Leah Flanagan

Leah Flanagan is a Darwin singer-songwriter and guitarist who plays an original mix of country, blues and folk music staying true to the female jazz vocal tradition.The 22-year-old has been described as having "the voice of a blues diva twice her age" but it's not because of a husky sound – more the jazz-like rhythm and range and maturity of her expression.A classically-trained singer (Adelaide Conservatorium, graduated 2004), she combines a powerful voice with the gentleness of an acoustic singer and can hold up a big stage on her own or be found in the quiet corner of a restaurant.Leah was born and bred in Darwin and has returned home after studying and playing around the country. She has a recording of songs performed live on ABC Radio in Darwin, and a live album from her Darwin Festival concert is currently in post-production and will be available within a month.A cultural mix of Aboriginal, Italian and Irish blood, she takes pride in where she's from and her music reflects both her heritage and her heart – she writes songs about her home and her upbringing is reflected in her music.Leah is a leading light of the Darwin music scene and will usually be playing at least two gigs a week in her hometown.Her band has been made up of Toby Robinson (slide guitar), Jimi Bonne (bass), Lukas Bendel (drums) and Rai Okawa (violin).What other people say:"An incredible singer, songwriter and guitarist who has the voice of a blues diva twice her age" – Kris Keogh, Happy Yess club manager."A voice like an angel delivered with the sharp wit and smarts of a street hustler.""The way she sings can make you wish for – even if it's sacrilege – what would have happened if Tom Waits were a woman."- Ben Langford, Northern Territory News entertainment editor. "Well pick me up off the floor" – ABC radio Darwin afternoon host Annie Gaston, recovering after Leah's in-studio performance.