October 25th, 2009 - Collard Greens and Gravy blues festival

Ian Collard is a gifted vocalist and harmonica player and winner of the Australian Harmonica championship in 1996.

James Bridges playing stands out among todays legion of blues guitarists; with taste and economy he creates an eerie style and feel that harks back to names such as Blind Willie Johnson, Son House and Robert Johnson.

Anthony Shortie Shortte completes the trio on drums. His approach to drumming has seen him develop a style all of his own, his eclectic drum kit is one of a kind. Playing dynamically yet precisely, his intense and passionate performing style has many an audience member transfixed.
Since its release in 1999, their self-titled debut CD won Album of the Year, Band of the Year and Male Performer of the Year at the Vic /Tas Awards and Best Song and Best Band Awards at the Goulburn Festival Australian Blues Awards.
Their second release More Gravy won the ARIA award for best Blues and Roots CD and won the Best Band, Best Album and Best Male Vocal Awards at the Australian Blues Awards in 2001 as well as best band at the Vic/Tas awards.
Collard Greens and Gravy have tapped into some deep subterranean stream that connects us all to the source of the blues.
Mark Doherty, Rhythms Magazine