If you're looking for a happy cacophony of acoustic melodies and impressive musicianship, Merri Bar has to be your go-to spot.
In November (and every month), the intimate watering hole is spoiling its punters with free live music all weekend long. But that’s not the only thing they’re offering!
If you’re swinging through for the music, take note of the fabulous drink deals: $12 spritzes on Saturday and $12 Bloody Merri’s on Sunday. During the week, they’ve got Trivia Tuesdays, Whisky Wednesdays and open mics on Thursdays. Plus, this month, they’ve got The Taco Lovers as their resident kitchen, bringing a little spice and salsa to accompany the tunes and drinks.
With a killer Happy Hour to boot, the Preston haunt is a favourite for a reason. Here’s everything you can expect this November.
Keep up with the latest music news, features, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Jenna Campbell
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- Saturday, November 7
- 7pm
Instrumentalist Jenna Campbel is starting the month off strong with her impressive mastery of the guitar. Using live looping and a multitude of tricks, she creates a layered, full-band sound that you have to hear to believe. Be prepared to find yourself absolutely captivated.
Hugh McGinlay
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- Sunday, November 3
- 4pm
Hugh McGinlay is a creative across the board. As well as his fruitful music career, he’s also an author! In his songwriting, he tackles personal themes, weaving impressive lyrical webs accompanied by his acoustic guitar.
Matt Burrows
- Saturday, November 9
- 7pm
Singer-songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist Matthew Burrows believes in songs with big messages. A musician since the age of 12, he’s dedicated to the art and even graduated with a degree in Music Technology.
Karlo Arcinue
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- Sunday, November 10
- 4pm
Be prepared to be transported back in time with Karlo Arc’s easy-breeze, earnest folk tunes that draw inspiration from the ’70s. An impressive guitarist and beloved local figure, he’s set to take on the Merri Bar stage for a chilled-out Sunday sesh.
Brett Franke
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- Saturday, November 16
- 7pm
Anchored by his 12-string acoustic guitar, Brett Franke will serve up his highly energised mix of blues, funk and prog rock at Merri Bar. Percussive and dynamic, his music is made for a Saturday night romp.
3198
- Sunday, November 17
- 4pm
Known for their guitar-based live looping and girl-boy vocals, 3198 will bring vibes aplenty. Their pop-infused grooves will provide the perfect soundtrack to your Sunday, whether you’re locked in on the talent or listening casually from the beer garden.
Isabelle Davis
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- Saturday, November 23
- 7pm
Born in Melbourne and raised in Shanghai, Isabelle Davis is a folk-pop solo artist. She released her debut EP Small World in September 2021 and will be performing tracks from that as well as newer gems at her Merri Bar showcase.
Rosario De Marco
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- Sunday, November 24
- 4pm
Rosario De Marco aims to capture the serene and passionate sound of the Mediterranean with his work. A talented musician and composer, he fuses jazz and contemporary folk.
Troy Wilson
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- Saturday, November 30
- 7pm
From the Mornington Peninsula, Troy Wilson is a multi-talented musician who specialises in blues and roots genres. With resonant guitar tones, ukes and a kazoo, he crafts infectious jams that make it impossible not to bob your head along,
Brendon Siemsen Trio
- Sunday, December 3
- 4pm
With over 3o years of experience playing music, Brendon Siemsen and co. will have you in good hands. A guitar teacher and professional musician, he’s studied at Boston’s Berklee College of Music and is a master of many different genres, including jazz, Latin, blues, funk, jam and rock.
To keep up with everything that’s on at Merri Bar, head here.
This article was made in partnership with Merri Bar.
