Indie Initiative farewells Melbourne

For the last eight years, Indie Initiative has given over 1200 young, emerging bands a place to play. Now, the Greyhound Hotel has changed ownership and Indie Initiative chief Neil Wedd has decided to give the live program an indefinite rest.



The Indie Initiative was started by Steve Legge and Christopher Schembri (Fluoro) at the Greyhound. They were playing in a band called Playground and used the night to get some good supports along for their residency.



Neil then worked with them and took over the program, expanding it to The Espy. The Indie Initiative was run as a way to help young bands get attention, reviews and a chance to play on good stages. It was also seen a way to help educate musicians in the ways of the business.



There have been many success stories grown from Indie Initiative – Evermore, The Vasco Era, The Exploders, Full Scale, The Drones and Die Die Die to name a few. But many bands also got a good grounding from the education provided and the advice has stood the test of time.



On Friday March 16 – four bands who played the Indie Initiative to get their start in the music biz – say thanks by being part of The Farewell Show. Be sure to get down to Indie Initiative’s farewell at the Greyhound Hotel and support British India, Young Lovers, nevereleven and Skybombers. Doors 8pm; $10 on the door.