Pop Culture [#560]

Whatever happened to Hamish & Andy? Obviously they’re still around; they have a prime-time television series on Channel Nine as you read this (so long as you’re reading this on a Tuesday night), which pretty much puts them in the very top tier of Australian comedians working on television – even The Chaser or Chris Lilley in his prime never managed to make the leap to commercial television, let alone had a long-running series of successful shows. And yet… what happened to them?

Too Heavy to Hug [#590]

It’s only just gone winter but talk of music festivals early next year has really heated up. Much to the dismay of countless emos, teeny-boppers and try-hard hipsters, Big Day Out 2015 has been cancelled. But on the flipside, Soundwave 2015 will be run over two days. That’s right; that could mean either double the number of bands or double the allotted time for each slot. Since there are no real details yet we can just speculate.

The Splinters track-by-track review of Lana Del Rey's "Ultraviolence"

Love, loss, anger and betrayal are just some of the harrowing, movie-ready topics underneath the folds of Lana Del Rey’s return to music in 2014. Having only been on the market for a few weeks now, Ultraviolence has already topped the charts across the globe, debuting at Number 1 on the ARIA Albums Chart upon its release and sweeping the US by storm.

Sun Rising

“A lot of tribute and cover bands of this [genre], you could come to expect pudgy, middle aged men dressed in badly fitting jumpsuits and wigs, putting on phoney American accents. We’ve built our idea on a genuine passion and influence of this music. Particular attention has been paid to how the music was originally recorded and we present it this way. The music is tied together with amazing stories and anecdotes that relate to the music, the artists and Sam Phillips- the man who discovered it all. The show is presented in an energetic and passionate way, infectious to all who come!”

King Buzzo

Becoming involved in music as a high school friend and bandmate of Kurt Cobain before forming grunge/metal legends the Melvins, Buzz ‘King Buzzo’ Osborne has accomplished most things in music. However, after a 31-year career involving over 30 albums of studio and live material, the singer-guitarist is still breaking new ground by going acoustic for the first time on new album, This Machine Kills Artists.

Angus & Julia Back It Up

Clearly we all love the sweet tunes of Angus & Julia Stone, with their Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane shows all selling out. Luckily, the duo are giving fans another chance to see them perform with second shows added in each city. The second Melbourne show will be on Thursday September 25 at The Palais Theatre. The shows are to support their upcoming release, and third album, due in stores August 1.

Seems a Little Daft

Fans of Daft Punk have something to look forward to in 2015 with news that French subscription channel Canal Plus have commissioned BBC Worldwide Production France to create a one-hour doco about the electro duo. Given how elusive Thomas Bangalter and Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo are, it could be interesting to see what discoveries are made. The doco will chart the duo’s 20-year history.

Slate Pool Lounge

Are you looking for a function with a twist; a sense of something different and a sense of something truly cool? Then welcome to Slate Pool Lounge. A stylish pool club boasting the finest tables and sleekest furnishings Slate is certainly a location that will have people talking.

Sandstone Café

Welcome to Sandstone Café, a fresh and exciting slice of heaven. Step inside and you will notice a relaxed and bright café. The atmosphere hums along nicely while still being relaxed; you’ll feel right at home. If you prefer eating outdoors, their gorgeous courtyard is just as inviting. Nestled between sandstone columns are tables made from recycled red gum sleepers from South Geelong Railway Station.

Sporting Globe Bar & Grill

When it comes to functions, one name that stands out is Geelong’s Sporting Globe Bar & Grill. With access to an exclusive room, state-of-the-art facilities and their function manager by your side, your special event becomes a breeze.

Perrettis

The proprietor and chef of Sandstone Café also helms Perrettis, so you know you’re in good hands. With its bright colours and extensive fit out, the venue is perfect for a night out with the better half or for catching up with family or friends. It has a modern contemporary design which catches the eye right away, while its use of timber and stone adds a very cool touch.

Husky Turn Their Backs

There has been a lot happen since 2012, but one thing that has not happened is a Husky tour. Fortunately that is all about to change, with the Melbourne band hitting the road this month. Not only will fans get to rediscover their gem of an album in Forever So, but they will also get to hear new material including single ‘I’m Not Coming Back’. The band is also eyeing a new album before the year closes. NSC – July 18.

Opium Bar

From an 18th to an engagement, a corporate function to a hens party, Opium is one cosy cocktail bar that can cater to your every desire. A seasoned host for an endless variety of events its prime location on James Street, in the hub of Geelong’s night-life scene, makes Opium the perfect spot to celebrate with your guests.

The Max Hotel

Looking for an affordable function space with a friendly and relaxed atmosphere? Then look no further The Max, right in the heart of Geelong, has you covered! The Max offers free room hire with no minimum bar spend and your choice of two completely separate levels! Both levels cater for all of types of functions, including 18th Birthdays which are subject to terms and conditions.

Green Light for Grimes

Claire Boucher, better known as Grimes, struck gold with her third album, Visions. Among the accolades it received was the #2 spot on NME’s 50 Best Albums of 2012 list. We’ve waited a couple of years for new material and she has finally delivered with single ‘Go’. Originally written for Rihanna, the track was produced by Blood Diamonds.

Violent Soho’s Dummy Spit

Following ten years in the game, things are really starting to happen for Violent Soho. Admittedly we’ve known about their goodness for some time, but in a fickle industry they continue to grow. You see, the band’s third album, Hungry Ghost, is being released in the States through iconic punk label Side One Dummy (Gaslight Anthem, MxPx). The band has also sold out their 14-date Australian tour.

The Grovedale Hotel

“At the Grovedale Hotel we have four options for your function needs. The Wisteria room can cater for up to 150 people either informal or formal occasions. If you’re looking for a formal event for up to 220 we can transform our award winning Portofino’s Restaurant into your ideal function room.”

Geelong RSL

Possessing a strong community minded ethos, at it’s heart the Geelong RSL is the quintessential Aussie venue. Offering a very safe and clean setting the venue holds with it years of character and charm but with all the conveniences of modern day dining.

Buckley's Entertainment Centre

There’s much more to Buckley’s than pokies, a good parmi, great cover bands and mega raffles with some serious prizes. They’ve also got a top-notch function room, perfect for your next 21st, sports presentation, wedding or whatever you feel like celebrating.

The Geelong Boat House

For a venue that will blow your guests away, why not jump aboard the Boat House for your next function, a 100-year-old fully renovated barge, right on beautiful Corio Bay. The owners behind this beaut of a venue are just as lovely as the view. Malcolm and Czes Ralton, who have been in the hospitality industry for 28 years, are bound to give you and your guests a night worth remembering.

The Familiar Ree Nay

Influenced by the likes of Cat Stevens, Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan and Dolly Parton, songbird Ree Nay began writing poetry and songs at the age of seven. Though she grew up in Darwin, which helps to inspire her songs of travelling, adventure and learning, she calls Melbourne home these days. Her new EP is Seen You Before. You can check out the title track by visiting her SoundCloud page. Whole Lotta Love – August 9.

In Bed with Dead Kennedys

When the band was last here in 2011, they only took in part of the country. Now they’re heading back to make amends. One of the most influential and important bands of hardcore punk, Dead Kennedys remain as important today as they ever have. The Bedtime for Democracy tour is taken from the band’s 1986 album of the same name, an album which would become their last. 170 Russell – October 1.

Barzar Lounge

Looking for a classy inner-city venue for your next function? Be sure to have a look at Barzar Lounge in Moorabool Street!

Rock O’Cashel

The Rock O’Cashel is a revitalised function venue located in the heart of Geelong, previously known as the Old Tannin Bar, the newly renovated Rock O’Cashel offers an exciting space that is able to cater for every occasion – from small, intimate parties of 20 up to large events for 110 guests.

 

Subscribe to the
Forte newsletter

Stay up to date with everything going on around your region.