Bio

A dynamic, well-established, 5-piece instrumental band from Melbourne that combines the spirit of jazz with the textures of groove, fusion and Latin.

The Romans presents a wealth of industry experience (See below), musicians who have performed with the likes of Stevie Wonder, George Benson and Bob Sedergreen. 

The band’s primary focus is to build on an already extensive repertoire of original tunes, most of which feature strong and palatable melodies. The band also performs a selection of iconic 'fusion' covers (e.g. The Yellow Jackets, Jeff Lorber, John Scofield).  These Icons have helped shape The Romans’ ‘sound’ and style which first and foremost reflects the  compositional style of the band’s leader.

Despite a core focus on original instrumental tunes, The Romans  regularly collaborates with domestic and international vocalists as part of its performances.

The Romans released its Album ‘To a Flame’ in 2022 and is set to release its second album in April 2024. This second album will include some exciting new original material -  ‘Fanfare for the Frontline’, ‘Sydney Road Strutter’ and more.  The band is looking forward to showcasing these new tunes.  

 

THE PLAYERS

Angelo Montalti

Composer/keyboards

 ..a series of collaborations over many years has nurtured a unique compositional style that is evident in the diverse collection of original groove, fusion and Latin tunes.

..Improvisational style turns naturally to a highly-energised performance but also reveals great touch in more subtle arrangements.

Angelo has a Graduate Diploma in Music Composition.

..Inspired by Pat Metheny, Chick Corea, Eumir Deodato and Santana.

 

Lachlan Davidson

SAXOPHONES/FLUTE

Lachlan graduated with distinction from The Victorian College of the Arts in 1983. Performing solos five times with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, lead Alto sax with The Australian art Orchestra and the Daryl Mckenzie Jazz Orchestra and many T.V. (Dancing with the stars/Australia-first 15 seasons) and concert performances (Frank Sinatra, Stevie Wonder, John Farnham, George Benson) also on many C.D’s and films. He released his first album as bandleader- composer in 1999 unLokked, “A hot night in Burwood” and has released three contrasting jazz albums as bandleader in 2020 with two Jazz fusion albums.  

Ivan Rosa

Electric and Acoustic Bass

..an active and well established jazz musician, performing and mentoring others for over 20 years.

...has shared the stage on many occasions with Bob Sedergreen, Sarah Maclaine,  Monique DiMattina, Gianni Marinucci, Alan Lee, Andrea Keller and Lachlan Davidson.

Inspired by Jaco Pastorius and James Jamerson.

Robert Xuereb

Electric Guitar

..known best for his work with ‘Yeah, Bad?’ and ‘Meridian Suns’. He has performed in various jazz and rock venues around Melbourne, at Jasper’s, Last Chance Bar, Bendigo Hotel, Brunswick Hotel, Bar 303, the Moldy Fig and Open Studio. 

.. has just completed an EP with ‘Yeah, Bad?’ as composer, arranger and producer.

..an exceptional young talent inspired by Pat Metheny and John McLaughlin.

 

Lachlan Wallace

DRUMS/PERCUSSION