It was the battle of the decades in the Workers band room on the night of Friday the 13th. Jervis Bay charmers Debbies fused their Skeggs-reminiscent-surf-punk with looking like they’d just strolled off the set of Puberty Blues, whilst front-woman Hallie appeared like a late 90s fever dream sporting Gwen Stefani No Doubt era vibes, and finally, the cheeky Adelaide duo TOWNS stayed true to blink-182 influences in baggy trousers and flannies and performed a phenomenal cover of Smashmouth’s ‘Allstar’. 

On the north side of town, The Croxton Bandroom was hosting a stellar lineup of VOIID, Loser and Bugs.

The band has only ever played one other show a few months ago at The Workers Club, but smash cut to Wednesday night, where we die-hard fans stood in the Retreat’s band room, donning thick woolen scarves and clasping pints.

Illuminated under a red glow, The Night Cat stage perched in the centre of the room, calling in fans and music fiends. It was officially beanie and flanny weather as the punters arrived.

The Forum lights flickered in the Thursday evening air as the crowd took shelter from the recent cold weather. Walking into the venue, there is something magical in the abyss of the blue roof that doesn’t diminish, no matter how many times you see it. The Forum can feel like a moment frozen in time and is probably why it remains the favourite venue to host Melbourne’s live music of all genres.