Our take on the Blues

I try to the get to monthly Canberra Blues Society jams at Harmonie German Club.  I seldom manage it but I did this last weekend and had a great time.  Its a good room, interesting German beer on tap, big tables to share with people you’ve not met before, a chance to play a few tunes with some really nice audio gear and an opportunity to use one of my e-basses.  My latest purchase is an ‘85 Fender Japan P-Bass to replace the ‘72 Fender Precision, fretted, sunburst, rosewood that I sadly sold long ago.  The host band started up the event, this month a youth blues group with considerable authenticity.  Gavel & Grace comprise 3 siblings and an invite: Sarah, Toby and Eli Foster(s) on key/vocals, drums and bass and Liam James on a truly blistering guitar.  The Fosters range from 19 to 14 yo and Lina is just 22, although an authentic senior in this outfit.  They are a product of the Candelo Blues Club Youth in Blues program.  Worthy and experienced at a ridiculous age.  Ones to watch.  Then a string of the local players in various formations, gathered through a blackboard list.  Great fun, some dancing, a sound man and that great bass amp power, plenty of tables with friendly, informed blues-styled peoples.  It’s a great, understated scene, considerable fun and all ages.  But one additional promo particularly surprised me: The Wooten Brothers feat. star bassist Victor are booked to play in this very room on 4 Feb 2026.  Wow!

Gavel & Grace were the host band for this month’s Canberra Blues Society jam session at the Harmonie German Club.  G&G comprise Sarah Foster (vocals, keys), Toby Foster (drums), Eli Foster (bass) and Liam James (guitar).