Live Music: Philadephia Grand Jury
Friday November 19
Words: Amber Shadlow
The Philly J’s once again provided a solid set at the Hi Fi which is proving to be something you can bet your bottom dollar on. After a relocation to London town earlier this year, the Philly Jays (as they are affectionalty known) have returned to Australian shores for their “Save our town” tour. Berkfinger and MC Bad Genius brought with them their unique fusion of soul, punk and a little bit of pop thrown in to create a fun filled high energy set.
They started the night with a mood lit stage containing one bass player pacing erratically back and forth, and an unknown solo voice from the crowd reciting Jay-Z’s “99 problems”. Turns out the unknown voice was the newest member of the Philly Jays, drummer Susie, who is also a member of Brissy band I Heart Hiroshima.
The love from the crowd (which at one point almost turned riotous!!) did not wane through all of the set with Going to the Casino (Tomorrow Night), Save Our Town and I don’t want to party (party) creating particular joy emanating from the people.
After seeing them at splendour in the grass this year (when I was having a much needed little snooze on the hill at the amphitheatre) I have become a big fan of the Philly Jays. The chaotic and raw energy radiating from the stage was enough to get me up for a boogie (a massive achievement after the previous nights exploits) and again they came through on the boogie stakes at the Hi Fi on Friday night. The Philly J’s have gone from strength to strength since then and with the inclusion of the newest band member have become even tighter.
The release of their album “hope is for the hopeless” in October 2010 and the HUGE Aussie tour the boys are putting on along with whispers of work on a new album means the Philly J’s are going to be busy! Watch out for them in 2011, my prediction is they are going to be massive!