Pack away those winter blues, Spring has sprung, and Summer is getting ready to spread its wings. What better way than to welcome & celebrate the change of weather with three days of fun, the Portuguese Way, at the colourful Madeira Fest, featuring mouthwatering food, vibrant music, captivating folk dancing and unlimited fun, from 30 September to 2 October 2022 at Casa de Madeira in Alberton and brought to you by the Portuguese Forum, the hosts of the successful Caravela Portuguese Festivals.
It`s a Festival of Music featuring International Portuguese artists Joao Quintino & Sergio Rossi, superstars Kurt Darren and Lee Cole, local heartthrobs Irene van Wyk & Diana de Sousa, and, if that wasn’t enough to keep you entertained, you can dance your boots off with party pleasers Dr Victor and The Rasta Rebels as well as Brent Harris and Thee Jam. To keep you moving there are also beat-filled DJ sets from Luis Almeida, Dino Bravo and Nicole de Silva Performance times TBA.
It`s a Festival of Food - In addition to their love of life and family the Portuguese community are world renowned for their scrumptious food. You can expect the warmest welcome and lip gastronomic delights on the menu at the Madeira Fest including juicy prawns, spicy chourico, the iconic espetada and delicious pastel de nata.
It’s a Festival of Dance - “It is with your feet that you move but it is with your heart that you dance”, and there is passion galore in Portuguese folk dancing. There are many types of dances on show at the Madeira Fest including the traditional Vira and Chula, each with a different story to tell.
Make a date for the whole family to head South to enjoy the culture and sounds of Madeira Island, Party at the Madeira Fest from 30 September to 2 October 2022.
Where: Casa de Madeira @ 46 Goodwood Road, Newmarket, Alberton.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
Multi-platinum Grammy award-winning rock band Imagine Dragons announce the South African leg of their massive Mercury World Tour. Produced by Live Nation, the tour celebrates the release of their latest album, Mercury – Act 1 (KIDinaKORNER/Interscope) kicking off in Cape Town at DHL Stadium on Wednesday 1st February 2023 and then heading to FNB Stadium, Johannesburg on the 4th February 2023. This tour marks the band’s biggest shows of their career to date.
On the heels of “Enemy,” which has topped the Alternative Radio chart for the past seven weeks and is rapidly ascending at Top 40 radio (#10) and Hot AC (#9), Imagine Dragons unveiled their new single, “Bones,” the first new music from their forthcoming release Mercury – Act 2. A spirited examination of life and death, the song explodes with an infectious chorus that celebrates the intangible spark that ignites our beings. Listen to “Bones” here and view the lyric video here.
Don't miss Imagine Dragons perform all their hits! To find out more about the #ImagineDragonsSA23 tour, go to bigconcerts.co.za.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
Queensryche hit Tempe again on "The Verdict" tour
Photo Credits: Fred Kuhlman
There's one thing that is fairly certain about veteran progressive hard rock band Queensryche: they love playing Arizona.
After all, their show at Tempe's Marquee Theatre on Tuesday Jan. 28 marks the second time in under a year that they've visited us on their current tour supporting their latest album, 2019's The Verdict.
"We've been touring this album since March of last year", said lead guitarist and Queensryche founding member Michael Wilton a few hours before showtime.
"We've worked hard over the past few years successfully rebuilding the band with our current lineup", which also includes original bassist Eddie Jackson, guitarist Parker Lundgren (since 2009), lead vocalist Todd La Torre (since 2012), and touring drummer Casey Grillo (since 2017).
When Queensryche hit the Marquee stage with Prophecy for a 90-minute, 17-song set, there was no stopping them. They meant business, and their loyal Arizona fans couldn't have been more welcoming.
Although the band utilizes video to enhance the music onstage, it's never a distraction. With Queensryche, the music always does the talking.
Fun fact: Prophecy was originally written during sessions for their 1984 album The Warning.
However, it wasn't recorded until 1986 during the Rage For Order sessions. It was eventually released as a bonus track on their self-titled 1983 EP that was re-issued on compact disc for the first time in late 1988. Confusing, isn't it?
Next up was the title track from 1988's landmark album Operation: mindcrime, widely considered Queensryche's finest creative achievement on record. Walk In The Shadows followed, while deep cut Resistance (from Empire, 1990) returned to their live set after a lengthy hiatus.
Speaking of deep cuts, the undisputed surprise of the night had to be No Sanctuary off The Warning. Truth be told, it hadn't been played at any Phoenix-area show since the Rage tour in Oct. 1986. That was also the first time they headlined here in the Valley of the Sun.
With momentum building onstage, it wasn't until the seventh song in the set when the current lineup was represented. Man The Machine, from The Verdict received respectable applause. La Torre was in fine form vocally, especially on new songs Bent and Dark Reverie.
Interestingly, on this night there were no songs represented from the band's two previous albums, 2013's Queensryche and 2015's Condition Human.
I asked Wilton if he could ever envison an entire live set with "La Torre-era" material, especially considering the demand from many fans online to feature more of it live. Not to mention they're already looking forward to writing the next album later this year.
Would a Queensryche show be the same without any material from the original lineup that also included guitarist Chris DeGarmo, drummer Scott Rockenfield, and vocalist Geoff Tate? I'll let "Whip" tell you.
"Ummm....no", Wilton said after a brief pause.
"The albums (from the original lineup) are the band's legacy", he continued. "We wouldn't want to stop playing those songs, no matter how many more albums we do in the future", Wilton stated proudly.
"Having said that, we wouldn't mind splitting new and old material 50-50 eventually. It's very gratifying that people are enjoying what we're doing today, so that would be the ideal scenario."
If there's one criticism I have of the current lineup live, it would have to be the length of their set. Considering the amount of albums they have, it would be nice if they would play 20 songs minimum.
As strong as the current lineup is, I know they could pull it off with ease.
Back onstage, Queensryche winds down the main set with a blistering version of Screaming In Digital. By all appearances, that's one song where one can tell they have a blast playing, and rightly so. It's nothing less than quintessential Queensryche.
Next, La Torre asks the crowd if they're ready to "go old school"? They immediately tear into Queen Of The Reich (which concluded the main set), from the aforementioned debut EP.
The crowd wasn't quite ready to head home yet, so the band happily obliged with a three-song encore of Light years (the fourth new song played from The Verdict), Empire, and the mandatory Eyes Of A Stranger to close out the night.
I couldn't help but notice that Wilton seemed to be the proud papa onstage. When it comes to delivering the goods onstage, there's no question that Queensryche intend to continue doing just that for the forseeable future. Don't miss them when they pass through town.
-Val Tapia
Author's note: On Jan. 10, 2020 the music world received the sad and shocking news that Rush drummer and lyricist Neil Peart had passed away on Tues. Jan. 7 after a three-year long battle with brain cancer.
Knowing that Rush was a prime influence on Queensryche in their formative years, I asked Wilton to share his thoughts on this.
"Yeah, we definitely lost one of the greats in Neil", Wilton said somberly. "The music of Rush is just so amazing, it's so hard to pick a favorite memory."
"I will say that I really loved Clockwork Angels though. I missed that tour unfortunately, which I really regret now", Wilton continued.
"They truly went out at the top of their game. He'll definitely be missed."
With a relative resurgence in pop culture, new generations are being turned on to the sounds of bluegrass and traditional music. Bluegrass in its modern form is capturing those seeking out both its traditional and a more modern jamband style of the genre. Enter Songs From The Road Band.
Songs From The Road Band is an Asheville, NC based band whose members each have an impressive musical background. In their current form, the bands members are Charles Humphrey III, Sam Wharton, Mark Schmick and James Schlender. Their roles are as follows: Charles Humphrey III (bass), Mark Schimick (mandolin), Sam Wharton (guitar), James Schlender (fiddle) and Ryan Cavanaugh is a guest on the album playing banjo.
Waiting On A Ride is their fifth studio album. They say “every good story has a good beginning, middle and end”, well Waiting On A Ride has a great beginning, middle and end! From the moment I started listening to their new album, I knew this was something new and fresh yet at the same time familiar and comforting. Waiting On A Ride begins with the track Any Highway. This song sets the scene for the album and draws you into the music without delay.
To me this is the mark of great music, when you hear new songs yet it’s as if you’ve been familiar with them for years. The composition and arrangements bring bluegrass and Americana into the present without abandoning the traditional roots of this great music.
The lyrics are smart, witty, easy to relate to and thread a constant theme throughout the whole album. Whether you are or have been a musician playing out on the road or not, I believe you’ll find yourself nodding in agreement with the heartfelt lyrics and delivery of these songs. The album also contains some instrumentals, of which “Thunderstorm Serenade” is nothing short of brilliant and could easily be a memorable cinematic score.
In addition to picking up this album, I’d highly recommend catching a show if you find Songs From The Road Band anywhere near your town. You’ll be pleasantly surprised when you find them delivering tight, seamless jams and improv.
To me it’s a pretty safe bet that Songs From The Road Band and Waiting On A Ride, will surely fill in some spots on your favorite playlist.
Glenn DePretis
Picker Magazine
Buy Waiting On A Ride
Find A Tour Date Near You...
On the eve of the 50th anniversary of his playing at Woodstock, Davis Crosby and the Sky Trails Band put on a memorable performance at the 58th Annual Philadelphia Folk Festival.
The crowd at the Philadelphia Folk Festival was eager to see the two time Grammy winner perform. Crosby was engaging and offered up conversation as well as his signature sound for all to enjoy. Crosby and the band mesh well and deliver a sound that to long time listeners and fans is both familiar yet fresh.
Crosby treated everyone to a classic setlist of songs. You can check out the setlist here - https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/david-crosby/2019/old-pool-farm-schwenksville-pa-b9fcd26.html
No Encore!
Musicians Reveal Their Weirdest, Wildest, Most Embarrassing Gigs
Drew's book features never-before-told stories, No Encore! takes you on tour with over sixty iconic musicians as they relive their weirdest, wildest, most embarrassing gigs.
No Encore! is an unflinchingly honest account of the shows that tested the dedication to a dream—from Alice Cooper’s python having a violent, gastric malfunction on stage to Lou Barlow’s disastrous attempt to sober up at Glastonbury, from Shirley Manson’s desperate search for a bathroom to the extraordinary effort made to awaken Al Jourgenson as Ministry was taking the stage. As Hunter S. Thompson famously wrote, “Buy the ticket, take the ride.”
You can pre-order Drew's book now on Amazon - https://amzn.to/2N3rQNE
With Opioid addiction at an all time high, the Massachusetts community and over 20 Music Legends banned together Wednesday night to raise awareness of and funds for opioid addiction, treatment and recovery programs in the heavily impacted town of Cape Cod
Substance abuse and death by overdose is at epidemic proportions throughout the United States. The most impacted states are in New England, the Midwest and Appalachia. According to The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH), Barnstable County, which overlaps with Cape Cod, experienced a 340 percent increase in the annual opioid overdose death rate between 2000 and 2015.
LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL
The Hope Music Festival brought 20 Rock'n Roll Legends together to perform under the famed Cape Cod Melody Tent -- all to benefit Cape Cod Healthcare and address the opioid addiction and overdose issue head on.
Legendary artists lending their support included Grammy Award-winners Rick Derringer (Hang on Sloopy fame), Elliot Easton (The Cars), Barry Goudreau (former Boston guitarist) and The Uptown Horns (The Rolling Stones); Paul Nelson (Johnny Winter), drummer Marty Richards (J. Geils) Jeff Howell (Foghat), bluesman James Montgomery, Charlie Torres, Charlie Farren, Sandy McDonald, Grace Kelly (saxophonist, Late Show with Stephen Colbert) and more.
The brainchild of Brian Serpone, Brian Serpone Productions and his partners John Ippolito and Linda Apsey, who set out to use music and the arts to revitalize Cape Cod and combat drug abuse.
“The vision of the Hope Music Festival as a single event is to raise money and awareness to fight a national epidemic in one region — Cape Cod and the surrounding area — as a starting point.” -- Brian Serpone
The benefit concert continued to entertain and raise funds with the Red White and Blues After Party across the street at the Cape Cod Resort & Conference Center. An artist meet & greet, cocktails, food and more rock & roll music featuring the NY-based Red, White and Blues Band -- who rocked the late night with many of the artists from the Hope lineup.
A special bonus was a memorial to those members of the community who had lost a loved one to addiction. They were asked to submit photographs of their loved ones in advance of the show so that their memories could be honored at the festival’s after-party.
EPIC CONCERT FUNDRAISER RAISES OVER $250,000.00
In its inaugural year, The Festival raised $250,000 dollars for the new Hope Foundation to combat the opioid abuse epidemic in the area. The concert fundraiser benefits Cape Cod Healthcare, which operates two hospitals in Cape Cod and runs programs to help combat addiction under its Substance Use Disorders Initiative.
The Hope Music Festival initiative is Community Activism at its best. While just a starting point addressing one small region of the country, wouldn't it be great to see them take this show on the road to address the national epidemic in all regions? -- Abbe is SOCIALLY SPARKED™!
[Submitted by Abbe Sparks]
Calabash South Africa is thrilled to present a once-in-a-lifetime experience as the legendary Robbie Williams takes center stage on day one of Calabash South Africa 2025! The concerts take place on 18 January 2025 at FNB Stadium, Johannesburg and 22 January 2025, DHL Stadium, Cape Town
With an extraordinary career boasting six of the Top 100 best-selling albums in British history, a remarkable 80 million album sales worldwide, and an astounding 14 Number 1 singles, Robbie Williams is a true music icon. His accolades include a record-breaking 18 BRIT Awards, surpassing any other artist.
Robbie's latest triumph came in 2022 when his album 'XXV' secured his 14th UK Number 1, setting a new record for the solo artist with the most UK Number 1 albums. With a total of 19 chart-topping UK albums spanning his solo career and his work with Take That, Robbie Williams ranks among the top two acts of all time with the most Number 1s.
Don't miss your chance to witness Robbie Williams live! Calabash South Africa 2025 is powered by Big Concerts, M-Net, KFM, and 947. Stay tuned for more exciting announcements, including special guest performers, by following Calabash South Africa's social media channels. This is a concert experience you won't want to miss!
Robert Peter Williams, better known as Robbie Williams, has made an unforgettable impact on the music industry. Born on February 13, 1974, Williams first gained fame as a member of the chart-topping pop group Take That from 1990 to 1995. His charismatic stage presence and unique voice set him apart, foreshadowing a solo career that would captivate audiences worldwide.
In 1996, Williams embarked on his solo journey, releasing his debut studio album, Life thru a Lens, in 1997. The album featured the iconic single "Angels," which remains one of his best-selling tracks. His subsequent album, I've Been Expecting You, boasted hits like "Millennium" and "She's the One," both soaring to the top of the charts.
Williams' Achievements Speak Volumes:
UK Chart Dominance: With seven UK No. 1 singles and 14 studio albums, Williams consistently ruled the British music scene. His Guinness World Record for selling 1.6 million concert tickets in a single day during the Close Encounters Tour solidified his superstar status.
Brit Awards Royalty: Williams boasts a staggering 18 Brit Awards, including four wins for Best British Male Artist. His impact on British culture earned him the prestigious Icon Award.
Global Sensation: Selling 75 million records worldwide, Williams ranks among the best-selling artists ever. His three Knebworth concerts in 2003 drew over 375,000 fans, setting a UK music event record.
Take That Reunion: In 2010, Williams rejoined Take That for their album Progress, which shattered sales records. His departure from the band was amicable, leaving the door open for future collaborations.
Legacy and Beyond:
Williams received the freedom of his hometown, Stoke-on-Trent, in 2014, with streets named in his honor.
His latest compilation album, XXV, released in September 2022, celebrates his enduring influence.
From "Angels" to Live 8 performances, Robbie Williams remains an icon whose music transcends generations.
The Discovery Bank pre-sale begins at 09h00 on 10 April from Ticketmaster.co.za and will run until 08h59 on 12 April.
Tickets go on sale to the general public at 09h00 on 12 April from www.calabashsouthafrica.co.za or Ticketmaster.co.za.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
South Africa – 11 March 2024 – Brace yourselves, music lovers, for a night of epic proportions as Big Concerts proudly presents Calabash South Africa 2025! This year's lineup is nothing short of legendary, featuring the debut of Green Day in South Africa, alongside punk rock icons The Offspring and local heroes Fokofpolisiekar. Get ready to rock out like never before at this historic event, powered by 947 and KFM 94.5.
Following the immense success of Calabash South Africa 2024, which set the bar sky-high for music festivals, the 2025 edition promises to be bigger, bolder, and even more unforgettable. Prepare to be swept away by the electrifying atmosphere and the pulsating beats of some of the greatest bands in rock 'n' roll history.
Green Day: Punk Rock Royalty
Leading the charge is Green Day, a band that needs no introduction. With a career spanning three decades and countless hits under their belt, Green Day is set to deliver a show-stopping performance. From anthems like "Basket Case" to "American Idiot," their set promises to be a rollercoaster ride of high-energy music that will leave you wanting more.
The Offspring: Punk Rock Pioneers
Joining Green Day on stage are punk rock legends The Offspring. With their infectious energy and iconic hits like "Self Esteem" and "Pretty Fly (for a White Guy)," The Offspring are sure to get the crowd on their feet and singing along. Prepare to be transported back to the golden era of punk rock as The Offspring takes you on a musical journey like no other.
Fokofpolisiekar: Local Heroes
Adding a local flavor to the international lineup is Fokofpolisiekar, one of South Africa's most beloved rock bands. Known for their unique blend of punk and alternative rock, Fokofpolisiekar is sure to win over the crowd with their electrifying performance. Don't miss this chance to see one of South Africa's most iconic bands in action.
Enhance Your Experience with Exclusive Packages
For those looking to elevate their concert experience, Calabash South Africa 2025 offers a range of exclusive packages:
Calabash Hot Seat Package: Includes the best in-house reserved seat near the stage, limited-edition merchandise, VIP check-in, and more.
Calabash Early Entry Package: Provides early access to the front zone standing area, VIP check-in, limited-edition merchandise, and more.
Calabash Lounge (Cape Town): Offers prime position viewing lounge tickets, private bar and food vendors, private ablution facilities, and more.
Stadium Management Lounge (Johannesburg): Features prime position viewing lounge tickets, complimentary buffet meals and premium bar, private ablution facilities, parking, and more.
For complete tour and ticket information, visit www.calabashsouthafrica.co.za or follow Calabash South Africa on social media for the latest updates.
Get ready to rock and roll at Calabash South Africa 2025, where music meets magic in the heart of South Africa!
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
Cigarettes After Sex, the globally renowned band known for their entrancing music, is set to captivate South African audiences with their X’s World Tour in March 2025! Mark your calendars for their performances on 5 March at the Grand Arena, GrandWest, Cape Town, and 7 March at SunBet Arena, Time Square, Pretoria.
The excitement begins with the Discovery Bank pre-sale starting at 09h00 on Wednesday, 6 March, exclusively at www.ticketmaster.co.za. This exclusive pre-sale opportunity ends at 08h59 on Friday, 8 March.
General ticket sales open to the public at 09h00 on Friday, 8 March 2024, exclusively at Ticketmaster.co.za.
Greg Gonzalez, the band's frontman, drew inspiration from personal experiences, particularly a poignant Valentine’s Day, to create their anticipated third album, 'X’s'. This album delves deep into a four-year relationship, resulting in a raw and emotive musical journey.
Despite their global success, Cigarettes After Sex maintains an air of mystery, with fans sharing their music like a cherished secret. Their latest album promises to ignite emotions with its ten-song collection, showcasing a shift in sonic style to a '70s/'80s slow dance vibe.
For complete tour and ticket information, visit www.bigconcerts.co.za.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]
