Archive for the ‘News’ Category

Rod ‘Beachhead’ Jefferey, one of the great characters and a much loved performer on the Australian Jazz and Blues scene passed away early this morning in Lithgow Hospital.  ‘Beachie’ had suffered for a long time from Prostrate Cancer which had spread to the rest of his body.

Possessing one of the greatest voices you have ever heard, his passing will leave a big void in the blues scene.  No more ‘Beachjokes’ or great links to u-Tube music clips and no more fiesty emails on email etiquette.

The funeral will take place in Lithgow on Thursday, 4th March at the Hoskins Uniting Church, 43 Bridge St, Lithgow commencing at 11:00am.

RIP Big Fella

Jumptown Swing currently offers a twice-monthly blues dancing class, together with a social dancing opportunities in a fun, informal setting.

Whether you’ve done blues dancing before or have no idea what to expect, the class will bring you up to speed and build on your skills. Blues is based on techniques that can be applied to all aspects of your dancing. Bring a friend along to share the fun and find out what it’s all about – no previous experience required.

Private lessons are also available. Go to www.jumptown.org for more information. See the What’s On page for class and venue details.

BASS PLAYER SEEKING GUITARIST, DRUMMER AND VOCALIST FOR REGULAR JAM SESSIONS

I am a 35 year old bass player who wants to immerse himself in the sweet, sweet sound of the blues. I am currently seeking a guitarist and drummer to regularly jam with in anticipation of getting up and playing at the monthly jam sessions. As for my bass playing experience, I used to play in original rock and funk bands in Brisbane in my 20’s.

I am now keen to get back into it and this time around I want to focus on the blues. As for my current blues playing ability, I can run through numerous scales and know basic progressions. I reckon it wont take me long to be kicking arse up on stage though.

My ideal scenario is to meet with a guitarist and a drummer a few times a week to jam and exchange ideas. I also wouldn’t mind finding a female singer who wants to experiment with her voice. It doesn’t matter if she has never sung on stage before. All that matters is she has a unique sound and wants to take the next step. If there is also a guitarist out there who is just looking for someone to practice their lead and chord progressions against that would be great. Practice makes perfect.

Basically, I just want to get up and start jammin again. ASAP!

Please feel free to ring or text me on 0413 758 348 to discuss.

Cheers Dan : )

This month’s edition is chock full of blues, news and reviews.

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It’s on again – two days celebrating the wonderful world of acoustic, electric, resonator and lap steel guitars and valve amps on display and for sale. 

Our vintage instruments cover the era from the 1920s through to the 1980s, fabulous Fenders from the 1950s and 60s, great Gibsons from pre-war to ‘70s and Gretsch, National and more.  A special feature for 2010 will be our big collection of Australian guitars and amps from the WW2 era through to the early days of rock ‘n’ roll.

 Join our experts and exhibitors from Canberra, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and beyond as we provide ‘Antique Roadshow’ sessions assessing and appraising old instruments that you are welcome to bring in, plus workshops and demonstrations over the two days by expert local and interstate players.  Some Canberra instrument makers will also be on hand showing their handmade guitars.

The venue is the Statesman Hotel in Theodore Street, Curtin ACT, and the times are 10am – 8pm Saturday 13 March and 10am – 6pm on Sunday 14 March.  A weekend ticket is just $10 and family concessions apply. 

Full details at the Zone of Tone: www.zot.com.au

 Vintage Expo 2010