Saxedonia brings together the slick sophistication of the LA studio-session sound with the energy of a powerful horn section. Inspired by the band Freedonia – founded by Christopher Cross as a local band in Austin, Texas – Saxedonia blends rich three-horn arrangements, groove-driven rhythms, soaring sax solos with a sonic nod to Steely Dan’s legendary Aja era.

The band began when Canberra drummer Bruce Smyth first heard tracks from Freedonia’s debut album before a Toto concert in Sydney in 2025, prior to Christopher Cross’s band. Although the songs were unfamiliar, the unmistakable sound of Cross’s voice, his guitar playing, and the band’s tight horn arrangements immediately stood out. Inspired by the depth and sophistication of that sound — and drawing on Canberra’s pool of great players, together with the outstanding arrangements of Viktor Rufus — Bruce set out to create something fresh for the Canberra music scene in 2026. For fans of Christopher Cross, Steely Dan-inspired horns, deep-pocket grooves, and blazing sax solos, Saxedonia delivers a polished and powerful live experience.