Tell us about your new single/ album/ tour?
Currently working on the new pearlys shells album ( our 8th) with Yvette Johansson at Belmar records, Altona beach, Melb Australia
What’s your favourite work at this point in time? (your own or your group’s work)
CW Stonekings new album “Gon’ Boogaloo” is on extreme high rotation at our place.
Tell us a quick, on the road or studio, anecdote.
What happens on the road stays on the road, old jungle saying.
What, or who, inspires you?
Melbourne’s rich music scene inspires me
Which song do you wish you wrote?
“Somewhere over the rainbow” by Harold Arlen
How would you describe your sound in food form and why?
Chilli Gumbo – Hot, tasty, cheap
What’s next for you?
Pearly’s playing Ray Charles at MEMO Music Hall on Friday 20 May
What’s your scene?
Melbourne Roots music mafia
About the Pearly Shells
Over more than 15 years, The Pearly Shells have gained a reputation as Melbourne’s premier Jazz/Swing/RnB band with a classic style and look reminiscent of the Golden Age of Basie, Goodman, Ellington and Brother Ray Charles.
Famous for their Swingin’ back beat sound and Hollywood style, luminescent clam-shell stands, The Pearlys have been providing atmospheric sound tracks and irresistible dance grooves in bars, clubs, festivals and dancehalls as well as at parties, receptions and other “doos” uncountable.
With their enormous repertoire and variety of band sizes, The Pearly Shells pride themselves on striking the right tone for any musical situation.
The flagship line-up is The Pearly Shells Swing Orchestra , the ten Piece “Little big band” comprising 3 saxes, 2 trumpets, trombone, piano, double bass, guitar and drums and often joined by some of the cream of Melbourne’s jazz singing fraternity
The Pearly Shells Swing Orchestra features a stellar line-up of Melbourne Jazz players from across the generations, including in the horn section:
Adam Simmons, baritone; Dean Hilson and Rob Glaesemann tenor saxes; Bruce Sandell tenor/alto; Vinnie Bourke, Eamon McNelis and Paul Coyle trumpets; Wes Mowson trombone; Dai Jones guitar; Dave Allardice piano; Gav Gray drums and Steve Purcell double bass and vocals.