Paul Dempsey is gearing up for Howlin’ Country with a shout-out to Newcastle and the memories that shaped his long love affair with the city’s stages.
Ahead of his appearance at the festival this Valentine’s Day, Dempsey has taken a moment to look back on the gigs, venues and late-night surprises that have made Newcastle one of his favourite stops.
From uni lawns to iconic pubs and packed theatres, the musician’s history here runs deep.
“I have so many great memories of playing shows in Newcastle, I think the first time Something for Kate ever played in Newcastle was a free lunchtime show outside on the grass next to the Bar On The Hill, but on subsequent visits, we graduated indoors, and we played there dozens of times after that, always very memorable shows and wonderful crowds.” Paul Dempsey recalled.
“The first time we ever played The Cambridge in the mid 90’s, we finished the show and stayed upstairs. In the middle of the night a bikie gang arrived and basically opened the pub, took over the bar and played Khe Sahn on the jukebox until the sun came up. That was interesting.”
“Last time I played a solo show at the Cambridge bandroom was a great night too, even though it was about a million degrees, I miss that venue.”
“I also remember playing a really fun solo show up at the Lighthouse several years back, which was awesome. Fanning Dempsey National Park had a great show at The Civic Theatre last year, which is one of the most beautiful theatres in the country.”
And for Dempsey, the common thread is simple: “There’s too many to mention, I love playing in Newcastle, the crowds are always fantastic.”
Paul Dempsey will appear at the second instalment of Howlin’ Country this Saturday. For all of the details, the full lineup and tickets, head to the event page.
