The inaugural Welcome To Morrisonville – Americana Festival boasts an acclaimed line-up of international and national artists, bringing a genuine slice of Americana to Brisbane this month.
The Morrison Hotel will be brimming with live performances from 2pm until late, promising to transfix audiences with raw, roots-orientated songwriting, classic country music and groovy, bluesy tunes. "Americana, as a term, is an interesting one,” explains event promoter, Neil Richards.
“For me, it has always been the adult-oriented, 'cool shit' that doesn’t fit the modern version of that genre. Country that isn’t glossy and over-produced, soul music that isn't urban, acoustic blues (as opposed to electric) or genres like folk, bluegrass, rockabilly and gospel that have actually stayed true to their origins. In short, it’s real music played by real musicians.”
Kinky Friedman
Stogie-waving, black-hat-wearing, singer-storyteller and Texas Jewboy Kinky Friedman is headlining the festival, an Australian-audience favourite in the middle of his world tour to promote his album, 'The Loneliest Man I Ever Met'. His 45-year-long career is laced with outrageous accomplishments, from penning renowned country songs and authoring bestselling crime novels, to once running for governor of Texas. "Kinky Friedman's career includes collaborations with Americana legends likes Willie Nelson, Dr John, Bob Dylan and members of The Band,” Neil reveals.
“The line-up in its entirety is fantastic,” adds Neil, “complemented by great food and drinks.” New Belgium, Pabst Brewing, Abita Brewing and Samual Adam are among the American Crafts beers available on the day, while a series of mini whiskey masterclasses along with an appearance from the Sailor Jerry Barber Shop are sure to keep people entertained.
King Of The Wings
Fuelling the afternoon of dancing and singing will be four Brisbane food trucks, kipping the craving of every crowd member. King of the Wings will sell American-style fried chicken, offering five unique flavours ranging from the signature 'Southern Style' and crispy 'Portuguese Crumb' to classic American BBQ. Micasa Food Truck serves fresh tex mex cuisine, high-quality and highly authentic.
That BBQ Joint
That BBQ Joint promises to fill hungry bellies and satisfy the soul, taking diners on a finger-licking journey to the Deep South. And to satisfy any sweet tooth, The Cone Queen will be whipping out delicious soft serve ice creams and treats. “Brisbane has a history of being slow on the uptake of anything outside of the mainstream or Triple J,” says Neil. “This is going to be an outstanding celebration of Americana music, and I hope people show enough support to see it become an annual event.”
The Cone Queen
Hayes Carll also graces the list of Morrisonville artists, well recognised for his unique lyrics woven with plain-spoken poetry and sarcastic humour. His recent album 'Lovers And Leavers' has been described as 'the finest work of his career', and saw him nominated for a 2016 Grammy Award for Best Country Song. “Hayes Carll has been titled a brilliant modern day songsmith, and is one of the most played artists on Americana radio,” Neil says.
Eagle & The Wolf combines the talents of singer-songwriter Sarah Humphreys with Australian blues musician Kris Morris. The huge response received from their debut single 'Mama, Song And The Holy Ghost' was backed by an equally massive commendation following the release of their first album. “Eagle & The Wolf is one of Australia’s hottest new roots acts, hailed by Kasey Chambers as one of her favourite acts!” Neil exclaims.
Old-soul duo The Weeping Willows will regale the audience with acoustic, folk-laced, country-tingled tunes telling stories of sunshine and romance, God and The Devil, and murder and decay. They recently completed a successful national tour in support of their album, 'Before Darkness Comes A-Callin'. “The Weeping Willows are actually currently Stateside, showcasing their wares at AmericanaFest after signing a worldwide deal,” says Neil says.
Brisbane based singer-songwriter Paddy McHugh has shared the stage with a number of world-renowned acts, playing his songs at festival dive balls, and every hall, backyard and pub in between. His honest approach to songwriting has proven that the troubadour spirit remains alive and well. “Paddy McHugh has an ever-growing reputation,” Neil reveals.
Welcome To Morrisonville showcases at The Morrison Hotel (Brisbane) Saturday 15 October.
