Just Talkin' Blues

Just Talkin' Blues - LamBros:The Duo Bringing REAL Music Back

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0800

Sydney brothers Conor and Harry Lambrou blend Blues, R&B, Rock and their Greek‑Cypriot roots into a sound entirely their own. Classically trained but instinctive performers, they write, record, mix and master everything from their Northern Beaches home studio.

Their new single “You Won’t Call” is a raw, personal track about being let down — and the first taste of their EP arriving September.

Known for a huge “five‑piece” sound despite being a duo, their live shows feature looping, multi‑instrumentalism, improvisation and the energy they honed through years of busking. They’ve performed at Bluesfest Byron Bay, Indigo Blues, and supported Tones and I, Mental as Anything, and Lachy Doley.

The Lambrou brothers creating authenticity in a digital world — real instruments, real emotion, real performance.

Watch the official music videos for "You Won't Call".

Just Talkin' Blues: Riding the Rails: Inside Victoria’s Blues Train Legacy

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0800

A deep dive into one of Australia’s most unique music experiences — a four‑hour rolling roots revue on a heritage steam train. This episode unpacks the Blues Train’s 32‑year evolution, from its boomer‑era beginnings to its modern push toward younger audiences, genre‑diverse programming, and partnerships with local businesses. We explore the artists who shaped its identity, the challenges of performing on a moving carriage, and the strategic shifts keeping this Victorian icon on track.

Just Talkin’ Blues – The Sheyana Band: All the Best, From Tassie to Colombo

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0800

In this episode of Just Talkin’ Blues, we sit down with Sheyana and members of The Sheyana Band to trace a 12‑plus‑year journey from Tasmania’s blues roots to chart success in Sri Lanka and beyond. They unpack the new compilation album All the Best—a hand‑picked blend of award‑winning tracks from Big Love and Ricochet plus three new songs, including festival anthem “Fourth Valley Blues” and the deeply personal “Ricochet,” dedicated to lost friends.

We talk about the band’s evolving lineup and sound—where blues underpins everything from soul to punk and grunge—and how “simpler” music with space can be the hardest to play. Along the way, Sheyana shares stories of supporting Australian icons like Renee Geyer, Ross Wilson, and The Black Sorrows, the surreal experience of Sri Lankan tours in monsoon rain and tuk‑tuks, and the intensely human songwriting process that turns late‑night voice memos, trauma, and real life into songs that travel the world.

Hosted by: Kelvin Huggins

Presented by: The Blues Hotel Collective - your home for EVERYTHING BLUES.

Website: https://www.theblueshotel.com.au/

Keep the blues alive.

Just Talkin’ Blues – Pepper Creek Revival: “It’s All Been Said,” But Not Like This

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0800

In this episode of Just Talkin’ Blues, we sit down with Victoria Music Hall of Fame inductee Barry Hills and powerhouse vocalist-songwriter Kelly Auty from Pepper Creek Revival to dive deep into their new album, It’s All Been Said. They unpack the band’s “thick salad” of influences—Americana, blues, country, folk, and rock—and how a burst of songwriting turned an unplanned project into a fully formed record where every track stands as a single, from the title track to “Back Glance” and the mandolin-laced “Remember.”

Barry and Kelly reflect on decades in the Melbourne blues scene, the magic of capturing a truly “live” band in the studio, and why they proudly stamp their work as made by human hands—no AI, just blood, sweat, and tears. Along the way, they share candid thoughts on the decline of live music culture, the fragmentation of albums in the streaming era, and what it means to keep making honest, human-centric art in a changing industry.

Hosted by: Kelvin Huggins

Presented by: The Blues Hotel Collective - your home for EVERYTHING BLUES.

Website: https://www.theblueshotel.com.au/

Keep the blues alive.

Just Talkin' Blues: Christina Crofts

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0800

In this episode we're just talkin' blues with Christina Crofts, one of Australia’s most distinctive blues‑rock artists, a slide‑guitar powerhouse whose latest release Best of Bottleneck hit #1 on the Australian Blues & Roots Airplay Chart. She traces her journey from a musical childhood in Brisbane—accordion in the lounge room, guitar chords from her uncle Stan Coster—to finding her voice on the rockier edge of the blues.

Christina reflects on the profound influence of her late husband and mentor, guitarist Steve Crofts, whose riffs, guitars, and spirit still shape her sound. We explore her heroes David Lindley and Rory Gallagher, the wild energy of her live shows, and the enduring crowd favourite “Midnight Train.”

She also speaks candidly about today’s music industry: the brutal economics of streaming, the decline of physical media, and her concerns about AI’s impact on authentic creativity. Looking ahead, Christina is gearing up for more touring and a new album of original material—determined to keep the flame of real, human-made blues burning bright.

Discover more of Christina and her music at https://www.christinacrofts.com/

Just Talkin' Blues: Keeping the Blues Alive — The Story of MBAS

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 09:00:00 +0800

In this episode, we’re just talkin’ blues with John Durr, President of the Melbourne Blues Appreciation Society (MBAS)—a group that’s been at the center of Melbourne’s blues scene since 1990. What started as casual Sunday jam sessions at the Station Hotel has grown into a vibrant community that supports artists, welcomes fans, and keeps the spirit of the blues alive.

🗂️ Note: This is an archived conversation from 2024, offering timeless insights into the roots, challenges, and evolution of MBAS and the broader blues community.

We dig into:

• The founding story and mission of MBAS: to support blues musicians and connect them with audiences

• Why traditional memberships are fading, and how MBAS is embracing a supporter-driven model

• The weekly Tuesday night gigs and jam sessions that bring the community together

• The annual Blues Challenge, sending local acts to Memphis and opening doors worldwide

• Youth and Women in Blues programs that spotlight emerging talent

• How MBAS promotes the blues through newsletters, live streaming, and social media

• The evolving sound of blues and why it continues to resonate with younger generations

With candid reflections from John Durr, this episode is a celebration of grassroots music, community spirit, and the enduring power of the blues.

🔗 Learn more or get involved at mbas.org.au

Just Talkin' Blues: Renaté Bianca

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 09:00:00 +0800

In this episode we’re Just Talkin’ Blues with Renate Bianca — a singer-songwriter whose journey spans the Netherlands, New Zealand, and Tasmania. From a musical family upbringing to a life-changing introduction to jazz, Renate has built a rich catalogue of heartfelt songs exploring humanity, connection, and authenticity.

In this interview, we dive into:

• Her songwriting philosophy — telling raw, honest stories with kindness

• The meaning behind singles like Laat Me Niet Vallen, Gumboots, and The Tracker

• Details on her upcoming album and collaborations with young jazz musicians

• Why she champions imperfection and authenticity in a digital age

• Her vision for music as an act of community and shared experience

The Blues Hotel Collective - Official website of the Blues Hotel Collective - Home of The Blues Hotel and Just Talkin' Blues. Sign up to our quarterly newsletter and be notified when new episodes drop!
Renaté Bianca Music - Official artist platform for Renaté Bianca, a songwriter, composer, librettist, and performer based in Southern Tasmania.

▶Chapters:

00:00 Journey Through Music: From the Netherlands to Australia

03:03 The Essence of Songwriting: Humanity and Connection

06:00 Exploring New Horizons: Dutch Music and Cultural Identity

08:57 The Album Journey: Creation and Collaboration

12:09 The Role of Music in Community and Connection

15:13 Navigating the Future: AI, Authenticity, and Artistic Vision

Just Talkin’ Blues – Ross Wilson: 60 Years of Sound & Spirit

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 09:00:00 +0800

In this episode, we’re just talkin’ blues with Ross Wilson, a true icon of Australian music whose career spans over 60 years—from teenage garage bands to chart-topping success with Daddy Cool and Mondo Rock, and now a thriving solo chapter.

Ross dives into the roots of his sound, blending blues, doo-wop, and rock ’n’ roll into hits like “Eagle Rock.” He shares how a love of live performance, a sharp ear for songwriting, and a commitment to artistic integrity have kept him at the top of his game—even at 77, still playing over 100 gigs a year.

We explore the evolution of the music industry, the reality of streaming royalties, and why protecting your songs matters more than ever. Ross also opens up about his creative process, family ties to music, and his latest EP that returns to his blues roots—with harmonica front and centre.

It’s a deep, funny, and honest chat with one of Australia’s most enduring voices. As Ross puts it, “When you’re on stage, that’s what you’re living for.”

Just Talkin' Blues: Judy Sings the Blues

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 07:07:33 +0800

In this episode we’re Just Talkin’ Blues with the incredible Judy Mangini of Judy Sings the Blues

At 50, Judy reignited a lifelong dream to perform—and she’s been lighting up stages ever since. In this episode, she shares her powerful story of resilience, passion, and purpose. From her beginnings as a young poet and guitarist to releasing Backstage Pass Live!—an album that landed her on the 2025 Grammy ballot—Judy opens up about her journey, her band, and the deep connection she feels with her audience.

We also dive into the realities of being an original blues artist, the power of live performance, and Judy’s thoughts on the future of music in an AI-driven world.

Just Talkin' Blues: The Mezcaltones

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 02:20:40 +0800

In this episode of just talkin' blues we dive into the vibrant world of The Mezcaltones—Australia’s self-proclaimed pioneers of “Mexican hillbilly surf music.” Joined by Neralita and Col, we explore the band’s spontaneous origin story, their genre-blending sound, and the cinematic inspiration that sparked a musical movement. From a tongue-in-cheek idea sparked by a Robert Rodriguez film to five albums of surf-meets-blues swagger, The Mezcaltones have carved out a style all their own. We chat about their evolution as a band, the theatrical flair of their live shows, their latest album Big Hat, No Cattle, and how they craft songs with the crowd in mind. You’ll hear about ribbon dancers, Ennio Morricone medleys, and a Johnny Cash cover with a surf twist—as well as what makes this band both family-friendly and fiercely original. If you like your blues with a dash of desert, a splash of surf, and a whole lot of swagger, you’re in for a treat. ‪@themezcaltones‬

Just Talkin Blues: Jovin Webb

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 05:33:38 +0800

In this episode, we’re just talkin’ blues with Louisiana’s own Jovin Webb — a soulful powerhouse whose sound runs deep with Southern roots. From singing gospel in Louisiana churches to earning a spot in the Top 10 on American Idol, Jovin shares how his journey shaped the raw fusion of blues, soul, and rock that defines his music today.

We talk about his early influences—from Southern Baptist gospel to blues greats like Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf—and that unforgettable moment when “barbecue sauce” became the perfect way to describe his Southern style on national TV. Jovin gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the making of his debut album Drifter, recorded with producer Tom Hambridge, and reflects on standout tracks like “Living Reckless” and “Save Me.”

He opens up about the emotional depth of his songwriting, his connection with international audiences, and the magic of playing alongside a band he considers family. With more music in the works, a growing global fanbase, and airplay already reaching Australia, Jovin Webb is an artist on the rise — honest, passionate, and unapologetically real.

“Whatever I’m doing, I’m doing something right.” – Jovin Webb

Just Talkin' Blues: Phil Coyne

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 05:30:21 +0800

In this episode, we’re just talkin’ blues with Melbourne-based harmonica player and frontman Phil Coyne. It’s a down-to-earth and lively chat as Phil takes us through his blues journey — from early influences to leading The Wayward Aces. We dive into the band’s evolution, their songwriting process, and the stories (and laughs) behind their tracks, including the fan-favourite “Summertime Blues.”

Phil opens up about recording their debut album, blending personal experience with a touch of humour, and how that shapes their sound. We also touch on the deeper role blues plays in community, connection, and resilience — especially through the challenges of the COVID era.

This one’s full of insight, heart, and plenty of bluesy soul.

Just Talkin' Blues: Matt Tandy

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 05:26:29 +0800

In this episode, we’re just talkin’ blues with Australian bluesman Matt Tandy. From his early days as a sports-loving teen to becoming a raw, soul-stirring songwriter, Matt shares the personal journey that shaped his sound. We dive into the stories behind his powerful EP Banister Street, with a closer look at tracks like “Rose Colored Glasses” and “Heavy Sippin’.” Matt opens up about how music became his anchor through grief, hardship, and finding himself — making this a truly honest and heartfelt conversation.

Just Talkin' Blues: Kerry B. Ryan

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 05:23:15 +0800

In this episode, we’re just talkin’ blues with guitarist and songwriter Kerry B Ryan. Kerry takes us through his musical journey — from picking up the guitar at 13 to laying down raw, heartfelt blues tracks from his home studio. Influenced by greats like Hendrix, B.B. King, and Albert Collins, he shares his approach to songwriting, crafting tone, preparing for gigs, and navigating the challenges of promoting blues in the digital world.

We dive into his love of imperfection in recording, the freedom he finds in improvisation, and his deep commitment to staying true to the spirit of the blues. Plus, Kerry gives us a glimpse into his upcoming gigs, new projects, and what it means to truly make the blues your own.

Just Talkin' Blues: Michael Vdelli

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 05:19:13 +0800

In this episode, we’re just talkin’ blues with VDELLI frontman Michael Vdelli. He opens up about his musical journey—from early influences and the formation of his powerhouse band VDELLI, to the philosophy that fuels his electrifying live performances. Michael shares stories from touring across Europe, compares the live music scenes between Europe and Australia, and talks about how his songwriting has evolved over time. He reflects on the importance of his signature guitar, the wisdom he gained from legends like B.B. King, and offers heartfelt advice for the next wave of blues artists. We wrap up with a look at what’s next, including new music on the horizon and upcoming tour dates.

Just Talkin' Blues: Tommy McEwan a.k.a Louis KIng

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 05:13:31 +0800

In this episode, we’re just talkin’ blues with Tommy McEwan — better known as Louis King. He shares the story behind his stage name and takes us through his journey in the music industry, where blues meets a touch of humor in every performance. Louis opens up about the thrill of traveling, the deep connections made through music, and the joy of writing songs, playing live, and touring across Europe and Australia. From memorable festival gigs to collaborations with fellow musicians, he reflects on the highs of a life in blues. We also chat about what’s ahead — including the release of his new album, upcoming tour plans, and how fans can find his music on Bandcamp. Plus, Louis shares his thoughts on embracing technology, even diving into AI’s role in music production.

Just Talkin' Blues: Melbourne Blues Appreciation Society

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 05:09:16 +0800

In this episode, we’re just talkin’ blues with the Melbourne Blues Appreciation Society. Since its founding in 1990, the Society has been dedicated to supporting blues artists, nurturing young talent, and building a strong community for blues fans. Through events, youth and women’s programs, and various initiatives, they remain deeply connected to Melbourne’s local blues scene. While promoting the blues comes with its challenges, the Society has adapted by embracing tools like live streaming and newsletters. We spoke with current president John Durr, who shared his thoughts on their ongoing work and what the future holds for blues music.

Just Talkin' Blues: The Honey Badgers

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 05:04:20 +0800

In this episode we're just talkin' blues with co-founder of Adelaide's The Honey Badgers, Nigel Bourn shares the journey of forming the band, entering the local blues challenge, and their unexpected success at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis. He also discusses the recording process of their first album "Shakin'" and the band's sound and chemistry evolution. The conversation covers topics such as music production, album success, streaming services, fan favorites, collaboration, and advice for up-and-coming musicians. Nigel shares insights on the band's experience, challenges, and achievements in the music industry.

Just Talkin Blues: Aaron Pollock

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 05:00:28 +0800

In this episode we're just talkin' blues with Australia's record breaking new talent Aaron Pollock shares his journey of becoming interested in the blues music genre and his influences from the older generation. He discusses the challenges and advantages of being an independent artist in the current music industry. Aaron also talks about his favorite album and upcoming projects, including a new single and international tour.