Cold Chisel will headline the 2012 Bluesfest, with the legendary Australian band’s exclusive festival appearance closing the main stage on Thursday 5April.
Organisers say it will be the first time that an Australian artist has ever headlined this iconic musical event.
Bluesfest’s announcement is testament to the special place Cold Chisel’s music has come to occupy in Australian hearts and minds.
The band’s record-breaking Light The Nitro tour is currently drawing to a close, with a final gig scheduled for Brisbane next Tuesday night. The tour has been the biggest ever by an Australian-based band; drawing nearly 300,000 fans across 36 huge shows. It’s also been unanimously hailed by critics and fans alike across Australasia.
Kathy McCabe of Sydney’s Daily Telegraph said, ‘Cold Chisel restore your musical soul on their Light The Nitro tour and reaffirm the power of music to not only define a culture but unify a nation’s identity.’ Cameron Adams of Melbourne’s Herald Sun agreed: ‘Cold Chisel remind you of the life-affirming power of a truly great live band. Last night, Rod Laver Arena was wall-to-wall smiling faces, beaming with sheer joy.’ Graham Reid of the New Zealand Herald wrote ‘Cold Chisel make raucous bar-room rock’n’roll translate into an arena with thrilling emotional impact.’
In addition to performing classics like ‘Forever Now’, ‘Khe Sanh’ and ‘When The War Is Over’, this special Bluesfest appearance will also see Cold Chisel premiere new songs from their forthcoming album. The as-yet untitled collection of new tunes was recorded over the last 2 years – partly with original drummer Steve Prestwich and partly with new drummer Charley Drayton.
‘Most of us have played Bluesfest solo over the years, but it feels great to be playing there for the first time as Cold Chisel and also be the first Australian band to ever headline the whole Festival,’ said frontman Jimmy Barnes. ‘We’ve all had an amazing 2011 and this should be a great way to kick off an even bigger 2012.’
Other artists so far announced for Thursday include: My Morning Jacket, Lucinda Williams, John Hiatt & The Combo, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Seth Lakeman, Fabulous Thunderbirds, Nick Lowe, Alabama 3 with many more to be released.
The 23rd Bluesfest runs from Thursday to Monday 9 April at at Tyagarah Tea Tree Farm.
For the playing schedule or to book tickets visit www.bluesfest.com.au
