From 1965 to 2006, Armstrong's Studios, later known as AAV and eventually Metropolis Audio, was Australia's largest and most successful audio recording complex, leaving an enduring mark on the nation's cultural landscape.

Equipped with cutting-edge technology and fostering a collaborative, organic environment, the studio enabled legendary Australian artists like Daddy Cool, Renee Geyer, Little River Band, Skyhooks, Hunters & Collectors, Daryl Braithwaite, Australian Crawl, Delta Goodrem, John Farnham, and Nick Cave to produce era-defining music.

Metropolis also played host to a who’s who of international stars, including U2, Paul McCartney, Bob Dylan, Elton John, Rod Stewart, The Beach Boys, David Bowie, Mick Jagger, and Madonna. Its influence extended into film, with sound production credits on iconic Australian movies such as Mad Max and Crocodile Dundee.

The studio was founded and initially led by the doyen of record producers, Bill Armstrong, followed by industry greats Roger Savage, Ern Rose, and Ian McKenzie. Under their leadership, Metropolis became a national hit factory without equal.

It also served as a vital training ground for future luminaries of the industry. Esteemed producers like Ted Albert, Ron Tudor, Johnny Young, Molly Meldrum, Doug Brady, and Tony Cohen all cut their teeth within its walls - many going on to shape the sound of Australian music for decades to come.

While Metropolis no longer operates, its legacy endures. More than just a recording space, it was a launchpad for contemporary Australian music on the international stage, and a beacon of technical excellence, mentorship, and creative ambition.

Metropolis represents far more than a building, it symbolizes a golden era of studio innovation, passionate determination, and musical brilliance leaving an indelible imprint on both Melbourne’s cultural identity and Australia’s musical heritage.

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The Author

 

Brendan began writing about music in 1980 with a gig review of the then-emerging Australian Crawl in RAM magazine. Early in his career, he landed a dream role at Sony Australia. After five years at Sony, he moved to Metropolis Audio in 1989, where he served as General Manager, Business & Administration, later joining the board as Company Secretary.

In 1995, Brendan transitioned to 3RRR FM as Business & Development Manager, where he produced numerous events, outside broadcasts and CDs including 'Used & Recorded By', the 'Soundscape' series, 'RRRewind in the Chapel' & Radio Birdman's 'Ritualism'.

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By 2000, he'd launched an education-focused recording and CD production business, producing 70+ full-length albums. This work led to consulting roles across the not-for-profit sector, culminating in a 12-year tenure as CEO of the peak industry body for swimming pools and spas. In 2018, he began writing on a full-time basis leading to the bestselling 'Tell No One'.