Inspirational front man Carl Pannuzzo (drums and vocals), revered as one of Australia’s greatest voices, master guitarist Shannon Bourne, Hammond virtuoso Tim Neal, and ineffable bassist Zoë Frater are Checkerboard Lounge, breathing fire, virtuosity and improvisation into blues, classic soul and roots originals.
Their multi-award-winning, ARIA-nominated album Sun Sessions, recorded at the legendary Sun Studio, Memphis, Tennessee, catapulted the band to nationwide recognition. Recent release ‘Roller Coaster’ shot to the top 5 of several national charts and recent limited edition vinyl release ‘Live at Jazzlab’ with Australian Jazz and Blues pioneer Bob Sedergreen sold out within a month of its release.
As a live act, no video can really recreate the experience that gleans such ecstatic audience response. An undeniable powerhouse, world class musicianship, dynamic, passionate and playful, Checkerboard are the very essence of a live music experience.

Awards:

‘SUN Sessions’
- Music Victoria awards: ‘Best Blues Work’ 2022
- Victorian and Tasmanian Blues Music awards: Album, Artist and Band of the Year, 2022
- #1 for 17 weeks in the Australian Blues & Roots Airplay charts
- ARIA nomination for best Blues & Roots album, 2024

‘Roller Coaster’
- #3 entry into Australian Blues & Roots Airplay charts
- #5 ARIA Jazz and Blues chart
- #4 AIR Independent chart
- VicTas Blues Music awards: Album and Artist of the Year, 2024