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CBS EVENTS

Also check out the Gig Guide for more blues-related gigs in the Canberra region.


Upcoming events

    • 15 Sep 2024
    • 1:00 PM - 4:30 PM
    • Harmonie German Club, Narrabundah
    Register

    Hosted by

    Dean Edgecombe and the Seventh Sons

    Dean Edgecombe and the Seventh Sons have been around in various configurations for a while now but the common denominator has always been a shared passion for all things Blues.

    The current band line up features Dean Edgecombe on bass and vocals, Rob West on drums and vocals, Artem Grigoriev on guitar and James Hoogstad on tenor sax and harmonica. Over the past eighteen months the Seventh Sons have gigged solidly around Canberra and have recently released their second album, “The Midnight End of Town”.

    The Seventh Sons set is a great mix of classic and original Blues and Roots music with the odd curve ball thrown in for good measure. Their songs are presented with respect, excellent musicianship and a sense of fun.  The Seventh Sons will take you everywhere the Blues has been and then some.

    The host band will be followed by some of the finest musicians in the region jamming together for a great afternoon of live blues music. So bring your family, bring your friends and don’t forget your dancing shoes.

    CBS members: $10 / General: $15 / Children under 16: free entry



    • Jammers are expected to meet a competent standard of musicianship and be familiar with standard 3-chord, 12-bar blues songs.
    • CBS provides a lyric folder of classic blues songs if required.
    • If this is your first time, ask to speak to the Jam Session Coordinator to secure a place in a jam session.
    • Jammers are encouraged to have their names on the whiteboard by 1pm.
    • Late arrivals (after 1.30pm) cannot be guaranteed a spot in the Jam Session.
    • The coordinator will try to give everyone an opportunity to perform.
    • A rehearsed act may do a set as a band if it is prearranged at least 24 hours in advance of the jam by contacting the musicians representative via the contact us or the enquire now buttons.

    NOTE: This is a Blues Jam so it is expected that blues orientated songs will be played.

    • 24 Sep 2024
    • 6:30 PM - 10:00 PM
    • Harmonie German Club, Narrabundah
    Register
    Charlie Musselwhite (USA) @ The Zeppelin Room

    Gerrard Allman Events is proud to announce the return of legendary American artist Charlie Musselwhite for a run of not-to-be-missed Australian dates in September. Grammy-Award winning Musselwhite will be bringing his excellent touring band with him for the tour - Kid Andersen on Guitar, June Core on Drums and Randy Bermudes on Bass.

    With nearly six decades of rich musical history behind him, including numerous albums, countless live performances, multiple awards and accolades, there are very few artists of the stature of Charlie Musselwhite. As Rolling Stone Magazine stated, “Superb, original and compelling…Charlie Musselwhite, with unabashed excellence, sets the standard for blues.”

    Charlie’s journey through the blues was from his birth in Mississippi to Memphis, Chicago and California. Arriving in Chicago in the early sixties, he was just in time for the epochal blues revival. In 1966 at the age of 22 he recorded the landmark Stand Back! to rave reviews. A precipitous relocation to San Francisco in 1967, where his album was being played on underground radio, found him welcomed into the counterculture scene around the Fillmore West as an authentic purveyor of the real deal blues.

    Fifty years of nonstop touring, performing and recording have reaped huge rewards. Charlie Musselwhite is living proof that great music only gets better with age. This man cut his (musical) teeth alongside Muddy Waters, Howling Wolf and everyone on the South side of Chicago in the early 1960’s. Thank your lucky stars that he is still with us telling the truth with a voice and harp tone like no other.

    Special Guest Support: FIONA BOYES

    With 8 USA Blues Music Award nominations, career tour dates in 20 countries, and her recent induction into the Blues Victoria Hall of Fame, Fiona Boyes is a relentless and curious musical explorer. Fiona plays deep Blues, influenced by a myriad of traditional regional styles and has carved an international reputation as a blues guitarist, bandleader, vocalist and songwriter.  Winner of the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, USA, she is also a Blues Blast Music Award winner and former Port Fairy Folk Festival Artist of the Year

    Pre-sales: CBS members $80 / General $85 (pre-sale ends 24th Sept @ 6:30pm)

    Door: $90

    Doors open 6:30pm Show starts 7:30pm


    • 2 Oct 2024
    • 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
    • Harmonie German Club, Narrabundah
    Register

    Join us for our popular Jam Workshops for interested musicians wanting to develop their skills and gain experience in playing the blues in a band environment.

    Advice and mentoring will be provided by a house band featuring a selection of our finest players.

    JAMMING AT THE WORKSHOP


    These workshops are usually held on the 1st Wed each month, except January, at The Harmonie German Club. Three tunes are covered, with the house band demonstrating each, then inviting attendees to play. 

    The workshops are not intended to show you how to play your instrument, but they may give you a better understanding about how blues music is structured and how to sit in with other musicians, with whom you have not rehearsed.

    The workshop jams aim to create a supportive, non-threatening environment where less confident participants can perform in a band situation. 

    NOTE: The selection of pieces to be used is at the Workshop Facebook Group

    • 18 Oct 2024
    • 7:00 PM - 10:30 PM
    • Harmonie German Club, Narrabundah
    Register
    BONDI CIGARS

    Canberra Blues Society proudly presents BONDI CIGARS with guest support Divine Devilles.

    This award-winning quartet has well and truly established themselves into Australia’s musical heart since forming in 1989

    When the Bondi Cigars were first gigging around Sydney, late 1989, they moved in a blues/R&B circuit which, while robust enough since the 60s, had then been sparked into new life by the ‘blues revival’ of the mid-80’s, spearheaded by Robert Cray, Joe Louis Walker, Stevie Ray Vaughan and similar crusaders. And while many of the Sydney bands from that era have vanished, become historical footnotes or undergone major changes, the Cigars – true survivors – have battled on, without ever compromising their distinctive no nonsense style, to become a leading force in Australian R&B.

    That original Cigars line-up brought together four like-minded experienced players, all veterans of Sydney inner-west blues venues, and from the word go, the Cigars have been the very model of the ‘no passengers’ band, a well-oiled machine plus soul: no room for slackers here.

    The Bondi Cigars have also built a solid reputation as one of the best live acts in the country.

    Always one of the country’s hardest working outfits (on the road more than off), the Cigars have kept their music tight, hard-driving and down-to-earth: the Australian bar band par excellence.

    Shane Pacey (vocals and guitar) - Alan Britton (bass and vocals)

    Eben Hale (guitar and vocals) - Frank Corby (drums)

    Special guest support: Divine Devilles

    Singer/songwriters/musicians, Ali Penney and Dorothy-Jane Gosper, come together as Divine Devilles.

    Two well-travelled souls, each with a swag of awards, a suitcase full of songs, their hearts on their sleeves and a love of that sweet, swinging, shuffling, grooving place where Blues and Jazz meet.
    This is a powerhouse act with award-winning songs, vocals, keys and blues-harp, plus bags of cheek, charm and pizazz!

    Pre-sales: CBS members $27 / General $30

    Door: $35

    Doors: 7pm Show: 8pm


    • 20 Oct 2024
    • 1:00 PM - 4:30 PM
    • Harmonie German Club, Narrabundah
    Register

    Hosted by

    The Johnny Reynolds Band

    Johnny Reynolds has an impressive background as an international performer for the past 40 (plus)years starting in the Dublin circuit in 1982. His credits include joining BB King on stage at the National Stadium in Dublin 1985, touring Ireland with The Karen Coleman Band, and The Rob Strong Band, touring Europe and Ireland and sharing The Gothenberg Rock Festival bill with such giants as Deep Purple, Georgie Fame, The Kinks and Zak Wilde.

    Johnny went on to join acclaimed Dublin outfit ‘The International Blues Band’ who toured in the UK, Canada and Ireland, where they supported James Brown at the Point Depot in Dublin! In 1997 he formed The Johnny Reynolds Band playing mainly original material from the blues/rock genre.

    He has recorded 4 CDs to date, Never Say Die (1998), Summer’s Here (2001), Rock Steady Blues (2002), Johnny Reynolds Band Live in JJ Smiths (2007). Fast forward to Canberra Australia 2020, the band is now playing original Johnny Reynolds compositions and some classic covers with their own original slant.

    A highly engaging Funky, bluesy atmospheric rock show that amazes all who attend.

    Johnny Reynolds - Guitars / Vocals   Paul Callan - Bass

    Bernie Keenan - Drums   Bob Micallef - Keyboards

    The host band will be followed by some of the finest musicians in the region jamming together for a great afternoon of live blues music. So bring your family, bring your friends and don’t forget your dancing shoes.

    CBS members: $10 / General: $15 / Children under 16: free entry



    • Jammers are expected to meet a competent standard of musicianship and be familiar with standard 3-chord, 12-bar blues songs.
    • CBS provides a lyric folder of classic blues songs if required.
    • If this is your first time, ask to speak to the Jam Session Coordinator to secure a place in a jam session.
    • Jammers are encouraged to have their names on the whiteboard by 1pm.
    • Late arrivals (after 1.30pm) cannot be guaranteed a spot in the Jam Session.
    • The coordinator will try to give everyone an opportunity to perform.
    • A rehearsed act may do a set as a band if it is prearranged at least 24 hours in advance of the jam by contacting the musicians representative via the contact us or the enquire now buttons.

    NOTE: This is a Blues Jam so it is expected that blues orientated songs will be played.

    • 22 Nov 2024
    • 7:00 PM - 10:30 PM
    • Harmonie German Club, Narrabundah
    Register
    Blues Piano Night

    It’s back! One of the most popular events in the Canberra Blues calendar – This time Blues Piano Night will feature FIVE different players, playing solo and together, offering the audience different takes on the many genres of blues piano styles. Our world class line-up, Jan Preston, Don Hopkins, Carolyn “Pinecone” Packer, John Black & Ali Penney are signed up and ready to bring you all the blues piano goodness they can muster! Don’t miss this show!

    Pre-sales: CBS members $20 / General $25

    Door: $30

    Doors: 7pm Show: 8pm

    Jan Preston - Known as Australasias Queen of Boogie Piano, Jan Preston has a reputation as an astonishing piano player with a rich resonant voice who is a magnetic live performer. Jan captivates, moves and uplifts audiences around the world with her original songs, compositions and her mastery of boogie woogie.
    ABC Music s Winner of 5 Music Awards for her CDs and soundtracks, she plays festivals and concerts throughout Australia, NZ and Europe and writes music for film and TV such as the Theme to ABC s Australian Story. Recently her piano composition Trout Blues” became the theme to BBC London s Evening  Program.

    Don Hopkins - Oozing the barrelhouse, good-time fun of a blues party night, with the emphasis on New Orleans piano styles, a Don Hopkins performance will most likely get you singing along, dancing or just having a good time to his music. Don  came 2nd place at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, 2012 (with drummer Rob Grosser as Dr. Don’s Double Dose) in the solo/duo category. The duo was also Blues Performer of the Year 2012 for NSW & ACT. Don’s repertoire draws from the rich vein of blues and jazz of the 1920s and 30s through to the R&B, soul and gospel sounds of the 1950s and 60s.

    Carolyn Packer is a highly sought-after jazz performer, deeply imbued in jazz, deep blues, New Orleans swing, and funky Latin grooves, with decades-long expertise in song-writing and performing to her credit. Carolyn's playing is imbued with a depth of musicality only seen in a musician devoted to craft and delivered with a fiery passion and infectious energy that rearranges the atoms of the spaces she performs in, rendering her audiences enthralled. 

    John Black - John worked full-time as a musician in Sydney before moving to Canberra in the mid-80s to lecture at the School of Music. Today he works as a piano player, singer, arranger and composer. Recent collaborations have been with Ben Schumann in the BlackSchu Band with shows at the Street Theatre, Canberrang, the Australian Blues Music Festiva and Thredbo Blues Festival.

    Before that John worked as Musical Director for Sweet Mischief with performances at the Manly and Thredbo jazz festivals and the Island Jazz Festival in Samoa. And back in the dark ages in Sydney he worked with people such as Simon Gallagher, Judy Conelli, Marty Rhone and Tommy Steele.

    John is currently working with Gaye Reid and Lisa McClelland in a trio called Two Blondes + a Bloke, playing a whole range of styles including blues, jazz, latin and contemporary

    Ali Penney - “She’s  gotta lotta soul” says Andrew Junior Boy Jones. Ali has opened for an impressive list of legends including Johnnie Johnson, Chris Cain, Lucinda Williams, Cephas and Wiggins, The Tailgaitors and Chris Wilson.  

    Ali has been performing, recording, and composing music in bands for over 25 years. These bands include The Hippos, Midnight Ramblers, Supro and Wayne Jury’s Dry Bones as well as international acts such as Andrew Junior Boy Jones (Freddy King’s guitarist), Kid Bangham (Fabulous Thunderbirds), Lloyd Jones and Todd Sharpville. She has recorded with Fiona Boyes, Dom Turner, the Cyril B Bunter Band and those west coast hipsters, The Vibrolators

    Ali scooped the 2014 Australian Blues Music 'Chain' Awards winning: Female Artist of the Year, and her band The Money Makers: Best Band, Best Album and Best Producer. Her band also won Sydney Performer of the Year in 2009 and represented Sydney in The International Blues Challenge in Memphis 2010. The band also received The Australian Blues Music “Chain” Award for Best Band 2010.  

    Ali plays her brand of Blues, Jazz, Soul and Boogie at festivals across Australia. She loves West Coast Jump, Swing and New Orleans music, and she has recently won 'Favourite Keyboard Player' in the Sydney Blues Society Awards 2024.

    • 7 Dec 2024
    • 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM
    • Harmonie German Club, Narrabundah
    Register
    19-TWENTY

    Canberra Blues Society proudly presents 19-Twenty.

    "Ask for forgiveness not for permission. No rules, no limits. The closest to punk the Blues will ever get. Raucous and manic." "One of the most exciting riff and groove based blues and roots acts emerging from the east coast of OZ!"- Tone Deaf

    19-Twenty are a high-energy blues and roots band who storm the stage like a freight train. With a sound that blends foot-stomping rhythms, raw energy, and an undeniable sense of fun, 19-Twenty has quickly earned a reputation as one of the country's most exhilarating live acts.

    Formed in 2010, the band consists of Kane Dennelly (vocals/guitar), Jeremy Berg (Drums), and John Gwilliam (double bass). Their music is a unique fusion of blues, roots, rock, and a touch of folk, characterised by soulful vocals, intricate guitar work, and a driving rhythm section. Whether they're performing at a major festival or an intimate venue, 19-Twenty's live shows are renowned for their infectious energy and ability to get audiences on their feet.

    19-Twenty has toured extensively across Australia and beyond, captivating and connecting with audiences with their dynamic performances like no other band on the touring scene. They have shared the stage with legendary acts and made a name for themselves at prominent festivals, including Byron Bay Bluesfest, Port Fairy Folk Festival, Woodford Folk Festival, Blues on Broadbeach and 70+ other festivals nationally.

    Their discography features several albums that reflect their diverse influences and boundless creativity. From the rollicking energy of their debut album to the more polished yet still raw sounds of their later releases, 19-Twenty consistently delivers music that resonates with a broad audience. The band's lyrical themes often touch on personal experiences, life on the road, and universal themes of love and loss, adding depth to their infectious tunes.

    At its core, 19-Twenty is a band that thrives on live performance, where their chemistry and charisma truly shine. Their dedication to their craft and commitment to delivering unforgettable live shows has garnered them a loyal fan base and critical acclaim. Whether you're a blues aficionado, a roots enthusiast, or simply looking for a night of high-energy music, 19-Twenty is a band that promises to leave you wanting more.

    Guest Support: TBA

    Doors: 7pm  Show: 8pm

    PRE-SALES: CBS members: $27 / General: $30

    Door: $35


Past events

4 Sep 2024 Canberra Blues Society September Jam Workshop
18 Aug 2024 Canberra Blues Society Youth In Blues Pro Blues Jam
7 Aug 2024 Canberra Blues Society August Jam Workshop
3 Aug 2024 International Blues Music Day 2024
21 Jul 2024 Canberra Blues Society July Pro Blues Jam
20 Jul 2024 Chase The Sun @ The Zeppelin Room
3 Jul 2024 Canberra Blues Society July Jam Workshop
21 Jun 2024 Frank Sultana Blues Band plus Tomcat Playground @ The Zeppelin Room
16 Jun 2024 Canberra Blues Society June Pro Blues Jam
5 Jun 2024 Canberra Blues Society June Jam Workshop
1 Jun 2024 Mitch Grainger - Keller Sessions
19 May 2024 Canberra Blues Society May Pro Blues Jam
1 May 2024 Canberra Blues Society May Jam Workshop
28 Apr 2024 Canberra Blues Society April Pro Blues Jam
26 Apr 2024 8 Ball Aitken Band feat. Dillion James @ The Zeppelin Room
3 Apr 2024 Canberra Blues Society April Jam Workshop
23 Mar 2024 Kevin Borich Express @ The Zeppelin Room
17 Mar 2024 Canberra Blues Society March Pro Blues Jam
6 Mar 2024 Canberra Blues Society March Jam Workshop
23 Feb 2024 The Arc Riders + The Wildfires @ The Zeppelin Room
18 Feb 2024 Canberra Blues Society February Pro Blues Jam
7 Feb 2024 Canberra Blues Society February Jam Workshop
30 Jan 2024 Walter Trout (USA) @ The Zeppelin Room
10 Dec 2023 Canberra Blues Society Xmas Party Blues Jam
6 Dec 2023 Canberra Blues Society December Jam Workshop
24 Nov 2023 Youth In Blues Talent Spectacular
19 Nov 2023 Canberra Blues Society November Pro Jam
17 Nov 2023 Blues Piano Night @ The Zeppelin Room
10 Nov 2023 Bek Jensen Band + guest support The Barren Spinsters @ The Zeppelin Room
1 Nov 2023 Canberra Blues Society November Jam Workshop
15 Oct 2023 Canberra Blues Society October Pro Jam
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