- Warehouse Circus - Music Workshops - CBR's Alec Randles - Dragon Dreaming - Melb Jazz Bohjass Set Times
[Canberra’s Arts & Music Guide]
Publisher
ABN 76 097 301 730 Pty Ltd
Managing Editor Allan Sko
E: allan@bmamag.com
Cover/Article Design + Entertainment Guide Editor Allan Sko
Writers Justin Heazlewood, Alec Randles, Josh Nixon, Jannah Fahiz, Pan Samara-Wickrama, Allan Sko.
ISSUE #556 RELEASE DATE
Thursday, 30 October
EDITORIAL DEADLINE Friday, 10 October
ADVERTISING DEADLINE Wednesday, 22 October BMA
STRUTH BE TOLD WITH
JUSTIN HEAZLEWOOD
I don’t admit this readily, but for a long time, I had stone-cold cultural cringe about Australia. In particular, local music.
Throughout my teenage years, I firmly fostered the bias that Australian songs were inferior to their British and American counterparts. This wasn’t something I marched around announcing at school; more a frequency of filtering that shone bright while watching rage or listening to Triple J.
It shocks me now to think back on it. I was essentially the living embodiment of, as Triple J’s Nick Findlay put it, “…a dark time many, many years ago where a large portion of Australian music fans almost didn’t see local acts as being legitimate.”
It was a time before the grunge golden years when the national youth station went into overdrive championing the ‘Gurge, the Grinners, the ‘Finger and the ‘Chair, cooking up a hearty slice of Homebake that Australians could proudly sink their ears into.
“Aussie music is world-class,” Triple J said from 1995 to 2005. We listened.
Well, most of us did.
For whatever reason, I was a lot harder to convince.
So, where did my national reticence stem from? (It didn’t apply to sport. Our cricketers were world beaters.) Was it inherited messaging or learned behaviour? Was I influenced by a role model? Was it muscle memory passed down through my mother, herself born in the 1950s—the decade when cringe began?
To clarify, the thinking was that anything good had to come from overseas; after all, Germaine Greer and Barry Humphries took off for London, reaping the respect and authority they never would have achieved in their hometowns.
Look, I just remember Aussie songs being really daggy in the early to mid-’90s. Show No Mercy, Barnsey, Tucker’s Daughter, Two Strong Hearts (Farts), Southern Sons, Indecent Obsession, Noiseworks’ Hot Chilli Woman, Norman Gunston vs Effie.
When an Australian song came on, it would just sound a bit… thin. Hokey. Dare I say... annoying. Harley and Rose by The Black Sorrows, anyone? (in my defence, I like Chained to the Wheel now.)
Meanwhile, there was Def Leppard, Unskinny Bop, MC Hammer, Deee-Lite, Swamp Thing by The Grid and AC/DC! Hell, the only ‘Australian’ song I liked was Thunderstruck, but I probably thought Acca Dacca were English. (Technically, the first Oz song I truly loved was Marvellous by The Twelfth Man feat. MCG Hammer – see, it still had to have an American in it.)
In high school, my friends were fans of Crowded House and Custard, but I had a blocker in my brain. “They’re a bit basic because they’re from around here,” I brooded.
Beck was cool. Radiohead were gods. Oasis was game-changing. Blur were intriguing. Silverchair was… okay, but I found the Freak single a bit plodding.
Nope. I was all about Rage Against The Machine. A sound so ferocious, authentic and tough, it could only come from the bright and confident United States. Home of The Simpsons and the NBA and McDonald’s - the cultural trifecta which consumed Burnie in 1993, as daggy AFL memorabilia was sold off to buy Seattle Supersonics skivvies and Dallas Cowboy polar fleeces on special at Fitzgerald’s.
Poor Australian music. I didn’t own a single homegrown CD by the time I went to uni. My cassette collection featured Tommy Emmanuel’s Determination and How Blue Are You?, which Carlton Football Club issued in 1991.
Then, Augie March happened. Asleep in perfection was the first time I turned on the radio and heard a local songwriter floor me with beauty and urgency.
Then came iOTA and George and Cut Copy and The Avalanches and The Sleepy Jackson. By 2001, my CD collection had come to understand that Aussie groups were as valid, sophisticated, and satisfying as anything by Grandaddy, Sparklehorse, or The Chemical Brothers.
I’m still in rehab to rid myself of the emotional scars of my low self-esteem towards my own culture. I reckon I’ve turned it around to the point where I actively seek out Australian movies and shows. I’m proud of local music I discover, whether it’s the Mad Bastards soundtrack or Milkumanna by King Stingray or a middle-aged appreciation for Ross Wilson and Mondo Rock.
I even made a playlist with two hours of nothing but Australian songs, a defiant statement to satiate the 12-year-old from conservative North-West Tasmania, born into a family of staunch liberal voters.
My favourite band is Sydney’s Richard In Your Mind. I’ve been friends with them for 20 years and have watched them produce music inspired by Beck, Ween, and The Flaming Lips, on par with any of those acts. Heck, on a good day, I can be proud of myself and the music I’ve made. Australia is cool, in my book. We don’t have to import credit and respect. Ideas crackle over cane fields and talent lights up this Great Southern Land.
Just don’t ask me to pump up Aussie hip-hop.
You can check out Justin’s All-Australian playlist on Spotify via that QR code --------------------------> - justinheazlewood.com
Alec Randles’ sharp take on folk music has distinguished him in the fertile field. His calibre has seen him strut the stages of Oz and NZ theatres, command street corners in Kansas City, and supported renowned names such as Jeff Lang, Daniel Champagne, and Kim Churchill.
“I’m a fingerstyle guitarist and original singer-songwriter,” Alec tells, “currently touring to celebrate the launch of new single, Peace of Mind, produced by Kojo Ansah of Lake City Recording.
“I infuse complex genres of fingerstyle guitar —drawing influence from Celtic, classical and contemporary—with deep, sometimes confronting, lyrics traversing themes of self-reliance, personal growth and social and political injustice.”
Sarah Blasko, the nationally revered singer, songwriter, musician and producer, celebrates her 21st anniversary as an artist this October with a rare performance of her two seminal albums, The Overture & the Underscore, and What the Sea Wants, The Sea Will Have.
With a career now spanning seven solo albums, two albums as Seeker Lover Keeper with Holly Throsby and Sally Seltmann, and music compositions for two Bell Shakespeare productions, Blasko is as expansive as she is prolific, writing songs that strike with immediacy, clarity and purpose. So much so, in fact, that Sir Elton John counts himself a fan.
The 3 x ARIA Award winning, 18 x nominated and 3 x Platinum selling artist will take audiences back to where it all began, performing her first two albums in their entirely together with her long-standing live band comprising David Hunt, David Symes, Laurence Pike, and Neal Sutherland.
Enjoy one of the most singular voices in contemporary Australian music in a stirring career celebration.
“After shows in Newcastle, Sydney, the Kiama Folk by the Sea Festival, I’m finishing with a full-band performance here in CBR.
“The hometown show features support sets from local gems Tim McNally and Inez Hargaden, with some familiar faces joining me on stage to transform my solo folk work into a full band format for the first time.”
Don’t miss your chance to cheer on our world-travelled, hometown hero and get a bloody good night out into the bargain!
At just 25, Samara Joy’s career is nothing short of sensational, her meteoric success including five Grammy Awards and playing notable jazz and R&B venues/events like the Newport and Montreal Jazz Festivals, The Apollo, Carnegie Hall, and Jazz at Lincoln Centre. A regular on TV and beloved by younger folk on TikTok, she has introduced timeless American music to new generations.
A native of the Bronx’s Castle Hill, Joy grew up surrounded by music. Grandparents, Elder Goldwire and Ruth McLendon, led Philadelphia gospel group The Savettes, and her father, musician/songwriter Antonio McLendon, toured with Andraé Crouch. Yet, Joy didn’t immerse herself in jazz until college.
Now in 2025, Joy has drawn comparisons to her legendary jazz heroines, including Sarah Vaughan, Betty Carter, Abbey Lincoln, and Carmen McRae.
Step riiiiiight up! Warehouse Circus Inc. brings Canberra Circus Festival back, transforming Chifley Oval into a vibrant hub of circus, physical theatre, magic, and clowning.
More than just a spectacle, the home-grown fest is a circus sector event where young performers from across the country gather to train, collaborate, and perform alongside professional companies.
“It’s a genuinely holistic event,” says Director, Tom Davis. “A space for artists to grow, collaborate, and for the community to share the magic of circus. We have incredible shows: local, national and international acts, heaps of styles, and many shows perfect for the school holidays. Plus, we have some thoughtful and funny works for the older crowd, too.”
“There’s been so much community support as well, which is really touching, Tom adds. “Heaps of companies’ support have bolstered the event.”
Under the iconic Big Top, a packed, all-week program of new, fun, funny, and thoughtful work awaits, culminating in a FREE celebration at the CCF Markets on Saturday, 4 October, from 9am–6pm, including all-day performances, free all-ages circus workshops and drop-in activities for all ages, international Street Artists, a collaborative youth showcase created during the festival, and a bustling makers’ market with local crafts, food & drinks.
Spring has sprung, and we welcome the warmer days with open arms! I’ve prepared a list of the best local shows to see over the next few weeks, so read on to learn more!
First off the bat is on Wednesday, 17 September at 7pm at Gang Gang Cafe, where charity Listen Up Music are hosting
Songwriting Prize semi-final.
Providing a great way to get to know some of our top local talent, you can enjoy performances from Ben Drysdale, Gabi Forman, Machine on a Break, Mariah K and Stella Eve.
Tix are $20 + bf via Humanitix. Stay tuned for the finals!
If you’re looking for some funky fresh tunes, Badger & Co is hosting a reggae night called Badgeration. This is like a graduation of the badger kind, but instead of getting a degree, you get to dance!
It’s taking place on Saturday, 20 September from 6pm Performing on the night will be Shiv’s Three, Agency Dub Collective and The Reserve Skank of Australia
“Three bands, punctuated by live dub mixing throughout the nigh to create an unforgettable atmosphere for fans of AfroJazz, Afro-Beat, Dancehall, Ska, Reggae, Dub and music alike,” say the promoters. And the best news? This is a free event!
We have an album launch! Alec Randles is headed on tour to celebrate the launch of his latest project, Peace of Mind Happening at Smith’s Alternative on Sunday, 21 September from 6:30pm, supporting Alec will be talented locals Tim McNally and Inez Hargaden
Tickets are $20 ($15 concession) and are available to purchase on the Smith’s Alternative website.
Friday, 26 September brings us monthly, always enjoyable Lakeside at 5. This local live jazz event happens every 4th Friday of the month at Tuggeranong Arts Centre. For this one, we have In2Deep—comprising Michael Dooley and Rachel McNally mainly playing original songs that, according to the duo, “pay homage to the jazz tradition of the Great American songbook, from upbeat swinging numbers, Latin-flavoured bossanovas and sambas, to sultry ballads”.
The bar opens at 5pm with the music kicking off half an hour later. Entry is by donation on the day, so pay what you can.
You might have heard about the Eurosessions jams before. Regardless, they’re showcasing the best of what they’ve been practising in The Canberra Eurosession. Expect folk dance music that takes you through time, playing songs by the Council of Europe
Doors open at 3:30pm on Saturday, 27 September at Smith’s Alternative, and you can get your ticket now from the Smith’s website for $20 ($15 concession).
A grand variety of shows for you to acquaint or, indeed, reacquaint yourself with our talented locals.
Until next time, enjoy your time out and about! - Jannah
If you have an upcoming gig you’d like featured, drop a line to jannah.fahiz@gmail.com
Check this quote on Melbourne jazz outfit Bohjass (Canberra-bound, no less), and tell me you’re not at least a little intrigued:
“Tim Pledger’s harmonies are so pungent they make you blush, and his tunes breathe, puffing themselves up and deflating in humorous mimicry of biological necessities… the usual distinctions between tradition and invention can’t plot Bohjass.
“Maybe what’s most admirable is Pledger’s emotional investment in his melodies, his very unpostmodern absence of formalist justification.” - The Wire
Right? Let’s hear from the man himself, see if that doesn’t get you all the way over the line.
“Hi, I’m Tim Pledger, composer and saxophonist, and member of Bohjass, a high-energy free jazz band from Melbourne. Formed by me during the 1980s, Bohjass has metamorphosed many times, with long-time members Belinda Woods and Ali joining in 1996 and 1998 respectively, with the current line-up established by 2015.
and in 2008, we began a long-standing and ongoing residency at Bar 303 on High Street, Northcote.
“Bohjass have played many festivals including Falls, High Vibes, closing act of the 2008 Jazz Fringe, Folk Rhythm and Life, 303 Jazz Party and have played live to air on ABC Radio, 3RRR, 3PBS, 3MBS and 3CR.
“We have released 13 studio albums now, the latest two being ‘it asks nothing’, which was released in December 2023 and a new Bohjass Upas Militia (Bohjass big band) album released in May 2024.
“Bohjass began playing in Melbourne in 1994, playing jazz clubs like Bennetts Lane, rock venues including The Espy, The Punters Club, The Evelyn, Bar Open, Pony, and The Northcote Social Club,
LUCKY JIM + THIS WAY ORKESTRA COIN COLLECTOR
There’s something quietly heartfelt about Coin Collector, the track written by Jim Sharrock and Simon Milman, and arranged by This Way Orkestra. It feels at once like a child’s birthday party and an insurgent lesson in cultural memory.
Opening not with bombast but with brass—a spirited intro that sets a playful, expansive tone, tinged with exotic colour—we’re swept into a chant-like chorus of “coin collector,” that’s more mantra or incantation than lyric. A badge of honour.
Born during the liminal days of lockdown—when many of us were losing the thread—Lucky Jim chose to stitch something together. Interviewing children in his Canberra neighbourhood, he channelled their fascinations into a catalogue of song. Coin Collector was sparked by Josh, age 12, whose passion for coins and naval minutiae could’ve just as easily resulted in a submarine ballad.
Thankfully, the ship steered toward rap instead of shanty. And so, we get a lyric with the
“More art movement than band, our 20+ year running folk-jazz ensemble has been gracing the stages of Northcote, Melbourne for decades. Our long-standing residency at Bar 303 has created a vital outlet for creative expression, not just for the many, many members of the band, both past and present, but for a whole community of musicians that has grown around the institution that is Bohjass. They’re a Northcote institution, and their music is a treat, if you like lyrical, gnarly, hypnotic jazz played with grunt and virtuosity. (Australianjazz.net)
specificity of deep hobbyism: Sheldon scale ratings, holey dollars, sixpences, florins—all lovingly name-checked as talismans, not trivia.
The rap flows not with braggadocio but with curiosity. It’s an invitation to take this love of collecting seriously, to see value in the overlooked, and to find joy in the archival. Lucky Jim doesn’t parody Josh’s obsession—he elevates it.
Helping this happy heralding along is the well-considered production: drums, keys, bass, guitars, a series of interludes, and backing vocals that nod toward 1960s novelty records and Eastern European wedding bands.
But beneath the whimsy is careful structure—dynamic pacing, textural variation, and, most importantly, tone. This is music that’s aware of its own light-heartedness and yet is utterly sincere. Coin Collector is no satire. It’s a small but polished piece, crafted with care, knowledge, and affection. The joke, if there is one, is with the kid.
Lucky Jim has managed something rare: a novelty track that’s as infectious as it is curious. A jangling little tune that insists: every coin, like every story, has two sides— and both are worth keeping.
VINCE LEIGH
[THE BEST OF CANBERRA MUSIC]
METALISE
THE WORD ON METAL WITH JOSH NIXON
DOOMTILDEATH@HOTMAIL.COM
Well, thank The Dark Lord that the worst of the Winter weather is over, and we can dust off the camo boardshorts in time for all of these metal shows that are popping off here and up the road.
Kicking off this reporting period is the mighty Witchskull playing a ripper show The Baso backroom with Storm of Steel and Space on Fire on Saturday, 13 September.
The band are in for a busy spring with a coveted spot on the awesome Blacken Festival out East MacDonnell Ranges in the Top End way; a mental bill of legends from Earthless and Brant Bjork to a comeback-ing Blood Duster on 19-22 September.
The band has been hard at work on Album 5, so get along and see if you can’t get a live preview of the new stuff.
Also on the 13th, The Baso main stage sees a dual comeback for an old CBR fave and a Sydney band with deep Canberra roots.
Essence 2 is almost upon us, and unholy CRAP... as transgressive music experiences go, the event team leave no stone unturned.
On Friday, 3 October, it’s the Essentia Vermis pre-fest, curated by QLD/NSW label Gutter Prince Cabal and featuring Destruktor, Aglo, Hebephrenique, Grotesque Bliss, and Leaker.
On Saturday, 4 October, you have Pod People, Teeth Dreams, Diploid, Shae Doe & Jack Napier, Life Cult, Ziva, Mammon’s Throne, Growth, Burden Man, Zcluster, Nontium, Bacchus Harsh, Bruxist, Eternal Organ, and Canary Bones.
Thankfully, the long weekend gives you Monday to recover from Sunday the 5th’s line-up: Convulsing, Rave, Contaminated, Josh Shipton, Tir, Oar, Golgothan Remains, Atavus Infectum, Lithik, Fukno, Futility, Marlene Claudene Radice, and Knife
The whole kit and caboodle can be purchased as one ticket and is all ages, provided you’re packing an adult. The visual arts are being prepared by Greallach, which are insanely good. It’s just crazy how much work Dan & Team have put into this. Get along!
Another comeback show landing at The Baso on Saturday, 11 October is Sydney’s melodic death legends Daysend, who also got back together for the Necrosonic fest.
Featuring most of the original line-up (bar ex-Switchblade new drummer Mathew Piccolotto), the band are pumped to be back. If melodic death and sick guitar playing are your thing, get to this.
Fresh off their return at the triumphant Necrosonic festival in Brisbane is Sydney’s Brace. The band consists of members from past Canberra legends Henry’s Anger and Sydney bands Japunga and Naxzul. The Mighty Few are also making a long-awaited hometown comeback show off the momentum generated by a recent-ish vinyl pressing of their recorded works. It’s been 20 long years, so welcome them back.
Perth death metallers Ashen come to The Baso as a part of their Leave the Flesh Behind Australia Tour on Saturday, 20 September. Aided and abetted by NSW bands Anoxia and Complexant, and Canberra’s own Project Ultimate Satan.
Gzech grind maniacs Gutalax make a welcome visit to Canberra on Friday, 26 September. You get the props, the lols, the costumes, and the outrageous fecal-matter related lyrics. You also get to have your face blasted off by Blight Worms, Penetrated, and Street Trash. The early bird tickets have all sold out, so you’d better not sleep on the remaining allocation lest you miss out on good times.
Melb heavy psych rockers Khan tour in October with Hekate and Skin Thief to promote their 4th LP. Packing two 23-minute songs, That Fair and Warlike Form and Return to Dust, the concept album explores the suffering of a man possessed by the spirit of the god of death. The Baso on Friday, 17 October for that one.
I Exist did a few Winter shows, coming back to the ‘Berra on Saturday, 24 October at (you guessed it) The Baso. No Apologies are on the bill (having just dropped a stunning new album, Life) as are the fucking awesome Thantu Thikha. Riffs... aplenty.
Looking ahead on the fridge calendar are some big ones. Possessed are here on 1 November for the 40th anniversary of The Seven Churches; and Cryptopsy play the heaviest Christmas party of all time on 17 December
Off the back of the Froth & Fury festival announcement headlined by Polaris and featuring Nailbomb and Soulfly (among MANY more), Archspire just announced a Summer tour with Aborted and Organectomy. The highly amusing poster for the Return to Prison Island Tour has a nuts VIP experience ticket that, as far as these sorts of things go, actually seems kinda, like, NOT lame.
The VIP experience includes: show entry; meet & greet; game show with prizes; signed exclusive poster & collector laminate; early access to merch; group photo with fellow VIP-ers.
Additionally, every VIP has a chance to win: Heavys Archspire headphones; Ethos BFG-7 seven-string guitar (shipping TBD); merch packages from Direct Merch; the new record on vinyl or on CD (shipping Spring 2026).
That’s a lotta stuff if this is your thing. Til next month!
In the proud tradition of Canberra’s Metal for the Brain and SoundOut, and Hobart’s Dark Mofo, comes Essence, a diverse underground festival playing host to metal spanning the dark spectrum: from death, black, doom, and sludge, to noise, post-punk, post-rock, experimental, industrial, ambient, improvised, and even dark and modern takes on traditional music.
And yet, it is so much more than that, as Dan Nahum, Managing Director of Perimeter Promotions and Essence, explains:
“Essence isn’t just organisers putting on a show, with a gap between art and audience,” he explains.
“Transgressive music comprises grassroots, participatory, and DIY subcultures. All of us—promoters, bands, audience, crew, venue—are cocreating and curating a big work of art. If any element is missing, there’s no event.
“Every Canberran deserves a great underground music and arts scene,” he adds. “But we don’t get the scene we deserve; we get the scene we build together.”
The rollicking success of 2024’s inaugural event has led to an even larger Essence Festival 2, representing the resilience and triumph of underground art in Australia’s capital city.
The country-wide bill features a mix of live stalwarts, cult artists giving rare appearances, and new, exciting acts, many of whom will be playing Canberra for the first time. New to 2025’s instalment is a visual element in the form of NSW visual artist, Greallach, joining the returning skillsets of visual designers Black Bird Yellow Eye and backline supplier Vance Custom Guitars.
“Essence 2024 showed a keen appetite for challenging art,” Nahum enthuses. “Canberra’s always punched above its weight for the transgressive, inventive, and provocative.”
Nahum’s core philosophy was bolstered by his world travels, where he bottled his overseas observations to later uncork in his beloved Capital.
“When touring overseas cities,” he says, “I’ve seen the considerable effort that goes into physical, social, and commercial infrastructure. It doesn’t simply appear for talented artists; Australia has plenty of those. The platforms for artists and audiences to connect have to be created.
“Even if transgressive art and music isn’t your thing, being in a city with a vibrant arts scene of every type produces all sorts of cultural texture, networks, and serendipity. Consider how much Dark Mofo adds to Hobart.
“It’s what I admire about The Baso and my co-promoters Gutter Prince Cabal - they’re willing to put in work and take risks to build the scene that they want to be a part of.”
Speaking of promoters, adding even more grunt to 2025’s Essence is co-presenter NSW/ QLD label Gutter Prince Cabal.
“We were honoured when Dan invited us to curate the opening evening,” says Graveir frontman and Gutter Prince head honcho, Nathan Glover. “It aligns with our mission of showcasing the wealth of talented heavy music bands in our region, and contributing to the revitalisation of music/culture festivals, which have faced challenging times since COVID-19.
“Arts play a vital role in connection, which is all the more important in divisive and uncertain times.”
Nahum echoes this unifying sentiment.
“The world is a tough, dark place right now,” he says. “Despite, or because, of that, it’s as important as ever to use art as a platform to speak and hear truth, and to connect with others.
“Essence is a shared resource for audiences and artists to convene for a long weekend of mutual inspiration and enjoyment.”
Further solidifying this sentiment, Nahum has again put his money where his mouth is to ensure there is no impediment to inclusion.
“We understand that a festival can be a challenging format during a cost-of-living crisis. So, we’ve kept ticket prices as modest as possible. The amount of talent for the price is unbeatable.”
Indeed, Essence is run on a non-profit basis, with all monies after production and promotion costs being paid to the performers.
“It’s also a love letter to my home,” Nahum says in closing. “Canberra is a wonderful city overflowing with amazing food, cultural institutions, wineries, breweries, and activities. If you’re pining for a destination festival on the mainland within a road trip of Sydney and Melbourne, I invite you to join us at Essence.”
THE DROP
[THE WORD ON EDM/DANCE MUSIC]
BY AEGIPAN SAMARAWICKRAMA - AEGIPAN101@GMAIL.COM
G’day, dancefloor denizens – welcome to another column from the One Pan Army! I’ve got a fair bit to cover this time, so let’s kick this thing into gear.
Right off the bat, I have to extrapolate upon news that you might have previously heard – namely, the cancellation of FreeRange Gathering. This isn’t the first festival canning I’ve dedicated column space to discussing, and sadly, it won’t be the last.
Okay, deep breath… Time to get back to this column’s usual fare. After all… Winter is over. The warmth of the sun is returning. Spirits are rejoicing. And, pertinently, the gig calendar is starting to get stacked again.
Remember the WAYOUT gig at Shadows Nightclub in May? Well, they’re coming back on Saturday, 20 September, for another club takeover.
Featuring Lucidity, Kazuki, salvajoe, and EENU commanding the decks. Doors open at 9pm and close late, so lock in for a whole night of hard partying and dancefloor madness.
FreeRange Gathering’s demise follows on from that of the Esoteric Festival earlier this year. In both situations, councils have delayed approval processes, withheld information, and communicated poorly with the festivals’ organisers. These aren’t just a couple of unfortunate situations. They represent a pattern of unfairness and spite on the part of the council members, directly targeting the music and arts industries.
In the case of FreeRange, there’s an additional, very literal cost – the organisers invested tens of thousands of dollars upfront in the approval process, hiring safety contractors, securing insurance, and conducting indepth environmental studies of the land on which the gathering was to be hosted.
There’s no doubt now that the systems for “approval” that organisers and crews are forced to engage with are utterly broken, with a significant amount of prejudice behind how regional councils have handled applications.
The non-mainstream music festival scene has been deeply wounded this year, and I don’t blame anyone for feeling rage about this situation. I feel it too. Councillors clearly have no idea how much these events mean to our communities, nor care about the damage their decisions can cause.
Do I even need to mention the impact on local businesses and tourism that comes with it?
Radical change to these systems is needed, and this starts by holding councils accountable for the consequences of their sloppy work and poor decisions. Exactly how to go about doing that is beyond me – I’m just a columnist and a goddamned party animal.
But I know there are good people out there working on solutions as I write these words. If you’re one of them and you’re reading this, please let me know if there’s any way that I can help.
Bulgarian producer and DJ KiNK will be hitting up One22 on Friday, 10 October for what is sure to be an absolute ripsnorter of a live show. KiNK is renowned for crafting techno with analog synths and drum machines and delivering it via his spontaneous and engaging live performances. There’s a reason why people consistently vote this guy as the best electronic music live act year after year. Don’t miss it.
Headz Are Rolling are going to be the (g)hosts with the most this Halloween. Drag your carcasses out to The Pot Belly in Belconnen at 8 o’clock sharp for their Helloween party. Expect a diverse range of sounds from DJs Remedy, Ashër vs Zala, Crooked Sound System, Tidy and Samwise, Fourthstate, and Kazuki –everything from D&B to rave tunes. Did I mention that entry is free and there’s going to be prizes for the best-dressed punters? Forget your Halloween house parties – come and get spooky with us at the Pot.
You need to know about this next one early, even though it’s going down in the middle of November.
DVMTL: Gearing Up is bringing a ridiculously stacked line-up to Cypher Brewing Co. in Gungahlin. No exaggeration. Spoonbill, Boydex, Simbie, Redamon, Ubermoon/Alphranky, Konedawg – and that’s not even half.
Yeah… I know, right? This is a festival-grade bill in town for a killer one-nighter on Saturday, 15 November. Do I even need to say more? We Canberrans have got it good.
On Saturday, 29 November, Friction celebrate the cusp of Summer with Sunny Breaks, bringing back breakbeat legends Stanton Warriors with A.Skillz and Kid Kenobi ft MC Shureshock to Hopscotch Bar.
There’s gonna be bass; there’s gonna be groove; there’s gonna be a helluva hot d-floor. Pencil—nay, PEN— this in.
That’s the calendar for the next little while. Come next column, there’ll be even more. Whilst I might be sad that hockey season is over... Boy! Am I stoked for gig season!
It wouldn’t be a Dance The Drop column without mentioning a new release from our favourite local label, Soliq Records. Before that, a huge shout-out to main man Misha for interviewing me for his YouTube channel at the Dragon Dreaming Warm-Up Party. While 3am isn’t me at my professional best, I’m honoured he invited this absolute goof on the mic. Much love to you, mate.
Shanti’s new EP, Resonance, was released on Soliq Records the day I started this ‘ere column, so it served
as a suitable soundtrack for the penning process.
The EP features three original tracks and three remixes by Drop Bear, Mudokon, and Zertex, each infusing their own unique twists into his tunes. Pulsating, kinetic techno rhythms, intricately layered textures, and a dash of the psychedelic are on the menu here, and Shanti delivers in fine form. It’s the kind of stuff that scratches my cerebellum in just the right way.
The remixes add unexpected melodies and greater rhythmic depth. I love hearing how other producers have parsed an artist’s work to create something new and interesting with the material, so the artistic space shared over the length of the EP’s duration makes for great collaborations. Check it out.
Before I go, a huge thanks to those who came up to me at the Dragon Dreaming warm-up party with nothing but kind words to say about my column. It genuinely warms my heart knowing that people are coming to gigs after reading the column. You’re awesome!
For now, stay safe, party hard, and make the world your dancefloor. Much love from Ngunnawal Country.
Wed, 8 Oct 5:30pm – 8:30pm Fri, 10 Oct 5:30pm – 8:30pm Lakeside Jam: Sat, 1 Nov 4pm – 8:30pm
Yunggabilli Open Mic for First Nations Musicians
Thursday, 18 September 5:30pm to 7pm Free
Thursday, 27 November 5:30pm to 7pm Free
Jazz Improvisation workshop with Sydney Jazz Band Volant
Saturday, 8 November 1:30pm – 3pm Cost: $10
The Diaphragm Delusion
Vocal Masterclass with Dr Rachael Thoms from the ANU School of Music
Saturday, 29 November 11am to 2pm $10
Songwriting Workshop with ANU Community Music School
Tuesday, 30 October 10am – 4pm Free
Musicians aged 13-25 are encouraged to apply for the opportunity to perform live onstage, gain experience working with other musicians, and plan gigs.
Successful applicants will play in one of three open-mic style Heat events in The Space at TAC.
From this event, eight finalists will be selected to perform at TAC’s Lakeside Jam in November.
An opportunity for emerging First Nations musos to perform in a safe and nurturing space, try new work, jam with others, and gain constructive and friendly feedback whilst building confidence on the stage.
Professional musicians and artists from the Gugan Gulwan music program and Canberra’s art scene will be on hand to provide support and guidance to those keen for feedback.
Students will be introduced to the basics of improvisation and the importance of ‘time’, ‘feel’, ‘groove’ and ‘melody’ in music with Matthew Ottingnon and Hayley Chan from Sydney Jazz Band Volant.
No experience with jazz or impro needed with all levels welcomed. Musicians are encouraged to bring their instruments and try out the concepts with Matthew and Hayley.
The Diaphragm Delusion is a vocal workshop designed for singers aged 16 and above. This course replaces outdated advice with clear, practical tools for better breath management and vocal efficiency.
Dr Rachel Thoms from the ANU School of Music will challenge common misconceptions about breathing in singing.
A fun, educational day learning the basics of songwriting with Beth Monzo awaits.
Beth is the Co-creator and Director of Song to Studio, a community music program run by ANU’s Community Music Centre where she is also part of the Community Rock School tutor team.
The workshop focuses on inspiring creativity from the everyday, showing anything can be turned into a song.
ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE
FRI 12 SEPTEMBER
The Cadaver Palaver
A gentleman adventurer and rakish raconteur returns with an astonishing tale of derringdo (and don’ts!) that puts the cad back in cadaver. A macabre mystery from the manic mind of C.S. Carroll. 6:30pm, $20–$35 + bf via venue
CANBERRA THEATRE CENTRE
Club Wallen: A Morgan Wallen Appreciation Night
Somethin’ stronger than you’re used to – a night dedicated to Morgan Wallen. DJs spinnin’ hits from the country music star himself, plus a rotation of other country tunes all night long. 7pm, $20 via OzTix
THE BASO
Puffs of Smoke with Live Musical Performance
A program of short silent films, mostly from before 1920, accompanied by live music composed and performed by Phillip Johnston. 7pm, $35/$25 conc via venue
NATIONAL FILM AND SOUND ARCHIVE
DJ Mark Alwast
Blending genres from soul, disco, and funk, DJ Alwast has solidified himself as one of the most danceable DJs in town! 7pm, free OLD CANBERRA INN
Sneaky Jeremiah
The CBR-based feel-good, good time band deliver soul, blues, R&B, Americana, and classic rock. 8pm, free entry
DICKSON TAPHOUSE
SAT 13 SEPTEMBER
Dean Haitani
With his unique finger style and soulful earthy vocals, Dean Haitani draws inspiration from blues & roots music, and his love of funk and old school R&B rhythms. 2pm, free entry
OLD CANBERRA INN
Koun Vincent - Jazz Piano
Great American Songbook
Zen monk jazz pianist returns to public performance with swingin’ tunes and a few ballads written by the composers of the jazz greats. 4pm, $25/$20 via venue
SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE
The Cadaver Palaver
A deliciously macabre mystery from the overactive imagination of C.S. Carroll. 6:30pm, $20–$35 +bf via venue
CANBERRA THEATRE CENTRE
Witchskull + Storm Of Steel
Back in The Abyss for their first appearance since 2024’s 10th anniversary residency shows. Joined by Storm of Steel in their debut live performance! 7pm, $29.60 via OzTix
THE BASO — THE ABYSS
Brace (ex-Henry’s Anger, Nazxul) w/ Mightyfew
With members of Henry’s Anger, Nazxul, and Japunga, Sydney’s Brace formed in 2002, releasing acclaimed debut EP, Before You Begin. Catch their first show In 20 years! 7pm, $24.50 via OzTix THE BASO
The Jazz Haus Canberra featuring Hammerhead
Nuanced, high-octane nu-bop, funk, folk-fusion, and chamber jazz from the finest ensembles. 7pm, $45/$38 conc via TicketTailor
TUGGERANONG ARTS CENTRE
Flowers In Bloom
A packed night of indie, rock, and R&B co-headlined by Alex Rose and Adam Schranz, with Nevermind. 7pm, $12 + bf via Humanitix THE POT BELLY
Damien Power
Don’t miss the chance to catch one of Australia’s best comedians live in Canberra. Shows at 7pm & 8:45pm, $35 + bf via venue THE STREET THEATRE
Los Chavos + Capital SambaNight of Latin Heat!
CBR’s Latin ska/rock kings Los Chavos pair up with Capital Samba for a night of samba, cumbia, ska and bossa heaviness! 9:30pm, $25/$30 via venue
SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE
SUN 14 SEPTEMBER
Reclink Community Cup
Family-friendly arvo of live music and grassroots footy to raise funds for Reclink. The Limestones (musos) play The Noise (media), with music by Private Wives, Salty Goodness, Lucy Ridge, Zuko, and Brendan Vincent. 12pm, $15, $8 kids (12-17yo), free for U11 via OzTix ALAN RAY OVAL, AINSLIE
Jenny Sawer
Jenny’s powerful voice, emotive storytelling, and rhythmic guitar will captivate. 2pm, free entry OLD CANBERRA INN
Queanbeyan Players’ 60th Anniversary Concert
Join Queanbeyan Players for a memory lane trip, celebrating their 60th anniversary! 3pm, $20$32 via Ticketsearch
THE Q - QUEANBEYAN PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE
Dean Haitani
Dean draws from blues & roots music, and his love of funk and old school R&B rhythms. 4pm, free DICKSON TAPHOUSE
MON 15 SEPTEMBER
Michael Jackson - King of Pop A world class tribute to the world’s greatest entertainer! 8pm, $79.90 via Ticketsearch
THE B - QUEANBEYAN PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE
WED 17 SEPTEMBER
The Songwriting PrizeCanberra Semi Final
Australia’s largest live performance songwriting compettion is coming to ACT with the Canberra Semi Final, featuring the shortlisted finalists performing their entry for a spot at the Grand Final and a share in $45k in prizes. 7pm, $20 + bf via Humanitix
GANG GANG CAFE
Lend Me A Tenor
Hilarious and extravagant, this is the antidote to Canberra’s winter chills. Ken Ludwig’s award-winning farcical comedy is full of laughter, romance, and delightful chaos.
7:30pm, First In Best Dressed (FIBD) $30, Under 30yo - $35, Concession $40, Adults $45 ACT HUB IN KINGSTON
FRI 19 SEPTEMBER
DJ Jordan Harrison
Spinning grooves from every decade of modern music, Jordan brings the vibes with everything from reggae to disco. 1:15pm, free OLD CANBERRA INN
Peter Bibby
Perth’s favourite punk poet has been pushing boundaries for 15 years with his unique brand of Australiana songwriting, with an unmatched ability to for the grimy ‘n’ gritty. 7pm, $29.60 via OzTix
THE BASO
The Story Of The Oars
The Story of the Oars is an evocative and intricate new theatrical work. Something hidden can’t remain hidden for ever.
7:30pm, $45 - $35 + bf via venue
THE STREET THEATRE
The Johnny Reynolds Band
Johnny Reynolds has an impressive background as an international performer for the past 40 years starting in the Dublin circuit in 1982. 8pm, free entry
DICKSON TAPHOUSE
SAT 20 SEPTEMBER
The Comfy Gutters
The Gutters have built a name for themselves around town, pulling in punters with their brand of original storytelling. 2pm, free entry
OLD CANBERRA INN
Saturday Salon: Neeman Duo
A duo acclaimed for their versatile programs that combine breathtaking and elegant technique, piano gymnastics, and fun. 1:30pm, $38/$32 conc via TicketTailor
TUGGERANONG ARTS CENTRE
The Story Of The Oars
An evocative and intricate new theatrical work. 7:30pm, $45 - $35 + bf via venue
THE STREET THEATRE
Ashen - Leave The Flesh Behind Tour w/ Anoxia
Bleeding Art Collective and The Baso are pleased to present the Leave The Flesh Behind Australian Tour featuring Perth death metal titans Ashen, who will be promoting the release of the band’s new album. 7pm, tickets $29.60 via OzTix
THE BASO
Felicity Urquhart & Josh Cunningham
With titles like The Queen of Country and Folk Rock Royalty respectively, the pairing of Felicity Urquhart and Josh Cunningham produce a rare chemistry that transcends genre and time. Two voices; one heart; zero pretence. Raw, real, and ridiculously good. 7pm, $49/$44 conc via venue
BELCONNEN ARTS CENTRE
SUN 21 SEPTEMBER
Canberra Blues Society - Pro Blues Jam w/ The Wildfires
The Wildfires are fast becoming an unstoppable force with their intoxicating blend of country rock, blues, and soul. 1pm, $15, CBS members $10, U16 free
HARMONIE GERMAN CLUB
Josh Veneris
Josh Veneris has become a veteran of performing. His smooth vocals and guitar covers of mainstream and indie hits make him the perfect accompaniment for a relaxing afternoon. 1:15pm, free entry
OLD CANBERRA INN
Music of the Night
Don’t miss this amazing spectacle that celebrates the very best of musical theatre! 2pm, $54.95$79.95 via Ticketsearch
THE B - QUEANBEYAN PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE
The Story Of The Oars
The Story of the Oars is an evocative and intricate new theatrical work. Something hidden can’t remain hidden for ever. 4pm, $45 - $35 + bf via venue
THE STREET THEATRE
Craig Thommo
Thommo loves to entertain and he does this using acoustic & electric guitars with the great assistance of modern looping. Let’s just say, everyone is in for a musical treat. 4pm, free entry
DICKSON TAPHOUSE
Alec Randles - Peace of Mind single launch w/ Tim McNally and Inez Hargaden
Don’t miss this intimate evening of raw original folk music as Alec Randles performs in his hometown for the final stop of his tour to celebrate the launch of his new original, Peace of Mind. 7pm, $20/$15 concession via venue SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE
ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE
TUE 23 SEPTEMBER
Sandra France: Calm
Celebrating 25 years of composition in Canberra, ft a selection of chamber and instrumentals written by France. 6pm, $38/$32 via TicketTailor
TUGGERANONG ARTS CENTRE
THU 25 SEPTEMBER
Ben Lee - Awake is the New Sleep 20th Anniversary Tour
“Hi! It’s your friend, Ben. Hope all’s well. I’m celebrating the 20th year of Awake is the New Sleep.” 7:30pm, $69.90 - $134.90 + bf via Moshtix
UC REFECTORY
Timeless Persian Classical
Five rising voices of Persian classical music breathe new life into the ancient radif tradition. 7:30pm, $49/$39 + bf via venue
THE STREET THEATRE
FRI 26 SEPTEMBER
Canberra Circus Festival 2025
Circuses the world over bring offbeat, quirky shows of all kinds for kids, families & adults. Markets, too! 11am, tix via Stickytickets
THE MAY WIRTH BIG TOP, CHIFLEY OVAL
Sneaky Jeremiah
CBR’s feel-good, good time band delivering soul, blues, R&B, Americana, and rock. 2pm, free OLD CANBERRA INN
Lakeside at 5: In2Deep
Paying homage to the jazz tradition of the Great American Songbook, from upbeat swinging numbers, bossanovas and sambas, to sultry ballads. 5:30pm, entry by donation TUGGERANONG ARTS CENTRE
Ensemble Offspring’s Moonstruck
Pierrot lunaire done twice: Schoenberg’s revolutionary classic of modern music alongside Laura Bowler’s subversive reinvention. 6:30pm, $49/$45 via venue
THE STREET THEATRE
Gutalax Australian Tour 2025
The Czech band brings an irreverent tilt to grindcore/goregrind, blending humor and energy with unapologetically crude, satirical lyrics on fecal matter. 7pm, $76.50 via OzTix THE BASO
Tilt Trio
Jazz, Latin, blues ‘n’ crossovers.
Described as a “must see!”. 8pm, free DICKSON TAPHOUSE
Bohjass
“A sprawling, trippy, trancey, percussion-fueled, cosmic brew,” the legendary Melbourne free jazz band, Bohjass, are in town. 9:30pm, $20 + bf SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE
Lounge Baby
Robert, Peter, Dave and Maeve playing original songs. 2pm, free OLD CANBERRA INN
SAT 27 SEPTEMBER
Victor Valdes - Viva Mexico
Step into the vibrant world of Mexican music with the renowned artist Victor Valdes for an unforgettable evening. 7:30pm, $55/$50 + bf via venue
THE STREET THEATRE
19-Twenty Hips’ 10 Year Anniversary Tour
Unleashing the full force of Hips, celebrating 10 years of the track that sparked a nationwide movement. 8pm, $30/CBS $27
HARMONIE GERMAN CLUB
Seth Sentry - Strange New Past 10th Anniversary Tour
Join Seth as he performs deep cuts from the album, along with fan faves and a few surprises, in an intimate celebration of a beloved hip hop record. 8pm, $70 via Moshtix
UC HUB
Rubiks Collective - The Big Idea
Spoken word, music, theatre, an iconoclastic departure from monodramas like Schoenberg’s Expectation and Poulenc’s The Human Voice. 8:30pm, $39/$35 + bf via venue
THE STREET THEATRE
SUN 28 SEPTEMBER
Manhattan Short Film Festival
The world’s first global film festival! 2pm, $18-$20 via Ticketsearch
THE B - QUEANBEYAN
PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE
Vince Jones Celebrates 50 Years
Blending cool jazz, soul and sophisticated songwriting with a lyrical honesty straight from the heart. 4pm, $55/$49 + bf via venue
THE STREET THEATRE
Tiernan
An alt-folk artist with lyrical themes of reflection and growth backed by intricate guitar. 4pm, free entry
DICKSON TAPHOUSE
TUE 30 SEPTEMBER
Marky Worthington Podcast
Recording w/ True Blue James
Marky Worthington hosts a live podcast recording with special guest
True Blue James, with crowd-based segments, live chat and general chaos. 7pm, $0 via OzTix
THE BASO
TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift Music
Make a ‘sweet escape’ to the world of Swift when Showtime presents Josette with an international band and dancers. 7pm, $48 via venue
THE PLAYHOUSE
A Chorus Line
One singular sensation! The renowned musical comes courtesy of Free-Rain Theatre. 7:30pm, $55-$70 via Ticketsearch
THE Q - QUEANBEYAN
PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE
WED 1 OCTOBER
Stoned Jesus (UKR)
The Ukrainian psych prog legends bring their seismic sound to Oz for their XV Anniversary Tour. 7pm, $63.25 via OzTix THE BASO
THU 2 OCTOBER
Thirsty Merc Summer Live ‘25
The Merc has been furnishing audiences with quintessential soundtracks to Aussie summers for well over two decades, with their tours reaching legendary status. 7pm, $56.10 via OzTix THE BASO
Rob Beckett - Giraffe
From Bromley to Brisbane, Rob’s smashing through the M25, M1, and M5, to bring his hilarious tales and infectious energy to Canberra. 8pm, from $81.45 + bf via Ticketek
LLEWELLYN HALL
FRI 3 OCTOBER
The Ultimate Magic Show
A highly popular action-packed family show, featuring hilarious comedy and mind-blowing magic for kids and adults alike! 6pm, $32.90-$39.90 via Ticketsearch THE B - QUEANBEYAN PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE
Trio Isimsiz – Musica Viva
The trio perform two giants, Schubert’s colossal Piano Trio No. 1 and Brahms’ passionate Piano Trio, alongside an exciting new voice, Francisco Coll. 7pm, from $65 + bf via Musica Viva Australia LLEWELLYN HALL
Essence 2:
A Divergence In Darkness
Essence is Canberra’s premier transgressive music event. 2025’s second edition, A Divergence In Darkness, is bigger, better, and more sonically destructive. 7pm, $120 via OzTix for weekend pass THE BASO
Salsa Night w/ DJ Paisa
Get your Salsa grooves ready and get on the dance floor! 8pm, free OLD CANBERRA INN
Cash: A Journey Through The American Recordings
Henry Wagons and his band The Tennessee Studs will re-create the sonic depth, poise, and ominous force of the original recordings. 8pm, $59 + bf via venue THE STREET THEATRE
Soul & Stone
A fresh line-up of CBR’s finest musos, fusing soul-stirring melodies with iconic blues, pop, funk and soul grooves. 8pm, free DICKSON TAPHOUSE
SAT 4 OCTOBER
Last Call
Soulful vocals and surprising riffs that will have you reminiscing on an old flame. 2pm, free OLD CANBERRA INN
Songs of Open Country
An evening of choral music evoking a sense of place via vast landscapes and celestial forces. 6pm, $30 - $55 + bf via Humanitix WESLEY UNITING CHURCH
Fred Smith & A Few Good Spooky Men Sold Out, at time of print. Check venue for spare tix. 8pm, $65 + bf THE STREET THEATRE
SUN 5 OCTOBER
[Screening] Labyrinth
A world of wonder and magic. 4pm, $5-$12 via Ticketsearch THE B - QUEANBEYAN PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE
Flik
Featherlight fingerpicking with comforting vocals. 4pm, free OLD CANBERRA INN
Inez Hargaden
The singer-songwriter from County Cavan draws from folk, pop, rock, and jazz for songs of trials and triumphs. 4pm, free DICKSON TAPHOUSE
Dave Graney & the Coral Snakes
The cool and collective sounds of the acclaimed album brought to life in full on the stage. 7:30pm, $65 + bf via venue THE STREET THEATRE
WED 8 OCTOBER
Wöolworths\\Flushot
Recording third LP The Prop Beggars Lament while touring, expect new songs, new members and new lackadaisical heights of descension. Indie/thrash/rap via Lutruwita/Tassie. 7pm, $18.40 THE BASO
FRI 10 OCTOBER
Jon & Jero: STUFF!
J&J embark on an epic journey –and need your help! The bumbling brothers quest to get their STUFF back in a fast ‘n’ fun choose-yourown-adventure. 11am, $15-$35 via Ticketsearch
THE B - QUEANBEYAN PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE
Dallas Frasca plays Led Zeppelin
A one-woman, high-voltage celebration of Zeppelin’s legendary catalogue, reimagined with Frasca’s signature raw energy, masterful guitar, and raw vocals. 7pm, $40 via OzTix
THE BASO
Kevin Borich Express
Kevin Borich Express returns for another great night of blues/ rock with guest support James Southwell. 7pm, CBS members $30/Gen $35/Door $40
HARMONIE GERMAN CLUBZEPPELIN ROOM
The 60 Four:
Hits of the ‘60s and ‘70s
Hailed as “Australia’s leading tribute act,” The 60 Four recreate the biggest hits of the ’60s/’70s in a spectacular, Vegas-style show. 7:30pm, $80 + bf via venue CANBERRA THEATRE CENTRE
Flynn Marcus Quartet 4-piece CBR jazz outfit performing the smoothest jazz you can wrap your head around! 8pm, free entry
OLD CANBERRA INN
Johnny Reynolds Band
Reynolds’ has joined BB King at the National Stadium in Dublin 1985 and supported James Brown at the Point Depot in Dublin. 8pm, free DICKSON TAPHOUSE
SAT 11 OCTOBER
National Vintage Guitar Expo
The 3rd annual Expo sports a huge venue, vintage and boutique gear from around Australia, plus live guest artists and sessions. 10am, $10 presale, $15 on door
HARMONIE GERMAN CLUB
The Blooz
Four musos playing great blues songs. 2pm, free entry OLD CANBERRA INN
Blamey Street Swings Bond: Shaken Not Stirred
Maestro Ian McLean and his 20-piece jazz orchestra (Blamey Street Big Band) present a perfect blend of classic and swinging new versions of your fave Bond songs. 5pm, $30-$50 + bf via Ticketsearch
THE B - QUEANBEYAN
PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE
Daysend
After a decade in hibernation, the Aussie metal heavyweights return, revisiting acclaimed debut LP, Severance. 7pm, $38.25 via OzTix
THE BASO
The Jazz Haus: Sandie White
Don’t miss the chance to witness jazz icon Sandie White in action. 7pm, $45/$38 conc via TicketTailor TUGGERANONG ARTS CENTRE
Inez draws from folk, pop, rock, and jazz to reflect on the joys and tribulations of life. 4pm, free entry OLD CANBERRA INN
FRI 17 OCTOBER
Khan w/ Hekate & Skin Thief
Melbourne-based prog heavy psych trio Khan present their fourth studio album That Fair and Warlike Form // Return to Dust 7pm, $34.69 via OzTix
THE BASO
DJ Jordan Harrison
Spinning grooves from every decade of modern music, Jordan brings the vibes with everything reggae to disco. 7pm, free entry
OLD CANBERRA INN
SAT 18 OCTOBER
Oktoberfest at OCI!
A vast array of German-style beers and live music to keep you dancing and entertained throughout the day! 12pm, free entry
OLD CANBERRA INN
Pearl Jam Exp. Unplugged
Offering fans a unique two-part show, beginning with an intimate, MTV-inspired Unplugged set, followed by a full 90-minute live show. 7pm, $39.90 via OzTix
THE BASO
SUN 19 OCTOBER
James Southwell
With powerful riffs and vocals that bite, James has been performing his brand of electrifying blues for well over a decade. 4pm, free entry
DICKSON TAPHOUSE
Moondog
Master of the blues harmonica and a formidable guitarist, singer and songwriter, 4pm, free entry
OLD CANBERRA INN
Reliqa & Future Static
Touring together for the first time ever on their biggest run of headline shows. Support by Heartline. 7pm, $29.90 via OzTix
THE BASO
The Smith Street Band
The band are back with Star Child - the second single from their upcoming seventh album! 7pm, $56.10 via OzTix
THE BASO
FRI 24 OCTOBER
Lakeside at 5: Leisa Keen Trio
The Leisa Keen trio will play a smooth blend of well-known jazz tunes at Tuggeranong Arts Centre. 5:30pm, entry by donation
TUGGERANONG ARTS CENTRE
The Listies: 110% Ready
A pocketful of puns, silly slapstick sight gags, a splash of improv idiocy; Melb’s masters of mirth deliver 55 solid minutes of full family lols. 6pm, $15-$35 via Ticketsearch
THE Q - QUEANBEYAN
PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE
I Exist w/ No Apologies, Thantu Thikha & Orc
I Exist play their first hometown show in six years! After playing in other bands, living in other countries and drinking at other bars, the band are back to remind everyone of the Power of the Riff! 7pm, $29.60 via OzTix
THE BASO
Flynn Marcus Quartet
Four-piece CBR jazz outfit performing some of the smoothest jazz you can wrap your head around! 8pm, free entry
DICKSON TAPHOUSE
Parallel Lines
Your one-stop shop for four decades of much-loved music, from Blondie to SIA, U2 to No Doubt, and The Beatles to Phil Collins. 8pm, free OLD CANBERRA INN
SAT 25 OCTOBER
Lounge Baby
Members Robert, Peter, Dave and Maeve playing original songs. 2pm, free entry
OLD CANBERRA INN
Jebediah - 30 Odyears
Jebediah are 30 Odyears old! To celebrate, the band will embark upon a joyous journey through capital cities. 7pm, $73.95 via OzTix
THE BASO
SUN 26 OCTOBER
Jayne Denham – Unplugged
7-time Golden Guitar nominee Jayne brings her powerhouse vocals & fierce country rock presence. 4pm, $30 via TryBooking
CANBERRA IRISH CLUB
Moondog
Moondog’s voice holds a deep authenticity reminiscent of the blues singers of old. 4pm, free entry
DICKSON TAPHOUSE
Tiernan
The alt-folk artist draws from traditional Irish and global contemporary influences. 4pm, free OLD CANBERRA INN
Pub Choir -
Average at Best Tour
Do you have the best singing voice in the world? Unlikely. But do you have the worst? EQUALLY UNLIKELY. If you’re average (at best), at Pub Choir, we think that’s great! 7pm, $45.64 via Moshtix
UC REFECTORY
MON 27 OCTOBER
Pub Choir -
Average at Best Tour
Your voice is probably average (at best). At Pub Choir, we think that’s great! 7pm, $45.64 via Moshtix
