The commercial impacts of COVID-19 have been swift and widespread – devastating the music industry, among others, with social distancing and lockdown restrictions limiting the capacity for the community to experience and appreciate their art.
Since reopening, Cruise Bar Sydney has launched a live music offering in a bid to support local musicians who are doing it tough this year. The impressive line-up features local performers including the likes of DJ Shaun Keble, Ben Morris and stars of The Voice, Luke Zanc Trio, to name a few.
James Black from Luke Zanc Trio tells us that this year has been, and continues to be, incredibly challenging for the musicians who love nothing more than to connect with their audience.
“We went from a full calendar to an empty one in a matter of days. Streaming just isn’t the same for us and so we had, up until a few weeks ago, completely stopped performing. Four months felt like a very long time with no idea when we would perform next, said James”.
“Venues are stuck between a rock and a hard place, with limited capacities and restrictions, we can see how it could be difficult to justify booking live entertainment. We are so grateful for the support that Cruise Bar has given us. We absolutely love being back performing, though having to restrict how people can react to music is a hard thing to accept, he concluded”.
Considering Cruise Bars’ uninterrupted views and prime location, James explains it is very much favoured by locals. “Cruise Bar has been our home every Sunday for the past four years, it’s like one big family gathering with regulars that come every week and have been for years, it has such a sense of community, said James”.
“Performing is our way of giving back, music and the arts is such an important tool to uplift and energise people. When times are tough, it is needed more than ever, and we have loved seeing the energy and response to our performances, he concluded”.
Cruise Bars’ Venue Manager, Richie Baggaley agrees and said that the venue was pleased to be able to do their bit to support local artists. “We recognise that for many people – performers and fans alike – the experience of live music is something we turn to in tough times to help us connect and get through adversity.
“The Luke Zanc Trio and all of our artists play such an important role in making Cruise Bars’ atmosphere so enjoyable for our customers which is why it has become such a special place here on Sydney Harbour, said Richie”.
Cruise Bar’s music line-up features live performances every Friday from 5:00pm and every Saturday and Sunday from 3:00pm. For a schedule of live music please visit http://www.cruisebar.com.au.
Featured image : The Luke Zanc Trio