HONK has blared into existence to explore 4 part harmonies and a dense, instrumental frontline. The concept is relatively simple: the harmonic intrigue and textural landscapes of a big band meets the more spacious and nimble nature of a smaller combo, providing more opportunity for soloists. HONK hopes to question convention, explore texture, and make beautiful music.
The inspiration initially came during a trip to NYC and a chance encounter with saxophonist Chris Byars, who himself leads a similar ensemble. The conversation quickly led to a lesson the following day and a “rabbit hole” of phenomenal recordings on the flight back home.
This evening will feature Hardbop and Bebop compositions from Chris Byars, Thad Jones, Walter Smith III, Jimmy Health, Gil Evans and more, with arrangements by Chris James. The original recordings inspired much of the music that will be performed and through the performance we hope to inspire the listening of these records. Now we look forward to sharing it with you.
Chris James – Alto Saxophone
Lachlan Alexander – Tenor Saxophone/Clarinet
Khaled Khan – Trombone
Andrew Garton – Bass Clarinet/Baritone Saxophone
Connor Perkins – Double Bass
Oscar Langton – Drum Kit
GIG DETAILS:
Thursday 11th June 2026
$20 Entry (+GST & BF)
Doors open from 7:30pm
Music starts at 8pm
ALL AGES (people under 18 need to be accompanied by a guardian)
LICENSED BAR
Head to our Humanitix to purchase limited seated tickets
How do I purchase a ticket?
Tickets are being sold through Humanitix. Purchase limited seated tickets here. Due to JMI Live being an intimate space, we have a maximum number of guests allowed in the venue. We highly recommend it is best to get in early before tickets sell out.
What is JMI Live?
JMI Live presents live jazz in Brisbane every Thursday night from 8pm and a jam session after each gig. JMI Live is renowned for its intimate setting, providing the best opportunity to listen to live jazz in Brisbane. Just like a jazz club in New York, this venue is the ideal location for great jazz music, acoustics and atmosphere.
Location
JMI Live is located at 10 Exhibition Street, Bowen Hills.
Live streaming
All JMI Live concerts are live streamed to JMI’s YouTube account. Subscribe to our YouTube channel to access our free live streams.
Ticket Refund Policy
If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms and are unable to attend after having purchased a ticket, please contact the JMI office (07 3216 1110 or email play@jazz.qld.edu.au) as soon as possible during business hours (10AM-4PM) to let us know you won’t be able to attend. A full refund will be given if we are contacted prior to a performance. Refunds will not be processed if we are contacted after the gig.