JACK HOWARD & The Long Lost Brothers

THE 9.00 NEWS

Jack Howard — Tue Mar 02 10:12:11 +0000 2010

Hello out there, punters. Hope you're all well and looking forward to a glorious year of football and music. The Nightbirds have got a few shows just around the corner - Purepop Records in St.Kilda on Sunday March 21st and April 4th; then, a full show with horns, tables to sit at and very special guests on Saturday May 1st at Spenserslve at 419 Spencer St., Melbourne. I'll also be playing at Chaucer's on April 23rd with The Ambassadors of Love; and at Boogiefest on Sat. April 3rd with Rob Hirst's new band, The Break. Should be a big couple of months. I've also been in the process of writing lots of new music for 3 new CD's that I've got planned. More about that when I have a clue. See you soon, Jackx

2 VERY SPECIAL SHOWS

Jack Howard — Thu Dec 17 01:55:35 +0000 2009

Howdy. We have 2 special shows coming up - one a welcome home; and one a farewell. On Wed.Dec.23rd, we play at the Elwood RSL and welcome home Kieran Jones (who played double bass on Lost Horizon) for one show only before he dashes back overseas to continue his stellar career in the U.K; and on Sat.Jan.9th, again at the Elwood RSL, we very reluctantly farewell Jo Schornikow, our wonderful pianist, as she returns to New York City - tears will roll!
Also, as I've said, if anyone has trouble with the paypal system of purchasing songs and CD's here, just email me at jackhoward@iprimus.com.au, and we'll sort it out. Merry Christmas!!

PRE-CHRISTMAS GIGS!

Jack Howard — Wed Dec 02 05:02:02 +0000 2009

Hi there, punters. Well, we had a marvellous, packed-out CD launch last week; and we're back at Purepop Records the next two Sundays - Dec.6th and 13th, at 6.00pm for more backyard sweltering. Love to see you therexxx

BUYING THE CD

Jack Howard — Sat Nov 21 03:58:54 +0000 2009

If anyone is having trouble buying the CD, email me at jackhoward@iprimus.com.au and you can transfer money to my account and I'll send you the CD. CD launch Fr.Nov.27th St.Kilda Bowling Club!

CD LAUNCH!!

Jack Howard — Tue Nov 17 07:04:13 +0000 2009

CD LAUNCH FRIDAY NOVEMBER 27TH AT ST.KILDA BOWLING CLUB WITH GUESTS THE MERCURIALS. ONLY $12 AND THE BEER IS OH SO CHEAP!

RRR REVIEW OF LOST HORIZON

Jack Howard — Thu Nov 05 22:47:50 +0000 2009

"Jack Howard has returned with a new band 'The Nightbirds' and a new
album called 'Lost Horizon'. Jack and his band have recorded a beautiful
set of focussed songs that will surely go down as his most accomplished
and fully realised release so far! Quality stuff."

"MAG" REVIEW OF LOST HORIZON

Jack Howard — Thu Nov 05 22:46:33 +0000 2009

“What can you hear in my voice?” Jack Howard asks in the opening cut of his new album. He has a voice like Don Walker – a storyteller’s voice. Howard, best known for his work in Hunters and Collectors, is also a fine songwriter – check out If I Were A Bird, which simply soars, aided by the stellar playing of Jo Schornikow on piano, Kieran Jones on double bass, and Jeremy Hopkins on drums. Recorded at a high school and in Howard’s bungalow, I don’t think this album had a big budget. But it’s world class. **** (4 stars)

MOVEMBER GIGS

Jack Howard — Thu Nov 05 07:18:06 +0000 2009

Upcoming shows with the lovely Nightbirds - Sat.Nov.7th and Sun.Nov.15th 5.00 - Purepop Records, St.Kilda; Sun.Nov.8th 4.00 - Oakleigh Bowling Club; Fri.Nov.27th - Basement Discs 12.45 and CD launch at St.Kilda Bowling club 8.30. Should have a full-blown newk by then (Movember is swinging along!)

New song available: the morning sun

Tue Oct 27 10:09:54 +0000 2009

New song available: nightbird

Tue Oct 27 10:07:42 +0000 2009

New song available: if i were a bird

Tue Oct 27 09:57:51 +0000 2009

LOST HORIZON IS HERE!!

Jack Howard — Tue Oct 27 09:50:11 +0000 2009

Hi folks
My latest CD, Lost Horizon, with the wonderful Nightbirds, is out on November 6th. The Nightbirds are Jo Schornikow on piano, Kieran Jones on double bass and Jeremy Hopkins on drums. I've posted 3 new songs from it here - enjoy!
We haven't got it up for sale just yet but if you want to email me at jackhoward@iprimus.com.au and transfer $22(incl.postage), then we can do a deal.
We'll be launching the CD at the St.Kilda Bowling Club on Fri.Nov.27th with guests, the gorgeous Mercurials - it's all too beautiful! Plenty of other dates to see us if you have a look at the gig listing on myspace.com/jackhowardmusic but our debut gigs are Purepop Records on Sat.Nov.7th at 5.00; and Oakleigh Bowling Club on Sun.Nov.8th at 4.00.
Cheers, Jack

New song available: Let The Bird Fly

Thu Jul 30 02:50:07 +0000 2009

LOST HORIZON UPDATE

Jack Howard — Mon Jul 27 11:39:18 +0000 2009

Hey punters - things are moving along very well with the new CD. It's going to be released under the name, The Nightbirds, and it's called Lost Horizon. It features three amazing young musos in Jo Schornikow (piano), Kieran Jones (double bass) and Jeremy Hopkins (drums) plus guests. I've posted a free song on the downloads page. The CD will be out in October(I hope) and I'm very pleased with how it's ended up. I'll keep you posted. Love youse all!

JACK'S BACK AT THE ROSSTOWN

Jack Howard — Thu Jun 18 04:22:18 +0000 2009

Hey there
It's been hard work getting gigs this year but you can catch me with The Long Lost Brothers at The Rosstown Hotel in Carnegie on Sat. June 27th at 10.00pm. You can also catch The Ambassadors Of Love (a more intimate trio with John Berto on guitar) on Fri. Sept.11th at Chaucer's in Malvern from 7.00-9.00.
In other news, I'm not far off completing my Jack Howard & The Nightbirds CD, "Lost Horizon". I'll put some tracks up soon. We're in the mastering/artwork stage as we speak.
It's all too exciting!!

CALL GIRL THE MUSICAL

Jack Howard — Thu Apr 16 01:54:15 +0000 2009

Howdy cowdys. Hope you're all well and enjoying a lovely autumn. I've doffed my musical director's hat again for another season of Tracy Harvey's Call Girl The Musical. It's running at Chapel Off Chapel from April 17th - 3rd May and it's a very enjoyable and moving romp through a dizzying array of musical styles. check out www.callgirlthemusical.com for info and tickets. Love to see you there! Cheers, Jack

New song available: PRINCES PARK

Thu Feb 19 22:02:38 +0000 2009

New song available: THEY KNOW WE'RE COMING

Thu Feb 19 21:56:04 +0000 2009

New song available: will you wait

Sat Feb 14 02:41:25 +0000 2009

New song available: losin' my mind

Sat Feb 14 02:36:41 +0000 2009

NEW CARLTON SONG

Jack Howard — Thu Feb 12 06:25:05 +0000 2009

Howdy everyone and welcome to all of you Blues' supporters out there.
If you go to the downloads page, you can download "They Know We're coming", Carlton's new footy anthem for 2009 - written by yours truly!
The song is $5.00 with $4.00 going to the Bushfire Appeal.
Hope you like it and don't forget to check out some of the other great music here.
There are plenty of free songs to have a listen to. Go Blues!!!

UPCOMING SHOWS

Jack Howard — Mon Nov 24 03:34:59 +0000 2008

Hi all. I've got a couple of good gigs coming up. I'll once again be leading the horn section at The EG Awards on Thurs. Dec. 4th at The Prince Of Wales. We'll be playing with Little Red and with Mark Seymour on Say Goodbye! Ah, the good old days.

Then on Fri. Dec. 5th, I'll be back at The Elwood RSL with the full Long Lost Brothers line-up (including The Horns Of Loveliness) - get down early and get into the famous chicken parma.

My musical directing stint for Call Girl is over for now but there are plans afoot for more next year.

Also, guess what I got for my 50th Birthday - a new trumpet!! A brand new Bach Stradivarius 43. It really was My Lucky Day!

If anybody has ordered a CD and is having trouble, please let me know directly because I see some pending orders but no details at paypal.

Cheers, Jack

LIFE OUTSIDE HUNTERS AND COLLECTORS

Jack Howard — Fri Aug 08 10:27:50 +0000 2008

Howdy troops. It may seem like musical life has been very quiet down here in Elwood but nothing could be further from the truth.
This year, I've sung bass in an opera, played at The E.J.Whitten Legends Game, played at the launch of Airway Lanes' new CD, been writing heaps of new songs with the school bands that I run (Tavish and the Wesley jazz ensembles) and I've got a new CD in the can due for release next year (tentatively titled "Lost Horizon"). The Elwood Dads' Band have also been playing all over the place.
My big news is that I'm the musical director of a brand new Australian musical, "Call Girl", written by Melbourne actor/comedienne/musician Tracy Harvey. Tracy got me involved earlier this year and we've been having a ball. Go to www.callgirlbiz.com for details about the show and how you can buy tickets.
I've also got a few shows coming up with The Long Lost Brothers - we're at The Rainbow Hotel in Fitzroy on Fridays Aug.29th and Oct.3rd; we're at Bar 9T4 in Richmond on Saturdays Sept. 6th and 20th; and we'll be at Chaucer's Bottleshop in Malvern on Fri.Oct.10th.....and on October 20th, I turn 50!! If you're wondering how I maintain my hunky looks, it's my moisturiser, darlings. I don't go anywhere without it.
Cheers - see you on the other side.

Free Lovin'

Jack Howard — Thu May 29 07:56:05 +0000 2008

I'll be playing with the lovely Ambassadors Of Love (John Berto and Barry Stockley) on Fridays May 30th and June 6th at Fox In The Box, Martin St., Brighton; then at Chaucer's Bottleshop, Burke Rd., Malvern on Fri. June 13th. If you're feeling like a stranger in the night, come on down and feel the ambassadorial vibes.

TRIO SHOWS

Jack Howard — Wed Apr 30 07:08:24 +0000 2008

I'll be playing at Chaucer's on May 1st and 15th with young Nicky Del Rey on guitar and man of mystery Barry Stockley on the upright bass. We start at 7.00 and finish at 9.00 - civilized hours, I must say.
You can also catch me with The Ambassadors Of Love, John Berto and Barry at Fox In The Box in Martin St., Brighton on Fridays 2nd, 9th and 16th May. The pleasure will be all yours! And ours, of course - we love to play!
See you there.

UPCOMING GIGS

Jack Howard — Mon Apr 21 09:51:23 +0000 2008

Hi punters
Come down to the very civilized Rosstown Hotel in Carnegie this Saturday 26th April to see Jack & The Long Lost Brothers in all of their imaginary glory. Show starts 10.00.
Also, the Elwood Dads' Band are on at The Elwood RSL on Anzac Day, Fri.25th April at 7.30. Just like the Fairstar cruise but without the deckchairs!
Love youse all.

MODELS SUPER ORCHESTRA

Jack Howard — Wed Apr 02 02:45:36 +0000 2008

Sean Kelly, Andrew Duffield and Mark Ferrie from The Models, Jack Howard from The Hunnas, the legendary Billy Miller and Big Cal rock the Oakleigh Bowling Club (Drummond St., Oakleigh) on Fri.Apr.11th. God knows what they'll be playing but it will be entertaining, full of joie-de-vivre and totally danceable. $15.00 on the door and the cheapest beer in town.

Diarise it now!!!

New song available: sailing home

Thu Jan 31 07:23:08 +0000 2008

HELLO SAILOR!

Jack Howard — Thu Jan 31 07:16:05 +0000 2008

Hiya punters. I've had a wonderful holiday and I hope you have too. I went to Tassie for a week with my sons and spent a week in Bondi with my gal.

Hardly back to the grindstone now but school's about to start and I've been on the blower organizing gigs.

We have a few things coming up. John and I are playing at Hickinbotham winery in Dromana on Sun.Feb.17th at 1.00 then John, Barry and I are playing there again on Sun.Mar.23rd and at Chaucer's Bottle Shop in Malvern on Fri.Mar.14th at 7.00.

The Long Lost Brothers are at The Shamrock Hotel in Bendigo on Mon.Mar.24th; at The Rosstown Hotel in Carnegie on Sat. Apr.19th and at The Greyhound Hotel in St.Kilda on Fri.May 2nd.

Make sure you peruse the downloads page because there are lots of free tunes there, quite a few of them unreleased. Don't say I don't look after you! Cheers, Jack.

DADS' BAND & EG AWARDS

Jack Howard — Wed Nov 21 03:33:15 +0000 2007

Hi, punters - we have rain! The Elwood Dads' Band (our Elwood Primary fund-raising band) make a rare public appearance this Sat.Nov.24th at The Rosstown Hotel in Carnegie; and on Fri.Nov.3oth, my good self and the Horns Of Yore will be playing at the EG Awards with The Living End, Joe Camilleri and Steve Lucas. On Sun.Dec.2nd, John Berto and I will be playing at Hickinbotham Winery in Dromana from 1.00-4.00; and On Dec.7th, we'll be back at The Elwood RSL. It's nearly all happening - sort of.

LOVEHOPESTRENGTH BENEFIT

Jack Howard — Mon Nov 05 23:33:10 +0000 2007

Make sure you come down to DON'T TELL TOM in Brunswick this Sat.Nov.10th for the LOVEHOPESTRENGTH cancer support group show. I'll be playing at 9.15 with The Brothers and you can also see Steve Lucas, Andy Baylor and Andrew McCubbin. It'll be a great night for a great cause! Lots more events to come later in the month and into December - I'll keep you posted. And don't forget to put in your Christmas order for My Lucky Day - it rocks!

BACK AT THE RSL

Jack Howard — Mon Oct 29 05:28:22 +0000 2007

Howdy. We'll be playing 3 shows back at the old Elwood RSL from this week - on Fri.Nov.2nd (we start at 10.00 and we'll have the wonderful Brazilian guitarist, Luiz Sasson, as our guest from 9-9.30); on Fri.Nov.9th and on Fri.Dec.7th. Hope you can make it down!

BIRTHDAY DRINKS

Jack Howard — Sat Oct 13 04:12:42 +0000 2007

Come on down to the Elwood RSL this Thursday Oct.18th if you're free. I'm turning 49(!) this week and what better way to celebrate than playing with my young mates, John Berto and Barry Stockley. See you there.

ONE FOR THE FAMILY

Jack Howard — Mon Oct 08 10:10:27 +0000 2007

Hi punters.
We're playing at the Royal Botanical Gardens open day this Sunday 14th October.
We'll be scaring the wildlife and the kiddies just outside the Observatory Cafe from 12.30 - 2.00. Hopefully, a lovely time will be had by all and our fame will spread far and wide!!

Had a very nice time last Friday playing with Tim Rogers at the National Theatre - it was like being backstage at the orchestra with strings and horns warming up in the dressing rooms.

Jonh, Barry and I are back at the RSL on Thurs. 18th October if you're free. I'm having my 49th birthday drinks that night and you're all welcome to bring wonderful presents!
Cheers.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Jack Howard — Thu Oct 04 02:10:28 +0000 2007

FRIDAY 5TH OCTOBER - HORNS PLAYING WITH TIM ROGERS AT THE NATIONAL THEATRE IN ST.KILDA

SUN.OCT.14TH - THE LONG LOST BROTHERS PLAYING AT THE ROYAL BOTANICAL GARDENS OPEN DAY (near the observatory cafe) 12.30PM.

THURS.OCT.18TH - JACK, JOHN and BARRY AT THE ELWOOD RSL ACOUSTIC NIGHT

LOVE YOUSE ALL

New lyrics available for song “SAILING HOME”

Jack Howard — Wed Sep 19 01:00:16 +0000 2007

Far, far from home
On a lost night in a strange motel
Love’s on the horizon as the twilight fades
Let’s sit here in the bar and sample the top shelf
If you could only bottle seduction, here it is

Outside the wind it whips and the rain it falls
Along the jubilee highway
Lies a field of fallen pine like a graveyard
Run beyond it to the forest so dark and inviting
A clear sky and a brilliant cold
Whips the flames like your fate so rich

Further on to Corangamite and Wendouree
Ghosts everywhere in the roadside stops and the cattle yards
I’m sailing home to you, my love
Yes I’m sailing home to you, my love

New lyrics available for song “FARAWAY”

Jack Howard — Wed Sep 19 00:59:16 +0000 2007

Smoke and tequila swirl in her mouth
As she drifts her way down my neck
And her fingers they play me
Like piano wires

Sometimes she feels so far away
But tonight she’s so intense

It’s a fickle hour and there’s more going on
Than meets the eye, than meets the eye
I embark on a kind of silent pleading
I can’t read the look in her eye

Sometimes she feels so far away
But tonight she’s so intense

And it seems to work
Maybe she finds it amusing
And the sun, it starts to rise
And one long kiss just doesn’t seem enough

Sometimes she seems so far away
But tonight she’s so intense

New lyrics available for song “COUNTED THE WAYS”

Jack Howard — Wed Sep 19 00:58:17 +0000 2007

The cigarette, the break-up friend
Home at dawn to make amends
A flippant word, a cruel aside
The worm is turning deep inside
The darkened eye, the loosened hair
I can’t pretend that I don’t care
The cigarette, the missing band, the cigarette

I have counted the ways
And the waves that break upon the shore

The three-day stubble, the gloomy looks
Won’t find the answer in your goddamn books
The secrets mounting, the seed is hot
The tempers frayed, the nerves are shot
The stain is spreading, it bleeds right through
Voice is fading no longer true
Can’t change the river, can’t change the sea
Can’t change the tide back to me

I have counted the ways
And the waves that break upon the shore

New lyrics available for song “ALL I REALLY WANT IS YOU”

Jack Howard — Wed Sep 19 00:57:15 +0000 2007

Finish work it’s nearly five
Comin’ home I close my eyes
And think of you
Just can’t wait for that first kiss
Drink it deep it’s such sweet bliss

And I wonder if this time it will last
I wonder if this time we can have it all

All I really want is you
And to stay together

Sunset strip we’re feeling fine
Locked inside your skin is mine
Slip into the drifting dark
Til nothing’s left just one small spark
To feed the flame

Feels like the storm’s about to break
The evening is warm and here’s your face before me

All I really want is you
And to stay together

New lyrics available for song “WILL YOU WAIT”

Jack Howard — Wed Sep 19 00:55:49 +0000 2007

Supple as anger, tender as steel
Your back is the bridge that will help me to heal
Out there is the darkness, out there is the night
In here I am gone when we turn out the light

Kiss me in comfort, kiss me in fear
Kiss me in joy cos I think this is real
Open your eyes and I’ll open mine too
You only live once

Will you wait for the oceans to part?
Will you wait?

Blind to the danger, deaf to the gun
Dumb enough to look straight into the sun
Feeling like death now I feel like a life
Anything goes, the temptation is rife

Love really hurts, love is in the air
Love is a many-splendoured affair
The clichés abound so just open your eyes
You only live once

Will you wait for the oceans to part?
Will you wait?

New lyrics available for song “SIMPLE YET SACRED”

Jack Howard — Wed Sep 19 00:54:43 +0000 2007

He peered through his fingers to a dim world far below
A cheroot on the coffee table stained the air with its memories
The girl lay on the bed like an afterthought
But deep inside her eyes, a coin was spinning lazily
Through her mind

Simple yet sacred, they offered no explanation
They were mundane yet miraculous

She relaxed as he ran his hand along her leg
A fleeting connection, they were lost in their own thoughts
In their minds

Simple yet sacred, etc.

The room service arrived; they watched a game show and a re-run of friends
He ran his hand along her leg - the air-con sent a shiver through the room
They dressed for cocktails sharing the bathroom
The TV flared and died and static filled the empty room
In their minds

Simple yet sacred

New lyrics available for song “DIAL-A-PRAYER”

Jack Howard — Wed Sep 19 00:53:29 +0000 2007

He still dreams of mayhem after all these years
And though he’s no longer called upon
To clear a path or bend an arm
He walks tall before his friends
He used to ride the streets like a silent prince
With trigger finger and trigger head
He was a man of steel he had the whole world
In his hand

Now it’s dial-a-prayer, dial-a-life
Dial-a-whiskey, dial-a-wife

Self-love still saves in the mirror
Those sags don’t seem so bad when lit by lamp
And the smile’s quite debonair for one so lost
Now he haunts the streets in the dead of night
With a pain somewhere down deep inside that can’t be reached
It can never be relieved

Now it’s dial-a-prayer, etc.

Then the dawn arrives and he turns to dust
His flower fades with the rising sun
And he’s just one of many whose race has been run

Now it’s dial-a-prayer, etc.

New lyrics available for song “MY LUCKY DAY”

Jack Howard — Wed Sep 19 00:52:18 +0000 2007

I tell myself it’s just a dream
I tell myself it can’t be real
The rumour’s goin’ round the town
You’ve found somebody else to drown your sorrows with
It’s my lucky day

A touch of lust, a taste of loneliness
It’s such a lovely mess
A sympathetic drunken ear
Pity laced with ice-cold beer, I can’t believe
It’s my lucky day

If you need a helping hand
I’m sure that your new friend can help you understand

A couple made in paradise
The snake is shy he’s been bitten twice
A crowd of angels fills the sky
And bids a fond farewell, goodbye to all those blues
It’s my lucky day

NEW TRACKS!

Jack Howard — Mon Sep 17 12:57:36 +0000 2007

Hey there. I've just posted a whole lot of free new tracks in the downloads section if you want to have a look. I've included some oddities - unreleased home demos that have been sitting around gathering dust. Tracks that I've always liked but have never really found a use for. Hope you enjoy them and hope you have a splendid day.

New song available: wiseguy waltz

Mon Sep 17 12:53:41 +0000 2007

READINGS CATALOGUE REVIEW of MY LUCKY DAY

Jack Howard — Sun Sep 16 08:49:06 +0000 2007

Like his acclaimed previous album Let’s Fall In Love, former Hunter and Collector Jack Howard’s latest release illustrates and accentuates both his great songwriting skills and musical diversity. From the guitar-based rock of the opener Let Me Live or his signature trumpet talents on both the smoky I have Counted The Ways and the bluesy jazz of My Lucky Day, Howard and his terrific band of Long Lost Brothers have delivered an album that showcases some great local talent.

JAMES POWER

TIME OFF REVIEW of MY LUCKY DAY

Jack Howard — Sun Sep 16 08:47:41 +0000 2007

This latest solo album - his fourth since 2000 - sees former Hunters & Collectors multi-instrumentalist Jack Howard further stake his claim as a respected and talented Australian singer-songwriter in his own right. Throughout these 17 tracks - the first 11 of which were recorded with Howard’s band The Long Lost Brothers, and the final six of which were intimately recorded with the sole help of guitarist John Berto - Howard’s tasteful trumpet runs are predominant. At times Howard’s trumpet delivers slow, tension building drones, yet at other times it’s flamboyant and bold.

Stylistically, My Lucky Day is a mixed bag, incorporating flourishes of rollicking rock (‘Let Me Live’), lounge jazz (‘My Lucky Day’), forlorn country ballads (‘Dial A Prayer’, ‘I Am Lost’), and steamy, Latin-infused romps (‘The Red Rose’). The slow-burning ‘Restlessness’, which provides a fitting soundtrack to a lonesome, all-night binge on the couch with the lights down low, is an immediate highlight, as are the poignant ‘Don’t Fade Away’, the emotional ‘Dial-A-Prayer’, and the album’s most rock-fuelled track ‘Let Me Live’.
An adult contemporary album that youngsters unfortunately probably won’t appreciate, My Lucky Day’s mature and diverse sound will reward investment made in it by listeners of all persuasions. (3 ½ stars.)
Justin Grey – Time Off magazine (Brisbane)

"MAG" REVIEW of MY LUCKY DAY

Jack Howard — Sun Sep 16 08:45:33 +0000 2007

Jack Howard was part of the hunters and Collectors horn section, but with this album he’s shown he’s also a fine singer-songwriter. There’s plenty here for Hunters fans to savour, and The Long Lost Brothers, including former Sports member Ed Bates on pedal steel, add an exquisite rootsy edge. The album also includes a bonus six-track EP, Don’t Fade Away, that Jack recorded with guitarist John Berto. Overall, there’s nothing particularly fashionable about this record, but it’s passionate bluesy pop and fine storytelling. An understated gem. (3 ½ stars)

Jeff Jenkins

CD'S FOR SALE

Jack Howard — Sun Sep 16 08:36:30 +0000 2007

Ok, NOW you can order the new CD, "My Lucky Day" right here, right now. You can also order "Secrets And White Lies" from 2002 and "Let's Fall In Love". Just go to the downloads page. Cheers.

WELCOME TO THE NEW SITE!

Jack Howard — Mon Sep 10 10:23:17 +0000 2007

Hope you all like the new, positive, good vibes website! You can now order "My Lucky Day" direct from here. Be patient while I get all of the lyrics for the new CD up and some new band pics and bios. We've got some good stuff happening this week - we're playing at Basement Discs this Friday Sept.14th lunchtime at 12.35. Basement Discs is a brilliant little record store downstairs in Block Arcade just off Little Collins St. We're also playing at Chaucer's Bottleshop in Burke Rd., Glen Iris that night at 7.00pm; and at Bar 9T4 on Sat.Sept.15th. Hope to see you there. These are the last shows for a little while. Cheers!

Test image

Jack Howard — Fri Sep 07 01:58:41 +0000 2007

This is a test image

New lyrics available for song “test2”

Jack Howard — Fri Sep 07 01:53:50 +0000 2007

setset

New lyrics available for song “Test”

Jack Howard — Fri Sep 07 01:51:23 +0000 2007

this is some test lyrics

INPRESS REVIEW

Jack Howard — Fri Aug 10 12:58:40 +0000 2007

Hi, y'all
Go to the review section to read a very glowing assessment of the new CD, "My Lucky Day" - "...one of the great unexpected pleasures of the year"!!
Cheers, Jack

MY LUCKY DAY INPRESS REVIEW

Jack Howard — Fri Aug 10 12:56:09 +0000 2007

Jack Howard & The Long Lost Brothers

My Lucky Day

A few familiar chords into opening track Let Me Live and one could be forgiven for thinking it’s Hunters & Collectors circa Human Frailty all over again. And this is no bad thing…if the rest of trumpeter extraordinaire Jack Howard’s third full solo release tilted its hat to retrospective sentiment then swags of the remaining faithful would feel satisfied. But this is no indulgent wander down memory lane, no pub-rock training run. Rather, My Lucky Day (and the accompanying six-track EP Don’t Fade Away) is a superb, assured and contemporary collection of blissful pop, bluesy rock, Latin-tinged shuffles and poignant, melancholic sketches. Sure, the instrumentation and atmospherics provide a point of difference to Howard’s old gang, particularly with the inclusion of Ed Bates on pedal steel, but that’s a great disservice to Howard, whose songwriting must now rank beside those with far mightier compositional reputations.

Beautifully produced, My Lucky Day alternately soothes and skips along, coloured with sweet harmonies and, naturally, brass flourishes – Howard on trumpet, Russell Davis on French horn and David Mowat on trombone. On a remarkably consistent album, two tracks above all else testify to the delights contained within. The first, Will You Wait, seems simple enough at first, a gentle lovers’ ode over picked notes and pedal sweeps, but is then effortlessly transformed by gorgeous harmonies and chord progressions from heaven, not to mention a patented Howard trumpet pattern. The second, Sailing Home, is far and away the record’s standout piece. Over a hypnotic guitar run and mesmerising, mournful brass (“trumpet doubled with a trumpet detuned down the octave” says Jack), the song is a timeless on-the-road tale of return and lament: Further on to Corangamite and Wendouree / Ghosts everywhere in the roadside stops / And the cattle yards / Oh I’m sailing home to you…

Interestingly, the bonus EP with Howard accompanied only by guitarist John Berto manages to compliment the fully-backed preceding album and yet provide its own intimate rewards. Percussion-free and loose-limbed, the material is quieter, darker and utterly beguiling, with the haunting and powerful Restlessness a particular highlight. Howard sparked the critics’ interest with 2004’s Let’s Fall In Love. One would hope My Lucky Day will find a wider audience as this is one of the great unexpected pleasures of the year.

A BIG WEEK IN SPORT

Jack Howard — Sun Aug 05 11:56:49 +0000 2007

Well, it's all happening this week - our CD launch this Sat.Aug.11th at The Toff In Town; Nick, Barry and I doing an instore at Readings, St.Kilda on Thurs.Aug.9th (at 6.30pm); Nick and I on 774 ABC at 9pm Wed.8th August; my good self on Neil Rogers' RRR show on Thursday at 8.00pm; Chaucer's Bottleshop in Glen Iris on Fri.Aug.10th; and then our dinner and show at The Famous Blue Raincoat on Thurs. Aug.16th.
We played two cracking show on the weekend at The RSL and Bar 9T4 - playing with this band at the moment is like being part of the Geelong Footy Club - all guns are firing and the team plan is working! In fact, we had two French horns on Friday night - Mikaela Mowat and the mighty Russell Roy Davis. It was exceptional! John Berto and I played a half-hour spot on Friday as well - I love that format! So much space and intimacy. Get along if you can. Join us in your choice of beer or tequila.

JACK GOES WEST!

Jack Howard — Sun Jul 29 09:45:57 +0000 2007

"Jack Howard played trumpet with the late, great Hunters and Collectors and since 2000, he has released four fine CD's of his own. His latest, "My Lucky Day", has just hit the airwaves. The CD features Jack and his band, The Long Lost Brothers; but it also includes six beautifully intimate tracks recorded with guitarist John Berto. On Thursday 16th August, Jack and John, along with double bassist, Barry Stockley, will be playing a very special dinner and show at The Famous Blue Raincoat. They'll be performing Jack's powerful original songs as well as a selection of some of their favourite covers. This is a rare chance to see Jack up close doing what he does best with a couple of Melbourne's finest musos. Add to this the fine food and wonderful atmosphere of The Famous Blue Raincoat and you've got a show that you really don't want to miss. Bookings at http://www.famousblueraincoat.com.au".

JUST THE FACTS, MA'M

Jack Howard — Sat Jul 21 04:54:22 +0000 2007

Fri.27th July - Jack & The Brothers at the Elwood RSL; Fri.3rd August - Jack & The Brothers at The RSL again; Sat.4th August - Jack & The Brothers at Bar 9T4, Richmond;
Wed.8th August - Jack & Nick on Derek Guille's show on 774 ABC 9.00pm; Thurs. 9th August - Jack, Nick & Barry instore at Readings, St.Kilda,(approx.6pm); Thurs. 9th August - Jack yak on RRR (Neil Rogers' show at 8.15pm); Fri.10th August - Jack, John & Barry at Chaucer's bottleshop, Burke Rd., Glen Iris 7.00pm; SAT.11TH AUGUST - CD LAUNCH AT THE TOFF IN TOWN with SPECIAL GUEST, DAN HALL; Thurs.16th August - Jack, John & Barry dinner and show at The Famous Blue Raincoat (www.famousblueraincoat.com.au); Thurs. 23rd August - Jack trio at The Elwood RSL; Fri. 31st August - Barwon Club, Geelong; Sat. 8th Sept - Jack & The Brothers at thew Mt. Dandenong Hotel, Olinda. I love youse all!!!

MAIL ORDERS

Jack Howard — Tue Jul 03 09:04:29 +0000 2007

Anyone wanting to mail order "My Lucky Day" (while we set up paypal facilities to enable the purchase of the CD), can contact me direct and we can either do a direct debit thing or you can send me a cheque for $25 (incl. postage in Australia). Cheers. Love to hear from you.

ADVANCE CD'S FOR SALE!!!

Jack Howard — Tue Jul 03 08:59:31 +0000 2007

Anyone braving Melbourne's winter chills this Saturday 7th July to come and see us at The Rosstown Hotel in Carnegie can pick up an advance copy of "My Lucky Day" autographed for only $20!!! This could be worth at least...$21 on ebay! come on down.

THE FINAL COUNTDOWN!!!

Jack Howard — Thu Jun 21 09:52:10 +0000 2007

Well, we have a release date now - "My Lucky Day" will be a worldwide phenomenon on Sat.14th July and mankind will never be the same again!

We'll be doing an instore appearance at Readings in Acland Street in St.Kilda on Thurs. 9th August and we'll be launching "MLD" (as its known in the trade) on Sat.11th August at The Toff In Town in Curtin House, Swanston St., Melbourne. I'm so excited! I finally took delivery of my new baby the other day and I'm a very proud father!

In other breaking news, keep an ear out for the upcoming Airway Lanes CD and the forthcoming Tim Rogers CD for a royal taste of our happening new brass section - it's a French horn-led recovery, I tells ya.

For a Midnight Oil/H & C double, come down to the Northcote Social Club on Thursday 12th July. Rob Hirst will be there with his band, The Ghostwriters, supported by yours truly and the Brothers. Our horn section may get up and have a blast with Rob's team while we're there.

It's all good news!

SECRETS SALE

Jack Howard — Wed May 30 07:14:12 +0000 2007

Hi there, punters. The first full-length CD that I released was "Secrets and White Lies" in 2002. It came out through a company in Sydney and it's been very hard to get a hold of over the years. Well, they've just returned 150 copies to me, so if you'd like to purchase a copy, just contact me direct (jackhoward@iprimus.com.au) and I'll send you one for $22 (including postage). It's damned good if I do say so myself!
The launch of my new CD, "My Lucky Day", (which will be released in July) will be at The Toff In Town (Curtin House, Swanston St., Melbourne) on Sat. 11th August. You'd be best to book a little closer to the date for that one. I'll post booking details soon.
Love youse all!

LATEST NEWS MAY21ST

Jack Howard — Mon May 21 08:51:37 +0000 2007

Hello punters. Well, we've got a stack of shows coming up, so get a pen out and start making notes! The more interesting ones are Thursday May 31st at The Elwood RSL; Sun.June 3rd at The Belgian Beer Cafe in Mowbray St., Prahran (3.00-6.00); Thurs. 12th July with Rob Hirst's band The Ghostwriters at The Northcote Social Club; and the big one, The CD launch, at The Toff In Town on Swanston St., Melbourne on Sat. 12th August.
Lots of other little shows here and there also (check out www.myspace.com/jackhowardmusic for more info). Hope to see you all somewhere along the line.
If you're looking for a good new CD to buy, I've been loving the new Laura Viers and The Decemberists latest, "The Crane Wife" - very powerful and beguiling CD's.

THURS 31ST MAY SHOW

Jack Howard — Mon May 14 09:11:45 +0000 2007

Hi everyone. We play the first of our Thursday night live-and-intimate showcases this Thursday at the Elwood RSL. The show will feature John Berto on guitar, Barry Stockley on double bass and myself. We've got a heap of other shows coming up in July and August - I'll keep you posted about them all.
One to watch out for is Sat.2nd June at the RSL with our local party band, The Elwood Dads' Band - lots of fun for all as we hit various wrong notes in various party favourites. Cheers, Jack

THERE WAS MOVEMENT AT THE STATION...

Jack Howard — Mon Apr 30 00:59:00 +0000 2007

Well, things are moving apace down here in The Bungalow. We're investigating a brilliant new venue, The Toff In Town, for a CD launch sometime in early August and the CD will actually be out in early July! We'll be continuing to sharpen our live set around town leading up to that with plenty of little dates here and there - Sat.May 5th at Bar 9T4; Thurs. May 17th at The Elwood RSL; Thurs. May 24th at Plan B; Thurs. May 31st at The Elwood RSL; Sat. July 7th at The Rosstown Hotel; and Thurs. July 12th at The RSL. Also, I've organized our stupendous horn section to play with rock'n'roll legends, X, at the Ding Dong Lounge this Thurs. May 3rd for the re-launch of their "At Home With You" CD.(Bring ear plugs!) There'll be plenty more to come. Stay tuned!

ACOUSTIC THURSDAYS

Jack Howard — Thu Apr 26 08:31:52 +0000 2007

Hey there punters. I'm helping put together a run of Thursday showcase gigs at the venerable Elwood RSL, so if you're at a loose end with loose change in your pocket, come on down. The shows start on Thurs. May 3rd with Sim Martin from Stovetop; then the wonderful Dan Hall with his band Airway Lanes on May 10th; followed by myself and John Berto on May 17th, then revolving through May, June and July. We'll also have the fantastic Milly Edwards down on June 7th. Don't make a stranger of yourself!

MORE GIGS

Jack Howard — Mon Mar 26 07:58:53 +0000 2007

Well, my "all stock must go" sale was a big hit, I must say (ya bunch of cheapskates!). Make sure you send me an email when you download tracks, and I'll add you to my mailing list.
Shows upcoming - Thurs.Apr.12 - Plan B, 274 Bridge Rd., Richmond (9pm start); Fri.Apr.20 - Chaucer's Bottleshop in Burke Rd., East Malvern(7-9); Sat.Apr.21st and Sat.May 5th -Bar 9T4 in Swan St., Richmond (10-1).
Come on down, they're all free - just like the tracks!

ALL STOCK MUST GO!!!!!

Jack Howard — Mon Mar 12 09:30:28 +0000 2007

Crazy Jack is having a crrraaazzy Ides of March giveaway. Go to the downloads page and you'll find not one, not two but...17 free tracks of glorious stereophonic Jack music!
It's an autumn clearance sale that is too good to be true! Get in now before he changes his mind!!!

UPCOMING GIGS

Jack Howard — Sun Mar 11 11:18:15 +0000 2007

Hi there, cyberadults. Couple of shows coming up as we slowly work our way to a CD release in june (I hope!).
On Thursday Mar.15th, I'll be playing with John Berto (the legendary Dark Horse) at Plan B, 274 Bridge Rd., Richmond; and on Sat. Mar.17th, we'll have the whole stereophonic shebang back down at The Elwood RSL for an Irish-free St. Patrick's Day gig. Come on down - buy us a shot of tequila and we'll be your friend forever.

FEBRUARY NEWS

Jack Howard — Thu Feb 08 10:52:51 +0000 2007

Howdy. Well, we've just about finished mixing the new CD - I'll put up some samples soon in glorious stereo! We've recorded 14 songs and out of those a couple might miss the cut, but I'm very happy with how it's working out. The band's sounding very rich - the addition of pedal steel, french horn and trombone has worked a treat.

Live, I've got a couple of shows coming up - one with John Berto (doing songs from our stripped-back CD, which is going to be included with the release of the band CD, "My Lucky Day")on Thurs.Feb.15th at Plan B bar (274 Bridge Rd.,Richmond), starting at about 9.00pm. Then, on Sat.Feb.17, the full band will be down at the Elwood RSL. Come on down and check out the new songs and drink cheap beer with us!

ADIEU, HOLIDAYS!

Jack Howard — Sat Jan 20 05:15:27 +0000 2007

Well, the holidays couldn't last forever and it's almost time to return to the grindstone. Far from the grindstone, however, is this glamorous rock'n'roll lifestyle we lead of babes, beer and beige slacks.
Shows coming up - Sat.Feb.3rd at The Rosstown Hotel in Carnegie (10.00pm start); Thurs.Feb.15th at Plan B in Bridge Road, Richmond (this is the proper debut performance of the Jack Howard and John Berto duet, leading up to the release of the new double CD, "My Lucky Day" - one glorious full band CD and the stripped Jack and John CD); and another full band show at the Elwood RSL on Sat. Feb.17th.
If you'd like to join my mailing list, just chuck us an email. Cheers and welcome home, rain dogs.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Jack Howard — Sat Dec 23 08:14:15 +0000 2006

Have a great Christmas out there, everybody. Hope you have a lovely time and a happy time; and that you're with the ones that love you and the ones that you love.
Download "We 3 Kings" for a little bit of Christmas cheer.
Also, keep an eye out for new tracks because I'll be posting more Jack and John tracks and maybe some rough mixes from the next CD.
We'll be back with more shows in February. I'll keep you posted. Cheers, Jack

FREE TRACK!

Jack Howard — Mon Dec 18 01:34:48 +0000 2006

Go to the downloads page for an exclusive preview of a track from the forthcoming CD,"My Lucky Day" - a rough, unmastered mix of the song, "I Am Lost", is available there. Cheers

www.saltydog.com

Jack Howard — Mon Dec 18 01:18:26 +0000 2006

Hiya. Make sure you have a listen to the inteview that I've done on www.saltydog.com. It's the most extensive interview that I've ever done and apparently it's had a thousand downloads this weekend -the word is spreading!
If you're free this Friday Dec. 22, come on down to the Elwood RSL and get an earful of the new, epic French horn, trombone and trumpet horn section - awesome,dude.
We'll also be playing at The Rosstown Hotel in Carnegie on Sat.Feb.3. cheers.

SECRETS and WHITE LIES

Jack Howard — Mon Nov 27 23:52:26 +0000 2006

If you want to order my first full-length CD, "Secrets and White Lies", you can order it through itunes or laughing outlaw records. Alternatively, quite a few of the tracks are available in the download section. Cheers.

Sat.Dec.9th

Jack Howard — Mon Nov 27 23:46:14 +0000 2006

Hiya. Make sure you get down to the Elwood RSL on Sat.Dec.9th for our first gig in awhile. It's going to feature a bunch of new tunes and a new horn section of French Horn, trombone and trumpet (of course!).
Also, check out www.salty.com.au, the internet blues radio station, for an excellent interview and overview of my career from Hunters and Collectors right through to my own stuff and playing with Pete Murray, etc. It's certainly the most extensive interview that I've done, so if you're interested, have a look.
We're also playing Fri.Dec.22 at the RSL and Sat.Feb.3rd at The Rosstown Hotel in Carnegie. Cheers

FULL MOON FEVER

Jack Howard — Wed Nov 08 11:30:31 +0000 2006

Hi everybody. Hope you came through the full moon unscathed. I'm trying to capitalize on the Neil Young spirit - only record during the full moon for best results. So I've been at it all day on my forthcoming long-playing record! I'm slowly piecing together vocals, horns and keyboard waffle at home before I take it all back down to the real studio(Barry Stockley's Fatsound studio - a filthy den of ill-repute).
I've been experimenting with a H&C-style horn section of French horn, trombone and trumpet and enjoying the results. I love the French horn!
In fact, I'm going to debut this horn section live at The Elwood RSL on Sat.Dec.10th, so if you're free, come on down and bring 50 friends!
Hopefully, we'll also be playing there on Fri.Dec.22nd for a bit of a Christmas bash.
Stay well, friends.

SPRING HAS SPRUNG!

Jack Howard — Thu Sep 21 10:05:42 +0000 2006

Hi everyone.
It's been an exciting day today - we began recording the next Long Lost Brothers CD; and Sharky Ramos was in sparkling form on drums. We were really only concerned with getting great drum takes today and that's pretty much what we did!
Also, I've bitten the bullet and edited and mastered "Don't Fade Away" (my CD with John Berto) myself, so we are now at the artwork and design stage. Are you excited? I'm excited! If I was American, I'd think it was awesome!
No live shows in the next little while, but I'll keep you posted. Love youse all!

APOLOGIES

Jack Howard — Fri Jul 14 02:25:16 +0000 2006

Sorry, I haven't managed to post the new track that I promised. I'm having a liitle trouble with formats! I'll have it up soon (said the bishop to the actress).

HAPPY NEW FINANCIAL YEAR!

Jack Howard — Sun Jul 09 08:13:13 +0000 2006

Hi there
Hope you're all well and enjoying the fruits of your labour, whatever those labours may be.
I've been talking about my new CD with John Berto for quite awhile now and you may be wondering where in the hell it is. Well, unfortunately, Barry's 2-inch tape machine has had a malfunction and we can't do anymore on it until that's fixed.
However, I have posted a rough mix of one of the songs. If you go to downloads and go to "restlessj&j", you can get a preview - for free! Who says I don't look after you.
Don't forget, you can catch the band at The Limelight Lounge in Geelong on Fri.Aug.11th, at The Elsternwick Hotel on Sat.12th August and at The Rosstown Hotel in Carnegie on Sat.26th August.
I also play with the good time party band, The Ewlood Dads' Band, and we're playing at The Elwood RSL on Fri. 21st July.
Come on down and dance your arse off!

AN EERIE SILENCE

Jack Howard — Thu May 25 11:27:32 +0000 2006

Hi punters. Not a lot happening at the moment so I didn't want to bore you. Still finishing my "naked" CD with John Berto (see the new pic for a very sexy angle on us); and still waiting on a grant application before working out what to do with my next band CD.
However, I have just been on tour with The Living End! And that was a hoot - a very happy marriage musically and personality-wise. Check out their latest CD to hear the H & C horn section on "One Step Behind", "Black Cat" and "Til The End".
I've also been on an amazing three week tour of Europe with the school that I teach at, but that's another story.

LATEST NEWS

Jack Howard — Sun Apr 02 02:46:08 +0000 2006

Well, we've had our month of Fridays at The Elwood RSL and we've had a great time. Sorry to leave it for now, but they like to watch Friday night footy in peace down there without some noisy rock band interrupting it.
We have no immediate performing plans. I've a got a couple of other big things coming up myself - an overseas tour with the school I teach at; and then touring with The Living End, which should be a hoot!
I've just recorded a new stripped-back CD with part-time Long Lost Brother, John Berto, and we're both really, really happy with the results. We did it in a day down at Barry's studio, and it's very naked, for want of a better word - it's just John on electric guitar and me on vocals and trumpet and that's it. It should hopefully see the light of day around July or August and I'll try and post a couple of preview tracks in a month or so.
I'm waiting on the results of an Arts Victoria grant application before I can commit to another band recording. We don't find out about it until the end of June!
In the meantime, you should rush out and buy "Let's Fall In Love". For now,Adios, amigos!

WE'RE BACK!

Jack Howard — Mon Mar 06 11:16:40 +0000 2006

It was lovely to be back at our old stomping ground, The Elwood RSL, last Friday (we'll be there Fridays all through March). There's a new curtained backdrop; and a light show!It looks really good! I was shocked - it's traditionally looked very drab. (Great sound, shame about the noticeboards).
We had the masterful Ed Bates playing pedal steel and the overall sound is...luxurious and deep. There were plenty of familiar faces there and many beers were consumed and we all had a fine time. Get on down if you're free... you might even win a chook!
We have a guest every week - the lovely Crackers on Fri.10th Mar.; Matt and Andy on the 17th; and then the brilliant Dan Hall is coming down with his whole band on Fri.24th just prior to the official release of his debut CD. Don't miss this one! I can't wait!

new song!

Jack Howard — Fri Feb 17 01:37:55 +0000 2006

Years ago, I had a band together briefly with the wonderful jazz singer, Nichaud Fitzgibbon. "To Your Love" is one of the songs that we demo-ed. Go to the downloads page, have a listen and see what you think.

beware the ides of march

Jack Howard — Fri Feb 17 01:31:42 +0000 2006

Plenty of gigs coming up in March. I'll be back at the Elwood RSL on Friday nights right through March. In fact, these will probably be the last Long Lost Brothers' shows for awhile - the RSL is very hard work politically, so we might just leave the blokes to their Friday night footy for the winter!
I'm also playing Sundays with the swingin' Ambassadors Of Love from 3.30 - 6.30 at The Point Restaurant on Albert Park Lake (sse the lovely photo). If you want to contact me, please email me on jack.howard@wesleycollege.net or call me on 0414697349.
The other exciting news is that Michael Waters(H&C trombone mand), myself and unidentified French horn player will be touring with The Living End in May. Keep an eye out for dates; and have a listen to their new CD to hear the full Hunnas' horn section in all its glory!
Cheers, Jack

Test

Jack Howard — Thu Feb 02 09:48:10 +0000 2006

test

Don't Make A Stranger Of Yourself

Jack Howard — Thu Feb 02 09:43:16 +0000 2006

I'm planning on recording two new CD's this year - one with part-time LLBrother, John Berto, on guitar; and a full band CD later in the year. The record with John will be a much more intimate CD than anything I've released in the past. It will feature John on electric guitar and me on vocals and trumpet. There'll be some new originals, some older songs of mine revisited, and a few appropriate covers. Maybe titled "Don't Make A Stranger Of Yourself".

We're still be tinkering with the line-up of the Long Lost Brothers - our saxophone experiment lasted exactly 3 gigs. Most of the time we've been performing as a 4-piece but at the last gig before Christmas we had Ed Bates playing pedal steel and Kenny McAlpine on fiddle and it was fantastic. That was the sound that I'd like to get on the next CD - very rich and emotional. I've got most of the songs - they just need more playing and orchestration.

43 degree heat

Jack Howard — Thu Feb 02 09:39:59 +0000 2006

everyone. Hope you haven't missed me. Personally, I've had a very relaxing break - camping with the kids, watching cricket and broiling by the pool in the 43 degree heat.
Back to school next week!

I'm playing on Fri.27th January at The Elwood RSL at 9pm, if you want to catch the Brothers; I'm also playing every Sunday arvo at The Point Restaurant on Albert Park Lake with the swingin' Ambassadors Of Love! (It is one of the great band names, I know). We start at 3.30 and finish at 6.30. It's a very weather-dependent gig - it can get extremely windy down there, so if we happen to not be there on any given Sunday, you'll know why.

Also, the legendary Elwood Dads' Band, of which I am a founding member, will be playing at the Sacred Heart Celebrity Cricket Match at 11am on Sunday Feb.12th. That will be a lot of fun, so try and get down and support a great cause.

Test

Jack Howard — Thu Feb 02 09:36:16 +0000 2006

This is a test

ROSSTOWN PICS

Jack Howard — Tue Nov 29 00:18:06 +0000 2005

Here's a nice shot of the band at a recent
Rosstown Hotel show (snapped by Dabvid Gilliver)

test image

Jack Howard — Sun Nov 13 22:44:03 +0000 2005

this is a test image to make sure it's working

test image

Jack Howard — Sun Nov 13 22:44:02 +0000 2005

this is a test image to make sure it's working

New podcast available: Geelong Community Radio

Jack Howard — Mon Oct 17 05:45:56 +0000 2005

Interview with some tracks from "Let's Fall in Love" from Joh at Meanderings. 2200-2400 Sunday, on 94.7 the Pulse.

ROCKTOBER NEWS

Jack Howard — Thu Oct 06 03:21:49 +0000 2005

Howdy everyone. We started playing again last weekend at our old stomping ground, the Elwood RSL, and had a glorious time (we'll be there every Friday until Christmas). Our newest member, Ben Marsland, made his debut on tenor saxophone and acoustic guitar, and the ladies were swooning in the aisles.
We have an extra show booked at The Rosstown Hotel on Saturday October 22nd as well as all of the others listed below - so plenty of opportunities for Victorian folk to see the band and to hear a whole lot of new songs that we're preparing for our next CD.
Also, if you'd like to download our songs, most of them are now only $1.00 (instead of $2.00), so race on down to the download section and load up your ipod!
Check out the Pete Murray website (or forum) for photos of the horn section performing with Pete at The Forum in Melbourne on 5th and 6th October. We're also playing with him next Wednesday at a recording for Live at The Chapel, so keep an eye out for that one too!

UPCOMING SHOWS

Jack Howard — Mon Sep 12 03:49:47 +0000 2005

Plenty of behind-the-scenes activity going on leading up to our forthcoming shows around the state.

You can see us at The Elwood RSL in Ormond Rd., Elwood, every Friday night from Sept.30th until Christmas. Shows start at 9pm and entry is free!

We're also playing at The Limelight Lounge in Geelong on Sat.1st October; At Grainery Lane in Ballarat on Sat.8th October; and at The Golden Vine Hotel in Bendigo on Sat.15th October.

We'll be performing a bunch of new songs in slow but sure preparation for the next CD (tentatively titled "A Toast To Our Good Fortune").
With young Aidan in absentia for awhile, I've had to re-think how to approach these new songs (and some of the older ones).
Ben Marsland is going to be playing tenor sax and guitar on some of the songs, and I'm going to finally brave the stage with my keyboard playing skills! I'm very excited about the new stuff and I hope you like it to.
I'll try and post a couple of unreleased versions of these tracks on our download page at some point.

You can also see myself, Aidan, Ben and a very old pal, Rusell Davis (on French Horn) performng as Pete Murray's horn section on Wed.6th and Thurs,.7th October at The Forum.
Cheers, Jack

New podcast available: Sad Trumpet Podcast #2

Jack Howard — Thu Sep 01 04:43:12 +0000 2005

Almost the end of winter down here but the beach of Melbourne comes the 2nd Podcast for the new website.

sad tpt theme

Jack Howard — Thu Sep 01 01:25:36 +0000 2005

New podcast available:

Jack Howard — Thu Sep 01 01:25:18 +0000 2005

New podcast available:

Jack Howard — Mon Aug 29 23:39:38 +0000 2005

New podcast available:

Jack Howard — Tue Aug 16 00:24:10 +0000 2005

AGE E.G. REVIEW

Jack Howard — Fri Aug 12 01:30:20 +0000 2005

Jack Howard has been a part of the Melbourne music scene for many years, notably as a part of the horn section in the fantastic Hunters and Collectors, and now as the leader of his own band. His latest effort shows he's stepping out in his own right. With backing from Nicky Del Rey on guitars, Barry Stockley on bass and Sharky Ramos on drums, Howard seems to be relishing the role of front man and has become an accomplished lead singer. But where he's made the most progress is as a songwriter, including a bracket of three numbers – Let's Fall In Love, When Will I Be Over It and, in particicular, the instrumental El Magnifico – that are highly impressive.
Where the material takes off is when Howard fires up his trumpet, along with trombonist Aidan MacArtney, for a sound that has elements of Latin lounge, a la Herb Alpert and his Tijuana Brass, plus a dash of spaghetti western soundtrack. He wisely doesn't try to replicate that hard-driving H & C sound – this is easy listening for rockers. *** (3 stars)

WELCOME!

Jack Howard — Fri Aug 12 01:26:14 +0000 2005

Welcome to our new re-vamped all-singing, all-dancing website! You can now download tracks from our latest CD, “Let’s Fall In Love”, and the hard-to-get previous CD, “Secrets And White Lies”. I’ll also have some free unreleased tracks available soon. You can mail order CD’s; and you can also download some of the Australian Rules football songs that I’ve written this year. Footy songs, I hear the serious music afficianados ask? Yes, we’ve had a couple of great opportunities to play these footy songs in front of huge crowds at Telstra Dome this year before a couple of AFL games. It’s been a slightly surreal experience, but also a real hoot. Have a listen - the songs are not that far away from my regular stuff. And for the football fans out there, have a listen to some of the tracks from our “normal” CD’s. You’ll find some great stuff there too.
If you’d like to come and check us out live, you can see us at The Elwood RSL on Fridays from 30th September, at The Limelight Lounge in Geelong on Sat. 1st October, on Sat. 8/10 at Grainery Lane in Ballarat; and on Sat. 15/10 at The Golden Vine in Bendigo. Please feel free to contact me if there’s anything you’d like to ask (well, almost anything).

SUNDAY HERALD SUN REVIEW

Jack Howard — Fri Aug 12 01:25:17 +0000 2005

The clues gather. Tick one. It's Australian. The brassy opener, Losin' My Mind, is a slice of that delicious funked-up style served so well by Continental Robert and Joe Camilleri in their various guises. 
Tick two. The mariachi horns on the delightful Pendulum hint of something. 
Tick three. Fallen Angel confirms that it is that Jack Howard, the one whose trumpet was such a key part of Hunters and Collectors down the years. 
Now that is known, comparisons with late, great Hunnas begin to prey on my mind. 
How does Howard's voice stack up against that of Mark Seymour? And what of his songwriting? 
The answer to both questions is more than adequately. 

There are songs here that would sit well on the best of the Hunters' albums, the territory being AOR, while he sings more than tells the story, as is the Seymour way. 
In short: real music, real songs and fantastic playing. **** (four stars)

PENNYBLACKMUSIC.COM REVIEW

Jack Howard — Fri Aug 12 01:24:15 +0000 2005

Jack Howard : Secrets And Lies 
Despite only Jack Howard being billed as the artist on this Laughing Outlaw release, the album is far from being a solo record. Strong contributions are made by members of Howard's band, known as the Long Lost Brothers, and most notably by Nicky Del Rey who adds guitar and backing vocals to all the tracks here. 
Howard was vocalist and trumpet player with Australia's Hunters and Collectors until they called it a day in 1998. He has since recorded or played with Midnight Oil (their Rob Hurst supplies the liner notes for this album) the Living End and the Models to name but a few. He released his first solo album titled 'Lo Stresso Tempo' in 2000. This new album features 3 of what many claim to be the best tracks from that previous album, ‘Mr. Twilight', ‘Home' and ‘Frankenstein', to bring a total of 15 songs to this, Howard's first Laughing Outlaw release. 
Anyone who cites Miles Davis and Tom Waits as their biggest influences is surely worth a listen and Howard doesn't disappoint. The first surprise is that the album is not over-heavy on the brass sounds that Howard is best known for. The second surprise for those hearing Howard for the first time is how strong and passionate his vocals are. ‘Fear Of Flying' perhaps shows the powerful vocals off best and although Howard's brass playing is also to the front here on the chorus and instrumental break the song is really driven along by Del Rey's guitar playing with a riff which once heard is impossible to get out of your head. 
The sound of brass is generally a sound that one loves or hates, especially when it is used as the main sound. Much like the jazz genre itself, in fact. If horns though are not your thing, one shouldn't be put off lending an ear to these songs. One of the standout tracks, 'Restlessness', for example, has blues influenced vocals from Howard, a rhythm section who obviously know their way around a song and play with feeling, and also what can only be described as some stunning guitar work from Mr. Del Rey again. Add to this Howard's distinctive brass and vocals and the word cool springs to mind. As it also does on the following track,
'Sail Upon Her Smile'. Opening with acoustic guitar before Howard adds some dreamy trumpet, it is an excellent piece of late night listening music guaranteed to calm even the most stressed mind. When Del Rey starts playing some nice, fat guitar it is the icing on the cake. This brings me back to my earlier comments about this being a solo Jack Howard album. Howard has surrounded himself here with a group of outstanding musicians and the album would be a lot less appealing if it wasn't for the contribution of these players. Apart from Del Rey, the keyboard playing by Ollie McGill is breathtaking and the bass playing by Barry Stockley on the title track is superb.
Mention should also be made of the magnificent vocals by Callie Gray on this latter track. 
So what we have here is a bunch of musicians (and I've only mentioned a few, but they all play from the heart) obviously experienced in their choice of instrument coming together to play the songs of an extremely talented songwriter and musician and sounding like they enjoy it. 

With it's blues and jazz leanings and Howard's impressive lyrics (listen to ‘She's Gone' for confirmation, a tale of a 23 year old girl presumed dead but actually starting a new life for herself) this is essential late night listening. A real find.
</a></h3>
OCT. 2002 Malcolm Carter
<h3 title="AGE E.G. REVIEW"><a href="" title="Read the review" class="tip">AGE E.G. REVIEW – 26/11/04
Jack Howard has been a part of the Melbourne music scene for many years, notably as a part of the horn section in the fantastic Hunters and Collectors, and now as the leader of his own band. His latest effort shows he's stepping out in his own right. With backing from Nicky Del Rey on guitars, Barry Stockley on bass and Sharky Ramos on drums, Howard seems to be relishing the role of front man and has become an accomplished lead singer. But where he's made the most progress is as a songwriter, including a bracket of three numbers – Let's Fall In Love, When Will I Be Over It and, in particicular, the instrumental El Magnifico – that are highly impressive. 
Where the material takes off is when Howard fires up his trumpet, along with trombonist Aidan MacArtney, for a sound that has elements of Latin lounge, a la Herb Alpert and his Tijuana Brass, plus a dash of spaghetti western soundtrack. He wisely doesn't try to replicate that hard-driving H & C sound – this is easy listening for rockers. *** (3 stars)

RHYTHMS MAGAZINE REVIEW

Jack Howard — Fri Aug 12 01:23:11 +0000 2005

Jack Howard's third offering in four years is an unexpected treasure; an album you could definitely fall in love with. Howard was an integral part of Hunters and Collectors for many years – as trumpeter, backing vocalist and songwriter – and he's also recorded and toured with those other much loved Oz rock bands, Midnight Oil, the Living End, Died Pretty and The Models. On the evidence of Let's fall In Love, his new band, The Long Lost Brothers, might also make an indelible impression on the 'great unwashed'. 

Howard and his Melbourne mates punch out some of the classiest and catchiest roots rock heard from an Aussie band in recent years. The album seamlessly mixes genres without ever becoming generic. There's plenty of passion in the playing and a groove that grips from the driving opener, Losin' My Mind, with its great opening line: "I string my soul like an old guitar". 
Apart from the high quality of Howard's songs and the strength of his voice, the artist's trumpet, in tandem with trombone, produces an irresistible brass section that invests three or four songs with a Mariachi feel; others a hint of Chicago or Blood Sweat and Tears soul. The stinging guitar of "Lost Brother" Nicky Del Rey, and Hammond organ washes of guest Tim Neal are other admirable features. 
Recording on an array of vintage microphones and sound processors has imbued Let's Fall In Love with a warm, live sound. Listening to the album, you just know Jack Howard & The Long Lost Brothers would be a crowd leaser at Sydney's Basement or Melbourne's Espy.

Let's Fall In Love Review from Inpress

Jack Howard — Fri Aug 12 01:20:49 +0000 2005

"Jack Howard has certainly not been idle since his former band, Hunters And Collectors, called it a day. 

Let's Fall In Love is his third album in the last four years and it showcases the distinctive vocals and trumpet playing that have become his trademark as a singer/songwriter and solo artist. 
The album is probably as far removed from the pub rock anthems of H & C as you can get, yet the sound of Howard's trumpet somehow evokes the memories and emotions of those days gone by. 
Let's Fall In Love is quite a reflective album, largely written in the first person and is full of laid-back grooves that run through a gamut of emotions as the title suggests. The moody Pendulum and
Deliver Me, the slinky and slightly seedy title track and Lotus Blossom and the up-beat pop rock of Fallen Angel and On & On give the album musical diversity whilst still maintaining a core sound. 
That core sound is solidly built around Howard's interaction with his band The Long Lost Brothers featuring Nicky Del Rey on guitar, Aidan MacArtney on trombone, Sharky Ramos on drums and bass player Barry Stockley who also recorded, mixed and co-produced the album with Jack.. 
The sound of the band really comes into its own on the musically intense instrumental El Magnifico and the addition of Tim Neal's hammond, that weaves in and out throughout the album, heightens the melodic nature of the songs to great effect. A hypnotically groove-based version of
Sea Of Love feature long instrumentals that allow the band to jam out and Howard's fine melodic choices really put his stamp well and truly on this familiar tune. 

Let's Fall In Love tells it like it is warts and all. It shows the seamy side of love as well as the joyful side without being overly shmaltzy or sentimental."

another example post

Jack Howard — Wed Aug 03 09:45:57 +0000 2005

here's another example

New song available: test

Wed Aug 03 02:45:11 +0000 2005

sgsdfgsgsdfgsfgsdfg

New song available: Inside

Tue Aug 02 07:08:50 +0000 2005

Testing footy songs