THE Australian Blues Festival kicks off today for another year, with more than 70 free shows and 30 artists to provide the best in Aussie blues and roots entertainment over the weekend.
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Founded in 1997 as a small gathering at the showgrounds, the festival has developed over the years to gain widespread support from the Australian blues industry, being dubbed “Australia’s peak blues event” and “the top Australian blues venue” by some.
Organiser Geoff Bell told the Post Weekly that this year’s line-up is sure to impress, boasting a variety of blues styles and sounds to appeal to just about anyone.
“Every single band isn’t going to appeal to every single person but there is something out there for every person,” he said.
“Blues is diverse and that is what I have tried to do with the line-up to make it strong… There are just so many facets to it. I reckon there is something here for everyone.”
The format of the Festival is focused on showcasing the best of emerging and established blues acts from around Australia.
“It’s all about creating an opportunity for these artists to be shown,” Bell said.
The program includes a variety of ticketed and free performances and a large opening night (tonight) associated with the presentation of the Australian Blues Music ‘Chain’ Awards.
“The awards night is a great way to get along and rub shoulders with some of the best in the blues industry,” Bell said. “It’s an informal event but very highly regarded among the artists.”
Headlining this year’s festival is ARIAaward winning blues sensation Jeff Lang, who will bring his “disturbed folk” sound to the Workers Club on Saturday night from 9pm.
“I’m really looking forward to coming back to the festival,” Lang told the Post.
Also performing at the Workers is renowned blues RnB funk band, The Bondi Cigars.
“They are a world-class Australia band, and have played alongside the likes of Mental As Anything and the Aussie Crawl,” Bell said.
In case of wet weather, all will go ahead with minor changes. The outdoor performances from Belmore Park will be moved to the Auburn Street lounge of the Workers.
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