Loving live music isn’t just about attending music festivals and seeing an international artist’s massive arena show.
Even the biggest of big-name headliners started in the trenches, on the sticky carpets and bandrooms of your local bars and pubs – which is exactly where you should be if you want to discover your new favourite band or venue.
Here are our picks for this week’s best local gigs from Aussie talent – from Perth to the East Coast – and all for the price of a good meal.
Residual
Where? Karova Lounge, Ballarat VIC
When? 9pm – 12am, Thursday Aug 18
Why? Definitely head down to this gig to hear some genuine indie rock thats perfect for a Thursday night out with the mates – throw in a few bevs and you’ve got a solid night.
Tickets & Info: $12.25, more info.
King of the North
Where? Mojo’s Bar, Fremantle WA
When? 8pm, Thursday Aug 18
Why? King of the North are sure to rock a live gig. The hard-rock duo manage to create the sound of 5 members with just a couple of voice boxes, a drum kit, a guitar, and a few guitar pedals. Head down this Thursday night for some old fashioned mind-blowing rock and roll.
Tickets & Info: $14.30, more info.
Oliver Sol
Where? Revolver, Melbourne VIC
When? 8pm, Saturday Aug 20
Why? Oliver Sol is definitely up and coming with his electronic rock tracks that’ll sure to bring out your best dance moves. Starting early at 6pm, it’s a great way to start your Saturday night.
Tickets & Info: $12 on the door, more info.
Imogen Clark
Where? Grace Emily Hotel, Adelaide SA
When? 8pm, Saturday Aug 21
Why? Imogen Clark projects her beautiful voice over the easy listening of her instrumentals. Listening to her folk songs will definitely be the best way to wind down after a big weekend. Tickets are selling fast, so don’t miss out!
Tickets & Info: $12 on the door, more info.
Rad Island, Terra & Inventions
Where? Ding Dong Lounge, Melbourne VIC
When? 9pm, Thursday Aug 18
Why? Thursday night at Ding Dong will set all your pop-punk feels in motion. These acts are sure to have you head banging to good vibes – and that’s a pretty ace way to end a long week of work!
Tickets & Info: $12.75, more info.
MYAMI, Bel & BATTS
Where? The Workers Club, Fitzroy VIC
When? 8pm – 11:30m, Thursday Aug 18
Why? For a more soul searching Thursday night, get down to the Workers Club to hear some elctro-soul from Melbourne’s very own Myami. Don’t worry you’ll definitely still be getting your groove on!
Tickets & Info: $13, more info.
Morning TV
Where? Botany View Hotel, Newtown NSW
When? 8pm, Saturday August 20
Why? This jangle-pop NSW outfit will surely put you in a great mood for your Saturday night with their laid back songs and soothing melodies, it’s surely to chill out your weekend.
Tickets & Info: $12, more info.
Mammoth Mammoth
Where? Cherry Bar, Melbourne VIC
When? 8pm – 11pm, Friday Aug 19
Why? If you want a night of head banging and mosh pits then you definitely want to head down to Cherry Bar this Friday night, for what will surely be a killer heavy-rock gig!
Tickets & Info: $13, more info.
Cheap Fakes
Where? The Woolly Mammoth, Brisbane QLD
When? 8pm – 12am, Friday Aug 19
Why? Cheap Fakes are a solid live band pumping out their funk and ska tunes. This Brisbane outfit will be playing a local home gig this weekend after returning from their New Zealand tour.
Tickets & Info: $7 until 11pm/free afterwards, more info.
ORB
Where? The Rosemount Hotel, Perth WA
When? 8pm, Friday Aug 19
Why? These mates of Aussie legends, King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard, are continuing their tour of the country after dropping their debut album. This week they’re hitting up Brisbane. This Geelong group rock hard, so make sure you don’t miss them.
Tickets & Info: $15.30, more info.
