Vince Jones Quintet
Celebrate 50 years of Music!

Doors 6pm
Show 7pm

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

After a sold-out 2024 show, The Ellington Jazz Club is delighted to welcome back Australian jazz icon Vince Jones and his group for an unforgettable, musically rich and intimate night. A national treasure, multi-ARIA awarded Jones is one of the most celebrated voices in Australian music. For over five decades he has carved out a singular space in our musical landscape, blending cool jazz, soul, and sophisticated songwriting with a lyrical honesty that speaks straight to the heart. From his breakthrough in the early ’80s to creating the highest-selling Australian jazz album to date Come in Spinner, to performing at leading European and US festivals, Jones has remained true to an artistic vision that is as politically conscious as it is musically rich. Recognised as one of the country’s most influential artists for both his trumpeting and his deeply expressive vocals, he doesn’t just interpret songs — he inhabits them. With 25 albums to his name, he continues to set the benchmark for Australian jazz.

“We chose him because his music is different to typical jazz – It’s Hip Offbeat, Contemporary and Eclectic. You will go away from the concert feeling inspired…” Artistic Director, Riverfest NSW

Vince needs no introduction to any music lover. Celebrated for the beauty of his signature voice, there is no one like Vince Jones in concert or in person. The man has a quiet charisma that leaves audiences spellbound. He must be the world’s most laid-back singer—relaxed, cool, and unhurried—filling the lyrics with his obvious love of the songs. This special 50th Anniversary Show promises a nostalgic celebration of much-loved classics such as Trustworthy Little Sweethearts, Nature of Power, Rainbow Cake, and many others, including one or two rarely performed Come in Spinner tunes.

“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 and a Troubadour.” NME

As a man who thinks deeply about the state of the world, his passion for social consciousness shines through in his lyrics and life. Never shy about sharing his views on the human condition, world affairs and the environment, his thought provoking observations have you walking away inspired…you take home something to think about!

“I watch people’s faces; and sometimes it looks like strange things are happening in their souls when they listen.” VJ

Born in Glasgow, Vince and family came to live in Australia at 11 years old. Growing up in Wollongong, 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. He was smitten! Starting his journey at 20 as a bebop trumpeter playing the club circuit in Melbourne in the late 70’s and early 80’s, the young man had no idea that in just a few years his superb voice would touch the hearts and minds of many. 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 guy steeped in creativity and blessed with a sweet golden voice – it was natural to meld these together – so began the evolution of one of Australia’s great enduring influential Artists who inspires musicians and mentors up-coming Conservatorium students.

Particular about the musical company he keeps, Jones continues to enjoy playing with some of the best world class musicians at the top of their game:

Piano ~ Matt McMahon
Tenor Sax ~ Jamie Oehlers
Double Bassist ~ Karl Florrison
Drums ~ Ben Vanderwal

“A magical performance by Vince Jones, who now has one of the best in a long line of exceptional bands.” Sydney Morning Herald