Australian News 2/14

New Wolfmother Emerges

Wolfmother has broken its six-month silence since the Australian band’s original lineup split in August.

Guitarist/singer Andrew Stockdale unveiled a new four-piece at recent “secret” shows in Brisbane and Sydney.

Billed as White Feather, the band showcased new songs including “Pilgrim” as well as old hits.

The replacements included drummer Dave Atkins from Brisbane hip-hop act Resin Dogs.

It’s unsure whether the new lineup is permanent.

 

Living End In Europe

The Living End will play eight dates in Europe April 18-26, taking in Belgium, the U.K., France, the Netherlands and Germany.

The act then returns to Australia for three headlining dates at the Groovin’ The Moo festival, and four arena dates of its own with Gyroscope and Tame Impala on support.

Of other Aussies, Sydney country performer Brad Cole will head back to Canada in July for the Calgary Stampede tour, while Brisbane folk duo Cloudstreet will perform at this month’s Folk Alliance Conference in Memphis.

Teen breakthrough Gabriella Cilmi is to launch an assault on the U.S. market with the March 17 release of her debut album, Lessons To Be Learned, through Universal Republic.

The set sold 750,000 units worldwide. Its first single, “Sweet About Me,” hit the Top 10 in 10 European territories.

Cilmi is nominated for a Brit (international solo female artist) and an Echo (best international newcomer).

 

Short Notes

New South Wales’ creative industry is critical to the state’s economy, according to a detailed analysis of NSW’s economic fundamentals. It employs 147,703 people, which is 37% of the national creative workforce.

More than 170 people have been refused a licence to work as a bouncer in Queensland after police checks revealed criminal convictions or serious charges. Between 2004 and 2006, bouncers were involved in 19 deaths at or near licensed premises in Queensland. The state has 23,000 licensed providers.

Jason Mraz will return for his sixth visit downunder in two years in April through Chugg Entertainment, playing six theatre and festival sets.

Chugg and Gaynor Crawford also have guitarist Eric Bibbscheduled for 17 theatre and festival shows March 12 to April 18.
Chugg also has Scottish band Biffy Clyro in theatres March 21-26.

Rapper Coolio has four club appearances March 13-20.