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WHO: Sean McMahon’s Western Union WHAT: Live Indie-Folk WHEN: Thu Dec 6 WHERE: The Phoenix Bar
In celebration of their recently released album, Live at the Last Hotel, Melbourne indie-folk trio Sean McMahon’s Western Union are heading to Canberra to play a very special show at the city’s most homely and inviting Irish den. Live At The Last Hotel has received glowing reviews and was described as ‘a journey through heartfelt alt-country soul that beautifully conveys the story of a singersongwriter’s love affair with the American songbook and a ‘30’s Kay guitar.’ If that don’t tickle your fancy then stay home and eat a plate of shit. Don’t miss out on an engaging performance. 9pm. Free.
WHO: GROMITS & ABOVE WHAT: Downhill Skateboarding Race WHEN: Sat Dec 8 WHERE: TBA (North Canberra)
Attention all 18-and-under skateboarders: looking for a way to show your skills and bag prizes? Enter the ACT Grom Bomb, a downhill skateboarding race for beginners to rippers. Five 90-degree corners, one necessary pre-drift, 600 metres, ridiculous speeds, awesome prizes. Got what it takes? If you’re under 18, unless one of your parents comes along to sign you up, you’ll need to download a waiver for them to sign and for you to bring along. No waiver, no race. Get it here (and keep an eye out for the location too): skateboardracing. org.au/events/canberra-grom-bomb. 18-year-olds can race but results won’t count towards points. $10.
WHO: Canberrans at Christmas WHAT: Christmas Carnival in the City WHEN: Mon Dec 10Fri Dec 21 WHERE: Civic, Canberra City
What do a lifesaver, a camel and a carnival worker have in common? Answer: they will all play a part in Christmas Carnival in the City. Civic Square, City Walk and Garema Place will be transformed into an adventure playground as Canberra CBD Limited bring Christmas cheer to the city. Bungee trampolines, camel rides, bumper boats and rock climbing are just some of the activities that will be scattered around the city for people to enjoy. Lifeguards from Royal Life Saving ACT will also be on hand to provide information to the public on the importance of safe play around water in the warmer months ahead. Doesn’t that sound validating? 12-8pm daily. Free.
WHO: Joe Robinson WHAT: International Tour WHEN: Thu Dec 13 WHERE: The Street Theatre
Hailing from the tiny town of Temagog on the mid-north coast of NSW, guitar genius Joe Robinson has been wowing crowds with his playing ability since he was 13, drawing praise and admiration from his industry heroes for his prodigious skill. Now based in Nashville, the 21-year-old has earned a list of credentials that would make most musicians three times his senior envious. The gifted young virtuoso has redefined himself as a budding pop visionary, deftly walking a tightrope between the instrumental music that’s put him in the spotlight and a unique fusion of vocally based rock, blues, jazz and R&B that’s his own. 8pm. $21/$25 + bf thru thestreet.org.au.
WHO: The Ocean Party WHAT: National Tour WHEN: Sat Dec 15 WHERE: The Phoenix Bar
The Ocean Party is a five-piece guitar pop band now based in Melbourne, originally from Wagga Wagga, NSW. The sound is laconic and innately Australian, having been referred to as ‘backyard afternoon BBQ-core’. The themes of the lyrics delve into country suburban life, null-appreciation, boredom, heartbreak and all in-between. Finding an appreciative climate in Melbourne, the band has had a productive past few years. The Ocean Party demonstrate the perfect pop music balance with their threeminute songs, as lush as they are brief and to the point. With supports Mornings, Old Ace and Birds Love Fighting. 9:30pm.
WHO: Parkway Drive WHAT: ATLAS Tour WHEN: Sun Dec 16 WHERE: UC Refectory
Byron Bay’s Parkway Drive will embark on their most ambitious Australian tour yet this December to coincide with the release of their fourth album, Atlas. After their previous chart-topping album, 2010’s Deep Blue, took out the ARIA award for Best Hard Rock and Metal release, Atlas has led to a more elaborate live show than ever before. Promises frontman Winston McCall, ‘It’s definitely going to be entertaining. There won’t be any dead spots.’ Seems like they’ve covered all bases, with a boastworthy all-Aussie lineup (I Killed The Prom Queen, Northlane and Survival) on board to support a shattering show. 7:30pm. $45.90 + bf thru Ticketek.