vocals - guitar - songwriting
The tunes are influenced by 27 years of playing rock, pop, folk, blues, bush, bluegrass, country, acoustic and finger style guitar music, based in the Melbourne independent live music scene. The lyrics are inspired by movies, novels, politics, philosophy, social and economic policy, teaching, studying, talking, listening, loving, thinking, running, walking, bike riding and traveling on the train to the football.
Williams has played solo, in duos and bands, in pubs, clubs, halls, universities, colleges, schools, battle of the bands, song contests, guitar playoffs, benefits, city streets, parties, backyards, trains, trams and festivals (folk, alternative, street, city, town hall). Past bands include King Biscuit Time, By Way Of (in Texas), The 3 Sisters, Colour Jungle, Looking Big Sky, What Matters, Haunted Stage, Inside Out, Feel like Karen Silkwood, The New Leaves and Angry Pawns. His music has been played on community radio Australia wide (as well as live interviews and performances), used for DVDs and short films, and has taken him on tours through Victoria, Tasmania, NSW and the A.C.T. in Australia, Dunedin, New Zealand, Texas and Greenwich Village, New York City, U.S.A. in a bar Bob Dylan once played.
The night began with an intriguing set from prolific tunesmith Jon S Williams. As the nascent Australian male singer-songwriter scene continues to grow exponentially, this is one performer who deserves to capitalise on any commercial success. (BMA)
A true storyteller who uses smooth and intoxicating riffs that envelop the senses of listeners in order to tell his tales. His voice echoes that of Paul Kelly. Blending folk, country and rock, Williams transports you to a place a harmony and tranquillity. Williams displays a depth worthy of admiration. (BMA)
Stylistic elements will remind you of Leo Kottke’s 12-string guitar, Morrissey’s voice and Dylan’s harmonica form the John Wesley Harding days, but this is an original, independent voice. Forever pulling out new songs at gigs, another Williams release can’t be too far away. (indie-cds.com)
Highlight for me...a fiercely strummed power pop romp which rivals the Violent Femmes and the Mekons at their own games (Rolling Stone)
A local singer/songwriter who has come up with a very classy recording and some memorable brooding pop tunes. Reminds a little of Go Between’s Grant McLennan. (Form Guide)
A guy from Melbourne called Jon S Williams. Solo guitar/vocal/harmonica. His first song off the blocks was an instrumental number, showing his guitar prowess – the man can play. The remainder of his set was constructed of songs with bits of country, bits of folk, and bits of really likeable guitar playing. (Bec.com)
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