Ian Moss

One of Australia’s most celebrated guitarists, Ian Moss guides blockbuster pub-rockers Cold Chisel with his passionate yet refined playing. Born in Alice Springs in 1955, Moss co-founded the band in Adelaide while still a teenager, initially singing lead before Jimmy Barnes adopted that role. But Moss has come back to the mic throughout Chisel’s on-again, off-again career, making his biggest mark with the searing roadhouse triumph “Bow River” on 1982’s Circus Animals. Inspired by a remote sheep station where his brother had worked, the song boasts a vocal performance fiery enough to rival Barnes himself, who swoops in towards the end. Moss scored a hit solo debut with 1989’s Matchbook, often drawing on the deeply felt songwriting of Chisel bandmate Don Walker there and across future solo outings. Whether he’s on his own or in band mode, his bluesy rhythm runs and expressive solos always make a lasting impact.