Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, in collaboration with Music in Paradise, is thrilled to announce that the legendary Australian band, The Church, will perform at the private island resort from May 3-10, 2025. Fans of the iconic band can look forward to a unique blend of a tropical island getaway and exclusive, intimate concerts.
The event, aptly named after The Church’s international hit 'Under the Milky Way,' promises to be a memorable experience for attendees. This week-long holiday offers three intimate performances on the beach and at the resort’s rooftop Sunset Bar, along with exclusive meet and greet opportunities with the band members.
Early Bird Gold Experience Package
For those eager to join this unique event, an ‘Early Bird’ Gold Experience package is available for A$2,890 per person (twin share), reduced from the regular price of A$3,950. This 7-night package includes:
Entry to 3 Nightly Exclusive Events
3 Intimate Performances
Meet & Greet with the Band
Professional Photo with the Band
Music in Paradise Gift Bag
Music in Paradise Event Poster
Event commemorative t-shirt
Return shared Speedboat airport transfers
Welcome drink and cold towel on arrival
Delicious buffet breakfast daily at Kandooma Café
Tea, coffee & bottled water in-villa, replenished daily
Complimentary snorkel trip & use of snorkelling gear
Music in Paradise Traveller Care Guarantee
Additional packages and details can be found at Music in Paradise.
About The Church
Now in their fifth decade of making music, The Church continues to mesmerize audiences with their unique blend of indie rock, shimmering post-punk, icy dream-pop, and psychedelic post-rock. The current line-up includes band founder Steve Kilbey (Bassist and Vocalist), Tim Powles (Drummer and Producer since 1994), Ian Haug (Guitarist, formerly of Powderfinger), Jeffrey Cain (Multi-instrumentalist), and Ashley Naylor (Guitarist and long-time member of Paul Kelly’s touring band).
Reflecting on their enduring appeal, Mark Eletr, General Manager of Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, expressed his excitement: “We are delighted to continue our long-standing relationship with the team at Music in Paradise who organize these fantastic events. To say we are thrilled to have The Church on the line-up for 2025 is an understatement.”
A Unique Concert Experience
What sets the Music in Paradise events at Kandooma apart is the unique setting and intimate atmosphere. Attendees can enjoy close-up performances without the usual distance and screens of larger venues. “When you attend a concert, you are usually some distance from the performers relying on big screens to see them close-up, but that isn’t the case here on the island. I think this is what makes the Music in Paradise events at Kandooma so special,” said Eletr. “Our staff, the guests, and organizers are truly within touching distance of their idols. The vibe is informal and relaxed. There’s nothing like bumping into one of these performers at the buffet or sharing a story over a beer barefoot on the sand. It’s a very special experience.”
The Church’s Legacy
The Church achieved mainstream success with their 1988 album Starfish, featuring the hit 'Under the Milky Way.' More recently, their 26th album The Hypnogogue, launched in 2022, has been met with critical acclaim, marking a renaissance for the band. Rolling Stone praised Kilbey’s powerful bass playing, while Vive Le Rock gave the album a 9 out of 10 rating. American Songwriter highlighted the band’s fluid moods and shadowy style, and Classic Rock acclaimed Kilbey’s performance as one of his best.
Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see The Church live in the stunning setting of the Maldives. Book your Early Bird Gold Experience package now and prepare for an unforgettable week of music and paradise.