The Drunken Poet is one of Melbourne's best live music venues, providing a unique community atmosphere between musicians and punters. If you are an artist looking to perform at The Drunken Poet, get in contact with us here.
All gigs are FREE ENTRY
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.
Music from the Irish and Scottish traditions! Jigs, Reels, Polkas and songs all fly from MacCrimmin.
Melbourne based 5-piece Americana outfit Front Porch are a stand out in Melbourne's Live music scene, performing all over the city’s many live music venues as well as Victoria’s Bluegrass festivals and club nights.
The band tastefully incorporates the styles of bluegrass, Western swing, dixie-land, ragtime, jazz, Tex-Mex Latin, and even 60s folk.
Formed in 2017, Front Porch has steadily crafted a unique live music experience, a fresh, authentic and vibrant sound with nostalgic undertones underpinned by humour and humility.
John Flanagan is known for his authentic stage presence, heart-gripping storytelling and uplifting performances. He has been described as “one of Australia’s finest lyricists” (Timber & Steel). Performing with a new 7-piece line up featuring rhythm section and horns, Flanagan channels the raw and soulful folk-rock of the 70s taking inspiration from the likes of Jackson Browne, Bonnie Raitt and Van Morrison. His 2016 release ‘There’s Another Way To Where You’re Going’ was nominated for best Folk/Roots Album in the Age Music Victoria Awards and was an ‘Album of the week’ and ABC radio favourite.
Conan Smith live at The Poet - the perfect way to spend your Sunday eve!
Rubita will be returning to The Drunken Poet with fresh songs and instruments.
She’ll be joined by Henry Smithers on bass guitar, delivering soulful bass lines and groovy solos, along with Christian Silva, a world-class percussion player showcasing an array of rhythms and beats.
Tying it all together with Rubita’s smooth guitar chords and velvety vocals, the band will perform an array of bossa nova, pop, and jazz-inspired tunes written by Rubita.
From rock to blues to Americana, country and soul, Lecia Louise embraces her musical diversity with accomplished virtuosity, not only as a guitarist but also as a singer/song writer. Lecia will be playing a solo set at The Drunken Poet as part of ‘Whiskey, wine and women’. 9-10pm.
Lecia’s musical journey has taken her on tours to Hong Kong, The USA, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Italy, The Netherlands, The UK, New Zealand, Singapore and across the length and breadth of her home country, Australia. Lecia has shared the bill with some of Australia's greatest acts such as The Black Sorrows, Thirsty Merc, Jon Stevens, Daryl Braithwaite, Grinspoon, The Baby Animals, James Morrison, Phil Emmanuel and many more. With a large discography of releases spanning the last 20 years, Lecia has twice been a number one Triple J online chart topper and been added to many playlists.
Katankin is the solo moniker of Melbourne singer-songwriter, instrumentalist, and producer Helen Catanchin.Helen’s uniquely warm tone – simultaneously earthy and incredibly pure – and a true bard’s ability to deftly expose the beating heart of every song, along with her poetic and poignant, cuts-to-the-bone songwriting, all put their unmistakable stamp on Katankin’s songs.
This show is proudly supported by the Victorian Government through the Community Support Fund and Creative Victoria delivered by Music Victoria.
Melbourne troubadour John Fox has spent the past two decades crafting a repertoire of poignant, sharply observed songs about life’s agonies and absurdities. With echoes of Shane McGowan’s ragged heartache and John Prine’s storytelling wit, Fox delivers classic songwriting with a trad folk twist and a lyrical sensibility that is uniquely his own. A songwriter’s songwriter and a true local gem
Start your weekend off right, every Friday night we have Trad Irish Music at The Poet!
Van Walker & Nick O'Mara at The Poet - special event!
This show is proudly supported by the Victorian Government through the Community Support Fund and Creative Victoria delivered by Music Victoria.
This show features just Paul 'A Bad Penguin'
The Bad Penguins are a two piece band from Ireland who have recently relocated in Melbourne. The Bad Penguins have been playing in an array of venues across Europe, America and throughout Ireland for the past 5 years. We originally met while doing independent residencies in separate bars in Benidorm Spain and struck up a friendship from which The Bad Penguins was born.
Paul is the singer and guitar player of the band and has played in both cover and original bands over the years. He co-wrote and produced his first Album in 2000. Paul has played in festivals and bars across Europe before meeting Ciaran. Since the formation of The Bad Penguins. In 2004 they have toured together as a band and also maintained independent projects.
Playing a wide variety of music from Irish Standards to modern pop.
Waz E James returns to the Poet!
Join us on Saturday eve for Waz E James, often referred to as ‘Australia’s best kept secret’. Joined by Andrew Pendlebury this week.
The Steamboat Whistlers are a Melbourne based acoustic band dedicated to early jazz and blues that emanated from New Orleans before travelling up the Mississippi and all around the globe. The band's repertoire draws on a wide range of musical influences which include traditional jazz, depression era blues, ragtime and spirituals.
The Steamboat Whistlers have gained a loyal following through their energetic dedication to reliving these tunes of old, their unique vintage sound can be heard at many venues and festivals in Melbourne and Regional Victoria.
The Steamboat Whistlers are guaranteed to get you tapping your toes!
Craic’n is a dynamic Celtic folk duo hailing from Melbourne, bringing the heart and soul of traditional Irish and Scottish music to the people.
Featuring the exceptional talents of Dannie McKenzie on guitar and Alex Taylor on fiddle, they weave together the rich, time-honoured sounds of lively reels, jigs, and ballads with a passion that transports audiences straight to the heart of a bustling pub session.
With years of experience spanning multiple genres, Dannie and Alex bring their own unique flair and energy to the traditional repertoire, infusing each performance with spontaneity, warmth, and the raw joy of live folk music.
Whether it’s the foot-stomping drive of a fiery reel, the haunting beauty of a mournful lament, or the raucous camaraderie of a drinking song, Craic’n captures the magic of Celtic music in its purest form—alive, untamed, and brimming with storytelling.
Craic’n delivers the kind of music that makes you want to dance, sing, and raise a glass to the old ways.
Inspired by The Cure’s stunning new album, Chris Keogh and Tom Caley from The Acrobats bring ‘Two Re-imaginary Boys’ to The Drunken Poet. This show will delve into The Cure’s extensive and eclectic songbook in full acoustic mode. From the early post punk, through their dark and haunting moments, to the pristine pop and everything in between, expect to hear classics and deep cuts that cover the duration of The Cure’s full treasure chest.
Peny Bohan is an award winning local Melbourne singer songwriter whose sweet croonings will make you want to stay, buy a drink and let yourself be wrapped up in her melodies.
Honest, gritty and a wee bit seductive, Peny spins tales of her every day life, love, anxiety and her sometimes desire for hirsute men.
Electrifying guitarist/singer/songwriter Kathleen Halloran has well and truly established herself as one of the country’s most exciting rising stars. Educated on stage alongside some of Australia’s biggest names, this triple threat is widely known for her swaggering fretboard flare and irresistible spirit. The launch of her soaring debut single ‘Free with Me’ has seen her sweep through the country with headline shows and appearances on some of our favourite festival stages.
Moosejaw Rifle Club are a folk/country/bluegrass band. With layered four part harmonies and hooks galore, the sweet harmonising and rollicking rhythms have seized the attention of every band room and festival they have played.
Moosejaw Rifle Club have firmly set their reputation for fun loving, good time music. Seamlessly moving between country ballads and rollicking anthems. Their sound starts at country, but stops all stations including blues, bluegrass, folk, gospel and rock.
Register from 5pm, performances from 7pm!
The Drunken Poet is closed on Good Friday, 18 April.
Pat is a favourite at The Poet and brings his legendary tunes to our Saturday afternoon. 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.
Born and raised in the historic gold boom center of Ballarat in Western Victoria, Australian Cosmic Country Queen Freya Josephine Hollick has mined a rich alluvial songwriting vein across 3 full-length albums including The Unceremonious Junking Of Me (2015), 2018’s Feral Fusion and most recently 2022’s The Real World.
This show is proudly supported by the Victorian Government through the Community Support Fund and Creative Victoria delivered by Music Victoria.
Ezra Lee's Hot Jazz play a bunch of boogies and stomps like it's the 1920s!
Ingrid Saker plays the songs of Hendrix
Grace King has an eclectic love of music, homemade and raw songwriting.
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.
Every Friday Night at The Poet!
A master of melodies! Experience the powerful and soulful sounds of Glenn Skuthorpe live at The Drunken Poet on July 5th. Glenn Skuthorpe, a celebrated Australian First Nations musician, brings his unique blend of rock, folk, and country to the stage, captivating audiences with his poignant storytelling and rich melodies.
His remarkable 6 albums have earned him recognition within the music industry, while his enthralling live performances continue to engage audiences worldwide. Glenn is an impressive composer of soundtracks for movies and documentaries such as The Emu Runner and John Pilger's Utopia, so you simply must experience him live!
Marty Kelly returns to The Poet on Saturday afternoon, all welcome!
The Lonesome Wranglers bring their infectious blend of vintage country and rockabilly to the Drunken Poet. Expect originals, obscure covers and re-imaginings of some unexpected favourites. Come git some grit!
Kelly Auty is renowned for her powerhouse performances and her show-girl versatility. She is a favourite on the Australian music scene.
In 2022 Kelly teamed with award winning producer and bass player and Blues Music Victoria Hall of Fame Inductee, Barry Hills, who had been working with several session players for various studio projects before and during the pandemic. In 2023 the new lineup includes two award winning musicians, Brian Fraser - lap steel, electric and acoustic guitars, vocals: Roland Kretschmer - Electric and acoustic guitars, mandolin, banjo, dobro, ukulele, vocals. And finally Kelly’s longtime drummer and vocalist, Nick Carrafa, joined the band completing the brand-new look and sound and a new name, PepperCreek Revival.
Kelly has always enjoyed Duo performance, and has recently joined with her Guitarist, Brian Fraser performing reworked versions of Kelly’s previous songs, some brand new originals & covers. The result is breathtaking.
After a long hiatus, Irish singer/songwriter Roesy returns to the stage with songs from his catalogue of 8 albums and a fresh collection of originals. Blending rich, introspective songwriting with the songs that have shaped his journey, this gig marks the start of a new chapter. Roesy will be airing some of his new work for the first time. Known for his soulful and intimate performances, Roesy’s return is one not to miss. He'll be joined by Robbie Melville on guitar.
Yolanda Ingley plays the songs of John Lennon
On acoustic guitar with warm & captivating vocals, Topaz Lyon writes music to intrigue your mind and entice your soul. Having grown up in the mountains behind Mullumbimby, the singer-songwriter is sharing new work from a very creative past 6 months.
With the story-telling style of Joni Mitchell, the alt-country notes of Gillian Welch and a hint of the strength and edge of PJ Harvey, she'll take you on a journey from the everyday to the ethereal.
Earth-wandering, guitar-slingin' whiskey drinker from Campbells Creek, VIC.
Sign up at the bar from 5pm, first in best dressed. Performances from 7pm - bring ya friends!
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.
Daniel Watkins and Justin Vilchez return fresh from their road trip to Tamworth to play the Poet from 8:30.
They will be joined by Jim Taylor on double bass
Kier Stevens and T.K Reeves come to The Poet for this special duo show!
Don't miss this!
The Burning Bridges are an old-school family string band with a repertoire that reaches back to the bedrock of American country music, including old-time Appalachian fiddle tunes, country/folk harmony duets (The Carter Family, The Louvin Brothers, Ralph Stanley, The Delmore Brothers), bluegrass, alt-country, and an expanding catalogue of classic-sounding original songs and tunes written by Fran,Tom and Peter.
The band appears regularly at national folk and bluegrass festivals and at venues of distinction across Victoria and beyond, and have released three albums to date, the most recent, Whipporwill, in August 2023.
Members include Peter Somerville (banjo/ guitar/ vocals), Fran Martin (guitar/ vocals), and rising fiddle maestro Tom Somerville (fiddle/ guitar), joined by special guest Maxine Sutcliffe on bull fiddle.
R.R. Grenville and Retrobates play the songs of T-Bone Walker
Mandy Connell & Girl Friday - Special duo show just for The Poet!
This show is proudly supported by the Victorian Government through the Community Support Fund and Creative Victoria delivered by Music Victoria.
Rory Newman is a singer, songwriter and guitarist based in Naarm/Melbourne. Drawing from a wide array of influences including folk, blues and jazz, he blends intricate fingerstyle guitar and a rich baritone voice to create a vivid tapestry of sound.
Craig Woodward is one of Melbourne’s premier old-time musicians, he has been playing fiddle, guitar, banjo and mandolin for over twenty years.
A Poet favourite!
Every Friday, our traditional Irish music session will get you going just right for your Friday night!
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 Danny Walsh Banned have been playing fever-pitched shows and jumping on tables for over a dozen years, serving up country-soul and rock’n’roll flavours infused with a touch of 70s Aussie boogie that will probably have you dancing on the tables, too.
“Walsh’s lyrics depict each landscape and emotional swirl with the caress of a bona fide bush poet...looking back and yearning ahead”' - Forte Mag
The Hornets Trio continue to celebrate their recent signing with Laneway Music and the release and launch of a brand new single ‘Just Another Rider’ at the Drunken Poet . 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!
Every Friday night, welcoming you into the weekend with the warmth of real Irish music!
