You Am I play Hi Fi Way

Few bands feel as authentically Australian as You Am I without leaning into the overdone ‘bloke-iness’ or the romanticised working-class mythology that so many others wrap themselves in. They don’t rely on a performative version of being “true blue ocka battlers.” Instead, they stay true to themselves, proving that Australian identity is far more layered and nuanced than tired stereotypes.

Yes, they’re a bunch of Aussie blokes—but not the kind you’d find pounding their chests at the footy. They’re the cheeky, poetic types who spin yarns in beer gardens and turn heartbreak into something beautiful. Their music still packs a punch—it’s got grit and grunt—but it’s also laced with vulnerability and a quiet confidence that comes from embracing all the parts of yourself.

Beyond the joy of seeing You Am I revisit songs from three decades ago, the night kicked off with a fresh burst of energy from Ballarat locals Nasal Spray, who delivered a ripping opening set. It wasn’t their first time gracing the stage at Her Maj; they made their debut during our 150th Birthday Party, and impressed us so much that we couldn’t wait to have them back.

Opening acts often play to half-empty rooms while punters linger at the bar, but not this time. The upstairs Long Room Bar was noticeably quiet because most of the crowd had already taken their seats, nodding along to Nasal Spray’s garage rock grooves. At moments, they felt like a stripped-back version of The Doors—less flamboyant and poetic, more grounded and earnest. Their sound was raw, confident, and unpretentious.

We’re thrilled to have Nasal Spray back at Her Maj, and who knows, maybe in 30 years we’ll be celebrating the anniversary of their second album with just as much excitement.