UPCOMING GIGS
The Seben Brothers
The Seben Brothers are an energetic dance band that exclusively plays African music, and particularly a dance style called Soukous which comes from the DRC in Central Africa.
The band have been performing locally since 2016 and the members are veteran musicians including local and African artists.
The band plays plays dance music driven by a passion for performance. Soukous is the main style and it developed of the last three decades in central Africa. Soukous means "to shake" and that is the main effect of experiencing the music of The Seben Brothers.
A "Sebene" is a term used in Congolese Rumba music to describe the instrumental section of a rumba song where the singing finishes and the band creates an ecstatic instrumental section to energise the audience into dancing.
THE LYRICAL - Project Panda Tour
My only Venue show in Melbourne until October!!
It will be on Jan 10th at The Penny Black as part of the epic www.pandatv.au/project-panda
Where Panda and I will be travelling to different towns in Victoria in The Project Panda Van and handing out backpacks and having chats to the homeless community to try and begin making a tiny impact and create some awareness to this community and find bigger and better ways to help make an actual difference
The Cornelia Street Band
The Cornelia Street Band are BACK, presenting their Sounds of Swift all-ages Taylor show.
Celebrate the global superstar's legacy with a unique and electrifying musical experience. This 5-piece rock band brings Taylor’s timeless hits, chart-topping classics, and hidden gems to life with unparalleled passion and energy. Together, they recreate Taylor Swift’s iconic sound while adding their dynamic, contemporary flair.
All ages show
Under 18's must bring parent/guardian
Get your tickets here
2:30pm - Doors open
3:00 - 4:00pm Set 1
4:15 - 5:15pm Set 2
Pub food and drinks available all day and night
Malcura
Malcura are an exhilarating Flamenco-Fusion band from Melbourne, Australia. Honing their craft as buskers in Melbourne's Bourke Street Mall, Malcura have captivated the public with their distinctive sound, which combines the sonic textures of the Spanish guitar with Latin rhythms and a Rock'n'Roll mentality.
Consisting of Josh Voce and Jenna Campbell on Nylon-string Guitars, and backed by the powerhouse rhythm section of Simon Wood on Drums and Percussion and Colin Andrews on Bass, Malcura creates music for the soul; it's a feeling as much as it is a sound.
Renowned for their head-turning musicianship, audience participation and keeping dancefloors moving at festivals across Australia, Malcura are a workhorse of a live band. Whether they're on-stage at a festival, starting dancefloors at the pub, tucked in-between two trailers at a market or serenading guests at a wedding, Malcura have a tenacious stage presence and continue to delight audiences (or so they tell us).
supported by Rob Patton & Beth Jones
Wild At Heart
Wild At Heart presents an end-of-year showcase to bring you some of Melbourne’s most underrated bands!!
Wild At Heart is a community of songwriters and artists who navigate visible and invisible disabilities, mental health challenges, and neurodiversity. In this showstopper of a lineup, they deliver a small selection of the incredible and unique music that artists have written.
Featuring such artists as:
Gwot Lik: A powerhouse act combining doom metal and heavy rock to deliver vocal melodies and guitar riffs so sharp they could slice butter, but so hot they would melt it.
Clean Beast: This project lead by Ashley Kiesskalt, delivers darkly danceable tracks for fans of Nick Cave and New Order, but don’t put them in a box, they draw from a wide range of inspiration, including jazz, funk, classical and shoe-gaze for their sub-pumping, post-punking live performances
Damage: Fresh off the release of his album Commission Flat, Frank Linehan’s Damage is one of the realest punk-rock bands out right now. Delving into Frank's experience with public housing, violence, drug abuse and mental illness Frank finds glimmers of hope in his music singing about, love, psycho bikers, and the transformative power of good old-fashioned rock & roll.
Edward Roussac (with special guests): Edward has been compared to Brian Wilson, Syd Barrett or Daniel Johnston, and not for nothing. Edward Roussac is one of Melbourne’s most illusive yet prolific songwriters, having penned more than 80 songs this year alone, he has decided to bring the best of them to The Penny Black stage with a band stacked with Melbourne music icons from bands such as Obscure Hail, Rhysics and even TISM (shhh)
plus Hot Tubs Time Machine as MCs for the evening!
Free entry for this special end-of-year event!
Mel Francis and the Soulty Rims
Mel Francis & The Soulty Rims are a 7-piece outfit that blends raw soul, juicy jazz, and rich worldly sounds.
Birthed out of Melbourne/Naarm in 2023, Mel Francis & her gorgeously Soulty friends explore themes that revolve around vulnerable personal experiences, personal growth and introspection. All are invited to embark on a soul-moving journey of self-discovery and reflection. Prepare to be transported around the world sonically while simultaneously meditating over this wild human experience.
Joining them is Stella Who.
Stella Who is an enigmatic songstress with a style that echoes the decades before her.
The lands of Buckley, Turner, Del Rey and Radiohead are Stella Who’s playground as she welds together alternative rock sounds with the tenderness of singer-songwriter sensibilities.
Mitch Santiago
18-year-old Mitch Santiago is a self-taught multi-instrumentalist from Perth,
Australia. He’s described by triple j as a "Perth prodigy making extremely good indie
rock" and as one of BigSound 2022's "9 standout acts ready to explode".
Mitch Santiago recently toured Australia supporting The Dreggs and is now celebrating the
release of his new track ‘Hiding From’ with a tour of his own.
Mitch released ‘Out For You’ in 2022 and was described by triple j as a "massive new
track that sees Mitch Santiago sharpen his vast psych sound with a bitta indie rock
flair. If you're into Spacey Jane, that's the vibe". The release of ‘Out For You’ followed
Mitch's first single, Falling, which has accumulated almost 2.9 million global streams.
‘Seeing Straight’ (produced by Andy Lawson) was released in 2022, which premiered
on triple J and continued to receive support after being added to rotation and
featured on Triple J Unearthed as the feature track for a week. It has also surpassed
970,000 all-time streams on Spotify.
Mitch has busked and gigged through hundreds of performances to emerge as a
seasoned live performer. This passion for live music has enabled him to shape his
massive one-person live show and signature sound and plays a crucial role in refining
his original music "to a place where I am super happy with it".
The Electrique Birds
The Electrique Birds have landed – described as a machine blend of dirty rock/pop.
Don’t miss these “four modern” genre-crossing fatales now debuting their wares about town.
Their heart-beating, pop-diminishing EP “She” is impressive indeed.
Enigmatic Mishka holds the helm with her unique and distinctive punching vocals.
Guitarist FiFi blends her powerful, driving pump action riffs with beefy full-chord overlays.
Tight as beautiful bass and drum rhythm team Ginger and Binderella steer the sound fusions home to roost with a sensitive feel for mood and colour.
The Fins
The Fins are a vibrant Alternative Rock/R&B collective hailing from Melbourne/Naarm, renowned for their electrifying live shows across Australia’s east coast. Drawing inspiration from the likes of David Bowie, Free Nationals, and Daft Punk, their genre-blending sound guarantees an unforgettable night of dancing, groove, and pure good vibes.
Propane Trio
Propane Trio is a lively group of young musicians who love to sneak into the cozy, warm spaces between improvised and composed, old and new, beat-driven and free. Honking, smacking, swinging and slapping their way through a mix of originals and covers from a myriad of genres including contemporary jazz, alt-rock, electronica, folk and punk.
joining them on stage Chaos Theory Orchestra
Trubug
Formed in the tumultuous outer suburbs of Melbourne Trubug has crashed into the local music scene with their loud sound and captivating stage presence. with an eclectic amalgamation of prog and jazz fusion genres Trubug provides a captivating experience that is sure to leave you wanting more…
supported by ayla
BONEZ Queer Party: Sunday Session
It’s true, BONEZ are throwing a Sunday party at The Penny Black this November to get you ready for a hot gay goth summer
There will be drink specials, food specials (veg and vegan options), drag, market stalls and Alt / Queer / Party DJs!
⭑BEER GARDEN⭑
Drag + DJ's + Dancefloor
⭑BAND ROOM⭑
Market Stalls + Chill Out Zones
FOLLOW US - @bonezqueerparty
Beautiful Bedlam
Beautiful Bedlam, much like their oxymoron band name suggests, delivers a manic and melodic blend of alternative/progressive rock music, with hints of jazz, metal and more.
supported by Alien Fingers & Sattva Arising
Big Band Frequency
Get ready to swing into an unforgettable evening with Big Band Frequency, where the timeless and modern sounds of big-band jazz will be brought together to excite you to your core.
Having been festival favourites and champions of Melbourne's big band scene for 17 years, Big Band Frequency will bring you some of their trademark energy, rockin' rhythm, and fiery soul. Featuring 19 of the most talented musicians around including the incredible vocals of Julia G, who'll lead you through a fun-filled night of hot, danceable songs and tunes from the likes of Ella Fitzgerald and Count Basie all the way to Tori Kelly, Larry Graham, and Snarky Puppy, with some original numbers to boot!
NoTurns
NoTurns are a 4 piece Folk-Rawk Outfit from Melbourne. Lead singer-songwriters Lucas and Devon, both enamored with the craft of songwriting, allow listeners to enter their frame of mind, as they bear themselves into their songs. Accompanied by accomplished lead guitarist Ethan, and master of rhythms James. NoTurns takes influence from a variety of genres and eras of music, with a penchant for the bittersweet.
with support by elizabeth mm
Alpaka Maraka
After a 2023 hiatus, ALPAKA MARAKA are hitting the stage again at The Penny Black,
Mixing eclectic rhythmic grooves with playful lyricism, ALPAKA MARAKA has delivered shows full of dynamic energy and imperative to dance.
SDon't miss out on their return, supported by Smooth Brains!
The Clever References Halloween Party
You're invited to the 2nd annual Clever Scary HALLOWEEN PARTY!
The Clever References
When both Australian pop goddess Clare Bowditch and post-punkers These New South Whales think you're cool you know you're doing something right.
The Clever References has been described as a cross between They Might Be Giants and The Lucksmiths, Weezer and Tame Impala, Jimmy Eat World and The Flaming Lips…and other seemingly haphazard genre-transcending descriptions. While these comparisons might be baffling, one listen to any of their tracks should make the comparisons obvious: this band writes the best damn alternative indie rock songs in the business today.
In a pop music landscape that's increasingly turning textural and sarcastic, The Clever References are fighting back with their clear-eyed and sincere lyricism as well as musical choices that are dare we say it...clever?
Titration
Titration is a five piece Alt/Pop-Rock band hailing from Melbourne, playing music inspired by the diverse musical backgrounds of each of its members. Formed in 2021, it’s members draw from a history of playing together in high school. Now drawing influence from a wide range of genres and bands, ranging from Nothing But Thieves to the Beatles to Lime Cordiale, Titration’s sound is equally as colourful as it is familiar. Julian (lead singer), David (guitar), Benji (guitar), Dan (bass) and Gus (drums), all in their early twenties, are here to discover how much music can be played with two guitars, bass, drums and a singer.
Love Me Not
Blooming in Melbourne, Love Me Not is a vibrant, homegrown concoction of soulful vibes, indie pop charm and a hint of jangle rock. With lush guitar riffs, intricate rhythms, and captivating vocals, their music poses a thrilling and moreish musical fusion.
Tomalia
One of Naarm’s best hidden gems and modern day pin-up doll Tomalia is filled with sass, dripping in sarcasm, and ready to entertain. Her genre bending feminist art-pop sound creates sizzling hot stories where Tomalia uses attitude and eerie comedy to sing stories of being a young woman in a modern world.
Hazy Skies
Hazy Skies is a Naarm based Indie Rock band comprising of bandmates Tom, Amelie, Jordi and Brandon. They’ll bring the energy and fun to any gig they play so make sure not to miss them!
Suzi
After finding success on TikTok over Covid lockdowns and accumulating over 1 million views on her breakout song ‘Amelia’, Melbourne local Suzi has consistently proven herself worthy of her position as one of Australia’s brightest independent up and comers. To celebrate her first release of the year, "I Don't Understand How Planes Work' Suzi and her live band will be embarking on a national tour.
Kicking the year off as Triple J Unearthed Laneway competition winners this is sure to be a show to catch.
Get your tickets here
Nonna's Kitchen
Over the last 3 years Nonna's has been making rock n roll waves all across Melbourne, but the time has come to move onto greener pastures. But we didn't want to leave without one last ROCK 'N ROLL EXPERIENCE.
Come join us on the 24th for our retirement party, it's a FREE SHOW and we promise that it will be a night to remember.
supported by De Porsal
PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE TRIVIA
Strap on your best heels and prepare for a night of sequins, sass, and spectacle at our Priscilla, Queen of the Desert-Themed Trivia Night!
Step into the world of Priscilla as we celebrate the iconic film with trivia that’ll test your fan cred while dazzling drag queens light up the stage with performances worthy of The Cockatoo Club itself. Expect lively mini-games, unforgettable musical numbers, and more glitter than you can shake a feather boa at!
Quench your thirst with fabulous cocktails, indulge in over-the-top themed food specials, and don't forget to bring your most fierce drag looks for a chance to sashay away with epic prizes! Whether you’re a die-hard Priscilla queen or just love a good party, this night promises to be a riotous, glamorous adventure across the Outback—heels, wigs, and all.
Get your glam squad together and book your spot now—this road trip through Priscilla magic is going to be one hell of a glitterbomb!
Great Job
Meet Great Job!, the fun-loving indie-punk band taking Sydney by storm. Great Job! bring energy like no one else - Balancing lighthearted, sometimes comical lyrics with heavy subject matter, the four-piece has won the loyalty of audiences at their sold out headline shows around Sydney.
With influences such as Blink 182, Modern Baseball, and The Front Bottoms, they have played with some of the scene’s biggest artists including The Smith Street Band, Sly Withers, and Yours Truly just to name a few. A tongue-in-cheek attitude and an unmatched enthusiasm are what separate a good job to Great Job!
Gen2
GEN2
Calling on an array of influences, Gen2 delivers rock for the 21st century. Combining high-energy guitar rock with strong funk bass undertones, Gen2’s original music combines powerful drums and funk bass grooves with crafted guitars and vocals.
Veiled Arch
Veiled Arch are a four piece heavy rock band from Melbourne Australia. Their music is a unique blend of metal, punk, rock and groove. Their high-energy live show delivers a modern take on the classic chaos of Aussie Pub rock - a wild mix of cheeky humour and raw power.
BREAKNBREAD Productions presents "The Ultimate Song Championship"
Get ready for an epic showdown at "The Ultimate Song Championship," presented by BreaknBread Productions! 16 artists will go head-to-head, battling song-for-song in a knockout-style tournament to see who will be crowned the champion.
Our esteemed panel of judges includes Australian Hip-Hop legends Eloquor, Vida Sunshyne, and Mr Ruckman, who will be on hand to score each round. Spinning the tracks and keeping the vibe alive, we have the incredible DJ Rellik, DJ Thortz, and DJ KI.
The event will be hosted by the dynamic Shynin Armour, ensuring the energy stays high and the competition fierce. Don’t miss out on this thrilling event that promises to bring the best of Australian Hip-Hop to the stage.
Secure your tickets now and be part of the action at The Penny Black in Brunswick!
Get your tickets here
SUN STONE
Sun Stone is returning for another headline show at the Penny Black on Saturday October 12. We are also super excited to announce the release of our first single! We will be playing songs from our upcoming EP and also a couple of other songs we've been working on!
We will be joined by Black Dime Cabaret and Beautiful Bedlam, two powerhouses of the Melbourne progressive rock scene, bringing theatre, drama, and blistering prog wizardry to the stage. Their style is unlike anything on the music scene right now, so you wouldn’t want to miss it!
Have A Good Day
Perth Pop duo and 2024 “Live Nation - Ones to Watch” Have A Good Day are pleased to announce the Floating Australian Tour. After garnering local attention supporting the likes of Great Gable, Alter Boy and Ladyhawke the duo head across metro and regional cities for their first national tour in October 2024 – proudly presented by Cut Above Collective.
The tour news comes in celebration of the band’s upcoming high-energy single “Floating” featuring Boorloo’s RnB breakout star and Australian Idol finalist “Drea”. Don’t miss the fast rising Have A Good Day as they take their Floating Australian 2024 Tour across Australia this October!
Hannah and the Heartstrings
Hannah and the Heartstrings weave an intricate web of nostalgic pop, powerful lyrics, and vintage rock vocals in their collective sound. Drawing from legendary music icons like Joan Jett and the Cranberries, Hannah and the Heartstrings bring trance-inducing sonic textures, and melodic indie guitar to hit the stage of Melbourne. Touching the heartstrings of the eager, young audience of the inner-city Hannah’s innermost thoughts are brought to light with her yearning, self-reflective and unapologetic lyricism. The music of Hannah and the Heartstrings is free-spirited and introspective, often with a nihilistic twist, and they look forward to engaging with a diverse crowds of Melbourne.
Acclivous Quartet
Acclivous Quartet is a jazz-informed rock/groove outfit that focuses on improvisation. Big heavy jazz grooves are a feature in the band's sound, allowing for the wailing guitar of Tom Fryer and the powerful saxophone of Ben Carr to build intricate and expansive improvisations. The band features masters of the Melbourne jazz and improv scene and will not disappoint.
Fisheye
Intricate instrumental work with gentle but emotional vocals makes up the math-rock-inspired trio's unique sound.
supported by Care
Malcura with special guest Luke Bailey
Malcura are Melbourne's most exciting Flamenco-Fusion group. Honing their craft as buskers in Melbourne’s Bourke Street Mall, Malcura have since captivated the Australian public with their exceptional musicianship and distinctive sound, which fuses Flamenco instrumentation with Latin rhythms and a Rock’n’Roll mentality. Malcura creates music for the soul; it’s a feeling as much as it is a sound.
Renowned for their audience participation and keeping dance floors moving at festivals across Australia, Malcura are sure to lift your spirits!
Toadstool
After a sold out debut headliner, Toadstool are back!
They bring grooves inspired by the sounds of early ‘70s rock.
Their diverse range of sounds will showcase the creativity and chemistry of this fresh-on-the-scene band.
Happy Medium
Thursday 19th of September at Penny Black in Brunswick sees post-punk/indie act Happy Medium. Drawing on influences like Nothing but Thieves, Sticky Fingers, QOTSA, and Vista Kicks, Happy Medium has been working in the studio to develop a sound they can uniquely call their own. Led by enigmatic frontman and songwriter Damian Lefever, you can expect a high-octane live show that engages and entertains every step of the way. Support comes from Melbourne rockers Soul Phase with doors open from 8pm and entry is free.
Ovrnight
Ovrnight are local Melbourne/Naarm residents known for showcasing the Melbourne modern jazz canon with their uniquely fused mix of soul, jazz, r&b, hip-hop, and latin in a seven-piece creative collaboration. With lush harmonies and tight, groove-changing arrangements, you’ll be swept off your seats and dancing along!
Accompanying them is up and rising pinoy artist Nathan Vega, known for his iconic indie/loverboy sound, and dear friends KhoJemini, who have a tasteful fusion of psychedelic, r&b, hip-hop and soul as their sound.
Come on down for a free night of amazing music curated for all lovers of sound.