On sultry Summer nights we would cycle in, and prop our bikes at the end of the lane. On dark Winter evenings, we would pile into our housemate’s little white van, and park it in the grounds of the nearby church. It was our reward at the end of a day of study: jazz and cognac! We would squeeze in the doorway and walk up several stairs into the tiny jazz club that was then Bennetts Lane. Drink orders were taken and then a hush fell over the room as a trumpet rang out, pushing away the textbooks. The room was small and if you talked, you would receive a glare and a “Shhhhh!”
There was a jam at Bennetts Lane that I regret missing in October 2003. A musician who wanted somewhere intimate for a pre-show warm up so he dropped in. I’m referring to Prince. It is that sort of place. Harry Connick Jnr has also played there. I have listened to some very smooth songsters at Bennetts Lane over the years, including Katie Noonan, Michelle Nicole, and Alison Wedding.
Bennetts Lane has won awards for Australia’s best jazz club a number of times. It has now moved a few doors to the end of the lane, and can seat over 100. However, it is still a place for serious jazz fans and you will get a “Shhhh!” if you talk while musos are on stage.
Gigs usually start at 9.00pm on weeknights and 9.30pm, on weekends. Bennetts Lane opens at 8.30pm every night. Cover charges are reasonable, often around $15, and tickets can be bought at the door. There is a bar there, but very little in the way of food. It’s all about the music!
