Signature blend of soaring instrumental & vocal melodies alongside big grooves

Doors 6pm, Band at 7pm

Duke of George presents

Michael Pignéguy & The Awakenings Ensemble

The Awakenings Ensemble wraps up an active 2021 back where it all started - The Duke of George! Following the release of its double album DUALITY in March, the dynamic 8 piece has presented a range of different shows highlighting its signature blend of soaring instrumental and vocal melodies alongside big grooves emanating forth from its oversized rhythm section! 

Accolades for the group's new album have come from both local and national press as well as fellow artists! In the Australian, Eric Myers commented as follows: "This two disc album sees two suites presented, ranging from high energy instrumentals to impressive soul/funk vocals" 4/5 stars. Live audiences can certainly attest to this description as, at its core, The Awakenings Ensemble harnesses rhythms from across the globe fusing them with soulful and dynamic themes. Group members are super keen to get back to The Duke to share their music on the 1st Saturday in December. No shows are currently planned for 2022 so you'd be well advised to take this opportunity while it's on offer! 

The group's stellar line-up includes: Jeremy Greig (trombone), Sophie Foster (vocals), Kristian Borring (guitar), Brodie Stewart (keys), Peter Jeavons (bass), Steve Richter (percussion), Ricki Malet (trumpet), Michael Pignéguy (group leader/drums).

"The Awakenings Ensemble's latest double album is an absolute banger! The energy of the music hangs in the air long after the vibrations have stopped..."

- Andrea Thompson | Around the Sound | 2021

"This two disc album sees two suites presented with high energy instrumentals on Introspections (disk 1) and five impressive female singers in the soul/funk idiom on Collaborations (disk 2). This is unmistakably a drummer's album, a chief asset being Pignéguy's brilliance at the drum kit!"

- Eric Myers | The Australian | 2021 | 4/5

"Great production, excellent playing with a fantastic mix! Love it!"

- Paul Millard | Composer, Arranger, Performer | 2021