Victoria’s best live music venues

Melbourne is known as the capital of music in Australia and for good reason. From pubs, clubs and dive bars to historic theatres and trams, visitors to the musical city can catch a live gig every night of the week at a variety of iconic venues. And those who venture out to the regions can follow the sound of music to some of the most interesting music venues around the state – icecream parlours, town halls and even moving trains.

Iconic Melbourne venues

170 Russell – From old rockers to indie darlings, electro kids to metal heads, this popular city venue has played host to a wide range of artists including the Dead Kennedys, Blonde Redhead and Kate Nash. Operating for 40 years, 170 Russell (formerly Billboard) underwent a major overhaul and is now one of the best concert clubs in the city. 170 Russell Street, Melbourne.

Toff in Town – For those looking for a break from the sweat and noise of the usual rock club, The Toff, located on the second floor of Curtin House, is a glossy change of pace. With a dedicated bandroom and a high-end sound system, this venue plays host to local luminaries and international artists. 265 Swanston Street, Melbourne

Corner Hotel – music lovers can go to the Corner three times in a week to see three completely different bands – international buzz bands, local stalwarts or heavyweights – having an intimate moment. With live music on most nights of the year and a perfect summertime rooftop beer garden, it’s no wonder locals queue around the, er, corner to get in. 57 Swan St, Richmond.

Northcote Social Club –  No matter what the Northcote Social Club has done or will do, it will always be remembered as the bandroom The Pixies chose to play before hitting the big stages on their first Australian tour. Featuring a never-ending line up of hometown heroes, interstate bands and international artists, this is the quintessential Melbourne bandroom that is simply loved by locals. 301 High Street, Northcote

Howler – A newish band venue that has quickly asserted its place with Melbourne’s gig-going community. With its now iconic zebra artwork on the exterior and an enormous beer garden on the inside, the sprawling venue features live music ranging from indie bands to hot DJs. Revelers can nestle into cosy benches, catch a live gig in the bandroom or sample the impressive beer list and Asian-tapas style bar menu.  7-11 Dawson St, Brunswick.

The Old Bar – From snotty punk and country twang to indie popsters and acoustic storytellers, this much-loved piece of old-Fitzroy is the perfect introduction to Melbourne’s music scene. With live music almost every night of the week, The Old Bar is the place to catch up-and-coming bands, local luminaries and everything in between. Grab a beer on the way in and fight for a spot in the tiny bandroom, or relax with friends out in the rear courtyard. 74-76 Johnston St, Fitzroy.

The Tote – After 20,000 angry music fans hit the streets to protest new licensing laws that led to The Tote’s closure in 2010, this beloved church of punk rock reopened six months later. Now, this crusty jewel in the crown of Melbourne’s rock scene is just doing what it does best – beer garden BBQs , hazy late nights and heaving, sweaty rock ‘n’ roll. 67-71 Johnston St, Melbourne.

Melbourne Recital Centre – situated in the heart of Southbank this purpose built recital hall attracts the best and brightest Australian and international artists. Designed specifically for the performance, recording, broadcast and enjoyment of small ensemble music, the outstanding performing spaces attract many of the world’s great artists and provides a platform for local talent.  31 Sturt St, Southbank.

Tram Sessions are surely proof that live music is part of the fabric of Melbourne, even the trams are ‘on track’ with Melbourne’s music scene. A Zone-1 ticket could also get passengers front row at a gig thanks to Tram Sessions. A not-for-profit organisation that combines two of Melbourne’s biggest loves – live music and trams – Tram Sessions arranges musicians to randomly jam on-board city trams with the sole purpose of surprising, delighting and entertaining passengers. Various locations.

Iconic regional venues