Melbourne based pianist Sam Keevers is a Freedman Fellowship finalist, ARIA nominee and founder of the Latin Jazz group Los Cabrones. His quintet brings together Jamie Oehlers on saxophone, bass player Brett Hirst, the legendary Bernie McGann on alto sax and drummer Simon Baker.
Mark Isaacs is an extremely versatile musician who is also widely known for his work as a concert composer and classical pianist. He has collaborated with some of the most esteemed figures in international jazz including drummer Roy Haynes, bassist Dave Holland, trumpeter Kenny Wheeler and drummer Adam Nussbaum. Jazz:NOW sees him perform a rare solo set.
Regaled as one of the most highly regarded pianists at the sharp end of contemporary jazz for the past two decades, Marilyn Crispell discovered jazz through the music of John Coltrane and Cecil Taylor. She has worked with such legendary names as bassists Reggie Workman, Gary Peacock and Peter Kowald, drummer Paul Motian, violinist Billy Bang and clarinettist Don Byron. In Sydney Crispell will be joined by Australians Lloyd Swanton on bass and Simon Barker on drums.
Trumpeter Andy Fiddes is a master of the piano-less format, with interaction and conversation the crux of his compositions. Known for his AC/DC inspired quartet Livewire, here he will be joined by drummer Dave Goodman and bass player Ben Waples. This trio provides a dynamic platform for the group to breathe, bite and soothe.