Fusion Boutique & The Bootlegger Bar Present ‘BEATS & BALLADS @ BOOTLEGGER’ showcase sessions with BROKEN CREEK (Melbourne) Upstairs live at The Bootlegger Bar FREE LIVE MUSIC
Friday 7th October 2022 Show Starts 9pm
Venue: THE BOOTLEGGER BAR
92 Bathurst Rd, Katoomba NSW 2780, Blue Mountains.
Known for presenting unique and talented acts to the Blue Mountains over the last 13 years, Fusion Boutique is pleased to be working with The Bootlegger again to bring the upper mountains even more quality live music at Katoomba’s hottest new live music restaurant and bar.
Bootleggers is a place of good old fashioned fun where people can eat, meet and greet and be human again.
Fully licensed bar offering a large selection of Wines, Beers, Whisky, Gin, Cocktails & Good Food – low and slow and vegetarian options available. Kitchen closes 10pm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Drawing on Old Time Americana and Celtic traditions, Broken Creek creates intricate chamber folk arrangements for banjo, guitar, violin and voice that reimagines songs, stories and musical traditions from the past to connect them to our present moment.
Lachlan Heycox (guitar/banjo/mandolin/percussion) and Erin Heycox (vocals/fiddle) grew up in rural Victoria steeped in bushbands and balladeers before moving to Melbourne. Named for the creek Erin grew up near, the name Broken Creek signals a love of traditional folk music with an adventurous musical bent to “break” with the same old ways of playing folk music.
2022 sees them releasing their debut album ‘Small Town Anthropologies’ and launching a national Small Town Tour that includes pop-up choirs, church halls, folk festivals and recording tunes in gorgeous locations.
This venue is 2 levels, the free live music upstairs is restricted to attendee numbers present at the time to adhere to the current social distancing requirements. Dinner tables will need to be pre-booked online through www.bootleggerbar.com.au For enquires call 02 4782 6368 or email . Please note that bookings made on the day after 5pm may not be able to be confirmed.
***Guests will need to make a note at the time of booking tables that you are there for the live music.***
FREE ENTRY – first in best dressed. 1st Set Starts 9:00pm
MUSIC BOOKING CONTACT DETAILS: Charity Mirow / Fusion Boutique
For more information visit: www.fusionboutique.com.au
Fusion Boutique Presents ‘Palais Performances’ Concerts for Listening Audiences with MONTGOMERY CHURCH (w. band) ‘Where the Quiet Can Hide’ Tour
+ Special Guests CHARLIE & JENSEN
Live in Concert at the Palais Royale Grand Ballroom
Sat 21st May 2022 6:00pm – Doors open to the Grand Ballroom
7:00pm – Charlie & Jensen
7:30pm – Intermission
8:00pm – Montgomery Church
“Montgomery Church make a rare kind of hill country magic: spinning gossamer tapestries with timeless acoustic sounds, quicksilver vocal harmonies, and the kind of unassuming storytelling that burrows deep into the subconscious.” – Gareth Hipwell (Country Update Magazine)
Cielle Montgomery and James Church are, Montgomery Church – a blend of acoustic folk, americana and bluegrass influences, grown and distilled in the Snowy Mountain ranges of country New South Wales.
With their organic union of dobro and guitar, harmony vocals and thoughtful songwriting, this captivating duo, accompanied by their band, are enthralling in their dynamic intimacy and offer up some of the sweetest acoustic sounds being heard around Australia’s folk country scene right now.
They have graced the stages of many iconic music festivals including Nannup Music Festival, Queenscliff Music Festival, Woodford Folk Festival, National Folk Festival & Americanafest in Nashville.
Montgomery Church’s debut album In the Shadow of the Mountain, earned them 2 nominations in the prestigious 2019 Golden Guitar Awards. The duo recently teamed up with 7 x GRAMMY nominated Producer & Engineer, Erick Jaskowiak (Crooked Still, I’m With Her, Darrell Scott) to record their highly anticipated follow-up, Where The Quiet Can Hide, and are thrilled to be celebrating it’s release.
“Montgomery Church are like the Australian version of Gillian Welch and Dave Rawlings but if Gillian was the daughter of Allison Krauss… sitting on a porch, with tea not whiskey… I’m a tad obsessed… The most graceful duo literally gracing stages right now.” – Fanny Lumsden (Golden Guitar & ARIA Award Winner)
This beautiful evening of live acoustic music will be complimented by the addition of very special guests, Charlie & Jensen.
Charlie & Jensen is a musical conversation between acoustic artists Hunter Beasley and Luke Wright. They journey through genres, shifting from vocally charged original songs, to virtuosic instrumental tunes, taking a stripped-back, raw approach to music and performance.
Having toured Australia many times, including with Italian and World Music sensation Unavantaluna, Charlie & Jensen have also pleased crowds at some of the country’s favourite Folk & Bluegrass Festivals, including The National Folk Festival, Cobargo, Dorrigo and Tamworth Country Music Festival.
Their musical chemistry is evident in their self-titled album, a collection of recordings, unedited and undeniable which saw them at the Golden Guitar awards with two award nominations.
VENUE: PALAIS ROYALE GRAND BALLROOM 230 Katoomba St, Katoomba, NSW 2780 Blue Mountains
The Palais Royale is an all ages venue however minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian and must remain supervised and do require a standard ticket for entry. Please also keep in mind that the performance space is a listening room.
Guests can enjoy a range of beverages (beer, wine, cider, spirits, soft drinks and hot drinks) from the Palais Royal bar on the night, as well as pre-order a cheese plate to be available for pick up on the evening. Cheese plates $15 each, to pre-order visit: https://events.humanitix.com/palaischeeseplate Guests can also pre-purchase a bottle of wine for collection too.
Light meal options will also be available for purchase on the evening.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
All events will strictly follow COVID safe procedures, as outlined by NSW Health.
Please read the ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS before purchasing: Fusion Boutique & Palais Royale are registered COVID-SAFE businesses.
The health of our staff, performers and guests are of the highest priority. Thank you for your understanding while we navigate these current times.
• It is crucial that if you are experiencing any covid like symptoms (flu-like symptoms, fevers, sore-throats etc) that you please do not attend.
• Please maintain physical distancing measures of 1.5m where possible.
• Hand washing and sanitising facilities will be available throughout the venue.
• Where possible, please use the COVIDsafe app.
• There will be no entry to the Grand Ballroom for guests prior to the stated doors open time.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Room configuration will be seated in theatre style rows and seating will be general admission.
Tickets discount pre-sale $35 + booking fees / person
Ticket Link: https://events.humanitix.com/fbmontgomerychurch
Or $40 each cash per ticket on the Grand Ballroom Door (after doors open and unless sold out prior). Discount show pre-bookings will close 10am on the day of the event. Pre-order cheese plates and bottles of wine will close 9am on the day of the event.
Your ServiceNSW ‘Discover’ or ‘Parents NSW’ Vouchers can also be redeemed for concert bookings. One voucher can be used in the payment process online through Humanitix or contact us prior to booking to discuss how a combination of vouchers can be redeemed together for bookings.
Guests can still book with confidence knowing that, while tickets are normally non-refundable, if a show needs to be cancelled for any reason then all tickets will of course be refunded. If a show needs to be rescheduled then tickets will be valid for the new dates. In the instance of guest illness tickets can be transferred on request.
Doors Open to the Grand Ballroom 6pm | Performance Start 7pm
This is an intimate capacity venue and tickets are strictly limited!
CONTACT DETAILS OF EVENT ORGANISER: Charity Mirow
For more information visit: www.fusionboutique.com.au
Fusion Boutique & The Bootlegger Bar Present ‘BEATS & BALLADS @ BOOTLEGGER’ showcase sessions with CORN NUT CREEK
+ KIMBERLEY WHEELER
(Melbourne / Sydney) Upstairs live at The Bootlegger Bar FREE LIVE MUSIC
Friday 22nd April 2022 Show Starts 9pm
Venue: THE BOOTLEGGER BAR
92 Bathurst Rd, Katoomba NSW 2780, Blue Mountains.
Known for presenting unique and talented acts to the Blue Mountains over the last 12 years, Fusion Boutique is pleased to be working with The Bootlegger again to bring the upper mountains even more quality live music at Katoomba’s hottest new live music restaurant and bar.
Bootleggers is a place of good old fashioned fun where people can eat, meet and greet and be human again.
Fully licensed bar offering a large selection of Wines, Beers, Whisky, Gin, Cocktails & Good Food – low and slow and vegetarian options available. Kitchen closes 10pm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Corn Nut Creek are a powerhouse female Alt-Country/Americana duo, hailing from America and Australia. Their original music has been awarded as a category finalist and juror’s top five selection in the 2020 Blues & Roots Radio International Song Contest. The band features the artful banjo work of Tanya Bradley, paired with the deft fiddle and soulful vocals of Danielle Vita, 1st place winner of 2020 Deer Creek Fiddlers Convention (USA) vocalist award. The duo’s original songs tell raw stories of womanhood which are transporting, honest and effortless. Their story is unique; they met in Hong Kong and performed as the Dulcet Tone Collective, then moved back to their respective countries and began writing music together remotely. After four years collaborating in different countries, they reunited—this time in Australia. They have been featured on ABC Country’s ‘Saturday Night Country’, Bluegrass Country Radio’s ‘Foggy Hollow’, WDVX Tennessee’s ‘Sweetgrass’ and Blues & Roots Radio, among many others. They are currently working on their second album, set to be released in August 2021.
Kimberley Wheeler has the uncanny knack of being able to find the right note and the right turn of phrase in the creation and performing of her music. From a classical beginning, this award-winning songwriter came to acoustic roots music along a winding trail through grunge metal, bluegrass and Dan Hicks & The Hot Licks. With a voice described as Celtic Chocolate, she is often compared to singers such as Linda Thompson, Linda Ronstadt and Gillian Welch. Her luscious vocals and gritty songs underpin the band’s acoustic folk pedigree. Kimberley’s late discovery of Tim O’Brien’s, Red On Blonde (a take on Bob Dylan), opened an explosive portal to the folk universe that has directed her ever since. Variously, she has been a member of all-star bluegrass outfit, Uncle Bill, played with Dan Hicks and now has her own band, Roadside Holiday. In 2017 she instigated and curated the all Aussie, Women in String Bands, CD, has been President of Australian Bluegrass & Old Time Association and presently sits on the Musicians Australia Leadership Committee. She is a current finalist in Tamworth Songwriters Association Awards.
This venue is 2 levels, the free live music upstairs is restricted to attendee numbers present at the time to adhere to the current social distancing requirements. Dinner tables will need to be pre-booked online through www.bootleggerbar.com.au For enquires call 02 4782 6368 or email . Please note that bookings made on the day after 5pm may not be able to be confirmed.
***Guests will need to make a note at the time of booking tables that you are there for the live music.***
FREE ENTRY – first in best dressed. 1st Set 9:00pm-9:45pm – Kimberley Wheeler
2nd Set 10:00pm-10:45pm – Corn Nut Creek
MUSIC BOOKING CONTACT DETAILS: Charity Mirow / Fusion Boutique
For more information visit: www.fusionboutique.com.au
Sadly this launch of our ‘Palais Performances’ will need to be postponed.
Mickey & Michelle are located in regional VIC and are no longer able to complete the NSW leg of their tour at this time.
We discussed the possibility of proceeding with Little Clouds and a substitute act but with this show booked for 2 days after the current lockdown is scheduled to end, there is a lot of uncertainty of what restrictions will be in place following and if we are to revert to the 1/4m2 requirements then that would make it too much of an unviable situation with all the costs of running the show involved.
Ticket holders have been emailed from with options including transferring tickets to the new rescheduled date, any other Fusion Boutique show or a full refund.
We are hopeful that this will be the only ticketed show impacted and will proceed with the launch of this new listening space series at the Palais the following month with Dave Graney and Clare Moore on Saturday 14th August.
Fusion Boutique Presents ‘Palais Performances’
Concerts for Listening Audiences with
MICKEY & MICHELLE
+ LITTLE CLOUDS (Emily-Rose Šárkova & Nick Henderson)
Live in Concert at the Palais Royale Grand Ballroom
Sunday 11th July 2021 Doors Open 4pm | Performance Start 5pm
Mickey & Michelle are a harp and fiddle duo from Australia who seamlessly blend contemporary folk and jazz together in a rich, unique style of their own.
Their 2019 debut album ‘A Walking Pace’ perfectly showcases the duo’s intricate sound and unusual combination of styles.
Michelle was born into an incredibly musical family and has been performing professionally from the age of 11. Since then she has gone on to perform with the likes of Paul Kelly, Shane Howard and Fiona Ross. Her compositions on the album are deeply rooted in Celtic music while also balancing her attention to detail and nuanced phrasing from her classical studies.
Mickey on the other hand developed such a passion for jazz and his playful improvisations are ever-present in his original compositions. He also takes great delight in reinterpreting traditional Americana tunes with jazz harmony and Afro-Cuban polyrhythms.
The dynamic duo have returned from their most challenging adventure yet; a 6 month tour on foot of NZ’s 3000km ‘Te Araroa’ trail. Mickey & Michelle are excited to share their experiences and music in their home country.
Little Clouds are a subtly nostalgic, feel good singer songwriter duo from Sydney, Australia. AKA Nick Henderson & Emily-Rose Sarkova, Little Clouds write lofty afternoon inspired hits and introspective midnight bangers, laced with clever lyrics and sweet chords that make you feel real good. And let’s be honest – we are all in it for the feelings. They move unassumingly between their multi-instrumentalist personalities of guitar, bass, piano, keys, synths, accordion and vocals. It is intimate. It is real. Journeys will be had.
If one requires some hard hitting musical facts about these two musicians, you might like to know that they are Conservatorium graduates who have played with award winning and very diverse musicians such as Mike Nock, Australian Brandenburg Orchestra, Elio Franco, Chaika, Arcing Wires, Monsieur Camembert, Duo Ramirez Satorre and Chris Cody Octet.
VENUE: PALAIS ROYALE GRAND BALLROOM 230 Katoomba St, Katoomba, NSW 2780 Blue Mountains
The Palais Royale is an all ages venue however minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian and must remain supervised and do require a standard ticket for entry. Please also keep in mind that the performance space is a listening room.
Guests can enjoy a range of beverages (beer, wine, cider, spirits, soft drinks and hot drinks) from the Palais Royal bar on the night, as well as pre-order a cheese plate to be available for pick up on the evening. Cheese plates $15 each, to pre-order visit: https://events.humanitix.com/palaischeeseplate Guests can also pre-purchase a bottle of wine for collection too.
Light meal options will also be available for purchase on the evening.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
All events will strictly follow COVID safe procedures, as outlined by NSW Health.
Please read the ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS before purchasing:
Fusion Boutique & Palais Royale are registered COVID-SAFE businesses.
The health of our staff, performers and guests are of the highest priority. Thank you for your understanding while we navigate these current times.
• It is crucial that if you are experiencing any covid like symptoms (flu-like symptoms, fevers, sore-throats etc) that you please do not attend.
• All guests will have their temperature taken via a contact-less method on arrival.
• All guests will also have to sign in on a contact register when entering the venue. Sign-in must be done by providing accurate contact details (name and phone number or email address) and time of entry. Entry to patrons who will not provide valid contact information will be denied.
*** We will be providing contact-less check-in via QR code registration. To make this process smoother please download the Service NSW app prior to arrival: www.service.nsw.gov.au/campaign/service-nsw-mobile-app When you arrive to the check in desk open the app and select “COVID Safe Check-in’. Once you have completed this process – show a Fusion Boutique staff member that you have signed in and then have your tickets verified.
• All bookings will have allocated seating and require group bookings.
Individual group bookings are unlikely to be able to be placed together unless requested prior to the event date.
• Please maintain physical distancing measures of 1.5m where possible.
• Hand washing and sanitising facilities will be available throughout the venue.
• Where possible, please use the COVIDsafe app.
• There will be no entry to the Grand Ballroom for guests prior to the stated doors open time.
Room configuration will be seated in theatre style rows and seating will be general admission. Tickets must be purchased as part of a group booking, with a minimum of 2 tickets per booking.
Tickets discount pre-sale $30 + booking fees / person Booking of 2 – $60 ($30 per ticket) + bf Booking of 3 – $90 ($30 per ticket) + bf Booking of 4 – $120 ($30 per ticket) + bf
etc
Ticket Link: https://events.humanitix.com/fbmickeymichelle
Or $35 each cash per ticket on the Grand Ballroom Door (after doors open and unless sold out prior). Discount show pre-bookings will close 10am on the day of the event. Pre-order cheese plates and bottles of wine will close 9am on the day of the event.
Your ServiceNSW Discover Vouchers can also be redeemed for concert bookings. One voucher can be used in the payment process online through Humanitix or contact us prior to booking to discuss how a combination of vouchers can be redeemed together for bookings.
Guests can still book with confidence knowing that, while tickets are normally non-refundable, if a show needs to be cancelled for any reason then all tickets will of course be refunded. If a show needs to be rescheduled then tickets will be valid for the new dates. In the instance of guest illness tickets can be transferred on request.
Doors Open to the Grand Ballroom 4pm | Performance Start 5pm
This is an intimate capacity venue and tickets are strictly limited!
CONTACT DETAILS OF EVENT ORGANISER: Charity Mirow
For more information visit: www.fusionboutique.com.au
Fusion Boutique Presents CHARM OF FINCHES (Melbourne)
+ Special Guests BREATHING UNDERWATER Live in Concert at Pigeon Lane @ ONE88
Unfortunately anxiety about travelling to and performing in a fire zone area got the better of the Charm of Finches girls on the way up from Sydney tonight and we had to cancel the show. Thank you for your understanding and we wish you a very happy and safe holiday season and hope that you can join us for another show in the new year.
Saturday 21st December 2019, 7pm. Doors Open 6pm.
Melbourne’s angelic sister folk duo, Charm of Finches, are touring their highly anticipated sophomore album ‘Your Company’. They will be launching it at Pigeon Lane on Saturday 21st December as part of their national album launch tour.
It has been three years since the duo released their highly praised 2016 debut album ‘Staring at the Starry Ceiling’. ‘Your Company’ has been born of a time of turbulence. Following the death of Ivy’s best friend at the age of 14, the sisters’ songwriting turned towards the theme of grief, longing and the celebration of those left behind. This genre-defying album is lush with the sisters’ spacious string arrangements (cello and violin they play themselves), other worldly piano, a folky banjo and compelling ethereal vocal harmonies.
“There’s also the simple beauty of family voices intertwining, with Charm of Finches’ Mabel & Ivy – and even their names seem perfectly anachronistic for the folk purity of their music – providing the harmonies for Sky Watching… that slightly mystical alternate reality, maybe owing something to Joanna Newsom and that ilk. Despite – or perhaps because of – their youth, the music they make is affecting and emotional.” — The Music
“Charm of Finches make gorgeous chamber pop…their harmonies are immaculate and stirring as they move through an honest and, well, charming lyric.” – Tone Deaf
Hailing from Katoomba in the Blue Mountains, NSW, vocal trio, Breathing Underwater, has been singing together quite literally since they were small children. Hardly surprising, since the group consists of Aurora Li, aged 16, her younger sister, Tessa McKay, 13, and their 13 year-old cousin, Magnus Blomquist. Despite their youth, the three already have a string of performances behind them, including appearances at Katoomba Live and Local Festival, the Blue Mountains Winter Magic Festival, Narragunnawali Festival of Music and were featured artists at PULSE 2019 at the Sydney Opera House. Aurora Li’s lyrically perceptive songs have been described as ‘sophisticated beyond her years’ as she takes her audience on an emotional ride through the highs and lows of life through her eyes. Throw in Magnus, Tessa, some fresh arrangements and lush harmonies, and you have a show that always manages to hit the sweet spot.
As well as performing Aurora Li’s originals, the group enjoys an eclectic mix of pop, folk and alt country music, including Celtic-inspired, Bluegrass and some Dylan and Springsteen, and their own arrangements of contemporary artists such as Lorde, the Lumineers, Kacey Musgraves, the Paper Kites and more.
VENUE: PIGEON LANE @ ONE88 (Lower level of Gallery One88 which is at 188 Katoomba St)
Access to the performance space is via the graffiti Art Street walk of Beverly Place, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780.
Pigeon Lane @ ONE88 is an intimate venue tucked away in the lower ground floor of art gallery ONE88 Fine Arts in the heart of Katoomba. The venue harks back to prohibition style speak easys where you could enjoy Jazz and Blues along with the atmosphere that the venues brought with it.
Pigeon Lane is an all ages venue however minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian and must remain supervised and do require a standard ticket for entry. Please also keep in mind that the performance space is a listening room.
Dinner options, hot beverages including tea, coffee and hot chocolate and a variety of dessert cakes are available for purchase from the upstairs Art Gallery cafe, before and after the show and during intermission.
BYO alcoholic beverages for guests purchasing dinner from the upstairs cafe unless the liquor license is completed prior. Licensed Bar coming soon.
Or $30 CASH on the Beverly Place Door from 6pm (Unless Sold Out)
This is an exclusive intimate capacity venue and tickets are strictly limited! CONTACT DETAILS: Charity Mirow 0409 042 869
For more information visit: www.fusionboutique.com.au
Fusion Boutique Presents MANUS McGUIRE – Irish Master Fiddle Player
with BEN STEPHENSON (Guitar & Flute) Live in Concert at Pigeon Lane @ ONE88
Sunday 15th December 2019, 7pm. Doors Open 6pm.
Manus McGuire is an acclaimed Irish fiddle player whose exceptional musical gift became widely recognised in 1970 when he won the prestigious Fiddler of Dooney, an Irish national fiddle competition at age 14.
He has performed with Buttons and Bows, Moving Cloud, Brock McGuire Band, and with his brother Seamus McGuire.
McGuire is honoured to have been voted “Male Irish Traditional Musician of the Year in the U.S.” in 2006 by the Irish American News in Chicago and to have received the Bravo Award from Trad Magazine in France in 2007.
Manus continues to perform and teach fiddle music at the highest level, primarily in the United States and this year alone, he has taught fiddle at Swannanoa NC and at the Evergreen State College in Olympia, WA in addition to performing a series of spring concerts for the Irish American Cultural Institute. He continues to support the links between Irish Music and its historical journey into the United States.
Brock McGuire Band which he co-founded in 2000 was awarded “Irish instrumental band of the decade” by the Irish American News. That band’s album, Green Grass Blue Grass (Compass Records 2012) is a collaboration with 14 time Grammy award winner Ricky Skaggs. It celebrates the musical connections between Irish traditional and American Appalachian music. It was awarded “Top of the World Album Award” by the prestigious U.K. world music magazine, Songlines in 2012. In 2014, a full orchestral scoring of their work was commissioned and they performed a programme with the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra in Jackson, Mississippi in March that year.
Earle Hitchner from the Irish Echo and Wall Street Journal in New York commented on Manus McGuire’s solo album Fiddlewings (2006) saying it “exudes class from first to last note played. Variety, virtuosity and vitality are the lasting impressions created by this recording”.
On his solo album Saffron and Blue, (2000) Bill Margeson, Music critic with The Irish American News, commented “ when the buyer purchases this album, he or she is getting in on not only a wonderful piece of work, but a musician at the peak of his powers”.
Manus will be accompanied by Ben Stephenson, a multi-instrumentalist who has risen to become one of Australia’s most sought-after Irish musicians.
Ben is an extraordinarily versatile musician, he gained a fierce reputation for his driving and subtle DADGAD guitar work. His powerful flute playing and crisp whistle sound.
Ben has performed and toured with some of the cream of Irish traditional music including the legendary piper Paddy Keenan, flute maestro Alan Doherty and fiddler Louise Phelan. An accomplished Irish flute and bodhran player, Ben is also a member of the acclaimed Australian Irish Trad Band “Trouble In The Kitchen”.
VENUE: PIGEON LANE @ ONE88 (Lower level of Gallery One88 which is at 188 Katoomba St)
Access to the performance space is via the graffiti Art Street walk of Beverly Place, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780.
Pigeon Lane @ ONE88 is an intimate venue tucked away in the lower ground floor of art gallery ONE88 Fine Arts in the heart of Katoomba. The venue harks back to prohibition style speak easys where you could enjoy Jazz and Blues along with the atmosphere that the venues brought with it.
Pigeon Lane is an all ages venue however minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian and must remain supervised and do require a standard ticket for entry. Please also keep in mind that the performance space is a listening room.
Dinner options, hot beverages including tea, coffee and hot chocolate and a variety of dessert cakes are available for purchase from the upstairs Art Gallery cafe, before and after the show and during intermission.
BYO alcoholic beverages for guests purchasing dinner from the upstairs cafe unless the liquor license is completed prior. Licensed Bar coming soon.
Or $30 CASH on the Beverly Place Door from 6pm (Unless Sold Out)
This is an exclusive intimate capacity venue and tickets are strictly limited! CONTACT DETAILS: Charity Mirow 0409 042 869
For more information visit: www.fusionboutique.com.au
Fusion Boutique Presents ‘Live At The Attic’ with THE SOUTH CAROLINA BROADCASTERS (USA)
Featuring Jackson Cunningham from The Whitetop Mountaineers Live in Concert, upstairs at Hotel Blue
Friday 22nd November 2019, 7pm. Doors Open 6pm.
The South Carolina Broadcasters are the “real deal” when it comes to Old-Time Bluegrass music, or “primitive bluegrass”, as they sometimes call it. Their razor sharp harmonies, exceptional multi-instrumentation, and fabulous song selection will have listeners riveted to their seats. Wherever they perform, audiences connect with the Broadcasters through their heartfelt songs and good old-fashioned entertainment.
Their material ranges from the Old-Time mountain music of Appalachia, through Carter Family country classics, and Cajun music, to original tunes that sound like they’ve come from the past.
The trio consists of David Sheppard (guitar & vocals), Ivy Sheppard (fiddle, banjo, & vocals) and new band member, Jackson Cunningham from The Whitetop Mountaineers (mandolin, guitar, & vocals).
This is the Broadcasters’ first Australian tour, playing the Dorrigo Folk & Bluegrass Festival, the Maldon Folk Festival and MountainGrass Festival, and a number of other gigs in NSW, Victoria and the ACT. However, Jackson has toured here a number of times with The Whitetop Mountaineers, playing all the major folk festivals including Port Fairy, the National, and Blue Mountains festivals, and numerous successful gigs, including a sell-out show at The Metropole, Katoomba on their last tour here in January 2017!
“I’d like to think that if AP Carter had had more time to think about it and work things out, the Carter Family would have been singing like the Broadcasters.” – Tim O’Brien
“Clear, powerful playing. Great singing. Respect for the past, all the while setting the bar high for musicians of the future. Strong music.” – Joe Newbury
VENUE: HOTEL BLUE ‘LIVE AT THE ATTIC’ Upstairs,
88 Lurline St, Katoomba, NSW 2780
Blue Mountains
The main entrance and reception are accessible via Merriwa St.
The upstairs performance space is in the function room on the top floor.
Access can be made up the stairs at the back of the lounge area.
Drinks and meals will be available for purchase from the bar downstairs.
*Please note that there is no bar on the level of the performance room.
Hotel Blue is an all ages venue however minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian and must remain supervised and do require a standard ticket for entry. Please also keep in mind that the performance space is a seated listening room.
Doors Open upstairs 6pm. Show Starts 7pm.
General Admission. Theatre Style Seating.
Tickets DISCOUNT $25 pre-sale available from Hotel Blue reception (during reception open hours) 88 Lurline St, Katoomba, NSW 2780. (Cash Only)
Or $30 cash on the Door from 6pm (Unless Sold Out)
This is an intimate capacity venue and tickets are strictly limited! CONTACT DETAILS: Charity Mirow 0409 042 869
For more information visit: www.fusionboutique.com.au
Fusion Boutique Presents ‘Live At The Attic’ with MIKE + RUTHY (USA) – FROM THE MAMMALS Live in Concert, upstairs at Hotel Blue
Friday 1st November 2019, 7pm. Doors Open 6pm.
Mike Merenda and Ruth Ungar are a Hudson Valley, USA based husband-and-wife duo setting the Americana/Indie-Folk scene ablaze, as a duo or with their five-piece band, The Mammals.
Singers, songwriters & storytellers, social & environmental activists, poets and parents, they tour with their children in tow, embodying a down-home approach to Americana.
Merenda is a prolific songwriter, who’s recent crowd-pleasing piece, Sunshiner, was nominated for an International Folk Music Award for Song of the Year. It is an ode to renewable energy which simultaneously honours the past and looks to the future with the sing-along lyric, “Yes my Daddy was a miner, but I’m gonna be a sunshiner.”
Ungar’s unique vocal style ranges from a capella balladry to earthy soul and country. She was raised in a folk music family and learned the fiddle at a young age.
She is carrying on her family tradition, being the daughter of legendary fiddler/composer, Jay Ungar, known for his famous composition, ‘Ashokan Farewell’ used as the theme for Ken Burns’ landmark documentary, ‘The Civil War’, which she also enjoys performing.
“Mike & Ruthy concerts blend artistry and authenticity, with fiery fiddle & banjo, emotionally potent harmonies, and dynamic stories that deepen the experience. Tap your toes and sing along as Mike & Ruthy “roam effortlessly through the whole span that is Americana, from alt-country to folk to bluegrass.” – The Bluegrass Situation
“These two will shatter any stereotypical misconceptions of what it means to be a folk musician” – The Coastal Journal
“Everything is masterfully performed as Mike Merenda and Ruthy Ungar sing about the charms of hard work, home made wine and free parking. Amid the barn dance reverie created by fiddle, pedal steel, horns and more, Ruthy’s versatile alto is the most glorious instrument of all.” – ABCnews
“Pristine” – The New York Times
“Some of the best song writing of their generation” – LA Weekly
VENUE: HOTEL BLUE ‘LIVE AT THE ATTIC’ Upstairs,
88 Lurline St, Katoomba, NSW 2780
Blue Mountains
The main entrance and reception are accessible via Merriwa St.
The upstairs performance space is in the function room on the top floor.
Access can be made up the stairs at the back of the lounge area.
Drinks and meals will be available for purchase from the bar downstairs.
*Please note that there is no bar on the level of the performance room.
Hotel Blue is an all ages venue however minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian and must remain supervised and do require a standard ticket for entry. Please also keep in mind that the performance space is a seated listening room.
Doors Open upstairs 6pm. Show Starts 7pm.
General Admission. Theatre Style Seating.
Tickets DISCOUNT $20 pre-sale available from Hotel Blue reception (during reception open hours) 88 Lurline St, Katoomba, NSW 2780. (Cash Only)
Or $25 cash on the Door from 6pm (Unless Sold Out)
This is an intimate capacity venue and tickets are strictly limited! CONTACT DETAILS: Charity Mirow 0409 042 869
For more information visit: www.fusionboutique.com.au
Fusion Boutique Presents ‘Live At The Attic’ with MISSY RAINES TRIO (Nashville) – Australian Tour
+ Special Guests WHOA MULE Live in Concert, upstairs at Hotel Blue
Friday 18th October 2019, 6pm. Doors Open 5pm.
With a smoky and seductive alto, 7 Time International Bluegrass Music Association Bass Player of the Year, Missy Raines, heads up this all-acoustic ensemble. The territory the trio covers is broad and the compass is set by Raines, planted right in the centre of the stage directing with her bass every bit as much as she’s playing it. “Raines launches her well-tended craft off the bluegrass dock into the waters of jazz and folk, holding onto the anchor of bluegrass while pushing steadily at the boundaries of the music that engulfs her.” – Country Standard Time.
In 1998 Raines became the first woman to win IBMA’s Bass Player of the Year award and she went on to win the title more than any other bass player in the history of the organisation. She has proven herself without doubt, as an iconic bluegrass instrumentalist.
“The countless miles Raines has travelled are a gorgeous, weathered patina on her songwriting as well as the careful, intentional arrangements — and rearrangements — of these songs.” — The Bluegrass Situation
“Her latest release, Royal Traveller, not only confirms her renowned instrumental status but also announces another first, as she debuts as a songwriter, 11 tracks that both reflect and reach beyond her bluegrass roots, to touch upon indie folk, jam grass and jazz-inspired material. ” — Folk Radio UK
“It isn’t often that a song will rope me into playing it on repeat. The title track of this album [Royal Traveller] though is one of those songs.” — Americana Highways
Whoa Mule brings you old time country ballads, original songs, and driving triple fiddle dance tunes. Inspired by the rapid weather changes of the Blue Mountains and the bustle of Sydney streets, these musicians deliver a performance characterised by both space and energy. With rich experience earned in bands such as Catgut and Golden Whistler, Whoa Mule puts a kick into old time music.
VENUE: HOTEL BLUE ‘LIVE AT THE ATTIC’ Upstairs,
88 Lurline St, Katoomba, NSW 2780
Blue Mountains
The main entrance and reception are accessible via Merriwa St.
The upstairs performance space is in the function room on the top floor.
Access can be made up the stairs at the back of the lounge area.
Drinks and meals will be available for purchase from the bar downstairs.
*Please note that there is no bar on the level of the performance room.
Hotel Blue is an all ages venue however minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian and must remain supervised and do require a standard ticket for entry. Please also keep in mind that the performance space is a seated listening room.
Doors Open upstairs 5pm. Show Starts 6pm.
General Admission. Theatre Style Seating.
Tickets DISCOUNT $30 pre-sale available from Hotel Blue reception (during reception open hours) 88 Lurline St, Katoomba, NSW 2780. (Cash Only)
Or $35 cash on the Door from 5pm (Unless Sold Out)
This is an intimate capacity venue and tickets are strictly limited! CONTACT DETAILS: Charity Mirow 0409 042 869
For more information visit: www.fusionboutique.com.au
Fusion Boutique Presents
THE MAES (with MONIQUE CLARE) Live in Concert at Pigeon Lane @ ONE88.
Saturday 6th July 2019, 7:30pm. Doors Open 6:30pm.
*** This show is now SOLD OUT! For a fabulous range of other Blue Mountain events visit: www.fusionboutique.com.au We advise booking early to avoid disappointment! ***
Fusion Boutique is very pleased to announce that due to popular demand a 2nd and final show is now being held at Gallery ONE88’s fabulous little exclusive speak easy venue ‘Pigeon Lane’.
This will be a very special intimate acoustic performance.
Multi-award-winning Melbourne contemporary folk outfit, The Maes (formerly The Mae Trio) is the brainchild of sisters Maggie (banjo, guitar and vocals) and Elsie Rigby (fiddle, mandolin and vocals). Born into the arms of the Folk music community, both sisters were side of stage at their first folk festival when they were four weeks old and have been absorbing and exploring folk music since that time.
The Maes’ latest, self-titled record released in April 2019 is a return to the sisters’ folk music roots. Gentle, intimate and conversational, the album is an unadorned showcase of Maggie and Elsie’s superb songwriting as well as honest, relaxed and stunning vocal and instrumental performances.
The album was born on a two-month tour of Europe and North America in 2018 shortly after the band changed its name from The Mae Trio to The Maes after the departure of founding member Anita Hillman. The sisters started the tour with a recording session in Canada, intending to make a four track EP. Fired up by the changes in the band, inspired and bursting with new music they kept looking for new recording opportunities as the tour progressed. By the end of the tour they had two tracks from Nova Scotia, Canada, two songs from the Isle of Mull in Scotland, two songs from different studios in Ireland and four songs recorded in their hometown of Melbourne.
The album features production from top roots music producers from around the world including, Daniel Ledwell (Oh Pep!, Jenn Grant, Good Lovelies), John Fitzgerald (Christy Moore, Crooked Still, Lisa Hannigan) and Brendon Love (Teskey Brothers). The album also features cello and harmony vocals by award-winning Brisbane musician, Monique Clare who regularly tours with The Maes and will be performing at this show.
Their latest release follows on from their sophomore album, Take Care Take Cover, which was recorded in Nashville by Grammy nominated producer/engineer Erick Jaskowiak (The Waifs, Crooked Still, Darrell Scott) and featuring some of that music town’s finest roots musicians. The record won them the Age, Music Victoria Folk/Roots Album of the Year in 2017 as well as rave reviews in Australia and overseas.
Since 2014, The Maes have been full time touring in Australia and overseas, winning over audiences with their striking songwriting, intricate instrumental arrangements and stunning vocal harmonies. The band’s touring history includes a list of some of the worlds largest and most prestigious music festivals such as, the Woodford and Port Fairy Folk Festivals in Australia, The Edmonton and Vancouver Folk Festivals in Canada, Cambridge Folk and Celtic Connections festivals in the UK and the Telluride Bluegrass Festival in the USA.
“simply superb sophomore album.” – The Australian *****
“…underscores the ever growing potential these girls have to capture a truly international stage.’ – Folk Radio UK
“The Mae Trio songs are powerful, the vocal harmonies soar, and their own instrumental prowess is impressive” – Penguin Eggs
“quite simply breathtaking” – Rhythms Magazine
“Located at a crossroads where Australian, English and American folk traditions meet, The Mae Trio are in the midst of creating something unique and very much their own” – Songlines
VENUE: PIGEON LANE @ ONE88 (Lower level of Gallery One88 which is at 188 Katoomba St)
Access to the performance space is via the graffiti Art Street walk of Beverly Place, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780.
Pigeon Lane @ ONE88 is an intimate venue tucked away in the lower ground floor of art gallery ONE88 Fine Arts in the heart of Katoomba. The venue harks back to prohibition style speak easys where you could enjoy Jazz and Blues along with the atmosphere that the venues brought with it.
Pigeon Lane is an all ages venue however minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian and must remain supervised and do require a standard ticket for entry. Please also keep in mind that the performance space is a listening room.
Hot beverages including coffee, chai, hot chocolate and tea as well as treats such as cakes and soup are available for purchase from the upstairs Art Gallery before and after the show.
Please note that this is an alcohol free event.
Or $30 CASH on the Beverly Place Door from 6:30pm (Unless Sold Out)
This is an exclusive intimate capacity venue and tickets are strictly limited! CONTACT DETAILS: Charity Mirow 0409 042 869
For more information visit: www.fusionboutique.com.au
Fusion Boutique Presents ‘Metro Social’ with
THE MAES (with MONIQUE CLARE)
+ Special Guest MAIZY COOMBES Live in Concert at the 1930’s Metropole Guesthouse.
Friday 5th July 2019, 6pm. Doors Open 5pm.
*** This show is now SOLD OUT! However Fusion Boutique is very pleased to announce that due to popular demand a 2nd and final show is now being held at Gallery ONE88’s fabulous little exclusive speak easy venue ‘Pigeon Lane’. Direct ticket link: www.stickytickets.com.au/89397
For a fabulous range of other Blue Mountain events visit: www.fusionboutique.com.au We advise booking early to avoid disappointment! ***
Multi-award-winning Melbourne contemporary folk outfit, The Maes (formerly The Mae Trio) is the brainchild of sisters Maggie (banjo, guitar and vocals) and Elsie Rigby (fiddle, mandolin and vocals). Born into the arms of the Folk music community, both sisters were side of stage at their first folk festival when they were four weeks old and have been absorbing and exploring folk music since that time.
The Maes’ latest, self-titled record set for release in April 2019 is a return to the sisters’ folk music roots. Gentle, intimate and conversational, the album is an unadorned showcase of Maggie and Elsie’s superb songwriting as well as honest, relaxed and stunning vocal and instrumental performances.
The album was born on a two-month tour of Europe and North America in 2018 shortly after the band changed its name from The Mae Trio to The Maes after the departure of founding member Anita Hillman. The sisters started the tour with a recording session in Canada, intending to make a four track EP. Fired up by the changes in the band, inspired and bursting with new music they kept looking for new recording opportunities as the tour progressed. By the end of the tour they had two tracks from Nova Scotia, Canada, two songs from the Isle of Mull in Scotland, two songs from different studios in Ireland and four songs recorded in their hometown of Melbourne.
The album features production from top roots music producers from around the world including, Daniel Ledwell (Oh Pep!, Jenn Grant, Good Lovelies), John Fitzgerald (Christy Moore, Crooked Still, Lisa Hannigan) and Brendon Love (Teskey Brothers). The album also features cello and harmony vocals by award-winning Brisbane musician, Monique Clare who regularly tours with The Maes and will be performing at this show.
Their latest release follows on from their sophomore album, Take Care Take Cover, which was recorded in Nashville by Grammy nominated producer/engineer Erick Jaskowiak (The Waifs, Crooked Still, Darrell Scott) and featuring some of that music town’s finest roots musicians. The record won them the Age, Music Victoria Folk/Roots Album of the Year in 2017 as well as rave reviews in Australia and overseas.
Since 2014, The Maes have been full time touring in Australia and overseas, winning over audiences with their striking songwriting, intricate instrumental arrangements and stunning vocal harmonies. The band’s touring history includes a list of some of the worlds largest and most prestigious music festivals such as, the Woodford and Port Fairy Folk Festivals in Australia, The Edmonton and Vancouver Folk Festivals in Canada, Cambridge Folk and Celtic Connections festivals in the UK and the Telluride Bluegrass Festival in the USA.
“simply superb sophomore album.” – The Australian *****
“…underscores the ever growing potential these girls have to capture a truly international stage.’ – Folk Radio UK
“The Mae Trio songs are powerful, the vocal harmonies soar, and their own instrumental prowess is impressive” – Penguin Eggs
“quite simply breathtaking” – Rhythms Magazine
“Located at a crossroads where Australian, English and American folk traditions meet, The Mae Trio are in the midst of creating something unique and very much their own” – Songlines
Blue Mountain’s based Maizy Coombes, is an endearing Violinist/Songwriter with a contemporary folk sound beneath wholesome lyricism. Her approach to life is equal parts adorable, resourceful and sneaky, all of which is reflected brightly in her music. Using a loop pedal to support herself, this unique sound scape has the ability to bring out tears as you apply make-up or brush your teeth, yet still leave you feeling contemplative and joyous.
We first encountered Maizy’s gorgeous fiddle playing in “Lime and Steel”.
Don’t miss this opportunity to see her subtle and solo.
VENUE: ‘METRO SOCIAL’ Metropole Guesthouse Lounge Upstairs (lift available)
Cnr of Lurline and Gang Gang Streets, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780.
Opposite the Katoomba train station.
The upstairs performance space in the lounge is on the first floor. Access can be made up the stairs if entering from the front or via the lift at the back of the hotel through the atrium.
The Metropole is an all ages venue however minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian and must remain supervised and do require a standard ticket for entry. Please also keep in mind that the performance space is a listening room.
Drinks and light meals will be available from the Metro Retro pop up bar upstairs once doors open.
The downstairs restaurant bar will be open 1 hour prior to the upstairs performance space for pre-show drinks and early food orders.
Doors Open 5pm. Show Starts 6pm.
General Admission. Theatre Style Seating, cocktail lounge and some standing room.
Tickets $20 DISCOUNT pre-sale available from THE METROPOLE GUESTHOUSE (during reception hours) Cnr of Lurline and Gang Gang Streets, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780. (Cash Only)
This is an intimate capacity venue and tickets are strictly limited! CONTACT DETAILS: Charity Mirow 0409 042 869
For more information visit: www.fusionboutique.com.au
Fusion Boutique Presents ‘Metro Social’ with THE LONDON KLEZMER QUARTET live in Concert at the 1930’s Metropole Guesthouse, Katoomba, Blue Mountains. Part of the 2018 Roaring 20s Festival.
Friday 16th February 2018, 7pm. Doors Open 6pm.
*** This show is now SOLD OUT!
For a fabulous range of other Blue Mountain events visit: www.fusionboutique.com.au We advise booking early to avoid disappointment. ***
The London Klezmer Quartet brings you klezmer, the celebratory and soulful music of Eastern European Jews, at its most beguiling and seductive. The subtleties of the original tradition, combined with a kick-the-chairs-over ability to party.
LKQ is a dynamic group of performers much in demand on the UK folk, world and pop music scenes. The band’s deep understanding of klezmer is reflected in exuberant, passionate and accomplished performances that captivate audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
The group plays old and new traditional material guaranteed to move audiences from toe-tapping to tears and back again in moments.
Formed in 2009, the band is already popular throughout the UK, has had five sell-out tours in Australia, as well as performing in Brazil, Germany, Holland, Latvia, New Zealand and Switzerland, and has broadcast live on BBC Radio 3 & 6, BBC TV, and ABC Radio.
“Dynamic and authentic” – Time Out
“A fantastic sound with inventive arrangements, Virtuosity, exciting original tunes and soulful playing. What’s not to like?” – Songlines Magazine
“The tradition is safe in their hands.” – Sunday Times
“Four of Europe’s most talented klezmer musicians. They bring a wealth of knowledge, experience and excitement to their performances.” – Frank London, the Klezmatics
“When Buraczewska sang, all the earthiness, profound melancholy and celebratory joy you could desire came surging to the fore via her vast, singular contralto.” – Sydney Morning Herald
VENUE: ‘METRO SOCIAL’ Metropole Guesthouse Lounge Upstairs (lift available) Cnr of Lurline and Gang Gang Streets, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780.
Opposite the Katoomba train station.
There is limited parking available at the rear of the property. Access can be made through the rear and the lift to the lounge is in the atrium.
If entering from the front the cocktail bar/restaurant is on the right and access to the upstairs performance space in the lounge is up the stairs or via the lift towards the back of the hotel.
The Metropole is an all ages venue however minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian and must remain supervised and do require a standard ticket for entry. Please also keep in mind that the performance space is a listening room.
There is also a retro cocktail bar downstairs and drinks and light meals will be available from the Metro Retro pop up bar upstairs once doors open.
Doors Open 6pm. Show Starts 7pm.
General Admission. Theatre Style Seating, cocktail lounge and some standing room.
Tickets $25 DISCOUNT pre-sale available from THE METROPOLE GUESTHOUSE (during reception hours) Cnr of Lurline and Gang Gang Streets, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780. (Cash Only)
Or + b/f Card /Phone 02) 4782 5544 and Online $26.50 (Including booking fees): www.trybooking.com/TOKX
Or $30 on the Door from 6pm (Unless Sold Out)
This is an intimate seating venue and tickets are strictly limited! CONTACT DETAILS: Charity Mirow 0409 042 869
For more information visit: www.fusionboutique.com.au
Fusion Boutique Presents ‘Metro Social’ with
LOLO LOVINA
live in Concert at the 1930’s Metropole Guesthouse.
Friday 9th February 2018, 6:30pm. Doors Open 5:30pm.
We are very pleased to welcome back Lolo Lovina ahead of their performance by invitation at one of the biggest festivals in the world – SXSW in Austin, Texas.
Lolo Lovina (‘Red Beer’) are an intoxicating, cosmopolitan virtuosic brew infused with Unza, Swing and Balkan Gypsy beats. The only ethnic Romani band in Australia, fronted by Hungarian Romani-Gypsy singer Sarah Bedak.
Lolo Lovina’s music reflects the cosmopolitan identity of an artist, who grew up with three native tongues and cultures. The charming and passionate performance of the charismatic singer makes each of her concerts an unique experience. Featuring Serbian Rroma drummer and guitarist Nenad Radic, Stuart Vandegraaff on Sax, clarinet & Ney, David Carr on guitar and banjo & Nathan Gatt on double bass.
Lolo Lovina have played at the Opera House, Guca Festival Serbia, in New Caledonia, in Europe and to full houses wherever they go.
Their album Rroma Sapien received a 4 Star review in the London based World Music magazine Song Lines (June 2016) with Rroma Sapien and RromAntics both being featured on ABC Radio Nationals program, ‘The Daily Planet’.
“(Lolo Lovina)…have created an album that swings from traditional to groundbreaking Rroma music, all imbued with a tremendous sense of fun” – Lucky Oceans, The Daily Planet ABC Radio National
‘Excellent new, vibrant album (RromAntics!) from world-touring, Sydney-based Rrom music band…’ – Lucky Oceans, The Daily Planet, ABC Radio National
“You have to listen to these people, this is the future of music” – Brian Eno, Luminous Festival, Sydney Opera House
“With musicians from Ukrainian/Romanian, Hungarian and Brazillian backgrounds, this music is authentic to its roots and played with vigour and precision.” – Bradfield Dumpleton
“Musically and culturally Planet/MGM consider the group to be in the forefront of contemporary world music coming out of Australia. Their live performances are exciting, varied and professional with consummate performance skills from all members.” – Graeme Regan, MGM the Planet Company
“…Traditional Gypsy tunes alternate with Lolo originals here, and the arrangements are solid, tight, classy and brassy…” – 4 STAR review of Rroma Sapien by Seth Jordan in Songlines Magazine, London UK. June 2016
VENUE: ‘METRO SOCIAL’ Metropole Guesthouse Lounge Upstairs (lift available) Cnr of Lurline and Gang Gang Streets, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780.
Opposite the Katoomba train station.
There is limited parking available at the rear of the property. Access can also be made through the rear. If entering from the front the bar/restaurant is on the right.
The Metropole is a family friendly venue!
*Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and supervised.
Children do require a ticket for entry.
Drinks and light meals will be available from the Metro Retro bar once doors open.
Doors Open 5:30pm. Show Starts 6:30pm.
General Admission.
General Admission. Theatre Style Seating, cocktail lounge and some standing room.
Tickets $20 DISCOUNT pre-sale available from THE METROPOLE GUESTHOUSE (during reception hours) Cnr of Lurline and Gang Gang Streets, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780. (Cash Only)
This is an intimate seating space and tickets are exclusively limited CONTACT DETAILS: Charity Mirow 0409 042 869
For more information visit: www.fusionboutique.com.au
Nomadic Fish & Fusion Boutique Present ‘Metro Social’ with PHILLIP HENRY & HANNAH MARTIN “EDGELARKS” (UK) live in Concert at the 1930’s Metropole Guesthouse.
Wednesday 17th January 2018, 6:30pm. Doors Open 5:30pm.
Phillip Henry and Hannah Martin return to Australia in January 2018, performing at Woodford, Cygnet and Illawarra Folk Festivals, plus shows in Brisbane, Melbourne, Hobart, Sydney, and Katoomba. Launching their new album under a new name: “EDGELARKS”.
Edgelarks fly in on the tailwind of BBC award winning duo Phillip Henry and Hannah Martin. The new band name comes with a new project, that takes the roots of their previous work, from the traditional musics of the British Isles to Indian classical slide guitar to the stomping roots party of Henry’s beatbox harmonica, and adds a strong stem of original writing, running wilder with each repeat play.
The duo began their musical journey together while living in a small caravan in the hills near Exmouth, Devon. They were playing in alt-roots outfit, traveling from festival to festival, tent to tent, wandering the highways, byways and old forgotten pathways of these islands; following in the footsteps of the ancient troubadour tradition, picking up tunes, songs and stories along the way. Spotted busking on the seafront at Sidmouth Folk Festival by champion of independent music Steve Knightley, they soon found themselves touring nationally, supporting the likes of Show of Hands and Seth Lakeman, and eventually winning the prestigious “Best Duo” award at the 2014 BBC Folk Awards.
EDGELARKS (both the name of the new album and to be the new name for the duo) is about transitions. Their most innovative work to date, bringing a palette of new textures, the album explores the idea of the liminal: places, people and times, the straddling of boundaries and thresholds. Crossroads and borderlines; travellers and refugees; dusk and dawn; the pause between an old way and a new. The idea that, despite often being places of marginalisation, these are also places of change – and therefore places of hope. That in the end we have far more in common than things that divide us, because we are all liminal: standing on the threshold of tomorrow, we are all just passing through.
The Lancashire/Devon duo made their first appearance in Australia in March/April 2015, performing to standing ovations at Port Fairy Folk Festival, Blue Mountains Music Festival and Fairbridge Folk Festival, as well as a string of house concerts, folk clubs and music venues. They return in January 2018, launching their new album, some of which was inspired by their experiences on tour here, particularly in Tasmania.
Phillip Henry : Dobro, harmonica, guitars, vocals
Hannah Martin : Violin, banjo, acoustic guitar, shutri box, vocals
AWARDS: ~ Winner “Best Folk Duo”, BBC Folk Awards 2014. ~ Nominated “Best Folk Duo”, BBC Folk Awards 2016.
QUOTES / REVIEWS: “Imaginative dobro, guitar and harmonica work … evocative fiddle and banjo playing and enchanting vocals.”: ★★★½ – Tony Hillier, The Australian “Virtuosity, intensity and charisma… Subtle, atmospheric, bravely original.” – The Guardian “One of the best duos on the planet.” – BBC “Extraordinary… I was absolutely blown away by them.” – Tom Robinson, BBC 6Music “Evocative stories, wonderful arrangements – Henry and Martin stand out from the current flood of young British folk musicians.” – Mojo **** “I was completely knocked out by this duo… On hearing the first notes of the first track I knew that I was listening to a modern classic.” – Mike Harding, BBC Radio Two
www.philliphenryandhannahmartin.co.uk www.facebook.com/philliphenryandhannahmartin
VENUE: ‘METRO SOCIAL’ Metropole Guesthouse Lounge Upstairs (lift available) Cnr of Lurline and Gang Gang Streets, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780.
Opposite the Katoomba train station.
There is limited parking available at the rear of the property. Access can be made through the rear and the lift to the lounge is in the atrium.
If entering from the front the cocktail bar/restaurant is on the right and access to the upstairs performance space in the lounge is up the stairs or via the lift towards the back of the hotel.
The Metropole is a family friendly venue!
*Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and supervised.
Children do require a ticket for entry.
There is also a retro cocktail bar downstairs and drinks and light meals will be available from the Metro Retro pop up bar upstairs once doors open.
Doors Open 5:30pm. Show Starts 6:30pm.
General Admission. Theatre Style Seating, cocktail lounge and some standing room.
Tickets $20 DISCOUNT pre-sale available from THE METROPOLE GUESTHOUSE (during reception hours) Cnr of Lurline and Gang Gang Streets, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780. (Cash Only)
This is an intimate seating venue and tickets are strictly limited! CONTACT DETAILS: Charity Mirow 0409 042 869
For more information visit: www.fusionboutique.com.au
Woodford Folk Festival & Fusion Boutique Presents ‘Metro Social’ with
MOLSKY’S MOUNTAIN DRIFTERS (USA) live in Concert at the 1930’s Metropole Guesthouse, Katoomba, Blue Mountains.
Saturday 6th January 2018, 6:30pm. Doors Open 5:30pm.
*** This show is now SOLD OUT!
For a fabulous range of other Blue Mountain events visit: www.fusionboutique.com.au We advise booking early to avoid disappointment. ***
Molsky’s Mountain Drifters – Tradition steeped in possibility.
Bruce Molsky, “one of America’s premier fiddling talents” (Mother Jones) and Grammy-nominated artist on fiddle, banjo, guitar and song is delighted to present his new group already on tour in the US.
Bruce’s previous collaborations, with Anonymous 4, 1865 – Songs of Hope and Home from the American Civil War, was released to rave reviews and was on the top 10 Billboard charts for weeks.
He is also a special guest on legendary guitarist Mark Knopfler’s latest CD, Tracker and is working on his 3rd album with Andy Irvine & Donal Lunny’s supergroup Mozaik. You can also hear Bruce on BBC TV Transatlantic Sessions singing with Joan Osborne, Julie Fowlis and fiddling with Scottish legend Aly Bain and America’s great dobroist Jerry Douglas. Bruce is also Berklee College of Music’s Visiting Scholar in the American Roots Program.
Allison de Groot combines wide ranging virtuosity and passion for old-time music. With her own bands The Goodbye Girls and Oh My Darling, she has played Trafalgar Square in London, Newport Folk Festival, Stockholm Folk Festival, the Winnipeg Folk Festival, and Tønder Festival in Denmark. Like Bruce, Allison loves collaborating and bringing new ideas to old music, and brings a fresh approach to the trio.
Boston-based Stash Wyslouch is one of bluegrass’s great young genre-bending pioneers. He got his start as a guitarist in metal bands before immersing himself in roots music as a member of The Deadly Gentlemen. Stash is a veteran festival performer, having played at Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival, Rockygrass, Merlefest, Savannah Music Festival and others. Coming over from the punk-metal world, Stash brings great sensitivity and real emotion to the trio, plus some superb guitar and vocal chops.
VENUE: ‘METRO SOCIAL’ Metropole Guesthouse Lounge Upstairs (lift available) Cnr of Lurline and Gang Gang Streets, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780.
Opposite the Katoomba train station.
There is limited parking available at the rear of the property. Access can be made through the rear and the lift to the lounge is in the atrium.
If entering from the front the cocktail bar/restaurant is on the right and access to the upstairs performance space in the lounge is up the stairs or via the lift towards the back of the hotel.
The Metropole is a family friendly venue!
*Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and supervised.
Children do require a ticket for entry.
There is also a retro cocktail bar downstairs and drinks and light meals will be available from the Metro Retro pop up bar upstairs once doors open.
Doors Open 5:30pm. Show Starts 6:30pm.
General Admission. Theatre Style Seating, cocktail lounge and some standing room.
Tickets $25 DISCOUNT pre-sale available from THE METROPOLE GUESTHOUSE (during reception hours) Cnr of Lurline and Gang Gang Streets, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780. (Cash Only)
Or + b/f Card /Phone 02) 4782 5544 and Online $26.50 (Including booking fees): www.trybooking.com/RLOD
Or $30 on the Door from 5:30pm (Unless Sold Out)
This is an intimate seating venue and tickets are strictly limited! CONTACT DETAILS: Charity Mirow 0409 042 869
For more information visit: www.fusionboutique.com.au
Woodfordia & Fusion Boutique Present ‘Metro Social’ with
THE EAST POINTERS (CANADA) ‘What We Leave Behind’ Australian National Tour
+ Special Guests Tash Parker and Emma Anglesey live in Concert at the 1930’s Metropole Guesthouse, Katoomba, Blue Mountains.
Saturday 9th December 2017, 6pm. Doors Open 5pm.
Transatlantic Celtic folk power trio, the JUNO Award winners The East Pointers, are Prince Edward Island fiddler Tim Chaisson, banjoist Koady Chaisson and Ontario guitarist Jake Charron.
Their second album ‘What We Leave Behind’, released in September 2017, continues to blur the lines between traditional and popular music and develop a devoted fanbase around the globe. With a captivating balance between their traditional-sounding instrumental tunes, and songs, The East Pointers have spent the last two years solidly touring Canada, the US, the UK, and Australia in support of their JUNO Award winning album, Secret Victory.
“Furiously energetic yet organic, celebratory yet cool, this is an impressive calling-card for a band who are soon to be making waves around the world” – Songlines Magazine
“The high-velocity trio expresses an intuitive freedom in its approach with savvy interaction and youthful vigour” – BBC Radio 2
“Tash and Emma remind you why so many artists believe that Australia is a watering hole for brilliant musicians,” Pilerats. Both established singer songwriters in their own right, Tash Parker and Emma Anglesey combine to present gorgeous harmonies, storytelling, rhythmic guitars, ukulele and strange and wonderful percussion that will have your feet tapping and body moving.
VENUE: ‘METRO SOCIAL’ Metropole Guesthouse Lounge Upstairs (lift available) Cnr of Lurline and Gang Gang Streets, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780.
Opposite the Katoomba train station.
There is limited parking available at the rear of the property. Access can be made through the rear and the lift to the lounge is in the atrium.
If entering from the front the cocktail bar/restaurant is on the right and access to the upstairs performance space in the lounge is up the stairs or via the lift towards the back of the hotel.
The Metropole is a family friendly venue!
*Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and supervised.
Children do require a ticket for entry.
There is also a retro cocktail bar downstairs and drinks and light meals will be available from the Metro Retro pop up bar upstairs once doors open.
Doors Open 5pm. Show Starts 6pm.
General Admission. Theatre Style Seating, cocktail lounge and some standing room.
Tickets $25 DISCOUNT pre-sale available from THE METROPOLE GUESTHOUSE (during reception hours) Cnr of Lurline and Gang Gang Streets, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780. (Cash Only)
Or + b/f Card /Phone 02) 4782 5544 and Online $26.50 (Including booking fees): www.trybooking.com/SDFW
Or $30 on the Door from 5pm (Unless Sold Out)
This is an intimate seating venue and tickets are strictly limited! CONTACT DETAILS: Charity Mirow 0409 042 869
For more information visit: www.fusionboutique.com.au
Fusion Boutique Presents ‘Metro Social’ with THE NUKES (NZ) live in Concert at the 1930’s Metropole Guesthouse.
Saturday 11th November 2017, 6:30pm. Doors Open 5:30pm.
The Nukes from West Auckland, NZ are far more than a ukulele band. Part vaudeville, part rat-pack, part musical car crash, this talented trio deliver an engaging mix of humour and originality in equal measure. Great song writing, three-part harmony and blistering riffs create a riveting audience experience loved by all ages.
The innocent little uke is the instrument of choice and folk will be staggered by what they are able achieve with it. Originally formed at the 2008 Titirangi Festival of Music, the band – Dave Parker, David ‘Snapper’ Thiele and Ben Collier – love to share their quirky brand of musical brilliance, coaxing a fine blend of folk, bluegrass, reggae and post punk out of their innocent little ukuleles.
The Nukes III album recently spent six weeks on the NZ album chart top ten as well as being in the overall top 40 album chart for two weeks peaking at number 31. It topped the Independent NZ music charts for two weeks and has since seen the band tour all over NZ from Kaitaia in the Far North to Rakiura in the deep South and so much in between – over fifty shows, many sell outs, and attendance records broken around NZ.
This 2017 visit to Australia will be the band’s fourth visit in the last five years having headlined and performed at a number of ukulele festivals from Melbourne to Newcastle, Central Coast to Brisbane.
VENUE: ‘METRO SOCIAL’ Metropole Guesthouse Lounge Upstairs (lift available) Cnr of Lurline and Gang Gang Streets, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780.
Opposite the Katoomba train station.
There is limited parking available at the rear of the property. Access can be made through the rear and the lift to the lounge is in the atrium.
If entering from the front the cocktail bar/restaurant is on the right and access to the upstairs performance space in the lounge is up the stairs or via the lift towards the back of the hotel.
The Metropole is a family friendly venue!
*Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and supervised.
Children do require a ticket for entry.
There is also a retro cocktail bar downstairs and drinks and light meals will be available from the Metro Retro pop up bar upstairs once doors open.
Doors Open 5:30pm. Show Starts 6:30pm.
General Admission. Theatre Style Seating, cocktail lounge and some standing room.
Tickets $20 DISCOUNT pre-sale available from THE METROPOLE GUESTHOUSE (during reception hours) Cnr of Lurline and Gang Gang Streets, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780. (Cash Only)
This is an intimate seating venue and tickets are strictly limited! CONTACT DETAILS: Charity Mirow 0409 042 869
For more information visit: www.fusionboutique.com.au
Fusion Boutique Presents ‘Metro Social’ with FOGHORN STRINGBAND (USA) live in Concert at the 1930’s Metropole Guesthouse.
Saturday 21st October 2017, 6:30pm. Doors Open 5:30pm.
“Face it people – there’s Foghorn…and then there’s everybody else.” – Stuart Mason – The Fiddlefreak.
The Foghorn Stringband is the present day gold standard for real-deal hard-hitting genuine old-time American string band music, with eight albums, thousands of shows, over 15 years of touring under their belts, and an entirely new generation of roots musicians following their lead.
American roots music is a diverse and never-ending well of inspiration, and Foghorn Stringband continually and obsessively draws from old-time, bluegrass, classic country, and Cajun music traditions in an ongoing quest to present a broad span of American historical music with an unparalleled youthful energy, joy, and virtuosity.
The Foghorn Stringband is comprised OF four master performers and historians:
– Reeb Willms (vocals, guitar) – From rural Farmer, Washington
– Caleb Klauder (vocals, mandolin, fiddle) – From Orcas Island, Washington
– Nadine Landry (vocals, upright bass) – From the Gaspé Coast, Eastern Quebec
– Stephen ‘Sammy’ Lind (vocals, fiddle, banjo) – From Minneapolis, Minnesota
Each member of Foghorn Stringband exemplifies the best of the roots music traditions from their respective native cultures. Caleb Klauder’s wistful, keening vocals and rapid-fire mandolin picking are as influenced by Southern roots music as much as they are by his upbringing in the sea islands of coastal Washington State. Reeb Willms hails from the wind swept Eastern farmlands of Washington. Her musical family and rural upbringing are on display with every note she sings and every heart she breaks. Nadine Landry’s roots lie in the rural backroads of Acadian Québec, and her high lonesome vocals have delighted audiences the world over. Her earth-shaking bass playing is the rumbling backbone of the Foghorn sound. Minnesotan Stephen ‘Sammy’ Lind, simply put, is the old-time fiddler of his generation whose tone and voice are as old as the same hills that gave birth to this music. Together, these four have forged a sound like no other.
In performance, Foghorn Stringband gather around one microphone, balancing their music on the fly, and playing with an intense, fiery abandon. To the band, this music is as relevant today as it was at it’s birth a century ago. They see themselves not only as cultural revivalists, but also as historians and fans of this music. Their performances and recordings are a joyful celebration of music from a bygone era that still holds the power to delight audiences worldwide.
The band’s repertoire has expanded greatly in the past 15 years. They are as comfortable playing music at a neighbourhood square dance as they are stirring a festival audience to a frenzy. Old time dance tunes rub shoulders with Cajun waltzes, vintage honky tonk country, and classic bluegrass….and it’s all rendered into a cohesive whole. Foghorn Stringband can often be found after a performance in a local pub or club continuing to play with equal energy and joy late into the night. They’re obsessed, and that obsession rings true with every note they play and every song they sing. You’ll see. There’s Foghorn…and there’s everybody else.
“Many are called, but few are chosen. On their new recording Devil in the Seat, Foghorn Stringband proves once again that they are still the Chosen Ones when it comes to down-home, footstomping, ass-kickin’ old time music.” — Stuart Mason, FiddleFreak
“All they have to do is play, and the power surges straight through your own chest. They let their own musicality and the tunes speak for themselves.” “There’s an honesty to this music….It’s pure and simple, ingredients that often go missing in this day and age. It just makes you want to get up and dance.” “Foghorn Stringband makes the music their own with instrumental virtuosity and intense dedication to the sources.” – Old Time Herald
“…the quartet is among the finest practitioners of American old-time music on the globe, a string band whose faithful renditions of songs from bygone decades are no less than living, breathing history.” – Ned Lannamann, The Portland Mercury
VENUE: ‘METRO SOCIAL’ Metropole Guesthouse Lounge Upstairs (lift available) Cnr of Lurline and Gang Gang Streets, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780.
Opposite the Katoomba train station.
There is limited parking available at the rear of the property. Access can be made through the rear and the lift to the lounge is in the atrium.
If entering from the front the cocktail bar/restaurant is on the right and access to the upstairs performance space in the lounge is up the stairs or via the lift towards the back of the hotel.
The Metropole is a family friendly venue!
*Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and supervised.
Children do require a ticket for entry.
There is also a retro cocktail bar downstairs and drinks and light meals will be available from the Metro Retro pop up bar upstairs once doors open.
Doors Open 5:30pm. Show Starts 6:30pm.
General Admission. Theatre Style Seating, cocktail lounge and some standing room.
Tickets $20 DISCOUNT pre-sale available from THE METROPOLE GUESTHOUSE (during reception hours) Cnr of Lurline and Gang Gang Streets, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780. (Cash Only)
This is an intimate seating venue and tickets are strictly limited! CONTACT DETAILS: Charity Mirow 0409 042 869
For more information visit: www.fusionboutique.com.au
Fusion Boutique Presents THE DAVIDSON BROTHERS (VIC) in an intimate acoustic concert at the iconic Paragon.
Sat 19th August 2017 Strictly limited tickets!
The Davidson Brothers are considered two of Australia’s most highly driven and well respected bluegrass musicians. Hamish and Lachie were raised in the rural Victorian town of Yinnar and began performing and recording in 1998. Since then, they’ve toured the United States, Europe, appeared on the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville and toured their band extensively across Australia.
Mostly self-taught, multi-Instrumentalists, both Hamish (fiddle, banjo, guitar, dobro, vocals) and Lachlan (mandolin, fiddle, guitar, vocals) became in-demand session musicians before they finished high school and as competitive teenagers they both went on to win National Bluegrass Championship titles.
Together, the Davidson Brothers have had top 10 Country Radio Singles, reached the ARIA Country Albums Chart and established the Australian Bluegrass Scholarship in 2011 to enhance a young culture and encourage acoustic musicians.
After eighteen consecutive years performing the Tamworth Country Music Festival, three Golden Guitar Awards later, Hamish and Lachie returned with their eighth studio release in April 2017, ‘All You Need Is Music’, which was recorded in Nashville and features 12 new original Bluegrass & Country tracks.
Recently, the boys were inducted by the Australian Country Music Hall of Fame into Tamworth’s prestigious Hands Of Fame monument and in 2016 they teamed up with legendary rocker Joe Camilleri and the Black Sorrows to collaborate in the studio and on stage, opening sold out shows in both Melbourne and regional Victoria.
The brothers have a uniquely Australian light hearted outlook on life which they use to showcase their musical ability to all unsuspecting audiences. Well known for their contemporary acoustic style the Davidson Brothers are destined to have a long-standing career on the Australian music scene.
The Davidson Brothers last performed in the Blue Mountains for the 2017 Blue Mountains Music Festival. Join them in a four piece format as they perform acoustically in this iconic space.
“All music should be this much fun.” – The Age
“The Davidson Brothers are talented fellas and awesome guys. I love what they do and I’ve really enjoyed the privilege of working with them. This album is a great one.” – Dan Sultan
“Two young blokes with all the energy and drive of their generation and an innate ability to transpose that energy to a younger audience.” – Capital News Magazine
VENUE: THE PARAGON CAFE back Banquet Hall / Cocktail Lounge
65 Katoomba St, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780.
Established in 1916, The Paragon is Australia’s oldest running and most original café and certainly one of the most opulent ever built in this country. Situated in the heart of Katoomba the Paragon is an iconic landmark that is an essential stop on any visit to the Blue Mountains. The three rooms that comprise the Paragon: Café, Formal Dining Room and Cocktail Lounge are some the finest and most richly detailed Art Deco interiors anywhere in the world.
The Paragon is a family friendly venue! *Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and supervised.
Children do require a ticket for entry.
Back Room Doors Open at 7:30pm. Show Starts 8pm.
General Admission. Theatre style seating. Full bar available and the Paragon restaurant will also be open for dinner. Dinner bookings with the Paragon are advised as there are limited tables available.
Fusion Boutique Presents ‘Metro Social’ with LOLO LOVINA at the Metropole Guesthouse.
Lolo Lovina’s 10th Birthday Celebration Party Masquerade Ball held in the 1930’s Metro Retro Bar / Restaurant.
Saturday 27th May 2017, 6pm. Doors Open 5pm.
Lolo Lovina (‘Red Beer’) are an intoxicating, cosmopolitan virtuosic brew infused with Unza, Swing and Balkan Gypsy beats. The only ethnic Romani band in Australia, fronted by Hungarian Romani-Gypsy singer Sarah Bedak.
Lolo Lovina’s music reflects the cosmopolitan identity of an artist, who grew up with three native tongues and cultures. The charming and passionate performance of the charismatic singer makes each of her concerts an unique experience. Featuring Serbian Rroma drummer and guitarist Nenad Radic, Stuart Vandegraaff on Sax, clarinet & Ney, David Carr on guitar and banjo & Nathan Gatt on double bass.
Lolo Lovina have played at the Opera House, Guca Festival Serbia, in New Caledonia, in Europe and to full houses wherever they go. Their album Rroma Sapien received a 4 Star review in the London based World Music magazine Song Lines (June 2016) and was played in full on National Australian radio.
‘RrOMaNTICS’ Lolo Lovina’s 3rd album features Lolo Lovina originals, traditional Rroma (Gypsy) tunes as well as signature ‘Lolo-fied’ covers. ‘RrOMaNTICS’ sees influences of Argentinian tango, Oz rock and deep Romanian Rroma. Expect soulful, fun, fresh, a little bit naughty and totally RrOMaNTIC!
Highlights: Rroma Sapien featured on The Daily Planet, ABC Radio National March 2015 Sydney Opera House 40 Anniversary Concert, 2013
Live En Aout Festival, New Caledonia 2014
Australian tour with the New York Gypsy All Stars, 2013
Guca Trumpet Festival, Serbia 2011
Brian Eno’s Luminous Festival; The Opera House; 2009
Spiegeltent 2009
“(Lolo Lovina)…have created an album that swings from traditional to groundbreaking Rroma music, all imbued with a tremendous sense of fun” – Lucky Oceans, The Daily Planet ABC Radio National
“You have to listen to these people, this is the future of music” – Brian Eno, Luminous Festival, Sydney Opera House
“With musicians from Ukrainian/Romanian, Hungarian and Brazillian backgrounds, this music is authentic to its roots and played with vigour and precision.” – Bradfield Dumpleton
“Musically and culturally Planet/MGM consider the group to be in the forefront of contemporary world music coming out of Australia. Their live performances are exciting, varied and professional with consummate performance skills from all members.” – Graeme Regan, MGM the Planet Company
VENUE: METRO SOCIAL in the Bar / Restaurant of the Metropole Guesthouse Cnr of Lurline and Gang Gang Streets, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780.
Opposite the Katoomba train station.
There is limited parking available at the rear of the property. Access can also be made through the rear. If entering from the front the bar/restaurant is on the right.
The Metropole is a family friendly venue!
*Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and supervised.
Children do require a ticket for entry.
Drinks and light meals will be available from the Metro Retro bar once doors open.
Doors Open 5pm. Show Starts 6pm.
General Admission.
Communal Tables, Theatre Style Seating to the sides and some Standing Room.
Tickets $25 DISCOUNT pre-sale available from THE METROPOLE GUESTHOUSE (during reception hours) Cnr of Lurline and Gang Gang Streets, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780. (Cash Only)
Or + b/f Card /Phone 02) 4782 5544 and Online $26.50 (Including booking fees): www.trybooking.com/PCII
Or $30 on the Door from 5pm Saturday 27th May 2017 (Unless Sold Out)
This is an intimate seating space and tickets are exclusively limited CONTACT DETAILS: Charity Mirow 0409 042 869
For more information visit: www.fusionboutique.com.au
Fusion Boutique Presents ‘Metro Social’ with
THE MORRISONS (Album Launch)
+ Special Guests LIME & STEEL
live in Concert at the 1930’s Metropole Guesthouse.
Saturday 18th Feb 2017, 6:30pm. Doors Open 5:30pm.
Winners of the 2014 folk/acoustic song of the year at the Australian Song Writers Association Awards, The Morrisons fuse Australian stories and sounds with the spirit and intensity of old time American bluegrass, country and folk. With high, lonesome singing, fast picking and original songs inspired by folklore, family and their lives as young Australians, they are a modern day string band like no other.
Featuring banjo, fiddle, mandolin, guitar, bass, washboard, harmonica, and 4 part harmonies, they deliver a live show full of raw energy and emotion. They have performed at major festivals around the country including The National Folk Festival, Out On The Weekend, Secret Garden, and supported highly acclaimed international artists Lindi Ortega (CAN) and Lake Street Dive (US). In 2014/15 they co-presented a bi-monthly night of country music in Sydney with Lost Highway (Universal Music’s country label), where they hosted artists like Shane Nicholson, Catherine Britt and Emma Swift. Their show, ‘Man of constant sorrow’: A tribute to the music of Oh Brother Where Art Thou, has sold out three years in a row, with a cast featuring Ngaiire, All Our Exes Live In Texas, Luke Escombe, Brian Campeau & Tommy Dean. They have appeared regularly on ABC and FBI radio and recently performed Paul Kelly’s two highly acclaimed bluegrass albums Smoke and Foggy Highway at Sydney’s iconic venue the Basement (March 2015).
Their debut single ‘Wild Eleanor’ (ASA folk/acoustic song of 2014) was released in October 2015, with a full-length album to follow in 2016.
“The Morrisons play big band folk, like a mash up of both Inside Llewyn Davies and Oh Brother Where Art Thou’s T-Bone Burnett” – Concrete Playground
“Gathered centre-stage around a single microphone, performing a consummate set of bluegrass music. Solos were aplenty and all band members showed their ability to shine in the spotlight before pulling their instrument back into the cohesive and brisk pluck and strum of their collective sound” – The Music
“An incredible bluegrass/country/folk 7 piece” – AU Review
“The Morrisons prove that Sydney bands can pick with the best of the them” – Timber & Steel
Lime and Steel’s roots-down banjo fiddle grooves, dust kicking hoe-downs and original folk noir convict murder ballads brush on just enough paint to catch the darker side of the Australian soul: All cut with equal parts charm and cheap wine.
VENUE: ‘METRO SOCIAL’ Metropole Guesthouse Lounge Upstairs (lift available) Cnr of Lurline and Gang Gang Streets, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780.
Opposite the Katoomba train station.
There is limited parking available at the rear of the property. Access can be made through the rear and the lift to the lounge is in the atrium.
If entering from the front the cocktail bar/restaurant is on the right and access to the upstairs performance space in the lounge is up the stairs or via the lift towards the back of the hotel.
The Metropole is a family friendly venue!
*Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and supervised.
Children do require a ticket for entry.
There is also a retro cocktail bar downstairs and drinks and light meals will be available from the Metro Retro pop up bar.
Doors Open 5:30pm. Show Starts 6:30pm.
General Admission. Theatre Style Seating, cocktail lounge and some standing room.
Tickets $20 DISCOUNT pre-sale available from THE METROPOLE GUESTHOUSE (during reception hours) Cnr of Lurline and Gang Gang Streets, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780. (Cash Only)
And KATOOMBA MUSIC, 140 Katoomba St, Katoomba, NSW 2780 (Tues-Sat. Cash Only)
Or $25 on the Door from 5:30pm Saturday 18th Feb 2017 (Unless Sold Out)
This is an intimate seating venue and tickets are strictly limited! CONTACT DETAILS: Charity Mirow 0409 042 869
For more information visit: www.fusionboutique.com.au
Sat 4th Feb 2017 Venue: HOTEL GEARIN, 273 Great Western Hwy, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780.
As seen on Spicks and Specks and Australia’s Got Talent! The Pigs are comin’ back to the Mountains. With some Mount’n music!
Unashamed bluegrass sinners, The Pigs have been spreading their supercharged hillbilly pop around Australia and the world for over 12 years. Their ability to turn hit pop songs into downright foot-stompers is legendary and their kooky original anthems like ‘Macho Moisturiser’ and ‘Hey Christina’ are sung from Berlin to Bendigo.
Following three celebrated albums, international tours, Golden Guitar nominations and a trip to the dentist, 2015 saw the release of their iconic Aussie album, ‘The Pigs Home Brew’ and the crazy national tour that ensued, including major festivals, regional theatres and TV appearances – even singing “Ita” to Ita Buttrose (she loved their shiny teeth)!
T-Bone, Stretch, Cousin Shamus, Cousin Montz and Cousin Bert will perform crowd-favourite tunes from 12 Years on the road. With double bass, acoustic guitars, mandolin, stand up drums, banjo and big bluegrass vocal harmonies, The Pigs’ barefoot-genre-bending-energy appeals to just about anybody with a pulse!
The band is known for its dynamic and entertaining live performances guaranteed to get your feet stomping and your faces smiling.
They will be playing a huge two full length sets from 9pm.
Venue: HOTEL GEARIN
273 Great Western Hwy, Katoomba
Blue Mountains NSW 2780.
*Please note that Hotel Gearin shows are over 18’s only.
Doors Open 8:30pm. Show Starts 9pm.
General Admission. Room configuration is a mix of cabaret seating and standing/dancing.
Tickets DISCOUNT Early Bird pre-sale $20 available from:
KATOOMBA MUSIC, 140 Katoomba St, Katoomba, NSW 2780 (Tues-Sat. Cash Only) or the Hotel Gearin front Bar during open hours.
Lolo Lovina ‘RrOMaNTICS’ Album Launch
+ Special Guests: Belle Jar
Sat 10th Dec 2016 Venue: HOTEL GEARIN, 273 Great Western Hwy, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780.
Fresh from their European CD tour, Lolo Lovina launch their new album in the Blue Mountains.
We had the distinct pleasure of bringing this fabulous act to the Blue Mountains last time and now have the honour of hosting them again a little over two and a half years later! Presenting again 2 fantastic acts in one night –
Tango, Swing, Jazz, Multicultural Gypsy Rhythms with a touch of Balkan & French Flavouring!
Lolo Lovina (‘Red Beer’) are an intoxicating, cosmopolitan virtuosic brew infused with Unza, Swing and Balkan Gypsy beats. The only ethnic Romani band in Australia, fronted by Hungarian Romani-Gypsy singer Sarah Bedak.
Lolo Lovina’s music reflects the cosmopolitan identity of an artist, who grew up with three native tongues and cultures. The charming and passionate performance of the charismatic singer makes each of her concerts an unique experience. Featuring Serbian Rroma drummer and guitarist Nenad Radic, Stuart Vandegraaff on Sax, clarinet & Ney, David Carr on guitar and banjo & Nathan Gatt on double bass.
Lolo Lovina have played at the Opera House, Guca Festival Serbia, in New Caledonia, in Europe and to full houses wherever they go. Their album Rroma Sapien received a 4 Star review in the London based World Music magazine Song Lines (June 2016) and was played in full on National Australian radio.
‘RrOMaNTICS’ Lolo Lovina’s 3rd album features Lolo Lovina originals, traditional Rroma (Gypsy) tunes as well as signature ‘Lolo-fied’ covers. ‘RrOMaNTICS’ sees influences of Argentinian tango, Oz rock and deep Romanian Rroma. Expect soulful, fun, fresh, a little bit naughty and totally RrOMaNTIC!
Highlights: Rroma Sapien featured on The Daily Planet, ABC Radio National March 2015 Sydney Opera House 40 Anniversary Concert, 2013
Live En Aout Festival, New Caledonia 2014
Australian tour with the New York Gypsy All Stars, 2013
Guca Trumpet Festival, Serbia 2011
Brian Eno’s Luminous Festival; The Opera House; 2009
Spiegeltent 2009
“(Lolo Lovina)…have created an album that swings from traditional to groundbreaking Rroma music, all imbued with a tremendous sense of fun” – Lucky Oceans, The Daily Planet ABC Radio National
“You have to listen to these people, this is the future of music” – Brian Eno, Luminous Festival, Sydney Opera House
“With musicians from Ukrainian/Romanian, Hungarian and Brazillian backgrounds, this music is authentic to its roots and played with vigour and precision.” – Bradfield Dumpleton
“Musically and culturally Planet/MGM consider the group to be in the forefront of contemporary world music coming out of Australia. Their live performances are exciting, varied and professional with consummate performance skills from all members.” – Graeme Regan, MGM the Planet Company
Ignited in the catacombs of Paris, Belle Jar brings you the madness and mayhem of infectious rhythms and manic fables.
They play an original blend of Gypsy, Klezmer, Swing and Pop styles, with English and French lyrics. They tell stories of anti-heroes trying to break out of the ordinary that will get you up and dancing.
Belle Jar‘s infectious energy has spread from festival to festival over the last few years. Their genuine interaction with people and their passion for what they do is evident. These guys will fire up your old country longings as wild boom-chak boom-chak rhythm meets bent melody.
Venue: HOTEL GEARIN
273 Great Western Hwy, Katoomba
Blue Mountains NSW 2780.
*Please note that Hotel Gearin shows are over 18’s only.
Doors Open 8:30pm. Belle Jar Start 9pm.
General Admission. Room configuration is a mix of cabaret seating and standing/dancing.
Tickets DISCOUNT Early Bird pre-sale $15 available from:
KATOOMBA MUSIC, 140 Katoomba St, Katoomba, NSW 2780 (Tues-Sat. Cash Only) or the Hotel Gearin front Bar during open hours.
The Green Mohair Suits Album Launch Tour
+ The Haywood Billy Goats (USA)
Sat 26th Nov 2016 Venue: HOTEL GEARIN, 273 Great Western Hwy, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780.
The Green Mohair Suits are about much more than delivering new takes on old sounds. Their inspired musicianship has seen them compile a collection of quality original tunes – a solid mix of heartbreak and hangover, humour and humility – that are crying out to entertain a broader audience. Occupying a broad musical landscape between influences like Beck, Fleet Foxes, Hank Williams, Tom Waits, Portishead & Gram Parsons, band member Campeau labels their music “Garage-grass”, adding fans should “expect sad songs and waltzes.” He forgets to add that they should also prepare themselves for a harmonious blur of booze-soaked good times, mixed with schooner-loads of emotion and energy. “See us because we’re super hot and our harmonies are like having an orgasm on a mountain top,” Campeau declares. “The vibe onstage is always great – we focus much more on having a good time than being perfectionists.”
We are very pleased to present the Green Mohair Suits for their latest Album Launch.
‘This album gets into your head the way a green mohair suit would get all over your couch’ – Tristian Lutze
“Green Mohair Suits make music for pleasure. Our Pleasure. If you don’t find yourself smiling, tapping or joining in on one of those harmonies, you’re leading a very sad life” – Bernard Zuel
“Their strength lies in their uber-tight harmonies that blend in virtuosic layers, equal parts Fleet Foxes and CSN. Like local alumni Little Bastard they’ve captured the vibe and mood of their live performances while granting their songs their moment in the studio spotlight. ‘Wooden Duck ‘ is a rewarding blend of bluegrass and both modern and traditional folk music.” – Chris Familton
We are also extremely pleased to present Chatham County, NC based old time dance band The Haywood Billy Goats who are touring Australia for a lot of the summer festivals including the Dorrigo Folk Festival.
The Haywood Billy Goats have become one of the most respected string bands in the North Carolina old time music scene.
Their tight, hard-driving sound and repertoire of traditional NC dance music has earned the band top finishes in a number of reputable string band contests throughout the region as well as numerous ribbons for twin fiddling.
Members of the group have won blue ribbons at prestigious contests such as the Mt. Airy, Union Grove, and Fiddler’s Grove Festivals as well as a first place finish at the 2015 Australian National Bluegrass Mandolin Championship. In addition to being in demand as a square-dance band across North Carolina, the Haywood Billy Goats have played for dance contests at various festivals throughout the region and have performed with legendary NC dance ensemble, the Green Grass Cloggers.
Holding great appreciation for older-generation musicians in the traditional music community, the Billy Goats have spent considerable time playing with and learning from many respected old time musicians from the Round Peak and Piedmont regions of North Carolina. Members of the Billy Goats have also performed with Sierra Hull, Ricky Skaggs, Jim Lauderdale, Chris Henry and the Hardcore Grass, and Mandolin Orange.
Venue: HOTEL GEARIN
273 Great Western Hwy, Katoomba
Blue Mountains NSW 2780.
*Please note that Hotel Gearin shows are over 18’s only.
Doors Open 8:30pm. Show Starts 9pm.
General Admission. Room configuration is a mix of cabaret seating and standing/dancing.
Tickets DISCOUNT Early Bird pre-sale $15 available from:
KATOOMBA MUSIC, 140 Katoomba St, Katoomba, NSW 2780 (Tues-Sat. Cash Only) or the Hotel Gearin front Bar during open hours.
The Company Album Launch Tour
+ 10 String Symphony (USA)
Sat 29th Oct 2016 Venue: HOTEL GEARIN, 273 Great Western Hwy, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780.
The Company are embarking on an Australian tour to release their third studio album ‘Six and Five’ and are returning to Katoomba, following their Blue Mountains Music Festival performance in 2015.
We are very excited to announce that they will also be joined by Nashville progressive acoustic Folk duo 10 String Symphony.
Boasting two Australian Bluegrass champions on guitar, fiddle and banjo, The Company have a passion for high-energy original and traditional acoustic music and have solidified themselves as one of the best bluegrass outfits in Australia. The playing and singing is crisp, melodic and soulful. In concert you witness the band’s virtuosity but also a wry humour and engaging camaraderie. Highly regarded for their originality, they’ve appeared at major music festivals around Australia (Port Fairy, Woodford, Tamworth Country Music Festival, Queensland Music Festival, National Folk Festival, Mountain Grass Festival etc) and the UK (Hebridean Celtic Music Festival, Belladrum Music Festival) and have been featured on local ABC radio and ABC Radio National.
Members include Mick Patrick (Vocals/Mandolin/fiddle) National Folk Festival “Declan Affley” Award winner who grew up in a family band playing bush dances in North Queensland; Jamie Clark (Guitar/Vocals) CMAA Bluegrass Flatpicking Champion in 2011 and described as “a cracking guitarist” by Rolling Stone Magazine; now Nashville based George Jackson (Fiddle/Banjo/Vocals) a 7th generation fiddler and 2012 Golden Fiddle Award for “Best Fiddler”; and Norwegian born Markus Karlsen (Double Bass/Vocals) a highly sought after session bassist in Australia.
“A masterclass in bluegrass” – Sean Sennett, The Australian
“The quartet is at the pinnacle of the Australian acoustic country scene.” – David Costello, Courier Mail
“Fantastic! … This band is raising the bar for acoustic musicians in Australia” – 3-time Golden Guitar winner, Hamish Davidson of the Davidson Brothers
Nashville duo 10 String Symphony began as a partnership of mutual admiration and a much needed creative release valve for Rachel Baiman and Christian Sedelmyer, two 5 string fiddle players and veteran sidemen of Nashville’s music scene. Rachel, a former Illinois state fiddle champion in the old time tradition, needed an outlet for the new sort of songs she was writing, while Christian, originally a classically trained violinist, now a current touring member of the Jerry Douglas Band, was looking to get in touch the impetuous spirit of the rock bands he played in before his arrival in Nashville. With the love of the 5 string fiddle and its musical possibilities as its focal point, the band’s mission statement was as clear as it was expansive:
Two fiddles. Two Voices. Epic music.
And yet, ‘Weight of the world,’ the band’s latest batch of recordings to be released on 23rd Oct, is not at all the record one might expect from a duo of seasoned Nashville fiddlers. This is not a record of showboating no mere polished showcasing of technical virtuosity. Rather, at its core, ‘Weight of the world’ is raw and intimate a nuanced and patient record with designs to move rather than merely impress its listeners. Rachel and Christian’s musical prowess and chemistry is certainly on display for those in the know, but listening deeply reveals that these flourishes are always in service of reaching the listener emotionally the spiritual earnestness of songcraft which keeps us perennially returning to the roots of American music.
ALL THINGS MUSIC has described the band’s’ sound as a “new take on old ideas,” a concept and tension that the duo continues to explore throughout “Weight of the World.” This is showcased on songs like “Someone to be Good For,” where a timeless fiddle melody is underscored by Rachel’s acutely personal and timely take on the search for romantic fulfilment in the midst of brokenness. Or in the searching harmonies and exploratory fiddle runs of a song like “I’m Not Lonesome” While the title may hearken back to the tradition, Christian’s haunting melodies and searching cadences bespeak of an artist that has spent as much time with Wagner and Pet Sounds era Beach Boys as he has with the Seeger brothers.
And perhaps this is what makes ‘Weight of the World’ such a brave record: Its the soundtrack of a process a picture of a band striving to maintain the purity of purpose of the American oldtime tradition, while simultaneously stretching its limitations with unique arrangements, unflinchingly personal lyrics, and a bravely progressive melodic palette.
‘Weight of the World’ is a snapshot of an impetuous band in midstride oldsouls who are passionately determined to speak to our contemporary moment. From the sounds of it, this is just the beginning. - James Wilson (Sons of BIll)
“They do things with fiddles you wouldn’t expect” NPR All Songs Considered “The Newest and Most Promising Voices in Americana”
“…a dynamic musical stew that covers a wide spectrum of acoustic-based roots music, hitting on old-time, folk and bluegrass, all delivered with a dash of rock and roll spunk.” – American Songwriter Magazine
“When each song ended, the two pressed tight into their microhphones, savoring the last strains of the harmony – and even the bartenders seemed to be leaning forward breathlessly, awaiting someone to clap first. Their self titled recording aptly demonstrates the power of a spare, tightly-connected acoustic performance that is given room to evolve – for bluegrass fans, the lightning fast harmonic runs on dueling fiddle is worth the price of admission alone. But it’s the off-road experiments, especially from Christian’s biting bow strokes that will make future audiences take note.” – The Bluegrass Situation
“…Stirring together Old-Time flavors with the broader range of influences brought by an omnivorous musical appetite” – The Nashville Scene
“Really, really beautiful.” – Ricky Ross, BBC Scotland
“An unassumingly intriguing record…something out of the ordinary” – Steve Hunt, fRoots Magazine (UK)
Venue: HOTEL GEARIN
273 Great Western Hwy, Katoomba
Blue Mountains NSW 2780.
*Please note that Hotel Gearin shows are over 18’s only.
Doors Open 8:30pm. Show Starts 9pm.
General Admission. Room configuration is a mix of cabaret seating and standing/dancing.
Tickets DISCOUNT Early Bird pre-sale $20 available from:
KATOOMBA MUSIC, 140 Katoomba St, Katoomba, NSW 2780 (Tues-Sat. Cash Only) or the Hotel Gearin front Bar during open hours.
THE EAST POINTERS (Canada)
+ THE MAE TRIO (Melbourne)
Fri 8th April 2016 Venue: HOTEL GEARIN, 273 Great Western Hwy, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780
Ontario guitarist Jake Charron and 7th generation Prince Edward Island musicians Tim (fiddle) and Koady Chaisson (banjo) make traditional music seem ridiculously hip.
An adrenalised, roof-rattling, performance monster, the trio’s excellent new release Secret Victory, penned mostly in Australia in early 2015, features the beautiful songs, free-wheeling, feisty instrumental jigs, stomps and reels and heart-breaking harmonies that have made them torchbearers for a new wave in traditional music.
Even before releasing Secret Victory, The East Pointers knew they were onto something, having accepted the 2015 Music P.E.I. New Artist of the Year, and Roots Traditional Recording of the Year awards. They were also nominated for Traditional Instrumental Recording of the Year at the 2015 East Coast Music Awards.
For a band barely together 18 months, they are in demand live, returning to the UK and Australia in late 2015 for a run of festival dates including Woodford Folk Festival, Cygnet, Illawarra, Cobargo, Nannup, Port Fairy and the National and then back again in early 2016 after extensive touring in Canada.
Timber and Steel included ‘Secret Victory’ in their Top 25 Albums of 2015!
Multi-award-winning, Melbourne-based contemporary folk trio, The Mae Trio perform insightful original songs with superb 3 part vocal harmonies.
It has been a magical two years since The Mae Trio released their award-winning debut album Housewarming and hit international stages from Celtic Connections (Glasgow) to Cambridge Folk Festival and Americana Festival (Nashville), not to mention national Australian tours where they won the hearts of critics and fans alike. Winners of the Maton Class Act Award and the National Film & Sound Archive Award for Folk Recording of the Year, The Mae Trio is renowned for their sophisticated instrumentation and stellar three-part harmonies. Their latest EP ‘September’ features an array of originals and new interpretations of some of the songs that have helped shape the band’s musical lives so far.
Join Anita Hillman (cello, bass and vocals), Maggie Rigby (banjo, ukulele, guitar, marimba and vocals) and Elsie Rigby (violin, ukulele and vocals) for an evening of contemporary folk that will leave you breathless.
It is a rare treat to experience such unique instrumentation and spine-tingling harmonies, and The Mae Trio promises bucket loads of both.
“a delightful Australian girl group whom it is hard to fault…theirs is an innocent, clear-skinned sound that’s long on banjo, fiddle and ukulele” – Metro (Glasgow)
“The Mae Trio has made a meteoric mark on the national acoustic music scene” – Rhythms
“they belied their apparent youth with some fine songs and dry wit” – Americana UK
“The Mae Trio were easily the break-out act at Folk Alliance” – The Bluegrass Situation
“A favourite on the Aussie folk scene… definitely a trio to keep an eye and an ear (or two) out for” – Songlines UK
One Up, Two Down Blue Mountains EP Launch
+ Special Guests:
Catgut + The Plough
Fri 29th Jan 2016 Venue: HOTEL GEARIN, 273 Great Western Hwy, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780.
One Up, Two Down return to Australia fresh from a busy year that’s seen them embark on their first tour in America and join forces with Chris Henry for tours across the USA and Australia.
They will be releasing their brand new EP ‘A Day On The Quay’ to the Blue Mountains audience, a recording that captures their live performance energy and follows up on their 2014 self titled release.
One Up, Two Down hail from three countries joined by the Pacific Ocean. Fiddler George Jackson and guitarist Daniel Watkins, from New Zealand and Australia respectively, are back to back winners of the Australian Bluegrass Scholarship (’12, ’13) and veteran touring musicians in the Australian bluegrass scene. Together with North Carolinian, Yale School of Music trained (MM ’13) double bassist Andrew Small, they bring together raw old-time groove, bluegrass dexterity, and folk storytelling.
“The self-titled EP from George Jackson, Andrew Small and Daniel Watkins is a piece of pure folk gold. It’s a shame that Small lives in the states as the opportunities to see One Up, Two Down are limited, but if you do get a chance to see them grab it with both hands. On the surface this is a bluegrass release but these guys are so well versed in the folk traditions that you can feel celtic, blues and country influences creeping in to make a wonderful, folky mess.” – Timber and Steel
Catgut can usually be found in leafy parks and cosy bars around Sydney’s inner west, picking away at dance-inducing old time tunes, singing in three-part harmony and venturing into improvisatory spacegrass. Members build on their respective histories as part of subversive bluegrass outfit The Lurkers and stalwarts of Sydney’s bluegrass scene, the Owens Family Band.
Armed with a repertoire of original songs, country ballads, old-time standards and twin-fiddle tunes, Miriam Jones (fiddle), Nick Street (guitar) and Kieran Owens (banjo) will play ’til the cows come home. Inspired by the reimagining of old tunes and the telling of new stories, Catgut will move you to dance, think, laugh or cry.
The Plough are an Old Time String Band that play high-energy Appalachian style Old Time, Gospel and Bluegrass music.
Their debut CD, ‘Reap What You Sow’, has been described as “harking back to those authentic field recordings of the 1940’s” (Judith Jones, Bluegrass Bulletin).
As well as playing at many festivals in Australia, such as The National Folk Festival, Dorrigo Folk and Bluegrass Festival, Yass Turning Wave, they have also featured on Tamworth’s Country Music Festival ‘Toyota Festival FM 106.1.
The Plough have also this year toured to Sweden to play at Torsåker Bluegrass Festival and Ireland to play at Athy Bluegrass Festival.
Blue Mountains based, The Plough originates out of the Sydney Old Time and Bluegrass society and are passionate about keeping the old music alive and relevant.
“Recreating “olde timey string” sounds, this four piece boasts talents in mandolin, fiddle, banjo and acoustic guitar. Their sound is authentic and when listening, I felt like it was in a sepia film from the American Deep South” – Regi Su, www.getshotmagazine.com
The Morrisons (Single Launch)
Special Guests Lime & Steel
Sat 5th Dec 2015 Venue: HOTEL GEARIN, 273 Great Western Hwy, Katoomba, Blue Mountains NSW 2780.
Winners of the 2014 folk/acoustic song of the year at the Australian Song Writers Association Awards, The Morrisons fuse Australian stories and sounds with the spirit and intensity of old time American bluegrass, country and folk. With high, lonesome singing, fast picking and original songs inspired by folklore, family and their lives as young Australians, they are a modern day string band like no other.
Featuring banjo, fiddle, mandolin, guitar, bass, washboard, harmonica, and 4 part harmonies, they deliver a live show full of raw energy and emotion. They have performed at major festivals around the country including The National Folk Festival, Out On The Weekend, Secret Garden, and supported highly acclaimed international artists Lindi Ortega (CAN) and Lake Street Dive (US). In 2014/15 they co-presented a bi-monthly night of country music in Sydney with Lost Highway (Universal Music’s country label), where they hosted artists like Shane Nicholson, Catherine Britt and Emma Swift. Their show, ‘Man of constant sorrow’: A tribute to the music of Oh Brother Where Art Thou, has sold out three years in a row, with a cast featuring Ngaiire, All Our Exes Live In Texas, Luke Escombe, Brian Campeau & Tommy Dean. They have appeared regularly on ABC and FBI radio and recently performed Paul Kelly’s two highly acclaimed bluegrass albums Smoke and Foggy Highway at Sydney’s iconic venue the Basement (March 2015).
Their debut single ‘Wild Eleanor’ (ASA folk/acoustic song of 2014) is due for official release in October 2015, with a full-length album to follow in 2016.
The Morrisons play big band folk, like a mash up of both Inside Llewyn Davies and Oh Brother Where Art Thou’s T-Bone Burnett” – Concrete Playground
“Gathered centre-stage around a single microphone, performing a consummate set of bluegrass music. Solos were aplenty and all band members showed their ability to shine in the spotlight before pulling their instrument back into the cohesive and brisk pluck and strum of their collective sound” – The Music
“An incredible bluegrass/country/folk 7 piece” – AU Review
“The Morrisons prove that Sydney bands can pick with the best of the them” – Timber & Steel
Lime and Steel’s roots-down banjo fiddle grooves, dust kicking hoe-downs and original folk noir convict murder ballads brush on just enough paint to catch the darker side of the Australian soul: All cut with equal parts charm and cheap wine.
