Rory Ellis is a highly charismatic songwriter with six nationally and internationally acclaimed albums and a voice that will command the hair on your arms to stand up.

He performs songs honed in hard miles, often upbeat, heartfelt, humorous and always with a great story behind them.

Having worked in various Melbourne acts since 1989, Rory started his solo acoustic journey in 1998, working the bars and festivals around Australia.

Some include Port Fairy Folk Festival, Apollo Bay Music Festival, The National Folk Festival, Blue Mountains Blues and Roots Festival and Queenscliff Music Festival.

Rory was different to most songwriters. He had an amazing true story to tell about his time living in a boxing gym, working at the Sacred Heart Mission in St Kilda, working as a bouncer in Melbourne's hardest rooms and seeing first hand, the seedier side of life.

It gave a real life spin on these heartfelt songs he was performing. The incredible public response prompted the recording and eventual release of his first solo album Ride in 2001.

Ellis launched his debut CD Ride in March 2001 to a four star review in The Age EG section by Lyall Johnson who challenged the readers, "If you're not deeply moved by this superb debut by Melbourne singer-songwriter Rory Ellis, it's doubtful you're human".

Ellis, with his wonderfully deep, resonant voice, plumbs the depths of the human experience to come up with a sophisticated, inspiring album of predominately earthy ballads about life on the streets.

Since then, he has toured the UK, spent a year at home in 2007 to take a break from the constant overseas touring, signed 'Two Feathers' to UK label Villainous Records in April 2008 and then in 2010, Rory made his first appearance at one of the world's largest Country Music Festivals, Tamworth, to rave reviews from audiences and venues alike.

2013 saw the release of Twisted Willow to glowing reviews, once more including a four star review in the Melbourne Age.

Stawell and district residents have the opportunity to hear the commanding voice of Rory Ellis for themselves tonight at the Diamond House. Meals are from 6pm, with bookings available on 5358 3366.

There will also be a Friday 13th theme for the evening, with prizes to be awarded for best dressed on the night.