Who'd have thought - someone willing to put together a regular punk magazine in Australia with a local focus to go with it. I've been asked to write a regular column, which I duly accepted, and I suggest you support such a fine project by buying a copy. Head to: http://renegadesempire.com to buy their latest issue online or find out your closest stocking newsagent.

The latest issue has just come out and features some great features. The editorial team are travelling the country going to gigs, so you can expect some really good insights into Australian music.

Keep an eye out for my first article in the May/June issue!

Two of Jamaica's greatest singers, Dawn Penn (No, no, no) and Stranger Cole (Rough and Tough) will be performing at the Annandale Hotel, Sydney on Saturday May 8.

They'll be backed by Sydney favourites King Tide and supported by Melbourne's fabulous Ska Vendors.

This will be the greatest reggae, rocksteady and ska revue Sydney has ever witnessed.

TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE: http://www.annandalehotel.com/anh/eventdetails.asp?id=2362

Garage Land returns in 2010 with a line-up destined to please the most discerning fans of ska, reggae, punk and soul.

Only at Garage Land can you expect to see a name such as Madonna for free and in a great intimate venue like UTS's Loft Bar. Madonna needs no introduction, and when you see the performance you'll wish none was given - the hectic performance schedule should speak for itself. If reinvention of image is less important to you than a shamelessly chaotic high-energy dose of your favourite genres, then don't miss this act, from Melbourne performing their only Sydney show at Garage Land.

Before Madonna take to the stage, local favourites Steppin' Razor will bring you an exhilarating combination of socially conscious reggae and punk. Their recent reformation has been greeted with the most positive of receptions, from devoted and fresh fans alike. Steppin’ Razor has recently been burning up stages throughout Sydney and Melbourne including their recent performances at Melbournes SKABBQ weekender.

As though that isn't enough value for money, or rather energy, as it won't cost you a sent to get in, DJs including Glen Dizzybeat, Snap! Soundsystem, Tommy Gun and DJ from Full House will be spinning the smoothest sounds for the dancefloor, from JA to the UK and all the way to the Motor City.

This is Garage Land, and we're back for 2010 on Thursday, March 11.

Check out the event on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=341898092817&ref=ts

Stalwarts of Sydney ska, Backy Skank, are about to launch their new studio album "The Biz". On March 13, 2010 in the great new room at the Sando on King St, Newtown, ska will be the feature event. Backy Skank will be joined by The Aussie 2-tone Allstars, Chris Duke and the Royals and Death Rays from Atlantis. I'll be spinning some tunes in between sets, as well.

Afterwards, get along to Take It or Leave It at Kelly's, which will feature Pat Powell at his MCing best as he returns to his Club Ska days.

Check out the event on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=342080496345&ref=mf

If you find yourself in Newcastle (Australia) this Sunday, make sure you get along to Soul Shakedown Party at the View Factory:

When: SUNDAY 7TH FEBRUARY 2010!
Where: The View Factory. cnr of Scott & Telford St, Newcastle East.
Time: 3pm - 7pm.
Free entry.
DJs: Regular DJs KID MINCE & THE SCORCHER with special guest DJ Chuan

A relaxed afternoon of DJs playing only the best vintage Soul, Original
Reggae, Ska & Rocksteady.

The View Factory is a great venue, the perfect place to chill out for a few
beers and a bite to eat.

Sydney's jumping reggae kings, aptly named King Tide, will be playing at Notes on Enmore Road this Saturday with The Strides and Sticky Fingers. Head out to celebrate Bob Marley's Birthday in true style.

Very sad news to report with yet another one of the most influential musicians in the genres we adore having passed away.

Read the report on the Jamaica Gleaner website: http://www.jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20100123/ent/ent1.html