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Issue #603 - Tuesday 6th May, 2008
EIGHT DAYS A WEEK
Hall of Fame open to public
The fourth ARIA Hall of Fame event returns to the Melbourne Town Hall on on Tuesday, 1 July and for the first time, members of the general public can attend. A limited number of general admission tickets will be made available to the public from 9.00am on Monday, 12 May through www.ticketek.com.au or phone 132 489. Who could forget Smoky Dawson's five-day thank you speech or Vanessa Amorosi doing a heavy metal version of "I Am Woman" or Split Enz pretending to brawl as they stumbled on stage, or Lobby Loyde jamming with the Aztecs ciggie in mouth! The event will be screened on VH1 on Saturday, 5 July at 9.00pm and Sunday, 6 July at 5.00pm.
ARIA Chairman Ed St. John says, "2008 marks the 50th anniversary of Johnny O'Keefe's 'The Wild One' — the ground zero of Australian rock and roll." He said the Hall of Fame was a night to "remember our fallen heroes and celebrate careers that have lasted longer than one or two albums. We're talking about whole lives devoted to music — and it's an honour just to be part of it." It's rumoured that among those performing on the night will be Iggy Pop teaming with Jet to do "The Wild One". The first act to be inducted will be announced on May 18. A new website www.ariahalloffame.com.au is launched.
Directory deadline
Listing forms for the next AustralAsian Music Industry Directory to be published in print and online in September went out to all currently listed companies and individuals in the 40th edition some weeks ago but all forms for free listings (and a free copy of it) must be back into the IMMEDIA! offices in Sydney by May 15. If you need a new form, download at www.immedia.com.au/amid or call Paul or Anita on (02) 9557 7766 or email directories@immedia.com.au. The current March 1 edition is 220 pages with over 70 categories and also has 20 pages of how-to advice and history. It is available for $50 delivered anywhere in Australia.
NAB launches songwriting competition
As part of its 150th anniversary, NAB (formerly the National Australia Bank) has launched the NAB Songwriting Competition to unearth new songwriters—with the chance to have their song produced and performed at a major live music event to conclude the 150 year commemorations in late 2008. The songs must incorporate the theme "ideas, dreams and aspirations".
"Music is a powerful means of story telling – a wonderful expression of Australia's culture, stories and history," said Andrew Hagger, Executive General Manager, Private & Institutional Wealth, National Australia Bank – and a classically trained pianist, music lover and songwriter. "Through this competition, NAB hopes to help provide voice to a new generation of Australian artists to share their dreams, hopes and aspirations for the future."
Hagger is among the competition's judging panel, along with Bill Page Creative Director – Mushroom Music Publishing; Ian James Managing Director – Mushroom Music Publishing; Paul Anthony CEO Rumblefish (USA); and Sally Howland Director, Members Services – APRA.
There are three categories. Category 1 is an open age section with contestants to provide lyrics to three existing backing tracks; 2 is for people under 16 to enter a demo of their song; 3 for people over 16. See www.nab.com.au/songwriting for more info.
As part of its 150th, NAB sponsored APRA's inaugural S3 Summit 'Play the Music" showcase, and the NAB songwriting workshops being conducted at secondary schools throughout regional Australia featuring Magic Dirt, Monique Brumby and Nicky Bomba.
Why teens don't buy CDs
If the marketing people at record companies are scratching their heads and noses wondering teenagers aren't rushing to record stores, this is why. The first week US sales of "Grand Theft Auto IV" is expected to gross US$400 million and set a new record for games. In Australia retailers expect it to eclipse that of current record holder "Halo 3" which sold over 50,000 units (and grossing $6 million for Microsoft in Australia) in its first 24 hours and sold 70, 463 units in its first week in September 2007.
New era for "Stone"?
Will Philip Keir's Next Media this week announce it's sold the Oz licensing rights of "Rolling Stone" to ACP. "Stone" arrived here in 1969 as an insert for Go-Set and its hippie cousin "Revolution". In the mid-1970s it was taken over by the late Paul Gardiner, Jane Mathieson and Paul Comrie-Thompson, and in the late '80s by Keir.
Sanity/Microsoft to launch ... finally?
Word from the Sanity Music bunker is that its music and video website with Microsoft could roll out in the next few weeks. The site has been plagued with technology nightmares. It's been set to launch three times in the past 12 months, only to pull out at the 11th hour. A UK production team was recently axed, and tests in Melbourne are described as "positive" by an insider.
Deadline for Q Song award extended
The deadline for the Q Song award to find Queensland's best songwriters has been extended to Wed May 14. Organisers say entries have been pouring in, and they want to give more writers a chance to enter. There is $25,000 in cash and prize up for grabs across 23 categories covering everything from rock and pop to jazz, blues and roots, hip-hop, electronic/dance, alternative, country, ballads, metal, punk, indigenous and world music.
Urban Guerillas off the road
Sydney based anarcho-punks Urban Guerillas are off the road for a time. Leader Ken Stewart has been diagnosed with Rheumatoid arthritis and is presently having chemotherapy to stop his immune system attacking all his joints. This affliction is similar in effect to what Daniel Johns had in 2002 only Stewart's is viral and John's was bacterial. Stewart tells this column "I am unable to play guitar at this stage and have had to cancel gigs." The doctor believes he has a chance of a 90% recovery but he has to find new ways to promote the current "...And The Wind Brought Change" without touring.
Ironically Stewart's last show was a remembrance gig at the Bald Faced Stag for the late Rod Gilchrist. There were reformations of the Scream, Roaring Jack, the Wickermen and Complete Madness. Stewart played with swollen wrists and fingers.
A pick you can't drop!
ABC-TV show "The New Inventors" last week demonstrated The Snake Pick. It was developed by Gold Coast blues guitarist Paul Slingsby, 32, which wraps around your index finger and prevents it from dropping. More info, www.snakepick.com.
Leona Lewis visit triggers chart action
SonyBMG put on a big bash at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney for British singer Leona Lewis before 400 guests. She herself did not disappoint with a four-song set which included a cracker rendition of Roberta Flack's "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face". Almost as entertaining was a terse standoff between Seven Network's "Sunrise" producer Adam Boland and Ian "Molly" Meldrum about comments made when Molly was axed as the show's music reporter. Leona's visit showed its success on the ARIA chart. "Bleeding Love" has jumped up to #8 (in America it's gone back to top spot for the third time) while "Better in Time" is in the Top 10. Her album "Spirit" jumped back to No.7.
On The Move: Myspace
In a reflection of its rapid growth in Australia, MySpace has outgrown its 500-sq metre digs in Kippax Street, Surry Hills. It has leased the 1106.5 sq. metres on levels 7 and 8 of 241 Commonwealth Street also in the same suburb.
"Phantom" hits $10 million
Ticket sales for the Sydney season of "The Phantom Of The Opera" hit $10 million this week. "This is a stunning result," said producer Tim McFarlane. "Sydney audiences really know how to embrace a show and the message is clear that the winning combination of the world's greatest musical continues to work its magic."
John Frost, co-producer said, "We had known from its phenomenal success in Melbourne and Brisbane that this would be a hot ticket, and it is great that Sydney audiences are so receptive."
The Phantom of the Opera will commence its Sydney season at The Lyric Theatre, Star City from May 11. It is presented in Australia by The Really Useful Company Asia Pacific and The Gordon/Frost Organisation.
Party of the week
The Herald Sun reports that Nikki Webster, darling of the country when she twirled about at the Olympics but now finding it hard to get a look in, stitched up a deal with a women's magazine to cover her 21st birthday. Only problem: they needed big celebs, so invites went out to people that Webster might not have been that close to. Webster was driving along listening to Triple M when she heard them sniggeringly posing as PR reps finding celebs for the party. They secured the services of reality TV person Krystal Forscutt through her agent Harry M. Miller, while Lee locked in Jimmy Barnes via his management, IMG. Fuming, Webster rang up Wil Anderson and Anthony Lehmann and gave them a piece of mind. They were certainly dazed and confused ... and with good reason. The prank was pulled by drive time devils Hamish Blake and Andy Lee.
Family take a break
Sydney band Extended Family take their first break after 10 years of continuous touring nationally. They'll be off the road for a few months pursuing other musical projects and writing material for their third album. See Tour Section for their final run of dates.
Gold for Mr. G
He was up for a gold Logie on the weekend. But Greg Gregson, aka Mr G of "Summer Heights" fame, saw his single "Naughty Girl" go gold for sales of over 35,000. The track peaked at #7 on the Motorola ARIA chart. Mr G said, "I'm beyond thrilled. I always knew I'd be huge but not this huge. To commemorate it I'm wearing my Gold shirt to school for a week starting tomorrow. I'll be the talk of the staffroom for sure." The airing of "Summer Heights High" on ABC TV averaged 1.4 million viewers per episode with the DVD selling over 310,000 copies, making it Australia's highest selling TV series DVD of all time.
Things looking sunny
For an indie artist just about to release her first single "You Got The Love", Sunny Koll has been getting her music from her debut album "Vamp" around. Through a licensing company she got a track "Satisfied" in Episode 13 of "Underbelly", another is included in a feature film, "You Got The Love" has started to get community and mainstream airplay, while a deal with a phone company is about to be announced.
Name change for Qld country event
The amateur country music talent quest Charters Towers Country Music Festival has changed its name to the Queensland Country Music Awards, its committee announced on the weekend after it drew 5,000 fans. Festival committee president Paul Carney reckons, "It is necessary for the growth of the event to a statewide one. Many people don't know where Charters Towers is. The quality of the people entering the festival has become so high we need to make the change."
This year's grand champion winners were family vocal group Shiraz who won $4000 cash and guest spots at the Toyota Muster and the Queensland Champion of Champions.
Junior Overall winner was 12-year old Kiara Rodrigues from Mackay, nine year old Romany Elmas of Tolga won Juvenile Australian Bush Ballad while 11 year old Shawnee Tweedie of Charters Towers won the juvenile gospel and country rock solo categories.
IN THROUGH THE OUT DOOR: EXECUTIVE MOVES
Rogers exits Triple J
Louis Rogers, triple j's Marketing Manager for the past five years, left the broadcaster last week. Claire Collins will act in the position for the next three months while the department is being restructured, and is at collins.claire@abc.net.au
Dwyer joins Furst Media as GM
Publishing veteran Furst Media has appointed Rohan Dwyer a new General Manager to assist its ongoing expansion as a fully integrated marketing, publishing and communications agency. Dwyer, former Sales Director for Nova and Vega radio's Melbourne-based sales operation, has 10-years experience in the radio advertising arena which includes time with radio consortium, Austereo.
Furst Media is best known for magazines as Beat, Mixdown and Fashion Magazine. Magazine. Among other clients, the company also provides marketing, advertising and PR services to international footwear companies K-Swiss and Royal Elastics.
Sioris parts 6DC
Chris Sioris has parted ways with 6dc Publicity. All inquiries should go to Amanda@6dc.com.au. Sioris is at Chris.Sioris@gmail.com.
It's only the beginning: Conway to direct Qld festival
Melbourne singer songwriter Deborah Conway will direct the Queensland Music Festival next year. It's the first time she's directed an event as big as this, but says she'll bring "a lot of energy and enthusiasm" to the role. She'll be visiting Qld soon to get a feel for what vibes the locals, and says she's interested in the songs and stories from the state, especially those brought by migrants.
Conway emerged with Do Re Mi ("Man Overboard") and followed it up with ten solo albums which yielded her hits like "It's Only The Beginning", has been in movies as Peter Greenaway's Prospero's Books, and run the Broad tour which matches disparate female singer songwriters.
Conway replaces Paul Grabowsky at the QMF. He left last January after battling to get more funding for the QMF. It had not increased from $2 million since it began in 1999. Last year the state government threw in an extra $1.5 million but by then Grabowsky had already agreed to become artistic director of the Adelaide Festival of Arts.
Justin Dorset does press ins
Justin Dorset, formerly Marketing/ National Promotions Mgr at Mushroom and most recently Music Editor at NewYorkCity.com has gone over to NYC-based music PR/ Marketing firm, Press Here as Head of New Media. Press Here's clients currently include: The White Stripes, Franz Ferdinand, Laura Marling, Bat For Lashes, Interpol, Bright Eyes, The Raconteurs, Bloc Party, My Brightest Diamond, The Kills, Peter Bjorn and John and Lightspeed Champion.
Dorset says, "Press Here look after some reasonably adequate artists if you're into that whole credible, talented, edgy thing. I will be working hard to promote more Ukrainian folk music and boy-choirs as my music barometer tells me these will surely be the next big movements that transition into fashion, politics and pop-culture". Justin Dorset can be contacted at: justin@pressherepublicity.com
Le Coic at Maverick
Hannah Le Coic, previously publicist for bands such as The Herd, Ugly Duckling and Kid Confucius, has been appointed Account Manager at Maverick PR (www.maverick.com.au). She will be working across a number of clients including the men's health charity Movember. She is contacted at hlecoic@maverick.com.au.
Zaffino on long leave
Renee Zaffino, Contemporary Music Project Officer at DCA in Western Australia is on annual leave for two months, during which time she'll also be watusiing up the aisle to tie the knot. She's back June 30. Meantime, standing in for her is Pete Guazzelli who is contacted via email pete.guazzelli@dca.wa.gov.au or phone (08) 9224 7318. The next closing round for Contemporary Music Grants (WA) is the 12th September for any activity commencing after the 1st Dec 2008. Go to www.dca.wa.gov.au for more info.
* More executive changes in the Media Wash category.
NEW SIGNINGS
Shock Publishing expands empire!
Shock Music Publishing's managing director Clive Hodson celebrates his 30th year in the business by signing a number of new writers. Kingston South East-born, Ceduna-raised Bec Willis has a self-titled debut album through Shock Records which was produced by Kasey Chambers and Bill Chambers. She is managed by Jeff Chandler (Sara Storer/Beccy Cole/Troy Casser-Daly) and Paul Minshull.
Belligen-based and Triple j unearthed roots artist Kell Stoner has just finished her debut EP produced by Bill Chambers). Stoner has just signed a deal with Vitamin Records with a release due in May.
SMP makes its first venture into music supervision with a contract with Southern Star Endemol to supply 100% of the music (publishing & masters) for the 2008 season of "Big Brother".
NEW GROOVES AND INITIATIVES
Hoy launches One Proud Monkey
One Proud Monkey is a new digital distribution company that works to get independent bands on iTunes. Chief Monkey is Clinton Hoy who previously worked at Festival Music Publishing and in Digital Operations for Warner Music UK as well as lecturing in Music Business at Hunter TAFE in NSW. One Proud Monkey is looking for interested artists, band managers and indie record labels to get involved. For more info check out www.oneproudmonkey.com or contact oneproudmonkey@gmail.com
Obsessed with metal
Metal obsession is a new website based in Melbourne set up to promote the Australian and New Zealand heavy metal scenes. http://metalobsession.net/ includes interviews, reviews and an extensive gig guide and comps to win merch. To contact the site or to submit a press kit, send to contact@metalobsession.net
Alien forces
"We Are All Aliens" is a community of Brisbane indie artists, Two of its acts Mark Zian and Jeremy Hindmarsh are putting together a compilation album — and playing a fund raiser at Ric's Bar on Saturday May 17. More info, http://www.myspace.com/weareallaliens
Sit on it! Bum box serves as billboard
The innovative Bum Box is not only a portable event seat that supports fat lardarses weighing up to 120 kilograms— but also serves as an advertising space. The brainchild of Sydney businessman John Smith, it has been used by the the Commonwealth Bankas well as Newcastle Permanent's Cinema Under The Stars and Sydney Olympic Park's Movies In The Overflow.
Disc Painter adds graphics to CDs
The Dymo DiscPainter allows users to design and print 600 high-quality, full-colour graphics onto CDs and DVDs in a minute — while the discs are still spinning. The software also features a photo collage tool that allows users to incorporate as many as 16 photos in their designs. Both MAC and PC compatible, DiscPainter works with design programs such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, In Design, QuarkXpress and SureThing. Dymo DiscPainter is available from May for $449.00. National stockists call Sanford Brands 1800 727 537.
The Berzerker set up label
Aussie grindcore band The Berzerker are setting up their own record label Berzerker Industries. First release, out in a few months, will be their next studio album. There's also a remix competition on their website (www.myspace.com/theberzerker) where fans can win the chance to have their remix of tracks on the album. Its four earlier albums —"The Berzerker" (2000), "Dissimulate" (2002), "World of Lies" (2005) and "Animosity" (2007) — were released through Earache Records.
The band is also off back to tour Europe, and confirmed it will play Ghostfest, June 28-29 at Rio's in Leeds, England.
COURT IN THE ACT
Retailer fined $20k for pirated music, films
Sydney based retailer Zhi Tao, Director of Success Audio and Video of Anzac Parade in Kingsford, was fined $20,000 in Downing Centre Local Court for the sale of pirated music CDs and Asian films imported from China. He faced 34 counts of copyright infringement after an October 2007 raid by NSW Police with the assistance of Music Industry Piracy Investigations (MIPI) and Verifact (on behalf of Asian film studios). Thousands of high quality counterfeit CDs and DVDs were seized during the raid — including Western titles from Nora Jones, Robbie Williams, David Bowie, Avril Lavigne, Backstreet Boys and Michael Jackson. MIPI GM Sabiene Heindl said countries like China and Indonesia had a 85% piracy rate.
Paying the piper's tune
Flautist Jane Rutter might have to pay off her legal fees of $200,000 by performing for her law firm Gadens, reports the "Sydney Morning Herald". Rutter's woes came when she challenged her father's will after her stepsister Flossiy made a claim for a larger share. The 49-year old musician was left $140,000 when Barry Rutter died four years ago. She pushed for $400,000. Supreme Court Associate Justice, John McLaughlin said that she didn't need the money, as she lived in a million-dollar home in Cremorne, had a personal assistant and earned between $85,000 and $120,000 gross each year from her concert performances and CDs. Rutter also got a scolding from the judge when she told him she did not own a car but did not explain she was loaned one by Mazda.
Wheatley lawyer makes appearance
The lawyer (name suppressed) who allegedly helped Glenn Wheatley avoid almost $320,000 appeared in Melbourne Magistrates Court last week on four counts. He returns to court in July.
THINGS WE HEAR
* Are there plans for Laneway Festival to expand to 9 cities, to include Auckland and Singapore?
* Foo Fighters guitarist Chris Shiflettr and drummer Taylor Hawkins spotted in the surf in the Gold Coast with surf champs Mark Occhilupo and Joel Parkinson.
* There is now one mobile phone for an Australian: the Australian Communications and Media Authority Communications Report 2006-07 reports there were 21.26 million mobile phones in operation at 30 June 2007, a 7.6% increase from 19.76 million the year before.
* Two more community radio operators have fallen foul of authorities for broadcasting ads — Cumberland Community Radio Inc's 2CCR Parramatta and Bankstown City Radio Co-operative Ltd's Radio BFM.
* The ban on indoor smoking has had devastating effect on poker machine turnover, say figures from the NSW Office of Liquor, Gaming and Racing. Turnover fell 19% in hotels, and 11% in clubs to $230 million in March compared with the same month last year. Heavy rain and rising petrol prices are also blamed. Gambling machine maker Aristocrat said sales of machines had fallen 12 per cent following the smoking bans in NSW, Victoria and South Australia.
ASSOCIATIONS
Big Stars Pulled Out For Anti-Piracy Message For Schools
Various music associations have brought in the big guns as Silverchair, Powderfinger, The Veronicas, Grinspoon and Operator Please to deliver an anti-free downloading message to schools. The ten minute documentary is distributed to all high schools (http://www.in-tune.com.au) and the music industry hoping that the message will be spread virally — just like file sharing. Others are Jimmy Barnes, Evermore, Gyroscope, Phrase, Human Nature, Mahalia Barnes, Damien Leith, Anthony Callea, Weapon X, Ken Hell and the Dawn Collective.
ARIA figures show that legal downloads last year went up 43 per cent to $40 million. However this was not enough to cover the 12% drop in physical sales to $420 million.
The problem is, that the use of some of these artists is going to offset the very message ARIA plans to send out.
Among the comments made on the doco are:
Lisa Origliasso of The Veronicas: "The problem with downloading obviously is that it's ruining our industry in a way, because I mean you know artists just aren't making money, record companies aren't making money from it."
Amandah Wilson of Operator Please: "I'm not going to deny it. I have downloaded music in the past and it's only when you start being in a band you actually realise how sort of damaging that can be."
Pat Davern, Grinspoon: "I don't think [that] just because you're signed to a major label means you're going to live like a rock star."
Ben Gillies, Silverchair: "There becomes a point where you've gotta make X amount to be able to continue, you know, unless you want to be an old mate that lives in Byron Bay and sits in his hinterland shack and just plays an acoustic guitar."
The problem is that "the kids" are continually sold the idea on TV and website news of the five-star designer clothes lifestyles that most of these acts live. Whether it's actually true or not is irrelevant — just last week a big name was thrown out of her tiny apartment because she couldn't keep up with her loan repayments. But that's the perception. As a result, kids just shrug off such comments. After all, they're all rich, aren't they, some of them make it into the BRW Top Earning Entertainers list, right?
Even more of a drag for the associations behind the doco is that Frenzal Rhomb's guitarist Lindsay McDougall slammed his inclusion in it saying he was duped. McDougall told the "Sydney Morning Herald" his comments were "completely taken out of context and defamed".
McDougall told the paper: "I have never come out against internet piracy and illegal downloading and I wouldn't do that - I would never put my name to something that is against downloading and is against piracy and stuff, it's something that I believe is a personal thing from artist to artist." Punk groups like the Frenzals had to get their music any way they could, and it depended on every act's relationship with its audience.
LIFELINES
Another Peacock
Fiona and Dave Peacock are expecting their first child, in October. She is at SonyBMG's publicity and artist relations department. He is manager of Shock Entertainment Group's Australian Music division and local A&R.
Foo fan gets all-clear
A 23-year old Brisbane fan of the Foo Fighters was cleared of serious spinal injuries after a crowd surfer fell on him at their show at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre. The venue strongly discourages moshing and crowd surfing.
McInerney recovers from shock
Aussie country music performer Keri McInerney received a electric shock during a show with her band River Band when trying to pull a lighting plug from its power source when a lighting rig caught fire. She had burns to her left hand and bruises to her left shoulder.
AUSSIES ABROAD
Midnight Juggernauts unveil plans
Following their move to Europe to support the international release of their debut album Dystopia, local trio Midnight Juggernauts have just been confirmed to play the UK's Glastonbury. Also playing are Crowded House, The Presets as well as The Verve, Goldfrapp, Massive Attack, Leonard Cohen, Groove Armada, Hot Chip, Brian Jonestown Massacre and Roisin Murphy,
With the band on tour for much of 2008, Midnight Juggernauts are making their mark on the international circuit with upcoming festival performances at Primavera Sound (Spain), Eurockeenes (France), Lovebox (England), Rockness (Scotland), Electric Picnic (Ireland), and playing plenty of their own headline shows along the way.
Following sell out shows in London including a performance at Scala, airplay on the BBC's Radio 1, and a rocking set at California's Coachella Festival, they're unstoppable. The Juggernauts are about to tour Japan with UK buzz band Foals, and Holy Ghost just added to the bill for their headline show at New York's Bowery Room.
Lemmy drives Airbourne
Motorhead's Lemmy makes a cameo appearance in Airbourne's new video clip. He's driving a truck through the streets of LA loaded with Marshall amps and Airbourne bashing out "Runnin' Wild" while chased by cops. Check it out at http://vids.myspace.com.
Laura get the yen
Melbourne band Laura spent the last three months writing and recording a new release "Yes Maybe No" for US label Elevation. They'll preview the CD at the Peninsula Lounge on Friday 20th June & The Corner Hotel on Saturday 21st June — before heading off for dates in Japan. Their second album "Radio Swan Is Down" was released in Japan last December through Happy Prince.
Scott Pullen goes Seoul-searching
Sydney dj Scott Pullen represented Australia at the World DJ Festival happens in Seoul, South Korea on the weekend. The festival, which launched last year, delivers djs from all over the world, and is a pivotal moment for the Asian underground dance scene. Pullen shared the stage with the likes of DJ Dan (US), The Cornelius Group (JPN), Rabbit in the Moon (US), Donald Glaude (US), Adam F (UK), VJ Tek (US), Raphael Sebbag (FRA), DJ Kawasaki (JPN), Kai from NYC (US), Ricky Stone (UK) & VJ Superheadz (JPN) amongst others. Scott dintends to use his slot in Seoul as a platform to expose some of Australia's hottest homegrown music, from the dirty electro tech to the deep alternative sexy vocal funk sounds he pioneers.
Since the 1980s, Scott's career has been punctuated by incredible moments. He's played private parties for Keanu Reeves and Kylie & The Hutch, is the only Australian DJ to be recognised by DJ Magazine's Top 100 DJ Poll, while at the closing party of the Sydney 2000 Olympics he played to 100,000 elated groovers - the biggest local crowd of any working DJ in Australia!
Resignators spread ska message
Ska band The Resignators had off to tour Europe and the UK from July. They take in festivals such as Exeter Festival, Mighty Sounds in the Czech Republic and Rebellion in Blackpool. The band is signed to Party House Records in the UK and Europe which will release its debut album "Time Decays" next month. The album is released in Australia on TRR, and launched on Friday June 20 at the Corner Hotel in Melbourne with King City Seven, McAlpine's Fusiliers, Common Thread and Someone Else's Jacket.
The Veronicas look at America again
The Veronicas are eying the American market again. They're touring there with Natasha Bedingfield, starting off on May 21 at the House of Blues in Myrtle Beach. Their US label Sire Records is releasing the single "Untouched" to coincide, with their "Hook Me Up" album out in "late summer".
Love Of Diagrams record in NY
Love Of Diagrams head back to the USA to record the follow up to their 2007 album "Mosaic" to be recorded in New York by producer Don Fleming (Teenage Fanclub, Sonic Youth, Dinosaur Jnr). In the meantime, they play a rare headline show at the Tote on May 25th. St Helens, who have just completed their debut record, also come out of hiding for the show, and new group Lee Memorial, featuring members of Sodastream, Ninety Nine, and Gaslight Radio make their debut.
The Panics find new fans
Perth band The Panics are making a splash with American magazines. First, "Billboard" magazine tipped them as a band to watch. Then Tennessee band Kings Of Leon talked them up in the American edition of "Rolling Stone". Their drummer Nathan Followill who caught The Panics' showcase at South By Southwest in March told the magazine, "You know how normally when you hear a band you can list the bands that influenced them or that they ripped off straight away? We couldn't do it for them. They sounded like nothing I'd heard before – really melodic, almost atmospheric."
Dubbly in Brazil
Sydney based roots/rock/reggae band, dubbly, are making a name for themselves in Brazil where they are currently on tour. Tracks from their forthcoming album "Styles" is getting aired on Brazil's largest radio networks and an international endorsement with a surf brand is also soon to be announced. At home the record is also getting spins on triple j and community radio.
MEDIA WASH
Gold, Sea, dominate Gold Coast ratings
Sister stations Gold FM and Sea FM dominated the first Gold Coast radio ratings of the year. According to Nielsen Media Research, Gold FM remained #1 with a 35.2% share overall with Sea FM at #2 with 26.6%. Hot Tomato came in third, followed by ABC local station 91.7.
Gold was particularly pleased that its new breakfast team of Richard & Bridge, had a 35.9% share after six months, while Sea FM's drive show hosted by Ant & Beck had 28.3%.
Exec changes at FasterLouder
Sarah Smith takes over as National Editor of rock and indie website FasterLouder.com.au, she was previously its National Account Manager for 18 months and Assistant Label Manager at Rubber Records before that. Jack Tregoning steps in as Deputy Editor (subeditor at Sydney dance magazine 3D World) while Anthony Zaccaria is National Account Manager after working in sales and marketing at Dominant Music. The site's traffic has grown 40% in the last 12 months, according to Nielsen Online.
New category for J Awards
Triple J network's J Awards, set up three years ago to find the most original Australian album of the year, this year adds a new category. It will be The Australian Music Video of the Year, to be selected by triple j tv for its outstanding achievement as an Australian musical video work of art, based on its creativity, originality and its technical excellence.
The first two nominees for the j awards are The Presets' "Apocalypso" and Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds' "Dig!!! Lazarus Dig!!!" Nominees for the Australian Album Of The Year award and the Music Video Of The Year award will be announced throughout the year. The Unearthed Award nominations (won last year by The Young & The Restless) will be announced during Ausmusic Month in November. For full eligibility and selection criteria, go to www.triplej.net.au/jawa
Alex D exits Nova
Alex D aka Alex Dalrymple aka The Brain quit after six and a half years at Nova 96.9 Sydney — the longest serving music jock on the station — to concentrate on voiceovers and acting. He did every shift going at Nova, and was studio producer of The Merrick & Rosso & Kate Ritchie Show. Matt Baseley replaced him on the breakfast shift.
Logies drop in ratings
The much-hyped 50th anniversary Logie awards ceremony drew a viewing audience of 1.5 million on Sunday night. This was down 200,000 from last year and a long way from the 2.5 million who tuned in during the 2001 event. The criticism was that there weren't enough big international music names performing during the 3.5 hour event: Irish boy band Westlife hardly mattered. To many the entertaining highpoint was when the oafs of the Footy Show (AFL) tried to fob off that whole "bashing the mannequin with the face of a female sporting writer" incident and got booed by the crowd.
Boyd heads SCMA
Rod Boyd of Stereo 974 in Melbourne was elected the fourth President of the Southern Community Media Association at its recent AGM. He replaces Graeme Macartney (FM 98.5 Shepparton) who was two years in the role, reports Jocks Journal.
Qld radio museum seeks memorabilia
The Brisbane Radio Broadcasting Museum, set up this year to pay tribute to the radio industry in South East Queensland, is looking for memorabilia. This would include current and former staff of former and defunct radio stations. This will include: stickers, coffee mugs, shirts, jumpers, photos, news articles, television footage; "in fact anything at all from any radio station in Brisbane or South-East Queensland would be most welcome!" says a spokesperson. Currently the museum is looking at commercial metropolitan stations but will include community and regional stations down the track.
Regional radio ads up
National advertising on radio jumped up by 22.8% in the 2007 calendar year, say figures from Regional MediaWorks. This is the third year of double digit growth.
Bellamy leaves Brisbane
Dani Bellamy is returning to Sydney after leaving Brisbane's 97.3FM as morning announcer and music director. She was with the station since its launch in 2001.
TAKE THIS JOB AND LOVE IT
Station manager for 2XX
Canberra radio station 2XX is looking for a station manager who can manage arts initiatives and generate revenue. Salary is $64,615 (inc. superannuation) 38hrs/week. More info Mary Gays on M: 0410 036 671 or email mary.gays@mhf.org.au. Applications close Fri 9th May.
Bookkeeper in Qld
Queensland Creative Industry needs a book keeper with three years' experience with double entry accounting and MYOB skills, BAS preparation, Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable. This is a permanent part time position which requires a driver's licence. Post Resumes to Rachael Dixon PO Box 401 Fortitude Valley QLD 4006
Sales post at One Stop
One Stop Entertainment, a leading wholesale music, DVD and games distribution company, requires a Customer Service / Internal Sales Person to join its team in Brisbane. The position involves telephone sales, support to all our established clients, to service a specific sales territory and order entry. The successful applicant will be energetic, computer literate, have proven customer service skills, excellent work ethic and enjoy being part of a dedicated team. Knowledge of the music, movie or games industries at either wholesale or retail level would be advantageous but is not essential. Email applications to: matthew.matanovic@onestopent.com.au
Marketing/ Communications head for ANZ Stadium
The ANZ Stadium in Sydney is looking for a General Manager of Marketing & Communications. You need a strong marketing background and experience in FMCG, hospitality, entertainment or tourism sectors. See www.anzstadium.com.au, deadline is Monday May 12.
LISTEN TO THE BRAND
Delta involved in ION shake up
America's ION Television launched its new branding and new primetime lineup last Thursday at the New York Public Library in Manhattan. Celebs who made presentations were Boston Legal's William Shatner, The Dead Zone's Anthony Michael Hall and veteran game show host Chuck Woolery. Delta Goodrem sang her songs "This Life" and "Believe Again" to denote the nature of the new brand.
Her music will be featured in the launch of the network's fall season.
THRILLS AND SKILLS
Brisbane Singing Session
US vocal instructor John Henny (johnhenny.com) holds a seminar covering "speech level singing" technique. He's taught it to 120 Grammy winners including Natalie Cole, Amy Lee from Evanescence, Barbara Streisand and Kelly Clarkson. It is held Saturday May 17th at Ellaways Music Auditorium, 39-45 Compton Road, Underwood, It runs 10 am to 4.30 pm, for costs and booking call Sharon Rowntree of Speech Level Singing Australia on 0411 70 90 75 or see www.speechlevelsinging.com.au.
Anti-downloading message aimed at schools
The global music industry has begun an educational multi-lingual campaign for parents and teachers about the do's and don'ts of music downloading. The new guide is called "Young People, Music and the Internet" and published with the support of Childnet International (a children's internet charity), Pro-Music (the international alliance of music sector groups) and Music Industry Piracy Investigations (the anti piracy organisation for the Australian music industry, MIPI) in Australia. It will be distributed through schools and universities, libraries, record stores, teaching portals and websites in 21 countries.
"In Australia, over 2.8 million people download music illegally and 1 in 3 of these are young people", said Sabiene Heindl, General Manager of MIPI. "For parents and teachers who are in the dark when it comes to deciphering legal and illegal music sites, this campaign is a great way to provide them with some clear guidance on the key issues."
The guide covers how to download music without exposing the computer to viruses and other security risks; identifies legal sources of music; and clarifies the basics of copyright and its relevance to online music. The Australian edition of the guide is available on MIPI's web site www.mipi.com.au
Cairns hosts free forum
Arts Nexus hosts a free Tropical Recorded Music forum on Wed May 7 at the Shangri-La Hotel, Cairns. It is held between 3.30 to 5 pm, and has eight industry leaders discuss the current state of local music production, domestic airplay and marketing it to tourists. Booking/Info/Contact: 4051 4433 or admin@artsnexus.com.au. The Shangri-La is at 4031 1411.
FESTIVALS
Townsville takes "Groovin' The Moo' by surprise
Groovin' The Moo's entry into Townsville on the weekend took the promoters by surprise. About 10,000 people came to the Lou Litster Park to be entertained by Sneaky Sound System, Spiderbait, The Presets, the Herd, Gyroscope, Karnivool, Katalyst, Potbellez and others for eight hours. Co-promoter Stephen Halpin of Cattleyard Promotions said that they only expected 5,000. As a result they were caught short, he admitted: the beer ran out, they only had one outlet providing water, and next year they'll have a dance tent to provide some shade.
Cattleyard has been running "Groovin' The Moo" at Maitland Showgrounds (NSW) for three years, as well as in Albury-Wodonga (NSW-Vic). The decision was made to go to Townsville after Big Day Out turned down an offer to stage a show there. This year the Albury-Wodonga show was dropped. The Maitland show on April 26 drew a huge crowd — but it could well be the last "Groovin' The Moo" there. Residents complained of noise and fan behaviour (like idiots pissing in their yards) and on May 16 the Maitland City Council will vote whether to axe it.
Come Together ... now with 50 bands
Come Together (Sydney) has seen its bill hit the 50-band mark, with the addition of the The Filth and Fasterlouder stages. For the past three years The Filth has been rocking Bondi's Beachroad Hotel every Sunday with indie rock. The newly created Filth stage is on the Saturday, headlined by Ghostwood with support from Yves Klein Blue, Flamingo Crash, Fait Accompli, Sherlocks Daughter, Sound Casino plus DJ Calamity Jane.
On the Sunday, Fasterlouder will take over hosting duties. On the bill are Melbourne garage punk quartet Witch Hats with Sydney hardcore acts The Straight Arrows, Circle Pit & Ash Phoenix.
Check out www.cometogether.com.au for further details.
Culture vultures in Zillmere
Now in its seventh year, the Zillmere Multicultural Festival is expected to draw a crowd of 10,000. It is held Saturday 17th May 10am – 5pm, O'Callaghan Park - Zillmere Road, Zillmere. It's a free event with traditional cuisine, cultural performances over 3 stages, interactive dance and music, authentic crafts and village displays.
This year they have a newly themed stage called Rhythm City. People from a range of countries have formed music groups a few weeks ago and will perform a mix of Reggae, Roots and Rhyme. Visitors to the festival will be encouraged to participate in the jam session and Hip Hop / MC and dance battles.
A host of acts will also be performing on the Ellaways Music Fusion venue, including Mark Lowndes, Angels of Fire, The Vessels, Zillmere/Taigum Choir, Amp'd Up music programme, Aweil (Sudanese) Dancing Group, Free Ridaz and many more. The aim of the event is to share diverse cultures and customs. See www.zillfest.org.au
SHEER CHART ATTACK
Six Aussie debuts: Damien, Carl, Bliss'n'Eso
Irish-born boyo Damien Leith entered the ARIA chart this week with his covers album "Catch The Wind" at #3. He was beaten to the top by Madonna (#1) and Andre Rieu (#2).
Just to remind us further that Mother's Day is lurking about Carl Riseley's jazz-lite "The Rise" entered at #5.
Those who like all things edgy would be high fiving (yo! bro!) that Sydney hip hoppers Bliss'n'Eso entered at #10.
Kate Ceberano came in at #14 with her 17th album "So Much Beauty" and The Slim Dusty Family's "Reunion" at #57.
On the singles side of things, Vanessa Amorosi's "Perfect" jumped up from #26 to #11 (if it goes up next week, it would be her first Top 10 hit in eight years), while the Prime Minister sampling GetUp Mob drop from #4 to #18 with "From Little Things..."
The third single from Kylie Minogue's "X" album, "Into My Arms" drifts in at #35, and Pete Murray's first single off his upcoming album, "You Pick me Up" enters at #47.
Carr's triple treat
Talent manager Ralph Carr should be popping the champagne this week — all three of his acts, Vanessa Amorosi, Carl Riseley and Kate Ceberano are doing good business on the ARIA chart this week.
Madonna makes history in oz
Madonna this week has both the #1 single and album in Australia, with "4 Minutes" holding on to top spot and "Hard Candy", her ninth #1 album in this country. Chart historian Gavin Ryan says it's the third time she's been #1 simultaneously on the singles and album charts. She did it in August 1986 with "Papa Don't Preach" and the "True Blue" album. In June 1990 she did it again with the single "Vogue" and it's parent album "I'm Breathless".
Celine Dion and Bryan Adams have also done it three times before. Eminem did it four times, and The Beatles did it 14 times. The difference is Maddy has done it once each in the last three decades.
Sparro, Cilmi, crash the UK Top 10
Two Australian born performers crashed into the UK Top 10 with their debut releases. Sydney-born Sam Sparro, who moved to Los Angeles aged 10, entered at #5 with his self-titled album.
New Aussie darling Gabriella Cilmi went into the Top 10 with her album "Lessons To Be Learned". The 16-year old from Dandenong topped the Oz charts with her debut single "Sweet About Me" and is currently back in Australia opening for James Blunt's tour for Frontier Touring. Cilmi, signed to Festival Mushroom Records at the age of 13, is now with Warner Music, and moved to live in London last year.
Last week there were five Aussie tracks in the Top 75 — with dance act Pendulum and two by Kylie Minogue.
Shihad's lucky #7
It's lucky #7 for Shihad: their seventh studio album "Beautiful Machine" debuted at #1 on the New Zealand charts, and went gold in the first few days. Lead off single "One Will Hear The Other" is also their most successful track on NZ radio. "Beautiful Machine" is their third #1 album in NZ: "The General Electric" (1999) and "Pacifier" (2002) also went on to achieve platinum.
GOOD WORKS
One 2 One: let's talk youth suicide
The One 2 One Festival is a free one-day music and multimedia event held at Federation Square in Melbourne on Sunday June 8 from 12-8pm. The aim of the festival is to raise awareness in the community and media about youth suicide. Australia has the third highest rate in the world, and the whole idea is to educate and empower youth in our community.
Among the acts and speakers appearing: Bands on the day will be:
Daylight Underground, Defend The Melody, DJ Brewster, Flow and Plenty, Jessica Paige, Matt Kelly & The Keepers, Mihi Rungi, Ms Butt, Sarah McDonald, Saritah, Ships Piano, Sin City, Symbiosis and Rachael Berry.
Community organisations involved on the day will be: Self Help Addiction Resource Centre (SHARC), Beyond Blue, The Push, Youth Affairs Council of Victoria (YAC Vic), Artful Dodgers Studios, White Lion, Life Line, Kids Help Line, Reach Out, Headspace and Sane Australia.
Kathematics benefit
Melbourne outfit Kathematics became a two-piece by accident in January, inspiring Kath to lock herself in her bedroom and write a new set of darker, riff-based, songs. They need money to record the new toe-tappers, so they're throwing themselves a fund raiser. It's at ID GAFF on Friday 9th May with The Undecided by Default, The Fandoras and Che 90.
Capitol Theatre hosts Paralympics fund raiser
The send-off is a concert at the Capitol Theatre (Monday June 16) to raise $150,000 to pay for the airfares to get our Paralympics team to Beijing. Putting their hands up to tread the boards are Ana Marina, Tamsin Carroll, Rhonda Burchmore, Amanda Muggleton, Peter Cousens, John Paul Young, Genevieve Lemon, Paul Capsis, Toni Lamond, Leonie Page, Michael Cormick, Sharon Millerchip, Derek Metzger and cast members of major musical shows Billy Elliot, The Phantom of the Opera, Shout!, Spamalot and The Rocky Horror Show*. The evening will be hosted by David Campbell.
Also donating their services are Arena Management, the Billy Elliot Company, Ticketmaster, Showbiz and Molly's Cradle wines. The more money raised, the more athletes can go, and the better the training and equipment they can get.
"A Search for a Star" launches in Adelaide
Adelaide's annual Search for a Star talent quest is hoping to raise $30,000 to help deaf infants with a new music program through the Cora Barclay Centre. Potential pop stars will come out of the woodwork from Tuesday, June 3rd for the first round of heats at Fellini's Restaurant in North Adelaide. Prizes are valued at over $20,000 and include the chance to audition for Adelaide Carols by Candlelight and a CD compiled, mastered and recorded by Majestic Audio. The AMP Foundation, through its national Community Fundraising Program, has agreed to match money raised from the event up to $20,000.
Cora Barclay Centre CEO Michael Forwood said "Since hearing tests were made available for every baby born in South Australia, more families are seeking services from our centre, which provides trained therapists to help even the most profoundly deaf child learn to listen and speak. We are hoping to expand our early intervention program for deaf infants to include a specialised music and movement program. This will be an exciting addition to our service which can actually teach deaf children pitch, rhythm and intonation in their speech in a fun and creative way."
It costs $20 per band and $10 for Soloists. To get a registration form, telephone Cora Barclay Centre on (08) 8267 9200 OR email administration@corabarclay.com.au. See also http://www.myspace.com/searchforastar
Easels scratched my flesh: "Art of music"
14 prominent Australian visual artists will choose a well known Australian song to turn into a painting. The paintings will be auctioned at the Art Gallery of NSW on May 31, as part of "Art Of Music", to aid a music therapy program for children and adults with disabilities. Artists include Reg Mombassa, Peter Kingston, and James Powditch and songs chosen have been by Split Enz and Cold Chisel. Kingston, for instance, chose a summer river scene at the Macquarie River in Hill End, inspired by Dragon's "Dreams Of Ordinary Men." The 14 paintings are on show at the Flinders St Gallery at Surry Hills from May 23 to May 30.
VENUES VIBES
Adelaide's Higher Ground finds new home
Higher Ground is Adelaide's home of comedy, theatre, visual art, dance, music, cabaret, performance and clubs. It is settled in its new premises in the 'West End' at 9 Light Square. It boasts a café, exhibition and rehearsal space by day, and a venue for theatre, live music and clubs at night. If you're a musician, there's a new series of acoustic sessions on Sundays from 1 - 3pm. Tel contact is 08 8232 2570, see also http://www.higherground.org.au/
Byron's Coorabell Hall closes to music
Byron Bay's Coorabell Hall has closed its doors to live bands — after a number of complaints from one resident, who recently moved in. Local promoters like Peter Noble of the Bluesfest and Suzie Mylecharane of Ku Promotions have staged shows there for 18 years, and say it's a blow to local bands. The local music community is gearing up to reverse the decision. But for the time being, any bands that booked the hall for future gigs should contact Lyn Garrett on 66884350.
Brisbane Powerhouse gives artists a home
Brisbane Powerhouse and Brisbane City Council launched the Artists in Residence Program. The Powerhouse will become the permanent home to dance-theatre company Splintergroup, music ensemble Topology and contemporary performance company the Restaged Histories project.
"It is important we give talented Queenslanders a place to develop their craft," Lord Mayor of Brisbane Campbell Newman said in front of VIP's arts industry guests, local councillors, sponsors and staff. "By creating more opportunities, we assure our artists that the best place for them to create is here, at home. Council is giving its full support to initiatives like the Artists in Residence Program to foster Brisbane as a vibrant, creative city and to demonstrate to artists that their contribution is key to Brisbane's position as one of the most exciting capital cities in Australia."
New resident artist Nic Dorward of the Restaged Histories Project, sees a brighter future for live arts thanks to the generous support of the city through the Artists in Residence program. "As an ongoing project that has committed to retaining Brisbane as its base, the Restaged Histories project is so excited to now have our home at Brisbane Powerhouse. Residency means we can continue to explore the full extent of our creative ability in a supported atmosphere that will propel our work to the national stage," he says. "The faith Brisbane Powerhouse has in us is all the more promising thanks to the independence we retain as artists: we're working with the organisation to produce new performance, as opposed to working 'for' it. That kind of freedom is the future of live arts."
The assistance the program will provide for each company includes free venue hire, rehearsal and office spaces and creative assistance from Powerhouse director Andrew Ross and his extensive creative networks across Australia.
Topology played a set at the end of the event. The resident companies will perform from next month. Topology already confirmed for five performances and the Restaged Histories project performing in December.
The Gaelic takes a seat
Sydney live music venue The Gaelic in Surry Hills has bought 200 seats, and can now do Theatre Style events. The club's mezzanine level will be turned into a Cocktail Bar for these nights. It means the Gaelic can introduce jazz & blues, roots and acoustic shows. On Thursday 8th May it showcases Saving Grace, The Falls and Cameron & Gabrielle (DLC)
Friday 9th May sees The Hipstones and Steve Clisby Band. Saturday 10th May features Mr Percival, Mahalia Barnes & The Soul Mates, Matt Ralph and comedian Tommy Dean.
Melbourne tests 2 am lockout
From next month, Melbourne will test the 2 am lockout for three months. The idea has been trialled in regional cities Ballarat, Bendigo and Warrnambool, and police say it has cut down alcoholic-fuelled violence. Over 500 late night licence holders will stop new patrons from entering after 2 am: once they leave the club, even if it is to have a cigarette, they cannot get back in. This will last for five hours, by which the drunks have either sobered up or have gone home. The state government also will have a 12-month clamp on new late night club licenses being granted in three council areas. It is estimated that 47% of idiots who start brawls are drunk — and 43% of their victims are also drunk.
Conrad Jupiters goes music theatre
Conrad Jupiters is giving up in-house entertainment and turning itself into a venue for music theatre. Cue the usual hysteria about the Gold Coast becoming the new London West End. Well, anyway, first at the 1,000-capacity Jupiters Theatre will be "The Merchant of Bollywood" from Mumbai, India, July 1 to October 19. Jon Nicholl'"Abba Mania" runs October 25 until February 14. "Lady Salsa" about Cuba's music and dance culture, takes to the stage from February 24 to June 14. Jupiter Casino has just upgraded its casino to the tune of $53 million and a $16 million refurbishment of its hotel and convention centre.
Deadline submission for Ellington Jazz Club Friday May 9 is the last day for public comment submissions for the development application by the Ellington Jazz Club with The East Perth Redevelopment Authority. The club will be at 191-193 Beaufort St, and organizers are busy with renovations. Once submissions close, the club will be advised by the EPRA. Liquor Licensing should give its decision in three months. If things move to plan, says club director, Graham Wood, the club should open by spring. If you can help with submission, email info@ellingtonjazz.com.au.
"Frantic" heads to Impulse
Frantic Sydney's new home is Impulse @ the Hunter Bar (www.franticsydney.com). To celebrate it is throwing a launch party on Friday May 30 highlighting its UK uplifting hard trance. Set times are 10 – 11.30 Chimpy; 11.30 - 1 Ian Murray; 1 – 2.30 Charlotte Birch; 2.30- 4 Steve Hill; and 4 – 5 Micky D. The party continues after 5am with afterhours club Daydreams.
OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS
Dada Records opens to live music
Dada Records in Perth has opened its doors to live bands for the first time in ten years. Joe Bludge and Mink Mussel Creek played there on the weekend.
Get on MusicNT's database
Northern Territory music association MusicNT is inviting NT acts to be featured on their database when they launch their new website on May 24. You need to send them a small para (80 words max) about yourself/band, and what genre. Any links you may wish to direct viewers to (your own website, MySpace, etc), and one image. Send to - E: memebership@musicnt.com.au or F: 08 8941 3577 or drop in and see them.
Get on Skuff TV
As announced here previously, action sport video website Skuff TV last week launched on prime time pay TV (on Fuel TV Foxtel's action sport channel) on the weekend. Each episode is 15 minutes but is repeated over the week. Dave Keam, Skuff TV's General Manager, says it's a terrific opportunity for exposure, not only for underground film makers but for musicians and music companies. Contact them via the website www.skuff.tv or by email at info@skuff.tv.
PICA calls out
Perth's 'short performance' festival is calling on artists working in the areas of visual or hybrid arts, performance and film to check out their website at www.pica.org.au. They're looking for short, sharp, smart and challenging works to be performed at PICA in July 22 to 26. Deadline is May 12.
PICA is now accepting applications for its 2008 Research and Development fund. It is open to independent West Australian artists not currently receiving recurrent government funding. The fund supports research and development projects that cross all disciplines, technologies and art forms toward the creation of hybrid work.
Deadline for applications: 27 June. For any queries contact Chrissie Parrott, Performance Program Manager on 9228 6300 or email performance@pica.org.au.
PICA is currently seeking expressions of interest for the 2009 Studio Program. It provides participating artists with a dedicated space to produce new work. The artists work in their studios throughout their residency and are required to present artist talks, open their studio on select days and must result in a public outcome. The application process for PICA's Studio Program has changed and will now remain open throughout the year. Both visual and performing artists will be considered. See the website. For queries, contact PICA's Curator Melissa Keys on 9228 6300 or exhibitions@pica.org.au.
Deadline For Next Big Thing
Deadline for unsigned, original WA bands to enter The Next Big Thing is May 16. Now in its 12th year, NBT sees over 100 acts get the chance to display their talents in a series of heats held across WA, from Broome to Esperance. With a total prize pool of over $70,000, the state winner receives an entire musician's starter kit including recording time with a producer, 500 copies of their own CD, video clip production, CD distribution, photography, advertising in street press, rehearsal room time, equipment insurance, guaranteed performances at the WAMis, In the Pines and the Big Day Out. See at www.nextbigthing.net.au
Organisers say the Next Big Thing has been an integral launching pad for the careers of many of Perth's best musicians including Harlequin League, John Butler, Outfit Faux, Snowman, Fourth Floor Collapse, The Fault and Streetlight.
HONOURS AND AWARDS
Kylie gets French cultural accolade
Kylie was presented with one of France's highest cultural awards on Monday in Paris. It is the "Chevalier dans L'ordre des Arts et Lettres" (Knight in the Order of Arts and Letters) which acknowledges her "contribution to the enrichment of French culture." Others to have been awarded thus have been singers Ella Fitzgerald, Bob Dylan and David Bowie, plus actors Meryl Streep, Leonardo di Caprio, Clint Eastwood, Meryl Streep and Robert Redford.
"I am deeply honored to be recognized in this way," Minogue said in a statement. "French culture has influenced me greatly and I have always had colossal respect for the arts and people of France".
At the ceremony, cultural minister Christine Albanel told her she was a "Midas of the international music scene who turns everything she touches into gold" (obviously hadn't seen the US sales lately) and applauded her for the fact that her public admission she had breast cancer lead so many young girls to also be tested. Minogue attended the event with her parents.
This week, Minogue begins her "KYLIE X2008" tour of Europe at the Paris Bercy. The tour costs a reputed £10 million to stage, according to Billboard Magazine, and will include Minogue's first-ever dates in Greece, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Turkey, Luxembourg, Russia, Latvia and Spain. The tour wraps in London on Aug. 4 with the last of seven nights at the 02 Arena. Half a million tickets have already been sold, according to her UK record label.
In between Minogue will return to London in July to pick up her Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) medal for "services to music" from the Queen at Buckingham Palace.
Her record company this week reported that more than 500,000 tickets had been sold.
Jazz winners
Winners of the Australian Jazz 'Bell' Awards held at Federation Square's BMW Edge:
Jazz artist of the year: Melbourne saxplayer Julien Wilson
Contemporary jazz album of the year: Andrea Keller Quartet's "Little Claps".
Jazz vocal album of the year: Megan Washington's "Night Light".
Classic jazz album of the year: Sweet Lowdown's "Cuttin' Capers".
Australian jazz composition: trumpeter Eugene Ball's "Fool Poet's Portions."
Young Australian Jazz artist of the year: Bassist Sam Anning
Australian jazz ensemble of the year: Phil Slater's Quartet.
Sydney saxplayer Bernie McGann was inducted into the Hall of Fame.
ABC Radio lauds its own
The 2008 ABC Local Radio Awards were held in Sydney last week, hosted by ABC TV personality James O'Loghlin. The awards began in 2001, and include winners from the ABC's nine metropolitan and 51 regional stations.
Presenters included NSW governor Marie Bashir, Stephen Conroy - Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy; John Watkins Deputy Premier, Minister for Transport & Minister for Finance representing the Premier of New South Wales; Chairman of the ABC Maurice L. Newman AC; ABC Managing Director Mark Scott; Director ABC Radio & Regional Content Sue Howard; Director ABC Innovation Ian Carroll.
Station of the Year (Metropolitan)
666 ABC Canberra
Station of the Year (Regional)
630 ABC North Queensland
Broadcaster of the Year
Red Symons – 774 ABC Melbourne
Rural Reporter of the Year
Kim Honan – ABC Mid North Coast
Sports Broadcaster of the Year
Quentin Hull - general coverage
Online Feature of the Year (joint winners)
Fiona Churchman & Ping Lo for 'Stolen Generation'
Kim Honan for 'Eating Close to Home: The Locavore Challenge'
Website of the Year
Nick Kittel & Ping Lo for abc.net.au/canberra
Local Program of the Year (Metropolitan & Networked)
Mornings with Madonna King – 612 ABC Brisbane
Local Program of the Year (Regional)
Drive with Roisin McCann – ABC Northern Tasmania
Outstanding Coverage of a Local Story or Emergency (by an Individual, Program or Station)
1233 ABC Newcastle for 'The June Long Weekend Storms 2007'
The Paul Bodington Award for an Outstanding Radio Feature/Package by an Individual
Phil Ashley-Brown, 702 ABC Sydney for 'Stella's Lung Transplant'
Outside Broadcast of the Year (Metropolitan)
Breakfast with Adam Spencer, 702 ABC Sydney – World in Sydney
Outside Broadcast of the Year (Regional)
Northern Territory Country Hour – Outback Odyssey
Community Event of the Year
Heywire in Canberra 2008
Promotions Producer of the Year
Andrew Taylor – 774 ABC Melbourne & ABC Local Radio Victoria
Producer of the Year
Brad McCahon – 720 ABC Perth
Best New Talent on Local Radio (joint winners)
Andy Muirhead – 936 ABC Hobart
Ping Lo – 666 ABC Canberra
Marketing Campaign of the Year
Natalene Muscat & Felicity Greenland, 774 ABC Melbourne – '100% Pure Footy Finals'
The Mo I see you: Mo award nomInations
ONE MAN PERFORMER BAND
* DI SOLOMON
* FALLON
* FRANKY VALENTYN
* ROLAND STORM
* ZIGGY ZAPATA
TWO MAN PERFORMER BAND
* JUST JAMMIN
* RECHARGE
* SWEET TALK
* TAKE TWO
* THE WILLIAMS BROS
THREE MAN OR MORE PERFORMER BAND
* CATE
* LISA CROUCH AND DIG THIS
* RIKKI ORGAN AND THE ORGAN GRINDERS
* THE WILLIAMS BROS
* ZIGGY AND THE WIZZCATZ
SHOWBAND
* FROGS ON TOAST
* JELLYBEAN JAM
* JUKE BOX JIVE
* THE SHY GUYS
* THE ZIPS
TRIBUTE SHOW
* CASH ON DELIVERY - BOSCO AND JAQUI BOSANAC
* CLASSIC ENGELBERT - GEOFF JONES
* TENTERFIELD TO RIO - DANNY ELLIOTT
* THE JOHN FARNHAM EXPERIENCE - FALLON
* THE TOM JONES EXPERIENCE - JAQUES RENAY
RICKY MAY MALE VOCAL PERFORMER
* ADAM SCICLUNA
* BARRY CROCKER AM
* FALLON
* LUCKY STARR
* STEPHEN FISHER-KING
* TONY PANTANO
VERSATILE PERFORMER
* DARREN CARR
* LIZ TAYLOR
* MARTY MORTON
* MARY SCHNEIDER
* WAYNE SCOTT KERMOND
KEN LITTLEWOOD AND TOSHI SPECIALITY PERFORMER
* DARREN CARR
* LLYNDA NAIRN
* MAGIC BY HART-STEVE HART
* PHIL CASS
* REX ALLISON AND WENDY
ACCOMPANYING BAND
* BOB McKINNON BAND
* RON HEARNE BAND
* TROJANS
* VINCE LOMBARDO BAND
* WESTERN FRONT
RESIDENT TECHNICAL SUPPORT
* BANKSTOWN SPORTS CLUB
* BLACKTOWN WORKERS CLUB
* BURWOOD RSL CLUB
* CAMPSIE RSL CLUB
* PETERSHAM RSL CLUB
RICKY MAY FEMALE VOCAL PERFORMER
* BELINDA ADAMS
* JUDY STONE AM
* KAREN BECKETT
* LISA CROUCH
* LITTLE PATTIE
* LIZ TAYLOR
* SHARNA LE-GRAND
INSTRUMENTAL OR VOCAL INSTRUMENTAL PERFORMER
* BOB HOWE
* DANNY ELLIOTT
* JOEY FIMMANO
* MARY SCHNEIDER
* ROLAND STORM
* ZIGGY ZAPATA
BEST VENUE
* BANKSTOWN SPORTS CLUB
* BANKSTOWN TROTTING AND RECREATION CLUB
* BLACKTOWN WORKERS CLUB
* PETERSHAM RSL CLUB
* ROOTY HILL RSL CLUB
COMPERE
* BOBBY BRADFORD
* GEOFF JONES
* MARK KRISTIAN
* RIKKI ORGAN
* STEVE GILLESPIE
* TERRY KAFF
THE FOUR KINSMEN PRODUCTION SHOW
* SONGS OF STREISAND AND FRIENDS
* FROGS ON TOAST
* FROM TAMWORTH TO TENNESSEE
* HEROES FROM HEAVEN
* THE GOLDEN BOYS OF AUSSIE ROCK 'N' ROLL
* THE GREAT PRETENDERS
COMEDY PERFORMER
* BOBBY DENNIS
* CALVIN DEGREY
* DARREN CARR
* KENNY GRAHAM
* PAUL MARTELL
* THOMAS AND MOORE
VARIETY DUO OR TRIO
* AUBREY AND MARTIN
* CATE
* DOUBLE EXPOSURE
* REX ALLISON AND WENDY
* THE WILLIAMS BROTHERS
CHILDREN'S ENTERTAINMENT
* HI-5 MARTY AND EMU CRAZY KIDS SHOW
* THE HOOLEY DOOLEYS
* THE WIGGLES
* TRIPLE TREAT
CLASSICAL/OPERA PERFORMER
* AMELIA FARRUGIA
* ANTHONY WARLOW
* DAVID HOBSON
* HELEN ZEREFOS OAM
* JONATHON WELCH
* STEPHEN FISHER-KING
* YVONNE KENNY
SLIM DUSTY COUNTRY MALE VOCAL PERFORMER
* ADAM HARVEY
* BOSCO BOSANAC
* TRAVIS COLLINS
* TROY CASSAR-DALEY
* WAYNE HORSBURGH
SLIM DUSTY COUNTRY FEMALE VOCAL PERFORMER
* ALLISON DURBIN
* BECKY COLE
* DONNA BOYD
* KEL-ANNE BRANDT
* MELINDA SCHNEIDER
SLIM DUSTY COUNTRY GROUP
* BUCKSHOT
* HILLBILLY HEAVEN
* THE FLOOD
* THE McCLYMONTS
* WOLVERINES
BRIAN STACEY MALE MUSICAL THEATRE PERFORMER
* ANTHONY WARLOW - PHANTOM OF THE OPERA
* BARRY CROCKER AM - FIDDLER ON THE ROOF
* IOTA - ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW
* TONY SHELDON - PRISCILLA THE MUSICAL
* WAYNE SCOTT KERMOND - CANDYMAN
BRIAN STACEY FEMALE MUSICAL THEATRE PERFORMER
* CAROLINE O'CONNER - THE HATPIN
* COLLEEN HEWITT - SHOUT
* DONNA LEE - MENOPAUSE
* GENEVIEVE LEMON - BILLY ELLIOTT
* LOLA NIXON - BILLY ELLIOTT
HALL OF FAME AWARD
* BILL CATE
* BOBBY DENNIS
* DARYL BRAITHWAITE
* FRANKIE DAVIDSON
* JUDY STONE AM
* LUCKY STARR
* MARY SCHNEIDER
* PAUL MARTELL
* RHYTHMAIRES
JOHNNY O'KEEFE ENCOURAGEMENT AWARD
* JULIE ANNE MELFI
* MARK VINCENT
* MICHAEL STEPHAN
* MIRIAM WAX
* ROBERT JEFFREY
* STUART DAVEY
PETER ALLEN AUSTRALIAN PERFORMER OF THE YEAR
* ADAM SCICLUNA
* DANNY ELLIOTT
* DARREN CARR
* KAREN BECKETT
* LISA CROUCH
32nd Australian Entertainment 'MO' Awards
NOMINEES
ONE MAN PERFORMER BAND
* DI SOLOMON
* FALLON
* FRANKY VALENTYN
* ROLAND STORM
* ZIGGY ZAPATA
TWO MAN PERFORMER BAND
* JUST JAMMIN
* RECHARGE
* SWEET TALK
* TAKE TWO
* THE WILLIAMS BROS
THREE MAN OR MORE PERFORMER BAND
* CATE
* LISA CROUCH AND DIG THIS
* RIKKI ORGAN AND THE ORGAN GRINDERS
* THE WILLIAMS BROS
* ZIGGY AND THE WIZZCATZ
SHOWBAND
* FROGS ON TOAST
* JELLYBEAN JAM
* JUKE BOX JIVE
* THE SHY GUYS
* THE ZIPS
TRIBUTE SHOW
* CASH ON DELIVERY - BOSCO AND JAQUI BOSANAC
* CLASSIC ENGELBERT - GEOFF JONES
* TENTERFIELD TO RIO - DANNY ELLIOTT
* THE JOHN FARNHAM EXPERIENCE - FALLON
* THE TOM JONES EXPERIENCE - JAQUES RENAY
RICKY MAY MALE VOCAL PERFORMER
* ADAM SCICLUNA
* BARRY CROCKER AM
* FALLON
* LUCKY STARR
* STEPHEN FISHER-KING
* TONY PANTANO
VERSATILE PERFORMER
* DARREN CARR
* LIZ TAYLOR
* MARTY MORTON
* MARY SCHNEIDER
* WAYNE SCOTT KERMOND
KEN LITTLEWOOD AND TOSHI SPECIALITY PERFORMER
* DARREN CARR
* LLYNDA NAIRN
* MAGIC BY HART-STEVE HART
* PHIL CASS
* REX ALLISON AND WENDY
ACCOMPANYING BAND
* BOB McKINNON BAND
* RON HEARNE BAND
* TROJANS
* VINCE LOMBARDO BAND
* WESTERN FRONT
RESIDENT TECHNICAL SUPPORT
* BANKSTOWN SPORTS CLUB
* BLACKTOWN WORKERS CLUB
* BURWOOD RSL CLUB
* CAMPSIE RSL CLUB
* PETERSHAM RSL CLUB
RICKY MAY FEMALE VOCAL PERFORMER
* BELINDA ADAMS
* JUDY STONE AM
* KAREN BECKETT
* LISA CROUCH
* LITTLE PATTIE
* LIZ TAYLOR
* SHARNA LE-GRAND
INSTRUMENTAL OR VOCAL INSTRUMENTAL PERFORMER
* BOB HOWE
* DANNY ELLIOTT
* JOEY FIMMANO
* MARY SCHNEIDER
* ROLAND STORM
* ZIGGY ZAPATA
BEST VENUE
* BANKSTOWN SPORTS CLUB
* BANKSTOWN TROTTING AND RECREATION CLUB
* BLACKTOWN WORKERS CLUB
* PETERSHAM RSL CLUB
* ROOTY HILL RSL CLUB
COMPERE
* BOBBY BRADFORD
* GEOFF JONES
* MARK KRISTIAN
* RIKKI ORGAN
* STEVE GILLESPIE
* TERRY KAFF
THE FOUR KINSMEN PRODUCTION SHOW
* SONGS OF STREISAND AND FRIENDS
* FROGS ON TOAST
* FROM TAMWORTH TO TENNESSEE
* HEROES FROM HEAVEN
* THE GOLDEN BOYS OF AUSSIE ROCK 'N' ROLL
* THE GREAT PRETENDERS
COMEDY PERFORMER
* BOBBY DENNIS
* CALVIN DEGREY
* DARREN CARR
* KENNY GRAHAM
* PAUL MARTELL
* THOMAS AND MOORE
VARIETY DUO OR TRIO
* AUBREY AND MARTIN
* CATE
* DOUBLE EXPOSURE
* REX ALLISON AND WENDY
* THE WILLIAMS BROTHERS
CHILDREN'S ENTERTAINMENT
* HI-5 MARTY AND EMU CRAZY KIDS SHOW
* THE HOOLEY DOOLEYS
* THE WIGGLES
* TRIPLE TREAT
CLASSICAL/OPERA PERFORMER
* AMELIA FARRUGIA
* ANTHONY WARLOW
* DAVID HOBSON
* HELEN ZEREFOS OAM
* JONATHON WELCH
* STEPHEN FISHER-KING
* YVONNE KENNY
SLIM DUSTY COUNTRY MALE VOCAL PERFORMER
* ADAM HARVEY
* BOSCO BOSANAC
* TRAVIS COLLINS
* TROY CASSAR-DALEY
* WAYNE HORSBURGH
SLIM DUSTY COUNTRY FEMALE VOCAL PERFORMER
* ALLISON DURBIN
* BECKY COLE
* DONNA BOYD
* KEL-ANNE BRANDT
* MELINDA SCHNEIDER
SLIM DUSTY COUNTRY GROUP
* BUCKSHOT
* HILLBILLY HEAVEN
* THE FLOOD
* THE McCLYMONTS
* WOLVERINES
BRIAN STACEY MALE MUSICAL THEATRE PERFORMER
* ANTHONY WARLOW - PHANTOM OF THE OPERA
* BARRY CROCKER AM - FIDDLER ON THE ROOF
* IOTA - ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW
* TONY SHELDON - PRISCILLA THE MUSICAL
* WAYNE SCOTT KERMOND - CANDYMAN
BRIAN STACEY FEMALE MUSICAL THEATRE PERFORMER
* CAROLINE O'CONNER - THE HATPIN
* COLLEEN HEWITT - SHOUT
* DONNA LEE - MENOPAUSE
* GENEVIEVE LEMON - BILLY ELLIOTT
* LOLA NIXON - BILLY ELLIOTT
HALL OF FAME AWARD
* BILL CATE
* BOBBY DENNIS
* DARYL BRAITHWAITE
* FRANKIE DAVIDSON
* JUDY STONE AM
* LUCKY STARR
* MARY SCHNEIDER
* PAUL MARTELL
* RHYTHMAIRES
JOHNNY O'KEEFE ENCOURAGEMENT AWARD
* JULIE ANNE MELFI
* MARK VINCENT
* MICHAEL STEPHAN
* MIRIAM WAX
* ROBERT JEFFREY
* STUART DAVEY
PETER ALLEN AUSTRALIAN PERFORMER OF THE YEAR
* ADAM SCICLUNA
* DANNY ELLIOTT
* DARREN CARR
* KAREN BECKETT
* LISA CROUCH
The Mo Awards are held Tuesday 17th June at Bankstown Sports Club (8 Greenfield Parade, Bankstown 2200). Theme is a masquerade party, see http://moawards.org.au
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Email Christie Eliezer - celiezer@netspace.net.au