Jess Hitchcock is taking her trio to Brisbane/Meanjin to celebrate the release of her new album, Unbreakable. You might've seen Jess singing with Paul Kelly who has described her on stage as his 'secret weapon'. "The young Indigenous singer (who) is poised on the edge of something big" (JB Hi-Fi Music Reviews) is coming armed with her own music and incredible musicians. The enigmatic Monique Clare will be starting off this special Sunday evening.

Jess is a Melbourne-based Indigenous singer-songwriter who has stirred the Australian music and performing arts scene as a genre-defying force. Her powerful voice and knack for storytelling has seen her shine across pop, country, folk, opera and music theatre, sharing the stage and studio with some of Australia's favourites.

One of Jess's most notable collaborations is with legendary Australian singer-songwriter Paul Kelly. Together they performed and recorded Paul's song, ‘Everyday My Mother’s Voice’, earning standing ovations across the nation. You can occasionally find Jess in Paul's band on vocals and percussion. Jess has also collaborated with Archie Roach, Tina Arena and Kate Miller-Heidke.

Jess's much anticipated album, ‘Unbreakable’, was released mid 2023 and reached #4 in the AIR charts. Her original material is equal parts dramatic as it is playful, always showcasing her vocal prowess. Unbreakable's first single, 'I Don't Have The Heart', was described by The Music as "an arena sized pop ballad".

When Jess is not on stage with her own band, or joining forces with Australian music legends, Jess lends her mezzo-soprano vocals to select performing arts companies, including MSO, SSO, Bangarra Dance Theatre, Victorian Opera and Opera Queensland.

Born with heritage from the Torres Strait Islands and Papua New Guinea, Jess's artistic diversity and adroitness are seldom seen in someone as young as her. The way she navigates her creative path is a rare find and nothing short of inspirational.

"A singer at the peak of her game travelling across musical theatre and opera, country and folk, jazz and pop" - ArtsHub
"The young Indigenous singer is poised on the edge of something big" - JB Hi-Fi Music Reviews
"One of the country's most competent, versatile performers." - Scenestr Magazine

Monique Clare, a talent whose cello and vocals weave together a stunning tapestry of indie-folk and chamber pop. With a background steeped in musical tradition and inspiration from a wide array of icons, Monique delves into the universal human emotions of love and loss. Her stage presence, enriched by years of international touring and collaboration with artists such as Kate Miller-Heidke and Eminem, is simultaneously unguarded and commanding. Her performances are an exhilarating blend of adventure and catharsis, marked by her fearless pursuits, whether teaching cello in Afghanistan or orchestrating sunrise concerts on mountainsides.

From performing on the renowned stages of the Melbourne Cricket Ground to the Orkney Folk Festival, Monique's musical path is distinguished by her versatility as a session musician. The landmark year of 2021 saw her representing Australia at the World Expo in Dubai, engaging in global collaborations, and releasing her acclaimed debut album 'Sight,' which earned a prominent spot on the AIR independent charts. Monique's music is an invitation to courage and vulnerability, crafting an unforgettable experience that resonates deeply with all who hear it.

“There's a depth of not just sonic interest, but personality, that by using her cello accentuates both Monique's musical style and her persona.”

- Scenestr Magazine

“Monique takes her years of music training and her brilliantly quick and creative mind and delivers a performance that is stunning to fans of any music genre. Her songs are intimate and soaring - both sonically and lyrically, and her stage presence is pure joy".

- Matt Smith, Folk Alliance International president

“Monique Clare captivated her audience at The Black Malabar with her raw talent and inescapably honest songwriting”

-Zac Perrington, The Black Malabar

Andy Martin is an award-winning singer-songwriter from Cairns that transcends genres; effortlessly blending rock, pop, folk, and indie influences in his songwriting. Now residing in Brisbane, the 25-year-old has made a mark not only in Australia, but across the globe. Already receiving praise from international tastemakers including Triple J, Music Feeds, MTV and CLASH magazine, Martin is likely to emerge as a household name amongst those with a disposition for earnest & honest creations.

Andy's energetic live show has seen him sell out headline shows across the country, perform on festival stages, and jump on main support duties for artists including: 10cc, Kingswood, Alex Lahey, Shannen James, Shag Rock, and Ash!

The 25-year-old multi-instrumentalist left his hometown of Cairns when he was just 17 to study under the great James Morrison at his Mt Gambier Jazz Academy when James discovered Andy performing in the remote community of Yarrabah. From performing trumpet with internationally acclaimed brass bands to playing leads in various musicals, Andy’s musical journey has been quite unorthodox.

Fresh off the back of his debut album release in late 2022, Andy has been knuckling in the studio with producer Aidan Hogg (G Flip , Hope D, Jaguar Jonze) crafting his best work to date. With releases set for mid-late 2023, Andy is not slowing down.