East Gippsland music lovers are in for an afternoon of world-class percussive guitar and soulful storytelling when acoustic roots artists Ash King and Olivia Lay take the stage live at the Paynesville Wine Bar on Sunday, August 16.
Running from 4pm to 7pm, the intimate afternoon session brings together two dynamic Victorian performers who draw heavy inspiration from Australian roots royalty like John Butler.
Headlining the showcase is Healesville-based blues and roots artist Ash King, best known as the high-energy frontman for blues-rock outfit Smoke Stack Rhino. Currently on a national tour, King brings a stripped-back, earthy acoustic show to Paynesville, featuring his signature baritone vocals and funky percussive guitar work.
King’s solo appearance arrives ahead of his long-awaited debut solo album, Yarra Valley Mud — a six-year labor of love recorded across Melbourne featuring guest contributions from his family, friends, and Wurundjeri elder Murrundindi on yidaki.
“The Yarra Valley is my home, and it’s good for wine, and great for musical inspiration,” King said of the release.
“Mud is easy to get stuck in, but eventually, it grows new shoots… Mud was once wood, like a guitar, and the name is also a tribute to Muddy Waters.”
Sharing the bill is local favourite Olivia Lay, an East Gippsland singer-songwriter who continues to make a serious splash on the national circuit.
Having already released three albums, Lay has built an enviable resume supporting major acts including Thirsty Merc, The Rubens, Ruby Fields and Nathan Cavaleri, alongside appearances at the Queenscliff Music Festival and the National Folk Festival.
Known for her intricate right-hand tapping and percussive guitar style, Lay seamlessly blends folk, blues, alternative and country into a sound all her own. Sunday’s gig marks a welcome return for the local artist, who is no stranger to the Paynesville Wine Bar stage.
Tickets for the three-hour acoustic showcase are $20 per person. With limited seating available, patrons are strongly encouraged to reserve their spots early.
