“Why would you move to Canberra if you love live music so much?”

It is a question that people still ask me when they find out I moved from Sydney to Canberra. But I laugh at it; Canberra’s music scene is a unique and untapped experience, different from those in Australia’s larger cities such as Melbourne and Sydney.   

Before moving, my logical thought was that if artists were making music in Canberra, there must be artists performing! It is likely there are a few artists you have heard of who are from Canberra, including the likes of Genesis Owusu, Peking Duk, and Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers. If you are looking to expand your taste and would like to see some gigs but are not sure where to start, these artists may have sounds that are familiar to your current favourite artists!

Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers — I Love You Too

Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers are a punk rock band that grew from Canberra’s streets. They are known for their versatility in sound and exciting live performances. If you are a fan of other Australian rock groups such as the Buoys or Teenage Joans, you will no doubt love Teen Jesus. Their debut album has recently accrued new songs in the deluxe version I Love You Too, a compilation of songs exploring various life experiences featuring opening upbeat tracks such as “I Used to Be Fun” and “I Love You”. However, Teen Jesus also creates slower, delicate songs such as “Your House My House” and “Toe Bone” which explore the ideas of missing others and uncertain feelings. I was first captured by Teen Jesus when they worked with one of my other favourite bands, The Grogans, to release “Salt”, which has a catchy hook. While not all band members still live in Canberra, they do a few shows a year in this small city.

Peking Duk

While you may not know they are from Canberra, Peking Duk are definitely a big artist who have captivated Australian ears and even globally garnered attention. Peking Duk are an electronic dance band composed of DJs/producers Adam Hyde and Reuben Styles. They have produced hit tracks such as “High” and “Fire” which has allowed them to play huge shows. While Peking Duk do not frequently play shows in Canberra, they have provided a foundation for the city’s music scene and have encouraged many local artists to follow similar trajectories. 

Genesis Owusu — Struggler

Genesis Owusu is not your typical artist; he pushes boundaries in his music production, providing a mixture of fast-paced rap tracks as well as more mellow, accessible R&B or alternative songs, allowing him to capture such a large audience of people who enjoy a wide range of music. I initially started listening to Owusu when he released his 2021 album Smiling With No Teeth, where “Gold Chains,” with a mix of a smooth melodic hook and flowing rap verses, allowed me to connect with his music easily. Owusu’s newest album, Struggler, continues this versatility as he explores struggle within many different facets of our lives. Owusu’s album was so well received that his song “What Comes Will Come” was added to the EA Sports FC24 soundtrack. Typically, when Owusu tours Australia, he does a show in his hometown of Canberra, so look out for any upcoming shows for a truly captivating and enjoyable performance.

Stella Eve — Spare Keys

Stella Eve is probably the smallest artist in this article. However, she has to be one of my favourite artists of those I have discovered since coming to Canberra. Stella’s music has a calm, folky tone, providing easy and beautiful listening for any situation. She has a sound similar to that of artists like Phoebe Bridgers and Julia Jacklin. I first discovered Stella Eve’s music with her single “Bleed”, which I have introduced to many friends — everyone loves the catchy chorus and fun musical atmosphere that it creates. Stella recently released a second single, “Spare Keys,” a slow, melodic song that similarly provides easy listening. Sadly, I have yet to see Stella live in Canberra — however, she is playing frequent gigs and seeing one of her shows is on my to-do list for 2025 (as it should be for you!).  

Moaning Lisa — Fainter

Moaning Lisa are hard to box into a single genre. However, their music most closely strikes an indie rock and pop sound similar to Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers. If you have already listened to Teen Jesus (and hopefully enjoyed them), give Moaning Lisa a listen. Moaning Lisa’s new album, Fainter explores various emotions surrounding relationships and life experiences and has a nice mix of stronger rock and more poppy songs. My personal favourite is “4am (where have you been?)”. Moaning Lisa are playing at The Basement (aka Baso) in Belco on the 1st of March, where they are selling student tickets for $18.40 (could be your first Canberra gig!). 

Now that you are familiar with some Canberran artists, you may be wondering where you should go if you want to hear some live music. Canberra has a few really good venues for music, which you can follow to get continual updates on visiting bands.

The Basement (aka the Baso) — Belconnen

The Baso is a fun venue located in Belconnen, which is easy to reach with a single bus from Barry Drive. The Baso hosts a wide variety of genres, from indie rock to pop and everything in between. I have seen a few prominent Australian artists here, including The Vanns, Old Mervs, and Belair Lip Bombs. If you have a look at their website and see artists you do not recognise, you can always buy a cheap ticket and have a listen with a feed and a drink to help support local artists!  

UC Hub — Bruce

UC has a great music venue for artists; they host a variety of music with no real niche. UC has seen bands as big as Peking Duk and The Wombats while also putting on Australian indie bands such as The Rions, Spacey Jane, Pacific Avenue and Telenova. I recommend keeping up with UC Hub as they put on many pop-rock shows that anyone can have fun at!

Smith’s Alternative — Civic and Belconnen 

Smith’s Alternative is one of my favourite places to hang out, but they also host many fun bands ranging from genres such as jazz and folk to some small rock and classical groups. Smith’s is a venue that provides a space for niche-r music with smaller crowds so that everyone can enjoy their style of music! 

ANU Kambri Cultural Centre and Llewellyn Hall — on Campus

Yes! While rare, our own campus holds live gigs with prominent artists. I have been fortunate enough to see Royel Otis in the Culture Centre and enjoy an amazing show at the same hall where I was lectured about microeconomics and statistics. These gigs are often advertised around campus, so they are easier to spot than other venues. 

Llewellyn Hall is the large music hall in the music building, and it is an absolutely beautiful space to hear all types of music. The hall frequently hosts the university’s orchestra and jazz band, while also seeing the likes of Hoodoo Gurus and the Australian Chamber Orchestra perform. If this seems more your vibe, look out for the wide range of shows in these venues!

While Canberra has many shows coming up from the start of the semester, the best way for you to find a gig you will enjoy is to listen to new Canberra artists and follow social media pages and websites for the listed venues. Canberra has such a vibrant music scene, especially with regional tours becoming more and more popular for medium-sized bands, so do a little research and enjoy your Canberra music.