Hey. Who are we speaking with and what’s your role in co-ordinating The Grandview Hotel?
This is Doug speaking and I’m very happy to be presenting the Grandview Hotel’s music lineup. I have the very enjoyable role of thinking about which of my favourite Melbourne artists I can ask to play at the hotel just down the road, and then watch them perform – hopefully with a bunch of other music fans.
Music will be flowing through the Grandview once a week from now on. How will the hotel’s atmosphere complement live music?
I discovered this amazing history about the Grandview through Clinton Walker’s excellent documentary Buried Country about Aboriginal country musicians. Back in the ‘60s the Grandview hosted weekly Aboriginal country bands, and there is footage of hundreds of people crammed into the pub dancing and singing. The ghosts of those glorious nights will be patrons of the new music performances at the Grandview, and I’m sure the old memories embedded in the walls and carpet will echo through the atmosphere today.
In terms of its acoustics, what makes the venue a killer place to enjoy live music?
The Grandview stage is framed by huge stained glass windows and beautiful old red brick walls, which makes for a unique setting for live music. The room sounds great and is just the right size to keep the performers in sight while you go to the bar. There is plenty of standing and dancing room, but also tables spread around so you can settle in comfortably for the show. The acoustics are warm and dark – perfect for music.
You’ve got a versatile range of artists on the bill all the way into late-February. Who is scheduled to perform at the venue?
We start on Saturday January 30 with a special performance by four of the best county singers in Melbourne: Kerri Simpson, Suzannah Espie, Barb Waters and Alison Ferrier. Right through to June we have acts of the calibre of Neil Murray and Matt Walker, Ashley Naylor, Charles Jenkins and Davey Lane, Rob Snarski, Darling Downs, Charlie Marshall & the Body Electric, Nick Barker & Heartache State, Moreland City Soul Revue and Ron S Peno – with plenty more legendary performers planned. And of course Dave O’Neil’s Comedy Funhouse is on every Wednesday night.
On top of the music, you guys boast brilliant food and cheap drink deals. What pre-gig meal would you most recommend?
Sometimes the beer is so cheap at the pub it’s like they’re giving it away. The Grandview throws down a formidable parma challenge that is not for the faint hearted. The zucchini and halloumi fritters go off too.
THE GRANDVIEW HOTEL’s live music program kicks off on Saturday January 30 with Kerri Simpson, Suzannah Espie, Barb Waters and Alison Ferrier.
