“Jo Jo Zep brought soul to Oz rock and The Black Sorrows did it again” Rolling Stone Australia Jan 2017
Formed in Melbourne in 1984 by Joe Camilleri, The Black Sorrows continue to be one of Australia’s most enduring touring bands, earning the reputation as a dynamic live act and festival favourite. Their musicianship and energy appeals to music fans everywhere. On stage, frontman Joe Camilleri steers the band through an infectious interplay of solid grooves that mixes blues, soul, old school R&B and gospel, with flashes of jazz, country and Brill Building pop.
Recently awarded “Living Legend” status by Rolling Stone, Joe Camilleri has kicked a staggering number of goals during his 50+ years in music as a singer, songwriter, multi-talented musician and producer. Joe first came to prominence as leader of seminal 70’s band, Jo Jo Zep & The Falcons. Considered one of the most genuinely talented figures in Australian music, Joe was inducted into the ARIA Music Hall of Fame in 2007.
The Black Sorrows have a legion of loyal fans throughout Australia and Europe. There have been hit records and multi-platinum albums and relentless touring. Joe’s songwriting skills are much in demand with greats, Elvis Costello and John Denver having recorded versions of his songs.
Along with Joe Camilleri (vocals/guitar/sax/harp) the band boast a formidable lineup with Claude Carranza (guitar/vocals), Mark Gray (bass/vocals), John McAll (keyboards/vocals) and Tony Floyd (drums).
“Catching The Black Sorrows brand of raw, rootsy, hip-shaking rock’n’roll feels like discovering the best bar band in the world” The Dubai National
“…you know you’re in the presence of a real thumping, jangling, Mississippi-by-way-of-Melbourne rock n’ roll band” The Skinny Edinburgh
“Camilleri is an Aussie rock legend and one of this nation’s finest performers..the epitome of a hardworking entertainer who knows how to connect with his audience.” Sydney Morning Herald