About Us

Without doubt the sweetest string band in town.. Irwell Street features two guitars, occasionally some ukulele, and of course swinging double bass, led by the delightfully vintage voiced jazz vocalist Hetty Kate.

We play sweet, sentimental and sassy songs plucked from the scrapbooks of Tinseltown, the well trodden paths of wartime Britain and the colourful beaches of South America – songs you’ll remember, and songs you may not have heard before. Showcasing a beautiful repertoire from the 1940′s and 1950′s curated and arranged to be fresh and original, yet staying true to the memory of those that went before.

Always weaving a special magic when they play together, founding members Hetty Kate and Sam Lemann tip their caps to the popular jazz duo’s of the past.. Peggy Lee and Dave Barbour, Julie London and Barney Kessell, Mary Ford and Les Paul. With two sell out albums under their belts and having performed all over the country, this band is worth a listen – guaranteed to have you smiling and tapping your feet!

“Hetty Kate’s voice overflows with a natural musicality.” Richard Fields, 3CR Radio Melbourne AU

“Pure of tone, sweet sounding and dangerously infectious..” jazz vocalist Hetty Kate has graced stages all over the world, as both a band leader and featured guest artist with Big Bands, small groups and combos. With her swinging phrasing and pure voice she is often called for specialised session work, and freelance vocals and is regularly found performing for clubs and festivals around the country. Visit her site: Hetty Kate.