Surprise Chef Members, Gear & Sound

Surprise Chef is an instrumental quintet hailing from the outskirts of Melbourne, Australia, renowned for their immersive blend of jazz, funk, and soul jazz. Formed in 2017, the group comprises Lachlan Stuckey (guitar), Jethro Curtin (keyboards), Andrew Congues (drums), Carl Lindeberg (bass), and Hudson Whitlock (percussion). Their style draws inspiration from 70s film scores and the groove-laden side of jazz, creating rich soundscapes that transport listeners into a world of moody, instrumental music. Signed to Big Crown Records, Surprise Chef has captivated audiences worldwide with albums like All News Is Good News and Daylight Savings.

Surprise Chef's sound is a tapestry of moody, groove-infused textures where melodic and rhythmic elements intertwine seamlessly. Their music often features warm, resonant guitar tones, courtesy of Lachlan Stuckey's use of semi-hollowbody guitars like the Harmony H-75 and Silvertone 1429, which provide a vintage, soulful character. Jethro Curtin's choice of keyboards, such as the Sequential Circuits Prophet-5, adds lush, analog warmth and depth to their arrangements. The rhythm section, anchored by Andrew Congues on drums with his Ludwig Supraphonic 400 Snare Drum, delivers punchy, infectious grooves that are both laid-back and captivating. Their music thrives on dynamic interplay and a rich palette of sounds, creating an evocative and timeless listening experience.