The Drunken Poet

Matt Dwyer
2026-08-22 21:00 - 23:30 (Australia/Melbourne)
Multi – award winning guitarist/singer/songwriter Matt Dwyer has been wowing audiences across Australia and overseas for close to two decades.

By the time he was in his mid twenties he’d already become a respected veteran of the blues and roots scene as a member of seminal band The Bondi Cigars as well as a solo artist.

Since then he’s released two albums – the 2007 release “Who Loves Ya” was critically acclaimed, scoring Album Of the Year at the Vic/ Tas Blues Awards as well as securing the Artist Of the Year Award.

Ken Williams of Melbourne’s The Age called it “Certainly my album of the year.” High praise indeed.

Moonee Valley Drifters
2026-08-23 16:00 - 23:30
Moonee Valley Drifters are back at The Poet!
Melbourne’s favourite Old Time Country Swing, Honky Tonk, Tex-Mex, Cajun, & Bluegrass band.

Fables
2026-08-23 18:30 - 23:30
Fables are an Irish acoustic duo who cover a wide range of sounds, from Rock, Pop, Folk, and Country to Irish heartfelt Ballads. Comprising lead singer Tara Raftery and singer-guitarist Kevin McGinley, the duo brings an intimate and dynamic sound that resonates with their audiences.

Peter Baylor & Nick Hayward play the songs of Willie Nelson
2026-08-25 20:00 - 23:30

Elly McK & The Unbelievers
2026-08-26 20:00 - 23:30
Elly McK & The Unbelievers are an Australian alt-country and Americana powerhouse, shaking up the scene with their genre-defying sound.
Frontwoman Elly McK crafts hauntingly original songs that dance along edges of folk, alt-country, and Americana. Backed by The Unbelievers, the band delivers a mix of vintage-inspired vibes and foot-stomping grooves, blending raw storytelling, rich harmonies, and a sound that marries rootsy twang with modern grit. Known for their captivating live performances and evocative songwriting, Elly McK & The Unbelievers are carving a distinct path in the Australian music scene, becoming an undeniable force to watch.

Sam Price Trio
2026-08-27 20:00 - 23:30
The Sam Price Trio are a dazzling jazz ensemble, playing standard repertoire with all the energy and feels. Joined by his virtuoso guitarist son Monty and their amazing bassist, Tom Lee.

Traditional Irish Music Session
2026-08-28 18:00 - 23:30
Start your weekend off right, every Friday night we have Trad Irish Music at The Poet!

Adam Waldron Trio
2026-08-28 20:30 - 23:30
Swampy, twangy, rockin’ and sometimes psychedelic blues trio led by guitarist/singer Adam Waldron

Pat McKernan
2026-08-29 15:00 - 23:30
Pat has toured extensively as guitarist for Irish folk legend Finbar Furey and has had his song “Geraldine’s thinking of Galway” recorded by the Furey brothers. Come and be merry!

The Pheasantry
2026-08-29 21:00 - 23:30
Yes. Alt country, urban folk, country rock, rock n roll, bluegrass and blues from the city or the swamp … call it what you will, but these guys mix all this together, and more. If all band members give the go, it’s in. This mix is their sound, and they love creating it, and performing it.
With a huge original song list, that started back in the early nineties, this band has many influences. Carefully chosen covers rotated through the live set keeps them thinking, and writing. From Tom Petty to Tom Wates, Johnny Cash to Paul Kelly, The Band, Little Feat, Tony Joe White …. The Pheasantry Band’s sound is catchy.
If you like real vocals in harmony, real guitars with exiting electric twang, fat upright bass and drums ready to explode, make sure you see this five-piece band of cheeky Melbourne gentlemen.
Over 30 years since these guys started writing and recording songs and grooves, and they’re not about to stop.
Their style is infectious, always tells a story and great to watch. They have fun!

Shackleton
2026-08-30 16:00 - 23:30
It was a band formed for the sheer love of playing. A chance to regularly work their way through a fascinating set of covers without the pressure of their more serious career ventures.
Formed by Mick Thomas, Anna Burley (Killjoys) and Liz Stringer, Shackleton3 was a holiday band – and a damn good one. Something to keep their hand in when not touring in their own respective right.
They played the pubs of the inner north of Melbourne and were the perfect soundtrack for dreamy winter Sunday evenings. Open fires, red wine and dark beer were their companions as a dedicated following shared the intimate spaces. Football would be finished for the round and thoughts of the working week were expertly held at bay as the glorious harmonies swirled around the commanding vocals of Anna Burley.
When Liz Stringer departed to live in the northern hemisphere the band played on a for another year with a revolving lineup but ultimately other projects took precedence and the band stopped playing – leaving behind one single album Just Turning Pages as testament to some nonchalantly magical performances.
But a good idea and a good concept will only remain dormant for so long and an impromptu two song reunion at the wake for an inner Melbourne punter stalwart got Mick and Anna thinking it’s time to revive the very idea if the band. Enter Olivia Bolmat from indi folk new-troubadours Norwood to complete the lineup and Shackleton3 2026 is set to go.
The only question now is what are you doing Sunday?

The Tipplers
2026-08-30 18:30 - 23:30
The mighty Tipplers hit the Poet to bring about your Sunday eve in style!

Garry Allen plays Robert Johnson
2026-09-01 20:00 - 23:30
Garry Allen plays Robert Johnson!

Grace Forster
2026-09-02 20:00 - 23:30
Grace Forster is a singer-songwriter whose music blends vulnerability and strength in equal measure. With stripped-back, heartfelt lyrics and raw, intimate performances, she creates a space where audiences feel seen and connected.
Drawing inspiration from lived experiences and honest storytelling, Grace’s songs invite listeners to step into her world of emotion, resilience, and self-discovery. Performing both originals and carefully chosen covers, Grace brings her artistry to life on stage, whether in small, soulful shows or lively local busking sessions.
Her warm tone and magnetic presence capture attention instantly, leaving audiences with melodies that linger long after the final note. Currently building a growing fanbase across Australia and beyond, Grace is committed to making music her life, sharing songs that connect people and moments in unforgettable ways. With new releases on the horizon and a passion for creating music that speaks to the heart, Grace Forster is a voice to watch.

Rachel Clark
2026-09-02 21:00 - 23:30
Rachel Clark returns to The Poet for Wine, Whiskey, Women!
Self-taught Singer-Songwriter, Rachel Clark, has crafted a musical journey that blends heartfelt storytelling with a sultry and soulful acoustic folk vibe. With raw honesty, she delves into the depths of the human experience, heartache to humour, offering introspective narratives on loss, love, and the battles we all face.

Open Mic Night!
2026-09-03 17:00 - 23:30
Register from 5pm, performances from 7pm!

Traditional Irish Music Session
2026-09-04 18:00 - 23:30
Every Friday night, welcoming you into the weekend with the warmth of real Irish music!

Knox D’Arcy Concession
2026-09-04 20:30 - 23:30
Knox D’Arcy Concession are a Melbourne northern‑suburbs folk/country‑punk drinking band built for crowded pubs, late nights and Guinness-stained shirts. Delivering high‑energy party songs with a distinctly Australian grit, the band blends Celtic‑leaning folk, punk urgency, and classic pub‑rock swagger into sets designed to keep the bar heaving and the chorus shouted back at the stage.

Featuring members from acts including The Living End, Raised by Eagles, The Drunken Poachers and Streams of Whisky — Knox D’Arcy Concession bring seasoned musicianship to unapologetically fun, hook‑driven songs. Equal parts rowdy and tight, they’re at home in sticky‑floored band rooms, late‑night festival tents, and anywhere a good party needs a soundtrack.

Duncan Schmoll (trio)
2026-09-05 21:00 - 23:30
Duncan Schmoll is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist based in Melbourne, Australia

The Groovetones
2026-09-06 16:00 - 23:30
Still brandishing the same uptempo energetic and often frenetic Jumpin’ Blues and Jazz, Lindsay Davies (Double Bass and Vocals), Adrian Sims (Tenor Saxophone) and Alexander W Sims (4-string Guitar) combine with Gerry Nelson (Piano) to create a vibe that the punters can’t help but get involved with.This quartet will certainly immerse you in the Groovetones spirit.

Brendan Lloyd plays the songs of John Williamson
2026-09-08 20:00 - 23:30
Brendan Lloyd plays the songs of John Williamson!

Candice Alisha
2026-09-09 21:00 - 23:30
Candice Alisha is a blues and folk singer songwriter originally hailing from Wodonga, Victoria but now local to Melbourne after making the move to the big city to pursue her career at the beginning of 2019. After working as a full-time musician in various bands for the better part of a decade, Candice has struck out on her own with her strong, deep and powerful vocals and magnetic stage presence.

Fox & Darling
2026-09-11 20:30 - 23:30
Szara Fox is an flamboyant Dutch songstress, whose unique songwriting style is infused with Flamenco and Balkan Gypsy music. With a powerful, compelling voice and driving guitar style, Szara weaves an elemental sensuality through up-tempo tales of travel, love, and freedom. A trained actress, Szara brings a theatrical and flamboyant sensibility to her dynamic performance style. Szara Fox has honed her craft over 20 years, performing throughout Australia and Europe, captivating audiences with her mix of original compositions and traditional Gypsy folk songs.
Accompanying Szara is her musical soulmate, trumpet player Andrew Darling, whose evocative playing weaves rich melodic lines and fiery improvisations throughout the music. Andrew is a seasoned musician of 35 years’ experience, having performed with Australian music icons such as Things of Stone and Wood, Dan Kelly and Gareth Liddiard (The Drones).
Over recent years the duo has become a festival favourite, wowing audiences at Newstead Live, Steampunk Festival, FRL and Renaissance Festival, amongst others. They have opened for Things of Stone and Wood at Melbourne’s illustrious Bird’s Basement and have performed at venues and festivals throughout Europe and Australia.

David Cosma
2026-09-12 21:00 - 23:30
The absolutely wonderful David Cosma returns to the Poet to get your Friday swinging!
David Cosma’s music has been described as “a straight ahead, thinking person’s songwriter that speaks volumes to what a terrific talent we have in our midst”- Inpress Magazine, while The Age wrote “his full-bodied croon pairs the silken wryness of Elvis Costello and the gravel of Bob Dylan”.
Inspiring lyrics accompanied by sumptuous melodies and harmonies, together with his unique method of playing the guitar, guarantees an impassioned live performance.

The Hornets
2026-09-13 16:00 - 23:30
The Hornets Trio continue to celebrate their recent signing with Laneway Music! You’ll hear see the trio play their new single as well as cuts from their new EP and a selection of songs from their entire eight album, 26 year career collection…not to be missed!

Yolanda Ingley plays the songs of Billie Holiday
2026-09-15 20:00 - 23:30
Yolanda Ingley plays the songs of Billie Holiday!

Aura Rising
2026-09-16 20:00 - 23:30
Aura Rising make their debut at The Poet!

Georgia Rodgers
2026-09-16 21:00 - 23:30
Bringing to the stage a combination of Blues and Jazz marrying an array of ambient guitar riffs and skilful use of a loop pedal; Georgia Rodgers is an artist you won’t want to miss.

Georgia is not only well known for her incredible guitar skills but also her voice and the journey she takes listeners on within her own compositions. This young musician takes the spotlight and captivates audiences through her ability to sing with raw emotion, joined with her iconic Telecaster Georgia’s voice and her musicality act as partners in crime, inviting all listeners to be a part of the beautiful love affair.

As a whole, Georgia creates an experience to share, not just an outstanding performance.

Open Mic Night!
2026-09-17 17:00 - 23:30

Traditional Irish Music Session
2026-09-18 18:00 - 23:30
Every Friday night, to start your weekend right!
With live music 6 nights a week at The Poet, our Traditional Irish Music sessions are a part of our weekly line up.
