April's guide to the Illawarra's best gigs
High-energy shows will cater for fans of all kinds of music, from new-age country-pop to UK punk, classic rock and DIY hip-hop
This month, Illawarra’s music scene offers high-energy shows for every kind of fan. Those looking for fresh faces can check out up-and-coming local bands at La La La’s, while a Queen tribute show takes the stage at Anita’s Theatre, perfect for lovers of the classics. See 70s UK punk veterans take Globe Lane, or sit down for a Friday night alt-country show at The Servo. For the younger crowd, and anyone holding onto 90s nostalgia, US duo Joey Valence & Brae are bringing DIY hip-hop to Towradgi. Whether you’re into German DJ sets or new-age country-pop, there is something for everyone in April.
New Blood Wednesdays w/ Frog Soup
Wednesday 1 April | La La La’s | 7:00pm
Now entering its third year, this initiative by Yours & Owls and La La La’s has become the gold standard for nurturing our homegrown talent. The night gives emerging bands the chance to play a professional stage and compete for Y&O festival slots. This month features Frog Soup, Flynn Putt, Ethylene, and Contra. For $10 a ticket, this is the best way to support the Gong-grown scene before these bands start selling out the bigger rooms.
Four On The Floor: 4th Birthday
Saturday 4 April | UniBar | From 2:00pm
Four On The Floor is celebrating four years with an open-air day party on the UniBar deck. They’ve booked German DJ XDB for his Wollongong debut, supported by a lineup of residents and local regulars: Daants, Ethan Rose, Harry Bice, Zach O and Leo Dallapozza. Go to this if you prefer vinyl-focused house and techno, and want an afternoon-to-evening party atmosphere rather than a standard late-night club set.
TV Smith’s Adverts + Hard-Ons
Saturday 11 April | La La La’s | 7:30pm
UK punk royalty TV Smith is touring the catalogue of his 1977 band The Adverts, including the classic Crossing the Red Sea. He is being backed by Ray, Blackie and Murray of the Hard-Ons, with local support from Cammy Cautious and the Wrestlers. Go see how much noise these veterans can still make in a small room, merging UK and Australian punk history.
Hockey Dad | Tombeau & The Idiots + more: For Andre Fundraiser
Saturday 11 April | Resin Brewing Bulli | 4:00pm
Resin Brewing is hosting a fundraising gig supporting their dear friend and coworker Andre de Ruyter, who was attacked by a shark in January. Local bands supporting a local surfer at a local small business – perfect for those wanting to use their Saturday night to do some good in the community. Hockey Dad will play a solo show, supported by Tombeau & the Idiots, Chelsea Daghita, Kryver and Zeke Cameron. Friends of Andre and fans of indie-rock can support his recovery at the bar and through raffles on the night.
Tickets: Free through Humanitix | Donate via Go Fund Me
Joey Valence & Brae: Hyperyouth
Friday 17 April | Waves (Towradgi Beach Hotel) | 7:00pm
This US duo specialises in a frantic, breakbeat-heavy style of hip-hop reminiscent of the 90s. With electronic influences and punchy performances, this act is a perfect Friday night gig for nostalgic Gen X-ers and cool younger crowds alike. If you loved the Beastie Boys, you’ll love this.
Tickets: First and second release are SOLD OUT – get in fast for third release at $79.90
Queen Forever
Thursday 23 April | Anita’s Theatre | 7:30pm
Perfect for a theatrical night out, this tribute to Freddie Mercury and Queen hits Thirroul in late April. The show spans the band's entire discography with a focus on stage production and audience singalongs. Go to this if you’re looking for a big, all-ages rock show in a formal setting.
Henry Wagons: The Road Less Travelled
Friday 24 April | The Servo, Port Kembla | 6:00pm
Henry Wagons brings alt-country storytelling to The Servo in his new solo tour. Known for his showmanship and tendency to spin tall-tales on stage, this is a fun night out in Port Kembla. Go to this if you prefer craft beer and a food truck with your music, or if you’re after a good Friday gig in an outdoor setting.
Rachael Fahim: Who You Are Tour
Thursday 30 April | La La La’s | 7:00pm
Closing the month with a shift toward modern country-pop, Rachael Fahim has a strong following in the "new country" scene and is touring with as-yet-unannounced special guests. Go to this if you’re a fan of polished, vocal-driven pop and want to see how the genre translates to a club environment.
Coming up in early May
- The Three Seas (1 May @ IPAC): The world premiere of their new album Antaḥkaraṇa, featuring Raju Das Baul, Ashis Mothey, Gaurab “Gaboo” Chatterjee, Brendan Clark, Hilary Geddes and Matt Keegan. It’s a blend of West Bengali folk, Himalayan rock and contemporary jazz.
- Gordi (2 May @ The Servo): An intimate backyard set from one of Australia's most respected folk-electronic artists.
- The King of Pop Show (2 May @ Wollongong Town Hall): A full-scale Michael Jackson live concert experience. Go to this if you want a high-production tribute to the king of pop.
- Maddy Jane (2 May @ La La La’s): Catchy indie-pop with a strong local following. This will be a high-energy show to kick off the month.
