Artist of the Month: J & B Troubadours
Our 100% Home-Grown Artist Of The Month is Southern Highlands jazz and blues trio, J & B Troubadours.
Throughout the month, Highland FM 107.1 will shine a spotlight on J & B Troubadours commanding fusion of sound and soul, featuring the smoky riffs of original tracks including ‘The Special Shack’, the mellow melodies of ‘Cold Shiver Feeling’ and the bluesy elegance of ‘Here’s to Mr Bunt’, all recorded in the Studios of Highland FM.
J & B Troubadours – Bopping Through the Highlands
The J & B Troubadours, where “J & B” stands for Jazz & Blues, embody the philosophy of “bop till you drop” with their music. Beginning amidst the vibrant local open mic sessions in the Southern Highlands, where their eclectic blend of roots based blues music took shape, heavily influenced by legends like Slim Harpo, Canned Heat, The Allman Brothers, and Big Walter Horton.
As they embarked on this musical adventure, they started to incorporate their own compositions, adding a unique flavour to their performances. Their destination maybe uncertain, but they’re reveling in every moment of the ride.
John Goodwin – Harmonica
John’s harmonica odyssey began with the haunting notes of Canned Heat’s “On The Road Again.” His fascination with the instrument led him to pick one up in his early twenties when he moved to Australia. Although he dabbled in low key bands during his time in Sydney, it wasn’t until he discovered the Bowral Blues Club in the Southern Highlands in 2014 that his musical voyage truly took off. Amongst a sea of guitarists, he stood as the lone harmonica player, forging a musical bond with Ron Volcich and later, Mike Harrop. John’s musical history includes stints with bands like Coupe and the Roosters, Balgownie Slim Blues Bandits and Los Amigos, making him a seasoned harmonica maestro.
Mike Harrop – Percussion
Growing up amidst the musical explosion of the 60s and 70s, Mike was fortunate enough to witness iconic acts like Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, and David Bowie. In his early twenties, he tasted success with various bands. His musical palate is as diverse as it gets and his path converged with like minded musicians of a similar vintage. Together with his fellow Troubadours, he’s savouring the musical journey.
Ron Volcich – Guitar
Ron’s musical roots trace back to the early 70s when he was entranced by Ry Cooder’s “Boomer’s Story.” Guitarists like Jerry Reed, Wes Montgomery, Brian Setzer and Hank Marvin further shaped his unique style. Over the years, he’s played with numerous lineups, with the Swing Town quartet in Wollongong being the most enduring and rewarding. Moving to the Highlands reignited his musical spirit and he embarked on this new chapter with The J & B Troubadours.
The J & B Troubadours are a testament to the power of music to bring diverse influences and backgrounds together, creating something truly magical. They invite you to join them as they explore the enchanting landscapes of Jazz & Blues in the heart of the Highlands.
RECORDED IN THE STUDIOS OF HIGHLAND FM
Highland FM Live is a platform dedicated to giving a voice to the rich diversity of contemporary Australian musicians and songwriters that tell our stories, contribute to our culture and give voice to our communities.
