Brisbane based, alt-country collective Orphan Ann are a tight-knit quintet on the verge of their first release. The band was formed late in 2009 in order to workshop material by Brisbane singer/songwriter Matthew Hoffman, originally existing as a duo with guitarist Liam Campbell the group augmented it’s lineup over the following year to include five pieces.

With a heavy country influence that encompasses the early styles of Hank Williams and Bob Wills, the group lends a hard edged twang to heart-felt ballads and uptempo foot-shufflers. Matthew Hoffman’s vocals are joined by the whine of Liam Campbell’s lap steel and lead guitars, the tasteful piano of Rohan Seekers and the solid rhythm section of Jessi Dunbar (drums) and Chris Hobman (bass).

The recording of their EP was originally a lenthy endeavour, with the group often re-recording songs in order to get the best result possible. The final product features guest spots from a number of talented Brisbane musicians, folk multi-instrumentalist George Jackson contributes fiddle, mandolin and banjo on a number of tracks and Matthew Palmer and Simone Pitot lend their vocal contributions.

The group’s first year saw them solidify a group sound through rehearsal and workshopping material, making occasional apperances at beloved Brisbane venues such as Ric’s, The Globe, Queen Street Mall Main Stage, Limes Hotel and Alloneword. Now with a debut EP under their belt the group looks forward to bigger and better things, their sound still developing and their eyes on future projects.

Orphan Ann will launch their debut self titled EP at Ric’s on Tuesday the 31st of May.