Rocking neighbourhoods

Ten years on from the defining SLAM Rally protest, credited as the catalyst for Melbourne’s live music scene as we know it today, the city is now home to more live music venues per capita than any other global city with 553.

Melbourne’s credentials as a live music destination will be reinforced this season with internationally acclaimed musician Courtney Barnett returning home to take the stage for MTV Unplugged Melbourne at Howler followed by Melbourne Music Week (14-23 November).

Visitors can find their Melbourne beat at these top neighbourhood venues on any given night of the week.

Howler

A reimaged space in the heart of Melbourne’s inner-north has quickly established itself as a serious live music venue. The former woolshed was converted into an urban oasis of swaying trees and hanging gardens which frames a unique open live music venue and intimate bars. Set amongst a city of well-worn and sticky live music venues, Howler Theatre is a new kid on the block and its purpose-built space is complete with state of the art sound and lighting systems. With booking ranging from International bands and DJ's through to fringe and theatre Howler is the home of performance in north of Melbourne. 7-11 Dawson St, Brunswick, Victoria, 3056. (03) 9077 5572.

The Workers Club

Many locals shed a tear over the demise of the once-renowned Rob Roy Hotel, but the venue was reborn as The Workers Club and is now a favourite with the young indie/arts crowd. This Fitzroy institution has been a cornerstone of Melbourne’s live music revival over the last 10 years with gigs seven days a week. While the exterior of the hotel appears in touched, the inside has been given a makeover but still retains fingerprints of its history past. More than just a pub, the diverse venue also features artists’ studios for rent, upstairs. 51 Brunswick St, Fitzroy, Victoria, 3065. (03) 9415 6558.

The Prince Bandroom

All that is enticing and unique about Melbourne can be found in the bay-side neighbourhood of St. Kilda. Traditionally a haven for the city’s artists, immigrants and other exotic characters, for over 100 years people have flocked to this seaside suburb in pursuit of pleasure. Today the cornerstone of St. Kilda’s musical pleasures resides within the Prince Bandroom, near the corner of Fitzroy and Acland Streets. The Prince Bandroom has been a host to live music for more than six decades. It has played host to the likes of Lenny Kravitz, Jack Johnson, Scissor Sisters, Ben Harper, Pink, Coldplay, Bright Eyes and Goldfrapp to name but a very select few. 29 Fitzroy St, St Kilda, Victoria, 3182. (03) 9536 1168.

The Tote

Melbourne’s gritty home of rock keeps its doors open late serving beers and burgers with a side of live punk, thrash, metal and rock for punters who like to live on the more raucous side of life. 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 Street, Melbourne. (03) 9419 5320.