Coast Acoustics Unplugged – Asleep at the Reel

Sunday 25 May 2025 | 12:30 PM

We’ve been getting terrific feedback about the quality of our recent feature acts – and we couldn’t agree more. The standard has been consistently high. But every now and then, an act comes along that stands out even among the standouts. You can tell by the accolades they’ve earned and the company they keep: this one is something special.

Asleep at the Reel are a genre hopping Brisbane-based ensemble equally comfortable with an Irish jig or singalong as they are with a dance hall country shuffle. Yes it’s folk music – but not as we know it Jim! The band’s repertoire is delivered with finesse by high quality musicians – including Tamworth Golden Fiddle Award winner Hugh Curtis and internationally acclaimed virtuoso guitarist Michael Fix.

Their original music is powered by the deft song writing of Mark Cryle, who rose to prominence in the 1990s with Spot the Dog. Cryle’s songs, according to a recent reviewer in Dublin’s Irish Music Magazine, ‘evoke the centres of our Irish world whether it be the pub or the parish; he has conjured up places where craic and companionship are the glue of life’.

Asleep at the Reel

• Mark Cryle: guitar and vocals
• Mick Nolan: bass and vocals
• Michael Fix: guitar and vocals
• Hugh Curtis: fiddle, mandolin and vocals
• Suzanne Hibbs: drums and percussion

Program

• 12:30pm to 3pm – Open Mic (White Board Session). Bring your stories, your instruments, your voice, your favourite song – whatever your heart desires. The stage is open to all. Sign-ups are first-come, first-served.
• 3:30pm to 4:30pm – Grab a cold drink from our bar, sit back, and be entertained by Asleep at the Reel.

Bar notice: Our bar is cash-only. But don't worry, you can easily grab some cash at the front counter using your EFTPOS card. Cheers to great music and good times!

Our open mic stands out from others with our dedicated audience, no distractions and professional sound. Immerse yourself in the artistry of the performances with like-minded people.

Getting there

Consider using public transport or active travel. Plan your trip with Translink's journey planner.

Parking may be limited. For metered parking, use the EasyPark app to start, end, and extend your parking direct from your phone to avoid fines. For more information visit City of Gold Coast's Parking page.