As previously reported, the best lineup of Australia’s summer season may just belong to a humble little record store located in Melbourne’s beachside suburb of St. Kilda, namely Pure Pop Records’ Summer of Classic Albums’ series.

An exhaustive programme of 68 local artists tackling 68 iconic album releases in the St. Kilda record store-come-music venue from December through to March, the Summer of Classic Albums kicks off in just 9 days and sees established, local artists hitting the cult stage to deliver their unique take on beloved LPs.

Devised to conjunction with the ongoing ‘Buy A Brick’ scheme to help in aiding the venue’s soundproofing woes with local council, the extensive new concert series features a diverse pool of talent, such as Julia Stone, Pony Face, Courtney Barnett, and Ella Hooper performing everything from the Beatles, Bowie and Bob Dylan to Destiny’s Child and INXS.

Kicking off December 1st, Pure Pop Records in partnership with Valleyarm Digital and Cinematix, have announced that they’ll also be broadcasting the biggest concerts every week over the internet.”“Pure Pop Records is opening their doors to music fans around the world through YouTube.”

In a press release today, Pure Pop Records announced it would be bringing the Summer of Classic Albums to “a wider audience than ever before, opening their doors to music fans around the world through YouTube.” Filming select performances each week “from an exclusive spot in the 50 seat venue.”

Meaning even those unable to make the trek to St. Kilda – or simply missed out on the limited 50 seat ticket capacity –  will still be able to enjoy these unique gigs.

Highlights of the one-of-a-kind series are many, from Julia Stone reworking David Bowie’s Let’s Dance into a folk-rock concept, or Melbourne three-piece Pony Face tackling The Boss’ intimate Nebraska. Elsewhere, Killing Heidi singer turned solo act Ella Hooper will be channeling her best Beyonce for her take on The Writings On The Wall by Destiny’s Child, and Courtney Barnett will be delivering a unique take on INXS classic Kick on its 25th Anniversary (and the news the band won’t be playing it live anytime soon).

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Other tempting selections include Television’s seminal Marquee Moon as woven by the textural guitar rock of locals I, a Man, Rage Against The Machine’s incendiary debut, being performed by The Twoks for Zack De La Rocha’s 43rd Birthday on January 12; and female tribute act ACDShe performing 1976 classic Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap.

Fitting given that Pure Pop Records owner and operator Dave Stevens is the son of legendary AC/DC frontman, Bon Scott.

So whether it’s in person or on YouTube, be sure to check out the Summer of Classic Albums. View the full program at purepop.com.au 

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