True Live

Melbourne, Victoria, Australia based True Live formed in 2003. They're a unique ensemble that cross boundaries of genre and style while engaging audiences with songs of passion and meaning. With performances and recordings of musical and lyrical depth and a line-up consisting of a three-piece string section (cello, violin, double bass), percussion, keyboards and vocals, the group create a contemporary, organic sound that could only be described as monstrous.

Drawing on the sounds and performance ideals of Hip Hop and Jungle (though frequently delving into rhythms of African, Armenian, and Cuban heritage) the ensemble create a framework in which they insert artistic ideals of Jazz and Classical music. Solos and freestyles are true improvisations created live for the moment for which they exist. The string section sets up crescendos and weaves harmonies and melodies over broken beats and heavy weight jazz chordal structures while RHyNO MC poetically dances on everything from contemporary philosophy to the need we have to just bounce around. Its beautifully hardcore.

Led by singer/rapper/songwriter/producer RHyNO who after years of searching - has found himself a niche somewhere between song writing, beats, orchestras and Jazz, the groups personnel list incorporates some of the best musicians Melbourne has to offer. All members have completed conservatorium studies in their instruments and have developed careers around their respective talents.

DRUMS - MARCO CASCARINO: Monstrous melbourne-based drummer, specialising in deep groove and beat playing, he has some tricks up his sleeve.

DOUBLE BASS - THOMAS "LAZER FERRARI" BUTT: Touring in big bands since the ripe age of 12, bassist for groove ensembles Ramantra and psx, one of Melbournes finest dancefloor DJs.

CELLO - TIM BLAKE: Performer with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and Nitin Sawney. Recent works include recording of Illawarra Suite for ABC classical.

VIOLIN - TAMIL ROGEON: This Jazz violinist cut his teeth in New Yorks jazz scene and is known as a film scorer and solo performer for Melbourne Festival.

KEYBOARDS - THAI MATUS: Leader of critically acclaimed fusion ensemble, Twelve Tone Diamonds, sideman to Ren Walters and Julian Wilson.

VOCALS - RHYNO MC: Singer in Australian boys choir at 11, winner of open age Melbourne songwriters competition at age 17. Cut his MC Teeth in Melbournes underground Jungle scene, appeared with Roni Size and Reprazent. Began producing at 15. Led previous band Spyn Psycle to win the countrys largest Battle of the Bands.