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Ding Dong Lounge

Editorial Review

Editorial Review

Not many bars can claim to having a sister venue in good ol' New York, New York. And that's where we're lucky - Melbourne's very own Ding Dong Lounge is your only destination for underground (ironic as it's actually on the first floor) and alternative indie, metal and punk music. Modelled as a no-fuss venue (the decor is either painted black - no stains! - or mirrors), Ding Dong is a simple black box with a stage and a kick-arse sound system. Oh, and let's not forget the beer!

Many of Australia and the world's best live acts have made it onto the stage here, filling the eardrums of all and sundry with wicked guitar licks, pounding kick drums and screaming vocals. But c'mon, who needs eardrums anyway? All you really need is long hair, a few piercings or tatts, an appropriate disdain for authority and some loose change for beer. Once you've settled into a booth for the night, your ascension to the alter of rock is complete.

The crowd that frequent Ding Dong are that rare breed of rock loyalists, hell bent on rocking till they can't rock no more. This usually involves copious amounts of beer, groupies, pool (except there aren't any pool tables here - that would take up drinking space) and loud, loud music. One can only really look on in awe at these souls dedicated to living the dream. Shine on you crazy diamonds.
Mark Gambino, May 2008