Melbourne Jazz Co-operative

Led by guitarist Melville, cleverhorse is a five-piece ensemble that cites influences from ambient to avant-garde, funk to folk, jazz to jam band. They will feature several songs from their 2007 album Goodnight, Mr. Monster. With plans to record a new album, they will also be performing recently composed material based on themes of friendship, parenthood, and zombie outbreaks. Joining Melville are Monty Mackenzie (alto sax), Gideon Brazil (tenor sax), Luke Hodgson (bass) and Dan Macdonald (drums).

“They have given a lot of thought to an overall sound, to an attractive surface, to listen ability as well as creativity or simply ‘getting it on’. It was seductive and euphoric. They are onto something. They are undoubtedly creative...A band to be watched.” - John Clare, 27/2/04

Respected pianist/composer Dr. Tony Gould is one of the most ‘formally’ recognised figures to work in the Australian jazz scene (although Gould refers to his music as "post-jazz"). Recently appointed to the position of Professor of Music at Monash University, this performance marks his receipt of the 2011 Australian Jazz ‘Bell’ Award in the Qantas Hall of Fame category. This award follows an Australia Council Fellowship over 2006/7, and a Don Banks Fellowship in 2009. To mark the unveiling of his portrait (and his recent birthday), he is joined by some of his favourite colleagues with Imogen Manins (cello), Tamara Murphy (bass), Tony Floyd (drums), Rob Burke (tenor sax) and Gian Slater (voice).

Recently returned from performing in Argentina, the ever-creative and versatile guitarist Stephen Magnusson (co-winner of the 2000 National Jazz Award) has been an in-demand sideman since moving back here in 2002 after several years in Switzerland. The unassuming Magnusson was overdue for the spotlight as leader when he recorded the solo album 14 Creatures (ABC Jazz) in 2008. In 2008 he also premiered this Trio, featuring Frank DiSario (bass) and Dave Beck (drums) to play mainly originals that incorporate an eclectic blend of jazz, folk, pop and free sounds.

James Annesley (soprano & tenor saxes), Hugh Stuckey (guitar), Tom Lee (bass) and Hugh Harvey (drums) aim to produce an unique style of contemporary jazz, which draws influence from serene folk music as well as hard-hitting rock. Annesley's compositions are rich in dynamic contrast and varied textures, with an emphasis on strong melodic themes. The open structures of the tunes allow for adventurous, freewheeling improvisations. Idle Hands do the Devil's Work, their all-original debut album received favourable reviews. www.jamesannesley.com

"At times the music sounds almost rhythmically symphonic, pulses like rock fusion, or slides into eastern modality, always expertly building tension, then often cutting quickly to tranquility as soprano sax floats over spreading chords" - John McBeath, The Australian

Debut
The End was formed in 2009 by the guitarist and composer Tim Willis shortly after he returned from living in France for three years. The End showcases some of Melbourne's most promising up-andcoming talent: Jon Crompton (alto sax), Gideon Brazil (tenor sax), Gareth Hill (electric bass), Nick Martyn (drums) and Willis (guitar). Their brand of jazz has a definite rock edge, following in the path that has been cut by trailblazers such as Kneebody, Human Feel, Alasnoaxis and Marc Ribot and The Rootless Cosmopolitans, but still maintains a unique, original flavor. Following their self titled debut album they have recently recorded their second album. www.timwillis.com

Brisbane/Sydney - Debut
The fiery and exuberant Brisbane composer/saxophonist Zac Hurren (tenor and soprano sax) arrived on the national scene with his 2007 debut album exordium (on JazzHead). His obvious potential came to fruition with his win in the 2010 National Jazz Saxophone Awards at Wangaratta. Currently he tours extensively with elixir (led by his wife and musical partner Katie Noonan), playing at festivals and major venues. However this will be his first performance in Melbourne with his own Trio since his win. He will be joined by the Sydney-based rhythm section of Phil Stack (bass) and Evan Mannell (drums) to form an explosive and exploratory trio.

"Their free flowing, spontaneous approach within each piece is what jazz music is all about. Bravo!!!!" - Joe Lovano