It’s almost time to bid farewell to one of Melbourne’s finest, Marthouse Records.
Starting out as a simple sharehouse idea in 2016 (we’ve all been there), Marthouse Records soon evolved into a proper DIY operation, featuring a label, PR, and management wing, between 2017 and 2026.
In that time, Marthouse Records released over 40 records and tapes, 100s of digital releases, and put on almost too many shows and tours — both local and worldwide — to count.
The DIY label was responsible for introducing listeners to some of the best independent Australian bands of the last 10 years: Hideous Sun Demon, Bench Press, Rolling Stone AU/NZ favourites Gut Health, and Dr Sure’s Unusual Practice, the latter featuring label leader Dougal Shaw.
Among many great achievements, Marthouse Records recently released the first album in 18 years by celebrated rock outfit The Vasco Era.
Before the label goes on an indefinite hiatus, there’s time for one big party — of course there is.
Taking place at Brunswick Ballroom this Saturday (July 25th), ‘Odd Ball 3: Marthouse Forever’ will see Dr Sure’s, The Vasco Era, It Thing, Tali & the Arms, and more come out to see off one of Australia’s best DIY labels in style.
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Ahead of Saturday’s event, Shaw took part in our Making Music, Making Ends Meet series, which looks at ANZ indie musicians and industry figures during the cost-of-living crisis.
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Shaw told us what fans can expect from ‘Odd Ball 3’.
“Just a big party,” he said. “The ‘Odd Ball’ concept has always been about not taking yourself too seriously. It’s a winter ball, but it’s all a bit cooked. People in ball gowns and fancy suits, other people in gorilla suits, leather, double denim, probably an elvis impersonator, a clown, a horse.
“We always hire a photobooth for the red carpet entrance and you get a strip with your pals to put on your fridge, free pics for all. We do some record giveaways and shit.”
Fittingly, ‘Odd Ball 3’ is all Marthouse-affiliated acts, with Shaw revealing that “all the active bands on the label are playing or DJ’ing.”
“Launching a couple of final surprise records. Slinging rare merch and test-presses. Everything must go! Everyone must go! Ending the label on a high and using the opportunity to bring everyone together from the past decade,” he added.
Read Shaw’s full Making Music, Making Ends Meet feature here.
Ticket information for ‘Odd Ball 3: Marthouse Forever’ can be found here.
