The Jam bar — Restaurant in Surat Thani Province

The Jam is an absolute institution on Koh Phangan, and has been for almost 20 years. İn fact much of the community that built up around it has spawned the businesses, restaurants and activity centres many enjoy on the island today.

There are no guarantees. The international attendees vary throughout the year. Regulars taking a break from international tours with renowned artists. Backpackers passing through just gaining their chops on the Ukelele. What you get on any given evening will be different each time. But with the adhesive provided by the house musicians, and regulars from all over the planet, it is very VERY rarely not fun.

I have seen a trickle of poor reviews in the last couple of days. They look to me like the cowardly actions of a group who simply don't get it... That's cool. There are other options (largely as a result of the Jam.... I know, I used to run one of them) - head to those instead. In fact the owner, Robert, actively encourages and supports that, and is friends with those venue owners.

If you're an old timer/visitor, you already know the importance of the Jam. If you're new, come join the family, meet outstanding musicians, and new friends from all over the planet, united in music 😀. You...

The Jam Bar is Koh Phangan and Koh Phangan is the Jam Bar. It is a cathedral to the local musicians, a Mecca for travelling artists, and the epicentre of creative talent on the island. An absolute must for anyone who enjoys live music and finds themselves in paradise.

But if I was to make a complaint, I'd say something like, "Didn't enjoy. House drummer overplayed almost every song. 1/10" Legitimate complaint.

Or perhaps, "This is place is weird. The local musicians seem to greet each other with some strange Eddie Vedder style "hhhhhhhhweeeerrrrrrrrweerrrr" chant. Seems cultish. Wouldn't recommend." Again, this would be a totally legitimate complaint.

What I wouldn't do, is take the time to go on Google and leave a review stating that the food was really bad and that it gave me food poisoning, for one, rather important reason. The jam bar doesn't serve food. If you are going to attempt to publicly defame a legendary, near 20-year-old institution, at least try and make your libel logical. Food for thought. But don't eat too much, wouldn't want anyone to get imaginary food poisoning...

We went on Thursday night and had an amazing time. The vibe was beautiful. The place seems to be family-owned and managed, and they invite people to come up and play. There were incredible musicians performing music in different languages, and the level was surprisingly high. At one point, the owner even asked if we wanted to join in, which we found hilarious! (We don’t play any instrument) Later, a group of young boys went up to play, and although they were clearly beginners, people cheered them on and a local trumpetist accompanied them. It was such a charming moment.

There was a brief tense situation when a word from the stage upset some people, but we were impressed by how calmly and elegantly the owners handled it, despite the hostility directed at him.

We’re so glad we didn’t miss this place. It’s truly one of the most special spots...