Yes More Blues
“Yes More Blues” by JT+Agnostics (agnostics.nz) is an album that humorously and poignantly delves into the intricacies of life, love, and personal struggle.
“Yes More Blues” by JT+Agnostics (agnostics.nz) is an album that humorously and poignantly delves into the intricacies of life, love, and personal struggle.
Another tune from this quirky Waikato band breezes through a four verse biographical tale which gives a hint of Tex Mex rhythms to accompany the catchy sax lines as the crafty lyrics lay out the story from initial hesitancy of attraction to domestic reality.
The song is about a stage in all relationships after the honeymoon period is over and you’re having to sort out some serious stuff and one is having the “should I stay or should I go” mood, and when on walking out the door to relief or uncertainty, and when coming back will things still be the same, or better, or worse.
This song has had a long period in recording gestation – we tossed this around over the ether during the first lockdown and then the original rhythm tracks were put down in Aug 2020 in that glorious pre Omnicrom period, the horns and bv’s in early 2021 – then lockdown 2 made us think about delaying so that we could support it with live performance.
Carol Grimes’ album “Why Don’t They Dance,” released in 1989, is a genre-bending record that defies easy categorization. While the album’s title track and some others lean towards blues rock, it also incorporates elements of pop, funk, and even disco. Released on the La Cooka Ratcha label, the album features a mix of original songs and covers, showcasing Grimes’ powerful vocals and diverse musical influences. “Why Don’t They Dance” remains an interesting exploration of sound from this under-the-radar artist.
Released in 1986, Carol Grimes’ “Eyes Wide Open” established her as a versatile artist. Blending rock and blues with influences of pop, folk, and even country, the album showcases her dynamic vocals. Produced by Alastair Gavin with a co-production credit for Maciek Hrybowicz on the opening track, “Eyes Wide Open” features a full band sound with additional musicians like The Kick Horns bringing depth and energy to the arrangements. While information on chart performance or critical reception is limited, “Eyes Wide Open” offers a strong introduction to Grimes’ musical style and songwriting talents.
A soundtrack for a film yet to be made, it portrays the awe and wonder of experiencing an utterly unfamiliar nature and culture, for the very first time.
This is a remix of the song from my album AWA. I had the funky tune in my head for a long time but never a good enough reason to finish it. After seeing a documentary about kiwi birds, it felt a perfect visual match of this lovely flightless, jumping, dancing bird to the odd staccato theme of the tune.
A lovely Saturday afternoon walk in sunny Auckland district of Ponsonby watching people eating tasty salads and drinking soy lattes. A radio-friendly, Ponsonby Road-friendly remix.
JT+Agnostics is a standout band hailing from New Zealand’s Waikato region, led by the talented bassist and songwriter John Thomson. Alongside the skilled guitarist Maciek Hrybowicz, the duo has self-produced and recorded a distinctive selection of songs grounded in blues traditions. The lineup is completed by Bill Forrest, whose saxophone adds a layer of depth, … Read more