![Wiki announces Agung Mango (Melb), Dameeeela [DJ Set] & Threebeds (Bris) + Slim Set (Syd) as supports for 'The OOFIE World Tour' | Kicks off next week](https://thepartae.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Wiki-announces-Agung-Mango-Melb-Dameeeela-DJ-Set-Threebeds-Bris-Slim-Set-Syd-as-supports-for-The-OOFIE-World-Tour-Kicks-off-next-week.jpg "Wiki announces Agung Mango (Melb), Dameeeela [DJ Set] & Threebeds (Bris) Slim Set (Syd) as supports for ‘The OOFIE World Tour’ Kicks off next week")
I OH YOU, Illusive Presents and Frontier Touring today reveal that New York City rapper Patrick ‘Wiki’ Morales will be joined by supports, Agung Mango (Melbourne show), DJ Dameeeela and Threebeds (Brisbane show) plus producer-rapper duo Slim Set (Sydney show) on the Australian leg of his OOFIE World Tour. The tour is in celebration of Wiki’s latest album OOFIE and will kick off in eight days at Melbourne’s The Tote.
For the Melbourne leg of his OOFIE World Tour, Wiki will be supported by 21-year-old rapper Agung Mango. Hailing from the Western suburbs of Melbourne and heavily influenced by experimental hip hop, alternative R&B and indie rock, Agung Mango is one to watch and impossible to ignore. Mango will bring his high energy and diverse genre-bending sounds, as showcased in tracks ‘WOKEUPINJAPAN’, ‘HOME N AWAY’ as well as his most recent release ‘RODENT’.
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guccihighwaters unveils his new track “candy” featuring soundcloud artist and producer, Lund.
“My vision for ‘candy’ came to me when my friend Jay Vee and I were at the studio. He played a really somber yet comforting chord progression on his guitar and I instantly thought of something bittersweet,” explains guccihighwaters. “Sometimes you have to end a relationship that feels so good but is bad for you and won’t end well. I felt like a bouncy uplifting drum pattern would complement the ambient melodies and Jay Vee laid those down real quick. After the track was done I had an open verse and was thinking about who it would sound great with — one of the first artists that popped into my head was Lund. We spoke a few times in the past about making some music together and at that time we just set up a tour together so I felt like it was the perfect timing and the perfect song for him to be a part of.”
guccihighwaters is the creative persona of singer and producer Morgan Murphy. guccihighwaters blends hip hop and emo genres seamlessly with his melodic tunes and lyrics that are vulnerable and intimately confessional. Growing up in Ireland, before moving to New York at the age of fifteen, his isolated beginnings gave him his work ethic and laid the groundwork for his succinct home recording process. Despite having only been on the scene since 2017, with his first EP Post Death, guccihighwaters has established himself as a force to be reckoned with garnering nearly 850,000 monthly Spotify listeners. He has since released two EPs November & Not Around Here and a series of singles.
A POLITICALLY-CHARGED ALBUM FEATURING GUEST MUSICIANS MISSY HIGGINS, MONTAIGNE, CLARE BOWDITCH, FRED LEONE, BRIAN VIGLIONE (THE DRESDEN DOLLS) AND JHEREK BISCHOFF
+ Neil Gaiman & Amanda Palmer Present:
A Bushfire Recovery Event
W/ Special Guests: Missy Higgins & Fred Leone
At Forum, Melbourne on March 8
US musician, author and activist Amanda Palmer has announced Forty-Five Degrees: A Bushfire Charity Flash Record set for release on Friday, February 21. Recorded in just five days, the album is an immediate response to the ongoing bushfire crisis plaguing Australia with all proceeds going to Firesticks Alliance; an Indigenous led network re-invigorating and teaching cultural burning and land management.
The first single lifted from the release is a stirring cover of Midnight Oil’s hit “Beds Are Burning” featuring Missy Higgins taking the lead vocal under Palmer’s signature punk rock piano pounding. In addition to this, the tireless artist has also announced ‘Neil Gaiman & Amanda Palmer Present A Bushfire Recovery Event’ with special guests Missy Higgins and Fred Leone (Butchulla Song Man) in Melbourne on March 8th, in a bid to raise further funds to aid bushfire recovery efforts with proceeds going to Firesticks Alliance and Seed Mob: a movement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people working for climate justice with the Australian Youth Climate Coalition.
Forty-Five Degrees: A Bushfire Charity Record came together at a dizzying pace between tour dates at Sing Sing Studios in Melbourne with the help of Missy Higgins, Montaigne (singing on “Truganini”), Clare Bowditch (singing on “Black Smoke”) and Fred Leone (playing didjeridoo on “Solid Rock”) who dropped everything to be in the studio and lend their talents to the effort. The album also sees Amanda reunite with Brian Viglione of The Dresden Dolls who plays drums across several tracks and long-time Palmer-and-Higgins collaborator Jherek Bischoff providing guitar and both electric and upright bass. The album was helmed by local engineer Anna Laverty and produced by Amanda with Ross Cockle on mastering duties. The artwork was created specifically for the project by newly-minted Australian citizen Sarah Beetson.
Every song has ties to Australia, but it doesn’t stop there: each song is also deeply political. Featuring a new original song, “Suck It Up, Buttercup”, penned in Tasmania after a Mona Foma residency in a confessional booth during which Palmer spoke with over 100 people in Launceston about their fears and histories of abuse, the album also contains covers of songs by Midnight Oil, Ted Egan, Jen Cloher, Goanna and Emily Wurramarra. Most songs were suggested by Amanda’s Patreon community who inspired the emergency effort. “My ability to move and work fast is made possible by 15,000 full-time supporters on my Patreon crowdfunding page. As the bushfires hit global headlines, many of my patrons reached out and wanted to know if we could collectively help the cause, given that I was touring here,” says Amanda.
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Natalie Shay is a 21 year old indie pop/rock artist hailing from North London. The multi award-winning musician has established an ever-growing presence, media acclaim and a loyal fanbase through her explosive live performances and viral-worthy anthems, recognising her as one of the UKs hottest emerging talents.
Combining her youthful and charismatic aura with her classical training and time spent at the prestigious BRIT School, Shay has finessed the ability to produce undeniably catchy music, whilst maintaining a musical maturity. Compared to the likes of Haim, Little Comets and Fickle Friends, the Londoner has absorbed a similar energy and dynamic within her new music.
Shay’s upcoming EP NAKED is a five-track release delving into the everyday experiences of a 21 year old, detailing relationships and life as a young musician. Continuing the songwriter’s love of 80’s soaked music, NAKED cleverly blends the best of era with modern flares. Shay expresses, “I love authentic 80s synth and drum sounds, but I also love modern pop vocal lines and effects. And of course lots of guitars. I try to include a flavour of each of those things in my music. It was very important to me that all of the songs had their own unique stamp and vibe but still all fitted and worked together under the same project”.
Leading single “Not The Girl” narrates the relatable situation of modern dating, but through a fun and lighthearted lens. “This song was written on reflection of a relationship, but more from a perception of understanding rather than a big ‘f*ck you”, shares the singer. However, years after finishing the song, Shay realised that the lyrics now took on a whole different meaning, depicting the feeling of sometimes not feeling good enough and frustrations towards working relationships. Sonically “Not The Girl” features upbeat buoyant melodies, effortless vocals and vivid storytelling lyrics.
“Owe It To You” shows a more heartfelt side of Shay’s songwriting, emitting a raw and truly personal essence. Thematically the single is about being in a relationship and struggling to resist temptation. Title track “Naked” shares the topic with “Owe It To You”, illustrating the breakdown in a relationship, knowing you have interest elsewhere but struggling to let go for the fear of being alone. The single sees Shay’s first time including brass instruments in her music, bringing the song to life through a vibrant saxophone solo.
Shay sold out two headline shows in 2019, with her music continuing to pique the interest of notable publications such as Billboard, Clash and The Line of Best Fit. To date she has collectively amassed hundreds of thousands of streams, with her single ‘Yesterday’ being placed in Spotify’s New Music Friday playlist in nine countries. Natalie Shay is a force to be reckoned with and we can’t wait to see what 2020 has in store. NAKED is slated for release 17th April with an EP release show at Camden Assembly on the 16th April (tickets available on DICE).
After the huge success of their SOLD OUT inaugural festival in Queensland last year, Empire Touring is proud to announce that Spring Loaded will be returning to the Sunshine State AND coming to Sydney in 2020!
The soundtrack to the lives of every 10% Weird Aussie teen who lived their lives through the bands plastered all over their bedroom walls is back. Get off your Berlin Chair, dust off your Doc Martens, dig up an old Comfort Me flanno and rip some holes in your jeans; it’s time to go back to when Life Was Better.
The Spring Loaded Sydney line up features the incredible talents of;
Grinspoon, You Am I, Custard, Frenzal Rhomb, Magic Dirt,
Tumbleweed, Screamfeeder & Caligula.
While in Queenland at the Bribie Island show, playing for your old school pleasure are;
Grinspoon, You Am I, Regurgitator, Shihad, Magic Dirt,
The Fauves, The Meanies & Screamfeeder
The decade that saw Australia’s indie rock scene full of Girls Like That (and Guys Like Us) who took control of the airwaves and festival grounds still remains a high water mark and the bands on Spring Loaded 2020 are playing better than ever! While the era that saw everybody Getting A Three Piece Together and touring around the country on their Fingers and Toes is but a memory, Spring Loaded is bringing some of the best old school alt rock acts together for the ultimate nostalgia trip for music lovers who were there back in the day!
And for those who weren’t there, don’t cry the Tears Of A Clown, this is your chance to experience what your older friends or siblings told you about from back then.
Rocking riffs, fuzzy feedback and that rebellious spirit that is simply lacking from any music since the Sundial ushered in the new millennium.
So if you Like Your Old Stuff Better Than Your New Stuff come and see some of the decades most celebrated acts playing sets that will evoke memories of a Just Ace youth.
You have Never Had So Much Fun.
Get ready to turn Randwick & Bribie Island into mosh pits your 15 year old self will be proud of!
Spring Loaded SYDNEY
Saturday, May 9 – The Lawn @ Royal Randwick*
Gates open 3.00pm
Spring Loaded BRIBIE ISLAND
Saturday, June 20: Sandstone Point Hotel
Pre-sale: Thursday, February 20
Tickets on sale: Monday, February 24
Early bird $99 + booking fee until sold out
GA Tickets $109 + booking fee
VIP Tickets will be available – Details to come
www.ticketmaster.com.au
For more information surf to
www.springloadedfestival.com.
#springloaded
*On The Lawn at Royal Randwick, Spring Loaded will be curated with some killer craft beer and food trucks. The old betting yards have been transformed into a magical space perfect for a festival, which will be limited to 5000 people so definitely get your tickets fast!!
There will be on ground park and the new tram line brings you right to the door!
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
This is a fully licensed 18+ event
Strictly no BYO food or alcohol
This is an outdoor concert, the show will go ahead rain, hail or shine
No tables, tents or sun shelters are permitted
No umbrellas (even if it’s raining) bring good quality ponchos/raincoats and gumboots instead
**********
SPRING LOADED 2020
PLAYING BOTH NSW + QLD
GRINSPOON
Charging onto the Australian music scene in 1995 by winning that years Triple J Unearthed competition with Sic
YOU AM I
Sydney’s You Am I have been synonymous with their hometown’s music scene for the past three decades. They were the first Aussie band to release three successive albums that all debuted at #1 on the Aria Album Charts! Hi Fi Way in 95, Hourly Daily in 96 and #4 Record in 1998. They’ve also received 10 Aria awards from 31 nominations. Besides their Trophy room being chock full of accolades and awards from the last 30 years, they have some absolute cracking songs that are part of every alt-rock fans DNA. From Berlin Chair and Cathy’s Clown to What I Don’t Know ‘bout You and Soldiers.. you know them all!
MAGIC DIRT
Magic Dirt’s second EP, Life Is Better, debuted at #1 on the Australian Alternative Music Chart in 94 where it stayed for a whopping 75 weeks and sold over 20 000 copies! It saw them land a spot on the BDO and play with Hole too. Tours of the US and Europe followed as did runs with all the Aussie 90’s bands you can namecheck. The bands biggest success lay in the 2000’s where Plastic Loveless Letter reached #16 on the singles chart and the album it came from Tough Love peaked at 15 and scored an Aria Nomination for Best Rock Album.
SCREAMFEEDER
During the 1990s, indie and grunge took over the world, Brisbane’s Screamfeeder were right in the thick of it. Although they differed from the low-fi and retro sound of many of their contemporaries to instead go straight for the throat with influences more akin to Husker Du, The Jam and GBV. With seven albums to their name and having played with Rollins Band, Sonic Youth and Pavement among many others, their place in the Aussie alt rock history is assured.
PLAYING NSW ONLY
CUSTARD
Back when the Hottest 100 was dominated by bands with guitars, Custard came in at #7 on 95’s list with Apartment and a year later they played on the Opera House steps as part of the Crowded House Farewell To The World concert (along with You Am I) remember that? Three years later in 1998, the bands biggest hit, Girls Like That (Don’t Go For Guys Like Us) came in at #3 on the Hottest 100, peaked at #52 on the Aria Singles chart and won the Aria that year for Best Video! After such a big year, Custard disbanded, only to come back eleven years later and now play a few select shows a year. Spring Loaded will be one of them!
FRENZAL RHOMB
Featuring everyone’s favourite ex-radio duo of Jay and The Doctor, Frenzal have been at it since 92! Back when tours like Vans Warped and the Big Day Out were regulars on the gig calendar, you could bet your camel that Frenzal Rhomb were on the line up. If they weren’t they were probably out with NOFX, Blink 182 or any other major punk rock band. They played with them all! Up until 2005 their music was banned on the J’s. How did they fix that? Jay and Lindsay became the stations Breakfast hosts! Fucking Genius.
TUMBLEWEED
The Gong’s favourite sons, Tumbleweed have been playing their own brand of acid-rock forever. A post-psychedelic haze with lashings of fuzz-drenched guitar, thumping beat and trippy vocals that saw them open for Nirvana’s first ever Australian show. The band were regulars on the Big Day Out during the mid 90’s, playing the festival an incredible five times and had a string of Top 20 albums with Galactaphonic climbing as high as number 6!
CALIGULA
Emerging from a dark corner of early 90’s era Sydney, Caligula’s take on alt rock added more of an electronic sound to their walls of guitars. Their most excellent cover of Tears Of A Clown saw them get some Triple J and even Triple M love and they toured with the likes of Depeche Mode, Pop Will Eat Itself, Ned’s Atomic Dustbin and The Beastie Boys.
****
PLAYING QLD ONLY
REGURGITATOR
The Gurge’s second album, Unit, absolutely owed everything in 97. It went Triple Platinum, won 5 Arias, including Album Of The Year, and peaked at #4 on the charts. Their transition from a straight ahead indie rockers into an act that plays any genre that infects their creative sensibility and takes their fancy has led Regurgitator to be one of those few bands that can play anywhere to anyone and everyone has a good time!
SHIHAD
Like all good things from NZ, Shihad have been claimed by Australia as one of their own. With 9 kick ass rock n roll albums under their belts, these riff lords have endured and seen it all, including that weird bit in the early 2000’s when they were called Pacifier to um pacify the Americans.
With countless tours over their 30 year career, the Shihad live show is one of the most potent you’ll ever see.
THE FAUVES
Melbourne icons, The Fauves have been on the scene since 88. They were one of the first bands on the BDO when it went interstate in 93 and hit their 1000 gig milestone back in 2007 so to call them road dogs is putting it mildly. Known for their witty lyrics full of dry satire and Australianisms, they hold a special place in the hearts of indie rock kids.
THE MEANIES
Back in the day, Melbourne punks, The Meanies were the kings of the underground circuit. Their Ramones fueled riffage and hectic live shows drew capacity crowds everytime they played . Their sets at multiple BDO’s and supports for Nirvana, Pearl Jam, The Beastie Boys and many others have become the stuff of legend.
Driven by a love for the timeless, Melbourne’s All The Colours return brandishing a new studio record primed and refined for 2020. The album, Vol. 3, is a snapshot of the band at a creative peak. Oscillating between gritty garage/alt-rock inspired sounds and loftier blues-injected moments, the album represents an exciting new chapter for the trio.
Led by new single ‘Waste’, All The Colours re-enter the atmosphere for the New Year showcasing the more evocative and matured facets of their songwriting skill. Playing more with sonic tone and exploring heavier melodies, the song is a love story delivered with bite. “‘Waste’ is a teenage love story. It’s an ode to the melancholic feelings and desires I remember having at that time in my life and the fantasies I concocted. Being in my 30s now, I have a much stronger sense of songwriting and melody, and an ability to capture the essence of those emotions.” Josh Moriarty
Working with longtime collaborator Cian Riordan (Mini Mansions, Beth Ditto) on mixing and Chris Taylor (Grizzly Bear, Dirty Projectors) on production, the music came to life across sessions out in Los Angeles. The vibe of the iconic music city filters throughout the music with ease, as All The Colours thread their own story in throughout a tapestry of music that has come from the likes of Death From Above 1979 and Smashing Pumpkins.
A band like All The Colours produces recorded material heavily driven by the type of energy they produce in a live environment. Having developed a strong reputation for themselves in Australia for their dynamic and energetic live shows, All The Colours went just as hard on injecting Vol. 3 with the same levels of vibrancy. “The music was an expression of our love for 90s alt-rock. We dived deep into the riff pool and came up with as many variations as possible, trying to find something fresh.” Josh Moriarty
“Whoa – I did not expect this burly rock band to take a sidestep into all your fave 90s bands – Blue Album Weezer, The Bends era Radiohead. I ain’t mad.”
Triple J Unearthed, Dave Ruby Howe
“A single-song soundtrack to angst of the highest order.”
Music Mermaid
“The Melbourne trio’s penchant for injecting moody, rich textures into classic garage alt-rock is as vital
as ever…”
The AU Review
To celebrate the release of Vol. 3, All The Colours will be performing two east coast shows in Melbourne and Sydney this February and March. Not to be missed, the gigs offer fans the opportunity to see the band unleash their new music in some intimate settings and hear just how much the live element has worked its way into the new music.
ALL THE COLOURS TOUR DATES
Saturday, February 29th Bendigo Hotel Melbourne
with The Crookeds, F & The Js, Telenova
Tickets
Saturday, March 14th Frankie’s Pizza Sydney
with Witching Hour, Foxton Kings
Free Entry
‘Waste’ is released Friday February 14th.
Vol. 3 is released Friday February 21st.
https://www.facebook.com/Allthecolours
HILLTOP HOODS
ALISON WONDERLAND (Only 2020 Aus Show)
THE AMITY AFFLICTION · DUNE RATS · EXAMPLE (UK) · G FLIP
KINGSWOOD · ODETTE · THELMA PLUM · WINSTON SURFSHIRT
KWAME · CXLOE · JESSB (NZ) · NYXEN · KYLE LIONHART · BOOTLEG RASCAL
A SWAYZE & THE GHOSTS · ROLAND TINGS · DEATH BY DENIM
JAWBREAKERS · GOLD MEMBER · MADY MOODA · JACK BOTTS
THE JENSENS · FIRST BEIGE · FORREST RUN · TRIPLE J UNEARTHED WINNER
PLUS…
FRI NIGHT MAY 29 | CAMPGROUNDS PINEAPPLE PARTY
SILENT DISCO FEATURING GO FREEK · PACES · JAWBREAKERS · BONFIRE
BOOTLEG RASCAL · KYLE LIONHART · JACK BOTTS & APPROACHABLE MEMBERS OF YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY
https://www.moshtix.com.au/v2/event/big-pineapple-music-festival-2020/117826
What is your name and role within the band?
Aaron Ikin – Main songwriter, lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist
Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there?
We’re based in Sydney. The scene has taken a hit lately due to the lock out laws, but now they have been lifted it should start to snowball! The reopening of the Lansdowne a couple of years back has been amazing for the scene. Such great music there. Frankie’s is a definite hotspot for all sorts of shows and you can really feel the Sydney music scene alive and well when you’re down there.
How did you first start playing music?
I had always had an inclination for poetry growing up and an ear for good music but it wasn’t until I lost my dad at 21 to Motor Neuron Disease I taught myself guitar, singing and songwriting. I decided at that point music is twofold – great for self-expression but also a gift to someone else.
How did Love Drunk Hearts form?
Out of a warehouse party!! I was living there at the time and attempting to write as much as I could. It was a real hub for musicians on the Northern Beaches and a great practise space. Our lead guitarist had tried out for Benny’s (bass player) old band Bec and Ben but didn’t make the cut. This was probably a good thing as we got along straight off the bat and started writing together. I sent him a memo of our first recorded and released song and luckily he didn’t run. When we got good enough, Benny jumped on board as a bass player and in house producer and bought tonnes of experience with him on that. Brownie, our drummer, had worked with Bec and Ben and another band called Clubfeet. We are very lucky because we all get on great, although sometimes I can act like a bit of a diva.
Your new single ‘Park The Cars’ is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this track?
I’d like to say it’s a combination of listening to Angus Stone’s Broken Bright’s album and Noel Gallagher’s solo work. I always like the feel of both their stuff, particularly Noel’s vocals. I’ve always loved the shoe gazey / driving stuff – you get lost in it for a while. It was a real welcome change of direction for us. Oscar Dawson’s expertise on this track – he really polished the track and brought it to another level, particularly in the arrangement and soundscapes.
How did you go about writing Park The Cars?
I was literally strumming in the bedroom of an old unit in Manly and started singing the line ‘where they park the cars’ and although it’s a bit of a funny lyric, it fit the vibe of the music really well. In regional areas all along the coast, the carpark acts as a bit of a meeting ground; an access point to the great outdoors and the beach. As Australians, I think we all love a good road trip with friends and family.
What is the purpose/meaning of the song?
It’s a song about escapism – I think as humans it’s vital to explore and experience. The song aims to conjure pictures in the listener of their paradise, the destinations which give a feeling of freedom far from circumstance and instil a yearning for something different and something more.
Where and when did you record/produce?
We recorded in Melbourne at Aviary Studios in Abbotsford last April. We road tripped down from Sydney and listened to Paul Kelly’s A to Z the whole way. What a trip!
What programs/ instruments did you use?
Oscar used ProTools on his end and we used a bunch of different guitars, amps and pedals. A mixture of our own gear and stuff that was in the studio. The main guitar sound comes from a couple of different Fenders; the smoothness of a Strat mixed with the bite of a Tele.
How did you approach the recording process?
We came at it from a live feel. We all got in the room and tracked live. After 3 or 4 takes we would escape to the NASA control room and pick the best parts. Once the bed of the track was done we recorded the vocals and worked on extra guitar parts in Oscar’s studio.
Holy Holy took care of the production, how was this experience and how did you come to work with Holy Holy?
Amazing. Oscar was great. I felt like as a band we got on with him really well. His a real wizard at production and guitar and an all round great guy. I’ve been a fan of Holy Holy’s stuff and love the sonic textures that they explore on their records. Some of the best modern rock in Oz. I always think as a band you need that 5th member to really get the best of a song and Oscar filled that so well.
We were lucky enough to meet with Oscar’s management for a band audit and during this audit Oscar was suggested for production – I reached out immediately and we were so lucky Oscar liked the tracks.
What do you like to do away from music?
Surf and exercise. I’m always learning too. My partner and I are always having a laugh and a great time too. I’m also pretty fond of a good beer.
Who are you listening to at the moment?
I’ve been hammering Dope Lemon lately. Great vibes. HOLY HOLY’s last album was epic too. Liam Gallagher’s latest solo work has some bangers. DMA’s track ‘Silver’ is a gem. There’s also a local band called 100 releasing some good tunes.
What’s planned for 2020?
We have another song Oscar produced to release in April! And another self-produced track after that. We also want to jump on some solid supports and start working with a manager – it’s all been in house so far.
Favourite food and place to hangout?
I’d have to say a burrito with chips. California style. The best every time. I love hanging out in Manly by the beach. Nothing better. Home in Freshwater isn’t too bad either.
Youth by Nicolai Yu. Courtesy of the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA).
20 March – 12 July | Melbourne Museum
The annual Top Designs exhibition is returning to Melbourne Museum to celebrate its twentieth year. The exhibition will showcase Victoria’s brightest VCE and VCE VET design students from 20 March – 12 July 2020.
From over 1000 submissions, the 88 selected works provide insight into the exciting future of Australian design across a variety of mediums. These include photography, film, print, textiles, furnishing, systems engineering, theatre, creative digital media, visual communications, and for the first time in 2020, sound production.
The exhibition is set to not only celebrate the next generation of designers, filmmakers, photographers, architects, engineers, sound-engineers
Around the world, design is used to creatively answer life’s questions and to provide solutions to problems in unexpected ways. This year, Top Designs is no different. Among the array of breath-taking works, Warren Rogan, a systems engineering exhibitor designed a human-sized robot which mimics human movements. It is intended for use in emergency service situations and is an innovative solution for when it is too dangerous for emergency service personnel to enter an area to assist. Luke DeBuhr, designed a prosthetic hand to replace a removed or dysfunctional hand. The system intends to give back complete independence and functionality.
Top Designs 2020 highlight reel. Source – Museums Victoria
In product design and technology, textiles exhibitors looked for solutions to the lack of sustainability and accessibility within the fashion industry. Garments were created from recycled materials and an exhibitor, Millicent Meldrum created a corset fashion outfit for a friend who suffers from scoliosis.
In media, beautiful photographic series explores themes of self, identity, emotion, mental health, youth and nostalgia. Also in the media realm is a range of films and animations spanning genres including
Top Designs 2020 is complemented by a range of educational programs, including introductory talks and forums from various industry professionals which provide valuable insight and inspiration to current VCE and VET design students. The industry speakers will be announced in late February 2020.
Gordon White, General Manager of Melbourne Museum said, ‘Museums Victoria is thrilled to celebrate 20 years of presenting Top Designs in partnership with the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority’s (VCAA) VCE Season of Excellence. As always, this year’s exhibition is a remarkable display of ingenuity, artistry and innovation that is certain to spark the imaginations of all visitors to Melbourne Museum, in particular students who are currently enrolled in VCE and VCE VET programs.’
Chris Wardlaw, Chair of the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority Board said, “Top Designs celebrates the innovative talents of VCE and VCE VET students from across Victoria. It also demonstrates our world-class VCE curriculum that fosters excellence in creative pursuits and produces not only unique student works, but provides the stepping stones to successful careers in art and design.”
Top Designs 2020 is proudly presented in partnership with the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA) as part of the VCE Season of Excellence, which includes Top Acts, Top Arts, Top Class and Top Screen. It represents students from a range of government, independent and Catholic schools in Victoria’s metropolitan and regional areas.
For more information on educational programs visit our website.
Top Designs 2020 | Melbourne Museum
20 March – 12 July 2020
Open daily, 10am – 5pm
Admission included with museum entry
Adults $15, students, concession and children FREE.
‘Songs for Australia’ is an extraordinary album made by a collection of global artists who have each donated their time to record a cover of an Australian song. ‘Songs for Australia’ was made to raise money for organisations in Australia who are working towards creating a better future for the country and helping to rebuild during and after the bushfire crisis. It will be digitally released Thursday March 5 through BMG. The album will be released on vinyl and CD in June.
At the heart of the record is Australian songwriter and musician, Julia Stone. Recording in London over the new year period, Stone learned her mother was being evacuated from Lake Conjola on the south coast of New South Wales. Stone watched the unfolding bushfire crisis on the news, along with the rest of the world, feeling helpless, frustrated and distressed. Despite the vast distance between her and her home, her deep connection with it and her horror at its unfolding destruction dominated the days that followed. Late one night, she showed her producer and good friend Thomas Bartlett her favourite Australian songs, songs that over time had settled themselves in her heart. Together they decided that she should record one.
The next day they recorded Midnight Oil’s ‘Beds Are Burning’.
At first, their collaboration was simply a creative outlet for the sadness Stone was feeling for the situation at hand. But she realised her sadness was even deeper and more far-reaching than that, connected to the history of intense sadness in Australia in relation to many of the misguided political and social choices that have been made. Stone wanted the song to connect with its origins – written 33 years ago about indigenous land rights – and so began exploring the information relating to the inattention to indigenous wisdom on land management. She decided to make a clip to accompany the recording that would incorporate a broader commentary on these issues.
Inspired to reach out further, Stone felt that something truly tangible could be done to help if she could involve the power of a greater number of artists. She began contacting musicians she had a personal connection with to ask if they would be interested in contributing a cover of an Australian song to an album that would raise money for the bushfire crisis. The response was international, immediate and immense.
American friends The National signed on instantly and offered to record a version of INXS’s ‘Never Tear Us Apart’. Kurt Vile put his hand up to cover Nick Cave’s ‘Stranger Than Kindness’. Joan as Police Woman covered Gotye’s ‘Hearts A Mess’. Avant-garde American folk artist, Sam Amidon offers his take on ‘Let Me Down Easy’ by Gang of Youths. From Ireland, friend Damien Rice delivered SIA’s ‘Chandelier’ and fellow Irishman, Dermot Kennedy covered Matt Corby’s ‘Resolution’. Touring buddy from years back, Canadian singer Martha Wainwright, gave Nick Cave’s ‘The Ship Song’. Friends from France, Petit Biscuit and Pomme also volunteered songs.
And back at home, long-time friend Paul Kelly offered his cover of Archie Roach’s ‘Native Born’, Dan Sultan gave Nick Cave’s ‘Into My Arms’ and brother Angus’s Dope Lemon covered The Go-Betweens’ ‘Streets Of Your Town’.
It wasn’t just artists that wanted to help, mix engineer Eric J Dubowsky jumped on board to offer his services and mastering legend, Greg Calbi put up his hand to master the whole project.To top things off, Swedish contemporary artist David Stenbeck came on board to create an original artwork for the project – a beautiful floating cloud in the shape of Australia, reflected in the water. The image represents a hope for better times, where the beauty of the country is reflected in ethos and spirit. World renowned Australian photographer Jennifer Stenglein offering an image for the ‘Beds are Burning’ first single from the record. A beautiful image from Australia’s NT, the colours of the lights and sunset, a tip of the hat to the original album cover by Midnight Oil.
Stone says, “I couldn’t believe the responses I was getting. I received the most heart-warming replies from the biggest, busiest artists in the world. Most of these artists have toured here, have family here, friends here, have lived here or spent time here. Everyone has such great memories of this country and to see it in flames was breaking everyone’s hearts. I often got the response that people were so happy to be offered the opportunity to do something. Everyone feels helpless in times like this.”
Together these artists offer a collection of incredible covers of iconic Australian songs, made with love and sadness and the desire to help.
Money raised from the sale of this record will be going to:
Firesticks: The Firesticks Alliance Indigenous Corporation provides leadership, advocacy and action to protect, conserve and enhance cultural and natural values of people and Country through Cultural Fire, land restoration and wellbeing practices. www.firesticks.org.au
Landcare Australia: The keystones of Landcare are that it is community owned and driven, it encourages integrated management of environmental assets with productive farmland, and it promotes a more sustainable approach to private land management. www.landcarensw.org.au
SEED: Seed is the First indigenous Youth Climate network. Their vision is to create a sustainable future with strong cultures and communities, powered by renewable energy. www.seedmob.org.au
Emergency Leaders for Climate Action: ELCA is comprised of 30 former senior emergency service leaders with first-hand experience of escalating climate change impacts, who are uniting to push for strong leadership on climate change action. www.
WildArk: WildArk is a global not-for-profit conservation effort that was founded in 2016. In relation to bushfires they are currently raising money to support the following organisations working on wildlife rehabilitation and habitat restoration in bushfire affected areas, the Australian Wildlife Conservancy, Two Thumbs Koala Sanctuary, Port Macquarie Koala Hospital and Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital. www.wildark.org
NSW RFS: NSW RFS Is the New South Wales Rural Fire Service. It is the world’s largest volunteer fire service, with over 72,000 volunteer members, providing a community-based fire and emergency service, to protect the community and environment. www.rfs.nsw.gov.au
The record is available to pre-order at www.songsforaustralia.com with exclusive limited edition bundle options also available including personalised vinyl artwork, tote bags, T-shirts and more. The songs will be digitally released Friday March 6 through BMG, with the album released on vinyl and CD in June.
Photo credit: The Sauce / Tyler Bell
“An electrifying bout of rock revival” – Ones To Watch
“The bigger the stage, the better Ocean Alley get” – triple j
Beloved funk lords Ocean Alley are stoked to reveal their first national tour since 2018, announcing dates around the country in May and June supported by Psychedelic Porn Crumpets and Dulcie. The news follows the release of their latest video ‘Tombstone’, and caps off a huge 12 months for the Northern Beaches powerhouses.
Exclusive pre-sale ticket access via Spotify Fan First only, from 9am AEDT Monday 17 February. All shows on sale to general public from 12pm AEDT Tuesday 18 February from oceanalley.com.au.
The six-piece will kick off the tour at Fremantle Art Centre in Perth on Friday 1 May, making their way through Adelaide, Melbourne, Brisbane and wrapping up with a hometown show in Sydney on Friday 5 June at Hordern Pavilion. Perth’s wacky Psychedelic Porn Crumpets join the national run as main supports, bringing their sprawling and grungy psych-round sound to the stage, accompanied by fellow Perth outfit, indie-pop darlings Dulcie who have mesmerised listeners since bursting onto the scene in 2018.
It’s been a long time between local headline gigs, with the upcoming tour marking two years since Ocean Alley’s last capital city run, and 18 months since their last regional dates. Across both tours, they sold out 15 shows including two nights each in both Sydney and Melbourne at Enmore Theatre and The Forum respectively. Those dates were in support of their then newly-released second album, the critically-acclaimed Chiaroscuro, and since 2019 the band have been writing and recording new music, with three singles released since – ‘Stained Glass’, ‘Infinity’ and ‘Tombstone’ – the first two eligible for the Hottest 100 of 2019, charting at #54 and #24.
OCEAN ALLEY
AUSTRALIAN TOUR 2020
with Psychedelic Porn Crumpets & Dulcie
Tickets on sale 12pm Tuesday 18 Feb from oceanalley.com.au
Friday 1 May – Fremantle Arts Centre, Perth
Friday 8 May – Thebarton Theatre, Adelaide
Friday 15 May – Melbourne Arena, Melbourne
Friday 22 May – Fortitude Music Hall, Brisbane
Friday 5 June – Hordern Pavilion, Sydney
Launching into the new decade, Ocean Alley are fresh off the national Laneway Festival run and a stint in New Zealand over the New Year period, however 2019 ended with 30 sold out performances around the world after playing their biggest international shows to date. The band gave a career-defining, Saturday night main stage performance at Splendour In The Grass and were widely-praised for electric and commanding sets at Bluesfest, One Night Stand, Land of Plenty, Spilt Milk and the sold out, inaugural A Day For The Beaches – a community event they curated on the Northern Beaches to raise money for local charities. To round out their breakthrough year, smash hit single and #1 Hottest 100 of 2018 ‘Confidence‘ saw the band receive their first ARIA nomination for Song of the Year, and stand-out moments from that 12 month journey are chronicled in the new ‘Tombstone’ video.
Hailing from Sydney’s Northern Beaches, Ocean Alley have solidified their position as one of Australia’s most exciting and increasingly booming exports. Having surpassed 200 million catalogue streams, as well as achieving the impressive feat of attaining more than 1.5 million monthly Spotify listeners, Ocean Alley continue to captivate audiences worldwide with their infectious blend of psychedelic surf-rock, selling out a slew of shows at home and abroad, plus performing festivals including Falls Festival (AU), Reading & Leeds Festival (UK), BottleRock (US), Sziget (HU) and Bay Dreams (NZ).
Follow Ocean Alley:
oceanalley.com.au
facebook.com/oceanalleyband
twitter.com/oceanalleyau
@oceanalleyband
The Long Awaited Tame Impala 2 New Album ‘The Slow Rush Out’ is finally upon us! Listen Below