The Merri Bar maintains its reputation as Preston's premier live music destination with another stellar month of weekend performances.
Located on Gilbert Road, this intimate northside venue continues its commitment to showcasing emerging and established independent artists throughout August, offering music lovers free entry to discover their next favourite act.
Regular weekly events keep the venue buzzing beyond weekend gigs, with Tuesday night trivia sessions starting at 7.30pm and Wednesday whisky specials featuring 20 per cent discounts across the entire range. The Fireside Sessions add midweek atmosphere on Wednesdays, creating a cosy setting that perfectly complements the venue’s relaxed vibe.
Merri Bar’s dedication to nurturing local talent remains evident through its carefully curated programming spanning multiple genres and performance styles. From Sunday afternoon showcases to Saturday evening headline acts, the venue provides a platform where artists can connect with audiences in an authentic, community-focused environment that celebrates Melbourne’s diverse music scene.
Merri Bar
- When: August weekends, Saturdays 7pm, Sundays 4pm
- Where: Gilbert Road, Preston
- Regular events: Trivia Tuesdays 7.30pm, Whisky Wednesdays 6pm, Open Mic Thursday 7 August 7pm
- Free entry
Check out our gig guide here.
Open Mic Night
Merri Bar’s open mic night welcomes performers of all experience levels to take the stage. Whether you’re a first-timer with a guitar and a dream or a seasoned veteran, the event offers a platform for musicians to showcase their talents. Each night brings different performers and musical surprises, creating a unique experience where you never know what musical gems you’ll discover.
Fireside Sessions
The Fireside Sessions present intimate country folk performances every Wednesday in August from 6:30-8:30pm. Featuring storytellers Ricki Wood and Mr Alford, these acoustic evenings showcase artists who prioritise real-life connection over flashy production. Wood has travelled over 140,000 kilometres across Australia since 2021, performing more than 800 shows in caravan parks and venues. Mr Alford brings his spellbinding songwriting ability and diverse musical experience, having cut his teeth in Nashville bars and collaborated with members of the Carter family.
Adam Hattaway
Saturday 2 August, 7pm
New Zealand singer-songwriter Adam Hattaway brings his enigmatic artistry to Preston with songs from his album High Horse. Known for his prolific output and reluctance to be categorised, Hattaway creates music for those still searching for answers. His extensive discography spans multiple genres, with releases including the cinematic Anthology 2018-2023 and the introspective Bug Eyes, establishing him as an artist who refuses to conform to algorithmic expectations.
Rosario De Marco
Sunday 3 August, 4pm
Italian guitarist and composer Rosario De Marco presents instrumental music that speaks beyond words. Drawing on jazz, classical, folk and contemporary influences, his original compositions are deeply expressive and unforgettable. De Marco has performed for national television and radio, sharing stages with legendary artists including Zucchero, Omara Portuondo and Ladysmith Black Mambazo. His releases include Light and Shadows, Roots and Intuition.
Candice Alisha
Saturday 9 August, 7pm
Blues and folk singer-songwriter Candice Alisha brings her strong, deep vocals and magnetic stage presence to Merri Bar. Originally from Wodonga, the 21-year-old artist relocated to Melbourne in 2019 to pursue her music career. Currently working on her debut EP, Alisha combines traditional blues influences with contemporary folk sensibilities, creating powerful performances that showcase her commanding vocal range.
The Dusty Dimes
Sunday 10 August, 4pm
Melbourne blues duo The Dusty Dimes have been haunting local venues since 2017 with their upbeat, swampy sound. Inspired by Hill Country Blues artists like R.L. Burnside and John Lee Hooker, mixed with early Black Keys influences, the electric guitar-and-harmonica duo delivers foot-stomping blues vibes. Their groovy, dirty, care-free rocky blues creates an infectious energy perfect for Sunday afternoon sessions.
Crumbe
Saturday 16 August, 7pm
Melbourne band Crumbe returns to Merri Bar for an evening of familiar favourites and new material. The group will present two sets featuring both established tracks and songs developed throughout 2025. Known for their engaging live performances, Crumbe has built a dedicated following through their regular appearances at intimate venues across Melbourne’s inner north.
Karlo Arcinue
Sunday 17 August, 4pm
Folk singer-songwriter Karlo Arcinue brings his heartfelt and meaningful songs to Preston. Based in Melbourne, his superb guitar fingerpicking and calming baritone voice transport listeners to the era of 70s folk classics. Career highlights include performances at Maldon Folk Festival, Newport Folk Festival and Newstead Folk Festival. His debut acoustic album showcases the depth of his songwriting and instrumental prowess.
Oscar Poncell
Saturday 23 August, 7pm
Multi-instrumentalist Oscar Poncell presents his cinematic blend of Afro, Latin rhythms, jazz and folk influences. The Melbourne-based guitarist, producer and composer creates captivating soundscapes that are both rich and eclectic. His instrumental EP Locked Dawn features compositions made during Melbourne’s extended lockdowns, including an electric Andean psychedelic piece and a special arrangement of the James Bond theme Moonraker.
Georgia Ray
Sunday 24 August, 4pm
Melbourne singer-songwriter Georgia Ray offers indie pop with nostalgic sensibilities. Influenced by artists like Avril Lavigne and Tegan and Sara, her music evokes nostalgia while remaining fresh and relevant. Her particular way with words and melodic sensibilities speak to the universal experience of navigating life’s complexities, offering both comfort and empowerment through tracks like Ignorance is Bliss and Lazy.
Ebi Nori
Saturday 30 August, 7pm
Ebi Nori, of Ebi Nori & The Phantom Fingers fame, is known for delivering a genre-defying blend of post rock, nu-metal, alternative, punk and soulful vocals with her full band backing. The Merri Bar will be a chance to see her solo – expect powerhouse vocals and songwriting nous known for pushing boundaries in creative and innovative ways.
The Deadly Apple-Johns
Sunday 31 August, 4pm
The Deadly Apple-Johns close out August with their distinctive take on love, death, cowboys and Carlton. The Melbourne band describes themselves as perennial runners-up in love, life and songwriting competitions, bringing a self-deprecating humour to their heartfelt performances. Check out Going Out West above, what a classic.
For more information, head here
