Musos to keep on grinding

By Kath Gannaway
IT SAYS something about the support Healesville’s Grind & Groove cafe and bar has shown for the local music industry, that 14 of those musicians have signed on for a marathon music fundraiser on Saturday.
“Keep the Grinder Grinding” will feature 14 local artists in 14 hours of continuous live music.
For the past three years owner Maurice Lacy has provided a venue for young artists playing original music, but he’d be the first to admit it’s been a struggle at times to make ends meet.
Grind & Groove has shied away from the easy, safe formula of karaoke and covers, opting instead to provide music that offers opportunities local musicians, and for patrons.
The Grind & Groove’s Wednesday Open Mic has unveiled some great talent and it has been a platform as well for established bands from around the Yarra Valley and from down the line.
Gemma Pitcher, who is organising the event, says it is aimed at keeping the doors open in 2009.
“The support had been amazing,” she said.
“Everyone is coming together to support the Grind & Groove – the musos are playing for free and all the staff are working for free.”
The music will be non-stop with the Jeary Duo, Ben O’Connell, Singing For Your Soul’s Sake, the Hannafords, Ewan Cloonan, Shannon Kennedy, Mind Excursion, April Maze, Shaun Kirk, Shoe Shine, 2.S.W.A.I, The Night Press, the Crooks and DJ Monkey Trax, playing from 11am to late on Saturday 10 January.
Tickets are $10 for the day, available at the door. Phone 5962 6840 for details.