DESCRIPTION
Dawn Is A Melody is the stunning debut album from Finn Rees, Tasmania-born and now a central figure in Melbourne's thriving jazz scene. Released on Mr Bongo, the record presents a rich, spiritual and cinematic jazz experience that draws influence from iconic artists such as Alice Coltrane, Herbie Hancock, and Arthur Verocai, while simultaneously forging a bold and contemporary path of its own.
Best known as a keys player with acts like 30/70 and Allysha Joy, and as one half of Close Counters, Rees takes a definitive turn here into deeper, more expressive territory. With the piano and lush arrangements as the emotional core, Dawn Is A Melody is a world unto itself—layered in harps, strings, brass and cosmic textures.
Thematically, the album reflects Rees' personal journey of growth and change, and his deep-rooted connection to Tasmania’s natural beauty. The compositions radiate optimism, transformation, and introspection. From the hopeful shimmer of opener “Looking Up” to the transcendent intimacy of “As It Passes,” Rees masterfully navigates dynamic tonal shifts while maintaining cohesion throughout.
The album features many of Melbourne’s finest musicians:
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Allysha Joy (vocals)
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Cheryl Durongpitikul (tenor sax)
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Audrey Powne (trumpet)
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Siwei Wong (harp)
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Lucky Pereira (drums)
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Blakely McLean Davies (bass)
All recorded at Rolling Stock Studios in Melbourne with engineering by Henry Jenkins, who brought a warm, analogue approach to the sessions with vintage mic setups that imbue the tracks with a live, timeless feel.
Critically acclaimed by Mojo (4/5) and Jazzwise, this is an essential listen for fans of modern spiritual jazz, imbued with soul, vision and a deep reverence for the genre’s roots.
TRACKLIST
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Looking Up
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Lagoon
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Horizons
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It’s Behind Me Now
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Expansion
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End Of The Line
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Crossing
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Ablaze
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Between Spaces
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As It Passes