Arvos with Andy

On Arvos with Andy, we had Darwin-based musician Charlie Prowling from The Black Pepper Band. Charlie joined us to talk about the band's latest release, My Precious Time. A heartfelt favourite from their live shows, the track is featured on the recently released Darwin Sessions, a 21-song audio and video collection that captures the band's unmistakable energy and authenticity in a live setting. 

Recorded and mastered by Ward Hancock, with video production by Leigh Bramell, My Precious Time captures The Black Pepper Band doing what they do best: turning lived experience into melodic, emotionally charged, live-band magic. 

Blending country storytelling with rock influences, the collection reflects years of performing together and highlights why the band has earned a reputation as one of the Australian country-rock scene's most genuine and hard-working acts. Charlie shares the story behind My Precious Time, the making of Darwin Sessions, and what continues to inspire the band as they take their music to audiences across the NT.

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This week on The Arvos with Andy, we are incredibly honoured to host the brilliant Melbourne-based musician Suzette Herft for a very special preview of her upcoming show, Shining: A Diamond in the Rust.

In this intimate session, Suzette joins Andy to share the story behind her acclaimed tribute to the legendary Joan Baez. We dive into the music and the message of a woman who defined a generation through her activism and iconic folk anthems.To give us a taste of what’s in store, Suzette will be performing a live, on-air rendition of one of Joan’s most beloved songs—a moment you definitely don’t want to miss.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan of folk music or simply appreciate the power of a story told through song, this is the perfect prelude to Friday night.

Catch the magic live at the Totem Theatre this Friday, 10 July 2026, at 7:30 PM. Tickets are available now, and you can listen to our full on-demand podcast conversation to get ready for the show.

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Tune in to this week’s on-demand episode of Arvos with Andy on 8CCC Community Radio as we catch up with the irrepressible singer-songwriter Kroggy.

Fresh off the release of his latest single, The Larrikin in Me, Kroggy joins us for an intimate, behind-the-scenes conversation about the track that is capturing hearts across the country. Recorded straight from his tour bus in the stunning Whitsundays, this episode dives deep into the heart of the song—a piece Kroggy describes as his most raw and authentic slice of Australian storytelling to date.

During our chat, Kroggy opens up about:

• The spark that ignited The Larrikin in Me and the challenge of capturing that signature cheeky persona in the studio.

• Why he chose the tropical Queensland coast as the backdrop for his current tour.

• The realities of life on the road and how he balances the serious craft of music with the "larrikin" energy that fuels his soul.

Whether you're a long-time fan or a new listener looking for your next go-to anthem, pull up a seat for this candid, coast-to-desert chat.

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On Arvos with Andy, we welcomed emerging local artist David Valdez to the program. David is an intensely expressive vocalist whose emotionally charged performances are shaped by powerful gospel-inspired techniques. His ability to convey deep feelings through his voice creates a captivating listening experience, allowing audiences to connect with the emotion behind every lyric. 

During the show, David also shared a cultural favourite from the Philippines, the song "Imahe." The track highlights the richness of Filipino music and storytelling, offering listeners a glimpse into a song that has resonated with many through its heartfelt message and memorable melody. Together, the featured performances celebrated both emerging local talent and the diversity of musical traditions. 

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On Arvos with Andy, we had Pat Trash from Trash & TheTreasures. Pat was a visiting musician who heard about Community Radio here in Alice Springs and made it one of his priorities to come on the show. They are a Melbourne-based band known for their signature "blues-punk savagery." They deliver frantic, high-energy punk rhythms propelled by aggressive, harmonica-driven blues vocals.

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On Arvos with Andy, we were joined by Catherine Britt, one of the most accomplished and respected artists in Australian country music. Over the course of her career, Catherine has built an impressive reputation both in Australia and internationally, earning widespread recognition for her powerful songwriting and distinctive voice. She wrote her heartfelt song “Take Our Time” while touring the United States several years ago with her then-boyfriend, now husband, Bradley Bergen. The song reflects a special period in her life and showcases the authentic storytelling that has become a hallmark of her music. Catherine’s achievements include five Golden Guitar Awards and six nominations for Best Country Album at the ARIA Awards, cementing her status as one of Australia’s leading country music artists. Throughout the interview, she shared insights into her career, songwriting process, and the personal experiences that continue to inspire her music.

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On Arvos with Andy we had now Western Australian country music artist Darren Gillis returns with his latest single, “Hell of a Time,” a gritty country rock anthem that dives headfirst into the kind of night where troubles are drowned in music, whiskey, and good company.  

In January 2026, Darren’s rising profile was further cemented at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, where he was awarded Best Independent Country Male Artist at the Independent Country Music Association Awards.

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On Arvos with Andy we had North Queensland artist, Sammy White. Sammy returned to her roots with a stripped back vintage country sound on her brand-new release, “Good Old Case of Bad Luck”.

The song’s narrative leans into small-town life, good karma and the idea that ‘being a good neighbour always comes back around’. 

Throwing back to the early sounds of Kacey Musgraves, The Chicks and more locally, Gina Jeffreys and Melinda Schneider, the song was co-written by Sammy and Nashville based, Aussie hitmaker, Phil Barton, and produced by ARIA winner, Matt Fell.

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On Arvos with Andy we had singer songwriter Nathan Bell NDIS participant from Newcastle. Nathan has been aspired from a young age for a creative career. He produces content in a variety of mediums including music, writing, digital media, painting, and film. Nathan draws his inspiration from life experience and his research which includes politics, science, and history. He aspires to provoke thought and introspection and to inspire people to take meaningful action in the world.  

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On Arvos with Andy we had singer songwriter Nathan Bell NDIS participant from Newcastle, Australia. Nathan has been aspired from a young age for a creative career. He produces content in a variety of mediums including music, writing, digital media, painting, and film. Nathan draws his inspiration from life experience and his research which includes politics, science, and history. He aspires to provoke thought and introspection and to inspire people to take meaningful action in the world.  

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.