Gabba has taken on the Land Down Under.
Last October, the ‘Puzzle’ multi-instrumentalist flew down to the sunny streets of Sydney with a guitar over his shoulder as the only Filipino artist to perform at the inaugural SXSW Sydney Music Festival. It was his first solo overseas show, a dream come true really, and he got to play on two stages before a crowd that most probably had never heard of him before. It was nerve-wracking to say the least, but Gabba is a pro. Just put him on a stage. He will set you into a trance and make you realize what you’ve been missing out on.
Beyond SXSW Sydney, there was still a lot to see in Sydney. Gabba made sure to set foot in as many coffee shops as he could. Australians take their coffee seriously after all, and if there’s one thing you can trust them with, it’s good coffee.
After he returned to the Philippines, Bandwagon caught up with Gabba to share his top 5 favourite spots that he visited while in Australia for SXSW Sydney.
Newtown
Newtown is a favorite suburb of mine in Sydney, always on my list when I’m in the city. The vibrant community, coupled with live shows, thrift shops, record stores, artworks, and of course, great coffee, makes it a fantastic destination.
Single O
Single O is one of my top picks for coffee spots in Sydney. They serve exceptional coffee, making it the perfect place to kickstart a day of exploring the city.
Ona
Ona is another beloved coffee spot, slightly farther from the city but well worth the visit. The diverse selection of beans and engaging chats with the baristas make it a must-try for coffee enthusiasts.
Phoenix Central Park
Phoenix Central Park holds a special place for me as one of the venues where I had the privilege to perform. Beyond the stage, we returned the next day to experience it from the audience’s perspective. The unique setup, with impressive sound and lights, creates an immersive experience that’s truly exceptional.
The Museum of Contemporary Art
The Museum of Contemporary Art ranks high among my favorite museums in Sydney. Each visit brings excitement to see their latest installations, leaving me inspired. To cap off the museum tour, a visit to the MCA Cafe on the top floor offers a stunning view of the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge.
