AUS VRS VIBES's new live stage concept
AUS VRS VIBES is a new concept for live music performance in Australia, with two acts on one stage. In this original presentation, bands will play song for song as opposed to the traditional “battle” model, there is no competition, this is more of a showcase of talent, a comradery of musicians banding together to just play music. We caught up with some of the artists to ask them about this special concept and what fans can expect.
You have been announced as one of the bands to perform at this new concept event AUS VRS VIBES, happening in Melbourne this June. Are you excited to be a part of this original approach to a music showcase?
Marvin Priest (Crown Heights) - Yeah it feels amazing having to share same stage with Ras Jahknow band and play different songs one for one.
Ras Jahknow (Ras Jahknow Band) - I’m soo happy to be a part of this unique amazing event, before when the organisers approached me, I was a bit skeptical about the idea because I thought it was a battle but they explained it was just friendly vibe and nothing about feelings attached to it so I’m excited, can’t wait to perform alongside this great band.
The lineup includes Crown Heights, Ras Jahknow Band, Shottaz, Jah Tung, Jesse I, Zare Demus & Jungle City Collective. For those that dont know the bands, what musical genres can punters expect to hear on the 17th of June?
Bands will be playing their own music and also some popular reggae music as well. All supporting acts will perform their new and freshest songs featuring some big names.
Djs and dance crew will take on the newest Dancehall, Reggae, Hiphop, Afrobeats, playing all night long
“This is unique platform focusing on the “versus” approach as in performance done by two bands or artists instead of the normal single band or artist performance with songs played one for one with a host. ”
What make AUS VRS VIBES different to other shows?
This is unique platform focusing on the “versus” approach as in performance done by two bands or artists instead of the normal single band or artist performance with songs played one for one with a host. We are also on mission to put on great big show/stages showcasing the local talents to the same level as the big international artists with the work we put in there.
Who came up with the concept?
The whole concept was put together by the Aus Vrs Vibes crew headed by Dj Emporer and King Derek after an inspiration from the “ VERZUZ” in the USA by the Swiss Beats and Timberland during the lock down period
“witness a show that’s going straight into the Melbourne history books ”
What can fans expect from your upcoming performances at AUS VRS VIBES? Any surprises planned?
There’s going to be lot of excitements to start with, and also witness a show that’s going straight into the Melbourne history books as the first to ever happen. This is unique and has never happened before so definitely a great night. Surprise guests & artists will be coming through so come see who they are.
What's the one song from your back catalogue of music that you always slip into a set for an event?
DJ Emporer - Its always that Shaggy ‘Angel’ song. It’s sounds fresh all the time
Apart from your own, who's set are you most looking forward to seeing at AUS VRS VIBES?
The set from DJ Jesse, it will be a highlight of the night. He’s a legend from the Melbourne music scene and definitely looking forward to his set
If you could jump on stage or collab with any artist or band from the line-up, who would it be and why?
Both bands and all artists are equally talented and has been pulling out massive songs, anyone on the line up is great and can be with any of them
What's your favourite festival memory either as a scheduled act or as an attendee?
I would say the last Aus Vrs Vibes that featured some amazing afrobeats artists based in Melbourne. The energy was incredible
Without naming names what’s the funniest or craziest thing you have seen happen backstage at a show?
So it was when an artist asked for warm water not cold and we had no idea how to make the water warm.
Is there a difference on how you prepare yourselves for a multi-artist bill style show as opposed to a standard gig or event?
Yeah so it takes a lot of time with multi artists billing and also making sure music genres fit the show. This is also a bit stressful as we wouldn’t want the music to be everywhere but follow the same kinda pattern. And definitely costly to put show up compared to a standard gig
AUS VRS VIBES is happening at Croxton Bandroom, Thornbury, Melbourne, so is this a hometown show for you and the other bands? What makes hometown shows special?
Playing in Melbourne and The Croxton Bandroom feels really amazing as we familiar with the town and the people. Bands can easily set up and connections with the venue it’s also not too difficult
Who in your touring entourage or team deserves a shout-out but never gets one? And what is it they do that keeps your world turning?
So that must be King Derek as he works behind close doors and off camera but really a pillar behind all the events
“This show is not a normal show, it’s a an experience that you can’t get anywhere in Australia.”
If people haven't already bought their ticket for AUS VRS VIBES, what is your message for them? Why should they be coming to this event?
If you don’t have your ticket yet, then you probably missing out as they will sell out pretty soon so to avoid paying more at the door, we encourage people to get tickets online now via Oztix
This show is not a normal show, it’s a an experience that you can’t get anywhere in Australia. Come catch a vibe, celebrate the culture and party in exclusive style.
Interview by Michelle Symes
April 2023