Entertainment
4 October, 2026
Muso marks legend’s songs
A CELEBRATION of David Bowie’s music will return to Cairns in November, with the musicians behind ‘Ashes To Ashes – The David Bowie Experience’ promising a concert that faithfully recreates the late artist’s live sound.
The tribute will perform on Saturday 14 November, featuring songs such as ‘Let’s Dance’, ‘Heroes’, ‘Space Oddity’, ‘Starman’, ‘Ziggy Stardust’, ‘Life on Mars’, ‘Changes’ and ‘Rebel Rebel’.
Guitarist Guy Hunt said the band was formed more than 10 years ago by vocalist Paul Matthews and keyboardist Marco Jardini, before news of Bowie’s death emerged.
“They love David Bowie’s music so much they wanted to do a tribute,” Mr Hunt said.
He said the band postponed its first planned performance after Bowie’s death because its members did not want to appear to be capitalising on the news.
“They actually postponed the show. They didn’t want to be seen as going, oh God, you know, and didn’t want it to look like they were sort of cashing in on this event.”
Mr Hunt joined the group about eight years ago, when its initial plans to expand interstate were later disrupted by COVID. The band used that period to develop the production before touring nationally in 2023.
The core line-up consists of drums, bass, keyboards, guitar and lead vocals, with additional musicians, including saxophonists and backing vocalists, joining some performances.
Mr Hunt said the production deliberately avoids visually imitating Bowie, instead concentrating on the music and concert experience.
“We don’t want to be dressing up in costumes and all that sort of gear,” he said.
“We take a lot of pride in representing the music very faithfully, and we put on a great live show.”
Mr Hunt said the production drew inspiration from Bowie’s later live performances, including his 2000 Glastonbury appearance and the Reality Tour.
“We’re very much focused on that, and it’s the excellent live performance and concert experience,” he said.
The touring production also features Paul Wheeler, whose credits include Icehouse, Choirboys and Sneaky Sound System.
Ashes To Ashes – The David Bowie Experience will perform at CPAC in Cairns on Saturday 14 November. Tickets can be purchased via: www.cnslocal.s.gy/KnhIjl
