Canberra Music Thingy compiled by Allan Sko
BMA has lovingly gathered together some of the best and brightest music happenings the fair city of Canberra has to offer. Read on and #getyertickets
WHO: ApPolo Fest
WHAT: Mad little music festival
WHEN: Sat 20th April, 2pm
WHERE: Polish Club Turner
Well, what do we have here! It’s only a self-described “mad little festival” called ApPolo featuring a raft of tip-top talent! Bathe your ears in the joys of Highline, Archie, Before the King, Cheeky Leash, Silky Roads, Sam Sly, Lily Begbie, Butter Bath, YAGKI, Atlas Franklin Alexander, Salty Season, Koebie Faumui & Frames.
It all happens across 2 stages, it all kicks off at 2pm, and it’s all set to be absolutely 2-riffic. Tix $35 – $40 + bf via Humanitix.
WHO: Rachael Thoms, Lachlan Coventry and Chris Pound
WHAT: Post-It-Note Jazz Requests
WHEN: Fri 26 April. From 5pm
WHERE: Tuggeranong Arts Centre
Join intrepid jazz adventurers and TAC regulars Rachael Thoms (vocals), Lachlan Coventry (guitar), and Chris Pound (bass) for an evening of spontaneous and interactive creativity. Write your favourite jazz tune on a “post it-note” and the band will select songs at random. All you have to do is sit back, sip your wine, and let the magic and the fun unfold! BYO writing implement. Post-its supplied. Bar from 5pm. Music from 5:30 – 7:30pm. Head to Tuggeranong Arts for more info.
WHO: Dean Abbott
WHAT: ‘Be With You’ Single Launch
WHEN: May 3, 6.30pm
WHERE: Mill Theatre at Dairy Rd, Fyshwick
Dean Abbott‘s soulful voice effortlessly weaves together heartfelt lyrics and catchy melodies that will have you smiling, toe-tapping and singing along in no time. Drawing inspiration from legendary artists like Jack Johnson, his music is a delightful blend of uplifting tunes and introspective storytelling. His songs encapsulate the essence of life’s simple pleasures, capturing moments of love, adventure, and self-discovery, forming an instant connection with his listeners. Tix are $25 plus booking fee via Humanitix.
WHO: Shortis and Simpson, Under the Influence with Fred Smith
WHAT: Smiths @ Belco
WHEN: Saturday 4th May, 7pm
WHERE: Belco Arts Centre
Shortis and Simpson have embarked on a series of shows that explore the musical influences of a notable guest. So far these have featured Keith Potger of The Seekers, political journalist Karen Middleton, local blues muso DJ Gosper, Nigel and Beth who run Smith’s, and Michael Simic (Mikelengelo of Black sea Gentlemen fame). And next in this impressive line-up is local singer/songwriter/author, Fred Smith!
In Under the Influence, S&S lead him through the singers, the songwriters, the seminal moments, from childhood to the present, that have informed his music. And, of course, the story of his ‘real job’ in the Public Service and his experiences in places like Bougainville and Afghanistan. Surprising, revealing, funny, entertaining, poignant. 7pm, $42/$37 via the venue.
WHO: Trish Delany-Brown
WHAT: A night of Jazz
WHEN: Saturday 4th May, 6-9.30pm
WHERE: Tuggeranong Arts Centre
It’s been over 10 years since Trish hung up her Idea Of North acappella hat. During her 15 years with Canberra’s ARIA-winning group, her song-writing was well utilised, and her efforts garnered several prestige awards.
These days, Trish has returned to what she loves best – a small, tight ensemble performing original material and arrangements of beloved jazz standards where voice functions both as storyteller and instrument, wordless and blended. Trish will be singing songs from her 2017 ARIA shortlisted album The Game as well as jazz faves and newer compositions, including songs from the upcoming EP. Tickets are $45 full / $38 concession, available via Tuggeraong Arts. Bar open from 6pm, Concert 7-9:30pm (includes interval).
WHO: Eric Clapton: A Tribute
WHAT: 8 piece band featuring Chris Harland
WHEN: 10 May, 7.30pm
WHERE: Zeppelin Room – Harmonie German Club
Originally from England, Chris Harland has performed at festivals around Australia and supported Eric Burdon and The Animals and guitar virtuoso Matt Schofield. Chris has been deeply influenced by Eric Clapton and this is his tribute to the guitar great. The show will include Sunshine of Your Love, Wonderful Tonight, Cocaine, Tears in Heaven, Layla and other timeless favourites, and he will be supported by some of Canberra’s finest musicians. $30 + bf via Humanitix.