M J Turner

Mark "M J" Turner's journey with music started when he was just six years old. After seeing the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra perform, he was inspired to take up the violin, which he played and performed with until the age of 12. However, it was the guitar that truly captured his heart as a teenager. 

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His love of the guitar began when he discovered the music of Jimi Hendrix, Santana, and Stevie Ray Vaughn. This led him to explore the history of Blues, studying musicians like Howling Wolf, John Lee Hooker, and R.L. Burnside. 

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This influenced the formation of his first band, The Baron, created in collaboration with his brother and drummer Michael Turner. The Baron became a staple in the Adelaide music scene between 2006 and 2014, releasing three EPs and embarking on an East Coast tour of Australia. 

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In 2009, Mark joined the English band 'Miners Club' for their UK Tour, which saw them play at many iconic venues across London and the surrounding region, with the highlight of performing at 'Bestival' Isle of Wight. 

Upon returning to Australia, Turner began work on his solo career, writing prolifically and experimenting with various musicians in live, experimental showcases across Melbourne and Adelaide. During this time, he continued to work on developing numerous music venues in Adelaide and performed with various bands, including The Baron, Subsketch, Deadly Are The Naked and Captain Hellfire & The Wretched Brethren. 

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In 2015, while living and working in the remote APY Lands, Turner released his debut solo EP, "Wanderlust," which was inspired by his years of travel. The release depicted an instrumental interpretation of the highs and lows of the journey. 

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In 2017, Turner formed a new band, releasing 'The Wild Bloom' EP, which showcased a lively and engaging new direction for his compositions. However, he took time off performing after becoming the father of three daughters.

But post-COVID, in 2022, MJ Turner re-emerged in the live music scene, performing at the Port Noarlunga Blues Festival and the Dragonfly Dreaming Festival in 2023. He also released the EP, 'Elixir 8.1.8' and became the resident performer at Ayres Rock Resort in November 2023. 

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Today, MJ Turner continues to perform, creating a captivating sound using the guitar to form an eclectic soundscape. His performance features soulful guitar playing and earthy grooves, covering a range of styles, including modern interpretations of traditional blues combined with uptempo world music rhythms.