We’ll strike your chord at Australia’s longest running Jazz Festival set on the country’s best beach this upcoming long weekend (29 September – 1 October, 2018).
The internationally acclaimed Manly Jazz is known worldwide for its beautiful location and the diversity of music it presents, from traditional New Orleans jazz to funk, Latin, fusion, blues, gospel, swing and roots.
Mayor Michael Regan said with over 100,000 people attending last year, it’s an unmissable event in Sydney’s social calendar.
“Were proud to bring Manly Jazz back to the beautiful shores of the Northern Beaches and connect people through music.
“Now in its 41st year, we’ll be showcasing young local musicians alongside professional national and international acts.
“Manly Jazz is first and foremost a music festival - a real celebration of sound, but it is also a celebration of Australia’s beach culture, good food, great times and especially the wonderful Northern Beaches vibe.
“Come down for one day, or come down for all as our extensive program will not leave you disappointed. Don’t miss out!” Mayor Regan said.
This family friendly event will have performances in multiple indoor and outdoor venues including major stages alongside the world famous Manly Beach.
This year’s headline acts include:
Carl Allen: Performing for over 30 years and over 200 recordings to his credit, the gifted Milwaukee-born, New York-based drummer, sideman, bandleader, entrepreneur, and educator, has a profound and soulful style.
Nina Ferro and Nic Jeffries: RESPECT. Honouring the Queen of Soul: Aretha Franklin's powerful, distinctive gospel-honed vocal style has influenced countless singers across multi-generations including Nina Ferro and Nic Jeffries. Accompanied by a killer band they will pay tribute to Aretha in what will be a 'no hold barred' celebration of the life of a woman who has influenced generations of singers and touched the lives of so many.
Back to Back: Newly reformed 80’s Jazz Fusion group Back to Back draw inspiration from The Brekcer Brothers, Dave Weckl, Chic Corea and other exponents of the jazz fusion style. The group combines funk, rock and rhythm and blues to build a diverse repertoire getting the audience going. All the original members are returning, led by experience trumpeter Ralph Pyl.
Alice Terry: Since leaving her small coastal town of Moruya, Terry has impressed her ever-growing audiences with her big voice and beautiful songs, and has deservedly earned the title of ‘Sydney’s first lady of blues’. She effortlessly combines the best parts of folk, jazz and blues, and creates this music which is both sexy and heart-breaking all at the same.
Veneno: Inspired by the music of bands such as Los Van Van and Irakere, Veneno found their path through the music of Cuba. The decision was made to find like-minded musicians, with the intention of forming a band dedicated to raising the standard of Afro-Latin music in Australia.
With a versatile mix of RNB, pop and soul, together with their domination of the Afro-Latin Sonero traditions, the band had found its unique and original voice.
Sam McNally Group with Diana Rouvas: Pianist/keyboard-player and recording artist Sam has gold standard credits like Stylus, Air Supply, Tommy Emmanuel, John Farnham and Doug Williams. His jazz/soul/funk is his most treasured style/genre, but his broad experience means he can “play anything”. He’s co-written songs for and with Richard Clapton, Louie Shelton and William Crighton.
While Diana Rouvas is best known for her appearance on season one of The Voice Australia - ranking 5th in the finals. Her performance was called “the best live performance in the history of reality TV!!” At 17, Diana joined the ARIA award-winning Tina Arena on backing vocals, touring France - performing to capacity crowds at the legendary Olympia Hall. She’s also had the privilege of recording her own songs with the legendary soul funk RUFUS" (Chaka Khan’s band).
For more information about the event and a full line up of performances visit northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au