Grammy nominee Chris Isaak heads to Mt Duneed Estate this April for A Day on the Green’s In Concert Tour
FEBRUARY #750
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750 EDITOR Talia Rinaldo PARTNERSHIPS & CAMPAIGN MANAGER Matt Wilkinson DESIGNER Riley McDonald GIG GUIDE Tammy Walters CONTRIBUTORS Tammy Walters, Alex Callan, Chester Ogilvie, Chloe Cicero, Kaya Martin, Lucas Radbourne, Chloe Waddell, Lucy Crock, Coco Veldkamp FOR ADVERTISING OR SPONSORED CONTENT ENQUIRIES advertise@fortemag.com.au
EDITORIAL NOTE Happy New Year Forte fam! 2024 is off to a banging start, and we’re here to keep the vibes alive. Æ Platinum-selling and Grammy-nominated maestro Chris Isaak is making a triumphant return to Australia and NZ, and guess where he’s heading? Geelong, baby! A Day on the Green is going to be epic, and Isaak himself can’t contain his excitement. We can practically hear him strumming his guitar from Nashville. This edition is loaded with exclusive interviews – Hiatus Kaiyote, Pseudo Echo, and the fabulous trash queen herself Queenie. Plus, get the lowdown on Americana on the Bellarine, Pako Festa, and the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition. Regular goodies? Yep, we’ve got ‘em. New festivals, music news, album reviews, artsy exhibitions, and a guide to the region’s hottest gigs. Feeling hungry or thirsty? Check out Two Noble, At The Heads, and Gorge Camorra’s newest cocktail haven, Non Disclosure Bar. Isaak is bringing the heat, and we’ve got the inside scoop on everything else that’s sizzling. Rock on.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF TRADITIONAL OWNERS Our magazine is published on the lands of the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation, and we wish to acknowledge them as Traditional Owners. We pay our respects to their elders, past, present and emerging.
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DISTRIBUTION
COVER
Forte Magazine will be distributed for free monthly to hundreds of regional Victoria locations. To enquire about having Forte Magazine at your venue email distribution@fortemag.com.au
Our February cover is Chris Isaak for A Day on the Green.
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CONTENTS 8–11
NEWS COVER STORY
12–13
CHRIS ISAAK
“...I’m going back to Australia! I think it’s my favourite place to tour… or just hang out. I’m so ready!”
23
JIMMY REES
24–25
ALBUM REVIEWS A B C D E
Tangk Dishlickers Faith Crisis Pt 1 Inside Voices Harmony Blooms
Idles De Porsal Middle Kids Tig Velvet Trip
HIATUS KAIYOTE
14
STAGE GUIDE
26
PSEUDO ECHO
15
AMERICANA ON THE BELLARINE
LISA GORMAN + MIRKA MORA
27
16
VENUE GUIDE
28–29
QUEENIE
17
VENTANA STAGE
18
MIA DYSON
19
WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR 20 GEELONG ARTS CENTRE
20
PAKO FESTA
21
ARTS GUIDE
22
THE GORDON
23
A B C D
At The Heads Nicol’s Paddock The Kyn Two Noble
BITES GUIDE
30
NON DISCLOSURE BAR
31
These stories, and more, at fortemag.com.au
TEAM PICKS
What we’re vibing this month
TALIA
MATT
Editor
32–34
GIG GUIDE
Partnerships & Campaign Manager
RILEY
FEB Designer
‘Monster’ LEEDEN
‘Square Hammer’ Ghost –
‘Red Letter’ Arch Echo
“Punk-infused rock energy and a swipe at toxicity, big yes from me!”
“If the Beatles and Alice Cooper had a baby. Then painted that baby’s face, and dressed it up like the pope.”
“Glittery yet dense jazz metal. The more notes, the better.”
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NEWS GROOVIN THE MOO ANNOUNCES 2024 FESTIVAL DATES It’s time to round up the crew, secure that annual leave, and start crafting your festival wardrobe because GTM is gearing up to hit the road in April and May 2024, including a fresh and exciting location in NSW. Locally it will head back to Bendigo on Saturday 27 April.
THE REAL SONGWRITERS OF MELBOURNE IS COMING TO GEELONG With a large, growing number of regional based songwriters travelling to Melbourne for their events, the RSOM is heading to Geelong for the first time. Taking over Eureka Hotel on 21 February, this is a chance for songwriters and musicians to grow their contact list, meet future collaborators as well as access Australia’s leading industry experts in a live Q&A.
Ç BLUESFEST HAS ANNOUNCED ITS FIFTH ARTIST LINEUP Joining the already star-studded lineup will be Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals, Infectious Grooves (Exclusive), Katie Melua, The Waifs, Brad Cox, Yirrmal, Dirty Honey, Jerome Williams, Ben Swissa, EMDEE, Dave Kushner and more!
RADIO BIRDMAN ANNOUNCE 50TH ANNIVERSARY SHOWS In a seismic celebration of five decades of defying the norms of Australian rock and roll, the iconic outsiders, Radio Birdman, are set to rock the nation with a series of farewell performances in June and July 2024. Catch them at Croxton Bandroom, Melbourne with Civic on 21 and 22 June.
Ç LUCA BRASI ANNOUNCE ‘THE WORLD DON’T OWE YOU ANYTHING’ AUSTRALIAN TOUR Tasmanian rockers Luca Brasi blaze back with The World Don’t Owe You Anything Album Tour, hitting Melbourne’s Northcote Theatre on 17 May. The band’s sixth studio album promises a raw, energetic revival. Accompanying them are LA indie-punks Spanish Love Songs.
Ç PEACH PRC ANNOUNCES AUSTRALIAN TOUR Australia’s queen of pop, Peach PRC will tour Australia this March and April! With a new look, Peach brings an exciting new era and set to play her biggest headline shows to date, joined by Sydney-based singer-songwriter, musician and producer Carla Wehbe. It’s happening on 22 March at Forum, Melbourne.
SAVE THE DATE: SPLENDOUR IN THE GRASS 2024 It’s time to fire up the group chat - iconic three-day weekender festival Splendour In The Grass has just announced their dates for the 2024 edition. Get hyped for all the magic that awaits at Ngarindjin / North Byron Parklands from Friday 19 July to Sunday 21 July with onsite camping available from Wednesday 17 July.
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Ç MILDLIFE ANNOUNCES NATIONAL 2024 HEADLINE TOUR Naarm/ Melbourne’s own Mildlife has announced a nationwide tour for June and July to celebrate the release of forthcoming third studio album, Chorus. The tour kicks off in Walyalup/Fremantle on 21 June, making stops in Cavanbah/Byron Bay, Eora/Sydney, and concluding with a homecoming show in Naarm/Melbourne on 6 July.
SHAKE IT OFF WITH REPUTATION: THE ULTIMATE TAYLOR SWIFT SHOW HEADING TO GEELONG
Ç KATE MILLER-HEIDKE ANNOUNCES SECOND SHOW AT QUEENSCLIFF TOWN HALL Renowned singer-songwriter Kate MillerHeidke, celebrated for her genre-defying talent, has added a second local show as part of her Catching Diamonds National Regional Tour of Australia. As part of the tour, Kate will now perform a special show at the Queenscliff Town Hall on Thursday, 2 May ahead of her sold-out performance at the same venue on Friday, 3 May.
Hailed as ‘beyond brilliant’, REPUTATION: The Ultimate Taylor Swift Show promises to be a rollercoaster ride through the iconic eras and reinventions of the global pop superstar, Taylor Swift. From her roots as country music’s rising star to her current status as a chart-topping phenomenon, REPUTATION is set to showcase it all. Catch it at Barwon Club Hotel on Saturday, 11 May.
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Ç CALEXICO ANNOUNCE SPECIAL 20TH ANNIVERSARY SHOW AT HISTORIC LORNE THEATRE Arizona’s favourite sons, Calexico, will perform a very special show at Lorne’s exquisite Art Deco theatre in a celebration of the Feast of Wire’s 20th anniversary. On Saturday, 17 February, the band takes the stage to perform Feast of Wire in its entirety, along with a generous serving of classic hits. Adding to the evening’s allure is the support act by Melbourne singer-songwriter Al Matcott.
Ç DINOSAUR JR. ANNOUNCE SECOND MELBOURNE HEADLINE SHOW The band, marking 30 years since the release of their pivotal album, 1993’s ‘Where You Been,’ is set to rock audiences in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, and Auckland. The newly added Melbourne show at Northcote Theatre on Saturday 17 February joins the previously scheduled show on Friday 16 February.
Ç THE BEASTS ANNOUNCE NATIONAL TOUR IN APRIL 2024 Legendary Australian rock band, The Beasts, are gearing up for a nationwide tour this April, promising fans an unforgettable experience that combines ferocious fun with a whole lot of love. Expect to see Tex Perkins, Boris Sujdovic, Charlie Owen, Kim Salmon, and the resilient James Baker all up there on stage on Friday 19 April at Chelsea Heights Hotel and Saturday 20 April at Northcote Theatre.
KINGSWOOD HEAD BACK TO GEELONG Hot of f the back of their acclaimed Hometowns Tour which took the band on a record-breaking tour over 100 shows around Australia, Kingswood continued their unrivalled and relentless dedication to musical pursuit, dropping a second album for 2023 with The Tale of G.C.Townes. Leaving nothing in the tank, Kingswood embrace the country in a whirlwind of dates on the Homecoming tour. See them at The Wool Exchange on 10 February.
ZERO LATENCY OPENS IN GEELONG Providing a gaming revolution that’s set to elevate your entertainment experience, Zero Latency, the global pioneer in immersive entertainment and the brains behind the world’s largest free-roam VR network, has opened its latest arena in Geelong. Groups of up to eight can now dive headfirst into mind-bending virtual worlds with unparalleled freedom and agency – no backpacks, no wires, no distractions.
HENRY WAGONS, KYLIE AULDIST LEAD AIREYS INLET MUSIC FESTIVAL 2024 LINEUP The three-day Aireys Inlet Music Festival spectacular has unveiled its star-studded, strong local lineup for its return, going ahead once again as a specially curated music festival from 15 – 17 of March 2024. Some of Victoria’s favourite festival acts including Matt Walker and Ashley Davies, Henry Wagons and Kylie Auldist will headline.
THE STRUTS ANNOUNCE SYDNEY AND MELBOURNE HEADLINE SHOWS FOR 2024 British rock sensations, The Struts, are set to ignite the stage at Crowbar in Sydney on Wednesday, 21 February, and Max Watts in Melbourne on Wednesday, 28 February. The Struts will be making their return to Australia this month, sharing the stage with Slash Feat. Myles Kennedy & The Conspirators as part of The River Is Rising-Rest of the World Tour ’24.
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Ç PANDEMONIUM, AUSTRALIA’S NEWEST ROCK FESTIVAL, WILL TAKE THE NATION BY STORM THIS APRIL The first-ever Pandemonium festival is set to hit the east coast this April, boasting a lineup that reads like a who’s who of rock and roll royalty. We’re talking Alice Cooper, Blondie, Placebo, Deep Purple, Wheatus, The Psychedelic Furs, Dead Kennedys, Gang Of Four, Palaye Royale, and homegrown heroes Wolfmother, Cosmic Psychos, Gyroscope and more.
Ç WHITE NIGHT RETURNS TO BALLARAT IN 2024 WITH A CALL FOR LOCAL CREATIVES Expressions of Interest are now open, inviting creatives, local businesses, and industries to be part of this extraordinary event. Whether you’re into film, projection, craft, visual arts, performance, or music, White Night Ballarat is on the lookout for diverse talents willing to explore after-dark adventures and concepts. Expressions of Interest close 5pm, Friday 16 February.
ST KILDA FESTIVAL DROPS FULL LINEUP WITH NORTHEAST PARTY HOUSE, GUT HEALTH, RVG AND MORE Returning to the stunning St Kilda Foreshore and surrounds, St Kilda Festival, the annual two-day celebration of Australian music will take place 17 – 18 February. Presented by the City of Port Phillip, the free Festival has announced an amazing line-up of homegrown talent and fun for all ages, for its 43rd year.
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Ç NORLANE’S NEW $65.6M AQUATIC AND COMMUNITY HUB TO OPEN IN FEBRUARY Ç CHEAP TRICK AND THE ANGELS ARE HEADING TO GEELONG Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees Cheap Trick has cranked up the volume on their upcoming Red Hot Summer Tour by adding six more shows in February and March. Joining the legendary Cheap Trick on this sonic journey will be none other than the iconic Aussie rockers, The Angels. See them at Costa Hall in Geelong on 14 March.
Ç TREATY DAY OUT IS BRINGING JESSICA MAUBOY, ELECTRIC FIELDS AND MO’JU TO BALLARAT Fan-favourite festival Treaty Day Out has returned with an outstanding lineup for 2024. Set to run for the first time on Wadawurrung Country at the Ballarat City Oval on 2 March, the event brings together some of Australia’s most well-known First Nations artists to share their music and raise awareness for Indigenous rights.
Come 19 February, Norlane locals can dip their toes into the state-of-the-art facility, and memberships are already up for grabs. The Northern Aquatic and Community Hub boasts an impressive array of features, including lap pools, waterplay areas, waterslides, warm water pools, a spa, steam room, and more.
MURRAN IS THE NEW HUB FOR ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER CREATIVES Nestled on the Ground Floor near Pink Malop Street Carpark, Murran is a vibrant hub fostering creativity and entrepreneurship. Comprising an art gallery selling and showcasing art of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander artists and creatives, retail store selling Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander owned products, cafe, co-working space with hot desking opportunities, and events area, Murran is set to redefine the landscape for Indigenous business and culture.
BARWON EDGE IS BRINGING A NEW OUTDOOR CINEMA SERIES TO GEELONG THIS SUMMER Ç BEN HOWARD ANNOUNCES AUSTRALIAN TOUR IN MAY Ben Howard is coming to Australia in May, gracing cities including Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane. The tour promises an electrifying live experience, showcasing Howard’s compelling performances and an impressive repertoire. Palais Theatre, Melbourne on Saturday 25 May.
THE WORLD-CLASS ASHES TO ASHES: DAVID BOWIE EXPERIENCE IS COMING Get ready to be transported to the legendary world of David Bowie as Ashes To Ashes: The David Bowie Experience graces stages across Australia. Heading to Geelong on 23 February, the experience will offer an authentic two-hour concert production that spans Bowie’s remarkable five-decade, 27-album career.
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Ç THE BLUES TRAIN ‘WOMEN IN BLUES’ SERIES EXPANDS FOLLOWING SOLD-OUT PERFORMANCES The Blues Train has hit a high note by announcing an additional run in its 30th Anniversary “Women In Blues” series. Due to the overwhelming success of the January and February events, the Blues Train has added a 23 March concert to the lineup, featuring the Anthea Jewels Band and The McNamarr Project.
Running until 8 March, Barwon Edge Outdoor Cinema Series seamlessly blends nostalgia, delectable treats, and a cozy preshow gathering area. The series unfolds on consecutive Fridays and a special Valentine’s Day screening, featuring two movies each night with the likes of Jurassic Park, The Notebook, Batman, The Mighty Ducks and more.
THE POTATO SHED UNVEILS A SHOW-STOPPING 2024 PROGRAM The core 2024 season will kick off in February with Americana On the Bellarine ’24, a sensational drag tribute dedicated to the legendary Tina Turner in April, acclaimed drag cabaret YUMMY, and a spectacular lineup of tribute shows to iconic figures like Elvis, The Beatles, Roy Orbison, Neil Diamond, and Dolly Parton. Plus a special concert from award-winning Indigenous singer and songwriter Emma Donovan.
Ç POINT LONSDALE BOARDRIDERS’ ANNUAL LIGHTHOUSE PARTY IS BACK THIS SUMMER Get ready to groove under the iconic Point Lonsdale Lighthouse, as the Point Lonsdale Boardriders Club announces the return of the much-anticipated 6th Lighthouse Party on 10 February from 2pm. Featuring Milo Eastwood, Scott and Charlen’s Wedding, Radio Free Alice, Baby Blue, Flesh Cherub, Think About You, and more.
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SEA LIFE MELBOURNE AQUARIUM’S OCEANARIUM REOPENS SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium has officially lifted the curtain on its latest masterpiece, ‘Night on the Reef’, a dazzling $9 million exhibit that plunges visitors into the enchanting depths of the ocean. The 360° habitat allows guests to stroll along a bioluminescent beach, surrounded by a vivid spectacle of colours that mirror the bustling life found in coral reefs globally.
Ç BENSON BOONE RETURNS TO AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND US singer-songwriter Benson Boone is bringing his Fireworks and Rollerblades World Tour down under this September. With a hotly anticipated debut album on the way, Boone is certain to touch more hearts than ever before, the 21-year-old recently dropping his new single, ‘Beautiful Things’. Catch him at Forum, Melbourne on 18 September.
Ç SYCCO HEADLINES VICTORIA’S LGBTQIA+ PRIDE STREET PARTY LINEUP Happening as part of Victoria’s Pride, this event sees the iconic Gertrude and Smith Streets transform into a free, all-day, jampacked, block party for all ages, with multiple live music stages and performances from local and international musicians and artists to celebrate Victoria’s diverse LGBTIQ+ communities.
ROYEL OTIS ARE HEADING TO TORQUAY ON THEIR BIGGEST AUSTRALIAN HEADLINE TOUR YET Hailing from Sydney, Australia, Royel Otis is a dynamic guitar-pop duo made up of Royel Maddell and Otis Pavlovic. The name was formed by the fusion of the member’s first names. Dropping the dates for their most extensive headline tour across Australia, ahead of their forthcoming debut album, PRATTS & PAIN, catch them at Torquay Hotel on 17 February.
Ç THE EXPLODING UNIVERSE OF ED KUEPPER RETURNS TO STAGES THIS APRIL
Ç MISSY HIGGINS ANNOUNCES NATIONAL THE SOUND OF WHITE 20TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR
Ed Kuepper, the maestro behind The Saints, brings back the golden era with vinyl reissues of two iconic albums – Black Ticket Day and Law Of Nature (Laughing Clowns). For the April tour, Ed Kuepper’s band features the stellar lineup of drummer Mark Dawson, bassist Peter Oxley, pianist Alister Spence, and brass arranger Eamon Dilworth. See him at Thornbury Theatre on 5 April and PalaisHepburn on 6 April.
The Second Act Tour, spanning various cities and regional hubs, is a celebration of Missy Higgins’ illustrious career and a testament to her enduring popularity. Higgins aims to connect with her audience on a profound level, sharing the stories and emotions that have defined her musical evolution. Catch her at Frankston Arts Centre on 28 March, Ballarat’s Civic Hall on 29 March and Bendigo’s Ulumbarra Theatre on 17 May.
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Ç THE PORT FAIRY FOLK FESTIVAL UNVEILS ITS 2024 FUTURE FOLK RISINGS STARS 2024’s Future Folk will see solo artists Jorja Cate, Sam Curtis, Etta Lane, Joseph Lim, Zoe Borthwick, Jasmin Adria, Hundo Milli, LJ Parks, along with bands My Giddy Aunt and Out of Hand, take the stage at Fiddlers Green in the heart of Port Fairy and various stages within the festival arena.
HARRY POTTER: A FORBIDDEN FOREST EXPERIENCE IS COMING TO MELBOURNE IN APRIL Drawing inspiration from the iconic Forbidden Forest, this mystical outdoor trail in The Briars will be illuminated with mesmerising lights, guiding visitors of all ages through cherished moments from the Forbidden Forest. Along the way, interactive encounters with mythical creatures like Hippogriffs, Unicorns, and mischievous Nifflers await, offering attendees a chance to try their hand at spellcasting.
Ç NICK CAVE ANNOUNCES RARE SOLO SHOWS IN MELBOURNE WITH COLIN GREENWOOD OF RADIOHEAD The legendary Nick Cave is set to grace Melbourne and Sydney with a series of rare solo performances in April 2024. The iconic singer-songwriter will enchant audiences at The Plenary in Melbourne on 25, 26 and 27 April, presenting Cave’s timeless classics in an intimate and unadorned setting.
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CHRIS ISAAK
COMES BACK TO AUSTRALIA – OUR LOVE AFFAIR TO DATE WORDS BY
TAMMY WALTERS
“Nobody loves no one” is the pained refrain to Chris Isaak’s swooning single ‘Wicked Game’. Æ It’s a sentiment for the melancholic, an ominous representation of heartache in this heart-shaped world. However, this statement is frankly untrue when it comes to Australia’s long-standing relationship with the now-Nashville-based serenader. Our love runs deep and has been ignited once again with his imminent return. Our favourite festival programmers, Roundhouse Entertainment, in conjunction with Live Nation, will be unleashing the multi-talented heartthrob on us this April for A Day On The Green, playing six shows across the nation with a first stop into Geelong’s Mt Duneed Estate on Saturday 6 April. Titled the In Concert tour, the A Day On The Green shows are our first Isaak interaction since 2016, an unbearingly lengthy separation period considering our track record. According to Setlist.FM, Isaak has performed over 120 shows in Australia, sitting us atop of the number two podium post for the most-toured country, second only to his home country of the United States. What’s even more impressive is the fact that these statistics are heavily framed around the latter half of the 90s and into the 2000s. You see, Australia was late to the touring party, having only first set eyes on rockabilly rebel just shy of 30 years ago, a decade after he broke into the music domain, for his ‘95 tour of Forever Blue.
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Forever Blue was a significant album in our nation’s Isaak timeline. The 1995 album that opens with slow build, guttural ground-crusher ‘Baby Did A Bad Bad Thing’ and the more delicately contrasted ‘Somebody’s Crying’ went three times platinum, charting at number 2 in the Australian album charts, the highest across the country tally board, and moving over 210,000 units in sales. It also appeared in the swansong Stanley Kubrick erotic thriller, Eyes Wide Shut, starring our very own movie star darling, Nicole Kidman. It’s not as if we didn’t jump on board the Isaak bandwagon during his early releases either. Isaak’s debut album and homage album to his three-piece band, Silvertone, saw chart success only in Australia, coming in at number 77. His self-titled follow-up went gold and his Heart Shaped World hit single ‘Wicked Game’, which has been immaculately covered and reinvented by both Finnish love metallers HIM and German house producer Parra for Cuva, made it to number 15 in our weekly charts and number 83 in the year’s overall charts. Australia has long championed Chris Isaak and his Presley meets Orbison crooning. In later years, we would boost his Best of Chris Isaak 2006 release to number one and sit Beyond The Sun (2011) and First Comes The Night (2015) in the top three ranks. Whilst it’s our first time seeing Chris Isaak in a little while, it’s not his first rodeo in Geelong or at A Day On The Green, with 2006 ticking off both live experiences from his checklist, playing a stand-alone show at Geelong Arena and circuiting through Perth, Adelaide, Hobart, Coldstream, and Brisbane. That same 21 Australian tour date year saw the superstar record his first live album Live In Australia, captured at Melbourne’s The Palms At Crown. Between a busy bachelor life of music, Chris Isaak has also steered a successful screen career. The Grammy-nominated singer and actor has navigated a blinding music discography, 13 critically acclaimed studio albums in total and 12 chart-topping shiny singles in stature, whilst also building an acting resume appearing in Married to the Mob (1988), The Silence of the Lambs (1991), That Thing You Do! (1996), A Dirty Shame (2004), and The Informers (2008).
“...I’m going back to Australia! I think it’s my favourite place to tour… or just hang out. I’m so ready!” FORTEMAG.COM.AU
He took to the forefront of the credits in his own sitcom The Chris Isaak Show between 2001 and 2004 which offered a fictional insight into the backstage life of rockstar, not too much of a stretch for the legendary musician. In 2009, Isaak jumped across to the talk show variety for The Chris Isaak Hour. The one-hour music interview and performance show saw him interview fellow industry giants Stevie Nicks, Glen Campbell, Michael Bublé, Chicago, The Smashing Pumpkins, Yusuf Islam, and Jewel. Back in Australia, Isaak’s face would become a fixture of the weekly television, becoming a judge on the Australian edition of The X-Factor in 2015. Following the departure of Natalie Bassingthwaite, Isaak joined James Blunt, Guy Sebastian and Dannii Minogue on the seventh season of the talent search show. During his down under residency, he would be televised to millions tuning into the important game of the year, performing at the AFL Grand Final alongside ‘Summer of 69’ star Bryan Adams, and British belter, Ellie Goulding.
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At this stage, Chris Isaak is basically an honourary Australian and the distance between musical drinks can be forgiven by his sheer enthusiasm to get back to our audiences. Of his return, Isaak says, “I am sitting on my front porch in Nashville, Tennessee and smiling. I have been stuck in my house for nine days because of the snow. But I have been in a great mood as I know I’m going back to Australia! I think it’s my favourite place to tour… or just hang out. I’m so ready! Bring on the sun! Bring on the beach! I think I’m gonna wax my guitar... I told you I was excited!” To grow the excitement, joining Isaak on the AAMI-partnered tour is a web of homegrown talent. An additional band to the ‘Wicked Game’ covers catalogue thanks to their 2020 recorded version, Sydney indie folk favourites Boy & Bear join the Geelong affair, alongside vocal acrobats and dynamic duo Vika and Linda Bull, and one-half of Violet Town’s Killing Heidi, the ultimate rock chic, Ella Hooper. Mark Seymour and The Undertow are along for the ride in all other states except for Victoria.
Tickets to witness the wicked game are on sale now. To sweeten the deal, event partners AAMI are also giving five lucky Chris Isaak fans the chance to win the ultimate concert experience at A Day on the Green. Each winner will receive four premium tickets, along with exclusive AAMI on-site benefits including express entry, priority bar service and a picnic hamper. The competition is open now and closes at 11.59 pm AEDT on Monday 12 February 2024. If there is one thing we know for sure, for over 40 years we have loved Chris Isaak. This love will last.
CHRIS ISAAK - A DAY ON THE GREEN WHERE:
MT DUNEED ESTATE, GEELONG
WHEN:
SAT 6 APR
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HIATUS KAIYOTE Side Projects Save Hiatus Kaiyote from Indefinite Hiatus WORDS BY
TAMMY WALTERS
C re d i t Ro c
ke t We
ije
rs
Æ Ever heard of that cheesy saying, “If you love someone, set them free”? Typically saved for the lore of love, it’s a policy that Melbourne jazz/funk band Hiatus Kaiyote have employed to ensure the freedom of creativity in band members. Keyboardist, Simon Mavin, backdropped by his impressive home studio, and band bassist Paul Bender, with a Sgt. Pepper’s poster over his shoulder, discuss the flexibility and freedom of Hiatus Kaiyote that keeps them returning to the passion project.
2023 saw Mavin step into solo territory with the release of his debut album Some Days with singles ‘Good Hair Day’ and ‘Only You & Me’, and continuing his support of powerhouse Emma Donovan as a member of her band The Putbacks. Vocalist Nai Palm has been playing solo shows across North America for the past twelve months and together Mavin and Bender join fellow instrumentalists, working under the collective The Sweet Enoughs, producing mood music for listening and relaxation outside of the core project. Side projects allow them to not go on hiatus from Hiatus. “We’ve been doing Hiatus for 10 plus years now. So you get used to how the mothership flies, and when there’s time to do other stuff and when there’s not. It’s still pretty unpredictable if there are certain points where stuff pops up, but I think we get a general sort of leniency to do other projects while we’re doing Hiatus as the main thing,” Mavin explains. “That’s the thing about this project, everyone is their own musician in a way, and can work on different kinds of things. We’re very different musicians in the band, which is great because then when we clock off from Hiatus, we’re able to focus on things that we want to get better at or pursue and then often those things come back to Hiatus. “Like someone goes on a journey down a certain path musically and inevitably it’ll just sort of end up winding back into the sound of HK which is pretty cool.” It’s their ability to leave the band and immerse themselves in separate music projects that extend their already impressive compositions. With accolades of Australian Independent Record awards wins, National Live Music Awards on their shelf and Grammy nominations, Hiatus Kaiyote benefit from developing outside of the band. “We all learn stuff from doing our own side quest for sure. When you spend time going into a specific style or headspace, it’s nice to bring that into the projects and then at the same time, it’s also nice that the side project is its own thing with its own set of rules about it. A lot of things that
would make something Hiatus don’t have to be on the table, but then when you come into Hiatus, a bunch of things that would make it that side project also don’t have to be on the table, but they can definitely influence each other and I think the more music that you record, the more you learn about creating sounds and creating arrangements. It all informs each other,” says Bender. Key areas of development have been sourcing material and conversing with other musicians for Bender, whilst it’s a return back to basics for Mavin in being comfortable composing and putting melody to paper. In a world of productivity overload, it’s not a matter of hustle culture driving their desire to develop but more of their internal challenges. “I have limited time to be on the planet. So I should get on with stuff and I always think about someone like Frank Zappa who made such complicated music and is also one of the most prolific recording artists ever. So it’s like he was putting into the hardest records to put together so what’s your excuse?” says Bender. These new skills are being embedded in the next Hiatus Kaiyote album which Bender confirms they are “working through trying to finish”. The lead single ‘Everything’s Beautiful’ just dropped in January. Similarly, they are elevating their live show, having songs from Mood Valiant, Choose Your Weapon and Tawk Tomahawk recreated through The Dreamboat Orchestra, coming to Hamer Hall on Friday 23 February. “The Hiatus repertoire is pretty thick. There’s a lot of stuff going on most of the time. So when we perform it live as the four-piece or seven-piece, we inevitably have to strip it down a little bit. So it’s great being able to have an orchestra there that can do a bunch of the things that are on the record that we can’t play live and then also having someone like Miguel [Atwood Ferguson] who’s arranging the songs and being able to put his two cents into the pieces as well in certain ways. “It’s really an incredible gig. The first one we did at the Hollywood Bowl was really special and it’s just incredible to hear our music performed with a very large ensemble.”
Credit Claudia Sangiorgi Dalimore
HIATUS KAIYOTE W/ THE DREAMBOAT ORCHESTRA
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WHERE:
HAMER HALL, MELBOURNE
WHEN:
FRI 23 FEB
FORTEMAG.COM.AU
Credit: Ken Baldwin
“The band has evolved over the years, members come and go, but the essence of the band has remained intact.”
PSEUDO ECHO Celebrating 40 Years of New Wave WORDS BY
COCO VELDKAMP
Æ Pseudo Echo’s MACHINE Tour is coming to Melbourne for two unforgettable shows on Friday 16 February at the Espy and Friday 24 May at 170 Russell. The MACHINE Tour commemorates the 40th anniversary of their debut single, ‘Listening’, with a special Machine Remix release. Originally hitting the airwaves in 1983, ‘Listening’ introduced Avant Garde synth-pop to Australian radio, etching Pseudo Echo’s new wave sound into the hearts of listeners. In a historical moment back in 1983, Pseudo Echo made waves on Countdown as the first unsigned band to grace the stage. Following this breakthrough, the band soared up the charts, securing a major record deal with EMI. The result? Fifteen Gold/ Platinum albums/singles, numerous awards, including Australia’s Most Popular Band, Most Popular Male Performer (Brian Canham), and a dozen ARIA nominations. With ten studio albums and countless world tours under their belt, Pseudo Echo has left an enduring mark on the music scene.
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Canham and high school mate Pierre Gigliotti laid the foundation for Pseudo Echo in 1982. Despite a hiatus in 1990, the band reunited in 1998, growing through changing seasons, ages, and members. Canham reflects on the band’s evolution and introduces their latest addition, drummer Abigail Lula, who joined during a critical point in their national theatre tour. “The band has evolved over the years, members come and go, but the essence of the band has remained intact. The main thing for me is the members need to ‘want’ to be there - and for the right reasons,” Canham explained. “That way the vibe is very apparent, which brings me to the addition of our latest member, drummer Abigail Lula. We were midway through a pretty intense 45-date national theatre tour and had gone through no less than five drummers. Drummer number four exited without any notice, almost jeopardising the whole tour when our manager Raquel suggested I have a look at this young, 19-year-old female drummer she’d had her eye on from Instagram! I didn’t need too much convincing. Raquel contacted Abbie, and in two days she had learnt out entire two-hour show. She flew in and met us at our next gig. With no rehearsal and just a soundcheck, she nailed the gig admirably - complete with a mega drum solo too!” Through changing tides, Pseudo Echo has maintained their signature sound. Their style trailblazed electro-rock and pop, particularly in Australia, and they have been widely credited with getting the New Wave ball rolling down under. “Many early 80’s European bands influenced me when I was starting the band. Simple Minds was a major influence with Jim Kerr’s vocal style. Also, bands like Human League, Duran Duran, Spandau Ballet and of course Ultravox. I guess we took little bits and pieces from our influences, then found our own thing, I would say synthesisers and electronics, in general, are the main theme,” Canham said. The band’s 1986 cover of Lip Inc’s ‘Funky Town’ propelled them to global success, reaching No. 1 in Australia and New Zealand and making waves in Canada, Sweden, the United States, and the United Kingdom. It was this particular track that solidified Pseudo Echo’s title as iconic Aussie music legends. “It was an incredible success for the band and put us firmly on the world stage. We’ve never looked back since. It’s a crowd-pleaser to this day., and we love playing it - albeit a mega-extended jam version,” said Canham. And, as always, there is a lot more on the horizon for Canham and the band. “There are talks about making a documentary, I’ve also been working on a book, so hoping that will be nearing completion soon. I’m also keen on branching out, maybe some acting!”
PSEUDO ECHO ESPY HOTEL
FRI 16 FEB
170 RUSSELL
FRI 24 MAY
FORTE 750
AMERICANA ON THE BELLARINE The boutique local festival is back for a night of roots, blues, and folk under the stars Æ Prepare for an evening drenched in the soulful sounds of Americana music as some of the Bellarine’s most talented songwriters and artists grace the stage for the second edition of Americana On The Bellarine, the brainchild of Ocean Grove singer/songwriter Andrea Robertson. Set against the stunning Bellarine skies and the picturesque backdrop of the Potato Shed in Drysdale, this boutique festival promises an unforgettable evening of roots, blues, folk, and country music on 17 February. For those not in the know, Americana Music, often dubbed Alt-Country Music, is a genre that gracefully weaves together blues, roots, country, folk, rock, rockabilly, gospel, and soul. It’s a musical odyssey under the expansive umbrella of diverse genres, creating an eclectic and emotionally resonant sonic experience. “It’s interesting that a lot of people still aren’t exactly sure what the term ‘Americana music’ means, so I see this as an opportunity to de-mystify that a little,” Robertson says. “Because at the end of the day, it’s just a great blend of multiple genres, typically blues, roots, country, folk based but can also be elements of bluegrass, soul, rock and gospel. “I don’t even particularly want to peg myself as an Americana artist because that can sometimes limit you as an artist. I’m a songwriter and a storyteller, I personally have so many influences from multiple genres, and I think that is evident in my own music.
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“But sometimes you do need to be able to give yourself a label, and so, Americana seems to the be best fit for me. Just as it is for the other artists on this lineup too.” Celebrating Americana with a local lens, the festival boasts a lineup of exceptional artists who effortlessly embody the Americana genre. Two standout performers, Andrea Robertson and Sarah Carroll, are set to steal the spotlight at the event, showcasing their exceptional songwriting and musical prowess. Also performing on the night will be singer-songwriter powerhouse Gabby Steel and crowd favourite, The Mojo Corner. Returning for its second year this February, Americana On The Bellarine was initially conceived by Robertson over three years ago with plans for a live event in mid-2020. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted these plans, prompting Robertson to pivot and host a livestream event in July 2020. The event, which featured a lineup of five artists, aimed to provide a source of joy during the challenging lockdown period. “The desire to create an event like Americana On The Bellarine as a live, ticketed event had been an idea of mine for quite some time, with the hope that it would be something that would become an annual event. An event that lovers of original music of the many genres that make up Americana music to mentally note on their calendars and look forward to come along to each year,” Robertson explains. Speaking about the livestream experience, Robertson expressed, “It gave me a focus, a purpose for my music, and the opportunity to reach out to other artists and audiences at the same time.” Despite facing setbacks due to lockdowns and outbreaks, Robertson’s persistence paid off in 2022 when she secured funding through Creative Victoria. This paved the way for her vision to come to life as a live, face-to-face, ticketed event in 2023. Last year’s festival showcased the talents of artists such as Sarah Carroll, Alister Turrill, Annie-Rose Maloney, Nathan Seeckts, and, of course, Robertson herself. Now back for round two and set to take place at a new location - the Potato Shed in Drysdale, offering an enchanting outdoor stage experience. Here, audiences can immerse themselves in the music while lounging on picnic rugs, enjoying nibbles, and sipping drinks from the licensed bar. “The venue last year (BrewiColo in Ocean Grove) was the perfect venue for its first show with an audience, and the owners were amazingly supportive. They are terrific people and very community minded,” Robertson says. “But amazingly, we sold out prior to the event and ended up with almost 40 people on the wait list, so it felt like finding somewhere a bit bigger would make sense, so that we could expand our audience a little more - without going too big. A slightly bigger venue with lots of parking and more facilities to cater for the size, a space for musicians to put their gear before and after playing. “And the other main factor was that The Potato Shed have an amazing outdoor stage which will be perfect for Americana On The Bellarine to become a twilight event held under the stars. But they also have the ability to pivot and shift indoors to their impressive theatre space should the weather not be in our favour. Weather is always one of the hardest things to work around for outdoor events where we live!” Rain, hail or shine, don’t miss out on the Americana On The Bellarine – an enchanting fusion of genres under the Bellarine stars.
AMERICANA ON THE BELLARINE WHERE:
POTATO SHED, DRYSDALE
WHEN:
17 FEB
FORTEMAG.COM.AU
Credit: Marcus Coblyn
QUEENIE On Shedding Skin and New Beginnings ahead of her performance at Port Fairy Folk Festival 2024 WORDS BY
COCO VELDKAMP
Æ Bold, charming, and brimming with spirit, Queenie, the vivacious stage persona of Melbourne singer-songwriter Eloise Thetford, is gearing up to grace the stage at the Port Fairy Folk Festival 2024. Queenie is a rare talent – she knows exactly who she is, yet she doesn’t take herself too seriously. Queenie’s musical journey commenced at a tender age, surrounded by the sounds of Tom Waits, Robert Plant, Led Zeppelin, and Cheryl Crow. “I was lucky enough to grow up in a musical family – I was always surrounded by it. I was going to my parents’ gigs when I was in utero basically. I picked up a guitar at maybe nine years old and started writing really corny songs,” she reflected. “I grew up in Tassie and there was this great program called the Rock Summer School in Launceston. You’d go to his camp and you were put in a band and you learn a song and perform it. I loved it so much and I guess it never really stopped after that.” The singer-songwriter shares a recent evolution in her creative process. Shifting away from more abstract themes, she now finds solace in narrating her own experiences. Her musical style, a fusion of pop-rock reminiscent of The War on Drugs and St. Vincent, delves into the depths of human emotion, with the vast majority of her new material revolving around themes of heartbreak and life experiences. “When I was younger, I wanted to be Kate Bush. I wrote a lot of super weird stuff for ages. And then I started writing a lot more about my experiences in the world and how I am navigating my life. Now, I like to write for an emotional and creative release,” Queenie explains.
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After months of unwavering dedication and artistic exploration, Queenie has recently wrapped up her forthcoming album, aptly titled New Moult. “I went through this phase of being obsessed with spiders and joined all of these Facebook discussion groups about it. I was fascinated with how if they lose one of their legs or something, the next time they moult, they grow it back. So, all of the songs are kind of break-up songs. I guess it’s like shedding skin, becoming a new person,” Queenie explained. Scheduled for an early release in 2024, New Moult promises an equally healing and heart-wrenching listening experience. Queenie is eager to showcase many of its tracks at the Port Fairy Folk Festival 2024. And for her – it is all worth it when she is playing live shows. Despite admitting she gets wildly nervous before gigs, Queenie professes it’s her calling.
“I love the fact that I can play to all of these people. And connect with them. So many people can relate to what I write about now. It’s funny though – people say they love my live shows but I’m always freaking it minutes before. Running around – totally frantic. People are always asking me if I need a drink or something. But when I’m actually up there, I feel like I can calm down and it’s so rewarding,” she revealed. In closing, Queenie, brimming with zest and warmth, leaves us with an audacious remark: “Buy my fucking album so I can pay it off! Ha-ha. But seriously, I’m so so excited to be playing the Port Fairy Festival – it’s like a bucket list item for me. Truly, I am so grateful. I love it.” As she prepares to unveil New Moult to the world, Queenie’s music offers a listening experience that we can all relate to. Much like the shedding of skin, she draws inspiration from, Queenie hopes her music can serve as a cathartic outlet to her fans.
PORT FAIRY FOLK FESTIVAL WHERE:
PORT FAIRY
WHEN:
8–11 MAR
FORTE 750
Credit: James Terry
VENTANA STAGE Æ As the summer sun paints the skies over Frankston City, a crescendo of cultural celebration awaits at one of its most popular annual events. The Frankston Waterfront Festival, a sun-filled two-day fiesta in February, promises an immersive experience of live music, delectable cuisines, and a kaleidoscope of family-friendly activities. Among the festival’s gems is the Ventana Stage, an annual focal point that offers a window into a mosaic of cultures, located along the vibrant waterfront.
EXPLORE, EXPERIENCE, AND ENGAGE
MUST-SEE PERFORMERS IGNITING THE STAGE Prepare to be enchanted by an eclectic lineup of performers gracing the Ventana Stage.
Credit: Erin Lee
At Frankston Waterfront Festival is a kaleidoscope of cultural brilliance.
THE VENTANA EXPERIENCE Ventana, Frankston’s acclaimed cross-cultural event, spans from February to April, kicking off with a spectacular showcase at the Waterfront Festival. The Ventana Stage, nestled within the Yacht Club Precinct, transforms into a bustling hub of intercultural entertainment, showcasing almost 20 performances of music, dance, and a diverse array of artistic expressions. At the heart of Ventana’s allure is its celebration of global cultures, inviting attendees to immerse themselves in a rich tapestry of traditions. This year, the Ventana Stage promises to be a melting pot of Latin, Mediterranean, and Filipino influences—a fusion of vibrant rhythms, captivating dances, and tantalising aromas that transport festival-goers to far-off lands.
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The vibes continue with world-class saxophonist Solomon Sisay headlining the stage on Sunday. Originally from Ethiopia and now a resident of Australia, Solomon brings his Ethio Jazz Band to the stage, weaving a musical narrative that spans continents and captivates audiences with its soul-stirring melodies. Performing just before Solomon, Perolas, an ensemble that transports the harp into the contemporary realm, will showcase a sensory musical experience, exploring experimental jazz and lush electronic harp alongside soulful lyrics and quirky rhythms. Local talents Bashka, with their fusion of Turkish traditional music, jazz, and hip-hop, guarantee an infectiously danceable experience for the second day. With conscious lyrics, they are an exciting live act that draws audiences from all around the globe.
Amaru Tribe, an electrifying folktronic ensemble hailing from Naarm/Melbourne, headlining the Saturday night, promises a deep and immersive musical journey, blending heritage with electronic sounds and traditional folkloric instruments. Also per forming on Saturday, Japanese Blues Cowboy George and the Tsugaru shamisen player Noriko will set the stage ablaze with lightning-fast blues licks and percussive sounds, infusing a Japanese twist into the world of bluegrass hard country blues. Indigenous artist Pirritu will also bring his unique blend of folk instrumentation and vocals, a gentle homage to the wind and waters of the Ngiyampaa people. A real highlight of the first day will be the Japanese drum ensemble Wadaiko Rindo. Based in Melbourne, this group promises a spectacular visual display of stamina, strength, and humour through their energetic and dynamic drumming performances.
The Ventana Precinct is not just a stage; it’s a microcosm of cultural exploration within the larger Waterfront Festival. Dive into an inspiring array of global cultures through dance, music, food, art, crafts, and workshops. Learn Cuban Rudea Style Salsa with Southern Cross Salsa; be wowed by the Bollydazzlers and their Bollywood dancing; or catch Te Avatea Performing Arts showcasing their Kuki Culture on the stage. The Ventana Stage is not merely a spectator’s seat; it’s an invitation to participate in a dynamic celebration of diversity and creativity. As the festival unfolds, other attractions like Betty’s Burgers Dive in Cinema on Friday, the Frankston Swim Classic on Saturday morning, and the dazzling Saturday night fireworks will complement your Ventana experience. Indulge in a ‘beer and spirits trail’ featuring local breweries and distilleries, and savour the offerings of the festival’s culinary delights.
Save the Dates: February 10–11, 2024 Mark your calendars for a weekend of cultural immersion and festive vibes. Don’t miss the Ventana Stage—a vibrant celebration of diversity and cultural exchange that promises to be the highlight of your summer. WATERFRONT FESTIVAL WHERE:
FRANKSTON WATERFRONT
WHEN:
SAT 10 FEB, 12–10PM SUN 11 FEB, 12–8PM
FORTEMAG.COM.AU
Woken from death, Mia Dyson returns with new album ‘Tender Heart’ WORDS BY
LUCY CROCK
Æ Mia Dyson had just started work on her new album Tender Heart, the night her heart stopped. She was woken by an earthquake in her Los Angeles home — then she was gone. Now, woken from death, the multiple ARIA and APRA award-winning artist is set to release her album on 23 February, accompanied by a US and Australia tour. Raised on the Surf Coast, Dyson has shared stages with legends like Bonnie Raitt, Stevie Nicks, Joe Cocker, Eric Clapton, and Chris Isaak, and more recently, has been hailed as one of Australia’s top 25 guitarists by the Herald Sun. It was an undiagnosed heart arrhythmia, triggered during the earthquake, that stopped her breathing that night, and it was her husband’s life-saving CPR that brought her back from the brink. In the moments suspended between death and life, she was somewhere else entirely. “I was in this really peaceful place,” Dyson says. “I could hear Karl, my husband, really far away with this very, very calm, soft voice speaking to me. “At first I couldn’t understand… then slowly I could understand him saying, ‘thank you for coming back to me’ over and over again.” Her husband, Karl Linder, found Dyson hunched on the wall of their bedroom with hollow, lifeless eyes. His CPR meant Dyson made it to the hospital in just enough time to save her life, with a defibrillator implanted to prevent the event from recurring.
Credit Brendan Willing James
MIA DYSON
“It meant that I enjoyed and appreciated spending that time with my collaborators and Karl, my husband, who co-wrote the record with me.“Syd Sidney on drums, Daniel Wright on bass and background vocals, Lee Pardini on keys and Scott Hirsch on the production, engineering, mixing and extra guitars.” Dyson said the transformation is also reflected lyrically throughout Tender Heart, the song ‘Thank You’ written to reflect on Dyson’s ideal last words to loved ones. “Thank you, I love you, forgive me, I forgive you. “They’re really simple. You can say those things all the time and you don’t have to wait till people are dying.” From talking to her tender heart and experiencing depression in ‘Dragging Me Down’, to facing death boldly in ‘Dare’, Dyson grapples with life’s fathomless questions with gentleness and nuance. “‘Dare’, the opening track, I think it was somewhat of a premonition if I can be so bold as to say that. This song is about this experience of facing death.” But Dyson wrote the song before her near-death experience, unsure of its meaning. “Then afterwards it was like, ‘Oh, wow. This is what this song’s about’.” On 23 March, Dyson will bring her transformative new album to The Sound Doctor in Anglesea, following stops in Bundalaguguah, Melbourne, Healesville, Archies Creek, and Castlemaine. The Anglesea show is not too far away from where she played her first-ever gig, a ball her parents threw at Modewarre Hall, opening for Diana Kiss and Ross Hannaford with Ray Charles and Jimmi Hendrix covers. This time Dyson returns with a message: “To try and distil it down, this whole record is trying to convey a feeling of, ‘It’s okay. You’re okay. We’re okay’.” “Hold your loved ones close, and let people know how you feel about them.”
“Thank you, I love you, forgive me, I forgive you.” Returning to her album with a newfound open-hearted embrace of all that was almost lost, the result is the fittingly-titled collection of ten profound songs, Tender Heart. “My heart was the thing that malfunctioned… and I think what came out of that is being tenderised,” Dyson says. “There’s the literal heart kind of failure and then the tenderisation of the heart through something really difficult. “It takes some luck as well, but these very difficult experiences can make us more open, more tender. Sonically, Dyson’s record parallels her transfiguration. “The sound is really significant for me this time around… In my evolution, it was time for me to have a gentler expression and let my voice be in a natural state, rather than pushing it and pushing it all the time. “I really was trying to prove myself when I was younger. There’s so much angst and power and it’s loud… I wanted it to be heard.” In Tender Heart, the sounds are gentler, warmer and more subtle, showcasing a natural voice that she now embraces: “I think that comes through in the whole production.” Now, Dyson said she sees success as being present with her band and loved ones. “The measure I think of now, and success is the wrong word for it, but it’s ‘can I be in the moment on stage really connecting with people’? It’s really about the inside experience, and in my experience, it takes a lot of work to be able to be present. “I went about making this record, and writing it, with much more of an appreciation of… how fragile life is and how at any moment it could be taken away.
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MIA DYSON THE BUNDY, BUNDALAGUGUAH
8 MAR
THE CORNER HOTEL, MELBOURNE
15 MAR
THE MEMO, HEALESVILLE
16 MAR
CARAVAN MUSIC CLUB, ARCHIES CREEK
17 MAR
THEATRE ROYAL, CASTLEMAINE
22 MAR
SOUND DOCTOR, ANGLESEA
23 MAR
FORTE 750
GEELONG ARTS CENTRE SEASON 2024
Æ In a truly breathtaking display of nature’s wonders, Geelong has become the exclusive Victorian home for the mesmerising works of the world’s most celebrated photographers. The city’s National Wool Museum is currently hosting the 59th edition of the Wildlife Photographer of the Year, a highly anticipated annual exhibition on loan from London’s iconic Natural History Museum. Embarking on its 10th season here, this photographic display is more than just an exhibition; it’s a visual odyssey through the lens of some of the globe’s greatest image-makers. Imagine the breathtaking spectacle of animal behaviour, the vivid snapshots of spectacular species, and the kaleidoscopic diversity of the natural world—all captured in frames that blur the lines between art and nature. The Wildlife Photographer of the Year, originating from the esteemed Natural History Museum in London, is no ordinary photography event. For nearly 60 years, it has provided a global stage for the most astonishing and challenging sights nature has to offer. What started with 361 entries in 1965 has evolved into a colossal competition, drawing over 50,000 submissions from every corner of the globe. As part of its enduring appeal, the award-winning images embark on an international tour that is seen by over a million people, including those in Geelong until May 19 2024. This year’s spotlight is on Australian photographer Caitlin Henderson, who skillfully weaves tales of Australian flora, fauna, and climate change through her lens. The exhibition also shines a light on the People’s Choice Awards, featuring shortlisted photographers Ofer Levy and Charles Davis, both hailing from the land Down Under. Gifting attendees the opportunity to explore nature through a new lens, exhibition goers will explore the planet’s habitats, from sprawling urban metropolises to the deep polar seas, and meet the creatures that rely on these places. They will come face to face with species at risk of extinction as well as those we’ve brought back from the brink. They’ll also see first-hand how human activities, both good and bad, are shaping the natural world we rely on. With soundscapes, videos, expert insights and stunning photography, the Wildlife Photographer of the Year isn’t just an exhibition; it’s an invitation to witness the raw, untamed beauty of our planet.
Æ As the curtain rises in 2024, Geelong Arts Centre is the place to be to unleash creativity and experience the extraordinary. The upcoming lineup of high-calibre shows promises an eclectic mix of performances that celebrate the rich history of the past and pave the way for groundbreaking stories making history today. Kicking off SEASON 2024 is Darlinghurst Theatre Company with Overflow; an explosive one-woman play sharing a story about sisterhood and public toilets that puts the trans experience in the spotlight. Bare witness to Australia’s first-ever theatre production made by an all-trans and gender-non-conforming cast and creative team from February 8 – 10 in The Open House. In 2023, Geelong Arts Centre launched its brand-new contemporary program pillar REWIRE. Now, it’s taking it up a notch with five electric performances with an edge that challenges, thrills, and delights all at once. First up on the REWIRE roster in 2024 comes Garry Starr: Greece Lightning from March 1 – 2 in The Open House. Having single-handedly saved the performing arts in 2018 with his multiaward-winning debut show, Garry Starr Performs Everything, comic wunderkind Garry returns with another anarchic masterclass not to be ‘mythed’. Be there when this overzealous idiot attempts to perform all of Greek Mythology to save his Hellenic homeland from economic ruin. From a national first to a world first in SEASON 2024, Back to Back Theatre takes to The Story House from April 11 – 13 with the world premiere of their brand new work, MULTIPLE BAD THINGS. MULTIPLE BAD THINGS is theatre. It is not real. But in a world where self-righteously indignant voices so often drown out the most disenfranchised and vulnerable, this theatre sometimes feels real. Tackle important topics of inclusion, identity and intersectionality in this harrowing production. Packing a punch (quite literally) from May 3 - 4, the final instalment of the successful works from A Slightly Isolated Dog hits The Open House with THE TROJAN WAR; a raucous celebration of our ridiculous lives, combining theatrical magic, wicked pop songs and fierce wit to playfully explore questions around the current chaos of our times. SEASON 2024 is a vibrant mosaic, blending echoes of the past with the groundbreaking tales shaping our present.
The Catwalk by shashwat Harish (Kenya)
WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR 59
THE WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR WHERE:
NATIONAL WOOL MUSEUM, GEELONG
WHEN:
UNTIL 19 MAY
20
FORTEMAG.COM.AU
PAKO FESTA RETURNS: A CULTURAL FEAST IN GEELONG’S WEST
Credit Matt Houston
Æ This annual free celebration of diversity has evolved into Victoria’s largest free multicultural street festival, showcasing the rich tapestry of Geelong’s cultural landscape through a blend of food, music, dance and a kaleidoscopic street parade. In the quaint suburb of Geelong West, every year in one place, on one day, Pakington Street transforms into a mesmerising carnival in celebration of Geelong’s diverse mix of cultures with people from all walks of life. The event kicks off at 9 am and runs until 5 pm, offering a unique opportunity for locals and visitors alike to revel in the festivities. At the heart of Pako Festa is the Street Parade, a dazzling display of cultures that commences at 11 am, promising to be a highlight for its 42nd year. Shaping into one of the most colourful, vibrant displays of communities, the parade will be filled with traditional costumes, music, dance and entertainment from around the globe.
THE PAKO FESTA STORY: A COMMUNITY LEGACY Rooted in community spirit, Pako Festa traces its origins back to 1983. What began as a modest gathering with just 12,000 people has blossomed into Victoria’s largest free multi-arts and cultural party, attracting over 100,000 attendees in 2020. Organised by Cultura, the event is a testament to the extraordinary contributions of individuals, cultural groups, and multicultural communities in Geelong and across Australia. Join the revelry and experience the enriching connections of culture at Pako Festa, where the streets of Geelong West come alive with the spirit of diversity and unity.
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Credit Nanadagopal Rajagopal
Geelong’s multicultural heartbeat is set to pulsate louder and more vibrantly on Saturday, 24 February, as Cultura’s Pako Festa returns to the iconic Pakington Street.
A TASTE OF CULTURE For those with a passion for global cuisine, Pako Festa is a mouthwatering culinary adventure like no other. Presenting a unique once-a-year opportunity to sample unfamiliar cuisine from foreign lands, or to revisit popular international dishes, Pakington Street and West Park will become a mosaic of pop-up food vans and marquees, each representing the unique flavours of different countries. From traditional Bangladeshi Biryani to the exquisite taste of Fijian BBQ, the festival promises a gastronomic journey around the world. Indulge your taste buds in the aromatic delights of the Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-Op, offering a Bushtucker menu featuring Kangaroo burgers and Lemon Myrtle Ice Tea. For those with a love for Eastern European flavours, the Bosnian Lily Geelong Association presents irresistible offerings like Sirnica and Zeljanica. You’ll also find rice dumplings from the Chinese community, meatballs and penne pasta from Club Italia, Butter chicken from Geelong Malayalee Association, and if you love dumplings, you cannot go past the Polish Stall offering Traditional Polish Dumplings, or sample Ukrainian Varenyky Potato and Cheese Dumplings. Finally, if dessert is your weakness the French community will tempt you with a collection of croissants and Pain au Chocolat. The Polish, Russian, Croatian, Japanese, Greek, Serbian and Italian communities will also have a variety of sweets on offer. And the best part of all is that you don’t even have to feel guilty about stuffing your face. Pako Festa is an annual fundraiser for these local diverse communities and your food purchases support the ongoing sustainability of these communities.
A TAPESTRY OF FREE ENTERTAINMENT Pako Festa’s multiple stages are a symphony of diverse music and dance performances, promising a never-ending roster of brilliant entertainment. The West Town Hall Stage, Gordon West Park Stage, and the Cultura Stage will host an array of talents from different cultural backgrounds. From the Geelong Harmony Choir, Spanish dancing and Irish dancing, to the rhythmic beats of Son de Mexico, the festival’s musical and entertainment landscape is as diverse as its culinary offerings. The Petrel Hotel stage will be rocking throughout the day with The Hollow Majors, The Maskell Love Band, Gabby Steel and Kelvin Plumb & Steve Minutoli delivering the musical goods. A real highlight is the Geelong Arts Centre’s stage which will feature some incredible performances from Geelong GRID Program participants - an innovative initiative designed to empower emerging artists and provide them with a comprehensive development program, including one-on-one mentoring, recording sessions, live performance opportunities, and more. Taking to the stage will be First Nations hip-hop artist Ridzyray, Congolese artist Baraka The Kid, South Indian neosoul creative Wild Gloriosa, young Samoan musician Elena Nichols (AKA Lenny), and the impressive local singer-songwriter Daisy Kilbourne. In addition to the GRID Series artists, the Geelong Arts Centre stage will also feature performances by renowned local artists Bella Deer and Riordan, along with the Celtic Festival Showcase. For music enthusiasts, this is the stage to be at during Pako Festa.
PAKO FESTA WHEN:
24 FEB, 9AM–5PM
FORTE 750
ARTS GUIDE Exhibitions to see this month
CURRENTS
JULIE MILLOWICK: SURROUNDING
WORDS BY
CHESTER OGILVIE
Julie Millowick began her photographic journey in the darkroom of Athol Shmith, John Cato and Peter Barr. With a deep connection to the place she lives, she has long documented the environmental legacy of gold mining around her home near Fryerstown. Despite the changing of the landscape due to extraction, the land remains resilient. Surrounding features a body of work not yet seen that explores the effects of mining, drought, flood and invasive plants. CASTLEMAINE ART MUSEUM 15 FEB–16 JUN
In their first thematic exhibition of 2024, Platform Arts will explore water in all its beauty through Currents. An exhibition, performances, film screenings and public program will consider the importance that water plays in our lives – currents, migration, tides, scarcity, security, ecosystems, climate change, sustenance and hydration. It also marks an opportunity for artists and community members to raise awareness of the Great Southern Reef, exploring its beauty and importance and need to protect it. PLATFORM ARTS (GALLERY ONE), GEELONG
10 FEB–15 MAR
UNITED BY WATER
POP GOES THE EASEL
PRINTERS’ INK EXHIBITION
In the words of Albert Szent- Gyorgyi, “water is life’s matter and matrix, mother and medium. There is no life without water.” Each year, Barwon Water invites primary-aged students in the Barwon Southwest region to design a poster in celebration of National Water Week (October). In its final days, the theme United by Water is explored by highlighting the importance of water in our lives. You can also explore the works of Wadawurrung woman and visual artist Jenna Oldaker.
After becoming disillusioned with the traditional art world, artists began drawing inspiration from commercials, comic books and household products found in popular Western culture. This led to the pop culture movement, which began in the late 1950s and reached its heights in the 1960s. Curated by Chris Duffy and sponsored by an Artists on Views grant, Pop Goes the Easel features works from Ha Ho Art, Dale Harris, Bridie O’Toole, Nachos Station, Mr Dimples, Rhayven Jane and Cody Dewit-Hayes.
The origins of printmaking date back to the Han Dynasty. Here, five local Bellarine artists who have found success at the likes of Geelong Art Society, Rotary Art Show and the Queenscliff Art Prize come together for the Printers’ Ink Exhibition. Join John McClumpha, David Jarman, Cathy McCall, Rob Beagley and Chris Box as they showcase their fondness of printmaking through linocuts, etchings, monoprints and woodcuts.
GEELONG GALLERY (LEARN SPACE)
UNTIL 25 FEB
DUDLEY HOUSE, BENDIGO
QUEENSCLIFF NEIGHBOURHOOD HOUSE GALLERY UNTIL 11 MAR
10–19 FEB
TÊTE-À-TÊTE & VIS-À-VIS
JOHN NIXON: FOUR DECADES, FIVE HUNDRED PRINTS
Ballarat-born Angela Brennan completed a Fine Arts degree in 1982, followed by a Bachelor of Arts a decade later. Working predominantly in abstraction, she has exhibited extensively since the late 1980s. She has a relationship with the Art Gallery of Ballarat that stretches back to her teenage years, which can be explored through a sculpture inspired by a 19th-century-style conversation couch owned by the Gallery in her Tête-à-tête & Vis-à-vis exhibition. Large-scale paintings also feature.
Printmaking was a vital part of artist John Nixon’s celebrated oeuvre of abstract art. This first comprehensive print survey reveals Nixon’s inventive use of varied techniques, which ranged from simple woodcuts and potato prints, to more complex screenprints, stone lithographs and etchings. True to the experimental spirit of his art, Nixon freely bent printmaking convention, for example by using collage, or by printing his abstract motifs onto everyday objects such as paper bags or newspapers.
What is it that is inspiring the next generation of young, local artists? What is their vision? Next Gen 2024 is an annual showcase of some of the rising talent from government, Catholic and independent schools from Ballarat and the South Western Victorian region from students who have completed studies in Art Creative Practice, Art Making and Exhibiting, Media, Visual Communication Design and Product Design and Technology.
ART GALLERY OF BALLARAT
GEELONG ART GALLERY
ART GALLERY OF BALLARAT
22
10 FEB–21 APR
UNTIL 11 MAR
NEXT GEN 2024
17 FEB–21 APR
FORTEMAG.COM.AU
JIMMY REES ‘Let’s Get Regional’
FROM PASSION TO PROFESSION TAFE is the perfect launchpad for a rewarding culinary career Æ Embarking on a culinary journey transcends mere dish preparation; it’s about transforming ingredients into art, creating memorable experiences, and bringing joy to people’s lives. If you have a passion for food and aspire to master the art of culinary creation, becoming a chef is a fantastic idea. The Gordon’s 12-month commercial cookery course emerges as the perfect launchpad. The hands-on learning experience at The Gordon provides aspiring chefs with extensive real-world kitchen exposure. This immersive environment allows students to refine their skills by actively preparing and presenting dishes, laying a solid foundation for a successful culinary career. The course has been designed in collaboration with industry professionals, ensuring relevance and currency. The program covers fundamental cooking techniques to the latest gastronomic trends, equipping graduates with the knowledge and skills essential for thriving in the dynamic and competitive culinary landscape. This preparation ensures that graduates are well-prepared to meet industry demands upon entering the workforce. “With the recent refurbishment of the culinary area, we now have some of the best development kitchens in the country. With fully immersive kitchens and bakery spaces, learners from any level can find a career in this highly engaging industry,” says Liam Breedveld, Acting Vocational Education Manager of The Gordon Culinary School. “Budding chefs now have access to amazing chefs and culinary teachers from some of the best kitchens in Australia and abroad. The Gordon’s new online resources allow for flexibility and engagement, allowing students to complete learnings at a time that suits them.” With seasoned professionals serving as your teachers, The Gordon brings extensive culinary backgrounds, offering invaluable guidance and mentorship. Through years of experience, personalised feedback and hands-on supervision, students benefit from the wealth of knowledge these chefs bring to the classroom, refining their techniques and deepening their understanding of the culinary arts. The Certificate III in Commercial Cookery at The Gordon is part of the Free TAFE program, presenting an opportune moment to step into world-class training kitchens and embark on the journey to becoming a qualified chef. With The Gordon conveniently located on your doorstep, there’s never been a better time to pursue your culinary aspirations. Moreover, the culinary skills acquired at The Gordon are in high demand, with local regions offering competitive starting salaries for chefs.
Æ Australian entertainer Jimmy Rees is hitting the road again this year with his national Let’s Get Regional tour from February to July! This time, he’s taking the laughs to (and ripping into) 17 regional towns, including the local gems of Ballarat, Bendigo, and Geelong. The Let’s Get Regional tour follows the phenomenal success of his Not That Kinda Viral tour, which grew from a 12-date plan to an impressive 24-show venture across Australia. With over four million social media followers, 43 million TikTok likes, and a whopping 200 million viewing minutes on Facebook alone last year, Jimmy Rees is undoubtedly a comedy force to be reckoned with. From his iconic Dan Andrews media conference parodies to the Brighton Ladies and Meanwhile in Australia series, Jimmy’s social comedy and razor-sharp observational humour resonate across generations. He’s not just the former Giggle on ABC’s Giggle & Hoot or the Dancing With The Stars contestant – Jimmy has evolved into a multi-generational entertainer. In 2022, Jimmy embarked on his first headline tour, Meanwhile In Australia, which quickly grew to 34 sold-out shows, making it one of the biggest comedy tours in recent years. The enthusiasm from fans prompted another tour in 2023, the aforementioned Not That Kinda Viral, with demand reaching extraordinary heights – a testament to Jimmy’s wide appeal. Beyond the stage, 2023 was huge, featuring a 10-week stint on Network TEN’s Taskmaster, a guest role in the Australian film Jones Family Christmas, a nomination in the TikTok Comedy Creator of the Year category, and becoming the face of Audible Australia. Now the well-earned success continues, with Jimmy’s Let’s Get Regional tour expanding to 27 shows spanning five months. “After touring metro cities over the last few years, I couldn’t be more pumped to be bringing a new live show to many local towns around the country where some I’m visiting and performing for the very first time,” Jimmy says. “Let’s Get Regional!...shut up Jason!” Get ready for a night of uproarious fun as Jimmy Rees lands in Ballarat, Bendigo, and Geelong, among other regional hotspots. For those in Bendigo, there’s even a new 8:45 pm show, providing more opportunities to catch Jimmy live.
JIMMY REES ‘LET’S GET REGIONAL’ BALLARAT CIVIC HALL, BALLARAT
Visit www.thegordon.edu.au to apply, with courses starting soon.
23
FRI 16 FEB
ULUMBARRA THEATRE, BENDIGO SAT 17 FEB COSTA HALL, GEELONG
SAT 22 JUN
FORTE 750
ALBUM REVIEWS
WORDS BY
ALEX CALLAN
DE PORSAL
Dishlickers
IDLES
TANGK Æ I was initially sceptical about Idles’ fifth album, TANGK. While I had praised their first two releases, Brutalism and Joy As An Act of Resistance, their third album, Ultra Mono, felt like a substandard follow-up, seeming more like the group was riding the wave of newfound success rather than genuinely trying something new. Then came Crawler. A dark and grimy slow burn of a release, Crawler saw the Englishbased outfit straying away from their punk origins to deliver something significantly more experimental, yet equally as thought-provoking. So when the disco-punk ‘Dancer’ dropped as Crawler’s follow-up, marking the first single from TANGK, I wasn’t sold. Sure, its jagged riffs and drilling basslines were head-boppable enough, but its lacklustre, humdrum chorus created some doubt about what the album had in store for us. Luckily, my expectations were wrong. TANGK stands as a powerhouse addition to the group’s arsenal. At its core, it’s a love album, but not in the way many would expect, with the group’s fifth release serving as a collection of allegories about vocalist Joe Talbot’s journey of finding self-love. Backed by his previous efforts, Talbot is a vulnerable and precise songwriter who crafts lyrics that most people would struggle to disagree with. He delivers them with a level of wit, charm, and candour that sets him apart from the majority of anarchist punk frontmen. TANGK is no exception to this sentiment, with songs such as ‘Gift Horse’ exploring Talbot’s gratitude and reliance for his loved ones, with lyrics like “my baby, she’s so strong, she talks me straight when I’m doing wrong” and “my baby is beautiful, all is love and love is all,” before powerfully asserting, “fuck the king, he ain’t the king—she’s the king”. TANGK isn’t just a journey of intrigue and discovery for Talbot; it also showcases heavy experimentation from the entire band. ‘IDEA 101’ and ‘POP POP POP’ deliver swirling synth loops, elements of electronic percussive and dissonant trip-house characteristics akin to Jamie XX, James Blake or Radiohead (now may be a good time to mention that one of the album co-producers was Radiohead’s ‘sixth’ member Nigel Godrich). ‘Grace’ highlights Mark Bowen’s newly adopted role within the group, with his meticulous use of programming creating intriguing sound effects in place of his rambunctious riffs. ‘Gratitude’ delivers grimy soundscapes and chaotic effects that can only be likened to the sound of dial-up internet crashing due to overexposure of hi-hats, and ‘Hall and Oates’ satisfies the punk purists by packing the hefty grunt of the group’s first two releases. It’s Idles in their finest hour. A gallant release that perfectly culminates the old while giving a healthy dose of something new.
LABEL: RELEASE:
24
PARTISAN RECORDS 16 FEB
Æ De Porsal may well be one of the only up-and-coming acts out there with the power to influence veteran musicians. Their first two albums, Soft Cowboy, and now Dishlickers, stand up as a slap in the face to anyone who has ever said ‘It’s all been done before’. A self-proclaimed ‘mutt’ album, Dishlickers spans everything from egg punk and jangle pop to blues and funk. What makes it even cooler, is the fact that each song on Dishlickers was written and recorded over a single day. As a result, it maintains a boisterous improvisational nature, effortlessly flowing between different styles, eras and ideas to deliver an off-the-cuff release that can only be described as individualistic. If it sounds like I’m frothing, it’s because I am. From the angular art-punk nature and showgrounds MC vocals of ‘Orate’, to the herky-jerky blues rock flavour of ‘Germany Germany’, and the punk-infused psychedelic on ‘Films’, it’s a sound that couldn’t be more their own. In a standout moment, title-track ‘Dishlickers’ sees the experimentation taken to another level, feeling as if the brothers plugged in their guitars and chucked them in the washing machine to create a chaotic psych-frenzied crescendo. If this is what these boys can create within a day for each song, I can’t wait to see what direction they head towards in the future. Based on the originality of their first two releases, it’ll probably be a genre that they invent themselves.
LABEL: RELEASE:
BDK RECORDS OUT NOW
FORTEMAG.COM.AU
MIDDLE KIDS
TIG
VELVET TRIP
Æ Throughout Faith Crisis Pt 1, you can’t help but notice an underlying lust for self-purpose. Born out of an existential experience in which vocalist Hannah Joy questioned her own faith, Faith Crisis is an album that dives deep into painful admissions of the past, while also finding a comforting solace in her hopes for the future. As you may imagine from such a profound backstory, it’s also a release that transforms Middle Kids’ sound. At its core, Faith Crisis Pt 1 still glistens with indierock charm, but beyond its dreamy synths and glittery melodies, it’s delivered with an overarching sense of brooding melancholic edginess. Written about Joy’s first child’s sinister health issues, ‘Petition’ delivers punchy drums and driving synthesisers that drip with Y2K disco-punk angst. ‘The Blessings’ and ‘Terrible News’ add the flavour of early noughties pop-punk through their downtuned basslines, rapid-fire drum fills, and in the latter, a yelled vocal cadence. ‘Philosophy’, however, holds no bars, with Joy taking aim at the rise of influencer culture with sideswipes such as “She’s got a platform, what the fuck is that for?” Faith Crisis Pt 1 is an album that can be listened to in two different ways – lyrically or sonically. If you listen to it at face value, you’ll undoubtedly find yourself entranced by hazy pop choruses and dreamy synth lines. If you listen to the lyrics, you’ll likely be admiring its refreshing frankness.
Æ It’s almost unbelievable to think that Inside Voices is a debut EP. There’s not a single moment on the four-song release that gives the impression that Tig Lieschke is an aspiring songwriter. If anything, it’s the kind of EP you’d expect to come from a seasoned musician finally disbanding from their main project to deliver a long-awaited solo release; not an accomplished corporate professional who has recently ended a lengthy stint in the legal industry to focus on her lost passion for songwriting. The aptly named opener, ‘Arrival’, comes crashing in with meticulous piano lines, mesmerising guitar leads, and soaring crescendos. By the time ‘Ran Into Myself’ comes rolling around, you’re already well and truly swooned by Tig’s seasoned songwriting abilities and husky, yet delicate vocals. Presumably influenced by the decision to leave her professional life in the rearview, ‘Ran Into Myself’ sees the songstress deliberating on relationships and her identity, questioning if she’d be more at ease living a life free of responsibility. The lyrics are filled with a wisdom that can only come with age, with songs like ‘Gingerbread House’, further opening up about Tig’s journey of self-growth with lyrics like “they tried to warn me to tread carefully, but I’m the oldest I’ve ever been.” R e c o r d e d f ro m h e r h o m e i n Melbourne/Naarm, Tig’s debut is an introspective, personable, and profound release that lifts the layers of her innermost thoughts in a way that’s impossible not to resonate with.
Æ Having made significant tracks in the Australian psych-rock scene with their debut EP Electric Dreams, Sydney duo Velvet Trip are back with the release of their debut album Harmony Blooms. Inspired by vocalist Zeppelin Hamilton’s time spent staying on best friend and former bandmate Jules Crommelin of Parcels’ couch in Berlin, Harmony Blooms is an album of influence and inspiration. A technicolour collection of neopsych jams, the group’s debut album ebbs and flows between overlapping vocal layers, groovy basslines and ethereal synths to deliver an immersive kaleidoscope of acid-infused psych-pop numbers. Delivered with a real peacefulness to it, ‘Get You Off My Mind’ toys with atmospheric hand percussive elements, spiritual jazz-infused synths and slow motion characteristics reminiscent of Air’s ‘La Femme D’argent’. The title track ‘Harmony Blooms’ mixes pipe-eye melancholia, post-apocalyptic Korg synthesisers, ascending basslines, and reverb-laden falsetto to deliver a delicate and dreamy psych-pop ballad. Standout track ‘Strangelove’ adds the depth of dual vocal harmonies, naturalistic foley and cinematic soundscapes enhanced by the unique inclusion of female spoken word meditation tied into its bridge. It’s a leftof-centre inclusion that pays off massively. While there are moments where the group’s musical influences shine through, for the most part, Harmony Blooms is an album that’s not afraid to take risks. As a result, it delivers its own spin on the modern psych-pop scene.
LABEL:
LABEL:
LABEL:
Faith Crisis Pt 1
RELEASE:
25
Inside Voices
LUCKY NUMBER 16 FEB
RELEASE:
Harmony Blooms
INDEPENDENT 1 FEB
RELEASE:
INDEPENDENT 9 FEB
FORTE 750
STAGE GUIDE
HAMLET It’s Hamlet, but not as you know it. Presented by Sheoak Productions, this is a commedia dell’arte (improvised theatre also known as Italian comedy) production of one of Shakespeare’s greatest works. Here, Hamlet is set in the Circus Belli in Demark, 1939 where big top circus is the height of entertainment. It also marks a time when the world is on the precipice of World War II. Tragedy abounds as battle lines are drawn and sides taken.
Exhibitions to see this month WORDS BY
CHESTER OGILVIE
GARDEN FOR THE FUTURE, WHITE HILLS
26 FEB–2 MAR
COSENTINO “Sometimes I pretend to be normal. But it gets boring, so I go back to being me.” They are the words of illusionist and magician Cosentino whose interest in magic was kick-started after seeing pictures in magic books. Today, he is widely regarded as the country’s most successful magician, illusionist and escape artist where he often spends months creating a single illusion. Decennium is his greatest hits show, complete with death-defying illusions, street magic and audience participation.
RAW COMEDY HEATS Is it your mate Dave who always has a story? Is it your work colleague Sarah who always seems to be making someone laugh? Who is the funniest of the funny lurking in the shadows, waiting to be discovered? With past winners including Aaron Chen, Anne Edmonds, Matt Okine and Hannah Gadsby, the Melbourne International Comedy Festival presented RAW Comedy is the country’s biggest open-mic comedy competition. THE ENGINE ROOM, BENDIGO
10 FEB
GEELONG WEST TOWN HALL
2 MAR
LIGHTHOUSE THEATRE, WARRNAMBOOL
20 FEB
GARRY STARR: GREECE LIGHTNING If you think Greek mythology is boring, prepare to be myth-taken. Garry Starr, the stage name of Damien Warren-Smith, is here to inspire you to spend some dollars to save his homeland. There is physical comedy, there is audience participation, there are costumes changes and there is a touch of nudity. Join Garry, Medusa, Icarus and Narcissus for a history lesson that’s a little looser than your typical high school class. THE OPEN HOUSE, GEELONG
1–2 MAR
OVERFLOW There is something about bathroom stall encounters at nightclubs that can be, well, something. We’ve all got a story. Regarded as one of the UK’s most prominent trans voices, Travis Alabanza has many. Overflow follows the story of Rosie who, while cornered in a flooding bathroom, distracts the horror with memories of encounters. From drunken heart-to-hearts to the borrowing of lipstick to a compliment from a stranger, this is an exploration of female bathrooms in all their guts and glory. THE OPEN HOUSE, GEELONG
8–10 FEB
SUMMER FROLIC
WILD
MAROONED
Experience the joy of Ballarat Frolic Festival’s Summer Frolic, a vibrant celebration of regional LGBTIQA+ art, culture, and community. The not-for-profit, volunteer-run festival kicks off with the empowering Frolic Art Show Opening Night on February 22 at TBH Studio. Join the mischief at Frolic Cabaret in Piano Bar Ballarat and the family-friendly Frolic Summer Picnic, or dance the night away at Frolic Queer Disco in Trades Hall on the same day. SunGay Trivia awaits at The Mallow on February 25.
Loosely based on Edward Snowden, Wild is a whistle-blower thriller by Mike Barlett. One day Andrew is having a bite to eat, mapping out future plans with his girlfriend. The next, he is in an undisclosed hotel room in Moscow evading assassination attempts. While there, he is visited by two figures promising protection. But who can be trusted? From a nobody to a most-wanted, this dark comic play explores the consequences of challenging the status quo.
Following the suicide of close friend and colleague Guy May, Michael Gray Griffith wrote Marooned. It was then produced by The Wolves Theatre Company, who took it to regional Victoria. It made such an impact that the chief of the Australian Army organised it to tour bases around the country. Mixing compassion and humour, Marooned follows four characters, known only by their number, as they’re trapped in the waiting room for the afterlife.
MOUNTVIEW THEATRE, MACEDON
PHEE BROADWAY THEATRE, CASTLEMAINE
VARIOUS VENUES, BALLARAT
26
22–25 FEB
23 FEB–10 MAR
10 FEB
FORTEMAG.COM.AU
LISA GORMAN
+
MIRKA MORA
TO BREATHE WITH THE RHYTHM OF THE HEART Credit: Ben Glezer
“This work explores that junction between the warp and the weft threads and the colour that’s created. When you weave the threads, it all depends on which threads are on the top and which are on the bottom, the way that the yarn is twisted and where the light hits the yarn. This is an exploration of that, but rather than using textile and using thread and yarn, I’ve used translucent acrylic sheets,” she explains. Lisa’s exploration of translucent acrylic sheets is a departure from her previous works. “It’s almost like you’ve got a magnifying glass and you’re looking really closely at that junction between the warp and the weft thread. And that moment is really out of the hands of the creator and somewhat left to the threads themselves as to what they do when they cross over,” she explains, highlighting the captivating play of colour and translucency. French-born Australian artist Mirka Mora (1928-2018) was a Æ In a dazzling celebration of Australian art and fashion, the beloved inspiration in the Australian art and culinary scene after Warrnambool Art Gallery is currently hosting the world premiere arriving in the country in 1951. In 2016, Mirka alongside Lisa of LISA GORMAN + MIRKA MORA: To breathe with the rhythm of Gorman launched their collaboration for the Gorman label, adornthe heart. ing fashion and art lovers with Mirka’s extraordinary artwork and The exhibition, on display until 17 March is a vibrant col- Lisa’s deeply creative style and fashion form. laboration between Warrnambool-born designer and visual artist The collaboration left a lasting impact on Lisa’s creative spirit. Lisa Gorman and iconic Australian painter Mirka Mora, curated by She describes Mirka as a “free spirit” whose exploration of various Warrnambool Art Gallery Director Aaron Bradbrook. mediums deeply inspired her curiosity. “I’ve always been interested Returning to her hometown for this groundbreaking event, in different mediums. I think that that’s why ultimately I have collabLisa Gorman (known to many for her vibrant and collaborative orated with so many different artists, designers, and makers over designs for one of Australia’s most recognisable fashion labels the last few decades. I often felt like fashion for me was a curation Gorman which she founded in 1999 and remained as creative of different collaborations really and I think that my need and desire director before departing the business in 2021) expresses her to work with different materials was what caused that,” Lisa reflects, excitement: “I hadn’t ever imagined that I would have ended up emphasising her fascination with different materials and mediums. showing my personal work in Warrnambool Art Gallery. It’s quite As the exhibition promises a diverse journey through Mirka’s exciting for the Gorman family.” and Lisa’s works, Lisa hopes visitors take away a sense of evolution. A celebration of Victorian art and design, the idea for the “Art and design can present itself in many different forms. You don’t contemporary design exhibition was sparked by Bradbrook, who necessarily need to work in one medium or even two throughout recognised the unique connection between Lisa and Mirka Mora, your career,” she encourages, inviting others to explore the boundtwo pioneering and ground-breaking artists whose practices tra- less possibilities of artistic expression. verse generations and art forms. Lisa shares, “It’s really nice for “In the way I was inspired by Mirka, and her breadth of work me to be showing alongside Mirka Mora; it’s an incredible priviand breadth of materials, hopefully, this exhibition will inspire lege. She’s one of the artists who I adore most, and having worked others too.” with her and known her personally, it’s a really special moment in In the spirit of the exhibition’s title, “To breathe with the rhythm of my own career.” the heart,” Lisa Gorman’s neon wonders and Mirka Mora’s timeless LISA GORMAN + MIRKA MORA features select garments from creations converge in a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and their iconic 2016 and 2018 collaborations, together with Mirka’s the vibrant heartbeat of Australian art. rarely exhibited tapestries and neon ink works from the 1980s, renowned hypofictional doll-like creatures and beloved soft sculpMirka Mora Angels, tures, works on paper and never-before-seen paintings directly from c. 1965 the Estate of Mirka Mora. For this exclusive exhibition, Lisa also draws from her love of colour and experience with textiles, specifically the process of weaving to create a series of exquisite and illuminating large-scale acrylic sculptures, immersing visitors in a neon colour bomb of bouncing light and playful shapes. Delving into her artistic journey, Lisa shares, “The opportunity to show in a public space brings out a whole lot of new ideas about the work. And for me that was scale; having an opportunity LISA GORMAN + MIRKA MORA: to show in a space that you could stand back from the work. And TO BREATHE WITH THE RHYTHM this particular work does rely on it,” Lisa explains. OF THE HEART Using translucent acrylic sheets, Lisa explores the elements WHERE: WARRNAMBOOL ART GALLERY of warp and weft and textile design. Lisa Gorman. Installation view, 2023.
WHEN:
27
UNTIL 17 MAR
FORTE 750
VENUE GUIDE
WORDS BY
CHLOE CICERO
AT THE HEADS
NICOL’S PADDOCK
Æ Perched unassumingly on the Barwon Heads pier, At The Heads boasts stunning views extending from Barwon Bluff to Port Phillip Heads and beyond. This iconic restaurant offers diners an unparalleled oceanfront experience and has long been the go-to spot for modern Australian cuisine with a seafood focus on the Bellarine Peninsula. For over two decades, At The Heads has been a culinary haven. Initially a fishing co-op and even featured in the popular ABC TV series Sea Change, it has evolved into a thriving restaurant under the adept guidance of Sea Change Hospitality for the past eight years. Exciting renovations are on the horizon, with the team eagerly awaiting their unveiling. Sitting on the water’s edge, it only makes sense for At The Heads to showcase a diverse range of seafood options. From Kingfish with cucumber and dill to a mouthwatering prawn roll, house-made prawn linguine, and classic beer-battered fish and chips, their seafood menu is a feast for the senses. But that’s not all – they’ve got options like Grilled Lamb Rump, Poached Chicken, and a tempting Butcher’s Cut for those looking beyond the sea. With a dining room accommodating up to 80 guests, At The Heads ensures a delightful table service experience orchestrated by a team of seasoned professionals. The chef’s selection is a must-try for those seeking culinary surprises. For a more laid-back experience, additional walk-in seating is available throughout the venue, offering the entire menu. Takeaway enthusiasts can also rejoice as the Jetty Road Kiosk opens daily from 7:00 a.m., serving up Ocean Grind Coffee and delectable fish and chips – a definite must-try in the warmer months. Beyond their expertise in dining, the At The Heads team takes pride in hosting world-class weddings. As one of the Bellarine Peninsula’s most remarkable venues, they offer a relaxed beachside setting for wedding ceremonies and receptions. Catering to gatherings of all sizes, from intimate affairs to grand celebrations, At The Heads provides sensational views, fabulous food, and endless photo opportunities, ensuring an unforgettable day in a breathtaking natural setting. Whether you’re in the mood for fine dining, a casual meal, a quick takeaway, or planning a wedding, At The Heads is a mustvisit destination!
Æ For a laid-back and enjoyable dining experience, Nicol’s Paddock is the spot to be. This charming winery and restaurant, run by a small family, promises a relaxing vibe that pairs perfectly with their exquisite wines. In 1997, Peter Nicol planted the vineyard on-site, opening a cellar door in 2001. Fast forward to 2015, and the reins were taken over by Pete’s son, Jack Nicol, and his wife, Katherine Anderson. Nicol’s Paddock specialises in producing Shiraz and Rose from estate-grown fruit, with small batches of Viognier and Pinot Noir crafted on-site. The restaurant sets the stage for convivial and relaxed sharedstyle dining, boasting a modern atmosphere with a menu that changes with the seasons. Nicol’s Paddock emphasises a communal dining experience featuring locally sourced and seasonal delights, accompanied by a stellar selection of regional wines. Summer at Nicol’s Paddock brings highlights like housemade sourdough, scallop ceviche, apple & maple pork ribs, and whole jerk chicken. Vegetarian and vegan options shine, including heirloom tomatoes with basil and cauliflower steak with fennel, green peppercorns & pomegranate. Thanks to a rotating menu, the kitchen collaborates with various local suppliers, treating patrons to a taste of the region. There’s also a range of local beers and wines too, including the likes of Heroes Vineyard, Empire of Dirt, Bells Beach Brewing and Blackman’s Brewery. Picture this: an ornamental vine gracefully climbing over the restaurant, offering views of the vineyard and towards Waurn Ponds Creek. The setting is nothing short of heavenly. The tables provide stunning views of the vineyard through large windows spanning the front of the restaurant. Indoors, a fireplace keeps things warm, while evaporative air conditioning ensures comfort. Outdoors, bench seating and bar stools/barrel tables on the lawn create the perfect winery dining experience. And here’s the cherry on top – well-behaved cats and dogs are more than welcome in the outdoor dining area. Indulge in a tasting of Nicol’s boutique wines while overlooking the picturesque vineyard at their intimate cellar door and marvel at the seasonal changes of the Shiraz vines. While the cellar door is open by appointment for groups up to 12, tastings for 1-6 people are available in the restaurant space (if space permits) without an appointment.
WHERE:
OPEN:
WHERE:
OPEN:
28
1A JETTY ROAD, BARWON HEADS 7 DAYS 12PM–LATE
35 WAURN PONDS DRIVE, WAURN PONDS THU 11AM–4PM FRI–SAT: 11AM–10PM SUN 11AM–5PM
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THE KYN
TWO NOBLE
Æ Sitting pretty along Torquay’s vibrant Esplanade, The Kyn emerges as a refreshing addition, bringing Middle Eastern-inspired dining to the coastal scene. Positioned amidst the lively esplanade, The Kyn retains its classic white weatherboard exterior, but step inside, and you’re instantly transported into an impeccably designed space. Formerly known as the Kyndarlin library, The Kyn holds a significant place in Torquay’s history, evident throughout the dining experience. The interior is a delightful blend of bright toffee-hued walls, snug leather booths, rattan cane, beechwood dining chairs, timber tables, a vibrant tiled feature tabletop, an edible textured concrete bar, and a colour palette in rust pink, brown, and beige. Crafted by Jacobsen Love, the venue exudes warmth and sweetness, embracing an unapologetically extravagant vibe. Guiding the culinary journey is Head Chef James White, presenting a Middle Eastern-inspired menu meant for sharing with friends and family. Highlights include fried school prawns with chilli salt, fried beef cheeks with hummus and coriander Doug, and overnight lamb shoulder with olive and lentil pilau and labna. The menu offers numerous mouthwatering options, and for those who can’t decide, fear not – The Kyn provides a ‘FEED ME’ option, leaving the decision-making in capable hands. For those with a sweet tooth, cap off the evening on a sugar high with chocolate and pistachio cannoli, peanut butter parfait (featuring baklava praline and salted caramel), and a rhubarb and blood orange “mess” with sweet labna and rose. The comprehensive cocktail and wine list, now with a premium cellar selection, complements both local wineries and renowned international wines. The must-try margarita menu, ranging from classic versions to the signature chilli grapefruit margarita, is a crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s lunch, dinner, or an afternoon drink in the sun overlooking the iconic Torquay beachfront, The Kyn stands as the perfect venue for all occasions.
Æ Welcome, everyone, to the latest hotspot in Geelong’s dining scene – Two Noble. Nestled just above Sawyers Arms Tavern in Newtown, this contemporary Asian gem is all set to become your new favourite foodie destination. Get ready for a culinary journey that blends the best of Southeast Asian cuisine with a modern Australian twist, all thanks to a focus on locally sourced produce and regional wines. Led by the talented Chef Mario Tambajong, Two Noble’s menu puts a spotlight on shared dining, inviting you to embark on a flavourful adventure. Prepare for a sensory overload with this year’s menu, featuring highlights such as the signature house-roasted duck with Cointreau hoisin, crispy Barongarook pork with green papaya som tum, and the standout Hiramasa Kingfish paired with burnt onion and chilli oil, topped with whipped soy. Adam Zelley, the Restaurant Manager, has crafted a dynamic drinks list that changes regularly, aiming to introduce diners to exciting new beverages. Picture sipping on a Poppys Martini, featuring Roku gin, elderflower, rhubarb, and lemon – a definite crowd-pleaser! The contemporary aesthetic of Two Noble, designed by the local interior designer Pip Johnson, pays homage to the Asianinspired cuisine. The space, adorned with organic materials, suspended lanterns, and curated artwork, radiates warmth and comfort. Soft greens, natural timber, and fluted glass create a palette that instantly makes you feel relaxed and at home. The team behind Two Noble chose the crane as a symbol for their dining experience. A crane represents happiness, good fortune, wisdom, and eternal youth. Much like these social creatures, the Two Noble experience aims to bring people together, surrounded by delicious food and drinks, in a harmonious and uniquely comfortable dining space. And fear not, they cater to various dietary requirements – nothing is holding you back from diving into the Two Noble experience yourself. So, why wait? Head down and immerse yourself in a dining adventure that promises good vibes, great company, and unforgettable flavours.
WHERE: OPEN:
29
41 THE ESPLANADE, TORQUAY WED–THU 5PM–LATE FRI–SUN 11:30AM–LATE
WHERE:
LEVEL 2, 2 NOBLE STREET, NEWTOWN
OPEN:
MON & THU 6PM–LATE FRI–SUN 12PM–2:30PM & 5:30PM–LATE
FORTE 750
BITES GUIDE The food and drink news you need to know BABAE IS BALLARAT’S NEW FINE DINING HAVEN
CAKE CULT IS GEELONG’S NEW LATE-NIGHT DESSERT HAVEN
Opening its doors in January at Hotel Vera Ballarat, Babae, a 26-seat fine dining establishment, astonishes with a menu celebrating the Goldfields region’s best growers. Managed by chef Tim Foster, previously of Source Dining in Kyneton, the ever-changing menu reflects seasonal produce. Guests can anticipate a prix fixe menu starting from $90, complemented by wine pairings showcasing barrel samples and small releases. Babae offers an intimate, upscale experience championing local producers and Chef Foster’s 25-acre garden harvest.
Geelong’s dessert scene just got sweeter with Cake Cult, the city’s new late-night dessert bar at 101 Little Malop Street. Founded by sisters Natasha and Jessie Kapustic, Cake Cult invites patrons to indulge in delightful desserts from 6 pm to 11 pm, Thursday to Sunday. The eclectic decor, masterfully curated by Natasha, sets the mood for an intimate experience. Housemade treats like Banoffee Pie, Biscoff Cheesecake, and Dessert Tacos steal the spotlight, with vegan and gluten-free options available. Excitingly, cocktails will soon join the menu, promising a spirited touch to latenight dessert indulgence.
SONGBIRD THAI BBQ OPENS IN THE FORMER HOME OF IGNI
A SUSHI TRAIN HAS OPENED IN CENTRAL GEELONG
Geelong’s dining landscape undergoes a vibrant transformation with the arrival of Songbird Thai BBQ in the former IGNI space. Led by Nathan Lancaster, formerly of IGNI, the eatery promises a taste of Northern Thailand’s bold flavours, celebrating the fiery dance of chilli, the sizzle of BBQ meats, and the comfort of sticky rice. The à la carte menu features highlights like Crispy Pork Crackle and Grilled Pork Shoulder infused with Thai whisky. Open Wednesday to Saturday, 5 pm – 10 pm.
Hi Sushi has opened Hi Bar Sushi Train on Malop Street, offering an authentic Japanese journey through a conveyor belt of delectable delights. With prices ranging from $4.20 to $6.20, patrons can enjoy special, deluxe, and supreme sushi options alongside all the larger Hi Sushi favourites, including noodles, ramen, rice dishes, and handmade dumplings and soups. The fully licensed venue offers a futuristic touch with robot servers, complemented by an extensive selection of beverages and is open seven days a week.
APOLLO BAY HOTEL REVEALS STUNNING $1.2M BEER GARDEN MAKEOVER
MELBOURNE FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL RETURNS IN 2024 WITH 300 EVENTS
Apollo Bay Hotel, a beloved Great Ocean Road pub, reveals its stunning $1.2 million beer garden makeover. Nestled in Apollo Bay, the A-Bay Hotel’s revitalised coastal aesthetic offers a spacious haven for patrons to enjoy the sun. Accompanying the beer garden’s grand opening is a new beachto-bar dining menu, featuring classic pub favourites like parmas, burgers and steaks, and seafood delights like Coal Roasted Rock Lobster and the Fisherman’s Platter.
Melbourne Food & Wine Festival returns with its 2024 edition from March 15 to 24, hosting 300 events across the city. The festival kicks off with Andrew McConnell leading the World’s Longest Lunch and new-wave Indian food champions taking charge of the World’s Longest Brunch. The Global Dining Series features collaborations with international culinary talents, and Fed Square becomes a culinary hub with events like Baker’s Dozen and Celebrity Sausage.
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CHEF DAVID MOYLE LAUNCHES THE CLAM IN LORNE Renowned chef David Moyle, acclaimed for Salty Mangrove and other culinary gems, returns to Victoria’s Surf Coast with The Clam, a beach shack-inspired tavern in Lorne. Moyle’s produce-driven menu features seafood, dips, and hand-cut chips, creating a laidback space for beachgoers. With its terraced deck boasting ocean views, sunshine, and salty sea air, The Clam perfectly embodies Moyle’s vision of a welcoming space where guests can stroll in straight from the beach.
THE CORK BAR IS GEELONG WEST’S CHARMING NEW ROOFTOP HANGOUT Nestled on Pakington Street, The Cork Bar is a local sensation. Its rooftop oasis, adorned with festoon lights, offers an inviting atmosphere for wine and craft beer lovers. The green and tan-themed rooftop, with leather high-back barstools and plush chairs, is perfect for revelry while a cosy downstairs bar mirrors the vibe. The extensive drinks menu features standout cocktails like the French Martini and Passionfruit Caprioska. Live music and themed events enhance the experience, making The Cork Bar a must-visit at 6/112 Pakington Street, Geelong West.
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GORGE CAMORRA UNVEILS
NON DISCLOSURE BAR An elegant haven for luxurious drinking in Geelong
Æ Geelong’s cock tail scene has reached new heights as Gorge Camorra, the creative genius behind 18th Amendment Bar and Manhattan Bar, unveils his latest masterpiece, Non Disclosure Bar. After almost three years in the making, this stylish addition to Little Malop Street is set to elevate Geelong’s nightlife with its opulent ambience, bespoke cocktails, and a touch of Gatsby-inspired glamour. Officially opening its highly-anticipated doors in December, Non Disclosure Bar is making good on its promise of a unique and upscale experience, bringing a touch of the world’s leading hotel bars to the heart of Geelong. Camorra, known locally as the cocktail king, introduces a venue that transcends the ordinary, offering an intimate affair with only limited seats available. In the words of Camorra himself, “Elegance, class, and sophistication converge at Non Disclosure Bar, a luxurious drinking establishment in Geelong.” The venue is designed to deliver an unforgettable drinking experience, showcasing the latest innovations and cocktail techniques in bartending. With expert mixologists on hand to craft exquisite and unique concoctions, the bar’s menu is extensive, though perfectly organised. Sections vary from fruit-forward cocktails and textual cocktails to strong and steadfast cocktails and vintage cocktails, gifting something for every taste bud. There’s also a selection of beer, wine and spirits, with a particularly exhaustive whiskey list, spanning local, national and worldwide labels.
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Alongside the drinks, Non Disclosure Bar’s culinary offerings are a testament to Gorge Camorra’s commitment to excellence, carefully curated to complement the exquisite drinks. Encouraging guests to spoil themselves, the menu features a fusion of flavours and culinary craftsmanship. Think caviar, with Black Pearl Oscietra Black and Gold, and Oysters, available natural with spiced lemon, lime and bitters, or chorizo and shallot Kilpatrick. There are also more substantial dishes, including charred octopus, beef carpaccio and pintxos, plus sharing delights like cheese and charcuterie boards. We mean it when we say guests can anticipate a culinary journey that matches the sophistication and elegance of the cocktails.
As for the venue itself, drawing inspiration from the success of 18th Amendment, Non Disclosure Bar retains the speakeasy-style loved by locals but adds a touch of Gatsby flair and an impressive Art Deco style. The interior boasts modern luxury with low intimate tables, plush seating, various tones of blue, sheer curtains, booth seating, and an elegant crystal chandelier illuminating the space. The bar display is a work of art, complemented by intricate ceiling design and art deco wallpaper, creating a vibe where vintage elegance meets modern excitement. Gorge Camorra’s track record as a cocktail maestro is nothing short of impressive, holding multiple Australian and International mixology awards. With two decades of experience in Geelong’s hospitality and entertainment scene, Camorra is celebrated for his contributions, including Cloud9 Bar on Pakington Street and the creation of Geelong’s first-ever line of liqueurs, Camorra Liqueurs. Non Disclosure Bar joins Camorra’s successful ventures on Little Malop Street, and given his history of excellence, it’s poised to become another world-class drinking establishment in Geelong. As the curtain rises on this new cocktail haven, patrons can anticipate expertly crafted cocktails, a unique interior, and the exceptional service synonymous with Gorge Camorra’s name. NON DISCLOSURE BAR WHERE:
2/71 LITTLE MALOP ST, GEELONG
WHEN:
FRI–SUN, 5PM–1AM
FORTE 750
GIG GUIDE THU
8 FEB
MAINLAND BREAK. PARAQUAY + WINKSY Barwon Club Hotel, Geelong. 7pm. $18.40 ASH GRUNWALD Golden Vine Hotel, Bendigo. 7pm. $50
FRI
9 FEB
VOLT JOLT. NO WUKKAS + THE IVY WALKERS Barwon Club Hotel, Geelong. 8pm. $15.30 THE SLINGERS Torquay Hotel, Torquay. 8pm. $35.70 ZEPPELIN UNLEDDED THE PAGE AND PLANT YEARS Geelong Arts Centre, Geelong. 8pm. $69.90–$79.90 BAREFOOT SPACEMEN. SPAV AND THE PEARLIES Volta, Ballarat. 8pm. $23.75 WE MAVERICKS Palais Hepburn, Hepburn. 6:30pm. $25–$30
SAT 10 FEB CLUB ANGEL. BLAKE SCHWARTZ, BLAKE & MURPH, AND R33FER ANG3L Torquay Hotel, Torquay. 9pm. $25 BAREFOOT SPACEMEN. FINAL FINAL, PAISLEY LACE AND VEDA VARCOE Barwon Club Hotel, Geelong. 7pm. $23.50
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GEELONG JAZZ SOIREES: THE SYNCOPATORS Geelong Botanic Gardens, Geelong. 2:30pm. $15 - $180 RICK HART AND THE SILVER DOLLAR BAND. NATHAN SEECKTS Pistol Pete’s Food n Blues, Geelong. 9.30pm. $15 VOLT JOLT. ORPHIX, WHAT THE FUZZ The Eastern Hotel, Ballarat. 7pm. $11.25 KINGSWOOD. SPECIAL GUESTS The Wool Exchange, Geelong. 8pm. $39.80
FEBRUARY 2024
SUN 11 FEB
LIVE MUSIC AT THE BELMONT The Belmont Hotel, Belmont. 4pm. Free
FUNK & DISORDERLY. MOUNT KUJO, STEPPERS Barwon Club Hotel, Geelong. 4pm. $23.50
BEN MASTWYK & THE ENERGY Palais Hepburn, Hepburn. 6:30pm. $20
Red Hot Summer Tour Simple Minds, Icehouse, Noiseworks, Darryl Braithwaite, Bachelor Girl
COUPON DAY The Bridge Hotel, Castlemaine. 3pm. Free
THE AUSTRALIAN VAN MORRISON SHOW Palais Hepburn, Hepburn. 7pm. $30
Waterfront Festival
BABY BOOMERS DUO 360Q, Queenscliff. 6pm. $100
WED 14 FEB
Grapes of Mirth A Festival of Comedy, Wine, Music and People.
Frankston. 12pm. Free
A FINE ROMANCE. TAMARA KULDIN Geelong Arts Centre, Geelong. 7pm. $33–$50
THU 15 FEB
RIFT Elephant And Castle. 9:30pm. Free
ART ALEXAKIS
Waterfront Festival Frankston. 12pm. Free
LIVE BABY LIVE: THE INXS TRIBUTE The Wool Exchange, Geelong. 8pm. $34.70
SAT 17 FEB
AINE TYRRELL Palais Hepburn, Hepburn. 7pm. $30
ROYEL OTIS Torquay Hotel, Torquay. 8:30pm. $59.90 ENOLA ‘ALL IS FORGIVEN’ TOUR The Eastern Hotel, Ballarat. 7pm. $17.35 BEYOND VEGAS. BRUNETTE RED DRESS, STONETRAIN Barwon Club Hotel, Geelong. 8pm. $15.30
Americana On The Bellarine FT: Andrea Robertson, Sarah Carroll + More.
Potato Shed, Drysdale. 6:30pm. $38
Mt Duneed Estate, Mt Duneed. 1pm. $89
CLUB 54 BAND. SOLID GOLD DISCO SHOW The Sphinx Hotel, Geelong. 9pm. $30
ANDREW FARRISS Sooki Lounge, Belgrave. 7pm. $58.10
FT:
Rochford Wines, Yarra Valley. 12pm. $149.90
(EVERCLEAR)
BRENDAN B. BROWN (WHEATUS) The Wool Exchange, Geelong. 7pm. $71.40
FRI
16 FEB
TOU-CAN. MERAKI MINDS, GOOD WOOD Barwon Club Hotel, Geelong. 8pm. $18.40 BOB LOG III The Eastern Hotel, Ballarat. 7pm. $23.50
LAUREL AND THE PAINKILLERS. JAY HOWIE, JOEL HAVIA, GEORGE KAMIKAWA The Blues Train, Queenscliff. 6:30pm. $160
GEELONG JAZZ SOIREES: THE SUSPECTS Geelong Botanic Gardens, Geelong. 2:30pm. $15 - $180 BEAUFORT BRASS BAND Portarlington Rotunda, Portarlington. 11am. Free
Mardi Gras 2024 FT: The Hog Stompin’ Zydegators
Pistol Pete’s Food N Blues, Geelong. 9:30pm. $30
BON JOVI FOREVER The Sphinx Hotel, Geelong. 8:30pm. $21.85–$27.07
Town Folk Festival FT: Banjo Lucia, Charlie Needs Braces, Charlotte Le Lievre, Cool Sounds, Dan Kelly’s Regional Crisis, Eliza Hull And More
The Bridge Hotel, Castlemaine. 2pm. $85.95
SUN 18 FEB Lookout Festival FT: Queens Of The Stone Age, Spiderbait, The Chats, Pond, Gut Health, Lola Scott
Torquay Common, Torquay. 12pm. $152.79 00_ ‘BATH WATER BABY’ TOUR. S.P.O.R.E.S The Eastern Hotel, Ballarat. 8:30pm. $15 REGULAR BOYS Elephant And Castle, Geelong. 3:30pm. Free TUXEEDOS Sooki Lounge, Belgrave. 4pm. $20.40
LIVE MUSIC AT VALHALLA Valhalla Brewery, North Geelong. 8pm. Free
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Creating Magical Memories
NEW WEDDING & EVENT SPACE From a historic 1850’s drapery to a captivating venue in Geelong’s CBD, we transform your vision into reality. This stunning heritage warehouse is a space like no other. We can specifically tailor the perfect package to suit your budget. Shorts Pl, 3220
anabelas.com.au/
OPEN TUESDAY TO SUNDAY 12pm to LATE
33
03 5280 8444 www.eurekahotel.com.au
98 Little Malop St, Geelong VIC 3220
FORTE 750
For more gigs go to fortemag.com.au/gigguide
WED 21 FEB
SAT 24 FEB
SUN 25 FEB
FRI
MADCHILD. KOGZ Volta, Ballarat. 7:30pm. $71.14–$208.84
Melted Festival
LEGENDS OF MOTORSPORT. PEEPING TOM AND SACRAMENTO SWEATERS Barwon Club Hotel, Geelong. 4pm. $20
THE VANNS Torquay Hotel, Torquay. 8:30pm. $44.90
REAL SONGWRITERS OF MELBOURNE NETWORKING EVENT Eureka Hotel, Geelong. 7pm. $67
THU 22 FEB MADCHILD. KOGZ Barwon Club Hotel, Geelong. 6pm. $59.99–$199.99 MUSIC IN THE CITY: THE RHYTHM BOYS Little Malop Street Central, Geelong. 2pm. Free SAHARA BECK Sooki Lounge. 8pm. $31.65
FRI
23 FEB
ASHES TO ASHES DAVID BOWIE EXPERIENCE Palais Geelong, Geelong. 7:30pm. $68.70 MUSIC IN THE CITY: RACH BRENNAN Little Malop Street Central, Geelong. 12pm. Free FRIDAY NIGHT BY REQUEST Piano Bar, Geelong. 6pm. Free CLAIRE ANNE TAYLOR GIVE IT AWAY TOUR. JETHRO PICKETT Palais Hepburn, Hepburn. 6:30pm. $30
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FT: Formiles, Wicked Smile, Die In A Dream, Smoke Witch, 74 Kings, Order Of Owls, 4 Days
Barwon Club Hotel, Geelong. 4:30pm. $28.60 IAN MOSS RIVER RUNS DRY TOUR. CALLUM WYLIE Geelong Arts Centre, Geelong. 7:30pm. $74.40 - $104.40 HOTTEST HOT AUGUST NIGHT. NEIL DIAMOND & OLIVIA NEWTON JOHN – THE ULTIMATE TRIBUTE Geelong Arts Centre, Geelong. 8pm. $59–$85 JULIAN JAMES Pistol Pete’s Food N Blues, Geelong. 9:30pm. $15 AN EVENING IN THE CANYON. A SPECIAL CELEBRATION OF THE LAUREL CANYON SOUND Palais Hepburn, Hepburn. 7pm. $40 SAHARA BECK The Bridge Hotel, Castlemaine. 9pm. $30 JC & THE TREE Bird Rock Cafe, Jan Juc. 8pm. Free
THE AUSTRALIAN MALE WELSH CHOIR St.mary Of The Angels Basilica, Geelong. 5pm. $35 DON’T SHOOT ME I’M ONLY THE PIANO PLAYER. DAVID SCHEEL Potato Shed, Drysdale. 2pm. $28–$30 ROMANIE The Bridge Hotel, Castlemaine. 3pm. Free
THU 29 FEB S.U.G.A.R. SARGENT BAKER Barwon Club Hotel, Geelong. 7pm. $20 THE VANNS Sooki Lounge, Belgrave. 8pm. $44.90 LEAVING JACKSON THE JOHNNY CASH AND JUNE CARTER STORY Geelong Arts Centre, Geelong. 7:30pm. $25–$69.
1 MAR
DISKUST. FURIOUS GEORGE, DEADWEIGHT 80 AND GET REKT Barwon Club Hotel, Geelong. 7pm. $18.40 S.U.G.A.R. FAVOURED STATE, ARABELLA & THE HEIST + MORE The Eastern Hotel, Ballarat. 7pm. $23.50 1927 & BOOM CRASH ORCHESTRA The Wool Exchange, Geelong. 8pm. $59 FRIDAY NIGHT BY REQUEST Piano Bar, Geelong. 6pm. Free MICK THOMAS AND THE ROVING COMMISSION Sooki Lounge, Belgrave. 8pm. $47.95
SAT 2 MAR A Day On The Green FT: The Chemical Brothers, The Presets, Anna Lunoe, James Holroyd
Mt Duneed Estate, Mt Duneed. 4pm. $139.90 COTERIE. BOOTLEG RASCAL + SOUTH SUMMIT Torquay Hotel, Torquay. 8:30pm. $51 PRIVATE FUNCTION Barwon Club Hotel, Geelong. 7pm. $34.70
MUSIC OF THE NIGHT A TRIBUTE TO ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER Geelong Arts Centre, Geelong. 3pm, 7.30pm. $44.95–$69.95
Stonetrain FT: Joel Havia, Josh Batten, The Maskell Love Band
The Blues Train, Queenscliff. 6:30pm. $160 TOM CURTAIN’S KATHERINE OUTBACK EXPERIENCE SHOW Oneday Estate, Curlewis. 4pm. $40
The Big Night Out FT: Foovana, Lithium And Louderfinger
The Sphinx Hotel, Geelong. 8:30pm. $21.85–$27.07
SUN 3 MAR RIFLEBIRDS. LOCALLES + PLASTIC CHEESES Barwon Club Hotel, Geelong. 4pm. $23.50 THE VANNS Volta, Ballarat. 7pm. $44.90 LATE, LATE AT NIGHT - RICK SPRINGFIELD SHOW Potato Shed, Drysdale. 2pm. $20 LIVE MUSIC Queen Of The West, Geelong West. 8:30pm. Free BOO SEEKA MIDNIGHT HIGHLIGHT ALBUM TOUR. SPECIAL GUESTS Sooki Lounge, Belgrave. 8pm. $41.80
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FORTE 750
TEMPO BOTTOMLESS Every Saturday 1pm - 3pm $70 per person Enjoy a grazing plate and bottomless drinks in Tempo’s Bar
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT DJ Fridays - 8pm - 10:30pm DJ Saturdays - 1pm - 4pm Acoustic Sundays - 1pm - 4pm Tempo Kitchen & Bar
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10-14 Eastern Beach Road, Geelong VIC 3220 | 03 5273 5460 | info@tempogeelong.com.au www.tempogeelong.com.au Tempo Geelong
@tempogeelong
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