In The Green Room: Jon Ann
Releasing killer alt-punk singles and sending off the Cranker in style is Jon Ann’s prerogative. Here, the four-piece talk us through their new track ‘Kings Cup’ and what to expect at their launch.
Image Evie Wonder
Congratulations on the release of your new single, ‘Kings Cup’. Tell us a bit about the song.
‘Kings Cup’ is our chaotic love letter to the Aussie house party – beer-soaked floors, loud music, drama in every room. It’s about showing up a bit broken, trying to forget your problems, and getting swept up in the madness. Christie actually wrote the first lines mid-party and finished them hoarse and half-hungover the next day. The whole thing came together fast, raw and loud, just like the night that inspired it. We wanted it to hit hard but still carry that vulnerable, reckless feeling. If you’re not here for a good time, this track’s not for you.
‘Kings Cup' is your first single since 2023. You described this comeback as ‘bigger, badder, and with more bite’. What does this mean to you?
With ‘Kings Cup’, we feel that we’ve levelled up – it’s louder, heavier and has more attitude than previous releases. It captures where we’re at and where we are heading. This track feels more fired up, more focused and undeniably Australian. We are also excited to share our first music video as a band to accompany the track. ‘Kings Cup’ also has a custom tattoo flash sheet, so our fans to get Jon Ann ink from our good friend Owen at Progression Tattoo.
You’re launching the single at the final Cranker Wednesday before they shut their doors for two years. How are you feeling about being a part of the venue’s send-off?
We’re honestly honoured – and a bit emotional – to be part of Cranker’s send-off. That stage has been a huge part of our journey and so many other bands in the scene. It’s where we cut our teeth, playing our first ever gig as a band at Cranker. It’s a special place, with the kind of crowd that gets what we do. To launch ‘Kings Cup’ while playing the final Cranker Wednesday before they move feels MASSIVE. We’re going all out – no holding back. It’s not just a single launch; it’s a farewell party for one of Adelaide’s most cherished venues. This will be HISTORIC.
What should we expect from your set?
A Jon Ann set is loud, tight and full of energy. It’s no-frills, all-heart pub punk. We’re big on crowd connection and love to see a mosh. We try to make our songs easy for a crowd to shout back, even if it’s their first time seeing us. Expect fast songs and no filler. We want everyone to wake up the next day with a sore neck from headbanging at the launch.
You’ve got LOLA and TV Therapy on board for the launch. What made them the right fit for this show?
LOLA are one of the best and biggest doing it right now in the Adelaide scene, real legends. We played their single launch at Cranker last year and it was one of our favourite shows. It only felt right to return the favour. TV Therapy are one of the most exciting female-fronted bands around, with unreal live energy. Their sound complements ours perfectly, especially on stage. It’s a stacked lineup and we couldn’t think of a better crew to help say goodbye to Cranker at Grenfell St until it opens again.
Any more releases planned for the coming months?
Absolutely – we’re always writing. We already have an EP’s worth of tracks ready to hit the studio with. 2025 is shaping up to be a huge year of recording for us. The next batch of tracks will carry the same raw energy and themes as ‘Kings Cup’ and our previous single ‘F With Me’. We have solidified our sound and are very comfortable and confident with it. We’re staying true to that gritty, feminist fire that fuels Jon Ann. There will be more music released this year for sure.
What’s next for Jon Ann in 2025?
2025 will be a big year. Following the success of ‘F With Me’, we're dropping ‘Kings Cup’ and working towards bigger projects and goals, such as interstate shows and the dream of making it over to our fans in Europe. We're deep into writing an EP, with a few singles to drop first. We will keep that feminist fire that defines Jon Ann burning.
Jon Ann plays the Crown and Anchor Hotel on Wednesday 9 July.
