indoors rule applies — and dancing is banned across the board. "Queensland's contemporary music industry relies on the live music economy for its survival and sustainability, with Brisbane's music industry alone worth an estimated $428 million to the Queensland economy," said Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch in a statement announcing the new funding round. "The arts, cultural and creative sectors are key to delivering our plan for economic recovery, each year injecting $8.5 billion into the state's economy and supporting more than 92,000 jobs for Queenslanders." For more information about the Live Music Support Program, head to the Queensland Government website. Top image: Vincent Shaw.
Adelaide songsmith Jesse Davidson has been called prodigious and a wunderkind — and those Jeff Buckley comparisons just won't shake. This June and July, Davidson's taking his minimalist acoustics and dreamy vocals on tour, his first solo effort. The tour is set to draw a considerable loyal following who'll want seriously in-grill "I saw Jesse Davidson before anyone" bragging rights. Since being a runner-up in triple j's 2012 Unearthed High competition, the 18 year old has been signed for a Warner development deal, toured with Mac DeMarco and Ball Park Music, co-headlined with Eves, been signed to booking agency Select Music, finished school and released his debut EP Ocean — making you feel really great about having a good few years on him and feeling terribly unaccomplished in comparison. Davidson will play tunes from the Ocean EP, including 'Flaws' and the buoyant 'Big Bois Gotta Eat'. If you can brave the frosty winter nights, his deep baritone — mature beyond his years — is sure to warm you up. https://youtube.com/watch?v=hR4b_JAg7KI
The latest production from the Aboriginal Centre for the Performing Arts is Blaque Bordello. The brains behind this spectacular piece is Penelope Mullen who is responsible for the concept and the choreography. Previously, this dance troupe have put to the stage the heart-racing Black Swan and now they are back with another alluring piece. The fearless Blaque Bordello showcases ACPA's Dance majors beautifully as it puts the spotlight on these gorgeously gifted young up and comers. The world of Blaque Bordello is one that drips with seduction and oozes charm. This world provides all with its pleasures, but, is only open for those willing to pay the price. Blaque Bordello puts our darkest emotions such as jealousy and lust on stage, by doing so it is spell-bindingly captivating. Catch this breath-taking performance featuring some of Australia's most talented dancers between 6-8th June. Before you see the dancers in action, have a look through the gallery of this production here.
Wayne's World — and its sequel — gave the world many things. Two ace comedies that still stand up more than two decades later. Mike Myers and Dana Carvey at their best. Catchphrases that make you want to party on. And, of course, a soundtrack of excellent music. Of course, we all know how much Wayne Campbell and Garth Algar like busting out a rendition of Queen's 'Bohemian Rhapsody', but their love of '70s and '80s tunes runs much, much deeper. Rifling through their favourites would provide a pumping playlist for any shindig — so, that's exactly what Bistrotheque are doing. Come 8pm on July 7, the Valley hangout is hosting a Wayne's World Record Collection Party for fans of public access television, broadcasting from your parents' basement and Alice Cooper alike. Everyone from The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, David Bowie and Led Zeppelin to Black Sabbath, The Who, Bruce Springsteen, Talking Heads and The Stooges is bound to get a spin. We're not worthy.
If you've missed out on the Running of the Bulls in Spain this year, its ‘kay. The Teneriffe Festival's Running of the Rams is practically the same thing (minus the potential death risk!). Organisers implore you to race from the top of Ethel Street and along Vernon Terrace in order to win bragging rights for eternity about how you were the greatest sheep of all. No pun intended. Kicking off at 9am in the former woolstore district, the second annual Teneriffe Festival is guaranteed to leave you wondering why you'd never donned woollen clothes and run down the street before. This sophomore soiree will have something for everyone: live music, the Theme and Variations London Laneway, markets, The Beyond the Black Stump Animation Festival, not to mention a magical history tour. Oooh exciting! 30,000 visitors filled the humble streets of historic Teneriffe last year, and made it a booming success. If you're like me, you'll need a feed while you're walking around (and especially after losing precious energy in the Running of the Rams), and the festival's selection of food and wine does not disappoint; local business will be showcasing their goodies. Get down to the Teneriffe Festival this Sunday; ewe won't believe your eyes (sorry!).
For the past three decades, catching live tunes at The Zoo has been a Brisbane staple, with local favourites like Resin Dogs and Screamfeeder, Aussie greats such as Nick Cave and Silverchair, and international acts including The Pixies and The Black Keys all taking to its stages. It really has been 30 years of such gigs, with the venue launching back on December 11 in 1992. Obviously, that's something worth celebrating. Can't remember a time without The Zoo? That's understandable. Keen to mark this huge birthday at the Ann Street spot? That is, too. For the latter, the venue's team has put together a hefty December slate of gigs to commemorate its massive anniversary — spanning nine events, including jazz afternoons, art exhibitions, reunions and love letters, and featuring more than 100 artists. Whether you're keen to celebrate by enjoying what The Zoo has always served up best — bands, bands and more bands — or you're eager to get nostalgic, there's something on the venue's The Zoo Turns 30 lineup for you. Current co-owners of Cat Clarke, Luke 'Boo' Johnston and Shane Chidgzey, who've added a pizzeria, launched a separate punk-inspired bar and started a bottle-o this year as well, have collaborated with OG co-founder Joc Curran on the bill. The roster aims to mark as much of what The Zoo has done, embraced and represented in Brisbane's music history as possible, with the end result running from Friday, December 2–Sunday, December 11. The Zoo's birthday shenanigans kick off with A Love Supreme doing its thing — aka curating an ace night of tunes — presenting Nu Genea and Bárbara Boeing. Next on the list: an official birthday bash, headlined by original opening-night performers FAT, and also paying tribute to Brisbane's Punkfest events. For seven years, Jazz on a Sunday Vibe took over The Zoo on the last Sunday of each month — and it's doing it again on the first Sunday in December, including performances by Katie Noonan and Zac Hurren. Still looking backwards, the venue's birthday art show will exhibit photographs and memorabilia captured and collated over the past 30 years, and also act as a reunion of past and present Zoo crew members. Plus, Ben Ely will perform, as he has at The Zoo countless times before. Airlock Studios will present an evening of tunes, with the studio established by Powderfinger's Ian Haug — a former Zooie himself — bringing in The Predators alongside a lineup of fellow Queensland talent. These festivities aren't all about The Zoo's (and Brisbane's) history, however, with one big gig dedicated to up-and-comers. That said, another regular old favourite, Dub Sessions, will make a return — and there's a The Zoo OG All Stars show that'll feature the aforementioned Resin Dogs and Screamfeeder (of course), and more. And, wrapping it all up is Why I Love The Zoo, a spoken-word session where 12 friends of the Zoo have been asked to commit their affection for the place to paper. Among the list: Clarke, Curran, Haug, Butterfingers' Eddie Jacobson, Screamfeeder's Kellie Lloyd and Violent Soho's Luke Henery. THE ZOO TURNS 30 LINEUP: Friday, December 2 — A Love Supreme presents Nu Genea and Bárbara Boeing Saturday, December 3 — Punkest presents The Zoo 30th Birthday Bash Sunday, December 4 — Jazz on a Sunday Vibe Anniversary Concert Wednesday, December 7 — The Zoo 30th Birthday Art Exhibition and Zooie Reunion Thursday, December 8 — Airlock Studios presents Friday, December 9 — The Zoo 2022 Saturday, December 10 — Dub Sessions featuring DJ No MC Saturday, December 10 — The Zoo OG All Stars Sunday, December 11 — Why I Love The Zoo Images: Cat Clarke / Luke Henery.
Everyone's jumping on the clean eating bandwagon, and that includes Teneriffe's newest eatery. The space that once housed paleo cafe Primal Pantry might've undergone a change of name and a brand new fit-out, but the same commitment to healthy food haunts the place on the corner of Florence and Macquarie streets. Breakfast and lunch are what most will flock to the rustic confines of Wilde Kitchen for, and few will be disappointed. A sextet of options on each menu sees the likes of savoury waffles with sticky pork spiced pumpkin and fried duck egg and prosciutto pizza with wild mushrooms and manchego tempt hungry diners with dishes that don't just taste great — they're also good for you. Wilde Kitchen boasts another feather in its cap, too, and we're not just talking about the Wolff Coffee Roasters coffee or their smoothie bowls. For those who want to savour their whole, fresh ingredients at home, they also have a takeaway menu of prepared meals. Like the eat-in options, everything is made fresh on-site daily, though orders must be placed 24 hours in advance. Whether you're hanging around at their wooden outdoor tables or heading off with your food, we recommend downing one of their four types of health tonic shots as well to cap off your healthy cafe experience.
The Holidays' sound reminds me of Sunday afternoon drives with the sunset on the horizon, only the majority of the time I've listened to them it's been 4am and on my way to work. It's the kind of music that instantly makes you feel warm and alive, holding you in its jangly tones and releasing you only when you really have to get back to the real world. Back in Brisbane after their apt afternoon slot at Laneway, The Holidays are here on their Seven Million Mornings Tour to showcase their fantastic debut LP, Post Paradise. Filled with resplendent melodies coupled with some pretty damn good lyrics, the music created by these Sydney boys will definitely leave you mesmerised. You've probably heard their three released singles (Moonlight Hours, Golden Sky and Broken Bones) on the airwaves, and unlike some other bands, every song is actually worth a listen. They've even be nominated for several prestigious awards, like the Australian Music Prize. So, do not even think about missing out when they roll into The Zoo for what is sure to be a sweet ride.
Some film festivals whisk you away to far-off countries without leaving your cinema seat, or your home. Others expand your knowledge about the state of the world and what might be to come. Screening both in-person in Melbourne and online nationally from Friday, February 18–Sunday, March 13, Australia's annual Transitions Film Festival does both. And, after more than a decade of pondering the future of the planet, changing technologies and our evolving world, this film fest is showing no signs of stopping — with more than 20 titles on its 2022 lineup. Mostly, you'll be diving into docos, but German drama Ecocide takes a different route, putting world leaders on trial in 2034 for their inaction to combat climate change in our present. Other highlights include A.rtificial I.mmortality, about a life that might extend beyond our bodies; 70/30, following a quest in Denmark to reduce greenhouse gases by 70 percent by 2030; First We Eat, where filmmaker Suzanne Crocker bans grocery shopping for a year; Mountains of Plastic, where plastic pollution still finds its way to some of the earth's most isolated regions. Or, because the list goes on, there's also a movie-length economics lesson via Hot Money; Dear Future Children, about the new generation of global protesters; Forest for the Trees, which focuses on community of 100 tree planters; and Dream On, Yearning For Change, where five people endeavour to make the world better in their own ways. Top image: Dream On, Yearning For Change.
Back in March, when Australia shut down to help stop the spread of COVID-19, Eat Street Northshore was one of the many venues affected. It completely closed down, but thankfully its shuttering was only temporary — with the popular spot first hosting a drive-thru dessert festival in September and October, and now finally reopening. Come Friday, December 4, you'll be able to head to Hamilton for a bite to eat and a few beverages by the river. It'll all be socially distanced, of course, but the timing is perfect — because you now have a great way to spend the first weekend of summer (and plenty of weekends after that, naturally). When it did close down, the riverside spot announced that it'd do so indefinitely, until it had the all-clear to reopen. With Queensland slowly returning to normal — including allowing some sites such as outdoor stadiums and indoor cinemas to operate at full ticketed (and seated) capacity, and increasing both at-home gathering and venue patron limits — the powers-that-be at Eat Street are obviously now comfortable with welcoming patrons back. As it did pre-lockdown, Eat Street Northshore will run between Friday–Sunday weekly, and host an array of food and drink vendors. You'll be able to stop by between 4–10pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and from 4–9pm on Sundays. View this post on Instagram A post shared by EAT STREET NORTHSHORE (@eatstreet) Image: Eat Street Northshore.
Life is always a little brighter on the Gold Coast, given the beachside city is home to all that sun, surf and sand, but it'll be positively bursting with colour and art as well when July rolls around. That's when Surface Miami Street Art Festival is returning for 2022, taking over suburb of Miami and connecting its two creative precincts — from Hillcrest Parade through to Lemana Lane — with plenty of paint. For two weeks, between Sunday, July 3–Sunday, July 17, the creative team at Miami Marketta will oversee a fest that spans everything from 12 large-scale outdoor murals to a 2.4-kilometre fence line exhibition — plus skate and painting workshops complete with a pop-up skate park, and paint-by-number community art sessions as well. And, there'll also be laneway concerts, with Meg Mac, Pete Murray, The Beautiful Girls and more taking to the stage. Pre-fest, on Friday, July 1, Jaguar Jonze is hosting a ticketed exhibition at Miami Marketta, while an art fair and tasting Granddad Jack's latest gin is also on the agenda. And, although some events do cost to get in, the overwhelming majority of the fest is free — other than however you make your way down to the Goldie.
The charming Black Bear Lodge is celebrating its third birthday in style this Saturday. Over the years it has become one of Brisbane's most-loved live music venues having hosted acts such as The Preatures, The Kite String Tangle, The Trouble with Templeton, Vance Joy and so many more. While live music is most definitely their forte, the team are also known for drawing a crowd on the weekend with their funky DJ sets and oh so groovy atmosphere. Playing on this special occasion are The John Steel Singers, Babaganouj and Tempura Nights. Like any good birthday party there is a theme and quite fittingly the evening will be lodge-themed. So dust off your finest flannelette, and make like a lumberjack by navigating the steep mountain of stairs leading to the lodge. Be sure to whet your whistle with maple and bacon shots and pine needle vodka. Happy birthday Black Bear!
Brisbane, there’s a new live venue in town. Actually, it’s more than just a place for gigs; it’s a creative music hub. Behind the scenes, all things entertainment have a new place to call home, but that’s not what The Foundry’s opening night is about. Throwing an awesome launch party is the only thing on the agenda when its doors open to the public, a feat that seems to be in the bag. The buzz already surrounding the backpackers-turned-bar — complete with a 300-person live room and adjacent beer garden — is certain to do most of the work; however, it wouldn’t be a party without some blistering tunes. In the first of many nights of speaker-shattering sounds to come, The Foundry has rounded up some of their favourite acts to gets things started. Local 10-piece-plus garage groovesters Velociraptor, Sydney legend SPOD and White Lodge take the honours of being the first bands to grace the stage, while Babaganoüj and James Wright will be keeping the vibe going on the decks between sets. You know you want to be there.
Two of Australia's best modern yarn spinners are heading around the country together this spring. Sydney blues crooner CW Stoneking is embarking on an Australian tour, with Perth singer songriter Peter Bibby in support. Having just wrapped up a huge, 36-show run through the UK and Europe, Stoneking is finally heading back home for a home turf tour. He'll be taking ditties from his most recent album Gon Boogaloo as well as long-loved favourites. It's the last time Aussie fans will get to see Stoneking on a home stage for a while — he's moving to the US to work on some new music. Bibby's been a busy lad too, having released his debut album Butcher/Hairstylist/Beautician last year and made quite the splash at the likes of Laneway Festival around the country. Stoneking and Bibby will hit Sydney's Manning Bar on Friday, October 30, Brisbane's Triffid on Saturday, October 31 and Saturday, November 7 at Melbourne's Corner Hotel.
The Judith Wright Centre will be celebrating the 100th birthday of their namesake on Saturday, May 30. Judith Wright was an Australian poet and writer who was known for translating the Australian experience into rich lyricism and directness. She spoke openly of the Depression, Aboriginal rights, and everything from mundane Australian living to hard-hitting issues of her time. She began writing poetry at age six to please her ever ailing mother and eventually had numerous books published and wrote essays of poetry in Australia. She died in 2000 aged 85. Now, 100 years since her birth, the Judith Wright Centre will be showcasing dancers from the Aboriginal Centre for the Performing Arts as well as local artists Pascalle Burton, Betsy Turcott and Eleanor Jackson, Ross Clark, Dawn, Bronwyn Lea, Chloe Callistemon, Brett Dionysus and Julie Beveridge. The event is free, though it's best to register online here to secure seats.
The name says it all, doesn't it? Sh!t-Faced Shakespeare features a cast of actors performing Shakespeare; however, one of them is always absolutely plastered. A sellout smash in the US and UK, the show finally made its way to Australia a few years back, and it keeps putting on new productions. This time, it's hitting the 2024 Brisbane Comedy Festival with the Scottish play: Macbeth. Maybe you've seen the Michael Fassbender (Next Goal Wins)-starring movie version from 2015 from Australian filmmaker Justin Kurzel (Nitram) — or Joel Coen (The Ballad of Buster Scruggs) going solo from his brother Ethan with Denzel Washington (The Equalizer 3) as his lead. Perhaps you've watched Throne of Blood, the iconic Japanese film from Akira Kurosawa that owes it a debt. Whichever fits, you haven't experienced the classic tale like this. Who'll be sloshed when you take your seat? How will that change the lines, scenes, mood and emotion? You'll only know by going along — and no two shows are ever the same. I defy you, sobriety! Sh!t-Faced Shakespeare is putting on six performances of Macbeth at Brisbane Powerhouse from Tuesday, April 30–Sunday, May 5.
Whether you're a skier, snowboarder or hiker, New South Wales' Snowy Mountains are an adventure-lover's playground. But if you're fond of traversing the rocky region on two pedal-powered wheels, the Thredbo Valley Track has just upped the ante. While the beautiful mountain biking trail has long been one of the area's most scenic features, the Kosciuszko National Park spot is now more than twice as long thanks to a new extension. Increasing in length by 18.4 kilometres — to 35.1 kilometres in total — the lower Thredbo Valley Track extension winds from Bullocks Flat to Gaden Trout Hatchery. Mountain bike enthusiasts can now ride through mountain gum forests, pass by woodlands filled with snow gums, and cycle along open grasslands. In the process, you'll cross six bridges, enjoying alpine views and soaking in the splendour of this gorgeous patch of the country. Now open and welcoming mountain bikers from November to May each year, the extension connects to the existing 16.7-kilometre track at Bullocks Flat, with the original leg starting at Thredbo Alpine Village. Traversing tight bends, climbs and descents, the new section is particularly suited to experienced riders. In total, the whole thing should take around eight hours to complete one-way. [caption id="attachment_755080" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Robert Mulally, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service[/caption] Folks eager to take it easier will find milder sections of the total trail around the two tracks' midpoint at Bullocks Flat. And, whether you're up for the more manageable parts or the entire thing, guided tours are also available. Prefer rambling through the region on your own two feet? Come 2022, the Snowy Mountains will also be home to the Snowies Iconic Walk, 44-kilometre multi-day trail spanning from Thredbo to Lake Crackenback. The Thredbo Valley Track is open from November to May yearly. For further information, visit the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service website. Images: Robert Mulally, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.
Two of Australia's best party throwers are joining forces for a one night affair of riotus live music. Brisbane workhorses, Trainspotters, are getting together with cutting edge party animals, Hand Games, for a night to remember. On the bill are Sydneysiders, Step Panther, who will be shredding heavy grooves to leave your night of free tunes on a high note. The trio are enticing as they are satisfying; expect great numbers and minimal dancing room. You Beauty will pave the path for those unmistakable heavy droning beats with some of their own, a dash of synth and velvet contours added for good measure. Thigh Master are far more fun than the name suggests, though require an intensive work out for the ears and dancing legs. These guys are beyond fun, a perfect warm up for the night ahead. First up for the evening is the entrancing, intricate sounds of The Bear Hunt, a stellar outfit with tunes that will have you swaying beyond control. Heavy sounds indeed. When two people put their minds together, good things happen. When two parties combine, it will be one hell of a good time.
Why drink at one watering hole, when you can head to two, three, six or 11? That's always been the motivation behind everyone's favourite boozy journey, aka a pub crawl. And, it's the exact same type of thinking behind the Urban Wine Walk. Taking another wander around Brisbane, it's the bar-hopping excuse every vino lover needs — if you need an excuse, that is. From midday until 4pm on Saturday, September 10, you'll saunter around Fortitude Valley — and between the likes of Bisou Bisou, Summa House, The Osbourne Hotel, Baedecker, Stone and Wood Brewery and more — sampling wines and having a mighty fine time. Other spots on the list: Gerard's Bar, Alfred & Constance, Evita, Baja, Soapbox Beer and The Prince Consort. As for the tipples at each of the 11 spots, they'll be taken care of by a heap of top wineries such as Konpira Maru, Mary's Myth, Witches Falls and Silent Noise, so prepare to get sipping. Tickets cost $75, and are on sale now, with places limited. This moving cellar door will not only serve up more than 33 wine tastings, but also your own tasting glass — plus a voucher for some food.
Music panel shows weren't invented when Spicks and Specks and Rockwiz started airing in Australia back in 2005, but the two series became Aussie icons quickly. Seemingly everyone watched one, the other or both, with the pair earning a devoted following by realising a pivotal fact: as well as seeing musicians live, audiences also love watching them banter, bust out their smarts and just generally connecting over music. Also taking that idea and running with it is Georgia Mooney's Supergroup, which originally debuted in Sydney in 2019 and is now taking its live variety show on the road. It's inspired by Spicks and Specks and Rockwiz, obviously; focuses on stellar songwriters; and also includes live music and interviews as well. If that sounds like your kind of night out, music fans in Sydney will get to rediscover Supergroup's wonders at the Factory Theatre from Saturday, August 13–Sunday, August 14, with an impressive lineup that includes Tim Minchin, Hannah Joy from Middle Kids and Ziggy Ramo on the first night, then Josh Pyke, Ngaiire and Martha Marlow on the second. But before that — and for the first time ever — Supergroup will also head to Brisbane and Melbourne for two shows in each city. In Queensland, from Wednesday, July 27—Thursday, July 28 at The Triffid, Ball Park Music's Sam Cromack will do the honours with Elizabeth and Seja, as will Jeremy Neale, Hope D and Evil Eddie from Butterfingers. In Victoria, Brunswick Ballroom will play host to Ruby Gill, Bob Evans and KYE on Thursday, August 4, and then to Mo'Ju, Maple Glider and Ryan Downey on Friday, August 5. Here's how it works: on each evening, the guests come together to form a band, with support from the Supergroup House Band. They'll only play together for that one night, with each high-profile songwriter taking turns to perform songs while their colleagues join in. And it's all spontaneous — with no rehearsals and absolutely zero prior planning. That means that guests get an experience that's never been seen or heard before, and won't ever happen again with the same songwriters and tunes, either. "There is something quite magical about it," says All Our Exes Live in Texas' Mooney. "It is communal and whimsical and musical in the purest sense. I have a feeling this tour will take that to a new level. It's going to feel incredibly poignant to connect again in this way, after the two years we've all had." SUPERGROUP 2022 TOUR DATES: Wednesday, July 27: The Triffid, Brisbane — with Sam Cromack (Ball Park Music), Elizabeth and Seja Thursday, July 28: The Triffid, Brisbane — with Jeremy Neale, Hope D and Evil Eddie (Butterfingers) Thursday, August 4: Brunswick Ballroom, Melbourne — with Ruby Gill, Bob Evans and KYE Friday, August 5: Brunswick Ballroom, Melbourne — with Mo'Ju, Maple Glider and Ryan Downey Saturday, August 13: Factory Theatre, Sydney — with Tim Minchin, Hannah Joy (Middle Kids) and Ziggy Ramo Sunday, August 14: Factory Theatre, Sydney — with Josh Pyke, Ngaiire and Martha Marlow Georgia Mooney's Supergroup tours Australia in July and August — head to Georgia Mooney's website for further information and to buy tickets.
Everyone's weekend could use a slice of cake, a crunchy biscuit or some other kind of pastry. Treating yo'self is what weekends are all about, after all. When you're hankering for baked goods between Saturday, January 11–Sunday, January 12, then mosey along to Camp Hill's Florence Cafe — it's serving up plenty and donating the proceeds to WIRES Wildlife Rescue to help animals affected by the bushfires. Stop by from 7am on both days, with the cafe's baked range available until sold out. It's the type of fundraiser that assists those in need and delivers a bonus to your stomach. Yes, that's the very best kind. Florence's usual menu will be on offer, too, should you feel like dining in — although only funds from the sale of baked products are being donated. Bringing your own containers to take your goodies home with you is recommended. If you forget, there'll be recycled plates and cake boxes on offer. Top image: Florence Cafe.
If you think you've heard the name Elizabeth Rose before, but just can't put your finger on where, it's time to get real with yourself and focus on all the music you've been listening to the last year. Whether it's Triple J laced electro-pop or more organic easy listening, chances are high the name Elizabeth Rose has thumbprints all over it. With reason. As a face she's vibrant, and as a name she's enigmatic – a player on the music scene who is kicking as many balls as there are goals and is jumping up ladders three rungs at a time. Having conquered Splendour, had the likes of Flight Facilities swooning over her voice, and moved into the world of music production – the ultimate sign of success, Elizabeth Rose is at the forefront of Australia's music landscape. She's spun scenes with her classics 'The Good Life' and 'Ready', recently released stunner of a new tune 'Sensibility', and has a fresh, self-titled, five-track EP on offer - and she's not even old enough to rent a car. All in all, she's a performer who captures hearts before stepping on stage, then pulls their strings with her dream-spun voice, and trance-dance sounds. And now, she's about to conquer the national circuit, with her multi-stop EP tour, that promises a showy, scene-stealing production, while keeping it all tight and purposeful. We had a chat to her as she gears up to tour around the nation. You're a pretty busy and happening musician, how is 2014 coming along? A bit crazy? 2014 is great so far! We got big plans for this year and I'm so ready to tackle it head on! As a presence, you're kind of hard to keep up with – one day you're performing with Flight Facilities at Splendour, the next you're in the studio. Musically, where are you at the moment, and what are you working on? At the moment, I'm back in the studio writing my debut album - exciting times! How have you found the balance between music writing, producing and performing? Does your heart lie with one more than the other? I'd say there is equal distribution between all 3 avenues…hmm but maybe a smidge more goes to performing, because its pretty darn fun. You're got a new EP out, and it's already proved a chart topper on iTunes – super exciting stuff. What can listeners expect from it? Five new jams - two of which are 'The Good Life' and 'Sensibility' that Triple J have been supporting heavily then the remaining three are a mix of housey/RnB pop gems that are upbeat and fun to dance to. We hear food and fashion are two things constantly on your radar. Where should your listeners be eating in Brisbane, and what should they be wearing whilst doing so? I love Flamingo Cafe on Winn Lane in the valley! Really cute decor and the food is great! They can wear whatever they want….my personal fav at the moment is flat form sneakers! What kind of ride can your live fans expect from your shows on this tour? It's going to be a fun one! Got new visuals, fun outfits and new tracks that I'll be playing…PLUS I have two awesome support acts - Safia from Canberra and Fishing from Sydney! Elizabeth Rose is playing all around the country and will be making stops on the following dates. Friday 7 March – Bleach Festival, Gold Coast Saturday 8 March – Alhambra Lounge, Brisbane Thursday 13 March – Wollongong Uni, Wollongong Saturday 15 March – Northcote Social Club, Melbourne Friday 21 March - Academy, Canberra Saturday 22 March - Pirie Social Club, Adelaide Friday 28 March - The Factory, Sunshine Plaza, Maroochydore Friday 4 April – King Street Hotel Supperclub, Newcastle Saturday 5 April - Oxford Art Factory, Sydney Friday 11 April – Amplifier, Perth Saturday 12 April – Mojo's, Fremantle
In today's unpredictable world of infighting, internets and readily available guitar tabs, it's more probable than ever before that the biggest fan of a band will end up actually in the band. Ron Wood joining the Rolling Stones, Robert Trujillo joining Metallica, and now Jon Davison joining English progressive rock legends Yes (that's right, Yes) as their latest vocalist. "I'm still a Yes fan," he says from somewhere in Los Angeles. "I can't help it, these things happen. In instrumental sections where I'm holding back, I get caught up in thinking 'wow, here are these amazing musicians I've always admired just a few feet away from me — and I have a better view that anyone in the audience!'" With the sprightly American as frontman, the 50-million selling princes of prog are heading to Australia to perform their two finest releases, Fragile and Close to the Edge, from start to finish. I've played with bands for which these albums were like holy texts, and Davison doesn't dispute it. "Close to the Edge is, I think, based on the teachings of Siddhartha — a soul's journey through many lifetimes. It's very beautiful but there's a lament in it, about what the soul must endure, the challenges and the hard lessons we face as we go on. That's how I interpret it." There has been a "touch of the metaphysical" in most of Yes' output, and Davison still decodes their evocative and often cryptic lyrics from the stage. "It's not always a clear meaning. I approach the lyrics more emotionally I guess, but there are parts of songs that I very much relate to. 'And You And I' is heart-expanding, and I love 'Starship Trooper'. Those uplifting ones." Dotted throughout Fragile, meanwhile, are tracks focused on individual band members, the vocal showcase being 'We Have Heaven' — a gloriously overdubby affair. "I'm working on my own version of it now actually, in my home studio. I won't do any of [founding member of Yes] Jon Anderson's tracks, but I'll loop my voice a lot, and possibly Steve and Chris will do some other vocals too. We're going to make it as much of a live track as it can be." Anderson was an expectedly huge influence for Davison while he was finding his own voice, though they haven't become acquainted at any Yes parties yet. "I haven't had the privilege of actually meeting him, but a few who know him quite well say we would be good friends. I hope it happens eventually." The upcoming album will be the band's first with Davison, and they're champing at the bit to keep being, well, progressive. "I was very much encouraged by the others not to try to reference anything in the past, because then you compare and end up restricting yourself creatively. We've been aiming to only move forward and break new ground. Even in their heyday the band were making mindblowingly distinct albums, and we're aiming for that now. There's a real freshness to it; it moves in a new direction and accurately reflects this five-member line-up, just as it should." Despite being the lone American in a band comprised of people old enough to be his English dads, Davison is unfazed. "It's surreal but I seemed to fit in right away. They're very accommodating. What we share in common, of course, is the music — we both speak that language, despite our ages." And in a perfect world, would he sing in any other of his favourite bands? "I'd love to be a part of early Genesis. I wouldn't mind being Freddie Mercury for a day either, that would be pretty exciting." Yes 2014 Tour Dates: November 12 — PERTH Crown Casino November 14 — GOLD COAST Jupiters Casino November 15 — SYDNEY State Theatre November 18 — MELBOURNE Palais Theatre https://youtube.com/watch?v=_RJYxDfsvdg
From its opening scene, Terminator: Dark Fate succeeds in its most important mission: to go back in time and kill off every Terminator movie that came out after Terminator 2: Judgment Day. It's not that the subsequent films were awful (well, maybe Genysis), but their heart-pumping action scenes and lore-developing stories couldn't capture the complexity of the 1984 original and its 1991 sequel. They also lacked two other key components: writer/director James Cameron, as well as Linda Hamilton's version of kick-ass hero Sarah Connor. In Terminator: Dark Fate, they both return, with Cameron producing and helping come up with the story, and Hamilton raising hell as the gun-blazing terminator of terminators. We just wish that the latter had been more of a surprise. Blame the trailer — which not revealed the film's two biggest and best character reprisals, but also almost every one of its key action moments. That's Dark Fate's biggest mistake, because none of these parts of the movie needed to be teased. Terminator is one of those rare and fortunate franchises in the enviable position of owning its audience's heart and soul. Like Star Wars, Die Hard and Harry Potter, fans of the originals can't stop seeing these films, even if their love keeps waning with each increasingly disappointing sequel. As a result, what would've rated as genuine "no... fucking... way!?!" scenes in Dark Fate are rendered entirely anti-climactic, sucking the oxygen out of every prior moment as soon as you realise "oh, this is when Sarah rocks up". And yet, while Dark Fate's best moments fail to hit home as they might otherwise have done, the sixth instalment in the Terminator series still has a lot going for it. First and foremost, director Tim Miller (Deadpool) keeps the cast noticeably small, with just five main characters and only a few minor supporting roles. The first three are all franchise newbies, each holding their own against the veterans. Dani (Natalia Reyes) is a young Mexican girl who finds herself the target of a whole different kind of terminator called the Rev-9 (a terrific Gabriel Luna). Standing in its way is an augmented human named Grace (Mackenzie Davis), a soldier sent back from 2042 to protect Dani — just as Michael Biehn's character was in the first film. Indeed, much of Dark Fate plays out in familiar territory. Like the first two Terminator pictures, it's primarily a chase movie, with some scenes feeling almost too samey (the freeway pursuit sequence, for example, except this time it features a bulldozer instead of a semi-trailer). Where the film shines, though, is in its returning stars: Hamilton's Sarah Connor and Arnie's iconic T-800 'Model 101' terminator. Hamilton, in particular, reminds us how effortlessly she can be a total badass without it ever feeling forced or exaggerated — and even leaves you annoyed that more films haven't capitalised on this fact over the last 30 years. In contrast, Arnie's return is entirely different to his previous turns in the role. The trailers haven't spoiled that side of things, at least. So we'll say no more, except to note that all the CGI in the world still can't match the menacing simplicity of an exposed metallic eyeball or finger, and it's great to have him — and them — back. For those wondering how this story can even exist given the events of previous instalments, Dark Fate does a nice job of answering its own temporal conundrums. On that front, there's a genuinely unsettling edge to the idea of an inevitable apocalypse caused by human hubris and irresponsibility. Whether research companies, the military or tech startups play an influential part, the suggestion that our actions always eventually culminate in the creation of a mechanical monster seems to echo louder in the mind every time news arrives of another breakthrough in automation and artificial intelligence. "Skynet is coming" used to be an easy punchline, but these days it feels more like a warning — and Dark Fate neatly plays around in that space. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pdivOFoF8-g
These days, Pokémon GO might just be another unused app on your phone; however the game's cute little pocket monsters aren't staying confined to a small screen. Animated Pokémon movies have been around for almost as long as the animated Pokémon television series, but now the game-to-TV-to-cinema franchise is getting a distinctive new addition: a live-action flick featuring a particularly realistic-looking Pikachu, who happens to be voiced by Ryan Reynolds. While playable Pokémon titles date back to 1996's Pokémon Red and Green for Game Boy, Pokémon: Detective Pikachu is based on the 2016 game of the same name — where, as the title suggests, everyone's favourite yellow, furry creature solves mysteries. He also talks, exclaiming more than "pika!"; is addicted to caffeine, like most of us; and has arrived to help former Pokémon trainer Tim Goodman (Justice Smith) track down his missing dad. The result: basically a Pikachu-and-human buddy cop movie, jam-packed with other Pokémon, of course. Two trailers have been released so far, and if you've spent to much of your childhood catching 'em all when it comes to Pokémon — and, thanks to Pokémon GO, plenty of your adult years as well — you'll be in heaven watching the newest sneak peek, which just dropped this week. As well as lending his acerbic attitude and vocal talents to what's certain to be the world's most adorable detective, Reynolds performed the role via motion-capture, and is joined by Kathryn Newtwon, Suki Waterhouse, Omar Chaparro, Chris Geere, Ken Watanabe and Bill Nighy among the cast. The first live-action Pokémon flick, Detective Pikachu is directed by Robert Letterman, who has Shark Tale, Monsters vs Aliens, Gulliver's Travels and the first Goosebumps film to his name. Catch the Pokémon: Detective Pikachu trailers below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q8CKgQFo5U8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NzvbzYoQE5o Pokémon: Detective Pikachu opens in Australian cinemas on May 9. Image: Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures.
Beer halls aren't just for drinking brews, at least where Felons Brewing Co is involved. The Howard Smith Wharves mainstay regularly puts its barrel hall to a range of other uses, whether by hosting movies or markets — or the Seasonal Fruit music festival. On Saturday, March 2 from 4pm, the latter is on the agenda for its autumn 2024 edition, with this riverside fest curated by Jet Black Cat Music. Here's one way to start the new season: with a sultry lineup of international and local acts taking to the stage over one afternoon. Leading the bill: The Beths from New Zealand, plus Wednesday and MJ Lenderman from the US — as well as Surprise Chef, The Belair Lip Bombs, Eggy, Enola and Arugula. And for the sips? Well, you will be in a brewery after all, with Felons' beers on offer. Doors open at 4pm, tickets cost $73.20 for the gig, and you'll pay for your beverages on top. Summer Fruit — Autumn Edition Lineup: The Beths Wednesday Surprise Chef The Belair Lip Bombs MJ Lenderman Eggy Enola Arugula Images: Darcy Goss Media.
Whenever May 4 rolls around, it's time to utter one phrase: "may the fourth be with you". This year, it's time to utter those words while surrounded by space items. Yes, get ready for another night at the museum. Given what's on display at Queensland Museum at the moment, the revelry will feel a little out of this world. Walking, talking, drinking and partying like you're in space is on the agenda at QM's latest After Dark shindig, which is all about soaring beyond the earth as part of the museum's NASA — A Human Adventure showcase. There'll be music, drinks and demonstrations — plus attendees will get free rein, peering not only at the a whole host of exhibits featuring more than 250 items, including pieces that have actually left the earth and come back, but also feasting your eyes on the rest of the joint's displays. You'll be knocking back beverages; examining rocket engines, space food, space suits, lunar cameras and moon boots; pondering life beyond our pale blue dot; and hearing plenty of references to Star Wars, we're guessing. BYO lightsaber. A word of warning: these shindigs often sell out so you'll want to nab a ticket quickly.
The Thredbo Freestyle Series is one of the few comps on the planet that calls for skiers of all levels. Whether you carve it up like Lindsey Vonn or you’re still experiencing pride at your newly acquired snow ploughing skills, you can get in on the action. And let’s face it: the more variety there is, the more fun the spectators will have. Five events make up the series — Slopestyle, Ridercross, Big Air, Banzai off the Bluff and Rails — and they’ll be happening over the course of July and August. Winners will be announced in every event, and, at the end, an overall, out-of-control Freestyle champion will be crowned. To be a part of the first chapter of the affair — Rails — rock up at the Thredbo Tennis Courts on Thursday, July 17. At 3.30pm, you’ll be handed your bib; from 4pm, training will begin; and, at 5pm, skiers of all abilities, shapes and sizes will head to Friday Flat for the starting gun. Once darkness starts to fall, spotlights will take over, keeping visible the array of specially built course features and the athletes attempting to conquer them. Live DJs will be supplying the tunes. Don’t fancy competing? Just come along and watch — it's a visual spectacle worth dragging yourself out of the Rekorderlig Hot Pool for.
Victoria's Hot Chocolate Festival is back again this August. And, like last year, it's also bringing the decadence to you. Whether you're a Melburnian who can't make it to one of the three venues outside of town, or you're located elsewhere and you really love hot chocolate, Yarra Valley Chocolaterie is churning out boxes filled with creative hot choccie flavours. Like this year's physical fest, the flavour range is being released weekly — so you have an excuse to order more than a few boxes. To kick things off, there's the Tim Tam caramel bomb, which turns caramel Tim Tams into a ball and serves it with a caramel hot chocolate. Also tempting: the Devonshire kronut version features a berry hot chocolate topped with — you guessed it — a kronut. And, the Snickertini includes shots of Baileys and vodka, while the Dreamtime hot chocolate features lemon myrtle. Fingers crossed that fan favourite flavours like Tim Tam Slam and Golden Nutella Spoon will pop up throughout the month, along with the more adventurous likes of If You Like Piña Colada, Zingy Chilli and Cherry Matcha. All limited-edition hot chocolates come with an extra shot of hot couverture chocolate and handcrafted marshmallow, too. Plus, in previous years, some of the highlights arrived with exploding marshmallows, melting chocolate discs and truffle balls. If the eight-flavour pack each week is a little much — it'll set you back $49.95 — you can also order individual varieties for $6.50 a pop. The boxes are available to order until the end of August, and there's a flat-rate shipping fee of $15 to anywhere in Australia.
Sometimes it festers in the hearts of killers. Sometimes it's the reason that villains keep stalking heroes. Sometimes, otherworldly forces are at play. However it graces the big screen, evil is a complicated concept — but cinema also frequently handles it in a muddled and simplistic fashion. Increasingly, as seen in origin stories like Joker and Cruella, profound wickedness has a relatable, almost-excusable reason. Acknowledging that bad things can just happen and unpleasant people can just exist without explanation (so, opting for something far more sinister and also much more realistic) is becoming rare. The other frequently deployed movie rationale, especially in horror, sits at the heart of one of the biggest cash-earning current franchises there is. In The Conjuring films and their spinoffs, evil lurks because literal demons also lurk. Different tactic, same result. Starting in 2013 with The Conjuring, expanding with 2014's Annabelle, and also including The Conjuring 2, both terrible and much better sequels to Annabelle, the dismal The Nun and the formulaic The Curse of the Weeping Woman, The Conjuring Universe now spans eight evil-fighting flicks — and they're all as straightforward as it gets regarding battling the nefarious. Circling around real-life paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, the franchise posits that the supernatural exists, darkness preys upon the innocent and its central couple usually has the tools to combat everything untoward. That template remains firmly in place in The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It. That said, the third Conjuring flick within the broader Conjuring realm does attempt a few changes. Rather than getting creeped out by haunted houses, it gets spooked by a kid and then a teenager who are both possessed. True to form, bone-shakingly horrific things can't simply occur without some kind of excuse and entity at play. The Warrens (Patrick Wilson, Aquaman, and Vera Farmiga, Godzilla: King of the Monsters) are first tasked with saving eight-year-old David Glatzel (Julian Hilliard, WandaVision) from a demon after his family moves to stereotypically sleepy Brookfield, Connecticut. Their efforts seem successful, even if Ed has a heart attack mid-exorcism, but the evil force they're fighting has really just jumped ship. Arne Johnson (Ruairi O'Connor, The Spanish Princess), the boyfriend of David's sister Debbie (Sarah Catherine Hook, NOS4A2), is quickly besieged by strange occurrences. He's soon also covered in blood after stabbing his landlord to Blondie's 'Call Me'. The death penalty beckons; however, the Warrens convince Arne's lawyer to plead not guilty by reason of demonic possession — the first time that ever happened in the US — and then commit to unearthing whatever paranormal details they can to save his life. The trailer for The Devil Made Me Do It teases legal thrills, but in a bait-and-switch way — because this film is barely concerned with Arne's court case. The true tale, which was previously dramatised in a 1983 TV movie starring Kevin Bacon, merely provides an easy setup here. Sticking to the facts hardly bothers director Michael Chaves (The Curse of the Weeping Woman) and screenwriter David Leslie Johnson-McGoldrick (Aquaman). Instead, the pair focus on the usual bumps, jumps and scares that have haunted this franchise since day one. Taking their cues from James Wan, the Australian Saw and Insidious co-creator who helmed the first two Conjuring flicks, The Devil Made Me Do It has all the eerie noises and sudden frights down pat, in fact. More of them are just splashed across the screen, attempting to unnerve the movie's audience with the gusto of a well-oiled machine. As the series' creator and producer, if Wan had opted to call this one The Conjuring 3: Conjuring Harder, the title would've fit. There's a difference between nailing the technical basics and making them engaging, though. This many movies in, The Conjuring Universe should be aiming for more than the former. It definitely shouldn't be cribbing from The Exorcist as gleefully as The Devil Made Me Do It does. Chaves and Johnson-McGoldrick — and Wan, who has a story credit — also forget that if you repeat something too often, it stops being unsettling. In comedy, some gags grow the more they go on, such as The Simpsons' classic Sideshow Bob rake sequence, but the same doesn't prove true in horror when shadowy figures loiter, things keep moving that shouldn't and sounds blast suddenly. All three use the element of surprise, and yet there's no chance anyone watching will be caught unawares by the The Devil Made Me Do It's souped-up demonic antics. And, don't go expecting a meaningful examination of satanic panic, or the way that conservative sections of society need something to blame for life's ills. In this movie, it's just a given that some folks stray from faith, become evil occultists and commit dastardly deeds. As this series has done over and over, it's also a given that femininity draws the short straw. An accused witch, a Raggedy Ann doll, a nun and the ghost of a mother have all symbolised evil in The Conjuring Universe's eyes, but the franchise does look fondly at one woman: Lorraine Warren. As played by Farmiga, she's depicted as the unwavering maternal presence always by Ed's side, and almost the clairvoyant Scully to his demonologist Mulder. It's that dynamic, and the investment that Farmiga and Wilson put into their roles, that keeps prolonging the series. It gives the Conjuring films, including this one, a centre to clutch onto — no matter how much Hollywood sheen has been buffed over the real-life figures, which is plenty. The Devil Made Me Do It needs them, even emphasising their love story, but that feels as standard as everything in the movie. Nonetheless, alongside Australian actor John Noble (Fringe) as a priest, Farmiga and Wilson are the best things about this routine, happily by-the-numbers, never remotely terrifying threequel. Indeed, the fact that more flicks will undoubtably still follow is the scariest thing about the film.
They're taking the hobbits to Isengard at Palace James Street this March, with one movie marathon to rule them all. Round up the Fellowship, stock up on lembas bread for sustenance and hide your finest pipe-weed from the Southfarthing for one sitting of all three of Peter Jackson's beloved OG Tolkien film adaptations. Kicking off with The Fellowship of the Ring and ending with The Return of the King, this cave troll of a marathon clocks in at over nine hours plus intermissions — with the journey starting at 12pm on Saturday, March 13. If you make it through breakfast and second breakfast to the final handful of endings, you can pat yourself on the back and smash a ringwraith screech at the nearest person on your way home (note: do not actually screech at people). Tickets are the precious and come in at $25–30 for the whole ordeal. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z_WZxJpHzEE
Brisbane-based painter Archer Davies is bringing his well-travelled collection to West End to exhibit his latest works. Archer recently completed a residency in Philadelphia, which inspired many works, which will also be available for viewing. The impressionistic works of Davies are celebrated the world over, and at the young age of 24 his works are even more remarkable. He incorporates themes of modernity throughout his pieces, from familiar celebrity iconography, to the fears and anxieties that may burden younger generations as a result of differing social values. One thing is for certain: his paintings are larger than life. They capture the essence of daily scenes while also embellishing and rearranging, the result is an image that is both new and familiar. The exhibition will run from the November 20-30; come and celebrate the exhibition on its opening night on Friday November 22. Proceedings will commence from 6pm.
