ABOUT

"A great talent in the making" - Franz Richter, Concerto Magazin

"Fury on the strings" - Oliver Schreiner, Kleine Zeitung

"Spontaneous and unique rather than following the lead of everyone else...  - BBluesreport

 

Ulrich Ellison was born and raised in Graz, Austria, though his ancestral roots go back to Ireland. After paying his dues in the rich Viennese music scene, a prestigious jazz scholarship enables him to settle in one of America’s musical hot spots – Austin TX. While working at his MM at UT’s jazz department he wins three of the acclaimed Downbeat student awards. The diversity of the local scene ranging from blues, salsa, rock, indie to singer/songwriter turns out to be the perfect playground for developing a unique personal style. Dubbed as “Viking Blues”, Ellison’s music mainly draws from blues, rock, irish and celtic elements. His jazz-fusion background always shines through as well.

So far he has released three albums under his own name. His band “The Tribe” features acclaimed violinist Michelle Alany who played with the Transsiberian Orchestra; award-winning drummer Mike Davila who won the worldwide Mapex “Drummer Of Tomorrow” competion in 2012; and bass woman Sabine Ellison, known for her work with Bloo Voodoo and Austin blues star Birdlegg. The Tribe also works and collaborates with different guest musicians on a regular basis, including John Nelson (Thievery Corporation, Poi Dog Pondering) and keyboardist Winton Reynolds.

Of course that’s not all. There is always a new goal ahead, a new challenge, a new sound. “Music always comes first. It’s a blessing if a piece of music is well-received or a concert turns out to be a big success, but in the end, the ultimate happiness comes from within. The artist has to follow his inner voice and pace” says Ellison, who has played music in almost any style and setting. In a ruthless and fast-paced music biz, Ellison has found the value of building long-lasting relationships with fans. “If people keep supporting me via patronism.com, they not only empower me to create more music for them. We literally become one tribe, and they become part of the music. This connection enables me to share my craft on a very personal level.”

Three European club tours have helped him to reach new ears. Last year, he opened for rockers Uriah Heep and Nazareth. When he is at his home base Austin, TX, Ellison enjoys playing regional blues gigs, jam sessions and doing sideman work for other artists like grammy-nominated singer Abra Moore or “The Voice” – finalist Nakia.

 PRESS

 

Concert Review 2013 Spring Tour

   Interview for Planet Music Magazine (German)

   Interview for the Austrian Daily Newspaper “Die Krone”