In the ’90s, Australian television was buzzing with shows dedicated to the local music scene and music abroad. You had your veritable pick of the litter to choose from – Video Hits, Rage, Recovery, Pepsi Live, and the list goes on.
Things are a little quieter on that front these days, but things could be about to change, you’ll just have to hit the web to find it. It’s called Amateur Hour and it’s the brainchild of “Melbourne’s favourite music nerd”, Laura Imbruglia.
Described as a “new half hour-ish, web-based variety show bringing together a stellar cast of Australian bands, artists, performers, and straight up weirdos”, it’s dedicated to showcasing the best the local music scene has to offer.
It all began in 2014, after Laura complained on Facebook about the lack of quality Australian variety shows, deciding that she would make her own and inviting anyone that wanted to join her. She quickly amassed a crew of 30+ volunteers.
The volunteers were spread across various disciplines and five cities, yet somehow this mix of students, professionals, and amateurs managed to make a hilarious and entertaining variety show on zero budget.
Each episode will feature a selection of interviews, skits, curios, and live music filmed in Melbourne’s most iconic bars and rehearsal spaces. It’s a unique arts and culture program created by artists for fans of artists.
There’s no genre snobbery here, either. A quick scan over the star-studded list of guests reveals the likes of Sarah Blasko, punk rockers Batpiss, cartoonist Lluis Fuzzhound, writer Clementine Ford, artist Celeste Potter, cult comedian Neil Hamburger, and many more.
You’ll also see musicians stepping out of their usual roles to host unique segments. Laura Jean hosts a cooking show and Ray Ahn of Australian punk rock legends the Hard-Ons illustrates his hilarious tour memoirs in real time.
Check out the first episode of Amateur Hour below or head to the official website for more info.
