Fitzroy’s “home of live music” is firing up this month.
What we love most about Baxter’s is just how reliable it is. The beloved venue fosters an intimate and community-driven environment where anything can happen. Will you discover your new favourite artist? Make a bunch of new friends? Meet the love of your life? The only way to find out is to head on down.
Kicking off at 9pm and running ’til late, the gigs this month offer the chance to see a tried-and-true favourite or catch a brand new talent without having to drop any coin. With Live & Local sessions every Wednesday as well as much more, it’s a feast. Here’s what’s on.
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around Melbourne here.
Nick Main
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- 6 May
Nick Main is kicking things off nicely on a Wednesday night at Baxter’s with his genuine, heartfelt singer-songwriter vibes. This Melbourne local has been building a solid following with his self-taught guitar skills and relatable tracks like Falling Through, delivering stripped-back sets that hit you right in the feels.
Mya Rogers
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- 7 and 24 May
Mya Rogers is gracing Baxter’s stage twice this month, bringing her beautiful, soul-stirring vocals and songwriting talent. As a singer-songwriter, composer, and music therapist, she crafts deeply healing and emotive music that connects on a real level, whether she’s sharing originals or drawing from her latest projects.
Xander Cuming
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- 8, 20, 23 and 30 May
Baxter’s regular Xander Cuming returns for a couple of Friday treats, serving up catchy indie tunes and feel-good energy that the crowd loves. This rising Melbourne talent is a regular favourite here, often teaming up with friends for backyard-style concerts packed with originals that keep the good times rolling.
Lewis Ciavarella
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- 9 and 21 May
Lewis Ciavarella takes the stage with his multi-instrumental skills spanning blues, folk, funk, and more. A seasoned Melbourne performer and producer, he knows how to command a room with versatile, danceable grooves and heartfelt delivery. Another strong midweek highlight.
Woody Samson
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- 9, 22 and 30 May
Woody Samson returns for multiple dates, showcasing his wild multi-instrumentalist prowess, trumpet flair, and cheeky stage presence. This Naarm staple (and Baxter’s host) blends singer-songwriter charm with experimental edges, always delivering quirky, high-energy sets. Don’t miss this local legend in action.
Finn Shine
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- 10 May
Finn Shine brings his laid-back sounds, offering a chilled way to wrap up the weekend. This emerging Naarm artist has come up through open mics and Live & Local nights, now delivering acoustic sets full of heart and local flavour.
Jade Lawform
- 13 May
Jade Lawform slides in with smooth, genre-blending sets that mix jazz, soul, and heartfelt songwriting. Her intimate style creates a cosy atmosphere perfect for midweek unwinding at Baxter’s. Expect warm vocals and thoughtful tunes that make the room feel alive.
Blissful Melancholy
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- 13 May
For atmospheric, soulful acoustic vibes, check out Blissful Melancholy. This act taps into deep emotions with unfinished symphonies and alt-folk leanings, creating a dreamy, reflective space right in the heart of live music Fitzroy. It’s an evocative night that’ll stick with you.
Open Keys
- 14 May
Open Keys turns the evening into a proper community sing-along jam at Baxter’s. Grab the mic, join the fun, and belt out tunes with fellow music lovers in this welcoming open mic-style special. It’s all about participation, good energy, and discovering hidden gems in Melbourne’s scene.
Luna the Moon
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- 15 May
Luna the Moon, the acoustic ukulele trio from Melbourne’s northern suburbs, lights up Friday night with their baritone, tenor, and bass uke harmonies. Blending covers and originals in a fun, folky package, they deliver feel-good acoustic warmth that’s ideal for a lively yet relaxed Baxter’s crowd.
Harrisen Hughes
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- 16 and 29 May
Harrisen Hughes brings dynamic vocals, soulful style, and rock’n’roll energy. Influenced by Aussie scenes and artists like Zach Bryan, he delivers captivating performances full of heart, guitar chops, and crowd-pleasing anthems.
Lily Hallawell
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- 17 May
Lily Hallawell floats in with her indie-folk charm and heartfelt storytelling. The Coffs Coast talent now based in Melbourne pours emotion into tracks like Blame Game, creating warm, captivating sets perfect for a reflective weekend close. Her stage presence and beautiful voice make for an unforgettable intimate gig.
Sam
- 22 May
Sam joins the Live & Local rotation mid-month, delivering intimate and engaging sets that highlight Baxter’s commitment to fresh local voices. Part of the Wednesday showcase crew, he keeps the emerging talent flowing with relatable tunes in a friendly pub atmosphere.
Lachie
- 22 May
Lachie adds his unique spin to the weekend or Live & Local lineup, bringing fresh local originals and solid live energy. These nights celebrate Melbourne’s grassroots scene in classic Baxter’s fashion.
Lyle McLoughlin
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- 22 May
Lyle McLoughlin steps up as a standout and performer in Baxter’s Live & Local night, bringing his British-born charm and seasoned multi-instrumentalist skills to the Fitzroy stage. A talented singer-songwriter and producer now based in Victoria, he delivers heartfelt originals alongside clever covers with warm vocals, sharp guitar work, and a natural ability to read the room.
Muki
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- 27 May
Singer, guitarist and pianist Muki lights up the Live & Local session with his pop-forward, futuristic vibes. The Melbourne-based artist brings his high-energy, modern flair that’s perfect for wrapping up a Wednesday on a fun note at Baxter’s.
Liliana
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- 27 May
Liliana delivers powerful vocals and full band energy for a standout weekend performance. Her sets bring intensity and soul that elevate the Baxter’s experience, making for a memorable night of local talent.
Nathan Barrow
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- 28 May
Nathan Barrow keeps the Wednesday energy pumping with his multi-instrumental talents as a DJ, saxophonist, and guitarist. His versatile style adds groove and professionalism to the Live & Local rotation, rounding out another strong month of free music in Fitzroy.
For more on what Baxter’s has on offer, head here.
This article was made in partnership with Baxter’s.
