Melbourne's riff lords converge for unholy communion at Northcote Social Club on April 18.
Throughout history, Good Friday might have signaled solemn reflection, but in 2025 it marks the day Melbourne bows before the almighty riff as four heavyweight local bands prepare to shake the foundations of Northcote Social Club.
The aptly named Monsters of Riff showcase brings together a quartet of Melbourne’s most devastating riff-wielders for a night where the running order remains a mystery until the moment each band steps on stage. It’s a proper gamble – arrive late and you might miss your favourite shredders, so the wise will come early and stay until the final amp cools.
Monsters of Riff Lineup
- Black Aces
- Dead City Ruins
- Elm Street
- True Believer
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This rare gathering represents one of Melbourne’s most ambitious hard rock lineups in years, bringing together four bands that would typically headline their own gigs. While diverse in their approaches to sonic destruction, all share an uncompromising dedication to the art of the riff.
What makes this Good Friday celebration particularly intriguing is the organisers’ commitment to spontaneity. The running order will only be determined as each band arrives, creating an atmosphere of genuine unpredictability rarely seen in an era of meticulously planned setlists and production schedules.
In a music landscape increasingly dominated by playlists and algorithms, Monsters of Riff offers something increasingly precious: genuine surprise and the visceral thrill of experiencing powerful live music in its natural habitat – a packed, sweaty room where volume reigns supreme.
As the promotional materials boldly proclaim: “And on the eighth day, God created THE RIFF, and it was good.” For believers seeking communion through amplification, there could be no more appropriate way to spend Good Friday than worshipping at this altar of volume.
These four horsemen of Melbourne’s riff apocalypse – Black Aces, Dead City Ruins, Elm Street and True Believer – represent different corners of the hard rock universe, but all demonstrate why Melbourne continues to be Australia’s spiritual home for heavy music.
For tickets to Monsters of Riff, head here.
