The Espy's August is a mixed bag of musical goodness.
Are you craving a little smokey piano bar vibe? Are you keen on hearing some of Naarm’s best new acts? Or would you prefer a throwback tribute night?
No matter what you’re feeling, the Espy’s got you sorted, with a vast and diverse lineup for the month of August. And as one of St Kilda’s most iconic institutions, we wouldn’t expect any less. Why not make a night of it with a few pints and a bite at one of the Espy’s kitchens? Would be rude not to.
Keep up with the latest music news, features, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
Kim Volkman
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- 3 August
- Free entry – register here
After debuting at St Kilda Festival 2022, the Kim Volkman Blues Trio have built a following of blue heads across the city. They’ll be bringing their soaring spirits to the Espy Basement stage for a night of rollicking music.
Willie J’s 6V6S Espy Residency
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- 7, 22 August
- Free entry – register here
These boys conjure up naked‑essentials rock ‘n’ roll vibes – stripped-back, raw, and loud. This one is perfect if you like your tunes unfiltered and your beer frothy. Show up early to grab a front row view.
MAMMA MIA – ABBA Live Tribute Show
- 8 August
- Tickets here
Calling all dancing queens (and kings)! A tongue‑in‑cheek, high‑energy live tribute band sing‑along packed with glitter and old‑school disco beats is coming to the Espy. Get ready for big vocals, fabulous costumes, and those ABBA hits you can’t resist belting out. DJs keep the party spinning before and between sets.
SHAKESPEARE
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- 8 August
- Tickets here
Melbourne’s metal-hard rockers dive deep into chaos with their new track Rabbit Hole. Expect heavy riffs, moody grooves, and enough energy to blow the ceiling. Something Blind and Honeymoon Phase are set to open what’s sure to be an all-out rock night.
Gentle Ben & His Shimmering Hands
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- 9 August
- Tickets here
It’s a St Kilda reunion rave as Gentle Ben slinks back with sultry rock, genre-bending bars and wild charisma. Moler and Armour join to resurrect that vintage Espy Basement grit. Prepare for sweaty nostalgia, searing guitars, and a little soul‑scraping drama.
Unfurnished Theatre: Songs That Shaped Us
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- 14 August
- Tickets here
Hosted by Lachie Hewson, this event marks the launch of new Naarm-based production company Fourth Floor Theatre. The cabaret spectacular brings together a diverse range of creatives, as well as a live band, celebrating musical theatre songs that had a profound impact on the performers.
Amber Drift
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- 22 August
- Tickets here
Southeast Melbourne groovers Amber Drift are returning to the Espy Basement with their new EP Winter, as well as a new drummer. They’ll be bringing local singer-songwriters Harley Luscombe and Caitlin Holdcroft along with them for a cosy night by the seaside.
Grease Party
- 22 August
- Tickets here
Summer never ends at the Espy, and neither does your chance to dress up in pink jackets and leather. Crank up the Grease classics, grab a milkshake and get ready to dance like it’s 1959. Think slick moves and sing‑alongs under the glitter ball.
Kieron McDonald Combo
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- 24 August
- Free entry – register here
One of the top rockabilly acts in the country, the Kieron McDonald Combo is hitting the Espy for a night of 1950s fervour. The band pulls out all the stops, immersing themselves in retro music, cars, pop culture and architecture.
Sister Paul
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- 28 August
- Free entry – tickets here
Coming to St Kilda all the way from Japan, Tokyo’s legendary underground star Sister Paul is ready to dazzle fans. Fresh off a US tour, they’ll be supported by post-punkers NIHL in this freaky free show.
The Country Superstars Experience
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- 29 August
- Tickets here
Saddle up for a hoedown! Expect Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, Dolly Parton and Shania Twain covers delivered with full band gusto. It’s a boot‑stompin’, hat‑tippin’ country classic fiesta.
Kylie Fisher
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- 30 August
- Tickets here
One piano, one powerhouse voice, one unforgettable show. Kylie Fisher delivers piano-driven tunes with diva‑style pop vocals, in a smoky piano bar vibe. She’ll stop through on her mammoth 50-date Australian tour.
Check out everything The Espy has on offer here.
This article was made in partnership with The Espy.
