Drawing from the melting pot of blues, roots, folk, and rock, Joshua Batten is a genuine performer with a rare ability to truly connect with his audience. Combining passionate vocals, accomplished guitar playing, layered arrangements, and inspirational lyrics, Joshua displays a depth well beyond his years. His original songs, shaped by personal experiences with neurodiversity, offer authentic reflections of introspective moments, humbly presented as universal experiences. Over the course of his career, Joshua has released three studio albums and become a favourite at festivals across Australia.

After four years of exclusively playing solo gigs, Joshua Batten has now teamed up with rock & roll collective The Lablighters, to bring his back catalogue of songs to audiences the way he originally envisioned and recorded them. Bassist Zhang Ling, Keyboardist Clinton Cox and Drummer Jeremy Li each have over 30 years of musical experience, and bring new energy to Joshua’s finely crafted and inspirational songs, along with a selection of blues & rock classics that have stood the test of time. 

free entry

Hazy Skies is a four-piece indie rock band featuring Tom, Amelie, Jordi, and Brandon. With a sound that blends the heartfelt nostalgia of artists like Beabadoobee and Alvvays with the infectious energy of The Frights and The Melowells, Hazy Skies crafts music that feels both timeless and fresh. Their lyrics and vocals teeter on the edge of heartbreak, carried by bittersweet, bouncing beats that will have you swaying one moment and dancing the next.

SET TIMES

9-9:45pm Big Breakfast

10-10:45pm Titration

11pm-12am Hazy Skies

free entry, 18+ event

After a mini-hiatus, local band ÖZERGUN are returning to the Naarm/Melbourne scene at The Penny Black on Saturday April 5th to launch their long-awaited single Come Over! 

Anyone who’s seen this six-piece outfit play over the last couple of years is sure to remember hearing this crowd favourite. What begins with a warm and welcoming outstretched hand slowly becomes a deeply honest and endearing plea from one lover to another. An epic trip ensues with brooding tenor sax and lead guitar solos. By the end, anyone listening can’t help but emotionally relate and reflect on the profoundly human experiences that lovers share. 

If you’ve never seen ÖZERGUN live, you can expect a unique blend of jazz, rock, folk, and world music flavours plus heaps of improv, jam sections, and meandering musical journeys. It’s going to be an awesome night with raucous special guests Please People!

Don’t miss out, grab your tickets here

Join us for Whiskers and Wishes, a fabulous drag show fundraiser at The Penny Black in support of Rocky Roads Rescue! Enjoy stunning performances, some cocktails, food and help raise funds to rescue and rehome cats in need. All proceeds benefit the lifesaving work of Rocky Roads. Don’t miss the purrfect night of glam, glitter, and giving back!

Doors: 8pm
Shows: 8:30pm, 10pm (Show start times subject to change)

Host: Marilyn Costello

Cast:
Belial Bzarr
Darmanatrix
Mr. Misty-Eyed
Ovary Action
Roxy Rawhide
Linh Uendo
Abeloth Addams

Rocky Roads
Rocky Roads is a cat rescue group made up of foster carers who take in cats who have nowhere to go and help alleviate the struggles of already-packed animal shelters.
“At Rocky Roads Rescue, our mission is to rescue animals from the streets, shelters, and pounds, and place them into safe, loving foster homes that support a smooth transition into their forever adoptive homes. We are dedicated to providing these vulnerable animals with the care, rehabilitation, and support they need to thrive.”
- Rocky Roads Rescue

Tickets on sale here

Quincoction is a Jazz Fusion / Latin band born and bred in Melbourne, Australia. Captivating with high energy, yet soulful, tight harmonies. Each set, a unique high powered performance with well-planned grooves, spontaneous break-downs and original music. Quincoction will make you stamp your feet and groove to the beat. 

with support of Studio Faraday Family and Northfolk Island Pines

"Did you guys write that last song? It sounded great!" - audience member
Drop Keys are launching their new EP "Alliance" at the Penny Black on Friday 28th March! Following on from 2023's Marinade EP, Alliance displays Drop Keys' bright horns, ethereal vocal tones and a solid rhythm section, delivering original compositions which boast the band's unique blend of funk, rock and soul. 
Also on stage that night will be indie athletic rock/funk outfit Tracksuit Larry and indie-alternative group Sweet Temper. 
Get it in your diaries!

Here it is, a celebration to launch our brand new EP ‘Good Bad News’!

We’re making this one a real party with our great mates The Kittyhawks and Lovely Lonely Landfill with super special guest comedian Anna Perry bringing the laughs to kick the night off and run the show.

If that’s not enough we’re gonna have PRIZES and GIVEAWAYS  and how much would you expect to pay for all this FUN?

That’s the best bit, it’s FREE!

We’ve been working super hard on this EP for the better part of a year and we can’t wait to share it with you.

Merkani is a Melbourne-based indie rock band making waves in the local music scene. Formed by a group of passionate musicians united by their love for raw, authentic sound, Merkani blends heartfelt lyrics with dynamic melodies that captivate audiences. Following the success of their sold out debut gig at Bar open, the band is thrilled to perform their second show at the iconic Penny Black, a venue that champions emerging talent. 

supported by Flyn Teal and The Slinkys

Autumn is here but Big Band Frequency is bringing the summer vibes!

This 19-piece big band will be bringing you hot funk, sultry soul, sizzling swing, and electric Latin grooves, featuring classics and modern hits that will make you want to tear up the dance floor.
Come to hear horns galore, a rockin' rhythm section, and the amazing voice of Julia G play some of your favourites from the likes of Ella Fitzgerald, Count Basie, and Aretha Franklin all the way to Blood, Sweat & Tears, Amy Winehouse, Snarky Puppy, and Tori Kelly plus more, with an original or two to boot!

Supporting us this night is funk sensation Late In The Evening!
Showcasing Melbourne's finest musicians, Late In The Evening electrifies audiences with their super-tight, non-stop dance grooves! Featuring powerhouse vocalists Julia G and the incomparable funk/soul singer Jordan Klein, L.I.T.E. promises an unforgettable experience as they bring to life awe-inspiring hits from legends like Phil Collins, Earth, Wind & Fire, Stevie Wonder, Bruno Mars, and so many more...

This show is free entry, so bring your friends, grab some refreshments from the bar, and tune into Big Band Frequency for a night of hot live music and great atmosphere that you won't want to miss

There are heaps of reasons to party, and we’re bringing the cumbia energy to make it a night to remember!

International Women's Day – A day to honour, remember, and celebrate the strength, resilience, and contributions of women throughout history

Brunswick Festival – The whole area will be buzzing, so get in early!

Josh birthday! Bring your best dance moves (and maybe a cheeky gift )

Live cumbia vibes from Sorbo Amplio & special guests and friends Lavandita !

Piscola for $10 – because nothing says celebration like pisco & coke!

FREE ENTRY – No excuses, just vibes!

From 8PM – Get in early, it’s gonna be packed

EVERYBODY ROCKS! a showcase of disabled musicians, allies & friends. This mixed genre event boasts a lineup of acts with members who identify under the broad banner of disability, neurodiversity, mental & chronic illness. Featuring 'Trauma Doof' from Our Carlson, political hiphop set from Combat Wombat & Racerage, Screensaver, Skink Tank, Hot Tubs Time Machine & Inkrewsive MC's. Everybody Rocks is a non-profit, created by Chloe Morgan and Rhys Renwick. We advocate for disabled musicians and a more accessible and inclusive arts sector. This showcase will be AUSLAN INTERPRETED.

THIS EVENT IS FREE FOR ANY FIRST NATIONS, DISABLED, d/Deaf/HoH, NEURODIVERGENT AND/OR CHRONICALLY ILL community members. Please register for your free ticket. 
$10 TICKETS FOR EVERYONE ELSE

ft. OUR CARLSON
COMBAT WOMBAT & RACERAGE
SCREENSAVER
SKINK TANK
HOT TUBS TIME MACHINE
& INKREWSIVE MC'S

more information and tickets can be found here

Merkani is a Melbourne-based indie rock band making waves in the local music scene. Formed by a group of passionate musicians united by their love for raw, authentic sound, Merkani blends heartfelt lyrics with dynamic melodies that captivate audiences. Following the success of their sold-out debut gig at Bar Open, the band is thrilled to perform their second show at the iconic Penny Black, a venue that champions emerging talent. 

with The Slinky’s and Sand

free entry

Get ready for a night of pure, unfiltered hip-hop as Mental Az launches his latest album, Race Against Time! This is more than just a show; it’s a celebration of raw talent, passion, and the Australian hip-hop scene.

With an electrifying lineup of artists, this event promises live performances that will leave an unforgettable mark:

• Mental Az (Headlining – performing tracks from the new album Race Against Time)

• Shadow

• D.O.A

• Ciecmate & Villiani

• The Marauders

• Creation

Join us for an incredible night filled with authentic beats, lyrical mastery, and an unmatched atmosphere. Get your tickets here

SICK VISOR ‘Piece of Cake’ Single Launch w/ Baby Shower + Leo

Melbourne indie-punk duo Sick Visor are coming to party at The Penny Black for a free entry show on February 22nd to celebrate the release of their new single ‘Piece of Cake,’ an honest bite of sweet and energetic punk about effortless love and growing through your mistakes. Joined by talented and amazing friends in Baby Shower and Leo this is one night not to miss!

Making an immediate impact with infectious & vibrant indie-punk, Alex (Vox/ Guitar) & Katie (Drums/Vox) have seen stages across the country since starting a “dumb band so we can play shows with our friends.” Since releasing their debut EP in Nov 2022, Sick Visor have supported Bec Stevens on her Aus album tour, shared stages with Beddy Rays, The Terrys & Sly Withers, and released a pop-punk collab Feeling Alright Forever (feat. TOWNS), the 5th most play-listed song in Aus release week.

SICK VISOR - ‘Piece of Cake’ single launch

w/ Baby Shower + Leo 

Free Entry 

The Jude Quintet are a groove fusion ensemble, lacing jazz understandings into anything they get their funky hands on. 

Combining a bit of fat bass, a sprinkling of soaring horns, and one pound of groove, their cooking is sure to get you looking…And undeniably dancing. 

supported by Stoned Ape Theory

Celebrating a decade and a half in the game, Twisted returns to its roots with a huge day party at the Penny Black featuring K+LAB and ED SOLO.

Accompanied by some of Naarm’s best local selectors across the bass spectrum, this is a huge celebration of community that's not to be missed!

tickets on sale here

Welcome to Burlesque!! The fabulous show that pays homage to the incredible film that is Burlesque featuring Cher and Christina Aguilera, Film & Feathers! Starring HollyPop as your iconic drag Cher and Tiana Zaljevic as your powerhouse Christina Aguilera, Film & Feathers features all your favourite songs and themes from the film.

With live singing, dancing and a touch of audience participation, this show is bound to get you wanting more. After two sold out shows across Geelong and Ballarat, it has finally made it to Melbourne for a one night only, Valentine’s Day show. Get the girls together for a Galentine’s Day evening filled with champagne and sparkles, or make it a date night with that special someone in your life.

With all the things you love from the movie, plus a few extra bits, Burlesque Tribute: Film & Feathers is not one to miss! Grab your tickets now and get ready to E.X.P.R.E.S.S. yourself 💖

get your tickets here

Summer vibes, beer on tap, three knock-out bands - what's not to love?

Join us for a night of soul, funk and indie rock at The Penny Black, Brunswick.

Ozone Street

Bass Coast born and bred, Ozone Street, are well known for their unforgettable surf-inspired melodies on a vintage base of funk, rock and swampy blues. Ozone Street recently joined the line-up at Apocalypse Fest 2024 and the Echuca Winter Blues Fest 2024. You will want to catch this wave!

Constellation Prize

Constellation Prize are a band of self-described ‘cheeky young fellas’, from the red desert of the Mallee in far North-West Victoria. Offering energy, swagger and raw talent, Constellation Prize are a hot new indie rock band attracting a lot of attention around the traps. They received a standing ovation at the Matsumura Blues Festival 2024, so be sure to see these guys while you can still afford to buy their tickets!

Shelly’s Motor Club

A massive six-piece power house soul, funk and rock band, complete with brass wielding bandits, Shelly’s Motor Club will round off the night. Delivering a killer take on the genres which shaped their unique sound, the Ingram sisters will go nuts on the drums and keys, rounded out by Phil Leggett, one of Melbourne most renowned lead guitarists.

tickets on sale here

Saturday, 8 February 2024

Doors open at 6pm

Ozone Street - 8pm (sharp)

Constellation Prize - 9.30pm

Shelly’s Motor Club - 11pm

Get ready to swing into an unforgettable evening with Big Band Frequency, where the timeless and modern sounds of big band jazz will be brought together in ways that’ll excite you to your core.

Having been festival favourites and champions of Melbourne's big band scene for 17 years, Big Band Frequency is back to bring you some of their trademark energy, rockin' rhythm, and fiery soul. Featuring 19 of the most talented musicians around including the incredible vocals of Julia G, who'll lead you through a fun-filled night of hot, danceable songs and tunes from the likes of Ella Fitzgerald and Count Basie all the way to Tori Kelly, Larry Graham, and Snarky Puppy, with some original numbers to boot!

Joining BBF in support will be the incredible local jazz collective, the Rhea John Quintet!

The Rhea John Quintet is fronted by the upcoming jazz duo Rhea John and Will Jones. Accompanied by a talented rhythm section, this vocal / trombone tag-team brings a fresh, melodic approach to both standards and modern material.

This gig will be free entry, so come along for an electric night of hot, live music and an experience you won’t forget!

ZUVA has honed her musical abilities over the years through mentorship, collaboration, experience and YouTube tutorials. With her debut single Safe To Say, the young artist is stepping out into the world with confidence and staking her claim as an exciting new talent that we’ll definitely be keeping an eye on. 

Sorbo Amplio is a Melbourne-based 10-piece "New Chilean Cumbia" band, that takes you straight to the streets of Latin America. This style of music brings influences of Latin rhythms and mixes elements of Rock, Ska and/or Hip-hop. Passionate songs about love and heartbreak, despair, addiction, and partying too hard. Fun, energetic, free-style dancing music, so everyone can be a part of it. The unique rhythm will take you on a journey to far away places.

supported by DJ Alcalade

🎉
Warm-Up for Brazilian Carnival!

🎉
Get ready for the biggest Carnival warm-up party! On January 18th, join us for a night full of Brazilian tradition and celebration.

🎶
Lots of music! Featuring Dany Maia and DJs playing the best Carnival hits and classics!

🍽️
Traditional Brazilian food to enjoy while you party!

👶
Kids-friendly – bring the whole family!

💥
Free entry – just register!

🔗
Register here to secure your spot: https://events.humanitix.com/warm-up-brazilian-carnaval... Don't miss the chance to experience the energy and joy of Brazil before the Carnival begins!

💃🕺
Sponsored by Accent The Landlord

Malcura are an exhilarating Flamenco-Fusion band from Melbourne, Australia. Honing their craft as buskers in Melbourne's Bourke Street Mall, Malcura have captivated the public with their distinctive sound, which combines the sonic textures of the Spanish guitar with Latin rhythms and a Rock'n'Roll mentality.

Consisting of Josh Voce and Jenna Campbell on Nylon-string Guitars, and backed by the powerhouse rhythm section of Simon Wood on Drums and Percussion and Colin Andrews on Bass, Malcura creates music for the soul; it's a feeling as much as it is a sound.

Renowned for their head-turning musicianship, audience participation and keeping dancefloors moving at festivals across Australia, Malcura are a workhorse of a live band. Whether they're on-stage at a festival, starting dancefloors at the pub, tucked in-between two trailers at a market or serenading guests at a wedding, Malcura have a tenacious stage presence and continue to delight audiences (or so they tell us).

supported by Rob Patton & Beth Jones

The Cornelia Street Band are BACK, presenting their Sounds of Swift all-ages Taylor show.

Celebrate the global superstar's legacy with a unique and electrifying musical experience. This 5-piece rock band brings Taylor’s timeless hits, chart-topping classics, and hidden gems to life with unparalleled passion and energy. Together, they recreate Taylor Swift’s iconic sound while adding their dynamic, contemporary flair.

All ages show
Under 18's must bring parent/guardian

Get your tickets here

2:30pm - Doors open
3:00 - 4:00pm Set 1
4:15 - 5:15pm Set 2

Pub food and drinks available all day and night

Albert Park is BACK, fresh off their sold-out headline gig in December '24. Bringing a fresh pop-rock style mixed with grungy tones, they're here to move and excite. With crowd-pleasing hooks, energy in spades and a lineup of established Melbourne talent in Phoenix Street, there is no better show on a Saturday night.

supported by Pheonix Street

My only Venue show in Melbourne until October!!

It will be on Jan 10th at The Penny Black as part of the epic www.pandatv.au/project-panda
Where Panda and I will be travelling to different towns in Victoria in The Project Panda Van and handing out backpacks and having chats to the homeless community to try and begin making a tiny impact and create some awareness to this community and find bigger and better ways to help make an actual difference

The Seben Brothers are an energetic dance band that exclusively plays African music, and particularly a dance style called Soukous which comes from the DRC in Central Africa.

The band have been performing locally since 2016 and the members are veteran musicians including local and African artists.

The band plays plays dance music driven by a passion for performance. Soukous is the main style and it developed of the last three decades in central Africa. Soukous means "to shake" and that is the main effect of experiencing the music of The Seben Brothers.

A "Sebene" is a term used in Congolese Rumba music to describe the instrumental section of a rumba song where the singing finishes and the band creates an ecstatic instrumental section to energise the audience into dancing.

Wild At Heart presents an end-of-year showcase to bring you some of Melbourne’s most underrated bands!!

Wild At Heart is a community of songwriters and artists who navigate visible and invisible disabilities, mental health challenges, and neurodiversity. In this showstopper of a lineup, they deliver a small selection of the incredible and unique music that artists have written. 
Featuring such artists as: 

Gwot Lik: A powerhouse act combining doom metal and heavy rock to deliver vocal melodies and guitar riffs so sharp they could slice butter, but so hot they would melt it.

Clean Beast: This project lead by Ashley Kiesskalt, delivers darkly danceable tracks for fans of Nick Cave and New Order, but don’t put them in a box, they draw from a wide range of inspiration, including jazz, funk, classical and shoe-gaze for their sub-pumping, post-punking live performances

Damage: Fresh off the release of his album Commission Flat, Frank Linehan’s Damage is one of the realest punk-rock bands out right now. Delving into Frank's experience with public housing, violence, drug abuse and mental illness Frank finds glimmers of hope in his music singing about, love, psycho bikers, and the transformative power of good old-fashioned rock & roll. 

Edward Roussac (with special guests): Edward has been compared to Brian Wilson, Syd Barrett or Daniel Johnston, and not for nothing. Edward Roussac is one of Melbourne’s most illusive yet prolific songwriters, having penned more than 80 songs this year alone, he has decided to bring the best of them to The Penny Black stage with a band stacked with Melbourne music icons from bands such as Obscure Hail, Rhysics and even TISM (shhh) 

plus Hot Tubs Time Machine as MCs for the evening!

Free entry for this special end-of-year event!

Mel Francis & The Soulty Rims are a 7-piece outfit that blends raw soul, juicy jazz, and rich worldly sounds.

Birthed out of Melbourne/Naarm in 2023, Mel Francis & her gorgeously Soulty friends explore themes that revolve around vulnerable personal experiences, personal growth and introspection. All are invited to embark on a soul-moving journey of self-discovery and reflection. Prepare to be transported around the world sonically while simultaneously meditating over this wild human experience.

Joining them is Stella Who.

Stella Who is an enigmatic songstress with a style that echoes the decades before her.

The lands of Buckley, Turner, Del Rey and Radiohead are Stella Who’s playground as she welds together alternative rock sounds with the tenderness of singer-songwriter sensibilities.