Bruce Mathiske Announces Biggest Tour for My Life Release

On April 5, guitar legend Bruce Mathiske will release My Life, his 17th studio album.

As its name suggest, My Life is an autobiographical work which sees Bruce looking back on his highest of heights and darkest lows. The songs see him reflecting on his personal and professional life in his own unmistakable style.

It seems Bruce can’t wait to share these very personal songs with his fans, as he’s preparing to set out on his biggest national tour to date. He’ll play some incredibly cool venues in capital cities and regional centres around the country through April, May, and June. Tickets are on sale now for the following shows.

17 April 2013 – The Peacock Theatre, Hobart
18 April 2013 – The Earl Arts Centre, Launceston
19 April 2013 – The Studio @ Lighthouse Theatre, Warrnambool
20 April 2013 – Geelong Performing Arts Centre, Geelong
21 April 2013 – Chapel Off Chapel, Prahran
2 May 2013 – The Playhouse, Mittagong
3 May 2013 – Milton Theatre, Milton
4 May 2013 – The Clarendon Guesthouse, Katoomba
8 May 2013 – The Basement, Circular Quay
9 May 2013 – IPAC, Wollongong
10 May 2013 – Avoca Beach Picture Theatre, Avoca Beach
11 May 2013 – Newcastle Conservatorium Concert Hall, Newcastle
25 May 2013 – Zenith Theatre, Chatswood
15 June 2013 – Manning Entertainment Centre, Taree
19 June 2013 – Brisbane Powerhouse, New Farm
20 June 2013 – Nambour Civic Centre, Nambour
21 June 2013 – Gold Coast Arts Centre, Surfers Paradise
22 June 2013 – The Jetty Theatre, Coffs Harbour

Image used with permission from Annie + AJ Publicity

Jazz in the Vines @ Tyrell’s Winery, Pokolbin – 30 October 2010

When I’m unwell, it takes a lot for me to leave the comfort of home and venture out. But I found myself doing just that on Saturday when I took in the annual Jazz in the Vines festival. This is always a highlight of my yearly concert calendar, and I wasn’t going to let any virus hold me back.

Being sick made this a different kind of Jazz in the Vines for me. I couldn’t indulge in the all that brilliant wine, or dance up the front near as the stage as I usually do. But I could enjoy the music, and enjoy it I did.

Sadly it took me a bit longer to get out than it might have if I were well, and I missed the Silver Bell Quartet. But I’m so glad I arrived for the Adrian Cunningham Quartet. Led by the incredibly sexy and talented Adrian Cunningham, the quartet treated us to instrumental jazz gems. The set only became stronger when Steve Clisby joined them for several numbers. Their version of “God Bless The Child” was exquisite, and I also loved their swinging version of “Moondance.”

Somewhere around the end of their set the unseasonably summery weather started to get to me. It’s terrible to be sick when you’re supposed to be out having fun, but the gentle acoustic guitar strains of Bruce Mathiske were probably the best medicine for it. I must admit, I was a bit dizzy and faint to remember much of his set, but his version of “Classical Gas” was outstanding.

After getting plenty of water and some yummy calamari in me I started to feel a little better, just in time for James Morrison to take the stage. He’s always a Jazz in the Vines highlight, and this year was no exception. His exceptional talent and charisma just makes for a wonderful show. It was also kind of thrilling to see my new crush Adrian Cunningham taking his place in James’ band. While I was lapping up the instrumental stuff, the energy levels went up a notch when Doug Parkinson joined James. I can’t believe it’s taken me this long to see this Australian legend doing his thing; he really is a truly magnificent artist. My parents have been seeing him since the ’70s and swear that his voice is only getting better. I really don’t doubt it. Those reality TV show contestants could learn a thing or two about performing a cover version from Doug; whether he was encouraging us to get up and dance with some Blood Sweat and Tears or Joe Cocker numbers, or wowing us with a show stopping version of “Somewhere,” he was incredible.
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Kate Ceberano, James Morrison and More for Motown Inspired Jazz in the Vines

The line-up for Jazz in the Vines, one of my favorite music festivals, has been announced.

This year’s chilled out event will feature a veritable who’s who of Aussie talent, including Kate Ceberano, Doug Parkinson, festival regular James Morrison, and Bruce Mathiske.

The 2010 show will have a soul flavour to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Motown. But don’t think the festival has abandoned its jazz roots; we can expect both styles of music to feature prominently in this year’s set.

If you’ve always thought about going, why not make 2010 the year? Grab your picnic blanket and head to Tyrells Vineyard for one of the most chilled out, positive festivals on the music calendar. It all happens on October 30, and tickets are on sale now from the Jazz in the Vines website.

Image source: The Harbour Agency