Celebrating two decades of Awake is the New Sleep

Australian musician and actor Ben Lee is celebrating the 20th anniversary of Awake is the New Sleep by heading out on a national tour.

Lee will tour the country throughout September and October, including a performance at the Torquay Hotel on October 10.

After touring for the past couple of years, averaging around 100 shows per year, Lee has realised how important Awake is the New Sleep is to people.

Released as his fifth album, it was originally recorded after the musician had left a major romantic relationship, and at a time when he was becoming more spiritual and philosophical.

The release reached #5 on the ARIA Albums Chart and included Gamble Everything for Love, which was voted #15 in the 2004 Triple J Hottest 100.

At his coming shows, the entire album will be played in full with a band behind him, and audiences will have the chance to hear some of the stories behind the songs.

Joining him on tour are Australian musicians Sally Seltmann, who toured with Lee on his original Awake is the New Sleep tour, and Huck Hastings.

“Sally toured with me back in 2005 and has been a longtime ally, collaborator and above all, songwriter whose music I adore,” Lee said.

“It only felt right to make another lap of the country together.”

Seltmann is an award-winning singer songwriter and previously performed under the name New Buffalo and is also a member of Seeker Lover Keeper with Sarah Blasko and Holly Throsby.

Her music has featured on international films and TV shows and has been covered by the likes of Bon Iver.

Seltmann will play all the September and October shows.

For tickets and more information, head to torquayhotel.com.au/gigs