Just Jinjer

We were all just jinjer in Shepherds Bush

One of my favourite drinks is ginger beer, particularly if it’s accompanied by some Jack or Jim or any other bourbon for that matter. However, on this noticeably mild October night, I was looking forward to experiencing a different form of ginger.

Formed in 1996, hailing from South Africa, but currently based in Los Angeles, Just Jinjer include lead singer/guitarist Art Matthews, Denholm Harding on bass, Brent Harris on drums, and newest member, Simon Bailey, on guitar, and they were in the UK to play two dates at London’s Shepherd Bush Walkabout. The phrase ‘just jinjer’ is a type of slang for ‘just fine’, which probably summed up my mood as I took my position, beer in hand, amongst the near thousand strong crowd.

Entering stage right, the lads immediately treated us to “Here’s To You!”, an apt tribute to their worldwide fan base, and the title of their 3rd album. Radio friendly “Father and Farther”, a huge hit from their debut long player “All Comes Round”, and one of the first songs to highlight Art Matthews’ unquestionable song writing talent, also made an early appearance, Matthews’ powerful voice being matched by the enthralled throngs – I was definitely in the minority as a first timer to a Jinjer gig, but in the majority as my mood, along with everyone else’s, started to improve.

An excellent time then for the Just Jinjer party piece. Simon took Brent’s seat at the conventional skins, whilst Brent helped Art and Denholm wheel out a collection of drums of various shapes and sizes, and, having all played at one time or another in their careers, the lads treated us to rousing roller coaster of percussion, which was met with an equally rousing reception from the now buzzing crowd.

Next up was one of the few recorded cover versions the Jinjers have ever done, their interpretation of Rodriguez’ “Sugarman”. I was one of the few non South Africans in the place, and had only heard the track once or twice before, but I could sense that I was surrounded by thousands of memories that had been evoked by this iconic song.

Continuing to reel off hit after hit with no hesitation, the simple “She Knows”, opening track on their recent Bootleg album, and originally from "Here's To You", and the sad, solemn ballad “Shallow Waters”, from “All Comes Round”, standing out for me.

The carnival of rock that is “Like You Madly”, another massive South African hit, was saved for the encore, and executed perfectly, sending the mosh pit that had developed in front of the stage into raptures.

Just Jinjer have a reputation in the US of being an excellent live act, and it was a pleasure to see them display the qualities that have earned them this deserved reputation. They were definitely better than ‘just jinjer’.

Reviewed by Dan