Christchurch Folk Music Club

Get ready for a night of soulful, blues-soaked rhythms, smoky jazz flavours, beloved favourites, and exciting new sounds. Muddy Mama’s returns with an evening of music that smoulders, swings, and stirs the soul, weaving stories and passion into every note. Expect fire dressed in melody, heartfelt performances, and the kind of musical magic that lingers long after the final song.

Featuring:

Judi Smitheram – Vocals
Mary Ruston – Piano & Backing Vocals
Introducing the wonderful Cathy Irons – Violin
Davey Thorpe “Davey Backyard” – Harmonica
Tim Wilkinson “Dr Tim” – Bass
Lynden Jackson – Drums & Backing Vocals

Muddy Mama’s is a Christchurch band made up of some of the region’s finest blues musicians, brought together by a shared love of authentic, heartfelt music and led by the inimitable Mama Judi. With her powerful, blues-infused vocals and captivating stage presence, Judi brings passion, grit, humour and soul to every performance.

Alongside her, the immensely talented Mary Ruston lights up the stage with her expressive piano playing and infectious enthusiasm. Tim Wilkinson lays down deep, irresistible grooves on bass, providing the heartbeat of the band, while Lynden Jackson’s steady, dynamic drumming keeps everything driving forward with flair and finesse.

Adding fresh colour and texture to the band’s sound is the fabulous Cathy Irons on violin, whose rich and evocative playing brings a new dimension to the music. Completing the line-up is crowd favourite Davey “Backyard” Thorpe, whose harmonica weaves through the songs with bluesy authenticity, soul and swagger.

Together, they create a sound that is both powerful and intimate, blending classic blues traditions with jazz influences, heartfelt storytelling, and moments of pure musical joy.

You are warmly invited to lose yourself in an evening of wondrous blues, jazz and rhythm. Whether you’re a lifelong blues lover or simply looking for a night of outstanding live music, Muddy Mama’s promises an unforgettable experience.

The aim is simple: great music, great company, and great fun.

Join us as the band settles into a smouldering groove beneath Judi’s sultry vocals and passionate performance style, showcasing not only individual talent but also a genuine love of song and musical connection. Expect toe-tapping rhythms, heartfelt melodies, moments of improvisational magic, and a celebration of music played with sincerity, spirit and soul.

Come and share an evening where the blues are alive, the jazz is flowing, the deeper, slower tunes reach into the heart, stirring emotions and awakening memories long tucked away. Tears welcomed. Every song tells a story.