Plays: Voice
Styles: Mainstream/swing, Modern/contemporary, Latin Jazz
Many local and International audiences have experienced the unique jazz style and awesome sound of Perth Jazz Singer Marnie Kent.
Her mix of jazz originals and standards with a funky edge and her love of latin grooves make for an eclectic cross section of styles.
With her roots firmly in Jazz, it is easy to recognize her love of pop, blues, r’n'b and latin rhythms. Her sound is warm and rich, her style exciting and dynamic. Her experience, confidence and dynamic stage presence make her an enticing performer.
An experienced bandleader, Marnie has been groomed by the best. Working alongside Perth's world class musicians has moulded her unique style and seen her grow into one of Perth’s finest Jazz Vocalists.
Known for her collaborations with Grant Windsor and Freddie Grigson she has become well known for her knack of putting together the best line-ups in town.
Her latest combo “Ginger Blu Collective“ is a truly awesome band. Featuring Musicians Freddie Grigson, Des White, Chris Tarr, Carl Mackey, Mat Jodrell and Warren Harvey...with former players Sam Anning and Musical Director Grant Windsor now being based in London....Local and International Jazz Piano legend Don Gomes is currently performing with Ginger Blu. For more info on ‘Ginger Blu Collective’ check listing under Bands.
Marnie was educated at Perth Modern School studying classical and jazz saxophone for 5 years and went on to study jazz voice at the WA Conservatorium of Music.
During her study at The Conservatorium she participated in workshops with international jazz singers Sheila Jordan and Carmen Lundy and studied with local jazz musicians Helen Matthews, Freddie Grigson and Ray Walker.
Marnie then relocated to Melbourne to start her first band. For the past 12 years Marnie has played in Perth, Melbourne, Brisbane and the Gold Coast and to international audiences in Singapore, China and Japan.
She has performed at the Kiama Jazz festival (NSW), Wangaratta International Jazz Festival (VIC), Sanctuary Cove Festival of Jazz (QLD), River Festival (QLD) and Fremantle International Jazz Festival(WA).
Marnie Kent is developing an impressive fan base and ever increasing profile.
Her recent Live recording at the Leederville Hotel and former residency at the ‘Belgian Beer Cafe’ have provided great exposure for this upcoming artist.
You can see her performing regularly at the Subiaco Hotel on Saturdays or check gig listings for Ginger Blu on www.jazzwa.com , the Perth Jazz Society or Xpress magazine.
Marnie has shown her respect and admiration for the incredible caliber of WA’s local musicians: naming them “as good as any in the world. Truly world class.”
Her forthcoming album “Ginger Blu Collective” LIVE is due for release September 2004.
A Cross Genre Journey through jazz, the upcoming album features original songs by Marnie Kent and Grant Windsor, standards and blues classics. An eclectic, yet fiery mix.
The mood and repertoire reflect Marnie’s musical taste, delving into New Orleans, Blues and swing. Her scat solos add a contemporary jazz edge as she melds her vocals with the horns. With an awesome band, electric solos and a great vibe, this album will excite jazz lovers.
Recently embarking on another project, Marnie is about to release original nujazz and dance tracks from October 2004. A collaboration with Grant Windsor, the sound delves into nujazz, broken beats, r’n’b and beat poetry. Keep your ears out for this one.
Marnie Kent has performed in productions of ‘The Mikado’ and ‘Calamity Jane’ and with the following ensembles:
(WA) The WA Girls Choir, WA Youth Jazz Orchestra, Sister Moon, Saxchange, Divided Self, Hothouse, Lady Luck and The Jazzmen and Ginger Blu.
(QLD) Divalicious and The Lounge Lizards, Lady Luck and The Jazzmen, Horns From Mars (CHINA) Heavenly Playground (JAPAN) Blonde Venus.
Marnie Kent has supported Concerts featuring Kenny Burrell, Dale Barlow, Paul Grabowsky, Frank Bennett and Grace Knight and has played residencies in many of Perth’s venues for the past 10 years.
“I consider Marnie to be one of the few genuine singers with a truly creative edge. I have seen Marnie develop both professionally and artistically over recent years, her dedication to her craft is without question.”
Helen Matthews Vocalist, Jazz Administrator.
“One outstanding quality about Marnie is that she is audacious, and because of this, she is versatile. It is not uncommon for Marnie to be singing jazz one night and fronting her own funk soul unit the next week. Marnie will try anything. She personifies the the indelible Australian quality of: “avagoyamug”,, which means quite simply: “go for it”. We’ll all be hearing more about Marnie Kent.
Don Gomes
Jazz Pianist
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