Sooki Lounge in Belgrave will host a high-energy afternoon of live music on Sunday 22 June, featuring two bands who have been exploring and performing the music of Blondie and The Clash with depth and respect. This show marks the final time both groups will appear on the same bill, with each now focusing on their own standalone shows going forward.
The event was booked prior to the recent passing of Clem Burke, Blondie’s legendary drummer. With that in mind, the performance now carries additional meaning for the band Atomic and the audience alike.
Atomic: The Songs of Blondie opens the afternoon with a set that spans Blondie’s evolution, from early punk beginnings to genre-blending chart success. Led by Anthea Palmer on vocals, the band includes Stu Thomas (Dave Graney and The MistLY, Kim Salmon and The Surrealists) on bass, Mike Dupp (The Methinks, The Futurists) on guitar and keys, Victor Stranges (The Methinks, The Futurists) on drums, and Garry Allen (Crossbones Boogie, Kahuna Daddies) on guitar. The focus is on tone, feel and live energy, not replication.
Black Market Clash follows, performing music drawn from across The Clash’s diverse catalogue. Stranges and Allen share vocal and guitar duties, Thomas anchors the low end and steps forward on The Guns of Brixton, Dupp provides the keys and organ, and Gian Cannizzaro (Chloe Booth) brings a precise, dynamic approach to the drums, echoing Topper Headon’s distinctive style.
This will not be a night of imitation or nostalgia. It is a thoughtful and honest engagement with two groundbreaking catalogues, performed by musicians who grew up with this music and still carry it forward with intent.
Atomic starts at 4:30pm. Black Market Clash at 6:15pm. Doors open at 4:00pm.
Venue: Sooki Lounge, Belgrave
Tickets: https://tickets.oztix.com.au/outlet/event/8ef95f57-801e-4d15-b8d8-4b4e6b4297d3