Before I first went to the Hi-Fi Bar over the weekend I didn't think venues like that even existed in Melbourne. On this particular occasion I'd gone to watch a few local bands battle it out for a spot in the next round of a competition (the next round is going to be held at Billboards).
Getting to the place was at first a little confusing my friends and I all being directionally challenged. The venue is tucked away on Swanston Street and initially just looks like any other shop front, so pay attention to the building numbers. Once we figured out which side of Swanston, we had to walk down we found it easily.
After negotiating the bouncer, you walk down a few flights of stairs that make you feel literally part of the 'underground' scene. Everything is done up in black décor which really just adds to the awesome 'hole in the wall' feel of it. The bar and main performance area have no frills, catering to music aficionados really just there to see the bands. I reluctantly ordered a beer, slightly afraid that the bartender would judge me for my usually girly drink order.
The audience area seems like it's meant primarily for standing in, (no chairs) but there are options to sit on the sides of the dance floor section which I took advantage of in the time I wasn't cheering for the band I was there to support.
The whole atmosphere of the place was really electric and I will definitely practice my adoring fan girl scream there again.
