"A Soulful voice without any pretensions, a musician who sings from his Heart. and a repertoire that expresses the human condition. He is a Maverick, a Troubadour.” - NME

Benalla Art Gallery is delighted to welcome Australia’s legendary leading Jazz vocalist - the man with the voice as cool as a long G&T- Vince Jones!

A true legend of Australian jazz, multi-ARIA-award-winning vocalist, trumpeter and songwriter, Vince Jones is among the country’s most acclaimed and recognised stars. Celebrating 50 years in the business, the maverick artist has left an indelible mark on the Australian music landscape. From creating the highest-selling Australian jazz album of all time - Come in Spinner soundtrack - to performing at leading festivals across Europe and the US, Jones has cemented a reputation as a respected ambassador of Australian music, with 25 albums under his belt.

Audiences will enjoy his timeless tones, as he performs much loved original material such as Trustworthy Little Sweethearts, Nature of Power, Rainbow Cake and many more. Each melody transports the listener beyond a world of care and woes to the sweet meditation of music and song. His trademark voice is a tenor of light sweetness, flowing so easily through the music - this band swings, soothes and bathes you in warmth.

Please join us for an intimate evening of music with Australia's national treasure, accompanied by his world class band featuring longtime collaborator and Pianist Matt McMahon, Karl Dunnicliff (double bass), John Mackey (tenor sax) and James Hauptmann (drums).

“Jones’ effortless sublime voice and command of his beloved trumpet, will have you swooning under his captivating spell.” - Iain Shedden, The Australian

Don't miss this rare and very special opportunity to witness world-class musicians and jazz music at the Gallery, right here in Benalla.

When: Sunday 4 May, 6PM
Where: Ledger Gallery
Price: $75 members / $85 non-members

Numbers are limited. Payment and registration essential.

About the Artists:

Born in Glasgow, Vince and his family came to live in Australia when he was 11 years old. He grew up in Wollongong NSW, listening to his horn-playing father and singing mothers' collection of great jazz albums. The feel, style and essence of the music became a natural part of Vince’s world. Starting his jazz performance journey as a bebop trumpet player, Vince had no idea that in 10 years his superb voice would touch the hearts and minds of many listeners in Australia and beyond. At 20, Vince began playing the club circuit in Melbourne. He was drawn to R&B music – a genre in which the emotive force of the voice is matched by technical and improvising skills. To a young man steeped in creativity and blessed with a sweet golden voice – it was natural to meld these elements together and so began the evolution of one of Australia’s great vocalists. Jones has set the benchmark for Australian Jazz singers since his emergence in the jazz clubs of Melbourne in the late 70s and early 80s. His 22 album international career has never hesitated in its musical evolution – a career played in the moment. Working at a high level of excellence is this rare genre-defying artist who creates music without borders. A remarkable interpreter and composer of songs in a contemporary unique style, whilst remaining relevant and prolific as a songwriter, continuing to explore new musical terrains.

Vinces’ longevity in a temperamental Australian music industry is applauded by all, receiving many accolades, multiple awards and much recognition for his unique contribution to the Australian music industry. Jones continues to be invited to grace many stages Australia wide, headlining major arts festivals and frequently invited by conservatoriums around the country to mentor tomorrow's up and coming students.

Image: Will Hamilton Coates