[Canberra’s Arts & Music Guide]
#552 - APR/MAY 2025
CONTENTS
Pretty colours; occasional text
Mail: 36/97 Eastern Valley Way
Belconnen, ACT 2617
Publisher
ABN 76 097 301 730 Pty Ltd
Managing Editor
Allan Sko
E: allan@bmamag.com
Cover/Article Design + Entertainment Guide Editor
Allan Sko
Social Media Manager
Angel Nash
Writers Justin Heazlewood, Josh Nixon, Aegipan Samara-Wickrama, Tamsin Kemp, Jannah Fahiz, Allan Sko
ISSUE #553 RELEASE DATE
Thursday, 15 May
EDITORIAL DEADLINE
Friday, 25 April
ADVERTISING DEADLINE
Wednesday, 7 May
BMA is independently published.
NATIONAL FOLK FESTIVAL
British-Australian songwriter The Magic Lantern returns home with a deeply personal new album, transforming life’s most profound moments into song.
WORDS: Erin Heycox / PHOTO: Dave Hamblett
Singer-songwriter and composer Jamie Doe, known as The Magic Lantern, brings his acclaimed fifth album To Everything a Season to Smith’s Alternative on Thursday 16 May, as part of his first-ever Australian tour.
Written in the wake of becoming a father and losing his own father just six weeks apart, To Everything a Season is a powerful meditation on grief, transformation, and the looping cycles of life.
“These songs examine the overlapping waves of joy and grief that accompanied this expression of the circle of life,” Jamie shares. “It was hard, and it was beautiful, and it was real.”
Described by The Guardian as “exquisite,” and Folk Radio UK as “a work of quiet genius,” The Magic Lantern’s music draws from folk, jazz, and contemp classical traditions, with emotionally charged lyrics and vivid, spacious arrangements. His live shows are celebrated for their intimacy and emotional resonance - inviting audiences into a shared moment of presence, reflection, and connection.
Joining Jamie in Canberra is acclaimed folk experimentalist Emily-Rose Sharkova, who will open the evening with her lush, genre-blurring soundscapes. Known for projects such as Emily-Rose & The Wild Things, Shark & Fox, and The Good Behaviours, Emily-Rose performed alongside The Magic Lantern on his latest UK tour — making this a special reunion of musical kindreds.
“This tour is about the joy of finding a way,” says Jamie.
STRUTH BE TOLD
WITH JUSTIN HEAZLEWOOD
In 2014, my relationship with music was in a funk. I wasn’t discovering new stuff at all. I stopped listening to community radio; the talking got on my nerves. I gave up on magazines and wasn’t going out as much to bump T-shirts with my gig guzzling comrades.
Then along came Spotify. What an incredibly astute service, plugging a gap and injecting energy into a deeply personal part of my day.
Spotify and Shazam arrived simultaneously. I could be standing in the foyer of a cinema and, for once in my life, be able to glean the hard data on what the pretty people behind the counter were playing. What was the sound of flanged, Ween-like guitars combined with the laid-back grooves of JJ Cale? Oh, it was Mac De Marco.
Salad Days was my first ‘Spotify album’ if you like. I didn’t buy a copy. I hadn’t downloaded it to store awkwardly on my phone. There it was, in all its pushbutton glory; ready to be instantly accessed as the spiffy technology dictated.
Pretty soon after that, I had a breakdown.
I developed a myriad of intense abstract symptoms, including light and noise sensitivity. This coincided with my first shift living alone in a unit.
As a measure of protection from the clomping footsteps above, I bought a set of Bose QuietComfort, upon suggestion of my writer friend Paul Livingston who lived in a Sydney apartment. Life cancelling headphones. The next trophy in the pool room of my heart. What an emotional gift. The best present I can remember since the Rip Curl wetsuit in grade nine. The wraparound black material, shielding me from the harshness of the Antarctic ocean.
In 2015, with the flick of a switch I could paddle in an ambient birdbath of apricots sonics.
My headphones and headaches coincided with the discovery of new age ambient music on the streaming service. Perhaps it was Brian Eno’s Deep Blue Day which I first added to the ‘Chill’ playlist I frequent to this day. As a teenager, I would have ignored this gorgeous instrumental on the Trainspotting Soundtrack, but in my mid-30s, I was utterly intrigued by Eno’s Apollo album from whence it came.
Thanks to Spotify’s algorithm, (a clever copy of Pandora which had wowed me while visiting New York
in 2011, wherein you could type in an Ariel Pink song and have it synthesise a station based on his music – I’m sure that’s where I first heard Simple Minds’ New Gold Dream, - especially pertinent as one of my favourite techno songs from childhood, Open Your Mind by Usura, consists almost entirely of a sample of it) the nebula of downtempo-electronica artists fanned the subtle colours of their soundscapes.
To this day, I am agog at the spectrum of intercontinental ambient synth-lords. In conjunction with television friend SBS Chill I’ve even pinpointed two Tasmanian-based acts: All India Radio and Leven Canyon (the latter I have since reached out to and met up for coffee with in Hobart).
Without Spotify and Shazam, there is almost no way known I would have compiled the five hours of instrumental shuffle which some days spares my nervous system from agitation. Music (and technology) has provided an incredible balm for seething, abstract maladies. I’m in some kind of perpetual, celebratory awe for the richness and depth of my relationship with these soundtracks - at complete odds with the spark-deficit greyness of a decade ago.
Spotify is constantly under attack. It’s a confronting conversation for a musician and music lover who outsources vast swathes of discovery and experience to this program. I try to keep politics and art separate. My internal headlines have nothing to do with royalties. I describe Spotify as the first app that doesn’t feel like it’s trying to hijack my soul (of course, it could chill out on those podcast recommendations.)
There are days when I now push myself to play a CD or a tape instead. I know the quality and experience is more wholesome.
Yet, if I’m on a bus trip, I know which playlist I’ll be reaching for.
Justin’s new book Dream Burnie is out now and available from Paperchain Bookstore or via www.dreamburnie.com. Check out his playlist ‘small night in.’ justinheazlewood.com
Marking 20 years since his debut, Eli Paperboy Reed is bringing his high-energy, heartstopping live show to Australia, but this time, he’s not coming alone. Joining him are the Grammynominated Harlem Gospel Travelers (HGT) and Melbourne’s very own The Meltdown, creating an unparalleled triple-bill.
Eli Paperboy Reed is celebrating two decades of music with a special re-release of his very first album, Sings Walkin’ And Talkin’ And Other Smash Hits!, via Yep Roc Records.
Not only will each act deliver their own incredible set, but The Meltdown will lend their talents as the backing band for both The Harlem Gospel Travelers and Eli Paperboy Reed. Meanwhile, HGT will bring their soul-stirring harmonies to their own high-energy performance before joining Eli for his set, creating a seamless, genredefying night of music. Expect raw gospel, deep soul, and fiery R&B, all wrapped in a live experience you won’t find anywhere else.
Artback NT present The Jingili Song Project, a groundbreaking collaboration between Indigenous singersongwriter Stuart Joel Nuggett and country rockers David Garnham & the Reasons to Live. Their mission is to get toes tapping, while bringing attention to the severely endangered language of Jingulu, which is spoken by less than ten people.
Stuart plays at the National Folk Fest, also providing workshops for children where they can learn to sing a song in the Jingulu from the Barkly region of the NT.
The Steampacket is set to run an adjacent folk event to give interstate & International artists an opportunity to fill their weekend with music and to give a chance for people who can’t attend the National Folk Festival to see some of the amazing talent showcased there over the weekend.
Music is set to run over the course of the weekend showcasing various artists from across Australia and abroad.”
Friday, 18 April
Met Fa’oa 1pm- 4pm
Alice Hurwood - 4.30pm - 6pm
Mel Horsnell Trio - 6pm - 7:30pm
Vannessa Estrada - 8pm-9:30pm
Sunday, 20 April
Klaus Tiez 1pm - 4pm
Euan Hart - 4.30pm-6pm
Saturday, 19 April
Craig Woodward - 4pm-5:30pm
North & Elsewhere TBC - 6pm-7:30pm TBC - 8pm-9:30pm TBC - 10pm-11pm/11:30pm
Lewis DeLorenzo - 6.30pm-8pm
Joel Havea - 8.30pm-10pm
Beneath
a Belconnen branch of Supercheap
Auto lies a space awash with rich musical history. It has morphed and evolved over two decades, changing hands and scope, each owner aligning the facility with their vision. As Sound Underground, Blacksun Studios, and Valley Sounds, it has served the Canberra music community. And now, Peter Wade is writing his chapter with new(ish) Witness Protection Studios. We caught up with Mr Wade to witness what’s-what.
“I bought the business from previous owner, Danny ‘Wolfie’ Elliott, in June 2024for a little over the replacement cost of the studio equipment. Danny added great features to the recording space, and I saw great potential in expanding the offerings of the rehearsal room. As someone whose only involvement in the music industry was as an amateur musician, this was a leap into the deep end for me. But Danny was very helpful in handing over the reins, and many friends—some through the music community and some I’d known for ages—offered much help.
Non-binary Code signing the Guest Wall
The first change was the garage space. The first time I saw it, I decided to set up a performance space with FOH and Foldback speakers, stage lighting, et al.
I didn’t intend to run gigs from the stage, but make it available for bands (especially those with little stage experience) to practice performances in a live environment. Recording music videos or band photography is another function.
Gemini Dreams is a smaller room suitable for a solo artist, a duo, or a trio. Nevermind is our largest room and can comfortably fit a 7-piece band. Both the Nevermind and Velvet Underground rooms come with drum kit, bass, guitar amps, PA, and mics. The other rooms are ‘bare bones’ with only the PA and mics, with equipment available to hire. The aim is to provide options for those who want to save money and those who are happy to pay a little extra if it means they don’t have to lug their gear around.
One exciting development coming to fruition soon is the Nevermind room’s upgrade into a live recording space. I have obtained a fantastic 40-channel mixing desk, which will be installed with associated recording equipment in an adjacent room. Finishing the space off will be a soundproof glass window, creating a perfect environment band recordings.
The stage is 5m x 3m made up of 2m x 1m sections to allow reconfiguration. Need a catwalk? I can provide! As part of the ‘Live Stage’ experience, I created a greenroom side of stage to recreate the experience of a gig at The Baso or Smith’s.
The Greenroom is also great for chilling out, taking a break, and discussing the next set. It was obvious early on that we catered to a wide range of budgets, so my next intention was to open more rooms of different sizes with varied equipment included.
Agreat group of regular bands practice in the studio, and new groups always come in. The spaces have been used for photo shoots, recording music videos, and even small private events.
The rehearsal spaces are available 24/7, and booking is easy through the website witprostudios. com. You’ll receive a door code to let yourself in and enjoy your session. If you’d like to visit to see what we can offer you, contact me at info@ witprostudios.com, and any weekend or after hours, we can meet at the studio for the 10c tour.
Hog Jam preparing for their Family and Friends gig on The Venue
Spoilt For Choice rehearsing in Nevermind
Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers warming up on The Venue
Highland Light chilling out in the Green Room Facecutter in Velvet Underground
As the leaves tumble around us so, too, do myriad gigs. I’ve picked out this issue’s top events for you to attend, so let’s get on to it.
First up, on Thursday, 10 April we have CSO Down South: Water and
Orchestra heading to Tuggeranong Arts Centre (TAC) inspired by water, breath, spirit and song. Your performers for the night will be Sollis on flute, Samuel Payne on cello and Edward Neeman on piano. Doors open at 6pm and tickets are available on the TAC website for $32.90-$38.90.
And that’s not all. If you want to learn some dance moves (and why on earth wouldn’t you?), they will have a Tango lesson starting at 4pm, which will be included in your ticket, which you can obtain via the Smith’s website for $35. To attend the dance lesson, RSVP to bandoneonaustralia@ gmail.com.
For something completely different, an all-Canberra punk line-up beckons when punk rockers Gunk launch their debut EP REPULSIVE at The Baso on Friday, 18 April.
Be there to witness the start of an artist’s journey and be a part of the Gunk origin story. It’s also a bloody good opportunity to let your hair down and shake out all of life’s frustrations.
Joining them for this opening chapter will be Post Human, Fearetical, Herald and Grunmartle. Doors 7pm, tix $15 + bf via Oztix.
On Sunday, 27 April, Canberra Tango Quintet will perform The Journey of Piazzolla & Tango at Smith’s Alternative. The show kicks off at 6pm with MC DJ Jelin Palm welcoming you in.
The Quintet is made up of a unique blend of bandoneon, violin, double bass, guitar, and piano. This is a show of high regard, with “each member being a master of their craft, passionately dedicated to delivering unforgettable renditions of some of the world’s most beloved music.”
On Saturday, 3 May, Melbourne’s Agency Collective will perform with Canberra’s own Randles and Abbott. Dissent Cafe & Bar is where it’s at, with music kicking off at 8pm.
Longtimers
Agency Dub Collective has classic dubwise sounds and heavyweight rhythms with a full, spacious feel. They will play a mix of lyrical and instrumental songs that will get you dancing. You can grab your ticket now for $15 from Humanitix.
This last one is sure to put you in a good mood... 22 May sees the hilarious return of Sandwich Comedy the Tuggeranong Arts Centre!
Hosted by national headliner, award winning comedian, and foreverCanberran no matter where in the world her glittering career takes
her—the night marks the triumphant return of Tuggeranong’s only comedy club, which she started in 2019.
The night features a headline by Canberra based juggernaut of comedy, Tom Gibson and supports from National RAW Comedy finalists Trish Hurley and Nick Starkey and ACT Raw comedy finalist, Charlotte Kuruc. Tickets available from the TAC website until sold out.
Thanks for reading! Remember your jacket for the chill Autumn nights that are coming our way. Have fun dancing and laughing at these events - Jannah
How did you start on this magical musical journey?
As a kid, I sang my way through everything; I still do. Things clicked during my first year of university, in the middle of the pandemic, when I started flirting with music for fun. My guitar had been collecting dust and, in the spur of frustration, I started writing music to soothe myself.
What was then a time filler has now become integral to my life; I can’t see myself doing anything else but making and sharing my music.
How would you describe your sound?
At its core, the music I write is nostalgic, emotional, and very catchy. I usually have the music and lyrics locked in before I record anything. So, genre-wise, it depends on which producer I work with. I never write with genre in mind; I write to nail a feeling. My subject matter lies in observations, conversations, revelations… things that make me feel. Key tracks?
My debut album, Here For You, has just come out. So give that a whole listen-through if you’ve got a spare 30 minutes. You should be left feeling like you’ve been ridden, put away wet, dried off, brushed down, then wrapped in a warm blanket and tucked into bed.
It’s the bedtime story we all need, told by someone here for us. It’s an incredibly collaborative album that I am beyond proud to have made. Your influences, musical or otherwise?
The mega-disorganised family iTunes playlist that soundtracked my childhood had everything from Split Enz and The Black Eyed Peas, to John Denver and Powderfinger. Any museum made in my name should display that clip-on iPod nano shuffle front and centre, constantly playing. I owe my diverse tastes in music to that mixtape.
My Mum, Angela, is THE woman and a Canberra Music alumni. Back in the ‘80s, she was lead singer and songwriter band Made For TV. Following their success at a 2CCFM Battle of The Bands, they used the grand prize money to record a full studio EP. Mum’s prior musical experience, understanding of lyric structure, and the life that she’s lived have made her an invaluable asset to my career and an incredible role model in my life. I love my mum.
What are some of your most memorable experiences?
Some gigs that I’ve gone to have absolutely encouraged me in my music and my life. Experiencing music is such an energetic transaction; some shows leave me an emotional mess and have made me hungrier to make music that connects to others in the same way. I want to make music that has people celebrating life and love, calling their dearest friends to remind them of how much they love them.
Shows of note include the acoustic Archie Gang Gang gig, Sophie Edwards’ farewell gig, and Apricot Ink’s gigs. Anything that stirs something in me and makes me realise how lucky I am to be around and to hear things in the flesh. Mum always gets a tearful phone call after I’ve been to gigs like these.
What do you love about the scene?
I love how diverse CBR’s scene is. There is truly something for everyone here, and there’s no toe-stepping. People often leave to explore where they fit when the pond is more saturated; it’s a bigger challenge to make it elsewhere. Once we get more industry catchments happening here, Canberra will be even more colourful than it already is.
Tell us about one of your proudest moments:
My first gig with my supporting band, The Busters (opening for Rum Jungle at UC Hub) was very special. We were on second, in the perfect pocket of early-comers and stragglers.
I saw so many faces in that crowd that had been around since the early days of my music-making, and to see them in the context of such a big show shook me to my core. I came down from the stage and danced with the people who had made it all happen, who’d championed me in each stroke towards that first full band show.
What makes you laugh?
Watching Love Is Blind with my parents and the commentary that comes with it; hopecore videos; people getting swooped by magpies; other people giggling.
What pisses you off?
Slow Walkers. Black Licorice. Ulterior motives (if people were more direct about their problems, we could solve them faster). I know they’re better for the environment, but paper straws.
Anything else you’d like to add?
The advice I’d give to my 7-year-old self is to keep singing and dancing. Just because you care a lot doesn’t mean you should insert yourself as a solution to everyone’s problems; they aren’t yours to solve, but you can be the little light that gets them through.
And PLEASE bring those dirty dishes out of your room!
Where can people check you out?
My debut album, Here For You, has just come out and you should be able to find it in all the places you can listen to music. I’m headlining a STACKED Launch Party for the same album on the 12th of April at The Polish Club with some special local and interstate support acts. *NOTE every ticket purchase comes with a FREE limited edition “keepsake” ticket & a companion lyric-zine for the album + a few other sneaky extras.
You can find me on socials by looking up Stella Eve!
SPECIAL!!!
Nicholas Sofer-SchrieberThe Ginger Ninja
Bodyjar & Press Club headline Canberra’s Dansonfest 2025
Canberra’s favourite punk festivalDansonfest - returns to The Baso on Ngunnawal/Ngambri Country on Saturday 26 April 2025 and is excited to announce two blockbuster headliners from Naarm/Melbourne: Bodyjar and Press Club.
Bodyjar have kept their Canberra fans hungry for a live show since 2019 and time, the Australian punk rock icons will add tracks from their ‘New Rituals’ album to a setlist already studded with classics like ‘One In A Million’ and ‘Not The Same’.
Press Club - led by powerhouse lead singer, Natalie Fosterhave a massive year ahead with the release of their forthcoming album, ’To All The Ones That I Love’ in May and a European tour.
the Australian Government’s Revive Live initiative.
The 2025 lineup also boasts Steel City Allstars (Dharawal/ Wollongong), Amends (Dharug/ Western Sydney), Local Resident Failure, Boudicca and Jamie Hay & Liam White (all from Muluubinba/Newcastle) plus Nerdlinger, Ebolagoldfish and Modus Fire (all from Gadigal/Sydney).
Bodyjar
Both bands will help honour Nicholas “Nicky” SoferSchreiber, aka The Ginger Ninja, the local punk rock legend for whom Dansonfest was set up to memorialise in 2014.
After a hiatus of several years, Dansonfest returned to The Baso in 2024 and was allabout the comeback and a reunion for Nicky’s friends. In 2025, it’s all about thereestablishment of the festival as an annual fixture on Canberra’s punk rock calendar, with support from
Nerdlinger
And it wouldn’t be a Dansonfest without acts from The Ginger Ninja’s local scene, with Nelly Nova (Mel Sullivan from Box Dye), Revellers, Lamexcuse, Sketch Method, Dingusman 2000 and Super Best Friends (aka SUDS) reppin CBR punk.
So, grab your tickets from Oztix, chuck on the Dansonfest 2025 Spotify playlist or YouTube playlist - raise a glass and say, “Ted Danson!”... as in “Cheers”, get
it? people to share their favourite Gingerfest and Dansonfest memories (via @ Dansonfest.cbr and #Dansonfest) and above all, their memories of Canberra’s most enthusiastic little brother, The Ginger Ninja.“
By Tamsin Kemp
A whispered question below the surface of the melody haunts I Am Everything, the opening track from Press Club’s forthcoming album. Echoing throughout the song, it’s an instruction to listen. I was privileged to catch up with Press Club vocalist Natalie Foster to discuss the new listening they created for us.
Beginning with the Melbournian lifeforce infused in their music, I ask Natalie if this is deliberate and if it is vital that the music feels so local.
“Definitely”, she doesn’t hesitate. “When we first started getting into this rock thing, many of my influences were American.
“It’s difficult to find your voice, your accent, who you are as an essence. You can hear this American twinge on our first record. I was still trying to find the right amount of Australian. And what is the right amount of Australian?
“I didn’t particularly like the overly Australian accent,” Natalie says. “I’ve leaned into it more over the last few years. It’s been a conscious effort, not necessarily to sound more Australian but to find my voice”.
Is the personal and the musical evolution intertwined? Particularly when starting at such a young age?
“Well, you’re growing up at the same time, aren’t you? So it’s all happening together.”
Emerging adulthood is a throughline in Press Clubs albums, from Late Teens to Wasted Energy, Endless Motion, and now To All the Ones That I Love, exuding progression.
“It was semi-deliberate,” Natalie says of this. “It was intuitively there. The second album references the one before, and there might be references to the one before in the third. I’m putting little Easter eggs in them all, I think.”
electronic sort of thing. We were playing around, and then it hit: ‘Oh shit! How do we turn this into a Press Club song?’
“We soon knew we needed to just let these songs be what they are. Explore different textures, different elements.”
Do these changes lend the songs to different personas? That is the recorded live and then the live experience of it?
“Absolutely”, Natalie pipes in. “Especially this one. We haven’t played these songs together yet… it’s been built very differently from the rest of our albums. Previously, it was us in a room riding, jamming, and figuring it out, whereas this one’s been like piecing a puzzle together.
“It’s exciting!” she continues. “Trying to figure out what stays and what goes. We’re not big fans of backing tracks, so as we wrote the album and recorded, we very specifically decided that the recorded live versions would be these two entirely different things.
“They’re having two lives. We’re relearning and re-experiencing them.”
Passages on the album speak of struggle, with lyrics ‘it’s a long road, it’s a hard climb’, and the lines that bookend the album, imploring ‘Haven’t you heard me?’ in opener Name bookended by the despair of ‘Nobody’s listening...’ in closer Desolation. Disheartening, perhaps, but there are beautiful shining moments.
“There are hard parts, yet there is much more positivity,” Natalie confirms. “That’s how I felt. It’s hard. But if you work hard, many glorious things come back to you. You’ve got to embrace. Looking at those and appreciating them is important.
“The album’s title track is about how we’re constantly away, touring, our lives continually changing and evolving. But for me, that song’s about your people; those who, no matter how far you drift apart, you still come together, and they feel like home.
“To be able to come back to the people you love ... it’s something I’ll always be grateful for.”
Folk, But Not As You Know It: Inside Oz’s Most Transformative Music Festival
Words by Artistic Director Chris Stone (on behalf of co-artistic directors Holly Downes and Michael Sollis)
It starts with bunting. Endless colourful triangles strung above winding walkways, leading to stages tucked in tents and between trees. Before you hear the first note, you feel it—a festival unlike any other.
This Easter long weekend (April 17–21), the National Folk Festival (NFF) returns to Canberra’s Exhibition Park, and as one of its Artistic Directors, I’m inviting you not just to watch, but to participate. To sing, move, make, and connect. To be transformed.
Since 1967, the National has evolved from a grassroots gathering into Australia’s preeminent celebration of folk and acoustic arts. Together with my co-directors Holly Downes and Michael Sollis, we’ll be welcoming over 30,000 visitors and have programmed more than 120 acts and 960 individual artists across 560 events over five days.
But don’t be fooled by the word “folk”. This festival is no cliché. The 2025 program spans everything from blistering Celtic fiddle to genre-bending global fusion, vibrant dance parties to bold First Nations voices. It’s about stories shared.
This year, one of those stories belongs to Josh Pyke. We’re thrilled to welcome him to the Budawang stage, bringing his signature blend of lyrical warmth and melodic richness. Josh will also join a forum on community and creativity, something that lies at the heart of everything we do. For us, folk isn’t a genre—it’s a way of being together.
Some of the biggest names on the international folk circuit are joining him. Canadian artist Ruth Moody (of The Wailin’ Jennys) returns with her stunning vocals and poetic new album, Wanderer Fellow Canadian David Francey—three-time Juno Award winner and one of the country’s most respected songwriters—brings his powerful storytelling and lyrical honesty to the stage.
Exclusive to the Festival, Irish/Canadian powerhouse Irish Mythen, known for their soaring vocals and magnetic stage presence, returns with performances that blend fierce humour, raw emotion, and unforgettable energy.
Irish favourite Daoirí Farrell honours the legacy of traditional song, while Chilean troubadour Nano Stern offers a fiery blend of folk, rock, and protest music rooted in South American resistance.
Scotland’s Chris Stout & Catriona McKay will leave jaws on the floor with their virtuosic fiddle and harp work, as they paint cinematic soundscapes inspired by windswept coastlines.
Beyond the big names, the festival’s cultural richness and commitment to participation make it truly special. First Nations arts and culture will be celebrated throughout the program. Ngunnawal and Kamilaroi
custodian Richie Allan will lead workshops and talks that will offer a deep connection to Country and culture. Naarm-based GuriNgai artist Charlie Needs Braces shares powerful songs of resilience and identity. The Stiff Gins bring 25 years of harmony-rich storytelling, and Stuart Joel Nuggett weaves folk with Jingulu language.
From music to poetry to dance, acts like Suga Cane Mamas, Wiradjuri Echoes, and Postcards from the Sky ground the festival in shared story, truth, and celebration.
The NFF also invites you to dive in. Join a session, sing in the Festival Choir, or pick up a new skill in a workshop. The Ensembles program welcomes all levels to rehearse and perform with world-renowned musicians. Special events across the weekend add surprise and creativity—from the Opening Concert and Live at the National to Festival Made collabs and the playful Infinite Song Contest.
Forums, round robins, and the Farewell Concert round out a program built on connection, creation, and shared experience.
Diversity and inclusion are at the heart of what we do. This year includes events that celebrate and amplify underrepresented voices across the folk community.
The Queer Céilí invites dancers of all identities to take the floor in a joyful, inclusive take on traditional social dance. Our Being Young and Queer in Folk forum, hosted by Elias Alexander, offers space for open dialogue about finding and creating space in the folk music scene for young and queer artists, and how we can envision a folk-culture world with expanded boundaries and room for more perspectives.
And for those with lived experience of neurodivergence, we’re holding a dedicated forum to explore how festivals like ours can be more accessible, supportive, empowering, and celebratory.
Why come? Because here, you won’t just ‘consume’ music. You’ll become part of something bigger. As Artistic Directors, our programming is grounded in this idea. We’ve created pathways for everyone to immerse themselves in a transformative co-creation experience. Whether learning a new skill, stepping into a spontaneous performance, or sharing your story at a forum, the NFF invites you to explore new forms of self-expression and connection and find community through creativity.
This festival is built by and for community, thriving thanks to the artists, volunteers, stallholders, and audiences who bring their whole selves each year. It’s a place where you come as you are and leave changed.
Day passes and full festival season tickets are available. Come for the headline acts; stay for the unexpected. The NFF isn’t just something to see. It’s something to be part of. We look forward to seeing you there!
For more info, tickets, and program: visit folkfestival.org.au
Grammy award-winning musicians Rodrigo y Gabriela bring us their virtuoso guitar music this April, sharing new pieces they’ve created since their last visit.
Before getting onto all things music and life during my pleasant chat with Gabriela, we had to sort through the important matters first.
Her favourite drinks? “Oh, I love green tea and, like, oolongs. I also love Japanese green tea, like Sencha…But I also like kombucha”.
Her morning routine? “I love getting up early to do yoga and running in nature.”
Her favourite way to relax? “I love cartoons and anime, and I practise playing while watching. I love Avatar, the Airbender… and I watched all of Attack on Titans. But I watched very many Full Metal Alchemist.”
Her favourite dinosaur? “The Brachiosaurus, but I also like the Triceratops and T-Rex.”
But most of all, she’s excited to tour Australia!
“I love our fans there,” she says. “They’re so happy. I love nature, and the trees are absolutely remarkable.
“We’ve been vegan for many years now,” she adds. “When we started going to Australia, a long time ago now, we noticed how good the coffee was. And it was one of the first countries to offer veggie milk!”
Veganism is a significant part of Gabriela’s life, teaming up with her sister to create an organisation in her hometown called Cooperativa EcoVegana (Eco Vegan Cooperative).
“We organise cooking classes and use traditional foods like coconut and tamarind,” she enthuses. We love to make tacos. It’s very yummy, delicious and affordable.
“We always talk about animals, wonderful, beautiful creatures that they are.”
From one passion to another, Gabriela shares how she met Rodrigo.
“Oh, that was like past life!” she recalls fondly. “We were very young, maybe 15 or so. He was in a cultural house community centre in Mexico City, where it was all about kids playing metal.”
Gabriela joined Rodrigo’s metal band, but they left due to musical differences.
“We decided to quit trying to be famous and say goodbye to the idea of trying to promote ourselves. Rodrigo and Gabriela were attracted to metal music because “thrash metal is super rhythmic. It has a lot of drumming and a lot of riffs. But we were always attracted to guitar music. Even back then, Rodrigo was an
exceptional guitarist who knew exactly what he wanted. The guitar is such a universal instrument; you can play every genre of music on it.”
They busked their way through Europe, soon discovering their original music was catching. “People were stopping to intently listen to what we were doing,” she recalls. “During this process, we started to create a new sound, and that’s how Gabriela y Rodrigo, as we’re known today, began.
“We didn’t think about the future and had a lot of fun.”
“Busking is magical,” Gabriela says of her roots. “When you hear somebody playing, no matter what it is… it’s like a window to another world.”
Nowadays, the duo has been writing with electric guitars and a full orchestra. This new album is undoubtedly shaping up to be something big.
“It’s absolutely crazy, but we love it,” she beams. “We already want to share another album because we have so much material. I don’t play with the pick and do some of the things I do on the acoustic, but it sounds completely different on the electric. It’s gonna be for edgy and crazy people.”
On the writing process, Gabriela says, “The music we do is very visual and also has a story. Our musical methods balance each other like Yin and Yang when we write.”
The creativity further blossoms outside of the duo, with Gabriela sharing some exclusive news for the future.
“I have a little project that I haven’t launched yet. I’ve always wanted to be a vegan activist, but I’m too consumed by music to find the time to be one.
“So... I’ve decided to merge them! My project is called Music For Animals, and I have songs with lyrics in Spanish and English.”
But before she delights the world with that animal-loving act, there’s the imminent Australia tour and Canberra show to enjoy.
“We’ll play old classics, songs from Metabolism which haven’t been played here before, and some new unreleased music. We’re really looking forward to it.”
As are we! You can catch Rodrigy y Garbiela at the Canberra Theatre on Thursday, 17 April at 7:30pm. Tickets are $75 - $95 + bf via Canberra Ticketing.
METALISE
THE WORD ON METAL
WITH JOSH NIXON DOOMTILDEATH@HOTMAIL.COM
The caretaker period may slow the ebb and flow of life in the capital, but the riffs don’t stop, and the announcements for yet more riffs from home and abroad continue no matter who you wanna vote for (just not LNP or Trumpet Of Patriots, but you do you).
The big announcement to motivate you to slug through the winter is that in Spring this year you have a huge double header grind crusher landing at The Baso on Sunday, 7 September in the form of Pig Destroyer and Wormrot.
Pig Destroyer played The Green Room a loooong time ago, and the news they’re coming back was only enhanced with the announcement of their touring buddies for the 6 date Australian tour, which is none other than the ferocious Wormrot. You can thank the fine folks at Soundworks Touring for that one.
September is a big month for heavy. The first line-up announcement for Blacken Open Air dropped recently with the return of Blood Duster, Earthless, Carcinoid, Gutalax and local reps Witchskull, with many more to come. There are discounted flights to Alice Springs through the fest’s site, so get planning your red dirt adventure!
Brisbane also announced the first line-upline-up for their second Necrosonic Festival. A few legendary Australian metal names are coming back for that one, with Beanflipper, Daysend and Brace all making 2 odd decade comebacks for the event. I’m tempted to go just to have another excuse to have Impetuous Ritual cave my head in again. That one is on 23 August at the Mansfield Tavern.
Just make sure you save some energy for our own big metal weekend on 3 October, with Essence 2 announcing more bands lately, including Life Cult, Burden Man, Mammon’s Throne, Golgothan Remains, and Oar, to name but a few of the featured acts hitting The Baso later in the year.
Closer to home and closer to now, on Friday, 11 April at The Pot Belly another Mixed Bill Madness does what it says on the tin and mixes up another concoction to discombobulate the senses with psych rock guitar delights of New Rock Syndicate, the psychosis electronica of Cletus Vortex and the gutsy punk of Matriarch.
Saturday, 12 April at The Baso dollops up a thick dose of riffs with Volatile Ways, Thantu Thikha, Post Human Dance and Peace Maker throwing down the riff as hard as possible.
If that backroom action is too hard for you, the front room that same night sees a welcome return to town from Woollongong legends Tumbleweed with The New Christs and Charlotte and the Harlots. The weed dropped a new single, When We Were Young, a few months back, and it’s choc a block with the fuzzy delights that bring back nostalgia but feel fresh. Choose your poison!
Black Friday, 18 April, is a huge one for me at the Pot Belly as Pod People finally plays some shows in support of the new album Oblivion. The album saw a limited release late last year on French label Blackfarm Records, but now a new pressing has been done by the band domestically at the Zenith Pressing plant in Melbourne, and you can get yourself the album in wax on its Australian release now through the band’s Bandcamp (podpeopledoom).
Germany’s Earthbong is touring the country in April, and this show is on the Canberra leg. A stunning stoner doom band is well worth the price of admission alone, and the night is rounded off by Lucifungus, who is on board for the whole Earthbong tour. Come hang!
only ever type once before cutting and pasting in future, Temproraryreliefofloca lpainandinflammation.
More launch shows are coming, with Adelaide Metalcore Chaos Life Pilot dropping their self-titled record and rolling through Thursday, May.
3 locals Under Siege, Fearetical (who are playing heaps lately!) and the opener I will
Wednesday, 7 May, is undoubtedly on many folks’ calendars for the doubleheaded Finnish phantasm of Insomnium and Omnium Gatherum. The Australian tour is hotly anticipated, so if you haven’t got your tickets yet, you’re rapidly running out of excuses. Immorium is opening this one, and it’s gonna be a ball tearer.
Maniacal Japan blackened thrashtastic Abigail, joined by semi-regular NZ visitors Stalker on 14 May at the Baso.
Don’t come for mid-paced chugging or doom-plodding; this will be flat-out thrashin’ as long as it lasts.
The Saturday, 19 April at The Baso is a killer 4-band bill with Anoxia, Immorium, Vexation and Blackened Dred.
Anoxia is also launching a record, their debut in the shape of the hotly anticipated Revel in Sin with 3 east coast dates over April and May. Of course, Immorium featured in my end-of-year list for their killer Rose Water Black album last year and is in top form from their tour in support of the record last year. It’s gonna be a ripper.
And that’s yer lot for another month. See you next for further mid-year doom-y tidings.
THE DROP
[THE WORD ON EDM/DANCE MUSIC]
BY AEGIPAN SAMARAWICKRAMA - AEGIPAN101@GMAIL.COM
Greetings, weary travellers. It is I, Chief Lunatic Pan, returning once more to deliver all that is electronically holy. Rest a while; there’s much to discuss...
Auditory Cheesecake – four tracks of delightfully chunky, groovy, juicy techno to get fists pumpin’ and feet stompin’.
Reading’s whopping 20-year career is on display here. It’s a fantastically layered affair with some sweet melodic moments elevating the atmosphere built over the beats and bass, all polished with professional-level production that retains that dynamic human touch. Out now on Mindscape Records.
So... the literal last-minute cancellation of the Esoteric Festival deserves words.
Many made the trek down to Donald for the 8th Eso, only to be left high and dry mere hours before the gates were to open. I can’t imagine the heartbreak and disappointment after driving so far out to rural Victoria.
So it was uplifting to see so many renegade parties popping up in its stead. It’s the kind of “fuck it” DIY attitude that fueled the rave and doof culture to begin with. As a bonafide anarchist, it warms my heart to see good people finding ways to party.
Esoteric isn’t the only doof that’s been cancelled. Indeed, festival cancellation is a trend on the rise. The devaluing of live music and arts industries continues, and Canberra is not immune. Multiple clubs and venues closed, with RIPs to sideway, Transit Bar, and Reload; all three places where the underground had just started to find a home.
Thankfully, happier venue news is to come when we get to the gig guide.
It’s safe to assume that no help from the higher-ups is coming, so once again… fuck it, we’ll do it ourselves. Make your voices impossible to ignore (whether it lands on the ears of council workers, moneybags, or politicians). And use your democratic right responsibly this election and vote for those committed to sustaining these industries. Call your representatives, research policies, and use ya noggin!
Right... we can turn to our usual happier fare, starting with a couple of notable recent releases.
Friend of the column and all-round talented youngster Microbial released his EP Seriously Silly at the end of March, and it sure lives up to its name! Ferociously minimalistic without losing any psychedelic mojo, the four tracks on offer can best be described as two robots having a deep philosophical discussion while passionately going at (with R2D2 in the corner ranting about how humans wish they could become cybernetic).
Don’t believe me? Go have a listen to it yourself. All I can say is that Seriously Silly tickled my brain in just the right way.
Local legend and production wizard Ed Reading, aka Humanizm, delivers another cracker EP titled
Assuming that you’ve got one of these cracker EPs playing (brain serenaded by scintillating sound) let’s move on to upcoming gigs. We’ve got some big ones to cover, but first, some good news...
Canberra’s got a new haunt for the Territory’s discerning ravers – Beatsuite Boutique in Belconnen. With all of the solid venues closing down, a new one dedicated to providing a home for the scene is an absolute blessing.
Legendary crew Headz are Rolling have already found residency there post Reload closure. A night of strictly wax selectahs throwing it down early April served as a juicy warm-up. But Saturday, 3 May, will see the crew properly settle into their new home with Royal Rollers. You know the drill – free entry, local line-up, great vibes. Let’s show Beatsuite Boutique some love for keeping the scene alive.
On Saturday, 12 April, BYO rave Dissolve takes over a secret northside location from 9pm – 5am with a fat rig and a fullyfledged audiovisual experience for a night of D&B, breaks, techno, and prog house. Seriously, check out this line-up – Burley MF Bassweight, cspo, former column head honcho Kazuki, Lucidity, and Zala. This is a strictly 18+ event where only the best of vibes will be welcomed. If that tickles yer fancy, get on Facebook or their event website for tickets and further details.
And it wouldn’t be The Drop without Soliq Records and this time, newly-minted collective Bush Kulture present TWO big happenings: the Soliq Records Bush Birthday Party (April 24-25) and the launch of a new label called Chill Kitchen (25-27 April). Both are being held on private property in Kangaroo Valley, so if you’re up for the trip, you can expect three days of tunes and community amid a stunning natural backdrop. What’s this? Vision Entertainment and Dragon Dreaming are bringing award-winning Kiwi artist Opiuo to Canberra? And they’ve got Floridian bigwigs The Sponges supporting? Truly, we are spoiled. Friday, 2 May is the date to get your behind down to the old, repurposed Greyhound club in Symonston for a night of riotously funky big-bass fun. You will find me there with a smile and a spring in my step, absolutely tearing up the D-floor. This is unmissable.
And that’s it for another issue! As always, get in touch with anything EDM and EDMadjacent that you feel deserves a push. Otherwise, party hard, party safe... and party kind.
QL2 Dance presents Garden - a double bill of new contemporary dance performance created by James Batchelor (Berlin), Alice Lee Holland (Kamberri) and a cast of bright young collaborators.
Inspired by the poetic and cyclical nature of gardens, the work invites audiences into an immersive world where wildness meets intentionality,
and where every moment teeters between flourishing and fading. Garden is a living, breathing exploration of lineage, rebellion, and resilience. Movement, sound, and design come together to embody the inevitable rhythms of life; the wild chaos of thriving, the persistent challenge of survival and the tender emergence of new growth.
Andrew Kimber knows how to tell a story through music. A passionate saxophonist with a deep love for all kinds of music and the timeless sounds of swing, he draws inspiration from yesterday’s glamorous days with a show celebrating the music of the Rat Pack.
Having honed his craft over the years, Andrew has been a part of the Canberra music scene for over 20 years and is known for his energetic stage presence and dedication to creating unforgettable experiences for audiences. His love for music isn’t just a passion – it’s a way to transport his audience back to an era where the rhythm was infectious, and the energy was electric.
Andrew’s ultimate goal is simple: to entertain and connect with his audience through the power of music. If you’ve ever watched the Rat Pack perform, then you know what they had, audiences wanted.
“The Rat Pack show will explore the music and songs of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr., as well as those of Judy Garland, Ella Fitzgerald, and more,” Andrew said.
“You will hear all the classics, from Fly Me to the Moon, Mr Bojangles and Ain’t That a Kick in the Head. It’s a real tribute to the classics.”
Five talented Canberra vocalists, backed by The Canberra Jazz Orchestra, bring this show to life in their debut performance.
“This is a bunch of amazingly talented musicians from across the ACT,” Andrew enthuses. “I can’t wait for the people of Canberra to see them in action.
“I promise that everyone who comes will walk away laughing and singing the songs for days after,” Andrew promises.
And who are we to resist, non?
ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE
THU 10 APRIL
CSO Down South: Water and Wild
The CSO Down South concert series returns to Tuggeranong Arts Centre in April with a program inspired by water, breath, spirit and song. 6pm, $38/$32 + bf via TicketTailor
TUGGERANONG ARTS CENTRE
The Australian Bee Gees Show
Fresh from celebrating 14 years and over 4000 shows headlining on the Las Vegas strip, the Australian Bee Gees Show will be heading Down Under for the Australian leg of their Feel The Fever tour! 8pm, $75 + bf via Ticketsearch
THE B - QUEANBEYAN PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE
FRI 11 APRIL
Out of Abingdon
Out of Abingdon is a lounge, blues, jazz duo comprising double bass, guitar and vocals who are touring their new album Red Dirt Tracks Joining them will be locals The Curlies. 7pm, $15/$10 concession via venue
SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE
The AudreysRuin & Repair Album Tour
Their creative pursuits are a chance to pay ongoing homage to Goodall, and now courageously venture into a brand new chapter. 7:30pm, $40 + bf via venue
THE STREET THEATRE
New Rock Syndicate (Japan) & Cletus Vortex & Matriarch
Mixed Bill Madness is back with Japanese Psych rock band New Rock Syndicate, Psychosis Electronics by Cletus Vortex, and Fiesty Femme Punk by Matriarch. 8pm, $20 + bf via TryBooking
POT BELLY
Lounge Baby
Members Robert, Peter, Dave and Maeve play original songs. 8pm, free entry
OLD CANBERRA INN
The ENA Trio
Comprising bright young musicians Evan Teece, Nate Griffin, and Arland Shaw-Crocker, ENA play an eclectic mix of music from jazz, Latin and blues to gospel, funk and even hip hop. 8pm, free entry
DICKSON TAPHOUSE
SAT 12 APRIL
Trash Test Dummies Circus
Winning Best Children’s Presentation at Adelaide Fringe in 2015 and 2016, this “delightfully intelligent, highly entertaining” circus comedy takes the household wheelie bin to new heights, and delivers a dump-truck full of hilarity! 2pm, $15-$35 + bf via Ticketsearch
THE Q - QUEANBEYAN PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE
Woolf Media Presents:
The OCI Alt-Rock Fest ‘25
Showcasing some of the most in-demand rock groups from NSW & ACT, with Falconwulf, The Dustys, Dirty Suits, and many more. 3pm, free entry
OLD CANBERRA INN
Battle of the Brewers 1st Heat - James Southwell
James Southwell commands the stage like few others, with powerful riffs and vocals that bite. James and his incredible band are truly world class and would not be out of place on any stage anywhere. 6pm, free entry
DICKSON TAPHOUSE
Jazz Haus Canberra: Sax Koto
This Jazz Haus Canberra concert will be a magical evening that transcends cultural boundaries and celebrates the freedom of the human spirit. It is an essential experience for enthusiasts of cross-cultural music. 7pm, $45/$38 + bf via TicketTailor
TUGGERANONG
ARTS CENTRE
Volatile WaysPerfect Dark Album Tour
Volatile Ways will be taking their hard mosh death core on the road across April and May to celebrate the release of their debut album Perfect Dark. 7pm, $29.60 via OzTix
THE BASO
Tumbleweed & The New Christs: A Double-Header of Oz Rock Legends
This is the kind of night that only comes around once in a blue moon. Two of Australia’s most mythical underground rock bands join forces for a special double-header, complete with ample support from CBR’s own Charlotte & the Harlots. 7pm, $51 via OzTix
THE BASO
SUN 13 APRIL
Tori Drake & Brad ButcherThe Chain Tour
2024 saw both Tori Darke & Brad Butcher take to the National stage on The Voice joining Team Leann Rimes, a fruitful decision indeed! 2pm, $38.80 via Oztix
ROYAL HOTEL QUEANBEYAN
[Screening] Idiocracy
Directed by Mike Judge, Idiocracy is a biting satire that’s as laughout-loud funny as it is disturbingly prescient. Get ready for a comedy that makes you think… and cringe. 4pm, $12 + bf via Ticketsearch
THE B - QUEANBEYAN
PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE
Divine Devilles
Two well-travelled souls with a suitcase o’ songs and a love of that sweet, swinging, shuffling, grooving place where jazz & blues meet. 4pm, free
OLD CANBERRA INN
Flik
The CBR-based singer/songwriter combines featherlight fingerpicking with lucid and comforting vocals. 4pm, free entry
DICKSON TAPHOUSE
Invictus
Featuring the Canberra premiere of Howard Goodall’s Invictus: A Passion, Goodall’s Psalm 23, and Telemann’s Cantata Hosannah to the Son Of David. 5pm, $45 - $20 + bf via TryBooking
WESLEY MUSIC CENTRE
TUE 15 APRIL
Are You Lonesome Tonight
A unique celebration of country music and opera, ft. arias and songs by Puccini, Verdi, Slim Dusty, Troy Cassar-Daly, and Dolly Parton. 7pm, $30-$79.90 + bf via Ticketsearch
THE B - QUEANBEYAN
PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE
Open Mic Comedy 7pm, $0 via OzTix
THE BASO
WED 16 APRIL
Reginald Mobley & Paul Grabowsky - Because
In a true meeting of musical minds, Mobley and Grabowsky unite to present Mobley’s latest, much-feted album, Because. 7:30pm, $69/$65 + bf via venue
THE STREET THEATRE
THU 17 APRIL
Australian Theatre Live at The Mill
This April-May, The Mill Theatre presents films of live theatre, bringing magic, music, and mustsee drama to the big screen! From gripping classics to dazzling circus, sharp satire, and family fun with dinosaurs and fairytales. 6pm, $25 MILL THEATRE AT DAIRY ROAD
Ed Kuepper. Solo. At Last!
Audience favs, old beloved tunes and exciting new material, played lovingly and spontaneously. 8pm, $55/$49 + bf via venue
THE STREET THEATRE
Call Me Maybe x No Scrubs: ‘90s - 2010s Party
Calling all Barbie Girls, Teenage Dirtbags and Sk8r Bois, Call Me Maybe and No Scrubs team up for a prime party! 7pm, $22 via OzTix
THE BASO
FRI 18 APRIL
Gunk - Repulsive EP Launch
Belco punks GUNK celebrate debut EP, Repulsive, with chums Post Human, Fearetical, Herald & Grunmartle. 7pm, $18.40 via OzTix
THE BASO
Olivia’s World Album Launch CBR expats Olivia’s World pop back from Sydney to launch their Greedy & Gorgeous LP. With Vanishing Sound, Dog Name + The Bureaucat DJ set. 7pm, $15 + bf via Humanitix DISSENT CAFE AND BAR
Pactman
One hot DJ playin’ one hot mix of soul, hip hop, and funk. 7pm, free OLD CANBERRA INN
Tilt Trio
Playing jazz standards, Latin, blues, and crossovers. 8pm, free DICKSON TAPHOUSE
SAT 19 APRIL
Phil Coleman
Phil Coleman performs songs which cover a range of styles, including country, blues, and jazz. 2pm, free OLD CANBERRA INN
Anoxia w/ Immorium, Vexation & Blackened Dred Syd-based death metal juggernaut Anoxia is set to decimate stages via their highly anticipated debut LP, Revel in Sin. 7pm, $24.50 via OzTix
THE BASO
ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE
SUN 20 APRIL
Braydon Poacher
Playing an eclectic mix of covers that span over a variety of genres. 4pm, free entry
OLD CANBERRA INN
Phil Coleman
Performing songs covering a range of styles incl. country, blues, and jazz. 4pm, free DICKSON TAPHOUSE
WED 23 APRIL
DEAD (Vic) & Trigger Object (USA) & Aquellex
The traveling side show comes to Canberra! With added Aquellex to boot! 7pm, $15 + bf via TryBooking DISSENT CAFE & BAR
THU 24 APRIL
Lachlan McKenzieDepartures Album Launch
With Justin Yeo (tenor saxophone), Wilbur Whitta (piano), Jacob Graham (double bass), Alex Young (drums), and McKenzie (trumpet). 6:30pm, $25/$20 via venue SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE
st. sinner - subjects Single Launch w/ Deathbeds & Elara
Celebrating the single release with a massive hometown launch with local deathcore outfit Deathbeds and Sydney metalcore collective, Elara. 7pm, $13.30 via OzTix
THE BASO
FRI 25 APRIL
Anzac Day ft.
Two-Up & Moondog
A master of the blues harmonica, formidable guitarist, and a voice reminiscent of the great blues singers of old. 1pm, free entry OLD CANBERRA INN
Anzac Day ft.
The Department of Noise
A supurb covers band of exceptional musos that’ll have you sore from dancing and hoarse from belting out the words. 6pm, free DICKSON TAPHOUSE
Adam Kay - This is Going to Hurt: Diaries of a Junior Doctor Kay’s hit show returns after a 2024 sell-out. Based on his bestseller, the live show has been seen by 300k+ globally. 7pm, $60.90 + bf via venue CANBERRA THEATRE
SAT 26 APRIL
Dansonfest 25
The 2025 line-up features something for every punk fan, young and old! Something new, some classics, and some reformed bands from the heydays of the Aussie punk scene. 3pm, $59.95 via OzTix
THE BASO
SUN 27 APRIL
CBS April Pro Blues Jam
Last Call hosts CBS Pro Blues Jam. The host band will be followed by some of the finest musicians in the Canberra region, jamming together for a great afternoon of live blues music. 12pm, $15, Under 16s free HARMONIE GERMAN CLUB
Braydon Poacher
Braydon Poacher has an eclectic mix of covers that span over a variety of genres for everybody to enjoy! 4pm, free entry
DICKSON TAPHOUSE
Wade Forster
Following a Golden Guitar nomination for New Talent of the Year, and a sold-out East Coast tour, Wade heads our way. 5pm, $29.60 via OzTix
THE BASO
The Man Who Fell To Earth (Screening & Trivia)
Popstars On Film is a monthly series hosted by Venus Mantrap at Elsie’s Film House. Come for the trivia, stay for the movie! 5pm, $12/$16 via Humanitix
ELSIE’S FILM HOUSE
The Journey of Piazzolla and Tango
Extraordinary five-member ensemble, The Canberra Tango Quintet, bring the vibrant sounds of Tango to life via bandoneon, violin, double bass, guitar, and piano. 6pm, $35 + bf via venue
SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE
Nan’s Favs -
The Great Aussie Pub Crawl
Liam Dowling and Ben Christopher—two rising Oz comic stars—joined forces to become one of the most viral sketch duos in years. 7pm & 9pm, $51 via OzTix
THE BASO
TUE 29 APRIL
Podcast Live RecordingCameron Ribbons - Marky Worthington Comedy
Marky Worthington hosts a live podcast recording with special guest Cameron Ribbons. Crowd based segments, general live chat and chaos ensured. 7pm, $0 via OzTix THE BASO
Sweet Charity
The winner of 4 Tony Awards, including Best Choreographer (1965-66) and Best Revival (1985-86), about the adventures of Charity Hope Valentine, a hopeful dance hall hostess looking for love and a better life. 7:30pm, $55-$70 via theq.net.au
THE Q - QUEANBEYAN PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE
WED 30 APRIL
Ruby Gill - Some Kind Of Control Album Launch
Ruby Gill’s new anthemic, choir-laced, poetic epic LP is, in her words, “looser, gayer, and even more raw.” To celebrate, she’s bringing its ten body-focused, politically rich, and deeply intimate songs on a national tour across Australia. 7pm, $30/$25 concession via the venue
SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE
THU 1 MAY
Life Pilot Album Tour
Adelaide metalcore crusaders bring noisy, feedback-laced riffs, wild antics, a self-titled LP, and Under Siege, Fearetical, + Temporary... in support. 7pm, $18 via OzTix THE BASO
Jo Davie EP Launch
Nothing Comes Free
Jo launches her debut EP with her 5-piece band, and support Stella Eve. Immersive songwriting delivered via exquisite 3-part harmony. 7pm, $25/$20 via venue
SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE
Patient Sixty-Seven
Perth metalcore underdogs unveil a deluxe edition of their EP, What If It Never Gets Better, and an intimate CBR show. 7pm, $24.90 via OzTix THE BASO
Anna Smyrk & Anna Ransom
Two exceptional songwriters come together for one night! 7pm, $25
SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE
Sweet Charity
Score by Cy Coleman, book by Neil Simon, and choreography by Bob Fosse, Charity’s story features beloved songs and iconic dances. 7:30pm, $55-$70 via venue
THE Q - QUEANBEYAN PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE
CIMF: Magic Realism
Soaring melodies, rich harmonies, and profound emotional depth that blurs the line between dream and reality. 8pm, $18 - $70 + bf via venue THE STREET THEATRE
FRI 2 MAY
DJ Triga
Spinning a diverse and dynamic selection that creates an energetic and danceable eve! 7pm, free entry
OLD CANBERRA INN
CIMF: Magic Realism
Soaring melodies, rich harmonies and profound emotional depth that flits between dream and reality. 8pm, $18 - $70 + bf via venue THE STREET THEATRE
Pigs Arse Punk AllianceCBR Launch Party
Gigs & vinyls by punk fans for punk fans, with Matriarch, The Pingers & smallways launching the Alliance in style. 8:30pm, $15/$10 SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE
SAT 3 MAY
MOSSO: music in motion
Contemp music, moving images, and spatial sound via Australia’s top composers, sound makers, new media artists, and acts. 10am, $40 per event (many free) via Humanitix NATIONAL FILM AND SOUND ARCHIVE
Dixit Dominus
Canberra Choral Society presents two exquisite choral gems: Handel’s Dixit Dominus (The Lord Said) and Arvo Part’s Berliner Messe (Berlin Mass). 3pm, $30 - $55 + bf via Trybooking
ST PAUL’S ANGLICAN CHURCH
QL2 Dance presents Garden
A double-bill of new comtemp dance created by James Batchelor (Berlin), Alice Lee Holland (Kamberri) and a young cast of collaborators. 6pm & 8:30pm, $40/$32 via Humanitix THE FITTER’S WORKSHOP
Battle of the Brewers Heat 2
Enjoy world-class beers from prestigious breweries and pick who deserves the title! 6pm, free DICKSON TAPHOUSE
Tom WitcombeSelfies at the 9/11 Museum
A fearless hour of dark comedy, inspired by his honeymoon visit to Ground Zero, questioning our shameless society. 6:30pm,$25 + bf
MCGREGOR HALL
Lime Cordiale –The Love Is Off The Table Returning to their roots for a one-off tour to remind everybody who they are! 7pm, $81.07 via Moshtix
UC REFECTORY
SUN 4 MAY
QL2 Dance presents Garden
A double-bill of new contemp dance created by James Batchelor (Berlin), Alice Lee Holland (Kamberri) and a cast of young collaborators. 2pm & 6pm, $40/$32 conc via Humanitix
THE FITTER’S WORKSHOP
HoneyClub
CBR-based blues & rock duo playing an array of covers across several genres, peppered with their own spin. 4pm, free entry
DICKSON TAPHOUSE
Inez Hargaden
Inez Hargaden is an Irish singersongwriter from County Cavan who draws from folk, pop, rock, and jazz. 4pm, free entry
OLD CANBERRA INN
WED 7 MAY
Insomnium + Omnium Gatherum Finnish melodic death metal masters, Insomnium, bring their signature blend of haunting melodies and crushing riffs to their fans. 7pm, $85.70 via OzTix
THE BASO
THU 8 MAY
Volant
A journey that celebrates the beauty of birds, both in their physical flight and as symbols of freedom. 6:30pm, $30/$20 SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE
Friendlyjordies Presents: Alien Hunter
A comedy show truly out of this world. Friendlyjordies dives deep into the UFO phenomenon. Not with the tired “anything unidentified that flies is a UFO” bit, but actual ALIENS, baby! 7pm, $50 via OzTix
THE BASO
Infinity Broke Album Launch + special guests The King Hits Sydney avant rock quartet launch new LP This Masthead with The King Hits. 7pm, $15 + bf via venue SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE
The Burt Bacharach Songbook Immerse yourself in the genius of Burt Bacharach with The Burt Bacharach Songbook, a heartfelt tribute to the legendary composer. 8pm, $64-$69 + bf via Ticketsearch
THE B - QUEANBEYAN PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE
FRI 9 MAY
Volant - Jazz Quartet
Matthew Ottignon invites you on a journey celebrating the beauty of birds: their physical flight and as symbols of freedom. 6pm, $30 + bf SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE
Loud and Local
CBR’s five best noise-makers— Transista Groove, The Duds, Doxxed, Adventure St, and Capybara Spa—bring a bizarre mix of ska-punk, acoustic punk, and trans rock. 7pm, $18.40 via OzTix
THE BASO
JD Band
CBR-based traditional and contemp acoustic roots music collective. 8pm, free entry
OLD CANBERRA INN
Shivi Vachaspati Trio
CBR-based trio performing a mix of experimental jazz fusion via a tight, well-versed act. 8pm, free DICKSON TAPHOUSE
SAT 10 MAY
The Vegetable Plot
Album Launch
CBR families, gather up the little ones and join beloved Oz kids band The Vegetable Plot in celebrating their delicious new LP, Season Three. 2pm, $20 + bf via venue
SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE
The Bad Habits
Playing versions by the greats, incl. Steely Dan, John Mayer, The Eagles, The Neville Brothers and many more. From rock and blues to New Orleans groove, expect the funky end of the blues and soul spectrum. 2pm, free entry
OLD CANBERRA INN
20 Years Of Eli Paperboy
Reed w/ The Harlem Gospel Travelers & The Meltdown
Marking 20 years since his debut, Eli Paperboy Reed returns to Oz with his soul-drenched live show, featuring Grammy nominees, the Harlem Gospel Travelers. Expect a passionate, sweaty performance. 7pm, $86.70 via OzTix
THE BASO
The Jazz Haus Canberra: Joe Chindamo
Enjoy an evening of brilliant jazz piano performed by Joe Chindamo - a musical polyglot whose art defies classification. 7pm, $45/$38 + bf via TicketTailor
TUGGERANONG ARTS CENTRE
Fergus Neal - Fergie Ferg
An emerging powerhouse of Australian comedy. 7:30pm, $39.40 + bf via venue
THE STREET THEATRE
SUN 11 MAY
Moondog
Master of the blues harmonica and a formidable guitarist, singer, and songwriter, Moondog holds an authenticity reminiscent of the great bluesmen. 4pm, free entry
DICKSON TAPHOUSE
Flik
CBR-based singer/songwriter, Flik, combines featherlight fingerpicking with lucid and comforting vocals in a project brimming with vulnerability. 4pm, free entry
OLD CANBERRA INN
WED 14 MAY
Abigail (JP) & Stalker (NZ)
Japan’s Blackened Thrashaholics Abigail and New Zealand’s Speed Metal Abusers Stalker are set to take over Australia and New Zealand in May 2025! 7pm, $63.25 via OzTix
THE BASO
If We Got Some More Cocaine I Could Show You How I Love You
John O’Donovan’s darkly comedic romantic drama follows Mikey and Casey, two gay young men marooned atop a rooftop in County Clare, Ireland, hiding from the Gardai after robbing a service station.
7:30pm, tix from $30-$45 + bf via Little Box Office
ACT HUB
Ross Noble: Cranium of Curiosities
He is the Wizard of Waffle, The Rambler Royale, The Noodlers’ Noodler, and he’s back live on stage to tour a tornado of tangents. What the show will be about is anybody’s guess, but that’s all part of the fun in Ross’ Cranium of Curiosities. 8pm, $54.90 via Ticketsearch
THE B - QUEANBEYAN
PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE
THU 15 MAY
Exhibition: SPLIT OPEN
SPLIT OPEN is Natasha Tareen’s first solo exhibit, weaving Central Asian mythology, femininity, and personal storytelling through ethereal scrolls, dark spaces, and reimagined objects. 6pm, free RSVP
M16 ARTSPACE - GALLERY 2
