2008 ~ The Year That Was
by Jo Hogan ~ Director Vintrix Entertainment

On behalf of the Team at Vintrix Entertainment, I wish you all a very happy and safe Christmas.

As 2008 draws to an end, a number of shifts have occurred in the Music Industry, with many record labels repositing themselves. Warner Music is focusing on 360 degree deals, MySpace has joined forces with major labels and the convergence music platforms continue to jostle for position. Despite this Australian CD sales were up 22% compared to this time last year.

Throughout the year Vintrix consolidated its USA alliances in the area of publishing. In 2009 we look forward to working with Guy Eckstine in NYC and continue our work with Larry Dvoskin at Cool Guy Music. Thanks to the media outlets who have worked with us throughout the year, Joy 94.9 FM, ABC, PBS and Helen Simons at Radio 2nsbfm 99.3Fm.

Joining our team of excellence this year was Dr Harriet Speed and Lisa Stevens, two of Australia’s respected high performance Sport Psychologists,  who have worked with Australian Olympians and Institute of Sports: They have bought us all an extra edge; thank you!

In November it was with great regret that we cancelled our scheduled tour to Indonesia to perform at the Jazz goes to Campus and Jakjazz Festival. Due to the unrest in Indonesia, we received direct advice on the high alerts in travel warnings for Australians. A very huge thank you to Fani & Tiara at Jazzaddict who were just amazing in assisting us with everything. A special thank you also to the director of the festival Mr Ireng Maulana, for his understanding. We hope to be able to work with our friends in Indonesia in 2009.

Finally, on behalf of Lori and I, our sincere gratitude to our family and close friends who give us inspiration and courage to “live the dream”.

In the words of Renée Geyer, “ Don’t be scared to let go and be free. The worst thing that can happen is that you land on a note”

2008 ~ And What a Year It Was
by Garth Ploog
Hello friends! With December ticking on, the Christmas lights have started appearing, everyone seems to be smiling more. I love this time of year! It's always a good time to reflect on the year that was and to express my thanks to the many people who were part of my journey this year. A big Thankyou goes to you, my fans for your support. To my MySpace mates, your comments never go unnoticed, keep those posts coming. A special g’day to Mark Smith, it’s been great to see you regularly at my shows.

2008 has been an inspirational year. I’ve focused on getting back to the roots of the music that I love and have spent a lot of my time in the studio penning out some great new tunes.

A big thankyou to the wonderful musicians who have worked with me throughout the year in particular; my Bass man...Ben Cripps, Paula deBurgh and John Montesante from Grand Wazoo and the John Montesante Quintet.

There’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes to get me on stage to perform for you guys. The team at Vintrix Entertainment is ruthless in its quest and I know I am in great hands. So big thanks go to Jo Hogan and Loredana Crupi.

I'll be seeing in the new year at the Sebel - Albert Park, I hope you're as excited about 2009 as I am and that it will be a year to remember.

Keep Smiling and stay safe over the holidays. G :)

Victorian Olympians Gala Dinner
Garth entertained past and present Olympians at the Gala Dinner in honour of the 2008 Beijing Olympians at Melbourne's Crown Palladium.

Victorian Olympians Club

Collins St - Oroton Store Launch
When it comes to fashion, beauty and lifestyle, you can't go past Susie Robinson and the PR Darling crew. Susie hosted a very successful launch of Oroton's new store on Collins St. A night of "A" list fashion reps enjoyed the fresh chic surrounds of the store, enhanced by Garth's smooth vocals. Garth's epicure tip of the night: Quail eggs in gold leaf!!

Recent Events:

RCH Chef's Dinner - Palladium
Socialite Lilian Frank swung into action at the Royal Childrens Hospital Fundraiser last month at the Sofitel, with Garth providing the entertainment. Hosted by well known media celebrity Bev O'connor, many of Melbourne's well known philanthropists were swooned away by Garths tunes.

Renée Geyer - MasterClass
Garth was honoured to work with Renée Geyer on stage at her Master class at the Melbourne Arts Centre. Renée completed the night off with a strong performance, demonstrating why she is one of the world’s finest singers and an Australian music legend…
She knows how to touch her audience and move all senses in the listener's . Experience it for yourself and be sure to catch Renée at Bennetts Lane on the 19th, 20th and 21st December.
Songwriter's Profile
Kristy Jackson
It’s always great to collaborate with fellow writers. lately I've been working with Kristy Jackson in the USA. I had the pleasure of doing vocals on her tune “Bad for Business.” You’ll be sure to hear this in my line up in the New Year.

Kristy Jackson is a member of the BMI Millionaire club with performances of her songs exceeding two million airplays. She's had singles with artists on Universal, MCA and Giant Records, most notable "Take It Back" recorded by Reba McEntire. Kristy's television appearances include CBS Early Morning Show, Inside Edition, CBS Sunday Morning, Xtra Entertainment and more. She has shared the stage with performers ranging from Mandy Moore & Jessica Simpson to the infamous songwriter David Wilcox. Kristy always donates a percentage of sales of CDs to charities, currently Doctors Without Borders and Habitat For Humanity/New Orleans Musician's Village.

Check out new pics on MySpace.

Fan of the Month

Jarrod Hughes Age: 30+ Professional.

Social Habits: The Arts, Cocktails, true social butterfly.

Favourite GP song: Blow Your Mind

From Midsumma Carnival to the Hotham Ski slopes to the Blue Diamond, Jarrod has missed very few of Garth's gigs. As a loyal fan from the onset Jarrod was invited by Vintrix Entertainment to an intimate showcase.

To be eligible for exclusive invites to Garth's shows, nominate yourself for Fan of the Month. Send an email to entertainment@vintrix.com.au and let us know what your favourite Garth Ploog song is.