PBS 106.7FM and Kingston Arts team up to present Live at City Hall: Sunday Sounds, a series of free, family-friendly events. In April, for the final instalment of this current series, let's groove with Checkerboard Lounge and Joshua Batten!
Checkerboard Lounge and Joshua Batten + DJ Helen Jennings OAM
Kingston Town Hall
Sunday 19 April 2026
2pm - 4:30pm
Free entry - find more details and accesibility info at kingstonarts.com.au
On Sunday April 19 from 2pm to 4.30pm, this free, family-friendly afternoon of blues and roots music features an exceptional line-up of artists.
Headlining the event is Checkerboard Lounge, an inspirational Naarm/Melbourne-based blues and roots band led by charismatic frontman Carl Pannuzzo on drums and vocals, revered as one of Australia’s great soul voices. Joined by master guitarist Shannon Bourne, Hammond organ virtuoso Tim Neal and the ineffable Zoë Frater on bass, the band deliver blues, classic soul and roots originals infused with fire, virtuosity and fearless improvisation.
Their multi-award-winning, Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA)-nominated album Sun Sessions, recorded at the legendary Sun Studio in Memphis, helped propel them to national recognition. Recent releases Roller Coaster and the sold-out vinyl Live at Jazzlab continue to confirm their formidable reputation. Dynamic, passionate and playful, Checkerboard Lounge is widely regarded as one of Australia’s most compelling live acts.
Also appearing is Joshua Batten, a genuine performer with a rare ability to connect deeply with audiences. Drawing on his lived experience of neurodiversity, his original songs offer honest, introspective reflections that resonate with warmth and authenticity.
Guiding the musical journey throughout the afternoon as DJ between acts is long-time PBS presenter Helen Jennings OAM (Roots of Rhythm, Wednesdays 9am-11am), a passionate purveyor of blues music discovery for 40 years.
With free kids’ activities and a relaxed atmosphere, Sunday Sounds is the perfect place to kick back, relax and enjoy the world music vibes.
2pm - 2:45pm
DJ Helen Jennings OAM
2:45pm - 3pm
Checkerboard Lounge
3pm - 4pm
DJ Helen Jennings OAM
4pm - 4:30pm
This event free entry and all ages. The show is indoors, fully accessible with seating available. Drinks are available for purchase.
Free entry - find more details and accessibility info at www.kingstonarts.com.au
Live at City Hall: Sunday Sounds is presented in partnership with PBS FM.
