Toqui at The Jazzlab

Step into the world of Toqui, the semi-acoustic ensemble led by Melbourne-based pianist and composer Oscar France. With a unique 8-piece lineup, Toqui weaves intricate, horn-and-cello-rich arrangements into a bold, cinematic tapestry that pulses with the raw energy of live jazz. Their music feels like a journey through nature itself—evoking vivid imagery, from the gentle drift of river currents to the burn of a distant sunset.

Toqui’s authentic voice lies in their fearless fusion of jazz, bossa, folk, and touches of electronic textures, all elevated by improvisation and orchestrated precision. The result is immersive and deeply expressive—blurring genres and expanding the emotional possibilities of sound. Their performances are less about songs and more about experiences, leading you through sonic landscapes that feel at once intimate and expansive....

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Step into the world of Toqui, the semi-acoustic ensemble led by Melbourne-based pianist and composer Oscar France. With a unique 8-piece lineup, Toqui weaves intricate, horn-and-cello-rich arrangements into a bold, cinematic tapestry that pulses with the raw energy of live jazz. Their music feels like a journey through nature itself—evoking vivid imagery, from the gentle drift of river currents to the burn of a distant sunset.

Toqui’s authentic voice lies in their fearless fusion of jazz, bossa, folk, and touches of electronic textures, all elevated by improvisation and orchestrated precision. The result is immersive and deeply expressive—blurring genres and expanding the emotional possibilities of sound. Their performances are less about songs and more about experiences, leading you through sonic landscapes that feel at once intimate and expansive.

Following the success of their debut album Wire Owl and its sold-out launch at Melbourne’s beloved JazzLab, Toqui returns with "Gentle Axe", a powerful new single that introduces the next chapter of their musical evolution.

Frequent performers at intimate venues like Preston’s Ragtime Tavern and Northcote’s Bar 303 Jass Hub, Toqui continues to build a passionate following through their atmospheric and emotionally charged performances. This show captures the ensemble at their most inspired—blending innovation, soul, and storytelling into something truly unforgettable.

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