BRIGHT EYES

Uplifting sights and sounds given gratis post peril.


Wednesday May the 7th ~

Palmer & Co. As old as the hills. Under, not over. Night, not day. For up to four hours, from 10.


Friday May the 9th ~

Somehow we prevailed in staging another Good Riddance at the same damn time that this country saw off a hate-monger best described, by my producer Hugh, as a scrotum stretched over a bollard.

The joy was delirious and palpable on the streets of Newtown (please see this footage and my fulsome thanks here). Hot Flush and I were constantly assailed by young folks (who'd just happened by on their way down King St) in the last few hours, asking who we were and where they could see us play.

Ironically the discontinuation of Sin City Soirée over the road at Pleasure Club, which always triggered similar scenes as the night got rammed and deep, meant our only combined (Sham DJs) offering was back at the Hotel Hollywood where it all began. None of them had even heard of it!

That's why I love playing for free to all ages in public: everybody gains and grows, courtesy of each other. We'll reconvene for Shiny Shiny there in Slurry - from 8 til 1 tonight - and set it alight!

STOP PRESS: After writing this newsletter last night I've awoken to the devastating news that one of Sydney's greatest deejays (not to mention interviewer, arts programmer, film buff and broadcaster), Paris Groovescooter, has left this mortal coil. Paris was perhaps the most thoughtful and genuine fellow in the whole scene, animating all around him with his wry and kindly ways. It turns out he has died on his birthday today - and I never knew, til now, that he shared that with my only sibling, my dear departed brother. I was playing at the Hollywood when Sean finally found peace. Liz and I will attempt to imbue what we do at that same site on Friday with the vibrant, mischievous and inclusive energy of Paris. For now our hearts & love go out to his one true peer and companion, Georgie.


Saturday May the 10th ~

Jack Off broadcasts with what's left of FBi Radio's staff and infrastructure, each Saturday between 3 and 5 in the arvo. Last week featured lovely Louis from Floodlights, all of which can be heard here.

Our guest this week is the extraordinary Carolina Eyck, perhaps the pre-eminent thereminist on the planet. As a massive fan of this untouchably original electronic instrument I'm so excited to hear from such an astonishing artist, live in the studio, ahead of her shows across the country with the Australian Chamber Orchestra. Tune in!

Afterwards I've the bittersweet task of farewelling probably the sweetest cat I've ever had the privilege of working for, Stefano Filardi, who has stewarded Dean and Nancy on 22 from inception, making it (in my opinion) not just the best hotel bar in the Asia-Pacific (as recognised via awards) but truly the best anywhere in the world. If I was travelling and happened on this place I would think I was dreaming!

The caring, creative and hilarious team culture Stefano has built has been an utter delight to be part of - but after many years of hard work it is his turn to travel now! This night is going to be beyond anything anyone has ever seen in a licensed premises I can tell you. Book now, if you still can. I'm pulling out all stops, from 9 til half 12.