JT+Agnostics are proud to announce the release of their debut album Yes More Blues on 12″ vinyl, with a digital download available through Bandcamp.
Yes More Blues by JT+Agnostics is an album that humorously and poignantly delves into the intricacies of life, love, and personal struggles. Set against the backdrop of modern Aotearoa New Zealand, the album combines a light-hearted yet reflective tone, offering a unique and engaging musical experience.
The songs explore themes such as unrequited love, the search for meaning, the allure of fame, societal chaos, and the enduring power of the blues to cope with life’s challenges. The album was self-recorded and produced by Maciek Hrybowicz, co-written by John Thomson and Hrybowicz, and features a talented ensemble of seasoned musicians from the Waikato area of Aotearoa.
Yes More Blues full credit list >
JT+Agnostics SINGLES
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-Omnicron 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.
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 one leaves home for solo activities there is always the “strange old feeling” of walking out the door.
“So Wait” by JT+Agnostics is the third single from this quirky Waikato band which rolls out another facet of their believable kiwiana blues. This Gold Card holding quartet breezes one 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.
JT+Agnostics:
Kiwiana Blues You Can Believe In
JT+Agnostics is a dynamic blues band hailing from the heart of New Zealand’s Waikato region. Fronted by bassist and songwriter John Thomson, the band brings a fresh and unique flavour to the blues genre. Together with the soulful guitar of Maciek Hrybowicz, they’ve self-produced and recorded a distinctive collection of blues-inspired tracks that resonate with authenticity and passion.
The band’s core lineup is bolstered by the talents of Ben Gilgen on keyboards, Bill Forrest on saxophone, and Mickey Ututaonga on drums, creating a rich, full-bodied sound that captivates audiences. When performing live, JT+Agnostics often expands to include additional musicians, such as the powerful vocals of Holly Shepheard, the rhythmic expertise of drummers Neil Reynolds, Freddy Limbert, and Vernon Maatchitt, the harmonizing backing vocals of Katt Bayne, and the vibrant trumpet of Grant Mason.
Why JT+Agnostics?
In New Zealand, there’s often a sense of orthodoxy when it comes to playing “the blues” or “authentic blues”. But blues music has traveled far from its origins in the USA, evolving and adapting as it took root in different cultures and places. JT+Agnostics embrace this evolution, creating what they proudly call “Kiwiana blues”—a unique blend of blues that reflects the spirit and landscape of New Zealand.
This is blues you can truly believe in.
