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’s 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.

Donny Benet

Where? The Brightside, 27 Warner Street, Brisbane
When? 8pm Thursday Oct 22nd
Why? Sydney’s very own smooth operator Donny Benet will be headlining the launch of Brissy’s newest night FRIENDZONE a Thursday night party simply built on the ethos of dope bands, good tunes, no bullshit and a drinks prices that’ll hurt a lot less than your Friday morning hangover. With support form  East Brisbanes ‘best rapper’ Young Trouble and party starters Post Dream it’s time to kick that weekend off a day early!
Tickets & Info: $13, Facebook event

The Lazys + Riff Raiders

Where? Cherry Bar, 103 Flinders Lane, Melbourne
When? 8pm, Friday Oct 23rd
Why? To celebrate the start of the weekend two of the country’s smokinest rock outfits double bill at Cherry. Sydney rock riot The Lazys launching their thumping single ‘Black Rebel’ alongside mates Melbourne’s own Riff Raiders. it all kicks off at 9pm so get there early!
Tickets & Info: $13, Facebook event

Postblue

Where? Brighton Up Bar, 1/77 Oxford St, Darlinghurst, Sydney
When? 8pm, Thursday Oct 22nd
Why? Byron bred-now Melbourne based alt rockers Postblue released their grungy debut LP I Hope They’re Praying For Me last year to an incredibly warm reception. Manging to reference bands from decades past while staying truly unique it’s clear to see why the four piece have found their place in many local rock lovers hearts. They’ve just dropped a new single ‘Glow Like Crazy’ and to celebrate they’ll be tearing the roof off  Brighton Up Bar this Thursday night, get on it.
Tickets & Info: $12, brightonupbar.com.au

I Know Leopard

Where?  Wheatsheaf Hotel, 39 George St, Thebarton, Adelaide
When? 8pm, Thursday Oct 22nd
Why? Covering every corner of the continent, indie pop rockers I Know Leopard are currently on the road playing shows as part of ‘The Set List’ initiative, an exciting, new enterprise born from the creative minds from Arts on Tour to encourage young people in regional areas to get involved in the professional music scene. They’ll be bringing their stunning singles ‘Close My Eyes’ and fellow band mates Blush Response along for the ride.
Tickets & Info: $12, Facebook event

Paradise Preview

Where? Boney 68 Little Collins St, Melbourne
When? 8:30pm, Friday Oct 23rd
Why? Gearing up what is going to be another killer event this late November, the crew at Paradise Music Festival are this week hosting the latest of their series of pre-party ‘teasers’. Featuring HABITS, Leisure Suite, CC:DISCO!, Deer, Nutrition, Post Percy and of course Paradise Djs. It’s set to be an absolute cracker and for only $10!
Tickets & Info: $10, Facebook event

Peter Bibby

Where? X-Wray Fremantle, Lot 4, 3-13 Essex St, Fremantle
When? 7pm, Friday 22nd Oct
Why? Ahead of his national tour with CW Stoneking, WA songwriting talent and lover of boozin’ Peter Bibby will be playing one cheeky show at the Wray alongside Shane Corry. Entry is 10 measly bucks and Jamesons only $6! Done.
Tickets & Info: $13, Facebook event