“You guys wanna hear a Spacey Jane classic?!” Hell yeah we did.

There’s something about a Spacey Jane show that makes the world feel a little softer around the edges. Maybe it’s the familiar chords, the gut-punch lyrics, or the way Caleb Harper sings like he’s lived through every diary entry you’ve never shared out loud.

Either way, last night at the Hordern Pavilion, the Fremantle four-piece reminded Sydney exactly why they’ve become one of Australia’s most loved indie acts.

Touring their third album, If That Makes Sense, Spacey Jane are in their stride — sharper, more confident, but still wrapped in the vulnerability that made their early releases so addictive.

Opening with “Through My Teeth”, they pulled us straight into their world, and it was made ten times better by a crowd who knew every. Single. Word. Tracks like “Lunchtime”, “Skin”, and “Good for You” are testament to the fact Spacey Jane truly mean something to their fans. The reactions alone are reason enough to see them live, and I’m so elated I finally got to.I even took out my earplugs (music photographer who takes care of hearing, here) just to feel the screams ricochet through me.

Caleb checked in with us early on in true blue Aussie style — “Sydney how ya fucken goin?” God I love that that’s a casual greeting here. It was met with a roar so loud I’m convinced it shook the Pavilion. The show was a collective exhale, the kind of night where you felt lucky just to be there. I caught myself getting emotional getting lost just watching the crowds full body reactions to the music; the cute indie couples dancing like crazy together, the stubbies held up in the air, people getting up on shoulders to make sure Spacey could see them vibing… this is what it’s all about.

The fans were so present. Almost no one watched through a screen — phones stayed in pockets, except for the occasional quick snap or to light up the encore. It was rowdy in all the right ways, but also really tender — full of joy and real connection.

Caleb, effortlessly humble, asked “You ready to sing along?” and we all knew what was coming. When “How to Kill Houseplants” began, thousands of people collectively lost their minds. Listening. Feeling. It’s rare. It’s powerful. And Spacey Jane knows how to hold it.

Musically, the band is tight.

Ashton Hardman-Le Cornu’s guitar playing is thoughtful and sharp, not to mention his insane energy on stage (and the hair?!), while Peppa Lane’s basslines bring such a wholesome warmth and groove. Drummer Kieran Lama ensures the rhythm and vibes are always immaculate. The four of them are seamless — no ego, no filler. Just songs performed with care and confidence.

“So Much Taller” and “Lots of Nothing” brought a final burst of energy. Strangers sang in unison like their lives depended on it. A perfect full stop to a night that never dipped in energy or honesty.

Spacey Jane is soft-spoken, still vulnerable and still asking questions. And it’s that mix of honesty and craftsmanship that sets them apart. At one point, Caleb thanked every member of their team, and recalled how 5 yars ago when they started they played in pubs to 40 people, half of which were their friends. You could feel that little bit of overwhelm in his voice, but balanced out with gratitude, as he thanked Sydney for always being their number one supporters - “I’ve seen the numbers, and they don’t lie!” It was a touching moment and made me so proud to be from a city that supports local artists from the bottom of our hearts.

They gave us more than a gig - it was an hour and a half of real connection — the kind that leaves you a little lighter, a little louder, and a little more yourself. It was the best kind of night and one I can’t wait to live again.