A singer-songwriter, pianist and creative based in Melbourne, Ari Jacob recently released his album, 'Son Called Moon', that's based around the musical (with the same title) he wrote.
The idea for a musical titled 'Son Called Moon' came to Ari in 2018. He had been struggling with sexuality and identity, immersing himself in spiritual studies such as yoga and Kabbalah.He wanted to write his personal story in a way that would feel intimate, but universal enough that everybody could see themselves in it. A story about searching for truth, yearning for freedom, battling desire and ultimately finding peace and clarity in human connection. The story of a son becoming a father.
For six years Ari wrote over twenty five songs and four scripts for 'Son Called Moon'. In 2023 Ari recorded of a collection of new songs, and this became the music for the story of Moon (played by Ari) and his relationship with Sun, the ever-present feminine.
The live musical adaptation of the album debuted last month, with a potential re-run in September 2025.
Who is Ari Jacob... I grew up in Melbourne, played piano since I was four. I was super into musical theatre when I was in high school, but kind of suppressed it when I went to uni 'cause I studied jazz and theatre was considered kinda lame.
When I moved to Tel Aviv in 2017 I started doing yoga and studying Kabbalah and caring a lot less about what other people think, so I returned to that first love of musicals. Among other albums and projects that I did, I started writing my original show 'Son Called Moon' in 2018 and it premiered in Melbourne at Chapel Off Chapel this year in June.
I sound like... I hope I sound a little like Lior, Josh Pyke, Bon Iver, John Martyn, Chris Martin, Jason Robert Brown, Duncan Sheik.
My first show was... Woah. I don't remember, but the first big one was at Hamer Hall in 2007. I was 12 🤷🏻♀️.
In the studio I usually... Take off my shirt and tie a scarf around my head.
If I could tour with anyone... Jacob Collier.
Social media is... Evolving us for better or for worse.
My favourite app at the moment is... There's a great app called Time In, which helps track the phase of the moon and where the energy of the moon sits each day in our bodies. Cool good chat.
To date, my most embarrassing moment was the time... I had a very unusual little peeing accident in my very new girlfriend's bed while she was in the shower.
Life on the road can be... Addictive and seductive.
If you'll have me on your bill, all I ask is that the rider contains... A quiet corner for meditating and endless sparkling water.
The most scary scenario I've found myself in, was... Driving to the airport in Tel Aviv with sirens blaring and missiles exploding overhead.
What celebrity/ famous person would you love to be spokesperson of you as an artist... Rick Rubin 'cause he's a massive legend.
If you had to live in a city abroad, where would you choose and why? Keen to have a stint in NYC 'cause things just happen there.
Three people you'd like to invite around for a dinner party... Maro and her two guitarists 'cause they genuinely look like the three sweetest humans on the planet and there would be mad jams after dinner.
If we were coming over to your place, what would you cook us? Simple, clean, fresh stuff. Lots of roasted potatoes, a big salad with only green stuff in it, maybe a nice piece of fish.
When it comes to pets are you a lover or hater of our furry friends? Not my thing, but peace for all living creatures.
No matter the expense, send me a case of... Ginger beer.
The last time I saw the inside of a gym was... Not that long ago, but as I approach 30 I am inching towards a dad bod and it's definitely time to go back.
What's the one chore you dislike the most? Changing sheets (maybe because of pee-related trauma).
Do you have any phobias... Really not a fan of cable cars. I literally have to close my eyes and focus so hard to not imagine us plummeting into oblivion. It's literally a box on a string.
Would you ever partake in a reality show? Would prefer to just have someone film my life as is I swear it's hectic.
If you could prank any of your friends, who's your target, and how are you bringing them down? Not into pranks. I prefer emotional surprises.
Best local takeaway joint for a midnight feed that will leave you with a food coma? Not so into big midnight feeds; I'm more of binging pretzels and dried fruit late at night kinda guy.
Which fictional character best describes your personality? Probably Moses from 'The Prince Of Egypt' 'cause he's kinda privileged and life is sweet but has a massive guilt complex.
Last show you binge-watched (and what kept you glued to the screen)? 'Eric'. I loved the way it merged surrealism and humour with a classic crime/ family drama.
