From 28 September, NGV Studio will be transformed into a fully functioning recording studio where a specially formed group of Melbourne musicians, named Batman Park, will take over the space to write, record and produce an EP as part of the Wired for Melbourne Sound exhibition.
Tony Ellwood, Director, NGV said: “Melbourne has long been recognised for its diverse independent music scene and a major strength is the relationship between local musicians and visual artists, with many working across both platforms. Wired for Melbourne sound will explore the creativity that exists within the music scene and will provide an insight into this vibrant aspect of the cultural life of Melbourne. ”
Led by Alex Badham from Aleks and the Ramps and Magic Hands, Batman Park will feature talented musicians from Melbourne bands and solo outfits including Jess Cornelius (Teeth & Tongue), Evelyn Morris (Pikelet), Thomas Mendelovits (Milk Teddy), Lachlan Denton (The Ocean Party) and Pascal Babare (Pascal Babare and Teeth).
The band will collaborate on the writing, recording and production of an EP and video clips which will be launched as a limited edition compact cassette tape with digital download, with an album cover designed by Rick Milovanovic of Twerps and Boomgates fame.
“We are very excited that this EP will be launched at the opening weekend of Melbourne Now, the largest project undertaken by the NGV that will celebrate the latest art, architecture, design, fashion and dance produced in this city,” said Mr Ellwood.
Beckett Rozentals, Assistant Curator, Australian Art, NGV, and curator of Wired for Melbourne Sound, said in conjunction with the recording studio, there will be an exhibition component focusing on the recent history of Melbourne’s independent music scene.
“Documentary photography and photographic essays by Lauren Bamford, Leah Robertson, Mia Mala McDonald, Karl Edwin Scullin and Pat O’Neill will give visitors a unique insight into the Melbourne music scene. These will be presented alongside a ‘salon hang’ of recent vinyl cover art and a projection of film clips and live footage provided by independent record labels, musicians and artists.” said Ms Rozentals.
Visitors to the exhibition will be able to watch the band as they write and record their EP, and those who think they have what it takes can get up on the karaoke stage to sing along to some of Melbourne’s well-known indie songs.
Batman Park Presents, a special late night gig of local bands, will take place on Thursday 3 October as part of NGV Studio’s First Thursday series. See ngv.vic.gov.au for more details
Wired for Melbourne sound will be on display from 28 September to 27 October 2013 at NGV Studio, located at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, Federation Square. Open daily 10am–5pm. Free entry.
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