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THE Great Southern Blues Festival is back at Narooma and is working its mojo more effectively than ever before.
Boasting a line-up of 40 national and international artists, the little festival is set to punch well above its weight.
Festival organiser Neil Mumme says the eclectic line-up makes a bold statement about the quality of the event which has settled easily back into Narooma and is forging a strong reputation for the diversity of its performers.
Artists this year include Australian acts Russell Morris, The Black Sorrows, Ash Grunwald, Blue Shaddy and The 3 Wise Men – Borich, Eastick & Manning, while coming over from the USA are Roy Rogers & the Delta Rhythm Kings, The Paladins, Kelly Ritchey Band and Rick Estrin & the Nightcats.
“We’re known for our ability to provide amazing music that spans the full genre of the Blues and keeps surprising our audiences,” he said.
“This year we have extraordinary international artists, including some who will play their only Australian gigs at our festival, as well as the cream of this country’s musicians and some emerging artists and bands who we believe will drive the Blues scene throughout the next decade.
“It’s a winning mix and, with three stages to choose from, we are going to score some serious beats.”
Since returning to Narooma last year, festival organisers have refined the site incorporating Ferny’s Juke Joint stage into the mix as a ‘chill out’ zone that allows artists to play unplugged and impromptu in an intimate venue.
Artists slated to take up the Ferny’s challenge include the UK’s Sandi Thom, Kelly Richey of the USA, and Australia’s own Moondogs Gypsy Blues Band, Johnny Cass and Marji Curran. It will also be the site for the Telstra Road to Discovery performances and an open mic session.
The Great Southern Blues Festival kicks off at Smyth Oval on Friday, October 3 and runs to Sunday, October 5 at 10.30pm.