For the first time in over six years, due to constant touring in Europe and the United States, bassist and jazz musician Leigh Barker is touring with his group around Australia. Originally from Canberra and spending his formative years in Melbourne, Leigh has been a resident of Paris since 2016. He has always had his group out on the road, playing their unique mix of swing, blues, hot jazz and contemporary Australian compositions. Featured throughout the tour is award-winning vocalist and violinist Heather Stewart, who has also lived in Paris since 2016.

“The wonderfully inventive Leigh Barker … is known and admired worldwide for his elegant, gutty string bass playing and imaginative bands.” – Michael Steinman, Jazz Lives

“Heather Stewart is a remarkable vocalist ... Leigh Barker is certainly a name to look for on jazz party rosters.” – Joe Bebcoe, The Syncopated Times

Leigh and Heather will be joined by their longest running colleagues from the Melbourne jazz scene, who are also featured on the new double album: ‘PARIS / MELBOURNE’ – released online at the height of the pandemic. The album features both the Melbourne group and six bonus tracks from the new Paris line-up. The group plays the classic sounds of the golden eras of American jazz, presented in their uniquely Australian style, with a touch of the burgeoning 21st century renaissance of swing and hot jazz in Paris.

“...their music is honest always, raw when it feels like it, dainty otherwise, and breathing all the time. These recordings are magnificent. And unruly. And alive.” – Jazz Lives

Leigh Barker Band touring line-up: · Heather Stewart - vocals and violin · Eamon McNelis - trumpet and vocals · Matt Boden - piano · Sam Young - drums · Leigh Barker - bass and leader