Mint (issue 8) October 2015 by Mint Magazine

# 8 • october 2015

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SARAH FRANCES JOHNSTON

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ADRIAN THOMAS By Terri Lee Fatouros

Meet nice guy Adrian Thomas, singersongwriter of The Adrian Thomas Band. Recently he and fellow band member Ash, his friend, together with Brendan Salmond, drums and Guy Pacqiadio bass, launched their music video called Loverboy to an appreciative crowd at The Cellar Bar in Inkerman St, St Kilda.

housing. With realisation, compassion, and understanding of his life’s journey, he returned to the area he grew up in as an adult mentor and teacher to young people. Nowadays, with a black belt in Kung Fu, he teaches young kids discipline and strength, and also runs song writing workshops for them to express themselves creatively.

ARIA award winning producer Peter Reggie Bowman, producer of Loverboy, was able to portray Thomas’s message of love, hope and the celebration of life significantly throughout the film clip.

“My dream is a world where people both young and old learn to accept what is inside and outside, where we encourage understanding and support our youth with equal opportunities to grow, to wake our dreams into reality. I believe we are all capable of great things if we work hard, work together and don’t give up,” Thomas says.

Thomas is a singer with a big voice and a bright future. On stage his passion and positive attitude is contagious as is his uplifting, lyrically driven songs seeped in country roots, influences of rock and modern overtones. Thomas applies a breathtaking and upbeat presence to every performance and his versatility in delivery of optimistic songs inspire and challenge, whilst his ballads open the heartstrings. I did feel this watching him sing and move on stage, especially in his song Medicine For You a tune about women worthy of being loved by genuine men. Thomas has experienced his own sadness with the loss of his mother at an early age. He grew up yearning for the “feminine nurturing” which ironically brought him to his conclusion how important it is for a child, but equally important for an adult man, to experience as well. All of his songs are about empowering women because his regard for women is held most dear to him.

There’s gentility surrounding both men and their insightfulness for their young years is refreshing. In Thomas’s words: “Some people have alternate philosophies on what is going on and all of us are in a big cycle at different stages, just as the earth is. The more stuff going on, the more closely some of us get to who we are underneath the skin. I’m not sure what the truth is, just trying to learn and make the best decision I can that brings me closer to my truth. I don’t think the world is going to end anytime soon. For me it’s about moving through the fear to get to love…..” Keep a look out for Adrian Thomas Band doing their happy gigs around the ‘burbs. adrianthomasmusic.com.au

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His growing years saw him surrounded by drugs, alcohol, crime, and public

Ash on lead guitar writes the essential guitar riffs to most of the songs, adding his zesty and energetic dynamism to the mix.

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A music, arts, events & entertainment magazine for the Peninsula & Bayside.

EDITOR: Cameron McCullough – editor@mintmagazine.com.au ARTS EDITOR: Andrea Louise Thomas – artseditor@mintmagazine.com.au CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Maria Mirabella – creative@mintmagazine.com.au SALES: Ricky Thompson – 0425 867 578 – sales@mintmagazine.com.au PHOTOGRAPHERS: Gary Sissons and Yanni CONTRIBUTORS Terri Lee Fatouros – terri@mintmagazine.com.au Greg Fisher – greg@mintmagazine.com.au Lachlan Bryan – lachlan@mintmagazine.com.au Ray McGrotty – ray@mintmagazine.com.au Stuart McCullough – stuart@mintmagazine.com.au Neil Walker – neil@mintmagazine.com.au Andrew Dixon – andrew@mintmagazine.com.au CONTACT US: 1/2 Tyabb Rd, Mornington, 3931 – Ph: 5973 6424 FREE MONTHLY - 15,000 COPIES Available in over 1,000 outlets from Sandringham to Portsea and everywhere in between. For more info on locations visit: mintmagazine.com.au For advertising enquiries or info about sponsorship or event packages, contact Ricky Thompson on 0425 867 578 or sales@mintmagazine.com.au Facebook: mintmagazinehq

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THE CHISELS ARE BACK By Melissa Walsh

Cold Chisel is back with a vengeance, performing a heap of One Night Stand shows, to coincide with the release of The Perfect Crime, the follow up to their 2012 comeback studio album, No Plans. Kicking off with the Deni Ute Muster, the One Night Stand shows will take in towns in regional areas across Australia, as well as major towns and cities with recently released shows in Geraldton, Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney. The highly anticipated tour will see Grinspoon as special guest on seven of the shows. The album features songs drawn from recording sessions across 2014 and 2015, kicking off with the single Lost which has already been well received.

years,” says Moss. “The others were more hard rock. While music is an evolving process, every track on this album was intentional.” Moss says that putting this album together has been a steady cruise of getting songs together. “It was like the old days when you’re keen and you’ve got the whole band writing songs. In those days if you were fortunate enough to get a record deal, you would have to follow it up soon with another album. The pressure was on to turn it around in far less time. When we released No Plans, everyone kept writing and building up more songs. As soon as we had enough tracks, we got back together and started laying them down.”

Described as “the most rock and roll album” Chisel has ever done, it’s a combination of the old crew getting together to create something they’ve been wanting to do for years.

Moss and the lads starting laying down tracks in July last year, and the album is one that they’re excited about, with 2015 shaping up to be one of the biggest and best in Cold Chisel’s unparalleled four decade career.

Ian Moss says the album is a true rock and roll album in the sense that the energy levels are really high.

When it comes to longevity, nobody does it better than Cold Chisel, which Moss says is about the songs first and foremost.

“It’s the most number of tracks that are up-tempo with high energy levels, and an album that we’ve been trying to make for

“One of the main reasons is Don Walker’s belief that your songs have to be written from the heart. He is adamant about that as

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that is what makes a good song last. They have to mean something to people and he is pedantic about every last word and syllable. When I write I have to believe in every part of my songs. It would be easy to force words but you have to feel it in your heart, so I follow the same principle,” says Moss. “I live and write and keep trying to improve as a writer.” Born and raised in Alice Springs, Moss joined his first band when he was 14 and within a year had started his own band. At the tender age of 18, he started with Cold Chisel and hasn’t looked back, enjoying continued success with the band and with his own successful solo career. “When I started with Cold Chisel I was very young and still trying to figure things out. I had been in different bands but hadn’t found the perfect fit until then,” he said. “With Cold Chisel we knew straight away we had something going.” He sure was right, with 6.7 million albums sold in Australia, ARIA Hall of Fame inductees, thousands of sellout concerts across the country, and eight albums entering the ARIA top 100 album chart, and by 1980 being the biggest band in the country. “When the band dispersed after 11 years it

was kind of sad but we all wanted to go off and do our own thing. It was our chance to go solo and do other music that didn’t suit the Cold Chisel style,” says Moss, who by then enjoyed the status as Australia’s best guitarist. After five years of nurturing a new sound, Moss finally released Tucker’s Daughter, which he wrote in collaboration with Don Walker. The anthemic song sat in the top 10 for eleven weeks and then hit number one for two weeks, and his solo career had begun. For Moss, the challenge with his solo career has been becoming musically educated in the area of jazz. “You always keep learning, and I continue to work on developing and feeling more comfortable in the jazz and blues area, doing songs like Georgia on my Mind well,” says Moss, who will put aside his solo career for the next few months to concentrate on the One Night Stand tour. “We’re all looking forward to getting back out there, performing at the Deni Ute Muster, Hanging Rock and places like that,” says Moss, proving that the Cold Chisel chemistry has not evaporated with the passing of time. It is well and truly palpable, giving fans the real Cold Chisel experience once again.

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ABDUCTED BUT NOT BY MAD COWBOY DISEASE UNPLUGGED AND UP CLOSE By Terri Lee Fatouros Do you remember back in 2011 when a guy by the name of Warren Rodwell was abducted by Islamic extremists and held captive for ransom for 472 days? During this time there was a media blackout by both the Australian and Philippines government. Recently I spoke to Rodwell via phone and in brief, he told me his story: On the night of 5th December 2011, Rodwell was supervising workers renovating his house where he lived in the Philippines when suddenly four armed men dressed as policemen confronted him with military weapons and kidnapped him. They thought him wealthy so it was a kidnap for ransom. During his ordeal one of the kidnappers shot him through the hand. Rodwell claims they were Islamic extremists and kidnapping was a profitable business. He was held in appalling conditions for 472 days. When he was finally released in March 2013 after a large ransom had been paid, his physical condition was extreme. He had lost a lot of body weight and was in severe poor health and suffered anxiety. However, this story is not about his kidnapping, rather it’s about his transforming and growing personally from his horrendous experience and his song that came out of it. Once home, he suffered with extreme depression and anxiety for a long time. He continuously felt numb, was in shock and reliving the threatening scenarios over and over again in his mind. He stared at the

walls and moped around. Terrifying thoughts overwhelmed him. However, he slowly began to heal by writing all these thoughts down in the form of song lyrics. Therapists call this post-traumatic growth, and instead of going into full blown posttraumatic stress disorder, his traumatic ordeal allowed Rodwell the opportunity to grow personally from his horrendous experience and to tap into his muse allowing him to heal with his ability to express his self-creativity. Hence the Situation Not Normal song was born out of his ordeal. This gut-wrenching but almost danceable song outlines his suffering in a frank nonbitter way. It was composed and performed with an “Arab blend gangster rap feel” by techno Cowpunk band Mad Cowboy Disease, from the Blue Mountains in NSW, which has Josie Critter as their front man. The tune, lyrics, instruments, and of course Josie Critter’s deep voice really come across as a finely crafted dark, powerful, haunting yet rhythmic, blend, timed to perfection. Mad Cowboy Disease formed in 2007. Its six piece line-up consists of bass, lead, violin, polysynth, harmonica, digiphone, (like a sliding didgeridoo and is played like a trombone), with Patsy Inclined on keyboard. Having received widespread television and radio airplay as well as positive critical acclaim from the media, Mad Cowboy Disease have also released three albums

in the form of One Trick Pony, Let Them Eat Road Kill and Frontier Veterinary Science. Their fourth album as yet untitled will feature Rodwell’s Situation Not Normal. It was through social media that Rodwell met Critter and they clicked immediately. He had already penned his lyrics but when he heard Critter’s deep voice in a particular song, he knew then that this was the voice he was looking for. When I chatted to Josie Critter he told me that they like to “take the piss” out of a situation and pen lyrics to it. Rodwell’s experience was out of the ordinary and it suited their music style very well.

Melbourne in January 2016 for the Epilepsy Awareness Concert. When all arrangements are finalised, concert details will be announced. Luckily for us Melburnians we will have the opportunity to hear the live debut version of Situation Not Normal while they are here. For further information on the kidnapping of Warren Rodwell, go to: warrenrodwell.com Mad Cowboy Disease details via Facebook or: triplejunearthed.com/artist/mad-cowboydisease

Mad Cowboy Disease will be gigging in

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BOY & BEAR’S NEW ALBUM OUT Written together as a full band and recorded live to tape with Ethan Johns (Ryan Adams, Kings of Leon, Kaiser Chiefs), Boy & Bears third studio album Limit Of Love is has been released. Recorded in the inspirational surroundings of Peter Gabriel’s Real World Studio, Limit Of Love has already been met with great praise across the country.

THE WAINWRIGHT SISTERS RELEASE DEBUT ALBUM

The Wainwright Sisters will be releasing their anticipated new album Songs In The Dark on 13 November.

same songs, some penned by their mothers and father (Loudon Wainwright III) on Songs In The Dark.

Although they’re sisters, Martha Wainwright and Lucy Wainwright Roche didn’t grow up together. Aside from genetics, their true bond was a musical one, both growing up in families steeped in songwriting. Both their mothers would sing them lullabies (Kate McGarrigle to Martha and Suzzy Roche to Lucy) – now, to honour that 30 years later, Martha and Lucy are singing many of these

The record also includes songs that shaped their childhoods, made famous by the likes of Woody Guthrie and Jimmie Rogers. When Martha and Lucy grew up and became songwriters of their own, they discovered their physical separation was trumped by their shared musical DNA. On Songs In The Dark, this is captured in its elemental essence: dark, mysterious, and beautiful.

The first single released from the album, Walk the Wire, fuelled by a gritty guitar and synth groove was instantly added to Triple J (reaching number 1 Most Played) and the Triple M

Network. Driving the success of the song at radio and online has been the hilarious and somewhat out-of-character video for Walk The Wire, directed by award winners Darcy Prendergast and Josh Thomas from the Oh Yeah Wow, (Gotye, The Paper Kites, Hermitude). Anyone who has seen five-time ARIA winners Boy & Bear perform will attest to their power as a live outfit. With three full-length albums and hundreds of hours of gigs under their belt, the band will be taking their show to Europe and the USA with the Australian National Limit Of Love Album Tour to follow early 2016.

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JOHNSTON MESMERIZES ALL By Terri Lee Fatouros

I caught up with the gorgeous and talented Sarah Frances Johnston at Beach 162 recently and over coffee we chatted about her amazing journey to stardom in the U.S.A and in her hometown of New Zealand. Johnston has been in the public eye since she was 11, starring in the New Zealand soapy called Shortland Street which would probably be equivalent to Australia’s Home and Away. She also starred in a European TV series called Tomorrow’s Another Day, and modelled for Coca Cola, Digicel and Toyota as well as appearing in local and international commercials. However, singing was her passion so from the age of 17 Johnston dropped acting and has focused on her love for it ever since. In the past, audience members have included a former Australian Deputy Prime Minister, the Head of State on the island of Samoa (The Hon. Tupua Tamasese) and various other dignitaries. However, her stunning good looks, sensual, sultry moves, and silky vocals have caught the attention of many prominent people within the music industry. To the extent that after relocating to the US in 2009, Johnston was given the first ever permanent residency at the prestigious Eiffel Tower Restaurant in Las Vegas, a feat no other artist has so far achieved. Celebrity chef Alex Stratta, the band Cheap Trick and Oscar Goodman, former mayor of Las Vegas have been privy to her talent as well as Carlos Santana, who came especially to see her perform and afterwards shared words of wisdom with her. Says Johnston: “He asked if he could sit down and chat with me and I said, ‘of course, of course’ and he said ‘you have a gift from God.

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Mine is in Guitar playing, your gift is in singing’. “He then asked, ‘what do you do every morning when you wake up, what’s your goal?’. At that time I said I don’t know because I didn’t take my music that seriously back then. But he said to me, ‘when you perform it should be to harpoon the hearts of your customers’. “He continuing sitting and chatting to me for about 30 minutes and spoke about the music industry, what to look out for, what to do, and that he really enjoyed my performance and said he will be looking out for me in the future and wished me very well. It was a great experience to meet him as he was a humble and genuine man.” Johnston performed at the 5 stars Eiffel Tower Restaurant in The Paris Casino for four years, along with numerous other casinos in Las Vegas. Her genre is ‘lounge music’ with a cabaret feel to it. She enjoys performing as she sings and dances around while having fun with the crowd. “It’s a mix of 80s and 90s jazz covers and a bit of country too. I recorded a jazz acoustic standard covers CD a couple years ago and that is available through my website.” It’s not surprising that Carlos Santana was impressed with Johnston’s talent as not only has she gained a reputation of performing for exclusive audiences at Five Diamond venues in California and Las Vegas, The Pebble Beach Resorts, The Ritz-Carlton Hotels and more, she was voted as Las Vegas Best Lounge Singer 2012 by the Las Vegas Sun. Keep an eye out Sarah Frances Johnston, as she will be back at Beach 162 in Frankston very soon. For more information on Sarah see sarahfrancesjohnston.com

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RUNNING TOUCH: NEW TALENT DAWNING By Neil Walker and heavy metal influenced band so it’s strange to reconcile Running Touch’s love of those genres with his move into dance beats evidenced on the likes of What’s Best For You and It’s All Around Me.

Running Touch is a Mentone man of mystery. The 21-year-old electronica singersongwriter, who is nameless and faceless in publicity shots, is a jack of all musical trades but listening to efforts such as his latest song This Is Just To Say it’s apparent he is certainly a master of blissful beats and smooth vocals with an urban edge.

“People will often say ‘I listen to everything but metal and country’. I’m that kid who loves everything and metal and country. If I hear something something and I like it I want to write that kind of music.”

The vocalist, lyricist, guitarist, pianist, producer and poet (yes, poet) is off to a good start and is making a name – if not a face yet – for himself on the festival circuit after winning Triple J’s Unearthed Artist of the Week award in July. Describing his music as “post-modern electronica” that “kind of just floats between that kind of Chet Faker vibe and more dancey stuff”, Mentone based Running Touch says he has his sights set on “putting out a body of work out as soon as possible to let everyone know what I’m about”. Running Touch told Mint he prefers to remain anonymous for now and let the music do most of the talking because “I’m involved in another couple of projects”.

“These days it’s very easy, especially when you start something, for the image to impair you. Doing something like this literally allows you to wholly focus on the music because no-one knows who you are.

The professionally trained pianist also plays the violin, “picked up a guitar at the age of about 11 and loved it” and is still keen “to learn to play as many instruments as possible”. It’s an ability to cut it live that has made the music industry sit up and take notice. Unlike some of his DJ peers, Running Touch plays instruments on stage to be added into the live sound mix.

“All you have to do it put music out … and leave the rest to the winds and it’ll work itself out.”

There have been challenges on the live stage despite how effortless he makes it all look.

One of those “other projects” is a grunge

“It was actually a lot harder than I thought

it’d be. Some of the songs, including newest single This Is Just To Say, are quite mellow and soulful. It’s often easier to play the bangers.” Next on the cards for the long-time bayside resident is a trip down memory lane with a New Year’s Eve gig at the Portsea Hotel. “I used to go there for fish and chips with mum and dad all the time. The long drive from Mordialloc to Portsea is great. It’s a beautiful pub.” Keep an eye out for other local gigs and get in on the start of something big. Triple J head honcho Richard Kingsmill, a man who decides what Australian listeners hear on the national airwaves, rates Running Touch highly. Kingsmill reviewed This Is Just To Say on Triple J’s website this month: “Five stars. Never thought twice about it.” Running Touch plays the Portsea Hotel on 31 December (New Year’s Eve). Listen to his songs at Soundcloud.

A FRESH NEW AVENUE FOR ASPIRING SINGERS

Hit Makers Australia Director Sean Declase describes the music school as “A world of opportunities.”

Beginning in Mordialloc and now growing into three new locations, HMA delivers a twist to the traditional singing lessons method. “The idea was to create a place where students can learn the ins and outs of the music industry - not just singing” Declase states. “We have an A&R division where we search for and develop Australian talent which we are really excited about.” Sean Declase’s extensive history in the biz, means aspiring artists are able to take advantage of his connections in publishing and recording. Having just signed an international deal with Dutch publishing label - Music All Stars who is home to big guns such as Martin Garrix and Oliver Heldens, Sean explains the opportunities are endless for HMA singers looking to break into the market. The self-taught musician music  arts  events  entertainment

believes studio experience and recording practise is crucial to anyone wanting to create their own music, “We aim to give you the skills in the studio and behind the mic so that when you eventually get to record your own music you’re already a pro.” Also known for their now popular “UNsigned Contest” a unique opportunity for singers to strut their stuff in front of a panel of A&R reps and music big wigs. The contest has seen past winners and contestants go on to sign recording contracts and secure management deals as well as some making a splash on international radio. Hit Makers Australia teach singing and songwriting lessons to all ages in Mordialloc, Rowville, Taylors Lakes and Fitzroy. Whether you are an established vocalist or someone just looking at getting started they are currently open for new enrolments. For enquiries contact sean@hitmakersaustralia.com.au

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TRIPLE BLUE POWER By Terri Lee Fatouros

Dan White, a Mt Eliza High School boy who happened to play in his 1999 football premiership, now hosts ‘What’s On Presents’ every Friday night at The Prince of Wales in St Kilda. White has been involved in the industry for many years now, however, previously to the Prince he organised gigs at The Vineyard for six years. Says White: “It’s all about bringing rock and roll back into pubs, namely The Prince of Wales.” So far White has introduced a variety of hard rocking and blues type bands and word is spreading The Prince rocks it on Friday nights. Recently he and Didi Reyes organised ‘Triple Blue Power’, featuring a bunch of the peninsula’s talented musicians in Glenn

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Sharp and The Mystic Swamp, whose genre is a mixture of British blues and swamp rock. Sharp’s originals can be heard on his ReverbNation site, details below. Didi Reyes and The Blues Maniacs, which also featured Sharp on bass, had a style sounding more uptempo dance blues while Andy Phillips and The Cadillac Walk saw Sharp playing bass; and this had a Stevie Ray Vaughan 60/70s rock with traditional blues feel going on. Each band gigged for about an hour and rocked the venue. It was a great night. Jordie Fitzgerald long-time friend of all the guys and drummer for Blues Maniacs, and session drummer for the Cadillac Walk produced some mighty fine ‘banging

of sticks’ showing versatility and snug technique during his drumming in all three bands. Guitarist and singer, Didi Reyes, front man of the Blues Maniacs high octane performance, undoubtedly incited Larry Dennis aska, Electric Larry of the dark shades and black hat fame, into blowing some mean harp. Their sound was polished and tight. Although Andy Phillips is heavily booked and gigging all over the ‘burbs including Geelong, Western Australia and New Zealand, it was great he made time to join the guys, as it was a gem having the talent of Phillips there on the night. Triple Blue Power will be a monthly

residency with The Mystic Swamp, Blues Maniacs and guest artists. Keep up to date with bands and gigs at The Prince of Wales by calling 9536 2268. For more info on Glenn Sharp and The Mystic Swamp Email: mysticswampau@gmail.com reverbnation.com freewayjamaustralia Andy Phillips and the Cadillac Walk facebook.com/ andyphillipsandthecadillacwalk Didi Reyes and The Blues Maniacs facebook.com/DiddyReyes bayside & mornington peninsula

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THE BASICS: THIS COULD BE THE LAST TIME By Neil Walker GOTYE has gone back to The Basics and the band is dropping in on Mornington as part of their national tour in support of their latest The Age of Entitlement album. Guitarist Tim Heath says The Basics drummer Wally De Backer, known as the solo artist Gotye, is heading back to Australia from the US where he is recording the follow-up to his commercially successful Making Mirrors album which spawned the global smash Somebody That I Used To Know. Heath says November’s Mornington gig, the last in the tour, will be “pretty energetic and perhaps emotional” amid hints The Basics may call it a day. Although if the band does break up permanently it will not be due to any jealousy or bitchiness over De Backer’s success as Gotye. Far from being somebody that Gotye’s longterm bandmates used to know, Heath joked De Backer’s modesty and ability to remain unfazed by commercial success means The Basics, who have been together since 2004, are able to work together again without any egomania dominating proceedings. Heath admits though that he, De Backer and bassist Kris Schroeder now play shorter tours when they hit the road. “I think we really enjoy playing together and in the last few years we’ve sort of done it sporadically and the tours have been shorter because the older you get the harder it is to go on the road. You get tired and grumpy more easily so we’ve sort of made them shorter so our tempers don’t flare as much.” Gotye’s global success hasn’t put a downer on The Basics. Heath admits it was “surreal” but “fantastic” to see and hear Somebody That I Used To Know, featuring Kimbra, suddenly take off across the world. “We had a three-year hiatus and in that time I was in France, Spain and Portugal and that was when the song really went big. I’d hear it on every radio station in those countries. “Wally never really talks himself up and I don’t think he sees certain achievements that others would so highly. When he got nominated for a Grammy I was on the phone to him that day and having a regular chat. I didn’t know about it and he didn’t even mention it.” As for The Basics the latest tour comes in the wake of the release of the band’s eighth album called The Age of Entitlement, a phrase used by the now departed Australian Treasurer Joe Hockey who described the country as “a nation of lifters, not leaners” when he delivered his controversial 2014 budget which many regarded as unfair on poorer Australians. music  arts  events  entertainment

It’s a departure from The Basics’ indie-pop rock roots and sees the band addressing the state and shame of the nation as they see it. Schroeder wrote most of the songs for The Age of Entitlement album before The Basics headed off to the UK to record the tracks at the Abbey Road Studios in London, made famous by The Beatles who often recorded there and named their 1969 Abbey Road album in its honour. “Kris came back with some songs that were political and Wally and I looked at each other and went ‘this is a bit different’ but I think we all agreed that the sentiment was something we all shared and agreed on,” Heath said. “The songs seemed to me not so much political but more social. A comment about culture and a part of the Australian psyche that was becoming complacent, complaining about things but not doing a lot about it.” The opening lines from album opener Whatever Happened to the Working Class? leaves listeners in no doubt about who The Basics mostly blame for Australia’s cultural malaise: ‘Whatever happened to the working class?/ We’ve got politicians sitting on their arse/ Whittling away at the few rights that we’ve got left/I was listening to the radio and how big business stole the show and I wonder ‘who’s there to stop them now?’’. The not so great Australian public are also condemned for their indifference to politics in the album’s lyrics. Heath notes: “I think most Australians are very lucky to be able to live relatively comfort-

ably and it’s quite easy to forget we’re quite safe in our houses compared to most people in the world and that things like big-screen televisions and swimming pools start to take up most of what’s been discussed or thought about by a certain section of the community.” The Basics themselves decided to “have a go” at politics to show complacency enables politicians to often fail to represent their community’s best interests. The Basics Rock’n’Roll Party registered to contest an Upper House seat at last year’s Victorian election. Heath says winning a seat was always a long shot but the party’s formation “was a way to show people could go out and become a politician and try to change things rather than just sit on the couch and complain about it”. “It started off as an idea to show people who are generally pissed off with the state of Australian politics who feel disempowered somewhat that anyone can start a political party. All you need is members and then you’re on the ballot paper. We hoped that people would see that and think they may give it a go next time. So it’ll be interesting to see if it had any effect.” Recording The Age of Entitlement was a dream come true for The Basics since the trio are big fans of The Beatles, Heath said. “The first time we walked in it was pretty amazing. I was pretty speechless because everything is quite original but it’s also a working studio. “You’re walking down the corridors and there’s

old tape machines that have been used since the ‘40s and ‘50s and of course Studio Two where The Beatles recorded still looks the same so you look at photos of them and then you walk in there and it’s amazing. “All the microphones are still there. For one take we did the engineer called for ‘the John Lennon microphone’. It’s really cool and neat they haven’t sold it or auctioned it off to a museum or something.” “I recorded a couple of tracks on a piano they recorded A Day in the Life on ... just to sit there ... is kind of surreal.” As hinted earlier, The Basics future days in the life are clouded but, if the Mornington gig is the end of the road forever for the band, Heath reckons The Age of Entitlement is as good a way as any to go out raging against the dying of the light (on the hill). Not many bands speak out about how politics shapes culture now after protest music peaked in the 1970s and early 1980s. “It may be one of the last records we make, I’m not sure,” Heath said. “Maybe we thought it is time to maybe make a comment on Australian society. I think sometimes it is important for artists to make people think politically and socially ... and show a different perspective on the world.” The Basics play The Grand Hotel, 124 Main Street Mornington on Sunday 1 November, doors open 7pm. Tickets $25. See moshtix. com.au or call The Grand Hotel on 03 5975 2001.

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KINGSWOOD TOUR 2015 Hitting the Grand Mornington on Friday 30 October

FERGUS Linacre, Alex Laska, Jeremy Hunter and Justin Debrincat make up the four-piece rock band from Melbourne, Kingswood. The band has performed at numerous festivals including Splendour In The Grass, Big Day Out, Groovin The Moo and Falls Festivals. In 2014, the band returned from Nashville having recorded their debut album with Grammy Award winning producer Vance Powell (Jack White, Arctic Monkeys, The Ractonteurs). Kingswood’s album Microscopic Wars had a top 10 debut in the national ARIA charts at number 6 and subsequently went on to receive an ARIA Nomination for ‘Best Rock Album’. The band is embarking on a few selected dates, before going into record their new record, which is slated for mid 2016. For tickets head to oztix.com.au Doors: 7.30pm + Special Guests TBA

AN AUDIENCE WITH HIS GRACE ‘An Audience With His Grace’ opened at The Gaiety Theatre on Wednesday, and Brendan Grace received a standing ovation from a thrilled audience...His gags have a great hit rate and delight a capacity crowd. After 44 years in showbiz, Brendan Grace still knows how to send them home smiling.” - Eamon Sweenie, The Irish Independent, 25 March 2015 Born in the heart of Dublin in 1951, Grace was raised in the inner city Liberties neighbourhood. His father Seamus worked as a bartender, an ambulance man and other odd jobs to keep the family going. However, like many Dubliners of the time, Grace eventually left school at the age of 15 to begin working. His first job was as a messenger boy, an occupation he often refers to in his live act. At the age of 18, Grace formed a band known as “The Gingermen” and toured throughout Ireland. During a gig one night, the band found themselves two members short and in an attempt to calm an anxious crowd, Brendan was thrust upon the stage to humour them. His wit and razor sharp observations of daily life in Ireland immediately won over the crowd and since then he has been selling out venues around the globe. Brendan has shared stages with many wellknown names such as Frank Sinatra who referred to Grace as “His man in Europe” and John Denver, among many others.

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‘An Audience With His Grace’ features some brand new material and some “old favourites” from his vast repertoire over the past 40 years including the brilliant school boy character “Bottler”. He has managed to attract a younger audience due to the content of his show being very down to earth and helped also through his hilarious appearance in Father Ted, where he played the part of a drinking, smoking, troublemaker extraordinaire, Father Fintan Stack. Join His Grace for an evening of high farce, mirth and music. An Audience With His Grace performs at Frankston Arts Centre on Friday 13 November, 8pm. Bookings: 03 9784 1060 or thefac.com.au bayside & mornington peninsula

$1500 CASH TO BE WON AT ROSEBUD BUSKFEST

With $1000 cash as first prize up for grabs, plus significant other cash and performance opportunities, mentoring and recording packages, Rosebud’s second Busking Festival will attract a large number of talented performers and will be a treat for spectators! Taking place on the morning of Saturday 14th November from 10am, the 35 buskers including soloists, bands, choirs, actors, artists and clowns, will be located sites on the footpath across the town centre and

around the Rosebud Plaza. They will be judged on how well they entertain the crowd, the originality of their act and the quality of their performance. The competition has a category for the under 14’s to encourage all the amazing local talent to participate. In the middle of town, between Rosebud Parade and Ninth Avenue, there will be roving acts, dance and art workshops. The four judges have all backgrounds in the

TIDBITS & TALES Like many in the music industry who have a social media page, there are always invites to gigs happening around the burbs. When I accept an invite, I always thoroughly enjoy myself. So there was no exception, when, a couple of weeks ago, I attended The General Wine Lounge in McCrae’s ‘Sunday Sessions’ to see Maria Cassar and Mike Elrington doing a cruisy arvo gig together. Their vocals and music bent combined was really good and it was a perfect afternoon to sit, drink, eat, chill, and be entertained by these two respectable musos. In fact, quite music  arts  events  entertainment

arts and will be seeking out the outstanding emerging and established talent. Alvis Parkinson is a Melbourne singer songwriter who also teaches at Collarts in South Melbourne. Bryon Georgouras is involved in artist management, music marketing and music journalism. Local singer Ryan Luckhurst spearheads the Band Wagon agency and is a respected musician with years of busking experience. The team is completed by Mornington Peninsula Councils arts development officer Jo

Ridgeway, adding her wide knowledge of the performing arts to the judging mix. Join the fun from 10am to 1pm. Enjoy the atmosphere, encourage the performers, throw a coin and add your support to the Rosebud busking fest. Brought to you with generous sponsorship of Rosebud Chamber of Commerce and Mornington Peninsula Shire. For further information contact Heidi on 0431 030 190.

By Terri Lee Fatouros

a number of the peninsula’s talented such as Andy Phillips, Didi Reyes, Electric Larry, Paul Dillon, Not Dead Yet, and Grant Miller to name a few along with Cassar have been creating a ‘chill out’ Sunday vibe at The General, and what better way than to wind the weekend down by going there. On another note, Café Moto at Carrum have started their weekend music sessions and recently featured Richie Mawer and Ben Laguda, a couple of easy listening musos playing acoustic guitars; and apparently

the musicians they have gigged with in the past, read like a ‘who’s who’. Watch out for these guys in the future. You’ll be pleasantly surprised. Well I have to say thank you to Maria Cassar for offering to organise my 60th birthday party early in December. I haven’t decided if I will have it yet, but if I do there will be a couple of bands to entertain, heaps of champagne to drink and a few selected friends invited, and I’ll be getting mightily pissed. Opps did I say “pissed”?!!!

Finally managed to catch up with Heidi LaFaerie, band manager of Andy Phillips and The Cadillac Walk over coffee for a gos and a chat at Café Moto recently and have to say I’m really looking forward to their Merchandise Launch & Logo Rebranding VIP party happening in October. Can’t wait!!! Anyway if you have anything music related and want it known, drop me a line at terri@mintmagazine.com.au

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THE MOUNTAIN: A COMING OF AGE By Melissa Walsh

Lachlan Bryan is back and forth from his house in Richmond and Mt Eliza but still calls the peninsula home. The 34-year-old country music sensation has done the peninsula proud with his band Lachlan Bryan and The Wildes since their album debut six years ago. The dynamic team has since had three hit albums and released their fourth, The Mountain, on 25 September. The highly anticipated album comes two years after their smash hit, 2013’s Black Coffee, which won the 2014 Golden Guitar for Alternative Country Album of the Year and The Age Music Victoria Award for Best Country Album of the Year. The album, which debuted at number 12 on the ARIA Australian Albums Charts, confirmed Bryan as one of Australia’s finest new country singers and songwriters. The Alternative Country and Folk band released their much awaited album last

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week, coinciding with a national tour. Billed as Bryan’s most personal album yet, The Mountain features 12 brand new songs recorded in his hometown of Melbourne.

to come back down, and find another peak to climb,” he says. For Bryan and the rest of the band, this album has been particularly enjoyable to make.

“The songs on the new album are definitely more personal, and a sign I think that we are maturing as musicians. It’s not just about the music, it’s about telling a story,” says Bryan. “When I first started writing songs I was influenced by people like Bob Dylan and Tom Waites, who write more about other people. I decided to dig deep and write from my own personal experience for this album.”

“We took longer to write and record this one. Our drummer, Mat Duniam, who’s a Frankston boy, did all the arrangements for the horn section, and had a lot of input into the songs,” says Bryan, who first met Duniam on a train on the Frankston line.

Bryan says the reason it’s called The Mountain is to signify the journey.

For the release of this record, Bryan says he’s grown a mountain climber’s beard, and reckons he needs it.

“It’s like a coming of age album, with a personal element of the journey of going through hard times. When you reach the top of the mountain you realise it’s all about the journey, and that you still have

“Shaun Ryan, our bass player, helped a lot with the vocals too, and this album we concentrated a lot more on the singing as the sound.”

“There’s blood in these songs, between the lines and the back story. It’s the most personal we have done,” says Bryan of the landmark recording from one of the

country’s most versatile collectives. Recording The Mountain in the studio, Bryan was joined by drummer Mat Duniam, bassist Shaun Ryan, and guitarist Damian Cafarell, alongside legendary session player James Gillard (Paul Kelly, Kasey Chambers), pianist Ben Grayson (The Bamboos), and pedal steel player Seamus O’Sullivan (Ruby Boots, Bakersfield Glee Club). The Mountain has been called Lachlan Bryan and The Wildes at “their careworn, uncluttered best. Lacquered throughout with nostalgic guitar parts straight out of the Sun Records playbook, the album traverses dancehall rock’n’roll, heartworn alt. country-Americana, and freewheeling rockabilly.” To coincide with the album’s release Lachlan Bryan and The Wildes will be playing at The Caravan Club on Saturday 7 November. lachlanbryan.com bayside & mornington peninsula

CALLING ALL MUSOS: A BRAND NEW OPEN MIC NIGHT Side Street Lounge A brand new music night has arrived at the bayside area’s funkiest lounge and party place, supporting live & local acoustic, grassroots talent each and every Thursday night! Hosted by former Mornington Peninsula – now Bayside – local and singer-songwriter Simon Imrei, the night is a chance to connect musicians from all around Melbourne and surrounds with a unique new venue with an intimate and nurturing environment, despite what they choose to play. “Having run open mics and showcases on the peninsula, it’s crucial to create an atmosphere in the room where musos ‘want’ to come and play,” Imrei says. “Whether you’re a professional artist looking for a venue you haven’t played at yet, or an up and coming songwriter wanting to take the plunge and start performing live, we want each person getting on our stage to feel encouraged, listened to and totally comfortable. If you have that, then you’ll get some really special moments that people will want to keeping coming back to see.” New performers receive drink cards for getting up on stage, but also join the #sidestreetsounds community, a cooperative and supportive network helping to promote each other’s achievements and endeavours, but also hopefully lead to enduring friendships and unique collaborations on stage. “Supporting each other doesn’t just stop at the performers,” Imrei reiterates. “I’ve met some

of my closest friends through these kinds of nights and it’s how I got started as a musician myself; watching others, sharing ideas and songs, performing together. You learn from others around you and slowly you get the confidence to find your own voice.” Since opening less than two years ago, Side Street Lounge (the ‘little sister’ of Mordialloc’s famous ‘Main Street Cafe’) has quickly become the destination for tasty and creative share-food served til late, boutique beers & regional Victorian wines, not to mention their signature cocktails.

Singing, Guitar & Piano lessons BOOK NOW for our Songwriting Workshop !!

In addition to proudly serving locals, the venue is perfectly placed right next to Mordialloc train station, on the Frankston line, making trips from further afield for mates, morsels or music that much safer and easier. If you’re a Melbourne musician, or lover of great live and local music, then Mordialloc’s newest hidden treasure is going to be right up your alley! Open mic Thursdays: Supporting live & local acoustic grassroots talent, each & every week! Kitchen opens 5.30pm | Registrations start 7:30PM | Music starts 8.30pm Hosted by Simon Imrei. Originals/covers ... all welcome! Bring your instrument and get on stage. Every Thursday: Side Street Lounge, 501 Main Street, Mordialloc – right next to Mordy Station!)

RUDIMENTAL SET TO STORM OZ Rudimental are set to take us to new heights with a fresh collection of hits from highly anticipated second album We The Generation. Having sold five million singles world-wide and joined by one of our most exciting local talents GRMM as special guest, music  arts  events  entertainment

Rudimental’s November and December tour promises an exhilarating night of nonstop hits. Rudimental will be playing at The Forum Theatre on 8 December. Tickets via ticketmaster.com.au

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MINT Magazine ď ¸ October

2015

bayside & mornington peninsula

LIVE: WALKING THE WALK By Andrew Dixon and say ‘this is how it’s going to go’... we had a serious discussion about this before we even picked up our instruments. I don’t want to be in a Live that’s at the tail end of their career there, I want to be in the Live that’s kicking f**king ass! The band that I loved growing up, that mystical, crazy, spiritual band they (Chad, Chad and Pat) said they missed.”

“Entrepreneurial” isn’t a word you commonly associate with multi-platinum rock stars. Nor would you expect them to admit that, sometimes, building communities and creating jobs in the real world can be “much larger than band stuff.” Live’s new (ish – he reminded me it’s been almost four years since he signed up) frontman Chris Shinn has the presence of mind to acknowledge the way the world works outside the occasionally insular and often narcissistic music industry.

To that end, all four had a number of roundtable discussions over the course of writing and recording. “I even got Chad Gracey (drums) to help me out with the lyrics, which he never does! It’s great – I want everyone involved, so I’m constantly asking questions and seeking feedback during the process. Those three guys are some of the baddest mother f**kers I’ve ever played with!”

That’s not to suggest he and the band – original members Chad Taylor, Pat Dahlheimer and Chad Gracey – haven’t poured heart and soul into the creation of Live’s late-2014 album The Turn. “We spent so much time making it and we’re so proud of it… since a lot of our outstanding business issues have finally been resolved, we’ll have to do a whole new push for The Turn… to give it the fair shake it deserves,” states Chris. Those ‘outstanding business issues’ aren’t exactly another publishing company or record label, they’re multi-million dollar fibre-optic cable networks, spanning some of the most populous cities on the United States’ eastern seaboard. The company: United Fiber & Data. NBN-style nation building is the idea here. Ailing Pennsylvanian cities – including York, from whence the band originally hails – stand to benefit socially and economically through downtown renovations, hi-tech jobs and (if all bodes well) a massive data storage centre or two, in what both the local politicians and the company hope will usher in a new era of employment and prosperity. It’s the first rock-solid example I’ve seen of a band ‘walking the walk’ in putting their fortunes on the line to build prosperity in their own back yard, and a damn-refreshing change from ‘yet another benefit concert’ style activism. “It’s a lot of zeros,” Chris explains, adding that it’s definitely “slowed down the booking of tours and so-on… we’re working with the kind of big money that you can’t keep waiting!” It’s a matter-of-fact reference to the New York finance industry the Chads and Patrick have been heavily involved in during the band’s hiatus. “It’s been a ton of hard work… Chad Taylor’s been the driving force pushing that, and so far as dudes thinking about our families and the future, it’s brought us a lot of cool opportunities that otherwise never would’ve been there.” But now the gloves (or more likely, the suits) have come off and they’re hitting the road, bringing the band back to Australia for the first time in years. Once upon a time their presence at Rod Laver Arena was an annual event, but in 2009 a supposedly-voluntary music  arts  events  entertainment

hiatus became a permanent split, with lead singer Ed Kowalczyk and the others no longer able to work together. Ed’s since embarked on his solo career, and while he does pull out acoustic versions of Live’s hits, the intellectual property remains with the band. The multiple lawsuits that resulted were settled out of court, so we’ll never know the gritty details. Somewhat ironically, Ed and Chris were good friends once. “He used to live just up the hill from me in Hollywood. At the time, Ed and his wife were pregnant with their first kid, so we only got one night a week to go out – we made the most of that!” Despite keeping in touch via whatever the social network of choice happened to be at the time, Chris gradually lost touch with Ed and the rest of the band. A full five years and a whole lot of dirty water had passed by when the Chads and Patrick once again got in touch with Shinn. “It wasn’t ‘hey, can you start with Līve today?’ or anything like that at all. I said I’d come to Pennsylvania to hang out with you guys, at the very least we’ll get a beer together, and if it doesn’t work, it doesn’t work. They just wanted to play some

music… the guys had never played these songs in a room without Ed, obviously. Nobody expected it to feel as awesome as it felt.” Chris is all too aware of the delicacies involved in reigniting the flame of Live with a new singer at the helm. “We had to talk this out, make sure we do it right, because a lot of people are going to take this the wrong way, it’s going to piss a lot of people off… ultimately though, that’s fine – the guys deserve to be happy with the band that they created. There’s a lot of arguments both for and against (keeping the name Live without Ed Kowalczyk), and honestly I understand both sides.” Collaborative diplomacy has been an essential skill – “It just wouldn’t have worked otherwise.” Shinn’s gone out of his way to make sure that approach to the band’s political issues has been fully translated to their creative dynamic. It’s been said that Ed took the creative reigns for the band’s last couple of albums – whether or not that led to their faltering fanbase is open to interpretation. “I couldn’t come in with a big bunch of lyrics

On a more intimate note, close to Chris’ heart is their latest single, The Way Around is Through. He considered it an integral part of the healing process, a way for all of them to move forward while accepting Ed’s absence. “I’ve spent some time in recovery, as have some of my close friends. Something that you hear a lot is that you can’t skirt around these problems, eventually you have to go through them. At the time it really tapped into the raw feelings of the whole band. It was instrumental in helping the guys let go… we had to sit down and do the real work, the spiritual work, and do it together. The record became like therapy for all of us – it reminded everyone exactly what they’re capable of doing, and likewise they would let me know on a daily basis: Do whatever you can do as best as you can do it. We’ve got your back.” The healing process appears to have paid off. A real test will be how Australian audiences react to Chris Shinn’s first-ever Australian tour. “I’m a little anxious – it’s a very long trip – but we’re flying business, so we should be OK!”. Laughs were shared, even as we discussed his level of responsibility as the face of Live going into the future. “It took me a while to accept a lot of that responsibility, to nurture it and do it the right way… it’s like being given the keys to someone’s Lamborghini and them saying ‘let her rip!’ I don’t mean to sound narcissistic, but over the last couple of years we’ve really become something else, something special. I’m proud – we put the work in, and anyone that comes to see us… you’ll get what I’m talking about.” Live are playing with Def Leppard at Rod Laver Arena on Wednesday 18 November this year, but have their own solo show at the Forum Theatre on the 19th. Tickets are available from Ticketmaster.

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SHEENA EASTON Abstract Entertainment is proud to announce multiple Grammy Award winner Sheena Easton will be touring Australia later this year. She will be playing in venues across Australia in late November and early December.

ALPINE CELEBRATE THE RELEASE OF ‘SHOT FOX’

Alpine has unleashed their latest single, the dreamy pop anthem Shot Fox, taken from the band’s outstanding new album YUCK. Set in a surreal world within Lou and Phoebe’s subconscious, the new video sees Alpine reunited with director Tristan Jalleh, who was responsible for the band’s opulent Foolish clip. To celebrate the single and video’s release, the band has just announced an intimate launch shows, at the Corner Hotel in Melbourne on Thursday 22 October with special guests Tiny Little Houses in tow. Shot Fox will lure you in with its breathy verses and brutally honest, introspective lyrics: ‘I don’t know why I’m feeling so sad/I’ve got love and safety in each hand/I’m a first world problem waiting to explode’ whispers the duel vocals of Phoebe Baker and Lou James. By the time the track reaches its climatic, you’re lost in a world of cathartic revelry, the world of YUCK.

Sheena Easton is one of the most popular and loved 80s music icons. She gained world-side success for her song Morning Train, which catapulted her career world-wide with international hits including For Your Eyes Only the theme song from the James Bond movie of the same name and We’ve Got Tonight, her duet with Kenny Rogers. She collaborated with Prince on the single Sugar Walls in 1984 and then again in 1987 with the worldwide hit U Got The Look. Sheena Easton has sold over 20 million records worldwide, received two Grammys, and was the first — and still only — artist to have top five records on five major Billboard charts – pop, R&B, country, adult contemporary and dance. In addition to her recording success, she has appeared in film, theatre and television and continues to record and collaborate with various artists. She will be joined on her Australian tour by Australian singer Cosima De Vito. Sheena Easton will be playing the Palms at Crown on Saturday 5 December.Tickets via ticketmaster.com.au

Winner of two Grammy Awards and over 20 million record sales worldwide. One of the most popular and loved 80’s icons. International hits include Morning Train, For Your Eyes Only (James Bond theme), We’ve Got Tonight (duet with Kenny Rogers) plus many more.

SATURDAY 5 DECEMBER PALMS AT CROWN

Tickets through ticketmaster.com.au

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bayside & mornington peninsula

NOVEMBER 7TH 2015

SOUTHERN PENINSULA ART CENTRE 245 EASTBOURNE RD, ROSEBUD

BLUE DOG NIGHT

6PM BBQ & 7PM SHOW

THE WARRAINS LING MARRA S U G AT R E E ISLA KA T H E F LY I N G S O H I G H - O S LASSETER’S REEF

20$ AT THE DOOR (KIDS FREE!)

SUPER AWESOME SILENT AUCTION!

BLUES ILLUSTRATED By Greg Fisher

JUSTIN YAP BAND

BLUES AT THE BRIARS

ROB PAPP BLUES WORKSHOP

Justin Yap (pictured) is one of the finest young players going around town and now with the powerful vocals of Nardia Brancatisano (pictured) the Justin Yap Band (JYB) has settled into a very classy line-up. With their first album Long Way From Home debuting at number 3 on the Australian Blues Charts and remaining in the top 20 for four months, the Justin Yap Band plays an innovative blend of Blues, Soul, and Funk. Led by guitarist Justin Yap, the band delivers electrifying performances bringing lots of energy to every show. Justin’s reputation as a formidable guitarist in the Australian blues scene is growing. Now paired with the raw and sultry vocals of Nardia Brancatisano who has been wowing audiences with her band Soul Chic and on her own; along with young Ollie Rolfe on Keys & Hammond, and the combined talents of Dean Sanelli on bass and Jim Moody on drums, the Justin Yap Band has a tight and exciting sound not to be missed. Over the last 2 years the band have been gigging hard in and around Victoria, including the Wangaratta Jazz and Blues Festival, Echuca Winter Blues Festival, Bendigo Blues and Roots Festival, Wagga Wagga Jazz and Blues Festival, and the Docklands Blues Music Festival. The JYB have begun work on a second album of all originals to be released later in 2015 and have released a series of YouTube videos and a feature EP called SUNSHINE SESSIONS. For more details please go to the band’s homepage at justinyapband.com

Blues at The Briars Festival is entering its fourth year providing a world class blues festival on the stunning Mornington Peninsula. Blues at the Briars Festival is a must for Blues music lovers. Put Saturday 5 March 2016 in your diary now. 2016 will be another must see event and the organisers have made a few changes in programming (including artists playing longer sets) and creating a dedicated children’s area so families can relax and enjoy Australia’s best bands and artists. 2016 will feature another world class line up, local food, wines and beers. Blues at the Briars Festival is a family friendly event so bring a chair or picnic rug and relax on the grassy hill and soak it all up. Check the website and subscribe for more details of the 2016 event at bluesatthebriars.com

Rob Papp will be hosting a special Blues workshop between 5-6pm on Sunday 11 October at the Peninsula Blues Club (City of Frankston Lawn Bowls Club Cnr Yuille & William St Frankston South). Many topics will be covered, please bring your electric or acoustic guitar along and join the Jam. Entry to the workshop will be free with your entry to the Peninsula Blues Club which follows.

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2015

NATIONAL BLUES & ROOTS AIRPLAY CHART This month’s Top 5 albums on the National Blues & Roots Airplay album chart are: •

Wards Express (The Back Roads)

•

Greg Dodd & The Hoodoo Men (Movin’ On)

•

Jesse Valach Blues Mountain (Separation St)

•

Andy Layfield (Mad Time)

•

Shane Pacey Trio (Watch Out)

PHIL MANNING PERFORMANCE WORKSHOP Blue Note Music College will be hosting a special Phil Manning Performance Workshop at 11am, Saturday 24 October. Many topics covered including amplifier and guitar settings to work in with the other frequencies of instruments on stage. There will be a Question and Answer time and many stories from his vast experience as a professional musician. For more information contact the Blue Note College on 9781 4467.

MORNINGTON PENINSULA MUSIC NETWORK The Mornington Peninsula Music Network (MPMN) is a music network for the peninsula. The Mornington Peninsula Music Network advocates for and supports all music for all people of all ages. MPMN facilitates communication and promotes links between individual musicians, music groups, businesses and government in addressing issues faced by the peninsula’s music community. Their website offers a YouTube channel for you to upload and promote your music, performances, events and gigs. Membership of the MPMN is

free – for more details please go to the website at morningtonpeninsulamusic.com.au

PENINSULA BLUES CLUB The Peninsula Blues Club is the home of the Blues on the Mornington Peninsula and presents live music on the second Sunday of each month at the Frankston Bowling Club, 64 Yuillie Steet (Cnr Yuille & William St) Frankston South. Sunday 11 October will host Lloyd Spiegel (pictured) as the feature act. Doors open at 6pm.

AUSSIE BLUES VID OF THE WEEK

Lazy Eye Band HOUSE OF TROUBLE at Baha Tacos. Scan to view. Must see!

Greg writes monthly for Mint and broadcasts on Southern FM - if you know of something special happening in the Blues world please drop him a line at: bluesillustrated@gmail.com or facebook. com/GregFisherBluesIllustrated bayside & mornington peninsula

CLASSIC CUTS

By Ray McGrotty (Record City) soloing highlights.

Legendary guitarist Robin Trower originally came into notoriety during his five album stint with British rock band Procol Harum which he joined in 1967 shortly after their success with the massive hit ballad Whiter Shade of Pale.

Too Rolling Stoned is also an album stand out. From the opening bass line that leads into a totally charged and driven song which changes into a blues boogie once again giving Trower the opportunity to indulge in some serious technique.

However in 1971 having completed the Broken Barricades album, Trower decided to leave the band citing lack of artistic room in Procols’ songs to enable him to let rip with lengthy guitar solos. He wasted no time in applying his guitar prowess to his solo work particularly obvious in his first five albums, however it was his second album Bridge of Sighs released in 1974 that became possibly his most acclaimed of all. Taking full advantage of the opportunity to let loose with some ripping guitar solos, his albums were literally drenched in some amazingly Hendrix-ish guitar work. Trower really manages to push the boundaries with his newly acquired musical freedom, mixing heavy blues with psychedelia and a tinge of jazz sounding much like a hybrid blend of Jimi Hendrix and Cream. Bridge of Sighs could easily be mistaken for a long lost Cream or Hendrix album.

About to begin is a drifty ballad with just the right amount of a gentle and tasteful guitar solo. A really stunning example of Dewar’s emotional vocal capability rounds out this masterful track.

Opening with the very rocking and very riffy Day of the Eagle which changes to a slower tempo in the later part of the song giving Trower a chance to lay down some more chilled out blues licks.

with the rhythm section taking much of the credit.

The Fool and Me is one of the funkier tracks

It also features one of the album’s guitar

“OUR doubts are traitors, and make us lose the good we oft might win, by fearing to attempt” from Measure for Measure by William Shakespeare.

Once you get success, you can either maintain it or destroy it. Or, worse still, it may end up destroying you. So it was in the eighties, when good-looking boy bands were worth their weight in gold. And British boy-band Bros were, undoubtedly, extremely good looking. Consisting of a set of identical twins, Matt and Luke Goss, and another guy called ‘Craig’, their first release entitled I Owe You Nothing barely troubled the scorers upon its release music  arts  events  entertainment

Overall, Bridge of Sighs is an outstanding album laced with guitar riffs, wailing fuzz, wah wah and some mean ‘crying’ blues solos as well as some incredible heavy blues guitar and catchy chord progressions.

Next up is the title track which has some blistering guitar coming through a series of ambient soundscapes complimented perfectly with the vocal from bass player James Dewar, much as it does in In this place which adds light and shade to the album.

MISSED THE MARK

If there’s anyone who understands a thing or two about boy bands, it’s William Shakespeare. It’s a little known fact that the original version of Hamlet was a musical that featured a dance number where Rosencrantz and Guildenstern popped and locked whilst Polonius span the wheels of steel. Indeed, the ‘To be or not to be’ speech wasn’t a soliloquy but a power ballad. But, alas, the Bard ditched all the musical numbers in favour of yet another play and we are left to imagine what might have been. He secondguessed himself.

The final tracks Lady Love and Little Bit of Sympathy are boogie gems that add a nice contrast to some of the more rockier tracks on the album.

in 1987. Presumably the feeling was mutual. However, all was forgiven upon the release of their second single, When Will I Be Famous?. Whether this was a pop song or a perverse piece of musical meta-fiction mattered little at the time. The song went absolutely gangbusters, reaching the top ten in the UK, Australia and, the notoriously hard to please musical taste-makers of Belgium. They followed this up with another smash, Drop the Boy. Their debut album entitled Push sold by the tonne and girls everywhere seemed to go

An essential album to add to your collection especially if you appreciate blues rock played with all of the feel and emotion one has come to expect from one of rock’s finest guitar legends.

By Stuart McCullough

crazy for Bros. Although never drawn to their music, I gave serious consideration to getting myself a Bros T-shirt, in a blatant attempt to enhance my standing with members of the opposite sex. The world was their oyster but, as it happened, the band was allergic to seafood. The bloke called ‘Craig’ bailed out. Whilst the loss of the bass player who – far from having a face like a dropped pie – was not as good looking as the twins might seem like a minor setback, it was the beginning of the end. The other two soldiered on and released a follow up the following year. Whilst ostensibly seeking to make hay whilst the sun shone, they succeeded, instead, in reaffirming the law of diminishing returns. The album still went gold, but it was really a matter of time before they broke up. Unlike the debut, the brothers co-wrote some of the tracks. It opened with Madly In Love that went for more than seven minutes and was immediately followed by a song titled Too Much which, as an anthem to excess, was most likely directed towards the preceding track. In many respects, it sounds quite similar to their earlier, more successful work. They

failed to evolve. Perhaps, when it really counted, they weren’t quite daring enough. Indeed, the album’s greatest crime may well be its unremarkable nature. Perhaps, much like Shakespeare, they second-guessed themselves. The brothers continued on for one more record before calling it a day. Normally, this is where members of the band are swallowed by obscurity. But Luke Goss became an actor and has appeared in a bunch of films. His brother, Matt, sings in Vegas. Craig ended up with a career in music management. I can’t help but wonder whether, if they had their time again, they’d do things differently. Perhaps they should be commended for knowing when to get out. Maybe they recalled the words of Shakespeare who in Romeo and Juliet, noted: “For you and I are past our dancing days.”

Check it our for yourself... you’ve been warned...

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YOUTUBE GEMS MOMENTS THEY WOULD RATHER FORGET... 5 SECONDS OF FIRE 5 Seconds of Summer was reportedly forced to cut short a stadium show at London’s Wembley Arena after guitarist Michael Clifford’s hair caught fire.

MAD RIHANNA Rihanna getting mad after a sound problem while performing in London.

FAIL STAGE DIVE Watch Steve Aoki attempt to stage dive and fail miserably by cutting the music.

SPLAT! At Warped Tour in London George Watsky was really feeling the crowd’s energy, and just wanted to go join them. He and two fans end up in hospital.

SPITTING THE DRUMMY Kris Roe of The Ataris shocked fans in New Jersey when he threw a tantrum on stage that resulted in kicking drummer Rob Felicetti of stage.

MINT Magazine  October

2015

Mint Magazine, PO Box 588, Hastings, 3915 Email: letters@mintmagazine.com.au

Dear Mint Magazine, I was at a gig recently of a band I admire intensely, and was unlucky enough to be stuck next to another avid fan with a tone deafness that has been unparalleled since time began. What began as an enjoyable evening descended into frustration as robot-larynx insisted on singing every song from start to finish in G-flat. Please... if you want to sing along, make sure you can sing. Yours sincerely, Frank Missouri Dear Mint Magazine, I got hold of the last edition of Mint Magazine, and really enjoyed reading it. Possibly my favourite article was the one on Def Leppard. That is a band that have endured real hardships and never really been appreciated for their true worth. I sobbed as I read the article, as I too have just been through a battle with people not appreciating my work and effort. There is nothing worse in the world than when you put your heart and soul into something, and are not fully appreciated. I am getting better every day from my own personal setbacks, and I hope that I too will rise up like those heroes from Def Leppard. Oh, if you ever need any help around the office, just let me know. I’d be happy to pitch in with any odd jobs. Armageddon it? Tony Abbott Dear Mint Magazine, Why do men who have never played polo swan around in polo shirts? It is deceiving and confusing. Regards, Gavin Shropshire Dear Mint Magazine, I had an interesting experience recently that I thought might make a good article for Mint Magazine. I was lucky enough to be invited to Justin Bieber’s hotel room, where I made a terrible discovery. I will give you a synopsis of what I intend to write and, if you like it, I will write it for the November edition of your magazine. It all started when I was stalking Justin on his recent visit to Melbourne. Wanting to catch Justin’s eye, I had spent the last two years cloning and raising an exact genetic replica of Justin’s pet capuchin monkey, OG Mally, currently in mandatory detention in Germany for not having the right arrival papers.

Having hand raised OG Mally v2.0 by hand since birth, he would sit happily on my shoulder morning, noon and night, and was doing so when Justin’s motorcade spend past. At the first sight on Justin, OG Mally v2.0 began shrieking wildly, catching Justin’s keen ear (it is a well documented fact that Justin has an affinity with the capuchin monkey, above all other primates). As Justin rushed towards me, his arms were wide open, and the look of unconditional love was plain for all to see. As I, too, reached out to hug Justin, I felt OG Mally v2.0 being violently ripped from my shoulder. I, of course, yelled out in shock and horror. “We’re a package deal, Justin. Take OG Mally v2.0, and you have to take me too!” Justin knew, by the craziness in my eyes, that things were getting ugly, and something had to GIVE. He could have turned his 400 pound minders onto me that felt a THREAT existed that must be stopped at all costs. But no, that is not how Justin does things. Instead, they pulled me over the barriers and piled me into a large black SUV. Before I knew it, I was at the VORTEX. The epicentre of Justin Beiber’s world. The hotel room he stayed in was larger than most houses, and was manned by a team of Canadian special forces usually assigned to the Prime Minister of that country, but now travelling the world with Justin. Inside his hotel room, men in dark glasses and black suits sat in rows of desks operating what looked like some sort of robot. Right there on the screen was OG Mally v2.0, with a man screaming out commands to the control console: “I really missed you, OG Mally”. It took me a long while to compute what was going on, but now the truth dawned on me with terrible suddenness. The Justin Bieber I had loved all these years was just an autobot? A product of programming and viral marketing? I ran towards to bedroom, and pushed a large man with gold teeth out of the way. When the door swung open, I saw autobot Bieber (v1.0? Who knows?!) playing with OG Malley v2.0 on the bed. I yelled at him in capuchin monkey, a language I had been perfecting since OG Mally v2.0 was the size of a pea in a test-tube. OG Mally v2.0 jumped on my shoulder and we ran from the room like our lives depended on it. We only just made it out alive. I feel like it is a story that must be told. Let me know if you’d like it as a worldwide exclusive for Mint Magazine. Yours Sincerely, Cynthia Phillithorpe bayside & mornington peninsula

CRITTENDEN TASTING EXPERIENCE TAKES FLIGHT By Cameron McCullough It is hard to imagine a family more ingrained in the peninsula wine industry than the Crittendens. Garry Crittenden planted some of the first vines on the peninsula back in 1982. In fact the five acres he planted then doubled the peninsula’s entire planting at the time. Fast forward 33 years, and the peninsula boasts approximately 1600 acres of vines in what is now a renowned wine making region of the world. Not surprisingly, now at the helm of this winemaking family is Garry’s son and daughter, Rollo and Zoe, who head up the winemaker and marketing roles respectively. The 39-year old father of two young boys, Digby and Oscar, Rollo has already made quite the name for himself in the winemaking industry. music  arts  events  entertainment

Having been named “Young Gun of Wine” in 2010, Rollo has taken the winemaking helm with enthusiasm and passion. After all, Crittenden Estate has been part of his life from an early age. “We grew up on site here. In fact, where you are sitting right now used to be part of our family home,” said Rollo of their new Crittenden Wine Centre. It is hard to imagine, but the beautifully appointed and majestic wine centre used to be filled with the younger generation of Crittendens running about enjoying their childhood. “As we grew, the vines and winemakers and the general experience of wines were all around us.” said Rollo. “In my youth, I fell in love with the winery because it was a fun place. There was always vintage workers coming in from overseas, and

there were always forklifts and flashing lights, and eccentric and interesting people that make the wine industry what it is.” “It was always a pretty cool place to be.” “I truly fell in love with wine around the dinner table. When I got older, every night dad would open up a bottle from his cellar and serve it blind at the table”. “I would always taste it, and we’d have a brief chat about the wine before he would reveal what it was.” “For me, that was really exciting way of honing my palette and learning about wine and developing that passion. He was lucky enough to have interesting and sometimes obscure wines from around the world, so there was never any preconceptions that ‘well, this is going to be another pinot from Burgundy’. There were all sorts of obscure things that opened

my eyes to the great world of wine.” “I do love pinot first and foremost. It is my true love, and I think the variety I enjoy making, and is the most challenging to make, but I’m intrigued by all forms of fermented grape juice!” It is not surprising that when Rollo left school, winemaking was his study of choice. He also worked overseas in the “off-season”. He did two vintages in the United States (Oregon and California) and also one in Barolo in Italy. In Australia, stints were spent producing vintages in the Hunter Valley and King Valley among others. Back home at Crittenden Estate, Rollo set about honing in on quality over quantity; to make the best wines possible, and build a strong name of excellence in the marketplace.

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With 11 acres under vine, Crittenden Estate is not the largest producer of wine on the peninsula. But in terms of quality, they are second to none. “There is no doubt that wine on the peninsula is a crowded market,” said Rollo. “It is so important to have a great range; the best products to stand out above the crowd,” said Rollo. And stand is what they intend to do. They believe that their “wine centre” approach will result in a complete rethink on the wine tasting experience. “We wanted to be able to properly showcase our wines. We felt that the traditional approach of having people standing at a bar being poured wines was not ideal,” said Rollo. “The person behind the bar could be dealing with multiple parties, and perhaps not make the tasting experience as informative as it could be.” “They may jump around, and not be able to offer a structured progression of wines that results in the best experience for the taster.” “What we have done is changed the experience to a sit down one, where people taste a flight of wines.” On arrival, visitors are welcomed and given an introduction to Crittenden Estate before being seated. Once they decide what variety they are most interested in, they are given tasting notes and a flight of wines; wines of a theme, either of variety or brand. With a range of 26 wines, the visitor to Crittenden Estate will never be short on tasting options whatever they choose. “Crittenden Estate produces wines from the Mornington Peninsula’s signature varieties of pinot noir and chardonnay, as well as Italian varieties under the Pinocchio label, and Spanish varieties under the Los Hermanos label. Visitors to the Crittenden Wine Centre have the opportunity to taste and learn about not just what the peninsula does best, but about the range of fascinating varietals from northern Italy and Spain,” said Rollo. The Crittenden Estate’s approach to educating and informing wine tasters has seen them awarded Gourmet Traveller Wine Magazine’s award for “Best Tasting Experience on the

MINT Magazine  October

2015

Mornington Peninsula 2015”. “We aim for visitors to leave our new home feeling relaxed, engaged, fulfilled and well-informed about our wines” said Rollo. Or not leave, as the case may be. For Crittenden Estate offers you the chance to stay a little longer. Located over the vineyards expansive lake are the Crittenden Estate’s Lakeside Villas. Offering a luxurious and tranquil accommodation experience, the villas are among the most exclusive boutique accommodation on the peninsula. Only three villas grace the scene, creating a sense of seclusion and indulgence. The outlook of the lake with its birdlife offers a cathartic break from the daily grind. You can self-cater in the well equipped kitchen, or dine at “Stillwater at Crittenden” which is on the family estate. “There is a natural synergy that exists between the Crittenden Wine Centre and the newly refurbished Lakeside Villas accommodation suites on the estate, together with the ‘Stillwater at Crittenden’ restaurant,” said Rollo whose wife Linda manages the villas. “We like to provide guests with the complete package in one location”. Crittenden Estate in Dromana has set the benchmark high for a peninsula wine experience. The vision that was born 33 years ago with those first five acres shows no sign of abating. The next generation have embraced their father’s dream and it seems like nothing will stop them. There may be many wineries on the peninsula, but there is only one Crittenden Estate. If you haven’t been there, you haven’t been anywhere. Address: 25 Harrisons Rd, Dromana Call: 5987 3800 Email: winecentre@crittendenwines.com.au Open 7 days a week 10:30am-4:30pm, drop in any time and taste the wine. General enquiries: 5981 8322 Email: info@crittendenwines.com.au crittendenwines.com.au

bayside & mornington peninsula

BE PLEASANTLY SURPRISED ONDE FINE FOOD CAFE Tucked away in a back lane of Mornington under a marquee, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find a tranquil, friendly and relaxed environment with casual dining. In 2007 Onde Fine Food Café (known as GERRY’S PLACE) was opened with its distinctly unique and quaint Mediterranean style café and gift shop. Onde has become a multi-award winning café, with fabulous staff, Chef Sam (Salvatore) and Emily. Onde offer a great breakfast selection, a range of home cooked Italian meals, and delicious in house cakes. Enjoy eating alfresco or in our private rear Tuscan style courtyard. Onde has developed into a unique outlet with home-made products such as infused extra virgin olive oils, traditional biscuits made by Gerry’s niece Marisa,

together with a selection of local and imported exquisite giftware. The shop is filled with all things Italian from specially designed leather bags to individually handcrafted ceramics designed and hand painted for Onde. In September 2016 with Gerry as tour guide, he’ll be taking a small group on a 15 day, “Once in a life time” food, wine and sightseeing tour of Italy where you’ll have a lot of fun visiting beautiful medieval towns and markets. You’ll stay in a 14th century castle and some amazing out of the way places that are designed for people 50 plus. Onde is at 1 Barrett Lane, Mornington. Call 5976 1244. onde.com.au

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SALON SUCCESS By Andrea Louise Thomas

Mornington Peninsula artist Christopher Pyett feels fortunate to have attended art school at a time when art education focused almost entirely on technique encompassing everything from colour theory, portrait, life and landscape painting to anatomy and drawing full-time. And it shows over the life of his long career. A consummate colourist, extraordinary draughtsman and brilliant watercolour painter, Pyett’s subtle and intricate portrait of Rosie Batty for the 2015 Archibald Prize is captivating. While it wasn’t a finalist in the Archibald, it was summarily accepted to the Salon des Refusés. MINT: What made you choose Rosie Batty as the sitter for your Archibald entry? How did she react when you asked her? PYETT: She made a great impression on me for her stance on family violence. It was her resilience more than anything else. Imagine seeing your son killed like that. Then almost two days later she started with that press conference. It’s incredible. I admired her diligence and dedication to the cause. I thought she’d be interesting to paint. She said she’d be very happy to sit for me. MINT: Rosie appears to emerge from or descend into the background. Did you do this purposefully? PYETT: Right from art school we had instilled in us that a portrait had to be a painting first and a likeness second. That’s what’s great about a portrait - having that tension between trying to make it a likeness and trying to make it a painting. Most people would be happy with a likeness of Rosie and fill up what’s left with something else. My concern is that the whole painting is in character and has the rhythms of Rosie all through the background. The only dominating feature is that she is sitting above eye level looking down taking on the world. That was deliberate on my part. MINT: As a career painter it’s surprising that you had never entered the Archibald Prize before. How come? PYETT: I don’t think an art prize can be judged by a number of people. It’s always going to be a compromise. It’s not one person’s discreet opinion about the best painting. I haven’t entered before because a) I’ve been interested in other things and b) it’s a lottery. MINT: How did you feel when you were selected for the Salon des Refusés? PYETT: They rang me on the day the Archibald was announced and said you’ve been chosen for the Salon. I was pleased music  arts  events  entertainment

about that. To get in the Salon is probably as good because you very often find that the best paintings are there. The Archibald has 950 entries. There are 54 in the Archibald and 50 in the Salon so I consider it pretty prestigious to get in.

the moment you walk out. That conflicts with the art world now.

MINT: You have been described variously as an abstract painter, a colourist, a draughtsman and a figurative painter. How would you describe your practice?

PYETT: An architect working for BHP saw an exhibition of mine in Melbourne. He then went to the Victorian Tapestry Workshop and said I’ve seen this painter’s work and we’d like to commission a tapestry from him. This commission opened a whole new world of colour, one where colour is not mixed as in painting, but is allowed to mix on the way to your eye and where purity of colour is at its maximum. In painting, every colour mix is one step nearer black. In tapestry this is not the case. I have completed 33 tapestry commissions.

PYETT: I’ve never been an abstract painter because an abstract painter starts with nothing and ends with nothing. I’ve always started with an idea on which to base my painting. I am very fond of good drawing. I’m an analytical painter not an expressionist painter. I can’t sit down and paint my emotions. Good art training tells you to build a foundation for life, not to be a genius from

MINT: You studied painting at the Tasmanian School of Art, but you also create amazing tapestries. How did you come to that?

MINT: You’ve mentioned that your love of classical music influences your painting. Could you elaborate on that? PYETT: It’s the inventive orchestration, i.e., the way good composers weave one instrument against another. This is the inspiration for how I weave one colour against another. MINT: What’s next? PYETT: I’m currently working on a portrait of Robert Richter, QC for next year’s Archibald Prize. See Pyett’s portrait of Rosie Batty and all the other finalists in the Salon des Refusés from 10 October to 29 November at Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery, Civic Reserve, Mornington. 5975 4395 mprg.mornpen.vic.gov.au

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A WOMAN’S PLACE By Andrea Louise Thomas

WHAT is a woman’s place? The very expression is fraught. Over Cup Day weekend a woman’s place will not be in the home because local women will be sharing stories, writing poetry, exploring a sense of place, singing and performing at Southern Peninsula Arts Centre. A Women’s Place is a three-day event giving voice to local women in a variety of ways thanks to a Placemaking Grant from the Mornington Peninsula Shire. Pop Up Op Shops, a collaboration between local op shops and Rosebud Secondary School students, will set the stage creating spaces for story sharing using op shop props. Carole Patullo and Jayne Bayley kick off the event Friday night starring in Button, a quirky thought provoking play. Saturday will feature story sharing with actor, Evelyn Krape, a poetry-writing workshop with Andrea Louise Thomas and a singing workshop with Coleen Rees. On Sunday, workshop participants have the opportunity to perform. Furthering the exploration of place, Anthea Mackenzie, theatre manager of SPAC, invites women to post hand written letters about their favourite place to be displayed in the Pop Up Op Shop. There will also be star weaving for a million stars to end violence. Share your story, write, sing, listen or watch, but don’t miss A Woman’s Place Friday 30 October through Sunday 1 November at Southern Peninsula Arts Centre, Rosebud. Full schedule at: southernpeninsulaartscentre.com or contact Anthea Mackenzie on 5986 8204 mackenzie.anthea.l@edumail.vic.gov.au

MINT Magazine  October

2015

bayside & mornington peninsula

SPRING INTO ART By Andrea Louise Thomas Peninsula Arts Society hold their major annual exhibition over Melbourne Cup Weekend displaying drawings, paintings, pastels and textiles from emerging to established artists all of whom are part of a welcoming creative community. ‘Friendship through art’ is their motto and it’s evident. PAS offers comprehensive classes taught by talented and dedicated tutors. Students learn in a friendly and encouraging environment producing excellent work, but

it’s the camaraderie amongst members that shines through. See the fruits of their labour Saturday, October 31 to Tuesday 3 November from 10 am-5 pm. Free entry. Devonshire tea and refreshments for sale. A raffle with great prizes is on offer too. PAS Studio Galleries, 159 Overport Road, Frankston South. Call 9775 2640. peninsulaartssociety.org.au

BUTTON By Andrea Louise Thomas

Multi-faceted performers Carole Patullo and Jayne Bayly have devised a quirky thought provoking play called Button. It’s an examination of the friendship between two very different women who strike up a friendship over a jar of old buttons. The play is an insight into the intricacies of social exchange and the need for connection. Just as a button needs something to attach to; people need someone to bond with.

Musician Peter Farnham of Boom Crash Opera joins Patullo and Bayley for an intimate evening of music, song and dialogue that’s food for thought. Button kicks off a special weekend of storytelling. Button at Southern Peninsula Arts Centre on Friday 30 October,7.30 pm. Tickets: southernpeninsulaartscentre.com or 5986 8402.

YOUTH VOICE SILENT FILMS By Andrea Louise Thomas

TRANSPORTING audiences back to the 1920s golden age of cinema, Kingston Arts presents the 2015 International Youth Silent Film Festival showcasing the talents of under-20s filmmakers at a roaring twenties gala evening where their short listed films will be screened. Having chosen one of seven genres: slapstick, action, horror, romance, mystery, sci-fi or hero, young filmmakers selected an original genre soundtrack composed by American organist, Nathan Avakian and then got filming. Avakian will travel from the United States to play Kingston Council’s 1928 Wurlitzer organ on the night. IYSFF Screening and Awards Night is Saturday 24 October from 6pm at Kingston City Hall, Moorabin with cabaret seating, pre-show entertainment and dancing after the show. Tickets $20. kingstonarts.com.au/FILM/iysff2015 music  arts  events  entertainment

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CALLING ALL ARTISTS By Andrea Louise Thomas Frankston Arts Centre presents numerous high profile contemporary art exhibition spaces. They are currently seeking proposals from artists wishing to exhibit on the FAC Curved Wall and Atrium Galleries, Cube 37 Gallery and Glass Cube and White Street Light Boxes. FAC Art & Gift Boxes also provide exhibition opportunities for small-scale works. First round submissions for 2016 close 6 November, however, space will remain open to submissions throughout the year. Contact visual arts officer Milla Dakovic on 9784 1896 or milla.dakovic@frankston.vic.gov.au for more information.

FILMAKERS GET YOUR SHORTS ON Peninsula Short Film Fest in Australia for the event , its 80 square metres and has a 3 mml pixel pitch plus Postall Studios will deliver Cinema quality sound,” he said.

year-round workshops taking place around Victoria. “Workshops have sold out fast and we’ve plans to increase these as well as take them interstate next year,” Bastoni said.

third place scoring $1250 cash prize. There are plenty more cool prizes with awards for Best Screenplay, Best Director, Best Actor and Best Cinematography.

“From Animation to Short Film for Everyone to Scriptwriting and Editing – our workshops are open to all and we also run workshops for corporate clients as well,” he added.

$33 (inc GST) entry fee and entries are accepted from Australia and overseas.

“This is a great opportunity for filmmakers to have their short film seen by a large crowd, including Film Victoria representatives as well as other industry VIPs”.

The Woodleigh Emerging Filmmaker Prize ($500 cash) is gaining strong interest this year with entries already flowing in. The award further cements PSFF as a springboard for emerging talent. “Liam Kelly won this award last year and has since gone on to win other film festivals,” festival producer Meg Pascoe said.

“We’ve secured the biggest and best screen

2015 has seen massive growth for PSFF with

Peninsula Short Film Fest is now open for entry and next year’s Festival is set to be the biggest and best yet. Filmmakers of any level are invited to submit a short film of up to eight minutes in length by Friday 18 December. We’re anticipating a crowd of 5,000 people at the Village Green next year,” festival director Steve Bastoni said.

Get filming and enter now. The drill is the same - 12 short listed films judged live on the night by a panel of celebrities with the winner taking out $5,000 in cash, second place $2,500 cash and the National Australia Bank

Save the date - Peninsula Short Film Fest: Saturday 6 February 2016, Village Green, Rosebud, Free entry. For entry details, to book a workshop or for more information, see peninsulashortfilmfest. com.au

FUN ART FAIR By Andrea Louise Thomas Showcasing original painting, photography, pastels, drawings, sculpture, mixed media and jewellery, Somers Arts Fair combines the best aspects of an affordable art show, auction, local market and country fair celebrating the creative diversity of Mornington Peninsula artists and artisans. One really unique feature of this fair is its original hand carved cypress totem poles generously donated for auction by the local artists who created them. Starting at 2pm the auction offers sculpture, etchings, paintings, photography and totem poles. Craft market stalls offer locally made pottery, glasswork, jewellery, metal sculpture and

MINT Magazine  October

2015

textiles. Delicious baked goods, barista-made coffee, savoury gourmet food plus peninsula wine and local beer on tap satisfy all tastes. Canadian musician Jeff Wall will rock the show as RPP FM broadcasts live. Kids can enjoy rides, games, hands-on creative activities and show bags. This annual fundraiser for Somers Primary School has something for all. Enjoy a fun day out at the 13th annual Somers Arts Fair Sunday 25 October from 10 am-5pm. Somers Primary School, Camp Hill Road, Somers. somersartsfair.com

bayside & mornington peninsula

MT ELIZA ART & DESIGN SHOW By Andrea Louise Thomas Transforming the architecturally unique Mt Eliza North Primary School into a classy exhibition space selling paintings, photography, craft, sculpture, functional design, textiles and ceramics, their annual major fundraiser is always an excellent show. Feature artists for 2015 are painters from Peninsula Art Space, sculptor Deb Moroney, jeweller Georgie Cunningham and photographer Gina Walters joining a host of original works from artists around the Mornington Peninsula and beyond.

Opening night is Friday 23 October from 7.30-10pm. Complimentary drink, delicious catering, live music and art auction included in $25 admission. Raffle prizes are always great. Show continues Saturday 10am-5pm and Sunday 10am-4pm at Mt Eliza North Primary School, 6 Moseley Drive, Mt. Eliza. Phone: 9787 6611. Visit Café D’Art for weekend food and refreshments. mtelizaart.com

ART FOR ALL By Andrea Louise Thomas Dromana Art Show has recently reinvented itself. A polished and varied show representing a spectrum of artists from children and teens to established visual artists, sculptors and craft artisans; this is a first class show. Singer-songwriter Heidi Luckhurst will perform Opening Night while wine, bubbles and brews flow accompanying tasty canapés and finger foods. This year’s feature artists are Jean Sheridan and Christian Gundeson. Dromana Art Show supports artist of all ages awarding prizes from primary school aged children to the seasoned professional. Student art prizes are open to all Mornington Peninsula pupils. Unique original handmade goods are on sale at The Artisan Shop. Local artists present live art and craft demonstrations while arts and craft activities are open to all throughout the weekend. Come see this great show supporting a terrific local school. Opening night is Friday 31 October from 7pm until late. music  arts  events  entertainment

Show continues through Sunday November 1 from 10 am - 5 pm. Dromana Primary School, McCulloch Street, Dromana.

Crimson Peak (15th October) Mia Wasikowska, Charlie Hunnam, Tom Hiddleston,

5 to 7 (5th November) Anton Yelchin, Berenice Marlohe, Olivia Thirlby

Alex and Eve (22nd October) Richard Brancatisano, Ryan O’Kane, Andrea Demetriades

Freeheld (5th November) Julianne Moore, Ellen Page, Steve Carell

Bridge of Spies (22nd October) Tom Hanks, Amy Ryan, Alan Alda

Man Up (5th November) Simon Pegg, Ophelia Lovibond, Lake Bell

Paranormal Activity: The Ghost Dimension (22nd October) Nathan Brewer, Jay Hieron

Now Add Honey (5th November) Portia de Rossi, Lucy Fry, Angus Sampson, Hamish Blake, Ben Lawson

The Dressmaker (22nd October) Kate Winslet, Judy Davis, Liam Hemsworth

By The Sea (12th November) Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, Melanie Laurent

The Lobster (22nd October) Lea Seydoux, Colin Farrell, Rachel Weisz

Knight of Cups (12th November) Natalie Portman, Christian Bale, Teresa Palmer

Masterminds (29th October) Kristen Wiig, Owen Wilson, Jason Sudeikis

Spectre (12th November) Daniel Craig, Christoph Waltz, Ralph Fiennes

Mistress America (29th October) Greta Gerwig, Lola Kirke

99 Games (19th November) Andrew Garfield, Laura Dern, Michael Shannon

No Escape (29th October) Lake Bell, Pierce Brosnan, Owen Wilson

Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 2 (19th November) Jennifer Lawrence, Liam Hemsworth

dromanaart.org.au

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