The Bondi Cigars emerged on the Sydney music scene in late 1989, initially carving a niche within the blues and R&B circuit. This vibrant scene, which had thrived since the 1960s, experienced a resurgence during the mid-1980s blues revival led by artists such as Robert Cray, Joe Louis Walker, and Stevie Ray Vaughan. While many bands from that era have faded into obscurity or undergone significant transformations, the Cigars have proven to be resilient survivors, maintaining their signature straightforward style and establishing themselves as a prominent force in Australian R&B.
The original lineup of the Cigars featured four experienced musicians, all seasoned performers from Sydney's inner-west blues venues. From their inception, as evidenced by their 1990 recordings, the Cigars exemplified the concept of a "no passengers" band—an efficient unit characterized by a soulful energy and a commitment to hard work. Renowned for their relentless touring schedule, the Cigars have consistently delivered tight, hard-driving, and grounded music, embodying the quintessential Australian bar band.
One key to the Cigars' longevity is the collaborative musical partnership between founding members Shane Pacey and Al Britton, who continue to co-lead the band. This partnership has contributed to the band's consistent sound over 17 years, despite various personnel changes and stylistic shifts. Shane Pacey has established himself as a powerful and convincing vocalist and a sharp, aggressive guitarist, influenced by the likes of Albert Collins and Joe Louis Walker. He is also a prolific songwriter, showcasing his sardonic and clever lyrical style throughout their discography.
Al Britton, on bass, adds a solid backbone to the rhythm section, having previously played with the Dynamic Hepnotics and the Foreday Riders. His organizational skills are notable, as acknowledged in the credits of the 1998 album Mercy. Together, these two key figures have maintained the Cigars' vigorous sound by often bringing in new talent from Sydney's vibrant R&B and roots scene.
The first two albums featured the original lineup, but following the departure of Les Karski and Ace Follington, the subsequent CD, Got The News, was released under the name Shane Pacey and the Cigars. This album introduced talented Adelaide musicians Clayton Doley on keyboards and Matt Morrison on drums, both of whom had connections to Robert Suez of Mighty Reapers fame. Produced by Jackie Orszaczky, the album's sound was further enhanced by the precise horn arrangements of Paul Panicci and Andrew Robson.
In 1995, the release of After Closing Time saw the addition of Mitch Grainger (guitar/harmonica) and Declan Kelly (drums), both of whom came from the up-and-coming Balmain R&B band The Beefs. While they have since moved on, they remain active in Sydney's roots and funk scene. The following album, Mercy, introduced drummer Andrew Vainouskas and guitarist/vocalist Eben Hale, who was humorously dubbed "the second-best left-handed guitarist in the band" by Shane; Eben remains a full-time member to this day. The only changes in the lineup since then have been on the drum stool, with Frank Corby and Joel Sutton filling those roles.
In 2004, the band released their much-anticipated seventh album, 12 Lies, which was acclaimed as their best work to date. The album showcased a blend of rhythmic rootsy grooves alongside elements of blues, soul, funk, and R&B, while also experimenting with alt-country and pop-rock influences. The reception from both fans and critics was overwhelmingly positive, resulting in the band winning Best Group, Best Album, and Best Producer at the 2004 Australian Blues Awards.
The Cigars' dedication to their craft has not gone unnoticed; their album Down In The Valley received a nomination for Best Blues & Roots Album at the 2003 ARIA Awards, while After Closing Time won Best Blues Album at the 1996 Lithgow Blues Festival. Additionally, two of their songs, "Lead Me Not Into Temptation" and "Intensive Care," were featured on the popular ABC Seachange album.
As is the case with many great bands, the Bondi Cigars exemplify the idea that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.
