The MAX Sessions
| Company type | Television series |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music television |
| Founded | 2004 |
| Headquarters | Sydney , Australia |
Area served | Australia |
Key people | Paul Hester (former presenter), Chit Chat Von Loopin Stab (former presenter), Yumi Stynes (former presenter), Bernie Zelvis (director) |
| Products | Music television programming |
| Website | www |
The MAX Sessions is an Australian TV series broadcast on MAX, showcasing intimate live performances that are predominantly acoustic, featuring both domestic and international musicians. The format bears resemblance to MTV Unplugged.
History
The program was initially presented by Crowded House drummer Paul Hester. Following Hester’s passing in 2005, hosting responsibilities were assumed by MAX personality Chit Chat Von Loopin Stab. By the end of 2007, hosting shifted to another MAX presenter, Yumi Stynes. The series debuted in early 2004, with rock group Coldplay headlining the premiere episode. More than 30 episodes have aired, featuring a diverse lineup of Australian and overseas artists, with the majority directed by Bernie Zelvis.
Most recordings take place at the Sydney Opera House, where performances are delivered live before a small audience of approximately 30 attendees to maintain an exclusive atmosphere; access to tickets is granted through contests on the show’s website. On 3 November 2007, MAX broadcast a special 90-minute twilight event titled Concert For The Cure, spotlighting Australian band Powderfinger and aimed at raising breast cancer awareness. This outdoor concert at the Sydney Opera House was reserved exclusively for breast cancer patients, survivors, and their relatives.
The production has earned four accolades from the Australian subscription television industry's (ASTRA Awards) in recognition of its high-quality production values.
Max Sessions
Distinguished performers featured on the show include:
- Alex Lloyd
- Australian Icons (comprising James Reyne, Mark Seymour, Johnny Diesel, Joe Camilleri, among others)
- Bernard Fanning
- Blondie
- Chicago
- Chris Isaak
- Coldplay (featured in both first and fiftieth sessions)
- Darren Hayes (joined by guest Delta Goodrem)
- Delta Goodrem
- Ed Kowalczyk (Live)
- Eskimo Joe
- The Finn Brothers with guest drummer Paul Hester
- George
- INXS
- Jack Johnson (including park and solo sets)
- James Blunt
- Jamie Cullum
- Jimmy Barnes
- John Butler Trio
- John Mayer
- Kasey Chambers & Shane Nicholson
- k.d. lang
- Keith Urban
- Michael Bublé
- Missy Higgins
- Moby
- Neil Finn
- Newton Faulkner
- Paul Kelly
- Pete Murray
- Powderfinger: Concert For The Cure (featuring guests Missy Higgins & Nic Cester from JET)
- Sarah McLachlan
- Slash & Myles Kennedy
- The Cat Empire
- The Whitlams
- Toni Collette
- Xavier Rudd