An international blues-rock star and two legends of Australian music will feature at this year’s Queenscliff Music Festival, organisers have announced.
American artists Ben Harper will play songs from his first album in eight years, while Paul Kelly and Midnight Oils front-man Peter Garrett are also on the bill.
November’s 20th festival would “prove bigger and bolder than ever”, the organisers said.
Harper and backing band The Innocent Criminals would play in support of new album Call It What It Is.
“Audiences will be among the first to hear new songs from the album live, along with classics such as Burn To Shine, Steal My Kisses and Diamonds On The Inside,“ the organisers said.
“Legends of the Australian music scene Paul Kelly and Charlie Owen will present songs from an exciting new collaboration that is sure to appease fans who have waited since 2007 for their chance to see Paul Kelly back to grace the QMF stages.
“The roll call of local heroes continues with a special appearance from Peter Garrett and The Alter Egos playing songs from Peter’s forthcoming solo album, A Version of Now, featuring an all-star band including Abbe May, Martin Rotsey (Midnight Oil), Mark Wilson (Jet) and Peter Luscombe (Rockwiz, Paul Kelly).”
Other acts on the bill included Melbourne pop band Alpine, hip-hop artist Urthboy and bluesman Ash Grunwald, the organisers said.
Festival director Andrew Orvis was thrilled with the line-up.
“Turning 20 is a major milestone and we’re really excited about the festival this November. We’ve assembled a fantastic program to celebrate the occasion.
“Queenscliff is more than just the music though, It’s about great shows, comfy surrounds, a family friendly vibe, yummy food and drinks, all in the beautiful historic Queenscliff and right on the shores of Port Phillip Bay.”
The organisers said four more line-up announcements in coming months would reveal a final bill of more than 80 local and international acts for November’s festival.
