Checkerboard Lounge
Evolving over thirty-five years, Checkerboard Lounge has become a cult-like institution. The brainchild of singer, songwriter and drummer Carl Pannuzzo, Checkerboard has enjoyed an impressive cast of musicians over its lifespan.
The current lineup, a supergroup of master musicians -Shannon Bourne on guitar, Tim Neal on Hammond, and Zoë Frater on Bass, is arguably the band’s strongest, breathing fire and virtuosity into blues, soul and roots originals. The spirit of some of history’s greatest music is palpable from the first note. They reinvent the music with authenticity and currency, appealing to old and new fans. From standing ovations at festivals to crammed inner Melbourne pubs, Checkerboard are a tour-de-force, the very essence of a live music experience. Audiences leave the shows blown away, with the not uncommon phrase, ‘Fuck, that’s the best thing I’ve ever seen.’
The Band’s improvisational bent means that fans can expect the unexpected – no two shows are the same. Band members communicate almost telepathically with an intuitive sense of play, bringing the audience along on the journey through the heart and feet. Checkerboard’s world-class musicianship is undeniable. With integrity and originality they deliver a potent brew of blues, roots and soul.
Personnel:
Carl Pannuzzo on drums and vocals (Kylie Auldist, Mia Dyson, Paul
Grabowsky, Shane Howard, Patti Labelle, Fred Smith, Deb Morrow,
Bob Sedergreen, Vika and Linda Bull, Music Outback, Acapelicans).
Tim Neal on keys (Mavis Staples, Rickie Lee Jones, Randy Crawford, Joss Stone, Ernest Ranglin, Archie Roach, Paul Kelly, James Taylor, Fiona Boyes, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Big Jay McNeely, Renee Geyer, Ross Wilson). Shannon Bourne on guitar (Blues Hall of Fame inductee, ’People’s choice Blues Legend of the Year 2023) Chris Wilson, Don Walker, Kerri Simpson, Vika Bull, The Black Sorrows, Russell Morris, Tex Perkins, Broderick Smith). Zoë Frater on bass (Zoë Frater Quintet, Ali McGregor, Cleverhorse, Robbie Melville, Emily Lubitz, Deline Briscoe, Sandy Evans, Sally Ford, Andrea Keller, Niko Schauble’s Charlie Haden Tribute Album)
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