Heliochrome, with Matt Newton, Contemporary Jazz Vocals

A bold new voice in Toronto’s creative jazz music scene, this eclectic ensemble is led by pianist and composer Matt Newton. It features trumpeter/vocalist Rebecca Hennessy, Turkish vocalist Esra Gűrçay, bassist Dan Fortin, and drummer Thadeus Garwood. With roots in jazz and a wide-open selection of other styles, the band’s sound bridges adventurous improvisation and songcraft, drawing unexpected influence from artists like KNOWER, Feist, The Beach Boys and Joni Mitchell. Lyrical melodies, deep grooves, intertwine with contemporary edge, creating music that moves fluidly between intimate storytelling and rhythmically charged exploration. Rooted in Toronto’s vibrant artistic landscape, the group brings together diverse voices and fearless collaboration to craft a sound that feels both sophisticated and emotionally immediate.

Matt Newton – keys

Esra Gűrçay – voice

Rebecca Hennessy – trumpet/voice

Dan Fortin – bass

Thadeus Garwood – drums