By photojournalist Jeffrey Moellering
Jane’s Addiction stopped into MidFlorida Amhitheater on August 29th as part of their 2024 tour, delivering an electrifying performance that left the audience in awe. The original lineup—Perry Farrell, Dave Navarro, Stephen Perkins, and Eric Avery—reunited to bring their classic alt-rock sound back to life. Fans, adorned in vintage rock T-shirts, filled the venue, eagerly anticipating the band’s return.
The opening act is a four piece British punk-metal outfit called Crawlers, including three ladies on vocals, bass, and guitar, and a male drummer. The Jane’s Addiction band member surely share an affinity for these spunky upstarts, undoubtedly reminiscent of the bands own raucous early days in the 80s emerging LA rock scene. The lead singer was bounding around the stage like she’d been sprung out of a cannon, kicking, writhing and screaming her way through their angst filled yet infectious set. Their arresting presence riveted your attention, visually, lyrically, and musically. They’re a band worth following.
Love and Rockets followed after a short break with a dynamic set, showcasing their unique blend of 80s post-punk and gothic rock. Their performance included classics like “Kundalini Express,” “Ball of Confusion,” and “So Alive,” which had the crowd singing along and dancing. The band’s energy and stage presence were captivating, reaffirming their influence in the alt-rock scene.
Bassist Daniel Ash, in his signature shades and retro-futuristic outfit, along with band members David J. and Kevin Haskins, kept the crowd’s attention firmly fixed with their stage presence and English charm. The trio, former Bauhaus members, recently reunited as Love and Rockets, were pivotal forces in alternative music during the 1980s and ’90s. Jane’s Addiction guitarist Dave Navarro is evidently a big fan, sporting a Love & Rockets sticker on his guitar, and some of Jane’s more ethereal songs certainly suggest a strong British 80s new wave influence.
Jane’s Addiction took the stage at 9:30, and by then, the crowd’s excitement reached a fever pitch. The original band lineup delivered a powerful performance, highlighting their enduring chemistry and musical prowess. They played a mix of their greatest hits, including “Jane Says,” “Mountain Song,” and “Been Caught Stealing,” each song infused with raw energy that transported the audience back to the band’s heyday. They also played their new song “Imminent Redemption”, and have indicated that a full record is forthcoming.
Perry Farrell’s charismatic stage presence and playful banter with the crowd added a personal touch to the performance. Dave Navarro’s guitar solos were electrifying, and the rhythm section of Perkins and Avery provided a solid foundation that kept the energy high throughout the set. Perry’s vocals were a bit strained and he seemed a bit distracted, but the sound was thunderous and the energy undeniable, after 40 years.
Overall, the concert was a triumphant return for both Rockets and Jane’s, celebrating their legacies and proving they still have what it takes to captivate audiences. Fans left the venue buzzing with excitement, eagerly anticipating the next opportunity to see these alt-rock legends live.