The Melbourne soul-pop outfit is reimagining what a live show can feel like for both artists and audiences.
Melbourne’s Velvet Bloom aren’t just touring their debut album. They’re also reshaping what it means to deliver an inclusive, high-impact live performance.
With the help of Sennheiser’s in-ear monitoring, EW-DX wireless systems, and MobileConnect technology, the band has built a touring setup that serves both their artistic needs and the diverse access requirements of their audience. For lead singer and songwriter Maddy Herbert, who was diagnosed in 2024 with otosclerosis, the partnership with Sennheiser has been transformative.
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Listening more deeply
Touring with inconsistent venue sound once made monitoring vocals a challenge, but in-ears and wireless mics have given Velvet Bloom tighter control over their mix.
“The clarity that the microphones brought to our voices is something I have never experienced in a live setting,” says Herbert. With Sennheiser’s systems, she’s now able to personalise her mix, protect her vocal stamina, and deliver performances with confidence night after night.
Sound that includes everyone
Beyond the stage, accessibility was a priority for the band. They introduced communication boards, sensory kits and “compassion tickets” to ensure audiences felt considered and supported. Trialling Sennheiser’s MobileConnect technology also allowed fans to stream the live mix directly to their phones or hearing aids, offering another pathway for inclusion.
Performing with purpose
For Velvet Bloom, technology was just the starting point. By working closely as a band — Nick Morton (drums), Miguel Hutton (keys), Jay Jarome (bass, vocals) and Alex Marco (guitar) — they’ve created shows that feel intentional and connected, both musically and emotionally. As Herbert puts it: “If someone can walk into one of our gigs and feel considered, then we’ve done something right.”
Velvet Bloom’s tour continues around Australia. More info here.
