Month: September 2018

BIGSOUND Interview: Psychedelic Porn Crumpets (Perth) talk recording their upcoming album and Clive Palmer

Gathered around a table at Brisbane’s The Elephant Hotel, psychedelic rockers Psychedelic Porn Crumpets were readying themselves for shenanigans at BIGSOUND. Much like their name, the conversation with the Perth quartet was weird and caused a lot of laughs, beginning with them learning controversial mining magnate/politician Clive Palmer placed an ad mocking radio host Ray…

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Melbourne Fringe Review: Jake Matricardi showcases stellar storytelling ability with The Gargoyle

Jake Matricardi plays a centuries old stone gargoyle who was struck by lightning whilst perched atop a church, plummeting into the river and rising with blood in his veins and a heartbeat in his chest. Living his days beneath a bridge, this wondrous and creative one man production explores the gargoyle’s existence and the stories…

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Games Review: NBA 2K19 (PS4, 2018) is still the King of the Court

The NBA 2K series is back for its 20th anniversary, which seems like a long time for a video game franchise, but has proved to be time well spent, with the NBA 2K franchise becoming the preferred platform for many NBA fans, including myself. It is with great satisfaction that I can say that while…

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Film Review: Intelligent Lives (USA, 2018) is a powerful impetus for change that demands your attention

At this very moment, there are 6.5 million Americans living with an intellectual disability. Only 15% of adults are gainfully employed with nearly 1 in 3 living below the poverty line. Their access to a proper education during their youth may provide a clue to these damning statistics. 17% of students with an intellectual disability are…

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Glitch returns for final season, filming underway in Melbourne for season 3

Filming is currently underway in Melbourne for the third and final season of Glitch, a Logie and AACTA award-winning, paranormal drama series that calls both ABC and Netflix home. The next season is said to introduce new characters, shocking twists and unexpected turns, all the while keeping viewers on the edge of their seats for…

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With a #NotOn showcase, Brisbane is making noise to help end violence against women

In 2015 Queensland based musicians used their unique and powerful platform to take a lead on the national campaign #NotOn. Domestic violence still takes the life of one Australian woman each week, and #NotOn aims to make it clear that violence against women is… not on! On Sunday November 18th The Triffid, Newstead is showcasing…

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The 2018 Man Booker Prize shortlist has been unveiled – complete with surprise omissions

Today the shortlist for the Man Booker Prize has been unveiled, with the thirteen strong longest whittled down to just six. The six authors making the cut are Anna Burns, Esi Edugyan, Daisy Johnson, Rachel Kushner, Richard Powers and Robin Robertson. Although, still a strong shortlist, it is not without its surprises. There’s no room on the…

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Music Matters Interview: Your Girl Pho (WA) talks about the flourishing Perth music scence

Neo-Soul artist from Western Australia Your Girl Pho is strikingly unconventional in her music, and her fabulous baby pink outfit – Juicy with a strong kick of spice, just like a good Pho. Originally a solo project (just Phoebe Gunson and her laptop), drums and saxophone have now been added, changing the entire set. Having…

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Hong Kong’s historic bullet trains are ready, connecting the city to Greater China

In an effort to further strengthen Hong Kong’s position as a gateway to Greater China, the city’s Transport and Housing Bureau is getting ready to introduce the long-awaited – almost a decade in the making – High Speed Rail system connecting Hong Kong, Guangzhou and Shenzhen. Set to commence operation on 23rd September of this…

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Guest Playlist: Nathan Cavaleri – The songs that influenced “Demons”

Sydney’s Indie Rock/Blues artist Nathan Cavaleri has recently released his new single “Demons”. The result of a period of personal confrontation and struggle, “Demons” is a striking mix of psychedelic guitar, and swampy riffs, and the next step in an already distinguished, (albeit perhaps unheralded) career. There have been highs; at the age of twelve…

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Theatre Review: Family-friendly Potted Potter is not quite potty enough (Seymour Centre until 23rd September)

First, there was the Complete Works of William Shakespeare – Abridged, and now we have Potted Potter – The Unauthorised Harry Experience – A Parody by Dan and Jeff (a title that, like the eponymous show, tries desperately to cram as much as possible into a very short space). Covering all seven Harry Potter books…

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Music Matters Interview: Veronica Fusaro (Switzerland) talks upcoming releases and songwriting

Up and coming Swiss singer-songwriter Veronica Fusaro showcased her soulful, passionate pop at this years Music Matters in Singapore and sat down with Larry to discuss all things music! Fusaro has now released two EPs and has become a pro at touring since the release of her most recent EP ICE COLD. Shocked at the…

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Track of the Day: Jon Hopkins “Singularity” (2018)

Today saw Jon Hopkins release what he described as “the single most epic video I’ve ever made.” It’s pretty clear within seconds of watching that this is completely justified, and not just some egocentric statement. The video in question accompanies “Singularity”, the title track from his latest record, and is a continuation of the expansive soundscape…

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Magic: The Gathering Arena enters Open Beta

The Open Beta launch date for the digital version of the world’s first strategy card game, Magic: The Gathering Arena has today been announced by creators Wizards of the Coast.  Over the past six months, the game has been played by only lucky fans in the Closed Beta, with September 28 marking the day all…

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Tech Review: Xbox Adaptive Controller is remarkable tech made for remarkable people

Gaming and physical disabilities have a long history of not working well together. Back in the early days of arcade joysticks and two-button controllers, the hurdles disabled players had to overcome in order to enjoy a video game were fewer. Even if you didn’t have great dexterity in your fingers, you could rest your palm…

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Meet the Aussies sharing the stage with Ozzy and Slayer at Download Festival 2019

Let’s admit it, Australia is now – and has been for quite some time – bursting at the seams with world-class talent; literally overflowing with musical geniuses that have been providing some of the best tunes for generations. We aren’t complaining with our high quality exports because breaking into the music scene can sometimes seem…

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Intrepid tighten focus on sustainable travel with new millennial brochure

Veteran adventure travel company Intrepid have recently put out a brand new, and very substantial, brochure focusing on socially conscious millennial travel. In a nod to the growing importance of sustainable travel and reducing one’s carbon footprint, the 18 to 29s brochure spans more than 80 travel experiences and hops from bucketlist experiences like camping…

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Melbourne Fringe Review: Consciously Kyah presents powerful creative collaboration Seeping

The first thing that hit me when I entered the dimly lit room in the midst of Sydney Road is the enveloping smell of incense. Basking in a red hued light, an array of flowers had been artfully placed around the area. The stage had been set and Consciously Kyah’s “Seeping” was about to begin….

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Interview: Rising star Ruel (Sydney) chats before launching his debut EP tour Ready around Australia

Ahead of Ruel’s headline Australian tour to launch his debut EP Ready we got a chance to sit down with the young singer/songwriter to discuss the beginnings of his musical career, how he copes with being a teenager in the music industry and performing in Japan. First of all, How is everything? Where are you…

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Album Review: Noname’s Room 25 (2018 LP) is one of the best releases of the year

Noname (FKA: Noname Gypsy) is a central figure within the underground Chicago rap scene. Her debut album Telefone was an incredible, melancholic project – dealing with sexism, introspection, and wider racial and social issues, all delivered in her trademark wispy yet warm delivery. Following the great reception this project received, the level of anticipation for her…

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Film Review: The House With A Clock In Its Walls (USA, 2018) Ticks With Magic; Tocks With Horror

When you mix up Harry Potter with Goosebumps you end up with The House With A Clock In Its Walls. A film that combines magic with a haunted house and the tried and true need for our young hero to find his courage and rise up to save the day. When orphaned 10 year old…

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Photo Gallery: Evita Opening Night – Sydney Opera House (18.09.18)

Starring the incomparable Tina Arena, Evita enjoyed its opening night at the Sydney Opera House last night. Nathan Atkins was there to capture the invited guests on the red carpet at the anticipated premiere! Evita is enjoying performances of the Sydney Opera House until November 3rd. Tickets and more details are available HERE.

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The PlayStation Classic is bringing all your fave 32-bit memories back

With the explosion of nostalgia around Nintendo’s foray into retro consoles over the last two years, it was only a matter of time before PlayStation came through with a retro console of their own. The PlayStation Classic, a miniaturised version of the venerable original PlayStation console, is on its way and it looks to be…

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BIGSOUND Interview: Sahara Beck (Brisbane) on her new direction and upcoming tour

Sahara Beck is nursing a twisted ankle after a spirited BIGSOUND performance the night before. From her telling, injuries seem to be a common occurrence for her at the festival; sometimes physical, other times her pride. “Footstomp Music Management had a party and everyone was upstairs doing business stuff and talking,” she says. “Me and…

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Theatre Review: Tina Arena wows as Evita (at Sydney Opera House until 2nd November)

Take a much-loved child star known for her angelic voice, throw in some musical theatre heavy-weights and a modern opera/musical whose composer is celebrating a milestone year, and you have a revival that could very well be the hit of Opera Australia’s 2018 season. The 40th anniversary restaging of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Evita,…

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Live Review: Biffy Clyro go “Unplugged” in Cardiff, delivering a breathtaking set

Scottish rock gods Biffy Clyro aren’t the first band that springs to mind when you think about a seated acoustic gig. Having attended many of their shows over the years I can vouch that it’s more a case of coming out with your ears ringing and your entire body dripping in sweat. If you can…

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Track of the Day: Kira Puru “Fly” (2018)

Kira Puru has unveiled her new single “Fly” on the eve of her performances at Listen Out, which will be followed by headline shows and sets at various festivals this November and December. This new single, which we’re excited to make our track of the day, is a sassy pop track that is bound to make…

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Ubisoft announce Assassin’s Creed Challenge in Sydney on October 5th and 6th

Ubisoft Australia have today announced that Sydney will experience the Assassin’s Creed Challenge this October. Coming to Metcalfe Park on the 5th and 6th of October, the challenge will celebrate the release of Assassin’s Creed Odyssey (Oct 5th), featuring a full size parkour course with obstacles inspired by the moves of a master assassin. Participants…

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Brie Larson and Samuel L Jackson captivate in first Captain Marvel trailer

As we come to the end of “Phase Three” and the leadup to next year’s still untitled Avengers finale, Marvel continue to expand their cinematic universe. Today this comes in the form of the release of the franchise’s newest addition, Captain Marvel.  Captain Marvel is an all new adventure in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, from a previously…

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Music Matters Interview: ShiGGa Shay (Singapore) talks the Lion City’s evolving Hip Hop community

Singapore based artist ShiGGa Shay is not only a rapper but is also a music producer and film maker. Showcasing his talents at this years Music Matters, ShiGGa Shay is a man of many creative pursuits, something which he states is not a necessity for a modern artist, “but it definitely helps.” On the topic…

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