Steve Lucas’ Bigger Than Jesus are once again on the upcoming schedule for The Espy in St Kilda.
Bigger Than Jesus were originally booked to play at the newly opening The Espy but were then dropped with bookers at the venue citing acts having to fit a new image.
Well it seems all that bullshit has gone away.
On October 12 Lucas posted:
Miracles do happen, and yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus.
After a brief meeting face to face between the Espy and Bigger Than Jesus it has been unanimously agreed that it is better for the whole of St Kilda’s vast musical heritage and culture, as well as all the bands that aspire to play there AND for all the bands that made the Espy the wonderful pub we all loved…. the gig will go on!
We don’t see this as a win just for the band, we see it as a win for everyone who loves the true nature of diverse musical the expression and of course the owners of The Esplanade Hotel. They do have a vision, having sat down and talked I can see how emotionally invested they are in this project. We see this as a win also for the people who feel so passionate about the grand old building and its musical history.
But ultimately it’s not about winning at all. Its about resolution and communication. It’s about knowing if we all share what is in our hearts, we can effect change.
In a lengthy statement Lucas said:
“Earlier last week, this gig was looking tenuous, to say the least but after a couple of long over-due meetings between the Espy and Bigger Than Jesus we realised we all wanted the same thing. We unanimously agreed that it is better for the whole of St Kilda’s vast musical heritage and culture, as well as all the bands that aspire to play there, that we put all egos aside!”
“We have done this for all the bands that made the Espy the wonderful pub we all loved. Yes, this is a win, but not just for us, the band – but for St Kilda’s colourful counter-culture, as well as the Espy’s iconic status. The doors are literally, open.
“If it is a victory, then it is for everyone who loves the true nature of diverse musical expression, and of course the owners of The Esplanade Hotel.
“They do have a vision and having sat down and talked I can see how emotionally invested they are in this project.
“There will be a learning curve, it is inevitable. We can make it constructive or destructive. If this is a win, it is for the people who feel so passionate about music and the grand old building and musical history.
“Ultimately though, it’s not about ‘winning’ at all. It is about resolution and communication. It’s about knowing if we all share what is in our hearts, we can effect change.
“The return of The Espy will reinvigorate St Kilda’s music landscape, which should of course, be inclusive and diverse; everything must move with the times but that should not mean turning our backs on the past, and while embracing the new, we must also recognise and embrace our heritage.”
Bigger Than Jesus – known for their irreverent on-stage antics – will launch their new limited edition 12” vinyl LP titled “One For The Road” in the Gershwin Room at The Espy on Saturday, December 15 with special guest DJs James Young and Mary Mihelakos.
BIGGER THAN JESUS at The Espy
Bass – Kevin McMahon
Drums – Paul Foenander
Guitar – Hank Oudendyk
Guitar – Brett Kingman
Vocals – Steve Lucas
Tickets for Bigger Than Jesus at The Espy DJare $25.80 (incl. booking fee) on sale now through Moshtix.
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