Since forming in 2018, Melody Graves and the Hokum Redemption are renowned for their energetic live shows and soulful performances serving up their own style of hot jazz, swing and prohibition blues. 

With a love for music steeped in the archives of juke joints, dance halls and old New Orleans, the band is headed up by vocalist and washboard player Paula Hackney (a.k.a. Melody Graves).

The bonus of Melody Graves and the Hokum Redemption is you get not one, but two lead vocalists with Paula joined by the warm velvety tones of fellow singer Dennis Duigan. 

This six-piece Brisbane based ensemble also features some of Brisbane’s favourite jazz musicians including Richard Ferrari on trombone, James Visentin on double bass, Jordy Stitt on piano, and the talented Evan J Evans on drums, with Dennis Duigan also on guitar and mandolin.  

The band has held a long-standing residency at West End’s favourite music venue – The Bearded Lady, and played many festivals, venues, special events and jazz clubs across SEQ.

You'll also find the band's little sister group – Melody Graves Combo performing a mix of MGHR songs, and other early jazz and swing standards.

Band members also head-up or feature in other music projects including The Jazz Hive, Dennis Duigan Music, Meva’s Journal, Evan Trio,  Brunswick Street Parade and Rag Wizard.