THE VIEW FROM MADELEINE’S COUCH
Where the breeze of Rio meets the sun of Brisbane.
For almost three decades, The View From Madeleine’s Couch has been Australia’s most celebrated interpreter of Brazilian music, creating a timeless sound where the soul of Rio de Janeiro meets the warmth of Brisbane. Since forming in 1997, the internationally acclaimed ensemble has immersed audiences in the rich traditions of bossa nova, samba and Brazilian jazz, bringing authenticity, joy and exceptional musicianship to every performance.
At the heart of the band are co-founders Anje West, whose effortless Portuguese vocals and percussion capture the spirit of Brazil, and Kym Ambrose, whose distinctive vibraphone has become one of the group’s defining voices. Together with long-time collaborators Bruce Woodward (guitar), OJ Newcomb (bass), and Paul Hudson and Lachlan Hawkins(drums), they have cultivated a musical chemistry refined over nearly 30 years of performing together.
More than a tribute to Brazilian music, The View From Madeleine’s Couch has built genuine cultural connections through decades of study, travel and collaboration. Anje West and Kym Ambrose have lived, toured and recorded throughout Brazil, developing lasting friendships with some of the country’s most respected musicians. Among the most significant is legendary drummer Marcio Bahia, renowned for his work with Hermeto Pascoal and Roberto Menescal. That relationship has inspired international tours, recordings and unforgettable performances, including the acclaimed Bossa Nova Sunset Club album and the band’s sold-out 25th anniversary concerts at the Brisbane Powerhouse.
Across five recordings—two EPs and three full-length albums—the ensemble seamlessly blends beloved Brazilian classics with original compositions that honour tradition while expressing their own unique artistic voice. Their music has received multiple Queensland Music Award nominations in the World and Jazz categories, taking home the 2009 World Music Award for “Bom Fazer.”
The View From Madeleine’s Couch has become a beloved fixture of Australia’s festival landscape, performing eight times at the Woodford Folk Festival, headlining Brisbane Festival’s Spiegel Tent, Queensland Music Festival events, the Queensland Multicultural Festival, the Manly Jazz Festival, Darling Harbour Festival and the Saideira Brazilian Festival. Since 1999, every appearance at the Brisbane Jazz Club has sold out, a testament to the enduring connection they have built with audiences.
Released through Yama-Nui Records, the band’s music continues to celebrate the elegance, rhythm and emotional depth of Brazilian culture while remaining unmistakably Australian in spirit. Their performances don’t simply recreate Brazilian music—they embody its generosity, intimacy and joy.
The View From Madeleine’s Couch doesn’t shout. It smiles. It sways. It invites you in.
For nearly thirty years they have reminded audiences that wherever there is rhythm, melody and love, there is Brazil.
THE VIEW FROM MADELEINE’S COUCH
Established 1997
Heartbeat: Australia
Soul: Brazil
