Byron Bay Bluesfest 2015 is gearing up to be one of the biggest lineups the world-famous blues, roots, folk, rock, and rhythm & blues festival has had in recent years, and it’s just become even more exciting with a string of new sideshows just announced, including dates from Jurassic 5, John Mayall, Keb’ Mo’, Dave Alvin & Phil Alvin, Rebelution, and Serena Ryder.
Jurassic 5
Forming in the early ’90s, Jurassic 5 quickly became known as one of the most soulful and socially conscious hip-hop groups of the LA underground scene, as well as being one of the most lyrically skilled. They weren’t throwback or old school, but embodied a nostalgic sound that was simultaneously fresh.
Following a huge sold out tour in early 2014, the singular six-piece are back and showing us what hip-hop should sound like with what’s sure to be a set packed with classics, including ‘Quality Control’, ‘What’s Golden’, ‘Day at The Races’, and ‘Thin Line’.
Jurassic 5 Australian Tour Dates
Thursday, 26th March 2015
Panthers, Newcastle
Tickets: Moshtix
Saturday, 28th March 2015
Enmore Theatre, Sydney
Tickets: Ticketek
Wednesday, 1st April 2015
Festival Hall, Melbourne
Tickets: Ticketmaster
Saturday, 4th April 2015
The Tivoli, Brisbane
Tickets: Ticketmaster
Also appearing at Bluesfest 2015 & West Coast Blues & Roots
John Mayall
It’s time to welcome back the godfather of British blues, John Mayall, a name synonymous with 1960s blues and founder of John Mayall & The Bluesbreakers, best known as the launching platform for such legendary figures as Eric Clapton, Peter Green, Jack Bruce, Mick Taylor, Mick Fleetwood, and John McVie.
With a career spanning over 50 years, Mayall has released over 60 albums, including the all-time classic Bluesbreakers with Eric Clapton, as well as a number of dynamic albums throughout the ’80s and ’90s, including Behind The Iron Curtain, Chicago Line, A Sense of Place, and the Grammy-nominated Wake Up Call.
John Mayall Australian Tour Dates
Thursday, 2nd April 2015
Factory Theatre, Sydney
Tickets: Factory Theatre
Sunday, 5th April 2015
Powerhouse, Brisbane
Tickets: Brisbane Powerhouse
Also appearing at Bluesfest 2015
Keb’ Mo’
Three-time Grammy winner Keb’ Mo’ recently unveiled his most successful release in almost 20 years, BLUESAmericana. The album marks the 20th Anniversary of his self-titled debut and the second time Keb’ has undergone a personal transformation.
To celebrate, Keb’ Mo’ will be touching down in Australia early next year to embark on a series of headline dates along with two highly anticipated festival appearances at Bluesfest 2015 and the West Coast Blues & Roots Festival, bringing the skills he learnt playing rhythm for B.B. King and over the course of his two-decade career.
Keb’ Mo’ Australian Tour Dates
Tuesday, 31st March 2015
Melbourne Recital Centre, Melbourne
Tickets: Melbourne Recital Centre
Monday, 6th April 2015
Factory Theatre, Sydney
Tickets: Factory Theatre
Also appearing at Bluesfest 2015 & West Coast Blues & Roots
Dave Alvin & Phil Alvin with The Guilty Ones
Dave Alvin and Phil Alvin have announced two very special headline shows, during which the two brothers from the town of Downey, California will be showcasing their first album together after 30 years, Common Ground – The Songs of Big Bill Broonzy, and it’s sure to be a treat.
The Alvin brothers came to prominence after forming The Blasters in 1979. After being torn apart by sibling rivalry in 1986 the two enjoyed successful solo careers, but the desire for fans to see the two performing together once again remained. These historic shows are sure to be a one-of-a-kind experience.
Dave Alvin & Phil Alvin with The Guilty Ones Australian Tour Dates
Wednesday, 8th April 2015
The Basement, Sydney
Tickets: Bluesfest Touring
Thursday, 9th April 2015
Northcote Social Club, Melbourne
Tickets: Northcote Social Club
Also appearing at Bluesfest 2015
Rebelution
Beginning as reggae enthusiasts in the college town of Santa Barbara, Rebelution quickly grew to become a modern music success story, playing over 100 shows a year around the world, owning stages at major music festivals, and selling out renowned venues such as Red Rocks and the Santa Barbara Bowl.
The most impressive part of all this is that they’ve achieved all of this without backing from any major label. Now Australian fans will have a chance to see a truly remarkable and independent group do their thing on Aussie stages, including a very special performance alongside reggae legend Jimmy Cliff.
Rebelution Australian Tour Dates
Friday, 3rd April 2015
The Corner Hotel, Melbourne
Tickets: Bluesfest Touring
Thursday, 9th April 2015
The Metro Theatre, Sydney
Tickets: Ticketek
w/Jimmy Cliff
Also appearing at Bluesfest 2015
Serena Ryder
If you’re ready for a feel-good, folk rock session, then circle these Serena Ryder tour dates in your diary now! It’s been almost 10 years since Australian fans have had the pleasure of seeing the Canadian beauty take our stages and this time she’ll be powering through on the momentum of her latest platinum-seller, Harmony.
The Toronto-born Ryder has quickly risen to prominence since the release of her 1999 debut, Falling Out. Since then, Ryder has toured with Melissa Etheridge and appeared on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and sending several albums to gold and platinum certifications.
Serena Ryder Australian Tour Dates
Thursday, 2nd April 2015
Northcote Social Club, Melbourne
Tickets: Northcote Social Club
Saturday, 4th April 2015
The Basement, Sydney
Tickets: Bluesfest Touring
Also appearing at Bluesfest 2015
