The Gov
Thursday 25 January 2023
Words – Geoff Jenke
Sunnyboys formed in 1980 and broke up in 1984. A short but spirited run, releasing three albums in that time and a couple of singles in Happy man and Alone with You that have become Australian classics. Various line-ups followed as the band reformed on several occasions over the years but now with original members back in the fold, the band is touring Australia for their final ever tour. Such is the support for the band in Adelaide, the Gov show sold out well before the gig date.
Supporting Sunnyboys was Melbourne band Even. When it comes to playing, Even treat every gig as if it is their own gig, whether they are headlining or supporting. Ash, Matt and Wally play as if it is their final gig every time, they set foot on a stage.
After an initial onslaught of Stop and Go Man and Black Umbrella, Anton Ruddick (from Melbourne band, Swedish Magazines) joined the band, adding a new layer and depth to the Even sound. It was a “best of” set from Even but as usual with this band, you just don’t know what you will get. During Rock and Roll Save My Life, Ash broke into a heavy sounding Almost Cut My Hair (David Cosby song) before Wally, on bass, took over vocals for a powerful version of Fleetwood Mac’s Don’t Stop. During Dandy Stomp Ash played yet another tribute, this time to Jeff Beck (our heroes are falling down around us). Another tribute, this time for Renee Geyer, who had sung some backing vocals on Bowie in my Dreams. Wally sang Renee’s lines perfectly. According to Ash, Renee’s payment was to join them sitting on the floor eating pizza.
Judging from comments I heard after the event; I think Even may have gained a few new fans with this set and so they should. They are one powerful band.
The Sunnyboys didn’t need to gain new fans. The sold-out event was full of Sunnyboys fans just there for them. This may well have been the biggest crowd I have seen at the Gov for a long time and I have seen a few big ones there recently. Live music is alive and well again thankfully.
The band emerged stage left, smiles on their faces, with the sound of The Beatles Here Comes the Sun resonating out of the P.A. system. With only a few words of “Hello Adelaide, we’re here” the band launched into Love to Rule from their 1980 debut E.P. My Only Friend followed, and on hearing it live, I think maybe Bad//Dreems may have been listening to the Sunnyboys when recording their tune of the same name.
The evening was about the music. There was minimal talking, a few HI’s and some song introductions but it was the music talking. Songs from the first three albums, a few from E.P’s and singles, but it was all about the incredible music this band will leave behind. The next two numbers, Trouble in my Brain and Tunnel of Love were also from the debut album and then the band diversified into the later albums with Catch My Heart from the Get Some Fun album.
The crowd swayed and danced all night to the guitar laden tunes. Happy Man naturally got a large cheer, but there didn’t seem to be any favourites amongst the crowd. They loved and hung on to every note played. Show Me Some Discipline was a favourite for me and I’m Shakin’ ended the main set.
The band were not going to get away that easily and they didn’t wait too long before returning with a commanding three song encore in Ain’t That a Shame and the crowd joining in with the “OOOOh” on You Need a Friend. Naturally the song about pent up feelings of teenage lust and love, Alone With You closed out the set.
With people starting to head out the door, they were quickly back, smiles all round, band and audience, with Seeker to finish what was a classic set of songs. The smiles continues as people made their way to the doors or in many cases to the bar for that last drink and to full comprehend the fact we will probably never see this band again.
A sad thought but a triumphant ending to a great career. There will never be another Sunnyboys.
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