Formed in 2023, MSG is a contemporary jazz sextet dedicated to the spirit of Hard Bop, Post-Bop, and Soul Jazz. Drawing inspiration from legendary artists such as Art Blakey, Wayne Shorter, Horace Silver, Freddie Hubbard, and the Blue Note tradition, the ensemble combines driving swing, rich ensemble writing, soulful grooves, and adventurous improvisation into a powerful modern jazz sound.
Led by trombonist, composer, and educator Mikael Strand, MSG was created as a vehicle for original composition, musical exploration, and high-energy live performance. The group reflects a deep respect for the jazz tradition while embracing a contemporary voice shaped by improvisation, storytelling, and collaboration. Since its formation, the group has developed a reputation for dynamic performances that balance intricate arrangements with spontaneous creativity and expressive interplay.
The sextet features an outstanding lineup of musicians from Brisbane’s thriving jazz scene: Carl Harvoe (trumpet), Dave Cox (saxophones), Jordy Stitt (piano), Isaac Worland (double bass), Chris Evans (drums), alongside Mikael Strand on Trombone. MSG’s performances move seamlessly between hard-swinging grooves, lyrical balladry, and fiery improvisation, offering audiences an engaging and immersive experience. With a sound rooted in tradition yet forward-looking in spirit, MSG continues to establish itself as an exciting emerging voice in contemporary Australian jazz.
Mikael Strand – trombone
Carl Harvoe – trumpet
Dave Cox – saxophone
Jordy Stitt – piano
Isaac Worland – bass
Chris Evans – drums
GIG DETAILS:
Thursday 14th May 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.