:: The Verses album launch - The Toff In Town - August 2010

By: Carmine Pascuzzi; photos by Matt Deller

Brother & sister Jesse & Ella Hooper (formerly of Killing Heidi) have had a new band in recent times - The Verses, and they treated an exclusive gathering of family, friends and industry folk to a special performance in launching their new album ‘Seasons’.

Jesse and Ella had gone through a period of uncertainty for a while after the Killing Heidi era, but they are back with renewed energy and enthusiasm. The new music that was showcased at top Melbourne venue The Toff In Town saw a deep passion in an indie roots and bluesy feel. There is even a touch of country to the sound, so it's become an all-embracing stage of their career. The inspiration behind the songs was their hometown of Violet Town in northern Victoria and the motivation is evident in the bristling guitars and Ella's terrific vocals which are now allowed to be clear and engaging.

This night saw the accompaniment of keyboard player Madeleine Davey plus Melbourne band Even. There was a good mix of subtle folksy rhythms and driving guitars, underlining the maturity and experience that looks set to again propel the duo into the forefront again, this time as The Verses.

The album ‘Seasons’ is out now through Warner Music.

Here are pictures from the showcase performance - by Matt Deller
More pictures can be found here

Jesse & Ella Hooper

Jesse & Ella Hooper with their father