Sweet Jones

Based in New Orleans, Sweet Jones embodies the unified musical collaboration of husband/wife team, Matthew and Melissa DeOrazio, both on guitars and vocals. 
Featuring original compositions, as well as creative interpretations of other artists’ songs, the genre ranges from electric blues, roots, rock and Americana.  They share a passion for music and creative expression, developed independently over the years in their respective musical worlds.  
The two have been performing together since 2006, and officially formed as Sweet Jones in 2009.

They recorded and filmed "Le Grande Soiree", a live performance of their show at The Balcony Music Club in Autumn 2009, and released the CD/DVD set during Jazz Fest 2010.  They toured the East Coast in September 2010 in support of the release.
Le Grande Soiree is available on the Store page, and clips from the DVD are available to preview on the Grande Soiree page.
Sweet Jones is now in the process of recording their next studio album. Giving the songs the space they need to germinate, there is no specific release date set.

They perform regularly in New Orleans, as well as regionally. Melissa and Matthew are regular volunteers and members at the local community-based/supported radio station, WWOZ, believing in being a part of the grassroots process of supporting music that they and their peers make in Louisiana.
They enjoy playing clubs and festivals in the region, as well as performing in alternative venues and benefits as well, such as regular performances at the St. Joseph's Homeless Outreach Center, St Anna's Church & Musician's Clinic, and the Blues in the Schools (organized by House of Blues).
In addition to great local support from fans and radio, they have had the opportunity to build professional support from local businesses. They are sponsored by New Orleans Guitar Company (local guitar luthier) and Earth Odyssey (local jewelry, gem, holistic healing center).

Sweet Jones is available to perform as an electric duo, or as a trio/quartet, adding bass/keys and drums depending on the venue/occasion.
Sweet Jones performs regularly in New Orleans, and has toured various cities, including NYC, Chicago, Austin, Baltimore, DC, Pensacola, and Gulfport.  Check the Calendar page for updates.


INDIVIDUAL BIOS:

Matthew is a proficient and prolific musician who has been playing guitar and performing the majority of his life. His “modern electric blues” combine new interpretations of familiar songs with his own compositions, together with “spontaneous compositions” which come to life as improvisational work inspired by the moment. He has worked with many other artists on guitar and drums, both live and in the studio over the years, and truly enjoys playing music.
Matthew is honored to play a Voodoo Custom guitar, built right here, in New Orleans, by Vincent Guidroz of
New Orleans Guitar Company.
Vincent builds these unique instruments one at a time, with the passion of a great sculptor and the patience of Job.  Every detail is considered and executed by hand.  The instruments come to life, with a heart and soul all their own.
Nothing can replace the feeling of the expressive liberation that is experienced, when playing an instrument designed and built by a single artisan by hand. It is a guitar for a lifetime and then some.


Melissa is a native Texan singer/songwriter who infuses her effervescent energy into her songwriting and performing. She is a writer and poet, and inspired by the world on a daily basis.  She was very active in the Austin music community for several years (1999-2007), organizing music showcases and performing both solo-style and with various band incarnations, including Melissa On The Rocks, where Matthew & Melissa first began playing together in late 2005.  Melissa and Matthew recorded a full-length album, called M.O.T.R, in 2007, which is available only for download, on the Store page.

Melissa and Matthew joined in marriage in 2007, which brought their musical worlds together naturally, as an
extension of their personal relationship. Their music ultimately expresses heart and soul.
They are grateful to be able to share this positive inspiration in the world, and grateful for your support and enjoyment as well.