AusLeisure

Port Adelaide's second iteration of the New Found Sound multi-venue live music discovery event held on 18th January attracted over 5,500 attendees to the historic Port Adelaide district over the weekend.

The one-night-only, free music event activated 10 venues and spaces, showcasing more than 30 local artists and creating an unforgettable evening of creative discovery in the historic Port Adelaide precinct.

Building on its successful debut in 2024, this event has cemented itself as a highlight of South Australia's live music calendar, offering audiences of all ages an unparalleled chance to immerse themselves in live performances across genres, from punk and soul to experimental electronic and indie folk.

Local businesses thrived as festival-goers explored Port Adelaide's streets, with bars, restaurants, and pop-up stalls bustling well into the night. The event reinforced The Port's reputation as a dynamic cultural destination, highlighting the strength of its creative community.

With multiple stages set against the picturesque backdrop of Port Adelaide, the 2025  event showcased an eclectic mix of live performances that spanned genres, bringing fresh sounds to the forefront of South Australia's music scene. From electrifying headline acts to intimate acoustic sets, the event celebrated the diversity and innovation that makes the South Australian music industry thrive.  

The South Australian Maritime Museum provided a memorable experience as audiences enjoyed performances by Pascoe/Martin, San Ureshi, and David Kotlowy aboard the historic Ketch replica. This unique blend of maritime heritage and experimental sounds created a captivating atmosphere that transported attendees. Similarly, aboard the City of Adelaide clipper ship, Blood Circle delivered an immersive sound and light installation, leaving audiences mesmerised by its genre-defying brilliance in such a historic and unique setting.

In Iparrityi Laneway, emerging young talent curated by Carclew created an intimate atmosphere. Rising stars such as Pearly Stars and Cringetrender captured the hearts of audiences with their raw talent and intimate pop-up sets. At Vitalstatistix – housed in the heritage-listed Waterside Workers Hall – Mondo Psycho delivered a powerhouse performance that ended with a standout cover of The Cure's 1980 hit A Forest after the packed venue demanded an encore. Their electrifying set brought the night to a close in spectacular fashion.  

On the other end of the precinct, The Genievieves and Oscar The Wild tore the roof off of the newly-founded distillery McGregor & Young which heaved well into the night. Meanwhile, Pirate Life Brewery was abuzz with energy as genre-bending, rising stars My Cherie and TONIX delivered standout performances, making the brewery's beer garden one of the event's most vibrant spots throughout the evening.

Port Adelaide Enfield Mayor, Claire Boan reflected "In only its second year, New Found Sound has already established itself as a highlight in Port Adelaide's cultural calendar. This event celebrates live music, nurtures local talent, and draws visitors to our vibrant Port precinct, and we couldn't have asked for a better turnout with attendees both local and statewide of all ages coming down to explore The Port.  It's inspiring to see such strong community and industry support for this initiative and we look forward to seeing you all again next year!"

Organisers are already planning New Found Sound 2026, with a promise of even more ambitious programming and stronger connections to the local arts and music community. Attendees of the 2025 event are encouraged to provide their feedback via an audience survey that is being conducted with the Live Music Office and Griffith University.

Images: MONDO PSYCHO perform inside the historic Waterside Workers Hall

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