Totally over rated.

The Tote. Even grottier on the inside.

In a move that has shocked ageing Generation Xers and tired publicity whores alike, Melbourne’s The Tote hotel in Collingwood has closed after decades of presenting loud, largely talentless bands in a foul environment to a sweaty collection of drunks and speed-freaks.

The hotel says it will be forced to close after the Liquor Licensing Commission required additional security measures at the inner-city venue. Representatives of the Liquor Licensing Commission said they were still trying to wash the smell of stale cigarette smoke and vomit out of their hair after a late-night trip to said venue.

Fans milled around in a half-arsed protest before dispersing to have a bit of a sook at home.

Independent film maker from North Fitzroy Marcus Hall said it was totally unfair The Tote had to abide by the law, especially when it came to over crowding and selling alcohol to people who were already really, really, pissed.

“I mean, that obviously only applies to venues in the outer suburbs where nasty bogans go, not The Tote,” Mr Hall said.

“If a venue like The Tote, which for years provided a venue for struggling bands who were – quite frankly – a bit crap, for audiences who were too pissed to know any better, closes then the entire Melbourne live music scene is doomed.”