RISING Returns: A Winter Spectacle in Melbourne/Naarm
Celebrating Diversity in Music
RISING is back, illuminating the Melbourne/Naarm CBD this winter with an eclectic mix of performances and late-night events. While big-name acts like Lil’ Kim and Cate Le Bon are certainly show-stoppers, RISING prides itself on showcasing more than just international stars. The festival serves as a platform for a diverse array of musicians and artists, particularly those who offer a fresh twist on contemporary sound.
Late-Night Programming
For its seasonal lineup, RISING has cultivated a reputation for electrifying late-night programming that attracts avant-garde club DJs from around the globe. The festival this year promises a plethora of late-night activities, taking place in unique venues such as the State Library and the National Communication Museum. One of the highlights is a two-week takeover at the enigmatic Bass Lounge, which is nestled beneath the Paramount Food Court in Melbourne’s bustling Chinatown. It’s a reminder that creativity knows no bounds, even when it comes to location.
- Late-Night Details
- Date: Wednesday, 27 May – Monday, 8 June
- Location: Various venues in Melbourne CBD
- Tickets: Check here
A Vibrant Lineup at Bass Lounge
As part of the Bass Lounge lineup, audiences can expect an explosion of international sounds. The night kicks off with a performance from acclaimed DJ Rotational, hailing from Rotterdam. Karim, known for his dynamic sets that bridge global electronic dance music genres, promises an animated experience. His spellbinding mix will venture through Angolan kuduro, Brazilian funk carioca, Moroccan techno, Cambodian house, and rare Puerto Rican reggaeton. For a taste of his sound, fans can sample these mixes: Burbling Beats and African Hip Hop.
Emerging Talents and Local Favorites
In addition to Rotational, the lineup features Naomie Klaus from Marseille, whose art-pop sound captures a unique blend of abstract and pop. She shares the stage with Front Page Leslie, who will showcase a live dub set, adding to the Brussels music scene’s eclectic flavor. Other performers include Colombiana DJ Zalina, founder of Naarm’s lively Chuleo Club, and Sydney’s Kidskin, who will deliver a live set featuring euphoric trance and EBM.
Bass Lounge also becomes a battleground for local talent, with a back-to-back performance from Elsie and Xavier, promising a night rich in sounds.
The Second Week’s Highlights
Anticipation for week two at Bass Lounge ramps up with headliner Nicolini, the brainchild of Amsterdam’s Nic Mauskovic. Known for mixing styles in an innovative way, Nicolini will introduce audiences to “penni funk,” a captivating fusion of bass, dub, and global influences.
Celebrating a milestone, Nicole Skeltys will perform as Artificial to commemorate three decades since B(if)tek’s influential debut LP. Other local talents will round out the week, with DJs Ed Kent, Bridget Small, Sofay, and Emelyne delivering performances that encapsulate the essence of Melbourne’s diverse musical landscape.
Wax Music Lounge: An Artist Hub
Throughout the festival, the Wax Music Lounge on Flinders St transforms into an engaging Artist Bar. Visitors can experience nightly warm-up sessions from The RISING Blue Lobster Band, featuring local jazz talents such as Loretta Miller and Ollie McGill. This space promises not just music, but a vibrant community atmosphere showcasing the best of Naarm’s artistic spirit.
Beyond Music: Other Events at RISING
RISING doesn’t only dazzle with musical acts. On Friday, 29 May, the State Library will host Library Up Late, featuring soundscapes from Cloudy Ku and Solar Cells & The New Vision System alongside sets from DJ JNETT and live performances by Monica Lim and the Concordis Chamber Choir.
As part of the festival’s unique identity, Day Tripper will also take place, offering immersive experiences followed by a late-night rave at Melbourne Town Hall featuring UK techno luminary Daniel Avery.
With performances like the Sissy Ball 8: The Doll House, which brings the Australian Dance Biennale to a celebratory close, RISING highlights the intersection of performance art and vibrant nightlife.
Wrap-Up of Insights
From late-night DJ sessions to avant-garde performances, RISING firmly establishes itself as a cultural cornerstone this winter in Melbourne. The festival not only showcases remarkable international artists but also elevates local talent, creating a dynamic, inclusive, and artistically rich environment that deserves attention.
For more information about the full program and to purchase tickets, visit the official RISING website.
Beat is proud to be a media partner of RISING, celebrating creativity and artistic expression in Naarm.
