St Kilda might be home to iconic giants like the Palais Theatre and The Espy, but its true heartbeat lies in the smaller venues and hidden bandrooms that nurture Melbourne’s live music scene. These spaces give emerging artists a chance to shine and locals a place to connect with real, grassroots sound. If you’re looking to experience live music the way it’s meant to be — raw, intimate and community-driven — here’s your guide.

This week we feature The Prince Hotel:
For decades, The Prince Bandroom has been the proving ground for touring acts and Melbourne’s own indie heroes. While bigger acts have passed through its doors, the room’s strength is its mid-sized intimacy — big enough for a lively crowd, but small enough to still feel connected to the band on stage.