In this unique and honest performance, Jobe shares experiences from his life that have inspired the stories and songs he records. Armed with an array of instruments, a loop pedal, and a melodic voice, Jobe performs six beautifully unique and insightful songs that are unlike anything I’ve ever heard—in the best way. At times, I felt transported to the forest, to the outback, and everywhere in between.

While each song had its own distinct style, all were underpinned by Jobe’s signature beatboxing skill and natural storytelling, conveying each message clearly. Many songs were easy to join in with, and Jobe’s natural warmth ensured the audience felt completely at ease singing and tapping along, without any awkwardness. When Jobe finished the track ‘I Forgive You For Trying’, I felt as though I had emerged from a therapy session—lighter, having unburdened myself of some of the heaviness we all carry at times.

Jobe’s discovery and acceptance of his ‘weirdness’ was a joy to hear about. Learning in his adult years that ADHD explained why he felt and acted so differently to those around him clearly captivated the audience. His insights into the condition were some of the most thoughtful and compelling I’ve heard. As someone who works with children every day and has a child with ADHD, I found so much to relate to. That said, anyone who has ever felt ‘different’ or ‘other’ would connect deeply with the uplifting message of Loops I Did It Again. Jobe captures this beautifully when he speaks of his ‘ferocious commitment to imagination’. This imagination is fully on display through funny stories and beatboxing tips, all interwoven with excellent songs I hope to hear on the radio in the future.

Mezzanine at Plant 4 Bowden proved to be an ideal setting for this show. Sitting comfortably at a table with a drink created a relaxed, intimate atmosphere that perfectly suited the performance. I could easily have stayed for another hour, listening to Jobe share more of his stories and his distinctive songwriting style.

4 stars

By Mel Watt

 

Fri, 20 Feb – Fri, 20 Mar

Plant 4 Bowden

 Rated G

Season has finished