Roadtrip to Radelaide: Ballarat to Warrnambool

A roadtrip to get to the cricket test in Adelaide was so much fun last year, we decided that we would complete the country crossing by arriving from Melbourne this time. Well, Ballarat actually, as Belinda, Jess and Dillo arrived by train ready for a night out as Night Zero.

Drinks at the Miner's Cottage before we went to the Lake View for dinner, more drinks, and to show off the sun setting across Lake Wendouree. The 'Rat put on a bit of a show for the out-of-towners, before we headed back into town to JD's for dodgy cover music, and then trusty Karova Lounge for dancing. A much larger night that was intended, Laura found some slightly weary roadtrippers the following morning when she joined us in Ballarat.

We finally picked up the hire car, and hit the road, leaving Dillo in Ballarat. Taking the Sheilas back out to the outskirts of Ballarat so that they could check off the Big Miner, we were alerted to a flat tyre as we started heading out in the right direction. Not a good start!

Stopping to add air, and hoping for the best, we drove down south on my memory-map, and eventually passed the Camperdown Clock Tower, after a lunch stop at Lismore. Down here, we turned towards the coast, and found the turn off for Simpson.

Now, Dillo had made a bit of noise about us first stopping for the first night of the roadtrip at his parent's farm, but as plans shaped up he went cold on the idea, and then dropped out of this leg, and thus our visit, altogether. Not to be deterred we found the turn off his home town, and then popped into the main store to ask for directions to the family farm. All a little too easy, we were directed and then let in for tea and biscuits, and then a tour, by his mum and dad! Ha!

Back on the road eventually, we followed the directions provided by Dillo's mum as she waved us off....and we totally missed the Twelve Apostles! Oops! Another missed-train-in-China type story for us to laugh about!

We took in the rugged shipwreck coastline, stopping at each of the (more well signposted!!) tourist places, including the Loch Ard Gorge. Totally enchanted by this place as a kid and the story of the survivors who sought refuge here in 1878, it was pretty cool to revisit and take it in again. So pretty, and yet such a rough stretch of land.

As the sun stared to sink lower we checked out the now broken London Bridge before we reached Port Campbell and started to think about finding a place to stay the night.

Finding that the speedway was on at Warrnambool this night, our lackadaisical go-with-the-flow non-planning suddenly looked a little shaky as we started having issues finding a place to stay. Stopping at one of the dodgiest looking places possible, we secured a room at the Turn In Motel for the night at last! Comparing it to Norman Bates' motel, we made a trip to grab dinner and drinking supplies for the night, and settled in to watch the tennis.

Norman, aka Bill Hunter as we named him, was surprised and delighted at having 4 Sheilas stay, after he had declared his motel a speedway patron-free place. He was very friendly, and regardless of it's rustic 60s look and details, it was a perfect stop for our desire to seek out stops out of the ordinary!

Xmas '11

Wow, Xmas has sped past us again, in a whoosh of frenetic activity, catching up with people, and a rush to get work done before a handful of days off. Still largely in denial that it was really upon us, I have managed to get through the other side of the silly season.

One of my first catch ups was a trip out to visit Andrea, and see Cooper and Charli. Amazingly, gifts for these soon to be 5 year old twins was the first purchase I made in the lead up to Xmas, actually back in October! Unheard of! I popped out to see them, and hang out for the afternoon on my day off. We exchanged gifts, Andrea and I had coffees and caught up, and we even made fake snow with the kids. Was so great to spend this time with them.

Having boycotted the work Xmas party this year in protest of it's less than original idea, and the lack of accommodation for us Regionally based Consultants, I was keen to ensure I enjoyed the lunch planned for Xmas Eve Eve. Having done all that I could for the week, after having some truly harrowing things happen to my clients in the build up to this tough time for people with a mental illness, our Ballarat office headed out to Pipers By The Lake for our lunch.

Here we also exchanged our Shit Kringle gifts....inspired by something I had read, and replacing that silly idea that you can get anything good for someone as a gift for $10. This was very funny, with random exchanges including Xmas toilet paper, a sex shop goodie bag, a tacky Aussie touristy souvenir, and Post Adelaide Football Club Xmas baubles.

After lunch and many white wines, Michelle and I then requested to be dropped off at the Lake View for a continuation of the Xmas white wine in the sun theme. Eventually some of her mates joined us after their Xmas break up, and we went into town for dinner. Michelle and I ended up sitting in the intimate window table for 2 for amazing pizza and more wine, at The Main Bar. One of my favourite places in Ballarat at the moment!

Next we walked back down into Sturt Street as the sun was fading, and introduced Michelle to the amazing Portico on Sturt, where we sampled more wine, chilled band, and awesome atmosphere. Janelle joined us here before we walked across the road to end the night dancing at Irish Murphy's.

Xmas Eve landing on a Saturday called for an afternoon session, so I had booked a table for lunch for Melanie, Renee, Michelle and little Nisha and I, at Lake View, to get started. After lunch, Mel and Renee and I moved to the front room, and settled in for the mini-Ballarat reunion that is Xmas eve out.

Dinner was a Xmas catch up with Dad with the girls and Heath, across the road at the Boatshed. Back across the road for more drinks and catching up with people, Michelle eventually dropped by and drove me home via Katie's and Dave's Xmas lights display.

After all that, Xmas Day was a more subdued affair...as usual, with plans to drive down to Melbourne for the cricket. I joined the girls and Heath at Mum's for a (delayed for me) breakfast and gift exchange. We then enjoyed the traditional Xmas lunch spread, before popping out to our Aunt and Uncle's to catch up with the extended family. Back home in the afternoon, a seafood dinner outside in the fading light of the day in the backyard was a perfect way to finish the silly season!

Hope you had a good one!

Georgia Fair and Howling Bells

Walking into a near empty Karova on Friday night, Katie and I were asked for ID (!!), and then met by Melanie and Gina for our night of music. Ordering at the bar, we surveyed the handful of people sitting at the tables at the back. Pretty disappointing, given the line up.

Georgia Fair got started, to the empty space in front of them, and gave us a good run through of most of their new album. The boys were engaging nonetheless - but such a contrast gig to the album launch I went to just a few weeks ago.

The headliners for the evening then set up, and the room filled a little more. The Howling Bells' Juanita started the set by beckoning everyone up closer, which helped to fill the front of stage. Playing a mix of their new album material with their older, recognised racks, Broken Bones was played early. A Ballad For The Bleeding Hearts was amazing and Setting Sun was also a stand out of the set.

Juanita talking about playing the last song, and someone called out about it, and she admitted that yeah, they would do the song, go off, come back, and do another, so she decided to skip that silliness and just complete the last song of the set.

Given the small crowd, and the volume of wine consumed, Katie, Gina and I ended up chatting with the band afterwards, thanking them for bringing their live show to little Ballarat, and for not forgetting us. I remember recommending that they stop and take a photo with the Giant Koala on their roadtrip to their next show! Hope they did!

Straight To You: triple j’s Tribute To Nick Cave

Last night Ballarat was treated to an amazing night of music, from an array of up-and-coming Aussie artists, showcasing the songs from iconic Nick Cave. All the people in our town with good music taste, whether there as fans of Nick Cave, of the artists putting on the show, or a bit of both, was at Her Majesty's Theatre!

After driving for work for much of the day, I met Jenni for dinner and drinks at Portico on Sturt. Now, I didn't even know this place was here, and sat in awe of the eclectic collection of couches, and people, in a place straight out of Smith Street. Awesome. The tapas were so good, and it was lovely to catch up with Jenni. She's such a role model and inspiration for me!

After pre-gig wines, we soon walked the block to Her Maj, and took our seats in the Dress Circle. The evening was then introduced by Triple J morning DJ, before Kram from Spiderbait opened the night with a track behind the drums. Bertie Blackman and Muscles then joined up at the front of the stage for Do You Love Me?

Introducing himself as Chris from Muscles, and positioning himself on keys, he then surprised everyone who has listened to his album material and sang a solo Grinderman song, dedicating it to a kid he remembers from school.

Alex from Sparkadia teamed up Lanie Lane to give us an enchanting Where The Wild Roses Grow, before Abbie May was introduced to stage to do a song. White hip hop boy, Urthboy was amongst the cast for the night, as was Jake Stone from Bluejuice, and Children Collide's Johnny Mackay.

Dan Sultan appeared for Deanna, and one of the highlights of the night was Lisa Mitchell performing a beautiful and powerful Into My Arms. Just accompanied by Lanie Lane on guitar, this was amazing....until one of the lads from the cast come out and joined Lisa on stage to waltz her around, perhaps in some kind of themed notion - but totally unnecessary! He even bowed with her at the end, as if he was part of the magic of her delivery of the song. She was breathtaking!

Adalita arrived after the interval, and delivered Straight To You, Jake gave us The Weeping Song, and Lanie Lane Jack The Ripper, before the pantomime promised before the break was given within Stagger Lee by Urthboy, and assisted by the rest of the group.

Henry Lee, and The Ship Song featured, and then Bertie did The Mercy Seat, which she says she has been listening to a lot as she has been working on a new album.

The venue got a lot of positive comments from the artists, as Her Maj was perfect for this night. Showcasing one of our country's best songwriters, from his love songs, to his disturbed horror tracks, spanning over 35 years of music.

The girls really stole the show for me, with Lanie Lane captivating in her versatility - amazing vocals and stage presence, then on trombone and later guitar to back other's tracks, what a talent! Lisa Mitchell, who I had only really known from that horrible Dollar song, shone, and it was so exciting to see Bertie strut her energy and talent, reminding us of the anticipation of her new album. Such a great night of music.

The Jezabels

After seeing them at Splendour, and being captured by their debut album Prisoner and recent EPs, I snapped up tickets to see The Jezabels in Ballarat pretty quick - which sold out fast!

Andrea was my gig buddy for the night, and we had dinner together at Thai Fusion beforehand, for a really good catch up, and wine. We then walked up to Karova Lounge, and found a spot in the filling band room to catch Canadian Hey Rosetta! With violin and cello on stage, this band provided the perfect interlude for the main act.

The Jezabels arrived on stage to much noise from the filled Karova, and launched straight into their atmospheric indie-rock. Lead Hayley Mary wowed with her vocal range and animated movement dominating the front of the stage, moved in tight black including stockinged arms, as she belted out each number with everything she had. Endless Summer and the very popular Mace Spray were early set tracks, and allowed the crowd to be vocal too.

I had a girl faint next to me during Long Highway, which was awesome (the song, not the fainting!) - it was quite warm in the old YMCA pool pit that night! She's So Hard featured also, with a good mix of new album, the EPs of late, and the older EP.

Hayley spoke to us just towards the end of the show to thank the previous bands and announce the final numbers, and this was the only direct communication - however she had the full band room attention with her, and interacted subtly with her three other band members. Disco Biscuit Love finished the night, via an encore, capped off another great gig here.

As we walked out and waited for our ride home, we discovered that the day had ticked over and it was my birthday. Sitting outside in the night, seeing the young people of Ballarat celebrating their end of high school, we were both reminded how old we are, just by the reflection of our thoughts on today's fashion! Ha!

Kaylene and Kane's Wedding

Kaylene and Kane got married yesterday, after months of planning. Sitting next to Kay at work let me in on the effort and dramas of such planning and preparation, and I am sure I only saw a fraction of it! She had started preparing herself pretty early on for the possibility of a rainy day in October, with us all assuring her that surely it wouldn't happen. And boy, did it ever! But amazingly, this union of marriage survived it's first test during the ceremony - and handled it beautifully!

Michelle and I arrived at the Red Lion Hotel for lunch and wine, meeting Jane and Kate there, ready to head out to the ceremony. We then drove out through Creswick, to the Tangled Maze, on the road towards Daylesford, and joined family and friends in the outdoor amphitheater. Marveling at the sunshine and blue sky all morning, almost as soon as we took our places, little spits of rain started.


As the bridesmaids made their way down the aisle, partnered with their respective groomsmen, the rain drops got heavier. As Kaylene and her dad made their way from the cars, and through the garden to the gathering, the rain started becoming heavier and heavier.

As we all huddled under umbrellas, or toughed it out, vows were said and rings were exchanged. Kane was brilliant in calming any of Kay's nerves, and was probably totally distracting her with his little comments to her - so cute!

Once the rings had been exchanged, we could move the ceremony apparently, and we all moved inside for the rest of the service. Both sets of parents contributed a piece of a family portrait puzzle, before the signing of the registry and the introduction of Mr and Mrs.

After the group photo, and wishing the bride and groom congratulations and that they would have a great day, the 4 of us made our way back to Ballarat, for some post-wedding drinks at the newly refurbished Bunch of Grapes. Taking over a little lounge-cove in the main area, away from the noise of the sports bar, this new look pub is very cute! Just needs to be more accepting of the non-betting mid-afternoon gatherers! Michelle and I then went on to have further drinks at the Lake View, before calling it a night.

There are all sorts of things said about rain on your wedding day, from it being a good omen, to it just being a weather coincidence! Either way, congrats to Kay and Kane on their lovely and special day!

The Mary Tour

On Wednesday night a group of us went along to a gig at The Bended Elbow, for Sparkadia's Mary Tour. Although a disappointing crowd for a uni night in Ballarat, AB himself talked about being a trail-blazer to this venue for gigs. Could be...

I waited for Mary to get to Ballarat, and then we met Katie, Michelle, and Michelle at Thai Fusion for dinner. A few wines got us started, and the always great food here made sure we were set for the night. Kay joined us as we were wrapping up, and we walked down Lydiard Street to the venue.

First up were The Trouble with Templeton, before the Canadian group Imaginary Cities impressed. This 6 piece band, with a female lead vocalist, played some catchy indie pop tunes, and engaged with the small audience - including passing a beer to a guy who got up and danced.

Opening with The Great Impression, Alex Burnett started out the Sparkadia set, and worked his way through a mix of his first and sophomore albums.

Tracks like China, Talking Like I'm Falling Down Stairs, Hurt Me, Fingerprints and the tour title Mary, featured from the awesome album released this year. Many of these gained the sing-a-long response they deserved, regardless of the smaller crowd size. The older songs were also sharp, with Too Much To Do early, Animals, and then ending the encore with Jealousy. Great set.

Given the small venue, we had a chance to chat to Alex after the show, and grabbed photos with him. Katie was working on an idea that he could write a song about Katrina, given he already has one now called Mary....ha. We also gave him breakfast recommendations for the next morning in Ballarat. Ha. Too many wines!

Robyn Moore

At the beginning of this month, the Ballarat Make A Wish Branch had our next function, hosting Robyn Moore as a guest speaker. Now the fellow volunteers of the committee who had seen her before raved about her inspirational impact and entertaining delivery. In all honest, I hadn’t heard of her before – but in fact, as a little research showed she is a prominent voice, being the voice of Blinky Bill, all the female characters in the Aussie political satire radio serial How Green Is My Cactus, and a host of tv ad jingles.

Robyn is also the National Patron of Make A Wish Australia, and volunteered her time for our evening. She has Ballarat family links, and throughout the night she connected with the 150 people who come along to the night, with local stories.

Michelle came along with me for the evening at the North Ballarat Sports Club, and I joined my fellow volunteer committee, numbering 15 at the moment, in hosting the night.

Sharing stories from her own life, with the experience of her mother with Alzheimer’s, and also the many, many Wish kids’ lives she has been part of, Robyn reminded us of the effect we all have on each other, and indeed, on ourselves through actions, words, and attitude. She reminded us of the positivity we are each responsible for within our own experiences, and also the outward projection to others.

Her stories and the amazing lessons she has learnt over the years from the children with a life threatening illness making a wish were beautiful and so real. Robyn had us laughing, and quite a few times brought tears with her stories, reminding us that the importance of caring for each other, and also of laughter.

A very life affirming and inspiring night.

Dan Sultan and Alex Gow

Mary and Nicole came up from Melbourne yesterday, ready for a gig in country Vic. We first went to the Black Hill pub, so that I could watch the footy, and we could have lunch.

Michelle joined us for the trusty parma, beer and footy on the screen, at this favourite venue of mine to watch the Hawks when they are away and only on Foxtel. After lunch, we got to sit in the side lounge in front of the fire, for the second half. A comfortable win for Hawthorn over the Lions, all good.

Michelle (now this is confusing, but a different Michelle!) met us at my place, and we started the drive across to Castlemaine, for our gig at a coverted venue of mine for some time. Mary's wonder at all her dusk countryscape views was quite entertaining - city kids!

We had dinner reservations for Public Inn, which was a recommendation for us, and it did not disappoint. Wine choices from the barrels on the wall, and quaint and classy decor, the meal was amazing and quite a treat, as a find in this little country town.

We then braved the cold night again, to get across to the Theatre Royal to see Alexander Gow and Dan Sultan. Touring together, these two Melbourne based lads come out together to play a mix of songs as an introduction to the show, before Alex then took the stage for his set.

Playing many of the Oh Mercy collection, plus a few songs he has been working on recently, Alex was chatty and told stories between each song. He fluffed the pronunciation of the town name, and that was perhaps when he started to lose the attention of the Saturday night crowd in this little town theatre, as there was much distracted noise from the back. He told us of the meaning behind Mercy Valley, which makes this track make of so much more sense. His sweet, melancholic voice was enchanting as always, but perhaps a little lost in the big venue on his own.

When Dan Sultan arrived on stage after the interval, he opened by requesting that people shush and listen, or go outstad and catch up. A commanding presence on stage, he then pointed out his grandmother in the crowd, just near us, and talked about his childhood visits to Castlemaine and all the memories of the town. Playing tracks such as Get Out While You Can, Sorrowbound, and Old Fitzroy, plus a couple I had heard from his set at the Flood Relief show, and demonstrated such immense talent. Such a great performer, and Aussie lad.

The boys re-joined on stage for the encore, which a couple of covers, topping of an awesome evening of music.

Great Barrier Grief

I convinced Kayleen the following day to take the begging ticket for my next gig back at the start of this month, and so constructed a little night out on a school night, to see one of my favourite bands.

We finished what we both needed to do for the day at the office, and then went to Thai Pavilion for dinner. Great Thai food here.

Getting to Karova, we caught the last tracks of The Ocean Party, who captured our attention straight up. Next up was the solo and nervous presence of Gossling - just a girl on the stage with her keyboard and her enchanting voice and lyrics. She drew the attention of the filling band room.

But hearing the set from Oh Mercy, showcasing their sophomore album, Great Barrier Grief, was why I came out that night. And this little Melbourne 4 piece band put on such a show, a treat of dreamy indie tunes. Alex is such a pleasure to see live!

Opening with Keith St, and then playing the lovely Broken Ears, the set played most of the new album, with highlights from the back catalogue. Mercy Valley, fast becoming one of my favourites, along with my much loved Let Me Go from this album, the crowd was then asked to quieten down, ready for Eliza to sing Doldrums solo.

The set also featured covers of The Velvet Underground and Leonard Cohen, and then Alex reminded us all to listen to their appearance early the next morning for Like A Version on Triple J (which was so awesome!).

Was so great that these guys have come back to Ballarat on this tour, and as always, a pleasure to see them live. This new album of theirs is easily one of my favourites of 2011.

The Holidays

At the start of the month, I had just purchased tickets to a couple of gigs at Karova for Maria and I, when I got a call to say she was sick, and perhaps couldn't go. But alas, for some reason she was super keen to go to this gig, and dragged her pneumonia-filled self along. What a trooper music fan!

Given the aforementioned incapacity, however, we decided we would drive, and just aim for the main band. Walking into a packed Karova, we caught the final couple of songs from Gold Fields, an up and coming local band. They were very impressive, and the packed Wednesday night student crowd loved them!

The main band for the night, The Holidays, then arrived on stage, to a rather embarrassingly emptied room. People really were here to see Ballarat's new indie band!

Having loved their EPs material, and seeing them live a couple of years ago, I was keen to have this gig capture my attention, and encourage purchase of their debut album. That wasn't actually the result, as the new album steers a little away from the sounds of their earlier work, with just a handful of track with hints on that pop reggae feel. They played nothing from their EPs. Shame.

Ballarat Make A Wish Ball

After coming back from my last trip, I decided that I had life pretty good, and thus, I wanted to find a way to give back again. So I joined the Ballarat Branch of Make A Wish, who just happened to be organising their ball for the year at the time.

Saturday night was the big night, and a group gathered at mine for pre-Ball drinks. The theme was connected the the 25th anniversary of Make A Wish, and so was silver, or 'bling'. Kayleen and Kane arrived first, and then Renee. Soon Katie and Kym joined us, before Jo and Matt, and a hungover Michelle! Much wine was consumed, in preparation for the night, before we got a cab across town to the Mercure Convention Centre for the Ball.

Arriving to a massive pre-drinks room filled with people all decked out, we met up with Mel, and Matt and Olivia. We were soon directed through to the big room, to find our tables, where Kate and Mick joined our group.

More wine was arranged, and all very soon dinner was served. Steak was mine...and I couldn't tell you what was for desert! Mingling around our tables with the work crew, the girls from school, and Katie and Kym, was so much fun. Soon the band for the night started, and then there was much dancing. The highlight for me from Toto's Hold The Line, and then Katie calling out for Africa at the end - and getting a laugh and a bar from the band! Ha!

With a silent auction on the night, and a speech about what the night was all about, it was a great event for this little volunteer committee, and raised a decent amount of money for the kids in our local area.

At the end of the night, almost all of us boarded taxis and headed into town, for more drinks and dancing at The George. The obligatory wait in the taxi line in the cold topped off the night. Thanks to everyone who came along!

The Waifs' Temptation

A pint of Guinness at lunch at Irish Murphy's was the call for the day, for St Patrick's Day, with Michelle and Matt. I then drove down to Melbourne after work, caught Patrice and Yas briefly at The Celtic Club, and then met up with Dillo for another at The Turf Club. Couldn't let the day pass without markinbg it appropriately!

I then drove across the Flinders Street, and met Kate and Mark, and Jessie and Kelly at The Forum for the night's gig. Back after a couple of years away from new material and shows, The Waifs were amazing last night!

Opening with the first two tracks from their recently released album, I Learnt The Hard Way and Buffalo, Vikki showed her vocal range and that folk down to earth charm that we all love so much. London Still was next, with a big singalong, and that moment that makes us all homesick when we are away from Australia.

Temptation, from the new album, had Josh take lead vocals, and then one of my enduring favourite, Sundirtwater, and the new Fallen, were back to Vikki. The set had a great mix across this little Western Australian bands collection, with How Many Miles, Lighthouse, Bridal Train and Moses and The Lamb covering the range of albums.

Feeling Sentimental and Eternity were lovely tracks with the three of them harmonising. Then Highway One allowed Donna's sassiness shine. Take It All In was dedicated to Melbourne, and really started the room singing, with Fisherman's Daughter ringing true with so many country breed girls in the audience.

The request from the audience was Crazy Train, which had Vikki commenting on the effect her harmonica playing in this song will have on her prominant baby belly. But it was so very good, and a crowd favourite. The gorgeous Gillian, an ode to Josh's mum, and a clear crowd love, was awesome.

A second encore, as the band commented on how blown away they were that people were still listening to them after this time away, was Donna's Goodbye. Given the album success in it's first week, and the number of shows selling out across the country, hopefully this inspires them to keep making music. A truely iconic band and sound for us all! And such a treat, as always, live.

Gig Retrospective Too

Just following on from my first post, these are the rest of the gigs...many repeat performers from the beginning of the year, actually.

Florence and The Machine was back in Australia for a festival after I returned from my trip, and played to enthralled fans at Festival Hall. Given that nothing much will leave the feelings of awe like last time, Flo still had the crowd eating out of her palm, watching every more as she floated and danced across the stage in barefoot. This night we had previews into new material, and the brilliance of the Lungs album. So good!

A trip to St Kilda and the Palais on a school night had Andrea, Dean and I seated for the magical Angus and Julia Stone. Just a dreamy and sweet collection of tracks, with previews of newer material, despite just having an album released. Julia pulled out the cover of You're The One That I Want, which was again haunting and mesmerising. The crowd called out regularly that they wanted to marry either of these siblings, as if it were that simple. Julia made comment that one such proposition to Angus would be interesting, skipping all the meeting and relationship stuff, and just have his babies. Ha! Aren't all ages shows cute....hmm.

Back to the Palais not long after, Jessie and I were treated to the ever talented Sarah Blasko. Mixing up her old with her new tracks, amazing album As Day Follows Night, probably in response to some scathing press reviews about the last Melbourne shows where she opened with just her new album - how dare she showcase her best album yet! It was clear by the level of Sarah's engagement and enthusiasm, that this newest record is her most proudest. A beautiful rendition of The Garden's End. She played Flame Trees, for the last time she said initially, and then after a little mind-blank midway through, suggested Melbourne may get another one down the line.

Katie and I saw Boy & Bear at Karova one rainy October night. Opening the night, Passenger had the early crowd engaged by doing away with the stage and the electrics, and playing a song among us on the floor. An awesome storyteller, this Pom won hearts! The sweet harmonies of the lads who are Boy & Bear is why we were there, and they uplifted our little venue with the souring sounds. Admitting that it was tricky doing a gig off a back of a 5 track EP, they played a number of new tracks interspersed. Such a great talent!

For my birthday, a little crew gathered for dinner at Thai Pavilion last month, before some of us made our way to a packed and sweaty Karova. I got there just as the first act finished, ready for Sparkadia, who really stole the show. Album gems from Postcards were brilliant, with the sound spot on. Alex has the talent to pull you in and take notice, even in this busy, noisy, filled room. With the new track Talk Like I'm Falling Down Stairs a highlight, this gig already rocked. Then the headliners filled the stage, and Little Red showcased their newly released album. Rock It, again, got a massive crowd reaction, as did old favourite Coca Cola to finish the night.

Hungry Kids, Basics and Clare

Three gigs in a row, three great Aussie bands, each promoting newly released albums. All good!

Saturday night Katie and I went out to Karova to see the Hungry Kids Of Hungray. It turns out Dean's parents are from the 'Rat, as he referred to it, and has lots of family here - that impressed the local crowd. Playing almost all the tracks from their newly released debut album, they added Arrest This Heart and Old Money from the previous EPs to the set list. Ending with Buddy Holly, a Weezer cover, perhaps as a response to the recent online discussions about their name.

Sunday night I met up with Nicole and Mary at the Northcote Social Club, for the second of 2 shows by The Basics, to launch their live album (Which you can download for free at that link). We made it into the bandroom for the second support of the evening was Georgia Fair, who certainly captured the crowd's attention. Sounds of Angus Stone, some great tracks were displayed, before the boys from The Basics graced the spiderweb draped stage, dressed for the Halloween date. Opening with The No 1 Cause of Death Amoung Youth Today, then U R The 1, before With This Ship, the show was showing signs of being one of the best. The first half of the gig was amazing, with the boys at their best, with banter and harmony. But then perhaps the level of alcohol hit for one of the band, and there was tetchiness, and perhaps some evidence as to basis for the planned extended break coming up for the band. An awesome cover of Roxanne, plus Just Hold On, had Wally showcasing his talents. Tim was also in full flight, with witty comebacks and crazy dance moves. Kris, though, was reminiscent of one May gig. Hopefully, their talk of not playing together again for some time will prove me wrong about them being The Band Who Cried Wolf!

Last night Jessie, Katie and I met in Chinatown for dumplings, before finding our way to the gorgeous Forum, and it's starry roof. Glenn Richards was one of the supports for the night, and despite just releasing his solo album, he was sullen and lacklustre...and didn't grab the crowd with any of his new material. He managed to get some attention by finishing with Augie March's One Crowded Hour. In complete contrast, Clare Bowditch entered the stage, aglow with a beaming, infectious smile. Playing the 80s-pop Casio influenced new tracks, with a sprinkling of the much loved songs of her back catalogue, she chatted and told stories to her adoring audience. The new Prinz Willy was just beautiful. And favourites like Divorcee At 23, Lips Like Oranges, and the amazing You Looked So Good, were so very good. Love her!

Greens and Blues

Dressed in green for the day of work, I was champing to get back from Geelong, ready for beer o'clock! It's just not right, not having a beer, or few, on St Patrick's Day!

I picked up Katie, and we met Michelle at Irish Murphy's for our pints of Guinness, and Bulmers, from the tap, as we took in the crowd who dared to be at the pub on a school night. It actually seemed to be 65 year olds, or 16 years olds! A band played us an assortment of Irish band covers, and jig music. As the crowd started to fill, and the younger half of the punters started stumbling around, we walked up Camp Street, to Karova.

We arrived as Last Dinosaurs were playing, reminding me very much of The Temper Trap, on the look, but also the sound. Next up were Cloud Control, who really impressed. A new little band to watch out for!

So, so hot in the little sunken band room, Yves Klein Blue entered the stage, with their own projected light show for effect. Having Michael finally up on stage, after he had been floating around amongst us, he switched from lead from and centre, to seated at keys to the left of stage.

Silence Is Distance was the second song for the night, with a smattering of new tracks from the boys. Summer Sheets sparked some crowd interest, and Dinosaur was energetic and fun. About The Future showed off that vocal command Michael has with the audience, before a massive Polka rendition with the ending of the night a hearty Getting Wise.

Privileged Woes

Katrina, Kylie and I headed to Karova last night for a much anticipated launch of Oh Mercy's album, Privileged Woes. Support act for the night was Washington, who impressed with strong vocals and How To Tame Lions as a stand out track.

Soon enough the boys and Eliza were ready for the stage, and started their engaging, chatty set. A medium crowd for the venue, with a handful of people who knew the material. Katie and Kylie soon labelled cute little Eliza 'Lemony Snicket', and we all had a debate about who of us had found these guys first. The girls claim they saw them as support for Sparkadia here in Ballarat, which may just beat my discovery in Brunswick....

Alex enchanted the crowd with tracks like Seemed Like A Good Idea, Broken Ears, and Salvation Jane. Explaining that In My Stride was about an affair with his science teacher, Holding On was also strong. A couple of new tracks popping into the set list, with one with Thom on vocals.

Announcing that they had just filmed a spot on Neighbours with the next track, and single, Get You Back, they joked that when the Toadfish requests a song, Oh Mercy did play!

Lay Everything On Me finished the night, with Alex inviting people on the stage to join them, and soon looking bemused as drunk lads towered over him, not missing a beat.

Grand Final House Party

I drove back to Ballarat on Grand Final morning this year, having been invited to Luke and Kym's house party for the big day. With Luke being such a diehard Cat, Katie and I decided to go all out for the Saints, and dressed in Red, White and Black, donned saintly halos, and Katie even painted the team emblem on on cheeks. I fully expected to be turned away at the door!

Joining Kym and Kylie and Patto for beers, we took in the pre-match entertainment beamed into the lounge room from the MCG. Watching the two teams line up for the anthem took me back to last year, but then it was game on, and a cracking game at that!

Very, very close for much of the match, until Geelong took it away in the final quarter. The rest of the house was very pleased with that!

More drinking to be done, random card games, and BBQ feast to be had. I understand the night ended up at Karova for some dancing, before Katie and I froze our bits off in the sub-zero Ballarat weather in the taxi line. Ahhhh, going out in Ballarat - hasn't changed much!

Hungry Kids and Bertie

After escaping the threat of having the being 'showered in' to a worksite assessment for work, and also traveling all over the place helping out the Ballarat office at the moment, I took Jo along to meet the gang for dinner at Oscar's.

Meeting up with Katie, Gina, Patto and Sarah, Kylie and Ash, who were amongst cocktails by the time we got there, we soon ordered some pretty great meals actually, and several starting beers.

A group of us then drove over the Camp Street, while some of the lads walked through the cold streets to join us at Karova. Finding that we were not on the banned list after last time, we honored our tickets at the door, received our stamps, and grabbed a beer, just in time.

A band I have been raving about to the gang filled the stage, and the Hungry Kids of Hungary started their set. Putting out their harmonies, switching lead vocals and musical talent, they made their way through their 2 EPs, with All You Need To Know, Old Money, Scattered Diamonds, and Set It Right. They tried out a couple of new ones, and a very fresh track, plus Two Stones which stood out for me, and finished with Good Times.

Ducking to the loo between sets, I managed to wait in line with the main act of the night, before grabbing another beer, and settling in for Bertie Blackman. Opening with her booming Thump from her new album, this little songstress with her quirky hair sweeps had the room enchanted.

Working her way through most of the new album, Clocks was a highlight, as was Come To Bed. A haunting cover of Phil Collins In The Air was amazing in the encore, before closing with the Sky Is Falling.

As the room started to empty, the DJ started in with That Beep, by AIH, which started all the madness last time we were at Karova on a school night! Jo, Katie and I called it quits then, knowing that the working day would hurt if we didn;t!

The Basics In Ballarat

Spotting a list of new shows for The Basics, and knowing I would be unable to make it to the Melbourne show, I have been working on a 'work' trip to Ballarat for about a month for last night! Mary and I both scored work reasons for a roadtrip to Ballarat, and finished off our day on Thursday before driving up the highway.

Popping home for dinner with Mum and Katie, Mary, Katie and I then jumped into the car and picked up Maria on the way down the street. Picking up Jo at her place, we had a full car as we parked in Camp Street and made our way in the Karova Lounge.

Being the first ones there, we joined the boys from The Basics around the tables, and grabbed our first beers. Andrea joined our group, as the boys from the Dead Letter Chorus warmed up to an empty bar.

As a few more people arrived, the Dead Letter Chorus got started, impressing with us with Gabrielle's vocals, and the happy pop-py feel.

For the Nice Harmonies. Nice Looks. Nice Lunch. tour, the three boys soon took the stage, starting with new single Like A Brother.

As the crowd started to creep up closer to the stage, the boys led us through new tracks including Home Again and What Do You See In Me?, and some favourites like Money (Gimme, Gimme), Second Best and Just Hold On. With This Ship drew much crowd participation, as these entertaining lads are becoming more and more popular.

They certainly impressed the little group I had dragged along for the night, for some musical education! Our groups' endearment to the lads was assisted by having them join us on the dance floor after the gig. Karova played some great tunes, and this ended up being a very large night! So much fun, and dancing up a storm with Kris and Tim was certainly a highlight.

I don't actually remember much of the night once the lads left, but I know there was more dancing, drinking, and too much fun for a school night!