Report: Greg Phillips Photos: Jason Rosewarne
End of lockdown #5 in Melbourne meant that venues could open up with limited capacities and audiences wasted no time in getting out and about on a cold winter night for their fix of live music. Australian Musician chose to spend freedom night one at Jimmy Hornet in Richmond. It’s a small but vibrant bar with a great atmosphere, offering excellent tapas style food and cocktails, as well as service with a smile.
Kicking off the evening was veteran singer, songwriter, guitarist Victor Stranges and members of his group Methinks, playing a quirky brand of folk-punk-pop in the spirit of artists such as David Byrne and Elvis Costello. Victor and band offered tracks from his album Hello Me To You and claimed that his life goal was to have TV show Spicks and Specks use the front cover of his album in a segment of the show.
Headlining tonight was a stripped back acoustic version of Jacobs Run, performing a mix of tracks from their impressive self-titled debut album, some covers, as well as some new material, scheduled for the recording studio in early 2022. The band was thrilled to announce recently that the new album will be produced by the legendary Mark Opitz. The acoustic sound coming off the Jimmy Hornet stage was superb and the fluid fretwork of sit-in guitarist Dragan added another dimension to the band’s sound. Michael Jacobs’ amiable stage presence and a fine collection of songs played well, combined to make an enjoyable evening for all. With an air of celebration in the room due to being able to see gigs again, the crowd responded enthusiastically. Live music is back baby!
Jacobs Run are due back at Jimmy Hornet on Wednesday 25th August supported by Peter Freebairn.
