Whiskey Dram

Whiskey Dram is an Australian hard-folk collective known for their dynamic performances and genuine love for the scene. Serving up sea shanties, bush ballads, and old-time revelry, they deliver a unique brand of pirate folk that’s both musically rich and irresistibly lively.

Led by frontman Russell Martin, Whiskey Dram brings together a passionate crew of musical mates whose backgrounds span Irish trad, alternative-country, blues, bluegrass, and punk. What a mix! Their arrangements are as vibrant as their stage presence – equal parts grit and charm, with raw acoustic energy, heartfelt harmonies, and infectious rhythm.

Winners of the 2025 Troubadour Foundation Award for Newstead Live Best High Energy Folk Act, Whiskey Dram has built a loyal following on the Australian folk circuit. They’ve been forged in the fires of the festivals that raised them: from the spirited folkies at Gulgong, Uranquinty, St Albans and Cobargo; to the diverse communities of Folk Rhythm & Life, Tanglewood, Wide Open Space and Wanderer.

They have played for diverse audiences around Australia: from festivals like FRL, HOBOFOPO, Tanglewood Festival, Newstead Live, Longwood For the Love of Ale, Off-Grid Living Festival and Narooma Oyster Festival; to bars in Melbourne, Sydney, Canberra, Brisbane and Newcastle; and intimate shows around Yackandandah, Beechworth, Hamilton, Broadwater, Licola and Marlo.