Shalom and Tortured Willow

Shalom “is an evocative performer whose powerful voice transports audiences to another time” (Drum Media, Sydney).

Shalom established Tortured Willow in 2009 to perform her original songs, creating a sound that is a fusion of old and new. Initially, her songs were co-arranged with guitarist Jordan Roach who sometimes still performs as a special guest.

Shalom has a blues/jazz background, and spent years singing songs by great artists and composers. She was particularly influenced by Mississippi Delta composer WC Handy and singers Bessie Smith, Mahalia Jackson and Nina Simone. She spent eight years fronting a 40 piece big band and three years with the her own Quintet that had residencies across Sydney.

Authentic influences form the backbone of her music, and modern sounds and themes flesh it out - so the songs remain fresh and original. Her lyrics can be personal, ironic or political, but always insightful and evocative. She writes from the heart, but her tales are also universally relatable to the human condition.

Recently, her first EP with Tortured Willow was launched at Sydney’s iconic Annandale Hotel to a very positive response "the music has a modern, gutsy sound" (Ace Music, Narellan). The first single, Long Ride Home was number 2 on the roots charts of respected indie radio station Triple J Unearthed. The accompanying video clip to their second single, Mirror Maze gained over 40,000 hits on youtube.

Shalom's voice stands out as it wails with gospel/blues passion, and then draws back to perform quiet ballads establishing a special connectivity with her audience.