A musically impeccable journey through a stellar jazz career
Presented by Vince Jones
Reviewed 18 June 2026
For the past 50 years one name has dominated the jazz scene in Australia: Vince Jones. Since his debut album Watch What Happens in 1982 he has helped shape Australian music through his songwriting, singing, and trumpet-playing. Compared to Chet Baker early in his career, he swiftly grew into a sound that is unmistakably his own.
For many years now he has played with an ensemble of fine musicians, which joined him in Adelaide for his celebratory gig. The band comprised Matt McMann on piano, James Muller on guitar, John Mackey on tenor sax, Ben VanderWal on drums, Ben Robertson on bass, and Ray Pereira on percussion. Jones himself, as well as providing vocals, played flugelhorn.
Over an hour and a half, Jones and the band regaled the adoring audience with songs from their many albums over five decades. Opening with his composition Blue, winner of an APRA award, the music continued into a set of mostly originals including: Trustworthy Sweethearts; Rainbow Cake; America, We Trusted You; and The Nature of Power. This showcase really brought home Jones’s talent as a songwriter. Australia’s biggest-selling jazz album is still Come in Spinner, which Jones recorded with Grace Knight. Mood Indigo was the only concession to the standards, along with closing number Two Sleepy People.
With his signature laid-back style and easy-going persona, Jones still knows how to deliver a show, despite a persistent cough which he managed to sing through. It would have been nice if he’d thrown in some of the other covers he is known for, such as Van Morrison, but there is always next time.
Along with his tight band of fine musicians, Jones showed us why he is still the maverick; still the troubadour; still the keeper of the jazz flame in Australia.
Reviewed by Tracey Korsten
Photo credit: Claudio Raschella
Venue: Dunstan Playhouse
Season: Finished
