Trained as a classical violinist from an early age, Eliza and her older sister Anna (Bat For Lashes, British Sea Power) began busking around the streets of Sydney and playing recitals at the Sydney Opera House from the time Eliza was 9. As a teenager Eliza began playing with various bands as violinist, vocalist, and cellist. Eventually, she bought her first acoustic guitar, began crafting songs, and discovered what was to become her true passion. She was naturally drawn to the blues and spent a year listening to nothing but Billy Holiday’s album Lady Sings the Blues.
“I had discovered myself as a singer and began teaching myself guitar. I fell in love with Billy Holiday’s heartfelt lyrics and the character in her voice. I wanted to be able to stir powerful feelings and emotion like that.”
Eliza Jaye’s song writing offers the listener a unique experience. She delves into the imagery of her colonial roots, bringing the works of poets and storytellers to enliven her tales of wonder, passion, and longing. She then blends this with late sixties and early seventies influences like Patti Smith, Nancy Sinatra and Nina Simone. She adds strings reminiscent of innovator John Cale and brings her music kicking and screaming into the present day.
Eliza Jaye is a powerhouse solo performer. Her live shows feature a loop station on which she creates soaring string sections & wild solos with her violin. She has a stomp box for live beats and, along with her trademark vintage Les Paul guitar & her distinctive vocal, a varied palette of sounds ensues from the luxurious and sublime to the rocking and passionate.
Now based in Brighton UK and Sydney Australia, Eliza Jaye has toured both in the UK & internationally including prestigious events and venues such as Cambridge Folk Festival, London’s Shepherds Bush Empire & Cabaret Sauvage Paris. She has played shows with the likes of Skinny Lister, Son Of Dave and Moulettes and produced a sell-out debut album. Her debut single has been played by Steve Lamacq, BBC Radio 2 & Tom Robinson, (BBC Introducing) BBC6. Her music has featured on a number of television shows, including Sky Sports Germany and Coronation Street UK.
“To say Eliza has presence is an understatement. Confidently standing alone with her gorgeous Les Paul, her style and personality dominate the room. Eliza has an original sound all her own and it’s clear to say she loves what she does and lives the moment of each song. Brilliant!” Kelly Farrell – Noise Brighton
Her debut album, The Seed, features her sister Anna (Bat For Lashes, British Sea Power) on violin and is out now on Sotones Records.