I get home from my new favourite festival (more news on that later), the bombers lost and I have spent the last two nights at my favourite punk venue which is closing forever on Sunday.
The Arthouse is in its final week of shows before shutting its doors for the last time on May 1. All week bands have graced the small stage and thanked those who have made it possible for a scene to survive and thrive for the last 20 years. People have reminisced about the good times, the times when a homeless man got his junk out, the long nights and longer days after, the relationships that began there (a patient met his current girlfriend there 12 years ago, through mutual metal bands... ah love!) and the small bands that became legends in that pretty purple place.
Wednesday night saw The Nation Blue headline a fantastically frantic evening, sold out and not a dull moment to be found. Paper Arms, my favourite Adelaideians, opened the night with a solid performance. I stand by their 2010 album 'Days Above Ground' as one of the top local releases of last year and they consistently deliver live. They are currently writing and are due to record late this year, so look out for something new early 2012 perhaps. Sydneysiders Lungs came second, (also another fanstastic record from last year) but the greatest reception had to be for local boys Death in the Family, the band who pretty much lives, works and plays at the Arty. It was about then that the reality that this dirty place would no longer be here next week. There was a lot of love in every loud, fast tune pumped out by hometown heroes.
Thursday saw a blast from the past find their way home, BODYJAR! I personally had forgotten how much fun these guys are, and they certainly had an appreciation for a venue that raised them to the heights that they hit. Ably supported by Away from Now, Melbourne hardcore punks, and Daysworth Fighting, local up and comers, the night was a success, the crowd went wild. I did feel bad for the first few stage divers, as they caught the front line unawares and ate dirt... but they didn't seem to feel it, and it didn't stop a thing.
So that's 2 of 3. I am back in those friendly walls this Saturday to see HBLOCK101 who are playing the final set ever. There will be blood, sweat and tears.. and I will feel privileged to be there. If you aren't doing anything Sunday afternoon, come down for last drinks. A few beers to send off the greatest punk/hardcore/alternative venue that Melbourne has seen.
Punks not dead, but the Arty will be. Rest in pieces.
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