Tag: Jet

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Lenny Kravitz @ Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Meeanjin/Brisbane – 21 November 2025

As you might have noticed, I see a lot of concerts. I adore them, but typically they come and go and I start looking forward to the next one. They rarely leave the sort of lasting impression that has me buzzing several days later. But most concerts are not like the shows Lenny Kravitz has been putting on around Australia. My thoughts are still a little scattered, and even though I consider myself a bit of a wordsmith I’m not sure I have the vocabulary to tell you just how good the Meeanjin/Brisbane show was. But you know I’m going to try.

Although I see a lot of shows, Friday night was my first time seeing Jet. When they were announced as supporting artists I wasn’t sure they’d be the right fit, but I’ll happily eat my words. Their straight-down-the-line brand of rock music was the ideal complement to Lenny’s own rock edge. I don’t think I realised just how many hits they had until they were strung back-to-back. While their discography is rich, a killer version of AC/DC’s “Long Way to the Top” had us all singing along. I couldn’t help thinking about AC/DC’s decision to remove it from their sets as Brian Johnson knew he could never measure up to Bon Scott’s vocals. If Acca Dacca are ever in the market for a new frontman, Nic Cester has the goods. Although I can’t imagine him ever slotting into someone else’s band when he’s created magic with his brother Chris and longtime pals Cameron Muncey and Mark Wilson. There’s such chemistry when they perform and a passion for their craft which shines through.

I just wish my photos did them justice. On arriving in Meeanjin/Brisbane I received an email stating personal cameras wouldn’t be permitted, although phone cameras would be fine. What a frustrating policy that really disadvantages anyone who isn’t close to the stage. The photos my pal Lisa has snapped are a lot better than the ones my Samsung takes, but nowhere near as good as I could have captured with my camera. On the plus side, it did ensure that I really took this show in and lived in the moment.

While I enjoyed Jet, Lenny took this show to a whole other level. One that I honestly wasn’t prepared for. He sent such a strong message with his opener “Bring It On,” from the album It Is Time For a Love Revolution. We weren’t just preparing for the love revolution; it was here with Lenny our leader. I didn’t think it was possible for someone to have so much swagger. In his purple snakeskin pants, denim jacket, and signature dreadlocks, he was every inch the rock star and far cooler than any 61-year-old has the right to be. He was also backed by one of the strongest bands I’ve ever heard. Longtime collaborators like guitarist Craig Ross have come together seamlessly with newer talents like bassist Wolf and drummer Jas Kayser.

Lenny delivered a set for all kinds of fans, the faithful who had waited patiently for his return and the casual listeners who appreciated the radio tunes. I was on my biggest Lenny kick in the early 2000s, so I was thrilled to hear underrated gems of the period like “Dig In” and “Stillness of Heart.” Although this tour was technically meant to promote Lenny’s new album, Blue Electric Light, he was humble enough to ask whether he could play some of the new material. I’d enjoyed the album, but it hadn’t stuck with me like many of his earlier releases. However, watching Lenny perform tracks like “TK421” and “Paralyzed” has given me a new appreciation for them.

Honestly though, Lenny could have sung the phone book and I would have been happy. His voice is so strong. He handled everything, from the hushed words of “Believe” to the falsetto notes of “It Ain’t Over ‘Til It’s Over,” with so much ease. He’s got serious musical chops, whether he’s on his signature electric guitar, bass, or keys. And then there’s that swagger. I have never witnessed such a sexy performance. His power is undeniable. I am so glad I saw Lenny with my best gal pal instead of my husband, because I knew she was getting just as much out of this performance as I was. He had us squirming in our seats, and loving every single second, when we weren’t on our feet.

I experienced plenty of lust, but also plenty of love. Lenny’s songs celebrate it while encouraging that love revolution. With Lenny out front leading us all in song, you start to believe it’s possible. That spirit of love culminated in the epic encore song, “Let Love Rule.” It’s ironic that it was in this magic moment that a “fan” decided to rip dreadlocks from Lenny’s head. Seriously girl, what were you thinking?! That behaviour is deplorable. It also shows Lenny’s consummate professionalism that I didn’t even realise it happened until I watched his reels the next day. What I saw in that moment was a man who wanted to connect with his audience taking a lap around the perimeter of the auditorium so he could get as close to as many people as possible. He took his time, saying hello, shaking hands, and encouraging us all to sing those three important words: Let Love Rule. It was beautiful, a lasting memory that capped off one of the greatest concerts I have ever attended.

Lenny assured us he’ll be back soon. I already can’t wait. Before that though, he’s got just three shows remaining on this Aussie tour. Trust me, you will want to catch him if you can.

25 November 2025 – John Cain Area, Naarm/Melbourne
28 November 2025 – Mildura Sporting Precinct, Latji Latji and Paakantyi Country/Mildura
29 November 2025 – bp Adelaide Grand Final, Tarntanya/Adelaide

Photos credit: Lisa Mayer

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Jet Announce More Shows for Aussie Return

Jet are currently Stateside spruiking their new album Shaka Kula, but the band hasn’t forgotten about their fans back home.

Since Homebake sold out, the band will also perform sideshows in Sydney and Melbourne in December. They’ll play The Metro on December 4, the day before Homebake, before hitting Melbourne’s The Palace on December 9.

While visiting the US of A the band recently performed “She’s a Genius” on Late Night with David Letterman. Here’s the performance for those of you who were sleeping soundly when it aired!

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Health Scare for Jet Singer

Jet frontman Nic Cester is recovering in a London hospital after collapsing at the Hard Rock Cafe yesterday.

Nic had been feeling unwell prior to the show, but decided to persevere. He passed out after just two songs, but returned to the stage, joking that he was suffering from swine flu. He collapsed again minutes later and was taken to University College Hospital.

He was treated for symptoms of gastroenteritis, acute vomiting, and dehydration, and kept overnight for observation. He was also tested for swine flu, but was given the all-clear.

The band played on for several songs after Nic’s departure. Bass player Mark Wilson told The Daily Telegraph that the show must go on.

“You’ve got to do it, you can’t just cancel stuff,” he explained said. “It’s disappointing for people who come to see you and, unless you can’t sing, there’s no real reason to cancel something, I think, you know.”

Jet is currently in the UK to promote their third album, Shaka Rock.

Image source: Newscom

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Jet Headline Gold Coast New Year’s Show

Jet will headline the massive Aussie line-up at Odyssey NYE ’09 on the Gold Coast. Considering their recent pairing with Iggy Pop, it seems the rock outfit’s self imposed exile is well and truly over.

Jet will share the bill with local legends Eskimo Joe, Evermore, The Butterfly Effect, and Operator Please. More acts will be announced closer to the date, so expect it to be massive.

The organisers anticipate big crowds so they’re moving Odyssey from its Dreamworld home to Carrara Sports Complex.

Sounds like a fun way to ring in the New Year. If you want to go, grab your tickets through the website when they go on sale tomorrow.

Image source: Richard Giles @ Flickr

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Jet and Iggy Pop Cover "The Wild One"

When Johnny O’Keefe released “The Wild One” 50 years ago it started an Australian rock and roll revolution. So it’s fitting that the song is being re-released next month with a rock and roll legend and one of Australia’s hottest bands.

Jet recently flew to Miami to record “The Wild One” with the one and only Iggy Pop. Iggy fans will remember his definitive 1980s cover, and the new version is set to introduce a whole new generation to the song.

“My introduction to Johnny O’Keefe came through Iggy Pop covering this song,” says Jet’s Nic Cester. “Although I don’t think we have been directly influenced by Johnny O’Keefe, the ripples that he created are enormous. If the only thing that comes of this is just alerting other Australians that this existed, that’s a good thing.”

The collaboration will be released as a single on 19 July, and as a bonus track on the forthcoming album Johnny O’Keefe – The Wild One. The best of recording features remastered version of JO’K’s biggest hits. Johnny O’Keefe – The Wild One is available in stores from 23 August.

Image credit: Jill Kahn/Supplied by Warner Music Australia 

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Iggy Pop and Jet Team Up

Rumour has it that punk legend Iggy Pop will head to Australia to perform with Jet at the ARIA Hall of Fame presentation later this year.

But it’s not as unlikely as it seems. Iggy and Jet got together earlier this month to record a cover of “The Wild One” for an Johnny O’Keefe tribute album.

Of course Iggy covered the song in the 80s and released it as “Real Wild Child.” And the lads from Jet have always loved Iggy. So I suppose it makes sense.

Except that Jet claimed they were breaking up last October. Didn’t take long for them to change their minds! I suppose when Iggy Pop starts asking after you reconsidering retirement is fair enough.

Image source: Robert Scales @ Flickr

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Jet and Wolfmother Are Wannabes, Say Airbourne

Airbourne may have their sights set on finding new fans in America, but they’re certainly not going to make any new friends back home. Lead singer Joel O’Keefe has slammed other local success stories Jet and Wolfmother in an interview with Canada’s Chart Attack.

“Jet and Wolfmother are not for real. We are. That’s the difference. They’re not for real. They’re doing it to be cool, and you can tell,” he said.

“Wolfmother and Jet are a bad example of rock that comes out of Australia. They’re just carbon copies of something they want … they’re wannabes. They’re like American Idol or something like that. They’re not legit.”

Joel said Airbourne plan to focus on the American market and treat Australia as a “tourist destination.”

“We intend to move here [North America] for good. Australia will become a tourist destination for us. We’re all going to live in a house together. We’re here to get drunk and get wasted and have a party with everyone.”

Funnily enough, I don’t think Australia’s going to miss them. “Too Much, Too Young, Too Fast” was a minor hit, but they haven’t really made a big impression. And we don’t tend to like bands who turn their back on Oz and rubbish our other artists. Good riddance Airbourne!

Image source: Eetwartti @ Wikimedia Commons

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Jet Grounded

Jet drummer Chris Cester has announced his award-winning rock band are taking an indefinite break.

In a statement on the band’s MySpace page, he joked “We’ve all given ourselves 100% pay cuts, which means we are all fired.”

It seems years of relentless touring have taken their toll, with Chris adding that “We sat ourselves down and realised that with all the time we have spent away from home, Jet could finally use some down time.”

That down time is likely to give the band members the opportunity to work on solo projects and other musical endeavours. Nic Cester will be playing some solo sets, Cam Muncey is reportedly writing new material, and Mark Wilson and Chris Cester have recently done some production work for Japanese band Superfly.

Something tells me the lads won’t completely disappear from our radar any time soon.

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Jet Support Stones in UK

The Rolling Stones were clearly impressed with their 2003 Melbourne support act, Jet. They’ve just asked the local boys to open for them in London.

The Melbourne rockers will support The Stones at the O2 Arena in London on August 21 and 23.

The Brits will also get a chance to see the Aussie supergroup when they perform at the V Festival at Chelmsford’s Hylands Park on August 18, and Staffordshire’s Weston Park the following day. They’ll play alongside major international stars like The Killers, Amy Winehouse, Foo Fighters, and Pink.

Image source: Jim Pietryga @ Wikimedia Commons

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Jet To Play AFL Final

The AFL Grand Final will receive a dose of rock cred when homegrown heroes Jet perform.

The band will be super busy, performing before the game at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, then providing post-match entertainment at Centre Square.

“Somehow Jet have earned a reputation for enjoying a night out, so we’re happy to add to that reputation and be part of the inaugural Centre Square post-match entertainment the AFL is putting on,” said the group’s frontman, Nic Cester. “We’ll be asking for dim sims and footy franks on our rider for sure.”

Time will tell whether the Melbourne boys will get to see their teams play on September 29. The Cester brothers are ardent Collingwood supporters, while Cameron Muncy and Mark Wilson both support the Geelong Cats.