artist info

"Jon Cleary is the ninth wonder in the world." - Bonnie Raitt

Jon Cleary, legendary New Orleans pianist, singer, songwriter is bringing his tight and funky r'n'b out to the West Coast. With him will be the rhythm section from his band, The Absolute Monster Gentlemen. Cleary is a 'musician's musician' having played as the preferred sideman for luminaries such as Jazz virtuoso John Scofield and Blues giants Taj Mahal and B.B King as well being a leading light of Bonnie Raitt's band for 10 years. He cut his teeth as a teenager playing with the older generation of New Orleans rhythm and Blues artists who invented the r'n'b' sound that later came to be known as rock'n'roll. Born in London, Cleary moved to the Crescent city after leaving school and learned the secrets of New Orleans piano direct from the masters, Dr John, Allen Toussaint and James Booker.

His show highlights the dazzling skills of his sidemen, drummer Jellybean and bassist Cornell Williams and, while rooted in the respected traditions of syncopation and harmony of his hometown, reaches out further with his own material and unique contemporary sound. Bonnie Raitt describes him as the '9th wonder of the world' and he is considered by many to be the torchbearer of the genuine New Orleans funk tradition.

The piano chops, accolades, and impeccable credentials are just a backdrop though to the most essential thing, this music is a lot of fun. 'Real music, played real good!' is how Jon describes it. Don't miss this rare opportunity to hear the master at work.