Jon Stevens and Kate Ceberano are set to reunite for the “Superstars Live” tour at Fortitude Valley Music Hall, offering fans a rare chance to relive their legendary performances from the 1992 production of “Jesus Christ Superstar.”
This tour, marking the golden jubilee of the “Jesus Christ Superstar” musical, will see Stevens and Ceberano perform hits that have resonated with audiences for decades, such as “Everything’s Alright” and “I Don’t Know How To Love Him.”
The duo’s musical journey began over thirty years ago, which set them on the path to becoming revered figures in the Australian music scene.
Stevens, known for his raw vocal power, rose to fame as the lead singer of the rock band Noiseworks, belting out hits like “Take Me Back” and “Touch.” His solo career further cemented his status as a rock icon in Australia.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Ceberano, with her versatile voice that effortlessly spans jazz, pop, and soul, has been a prominent figure in the industry since her days fronting the band I’m Talking. Her solo tracks – including the likes of “Pash” and “Brave” – have earned her numerous accolades and a devoted following.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Common
Tribute and Innovation
A poignant part of their performances will be a tribute to John Farnham, whose portrayal of Jesus in the same 1992 production remains one of the most iconic in Australian theatre history. The shows will blend nostalgia with innovation, with both artists bringing fresh interpretations to their acclaimed hits, backed by a dynamic rock band.
Reflecting on their enduring partnership and mutual artistic respect, Ceberano shared that their decision to perform together again felt both natural and necessary, spurred by fan reactions and personal milestones. The live performances aim to create a bridge between generations of music lovers, celebrating both the past and the present of Australian music.
A Celebration of Live Music
The “Superstars Live” tour is not just a concert series but a celebration of the rich tapestry of live music that Stevens and Ceberano have participated in. Their performances are expected to be more than just musical sets; they promise to be immersive experiences where stories are shared, and memories are made, ensuring that everyone in the audience feels part of something truly special.
Seasonal Fruit gears up for its Spring Edition on Friday, August 30, 2024 at Felons Barrel Hall, Howard Smith Wharves, promising an evening of vibrant Australian indie music to usher in the new season.
Organized by Felons Brewing Co. and Jet Black Cat Music, the festival will showcase a diverse lineup of up-and-coming and established Australian acts. The Spring Edition features performances by Gut Health, Clamm, Parsnip, Radium Dolls, and Gimmy, representing a mix of indie, rock, punk, and psychedelic genres.
Gates open at 6 PM, with live music kicking off at 7:20 PM. The carefully curated schedule will see each act take the stage for hour-long sets, culminating in a headline performance by Gut Health at 11:20 PM.
First-release tickets are sold out, with general admission currently available at $36.50. Organizers advise that the event is strictly for those 18 years and over.
In a nod to the festival’s name, Seasonal Fruit, organizers promise to deliver the “freshest produce” in Australian music, showcasing emerging talent alongside more established acts right in Felons Barrel Hall.
Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley nightlife scene has a dazzling new addition: Enigma, a nightclub that transports patrons to a world of glamour and excitement before they enter.
The club, which opened in early August 2024, features a mesmerising LED walkway that illuminates the entrance and stairs, setting the stage for an unforgettable night.
Enigma’s creators drew inspiration from iconic party destinations like Ibiza, Miami, and Las Vegas, aiming to provide an escape for those seeking a break from the ordinary. Cade Hopman of Hallmark Hospitality Group, the company behind Enigma, emphasised the club’s focus on creating a unique experience.
The $9.3-million fit-out at the Brunswick Street venue is a testament to this commitment, offering a visually stunning environment that complements the pulsating beats. It joins Hallmark Hospitality Group’s impressive roster of venues in Brisbane, including Maggie May, Lefty’s Music Hall, The Lord Alfred, and Hey Chica!
The club’s resident DJs, including Tasha Lee, Curdin, SF Fudge, Sophie Bridges, Nestor Vargas, and Apolloco, curate an eclectic mix of music to keep the energy high on the dance floor and in the VIP booths surrounding the DJ.
Enigma’s drink menu features a blend of classic cocktails and signature creations. Alongside favourites like margaritas, Long Island iced teas, Aperol spritzes, and espresso martinis, the club offers its namesake cocktail, The Enigma, a vibrant mix of vodka, white rum, gin, blue curacao, raspberry, and Red Bull.
With its captivating atmosphere, world-class DJs, and enticing drinks, this place is poised to become a destination for Brisbane’s nightlife enthusiasts seeking an extraordinary experience.
Fortitude Valley will once again become the epicentre of Australia’s music scene as it prepares to host BIGSOUND 2024, the southern hemisphere’s largest celebration of new music and industry conference.
The annual event, now in its third year, will run from 3 to 6 September 2024. BIGSOUND 2024 will showcase over 150 emerging artists across 18 venues in the city’s vibrant live music precinct.
BIGSOUND has announced over 80 performers, with more acts to be revealed in the coming months:
1. Keli Holiday 2. Y.O.G.A. 3. Alex the Astronaut 4. Gretta Ray 5. dust 6. Dear Seattle 7. Sly Withers 8. Stand Atlantic 9. Miiesha 10. Alayna 11. Dear Sunday 12. Tiffi 13. Armlock 14. Bean Magazine 15. Georgia Lines 16. Hannah Brewer 17. Same Blood (J-MILLA x Yung Milla) 18. Stella Bridie 19. Towns 20. AKA Lui 21. Alienist 22. Austin Mackay 23. Belle Haven 24. breathe 25. Cap Carter 26. Charlie Pittman 27. Charlotte Le Lievre 28. Cooper Smith 29. DARTZ 30. Dick Move
31. DoloRRes 32. Erik Sanders 33. Flow Kobra 34. Fool Nelson 35. FRIDAY 36. Front Row 37. Garage Sale 38. Georgia Mooney 39. Hellcat Speedracer 40. Homegrown Trio 41. Hudson Rose 42. ISHAN 43. Jerome Blazé 44. Juice Webster 45. Julian Munyard 46. JUNO 47. Kiwat Kennell 48. Lotte Gallagher 49. LUPO.THEBOY 50. Maanyung 51. Mac The Knife 52. MARVELL 53. Matahara 54. Matt Joe Gow & Kerryn Fields 55. Mau Power 56. Medhanit 57. MUDRAT 58. NO CIGAR 59. Noah Dillon 60. Paige
61. Park RD 62. PEPTALK 63. Playlunch 64. Prink 65. R.em.edy 66. Ray Dimakarri Dixon 67. Reiki Ruawai 68. Rowena Wise 69. SAME PAINS 70. Sesame Girl 71. Sex Mask 72. Sonic Reducer 73. Squid the Kid 74. Stocker 75. sunbleached 76. The Belair Lip Bombs 77. The Velvet Club 78. This New Light 79. total tommy 80. Vetta Borne 81. Vinnie Brigante 82. Wade Forster
Conference Highlights
This year’s conference will feature over 25 industry leaders sharing their expertise on pressing issues facing the music sector. Notable speakers include Lutz Leichsenring from VibeLab, Lyndsey Havens from Billboard, and Josh Simons from Vinyl Group and Vampr.
Panel discussions will cover topics such as youth engagement with Australian music, creating sustainable music ecosystems, and the global perception of Australian music. The conference aims to foster innovative conversations and creative breakthroughs in response to ongoing industry disruptions.
One particularly intriguing panel, titled “Aged out: what does Australian music mean to youth?”, will explore how young people discover and engage with music in an increasingly digital world. Another panel, “Who gives a fuck about Australian music?”, promises to critically examine the growing positive global perception of Australian music while also exploring the veracity of local engagement.
Artist Showcase
BIGSOUND’s music festival component will feature a diverse range of up-and-coming talent. The second wave of artists includes Miiesha, an Anangu/Torres Strait Islander performer known for her powerful voice, and Alayna, an Aotearoa singer-songwriter who has collaborated with Finneas Eilish.
Other notable additions to the lineup include Dear Sunday, Tiffi, Armlock, and Bean Magazine. These artists represent a mix of genres and styles from across Australia and New Zealand. The festival provides a platform for these emerging artists to showcase their talents to industry professionals and music fans alike.
BIGSOUND’s Music Programmers, Casey O’Shaughnessy and Katie Rynne, have carefully selected the performing artists from over 1,200 applications, ensuring a high-quality and diverse lineup. This meticulous curation process means that attendees have the opportunity to discover their next favourite band among the showcasing acts.
Bigsound 2023 Photo Credit: Bigsound/Facebook
Ticket Information
BIGSOUND 2024 offers various ticket options to cater to different attendees. Single-night music festival tickets are available, with discounts for those under 25. Three-night wristbands are also on offer, providing access to all performances across the weekend.
For industry professionals, all-access delegate passes are available through the BIGSOUND website. These passes grant entry to both the conference sessions and the music festival showcases, allowing for a comprehensive BIGSOUND experience.
Since its launch in 2002 by industry development organisation QMusic, BIGSOUND has played a crucial role in launching the careers of many successful Australian artists. Past performers who have gone on to achieve significant success include Flume, Rufus du Sol, Gang of Youths, and Tones and I.
The event continues to attract over 1,700 conference delegates and an aggregate showcase attendance of over 16,000, cementing its position as a key player in the Australian music industry calendar.
Bigsound 2023 Photo Credit: Bigsound/Facebook
Community Impact
BIGSOUND’s presence in Fortitude Valley has a significant impact on the local community. The influx of visitors during the event provides a boost to local businesses, particularly in the hospitality and accommodation sectors. Moreover, the festival shines a spotlight on Brisbane’s thriving music scene, further solidifying the city’s reputation as a cultural hub.
The event also plays a crucial role in fostering connections within the music industry. It provides a unique opportunity for emerging artists to network with industry professionals, potentially leading to career-changing opportunities.
Throughout Homelessness Week, more than 700 cafes across Australia have united to support the CafeSmart campaign, working together with local businesses like Brisbane distribution business Brewing Brands and its homegrown tea brand Origin Tea and the day-time, drop-in centre 3rd Space in Fortitude Valley to help generate support for the homeless.
Origin Tea has joined forces with local cafes to support those without homes by encouraging patrons to “pay forward” a hot cup of tea. The campaign, now in its 14th year, has been instrumental in fundraising by donating proceeds from sales to organisations such as the 3rd Space drop-in centre in Fortitude Valley.
This initiative is part of the broader CafeSmart campaign, which taps into Australians’ love for their local coffee shops to address homelessness locally.
3rd Space CEO Lesley Leece and Origin Tea co-founder Lawrence Seaton Photo Credit: Supplied
Impact and Support in Fortitude Valley
The 3rd Space centre has become a crucial hub for those experiencing and at risk of homelessness, offering essential services like cafe-style meals, healthcare, and support.
Over the past year, the centre has seen an alarming increase in demand. After 3rd Space averaged 1,271 meals per month in 2023, it’s nearly tripled to 3,024 per month this year.
The centre notes that homelessness in the area is on the rise, with significant increases in the number of families, nurses, and construction workers struggling to make ends meet.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Businesses Making a Difference
Chris Seaton, CEO of Brewing Brands and Origin Tea, expressed his commitment to the cause,
“Homelessness is a significant issue in south-east Queensland, and as part of our community, we are doing everything we can to support our neighbours during these tough times.”
Liz Bayrak, Community Campaign and Events Coordinator at StreetSmart Australia, also highlighted the importance of such campaigns:
“With the number of people living below the poverty line remaining high, community support is more crucial than ever. We are thrilled to have Brewing Brands and Origin Tea join us for CafeSmart this year, helping us respond to homelessness.”
Photo Credit: Supplied
In addition to financial contributions, the campaign encourages the community to engage directly with the issue. Local cafes are places where discussions about these social issues can occur, providing a platform for raising awareness and fostering a sense of community solidarity.
Many cafe owners have expressed their dedication to the cause, noting that participating in CafeSmart gives them a practical way to contribute to meaningful change within their local areas.
Photo Credit: Supplied
This year’s CafeSmart campaign not only raises funds but also helps unite the community to support a common goal: to combat the increasing challenges of homelessness and economic hardship faced by many in Brisbane and beyond.
The CafeSmart campaign runs from August 10-16, coinciding with Homelessness Week, and aims to unite the community and local businesses in a concerted effort to tackle homelessness amid an ongoing cost of living crisis.
Initially slated for completion by March, the pontoons, designed to service North Stradbroke Island and Moreton Bay, are not expected to be operational until at least June next year. This setback means the pontoons will miss the highly anticipated opening of Queen’s Wharf this month.
Adding to the delays, a new $2.2 million pontoon and jetty at Dunwich on North Stradbroke Island is also behind schedule, casting doubt on its readiness for the September school holidays. This marks a five-year wait for replacing the island’s ageing jetty.
Photo Credit: Screengrab from Google Map
Under questioning during last week’s budget estimates, Tourism Innovation and Sport Director-General Andrew Hopper attributed the Brisbane pontoon delays to design changes and bureaucratic hurdles. The project, funded with a $5.5 million tourism grant, will eventually accommodate commercial tour operators and the public.
Commercial operators like River to Bay already use a temporary pontoon at Howard Smith Wharves, but due to high landing fees imposed by Redland City Council, the latter has reduced services. The company’s river-to-bay brewery tours, launched in February, have faced challenges.
The new Dunwich jetty will be a docking point for Brisbane-bound boats and a fishing pier. Its cost has ballooned from an initial estimate of $750,000 to $2.2 million.
Howard Smith Wharves chief executive Luke Fraser envisions the pontoons as a critical component of the precinct’s transformation into a world-class tourism hub. However, local operator John Groom, who launched a similar river-to-bay venture in 2018, expressed concerns about the potential for unfair advantage for larger operators through government funding. Groom highlighted the lack of support for smaller businesses in the sector.
The delays and questions surrounding the pontoon projects have introduced uncertainty to the future of Fortitude Valley’s waterfront ambitions.
Celebrating 50 years of musical innovation, the Fortitude Valley Music Hall will host the iconic “Tubular Bells” live in concert, featuring an arrangement by Mike Oldfield’s collaborator, Robin A Smith.
The Fortitude Valley Music Hall show on 11 August 2024 begins at 7:00 p.m. with doors opening, followed by the concert starting at 8:00 p.m. The program will include a complete performance of “Tubular Bells” and other beloved Oldfield pieces like “Moonlight Shadow” and “To France.”
While Mike Oldfield will not be performing, the concert under Robin A Smith’s direction promises a faithful and vibrant rendition of the original compositions.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
A Musical Phenomenon Unfolds
At 19, Mike Oldfield embarked on a groundbreaking project that would become “Tubular Bells.” This album, composed over many painstaking sessions, saw Oldfield playing most of the instruments himself. Here’s an in-depth look at this remarkable legacy:
Unexpected Hit: The album’s unconventional structure, featuring extended instrumental compositions rather than standard songs, initially seemed risky. However, it unexpectedly soared to success, partly propelled by its memorable inclusion in the soundtrack of the horror film “The Exorcist.” This exposure not only catapulted Oldfield into the spotlight but also cemented the album’s place in popular culture.
Virgin Records’ First Release: “Tubular Bells” is the first album released by Virgin Records. Richard Branson, then a burgeoning entrepreneur, took a chance on Oldfield’s unique musical vision. The album’s phenomenal success was crucial in establishing Virgin Records as a significant player in the music industry, helping to set the stage for the label to sign other major artists and become a global brand.
Recording Challenges: The creation of “Tubular Bells” was fraught with technical challenges. Oldfield often grappled with outdated recording equipment, including an old tape machine frequently requiring maintenance. Despite these obstacles, he produced a piece of music that was both innovative and technically sophisticated, showcasing his determination and creative resolve.
No Lyrics: Diverging from the norm of popular music, “Tubular Bells” is primarily an instrumental album. It features a unique segment in Part One where the various instruments are humorously introduced by a “Master of Ceremonies,” a role performed by the album’s producer, Tom Newman. This creative approach highlighted the range of instruments used and added a theatrical element to the album.
Innovative Techniques: During the recording, Oldfield employed several pioneering techniques that would later become staples in music production. Notably, he recorded multiple layers of a single guitar part to create a rich, orchestral sound. This method of layering, now commonplace, was revolutionary at the time and contributed significantly to the album’s unique sound texture.
Lengthy Creation Process: The entire album took about a year to complete, a lengthy process that involved Oldfield playing over 20 different instruments. This feat was particularly impressive given the limited technology available at the time and highlighted Oldfield’s exceptional musical versatility and dedication.
Follow-Up Albums: The success and enduring appeal of “Tubular Bells” inspired Oldfield to release several follow-up albums, including “Tubular Bells II” and “Tubular Bells III”. Each of these albums continued to explore and expand upon the original themes and sounds, while also integrating new musical influences and technologies.
Live Performance Challenges: Due to its complexity and the sheer number of instruments involved, reproducing “Tubular Bells” in a live setting presented significant challenges. Oldfield often required the support of a large group of musicians to perform the album accurately, which reflected the ambitious and intricate nature of his composition.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Enduring Impact
The concert is expected to draw both those who have followed Oldfield’s career and new listeners intrigued by the album’s historical significance. The intricate music arrangement, requiring numerous instruments, mirrors the original challenges Oldfield faced, where he enlisted additional musicians for live performances to fully realise the complex compositions.
Tickets for this landmark musical event are highly anticipated, with fans encouraged to purchase early to secure a place in celebrating one of the most iconic albums in music history at Fortitude Valley Music Hall.
Jack Karlson, the Succulent Chinese Meal Guy, whose theatrical 1991 arrest in Fortitude Valley sparked viral memes and catchphrases, has been diagnosed with prostate cancer and is seeking community support for his medical expenses.
Mr Karlson gained internet fame after a video of his arrest at the China Sea restaurant in Fortitude Valley in October 1991 went viral. He claims he was mistaken for an alleged credit card fraudster.
During his arrest, which was filmed by Channel 7, Mr Karlson uttered several memorable lines that have become part of Australian pop culture, including “Gentlemen, this is democracy manifest!” and “What is the charge? Eating a meal? A succulent Chinese meal?”
Recently diagnosed with prostate cancer, Mr Karlson also requires cataract surgery. His niece, Kim Edwards, has set up a GoFundMe fundraiser to support her uncle’s medical needs. She explained that while Mr Karlson’s video has brought joy to many and inspired numerous memes and merchandise, he is currently facing financial difficulties.
Mr Karlson currently resides in regional Queensland, relying on the assistance of a voluntary carer. Ms Edwards stated that her uncle has always been generous despite his limited means.
The fundraiser aims to cover Mr Karlson’s medical costs, transportation to appointments, and general living expenses. Ms Edwards appealed to the public, suggesting that those who have enjoyed Mr Karlson’s viral fame might consider donating “at least a beer, maybe even a six-pack.”
News of Mr Karlson’s health condition has spread through social media channels, reaching the same online community that popularised his arrest video.
Riverland is tempting tastebuds with a bottomless Greek feast for $79 per person.
This culinary journey includes a tantalising array of Greek street food favourites, such as warm pita bread with assorted dips, grilled halloumi, succulent beef meatballs with eggplant and tomato relish, grilled lemon and oregano chicken souvlaki skewers, a refreshing traditional Greek salad, and decadent doughnut fries with crushed pistachio and walnuts, drizzled with cinnamon, honey, pomegranate, and chocolate sauce.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Photo Credit: Supplied
Photo Credit: Supplied
For an additional $10, diners can upgrade to include a cocktail carafe to complement the extensive selection of wines, beers, juices, and soft drinks. This Greek Odyssey is available until October, and bookings are essential.
Fridays presents a bottomless brunch with a twist, featuring a diverse menu of delectable bites for $59 per person. Diners can indulge in prawn crackers, vegetarian spring rolls, a flavourful pork belly rice bowl, fluffy bao buns, and Chinese doughnuts; all washed down with gem-inspired cocktail jugs.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Photo Credit: Supplied
Photo Credit: Supplied
This lively brunch is available every Saturday and Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. until September, with a minimum booking of two people.
The choice between these two enticing brunches depends on your culinary preferences. If you crave a taste of the Mediterranean, Bar & Street Kitchen Brisbane’s Greek feast is a must-try. For a more eclectic mix of flavours and a vibrant atmosphere, Fridays’ fusion brunch is sure to satisfy. Whichever you choose, a delicious and fulfilling bottomless brunch experience awaits in the heart of Fortitude Valley.
E-scooter hire company Lime has made its return to the Brisbane streets, including Fortitude Valley. The return, which took place on Monday, comes five years after Lime’s initial launch in Brisbane and three years following its exit from the local market.
Lime has introduced a fleet of 2,500 electric scooters and 500 electric bikes, featuring the company’s latest technology and designs. The “Gen4” scooters boast improvements aimed at enhancing rider comfort and safety, including dual hand brakes, swept handlebars, a lower baseboard, and larger front wheels.
Addressing previous concerns about improperly parked or abandoned scooters, Lime has pledged to invest significantly in parking infrastructure. This move aims to tackle one of the main criticisms the company faced during its earlier operations in Brisbane.
Hugo Burt-Morris, Lime’s Regional General Manager for Australia and New Zealand, emphasised the company’s commitment to sustainable urban transit and its alignment with Brisbane’s preparations for the 2032 Olympics.
“We’re committing substantial resources to parking infrastructure and safety education, laying the groundwork for a long-term partnership that will revolutionise place-making and put people first,” Burt-Morris stated.
Pricing for Lime’s services starts at $1, with a per-minute rate of 60 cents or a 30-minute ride pass available for $7.99.
To celebrate its return, Lime has partnered with Brooki Bakehouse in Fortitude Valley. The bakery offered complimentary key lime pie-flavoured cookies on Tuesday, July 23, to customers who showed the Lime app at their shop. These custom cookies included a discount code for free rides.
