Artists 2024

If there was a giant one hundred person capacity elevator lifting people way up past the sky, Casuarina Light Phenomenon, would be a nice band to have set up in there playing. Tegan Portener - vocals + guitar, George Bishop - vocals + guitar, Tucu - percussion, Josh Gorman - bass.
When conditions are right a vortex of light spirals in the branches of Casuarina trees

Chloe Kim is a prominent force in Australia's improvisational music scene. With solo performances at prestigious venues like the Sydney Opera House and significant festivals, Chloe's impact is profound. Her four solo drum albums, praised globally, showcase her versatility. As a dedicated lecturer at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music since 2021, Chloe shapes aspiring musicians with her expertise in jazz performance and solo drum set artistry.

Continental Robert Susz, an Australian blues legend recently inducted into the Sydney Blues Society Hall of Fame, boasts a storied career. His iconic hit 'Soul Kinda Feelin' with the Dynamic Hepnotics in 1985 remains a landmark. From leading the Mighty Reapers to a solo artist, Robert's blues journey is unparalleled. Don't miss the legend in action.

Curtis Eller, a banjo maestro and rock sensation, ignites stages with explosive live shows. With a childhood in the circus and a 20 year music career, Eller's performances promise unparalleled excitement. Brace yourself for his captivating blend of silent film aesthetics and raw rock energy, an unmissable experience under the big top!

DINGO, aka Brandon Dodd, an Australian singer/songwriter and record producer, celebrated for his diverse guitar mastery with Kasey Chambers. From electric Dirty Blues to poignant country tunes and alternative Rock riffs, Dingo's unique style captivates. With a decade of global stage presence, catch him live at the Sunday stages at the Surf Club and YVES.
Do not miss!

Dedicated to the world of music, Declan Kelly's 5th solo album, "Headlock," is a testament to his deep, soulful honesty and roots-inspired sound. Savour the soulful magic of his solo performance at Natural Necessity, and then witness Declan drumming brilliance with OYOBI elevating the excitement.
Influenced by collaborations with Bernard Fanning, Teskey Brothers, and Spearhead, his music promises an unforgettable journey.

Eric Dunan, a legendary figure, not only leads the Jazz Program at the Wollongong Conservatorium but has also been a mentor, nurturing numerous exceptional artists. Originally from San Francisco, he relocated to Australia in 2001.
A skilled musician, he regularly dazzles audiences with his trio, featuring former students Estaphane Malouf and Michael Dominis. Eric is a familiar voice on ABC Illawarra, where his passion for jazz shines.

Evening News, once Beatnik Collective, evolves with Dan Rock, Winton Findlay, Christy Wositzky-Jones, and Miles Henry. In a year, they've wowed at venues like The National Gallery of Victoria and Wonder Mountain Festival. The 'New World' EP, influenced by Melbourne's scene and legends like Squarepusher, promises a live-set vibe. Wormhole, born from a jam, showcases their improvisational brilliance.
Evening News: your go-to for an electrifying fusion of dance, jazz, and electronica.

Frank Sultana, an Australian contemporary blues virtuoso now residing in Kiama, is a musical force with a timeless allure. His music, steeped in pre-World War II mojo, boasts dark, dirty guitar tones complemented by a gritty, soulful voice that narrates the tales of characters and places. Since his 2011 debut album 'Blues from the Lost Motel,' Frank has authored a remarkable discography, accumulating 4 EPs and 9 albums, with 4 releases in the last 2.5 years.
In January 2023, Frank achieved a milestone by winning the solo/duo category at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, Tennessee, becoming only the third Australian in the event's 38-year history to do so. His victory was accompanied by the recording of his latest album, 'The Ghosts of Sun,' at the iconic Sun Studios. At the Kiama Jazz & Blues Festival, Frank, with his stellar house band, promises an immersive musical experience, featuring top-tier musicians and a fusion of blues that transcends.

Freshwater Crayfish is like a wild musical adventure that never fails to surprise and delight. Picture this: a band that thrives on the magic of improvisation, the power of collaboration, and the ever-evolving nature of music.
With their variations on groove-based jazz tunes, Freshwater Crayfish knows how to get your feet tapping and your head bobbing. It's like they have a secret recipe for creating infectious rhythms that you just can't resist.
When Freshwater Crayfish takes the stage, get ready for a musical journey like no other. They effortlessly blend different styles and ideas, creating a sonic landscape that's as unpredictable as it is captivating.

Don't miss the vibrant jazz of rising stars Funky Tom Andrews and Miles Bennett as they kick off KJBF. Well-known in the Sydney jazz scene, this dynamic duo is a must-see on the festival's opening night.
Catch their musical magic at various projects throughout the Festival weekend, with the delightful start at JJ's Indian Restaurant, a favourite spot for festival dining.

The Glider captures a period of travel, discovery, and reconnection between old friends. The result is a meditation on colour, texture and rhythm, with musical landscapes and electronic flourishes reminiscent of Jon Hassell and Brian Eno’s Fourth World, all grounded in a distinctly Australian celebration of togetherness.
"You find that a lot of jazz players in Australia practice out in the bush to get that sense of space in their playing. And that's really reflected here. It's a very particular kind of Australian music in the way that it's joyous and uplifting, as well as having a real elastic sensibility. I love the way this moves.” – KCRW (USA)
The Glider featuring: Nick Garbett - trumpet/electronics, Godriguez - guitar, Novak Manojlovik - keyboards/synthesizers, Rory Brown - bass, Finn Ryan - drums, George Bishop - percussion.

Godriguez, the alter-ego of guitarist Dave Rodriguez, mesmerises audiences, manipulating sound with a unique touch. As one of Australia's top hip hop producers, he's collaborated with jazz and hip hop giants. Renowned for glitchy, off-kilter beats, his eclectic soundscapes supported icons like Kendrick Lamar and Hiatus Kaiyote.
Don't miss his special solo slot at KJBF—an honour to have this sonic wizard captivating the audience.

Harley Coleman, the cool and dynamic musician from Port Macquarie, is quickly becoming a force in the vibrant Sydney creative music scene. A young and talented jazz/improvising guitarist and composer, he effortlessly navigates diverse genres.
Coleman's guitar prowess and innovative spirit define him as a rising star in the world of cool, contemporary music.

Perth-born singer-songwriter Harry Cooper, based in Eora, weaves a captivating sound exploring the complexities of modern life with a focus on introspective genre-bending intimacy. Drawing inspiration from Andy Shauf and Julia Jacklin, his lyricism resonates with the emotional spectrum.
Partnered with Hungarian talent Dorka Foster, influenced by Patti Smith and traditional Hungarian jazz, their duo creates a unique blend of storytelling and folk-infused melodies.

Eora/Sydney based neu jazz / electronic fusion collective HAZTET explore a cosmic vastitude of dense sonic realms, guided continuously by the rich, bountiful osmosis of improvised collaborative experimentation.
Profoundly inspired by the music of Mulatu Astatke, Kamaal Williams, Yussef Dayes, Roy Hargrove, Pharoah Sanders, and John Coltrane, audiences can expect vibrant jazz harmony, percussion driven Afro-infused dance grooves with layered ambient SFX soundscapes.

Lachlan Mills, our local virtuoso, has grown from festival stages to lead HEAPS GRASS, a vibrant trio with Ebony Tait (voice and piano) and Jack Rosenzweig (drums).
From watching him evolve, his playful guitar and effects now contribute to their distinctive sound. Together, they explore childhood, nostalgia, and nature, gearing up for a thrilling debut album in early 2024.

Horse Drawn Cadilac has been on quite the ride the last 6 months with 2 new "live" recordings - The Cadillac continues to evolve into a big band, with a palette of sounds from Chicago based blues, to raw Mississippi stomps, a healthy dose of original swampy country blues, and funk from those southern regions … a 9 piece on the night, including the Island Sushi horns!
If you love Treme, you'll love HDC!

Get ready to groove with the J.J Spence Band! Whether rocking it as a full band or going acoustic, their soulful sound, inspired by West African Folk, Afrobeat, and Desert Blues n' Roots, brings a joyful vibe.
We're thrilled to have them grace our stages!

Canberra's James Southwell has been performing his brand of electrifying blues all over the country for over a decade. His music comes from a deep love of the blues with heavy inspirational rock n roll influences, soulful vocals and great guitar chops.

Notorious roots and reggae troubadours based on Bundjalung lands, regional NSW, East Coast Australia. A collection of rebel folk songs, entwined in Caribbean grooves, laced with salty psychedelic-dub, and delivered via an ensemble that offers up flavours of afrobeat, soul, funk and dancehall.

Jesse Redwing has honed his chops in smoky juke joints all over the world for damn near two decades now. On top of touring Europe and the USA with the Jesse Redwing band, Jesse has supported such acts as Cedric Burnside, Jon Cleary, Cold Chisel, The Teskey Brothers and Ana Popovic.
A track off Jesse’s debut album "Crawlin’ Up the Walls" was featured on hit Netflix show “Shooter” He has released two original albums, Comin' on and Light My Way, as well as two live records Live and Lascivious. and Blues on the Mountain. His third studio album, produced by Stephen Mowat, is due for release later this year.
Jesse's honest, down-to-earth playing translates well whether he plays solo or with his smokin' hot band. He is guaranteed to fill your cup with his contemporary take on the timeless soulful sounds of the blues legends.

Immerse yourself in the dynamic blues fusion of John Wardle & Dynamite Bay at KJBF. Featuring John Wardle (Guitars/Vocals), Jeremy Sawkins (Bass), Rose Eilert (Keyboards), and Dylan Jones (Drums), this quartet has found their groove in the outdoor gig scene.
With a rich musical history, they promise a talent-packed, fun-filled performance of classic blues and roots grooves. Thrilled to host them at KJBF!

Joshua Batten is a modern-day troubadour, using music as his language to connect with his audience. Drawing on personal experience, his music provides perspective in a complex world. Based in Melbourne, Joshua's personal brand of Alternative Roots Rock is characterised by passionate vocals, accomplished guitar playing, layered arrangements and insightful lyrics.

Julian James has been around Melbourne’s live music scene since before he was allowed to drink in bars. The sound of his band ‘Julian James and The Moonshine State' mixes a love of moonshine-drinking finger picking country with the southern swamp wail of a back porch fiddle.
Julian has released four well-received albums to date, and a 2020 Chain award, all of which he’s road tested at some of the country's biggest festivals.

Drawing from folk, blues and gospel Karl S. Williams’ songs are steeped in the swamp water of the northern NSW cane country where he was raised, lending the distinct flavour of this land to all his work.
Paired in duo mode with Kiama’s own Sally Wiggins on drums makes for a tour de force of rhythm and blues.

Kingsley’s dulcet sound marries tones of earthiness with elements of soul, folk and blues - powered by honest and vulnerable lyrics derived from the experiences of his everyday.

The one-man band layers dance grooves with the help of a loop pedal, vintage drum machines and synthesizers. Influences from Jazz, House, Disco, Hip-hop, Dub, Afro-Beat and Funk are present; merging electronic dance beats and live instruments such as bass, guitar, bongos, sax and flute.
Lux creates an ethereal dance experience that takes you on a journey, strap your seatbelts on and enjoy the ride !!

Sydney's Mark Lee and the Aristocrats, led by actor/musician Mark Lee, craft neo-western tales of love and loss inspired by history, politics, and literature. Their eclectic arrangements span styles and eras, creating captivating narratives.
With devoted fans, they consistently fill rooms, delivering resonant performances that blend storytelling and light-hearted friendship.

Migret, the indie-electronica duo from Sydney, Australia, emerged in 2019, formed by the talented Argentinian couple Betsy and Fran. Their debut studio album, "Un monton de casas," released independently in 2019, sold out after a successful tour of their home country.
Now, building a mobile home, Migret is set to explore Australia, delivering intimate compositions with Betsy's emotive vocals, ambient synths, and minimalist sequences.

Fresh from the US, Blues & Roots maestro Mitch Grainger, a seasoned side-man and inventive harmonica player, graces our festival. With over 25 years of musical mastery, he blends traditional styles with a profound spirit.
Don't miss his captivating performance as he takes the stage with raw emotion and bluesy brilliance.

Nathan Beretta is a young blues guitarist and singer songwriter from the mid North coast town of Woolgoolga. Authentic, yet modern, and bringing an "all killer, no filler" approach to his playing, Nathan first made his mark on the Australian Blues scene with his award winning band Blue Eyes Cry in 2015, and since going solo has continued to be a favourite on the east coast blues scene.

Novak Manojlovic is a Sydney-based solo musician whose work reflects a fascination with contrasts—new and old, acoustic and electronic. From solo piano to orchestra, his compositions span electro-acoustic, classical, improvised, and contemporary genres.
Recognized with the Freedman Fellowship (Jazz) in 2019, Novak's modernistic approach captivates audiences.

Nut Butter, a vibrant 5-piece band hailing from Dharawal land, emerged during the pandemic with infectious grooves that'll get you moving! Their live performances are a rollercoaster of soul, blues, and funky beats, designed to break you out of your shell. Led by a captivating frontwoman, their music tells tales of love, desire, and the ups and downs of life.
Join the party – Nut Butter's here to make you feel and dance!

Olivia Coggan, an emerging singer-songwriter, channels coastal and folk influences into her music, exuding a mature authenticity beyond her years. Growing up on the road with her award-winning father, Darren Coggan, Olivia shares stages with industry favourites like Kasey Chambers and Matt Corby.
Her debut singles mark the start of a promising musical journey.

Oyobi takes audiences on polyrhythmic musical journeys using electronic machines, analog synths, and live instrumentation.

Their music is primal, raw, and prone to improvisation, with an unflinching streak of bending and breaking typical genre barriers. Mexican/Brazilian vocalist QVLN will join the party this year - get ready!!

From the talented and experienced Pete Thomas, a multi-genre musician and songwriter hailing from the Northern Illawarra, comes a not-to-be-missed performance.
Playing as a trio, his epic fusion of soulful melodies, rhythm, and groove guarantees a beautiful and unforgettable musical experience.

Photo of the Moon is a soulful indie-folk project blending folk, post-rock, and experimental pop with a hint of jazz. Their music creates a powerful and intimate experience that leaves audiences transformed.

Rhys Duursma, a songwriter capturing the essence of the Australian landscape, weaves timeless, honest, and vulnerable stories. His debut solo collection, 'Songs From Swan Street,' resonates with sonic influences reminiscent of Glen Hansard, Ryan Adams, and Jeffrey Martin. Available everywhere, it showcases his emotive storytelling and evocative musical style.

Bassist Sabine Tapia and guitarist Harley Coleman form an enchanting duo, blending their talents to craft a harmonious musical journey. Despite their youth, their innate chemistry and original jazz-folk compositions evoke the feeling of reuniting with an old friend.
Together, they skillfully paint vivid musical landscapes, showcasing a remarkable depth of artistry.

Salty, the lively local band, is set to ignite Terralong Street with their infectious original tunes. Infused with humour and relatable lyrics, their vibrant performances guarantee a good time, complete with a delightful little wriggle in the bum.
Emerging from the garage, Salty brings a fun and energetic atmosphere, inviting street-side revelry.

Sabine Tapia, the groovy bassist and occasional vocalist, unearthed on JJJ, teams up with rising jazz star Sarah Purdon. Their cool chemistry shines in original compositions, creating musical magic. Catch their captivating performance at Little Betty's on International Women's Day - an unmissable celebration of talent and collaboration.

Saxon Penn, an emerging artist, immerses in the rich tradition of oral storytelling and folk blues history. His performances weave a diverse fabric, encompassing American and British folk, Irish and Appalachian fiddle, banjo tunes, and contemporary interpretations.
Saxon walks the path of a passionate storyteller, connecting with audiences through his soulful and authentic musical journey.

Get ready for a fun and unforgettable experience with Seen Herbivore, a young and talented instrumental ensemble pushing boundaries! Blending jazz, afrobeat, and funk, they promise a unique fusion of groove, melody, and improvisation.
Don't miss the chance to say you saw them here first—get ready for an epic performance.

Skyline Sun, originally from Australia and now based in Berlin, is a nu-jazz project that brings a fresh and groove-focused approach to jazz and improvised music. Under this musical moniker resides the extraordinary talent of producer and multi-instrumentalist, Jarrah Dhyan. With his previous releases Skyline Sun has garnered significant attention from acclaimed platforms such as JazzFM UK, WorldWide FM, Twisted Soul, Kalab, Vibe Rating, and FIP Radio, among others.

Will there be guests making a surprise visit at the Fillmore's gig? DO NOT MISS THIS!

Hillary Geddes, Chloe Kim & Johnathan Zwartz : Sweet Tooth embraces the opportunity to showcase not only their musical prowess but also their commitment to championing diversity and inclusivity in the world of jazz. Through their performance, they hope to inspire and uplift, leaving an indelible mark on the Festival and the hearts of all who experience their extraordinary artistry.

The Condiments, a vibrant 10-piece folk fusion band, infuse swing, jazz, rock, and bohemian flavours into their eclectic sound. Born as a four-piece in 2020 in Milton, led by singer/songwriter Jacob Woods, they've grown globally while busking, gathering diverse talents. After Eastern European festival gigs, tap-dancing, accordion-wielding Alan Arefiev joined.
Jacob's storytelling, inspired by worldwide travels, invites listeners on an edge-of-the-seat journey, narrating tales of self-discovery and inspiration.
Get ready to dance and be immersed in The Condiments' musical odyssey!

Dive into the intriguing world of Sydney-based guitarist Jeremy Sawkins, a musical force since the late '70s.
As a composer and versatile collaborator, Jeremy shared stages with legends like Sting and created his own groups, including Jazz Organism and the Jeremy Sawkins Trio.
Explore his journey, blending innovation and talent in the vibrant Australian music scene.

The Specialties are a Sydney based jazz, blues and soul band that has just received 5 nominations from the Sydney Blues Society 2023 Blues Awards!
The band has been going for under a year and has performed at music festivals internationally and around the country.

Tom Harrington weaves tales inspired by the beauty of human connections and the world. Armed with an acoustic guitar, his raw storytelling captivates. Tom's live vocal looping crafts a larger-than-life sound, unseen in fellow folk artists. After a 2023 east-coast van tour, supporting Alivan Blu, and performances at renowned festivals, Tom's journey continues.
His debut in 2020 earned nods from Tones and I and Ziggy Alberts, followed by the 5-track EP 'Be There Soon' in 2022, expanding his organic fanbase across 100 countries.
Stay tuned for his upcoming releases in 2024.

Embark on a musical journey with the Next Gen Jazz artists from Wollongong Conservatorium's renowned jazz program at Kiama Jazz Festival.
From 10 am to 2 pm at Café De Rude, let the rhythmic waves of young talents serenade you against the backdrop of Black Beach.
Join us on Saturday night at 6 pm at La Petite Grand Stage for an electrifying collaboration between WollCon's jazz program and special guest artists, promising a smoking hot set of sizzling jazz and Latin jazz.

Don't miss this fusion of emerging talents and seasoned performers, presented by Wollongong Conservatorium in partnership with Laughter House Entertainment.
Thanks for coming WollCon - we love you!!