The best live music venues in Melbourne

We’re diving into our favourite Melbourne live music venues, all of which are dedicated to putting on killer gigs and giving up-and-coming bands (not just from our own backyard, but from across the world) a stage. There are plenty to choose from, so we’ve separated them by suburb to keep things easy.

We’ve done a lot of more specific lists like these over the years: Melbourne’s most underrated gigging hotspots, Melbourne’s best music venues for a first date, a walking guide to Melbourne’s music destinations and of course, the ones we’ve loved and lost, among many, many more. But today, we’re releasing our most comprehensive list yet, of the venues you absolutely-must go to this year. Don’t say we didn’t warn you.

Check out our gig guide, our stage guide, our festival guide, our live music venue guide and our nightclub guide. Follow us on Instagram here.

The best live music venues in Melbourne’s CBD

Wax Music Lounge

Founded by Roseby and Tim Bartold of Melbourne’s iconic Wax Museum Records and Mark Lipshut (Spin Records), the launch of the new underground venue and bar Wax Music Lounge marks an exciting new chapter for the record store’s legacy and the wider cultural imprint of Melbourne’s city at-large.

Guided by an amber glow down a flight of stairs in a city basement, Wax Music Lounge is subterranean at heart. The red glow, the concrete walls, the scattered jazz-fi resounding from the speakers makes the room feel both familiar and foreign at once. If music piques mem- ories, Wax Music Lounge does exactly that. Remnants of wild nights and basement jazz in a Lower East Side basement; intimate conversations in a Kreuzberg speakeasy; all doused in liquor and sound.

The space boasts a generous 175 capacity, striking lighting features curated by Melbourne-based designers James Hebbs and Grace Darling, and a beverage list with a focus on natural Australian lo-fi wines, craft beers and signature cocktails by acclaimed bartender, Pita Dixon.

Cherry Bar

Cherry Bar is a venue that needs no introduction. If you’re even the slightest bit into music, you’ve heard of the notorious bar. Many nights out in the CBD will eventually bring you to Cherry – the venue has been the setting of music history in Melbourne for decades now. The legendary mysticism of Cherry even urged Noel Gallagher to make an offer for it in 2002.

Previously located on the fitting AC/DC Lane, it’s now found a home on Little Collins Street. It’s not the simplest bar to find, but when you see the black and white illuminated cherries, you know you’ve hit the jackpot. Walking through the red door you’re greeted with a grungy, dark atmosphere and the tunes of classic rock (Led Zeppelin, Lou Reed, etc). There are black curtains adorning the walls, dark round tables and leather booths fit for any rockstar to lounge in.

The Toff in Town

If you’re on a night out in the CBD, there’s a solid chance you’ll end up there. The building really has it all – designer clothing shops, a bookstore, two restaurants and the famous rooftop, where the cool kids sit on the staircase and gaze out at the city.

The Toff is our favourite piece of the puzzle. With cozy booths and balanced, foam-topped cocktails, the intimate space offers a classy listening experience. You can even order a few Thai-style bites from Cookie next door to be delivered to your carriage. We recommend the crispy pork belly and fried egg salad.

Otherwise, jump in the crowd and boogie down. There’s something to see almost every night they’re open (Thursday to Sunday, by the way).  Both DJs and live bands often make appearances at The Toff and despite the swanky setting, it’s been known to get a little rowdy. Local legends are always at home on The Toff stage, but lately it’s become a bit more of a hotspot for avant-garde international acts as well – we’re especially looking forward to Iglooghost’s show on June 8.

The Forum

Formerly the State Theatre, the Forum Melbourne first opened in 1929 with the largest seating capacity of any theatre in Australia. Since then the venue has been divided into two separate venues. Downstairs, Forum I is famous for its unique architecture, large stage, mesmerising proscenium and signature cabaret style booths. Upstairs, Forum II is a smaller venue with tiered seating, small stage, surround sound and cinema size screen.

The Forum stands as Melbourne’s most architecturally spectacular live music venue, its distinctive façade and blue domed ceiling creating an atmosphere that borders on the transcendent. This former cinema, built in 1929, has been transformed into one of Australia’s most unique performance spaces while preserving its jaw-dropping interior design.

Section 8

Melbourne outdoor bar Section 8 sums up the best of modern Melbourne in a neat little package down one of our popular laneways.

Max Watt’s

The first sign of a band about to light up Max Watt’s is the line swarming out the front door, around the corner and down Little Collins Street. Once you get inside, tickets scanned and wrists stamped, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported into a basement rave.

Known as Hi-Fi pre-2015, Max Watt’s lives on with a name that is a play on the term ‘maximum wattage’. The 850-capacity venue is crucial to a diverse music scene where you need to be able to meet all different audience sizes.

As the night progresses and the room fills up, it makes sense why the only furniture is a few tables near the bar. The small but mighty bar has stellar staff and great drinks, but if having a cold one is not your main concern, waste no time getting down into the pit to join your brothers and sisters in arms for a mosh.

Bird’s Basement

Situated at 11 Singers Lane (just down La Trobe St from the corner of William Street), Bird’s Basement is an intimate music and dining venue, and a unique treat on the thriving local and international jazz scene.

Nestled in the heart of the city’s thriving cultural scene, Bird’s Basement is a testament to Melbourne’s enduring love affair with live music. With an inviting ambiance, world-class talent, and a menu that caters to both the soul and the palate, this venue has become a mecca for jazz enthusiasts and music connoisseurs alike.

Launched in 2016 by music entrepreneur and artistic director Albare Dadon, the venue was created as a counterpart to New York’s iconic Birdland. When you come to Bird’s Basement, you just know you’re going to be looked after with first-rate service and performances. Aside from all that jazz, Bird’s Basement has also delivered some of the most adored bebop, swing and blues shows the city has ever seen.

The Curtin

As one of Australia’s oldest pubs, The Curtin has been a fixture of the Melbourne music scene for decades. Wallpapered with gig posters and known for its welcoming and laid-back vibe, it has given countless emerging artists of all genres a place to find their footing and plays host to some iconic international acts.

Its homely decor and no-frills charm create an inviting space where music lovers can revel in the raw energy of live performances. “They [book bands] from Jazz Party to weird, experimental shows, to just awesome, straight-up rock‘n’roll and punk shows,” Pablo Alvarado, creator of Bone Soup touring group, told us back in 2022. “The fact that [The Curtin] doesn’t have this big label or brand of being one particular thing is what I love about it.”

The Curtin stands proudly across from Trades Hall, paying homage to a former socialist turned Labor Prime Minister, John Curtin. A haven for diverse souls, this iconic spot has attracted Bob Hawke, students, unionists, music aficionados and bands alike.

Festival Hall

Festival Hall has hosted some truly impressive alumni over the years, showcasing Frank Sinatra, Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Beatles, Johnny Cash, Shirley Bassey, and Powderfinger, just to name a few. It was also where I saw my first concert in Melbourne (an all-ages Allday show – in case you were wondering).

Originally opening in 1913 as the West Melbourne Stadium, Festival Hall has a long and diverse history. Initially serving as a roller-skating rink and later transforming into a renowned boxing arena, it quickly became a beloved venue for sports and entertainment.

Despite being tragically destroyed by fire in 1955, the resilient establishment was rebuilt in time for the 1956 Olympic Games, showcasing gymnastics and wrestling. Festival Hall gained legendary status in the 1950s and 1960s as one of Australia’s most iconic music venues.

Paris Cat

This iconic venue is a sanctuary for jazz enthusiasts and curious newcomers. The venue regularly hosts a variety of events including live performances, jam sessions and special themed nights, making it a dynamic part of Melbourne’s nightlife.

The Paris Cat offers a thoughtfully curated selection of drinks to complement its musical offerings. The bar features an extensive list of cocktails, fine wines and craft beers, alongside a selection of gourmet snacks and a full tapas menu.

Whether you’re a jazz purist or someone looking to immerse yourself in Melbourne’s music scene, the Paris Cat Jazz Club offers an alluring experience that shouldn’t be missed.

170 Russell

Situated in the heart of Melbourne city, with world-class PA and lighting, three bars, and stage sight-lines from anywhere in the room, 170 Russell is one of Australia’s most loved concert venues. Opening as the Lido Theatre in 1965, the venue has a rich history of providing live entertainment across all genres of music for more than 50 years. With a 1,000-person capacity, the venue hosts some of Australia’s biggest touring acts alongside international artists and all your favourite festival sideshows.

Whitehart Bar

From an old carpark behind a camera shop to one of the CBD’s best open-air bars, Whitehart has come a long way since its humble beginnings seven years ago. When Stephen Johnson and Sabrina Santucci became friendly with the Michaels family (of Michaels Camera Shop) through using their carpark at the end of the CBD’s Whitehart Lane whilst the couple ran a coffee shop in the city, the carpark was nothing more than an old empty lot of land. Now – seven years later – the carpark, the city and the lives of Johnson and Santucci are all irrevocably changed and the venue is now home to residencies from some of the best DJs in Melbourne, regularly hosting overseas spots as well.

“We had often thought how amazing and hidden away the space was, right in the heart of the city,” Johnson says of the old carpark. Nestled between growing skyscrapers and the hustle and bustle of the city’s laneways, Whitehart Bar counteracts the concrete jungle of the city’s CBD with a jungle of their own making. Filled to the brim with a treasured collection of giant old Staghorns, Elkhorns and a family of other beautiful plants, the venue is like a reprieve of fresh air amongst all the chaos of the city. “We stand green and strong as the city continues to grow around us,” Johnson says.

The Last Chance Rock and Roll Bar

This late-night punk rock hole, owned by the dynamic duo Shane Hilton and Leanne Chance, has become a haven for intimate gigs and unforgettable nights out. Step into The Last Chance and feel the energy pulsating through the air; with up to eight live shows a week, this venue is a rock lover’s paradise.

The Last Chance feels like a home away from home, attracting a diverse crowd of music lovers. With its post-modern punk-rock theme, the venue oozes authenticity and street-smart charm, providing the perfect backdrop for the young rock ‘n’ rollers, punk warriors, and Gothic goddesses of Melbourne.

You won’t go hungry at The Last Chance either. The kitchen serves up classic pub food that hits the spot, and they even have great vegan options for those with a taste for plant-based delights. Don’t miss out on the $10 Monday Schnitzel and Gravy special—it’s the best value meal in Melbourne.

Sidney Myer Music Bowl

The Bowl, as it’s affectionately known by locals, is situated in the Kings Domain Gardens, just a short stroll from the Melbourne CBD. It was a gift to the people of Melbourne from philanthropist Sidney Myer, who was passionate about bringing music to the public.

Opened in 1959, the venue features a distinctive tensile structure with its large canopy roof covering the stage and some seating areas. The design was quite revolutionary for its time, created by architects Yuncken Freeman Brothers, Griffiths and Simpson.

The Bowl has a capacity of around 10,000 people, with approximately 2,000 under the canopy and the rest on the surrounding lawns. This open-air amphitheater setting makes it perfect for summer concerts and events.

Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne 

Hamer Hall stands as Melbourne’s premier concert venue, a brutalist beauty perched on the Yarra’s south bank like some concrete colossus straight outta the 70s.

The iconic auditorium reopened in 2012 after a massive $135.8 million glow-up that transformed the former Victorian Arts Centre Concert Hall into the acoustic wonderland we know today. Named after Sir Rupert “Dick” Hamer, Victoria’s 39th Premier and mad arts enthusiast, the Hall has been hosting Melbourne’s cultural elite and curious punters alike for decades.

With 2,464 seats spread across stalls and three balconies, Hamer’s impeccable acoustics make it the go-to spot for the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and visiting international acts wanting that perfect sound. The revamp didn’t just sort the dodgy acoustics—it completely reimagined the riverside entrance, creating those distinctive golden veils that now frame the building and the stunning atrium spaces that give concertgoers somewhere to flex their cultural credentials over interval vino.

Melbourne Recital Centre 

The Melbourne Recital Centre stands as one of the city’s finest acoustic achievements, a relative newcomer to Melbourne’s cultural landscape that’s quickly become an essential fixture in the local music scene.

Opened in 2009, this contemporary geometric marvel sits in Southbank’s arts precinct, its honeycomb façade making it instantly recognizable among Melbourne’s architectural tapestry. The centre houses two distinct performance spaces, each with its own vibe and acoustic personality.

Elisabeth Murdoch Hall, the MRC’s main space, is a timber-lined wonder accommodating 1,000 punters in its shoebox design. Named after the Murdoch family matriarch (whose philanthropic efforts helped fund the joint), the hall’s sublime acoustics make it perfect for chamber music, contemporary performances, and solo recitals. The wooden interior, inspired by the inside of musical instruments, creates that warm, resonant sound that has musicians and audio nerds alike practically weeping with joy.

Meanwhile, the Primrose Potter Salon offers a more intimate setting, with capacity for just 130 people. This versatile black box space delivers a completely different vibe – perfect for experimental works, jazz, and contemporary performances where artists can practically high-five the front row. With its flexible seating and staging, the Salon has become the go-to spot for musicians wanting that up-close connection with their audience.

The best live music venues in Collingwood

The Gem

With its wooden honkytonk interior, ranch-style furniture, and shrines to the memory of the late Elvis Presley, not only does it capture the warmth and friendly feel of a Southern American bar, it’s married authentic Texas Barbecue with a range of delicious vegetarian dishes creating a truly unique Melbourne food experience.

Plus with live music and DJs on the weekends, it’s pretty easy to see why many folks call The Gem their local.

For well over 100 years, 289 Wellington Street in Collingwood was the rather non-descript provincial-style home to the Curry’s Family Hotel. Few could have possibly predicted that in the mid-2000s, this simple pub would explode to life, taking the last 60 years with them, into a honky-tonk paradise that’s one of Melbourne’s true gems.

The Gasometer

While The Gaso closed in April, 2025, we’re keeping it here as a testament at the time of writing – in the hope it’s not really gone for good.

Located on the corner of Smith Street and Alexandra Parade in Collingwood, The Gasometer Hotel (known lovingly as The Gaso) has hosted everyone, from a diverse range of world-class acts to up-and-comers alike. From iconic names like Jet and The Saints to groundbreaking talents such as Kimbra and Marlon Williams, The Gaso’s three distinct stages have been host to a whopping variety of acts.

Segmented into three main sections, with the main bandroom separated from the front bar and pub area, this vibrant venue has carved a niche for itself as one of the city’s most exceptional spots for musical enthusiasts. Tucked behind their front bar, ascend their spiral stairwell to be greeted by a cozy yet vibrant room that has witnessed countless extraordinary gigs from up-and-coming locals. Lose yourself in the intoxicating melodies, bask in the dynamic atmosphere, and create unforgettable memories at this musical haven. Come for the booze, stay for the tunes – The Gaso is waiting to sweep you off your feet.

The Tote

The Tote Hotel stands as Melbourne’s undisputed temple of noise, its graffiti-adorned exterior and faded band posters announcing its status as Australia’s most iconic rock venue. This Johnston Street institution has been the spiritual home of Melbourne’s underground music scene since the early 1980s, surviving both gentrification and threatened closures to remain the beating heart of Collingwood’s musical identity.

Behind its unassuming façade lies a labyrinthine network of rooms purpose-built for musical liberation – from the front bar’s intimate stage to the main band room’s hallowed floor, where generations of punters have shed sweat and found salvation through three-chord salvation. The upstairs “Cobra Bar” provides a more intimate setting for acoustic performances and DJ sets when eardrums need respite.

The bar staff, adorned with tattoos that chronicle Melbourne’s musical evolution, pour no-nonsense drinks without pretension. The walls themselves seem to vibrate with four decades of musical history – every peeling poster and bathroom graffiti a testament to the thousands of bands who’ve graced its stages.

Lulie Tavern

Live music is almost always free at the Tav. They’re a generous bunch! It usually starts at 9pm, so grab a few brews before hitting the D-floor.

Aaaah, the good old Lulie. Combining the raucous energy of a classic pub with the modern fixings we all love, Lulie Tavern is a favourite of locals and visitors alike. If you’ve been on the hunt for an authentic Americana dive, then this will be your place. Though Lulie Tavern may only be in its early years, you wouldn’t be able to tell – it’s got that cozy, lived-in feeling, like it’s straight out of 1969. Warm and unpretentious, the space is only made better by the super friendly staff.

Sun seekers can head on up the stairs to the brand-spanking-new rooftop. We couldn’t think of a better way to end a busy week than crushing a few on the roof while the thud of rock n’ roll echoes from the bandroom below. The Lulie is known for their massive celebration of the best of Melbourne nightlife too, hosting a massive Luliepalooza each year, a one-day mini festival praising all things live music. This year, their lineup included the likes of RVG, Pist Idiots, Grace Cummings and Children Collide.

The best live music venues in Brunswick

The Brunswick Ballroom

One of the finest live music venues in Melbourne, The Brunswick Ballroom is a beautifully refurbished hall in the old Metropolis House building that now hosts some of Melbourne’s favourite live acts.

The upstairs ballroom, accessed via the dramatic staircase, features superb stained glass domes evoking the work of Australian artist Leonard French, before expanding out onto an open-air balcony that takes in the urban streetscape below and the sights of Melbourne’s skyline. It also has the Brunswick Artists’ Bar next door, which doubles as a lovely quaint cafe and bakery.

Brunswick Artists’ Bar

Live music is front and centre at the Brunswick Artists’ bar. Really, the stage is in the middle of the room. Shows are almost always free, which makes it an excellent place to catch an exciting up-and-coming act on a beer budget.

It’s a humble place. No stuffy pretentiousness; just good old fashioned fun. With live music on the stage and local art on the walls, it is a true celebration of the culture of Brunswick. Pair that with Melbourne-made beer and spirits behind the bar and you really can’t go wrong. The intimate interior and plush seating makes it an all-too-easy place to waste the hours away, plus, word on the street is on the weekends in the wee hours, the aforementioned stage makes for a pretty sweet drunken dance floor, with throwbacks and classics blasting out of the sound system. Sneak outside for a beer or a dart, and you’ll be in the prime position for people watching on the sidewalks of Brunny.

The Jazzlab

The Jazzlab is quickly becoming one of the coolest venues across Melbourne’s live scene, putting on some amazing shows from virtuosic acts that live on our doorstep. Along with Bird’s Basement and Paris Cat, they’re in many ways the holy trinity of Naarm’s authentic jazz culture.

Union Hotel Brunswick

Live music every Saturday and Sunday at this old school joint, which also features on our best Brunswick pubs and bars list. The Union Hotel can be found at 109 Union St, Brunswick. It’s an awesome place, but there’s no doubt It’ll take you back to those days where you’d be a kid spending your time in the playground at a local pub. It’s got all those pub classics you know and love like steak sandwiches, chicken parmas and fish and chips.

Their extensive range of wines is pretty impeccable too, from all around Australia and beyond. Much alike all of the popular venues in Brunswick, the Union has a selection of live music on a regular basis.

Edinburgh Castle

Brunswick’s longest-standing pub and one of it’s oldest live music venues, Edi Castle boasts a mammoth beer garden, an expansive craft beer offering, a mouthwatering menu, and a never-ending supply of local live music. It’s a bloody big venue with a huge heart to match. You’ll always feel right at home here. Find Edinburgh Castle at 681 Sydney Rd, Brunswick.

The Beast

Lively, great eats and just the right amount of sleaze – The Beast is an effortless choice no matter what’s on (and there’s always something on). They’ll also be hosting their tried-and-true weekday favourites including Big Stick Energy Mondays with chargrilled skewers and beer, Trivia Tuesdays and the aforementioned wing Wednesdays.

They’ve hosted over a thousand free shows in the past decade while slinging house cocktails and indie brews alongside some of the best burgers in Melbourne. They’re a night out that spills music and revelry into Lygon Street, and your local hangover cure (spicy bloody Maria and a double Ron Swanson burger will always do the trick.) Their promise? Always free entry, always great vibes. On Fridays and Saturdays, it’s bands galore, and entry is free (that’s more money you can spend on beers).

The Post Office Hotel

While Brunswick’s venues hog the spotlight and Northcote’s cool factor continues its northward crawl, Coburg’s Post Office Hotel has quietly established itself as one of the most essential live music destinations in Melbourne’s northern reaches.

The former 1800s post office turned pub has undergone a staggering transformation in recent years, shedding its earlier reputation as a somewhat dodgy local haunt to emerge as a genuine cultural hub that’s helping redefine Coburg’s identity.

Penny Black

A live music venue with acts that run Thursdays through Sundays on the Penny stage. They don’t discriminate – everything from sweet, singer-songwriter strums to sharp art-punk synths can be heard reverberating out from the bandroom.

What hasn’t been said about the Penny? Built from of an old post office and under old management from 2010, the long-standing venue is an epicentre for live music, culture and good vibes in Brunswick. It’s somewhat of an adult playground (though kids are welcome too). If you’re a gig freak like us, you’ll be happy to hear that live music at the Penny Black is back with a vengeance. Running four nights a week, the shows feature some of Australia’s most exciting talent and the occasional international act as well – stuff for all of Brunswick’s quirky tastes.

Stay Gold

Fantastic Sydney Road live music venue Stay Gold is back in the swing of live music with a bunch of sweet shows coming up. Their venue celebrates the glorious punk and emo music of the early noughties with many cool music nights.

Plus, at Stay Gold you’ll find Ollie’s Pizza, which crafts a unique pizza that blends New York and Neapolitan styles. You’ll never find a better pizza around Melbourne, let alone in a thumping live music venue like Stay Gold. Their thin, crispy base and chewy crust are topped with fresh ingredients, they prove their dough for 36 hours and hand-stretch it before cooking it super hot and fast, plus they always have a vibrant atmosphere. You’ll find a warm welcome at the bar!

Rubix Warehouse

Situated in Brunswick, this 500sqm warehouse and live music venue hosts a whole range of events, from international touring acts to club nights and all-ages gigs. Rubix promises the best of warehouse acoustics, with an industry-leading VOID sound system that is perfect for enjoying live music at full volume.

The Retreat

The Retreat Hotel stands proudly on the corner of Sydney Road and Glenlyon, its distinctive Victorian-era architecture serving as a Brunswick landmark since 1842. This unpretentious local has weathered numerous cultural shifts while maintaining its position as one of the inner north’s most enduring music venues.

Connoisseurs of the best local talent, everyone from the likes of Floodlights, Bones & Jones, Porpoise Spit, Lewis Coleman and more, have stepped into their beloved live music venue.

Bergy Bandroom

Bands fill the mid-sized, 200-capacity live music venue’s bandroom niche that’s becoming increasingly important for the local performance and arts circuit. A space that’s small enough to sell out, and big enough to feel like a proper gig for local and touring bands alike.

It’s a big deal for Bergy, a famously snug little venue tucked away at the park edge of Sydney Road. Bergy made its name by being the friendly hole-in-the-wall and unpretentious local favourite. That dive-style haunt will remain, with more of a focus on cocktails and boutique drinks in the front bar, but the new space next door lets them beef up their renowned regular gig schedule. For this bandroom, they’ve gutted the old warehouse space next door and built their dream venue basically from scratch. This means audio tech industry pro and Bergy owner David ‘Frankie’ Cudmore and his team have been able to assess and curate a perfect acoustic setup. Sound-treated walls and airlock doors ensure not only an excellent audio experience in the bandroom, but that the new beer garden out back is completely insulated. 

Howler

Hidden behind a parking lot, Howler is jam-packed with the industrial, indoor-outdoor charm the northside is known for. Their 400-capacity theatre-slash-music-venue is located in the back, with an odd shape that invites guests to get up close. It’s also one of the best venues for post-show chilling, as there are often DJs and events taking place in the generously sized front bar.

Howler has previously hosted the likes of Billie Eilish, Black Eyed Peas, Laufey, The Killers and more recent shows with North Carolina’s soul legend Lee Fields, MJ Lenderman & The Wind, The Getaway Plan, The Beaches, not to mention three sold out shows for homegrown stars Telenova.

The best live music venues in Fitzroy

Labour in Vain

Located in a building over 150 years old, this Brunswick Street pub and live music venue is a remnant of old Fitzroy. Its laidback and simple atmosphere allows punters to just kick back and relax while the rest of the world rushes by. The venue features regular live music, mostly bluesy rock and Americana, and also has a rooftop deck. Find Labour in Vain at 197a Brunswick Street, Fitzroy.

Sugar Glider

Sugar Glider feels like a little piece of New York, an intimate and classy number that would be right at home in Greenwich Village. Stepping into the office though, this glitzy and glamorous affair is but a wolf-in-sheeps-clothing: a dive bar as divey as the best of them, complete with Happy Hour specials that’ll make your brain fall out of your ears. 

When you’re ready, make your way down its vibrant halls into the bandroom, adorned with a disco ball and cushy leather booths straight out of the 70s. 

Tramway Hotel

As homey and welcoming as they come, Tramway Hotel is a sweet little gig spot that will make you feel like you’re at your own private concert. With a crowd-pleasing burger menu, a choice selection of craft brews and an aesthetic that’s vaguely reminiscent of rustic country shack (and we mean that as a compliment), this Fitzroy North haunt is a bloody beauty. Find Tramway Hotel at 165 Rae St, Fitzroy North.

Bar Open

Bar Open is a Fitzroy legend, a mainstay of Melbourne’s live music scene for 24 years that supports a huge array of genres. With art and mural splashed walls and a general decor and clientele that screams ‘You’re in Fitzroy, welcome home’, it’s no wonder that Bar Open is one of those venues that people associate with unique Melbourne culture. It has a delightful beer garden, a cozy fireplace, an upper level and an improv night, but you really need to head here to experience the dazzling array of live music for yourself.

The treasured venue hosts bands six nights per-week over two stages, and is widely renowned for everything from weekly experimental/improvised gigs (the home of Make It Up Club) to jazz/groove-based genres as well as heavier guitar-based rock (doom, punk, grindcore).

Nighthawks

Nighthawks is the kind of place where you feel comfortable to drop in by yourself and sink a pint while you read or sit back and take it all in. Upstairs, you’re likely to find a gig featuring back-to-back stellar local acts while downstairs, you can soak up whatever the DJ is spinning. Either way, the tunes are always sublime.

The Old Bar

The Old Bar’s no-frills approach is precisely its charm – the sticky carpets, band stickers plastering every conceivable surface, and that unmistakable smell that can only be described as “essence of rock venue” create an atmosphere that corporate venues spend millions trying and failing to replicate.

The front bar offers respite for the weary and thirsty, while the back room stands as hallowed ground for local musicians. Its modest stage has hosted everyone from unknown garage bands playing their first gig to secret shows from international acts and Australian legends who could easily fill venues ten times its size.

Rooks Return

Live music is a common occurrence at Rooks Return. On Wednesdays it’s jazz, on Thursdays it’s honky tonk and there are DJs all weekend long for those looking to sneak in a little boogie.

Rooks Return is a pub that feels utterly Fitzroy. Bringing together the rustic northside charm with a cocktail menu that seriously delivers, it’s the kind of easygoing place you could rock up to on a big night out with friends, spend a lowkey afternoon playing chess or board games, or bring your parents when they come to town.

The welcoming energy mixes nicely with the intimacy of the space. When it’s especially busy, you’ll be dodging and weaving through the crowd and you’re likely to brush up against someone interesting. They also do an excellent job of curating the vibe, so if you’re trying to get away from the riff raff (AKA bachelor parties, pub crawls and the like) you’ll most likely be safe here.

The Workers Club

The Workers Club stands as a beloved fixture in Fitzroy’s vibrant music scene, tucked away on Brunswick Street like a well-kept secret among locals. This unpretentious venue has been slinging drinks and showcasing emerging talent since 2011, establishing itself as a crucial launching pad for countless Melbourne bands.

The bare-bones band room, with its intimate stage and no-nonsense setup, delivers sound that punches well above its weight class. Upstairs, the cosy bistro dishes up classic pub grub to punters fuelling up before gigs.

What sets Workers apart is its relentless commitment to local music, hosting everything from sweaty punk shows to laid-back folk sessions seven nights a week.

Laundry Bar

Laundry Bar has been one of Melbourne’s undisputed homes of rap and hip hop now for many years. Located on Johnston Street in the heart of Fitzroy, the line outside gets long, but it’s worth the wait to join the party inside. Over two levels, the bartenders sling your favourite poison, while the resident DJs drop the freshest rap and hip hop out. Treat the crew to a VIP booth if you’d prefer a private area and bottle service, or head straight to the dance floor.

The Night Cat

What can this publication say about The Night Cat that we haven’t already said since it first opened back in 1996? It’s an institution that’s occupied a special place in our heart and often the last port of call on any successful night out northside.

Its major strength is the ability to attract uber-cool international acts and balance them with excellent Melbourne talent. It’s no surprise then, that the venue has played a major role in the formation of some of our best talent. The Cat Empire, The Bamboos, 30/70 all cut their teeth on the classic Meyer sound system.

Famous for the central stage with a 360-degree viewing angle, allowing lucky punters to witness some of the best emerging and left-field acts from around the world, up close and personal.

The best live music venues in Thornbury

Thornbury Local

Live music for free on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights as part of their beloved free gig series.

Thornbury Local has established itself as the High Street cornerstone that northsiders whisper about but don’t want to share too widely. This unassuming venue offers the perfect blend of chilled-out pub vibes with a distinctly Melbourne edge.

The minimalist interior, with its warm timber accents and moody lighting, provides the backdrop for local musicians who grace the intimate corner stage several nights a week. During daylight hours, the space transforms into a laid-back haven for coffee enthusiasts and laptop warriors.

The Thornbury Theatre

Perched majestically on High Street, the Thornbury Theatre stands as an art deco monument to Melbourne’s musical past and present. This former picture palace has transformed into one of the northside’s most captivating live music venues, its ornate 1920s architecture providing a dramatic backdrop for everything from underground electronica to international touring acts.

The grand ballroom, with its soaring ceilings and vintage chandeliers, offers the kind of old-world atmosphere that’s increasingly rare in Melbourne’s venue landscape. Downstairs, the more intimate bandroom provides the perfect setting for emerging artists cutting their teeth on the local circuit.

What sets the Thornbury Theatre apart is its chameleon-like ability to shape-shift – hosting wedding receptions one night, punk festivals the next, and community markets on weekends. It’s this versatility that has cemented its place as a cultural cornerstone in Melbourne’s rapidly evolving northern suburbs.

Cactus Room

Live music is brash, loud and unforgiving at Cactus Room – most of the time. The space is known as a DIY punk mecca. There’s a good chance you’ll be dodging flying elbows and other debris in the pit. Look alive.

Maybe it’s a bit out of the way unless you’re a Thornbury local, but it’s well worth the journey. If you dig live music, cold beer, art and general good times, you’ll definitely want to save this spot to your Google Maps. Scratch that music-making itch any day of the week by bringing your bandmates down to one of their three rehearsal rooms. Offering drum kit rentals and one of the most reasonable rates in town, it’s an easy choice.

If you’re good enough, you might even score a chance to drop an EP through the venue’s own up-and-coming record label, Cactus Records. Plus, you can always grab a drink from their fully-stocked bar and catch a gig when you’re done practising.

Shotkickers

A bustling live music bar located right in the heart of Thornbury, Shotkickers know how to serve up a good time. A favourite of locals, Shotkickers has its grip on the diverse and incredible music scene of our city, serving up incredible acts on their stage every night of the week.

Live music goes down seven nights a week at Shotkickers, as it’s run and led by local musicians. With the venue designed around hosting a great sounding gig, it’s a muso’s dream to play on their stage. “It’s a venue built by musicians, for musicians,“ says owner Christopher Windley. “The bar was welded by a muso. The stage was built by musos. The roof got painted by musos. Everyone is so excited to bring something fresh to the scene.”

Cafe Gummo

An array of sounds and artists have graced Gummo’s sticky floors. Rock ‘n’ roll, reggae, metal, balkan brass, hip hop, rembetika… just to name a few. Cafe Gummo also features karaoke and recently a ‘lip sync to death’ competition.

Let’s be clear, things can get wild at Cafe Gummo. Like, directed-by-Harmony-Korine wild. They love a good party – drag nights, comedy nights and punk shows are all common occurrences. The events are often raising money for a good cause, so you can give yourself a little pat on the back for your drinking efforts. Snoop around the dingy yet electric rooms. Lick your greasy fingers. Huddle by the bar, chat to the lovely staff and watch whatever act is on. With a courtyard and a few seats out front, too, Cafe Gummo is the perfect sleazy n’ easy spot. It’s right out front of the 86 tram on High St, so you’ve got no excuse not to visit the self-proclaimed  “Filthy princess of Thornbury’”.

The Croxton

From local indie favourites to international rock legends, The Croxton has the whole family covered. There’s even an indoor playground for the kids while you thrash your head about in The Croxton’s iconic bandroom. Melbourne’s vibrant music scene has earned it the well-deserved reputation as Australia’s live music capital thanks to venues like The Croxton, reminding us Melburnians of why we choose to live in such a bustling environment of legendary music performances.f you’re heading to Thornbury, you’re probably heading to The Croxton.

Thornbury definitely lives and breathes music. With Northcote housing some of the biggest music venues in Melbourne right next door, it’s certainly a hot spot for locals, but its iconography can always be traced back to the early days of The Croxton.

The best live music venues in Preston

The Merri Bar

Although the Merri Bar has only been around for two years, the Preston live music venue has already won over the hearts of many, local and beyond. Offering punters chilled-out live music on Saturdays and Sundays and a carefully curated selection of drinks all week long, it’s the perfect northside gathering point for a casual catch-up.

And the roster of talent coming through the bar should not be overlooked either. Recently, Merri Bar has stepped up their game, booking acoustic acts from across the country. The intimate room is great for catching artists up close and personal.

Ragtime Tavern

Ragtime Tavern is sure to make you feel as though you’ve stepped into an old western. With a bar literally built around a baby grand piano, Ragtime Tavern champions pianists and acoustic acts, with live piano performances from Wednesday to Saturday each week.

Behind an unassuming façade, the venue reveals itself as a time capsule of 1920s speakeasy charm, complete with vintage furniture, weathered timber floors and a tiny stage that barely contains the rotating cast of local jazz combos who perform nightly.

The best live music venues in Northcote

High Note

With two distinct adjoining spaces placed on either side of the iconic Northcote Theatre, High Note is a brand new live music venue and community space in the heart of Northcote. Hosting workshops, art exhibitions and live music, it ultimately creates a uniquely multifaceted experience.

This commitment to variety also extends to their drinks menu. Ensuring there’s something available for every taste, it features plenty of classics but also a pretty sizable array of locally sourced Australian beers and wines. High Note radiates this self-affirmed but not standoffish sense of coolness, coming across as the place to be for people who are in the know (which would be you now that you’re reading this, how lucky). The best part of this though, is it doesn’t tread into being a wanky, exclusive cool-kids-only club. It’s an inclusive venue full of lovely staff and patrons alike.

Wesley Anne

Nestled on the quieter end of High Street, the Wesley Anne stands as a hallowed ground for Northcote locals seeking refuge from the ordinary. This former 19th-century church has been transformed into one of Melbourne’s most atmospheric watering holes, maintaining its gothic charm while serving up stellar tunes and drinks.

Inside, the space unfolds like a Victorian fairytale – all dark timber, iron fixtures, and moody candlelight that dances across stone walls. The intimate band room, with its exceptional acoustics, has become a cherished launching pad for folk artists and indie darlings before they graduate to bigger stages.

The sprawling beer garden out back offers a leafy sanctuary from High Street’s bustle, with its cobblestone floor and fairy lights creating the perfect setting for languid summer sessions. The kitchen pumps out sophisticated pub grub that rises well above typical counter meals.

Merri Creek Tavern

Live music is what this cosy local hangout thrives on. Serving as a hub for Melbourne’s burgeoning music scene, its intimate setting is the ideal spot to gather with friends and experience performances from new and established local, touring and international artists.

In this unique establishment, vinyl records are the soundtrack to the cosy bar area, while the back room comes alive with the sounds of live bands. With an impressive selection of beers on offer, you’ll be spoiled for choice as you take in the welcoming atmosphere and friendly vibes. If you’re feeling peckish, you can easily order in from the many nearby eateries which range from Sri Lankan, Indian, Italian, Thai, Japanese and good old-fashioned fish’n’chips.

Open Studio

The tiny room, with its mismatched furniture and walls adorned with local artwork, transforms nightly into a hotbed of musical exploration. The venue’s fiercely independent programming policy has made it a sanctuary for jazz musicians pushing boundaries and experimental artists who don’t fit neatly into commercial venues.

What sets Open Studio apart is its genuine community ethos – this isn’t a place to be seen, but a place to truly listen. The audience, a mix of serious jazz aficionados and curious locals, maintains a reverent silence during performances that’s increasingly rare in Melbourne’s live music scene.

Northcote Theatre

When it was announced that the Northcote Theatre was being transformed into a 1,500-person live music venue, replete with a cocktail bar, rooftop bar, Italian style trattoria and boutique wine bar, Northcote collectively – and this is the technical term – went apeshit. Northcote may live and breathe live music, but with the Croxton Bandroom, Thornbury Theatre, Northcote Social Club, and a plethora of smaller venues like Bar 303 already on High Street, it was always going to take something pretty special to break through.

Luckily, there’s a lot more to Northcote Theatre than just good looks. There’s oodles of space, and the mezzanine, bar access and viewing angles are all exceptional.

Northcote Social Club

There’s no question that when you think of Melbourne live music venues, the Northcote Social Club is one of the first that pops into mind. It’s a chilled, laid back space that garners a chill crowd who are there just for the music. The band room, with its perfect sight lines and crisp sound system, has achieved near-mythical status among Melbourne musicians. Meanwhile, the front bar’s laidback atmosphere provides the ideal setting for pre-gig pints and post-show debriefs, with conversation flowing as freely as the local craft beers.

Bar 303

Live music at 303 is constantly varied. With an eclectic mix of performances spanning all imaginable genres – and some unimaginable ones – you’ll be treated to a vastly different band each time you go. Open until 3 am, even on weeknights, 303 is a bastion of livelihood in the wee hours of the morning, inviting you to dance the night away while the rest of High Street sleeps. Or just chill out and read a book at 2am, if that’s your thing.

With a consistently interesting and eclectic mix of performances – their booked acts ranging from blues and jazz to rock – there’s something for everyone at Bar 303. Each time you go you’ll be treated to a vastly different band. Every Thursday night, Bar 303 puts on the iconic Hammond Sessions by Hawker Heights, where the trio bring out the Hammond organ and tear through steamy blues, soulful R&B and vintage jazz for a sophisticated, world class act.

The best live music venues in Melbourne’s west

Kindred Bandroom

Live music is only one part of the puzzle that makes up Kindred. The bandroom is a place for experimentation. Unrestricted by genre, the stage welcomes all types, and visitors are always in for a pleasant surprise. Artsy types in the west gather at Kindred as if it were the only watering hole in a vast desert (not that Yarraville is any kind of desert – there’s a surprising amount of cool stuff out that way). Listed by Lonely Planet as one of the top ten workspaces in the world in 2016, the artist-owned business gives people a space to come together, create and learn.

It’s the ultimate place to soak up the creative spirit. On any given day, they host African drumming tutorials, glee club, acting classes, and filmmaking workshops. There are also soundproofed rehearsal rooms for bands that are frequented by local legends including Sampha The Great, REMI, Didirri and The Casanovas, as well as a sweet little bar and cafe area for drink and snacks.

Misfits Bar

Live music is a priority for one of Melbourne’s youngest venues. Music Director Jerry Poon labels sound as “a major factor” in shaping the future of the venue, positioning Misfits as a hub for live music for years to come. Heck, their opening night featured DJ heavyweights like Dijok and Palazzo, need we say more?

Seemingly the next big step in Footscray’s transformation into a one-stop shop for all things nightlife, Misfits delivers on Melbourne’s insatiable need for more local venues. Misfits is the brainchild of the Avengers of Melbourne’s entertainment industry: Jacob Bell, Amber Hahipene and Jerry Poon.

If you don’t know them, you almost certainly know their contributions (including Ferdyduke, Section 8, Whitehart and The Operatives). Their experience and knowledge of the industry provide incredible events, amazing lineups and great drinks every Thursday to Sunday after 5pm.

The Substation

Situated in Melbourne’s inner west in Newport, The Substation is hard to miss – an enormous brick building with long arched windows right next to the train station. The decor inside reflects a neoclassical refurbished industrial look.

The main space, fitting up to 500 guests, features exposed brick walls, timber floors and large red curtains, perfectly complementing the venue’s urban, artistic and laid back personality.  The space is also available for hire, whether for weddings, performances, or other events. If you find yourself hungry after indulging in the art, head to the cafe downstairs.

The Substation is open from 12-6pm, Wednesdays through Saturdays. For those seeking art and performances that prompt questioning, admiration and ultimate entertainment, The Substation is the ideal choice.

The Clocktower

The Clocktower Centre has been a jewel of Essendon for as long as anyone alive today can remember, and remains one of the area’s stand out live music venues. Despite all that’s changed over the past nearly a century and a half, the Clocktower has remained, providing the community with a much-needed public space for celebration and gathering. It began as a mechanic’s institute in the 1880s following the gold rush of the 1850s. Also, for those who are wondering, the clock was actually only installed in the 1930s. The tower has been providing Essendon residents with the time ever since.

In more recent years, the building received a $5 million makeover, transforming it into a modern arts and culture hotspot. It now features a 500-capacity theatre space equipped with a stunning 1898 Bechstein grand piano, a 300-seat function room and creative spaces including a writing room and a podcast studio.

The best live music venues in St Kilda and Prahran

Prince Bandroom

What was once a humble St Kilda pub has grown into a sprawling complex. These days the Prince of Wales encompasses a band room, a downstairs lounge and the old public bar. While two of those spaces have been renovated and dragged into the 21st century, they still retain their old world charm.

Tucked upstairs in the Prince of Wales Hotel complex, the Bandroom has witnessed countless iconic moments in Melbourne’s musical history – from secret gigs by international superstars to career-defining shows by local legends. The room’s exceptional sound system and perfect acoustics have made it a favourite among touring bands and discerning music fans alike.

The space itself strikes the perfect balance between grungy authenticity and functional design. The raised stage ensures solid views from nearly any vantage point, while the central bar serves punters efficiently without creating bottlenecks during sold-out shows.

Memo Music Hall

Tucked away in an industrial pocket of St Kilda, MEMO Music Hall stands as a glorious time capsule of Melbourne’s musical heritage. This former trade union headquarters and New Memorial Hall has been reborn as one of the city’s most architecturally significant live music venues.

Behind its understated art deco façade lies a spectacularly preserved 1920s performance space complete with soaring ceilings, original timber floors, and a warm acoustic environment that modern venues can only dream of replicating. The building’s rich history – it once hosted everything from ballroom dancing to community meetings – seems to seep from its walls.

The Vineyard

One of the most happening venues right in the heart of St Kilda, for over two decades, The Vineyard has been a cornerstone of community engagement and cultural enrichment in the vibrant neighbourhood. At the time of writing, their live music program is epitomised by Live Fridays, through which the venue aims to further solidify its commitment to supporting the local arts scene.

By offering a platform for emerging musicians to perform in front of a supportive audience, The Vineyard hopes to foster a sense of camaraderie and creativity within the St Kilda community, showcasing the diverse musical landscape of St Kilda, from rock and indie to garage, hip hop, and electronic music.

Hotel Esplanade

The Esplanade Hotel stands as Melbourne’s indomitable musical lighthouse, its distinctive Victorian façade presiding over St Kilda foreshore since 1878. After an extensive renovation that had locals holding their collective breath, the beloved Espy has been reborn as a multi-level entertainment labyrinth while maintaining its soul-stirring connection to Melbourne’s musical DNA.

The Espy’s grand resurrection has transformed the space into a sprawling playground for music devotees, with its three distinct band rooms – from the cavernous Gershwin Room to the intimate basement stage – hosting everything from international touring acts to local garage bands cutting their teeth. Each space maintains its own distinct character while contributing to the venue’s overarching mythology.

Dogs Bar

Live music Monday-Sunday, no frills, unless they are closed for a week. The Dogs Bar offers a diverse range of musical options for eager attendees. From regular vinyl nights, open mic nights and the carefully and eccentrically curated Alejandro’s Playhouse, The Dogs Bar has everything else that remains resonant in between. They’ll fill up your cup with signature cocktails and bar eats too.

Palais Theatre

It’s been around for many years, had a few facelifts, but we all still love the Palais. There’s no limit to what kind of shows they can put on, having seen acts from Eves Karydas to Brian Wilson to comedian/musician Reggie Watts grace the stage in the past.

Step inside and the Palais reveals its true magnificence – a cavernous 2,800-capacity auditorium featuring ornate plasterwork, sweeping staircases, and the kind of theatrical grandeur that modern venues simply cannot replicate. The room’s exceptional acoustics have made it the preferred Melbourne stop for international artists seeking something beyond the soulless arena experience.

George Lane

Situated on the ground floor of the heritage-listed George Hotel, George Lane has confirmed its place in the musical history of St Kilda. The venue now acts as a stage for musicians of all shapes, sizes and sounds from Thursday through to Sunday. Supplemented by their ‘music food’ menu, the establishment also has you covered for drinks.

Tucked away just off Acland Street’s tourist track, George Lane has carved out its reputation as St Kilda’s most intriguing after-dark destination. This intimate venue combines the suburb’s bohemian history with a thoroughly modern approach to nightlife entertainment.

The space itself feels like a deliberate secret – a compact room with moody lighting, minimalist décor, and a sound system that delivers pristine audio without overwhelming the space. Behind the well-stocked bar, tattoo-adorned mixologists craft cocktails that rival anything found in Melbourne’s more self-conscious northern establishments.

Revolver Bandroom

The venue is proud to wear a lot of hats, with a 24-hour nightclub, bandroom, Thai restaurant and arts space falling under the Revolver Upstairs umbrella. From its prominent poster wall showcasing monthly artist works to the quarterly artworks adorning its Seasons Of Change events and smokers paradise, Revs has hosted plenty of variety within those storied walls.

Of course, the iconic 320-capacity bandroom can’t be overlooked either, welcoming acts onto the renowned caged stage. Alongside an appearance from local hip-hop icons POSSESHOT, high-profile events like secret shows from hardcore outfits Alpha Wolf and Extortion (presented by Brick and Mortar) have also sold out, proving Revolver Upstairs isn’t just a place for electronic music.

Chapel Off Chapel

Audiences love Chapel Off Chapel for many reasons – friendly staff, a fully licensed bar, foyer and courtyard, and the excitement of getting up close and personal with the arts. These all combine to keep locals and visitors alike returning again and again. This highly respected and renowned venue just off Chapel Street in Prahran is a veritable institution for the arts in Melbourne.

Housed in a former church, it presents a well-rounded programme of cabaret, theatre, comedy, dance and visual art. The venue has hosted artists such as Coldplay, Foo Fighters, Tripod, and musicals including The Colour Purple, Rent and Blood Brothers. Chapel Sessions, the venue’s signature live music series, launched in January 2016 with intimate performances featuring members of some of the country’s biggest bands from the last 25 years.

The best live music venues in Port Melbourne

The Timber Yard

If you’re after major events in Port Melbourne, you can’t go past The Timber Yard. Turning a mammoth 6,000 square-metre industrial complex into a cultural labyrinth of indoor and outdoor venue spaces for hire, The Timber Yard is most popular for its regular raves and music festivals hosted by seasoned promoters like Novel, featuring massive international DJs. The likes of Jamie Jones and Four Tet have turned its 1,500-capacity warehouse space into a heaving, breathing music venue that’s like few others across the city.

Port Melbourne Industrial Centre for the Arts (PICA)

Similar to the way The Timber Yard has been repurposed as a stunning live music, festival and events space, so has this impressive industrial centre become a thundering venue for the world’s best bands, DJs and producers. The list of acts and festivals that have been at PICA in its relatively short history range from major rock bands like Smashing Pumpkins to beloved hip hop festivals like Homegrown, all the way to rave-culture staples like Boiler Room.

The best live music venues in Richmond and Melbourne’s east

The Corner Hotel

You can’t have a list of live music venues without mentioning The Corner. We’ve all been stuck behind the iconic pole, and enjoyed some great music from bands local and international. The venue always pulls some of the best acts to grace Melbourne stages, national and international.

Arcobar

If you’re looking for live music venues with stellar outdoor seating, Arcobar’s got you covered. The Heatherton watering hole is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, seven days a week, and hosts live music performances every weekend, including free live music every Saturday and Sunday afternoon.

Sooki Lounge

If you live up in the hills and are envious of all the gigs at inner-city venues, Sooki Lounge solves all your problems, putting on some awesome gigs just down the road. They feature a great mix of genres, from talented performers like Bonnie Anderson and Russell Morris to indie rockers like British India and The Delta Riggs.

The Round

Last October, when The Round officially threw open its doors, it became clear it didn’t come to play. Run by the Whitehorse City Council, the $78 million investment features a 600-capacity proscenium theatre as its main live music venue, a second, more intimate theatre and multiple versatile rehearsal spaces slash community function rooms. It was designed to give artsy types in Nunawading and the surrounding suburbs a place to soak in a diverse range of offerings. With free parking, a beautiful bar and accessible prices, you really can’t go wrong.

Ballets, operas, plays, live music – you name it, it’s happening at The Round. It even hosts children’s shows, which makes it the perfect option for school holidays or a rainy Sunday arvo. From drag provocateurs to calisthenics competitions, the programmers have been running wild (in the best way). They’re not afraid to push boundaries and deliver experimental works and emerging talent alongside tried-and-true hits.

The Leadbeater Hotel

The Leadbeater Hotel stands as a defiant relic on Richmond’s increasingly gentrified landscape, its weathered façade and neon beer signs a testament to decades of musical history. This unpretentious corner pub has maintained its gritty authenticity while venues around it have succumbed to gastropub makeovers and cocktail bar conversions.

Behind its unassuming exterior lies one of Melbourne’s most cherished band rooms – a compact, sweat-soaked space where the sound hits punters square in the chest and the low ceiling seems to amplify both volume and atmosphere. The sticky carpets and well-worn band room have witnessed countless pivotal moments in Melbourne’s musical evolution.

The front bar remains steadfastly old-school, serving no-nonsense pints to a diverse clientele that spans grizzled regulars, musicians between sets, and younger crowds discovering the venue’s charms. The recently revamped kitchen turns out quality pub classics that satisfy without venturing into pretentious foodie territory.

Odeon Richmond

A new live music venue has landed on Swan Street in Richmond. Odeon Richmond offers Melbourne’s vibrant arts community a new hub to showcase why live music is incomparable to anything else.

Odeon Richmond is a shining beam of hope within the local scene that has seen many small music venues throughout Melbourne have to say goodbye to live music enthusiasts and their loyal punters alike. Masterminds behind the music venue, Eleni Tzaros and Bruce Butler know what they are doing with a combined six decades of experience in the music industry.

Read more about the history of live music in Melbourne here.