Girrakool Blues Festival

29/01/2025

We are beyond excited to announce that the Bondi Ci**rs will be rocking the stage at this year’s Girrakool Blues Festival! 🎸🔥

Rarely has an Australian band received as much consistent acclaim from critics and music fans alike as these legends. With nine albums under their belt, the Bondi Ci**rs have become a cornerstone of the Australian blues scene, known for their powerhouse performances and killer grooves that always get the crowd on their feet. Whether it’s their tight rhythm section or their soulful, high-energy performances, these guys deliver every time.

While we’re thrilled to see them live at Girrakool, we want to take a moment to wish Shane Pacey, the band’s frontman, a speedy recovery. Due to needing a double hip replacement, Shane will be taking some time off from performing with the band. But we’re happy to announce that James Southwell will be stepping in to fill Shane’s shoes during this time, ensuring the show goes on just as strong. 🎤🔥

We’re all wishing Shane the best and look forward to seeing him back on stage once he’s recovered. In the meantime, don’t miss the chance to see the Bondi Ci**rs in action at Girrakool, with James bringing his own fiery touch to the performance. This is going to be one for the books!

Get ready for a blues experience like no other, and let’s give a huge round of applause for the Bondi Ci**rs at Girrakool! 🙌🔥

27/01/2025

We cannot wait for the legendary Pat Capocci to hit the stage at this year’s Girrakool Blues Festival! 🎶✨

Based in the heart of Manly Beach, NSW, Pat has been carving out his own path in the international roots scene with his electrifying, one-of-a-kind sound. From his thunderous guitar and savage rhythms to his self-penned songs, Pat brings a fresh yet authentic perspective to everything he touches. Whether it’s Western Swing, Country, Blues, or Jazz, his music is a smoking hot blend of all the best styles – and it’s impossible not to be moved by it.

Pat is widely regarded as Australia’s best modern practitioner of rockabilly, and it’s easy to see why. His mastery of roots rock and the energy he brings to every performance is second to none. Over the past decade, he’s released a stack of albums on labels like Press-Tone, Wild, Devil Wind, and Ruby, solidifying his reputation as a prolific and adventurous artist.

If you haven’t seen Pat live, you’re in for an absolute treat. His performances are the kind of raw, energetic, and authentic experiences that stay with you long after the final chord. 🔥🎸

So, grab your tickets, bring your dancing shoes, and get ready to groove to the rockabilly wizardry of Pat Capocci! 🙌🔥

27/01/2025

🎉🎶 The 2025 Girrakool Blues Festival Artist Times Are Here! 🎶🎉

We’re so excited to drop the official playing times for the 2025 Girrakool Blues Festival Festival ! Mark your calendars – the festival is just around the corner and it’s shaping up to be an absolute blues blowout. 🤩🔥
Checkout artist playing times here-->>🤜 https://zurl.co/IFNyu

But that’s not all – we’ve got some major news to share! Girrakool Blues is teaming up with Six String Brewery to bring you the best of Australian blues every month! Yes, you heard that right – we’re bringing live blues to Six String Brewing Company all year long, with some of the most talented Aussie acts. 🍻🎸

To kick off this amazing collaboration, we’re throwing a launch party on February 23rd, and we’re stoked to announce that Matt Ross and the Mavericks will be taking the stage as the first band in our new partnership! 🚀🎶

The show is FREE ENTRY – so come on down to Six String Brewery’s brand-new home, check out the stunning space, and enjoy the electrifying sounds of Matt Ross & The Mavericks. These guys are no strangers to blowing the roof off – as semi-finalists in the International Blues Challenge, you can bet they’re going to have you dancing all afternoon long. 💃🔥

Don’t miss this epic afternoon of live music, craft brews, and all the good vibes you could ask for. Let’s kick things off in style and get ready for an incredible year of blues at Six String Brewery! 🍻🎸

Lets us know you are going ---->>>🤜 https://zurl.co/7MUGF

27/01/2025

🎶🔥 Get Ready for The Specialties at the 7th Annual Girrakool Blues Festival! 🔥🎶

We’re absolutely thrilled to announce that The Specialties will be gracing the stage at this year’s Girrakool Blues Festival, and trust us, you won’t want to miss it!

Despite their relatively short career, this band has already made a huge impact on the Australian music scene, earning eight nominations in just two years, including Favourite Blues Band and Favourite Emerging Act at the prestigious Sydney Blues Awards. That’s no small feat!

With a sound that blends classic Blues, Jazz, Rockabilly, and Soul, The Specialties have quickly become one of the most electrifying acts around, captivating audiences wherever they go. Led by the incomparable Shannon Carswell, whose voice is often described as one of the most beautiful in the country, this band is pure magic on stage.

And let’s not forget the brilliant mind behind it all – Wayne Rigby, the award-winning saxophonist who's performed at over 30 festivals around Australia, and put together this incredible group of musicians.

In just under two years, The Specialties have performed at some of the biggest festivals and shared the stage with some of Australia’s top acts. It’s no wonder they’ve become one of the most talked-about bands in the blues scene!

So come on down to Girrakool and see them live – we promise you’re in for a show you won’t forget. 🔥🙌

26/01/2025

Hailing from the heart of the Victorian goldfields, Bill Barber and The Holding Cell are leading the charge for a fresh new wave of blues, southern rock, and Americana in Australia—and we are so lucky to have them perform at the 7th Annual Girrakool Blues Festival!

Formed in June 2023, this powerhouse band was born out of a shared desire to do something different, something raw, and something incredibly emotive. Featuring Bill Barber on vocals, Tommy ‘Back Beat’ Brown on drums, Jaspar Austin Gray on bass, and Shaun Klinger on guitar, the band has hit the ground running and made an impact that cannot be ignored.

With a hard-driving rhythm section, technical and soulful arrangements, and brutally honest lyrics, The Holding Cell blends southern rock with blues in a way that’s fresh, dynamic, and undeniably powerful. Their sound is aggressive, exciting, and unapologetically real—a sonic journey that’s impossible to ignore.

In just their first year, Bill Barber & The Holding Cell have racked up some incredible accolades: winning 2023 MBAS Blues Performers of the Year, semi-finalists at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, and performing at some of Australia’s biggest blues festivals, including Blues on Broadbeach and Echuca Moama Winter Blues.

Their debut single and first LP, The Muscle Shoals Sessions, was recorded live in the legendary FAME Studios in Alabama—home to some of the most iconic names in music history, from Aretha Franklin to The Allman Brothers Band. It's no surprise that their sound carries the weight of that legacy!

If you haven’t seen them live yet, get ready to witness a band that leaves it all on the stage. The energy, the authenticity, and the sheer emotion of their performance will blow you away.

Don’t miss Bill Barber & The Holding Cell at this year’s Girrakool Blues Festival. Trust us, you’ll be glad you were there. 🎶🔥

24/01/2025

Get ready for some seriously soul-stirring blues, because we’re incredibly lucky to have Jesse Redwing and his smokin' hot band gracing the stage at the 7th Annual Girrakool Blues Festival! For nearly two decades, Jesse has been honing his craft in smoky juke joints around the world, and it shows in every note he plays.

Jesse’s been making waves on the international stage, most recently as a semi-finalist in the 2024 International Blues Challenge on Beale Street in Memphis, TN. On top of that, he’s toured Europe and the USA with the Jesse Redwing Band, and supported some of the biggest names in blues and roots music, including Cedric Burnside, Jon Cleary, Cold Chisel, The Teskey Brothers, and Ana Popovic.

His music has been featured in places like Netflix’s hit show Shooter, and his original albums, including Comin’ on, Light My Way, and two live records, Live and Lascivious and Blues on the Mountain, have earned him a reputation for crafting unforgettable tunes.

The release of his latest album, Trim The Fat, produced by Stephen Mowat, is a testament to his evolution as an artist—taking the timeless sounds of the blues and giving them a fresh, contemporary twist.

Whether performing solo or with his full band, Jesse's down-to-earth, honest playing always shines through. His blend of deep soul, gritty blues, and infectious energy is guaranteed to leave you feeling like you've just witnessed something special.

This is one performance you won’t want to miss! 🎶🔥

23/01/2025

Tasmanian singer-songwriter Pete Cornelius - Music is a true gem in the music scene, and we are incredibly lucky to have him bring his original, raw, and authentic sound to the Girrakool Blues Festival this year! With over 25 years of experience under his belt and only just turning 40, Pete’s music is a powerful reflection of a life lived with passion and heart. His songs are a beautiful snapshot of the wild spirit of Tasmania, full of soul and storytelling that resonate deeply.

Pete’s style blends blues, roots, and Americana in a way that only someone like him could pull off—raw, unfiltered, and always electrifying. His live shows are nothing short of captivating. This isn't just a performance; it’s an experience. 🔥

Joining Pete on stage are two incredible musicians: drummer George Brugmans and bass player Ben Edwards, whose grooves are solid, exciting, and add a whole new layer to the already big sound of the Pete Cornelius Band. The vibe is electric, and the energy they bring is unmatched.

As Josh Cunningham from The Waifs says, “Pete Cornelius has revealed himself as the real deal and created an album that showcases an artist at the peak of his powers.” We couldn't agree more. This is a show you won’t want to miss!

Get ready for a dynamic performance that’ll leave you wanting more. See you there! 🎶💥

22/01/2025

We are thrilled to announce that Nathan Beretta Band will be bringing their electrifying blues performance to the 7th Annual Girrakool Blues Festival from February 28th to March 2nd, 2025! 🎉

Nathan Beretta has firmly established himself as one of the most respected and talented artists in the Australian blues scene. As the frontman of the award-winning Blue Eyes Cry, Nathan has been a driving force, playing some of the biggest blues festivals and venues across the country. His powerhouse performances and unmistakable style have earned him admiration from blues lovers far and wide. 💥🎶

Over the years, Nathan has shared the stage with a who’s who of Australian blues legends, including Robert Susz (Mighty Reapers), Shane Pacey (Bondi Ci**rs), Geoff Achison, Lloyd Spiegel, and Chris Wilson, just to name a few. He’s also opened for international heavyweights like Anne Popovich, Jon Cleary, and Joe Louis Walker, solidifying his reputation as a standout performer in the blues world. 🌍🎸

Growing up with blues, jazz, and soul music in his household, Nathan brings his unique style to every performance—drawing inspiration from the greats like Ronnie Earl, Albert Collins, Guy King, and Jimmie Vaughn. His approach to the guitar is soulful, powerful, and direct—playing with an “all killer, no filler” mentality that leaves audiences craving more. 🎶🔥

Nathan’s first band, Blue Eyes Cry, earned him widespread recognition, including topping the Australian Blues and Roots Charts in 2015 and winning Best New Talent at the Chain Awards that same year. His debut release, Where I Belong (2019), continued his chart-topping success and further cemented his place as one of Australia’s leading blues artists. 🏆🎤

We are incredibly fortunate to have Nathan Beretta Band perform at Girrakool Blues Festival 2025. With his fiery guitar skills, heartfelt performances, and undeniable talent, Nathan will deliver a show you won't soon forget. Get ready to experience the soul of blues like never before! 🔥🎸

21/01/2025

Get ready for an unforgettable performance from one of Australia’s most iconic and enduring artists—Ross Wilson With a career spanning over 50 years, Ross is a true legend of Australian rock and blues, and we’re beyond lucky to have him grace the stage at the 7th Annual Girrakool Blues Festival from February 28th to March 2nd, 2025. 🌟

From his groundbreaking work with Daddy Cool—who delivered the timeless anthem Eagle Rock—to his role as the frontman of Mondo Rock, and his successful solo career, Ross Wilson is a name that defines Australian music. With 26 ARIA Top 40 hits and two ARIA Hall of Fame inductions, he has left an indelible mark on the industry. 🎶🔥

Starting in 1971 with Daddy Cool, Ross changed the landscape of Australian music with the band’s debut album Daddy Who? smashing sales records and leaving behind a legacy that still resonates today. The formation of Mondo Rock in 1977 brought us unforgettable 80s hits like Cool World, State of The Heart, Chemistry, No Time, and Come Said The Boy, solidifying Ross’s place as a master of songwriting and performance. 🎸✨

But it doesn’t stop there. As a songwriter, producer, and solo artist, Ross Wilson’s influence has stretched far and wide. His hit songs, including A Touch of Paradise, Eagle Rock, and Cool World, have been recorded by an astonishing array of artists, from Jimmy Barnes and John Farnham to The Wiggles and Troy Cassar-Daley, just to name a few! 🌍🎤

Ross has never been away—he’s continued to captivate audiences through the decades, and his 2023 release, "She’s Stuck On Facebook All The Time", proves that his ability to craft bluesy, modern-day anthems is as sharp as ever. 😎

With his legacy, his infectious stage presence, and his timeless songs, Ross Wilson is a living legend. We’re incredibly lucky to have him perform at Girrakool, and we can’t wait for you to witness the magic of this true Aussie icon.

Don’t miss out—this is one performance you’ll never forget! 🎸🔥

20/01/2025

We are incredibly fortunate to announce that the amazing Paul Mason will be joining us for the 7th Annual Girrakool Blues Festival from February 28th to March 2nd, 2025! 🌟

Paul Mason is an absolute guitar virtuoso, renowned for his incredible versatility and one-of-a-kind style that blends influences from legendary players like Mark Knopfler and Jeff Beck. Whether he’s laying down blistering blues riffs or delivering soulful melodies, Paul’s distinctive sound and masterful technique have made him one of the most respected guitarists in the business. 🎶🔥

As a co-founder of Battlesnake, Paul has honed his skills in both the rock and blues worlds, playing alongside some of the biggest names in music. From sharing stages with Sting, Dominic Miller, Kiss, and The Smashing Pumpkins, to his iconic decade-long role as Jessica Mauboy’s lead guitarist, Paul’s career spans across genres and generations, showcasing his broad musical range and unparalleled talent. 🎸🤩

His performances embody the essence of modern guitar virtuosity—a perfect blend of technical precision and emotional depth that is sure to leave audiences in awe. We are truly lucky to have Paul Mason bring his extraordinary musical gifts to the Girrakool Blues Festival stage, where his guitar mastery will undoubtedly elevate the entire experience.

Don’t miss the chance to see Paul Mason in action at Girrakool 2025—this is a performance you won’t want to miss! 🎤🔥

19/01/2025

🎉 Get Ready for Sweet Talk at the 7th Annual Girrakool Blues Festival! 🎉

We are beyond excited to announce that the incredible Sweet Talk Music will be gracing the Girrakool Blues Festival stage from February 28th to March 2nd, 2025! 🔥

If you haven’t experienced Sweet Talk yet, you’re in for a treat. This high-energy 6-piece Melbourne band is known for turning every live show into an absolute party, getting crowds to dance, sing, and boogie without missing a beat. With their infectious energy and contagious grooves, Sweet Talk has a way of getting even the most unsuspecting punters on their feet and into the rhythm of the moment. 🕺💃

Founded on a love for late-night jams, classic songwriting, and a deep appreciation for American music, Sweet Talk has built a devoted following, travelling across Australia to play iconic festivals like Blues On Broadbeach, Queenscliff Music Festival, Tamworth, Port Fairy Folk Festival, and Out On The Weekend—plus countless pubs, live rooms, and BBQs nationwide. 🎤🎸

The band blends a rich tapestry of vintage influences into a sound that’s entirely their own, and their live performances are an absolute force of nature. Their unique mix of blues, soul, and rock will have you feeling the vibe long after the music stops.

So mark your calendars and get ready to let the good times roll with Sweet Talk at Girrakool Blues Festival 2025. It’s going to be an unforgettable experience, and we can’t wait to see you there! 🌟

18/01/2025

When it comes to raw, unfiltered blues, Beretta and Sullivan are a force to be reckoned with. This powerhouse duo, born out of a shared love and deep respect for the blues, has quickly become one of the most exciting acts on the Australian blues scene—and they're just getting started!

Nathan Beretta, a name that’s no stranger to blues fans, has earned his stripes playing with the award-winning Blue Eyes Cry and his own band, The Nathan Beretta Band. Known for his searing guitar skills, Beretta draws from the legendary sounds of Albert King, Albert Collins, and Freddie King, cementing his reputation as one of Australia's most powerful blues guitarists. 🎸🔥

On the other side of the duo, Dan Sullivan brings his signature harmonica sound, honed through years of playing in bands like Tomcat Playground and the Frank Sultana Blues Band. With an infectious style inspired by harmonica legends Little Walter and Sonny Boy Williamson, Dan's mastery of the instrument adds a soulful layer to their music that transports listeners back to the very roots of blues. 🎵🎺

Together, Beretta & Sullivan break the blues down to its most authentic form—stripping back the noise to a time when the masters played with little to no amplification. They tell stories through their music, channeling the deep, emotional energy of the blues in a way only these two seasoned musicians can. The result is a sound that's both timeless and electrifying.

Their journey has been nothing short of spectacular. Recently, Beretta & Sullivan won the 2024 Sydney Blues Challenge, earning the honor of representing the Sydney Blues Society at the prestigious International Blues Challenge in Memphis in January 2025. Competing in the Quarter Finals at this renowned event is a massive achievement—and a testament to their undeniable talent and rising star status. 🌍🎤

18/01/2025

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18/01/2025

Paul Mason will be lifting the roof off the Girrakool stage ❤️💥🎸

Check out pauly_free11’s video.

17/01/2025

If you haven’t heard of Shauna Jensen Music you’re missing out on one of Australia’s true vocal powerhouses! Hailing from Sydney & now a Central Coast local, Shauna has spent five decades captivating audiences with her extraordinary voice, spanning across rock, blues, and dance music scenes.

Starting out as a highly sought-after session singer, Shauna quickly made her mark as one of Australia’s top backing vocalists, lending her powerful vocals to some of the nation’s most iconic artists, including Jimmy Barnes, Noiseworks, Cold Chisel, and Richard Clapton. Her magnetic stage presence and vocal mastery made her a standout in the industry and earned her a reputation as a true professional. 🎤🎶

But Shauna is far more than just a backing vocalist. She’s always been a lead force in her own right, with her own band featuring some of the finest players on the Sydney music scene. Her self-released album gained her significant recognition, and she was awarded Best Female Vocalist at the inaugural Goulburn Blues Festival in 1998 – a moment that cemented her place as a true musical talent.

Her versatility doesn’t stop there! Shauna’s seamless transition into the international dance music scene, where she collaborated with the legendary DJ Wayne G, proved her adaptability and range. Together, they toured some of the world’s top dance clubs, further solidifying Shauna’s place as a beloved figure in both rock and dance genres. 🌍🎧

Throughout her incredible career, Shauna Jensen has been a consistent force of nature in the music world. From her powerful performances to her unwavering passion for her craft, she has left an indelible mark on the Australian and international music scenes. If you haven’t yet, it’s time to discover (or rediscover) the magic of Shauna Jensen – a truly exceptional artist who has stood the test of time. 🎤🔥

16/01/2025

Clayton Doley is without a doubt one of the most influential and respected figures in the Australian blues scene, and his performance at the 7th annual Girrakool Blues Festival will be a show you won’t want to miss! With a career that spans decades, Doley has become synonymous with soul, groove, and virtuosity, earning multiple accolades including Sydney Blues Society’s Keyboard Player of the Year for five years running, and his well-deserved induction into the Blues Hall of Fame.

Known for his mastery of the Hammond organ, Doley's skill on the keys is truly unparalleled. His explosive, soulful playing has captivated audiences worldwide, earning him a reputation as a “killer boogie woogie piano player” and a “super funky Hammond player”. His command over the instrument, combined with his smooth, captivating vocals, sets him apart from his peers. The diverse array of artists he has worked with—from Christone "Kingfish" Ingram and Joe Bonamassa to Jimmy Barnes, The Divinyls, and Hubert Sumlin—speaks volumes about the caliber of his musicianship and his ability to connect with some of the greatest blues and soul legends.

His current project, Clayton Doley’s Bayou Billabong, sees him at the peak of his powers, fusing the soul and rhythm of New Orleans with the earthy, grounded tones of Americana and Australiana. With a powerhouse 10-piece band featuring some of Sydney’s jazz and blues royalty, this project embodies the spirit of classic blues piano traditions while pushing them forward into a modern, funky realm. It’s a live experience full of infectious grooves, deep soul, and dynamic energy.

Don’t miss the chance to experience the musical magic of Clayton Doley's Bayou Billabong at Girrakool Blues Festival. His virtuosity, his passion for music, and his ability to bring together the very best of New Orleans soul with Australian flair will make this performance one of the highlights of the festival. Get ready for a musical journey that blends tradition, innovation, and some seriously funky grooves!