Around Victoria

Returning for a third year after stellar seasons in 2022 and 2023, Always Live has ripped the lid of its 2024 line-up, revealing both international heavyweights and some of our finest homegrown talents. The statewide slate of events will include large-scale shows, one-off gigs and intimate sets that traverse genres. Happening from November 22 through to December 8, Always Live is absolutely huge, featuring 289 artists across more than 65 events, including 208 artists from the state of Victoria.  The festival, which is supported by the Victorian government, is a statewide celebration taking place all across Victoria. In fact, 35 per cent of this year’s program is happening in regional Victoria, from Ballarat and Bendigo to Gippsland and Geelong. Alongside the big venues, grassroots and local venues are centre stage for Always Live. A special party called Tramp, produced in conjunction with Summer Camp, will feature Rico Nasty, Big Wet and Absolute and more.  Fans of the White Stripes rejoice, because Jack White will play an intimate gig at the Corner Hotel, as well as popping up at Ballarat Town Hall. Elsewhere, we'll also be treated to performances from the one and only Tina Arena, alternative powerhouse St Vincent and a special set from Chet Faker, live at the Royal Botanic Gardens. Also at the gardens, Tash Sultana will play a rare Aussie set.  Those looking for something heavier can rock it out with Californian punk-rock legends The Offspring, or enjoy some nostalgia wit

If someone told you they saw Jack White play live at the Corner Hotel, you’d probably think they were talking about the White Stripes show circa 2002. A moment in time before Jack and Meg White exploded onto the mainstream and cemented themselves as the indie darlings of the 2000s.  However, we’re not talking about 2002. We’re talking about the year 2024.  More than 20 years and six Grammys later, Jack White is coming back to where it all started as part of Always Live At – a celebration of Victorian live music venues. What makes this reuniting of icons even more special, is the lore behind it. The story goes that the riff for ‘Seven Nation Army’ came to White during a soundcheck at that very Corner gig in '02. Check out our quiz below on what you should see   The Corner is just one of hundreds of Melbourne venues that have hosted some of the world’s most revered artists just before hitting the big time – or sometimes even in their prime (read: Mick Jagger’s secret Corner gig in 1988).  My aunty often reminisces about the time she saw Mudhoney at the Tote in 1991, and in more recent history, the Northcote Social Club is where Courtney Barnett famously got her start working behind the bar.  Always Live At presented by Always Live is a celebration of this harmony of artist and venue, both of which cannot exist without the other. The series will look to celebrate these venues and the DIY legacy of Victoria's live music scene. Always Live At will champion venues t