STONE TEMPLE PILOTS ADD TWO NEW HEADLINE SHOWS TO AUS TOUR: PALAIS MELBOURNE AND HOTA GOLD COAST
Iconic Californian rock royalty, Stone Temple Pilots have added two new headline shows to their Australian tour, announcing Palais Theatre (Melbourne) for March 2 and HOTA (Gold Coast) for March 8, tickets available now from www.teamwrktouring.com.
Set to make their long-awaited return to Australian shores next month to celebrate the 30th anniversary of ‘Purple‘, the group’s chart-topping, multi-platinum sophomore album, their Australian audience is primed and ready, with Adelaide and Brisbane shows fully sold out, and Sydney and Newcastle shows today issued with a low ticket warning.
Stone Temple Pilots will perform their legendary album ‘Purple‘ in its entirety at each show, alongside Aussie rock stalwarts, Wolfmother jumping in on the national run of shows to warm audiences up with their myriad of hits.
Released on June 7, 1994, Purple was the highly anticipated follow-up to Stone Temple Pilots’ 1992 debut, Core, which sold over eight million copies and earned a GRAMMY Award. The album debuted at number 1 on the Mainstream Rock Tracks chart and quickly became a fan favourite, selling over six million copies. Purple features some of the group’s most beloved tracks, including Interstate Love Song and Vasoline, which topped the Mainstream Rock Tracks chart. It also includes Big Empty, a song that first appeared on the film soundtrack for The Crow. The song was a massive Top 10 hit on mainstream and modern rock charts and won the MTV Movie Award for Best Song in a Movie.
After the massive success of their North American Jubilee Tour, the band is excited to continue the celebration with their Aussie fans.
Tickets to the ‘Purple’ anniversary tour are on sale now, for further information, visit www.teamwrktouring.com.
STONE TEMPLE PILOTS ‘PURPLE’ 30TH ANNIVERSARY AUSTRALIAN TOUR 2025
FRI 28 FEB | ICC SYDNEY THEATRE | SYDNEY, NSW
SUN 2 MAR | PALAIS THEATRE | MELBOURNE, VIC
MON 3 MAR | HINDLEY ST MUSIC HALL | ADELAIDE, SA
WED 5 MAR | NEX | NEWCASTLE, NSW
FRI 7 MAR | FORTITUDE MUSIC HALL, BRISBANE, QLD
SAT 8 MAR | HOTA | GOLD COAST, QLD
CHARLES MAIMAROSIA SHARES MESMERISING NEW SINGLE ROROPAU NEW ALBUM HOTE’ HOTE’ SET FOR RELEASE FEBRUARY 21
Blending tradition with modern-yet-immersive flair, the new single Roropau from Solomon Islands-born, Melbourne-based creative Charles Maimarosia connects deeply with his Are’ Are’ roots while also showcasing his buoyant craftsmanship, with the latest single heralding the upcoming release of Maimarosia’s sophomore album, Hote’ Hote, due out on Friday February 21 via Wantok Musik, available to pre-save now.
A deeply authentic and soulful artist, heavily inspired by his own culture and experiences, Charles Maimarosia once again weaves a firm essence stemming from his upbringing and his continuing journey as an Are’ Are’ artist into the new track Roropau. Adapting a traditional Are’ Are’ lullaby with Andrew Robinson also working on the single’s arrangement and production, the end result for Roropau is one that celebrates both culture and nurturing beauty, as Maimarosia explains, “Releasing Roropau feels deeply personal and meaningful. It’s a moment where I get to share an intimate part of my heritage, connecting the traditional Are’ Are’ lullaby with a modern audience. The song represents both my roots and my journey as an artist. I feel a mix of pride, gratitude, and excitement to share it with the world. Roropau is a lullaby passed down through generations in Are’ Are’ culture. It’s about the connection between mother and child, the soothing power of song, and the love that nurtures and protects. My inspiration came from hearing my elders sing it and realising the beauty in its simplicity and depth. It’s my way of preserving and sharing that legacy with the world.”
“The foundations of my sound always come from the Are’ Are’ traditions,” Maimarosia continues, “our panpipes, our rhythms, and our storytelling. Beyond that, artists like David Bridie, who has been a guiding presence in my career, and other Pacific musicians who celebrate their heritage have inspired me.”
To channel the core of the original lullaby into a modern setting, Maimarosia worked alongside Andrew Robinson on Roropau, who lent his specialised understanding of arranging and production to both the latest single as well as the broader Hote’ Hote’ album, resulting in music that revels in nuance and seamlessly blends tradition with contemporary charm. “Andrew is someone who truly understands how to honour the cultural elements of the music while enhancing them with modern techniques,” shares Maimarosia. “The mixing and mastering were done by a team who have experience bringing out the best in both acoustic and world music, ensuring the song retains its organic, heartfelt essence.”
Opening with the rumbling percussion of Parani O’o, Maimarosia’s new album Hote’ Hote’ ultimately journeys the listener through 12 unforgettable tracks overall, each celebrating Maimarosia’s Are’ Are’ cultural heritage as well as his musical dexterity. From his impassioned and gripping vocals through to glistening guitars and ethereal panpipes, Maimarosia also enamours with his immersive storytelling that beats throughout his sophomore album, singing entirely in his native tongue while effortlessly allowing stories and themes to translate seamlessly via his delivery and musicianship. Whether balancing traditional instrumentation with swooning arrangements (Rokahanua), gifting sunny sonic vibrancy (title track Hote’ Hote’), driving-yet-stirring anthems (Nanaratana Hu’ A Kuramauri), swirling textures (Haiamasina), jubilant and jangly panpipe-driven delights (Manu Ki), toe-tapping modernity balanced with virtuosic solos (Wote’ Wote’), balmy bliss (Kiaka Ha’ Apaina), laidback vibes with hazy tones akin to floating on azure waters (Na A’ Ma Si’ O), raw and riveting emotives (A’ Mamaiuru and Nanaratana Tetemanu), or sublime updates on traditional Are’ Are’ songs (Roropau), Charles Maimarosia retains a rooted and soulful presence throughout Hote’ Hote’, with the gifted artist also physically journeying to locations to authentically inspire and enhance his overall creative vision for the project. “Some of my favourite memories making this album include sailing in traditional canoes to remote villages to find inspiration and recording sessions where the team truly understood the importance of every sound we captured,” shares Maimarosia. “Working with Andrew Robinson on arrangements was another highlight—his ability to translate Are’ Are’ traditions into a modern soundscape was incredible.”
“The album explores themes of voyaging, family, love, and cultural preservation,” Maimarosia continues. “It celebrates the beauty of the Pacific, the strength of community, and the stories of my ancestors. It’s also a call for unity and respect across all cultures and generations. And also my own journey from small Pi Pi Su village in Malatia Solomon Islands to Australia and touring the world following and sharing My culture and music from the age of 17.”
An award-winning performer and storyteller, Charles Maimarosia is renowned for being a musician of important custom knowledge, and an artist dedicated to cultural preservation. Growing up in the remote Pipisu village of Malaita, Maimarosia developed a profound interest in ‘Are ‘Are music at a young age since inheriting his first handmade coconut shell ukulele from his father, and witnessing ‘auu rerepi’ panpipe performances and Are’ Are’ drum ensembles as a child. Starting his musical journey performing amongst his community and communicating ancient songs of his ancestors with hand-made pan pipes, Maimarosia has since gone on to tour the globe for over a decade, including as the frontman, choreographer and songwriter of the acclaimed panpipe orchestra Narasirato, as well as representing Australia and Solomon Islands at the G20 Summit in India, and on stage at the likes of WOMADelaide, the Blue Mountains Music Festival, and the National Folk Festival. Since relocating to Melbourne in 2010 to focus on his solo career and signing to Wantok Musik, Maimarosia has released a solo debut album, 2016’s Are’Are, and received the Music Victoria Diaspora Award in 2022.
Alongside the upcoming release of his sophomore album, Maimarosia is also set to perform some of his captivating creations live as of next month, offering fans a chance to experience his latest material in a live setting while also celebrating storytelling and traditional and modern Are’ Are’ music.
“Fans can expect an immersive experience,” Maimarosia reveals of his upcoming performances, “Are’ Are’ drums, panpipes, and rhythms blending with modern instruments. I want the audience to feel the heart of the Solomon Islands, the power of our stories, and the joy of coming together through music.”
“I am a storyteller at heart,” Maimarosia continues. “My music is an extension of my culture and my identity as an Are’ Are’ artist. I strive to blend tradition and modernity, preserving the wisdom of my ancestors while making it relevant to today’s world. At the same time, I’m constantly learning and evolving through collaboration and new experiences.”
“I hope this latest single and my upcoming album inspire people to value their roots and the stories that make them who they are. For me, music is more than sound—it’s a bridge between generations, a way to connect hearts and share wisdom. I’m grateful for everyone who’s been part of this journey, and I can’t wait to share it with the world.”
Roropau is out today via Wantok Musik.
Hote’ Hote’ is due out on Friday February 21 via Wantok Musik, pre-save now from https://ffm.to/cmhotehote.
CHARLES MAIMAROSIA – UPCOMING SHOWS:
SAT 8 FEB | ODESSA AT LEAVER’S HOTEL, CRESWICK VIC
Tickets available from: https://events.humanitix.com/charles-maimarosia-hote-hote-album-launch
SAT 15 FEB | GEORGE LANE, ST KILDA VIC
with special guest Pirritu
Tickets available from: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1301782
FRI 21 FEB | WAUCHOPE ARTS HALL, WAUCHOPE NSW
Tickets available in January 2025 from: https://wauchopearts.org.au/
SAT 22 FEB | RED RATTLER, MARRICKVILLE NSW
with special guest Zippy Anu
Tickets available from: https://events.humanitix.com/charles-maimarosia-hote-hote-album-launch-with-special-guests
SUN 23 FEB | SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE, CANBERRA ACT
with special guests Dean Abbott Band
Tickets available from: https://www.smithsalternative.com/events/charles-maimarosia-88669
MELBOURNE GUITAR SHOW, AUSTRALIA’S BIGGEST GUITAR SHOW RETURNS IN 2025 WITH A NEW VENUE + A STACKED PROGRAM
Melbourne Guitar Show returns as Australia’s biggest guitar show in 2025, with this year’s edition also marking a milestone for the iconic event, moving to a new home alongside an incredible lineup of performers, workshops and more locked and loaded for this March. The Victoria Pavilion at the Melbourne Showgrounds is set to play host to Australia’s ultimate showcase of guitars, amps, pedals and lots of other gear on Saturday March 1 and Sunday March 2; and with a new venue, a brand new layout and a reimagined program offering a horde of new ideas, workshops and live opportunities, 2025’s Melbourne Guitar Show will undeniably be the ultimate mecca for axe-slingers and riff-bringers of all ages.
Of the 2025 Melbourne Guitar Show edition, producer of Melbourne Guitar Show Alex Masso shares, “This will be an unmissable event for guitar fans, you will just have to be there to see our new home and what we have planned for this year. We have picked up new ideas from our audience, brands, musicians and other events. Fans of the Melbourne Guitar Show will recognise it but we’re making the show even better for more people to enjoy.”
Tickets for the Melbourne Guitar Show are on sale now from www.melbourneguitarshow.com.au. Early bird ticket discounts are available now, with affordable prices and early bird adult day passes under $30 available now. Simply purchase your Melbourne Guitar Show tickets online now and save.
Presented by the Australian Music Association, sponsored by Marsh and supported by Australian Musician, PBS, Beat and Mixdown, the 2025 Melbourne Guitar Show will also feature a new Make Music program supported by the NAMM Foundation. Offering Australia’s largest showcase of guitars, guitar products and guitar playing, the Melbourne Guitar Show celebrates the versatility and endless possibility of the world’s most popular instrument in a new and more accessible venue in 2025. With the new venue, Victoria Pavilion at Melbourne Showgrounds, the event will be more accessible and easier to navigate this year; with the show operating entirely on one level, moving around the event is a breeze and you won’t miss a thing! And for those who want to explore and talk about guitars in a quieter setting, for the first time ever the Melbourne Guitar Show this year will also host ‘quiet mornings’, where amplifiers won’t be used by exhibitors, bringing down the volume for a more intimate and sensory-friendly setting.
PERFORMANCES AND SESSIONS
The impressive 2025 lineup features a diverse range of genres, guitars, and presenters, including rock, blues, jazz, funk, Americana, flamenco, and more, with none other than Aussie powerhouse Dallas Frasca headlining on Saturday 1 March set to ignite the Melbourne Guitar Show stage with plenty of trademark raw and rock-soaked energy. Also locked in for the Saturday program, the 30th anniversary of Australian Musician Magazine will be celebrated with a special session in conversation with Aussie guitar lord and all-round music icon Paul Dempsey, along with performances from flamenco guitarist Richard Tedesco, and renowned singer-songwriter and guitarist Gretta Ziller. Sunday’s event will see revered guitarist and founding member of Battlesnake, Paul Mason, bring his critically-acclaimed event In Honour of Jeff Beck to the Melbourne Guitar show, along with performances from guitar prodigy Minnie Marks, Aussie guitar supergroup Triple Fret, featuring Kathleen Halloran, Jimi Hocking and Geoff Achison, and neo-funk instrumental act The CB3. Check out the full performer list here.
MAKE MUSIC PROGRAM
For the first time in 2025, the Melbourne Guitar Show will feature the Make Music program, supported by the NAMM Foundation. As part of Make Music Australia, a national campaign celebrating and promoting music-making, this special program will inspire and inform music makers about a range of playing styles and songwriting, with Rock Academy and I Heart Songwriting Club presenting workshops and showcases.
GEAR UTOPIA
As always, the jewel in the crown of the Melbourne Guitar Show’s unique offering is the vast collection of guitars, pedals, amps and other gear on display, spanning everything from the biggest global brands through to local luthiers building only a handful of guitars per year. This year’s show features a separate Fender room and a national showcase of Australian guitar brands including Melbourne’s own Maton Guitars and Cole Clark Guitars, Ormsby Guitars from WA, Fenech Guitars and Pratley Guitars from QLD, Mark Gilbert Guitars (TAS), Crossley Guitars, as well as new brands launching at the show including SKOL Guitars and Poschelk Guitars (QLD). You’ll be able to see gear in action, and try and buy at the show, all while enjoying the incredible array of performances, workshops and more on offer. Check out the exhibitor list here.
ENHANCE YOUR SKILLS
As a leading advocate for music making and music education, the show’s producer, Alex Masso, has also included plenty of opportunities to learn and be inspired across the two days this March. A series of guitar playing styles workshops will run on Sunday, as well as songwriting workshops on Saturday. And on the main stage YouTubers Leon Todd and Gabor from The SuperFunAwesomeHappyTime Pedal Show will take you through how to use a range of gear for different styles of playing.
FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
The Melbourne Guitar Show is a family friendly event, with free tickets for under 12’s making it an affordable price for a family day out. Grab a bite to eat from the food trucks outside, and for the adults, the main stage will also operate with a licensed bar. This event is perfect for guitar-lovers of all ages; bring the kids to inspire the next generation of guitar lovers!
EARLY BIRD TICKET DISCOUNT
Purchase your Melbourne Guitar Show tickets online now and save. Prices increase from February 14. www.melbourneguitarshow.com.au/tickets.
Don’t miss Australia’s biggest guitar show in its brand-new home and with an exciting new program in 2025; the show will feature an array of Australian guitar heroes and plenty of surprises, with something truly on offer for everyone – and a guarantee that you’ll hear something for the first time.
“The guitar is still the most popular instrument and there’s a lot of tradition, innovation, and creativity in the world of guitars,” shares Masso. “We’re showcasing the lot – local guitar heroes and lesser-known players, iconic global brands and new models from brands that are actually launching at our show.”
“We want people to be excited about playing music, in particular playing the guitar, that’s the way it should be,” Masso concludes. “You walk in and see a huge range of gear, a packed program of performances and workshops, there’s a lot to take in, but that’s what it’s all about. We want people to be excited about seeing, hearing, learning and trying new things, excited about making music whether it’s at home playing for fun, in the studio, on stage, or jamming with friends.”
The Melbourne Guitar Show will be held at Melbourne Showgrounds on Saturday March 1 and Sunday March 2, 2025.
Tickets are on sale now from https://melbourneguitarshow.com.au/tickets/
Visit the Melbourne Guitar Show site at www.melbourneguitarshow.com.au for the latest show announcements and information.
MELBOURNE GUITAR SHOW ‘25
Tickets available from https://www.melbourneguitarshow.com.au/tickets
SAT 1 MAR | VICTORIA PAVILION, MELBOURNE SHOWGROUNDS VIC | LIC AA
Featuring Performances From
DALLAS FRASCA
AUSTRALIAN MUSICIAN MEETS PAUL DEMPSEY
RICHARD TEDESCO
GRETTA ZILLER
And
A SONGWRITING WORKSHOP FOR GUITARISTS
SONGWRITING WORKSHOP
ULTIMATE GUITAR TONE CHALLENGE
SUN 2 MAR | VICTORIA PAVILION, MELBOURNE SHOWGROUNDS VIC | LIC AA
Featuring Performances From
PAUL MASON HONOURS JEFF BECK (WITH BRETT GARSED)
MINNIE MARKS
TRIPLE FRET (WITH KATHLEEN HALLORAN, JIMI HOCKING & GEOFF ACHISON)
THE CB3
And
THE RIGHT GEAR FOR THE GIG WITH LEON TODD
GUITAR STYLES WORKSHOP