The Idea of North is Australia’s premier contemporary a cappella ensemble, and has been thus for many years. Formed originally in 1993, four friends from the Canberra School of Music jazz department (ANU) got together and started creating their enviably imaginative arrangements of classic songs from the pop, jazz, folk, gospel and comedy genres. The group moved from strength to strength in the early 2000s, winning awards the world over and capturing the imagination of audiences everywhere with their enigmatic performances. This is a group that takes its music very seriously, in the most entertaining way. The only a cappella group to ever have done so, The Idea of North took out the 2010 ‘Best Jazz Album’ ARIA (Australian Recording Industry Association) Award with their collaborative release ‘Feels Like Spring’, recorded with James Morrison and his quintet, and then independently won the 2013 ‘Best Jazz Album’ ARIA Award for their 10th album ‘Smile’. The Idea of North’s musical dynamism is something that needs to be heard to be believed. “… a truly outstanding vocal quartet…a wonderful group to watch in performance…truly a sight and sound experience of the highest calibre.” Don Burrows “Strong polished voices with a blend to envy – a welcome addition to the tradition of great vocal jazz.” Peter Eldridge, New York Voices “In terms of quality of ensemble and elegance of arrangements, this group’s work is in the same league as that of the Swingle Singers in their heyday.” Sydney Morning Herald “This a cappella outfit can’t put a foot wrong…” Critic’s rating: 10/10 Sun Herald, Sydney “Impeccable a cappella… they have class stamped over everything they do. Catch them and marvel.” The Adelaide Review “A vocal quartet of wit, charm and breathtaking musical virtuosity.” The Adelaide Advertiser “…measured and absorbing. Like ABBA dipped in velvet.” Sydney Morning Herald “Smooth, sophisticated close-harmony arrangements… A pitch-perfect ensemble.” The Courier-Mail, Brisbane “…an impeccable standard of musicianship…” The Melbourne Age “An hour and 15 minutes of nearly flawless, energetic and inventive performing that remakes and honours home-style sing-fests and begs superlatives.” Hobart Mercury “…If there is a finer a cappella group in Australia, I’m looking forward to hearing them.” The West Australian “…every performance brims with the sheer joy of singing and your spirit will find itself lifting and at least one toe will find itself tapping.” Carl Vine, Musica Viva Australia