Dave Gleeson is a rock legend whose powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence have left an indelible mark on the Australian music scene. Born with an innate passion for rock and roll,
Gleeson rose to prominence as a founding member of the renowned band The Screaming Jets.
With their energetic performances and hard-hitting sound, The Screaming Jets became a force to be reckoned with, delivering hit after hit that resonated with fans across the country.
In addition to his success with The Screaming Jets, Gleeson later stepped into the role of frontman for another iconic Australian band, The Angels. With his distinctive voice
and boundless stage presence, he brought a fresh energy to The Angels' already legendary catalogue of songs, captivating audiences with his electrifying performances.
Gleeson's tenure with The Angels solidified his reputation as one of Australia's s most dynamic
and versatile rock vocalists.
Beyond his contributions to the stage, Gleeson has also made his mark in the broadcasting world.
Hosting the popular radio show 'Dave Gleeson Nights' on the Triple M Network, he has become a
familiar voice to rock enthusiasts across the country. With his extensive knowledge of music,
engaging personality, and infectious enthusiasm, Gleeson has forged a special connection with his listeners, sharing stories, interviews, and, of course, playing great rock tracks.
Throughout his career, Dave Gleeson has remained a beloved figure in the Australian rock landscape, inspiring generations of fans with his raw talent and unwavering dedication to the music he loves. Whether belting out anthems on stage or entertaining listeners through the airwaves, Gleeson continues to leave an indelible impression as a true rock icon.
Born in New York City, Irwin Thomas (Jack Jones) arrived in Australia as a ten year old. Even as a youngster, Irwin began showing an incredible talent with his guitar playing. At fourteen Irwin was already playing professionally. At the same time, he was earning a reputation as a very accomplished and well respected studio musician.
After heading back to the United States to further study his craft, Irwin eventually returned to Australia and joined the successful 90’s band ‘Southern Sons’ as lead singer/guitarist. Three Albums, Multi Platinum Sales and a string of hits such as “Heart In Danger”, “Always & Ever”, “Hold Me In Your Arms”,”Waiting For That Train”, “I Can’t Wait Any Longer”, “Lead Me To Water”, “You Were There”, Don’t Tell Me What’s Right (Feat Colin Hay’Men At Work’) & “Trust In Me”.His vocal ability was highly praised by both fans and musical peers alike... He has not only enjoyed success in Australia, but in Asia, Canada, Germany, & throughout Europe.
Confirming he is a major talent worthy of recognition. His touring and recording credits are equally as impressive. Working as singer/ guitarist with Multi Platinum Artists such as: Guy Sabastian, John Farnham, Glen Shorrock (Little River Band), Tina Arena, Tommy Emmanuel, Rick Price, Merryl Bainbridge, Graham Goble (Little River Band), RichardClapton, Garry Beers (INXS), Dweezil Zappa, Ahmet Zappa, Jeff Jacobs (Foriener), Schuyler Deale (Michael Bolton, Billy Joel), Crystal Talefiero (Billy Joel), Joe Travers (Billy Idol, ZappaPlaysZappa), Deb Byrne, Stoolz Roachman & the Idiot Sevilles, Renee Geyer, Bachelor Girl, Anthony Warlow, DeanGuyer, Daniel Bedingfield, Jon Stevens, Ian Moss, Doug Parkinson, Jeff Martin (The Tea Party), Mark Seymour (Hunters & Collectors), Jon Toogood (Shihad), John Waters, Dean McGrath (Hungry Kids of Hungry), Tim Morrison (Trial Kennedy), ROACHFORD and countless others.
Any examination of The Black Sorrows comes down to one person, Joe Camilleri front-man and the brains behind the band. Awarded “living legend” status by Rolling Stone, Joe’s career spans an astonishing 50+ years. As a singer, songwriter, saxophonist and producer Joe Camilleri is considered one of the most genuinely talented figures in Australian music still at the top of his game.
Songs such as So Young, Hit And Run, Shape I’m In, Hold On To Me, Harley and Rose, Chained To The Wheel , Never Let Me Go and the Chosen Ones have become radio staples. As leader of two of Australia’s most successful bands, Jo Jo Zep and The Falcons and The Black Sorrows, Joe’s music has become part of Australian music culture. Joe was inducted into the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) Hall of Fame in 2007. Over the years other greats have admired Camilleri’s songwriting. Elvis Costello and John Denver are just two who have recorded cover versions of Joe’s music.
Camilleri launched The Black Sorrows, a loose band of like-minded musicians, in 1984 following the demise of his seminal band Jo Jo Zep and The Falcons the year before. From humble beginnings playing inner-city cafes around Melbourne and selling albums from the boot of a car, Camilleri transformed The Black Sorrows into one of the most sophisticated ensembles in the country. The independently released album Dear Children, represented a turning point once CBS/Sony stepped in with a world-wide deal. When radio picked up the classic track, Mystified, The Black Sorrows really took flight releasing multi-platinum sellers Hold On To Me, Harley & Rose and The Chosen Ones. The Black Sorrows have won the ARIA for Best Band, played sell-out shows across Europe and sold more than two million albums worldwide.
The Black Sorrows still average 150 shows a year and since 2014 have included Europe on their touring schedule. In keeping with Joe’s penchant for continually moving forward, the newest version of The Black Sorrows is a formidable one – Claude Carranza (guitar/vocals), Mark Gray (bass/vocals), James Black (keyboards/vocals) and Tony Floyd (drums)
Rai grew up in Sydney, Australia. His mother was a classical piano teacher, and his father was a language teacher who played bass and guitar in local rock bands. Influenced by his parents, Rai developed an appreciation for a wide variety of music, including classical, rock, pop and jazz.
After high school, Rai was awarded a scholarship to the Sydney Conservatorium of Music where he studied jazz piano. But before he could finish the program, Rai came to the attention of Columbia Records in the US, and signed his first record deal.
Before his first album was released, however, Columbia Records experienced a management shake-up, and Rai was released from his contract. He returned to Australia and started Thirsty Merc, a rock band which over the next ten years would release three successful albums (one platinum, one double-platinum in Australia).
After the third album with his band, Rai decided to take a break to focus on writing music that incorporated jazz and his other early influences. In 2012, Rai came to Los Angeles and started writing and performing extensively, landing opening slots on tours with Bernhoft and Oh Land. His music soon attracted the attention of the LA music community including tastemakers like Chris Douridas of KCRW.Rai released three EPs under the moniker “Sun Rai,” as well as an album of live- in-the-studio recordings. But to avoid confusion with the artist Sun Ra, Rai began using his given name.
Rai continues to work with Thirsty Merc, and splits his time between Sydney and overseas touring with legendary guitarist Joe Satriani. Look for Rai to be releasing new music in the coming months! www.raithis.com/raithis/RaiThisMusic
