The Vampires

Now more than two decades into their journey, The Vampires remain one of Australia’s most distinctive and acclaimed ensembles. The ARIA Award-winning group has carved out a unique place in the international jazz scene, melding intertwining saxophone and trumpet lines with hypnotic grooves and genre-defying textures. Their sound is instantly recognisable: immersive, exploratory, and always pushing boundaries. Critics have hailed their music as “phenomenal” (Downbeat), “a masterpiece” (The Australian), and “seductive, genre-hopping creativity” (The Guardian UK). Deeply rooted in the expansive landscapes of Australia yet drawing from a global palette, The Vampires’ music merges composed and improvised parts seamlessly, creating a hypnotic flow that captivates audiences. With appearances at leading festivals and venues including A Love Supreme (UK), Enjoy Jazz (Germany), and every major Australian jazz festival, the band continues to expand its horizons while celebrating a remarkable legacy of innovation. Their celebrated collaborations include projects with The Necks’ Chris Abrahams (Nightjar, ARIA Award for Best Jazz Album), guitarist Lionel Loueke (The Vampires Meet Lionel Loueke, shortlisted for the Australian Music Prize), trombonist Shannon Barnett (South Coasting, Chellowdene, Garfish), and percussionist Fabian Hevia, among others.