Tonight sees the launch of debut recording by 2010 Freedman Fellowship winner and nationally acclaimed guitarist, Benjamin Hauptmann. Featuring some of Australia’s finest exponents of the Jazz idiom, the band includes Melbourne-based artists Chris Hale, Damien Slingsby and Julian Banks as well as locals James and Zoe Hauptmann, drummer Evan Mannell.  Known for his part in groups such as The Translators, The Alcohotlicks and The 10 Guitar Project, Ben's playing is world-class.

The funds awarded to Ben from the Fellowship enabled him to spend an extended period of time in the studio to capture a complete vision of his musical world. The artwork for the album was created specifically for a vinyl release by Rick Godfrey using the music recorded as his first point of inspiration. 

“Beautiful music with a surprise around every corner” - Richard Letts, Music Council of Australia

"This is a very personal and mature voice, revealed both in his playing and his musical vision for his ensemble" - Phil Slater (former Freedman fellow)

"Its quite simply gorgeous music; full of life, ideas, depth, beauty & integrity" - Steve Hunter (Composer/Bassist)

"Lavishly produced, Hauptmann's music is as sparkling as the night sky using a breadth of global reference points producing strikingly original effects."
Peter Wockner (jazzandbeyond.com.au)

Ben Hauptmann (guitar, Melb)
Damien Slingsby (piano, Melb)
Chris Hale (electric bass, Melb)
Gian Slater (voice, Melb)
Julian Banks (saxophone, Melb)
Zoe Hauptmann (bass)
James Hauptmann (bass)
Evan Mannell (drums)

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