Best live music venues in Melbourne

Melbourne is truly blessed in the live music stakes. Here are a few of our favourites

First published on 11 Jan 2011. Updated on 7 Dec 2011.

Prince Bandroom
	The folks at the Prince of Wales Hotel could host a music event for kindergardners and pull it off. The Prince Bandroom does hosts funk, punk, rock, DJs and festivals. The sound is always perfect, the room large and boisterous – a perfect combo. If you can’t be stuffed dancing anymore, pull up a chair and still hear the music clearly. Best for… you name it
The Esplanade Hotel
	We love the Espy more than some of our own family members – we leap at its defence and make an excuse for a return visit, even for ‘one’ quick after work tipple. It has a room for every music occasion: small basement for those intimate gigs, nice middle room for new bands with a small following, and the large Gershwin Room for bigger acts. Best for… gigs of all shapes and sizes
The Tote
	After the Tote’s reopening (after the long Melbourne licensing law drama) this legendary Collingwood rock venue is back, better than ever. For over three decades it has provided the perfect training for new bands; every significant Aussie act has trod its stage at one time or another. Best for… new bands
Forum
	The Forum’s sky-blue roof stretches above the auditorium, while Roman-style statues and gargoyles flank the stage. The entire venues can be seated, as it is for the Melbourne Film Festival and Melbourne International Comedy Festival. When the big bands come to play, seats are removed and voila la – a dance floor. Best for… big gigs and festivals
The Hi-Fi Bar & Ballroom
	It’s a tad ghetto but where else would Melbourne’s premium live band venue be better located? Not only do musos play in the basement but many comics brave the stage during the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and do their thing. The upstairs balcony bar is has a cheeky personality and can host its own little party. Best for… live(ly) bands