St Kilda's vibrant and eclectic music scene of the 1980s and early 1990s is a fascinating, yet often overlooked, chapter in the suburb's history. Two recently uncovered documentaries, St Kilda Rocks, offer a unique and captivating glimpse into this era, focusing on the people who made it so memorable - the audiences. These films, Punkline and Last Drinks, are a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of preserving the past, even if it's a little sticky.
Personally, I think it's incredible that these documentaries have only now come to light. They capture a time when St Kilda was a true melting pot of cultures and subcultures, a place where the boundaries between art, music, and community were blurred. What makes this particularly fascinating is the way these films showcase the diversity of the crowd, from the fashion-forward and rebellious to the elderly and marginalized. It's a time capsule of sorts, frozen in time, and yet, it feels so relevant today.
In my opinion, the Crystal Ballroom and the Prince of Wales Hotel were more than just venues; they were catalysts for community building and cultural exchange. The films highlight the sense of belonging and acceptance that was felt by many, and this is what makes them so powerful. It's a reminder that, despite the changes in St Kilda over the years, the essence of what made it so special remains.
One thing that immediately stands out is the role of the audience in shaping the music scene. The filmmakers, Tony Stevens and Sue Davis, realized that the people in the crowd were just as interesting as the bands themselves. This perspective is crucial, as it highlights the importance of the fan base in the music industry. What many people don't realize is that the energy and passion of the audience can be just as captivating as the performance itself.
If you take a step back and think about it, the films also offer a critique of the music industry's tendency to overlook the fans. The audience in these documentaries is not just a passive observer; they are an active participant in the creation of the scene. This raises a deeper question: how can we better appreciate and involve the audience in the music world today?
A detail that I find especially interesting is the way the films capture the fashion and attitude of the time. The post-punk and New Wave era is often romanticized, but these films provide a more nuanced view. They show that, while the fashion and music were influential, it was the people and their experiences that truly defined the scene.
What these films really suggest is that the music scene in St Kilda was not just about the music; it was about the people and the community. It was a place where creativity and self-expression flourished, and where the boundaries between different groups were blurred. This is a powerful message, and one that resonates with the modern music scene.
In conclusion, St Kilda Rocks is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of music and community. It offers a unique and captivating perspective on a time when St Kilda was a true cultural hub. The films are a reminder that the past is not just a collection of artifacts; it's a living, breathing entity that can teach us valuable lessons about the present and the future. So, if you have the chance to catch these documentaries, do so. You won't regret it.
