As one of Australia’s most loved musical comedy acts, Symphony in J Minor sees Sammy J going back to his musical roots, with performances of his 2019 album of the same name. Accompanied by childhood friend and cellist Richard Vaudrey, Sammy J was in top form, playing to a packed out audience in the beautiful main hall at Melbourne Town Hall.
Armed with his trusty piano, quick-fire lyrics, and sharp mind, Sammy J opened up with a song about bitcoin and being anywhere else in the world but his show (Tuscan Villa). It was an opener that had the audience laughing along from the get-go, and beautifully showed off his piano work, backed by Vaudrey’s incredible talents on his cello. See You in 17 Years would’ve won ‘most relatable song’ for many attendees – as an ode to parenthood and the life changing experiences that come with it, while Marginal Seat was aptly timed with the federal election around the corner.
Pink Clouds, a clap-back at swearing too much, and the dramatic Aussie Aussie Aussie (Oi Oi Oi) were show highlights, and saw Sammy J’s versatile musical talents spanning across genres. The audience went wild for a recital of The Ballad of Dunny Roll, which made an appearance in the set; a bit from the artist’s show that quickly resonated with fans at the height of the pandemic.
Having not seen Sammy J live since his 2017 show, Hero Complex, seeing him back on stage playing his trademark musical comedy was a festival highlight for us, and left us feeling all sorts of things; humbled by the events of the last few years, eager for the next election, and thankful that this wholesome man exists. Sammy J is playing a limited number of shows at this year’s festival, so make sure you get in quick and get your ticket sorted.
Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2022 Venue(s): Melb Town Hall – Main Hall Dates: Wed Apr 13 – Thu Apr 14, Sat Apr 16 Time: 6pm Tickets: $45 – $48 Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au & at the door