Fortitude Valley’s Jazz Music Institute will host the first stop of a national tour led by Sydney-based bassist and composer Max Alduca, marking the live debut of his album Monastery.
Brisbane Kicks Off Nine-Date Album Tour
The Max Alduca Quintet opens its east coast tour at the Jazz Music Institute on 8 August 2025. The nine-date run will take the group through Queensland, New South Wales, the ACT, and Victoria, presenting Alduca’s first album as bandleader in full.
Debut Album Blends Precision with Spontaneity
Released on 21 March 2025 through Earshift Music, Monastery draws on contemporary jazz, cinematic textures, and free improvisation. Developed after an intensive period of study in New York, the album explores themes of solitude, sanctuary, and musical connection.
Across seven original tracks, the music shifts between structured motifs and open-ended forms. Pieces like “Unknown Flow,” “Scando,” and “Sympathetic Resonance” reflect Alduca’s focus on space, texture, and dynamic interplay.
Five Acclaimed Artists on Stage
The Max Alduca Quintet features Alduca on double bass alongside guitarist Hilary Geddes, tenor saxophonist Michael Avgenicos, pianist Luke Sweeting, and drummer James Waples. The five musicians have collaborated across multiple Australian projects and officially formed as a quintet in 2022.
Tour Continues Through Regional and Capital Venues
Following the Fortitude Valley performance, the group will appear in Bellingen, Armidale, Nowra, Canberra, Murrah, Melbourne, Thirroul, and Sydney. Each show will spotlight live renditions of Monastery’s full tracklist.
Production Overseen by Lloyd Swanton
The album was produced by Lloyd Swanton, known for his work with experimental trio The Necks. He supported the group throughout recording and post-production, helping shape the sound’s tonal clarity and overall cohesion.
Max Alduca’s Ongoing Role in Australian Jazz
In addition to leading this project, Alduca is a regular collaborator with the Eishan Ensemble, the Hilary Geddes Quartet, and several other national touring acts. His work continues to bridge composition and improvisation in a distinctly personal style.
Published 31-July-2025
