Episode 80: Charles Jenkins – Icecream Hands

Icecream Hands. Credit: Supplied

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It was just over 30 years ago that power pop outfit the Icecream Hands formed in Melbourne. 

With its origins lying in Adelaide group The Mad Turks From Istanbul in the '80s, the power pop sensibilities of The Mad Turks followed over to the Icecream Hands, which has featured founding songwriter, vocalist, and guitarist Charles Jenkins ever since.

Throughout their storied history, Jenkins and the Icecream Hands have carved out an impressively dedicated fanbase, have scored a few ARIA Award nominations, and are frequently met with critical acclaim, though commercial success has often eluded them.

In 2007, their album The Good China was followed by a hiatus of sorts where Jenkins would focus more on his solo work for a while, whether it be under his own name, or with The Zhivagos or The Amateur Historians.

In 2020, the Icecream Hands returned with their album No Weapon But Love, and fast-forward another five years and we've now received the exceptional Giant Fox Pineapple Tree. If you're a fan of music which is not just pleasurable to listen to, but features some of the best songwriting you'll hear this year, then this new album is one worth your time.

This week, I was lucky enough to be joined by Jenkins for a lovely chat where we discussed his musical history, the importance of good songwriting, and the Icecream Hands' journey to today.

Anyway, have a listen to the Icecream Hands' Giant Fox Pineapple Tree, buy a ticket to their upcoming shows, have a listen to our chat, and I’ll see you at the end of the episode for some general housekeeping.

Charles Jenkins’ Trusty Chords

Charles’ One Influential Artist

1. Nina Simone

Charles’ Three Impactful Albums (And One Honourable Mention)

1. The Beatles – The Beatles (1968)

2. The Replacements – Tim (1985)

3. XTC – Skylarking (1986)

4. Sam Cooke – Live At The Harlem Square Club, 1963 (1985)

Charles’ Five Trusty Songs (And Two Honourable Mention!)

1. Bob Dylan – 'It's Alright, Ma (I'm Only Bleeding)' (1965)

2. Judee Sill – 'The Kiss' (1973)

3. The Reels – 'Quasimodo's Dream' (1981)

4. Joni Mitchell – 'River' (1971)

5. Sam Cooke – 'A Change Is Gonna Come' (1964)

6. The Beat - 'Save It For Later' (1982)

7. Cold Chisel - 'Four Walls' (1980)