Welcome aboard the latest episode of Shipshape and Bristol Fashion! This time around, we’re diving deep into the vibrant world of sea shanties, bringing you a behind-the-scenes look at the Port of Bristol Shanty Crew. The episode kicks off with our charming host, Oggie, who introduces our newest crew members, Muff and Thunderbox. These lads have some wild backstories and unique journeys that led them to the crew, and trust me, they’re quite the characters! We get all the juicy deets about how Muff discovered his love for shanties at the Kin Folk Festival and how Thunderbox was practically press-ganged into joining after a serendipitous encounter at a pub gig. It’s hilarious and heartwarming, showcasing the sense of community that’s at the heart of shanty singing.

The episode also features a segment from the Signaler, where the crew shares updates about their recent performances, including a lively Trafalgar Night celebration filled with traditional songs and a touch of rum-fueled revelry. They’re not just belting out tunes; they’re raising money for charity, inching ever closer to their goal of £50,000! They’ve got gigs lined up at the St Ives Shanty Festival and even a Movember initiative to support facial hair growth for a cause. So, whether you’re a seasoned sea dog or a landlubber looking to learn more about this nautical art form, this episode is packed with laughter, camaraderie, and a whole lot of fun!

As we sail through the episode, we dive deeper into the personalities of Muff and Thunderbox, who share their experiences and the thrill of joining the shanty crew. Muff talks about his musical background and how it all started with a few festival visits, while Thunderbox shares his journey and the humor behind his quirky nickname. The banter between the hosts is infectious, and you can’t help but feel a part of this jovial crew as they swap stories and jokes. It’s a celebration of friendship and the joy of music, reminding us that at the end of the day, it’s all about having a good time and making memories. So grab a drink, kick back, and enjoy this lively episode as we set sail on another adventure with the Port of Bristol Shanty Crew!

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Port of Bristol Shanty Crew
• Bristol Masonic Widows Association
• SS Great Britain
• Teenage Cancer Trust
• Fisherman's Friends
• Storm Force 10
• Press Gang
• Movember
• Cheltenham College Chapel
• Pride of Britain

Port of Bristol Shanty Mo's Movember - Team

A COLLABORATION OF PRIDE OF BRITAIN REGIONAL FINALISTS Tickets https://www.cognitoforms.com/ValeWildlifeHospital1/AnEveningOfMusicACollaborationOfPrideOfBritainRegionalFinalists

Sponsored by Nova Scotia https://novascotiabristol.com/

Port of Bristol Shanty Crew Merchandise Shop https://pobshantycrew.co.uk/merch

Subscribe to our newsletter www.shipshapepodcast.co.uk/newsletter

Join our Facebook crew https://www.facebook.com/groups/www.pobshantycrew.co.uk/

Donate to Teenage Cancer Trust https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/POBShantyCrew

Theme song provided by Kale A. Dean

Cover composite illustration - Clifton Suspension Bridge; Shanty Crewmates ©

Matt Jeanes Professional Artist

Copyright © 2025 Port of Bristol Shanty Crew - All Rights Reserved

Mentioned in this episode:

Chapters

Nova Scotia

In this special episode of Shipshape and Bristol Fashion, the Port of Bristol Shanty Crew welcomes none other than Tom Lewis – described as “the Beyoncé of the shanty world.” Steve “the Rev” Hawkins dives deep into Tom’s remarkable journey, from singing in Belfast choirs to submarines, folk clubs, and international stages. Hear about his influences, his legendary songs like The Last Shanty, and the unexpected ways his music has touched lives across generations. With stories of adventure, community, and the enduring power of song, this is an interview not to be missed.

Tom Lewis Website: https://www.tomlewis.net/index.htm

Sponsored by Nova Scotia https://novascotiabristol.com/

Port of Bristol Shanty Crew Merchandise Shop https://pobshantycrew.co.uk/merch

Subscribe to our newsletter www.shipshapepodcast.co.uk/newsletter

Join our Facebook crew https://www.facebook.com/groups/www.pobshantycrew.co.uk/

Donate to Teenage Cancer Trust https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/POBShantyCrew

Theme song provided by Kale A. Dean

Cover composite illustration - Clifton Suspension Bridge; Shanty Crewmates ©

Matt Jeanes Professional Artist

Copyright © 2025 Port of Bristol Shanty Crew - All Rights Reserved

Mentioned in this episode:

Chapters

Nova Scotia

Ahoy there! We’re deep into the action at the Western Super Mare Shanty Festival, and let me tell ya, it’s a blast! In this episode, we’re chatting with a bunch of colorful characters, from fellow shanty singers to festival organizers, all sharing their love for sea shanties and the joy they bring. We get the scoop on how the festival started, thanks to our buddy Nigel, who had the brilliant idea to create a gathering that would celebrate the maritime spirit and bring people together. It’s incredible to see how this festival has grown over the years, attracting talent from all corners of the globe, including some acts all the way from Connecticut! And of course, there’s no shortage of stories about the shanties themselves — each one with its own unique history and rhythm. We’ll also touch on the challenges of balancing life, school, and the shanty lifestyle, especially for our young star, Shanty Boy, who’s navigating his way through GCSEs while still making time for the music he loves. So come aboard, and let’s ride the waves of this shanty-filled journey together!

Takeaways:

• In this episode, we dive into the joy of shanty festivals, sharing tales from the Western Super Mare event and how it brings the community together for a good time.
• Listeners can easily navigate through different stories and interviews thanks to podcast chapters, making it super chill to catch what you want.
• School's back in session, and our young co-host shares his struggles balancing shanties and studies, proving that even sea shanty enthusiasts have to hit the books sometimes.
• We celebrate the camaraderie among shanty singers, with heartfelt discussions about the friendships formed through music and shared experiences at festivals.
• The musical director of the Steepholmers gives insight into their journey and the growth of their shanty crew, highlighting the joy of singing for charity.
• Expect hilarious anecdotes about pirates and rum, because what’s a shanty episode without some fun tales to keep the spirits high?

Sponsored by Nova Scotia https://novascotiabristol.com/

Port of Bristol Shanty Crew Merchandise Shop https://pobshantycrew.co.uk/merch

Subscribe to our newsletter www.shipshapepodcast.co.uk/newsletter

Join our Facebook crew https://www.facebook.com/groups/www.pobshantycrew.co.uk/

Donate to Teenage Cancer Trust https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/POBShantyCrew

Theme song provided by Kale A. Dean

Cover composite illustration - Clifton Suspension Bridge; Shanty Crewmates ©

Matt Jeanes Professional Artist

Copyright © 2025 Port of Bristol Shanty Crew - All Rights Reserved

Mentioned in this episode:

Nova Scotia

Ahoy there, mateys! This time around, we're diving deep into the shanty scene at the Pirates in the Port Festival in Newport, where we had the absolute pleasure of supporting our pals, the Boys of Brin. We're all about celebrating sea shanties and folk music, and let me tell ya, this festival was a treasure trove of tunes and good vibes! We’ll be sharing our adventures from gigs, like the Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival, to our regular sessions at the Nova Scotia Hotel. Plus, we’ve got some juicy stories about our fun-filled performances and the community spirit that keeps us sailing smoothly. So grab a drink, settle in, and let’s shanty our way through this episode together!

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Port of Bristol Shanty Crew
• Boys of Brin
• Bristol and Western Hospital's charity
• Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival
• Oakland Construction
• Nova Scotia Hotel
• Gloucestershire's Masonic Family Day
• Pirates in the Port Festival
• Teenage Cancer Trust
• Severn Area Rescue Association
• HM Coast Guard
• Brecon Shanty Crew
• Ships and Giggles

Sponsored by Nova Scotia https://novascotiabristol.com/

Port of Bristol Shanty Crew Merchandise Shop https://pobshantycrew.co.uk/merch

Subscribe to our newsletter www.shipshapepodcast.co.uk/newsletter

Join our Facebook crew https://www.facebook.com/groups/www.pobshantycrew.co.uk/

Donate to Teenage Cancer Trust https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/POBShantyCrew

Theme song provided by Kale A. Dean

Cover composite illustration - Clifton Suspension Bridge; Shanty Crewmates ©

Matt Jeanes Professional Artist

Copyright © 2025 Port of Bristol Shanty Crew - All Rights Reserved

Mentioned in this episode:

Nova Scotia

Chapters

Live from the heart of the International Sea Shanty Festival in Falmouth, we’re diving deep into a sea of songs, stories, and a whole lot of fun! This episode is all about the vibrant atmosphere of this year’s festival, where shanty crews from all over the globe gather to celebrate the music that binds us all together. We’ve got interviews lined up with festival organizers, enthusiastic performers, and even some super fans who have traveled far and wide just to join in the merriment. It’s not just about the singing; it’s a community vibe that’s infectious, with people of all ages coming together to belt out sea shanties and have a blast. So grab your favorite drink, kick back, and get ready to feel the rhythm and spirit of the high seas right from your speakers!

Takeaways:

• The Falmouth Sea Shanty Festival this year celebrates its 21st anniversary with an incredible lineup of 85 groups performing across 27 venues, showcasing the global love for sea shanties.
• Sea shanty music is not just for the old-timers; it's attracting a diverse crowd, including school children and university students, making it a truly intergenerational celebration.
• The festival's atmosphere is infectious, with live performances bringing together locals and visitors who sing along, creating a community spirit that embodies the essence of shanty music.
• Food and drink are a big part of the festival experience, with free pasties and beer tokens provided to performers, ensuring everyone is fueled for fun and song.
• Live streaming of performances this year has allowed fans to enjoy the festival from afar, increasing its reach and accessibility to those who can't attend in person.
• The success of the festival highlights the importance of community support and sponsorship, emphasizing how local businesses and organizations contribute to keeping this beloved event free for all.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Falmouth Town Council
• Sea Salt Cornwall
• Green Bank Hotel
• Warren's
• Falmouth Hotel
• Princess Pavilion
• Fisherman's Friends
• Longest Johns
• Barrett's Privateers
• Ksenian
• Lemonaires
• Rum and Shrub
• Hanging Johnny
• Oggie Men

Sponsored by Nova Scotia https://novascotiabristol.com/

Port of Bristol Shanty Crew Merchandise Shop https://pobshantycrew.co.uk/merch

Subscribe to our newsletter www.shipshapepodcast.co.uk/newsletter

Join our Facebook crew https://www.facebook.com/groups/www.pobshantycrew.co.uk/

Donate to Teenage Cancer Trust https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/POBShantyCrew

Theme song provided by Kale A. Dean

Cover composite illustration - Clifton Suspension Bridge; Shanty Crewmates ©

Matt Jeanes Professional Artist

Copyright © 2025 Port of Bristol Shanty Crew - All Rights Reserved

Mentioned in this episode:

Chapters

Nova Scotia

Ahoy, mateys! This episode of Shipshape and Bristol Fashion takes us right into the heart of the Real Ale and Shanty Festival 2025, where the tunes are lively and the beers are flowing! We’re diving deep into the vibrant world of shanty music, with a special spotlight on the various crews and singers who bring these sea tales to life. I’m thrilled to introduce our new roving reporter, Ollie, aka Shanty Boy, who’s gonna chat with festival-goers and performers, giving us the inside scoop on what makes this community tick. Expect to hear some catchy shanties, wild stories, and maybe a few shenanigans along the way! So grab your tankard, sit back, and let’s sail through this shanty-filled adventure together!

Aye, mates! Get ready for a shanty-filled extravaganza as we bring you the highlights from the Real Ale and Shanty Festival 2025! This episode is packed with interviews, live performances, and all the good vibes you can handle. I’m your host, Oggie, and alongside our new buddy Ollie, we’re hitting the ground running with stories from the passionate individuals who keep the shanty tradition alive. From the nostalgic tales of old sea captains to the youthful exuberance of new shanty enthusiasts like Ollie, we explore how this music connects generations. Expect to hear some absolute bangers, learn about the unique history of each song, and witness the magic that happens when a group of strangers comes together to sing their hearts out. With laughter, camaraderie, and a dash of ale-fueled mischief, this episode is sure to leave you humming along and dreaming of the open sea. So, hoist the sails and let’s embark on this musical voyage!

Takeaways:

• It's all about the shanties, and we love witnessing all the incredible crews perform at the Real Ale and Shanty Festival 2025, it's like a musical treasure trove!
• Ollie, our roving reporter known as Shanty Boy, shares his journey into shanty music and aims to connect with even more crews across the UK, how cool is that?
• We had a blast chatting with different groups and soaking up the vibes at the festival, the atmosphere was electric with laughter, music, and a whole lot of camaraderie!
• The Port of Bristol Shanty Crew had a huge month with numerous gigs, including a big one at the Falmouth International Shanty Festival, which is a major event in the maritime music scene!
• Listeners got to hear from artist Tom Lewis promoting his upcoming UK tour, making sure the shanty spirit stays alive and kicking!
• The festival was not just about music, it was a charity event raising funds for the Teenage Cancer Trust, which makes every note we sing that much more meaningful!

Links referenced in this episode:

• tomlewis.net
• shipshape podcast.co.uk

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Ksenians
• Fishman's Friends
• Port of Bristol
• Tom Lewis
• Oakland Construction
• Saint Auster Brewery
• Raxall Children's Hospice
• Teenage Cancer Trust
• RNLI

Sponsored by Nova Scotia https://novascotiabristol.com/

Port of Bristol Shanty Crew Merchandise Shop https://pobshantycrew.co.uk/merch

Subscribe to our newsletter www.shipshapepodcast.co.uk/newsletter

Join our Facebook crew https://www.facebook.com/groups/www.pobshantycrew.co.uk/

Donate to Teenage Cancer Trust https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/POBShantyCrew

Theme song provided by Kale A. Dean

Cover composite illustration - Clifton Suspension Bridge; Shanty Crewmates ©

Matt Jeanes Professional Artist

Copyright © 2025 Port of Bristol Shanty Crew - All Rights Reserved

All rights reserved.

Mentioned in this episode:

Chapters

We're diving into the world of sea shanties in this episode, and let me tell you, it’s a tidal wave of fun! We’re chatting with our pals from Press Gang Mutiny, who are shaking things up with their new album, "Departure." They’re blending classic shanty vibes with some fresh, modern beats, proving that these old sea tunes are far from washed up! We’ll also hear a heartwarming story from the Reverend about his favorite song, "Marching Inland," and how it connects to the legendary Tom Lewis. So grab a mug of your favorite grog, kick back, and let’s set sail on this musical adventure filled with laughs, good vibes, and a whole lot of shanty spirit!

Takeaways:

• This episode dives into the lively world of sea shanties, revealing their roots and how they evolved into folk music. It's a total blast!
• We hear from the Port of Bristol Shanty Crew about their recent gigs, including a private show at a nursing home that came with a tasty fish supper. Yum!
• Ash shares how the crew is gearing up for the Bristol Real Ale and Sea Shanty Festival, promising a weekend filled with music and great beers. Raise your mugs!
• The Rev talks about Tom Lewis, a legendary figure in the shanty community, and shares a hilarious backstory about his song 'Marching Inland'.
• Press Gang Mutiny joins the episode to showcase their new album, blending traditional shanties with modern beats and guest artists. It's a real sea change!
• This month, if you subscribe to the newsletter, you score a special gift from the Bristol Dry Gin Company. Who's ready for some gin?

Links referenced in this episode:

• www.shipshapepodcast.co.uk/newsletter
• www.aleandshanty.co.uk
• shipshapepodcast.co.uk
• pressgangmutiny.com

Sponsored by Nova Scotia https://novascotiabristol.com/

Port of Bristol Shanty Crew Merchandise Shop https://pobshantycrew.co.uk/merch

Subscribe to our newsletter www.shipshapepodcast.co.uk/newsletter

Join our Facebook crew https://www.facebook.com/groups/www.pobshantycrew.co.uk/

Donate to Teenage Cancer Trust https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/POBShantyCrew

Theme song provided by Kale A. Dean

Cover composite illustration - Clifton Suspension Bridge; Shanty Crewmates ©

Matt Jeanes Professional Artist

Copyright © 2025 Port of Bristol Shanty Crew - All Rights Reserved

Mentioned in this episode:

Nova Scotia

Chapters

Ahoy there, fellow shanty lovers! In this delightful episode, we dive deep into the heart of Bristol's maritime culture, led by our charming crew from the Port of Bristol Shanty Crew. With the sun shining and spring in the air, there's a celebratory spirit that fills the air—perfect for shanty singing! We kick things off with a rousing introduction from our captain, who shares the excitement of our latest adventures, including gigs, festivals, and our recent live recording of the Trelawney Shout, a local event that celebrates all things Cornish. This vibrant gathering features passionate performances from various shanty crews, paying homage to the rich musical heritage of Cornwall. But wait, there's more! The episode features an engaging segment with Cornish royalty, Harry Glasson and Will Keating, sharing their musical journey and the magic behind their beloved song 'Cornwall, My Home.' This heartfelt conversation reveals the personal connections and inspirations behind their music, making it a must-listen for any shanty aficionado!

People mentioned in this episode:

• Port of Bristol Shanty Crew
• Trelawney Shout
• Harry Glasson
• Will Keating
• Little Sisters of the Poor
• Them Bristow Girls
• Severn Wailers
• Frampton Shantymen
• Ben Nicholls
• Skinner's Brewery
• Wurzels
• Bristol real ale and Shanty Festival
• Nova Scotia

Links referenced in this episode:

• pobshantycrew.co.uk

Sponsored by Nova Scotia https://novascotiabristol.com/

Join our Facebook crew https://www.facebook.com/groups/www.pobshantycrew.co.uk/

Donate to Teenage Cancer Trust https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/POBShantyCrew

Theme song provided by Kale A. Dean

Cover composite illustration - Clifton Suspension Bridge; Shanty Crewmates ©

Matt Jeanes Professional Artist

Copyright © 2025 Port of Bristol Shanty Crew - All Rights Reserved

Mentioned in this episode:

Chapters

Nova Scotia

Get ready to set sail with us as we dive into the vibrant world of sea shanties, all while celebrating the delightful tune "Corncrate," penned by the one and only Nobbie! This catchy song, inspired by the historical trade routes of Bristol, takes us on a musical journey that evokes the bustling docks and the lively spirit of sailors. Nobbie joins us to share the backstory behind "Corncrate," giving us a peek into his creative process and the rich history that inspired this shanty. We'll also have some fun segments featuring the Barnacle Boys, who add their own flavor to the shanty scene. So, grab a drink, and let’s hoist the sails together for a fun-filled episode packed with laughter, music, and a sprinkle of maritime magic!

Join me as we sail through the lively waters of Bristol's maritime history with Nobby's 'Corn Crate' as our compass! This episode is a treasure trove of stories, laughter, and music. Nobby regales us with tales of the ship that inspired his song, reminiscing about its regular trade routes and the lively dockside atmosphere. We learn about the Corncrate's importance in transporting goods like wine and brandy, a nod to the historical significance of Bristol's docks. But it's not just about the past; we also celebrate our present with updates on recent performances and the wonderful connections we've forged through music. With plenty of banter and a splash of humor, this episode makes you feel like you're right there with us, belting out shanties and sharing laughs. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or landlubber, tune in for a delightful mix of history, music, and community spirit!

Takeaways:

• In this episode, we explore the history and significance of the song 'Corncrake', written by Nobbie, and how it reflects the rich maritime culture of Bristol.
• Nobbie shares fascinating stories about the Corncrate ship, its routes between Bristol and Bordeaux, and the lively dockside atmosphere during its heyday.
• We chat about the various gigs the Port of Bristol Shanty Crew has done recently, highlighting our community involvement and the joy of performing for local causes.
• The episode features a fun segment with the Barnacle Boys, who share their own sea shanty experiences and the importance of camaraderie in the shanty community.
• Listeners will learn about the creative process behind writing shanties like 'Corn Crake', including how personal experiences and local geography shape the lyrics.
• We'll wrap things up with a lively performance of 'Corncrake' and other shanties, encouraging audience participation and celebrating the joy of sea music.

Links referenced in this episode:

• pobshantycrew.co.uk
• barnacleboys.co.uk

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Barnacle Boys
• Nova Scotia Pub
• General Steam Navigation of London
• Harvey's
• Avery's
• Teenage Cancer Trust
• From Bristol with Love for Ukraine
• Bristol Channel
• Dublin
• Brixham
• Lundy
• Lamiat
• Pill

(02:11) Signaler

(09:51) Nova Scota

(10:18) The Corn Crate

(36:50) The Barnacle Boys

(41:19) Lamyatt

(01:45:20) End

Sponsored by Nova Scotia https://novascotiabristol.com/

Join our Facebook crew https://www.facebook.com/groups/www.pobshantycrew.co.uk/

Donate to Teenage Cancer Trust https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/POBShantyCrew

Theme song provided by Kale A. Dean

Cover composite illustration - Clifton Suspension Bridge; Shanty Crewmates ©

Matt Jeanes Professional Artist

Copyright © 2025 Port of Bristol Shanty Crew - All Rights Reserved

Mentioned in this episode:

Chapters

This podcast marks a special milestone as we celebrate our one-year podcast anniversary.

This episode features recordings from our first gig of 2025 at the Nova Scotia pub, where we unveiled some new songs to a very enthusiastic audience. We also have a delightful segment called "Ahoy There Matey," where we hear from other shanty crews across the globe. So, grab your headphones and get ready for some shanty-filled fun as we look forward to another year of music and camaraderie!

(00:23) Introduction to Shipshape and Bristol Fashion

(12:42) Happy Anniversary Rev and Mrs Rev

(14:50) The Night of the Shanty Singing led by Chilli

(16:15) Introduction to the Port of Bristol Shanty Crew

(56:36) Ahoy there!

(01:37:14) Shipshape and Bristol Fashion with Kale Dean

(01:53:18) Ending and Rating!

Takeaways:

• In this episode, we celebrate our one-year podcast anniversary and reflect on our journey together.
• We discuss our recent performances and how the Port of Bristol Shanty Crew has grown.
• Listeners can look forward to upcoming gigs and events in February with excitement.
• The podcast dives into the unique atmosphere of the Nova Scotia pub where we perform.
• We share our experiences from our first gig of 2025, complete with audience interactions.
• Throughout the episode, we highlight the importance of community and support for our charity efforts.

Join our Facebook crew https://www.facebook.com/groups/www.pobshantycrew.co.uk/

Donate to Teenage Cancer Trust https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/POBShantyCrew

Theme song provided by Kale A. Dean

Cover composite illustration - Clifton Suspension Bridge; Shanty Crewmates ©

Matt Jeanes Professional Artist

Copyright © 2025 Port of Bristol Shanty Crew - All Rights Reserved

Mentioned in this episode:

Nova Scotia

Chapters