The best live performances in Sydney this month

The local live music scene is about to get a much needed boost when the NSW Government’s Great Southern Nights initiative kicks into gear. Starting from November 5, it will bring more than 1000 gigs to 300-plus venues around Sydney and 130 towns around the state – and ticket sales have just opened for 900 shows. This means you can catch real life performances from the likes of Oz rock founding father Jimmy Barnes at the Sydney Coliseum in Western Sydney, and indie crooner Matt Corby getting amongst the coastal vibes in Brunswick Heads. The line-up features the likes of Tash Sultana, Amy Shark, Paul Kelly, pop twins the Veronicas, Birds of Tokyo, and the Presets, amongst many more. 

Rumours of its arrival long-preceded New York speakeasy, Employees Only openign their neon-lit doors beneath Barrack Street in the city. If you want to ease yourself back into live performance without fully committing to a show, the late-night haunt will host burlesque dancers working the bar every Friday and Saturday night, so you can make like it's the 1920's and roar. 

This jazzy Marrickville venue came back into action fairly early, with physically distanced gigs running Wednesday to Sundays, often accompanied by a dinner special. There’s an eclectic mix of jazz, blues, soul and heavy rock on offer, including hip takes on Beatles tunes from the Sam McNally Group with Mitch Anderson and Miss Jo Elms, Get Folked Punk, a monthly night for the folk circuit with a punk attitude, and smooth moves from the Groovemeisters. 

This curated Monday night comedy show at the Sneaky Possum is back to kick off your week with a giggle. In the past we’ve been pretty chuffed with the stellar line-ups, names like Nick Capper, Lily Star and Pat Doherty have appeared on the bill (no marsupials that we’re aware of, however). Numbers are strictly capped for the return shows, and your ticket now includes dinner and a beverage for $45. Doors at 5.30pm for a 6.30pm show. Make a booking over here.