Set against an ocean backdrop, the 13th annual Caloundra Music Festival (CMF) has become an annual staple of South East Queensland's festival landscape with a reputation for programming an eclectic line-up of international stars, national headliners and fledgling local acts ready to take the next step.
A month out from the 2019 event, we asked Festival Director Richie Eyles to share his 5 must-see acts. Eyles says the 2019 CMF programme once again provides an eclectic line-up catering to a broad range of musical tastes, from top Australian acts, exciting emerging artists and quality internationals.
Richie adds that CMF doesn't limit itself to any particular genre or demographic; a quick look back over the past 13 years reveals a flavour of soul and funk, and a definite leaning towards the music of New Orleans.
Previous CMF acts have included Allan Toussaint, Dr John, George Clinton's Parliament Funkadelic, Booker T Jones, Tower of Power, Incognito and Dirty Dozen Brass Band to name a few - definitely not your standard festival fare.
Click here to read the complete 2019 line-up.
A musician himself, Richie loves to reach around the world to find acts that perhaps Australian audiences have not seen before. This year he's keen to share his inside tips with festival goers with his top 5 must-see acts.
1. New Power Generation
Obviously a powerhouse act of Prince fame. I saw them at Byron last year and again in New York a few months ago. These guys can still move a crowd and will be an absolute highlight.2. Turkuaz
An emerging US act probably not familiar to Australian audiences. I liken them to a cross between George Clinton, Tower Of Power, ABBA and Wings. Maybe I just consumed one too many that night? Anyway, they are a lot of fun and will make you shake your booty.3. Jon Cleary & The Absolute Monster Gentlemen
A personal favourite and a regular to CMF. Jon is a great piano player in the style of the old New Orleans masters and will once again be bringing his own brand of funk and soul.4. Thunder Fox
Here's an emerging Australian act I hadn't seen before last year's CMF. Totally blew us out of the park. All the visiting international artists were so impressed with them last year, we had to bring them back.5. Band Of Frequencies
A home-grown Sunshine Coast act consisting of some fine, local musicians. These guys can hold their own against all the big names, and have spent plenty of individual time themselves travelling the world and honing their craft.
2019 Caloundra Music Festival takes place 4-7 October at Kings Beach (Sunshine Coast).
