The Teskey Brothers headline an incredible day of soul, funk, jazz and blues to kick off the 2026 Melbourne International Jazz Festival, joined on the line-up by towering architect of funk, Fred Wesley & the New JBs and ARIA-winning vocalist Emily Wurramara.
Few bands summon the spirit of classic soul in the modern era with the authenticity of The Teskey Brothers. Over the past two decades, the six time ARIA winners have forged a sound that has catapulted them to remarkable heights – from sold-out worldwide tours and appearances at iconic festivals like Glastonbury and Montreux Jazz, to performances on Jimmy Kimmel Live and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.
Marking ten years since their breakthrough debut album Half Mile Harvest, The Teskeys return to the Bowl to honour the record that changed everything. Steeped in influence from Otis Redding, Sam Cooke, Donny Hathaway and the deep blues of another era, Half Mile Harvest captured the raw power of a band on the rise. A decade later, it remains a modern Australian classic – and will be performed in full, alongside fan favourites that will carry audiences through to sundown.
Joining them is legendary trombonist Fred Wesley who didn't just play funk – he defined it. From his groundbreaking work as James Brown’s musical director to his pivotal role in George Clinton’s Parliament-Funkadelic and collaborations with icons like Ray Charles, Count Basie and Van Morrison, Wesley’s legacy runs through the very core of funk, soul and R&B. Backed by the powerhouse New JBs, expect a funk-fuelled house party from the man behind it all.
Completing the epic lineup for this year's Jazz at the Bowl is 2024 ARIA Award winner and 2025 NIMAs Artist of the Year, Emily Wurramara – lighting up the Bowl stage with a set of soulful folk and blues accompanied by her stellar band.