After two decades as a diverse, successful and Grammy Award-winning solo artist, Joe Jackson has reunited the band with whom he recorded his first three albums: Look Sharp, I'm The Man (both released in 1979) and Beat Crazy (1980). Jackson (Vocals/Keyboards), Gary Sanford (Guitar/Vocals), Graham Maby (Bass/Vocals), and Dave Houghton (Drums/Vocals) first played together, and recorded the first album, in 1978.
With their 25th Anniversary looming, Jackson - not normally one to wallow in nostalgia - called the idea of a reunion 'terrible' and 'cheesy'. Somewhere along the line, though, a different angle presented itself. Jackson became intrigued by the idea of using the band as a vehicle for the songs he'd been working on over the past couple of years, and reuniting the quartet for a brand new album and tour. "I knew we weren't gonna embarrass ourselves," says Jackson. "Everyone was still alive, and playing great, and not too messed up on drugs or anything, and I still have a 32-inch waist! Still, it turned out way better than I ever imagined."
The result, Volume Four, is a stunning comeback for one of the great bands of the post-punk era. Recorded in ten days and released to rave reviews in March 2003, the album is as fresh and energetic as any of the band's early work. At the same time, Jackson's obvious progression as a songwriter adds a depth and sophistication only hinted at in 1979.
Since the album's release, the band have been touring extensively in Europe and North America, having a great time and delighting even some of the most sceptical critics. The New York Post wrote: 'This reunion tour is as full of energy as Jackson's shows in 1979, but has an added edge that comes from 25 years of experience'. 'As nervy and tightly wound as ever,' said the New York Times, and Now Wave added 'Jackson's voice is still packed with urgency and power, his songs still have the stuff to hook you fast, and his clever words still ring true.'
Though the live set list changes nearly every night, fans both old and new have been treated to an impressive catalogue of past hits ('Is She Really Going Out With Him', 'Steppin' Out', 'Different for Girls', etc), new material, and new arrangements of songs from 'in between' - songs which this lineup had never played before. The band are particularly excited to be playing Australia and New Zealand. "We never made it there originally," says Jackson, "and this whole experience has been about the sheer pleasure of something we never thought would happen, actually happening. Australia/New Zealand will be great way to finish it off."
This is a 'one-off' project, and the band will indeed be disbanding after their Brisbane show. Don't miss this last opportunity to see a legendary band at the peak of their power.
