Jack Botts & Ben Camden – Dalrymple Hotel 14/2/2025

If Vance Joy and Jack Johnson had a love child, it would probably sound like Jack Botts—laid-back, heartfelt, and effortlessly catchy. On Valentine’s Day, Botts took the stage, bringing his signature surfer-folk sound to a captivated crowd. Supported by the incredibly talented Ben Camden, the night was filled with good vibes, great music, and even better stories.

Camden kicked things off with a solid opening set, setting the tone for what would be an unforgettable evening. His sound was the perfect lead-in for Botts, and the two later shared the stage together, creating a dynamic energy that only comes from artists who genuinely enjoy making music together.

One of the undeniable crowd favourites was The Coffee Song, a track that had everyone singing along, as its upbeat rhythm and catchy chorus seemed to capture the essence of a carefree, sun-soaked day. Botts and Camden shared amusing stories about living out of their van while touring the country, adding a personal, almost intimate feel to the show. It was clear that these two artists were living the dream, making music and sharing experiences with audiences far and wide.

A true highlight of the night was the song All Day, which was already a fan favourite. Midway through, the track took an unexpected yet delightful turn, seamlessly transitioning into a cover of Pumped Up Kicks by Foster the People. Of course, being Valentine's Day, there was a special moment when Jack introduced Home to You. The track, which is about a breakup, took on an ironic twist given the date, but it was a perfect fit for the occasion, tugging at the heartstrings of everyone in the room.

If you ever get the chance to see Jack Botts live—especially with Ben Camden by his side—don’t hesitate. It’s the kind of show that leaves you with a smile on your face and a song stuck in your head long after the final note fades.