Echuca-Moama will come alive as the veritable who’s who of the current Australian blues scene flock into town for the 16th successful annual Echuca-Moama Winter’s Blues Festival July 24-26, 2015.
A free event presented by the Echuca-Moama community, this year’s Winter Blues will see an amazing 30+ blues artists performing.
Crowds approaching 20,000 will get to enjoy an eclectic fusion of the country’s best blues musicians with a staggering 145 live blues performances.
“We are Australia’s premier free blues festival,” said Peter Williams, chairperson of the Winter Blues Festival organising committee.
“Google free music events and you’ll find that there are very few on offer, especially in the country.
“It’s all about the music, and we are very proud to see this great event go from strength to strength every year, as it makes all the hard work we the committee put into it worth it.”
Heading to Echuca-Moama (only 2 ½ hours north of Melbourne) from all over Australia, the line-up this year includes the Three Kings, Cleveland Blues, Rod Paine & the Full Time Lovers, Andrea Marr & the Funky Hitmen, Geoff Achison, The Piano Wizard, Chris Wilson, Jimi Hocking and many others that are part of the cream of Australia’s Blues scene.
The best venues in Echuca-Moama will take part by providing the entertainment, with the old Port of Echuca Precinct as the perfect backdrop.
People are encouraged to meander from venue to venue, or use the shuttle bus service to enjoy the bounty of styles offered in perfect balance from past favourites and soon-to-be new favourites.
Full line-up available at winterblues.com.au
For accommodation enquiries phone Echuca Moama Tourism on 1800 804 446 or visit echucamoama.com
When&Where: Various locations in Echucha – July 24-26
Three Kings
If it’s a trip to the sweet sounds of American roots music in Louisiana you’re after, then the Three Kings are the ones to take you there. Made up of some of the most authentic blues performers this country has seen, Ian Collard (vocals, guitar, harmonica), Benny Peters (vocals, guitar) and Jason Lui Soon (drums), the band have created an award winning sound that sounds just like an old 45.
When&Where: Shamrock Hotel (Back Room) – July 24 at 9.30pm, Nik’s Sunago – July 25 at 9.30pm and Antonios – July 26 @12.30pm
Alister Turrill and the Vagabond Brothers
Since winning the 2011 Melbourne Youth in Blues award, Alister Turrill has done nothing but good things. With a sound much wiser than his age, Alister has previously shared the stage with the likes of Jeff Lang, Geoff Achison and Lloyd Spiegel – on numerous occasions. Recently teaming up with Toby Johnson on drums and Jaron Mulholland on bass to form Alister Turrill and the Vagabond Brothers.
When&Where: The Odd Captain – July 25 at 3pm, Radcliffes – July 25 at 6pm and Nik’s Sunago – July 26 at 11am.
Benny Walker
No stranger to the stage, having played Woodford, Australasian Worldwide Music Expo, St Kilda fest, Blue Mountains Music Festivals and numerous others, Benny Walker is a man with a well formed live show. Also an indigenous singer/songwriter, his love of the land and people are told through thoughtful lyrics and epic tales. Delivered with his velvety vocals listening to Benny Walker is a dream.
When&Where: Shamrock Hotel (The Underground) – July 24 at 7.15pm, Star Hotel (Stage) – July 25 at 1.15pm, American Hotel (Courtyard) – July 26 at 8.15pm and Shamrock Hotel (Front Bar) – July 26 at 2.30pm.
Andrea Marr Band
The Andrea Marr band is one that hardly needs introduction. Fronted by Andrea Marr the multi-award winning five-piece have been creating their unique brand of energetic, soulful blues since 1999. The band recieved Blues Performer of the Year in 2005 and 2012 and Australian Female Blues Artist in 2009.
When&Where: Radcliffes – July 25 at 2.15pm, Bridge Hotel – July 25 at 8.15pm and Radcliffes (Wrap Party) – July 26 at 6.30pm.
Geoff Achison
After years of living in America’s deep south, Geoff has returned with an onslaught of new songs, awards and tales of his travels. Known for his ability to please a crowd with his rich vocals and immense guitar skills, Geoff is by no surprise a firm favourite in the blues community. Throughout his career Geoff has won countless awards ranging from album of the year to best blues release and each are well deserved.
When&Where: Antonios – July 24 at 6pm, High Street – July 25 at 12.30pm, Shamrock Hotel (Front Bar) – July 25, Harvest Hotel – July 25 at 8.30pm and Tindarra – July 26 at 1.45pm.
