Blues Matters speaks with Jason Ricci and Caitlin Dibble about the new album 13 Hours.

They discuss the emotional aftermath of losing drummer John Perkins, rebuilding the band, and recording live at Dockside Studios in Louisiana. Jason reflects on the influence of New Orleans, addiction and recovery, the realities of modern touring, and why music still matters during difficult times.

The conversation also explores Approved By Snakes, songwriting, blues history, North Mississippi Hill Country music, and the lasting influence of artists including Johnny Winter, Pat Ramsey, Sean Costello, Charlie Musselwhite, RL Burnside and Junior Kimbrough.

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Blues Matters catches up with Deborah Bonham after her headline performance at the Orkney Blues Festival.

Deborah speaks openly about the warmth of Orkney, the relationship between artist and audience, and the emotional power of live music. She explains what keeps her motivated, why songwriting has always come first, and how certain songs have deeply connected with listeners.

She also discusses the story behind Breathe, the influence of blues, soul, country and rock on her sound, and why the blues remains important as both music and history.

The conversation also covers carrying the Bonham name, trusting her own instincts, plans for a new album, and staying optimistic in difficult times.

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Blues Matters speaks with Henry Gottelier of The Karma Effect about the band’s new album Cruel Intentions.

Henry discusses the writing process behind the record, how the band kept momentum after Promised Land, and why the new songs feel like the next natural chapter. He talks about recording in stages, dealing with the stop-start nature of an album campaign, and how new tracks have been received live.

The conversation also explores the chemistry between Henry and guitarist Robbie Blake, the band’s blues-rooted classic rock sound, and influences ranging from Free, Humble Pie and Aerosmith to AC/DC, Rod Stewart and The Faces.

Henry also reflects on the current line-up, the importance of live performance, plans for touring, the possibility of a live album, and the songs he wishes he had written, including Boys of Summer and With or Without You.

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