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. Ellison’s music is based in the blues rock tradition, with psychedelic and celtic elements. 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.
rockvideos.at is working with Ulrich Ellison and his Tribe on two projects. One is video material from his live Gig at Reigen, Vienna as part of the Vienna Blues Spring, and the second is a music video production for his upcoming single “My Shoes keep walking back to You”
Pictures from the Concert in Reigen:
Some Stills from the Video Production: