The Screaming Jets @ The Gov,Adelaide (25/01/11)

Fri 28th Jan, 2011 in Gig Reviews

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Since 2009, The Screaming Jets have seen in Australia Day at The Governor Hindmarsh Hotel. It should be a good year for the Newcastle act, as they are finally about to have their backcatalogue released on iTunes. The surprisingly late listing of these albums, which include many well known Aussie rock songs, was noted by lead-singer, Dave Gleeson, who accuses Sony Music of abandoning the band. Hard to imagine considering their status and wide-spread appeal.

A large contingent of fans arrived early to support the opening rock act, Adelaide’s Trash City, who did not disappoint with a tight and loud opening set. The Jets came on just after 9 o’clock and belted out classic hits, such as Better, Do Ya, F.R.C. and Shivers. All tracks were well received by the patriotic audience, with the crowd particularly revelling in singing along to the hits, ‘fat rich cunts’ and their Nick Cave penned cover.

It has long been popular to celebrate or nation’s birhday with a heavy dose of Pub Rock and this event is fast becoming an Adelaide tradition, which the band members clearly enjoy as much as the crowd. Gleeson is known to put on a high energy show and his considered banter often contains refreshingly controversial views. On this occassion, however, he missed the mark by bagging our tiny neighbour, and emerging nation, East Timor, 20 minutes before midnight. Inappropriate? Think 1975. But, the shot missed it’s mark and as the clock ticked over into Australia Day, the band led the audience in a raucous singing of the national anthem. Why does it never sound this good sung sober?

Gleeson is, undeniably, a sharp front-man and his wit was on show throughout the night. He successfully befriended the crowd by complementing South Aussie symbols; Fruchocs and entertainer Peter Coombe, who ‘is not a freaky lookin’ dude’. The curly haired singer should be made to stand by his announcement that retiring politician, Kevin Foley, will be touring with the band later in the year ‘to score drugs and hookers’. Hopefully, the soon to be former treasurer will be a wild addition to next year’s celebration.

The Screaming Jets will be available on iTunes from the February 11.