Welcome to Bandits Of Blues, Chalky's Jam
First Sunday of Every Month | 4:00–7:00 PM | Valentine's Room
Hosted by Greg Nunan & Steve Pajor
Map
Come Play the Blues with Us
Whether you're a seasoned player or just finding your groove, Chalky's Blues Jam is your monthly home for authentic, community-driven blues music on Sydney's Northern Beaches.
Every first Sunday, the Valentines Room at Chalky's transforms into a welcoming space where musicians connect, collaborate, and celebrate the blues. This isn't a performance—it's a conversation in music, where every player gets their moment to lead and everyone else lifts them up.
How It Works
Each musician gets to play three songs with a rotating group of fellow players. If you are the song leader, you'll call the tune, set the key and tempo, and guide the band through the changes. If it's not a standard 12-bar blues, just show everyone how it goes—we're all here to learn and support each other.
The key is keeping it jam-friendly. Choose songs with clear structures that other musicians can follow and jump into. Think accessible chord progressions, recognizable forms, and plenty of room for everyone to contribute.
What We Provide
Leave the heavy lifting to us. We've got you covered with:
- Full PA system with professional sound
- Guitar amplifiers ready to plug and play
- Complete drum kit set up
- Stage lighting to set the mood
- Experienced hosts to keep the session flowing smoothly
- Easy Parking on Pittwater road and Chalky's is on the busline
What to Bring
- Your instrument (and any personal gear you prefer)
- Cables, picks, sticks—whatever you need to play
- A few songs in mind that you'd like to lead
- A positive, open attitude and willingness to support fellow musicians
No ego. No competition. Just good people making good music together.
Why Join Us?
This jam is about more than just playing—it's about building a community. You'll meet local musicians, discover new songs, sharpen your skills, and maybe even find your next band mate. Whether you're a guitarist, bassist, drummer, keys player, harmonica enthusiast, or vocalist, there's a place for you in the rotation.
Greg and Steve keep things relaxed, organised, and fun, making sure everyone gets their turn and the music keeps flowing. First-timers are always welcome, and regulars keep coming back because the vibe is just right.
Enjoy the great food menu and buy a few drinks
This supports the venue that supports the jam!
So grab your axe, warm up your voice, and join us at Chalky's. The blues is waiting.
The 10 Commandments of a Blues Jam
I. Thou Shalt Listen First, Play Second
The groove is king. Lock in with the rhythm section, support the song leader, and leave space. Less is often more.
II. Thou Shalt Know Thy Key and Tempo
When it's your turn to lead, call the key clearly and count in the tempo. Confidence here sets everyone up for success.
III. Thou Shalt Keep It Jam-Friendly
Choose songs other musicians can follow—standard blues forms, recognizable structures, and clear changes. Save the 47-chord jazz fusion for another time.
IV. Thou Shalt Respect the Three-Song Limit
Everyone deserves their moment. Lead your three songs, then pass the torch and support others.
V. Thou Shalt Come Prepared
Arrive tuned, with working gear and spare strings/sticks/picks. Technical difficulties kill momentum.
VI. Thou Shalt Not Overplay
Resist the urge to solo over everything. Comp tastefully, play dynamics, and let the song breathe. Your restraint makes everyone sound better.
VII. Thou Shalt Communicate with Kindness
Use eye contact, nods, and clear cues. If something goes sideways, smile and roll with it. We're all learning together.
VIII. Thou Shalt Support the Leader
When someone else is leading, your job is to make them sound great. Follow their cues, match their energy, and be their musical safety net.
IX. Thou Shalt Bring Positive Energy
Check your ego at the door. Encourage others, celebrate great moments, and remember—this is supposed to be fun.
X. Thou Shalt Honor the Blues
Respect the tradition, feel the emotion, and play from the heart. The blues is about truth, connection, and soul. Bring yours.
See you on the first Sunday. Let's make some music.
For more information, contact Chalky's Brookvale or reach out to Greg and Steve on the night.