My Brisbane: Beddy Rays Frontman Jack Van Issum on His Favourite Live Music Venues

Jack Van Issum – aka Jacko – is a proud Woppaburra man and the lead singer and guitarist of Brissie band Beddy Rays. The four-man-band met on a primary school oval in Redland Bay, quickly became mates and then began making music together after high school.

Their first single Sobercoaster was released in 2020. It racked up millions of streams and clocked in at number 57 on that year’s Hottest 100. The band’s debut album reached number 8 on the local charts and scored them an Aria nomination for Breakthrough Artist.

They ran through all the Aussie band milestones – Like a Version, Splendour, Falls and Spilt Milk – and now they’re back with a second album. Do What Ya Wanna will be released in April 2025. The album will include singles Stay The Same, Hold On and Red Lights and focus on themes of mateship and mental health.

“This album is us,” says Van Issum. “Our highs, our lows, and everything in between. Writing it was a way to make sense of all the craziness life throws at you, but it’s also about not taking yourself too seriously and enjoying the ride.”

Van Issum sat down with Broadsheet to chat about the Brisbane spirit, his favourite spot for late night bao and karaoke and what he misses when he’s away.

Tell us about yourself.
I’m Jacko, I like to write songs and play live rock concerts with my mates in Beddy Rays. I also fix fridges to keep the dream alive.

What’s your favourite thing about Brisbane?
I love that even though it’s a fairly big city, it still feels like a small town with a great community.

What’s a local spot you think is underrated?
The spot where I put my crab pots. And no, I’m not telling you where that is. Though here’s one I can tell you about: my favourite cafe in Brisbane is Blue Bear Coffeehouse in New Farm. They do the best karaage chicken and avo toasties.

What’s something you always miss about Brisbane when you’re away?
I miss the good weather, home-cooked meals and the Reddy Bay pub.

Do you have a favourite place to eat or drink after a show? A late-night spot?
Chicken of Rock or Nom Nom Bao in the Valley (they do good bao and dodgy karaoke).

What’s the best place to listen to live music or to perform in Brisbane?
The Triffid, Crowbar and The Outpost.

If Brisbane had a theme song, what would it be?
If you were going OG, you’d have to say Stranded by the Saints but for something a little more modern, Powderfinger’s My Happiness would be up there.

@beddyrays
@jacko.vi