Jim Bob at The 1865, Southampton (19.3.2026) with Interrobang supporting.
First trip to The 1865 of 2026. Drawn by an invitation from my nephews to join them for Jim Bob. It’s just over six years since the only time I had seen the ex-Carter USM front man, then supporting The Wonder Stuff at Bournemouth O2. (Link to my blog.) His witty lyrics deserved another listen.
Supporting tonight are Interrobang. A backing tape started to accompany the guitarist and up stepped a man with ‘FREE GAZA’ on the back of his jacket, turning to show the Palestinian flag painted front with matching shirt.
Only later, as nephews Googled, did I realise I was watching Dunstan Bruce from Chumbawamba. The band are described as a trio, with Harry Hamer from Chumbawamba on drums and guitarist Stephen Griffin. Harry must have the night/tour off. The backing tape is loud but with a strong mid-80s beat sound.
Dunstan Bruce parades his protest lyrics, firmly suggesting that those who say keep politics out of music are ‘right wing w@nkers’. He certainly grabs and keeps the attention for the half hour set.
A break and Jim Bob and his band take the stage, each carrying a placard with their name on.
I have opted for a left hand wall to lean on – my knees continuing to hamper a standing gig. The view is good from the side and there’ a very well lit stage – no shadowy backlighting. It’s busy without being full and the upstairs side balcony is closed – it’s a while since I’ve seen that open.
I am armed with a new phone and much improved camera on it, it seems. About time. Changing phones – arrrgh – my visions of losing tickets, photos and the ability to live are at last evaporating. It’s no longer that obvious which is the phone shot and which the pocket zoom.
For me, I don’t know the material enough to know which are the old Carter USM tunes – there are nine in the set apparently. The lyrics for all are clever and it’s good they are quite clear even with a full band. Let’s Get Tattoos is the first I recognise, followed by Danny From Nowhere, familiar from my pre-gig listening to both of Jim Bob’s 2025 LP releases.
Jim (James Morrison, now 65) remarks on Noel Gallagher’s recent ‘Brit Songwriter of the Year’ award, noting his lack of songs whereas Jim managed two albums. He jovially checks Noel isn’t likely to be in Southampton before calling him a c@#t, jovially, with a smile and a shrug.
With 14 albums since the six Carter USM releases, Jim Bob certainly has let the tunes and lyrics flow.
Jo’s Got Paper Cuts is a track that has stuck in my mind. I’ve been selecting that one a lot since the gig.
“Jo’s got papercuts
From reading reports about knives
Thinking of all the young lives
Made her feel ancient inside“
The Only Living Boy in New Cross is the Carter anthem awaited most I guess – it is by me anyway.
There’s solo section later in the set allowing even greater lyrical clarity and in that is the slow and sorry, Not My President Not My King – you can guess the tone.
A couple more Carter songs in the encore to complete the hour and half set – Johhny Cash and Bloodsport For All. Most of the audience are well versed devotees which makes for some loudly murmured accompaniment.
Another thoroughly good night out at The 1865.
Gigs with Ivan 