The Drunken Poet

Lockie Bennett
2025-10-26 18:30 - 23:30 (Australia/Melbourne)
Lockie Bennett Duo is Wellington’s premier chamber jazz duo, playing everywhere from bars to exclusive clubs and private concerts. Appearing for the first time in Melbourne, the duo will present an eclectic set of music from the swing and bebop eras. Saxophonist Alex Trask is known for exciting original music gigs and plays lead alto in the fabled Rodger Fox Big Band. Guitarist Lockie Bennett is one of the most in demand musicians in Wellington, holding down multiple residencies and leading bands regularly. Expect to hear exhilarating tunes from the finest jazz composers, heart wrenching Broadway ballads, and danceable delights.

Andy Baylor plays the ballads of The Band
2025-10-28 20:00 - 23:30
Andy Baylor plays the ballads of The Band!

Topaz Lyon
2025-10-29 20:00 - 23:30
On acoustic guitar with warm & captivating vocals, Topaz Lyon writes music to intrigue your mind and entice your soul. Having grown up in the mountains behind Mullumbimby, the singer-songwriter is sharing new work from a very creative past 6 months.
With the story-telling style of Joni Mitchell, the alt-country notes of Gillian Welch and a hint of the strength and edge of PJ Harvey, she’ll take you on a journey from the everyday to the ethereal.

Ingrid Saker
2025-10-29 20:00 - 23:30
Ingrid achieves a rare balance of vigorous raw emotion and humble greatness, piloting the band down pathways of expansive creative energy with her songwriting, guitar and singing. A craftful songwriter, her potent and melodic vocals are a vehicle for lyrical brilliance.

The Lulublues
2025-10-31 20:30 - 23:30
After orbiting each other in the Sydney and Melbourne music scenes, Cash Williams and Nic Malouf have joined forces, fusing their eclectic tastes into a new project – The Lulublues. Powered by an ensemble of monster players, The Lulublues makes for a tasty blend of soulful blues, gritty rock and an energetic live show.

Old Melbourne Road
2025-11-03 19:00 - 21:00
Cup Eve entertainment sorted…Old Melbourne Road at the Drunken Poet. OMR is an Irish folk/rock band that will make you dance and sing. The boys from Ballarat do Irish folk rock as well as anyone and always make everywhere they play into a party.

NOVEMBER 4 - CLOSED
2025-11-04 12:00 - 23:30

Dean Haitani
2025-11-07 20:30 - 23:30
With his unique finger style and soulful earthy vocals, Dean Haitani draws inspiration from blues & roots music, and his love of funk and old school R&B rhythms.
One of Australian most accomplished guitarist/singer/songwriter, over the last 20 years Dean has toured the US, UK & Europe. His unique sound comes from his experimentation with the technical and his ability to cross many musical genres.
Dean’s has honed the craft of both acoustic & electric guitar and his dynamic live performance comprises of foot percussion, a variety of guitars (running octave, delay, distortion, phaser & wah effects) vocals & harmonica.

Seren Spain & Bridin
2025-11-09 18:30 - 23:30
An evening to lift your senses: An ancient celtic harp & rising folk fusion.

Paul Kelly’s former manager Stuart Coupe coined Seren Spain “A voice to die for!”; and Australian Folk Giants like Ernest Aines declared: “Look out folk world – this woman will be heralded for generations!”

Kicking off her Take Me Tour Launch after touring the UK & Ireland extensively after showcasing at YRAS Conference, Ireland, Seren Spain is playing her first ever afternoon show at The Drunken Poet in trio form with very special guest & friend, virtuoso celtic harpist, BRÍDÍN, alongside Mal Beveridge (War vs Treaty, Big Name No Blankets show).

Last year, Seren launched her first 2 solo singles, which gained high rotation on ABC country and international Radio play (including BBC Radio 1 Eire), she has since played at the stunning Begonia Festival with a full live band and every night of folk festival, Cresfest.

This will be the first time Melbourne has witnessed the ancient celtic harp played live in an intimate setting with an award-winning player. The evening will transport you to ancient realms, whilst bringing a rhythmic, refreshed modern take to the ancient instrument.
Virtuoso harp-player, BRÍDÍN, cannot wait to showcase her connection to the harp and celtic flute.

Seren is over the moon to share an evening of original songs, dulcet tones & strings in violin, flute, acoustic guitar & virtuoso harp playing.

Rory Newman plays the songs of John Martyn
2025-11-11 20:00 - 23:30
Rory Newman plays the songs of John Martyn!

Tasha Zappala
2025-11-12 20:00 - 23:30
Singer-Songwriter and researcher Tasha Zappala crafts poetic and nature-inspired music. Based in Lutruwita/Tasmania, her performances are an exploration of sound and site, influenced by her work with environmental sound. When not serenading, she spends her time in the southern woods of Lutruwita, making billypots of beans, drinking tea and capturing field recordings.

Sonia Serin
2025-11-13 20:00 - 23:30
Described as a “stellar guitarist, emotive piano player, and a bit of a technical whiz behind the drum kit,” Sonia Serin brings a dynamic blend of fusion, soul, and upbeat energy to every performance. Her 2019 debut album Unresolved and 2024 single Dust Settles showcase her rich musicianship and heartfelt songwriting. With her acoustic guitar and stomper box in tow, Sonia delivers a show-stopping set that’s both powerful and deeply moving.

Malaika Mfalme
2025-11-13 21:00 - 23:30
London-born and raised across continents, Malaika Mfalme is a Tanzanian/Australian singer, songwriter, guitarist, and event producer creating on Gadigal Land (Sydney). In their mother tongue, Swahili, their name translates to “Angel King.”
Malaika’s music is a powerful exploration of Black love, self-acceptance, grief, and the complex journey of being loved and sometimes lost. With a sound rooted in soul and folk, his songs create a healing space, conveying messages of kindness, reflection, and acceptance.
In 2023, Malaika released their debut album, Yasmin, to widespread acclaim, with the album launch selling out and the music now available on all streaming platforms. They have also opened for iconic artists such as Ben Lee, Alex the Astronaut, and Alter Boy, showcasing their ability to connect deeply with diverse audiences and leave a lasting impact through his heartfelt performances.

The Mellow Balladeer
2025-11-15 15:00 - 23:30
The Mellow Balladeer creates a warm, nostalgic, and intimate ambiance with his acoustic interpretations, ranging from popular and lesser-known classics to the traditional Irish ballads from his native home.

Bag O'Nails
2025-11-15 21:00 - 23:30
Bag O’ Nails are probably Melbourne’s most dynamic and electrifying Blues-Rock trio, wowing audiences with their scorching live performances since 2004!

Mandy Connell & Girl Friday pay tribute to Folk Songstresses
2025-11-18 20:00 - 23:30
Girl Friday and Mandy Connell possess an irreverent magic when they’re together. Known across Australia and New Zealand as songwriters drawing inspiration from old traditions of blues, jazz and folk, the sassy pair can break your heart with a note, or leave you in tears of laughter. Performing two sets for the beloved regular wednesday Wine, Whiskey, Women show at the Drunken Poet, we’ll see standout sets from both winning women and collaborations in both sets, featuring harmonies, humour and compelling strings work from these multi instrumental divas – a feast of story in a bath of moving sound.
Paying tribute to Folk Songstresses!

Elly McK & The Unbelievers
2025-11-19 20:00 - 23:30
Based in Melbourne, Australia, Elly McK & The Unbelievers are passionate about creating evocative music. Their journey began in 2023, with all four members united in their exploration of the Country, Americana, and Roots sounds they love.

Thee Cha Cha Chas
2025-11-22 21:00 - 23:30
Thee Cha Cha Chas magically weave the poetic thoughtfulness of 60’s folk music with fun, raw 50’s rock n’ roll and energetic excitement of 70’s punk.
The duo originally from Naarm have been playing together for 10 years and are returning from a year of playing across Europe to tour their debut LP ‘Temple Of Mirth’.
Their album has been met with enthusiasm and is now in it’s second vinyl pressing. This will be their last show in Australia before they head overseas again!

Darlings Family Trust
2025-11-23 16:00 - 23:30
Join the Darlings Family Trust (Duo) for two sets of harmonious story songs dancing around the fringes of the current state of things known and unknown. With acoustic fingerstyle guitar songs and warm lush electric guitar sounds alongside sprawling stories sung in unison harmonies, The Darlings Family Trust root themselves in Folk music whilst dashing in and out of genres like Blues, Indie-rock and Country.

Clare Cowley plays the songs of Fleetwood Mac
2025-11-25 20:00 - 23:30
Meanjin based musician, fascinated by the effect of Fleetwood Mac songs, particularly Christie McVee’s, reaching the collective conscious of Australian music lovers, Clare is bringing her stripped back take on their signature folk pop rock. Offering a hand picked setlist delivered with her smoky vocals and harmonica, accompanied by, finger style guitar. Clare’s recent showcases of new singles anticipate Clare’s third full length album, Synthetic Lover, recorded in West Brunswick.

Jack Merideth
2025-11-27 20:00 - 23:30
This November, be sure to catch Jack Meredith playing his solo set at the Drunken Poet! Jack‘s a singer songwriter from the Bellarine Peninsula, with a resonant baritone voice and harmonica style that can be both sensitive and driving. Playing songs that echo his experiences of loss, longing and discovery spanning these worlds between city and country, Jack Meredith will be bringing some honest, heartfelt blues and folk into the Melbourne scene.

Alex Kosenko
2025-11-28 20:30 - 23:30
Alex Kosenko, the independent artist hailing from Brisbane, is set to captivate audiences at The Drunken Poet in Melbourne on July 4, 2025. Known for his unique blend of Blues, Rock, and Roots, Alex delivers dynamic one-man band performances that feature a thumping kick drum and tambourine, bluesy acoustic-electric guitar, howling harmonica solos, and soul-driven vocals. His high-energy shows have left festival-goers buzzing, and this performance promises to be no exception. With a powerful stage presence and inventive electric sound, Alex’s show at The Drunken Poet is an event not to be missed for music lovers.

Cyril Moran
2025-11-29 15:00 - 23:30
Cyril Moran returns to The Poet to kick of our Saturday afternoon right!
Cyril is Irish born and arrived in Melbourne in the early 90’s. He quickly hooked up with the vibrant music scene playing with popular band Shillelagh Goat at The Dan O’Connell and the Normandy hotels. Cyril soon got a taste of the folk music scene which blossomed in Melbourne.
After Shillelagh Goat, Cyril formed Heartwood with other members of Shillelagh Goat and set about doing folk based and original songs with an emphasis on vocal harmonies. They produced a CD which was well received by The Melbourne Age critic Mike Daly. Cyril also worked with Maria Forde and features on several of her albums. Cyril then hooked up with well known fiddler Greg Hunt and they made an album called “Songs From The Soft Voice.”
In 2000 he decided to go solo, and with the help of Arts Victoria produced his first album “Summer Rain” which consisted mostly of original songs. In 2004 he won the Lawson Patterson songwriting award at Port Fairy for his composition “Freedom’s Song” a story about his journey to Australia mirrored with that of the refugees.
Cyril plays regularly at Irish Pubs in Melbourne and is highly in demand for weddings. In his irish repertoire are the old favourites – Black Velvet Band, The Rare Old Mountain Dew, Wild Rover and The Bog Down in the Valley. Cyril also sings contemporary material including John Williamson’s “It’s Raining On The Rock.”

Cold Heart
2025-11-29 21:00 - 23:30
COLD HEART play mid 20th-century southern American music, from the heydays of The Grand Ole Opry and the Louisiana Hayride when radio was king. Performing tunes from artists such as Hank Williams, Johnny Horton, Faron Young, Buck Owens, Moon Mullican and many many more with some originals all in the late 1940s to 1950s feel. The trio consists of Noray Gulian on vocals & acoustic guitar, Steve Venus on electric guitar and Dave Philpots on doghouse double bass. So grab ya self beer & enjoy, listening to Cold Heart will make you feel as though in a west texas honky-tonk bar.

Adam Hattaway (NZ) plays the songs of Van Morrison
2025-12-02 20:00 - 23:30
Adam Hattaway (nz) sings the songs of Van Morrison. Likened to Van Morrison in his own songwriting and singing, Adam has been saluting Van with his 10 piece soul band across New Zealand. Now in Naarm, Adam will play a stripped back set of his favourites with guitarist Elmore Jones. Featuring songs from Astral Weeks, Veedon Fleece, Moondance, Days Like This and more.

Yolanda Ingley II
2025-12-03 20:00 - 23:30
There’s a defining old world charm to Melbourne songstress Yolanda Ingley II – equally wielding smoky vocals and impassioned heart, Yolanda’s songs dip into soul, blues and jazz with inherent sophistication that draw to mind the greats of eras passed.
A Poet favourite!

Madigans Wake
2025-12-07 18:30 - 23:30
Madigan’s Wake is a fusion of traditional Irish folk and punk rock, combining powerful Celtic rhythms with Australian stories. Madigan’s Wake were the winners of London Celtic Punks’ Best Debut Album of the Year in 2023.
Armed with a set of old favourites and fresh originals, they’re back at the Drunken Poet!

Daniel Watkins plays the songs of Gordon Lightfoot
2025-12-09 20:00 - 23:30
Saddle up for an evening of timeless storytelling and heartfelt folk classics as Daniel Watkins of the High Street Drifters brings the iconic songbook of Gordon Lightfoot to life at The Drunken Poet.
Expect warm acoustic tones, poetic ballads, and Watkins’ signature authenticity as he honours one of folk music’s greatest voices.
Whether you’re a lifelong Lightfoot fan or discovering the magic for the first time, this is a show you won’t want to miss.

Carouse
2025-12-11 21:00 - 23:30
CAROUSE is a Pop Artist / World Guitarist from Christchurch – Aotearoa, New Zealand. His quintessentially kiwi-pop anthems are hook laden with infectious choruses, mixed with articulate guitar rhythms, inspired by the likes of – Prince, John Mayer, Jack Johnson, Lenny Kravitz & Tom Misch to name a few. He is a passionate writer, drawing from his own past internal struggles losing his mother at age 9 / growing up without a father.

His blend of pop/groove with soulful overtones are reflected in his releases
“Absolute For Love”, “On My Knees, Odyssey” & EP Shadowlight.

CAROUSE has released his full length debut pop album “Inside Out” on Sep 20, 2024.

CAROUSE has a dazzling / captivating live show, performing both vocal / instrumental tracks from previous releases.
He brings his all to every performance and leaves everything out on the table.

The Drunken Poachers
2025-12-12 20:30 - 23:30
For over a decade, the Drunken Poachers have been commanding drunken soirée’s to the masses in Melbourne’s most elegant dive bars, backyards, ballrooms and festivals – the 7 piece Irish/bluegrass/country band bring their drunken anthems back to the Drunken Poet for their annual Christmas party. Have your drinking boots ready.
