Spacey Jane Turns First Ave into a Fever Dream of Indie Rock
On this rainy Friday night, First Avenue was drenched in the warmth of shimmering guitars and sun-bleached nostalgia as Australian indie rockers Spacey Jane took the stage in downtown Minneapolis. I was stoked when these guys announced a U.S. tour and a stop through Minneapolis. Having already built a devoted following in their home country, the band’s latest U.S. route feels like a restart and a rocket launch at once— a chance for new audiences to finally catch this Indie wave to what the Aussies have been shouting for years: this band is special. Spacey Jane’s U.S. run feels like a long-delayed victory lap, the kind of tour that should’ve happened years ago if not for the pandemic. The sense in the room was clear, this is only a stopover before they ascend to even bigger stages.
Local Minnesota band openers Porch Light stepped up to the stage with impressive ease, especially considering they were added to the bill after the original support act had to drop due to illness. The Minneapolis indie outfit took the opportunity and ran with it, delivering a set that felt both fresh and self-assured.
The band mixed in a handful of brand-new songs with singles, “Oxygen” and “Fall Back.” Their sound carried a warmth and vibrant energy that set the tone perfectly for the night, giving the crowd a glimpse at what could easily become staples in their catalog.
One of the standout moments came when Porch Light launched into a cover of MGMT’s 2007 hit “Kids.” It was a clever nod to indie nostalgia that resonated instantly, with the audience buzzing along to every note. By the time they wrapped their set, it was clear that Porch Light had done more than just fill in, they’d left an impression. I for one am looking forward to what’s next for them and can’t wait to watch the journey unfold.
From the opening notes of “Lots of Nothing” to the crowd sing along of “Whateverrr”, the set was a testament to Spacey Jane’s ability to blend vulnerability with exuberance. Not many can turn a song about the struggles of anxiety into a crowd sweeping sing along like “Booster Seat.” The crowd at First Ave was a mix of diehard fans who knew every lyric and curious newcomers swept up in the moment, turning the main room into one giant chorus. From the first chord to the final encore the room never stood still. Front man Caleb Harper’s raw and soaring vocals cut through waves, while Ashton Le Cornu’s guitar work, hair flips, and stage kicks gave the night that bittersweet, heart-on-sleeve glow Spacey Jane has become known for. Their onstage chemistry was infectious.
They weren’t just playing with the crowd they were playing with each other. Leaning into playful duets, swapping smiles, and giving each member their own time in the spotlight. It was a display of genuine camaraderie. From bandmates perching on the riser with drummer Kieran Lama to trading dances with the bassist Pepa Lane and guitars, every moment felt alive with connection.
It’s no small feat to make a room as legendary as First Avenue come alive, but Spacey Jane thrived. Their new album provided fresh depth, while fan favorites reminded us why the band’s rise has felt so organic and unstoppable. There was no pretense here. Just a group of friends pouring themselves into their songs and finding hundreds of voices singing back.
By the encore, it was clear: Spacey Jane may have started as Australia’s best-kept secret, but their time in smaller U.S. rooms is fleeting. Nights like this prove they’re poised for bigger stages and Minneapolis will be bragging that we saw them here first. As we watched the room shout ‘One more song’ loudly with smiles begging for more, my friend as I looked at each other and remarked that for some, they’ll remember this as the best night of their lives.
