The OCEAN SOUNDS 2024
line-up:
Xavier Rudd
Looking back over Xavier's stunning career, one could easily ask what is possibly left for him to achieve. Already one of Australian music's all-time greats, he has touched people's lives worldwide. Beginning his career with 2002's definitive To Let, Xavier Rudd put his message out into the world and was answered immediately. Fans from all over the globe were drawn to the distinctly Australian-looking musician, activist and surfer. It was the start of a journey that would span well over 15 years (and counting); taking Xavier to almost every continent on the planet, where he has connected with people from all cultures and walks of life. There are no borders that apply to Xavier Rudd's music.
SPIDERBAIT
Spiderbait's remarkable journey unfolds like truth stranger than fiction: three close friends from rural Australia conquer the music scene, becoming national icons with 25 years of unwavering camaraderie. Janet, Whitt, and Kram ignited their unique sound in Finley, influenced by diverse inspirations like Slayer and The Bangles. Shifting to Melbourne, their distinctive thrash-pop tunes found a home. Seven albums, including a platinum-selling Black Betty cover, showcase their hard-to-pin-down style. Their live prowess is undeniable, gracing major festivals and sharing stages with acts from Guns N' Roses to Pink. Spiderbait's story thrives, their camaraderie and musical legacy an enduring force.
MELBOURNE SKA ORCHESTRA
An explosive celebration of music unfolds, when the force of more than a dozen horn players, a mean rhythm section, percussionist, 2 organists and 3 singers and you may begin to understand what the skankin powerhouse, Melbourne Ska Orchestra is.
From the fun loving humble beginnings in St. Kilda to the international stages of Glastonbury, Istanbul, Montreal, Edinburgh, New York and beyond, the band has steered their ramshackle train into the hearts of many.
Initially formed to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the birth of Ska (1963-2003), their infectious energy soon earned them a coveted slot at Bluesfest and WOMADelaide, a recording contract and accolades from all over the world.
Two ARIA award wins cemented their reputation as one of Australia’s best live acts, while three of their songs were chosen for a UK feature film about Ska.
The band have matched the appreciation with a work ethic that is second to none. To date they have released 7 albums, including a nigh impossible mission of recording a song a week for a whole year, the ARIA award winning 52 Fridays – One Year of Ska.
FELIPE BALDOMIR
Felipe Baldomir is a Coastal Indie-Folk singer/songwriter from Uruguay, South America; currently based in Byron Bay, Australia.
People oDen refer to his music as a blend of Jack Johnson, Xavier Rudd & Tash Sultana - His coastal sound travels from the Folk world of open-tunings, harmonica & steady power beats, to an upbeat soundscape of groovy guitar riffs, loops, punchy saxophone runs, keys & warm vocals. Since arriving in Sydney in August 2018 he has converted a van into a ‘rolling home & studio’ and has been performing all around the country. From busking in the streets, playing backyard shows & supporting local musicians such as Jack BoUs, Kim Churchill, The Dreggs, etc; to headlining sold out shows all around Australia & playing at festivals such as NYE On The Hill, Roadtrip Festival, etc. Last summer, Felipe completed his 5th headline Australian tour and released the singles ‘Chasing The Sun’ & ‘Free’ to announce that there is a 3rd album in the pipeline. ADer wrapping up the Aussie tour, he rolled into another Campervan on the other side of the world to continue on tour across Europe, UK & South America.
The European summer saw him playing 42 shows across the continent, including iconic festivals such as Tunes in the Dunes (UK), Kieler Woche (Germany), etc. Followed by his latest single ‘Together we fly’ and a tour of South America, Felipe just announced his next release ‘You’ (September 1st, 2023) and a naTonal Australian Tour this October-November 2023!
Felipe will be celebrating the new music with his biggest headline shows yet & a few special festival appearances!
SUNFRUITS
Comprising of Winter McQuinn, Evie Vlah, Elena Jones and Gene Argiro, psychedelic pop band Sunfruits have been making waves around Melbourne/Naarm and Australia for the past 3 years. On their debut album One Degree which saw praise from The Guardian, Rolling Stone, NME, Shindig and more the band presents anthemic psychedelic-pop and their most mature and conceptual songwriting to date. With their environmentally conscious, politically aware songwriting, Sunfruits showcase an impressive new-age take on psychedelia and garage rock that has seen them support bands including Grace Cummings, Mildlife, Nice Biscuit, The Lazy Eyes and appear at festivals including Manchester Psych Festival (UK), Misty Fields Festival (EU), NYE On The Hill and more. The band’s environmentally aware songwriting and actions have been praised recently as they were nominated for the prestigious Environmental Music Prize 2023. This commitment to meaningful songwriting, exhilarating live show and aesthetic brilliance put Sunfruits as one of the most exciting young bands coming out of Australia.
JANIE GORDON
Janie is a singer songwriter from South Gippsland who has been gracing the music scene for the past few years now. Her song writing portrays honesty, her stage presence captures audiences and her voice resonates smooth and angelic tones. Janie has performed at festivals such as NYE on the Hill, Sounds of Summer and previous Ocean Sounds. She always hopes her music helps others move through life’s obstacles and connects with people. Janie has big plans for the future and has plenty more heartbreak bangers in the works, so keep an eye on her socials for upcoming releases and shows.
FONZIE
Fonzie is a proud Gunai man who has music in his blood.
Honey melting off a hot rock" is how Fonzie’s voice has been described.
Studying his Advanced Diploma of Performing Arts with a Singing Major at The Aboriginal Centre for Performing Arts, Fonzie has performed all across the country including the Byron Bay Blues Festival.
His song “Strong Black Woman” has become an anthem across Australia, while “Crave” came in at number six on Triple J Unearthed.
Fonzie has recently been back in the studio recording a new EP inspired by living on Millowl (Phillip Island) for the past 3 years.
He will be performing a mix of covers and originals new and old in his own unique style.
His powerful vocals, mixed with emotional storytelling are sure to make this a memorable performance not to be missed.