A handful of punters gathered early to watch local four piece Tehachapi warming the stage. Those who arrived late deprived themselves of a sensory feast as Tehachapi put on an amazing display of aural and visual delights. Front man Costa Stefanou’s awkward banter was offset by his incredibly intense presence as the band worked seamlessly together to create an intoxicating whirl of sound that was all encompassing.

Marnie Stern brings her unique style of tunes to The Northcote Social Club. Michael Christian was amongst the crowd taking photos.

Amid the balloons, smoke machine and sparkling faces of the crowd, the Northcote Social Club played host to dazzling talent on Saturday night. The launch of the debut EP from Melbourne band Northeast Party House has been highly anticipated; particularly for those dedicated followers who thrive on the crazy dance music they create.

As first opener Leon Thomas see-sawed between beige and vitality, he never quite landed anywhere. A man and his guitar, he had the oft-difficult spot as first support, playing to a large room scattered with few punters and seated early birds, so one can always sympathize, but Thomas’ heartfelt, electric verse didn’t do much to sway me.

The Northcote Social Club looks like a place that your grandmother frequented in the 70s when men's top lips were bristling with mustaches and beer could be bought for under a dollar. Textured floral wallpaper, shag carpeting and red velvet curtains greet you walking into the band room. I was half expecting to see a seniors bingo game in progress. Despite the antiquated decor, the beer prices had their origins very much in the present. But what of the bands accompanying The Beards on their 100 Beard Tour of Australia? Beards are pretty 70s, right?

A very beardy night at the Northcote Social Club with The Beards supported by Gay Paris and The Stiffys.

The Ocean Party opened proceedings tonight at the Northcote Social Club with their pleasant, upbeat guitar pop. The Melbourne five piece play music in the vein of The Lucksmiths if they were more influenced by 1980s Paul Kelly, and appeared to be as relaxed and happy as their music sounded. They were perhaps not the most musically suitable act to fit tonight’s bill, but they did their thing and did it well.