About Us

One of the most entertaining acts on the Melbourne blues scene, Cold Snap is built around the husband-and-wife team of Joe Valenti (guitar, vocals) and Sonia Valenti (vocals, alto saxophone).  Joining them are Mark Smith (guitar), Jimmy Fewings (bass) and Steve Donald (drums). They have been a hit with audiences at events like the Wangaratta Jazz & Blues Festival, Eltham Jazz & Blues Festival, Echuca Winter Blues Festival, Bendigo Blues & Roots Music Festival, Alice Springs Blues Festival and on the Blues Train at Queenscliff. They guarantee a high-energy, entertaining show, with their full-on versions of classic blues, soul and R&B songs.

Talented musicianship combined with amazing vocals up front by this husband and wife team certainly set Cold Snap apart from many others in their genre.

"This band is sensational! And when you think they can't belt out another number better than they just did, see what happens when Sonia hits the stage. With an on-stage voice and attitude a bit like Janis Joplin - you could come to this night just to see her belt out anything this band can throw at her."

Sonia's huge on-stage presence is instantaneous, from the moment her feet touch the stage and she grabs hold of that microphone; she is ready to do her thing. Singing, dancing and even playing saxophone throughout the show. Is there anything she can't do?

They've performed at the Phillip Island MotoGP, Wangaratta Jazz & Blues Festival, Eltham Jazz & Blues Festival, The Blues Train in Queenscliff, Anglesea Music Festival, Alice Springs Blues Festival, Bendigo Blues & Roots Music Festival and many more.  Even selling out of their CD's at the Echuca Winter Blues Festival. Word on the band is spreading, so much so that after each of their festival performances people have consistently left claiming they were one of the best bands performing on the day.

Their shows have fans out of their seats, on their feet, and get the whole joint jumpin'. They hit the ground running with their first track and don't let up for a minute the entire night. Fans are literally mesmerised and simply have to stay for fear of missing a single moment. One lady said "Once I heard them play their first song, we had to stick around to see how these guys end their show tonight". Cold Snap didn't disappoint and had the whole place on their feet, dancing, jumping and hollering until their final note was played. It's always a great night when Cold Snap is in town.

It seems each venue they play at these days they convert new fans. One lady claimed Sonia was "one of the most talented women she has seen" after hearing her sing, dance, and then pick up her sax.  Another said "You guys shouldn't be called Cold Snap because you're Smokin' Hot!" Yes it does sound a little cliché, but these are the feelings that are conjured up after each show.   This band is in serious demand, and after witnessing one of their live shows, you'll know why.

Do yourself a favour and get down to one of their gigs to witness one of Victoria's, if not Australia's hottest live Rhythm & Blues Revues, who must be seen live to be fully appreciated.

For further Cold Snap information email info (at) coldsnap.com.au or phone 0412 300 337.

Line up