JAMMIN' AT THE JUMP INN
Enter the Jump Inn Craft Beer Bar & Restaurant in Alice Springs/Mparntwe, and you’ll find a collection of world globes suspended from the ceiling, while in the corner, a drum kit and speakers sit ready to go.
WORDS JENNA HOARE
IMAGES @RAN_CHEFAU
RETRO RED LOUNGES adorn the garden, and fairy lights drape over the eucalyptus trees – a perfect setting for a venue with a passion for travelling, as a bar and music venue, attached to an iconic backpacker establishment.
Venue Manager Caecilia Chanta says the Jump Inn hosts a diverse range of talented musicians, contributing to its reputation as a live music hub in Central Australia.
“We host live music every Tuesday and Friday – Open Mic Tuesday Jam Sessions and Friday Blues ... we actively support local musicians to perform,” she says.
“These sessions start with featured artists and transition into open jam segments, fostering a collaborative [music] environment for both seasoned and emerging musicians.”
Recent on-stage performances have featured Billy Black, Caleb Goman, Dave Crowe, Dom Brinkley, Edan Baxter, The Holy Dimes, Jaime Lerisque, Katie Harder, Keith Buzzacott, and Shilo Monkland. And the list goes on.
Twin-sister duo The Wanted Gems started their early music career at the Jump Inn Jam Sessions before being featured on triple j Unearthed and supporting The Dreggs last year in Darwin.
The Jump Inn is a rite of passage for many artists breaking into the music scene in Mparntwe/Alice Springs.
Chanta says the welcoming atmosphere also makes the venue a relaxed space to grab a bite to eat and drink any night of the week.
“We offer a Taiwanese-fusion on the menu, with a selection of craft beer, wine, spirits, and cocktails,” she says.
“Whether you're a local or a traveller … it’s a place where you can experience the community spirit.”
Head in for the music and stay for a feed, or head for a feed and you might just discover your next favourite artist.
