The hallmark of Good Things Festival has been that the diverse lineups attract all comers. Whilst Knotfest and others are more narrowly focused on specific genres or scenes, Good Things recalls some of the greatness of the Big Day Out: overseas headliners, up and comers and Aussie bands all over. For those born prior to 1996, there’s probably a bunch of bands and logos that mean nothing to you, but this year you’ll recognise the names at the top of the bill. What will you do the rest of the day?
I got you covered. Here’s what you should look for if, like me, you attended a Big Day Out in the 90s.
One of my favourite things about multi stage festivals is the chance to check out bands you might not see on their own. It’s also great to stumble across new bands you haven’t heard about until now.
As veteran festival goers, we don’t really want to line up so hang back from gates open, get yourself a full lunch and stroll on in the early afternoon. Pack Panadol and ibuprofen, a decent hat and sunscreen. If you do decide to get in early, go check out Inertia (12.20pm - Stage 4) and South Arcade (12.50 - Stage 3) to get your blood pumping before hitting the main stage.
Refused (2pm - Stage 2)
You’ve probably heard of these Swedish punks, whose seminal album The Shape of Punk to Come (1998) included jazz and electronic influences alongside hardcore. They were ahead of their time and broke up soon after. They’ve been back together since 2012 but are now on their farewell tour. It’s their last time here so don’t regret missing them and get in the pit.
The All American Rejects (2.45pm - Stage 1)
If you don’t know the name, you know the songs: ‘Gives You Hell’, ‘Dirty Little Secret’, ‘Swing, Swing’. They’ve been staples on Triple M and rock radio and they’re going to bring house party vibes to the main stage.
The late afternoon has lots of possibilities for the older generation. The choice is between going metal or something more punk.
Choice of:
Machine Head (4.15pm - Stage 2)
Robb Flynn has kept the “Machine Fuckin Head” chants going since 1993. Frequent visitors to our shores, it’s their first festival since Soundwave 2012. You’re looking for them to drop metal MTV staples like ‘Ten Ton Hammer’, ‘Old’ and ‘Davidian’ with new songs from Unatoned.
Or
Goldfinger (4.15pm - Stage 4)
The So-Cal pop punk faves have been around since the mid-90s and you’re at least aware they covered ‘99 Red Balloons’, which featured in Not Another Teen Movie and EuroTrip. Their signature anthem 'Superman' was heavily featured in Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 1, and upon hearing that intro, you'll be taken back instantly. Their most recent single with Mark Hoppus (Blink 182) is a fair representation of what to expect.
James Reyne (5.00pm - Stage 3)
One of the highlights of every Good Things is this exact slot (previously occupied by Dragon and Boom Crash Opera). He’s already got a t-shirt ready for the occasion and you’re gonna belt out the bits with him: ‘Boys Light Up’, ‘Hammerhead’, and maybe a bit of ‘Reckless’ and ‘Downhearted’
Or
Ozzy Osbourne Tribute (5.20pm - Stage 5)
It’s going to be a karaoke format with the Kill Your Pop Stars and “special guests”. Pay tribute to the godfather of heavy metal with a detour to Stage 5.
Grab a bite from the food stalls. Now is your moment. The kids are all going to be at Kublai Khan TX so hit the food trucks to recharge and then head to the main stages.
The Headliners
Garbage (6.15pm - Stage 1)
Still kicking along with the original line up for 30 years. They’ll play the hits you remember from Hottest 100s and early morning Rage, plus more recent stuff from Let All That We Imagine Be The Light.
Weezer (7.15pm - Stage 2)
If you’re older enough to remember that Weezer’s ‘Buddy Holly’ video was included with Windows 95 then you won’t be missing this. You’ll also recognise a bunch of other songs when they play them, from the Blue, Red and Green albums.
Tool (8.15pm - Stage 1)
It’s Tool but maybe not quite as you remember them. They’ll play stuff from ÆNIMA but they’ll also offer up full versions of songs from their most recent album, Fear Innoculum, like ‘Pneuma’ and/or the title track. If you haven’t checked them out in twenty years, the songs are pretty long with a captivating visual show.
It Tool isn’t hitting right for you, then head over to Lorna Shore (8.30pm - Stage 3) and see what all the fuss is about. If neither prog metal or symphonic deathcore tickle you, there’s still LA trio Palaye Royale (8.40pm - Stage 5) who will offer up alternative style rock - suss their massive anthemic hit 'Fever Dream' below.
If that's not your cup of tea, you’ll beat the traffic home anyway.
Words by KJ Draven @kjdraven
get your tickets (while they last) here
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