This New York indie-rock duo are hitting up The Zoo this Thursday to play a set of highly entertaining indie rock. They've brought with them a string of singles from their classic album With Love and Squalor, such as 'Nobody Move, Nobody Get Hurt' and 'It's A Hit', as well as tracks from their new album, TV en Francais. In addition to pumping out perfect indie tunes, these guys have a great sense of humour. Check out their clips for 'Nice Guys' and 'After Hours' for proof. Along with the standard tickets, there is also the option to upgrade to a deluxe ticket. This includes the opportunity to watch their soundcheck, meet the band and get a photo, attend an intimate performance of four songs, receive a limited edition four track CD and get some merch signed. Warming the stage for the duo are local legends, We All Want To and Fox and Fowl.
In 2007, Dublin-born writer-director John Carney released his low-budget indie musical Once to widespread critical acclaim. Seven years later he returns to the genre with Begin Again, a similarly plotted follow-up, just with a far bigger budget and cast. The additional gloss and star power runs somewhat contrary to the film's subject matter, about two unlikely collaborators making music on the cheap. Still, with leads this charismatic, it's difficult to go wrong. In a role that recalls his likeable loser persona from The Kids Are All Right, Mark Ruffalo plays washed-up New York record executive Dan. Once a successful music producer, he's long become disillusioned with the biz, pissing off everyone who matters and getting fired from the company he helped found. His personal life is in a similar state of disarray — when you need to borrow beer money from your teenage daughter (Hailee Steinfeld), it's a sign that things aren't exactly going great. While drowning his sorrows in a bar in the East Village, Dan hears a melancholy performance from Gretta (Keira Knightley), who we soon learn is the recently ditched girlfriend of up-and-coming British pop-star Dave Kohl (played in a fun, self-deprecating turn by Maroon 5 front-man Adam Levine). Convinced that she's got what it takes, Dan approaches Greta with a record deal. The catch is that neither of them has any money, so they'll have to record it live on the city streets. More than once, there's a sense that Carney wants to have his cake and eat it too. The film is highly critical of the music industry — embodied by Levine's sell-out Kohl — and champions the DIY approach of independent artists for whom music is about a lot more than money. It's a message that felt perfectly suited to the micro-budget Once but seems a little bit at odds with the A-list names and glossy production values found here. Begin Again is also a far perkier film than Carney's previous work, gliding over more serious plot points, such as Dan's apparent alcoholism, with relentless, fairytale positivity. Yet only a cynic would begrudge the film its optimism. Even as you're aware of the script's somewhat hypocritical construction, it's hard not to be won over by its considerable warmth and charm. Ruffalo and Knightley have wonderful chemistry, and the fruits of their partnership are a joy to hear come to life. The songs, like the rest of the film, are cutesy but ultimately enjoyable. And who knew Knightley could sing? https://youtube.com/watch?v=zqRL2dY5-us
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.
When Jurassic Park opened in 1993, Steven Spielberg presented us with dinosaurs of such terrifying and spectacular realism, they've not been bested in the more than two decades since. So too the giant, wreathing CGI tornados of 1996's Twister, upon which Spielberg acted as executive producer. Special effects have come a long way since then, and one unfortunate corollary has been the proliferation of movies based on them rather than bolstered by them. Consider the latest offering: Into The Storm — another 'nature attacks humans' film where the only twist is it wasn't directed by Roland Emmerich. Here, a series of twisters are on a collision course with a small American town, imperilling not only its inhabitants but also the storm chasers determined to film from within the eye of the tornado. Some kids get stuck in a mill, more get trapped in their school and… that's it. There's the plot. Storm come. Storm big. Storm destroy. Most annoying of all, this is another addition to the found footage genre of film — an entirely unnecessary device that's almost always ignored as soon it becomes too difficult to explain how or why someone was filming every single moment (in this case, a dramatic shot of 747s swirling around inside a giant tornado was not, presumably, filmed by a pigeon with a Go-Pro). Found footage also has a knack for making even decent actors look rubbish, as is the case here with Richard Armitage, aka The Hobbit's Thorin Oakenshield. His dialogue, whether scripted or improvised, seems horrifically forced throughout, representing a sort of poor-man's Frank Underwood narration. There is one drawcard here, and it's the weather. The menacing skies are spectacular and the force of the winds is well captured in the action sequences, yet it's nothing we'd not already seen all the way back in 1996. So, if it's a twister film you desire, save your money and revisit the only one actually worthy of the name. https://youtube.com/watch?v=A_kj8EKhV3w
Pull of the Moon is a joint exhibition by Elisa Jane Carmichael and Ellie Anderson that explores and draws inspiration from the natural world — specifically, the effect of the moon. Their works mix together and stand alone singularly to create a truly unique set of art that adheres to a theme and creates a tonal vibe that encompasses lunar power and earthly wonder. Based on and inspired by her recent travels in Mexico, Ellie Anderson has created works that look at the effect of the moon on aquatic life, using the pacific coast of Mexico as her focus. Ellie works with large canvases, ink drawings, and silkscreen prints on fabric and wood for her work, all of her work is incredibly detailed and visually striking. Elisa Jane Carmichael creates art by painting, drawing, weaving, sculpting. In addition to this, certain works have been made with marine debris from the Quandamooka waters. Her work in this exhibition will focus on the moons effect on the tides, and the flotsam and jetsam those tides leave behind.
The selections for your BIGSOUND eve will leave you spoilt for choice - as will the line up for this banger of a pre-conference shindig! Title Track are kicking things off in raucous fashion with a party to end all parties (not literally, hopefully). Brisbane wildcats and groove-makers Velociraptor lead the charge, alongside pop-rock gems Deep Sea Arcade; they’re joined by The Love Junkies, Moses Gunn Collective, Babaganoüj and Peter Bibby for what’s sure to be an all-out riot, carrying you through to the annual mid-week double-date party that is BIGSOUND. This event is brought into your life and heart by Bris PR wow group Title Track, at the new hub of alternative tunes, The Brightside. An unbeatable combination, presenting an unbelievable show. Like all good things in life, this bad boy of a show is free. Like all GREAT things in life, this is also a high-in-demand event, so be sure to rock up unfashionably early to secure your place inside the mad house.
Talented Australian artists from varying background have joined forced to create Platform 2014. Held at the Metro Arts Gallery, Platform 2014 features artists such as Stephen Hart, Michael Doolan, Merete Megarrity and Gabrielle Courtenay. Each diverse artist adopts a unique style to create extraordinary pieces. Stephen Hart uses art to explore the complex relationship between humans and the built environment through the use of sculpture and photography. Another Brisbane based artist, Merete Megarrity, is a master of sculpture and employs interesting textures and materials such as wood, wire, rubber, felt and organic found objects to create gorgeous works. Michael Doolan brings fairy-tales to life with his use of ceramic and enamel sculptures and intriguing interpretations. The final artist included in Platform 2014, Gabrielle Courtney, creates acrylic paintings and pumice stone scultpures on a large-scale. Opening night is on 14 August but you will be able to view the artwork until 30 August.
Somewhere in the dark recesses of a record company, a phone rings in the jazz music copyright department. Five minutes later, an email begins to circulate around Hollywood: "URGENT: 1920s costumes required. Wooden tennis racquets also welcome. Destination not yet known, but assume Manhattan or France". Finally, casting agents receive a visit from a mysterious stranger with a very specific request: "I need a girl. Young. Sexy but approachable. Almost too young, without being obvious, if you follow?" He winks and disappears into the smog. The clues are unmistakeable. The conclusion, unavoidable. Woody Allen is making a movie. His 47th, in fact, and his most handsome in quite some time. Yet the eyes can deceive, and just as his characters learn throughout Magic in the Moonlight, beauty all too often masks a shallowness that will always, eventually, out. It is, to put it simply, very light fare across the board. Amusing more than hilarious, sweet yet far from moving, Magic in the Moonlight is as fun to watch as it is easy to forget. Set (once again) in the 1920s, the entire film is built around a simple, singular premise: esteemed magician Stanley Crawford (Colin Firth) is brought to the French Riviera to debunk the charming young American clairvoyant Sophie (Emma Stone). Her bewildering talents, however, quickly defy his every attempt to expose her, deftly penetrating every layer of his stoic scepticism. Faced with the possibility that real magic might exist, the insufferably rational and pragmatic Stanley finds himself questioning everything, from the meaning of life to the love of his soon-to-be wife. It's a romantic comedy of sorts, but the pairing of Stone and Firth fails to spark any real on-screen connection despite both actors ticking all the boxes individually. It's worth remembering there's almost 30 years between the two, an age gap (or chasm, rather) that Stanley acknowledges early on as 'preposterous'. It's perhaps less a joke than a symptom of the film's ultimate inability to resonate. Either way, you don't really care whether they get together or not, just as it matters little whether Sophie's talents are legitimate. The stakes are low, and for a film all about magic, the only genuine mesmerising comes from the scenery. https://youtube.com/watch?v=nzcPdGxuewU
Short+Sweet: the collection of little acts, with big surprises! The Short+Sweet Festival celebrates the quick thinkers, the big action that comes in small packages, but most of all, the local talents that make it all possible. Featuring over 40 works of theatre and cabaret, Short+Sweet is made up of a series of ten minute acts. See up to ten party-sized plays or six mini cabarets all at once, then vote for the best selection to go through to the finals. Select your date and your dish of choice - theatre or cabaret. There are weekend double passes up for grabs, plus don’t forget to nab your tickets to the finals! The Short+Sweet Festival has everything you could want from a menu of theatre, in bite-sized pieces. Whet your appetite with all of the lip-smacking delights available, and be spoiled for choice but always wanting more.
Australia has been wandering merrily down the psychedelic rabbit hole more fervently than usual over the last couple of years. Big breakthrough names like Tame Impala, Jagwar Ma and Jinja Safari enchanted festival crowd after festival crowd, making it easy for newcomers like Richard In Your Mind, The Frowning Clouds, The Otchkies and everyone involved with the Nuggets compilation to find solid audiences for their whimsical, sitar-fuelled jams. So, when British psychedelic newcomers Temples announced their first Australian tour, slow nods of heartfelt approval spread through the states and territories. Hailing from Kettering, Northamptonshire and lead by the unbelievably British-named James Edward Bagshaw, Temples found traction in Australia after their heroes Johnny Marr and Noel Gallagher gave them ups for their debut single 'Shelter Song'. Soon followed their debut studio album Sun Structures via Heavenly Records, featured on triple j and praised for its neo-psychedelic prowess. Temples will journey south down the East Coast with Sydney psych-pop favourites Deep Sea Arcade, headed for The Zoo on Thursday May 8. Ticketholders are advised to turn off their minds, relax and float downstream on arrival. https://youtube.com/watch?v=vs4i41cOv0s Image by Dave Lichterman.
¡Viva el cine español! Australia's carnival of Spanish-language cinema is on the verge of adulthood and is celebrating the occasion in style. Commemorating its 17th birthday in 2014, the Spanish Film Festival will once again showcase the best of the Spanish and Latin American film industry, from twisting crime tales to slick ensemble love stories, heart-warming comedies and searing social dramas. This year's festivities will be bookended by two big favourites from Spain's prestigious Goya awards. Opening night features the sixties-set road-trip movie Living Is Easy with Eyes Closed, winner of six statues including Best Picture, Director and Actor. Two-a-half-weeks later, the macabre comic fantasy Witching and Bitching, featuring Best Supporting Actress Terele Pávez, will bring the festival to a close. Other highlights on the 30-film program include The Golden Cage, which won Best Cast at the Cannes Film Festival, and Scorpion in Love, a boxing drama in which Javier Bardem plays a neo-Nazi gang leader. (Not such a heartthrob now, is he ladies?) For the full Spanish Film Festival lineup, visit the festival website Image: Still from Living Is Easy with Eyes Closed. https://youtube.com/watch?v=xAPS2uPFNkY
KT Tunsall isn’t your average pop singer. Or country howler. Or even your run-of-the-mill world class performer. Within the last few years, she’s climbed a scale of talent and prestige to become one of the most critically acclaimed song writers and performers on the planet. Once a busker, Tunstall burst on the scene through UK’s Later program when she performed with her guitar in her hands and loophole machine at her side. Since then she’s collaborated with Suzanne Vega, Jools Holland, Daryll Hall, Robyn Hitchcock and Martin and Eliza Carthy. She’s released four albums, and pumped out hits like Invisable Empire, Suddenly I See, and Feel it All, as well as covers of the Jackson 5’s I Want you Back and Dylan’s Tangled up in Blue. Now KT Tunstall is bringing her melodic styling, heartfelt lyrics and howling vocals, to The Zoo. Witness a musical legend in the making.
The art of writing letters is a vintage rarity indeed; as time marches on, the treasures created when pen was put to paper are insights into the past, capsules and moments and memories inscribed in beautiful cursive which leaves any status update or text message in shameful shadow. Women Of Letters is home after it’s international fling abroad, ready for its sixth year of wooing the women of Brisbane with stunning literary performances from some of the nation’s favourite women. It should come as no surprise that the line up is star-studded as it is diverse, with award-winning journalist Madonna King, beloved singer Katie Noonan, winner of the Grant McLennan Fellowship, McKisko, lady of laughs Becky Lucas, radio personality Rhianna Patrick and Eleanor Jackson, poet, performer and arts producer bringing their talents to the fore. For the price of admission you will be dined with wine and cheese plates, while doing your part to support beautiful female talents, with proceeds going towards Edgar’s Mission, the Victorian animal rescue shelter. Consider your next girls’ night out sorted.
Talent-wise we’ve nicked a fair few big names from our off-shore neighbours New Zealand, so one more surely couldn’t hurt. Peter Madden is an Auckland based collage artist who meshes the surreal with the inanimate, to create pieces that a heavily detailed to the very finest of detail. They burst at the seems with colour and content, and combine a light enchantment with objects that are strangely familiar. Think Alice in Wonderland meets Willy Wonka meets Mark Ryden. Now, Madden is jetting over to Brisbane with his work for a month long exhibit at Ryan Renshaw Gallery – From Everywhere Else. Abundant with collages, dimensions, papercut risks, and colour, cramming in a healthy dose of life, death, proliferation of imagery, and decay, this collection of work promises a 3D experience better than Shrek Forever After. The exhibition runs until May 10th, so make sure you jump into Madden’s spirited fantasies, but only touch with your eyes.
When it comes to the display of a-grade artistic initiative, in a setting that's cosy as pie, The Hold Artspace knows how to deliver. And when it comes to jaw-dropping, visually confronting, finely crafted nature photography, Polish-born Renata Buziak knows just the same. Unfolding Rhythms is the latest showcase by Buziak, drawing on the infinite - and sometimes unnoticeable - progressions of nature’s rhythms in various frequencies and times. In photographic sequences that would have National Geographic fuming in jealousy, Buziak uses experimental biochrome processes and time-lapse photography to expose the graphic composition or organic decomposition. The plants used in this piece hold a special significance to the Quandamooka people of Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island) for their traditional and medicinal purposes - the cultural layers of this exhibit make it just as rich as the work itself. The complex and completely visual take on these humble pieces of nature, make Buziak a conductor and creator of one simple question – what is the importance of the relationship between ourselves and the natural world?
Love in all its heart-fluttering delight can easily be turned into a burning hurt of loss and betrayal. Such is the inspiration behind Danse Noir: the story of strangers within an apartment block, each with their own story to tell. Brought to light by the voyeuristic landlord (played by Brian Lucas) who opens the windows to the souls of the residents, full of yearning and lust, broken hearts, and dreams of romantic souls. Choreographer Penelope Mullen is known for her stage works that tug at trodden heartstrings. After the sell-out Blaque Bordelloin2013, she is back with a vengeance, and Brisbane has the luck of seeing the results in person. She has travelled the world with her talents, and may be best recognised by fans of Channel 10’s So You Think You Can Dance, if not from the fortune of having seen one of her performances before. You are welcomed to join mesmerised audiences for this artistic look into the human condition and the way love triumphs and trundles through a single soul.
For ten action-packed days, you can immerse yourself in the Anywhere Theatre Festival and reconnect with your love of the theatrical arts. Rather than calling out to audiences from a stage in a performance hall, these snapshots of theatre will be popping up, as the title explains, pretty much anywhere: a community park, a stranger’s bedroom, the middle of the street, via social media — anywhere. Not only is there a venue to suit practically anyone, there is sure to be a show to tickle your theatrical fancy. You can catch Get Lucky, the tale of a downtrodden twenty-something who has just been flung back onto the dating scene. There’s Holepunch, the cabaret for the water cooler, a circus of the office, bound to add a spring to the step of any office worker. Pick your day, pick your location, and experience theatre like you never have before. Read our top ten picks of the Anywhere Theatre Festival.
Making its debut onto the stage of the 2012 La Boite indie season and winning hearts ever since, A Tribute of Sorts is the play of macabre hilarity that you didn’t realise you were itching for. Teenaged cousins Ivan and Juniper Plank are a little odd, as is the way they like to spend their time. Their latest imbalanced endeavour, however, is particularly heartfelt—they have decided to celebrate the lives of those who don’t get to grow up, those little ones whose time with us is cut short. What they want is to pay tribute to them. Well, sort of. Don’t get them wrong, this isn’t going to be a sombre event, that’s not what the Planks are about. The brightness of the theatre and the stylistics of the stage lend themselves perfectly to the quirks of the cousins, and so what they are left with is a quite unexpected turn of events, a warped telling of misfortunes made devilishly hilarious and intelligent aplenty. It has been likened to the dark humour of Tim Burton, with the aesthetic appeals of a Wes Anderson flick — the perfect balance to showcase the quick wit of director Benjamin Schostakowski.
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.
Wood, with its intricate beauty paired with its dynamic adaptability, is being celebrated by way of an exhibition at the Art Museum of QUT. A house can be constructed, furnished, embellished and decorated with wood. It is as vital to our daily lives as it is enriching though beauty and reliability. Architecture, design, and art across many planes are represented in the exhibition; the ways in which creatives engage with wood itself is a unique relationship, yielding one-of-a-kind creations. Not only are the physical creations on display, but represented are the attitudes and perspectives of the all-encompassing material, how we think about our consumption and production as users and creators. The exhibition is made possible by the collaboration of JamFactory and the Botanic Gardens of Adelaide, both iconic South Australian companies. It is supported by Wood: Naturally Better as well as the Contemporary Touring Initiative.
For a lot of people, DIY is a way of life. We aren’t talking about home renovations and Better Homes and Gardens-type craft, think more along the lines of independent artists and creative minds starting movements and trends from small beginnings. Huge in street culture, the DIY ethos is something that is relatable and effortlessly cool and, while grassroots in origin, anything DIY is something worth sharing and celebrating. The Brisbane Collective is hosting a pop-up exhibition to celebrate the launch of issue two of To Be Continued magazine, a street press publication dedicated to promoting culturally relevant happenings in Brisbane. Taking place at Turf Studios, DIY Till You Die will people a pop-up bar, tacos from Juan More Taco Truck, live painting and numerous artists and musicians on hand to provide the atmosphere. Presale tickets are $5 from Oztix or $10 on the door. To keep track of who will be attending and showing off their artwork, check out the event page here!
Are you and your bandmates wanting to crack the big time? Then Little BIGSOUND is a must. This offshoot of BIGSOUND is a one-day forum to give up and comers valuable insight into the wide and super competitive world of music. There will be a series of panel discussions held on the day featuring established young artists eager to share their pearls of wisdom. Lap up insider tips on everything music related such from song writing to management and everything in between. Speakers include oh-so suave Jeremy Neale, extremely talented Darren Percival, marketing guru Lucy Collier, Ball Park Music's Sam Cromack and Double J's music editor Dan Condon, amongst loads more. Featured artists include Sahara Beck, Youth Allowance and The Worriers. Passes must be collected from The Edge from 8am-9am on the day and your pass will include lunch.
Pulsing synths, addictive percussion and mellow crooning have seen this Perth trio launch from strength to strength, making waves both locally and abroad. From Unearthed beginnings through to shows at Groovin' the Moo and Laneway, Crooked Colours have generated a following hypnotised by their feelgood ambience. These electronica lads are currently on their first ever national tour, promoting the brand spanking new EP, In Your Bones. Hot off the back of sold out shows in Melbourne, Crooked Colours will be touching down at Alhambra Lounge, ready to churn out some tender tunes and audiovisual witchery. Cranking up the tempo, there will also be killer support from electronica duo Deja. This is going to be a seriously vibing, all-night dance party, so get down and sweat it out before these guys get all expensive. https://youtube.com/watch?v=UvVPInNtU_Y
Whether it's half a capsicum or a few slightly withered mushrooms, we're probably all guilty of throwing away perfectly good food. But collectively, food waste costs Australians up to $10 billion each year. To put that in perspective, about one third of what is produced ends up in landfill. Given 2 million people still rely on food relief, this is pretty baffling. Think.Eat.Save. will see Oz Harvest team up with the United Nations Environment Program to tackle the problem and advocate more sustainable solutions. On July 21, some of the nation's top chefs, politicians and celebrities will be donning aprons and dishing up a delicious free meal to thousands of members of the public. Made from surplus food, it should inspire you to switch on socially and get creative with those odds and ends at the back of the fridge. With an increasing global population and the effects of climate change expected to reduce agricultural yield by up to 5 percent in some areas, it's time to start thinking collectively and enhance efficiency. Check the website to find out where your city's free food hotspot will be.
Don’t let The Zoo’s no steel-capped boots policy break your dancing stride, because this Fortitude Valley hub is playing host to one of this decade’s grooviest music group. The John Steel Singers have come a hell of a long way since their musical – and probably spiritual – “unearthing” in 2007, with numerous albums, EPs and kicking gigs under their belts. They represent everything we’ve come to expect from anything Triple J lays their hands on, be it gigs or performers – they’re tight, groovy, have guitars and are fun to look at and listen to. Regardless of they fact they’ve had a hard time finding a bass player, or are just terrible Gumtree'rs, The Singers are one of those bands that are actually taking bold musical steps, rather than sitting in the performed shadows of ‘genre’. And in terms of musical steps, these guys are running a marathon, and all the more reason to sprint over and check them out. Put on your grooviest outfit, pay some people some money, and get reading on how to make friends with the dancefloor to the sweet sounds of The John Steel Singers.
Burlesque – it’s a timeless act that with age has grown finer in technique and established in execution. But rest assured, it’s not all Boardwalk Empire and corsets – there’s a ageless grace to this art and the men and women who bring it to life. To celebrate burlesque and emerging Brisbane artists who’ve found themselves invested in it, The Bird Gallery will be hosting a night that’ll be sure to have a few feather’s ruffled. And to keep the puns alive, they’ve aptly named it Birdlesque – reason alone to go. If you fancy yourself a burlesque performer, with less than 2 years experience under your belt, sign on up. If you’re more into the appreciation of this art, then grab a ticket and prepare to be wowed by six burlesque performers, accompanied by the musical stylings of The Bawdy Dicks – it’s the event they were put on earth to play at. Keep your Saturday night clear, and creepy uncle at bay, and experience first hand Birdlesque.
Lust For Life is turning two and will be celebrating with a charity auction exhibition entitled, Terra Australis. The aim of the showcase is to promote the wonderful work of the Foundation for Australia's Most Endangered Species (FAME) and to raise money for this crucial charity. The list of endangered species in Australia is rapidly growing. Our gorgeous and unique native fauna have been threatened by introduced species such as cane toads, changing climate conditions, habitat destruction, amongst other factors. Our sunshine state's pool of threatened species includes the Water Mouse, Bridled Nailtail Wallaby, Northern Hairy-nosed Wombat, Greater Bilby and Southern Spotted-tailed Quoll. Visit Lust for Life to view artworks by various Australian artists, all of which are up for auction. The money raised from the exhibition launch will go to FAME. So why not pick up some artwork and help save wildlife all in the same evening? The showcase will be on display from 3 November – 1 December.
Brisbane favourite, Jeremy Neale, is bringing his gentleman pop croons to Brisbane alongside a host of local darlings for a night that The Zoo is sure not to forget. In Stranger Times is the latest EP from Jeremy Neale and the cause for the tour, though the man needs no reason to boogie on down with those who love a beat. You’ll be catching him on his final show and, with Brisbane being his native stomping ground, you'd best bring your dancing shoes. First recognised as the frontman of garage explosion, Velociraptor, Jeremy Neale has stretched his musical legs, verging into tunes that are wholly infused in classic pop and swing sounds, yet maintain an unrelenting energy and excitement that’s always contagious. Joining him will be Major Leagues, Rolls Bayce and Eves. Individually, these acts are forces of indie pop that stand unparalleled. Together, well, you better grab your tickets early so to not miss the magic.
Let’s face it, sometimes Christmas parties just aren't that fun and can become a necessary evil. You don’t have to be a total Grinch to realise that receiving crappy gifts from distant relatives and forcing conversation with Bob from Accounts is only made bearable by consuming copious amounts of alcoholic punch. However, there is one Xmas party that’s guaranteed to please. Kick off this year’s silly season in style by heading to Collectibles III at SGAR. The team at Spiro Grace Art Rooms have decided to host a twilight party with Christmas cocktails for a summer celebration. The evening will also act as an exhibition launch as the final exhibition of 2013 for Collectibles III. All artwork will be available for purchase and will range from $120-$550. Features artists include Nicola Moss, Rebecca Ross, Kamal Swami, Catherine Parker, Simone Eisler, and Chantal Fraser and Tiffany Shafran. Pencil this one in as nothing beats the combo of fabulous artwork and tasty cocktails on a balmy summer’s night.
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.
January 2014 will see Sarah Blasko embark on a short but surely sweet Heavenly Sounds tour, with the singer-songwriter choosing a restrained program of just four shows in four churches across Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Adelaide. The tour will be the final round of performances celebrating her ARIA-nominated fourth studio album, I Awake. Loyal fans might have already witnessed the ideal pairing of the singer's ethereal tones and cathedral acoustics back in 2011, when her collaborative side project Seeker Lover Keeper (with Sally Seltmann and Holly Throsby) launched Heavenly Sounds. Now’s your chance to settle back amongst the stained glass and enjoy a night of pure Blasko. "These will be my last shows for I Awake, and really, what better place is there to sing (apart from the shower of course) than a beautiful church?" says Blasko. "I'll be playing songs from all four albums and it's likely to be the most intimate show of mine you'll see for some time."
Shut your eyes and let your mind take you to somewhere you'd rather be. Maybe you're knee-deep in turquoise waters, or in a mountain scene surrounded by tall trees, or even at your childhood home that's filled with happy memories. 2Scapes is an art exhibition created by two talented local artists, Brett Star and Juni Halatutavaha, which aims to allow the viewer to get lost in the gorgeous landscapes and escape reality. One environment that 2Scapes focuses on is our familiar everyday surroundings. However, it also displays those serene scenes in which we escape to in our daydreams. Brett is a photographer and his stunning images taken around Brisbane will be showcased. Contrastingly, Juni has created scenes that share landscapes created from her memory and mythology of her Niuean ancesty. Let 2Scapes take you on a journey without every leaving the Substation Gallery and Studio (pictured). Make sure you head along to opening night this Friday from 6-8.30pm.
On February 24, 2010, Florida SeaWorld employee Dawn Brancheau drowned after being pulled underwater by the park's star attraction, a five-and-a-half tonne orca named Tilikum. Her death was the third in 20 years to involve the massive killer whale, who has spent most of his life in captivity. Troubled by reports of the marine park's unethical treatment of its animals and spurred on by conflicting stories about how Brancheau's tragic death occurred, documentary filmmaker Gabriela Cowperthwaite decided to investigate further. The result is Blackfish, a troubling if not particularly revelatory doco about the dangers of keeping predators in captivity. It's obvious that Blackfish is pushing an agenda, albeit one that most viewers will probably agree with. Convinced that SeaWorld's treatment of animals like Tilikum is morally wrong and may have played a key role in the death of Brancheau and others, Cowperthwaite's primary aim is to appal and incite outrage. Her interview subjects consist of marine biologists, animal activists and disillusioned former SeaWorld workers. Through the testimony of the latter in particular, Blackfish paints a damning portrait of physically and emotionally neglected animals along with subpar safety conditions for their trainers. Despite this, the trainers maintain they felt connected to their animals, like a parent does to a child. Footage of Brancheau at work — focused, professional but full of energy and laughter — is Cowperthwaite's emotional trump card. In contrast, the marine park chain is depicted as a faceless corporate entity, whose primary concerns seem to be dodging culpability and maximising profit (an end credits title card pointedly informs viewers that SeaWorld representatives refused to appear on camera). At the same time, Cowperthwaite never really breaks with documentary convention. Most of her major talking points, from the intelligent and social nature of marine mammals to the shady practices of the animals-in-captivity industry, have already been covered in earlier exposes, like Louie Psihoyos's shocking, emotionally devastating Oscar winner The Cove, to which Blackfish can't quite compare. Still, there's no denying the director's noble intentions, or the fact that her film is effective. While viewers may not be presented with much information that they didn't already know (or at least, assume to be true), there's certainly no harm in being reminded. Sickening footage of trainers barely escaping with their lives begs the question: when will the next fatality occur? If Blackfish causes even a few members of the public to reconsider where they go on holiday, then the project will have been a success. https://youtube.com/watch?v=G93beiYiE74
James Street already boasts the best in shopping, restaurants and art-house cinema — and now it adds a festival to its ever-expanding footprint. An event befitting the street’s status as New Farm’s style hub, Resort is the first artistic and cultural celebration in a planned series, taking over the precinct for three days of well-heeled fun. No matter whether you’re a morning or evening person, there’s something to suit your timetable. The Resort Breakfast offers an eating, art and shopping experience at Blonde Venus, the Resort Mexican Food Fiesta brings a day of mojitos and munchies to Gerard's Laneway, and Resort After Dark combines cocktails and putt putt by starlight. But wait, there’s more, including the Resort Trailblazers discussion on fashion and the digital age hosted by ELLE Australia deputy editor Damien Woolnough, as well a sneak peek of GOMA’s forthcoming Future Beauty: 30 Years of Japanese Fashion exhibition. And who could pass up the nocturnal experiment that is #SunglassesAtNight? Singing Corey Hart’s hit song is not compulsory.
Throughout 2014, Anita Holtsclaw has held the esteemed position of Metro Arts' Artist in Residence. Now, she brings her year in the spotlight to an end with an exhibition that continues her career-long screen-based experimentation. Holtsclaw is known for focusing on vision and representation in her work, particularly how female protagonists are depicted and seen in cinema. Searching continues this focus, enacting the poetic definition of the titular term in a contemplation of dialogues of longing and loss in the landscape. The output of Bas Jan Ader proves influential too, with the Dutch conceptual and performance artist lost at sea during his final work, 1975's In Search Of The Miraculous. Using video shot off the shores of Bundaberg (her home town) combined with sea soundscapes and sail-like textiles, Holtsclaw shapes Searching as a continuation of Ader's efforts and a response to his tragic end, while also furthering her own theoretical framework and filtering through various personal experiences.
There's the truth, and then there's the tale that is told, a divide Kill the Messenger acknowledges. Driven by journalistic duty, Gary Webb (Jeremy Renner) unearths a scandal, though once his report is published, the press turns their attention to him over the facts. The surrounding film falls prey to the same trick, presenting an intriguing character study but skirting over the damage done. Webb is a small-time player for a small-time paper, yet unafraid of turning big leads into big headlines. In California in 1996, he receives a tip about a deal involving the nation's intelligence agency and crack dealers in South Central Los Angeles. Covertly supporting the Nicaraguan Contras in their fight against their country's socialist rulers, the CIA is accused of assisting their US drug racket. Webb scours through sources from South America to Washington to substantiate his story, all ignored when governmental denial thrusts him into the spotlight. With Mary Elizabeth Winstead and Oliver Platt as Webb's editors, Rosemarie DeWitt as his wife, and Michael Sheen, Andy Garcia and Ray Liotta as furtive figures, a competent cast fills in the details, in what remains a portrait of Webb's rise and fall. As compelling as he has ever been, Renner retains focus, matching his physicality to the transformative plight of a determined crusader victimised for doing the right thing. Often framed from afar or shown in hand-held close-ups, his recreation of Webb constantly looks over his shoulder with good reason. "We would never threaten your children," he is told in his only official face-to-face meeting with the CIA, and the feature's best display of tension. Based on Nick Schou's 2006 book of the same name, alongside Webb's own 1998 manifesto Dark Alliance, Kill the Messenger harks back to a host of conspiracy thrillers and whistleblower dramas in its newsreel compiles offering background information and incendiary montages setting the emotional tone. Better known for helming episodes of Dexter and Homeland, director Michael Cuesta sticks to the standard in evoking an air of unease and flitting between episodic jaunts in a quest for justice, his feature fervent in sentiment but fleeting in impact. All eyes stay on Renner's rising rage in his potent portrayal; however, the feature's message remains murky, swelling in telling of personal conflict but fading in spanning the extent of the scenario. That the most damning revelations are told as a post-script may indicate the difficulty of condensing the complicated true tale, but it also speaks to the same selectivity the film ostensibly rallies against. Kill the Messenger shouts the story of someone who refused to be silenced, yet favours an impassioned underdog account over a thorough consideration of its central media machinations. https://youtube.com/watch?v=14tFIJIp1bs
They say you should never stop learning new things — and with the great range of classes on offer at Laneway Learning, why would you want to? Case in point: Plastic Fantastic – Christmas Presents with a Difference. That’s your stockings stuffed and sorted. Recycling a humble everyday item everyone has too many of (yes, we know what’s under your sink), this crafting session teaches all the tricks for turning plastic bags into ecologically conscious gifts. Jewellery, placemats, coasters: they’re just a few of the items and accessories you can make by melting and fusing together this overlooked, abundant resource. The festive fun doesn’t stop there, with the next few weeks filled with ways to spread more Christmas cheer and find some seasonal bliss. Reduce stress with your own essential oils, whip up some super-healthy vegan chocolate truffles, and calm your mind by making your own Mandala. You know you want to.
Highgate Hill’s Laura Street Festival is really and truly one of a kind. Not only is it the only festival in Brisbane that prides itself on a hummus competition but it’s also a community event hosted by its friendly residents all in hope of showing off their wonderful, caring and super-festive neighbourhood. In its fourth year, Laura Street Festival is amping up the music, workshops, art, poetry, food and performance, with a nine-hour-long showcase of the lot. Groove along with blues, soul, jazzercists The Recliners, sway to the sounds of Virginia Sook, boot-scoot to the Hinterlanders and eat to your heart's content at the various food stalls. Feel free to dip everything in hummus; there will be plenty. For festival-bound fashionistas, there will be a free clothes swap — trade in something old and adopt something new — and for all those who need something a little more eccentric to get them in the mood, there will be an electronic music stage all day. Check out all the exciting things Laura Street Festival has on show at its website. The day kicks off at 1pm and rounds up at 10pm. Take your dog, take some cash, take your best attempt at hummus and have a wild time in a wilder neighbourhood.
Get your fashion fix at the next Suitcase Rummage at Reddacliffe Place (top of Queen Street Mall). While these markets aren't huge in size, they are monstrous in fashion finds and boast a variety of goodies. Sort through an array of suitcases and get your hands on fabulous vintage pieces, artwork, bric-a-brac, clothing, books, handmade clothes, shoes, records, cards and pretty much anything else you can imagine. If you're planning on selling your much-loved treasures, you will need to register your wares. Then, on Sunday bring along a suitcase filled with your offerings and spend the afternoon swapping, haggling and selecting new additions to your wardrobe. Make a few bucks or throw them away on new fripperies — sounds like the makings of a great Sunday.
The Koreans do violent. The Italians do romantic. The French do flowery and pretentious. But when it comes strange, no one make movies like the Greeks. Characterised by a deadpan, absurdist sense of humour often punctuated by moments of unsettling violence, the so-called Weird Wave has led to a renewed interest in Greek cinema in recent times — and what better place to get acquainted than at Australia's very own Greek Film Festival. Standout wave films on the program include Luton and the aptly named Miss Violence. The latter title caused quite a stir at the Sydney and Melbourne Film Festivals earlier this year for its extremely graphic content, which caused a number of audience members to walk out. It's a remarkably well-made film for anyone who can stomach it. Just don't say we didn't warn you. Thankfully, there's more to the Greek industry than brutality and existential angst. Opening night film Little England is a lavish period romance set during the Second World War, while Block 12 mixes Bollywood dance numbers into a comedy about the country's economic crisis — because really, they just seem like a natural fit. For the full Greek Film Festival program, visit their website.
Following the success of Viva La Femme comes Vive L’Homme — a very manly type of exhibition. Men of all artistic inclinations are invited to make a submission that entails a subject that might be considered part of the experience of “man”. From the male form, in all its strength and ability, through to the specific emotive contexts of a man’s life, such as being a son and a brother, and becoming a father. Head along to the opening celebrations of this event, with live music form The Silent Feature Era, as well as a competition designed to recognise the most dapper of all gents in attendance. Dress in your finest, groom your ‘do and your mo’ into sleek shapes and you could win a Lust for Life tattoo voucher to the tune of $300, plus a bottle of whiskey from Sabotage Social. T-shirts, books, a bottle of rum are all up for grabs. Submission information will be made available through the Lust for Life website.
“Your nose like a delicious slope of cream / And your ears like cream flaps / And your teeth like hard shiny pegs of cream.” Diner en Blanc — like Howard Moon's poem — will have you in all white. But sorry, Booshers: the third edition of this Brisbane event is just for the sophisticated. Now on five continents, the Diner en Blanc began in Paris 26 years ago thanks to François Pasquier and friends. This year, 2000+ of Brisbane's creme de la creme will once again dress in all white on Saturday, October 11, for the event held at an iconic location that remains secret until the very last moment (last year it was the beautiful banks of the Brisbane River at Portside). Following an evening of elegance, fine dining and live music, the foodies then pack up their crystal, dinnerware, tables and litter. Like ghosts (white 'n' all), they leave behind no sign of their rendezvous. (But don't get any ideas: a white sheet thrown over your figure will not do for an outfit). Diner en Blanc guests must either be invited by a member from the previous year, or get on the waiting list for a ticket.
The artist-run initiative of the Queensland University of Technology, Post Datum, brings you Storage Space, a group exhibition that seeks to unpack the way we save memory and experiences. In as many ways as technology aims to streamline our lives, to organise our days and provide a photo album in the security of cyberspace, it does also also contribute towards a shift in priority and different ways of viewing memory. Choosing to record rather than experience, and to over-share rather than personalise, signifies a shift in the meaning of keepsakes. The artists presented within the exhibition are also students of QUT, who are currently working through their undergraduate or postgraduate degrees. This exhibition is their opportunity to present their works in a professional environment, to examine their art in a critical light, and invite new eyes to their creative pursuits. It is the aim of Post Datum to provide such opportunities for emerging and aspiring artists. Support them in their great cause by engaging with the students and their art, as Brisbane art makes exciting strides toward the future.
Unlike the movie, we'll keep this short and to the point. A Million Ways To Die In The West is not a good film. Not unless, that is, you're a 15-year-old boy, in which case, it's the best goddam movie you've ever goddam seen! Consider the ingredients. This is 116 minutes of hot girls talking about sex and their 'great tits', fart sound effects aplenty, semen finding its way onto faces, characters swearing like it's going out of style and Neil Patrick Harris's character emptying his gastro-afflicted bowels into a stranger's hat for a full 45 seconds, before then farting some more and repeating the deed into another man's hat. Soiler Alert: he then kicks it over so that you get to see the liquid faeces in all its comedic glory. The man behind it all is Family Guy creator Seth MacFarlane, whose voice is the median strip between Brian and Peter Griffin, and whose last (and first) film Ted was a surprise hit. Here, he's upped his involvement. A lot. MacFarlane wrote, directed, produced and starred in A Million Ways To Die in the West, and to say he's overreaching is beyond generous. This is pure self-indulgence, particularly given the extraordinary amount of screen time he occupies despite having a top-shelf cast around him (Liam Neeson, Charlize Theron, Giovanni Ribisi, Sarah Silverman, Amanda Seyfried and, of course, Doogie). The most frustrating thing is that scattered throughout the film are pockets of oustanding comedy. Early on, MacFarlane and Ribisi 'assume the position' and pretend to fight during a bar brawl so as to discourage anyone else from coming their way in what is a terrific moment, and a recurring gag about nobody smiling in the newly invented 'photo' experience is as amusing as it is astute. The problem is, these moments are so scarce than can be counted on one hand. Like, a leprous hand...with two fingers, and maybe a thumb stub. There's no denying MacFarlane's talents, but here they were stretched beyond their means. The supporting cast does its best to do exactly that, but can do only so much with so little screen time and a script that requires more cursing than acting. Again, this is not a good film. Save your money — even if you're a 15-year-old boy. https://youtube.com/watch?v=2sOa-2EhbTU
Movement have been making waves for a few months now, earning acclaim for their subtle R’n’B tinged electro masterpieces. Never have vocals and instruments blended so well. 'Ivory' is the latest tune to debut before their first, self-titled EP. Not only is this track great, but the rest are all finely crafted works of art. The trio explore the darker side of the night - the lust, the mistakes, the lonesome introspection and the need for intimate connection. Jesse James Ward, Lewis Wade and Sean Walker are masters of moody atmospherics, but are equally adept at conveying passion and groove as well. The Sydney trio have supported the likes of Darkside, Solange and Rufus and will soon be touring overseas. For now though, they are making their way around Australia and will be stopping in to Black Bear Lodge for a show. Movement will be supported in Brisbane by local electro wunderkind, Tincture. Buy tickets to this show, right now. Also, FYI - their EP has landed and is up for streaming. Do yourself a favour though, listen to it with the lights off.
Open every hyperlink in this article and you’ll understand why the ukulele should be the Eighth Man Made Wonder in the World. It lacks the six string complexity of the guitar, has a sound sweeter then baby chipmunk giggles, and is so compact you can take it anywhere from on a flight to a funeral (don't take a ukulele to a funeral). Plus, whether you’re a novice, Amanda Palmer or a member of The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain it’s impossible to look anything but adorable with a ukulele in hand. As such, West End’s The Box is going to be radiating sunshine, sweetness, and friendly fine sounds from the 19th to the 25th of January. Last Day in Paradise is a week long ukulele display, all set in the family friendly Box backyard. There’ll be 27 artists designed ukuleles, some super summer vibes and on the 25th there will be a Tropicana party from 4pm to 9pm. This is also the last event for The Box so we sure to go and give someone a high-five, while suppressing an upside down smiley face :(.
The folks at Cheated Hearts are back in full swing for 2014, and are wasting no time getting you back into the groove with another of their infamous parties. Those lovers of hip hop, R’nB and the tunes in between will be treated to a night of DJs spinning the biggest and baddest tracks, designed to lift the roof off the favoured Oh Hello. The likes of Dre, Eminem, Destiny's Child, Kendrick Lamar, Snoop Dogg, Iggy Azalea, Lil Wayne, Missy Elliott, A$AP Rocky, Azealia Banks and Kanye West (and more) will be on deck, courtesy of Nikk-C, Jane Doe, Dotwav, The Gatling Gun and Cvlt Teens. If that wasn’t enough to keep you sweet, there will be free fairy floss and popcorn a-plenty. The culture creatives over at Cheated Hearts know what you want, and how to defy expectations; head along from 9pm for a night that will breathe new life into your Sketchers and tube tops, and leave reservations at the door.
Robert Vagg, Cameron Hawes and Glen Schenau might be known in some circles as some of Brisbane's most accomplished musicians. Members of notable bands such as Wonderfuls, I Heart Hiroshima and Per Purpose respectively, each of the trio are capable of conveying thought into music on a whim, creating striking soundscapes with haunting lyrics to match. All three musicians have contributed work to a brand new exhibit at A-CH Gallery, in a series entitled, 'Decesead Estate'. The exhibition brings together the work of each artist, drawing on themes of isolation, living on the fringe of society and primitive expression, while blending humour with dark textures and illustration with paint. If you are a fan of the musical works of these artists, you might find yourself enjoying their foray into art. Like much of their musical output, 'Deceased Estate' is an enthralling foray into the minds of Brisbane's best musical voices. Abrasive and confronting, yet enticing and remarkable - worth a look while it's on.
Who knew that the next great Australian film would actually be a constellation of 17 smaller ones? The term 'producer' seems insufficient for Robert Connolly, the driver of this daring and innovative cinema project. He has pulled together the most visionary creative artists, filmmakers, cinematographers, choreographers and theatre-makers to bring Tim Winton's The Turning to the screen. Connolly's brief to his collaborators was simple: choose a short story from Winton's book and develop it in any style you wish. It's a bold and crazy concept. A curated, anthology film shouldn't work, but here it is. This film is about the crossroads, the moments when we turn to face ourselves and force ourselves to change track. The returning patterns of self-realisation are alcoholism, Christianity, Indigenous culture and identity, our relationship with the land and air and water, and the inability to put the past to rest. Video artist Shaun Gladwell and actors Mia Wasikowska and David Wenham make their directorial debuts. Justin Kurzel (Snowtown) directs an especially creepy episode. And every story turns on sharp moments of awakening: Rose Byrne's battered, trailer-park wife encounters God, Hugo Weaving's alcoholic hermit reunites with his estranged son, Cate Blanchett's suburban everywoman finally clicks with her mother-in-law. Until these moments, our characters are moving forward, but still in the past, and they all come together with unexpected narrative unity that balances open-endedness with diamond-cut clarity. In these plaited stories, I found a film of rare adult complexity, and strands of hope and trauma woven together with a compassionate, humane thread. I found moments of astonishingly troubling beauty. And with a sensitive touch, The Turning does all this without overdosing on dark-night-of-the-soul melodrama. Rarely do we see a film with such a startlingly singular and confident mandate, and this is all the more courageous given the pressure on Australian filmmakers to dedicate themselves to producing more 'entertaining' commercial product. Some viewers will feel The Turning's three-hour length. I did at times, and I thought some of the early chapters could have been omitted with little impact. But what the hell, go with it. It's not easy viewing but it is beautiful viewing. While you're watching it, this is a film to zoom in and zone out to. After you're finished, it's a film to dissect and discuss and linger on. Yes, this is an art film, but it's not the one you think it will be. So bold is Connolly's vision, he's designed a new distribution strategy to accommodate it: The Turning will play for only two weeks in special-event screenings — some with Q&As with the creative contributors — and audiences receive a luxe little full-colour booklet to help make sense of the braided narrative structure. The Turning will probably make you cry and you probably won't know why. It will stay with you. And I think it will claim a place in cinema history — for the innovation of its style, and the frankness of its substance. https://youtube.com/watch?v=rGVweOZA2zg
Oki & Oro is an independently owned Brisbane Optometrist specialising in boutique eyewear (oki) and timepieces (oro). All frames and watches are sourced from local designers, as well as internationally. The team pride themselves on finding and stocking unique designs, and using their expertise to help customers choose frames to suit their personality and style. Having recently celebrated their first birthday, Oki & Oro is committed to helping Brisbanites look and see their best.
