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• Canberra Blues Society Jam Workshop 4 November 2026

  • When
    4 Nov 2026
  •  
    6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
  • Location
    Zeppelin Room, Harmonie German Club, Narrabundah

  Register

  Our popular Jam Workshops are designed for musicians who want to build their skills and gain experience playing blues in a real band environment. You’ll receive advice and mentoring from a house band made up of some of our finest players.

  Three tunes are introduced by the house band before participants are invited to jump in and play. While these sessions won’t teach you how to play your instrument, they will help you understand blues structures, develop ensemble awareness, and learn how to play confidently with musicians you’ve never rehearsed with.

  
  

  Our goal is to provide a supportive, inclusive space where players—especially those with less experience—can perform in a relaxed band setting.

  
  

  The selection of tunes for each workshop is posted in the Workshop Facebook Group under Files.

  Jamming at the Workshop

  

  Note: Photographs of participants in CBS Jam Workshops are taken and posted on Facebook and other social media platforms for promotional purposes.

  Show details
• Kevin Borich Express @ The Zeppelin Room

  • When
    6 Nov 2026
  •  
    7:00 PM - 10:30 PM
  • Location
    Harmonie German Club, Narrabundah

  Register

  KEVIN BORICH EXPRESS @ THE ZEPPELIN ROOM

  
  

  Canberra Blues Society proudly presents Kevin Borich Express with special guest support James Southwell.

  With a professional career spanning over 50 years, Kevin Borich has done it all.  Beginning with the LA- DE- DA’S in New Zealand, writing the classic hit ‘Gonna See My Baby Tonight’, to his KEVIN BORICH EXPRESS and The PARTY BOYS, Kevin has performed at some of the biggest Rock events Australia has seen. 

  From the Historical SUNBURY Festivals - the ROCKARENAS in the 70’s with crowds of 60,000 people, featuring FLEETWOOD MAC, THE LITTLE RIVER BAND & SANTANA (with whom he was invited onstage to play with) to the New Years Event at the Sydney Opera House with 170,000 people telecast live nationally and internationally to Japan at that time, a first!  Numerous support shows for international acts, ELTON JOHN, STATUS QUO, JEFF BECK, BUDDY GUY & PETER FRAMPTON  to name a few.

  Kevin has carved out a revered reputation in the Australian Music Industry, performing his music with a youthful exuberance, - giving extra meaning to the word LONGEVITY.  Kevin has played and recorded with artists such as Renee’ Geyer `Blues License’ - Dutch Tilders `The Blues Had a Baby ‘- Richard Clapton `Prussian Blue’, Jamming with Carlos twice, also with Bo Diddley, Richie Blackmore (Deep Purple), Ron Wood (Rolling Stones), John Mayall, Taj Mahal & members of Living Colour. Overseas tours and tours with Jimmy Barnes, Renee’ Geyer, Mark Hunter, and being Co Founder member, and author of the Party Boys name have added spice to his career.

  Well known for his high-energy electric guitar style, his performance is hailed throughout the music industry as world class.  He also starred in the hugely successful 18 ‘Sold Out’ Australia wide ‘Long Way To The Top’ 2002 arena concerts.

  In recognition of His contribution to Australian music and blues culture, he was inducted into the Australian Blues Foundation Hall of Fame.

  Guest support: JAMES SOUTHWELL - a powerhouse performer who has been electrifying audiences across Australia and New Zealand for nearly two decades. Blending raw blues, funky grooves, and rock ‘n’ roll energy, James commands the stage with unforgettable performances. With a career rooted in a deep love of blues and a fearless approach to pushing musical boundaries, James has become one of Australia’s top blues and rock acts. James recently won the Sydney Blues Society Blues Challenge (band category).

  Pre-sales: CBS members $40 / General $45 (pre-sale ends 6 November @ 6:30pm)

  Door: $50

  Doors open 7pm Show starts 8pm

  Show details
• Learning The Blues - Effects Pedals & Tone Workshop with James Southwell

  • When
    14 Nov 2026
  •  
    2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  • Location
    Keller Bar, Harmonie German Club
  • Spaces left
    22

  Register

  Join James Southwell for an interactive deep dive into the world of electric guitar pedals and tones. (We can also add bass and acoustic guitar if the interest is there. If you are interested in this please email contact@canberrabluessociety.com.au to register your interest.)

  Whether you're just starting to explore pedals and amplifiers or you're looking to better understand the gear you already own, this workshop will cover the practical and creative aspects of building great tone. Topics will include the different types of overdrives, fuzzes, delays, modulation effects, pedalboard signal chain, pedal power solutions, and how each part of your rig contributes to your overall sound - as well as common issues you may encounter.

  We'll also explore running one or multiple amplifiers and the options to consider, including dual mono, stereo, wet/dry, and wet/dry/wet setups, along with common issues such as phase problems and ground loops - and how to solve them.

  This will be a hands-on session, so attendees are encouraged to bring their pedalboards and pedals. Depending on numbers and available time, there may also be opportunities to look at complete rigs. The primary focus however, will be helping you better understand your gear and how to get consistent, great results through your amp AND virtually any backline amplifier you might encounter.

  This workshop is ABSOLUTELY also for players who are completely new to the thought of buying and using guitar effects pedals, and simply want to learn more.

  James will also be bringing his own pedalboards, a selection of pedals, guitars, and his Two-Rock amplifier for demonstrations throughout the workshop.

  For those wanting to go even deeper, a limited number of discounted one-on-one follow-up sessions will be made available exclusively to workshop attendees. These sessions will offer the opportunity for a more personalised exploration of tone, gear, and rig optimisation.

  Bring your questions, your pedals, and your curiosity-and let's make sense of tone together.

  All participants will be given a history of 'The Blues' from its beginnings to where it has developed to today.

  About our presenter James Southwell -
  

  James Southwell is an accomplished guitar player, singer, songwriter, who has established himself as one of Australia’s leading blues/rock performers. James has toured Australia and New Zealand extensively for over two decades, playing in excess of 2000 shows, including numerous festival appearances. James has recently started a new project ‘Southwell’, competing in the Sydney Blues Society’s Blues Challenge, winning the band category. The band will now be travelling to the USA in January to compete in the International Blues Challenge in Memphis.
  
  Southwell is an evolution — a musical adventure born from a deep love of playing and a passion for being part of this incredible music community and the remarkable musicians and people within it. Rooted in the blues but never confined by it, Southwell is more than a band. It’s an invitation to look forward rather than back, and to be part of something bigger.

  James has also had an extensive studio and live career recording and performing with a number of wonderful artists, including touring with acclaimed Australian blues band the Bondi Cigars from 2024 into 2025, filling in for their front man Shane Pacey while he was recovering from surgery. Southwell also toured with Australian rock icon Angry Anderson (ex Rose Tattoo) for 10+ years as "Angry Anderson with the James Southwell Band".  James also had a popular festival band, "Manning (Phil Manning) Wilson (Chris Wilson) Southwell (James Southwell) Band", plus many more.
  
  Check out James on socials or at a show!
  
  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jamessouthwell/

  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/JamesSouthwellMusic

  YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@jamessouthwellOFFICIAL

  MEMBERS: $15

  NON-MEMBERS: $20

  
  

  Show details
• Canberra Blues Society November Pro Blues Jam - hosted by Soul & Stone

  • When
    15 Nov 2026
  •  
    1:00 PM - 4:30 PM
  • Location
    Harmonie German Club, Narrabundah

  Register

  Soul & Stone hosts the NOVEMBER Pro Blues Jam

  

  
  

  While the name is fairly fresh on the Canberra live music scene, the members of Soul & Stone are some of the most hardworking and talented musicians in the Capital, with an impressive list of past and present projects to their names. Their style mixes soul-drenched blues with upbeat contemporary grooves – if you saw them at their showcase set in September, you know what we mean!

  The Band

  Jonathan Jones: drums/percussion

  A true all round legend, Jon “JJ” Jones has toured the world as a drummer and percussionist with folk icon Eric Bogle and remains prolific on the music scene performing rock, Latin, gypsy jazz, blues and more. His energy, skill, cheese and pure joy in performances is unmatched.

  John Coates: bass guitar

  John “JC” Coates is an equally prolific and talented fixture on the Canberra (and beyond) live music scene, having performed in the engine room of countless bands across a diverse range of genres – from rock, reggae, jazz, blues, R&B and more – since the early 80s. A true master of the groove.

  Steve Smith: guitar/vocals

  This iconic rhythm section lays the foundation for the incredible guitar work of Steve Smith. Formerly fronting the successful indie blues-rock band Muddy Wolfe, his style effortlessly blends soul, blues, rock, roots, country and more.

  Monica Moore (Wallabindi): vocals

  Topping it all off is the vocals of award winning First Nations (Noongar/Yamatji) singer songwriter Monica Moore (also performing as Wallabindi). Originally hailing from Perth, she spent her first years in Canberra exploring her vocals in choirs and acapella ensembles. After 2 years living in the UK (playing bass/songwriting and playing the open mic circuit of London) she returned to Canberra in 2006, becoming a constantly evolving force on the Canberra music and arts scene. Monica has performed in jazz/lounge/pop/disco/funk/soul/blues/rock lineups for almost 20 years, but one of her biggest loves is the Blues. She started performing at CBS jams in around 2008 and has been in the mix ever since, with occasional host and support performances.

  Mon has supported and performed alongside many artists including Casey Donovan, Karen Lee Andrews, Icehouse, Dan Sultan, Joe Camilleri, Frente and as a vocalist for Coloured Stone.

  Her debut EP ‘Wallabindi Dreaming’won the MusicACT Independent Debut of 2023. Since then, Monica and her band (the same rhythm section as this lineup!) have been performing at festivals including Major’s Creek, Cobargo, National Multicultural Festival, Enlighten, Floriade, Uranquinty, Yackandandah, and Giiyong, with much more to come.

  Inspired by blues matriarchs including Koko Taylor, Etta James and Big Mama Thornton, Mon will be weaving her powerhouse vocals into the mix for a Soul & Stone performance not to be missed.

  The host band will be followed by some of the finest musicians in the Canberra region and surrounds, jamming together for a fabulous afternoon of live blues music.

  And, as always; bring your friends, your instrument, your voice or just your dancing shoes!!

  CBS members: $10 / General: $15 / kids 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.

  Show details
• Zevon Lee band (VIC) + ISEULA band (VIC) + Moondog (ACT) @ The Zeppelin Room

  • When
    5 Dec 2026
  •  
    7:30 PM - 10:30 PM
  • Location
    Harmonie German Club, Narrabundah

  Register

  
  

  Emerging from the heart of Melbourne’s dynamic music scene, Zevon Lee is a rising force in blues, soul, and pop. Seamlessly blending soulful vocals, electrifying blues guitar and sharp pop sensibilities, Zevon’s sound defies easy categorization - offering audiences a distinctive and captivating musical experience.

  Zevon was bitten by the blues music bug very early in life. He was gifted his first Stratocaster at age five and the first concert he ever attended was BB King with his father. It seems that his future was predetermined.

  After paying his dues in a rockin’ high school band, things gradually got more serious.  Beginning with Sure Shot Hunters, he begun to make a name for himself on the Melbourne music scene and gained popular residencies at venues such as Revellers Bar in Chapel Street and Cherry Bar in the city.

  In 2024, Zevon released three standout singles, each showcasing his dynamic range and knack for blending old-school vibes with fresh energy. In 2025 he released the highly anticipated EP 'The Only One’, including a blues-drenched collection that promises to capture the essence of his roots while pushing the boundaries of the genre.

  Zevon’s energy on stage is electric, drawing crowds with his no-nonsense, powerhouse shows that are all about music that feels real. With original arrangements powered by top-tier musicianship and a standout live presence, Zevon Lee and his super hot band are a must-see!!!

  ISEULA is a Melbourne/Naarm soul and blues artist with a powerhouse voice, blending soul, neo-soul, jazz and R&B.

  Drawing inspiration from the deep-rooted sounds of Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, and classic 1950's soul, ISEULA rose to national prominence as the lead singer of the Melbourne Blues Band 'Blue Eyes Cry', winning two Chain Awards and was named Female Artist of the Year for Victoria and Tasmania.

  (A bit of trivia - Blue Eyes Cry performed at our Winter Blues Party celebrating the 1st International Blues Music Day back in August 2013.)

  Since leaving that band ISEULA launched an active solo band project in 2021/22. Backed by an all-star band, she delivers groove-rich, emotionally charged performances that move audiences and leave a lasting impression.

  Special Guest Support - Blues powerhouse Moondog is a master of the blues harmonica and a formidable guitarist, singer and songwriter.

  He shares songs and stories of his many journeys into the heartland of the Blues, where he spent over 10 years exploring juke joints, speak easy and blues bars from Chicago through to St Louis, Memphis, Mississippi, New Orleans, Nashville and parts of Texas.

  In 2015 he represented Bridgetown Blues at the annual International Blues Challenge in Memphis TN and in 2016 he performed at Chicago Bluesfest on the Windy City Blues Society stage.

  This event would be ideal for your work or group Xmas Party celebration.

  Pre-sales: CBS members $40 / General $45 (pre-sale ends 5 December @ 6:30pm)

  Door: $50

  Doors open 6.30pm Show starts 7.30pm

  ZEVON LEE  - 'Sweet Cup' 

  

  ISEULA  -  'Bye Bye Baby'

  
  

  MOONDOG - 'Dimples'

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• Canberra Blues Society End of Year Celebration Pro Blues Jam - hosted by Illya Szwec's Groove Depot

  • When
    20 Dec 2026
  •  
    1:00 PM - 4:30 PM
  • Location
    Harmonie German Club, Narrabundah

  Register

  

  ILLYA Szwec's Groove Depot hosts the CBS End of Year Celebration (DECEMBER) Pro Blues Jam.

  Illya Szwec's Groove Depot is a funky little ensemble that changes from gig to gig. For the CBS End of Year Celebration Jam, Illya will be bringing:
  
  Pat Powell on vocals. Pat's no stranger to Canberra, having performed shows and vocal workshops all over the city. He can be seen with The Melbourne Ska Orchestra, who tour worldwide (and nationwide!), and fronting any number of blues, soul, jazz, funk & reggae groups in the capital cities of each state all year round! Pat and Illya have a partnership that extends beyond the last 15 years, and work together in several musical projects that see them maintaining residences at Sydney venues, as was multiple festival appearances across NSW.
  
  Aidan Glover on bass guitar. Aidan is equally at home on guitar, and whoever books him for a gig needs to specify which instrument he's required on! He regularly performs in the bands of Sydney guitar icons Simon Kinny Lewis and Ray Beadle, as well as his own duo and band projects.
  
  Mitch Preston on drums. The shuffle master! A mainstay of Canberra blues and roots music, and known for supplying the sophisticated beats for Leo Joseph, The Groove Kings and more. He's one of Illya's favourite drummers - so this is a perfect opportunity for them to play together!
  
  Illya Szwec on guitar. Illya has spent the last 25 years performing onstage and recording with some iconic Australian blues, funk, soul, reggae and rock musicians - including Wendy Saddington, Clayton Doley, Margaret RoadNight and Continental Robert Susz. He made an international connection by performing on Bob Daisley's tribute to Gary Moore CD, alongside musicians that perform in Black Sabbath, Deep Purple and Toto!
  
  Expect some funky blues today!!

  The host band will be followed by some of the finest musicians in the Canberra region and surrounds, jamming together for a fabulous afternoon of live blues music.

  And, as always; bring your friends, your instrument, your voice or just your dancing shoes!!

  CBS members: $10 / General: $15 / kids 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.

  Show details