March Birthdays

Jeff Brown Tour Arrives In Wauchope

Ricky Shipp Jeff Brown & Lyn Brown

Once again Wauchope was treated to another visit from Jeff & Lyn Brown along with Ricky Shipp & Jim Strohfeld on Sunday afternoon at the Wauchope Country Club.

The crew have been on th eroad since the Tamworth Festival in Jnauary and are looking forward to getting home after the tour in another week or so. I'm sure Lyn will be glad to get back to normal with the twins, who by the way are growing up very quickly.

Jeff is planning a new album in the not too distant future so keep your eyes open for that one. I'll be sure to let you know when the time draws near.

It was nice to catch up with the crew and hear all about the tour so far, but I'll leave that to Jeff & Lyn to fill you all in with when they get home & get settled again and have time to write in some news for you all.

Joy

G'day And Thanks For You Good Wishes From Connie Kis

"Doo, doo doo, looking out my back door!"

Yesterday's storm damage in the Perth metro area (our backyard)  ...  we are all OK ... birds included ... they have been relocated to a safer aviary ...

We are blessed that no one was hurt and the damage is fixable ... thanks for your concern and good wishes!

Take care
Connie Kis xx

Hastings Country Music Association 2010 Round-up

Trent Holder, Waddo, Brown, Bevan Brookes, Neil Buttsworth

Ivan Broan, Eric Styles, Henry Hollis - President, and Ken "Chainsaw" Lindsay

Just a couple of shots from the Hastings Country Music Association Round-up held at the weekend.The weekend was a successful one raising around $6000.00 for the local Hospital Ladies Auxillery.

Joy

New Album For “Waddo”

Lindsay Waddington has a new cd out now. This one is called True Blue, while it is his third cd this one is his first produced at his own studio – Kross Kut Records on the Gold Coast.

The album has 12 instrumentals, all great tunes, Charlie Boyter has added his talents to a couple of them, and you just can’t go wrong with a blend of Charley – a legend of country guitar -  and Lindsay Waddington, who

we all affectionately know as Waddo.

1. Didgeri Goor (Featuring Charley Boyter)
2. True Blue
3.  Walk A Country Mile
4.  Lights on the Hill (Featuring Kenny Kitching & Hugh Curtis)
5.  Leave Him In The Longyard (Featuring Charley Boyter)
6.  Walk Away
7.  Darlin' Billy
8.  Road Train Man
9.  Camooweal (Featuring Charley Boyter)
10. Losin' My Blues Tonight
11. Travellers Prayer
12. Winter Winds

Good on you Mate, it is a credit to you, and I’m proud to call you “Friend”.

Joy

Melissa Bajric - Working On A New Album; And Appearing At Easter,
At Poley’s Place To Celebrate Its 30 Years

When the Darkest Hours Pass  #41 CMC Top 50

Looking forward to a popular Easter gig set amongst some of the most picturesque of New South Wales highlands, Melissa Bajric heads at the end of the month to the Barrington countryside to Poley’s Place.  The event celebrates its thirtieth anniversary this Easter, establishing many careers and a launch pad for budding performers over the years, just like Melissa.  it’s a favourite place for her to meet up with locals, other

artists and musicians over the four day long weekend.

Fresh from the studio, adding finishing touches and last tracks to a new album, Melissa is also enjoying the audience reaction she’s receiving for her latest clip ‘When the Darkest Hours Pass’.

Filmed in Newcastle early this year, the track ironically not from her current album, but a previous album, is currently at 41 on Top 50 CMC charts, entering the charts four weeks ago.

You can see Melissa at Poley’s Place, in the idyllic rural surrounds of Thunderbolt’s Way at Barrington in NSW.  Melissa appears alongside Col Hardy, Bob Easter, Jason Lee, Ann Lowe, Ian Hands & Zeta Burns and other guest artists at the 30 Year Anniversary over the Easter Long Weekend. 

For more information:
W: www.poleysplace.com
T:   02 6558 4220
Weekend camping Thursday to Monday |  April 1 > April 5 2010
Adults $50, Children 5-14 $15; under 5 yrs free
Day Pass $19; Under 14s free.

When the Darkest Hours Pass

‘This is Melissa’s fourth clip.  There’s a three year working association with Ross Wood, first working on her initial clip Melissa’s self-penned ‘Luckiest Girl’, and consecutive clips, a second single ‘Too Long Between Drinks’ from her latest album, and the remake of the Red Lane|Melba Montogomery ‘Sunshine Rain’ a hit previously in Australia for Jean Stafford..’

Rhonda Sinclair

Keith Urban Supports The Slim Dusty Country Ball

Multi-award winning Country superstar Keith Urban has this week shown support for the Slim Dusty Foundation, by donating one of his autographed personal guitars for auction, to help raise money at the Slim

Dusty Country Ball on Wednesday 31st March 2010.

High profile Country entertainers, Golden Guitar winners and members of the Slim Dusty Family will help celebrate ‘The Slim Dusty Country Ball’ from 6:30pm at the Westin Hotel Sydney.

Urban’s guitar will feature in a live auction as part of the evening’s fundraising efforts with a host of items including; an autographed guitar and hand written lyrics donated by Lee Kernaghan and a limited edition CMC Rocks the Snowy’s Al Tompkins hand crafted electric guitar.

Ray Hadley OAM will host the evening with musical performances by home grown Country entertainers Troy Cassar-Daley, Adam Harvey, The Bushwackers, The Sunny Cowgirls, Lou Bradley and Steve Passfield.

Patrons of the Foundation, Alan Jones AO, John Singleton AM, Dick Smith, Lee Kernaghan OAM and members of Slim Dusty’s family invite everyone to put on their dancing shoes as the country comes to the city for the Royal Easter Show and dance the night away at The Slim Dusty Country Ball.

All proceeds from the event will be donated to the Slim Dusty Foundation Ltd, set up to build a Museum in his hometown of Kempsey, NSW, to honour Slim’s long and illustrious career. Construction of the Slim Dusty Centre is underway and is anticipated to be completed by the end of 2010.

The Slim Dusty Centre will keep the memory of this Australian Legend alive with memorabilia collected by Slim and Joy from all over Australia. It will give visitors an opportunity to experience an interactive journey through the heart and soul of Australia– as well as developing a scholarship program to assist young talented musicians obtain the best possible start to their Country Music careers.

The Museum will be an iconic Australian experience built around Slim Dusty, his links with the Nation’s Indigenous people, and his vision of Australian culture, as depicted through Slim’s eyes and the lyrics of his timeless songs.

For further information about the Slim Dusty Centre, please visit; www.slimdustycentre.com.au

Tickets for ‘The Slim Dusty Country Ball’ are available for $250 per person.  Corporate and VIP packages are also available; please contact Martine Buchter on (02) 8306 9555

For Further Information Or To Interview The Family Please Contact Martine Buchter At International Events On (02) 8306 9555 OR 0404 849 131 OR martine@internationalevents.com.au

Slim Dusty Admin

Some News From “Fibber”

Hi Joy …………Just a few lines to let you and your readers/listeners know that after all the efforts of True Blue Country Festival attendees/musicians/singers/songwriters/poets/comedians and most of all the fans, all the who hah, chest beating, yelling, screaming and whatever….it definitely was worth it and our concerns have been heard and all can look forward to a bigger and better Tamworth Music Festival next year. 

That is from the powers to be and let’s hope they keep their promises to keep Tamworth, “Country”.   Let’s also hope that the battlers get a

better deal from booking agents and that the wider spectrum of the Country Music Festival is addressed; i.e. Accommodation, Costs, Peel Street Buskers (Sound control), Policing and the other concerns voiced at the festival. 

Congratulations to all who voiced their protests and concerns…
See you next year…
Cheers and beers……
Fibber

Hi Joy…Just a few words for your next Newsletter…..I will be giving you and your readers a concise update about the Forum held at the Family Hotel  on the 21st Thursday 2010, for your next addition.  I want to get everything in the right context. 

We had 250 attend and boy did they give varied opinions and comments.   Sadly Rod McCormack did not respond to my invitation nor did any of the Councillors.  Councillor Warren Woodley said he was going to attend but did not, even though he gave a late apology saying he had other commitments.  So did Rebel Thompson, but I didn’t see her there.  I will give you my report ASAP.

Just a short reply to Roger Corbett…Whilst I agree that the Festival belongs to one and all there are many issues that need to be addressed (some good some bad).  You are totally offside declaring it Public Bickering…everyone is entitled to their views…The beauty of our wonderful democratic Country is the right to freedom of speech.   As stated in the Newspapers and other media the Forum was to look for positives about improving the Festival and preserving it’s integrity and history.  Also incorporating Australia Day back into the Festival Program.   We were not looking for who’s to blame so we could kick butt or whatever.  Even though some silly decisions have been made, they can be addressed.  As for Guy Sebastian I will give some factual feed back about his involvement and a statement he made through the media which infuriated me. Standby for the next edition in Joy’s News about this.  

I would put it to many Country Fans and to Jazz fans, “You would not invite Lee Kernigan to Headline one of the main stage performances at the Byron Bay Jazz Festival”…Would you???? Maybe I’m wrong Roger.   Or maybe I’m just a trouble maker as referred to by the Mayor of Tamworth and to add, seeking some reward chasing my own agenda…I don’t think I’m going to win Star maker or any other award at my time in life.   After performing in Tamworth for 38 years I have a genuine passion for the Tamworth Country Music Festival, it’s founding forefathers, History and the Future of it’s growth and success.

On a lighter note Doc Riley and I were thrilled with the support  the fans gave to us at our eight shows at the Family Hotel.   The highlight for us was the attendance of a young fellow who came up through our show and won Star maker.  I speak of none other than Travis Collins.  Travis spoke fondly about his early days and performing on our shows.  Travis is indeed a very humble and modest person but most of all truly a great Country Music Performer.  Thank you Travis.   Others who performed were John Grills, John Goodair, Big Jim Westwood and many other notables.  Thanks.  

Lastly, sincere thanks to the “Pub Group”, namely Bevan and Joan Douglas and family who promote and support Country Music all year round at their four venues.
Cheers for now….
Fibber

Hi Joy…..Firstly hope you had a happy and safe New Year….Since I sent you my email the other day I got a bee in my hat and started further investigation re the demise of the Tamworth Festival.

I have spoken to one of Tamworth’s long serving well respected publicans who shall remain incognito at this time.   He told me with authority that in his opinion there are three main issues that has effected the festival especially in the past 3 years.  

Foremost is the accommodation situation. The cost of guest house and motel accommodation is outrageous with a normally rated room costing approximately $80 per night….At Festival time this escalates to an average of $250 plus and in some cases over $300 per night.  10 days accommodation equates to over $2000 plus and then one has to find the money to eat, drink and be merry and then there is the cost of attending ticketed shows?????. 

Even if one decides to take the alternate and use caravan parks, the price of these also are more than double the normal rates.  

Then we might camp……?????Camping has been restricted to “approved only areas”……Again at a nightly cost….This type of accommodation used to be free.   Now averages $20 per site per night and in some cases so much per person.   People are herded into confined roped off areas that are highly regulated by council and security staff.  No camping in parks or beside the roadside. 

My publican friend then told me that the new entertainment venue that has been built on the outskirts of town accommodates about 15000 people.   If this venue attracts an average of 8000 per day, it takes these peoples out of the pubs, clubs and smaller venues on a daily basis.  This has brought about the downturn of attendances at these smaller venues with the result that revenue is greatly affected and thus after paying their artists etc makes it unaffordable and not sustainable.   He said that many of the pubs etc are seriously looking at the sustainability and said don’t be surprised if a lot of these venues don’t have entertainment next year.  That would be a terrible blow to the Festival and a total disappointment to those who still attend the festival looking for free shows and pub acts etc.

Remember the Free pub and Club shows are the backbone of the festival.

Next is the over regulation by the Constabulary. During the festival, you can’t drive from one side of the town to the other without on most occasions being stopped and breath tested by the police thus interrupting your journey.   The streets are heavily patrolled by foot police.  The hotels and clubs are strictly monitored by the cloak and dagger licensing squad who are brought in from other precincts especially for the festival.  They police the numbers that are allowed at venues, what type of containers can be drunk from.  The hours of trade, what areas are licensed for drinking and smoking and who can pass wind or who is having to much fun (That is being duly intoxicated).  Yes the cops are doing a job and some presence is warranted.  The Festival apart from one unsavoury incident many years ago has never had a history for violence, vandalism, rape, murder or drunk driving.   Most people, locals and festival visitors act sensibly and all enjoy a good time.   The opinion is that the festival is over policed.

They are the main issues of conjecture that is thought to be the blame for people staying away and the Festival losing it’s identity.

OK…Whom or What is to Blame?   My friend told me that the main Player is THE COUNCIL!!   They along with some of their partners, one being an employed outside events company.  They need to have a good look at themselves.   The issues we have mentioned are real…Your don’t employ a plumber to fix an electrical fault …You don’t employ Guy Sebastian or Rock Stars to main stage a Country Music Event.  You don’t go in opposition to the backbone of success (Pubs & clubs) to serve your own greedy means, by building a venue that takes away and destroys the viability and foundation of past success.  

Accommodation needs to be looked at seriously…Somehow I doubt this area will be addressed because the almighty dollar and a word called “Greed” takes precedence.   Anyhow here’s hoping.  Policing is matter for the NSW Government and common sense.

Well Joy I have given you an insight from one of Tamworth’s own important players…Maybe his views have some impact on someone who cares…

Cheers and Beers
Fibber

23rd Annual Illabo Country Music Stampede

The 23rdIllabo Country Music Stampede will be held from the 15th-18thof April, 2010 at the Illabo Showground’s. Illabo is a small community located 15km’s north of Junee on the Olympic Highway and for the past 23 years has been the host for this local talent quest, open to both young and old performers in a number of categories including Veteran and Gospel. The talent quest has helped to launch the careers of such country music artists as Travis Collins, Dianna Corcoran, Peter

Pratt and Nathan Charlton.

The weekend begins with a campfire sing-a-long on Thursday night. The following morning kicks off with contestants Busking on the streets of Junee. Friday evening see’s the start of the Talent Quest, which will continue throughout the weekend, wrapping up with the finals on Sunday. Sunday morning includes the Poets Corner and the Farmers Markets.  

Guest artists, Nathan Charlton and Jamie Davis, will perform throughout the rounds of finals on Sunday. Trophies for each of the categories will also be presented during Sunday’s proceedings.

All meals throughout the weekend are available and it is a BYO event. Camping on the grounds is recommended and plenty of space is available, with camping space specified as “quiet camping area’s“, ensuring a good night sleep is had by all. Powered sites must be booked before the event. Shower facilities are also available. A number of raffles will be drawn over the course of the weekend, including the much loved Swag raffle. Talent Quest entries are open until 8th April. 

Come and join us under the stars for a toe tapping great time.....
Date 15th April to18th April 2010
Description
Where: Illabo Showgrounds (Located on Olympic highway between Cootamundra and Junee)
Guest Artists for 2010 are Jamie Davis and Nathan Charlton
Thursday 15 Camp Fire Sing-A-Long
Friday 16Busking in Junee Streets - 11am - 3pm
Veteran's Talent Quest - 6.00pm
Walk -Ups
Saturday17 Talent Quest Heats- 9.30am
Sunday18Poet's Corner - 7.30 am - 9.00am
Talent Quest Finals -9.30am
Market Day 10.00am -4.00pm
Camping Available - limited powered sites, must be booked through secretary

For Further information contact Secretary Karen 0269 242443 (ah)  0428242445
Publicity Officer Caroline: 0269 245426 (ah) 0427244266
Email Caroline willfence@dragnet.com.au
More information or Entry Forms can be downloaded from www.illabo.org.au

Written By Shaylene Pratt

Boyup Brook – Celebrates 25 Years

On their annual trek, Country Music fans, grey nomads and ute and truck enthusiasts converged on Boyup Brook for the 25th Anniversary of the Boyup Brook Country Music Festival held from February 18th-21st.  Arriving early in the week, many visitors secured their favourite camping spots and prepared themselves for a jam-packed program filled with variety to follow during the week. Boyup Brook is a small rural town in the south west of Western Australia with some 1,200 people so is quite staggering when thousands of people arrive in the annual stampede.

A relaxed and casual ‘Campfire Yarns and Ballads’ on Wednesday night on the football oval was a taster of things to come; while in the Town Hall the inaugural Boyup Brook Art Awards was opened, displaying artworks from artists around the state. 

Thursday morning kicked off early, with almost 200 people attending the Tennis Club for a Bush poetry preview and breakfast.  With music coming from all corners of the town, workshops in Poetry and Songwriting and Mime in progress, free concerts, busking and the rolling in of more 4WDs, caravans and RV’s, the excitement was building for another great Festival.

A balmy evening with floodlit gumtrees was the perfect setting for Thursday night’s concert at the Music Park which was attended by a crowd of nearly 1000. 

Friday morning’s ‘Hot Country Brekky Show’ at Harvey Dickson’s Country Music Centre was a highly sought after ticket, and provided those who attended with a laugh a minute from the very funny, Pixie Jenkins, Melanie Hall, Susie Carcary and Dave Proust.

The Friday evening concert saw the best of the State’s Country Music entertainers as finalists performed in the WA Country Music Awards.  The Boyup Brook Country Music Festival is credited for giving many artists their start in their music careers. A highlight of the Awards was  the “Country Music Club of Boyup Brook Best New Talent Award presented by Alcohol. Think Again”. This category was won by Tracie Redding of Thornlie.  

Performing at this Festival was Rose Carleo, winner of the inaugural young encouragement award in 1986; Terry Bennetts, Male vocal winner in 2001; Ronnie Rae Rivers  winner 2004; Debbie Beckett, winner in 2005 and the Sunny Cowgirls, first noticed in Boyup Brook at a ‘Winter Star Search’ in 2001.

On Saturday morning the streets of Boyup Brook were bursting with people as they participated in the dynamic Lotterywest sponsored Street Carnival with buskers, street theatre and a huge variety of market stalls.  The revving of engines, custom horns, sparkling chrome and sub woofers announced the arrival of the spectacular Ute and Truck Muster as it wove its way through the streets to the Music Park.

The warm day merged into a brisk evening as the music rolled on with performances from Brian Letton, Sunny Cowgirls, Country Horizon, Girls with Guitars, Graham Roger, Connie Kis Anderson, Fitzroy Xpress, Tony Wagner and MC Ernie Dingo who also sang for the crowd.  Headline act, Tania Kernaghan delighted her audience, especially when she lassoed two cowboys.  Her recent songs and old favourites were a hit and her fun personality generated a great vibe throughout the Music Park.

A massive Bush Poets Breakfast featured ten poets who took the audience of 1,350 on an emotional rollercoaster ride – one minute rolling in laughter the next a tear in the eye.  Two pocket-rockets National Bush Poets, Melanie Hall and Susie Carcary blasted the audience with poetry, yarns and songs while the domestic banter between Dave Proust and his wife had the huge Sunday morning crowd loving it all.

The volunteers of the Boyup Brook Country Music Club who organise this major event wish to thank all stakeholders, sponsors, artists and volunteers who assist in making this event very special.

Be in Boyup Brook, Country Music Capital of WA on 16th, 17th, 18th & 19th & 20th February, 2011..... 5 Big days of music, fun and laughter

Sharon Winter

Queensland Country Music Awards Finalists Announced for 2010

Brisbane singer, songwriter and musician Brendan Radford heads the list of finalists for this year’s Queensland Country Music Awards, scoring a berth in four of the seven categories.

Brendan recently released his debut solo album, Snow, after years performing with the biggest names in Australian country music. He is a finalist for the Male Vocalist, Bush Ballad/Heritage, Instrumental and Vocal Collaboration categories – the last of them with Casey Watt.

Another of Queensland’s hottest new stars, Harmony James, has made the finals in three categories: Female Vocalist, Bush Ballad/Heritage and Vocal Collaboration (with The Flood’s Kevin Bennett), with tracks from her sensational album Tailwind.

A number of major Australian stars are featured in the list of finalists for the Queensland Country Music Awards, including Troy Cassar-Daley, Lee Kernaghan, Adam Brand, James Blundell and Tania Kernaghan.

The list of finalists also features several rising stars who are beginning to carve major careers in Australian country music, amongst them Jayson Watkins (a dual finalist), Brade, Sarah McMonagle, Rose Carleo, 8 Ball Aitken and Shea Fisher.

Artists who received two finals nominations include multi-Golden Guitar winner Troy Cassar-Daley, Dean Perrett, Shea Fisher, Jayson Watkins, The Bobkatz and The Smokin’ Crawdads.

The 2010 Queensland Country Music Awards will be presented on Friday, 30 April as part of the McDonalds Charters Towers Country Music Festival. The awards ceremony – part of the Friday night main stage concert – will feature the talents of internationally recognised guitarist Michael Fix, the legendary Chad Morgan, the very funny Jim Haynes and award-winning singer/songwriter Travis Sinclair. The event will be hosted by broadcaster Nick Erby.

The McDonalds Charters Towers Country Music Festival will take place over the Queensland May Day long weekend, from Friday, 30 April to Sunday, 2 May.

The full list of finalists for the 2010 Queensland Country Music Awards follows.

For more information: www.charterstowerscountrymusic.com

Queensland Country Music Awards Inquiries:
Rosie Adsett: 0409 091605 or Meryl Davis: 0419 190395

Media inquiries: Susan Jarvis: 0413 334920
 
Queensland Country Music Awards Finalista 2010

Queensland Male Vocalist of the Year
Adam Brand    Ready for Love
Troy Cassar-Daley    I Love This Place
Lee Kernaghan    Planet Country
Brendan Radford    Stop the Night
Jayson Watkin    Jacky Kneebone

Queensland Female Vocalist of the Year
Rose Carleo    Reach Out to Me
Shea Fisher    Getaway Heart
Harmony James    Precious Little
Tania Kernaghan    Ride of Our Life
Sarah McMonagle    Tea on Tuesday

Queensland Group or Duo of the Year
The Bobkatz    The Long Haul
Brade    At Your Doorway
Ashley Cook & Kimberley Cook    Over Hilltop & Hollow
Left of Center    Sitting Pretty
Smokin’ Crawdads    She’s Crazy for Leavin’

Queensland New Talent of the Year
8 Ball Aitken    Hands on Top of the Wheel
Liam Brew    Doghouse
Shea Fisher    Getaway Heart
Shandell Tosoni    Can You Hear Me Now?
Jayson Watkin    Jacky Kneebone

Queensland Bush Ballad/Heritage Track of the Year
James Blundell    Riding into Town
Harmony James    Call of the Currawong
Dean Perrett    The Dust of Kalkadoon
Brendan Radford    Coongoola Station
Rachel Richards    Great Australian Bush

Queensland Instrumental of the Year
Michael Fix    Light at the End of the Tunnel
Brendan Radford    Pronto Tonto
Alisha Smith    Bushman’s Prayer
Smokin’ Crawdads    Orange Blossom Special
Lindsay Waddington    Didgeri Goor

Queensland Vocal Collaboration of the Year
The Bobkatz & The Davidson Brothers    The First Step
Troy Cassar-Daley & The McClymonts    Ain’t Gonna Change for You
Harmony James & Kevin Bennett    Some People Give
Dean Perrett & Anne Kirkpatrick    We’re Doing Fine
Brendan Radford & Casey Watt    If I Needed You

Vikki Watkin

’Forty Is The New Twenty‘, And Tracy Coster Is Out To Prove It!

Her recently released single, Not Forty is supported by a film clip that pays homage to the catch cry of forty something women (and men) all around the country.

With the film clip playing on CMC now, it‘s hard to determine who is having the most fun, Tracy or the girls in the clip? From blowing out candles on a cake to partying on the beach, if this is the life of a forty something, then we will all want a big piece of it!

Tracy Coster is certainly doing her bit to squeeze every drop of fun and good times out of life. Last weekend she proudly lined up with her fellow performers at the Kootingal Bowling Club to help raise money for Jeff Dallas, who has been diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease. Eight hundred people and every musician within a five hundred mile radius was there, all to raise
money for Jeff‘s treatment.

Tracy says‘ “ It was amazing. It reminded me again how lucky I am to be apart of something so great... the country music family truly is still alive”

From Kootingal, Tracy will head off for a long overdue performance at Canterbury Country in Sydney, then later in the month,  to the Hunter Valley where she will perform at theTocal Agricultural College before the Annual Tent Hill Turn Out in Queensland. In June Tracy will be performing at the Blue Water Country Music Festival in Port Stephens.

Amanda O'Bryan

Craig Giles “Mr Versatile” Celebrity Host For
Music Tour Of America’s Deep South

Things still haven’t slowed down for the man they call, Mr Versatile” with the past few months being a world wind of achievements and success stories for this popular entertainer.

Following hot on the heels of the release of Craig’s successful thirteenth album “This Old House” was his outstanding performance as the support act for International Country Star Glen Campbell.

Then came a string of highly successful shows in Tamworth including three big sell-out concerts and his induction onto the “Wall Of Fame” at LBS Studios.
Following the Tamworth Country Music Festival it was onto his annual South Australian Tour where he once again played to full houses.

John Howie in conjunction with Travelrite International have engaged Craig to be the Celebrity Host on the “Music Tour Of America’s Deep South with Craig Giles” which is a twenty day ( 21st September – 10th December 2010) tour that takes in Los Angeles, New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Tupelo, Memphis, Branson, Nashville, Chattanooga, Pigeon Forge, Charleston & Savannah.  This Tour co-insides with Elvis Presleys 75th Birthday Celebrations and Craig will be doing a Tribute to the King at a special dinner in Elvis’s boyhood home of Tupelo. Negotiations are also underway for Craig to perform at Al Green’s Tabernacle Church in Memphis.  There will also be impromptu performances along the way. This tour is exceptional value and if you are interested in receiving a brochure or knowing more about the tour contact John Howie on 0409 409528  or  Travelrite on 1800 033 436.  Tickets are selling now.  Don’t miss out !

 Lameroo C.M.Festival … Lameroo Memorial Hall, S.A … Sat. 1st May, 2010
Craig Giles, Graeme Hugo, Rick Bartlett, David Croser, Chooka Williams, Allan Carroll, Luke Fritsch, Texettes, Kristal Collins, Heartland, Wild Card, Cruisers.   11am – 9pm.
BIG Dance area in Main Hall.    Light entertainment in Supper Room.
Meals and Refreshments available.
Sunday May 2nd  Farewell Breakfast in supper room 9.30am – 11.30am.
…………………………………………..

Echuca Country Music Festival  @ Echuca Workers Club, VIC
Saturday 21st & Sunday 22nd August 2010

Roz Giles

‘Not My Time To Fly
 $1.69 ON iTunes
100% Proceeds Donated To Ronald Mcdonald House

Tori Darke
New Single Out

Photo by Headshotz

Released To Radio & I-Tunes

This beautiful heartfelt song was written by Tori and Drew McAlister after Tori visited & performed for the young patients & their families at Ronald McDonald House in 2008.

“A special little girl suffering with Leukemia stole a place in my heart forever…for a little girl so ill she never stopped laughing.

‘Not my Time to Fly’ is dedicated to all those special children and their families.
“Thank You Katie for the inspiration you gave me to write this song”

For further information please contact
Diana Bailey Promotions
02 9553 8490

Tori Darke

The Heartleys - Leaving Home

Since winning the New Zealand Gold Guitar Award in 2008 and releasing their debut album, The Heartleys have continued to win the hearts of their fellow country-men and women, not to mention the hearts of Australian fans.

Their first ever single to radio, No Man‘s Land, rocketed up the Australian Country Tracks Chart to number 10 in 2009.  Then came the

popular, Hands Of My Heart, which debuted on main-stage at the Gympie Muster.

Now with the release of the third single from the self titled album, The Heartleys are dipping their toe in the water, preparing to make a splash with the first original track from the album, Leaving Home.

As The Heartleys prepare to head off for their first European festival performance at The Halogaland Country Music in Norway, Leaving Home is an apt and significant reminder of the insecurities and anxieties of leaving home and finding your own way in the world.
“Into the great unknown...she‘s leaving home”.

The Heartleys will head to Norway in August this year, in the meantime the duo have been doing plenty of work at home in the South Island of NZ.  The Heartleys have been invited to sing  the  anthem like, Southland, a song they penned about their much loved home at the national basketball league as the pre-performance entertainment.

Amanda O’Bryan

Jason Lee - New Clip ‘A Memory’ A CMC New Addition  

NfS 138 Track 9; one hour special on Sydney radio in April
Album produced & engineered by Simon Johnson at the Sound Hole, mixed and mastered by Ted Howard at Rancom Studios in Sydney Trent Simonson - Drums/Percussion |  Simon Johnson - Bass Guitar  |  Glen Hannah - Acoustic/Electric Guitars  |  Kym Warner – Mandolin  | 

Lynda Barnes - BV's  |  Mike Carr - BV's

Music video produced & directed by Ross Wood 171 Entertainment
A superb cinematic walk in the past; a sentimental portrayal of a father’s melodic bequest to his son, ‘A Memory’ was shot on location around Tamworth and Kentucky near Armidale in NSW in late January 2010.

Country Music Channel, subscription TV’s channel CMC added Jason Lee’s ‘A Memory’ to its New Additions programming appearing in chart lists last week. 

Sweet news for the Sydney artist who had only just a week earlier, pre-recorded an interview with Queensland’s Trish Espin on Hot Country, airing on March 9, and confirmed interviews in Melbourne, with Southern fm 88.3’s Reg Pitt, and later in Sydney in April.

Listen out April 10, when Jason is in Blacktown, for a one hour live radio special with Free Country SWRFM 99.9’s presenter Shane Newton.

Look out for the clip and the latest in chart news in the following weeks.

Rhonda Sinclair

Kirsty Lee Akers, McAlister Kemp, Liam Brew & Chelsea Basham Join Forces

The Guys, Girls, Guitars & Bars Tour sees four of country’s freshest acts join forces for a series of shows throughout NSW, QLD and VIC commencing in May 2010.

Kirsty Lee Akers is one of Australia’s most successful young solo country performers. She’s released two very successful albums, which have spawned numerous hit singles. For her young years Kirsty has won a stack of awards, in 2006 she was awarded the Telstra Road To Tamworth Songwriter Award, in 2007 she was the Toyota Star Maker and in 2008 was the recipient of her first Golden Guitar for Best New Talent. Kirsty took a well deserved break from the music business in the second half of 2009 but is now back and looking forward to doing what she loves, getting her music out to the people.

Country’s new super duo, McAlister Kemp is the combination of two talented artists in their own right – Golden Guitar winner Drew McAlister and popular solo performer Troy Kemp. They released their debut album All Kinds Of Tough on ABC/Universal in January 2010, debuting at #8 on the ARIA Country Sales Charts and #18 on the ARIA Australian Albums Charts (all genres). McAlister Kemp are fast becoming one of the most talked about acts in country music.

2009 Toyota Star Maker Liam Brew has made a big impact on the country music scene since emerging with his debut album ‘Wild Heart’ in 2009. The first single from the record, the infectious ‘Girls With Girlfriends’ scored him a finalist placement in the Maton New Talent of the Year category at this year’s CMAA Country Music Awards of Australia. 2009 saw Liam share the stage with some of his musical heroes (Adam Brand, James Blundell, The Sunny Cowgirls).

Chelsea Basham is a new name to the country scene but one you’re going to hear plenty about. After touring with Adam Brand in 2009, the 20 year old was a 2010 Grand Finalist in the prestigious Toyota Star Maker talent search. Now based in Sydney, Chelsea has been in the studio with producer Matt Fell (McAlister Kemp, Sara Storer, Butterfly 9, Lianna Rose, Sam Hawksley) working on her debut album. The first single ‘Truth About Me’, and accompanying video will be released in April 2010.

Don’t miss one of the best shows you’re going to see in 2010!
Kris Katsanis

Leanne Melmoth Plays Canberra Stadium
Last Night At First Raiders Home Game.

All of your world     Out Now To Radio      March 22  NfS 139 Track 14  #33 and four weeks Top 50 CMC
           
Album information
Perfect Day is a collection of original material, 10 songs in total, all

written by Leanne. The album recorded at Grove Studio's in Gosford, produced and arranged by David Holmes.  Session musicians
David Holmes – Guitar; Jeff Camilleri – Bass; Andy Sorrenson - Keyboard, backing vocals and sound engineer
Mitch Farmer – Drums.  Perfect Day  is  available from The Music Shop chain around Australia, Songland Tuggeranong, and online at www.musicshop.com.au
Music video produced & directed by Ross Wood 171 Entertainment

Canberra Raiders weren’t the only winners last night! 

And there was no missing Leanne Melmoth in the crowd.  She was right out front, playing Canberra Stadium before kick-off, and after the game at Dickson Tradies!

’Raiders’ gig was awesome... the feeling at the game was great.  It was so exciting to be at the first Raiders’ home game’ Leanne said, earlier this morning.

‘The gig afterwards at the Tradies was pumping!’

‘All the raiders came back for their awards.  Just a great night, can't wait to do it again.’

To cap off the day, CMC has her latest clip at 33 up 5 places in this week’s charts.

Rhonda Sinclair

Rock the Mount And Remarkable Ute Muster @ Melrose

Rock the Mount @ Melrose is back for its fourth year with a great line-up of entertainment from Friday night right through until Sunday. Here’s a quick brief of what’s happening . . . . . . . .

Friday Night in Melrose
The entertainment begins on Friday night with the closure of the street between the Mount Remarkable and North Star Hotels to make way for live music, food and market stalls.  There will be plenty of food, drinks and music until midnight – and remember, the street entertainment is free for everyone!!!  This year we’re introducing a great new band “The Akubraburras” to the street party who will keep you rocking all night.  Joining them will be same extremely talented young people who will be our rising stars of the future.
Saturday Morning @ The Showgrounds
The Darren Carr Breakfast Show is guaranteed to be a hit with all ages.  Darren is recognised as Australia’s number one stand up ventriloquist using a cast of crazy characters, comedy and music to deliver some hilarious entertainment. 
A big country cooked Festival Breakfast is available.  What better way to start the day than with some great food and a laugh out loud comedy show.
Saturday From Noon @ The Showgrounds>
Judging of the Remarkable Ute Muster begins at noon.  Remember if you wish to enter a ute, make sure you have it at the grounds by 10 am.  This year we have included a “People’s Choice” category, so if a ute takes your fancy, simply cast your vote by posting it in the box provided.
The entertainment venue opens at midday for the commencement of the Day Stage.  A terrific line-up of artists will keep you entertained throughout the afternoon providing the perfect lead into a sensational night of music.
Saturday Evening on the Main Stage
As the sun sets behind the stunning Mount Remarkable, you’ll rock the night away.  With the BIG SCREEN, everyone gets a front row view of all the action on the main stage.
This year Remarkable Festivals are privileged to host the only South Australian concert of Lee Kernaghan’s Planet Country Tour.  Joining Lee on tour are rising star Markus Meier and the 2008 Telstra Road to Tamworth winner Jasmine Rae.  Plus you’ll be wowed by the energetic Tania Kernaghan and the musical magic of The McClymonts.
After Party
Following the Main Stage, the music returns to the Day Stage where Mike Carr will keep you rocking until it’s time to go home.
Sunday Morning
On Sunday morning the Showground activities come to an end with the Recovery Breakfast.  If you had a couple of drinks the night before, make sure you visit our free breath-testing station before you drive home.
Wind up your weekend at the North Star Hotel’s Celebration of Food and Wine.  Relax on the deck, take in the view and enjoy live music while you sample regional food and award winning wines of the Southern Flinders Ranges.  You could also take a leisurely bike ride, hike along the Heyson Trail, visit the Melrose Courthouse Heritage Centre or if you’re heading south, stop off at the Wirrabara Producer’s Market on the way home.

More Information
Phone                        0438 888 307
Web                           www.remarkablefestival.com.au
Mail                            Remarkable Festivals, PO Box 38, MELROSE, SA, 5483

Web Address:    www.remarkablefestivals.com.au

A great weekend of Action . . . Excitement . . . Entertainment!!!!

Camping Available!!!
Friday 16 April to Sunday 18 April 2010

Mega Concert On Saturday, 17 April 2010
Melrose Showgrounds
Big Screen

Saturday Passes and Weekend Passes Available

Sue McCallum

The Internationally Acclaimed Beatles' Tribute Classical Mystery Tour
& The WA Philharmonic

Come Together With A Little Help From My Friends
Friday 21 May - Burswood Theatre Perth

Roll up, roll up for the Classical Mystery Tour with the international cast of Broadway's multi-awarded salute 'Beatlemania' and the WA Philharmonic Orchestra, for one night of indelible hits at Burswood Theatre on Friday 21 May.

All You Need is Love to thrill to the phenomenal legacy of the 20th Century's most influential Pop Culture icons and their beautifully nostalgic, psychedelic and transcendental repertoire, reprised by 21st Century actor/musicians who Carry That Weight with pure joy and physicality. 

So much more than a retro-rock concert, Classical Mystery Tour is an authentic tribute
with a precise orchestral score led by conductor Martin Herman and charismatic performances from the band - Jim Owen (John Lennon), Tony Kishman (Paul McCartney), John Brosnan (George Harrison) and Chris Camilleri (Ringo Starr), accompanied by the WA Philharmonic.

The song list is Something to Twist & Shout about - Imagine, Yesterday, I Am The Walrus,
Penny Lane, Hey Jude, Magical Mystery Tour, Yellow Submarine, A Day In The Life, The
Long And Winding Road, Hello Goodbye, Got To Get You Into My Life, Live and Let Die,
Eleanor Rigby, Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, Here Comes The Sun and others.

"More than just an incredible simulation…the swelling strings and soaring French horn lines gave Saturday's live performance a high goose-bump quotient...the crowd stood and bellowed for more."
Los Angeles Times

"Never has the music of The Beatles sounded as good as this night with the live orchestra."                                                                                                                                                        Newport News

 Come Together and celebrate the artistry, imagery and sheer genius of The Fab Four through
the internationally applauded Classical Mystery Tour, for one night only from 8pm on Friday
21 May at the Burswood Theatre, Burswood Entertainment Complex.

Tickets to Ride the Classical Mystery Tour are onsale from Tuesday 30 March through
Ticketek telephone 132 849, online at www.ticketek.com.au and outlets.

Sample Beatles' Facts:

The Beatles only Australian tour was in June 1964 - Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney & Brisbane.   
Their final live concert was in San Francisco on 29 August 1966.
The album Let It Be, (recorded before Abbey Road) was their last to be released - 40 years ago
on 8 May 1970. 
The movie Let It Be premiered 2 weeks later in London on 20 May and none of The Beatles attended.

Bluehawk Presents publicist:
Sue Camilleri on 08 89 412 512 or 0408 412 512 and email: soozcam@bigpond.net.au

Busy Times Ahead For Andrew Clermont

Hi Folks,
exciting months ahead for us in the SE quarter of Oz. Confirming that Parvyn Kaur (Dya Singh, Singh Sisters) will be along for most of the tour ie. Geelong round to Brisbane in a mixture of blends from Pure CD Launch for Josh Bennett to Festival shows as The Lawnmowers near Newcastle, with Totally Gourdgeous in Melbourne, to the first Supper Club in Brisbane with Clermont, Kristina Olsen & Martin Pearson and otherwise as duo/ trio - Clermont/ Bennett/ Parvyn Kaur - see details further below

- example pic at http://www.flickr.com/photos/andrewclermont/4312494051/

There are still a few openings for Gigs/ House Concerts – particularly during the weekdays. And we are usually available for Tuition in 'anything we do collectively or individually' around the gigs mentioned below, let alone my Tuition series http://www.andrewclermont.com.au/sounds.htm#tuition

Ragas2BlueRiches&Beyond Tour 2010 (firstly without Parvyn Kaur)
1 - 4 April Thu till Mon National Folk Festival.
CD Launch and Supper Club form gatherings @ The Troubadour (see listings at venue). Otherwise appearing/ jamming 'randomly' about the weekend.
9 April Friday - Evening House Concert with the Howe Family howejp@bigpond.com at Congo, near Moruya (NSW south Coast)
10 April Sat 8pm NOWA NOWA Bike track Opening Weekend Bikers Ball more info Peter Cook & Kay Bristow mountainbiketrackservices@yahoo.com Door Charge
12/13 Mon/Tue Mallacoota , TBC Workshops - School & Open @ The Mudbrick Hall interested folk call Lisa Broom 0428 586357 broome.lisa.l@edumail.vic.gov.au

(With Parvyn Kaur)
15th April Thursday - Burrinja Café , 351 Glenfern Rd, Upwey 03 9754 5707 6pm Dinner Available 8pm Show - cheryl.guenther@gmail.com Door Charge
16th April Friday - 303 - 303 High Street, Northcote, Victoria, 3070 Supporting TOTALLY GOURDGEOUS Door Charge
17th THE BOITE - Box Hill Community Arts Centre 470 Station Street, Box Hill VIC 3128, Phone: 9895 8888, Email: bhcac@whitehorse.vic.gov.au Supporting TOTALLY GOURDGEOUS Door Charge
Sun 18th April Appearing @ PanInternational ARTS Events round Melbourne - Details closer to date
Thu 22 APRIL - 8pm THE LOMMOND 225 Nicholson St East Brunswick 3054
Fri 23 April -  Maldon Hotel , 58 Main St, Maldon VIC 3463 (03) 5475 2231 Door Charge
24th Liz Frencham & Steve Vella Wedding !! We wish them the very best!
Sat 24th April HouseConcert Geelong Annie McGlade anniemac@geelong.hotkey.net.au (Without Parvyn Kaur)
Sun 25th Hickinbotham Wines RMB 4347 Wallaces Rd, Dromana 3936 (With Parvyn Kaur)
Fri - April 30 - May 2 - Yarra Junction Fiddlers Convention – Camp Eureka, just north of Yarra Junction - Convention Fee
 8 May Sat twilight - NSW (Blue Mts) Oberon House Concert TBC Bill & Mary Long mandblong@bigpond.com
Clermont - Monday 10th - Fri 14th Gold Coast /Brisbane (Tuition availability)
Fri 14th 8pm - Special Supper Club Concert - Andrew Clermont with Kristian Olsen & Martin Pearson The Power House, Brisbane Door Charge
Thu 13th Royal Exchange, Newcastle, Bolton St, CD Launch Josh Bennett & Parvyn Kaur $10 Door
Sat 15-16 May Karuah Bluegrass Festival (just off highway to Taree nth of Newcastle) in/as The Lawnmowers including Christian Marsh (Harmonica Wksp), Dave Hellens (Banjo Wksp) with Bennett (Guitar Wksp) & Clermont (Guitar/Mandoli/ Fiddle workshops) and young powerhouse Elsen Price on Double Bass plus Opening/ Closing Concerts through the weekend
Tue 18 May - Royal Exchange Newcastle Andrew Clermont's Supper Club – Parris Macleod (Keyboards) , Wu PuYu (Flute)& Christian Marsh with Bennett, Kaur & Clermont Door $20
Back to pure Ragas2BlueRiches&Beyond Tour
20 May Thu Workshops at Dorrigo TBC more info Bridget Sommers 0428 415 078
21 Fri 8pm Dorrigo Theatre Hall with Wonderful Indian Food by John from Woolgoolga! more info Bridget Sommers 0428 415 078 bridgetsommers@yahoo.com.au Door Charge
22 Sat 8pm Wauchope Arts Hall info krissaw@bigpond.net.au  Door Charge
23 Sun arvo/evening SW Rocks Gaol Arts Event more info Teaine 0419 932 671 Door Charge
27 Thu  Armidale Schools TBA
28th Fri 8pm Uralla McCrossin's Mill - more info andrew.parker6@bigpond.com Door Charge
Sat 29th 1pm Gunnedah Concert TBA roryandbec@bigpond.com
Sat 29th 8pm PlayHouse Hotel, Barraba , sharpandrew@mac.com Door Charge
Sun 30th 4 pm The Supper Club @ North Tamworth Bowling Club andrewclermont@optusnet.com.au Door Charge

Andrew Clermont & Josh Bennett Ragas2BlueRiches&Beyond Tour 2010 & CD Launch for Bennett "Echoes of You"

Finally free from their bands (briefly), they've come to tell it all..... A twisted taunt of Celtic Blues Swing Bluegrass Jazz Indian adventure.
The roads and flights between Kenya and Calcutta, London, Vancouver, LA & Oz weave a soaring night of music, song and story between Josh Bennett & Andrew Clermont - Both in Dya Singh World Music Group (twice World Music Group of Australia), The Supper Club & The Lawnmowers (at the cutting 'hedge' of Bluegrass!)

Andrew Clermont - http://www.myspace.com/andrewclermont has finally settled down, nestled in 6 (or so) bands / 5 or 6 instruments appearing in Austria/ Kenya/ USA/ Canada/UK/ Germany/Taiwan/ Malaysia/ Hong Kong/ Singapore/New Zealand/ and Australia wide!

Pumpkin powered in Totally Gourdgeous (Voted Best Live Folk Band '08); 3 time Bluegrass National Guitar Champ; flying with the Fiddlers Feast; very Australian as Terra Australis (Heritage Award & BushBand winners); and Celtic Conundrums - to be sure, to be sure!

Andrew initiated the NoHoldsBarred Fiddle Contest and is a Director to the Golden Fiddle Awards. These are both sponsored by Epoch Violins with Andrew touring the unique 5-string models while also  sponsored/assisted by Maton Guitars, Gilchrist Mandolins and White Swallow Banjos. Josh Bennett www.myspace.com/joshbennettmusic

Fresh from a rocking opening act for Jeff Beck in Adelaide and a sitar concert for Ravi Shankar at his home in Delhi, India, Josh is back on tour in Australia, crossing genres faster than you can say "but weren't you playing tabla yesterday on stage 2?"

Whether picking up a storm with The Lawnmowers, exploring Indian raga with Dya Singh and The Silk Road Project, or taking music to the edge with Guitar Safari, Jaib Mai and the Supper Club, Josh has a
unique musical story to tell. Key ingredients in this melting pot are Blues, Jazz, Celtic, Bluegrass, African, and classical training on Sitar in India (Josh is a disciple of Smt. Manju Mehta, who in turn is a senior disciple of Pt. Ravi Shankar).

Josh has toured Australia-wide, and extensively in the USA, Canada, UK and India, plus shows in Kenya, Malaysia and Thailand. The "Big'uns" are the California World Music Festival, Chicago World Music Festival, Womadelaide, Adelaide International Guitar Festival (invited back this year), Saptak Indian Classical Music Festival (invited back in Jan 2010), and opening acts for Jeff Beck, Anoushka Shankar, and Bob Brozman.

Parvyn Kaur www.myspace.com/parvynmusic combines her rich heritage from ancestral Punjab with elements of jazz, blues, folk and country to perform in her own unique style. On stage since she was five, singing with her father Dya Singh in his World Music Group, Parvyn's stunning, pure and soulful voice has captured the hearts of audiences around the world. She performs traditional, contemporary and original songs sung in Punjabi, Arabic, Hindi, Malay, English and Portuguese, and also performs many styles of Indian dance, including Kathak, Bhangra and Bollywood.

Yours in the Magic of Music,
Andrew Clermont

Jackson Mackay European Media Support Outline : (in a few words from Jackson)

Since 15 years ago, I have been  an exception on the Country Music Market in Europe because I play Australian music in addition to my own songs. Many people discovered it because of my work and I always

mention it. Actually, I present an acoustic show with a mix of my own and Australian music telling stories of the bush and outback living.

My next step, after Tamworth 2011, will be to add photos to my shows.

In collaboration with my label Koonda Music and French Country Music Magazine Dreamwest (directed by Patrick Sidoun) we have the goal to have Australian performers at French festivals. They started with good success with the band  Jetty Road.

Dreamwest  published a report of my Tamworth trip 2009. They plan now to have French fans down under at one of the next Tamworth Awards. I’ll be a part of the project as well as travel company Prometour.
 The plan is now to start the collaboration with Aussie artists.  We’ll focus on Dreamwest Summer issue 2011 with a huge presentation of Aussie acts (I’m working with Lee Kernaghan, 8 Ball, Leila Fisher for example) and to have those artists present at festivals.

For sure it’ll be a hard work and that’s why we’ll decided to plan it over a period of one year. I am bringing out hot International fiddle player John Parmenter for Australia 2011 and John is fantastic!

See you in Aussie 2011.
Jackson Mackay

OneDay40 No More

Glasgow Americana band Oneday40 (www.oneday40.com) confirmed today that they were putting their project “on ice” whilst members concentrated on other projects. The band, who won critical acclaim, and a Nashville recording contract, for their album “Unfinished Business” are a uniquely mature and Scottish take on the Americana/Southern Rock genre – and one which attracted tens of thousands of fans around the world.

 OneDay40 rose from the ashes of another Scots Country band – Evangeline – in 2005, and were named as a protest against the youth-dominated new music scene. Founders Billy Matthews and John Naismith also spotted that they were 364 days apart in ages – hence they were both “OneDay40”. The band released their debut album “Unfniished Business” in 2007 – recorded in Glasgow’s legendary (but now defunct) Park Lane Studio it showcased the combined songwriting talents of Matthews and Naismith, with session contributions from a number of great Glasgow musicians. Awarded “Album of the Year” at the British Country Music Hall of Fame awards in 2009, the album was spotted by Nashville’s Colt Records and the band signed into a recording contract. Sadly a combination of other projects and logistical issues prevented the band from touring the album, and changes in personnel led to the decision to put the Oneday40 project on ice.

 “It is sad that we’re doing this” says Matthews, “but it was becoming more and more frustrating that we couldn’t seem to get ourselves lined up to head to the US and playing live for some of the folks who have been such great online supporters. John and George have decided to work on a new project, and the three of us remaining felt that it wouldn’t be fair to fans to tour without George fronting the band, hence this decision”.  Drummer Andy Holmes added “it’s disappointing that we’re not able to do more to promote an album that we feel really good about, but I suppose it gives us all a chance to work on some other stuff”. Matthews, and Tracey Braithwaite (who joined the band in 2009) have recently experienced success with their creation of “The Gospel Truth Choir" (www.thegospeltruthchoir.com) – a Scottish group of singers who perform a wide range of material in a gospel style and who have recently been in great demand for session and live work in Scotland. Holmes is now drumming regularly with a local East Kilbride band.

 As for the obvious question of whether the project will ever come “off ice”? Matthews answers wryly “I really try to never say never, and it would be nice to think we could have a go at this again at some point in the future. Sadly, and ironically, I suspect that the years are working against us as performers, and it’s maybe better that we’re exploiting our talents backstage”.

 The band have released their final recordings – two new tracks and two rerecorded tracks that were destined for the US release of their “Unfinished Business” album – on iTunes as an e.p. entitled “Unfinished Business Extras”.

OneDay40

Selling Fast, Get In Early To Avoid Disappointment.

Oz Country Music Festival
Be part of
Fiji’s First Country Music Festival

Featuring
John Williamson, Bill Chambers, Felicity Urquhart & Glen Hannah, Jonah’s Road, Ashleigh Dallas Band and more to be announced.

August 1st – 7th 2010
Cost from $2299.00 per person

Twin Share includes:
Return Airfares from Sydney
Return transfers, 7 nights at a 4 Star Resort in Fiji
All Meals, Country Music Festival Tickets
Nightly entertainment, Firewalking Show
Welcome cocktail party
Canapes every afternoon during happy hour
Free Scuba Lesson, Free Snorkel Hire and more.

For more details call Country Music Holidays 1300 799 987

Michelle Costigan & Jenny Haslem

News Submission
If you have any news items that you would like to contribute to this page, please submit your information to the editor by forwarding your articles to Admin@joysmusicworld.com

The deadline is 5.00pm on Tuesdays
Content of the Music World News is at the discretion of the Editor