White Nights

Author: Unknown

It takes a lot of chutzpah to take a swing at the kings, but Chris Cheney, Phil Jamieson, Tim Rogers and Josh Pyke have never been lacking there. After two runs of The White Album Concert, the four are reviving the hit show for the iconic record’s 50th anniversary.

Have there been any change-ups since the 2009 and 2014 tours?
Not the song allocation. We are doing essentially the same songs that have been divided up on past tours. We are going to add a few extra songs and a few little surprises. It was Tim’s idea to do something special and different towards the end.
– Chris Cheney (The Living End)

What’s your advice for tackling one of the most iconic albums of all time live?
I think we all realised the first time we did this show that we needed to put our own spin on the songs. It’s such a revered and loved record it’d be silly to try to copy it. But you also want to show respect, so it’s a fine line.
– Josh Pyke

What’s your favourite hidden gem on the album?
Julia. Not exactly hidden, but the hurt and bewilderment of that boy’s relationship with his mum is laid bare, then completed two years later with Mother. Hang on, must call Mum.
– Tim Rogers (You Am I)

In your opinion where does ‘The White Album’ sit against classics Abbey Road and Sgt Peppers?
‘The White Album’ is a double album filled with quirk and flaws and terror and melody and avant-garde and country and rock’n’roll and craziness. It kind of has everything. It’s broader in scope that the other albums, making it a great live experience.
– Philip Jamieson (Grinspoon)