Chasers nightclub brings live music back under Three Eight Six brand

One of Melbourne’s long-time nightclubs, Chasers, will open its doors to live music again, under the live brand Three Eight Six.

After an extensive refit, the Chapel Street, South Yarra, nightspot will be hosting international and national live touring acts, stand-up comedy and cabaret.

The official launch is on Friday, July 6 with punk outfit Amyl & The Sniffers who, after their Splendour in the Grass festival slot later in the month, will be overseas for the rest of 2018.

“Chasers is a Melbourne institution and we love connecting with people and hearing their stories about the venue,” said venue co-owner Martha Tsamis.

“We have recently upgraded the production including a new stage, lighting and a state-of-the-art sound system and are looking forward to celebrating our 40th anniversary on November 16 this year.

“In the meantime we look forward to welcoming a new generation of music fans to Chasers, Three Eight Six.”

The room is booked by promtoers Warren Amster and Neil Wedd working closely with Tasmis and co-owner Pat Dromi.

In the ‘80s and ‘80s with a 24-hour licence, it was a popular destination for band sets by Sonic Youth, The Church, Hunters & Collectors, You Am I and Regurgitator, and club nights such as Hard ‘n’ Fast on Wednesdays and Delirium on Sundays.

Patrick Donovan, CEO of Music Victoria, said: “Melbourne is well served by a brilliant collection of live music venues – the recently released Melbourne Live Music Census concluded that we have more venues per capita than anywhere in the world.

“But most of these are based in the CBD or north of the river, and music fans south of the river are crying out for more live music opportunities.

“A flexible venue that can cater for 700 standing or 300 seated will be in great demand by promoters, agents and bands.

“Chasers has a proud tradition of supporting contemporary music, and I enjoyed seeing many bands at its weekly rock night Outlaw Hard N Fast.

“Even Mick Jagger turned up one night to check out the talent.

“This venue will fill one of the key missing pieces in the Victorian live music jigsaw puzzle.’’