A new era of live music in Frankston begins with a roar next month as the 21st Century Nightclub is relaunched as the Pier Bandroom.
Davey St will play host to an epic seven-hour mini-festival from 2pm on Saturday, March 18, with Birds Of Tokyo headlining a bill that includes Pierce Brothers, Ecca Vandal, Ali Barter and The Gooch Palms, with beats provided by Red Bull DJs. Once the sun goes down the action will move inside to the Pier Bandroom itself for the official launch, featuring Cog (pictured) with supports to be announced. Tickets are $40 for either event or $60 for both and are available from Oztix or www.pierbandroom.com.au
On Saturday, April 1, The Living End bring their Staring Down the Highway tour to the Bandroom. With these massive shows, and a slate of live gigs soon to be announced, Pier Bandroom is set to become a beacon for music-lovers in Melbourne’s outer suburbs.
For the biggest bands of the 1970s and ‘80s, a show at the legendary 21st Century Nightclub was an essential inclusion on the tour itinerary. Acts from Sherbet and Skyhooks to Cold Chisel and Midnight Oil paid homage to the suburban masses in this infamous shrine to excess, housing what was claimed to be the largest revolving dancefloor in the Southern Hemisphere.
In the times since, the venue - trading as the Pier Hotel - has continued to serve up a sonic smorgasbord, hosting everything from cover bands through to techno DJs and dance parties. Its central location is one of the keys to its endearing and indeed enduring qualities.