For the second consecutive year, The Jackson Mack Big Band and award-winning vocalist Millie Sarah joined forces, this time to deliver a truly magical Christmas celebration. For one show only last night, the Norwood Hotel was decked in tinsel and lights that set the festive scene.
Jackson Mack arranged an incredible program that included 17 of Adelaide’s finest musicians, which was heavily influenced by jazz greats like Thad Jones, Billy May, and Duke Ellington.
Millie’s soulful voice and dynamic stage presence added a captivating layer to the evening that was able to bring both classic and reimagined Christmas tunes to life. With such creativity, skill, and energy on display, it is clear that the future is bright for the South Australian music industry.
The Jackson Mack Big Band opened the show with a reimagined version of Duke Ellington’s Nutcracker Suite that effortlessly blended classical music with jazz. Jackson introduced each song with a witty back story that allowed him to build an easy rapport with the audience.
During the performance, instrumental solos from Lachlan McGargill on Clarinet, Harrison Smith on Trumpet, and Thomas Pulford on Saxophone were chill-inducing. Each one offered a moment to highlight the remarkable talent within the band.
The first set ended with an electrifying cover of Duke Ellington’s Arabesque Cookie that left the crowd buzzing with excitement for what was to come.
The energy from the first set continued well into the second as Jackson welcomed Millie Sarah on stage to perform a collection of Christmas classics as well as a fresh take on some familiar tracks.
The audience was transfixed by the beautiful way in which Millie’s voice complemented the band. Her ability to effortlessly hold notes and shift her tone to perfectly fit each song’s mood was extraordinary. I am unashamed to admit that her entrancing delivery of Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas brought a tear to my eye.
A personal highlight of the night was the imaginative performance of Christmas is a Girl’s Best Friend, a festive revision of Carol Channing’s Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend. The playful and witty lyrics had the audience laughing along. Judging by the smiles on every face in the room, it was obvious just how much fun everyone was having.
As Jackson thanked Millie, the band, and everyone in the room for making the night possible, the crowd cheered for an encore. It was here that they were given the biggest surprise of the night. Christmas crackers were brought on stage for the band to pull for a chance to win a solo in the final song.
As the first notes of Jingle Bells played, we knew we were in for a treat. Once Millie rounded out the first chorus, the winners stood to deliver an entrancing set of improvisations that brought the night to a joyful close. I look forward to seeing what they have in store for next year’s concert.
The Jackson Mack Big Band and Millie Sarah performed for one night only on 6 December 2025 at The Norwood Hotel.
Keep an eye out for future performances on their socials.
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/jacksonmack0/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/milliesarahmusic/
Photo credits: Vipop Productions
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One response to “Review: The Jackson Mack Big Band & Millie Sarah”
Agree with the review, it was a fabulous show and great very clever arrangements. Well done! ♥️🎶