Shipshape and Bristol Fashion

Justin Blackett

Welcome aboard Shipshape and Bristol Fashion — the podcast exploring the people, stories, music and adventures behind the world of sea shanties and maritime music. Hosted by Justin “Oggie” Blackett, we go beyond the songs to discover the characters and stories that make the shanty community so special. From the Port of Bristol Shanty Crew and fellow crews around the country, to musicians, festival organisers, historians and fascinating guests, we meet the people keeping maritime music alive. Expect entertaining conversations, live music, shanties, maritime history, festival stories, behind-the-scenes adventures and plenty of laughter along the way. Whether you're a lifelong shanty enthusiast, a performer, a maritime history fan, or you've simply discovered sea shanties and wondered what all the fuss is about — there's a place for you aboard. So grab a pint, haul on a rope and join us for the next adventure. Shipshape and Bristol Fashion — where the people behind the shanties have a story to tell.

  1. 2 days ago

    Live for International Podcasting Day — shanties, rum, and random socks!

    Cast off with us as we yak about shanties, gigs and good causes — no stern lectures, just salty banter. I’m Oggy (yup, your host) and we kick things off proper Bristol-fashion: updates from Chill the Signaller about where we’ve been (Bath church, weddings — cake and all), where we’re heading (St Ives shout, Maritime Pilots private at M Shed, Electric Bear Brewing in Bath), and a cheeky reminder that we do this to raise cash for the Teenage Cancer Trust. We chat gigs, Lidos, pasties, and the weirdly delightful naked calendar legacy (don’t ask — we’ll maybe stick our clothes back on next time). Expect tour gossip, upcoming plans, and that warm, communal vibe you only get when a bunch of us lovesongs and a pint or two. We also roll out some fresh segments: Ollie the Shanty Boy still roves about, and I’m buzzing to introduce Dean Calin from the Maritime Music Directory International who drops a tidy archives piece on maritime music history — think Alan Mills through to modern global crews. Then we dug into a proper highlight: our International Podcasting Day livestream with Press Gang Mutiny and the Dockyard Dogs. There’s live singing (we rough it up with Bully in the Alley, Strike the Bell, Randy Dandy), some dodgy audio bits (aye, tech is a sea beast), plenty of laughs, and real talk about why shanties matter now — community, accessibility, and the whole Wellerman TikTok boom that brought folk back to singing together. Also, Tom Lewis’s charity mission to Ukraine with Monday Shanty gets a shout — big love and chances to support. If you like heart, history, and hootenanny energy, we’ve packed it into this one. If you would like to watch the unedited live stream, head over to https://www.shipshapepodcast.co.uk/podcast-day/ Takeaways: We chatted about how sea shanties are actually maritime music, not just work songs, I explain the difference and why shanties are more than catchy hooks.I talked up the community vibe — people of all ages join in, sing along, and feel belonging, which fuels the recent shanty resurgence in real life and online.We covered how the TikTok Wellerman wave helped blow the shanty scene up, making small crews reach global audiences overnight and sparking fresh interest.I explained practical podcast stuff: editing is a huge time sink, live audio can be rough, and repurposing streams for proper episodes helps save time.We highlighted our charity work — we raise money for the Teenage Cancer Trust and RNLI, and I urged listeners to donate if they can to support lifesaving crews.I introduced the new 'Maritime Archive' segment by Dean Callan, giving listeners a friendly primer on shanty history and key international performers to follow.We bragged about gigs, festivals, and collabs — St Ives, Falmouth, Bristol shoutouts — and I promised more recording sessions and a follow-up album in the pipeline.I admitted some tech glitches during the live stream, but we leaned into the chaos, turned imperfect audio into charm, and will polish a proper edited episode. Links referenced in this episode: https://seashanties4all.com/rnli.orgshipshapepodcast.co.ukhttps://tomlewis.net/news.htm Companies mentioned in this episode: Bristol LabPort of Bristol Shanty CrewShipshape and Bristol FashionDockyard DogsPress Gang MutinyShanty CastThe Shanty ShowMaritime Music Directory InternationalBounding MainFolkways RecordsMaritime Pilots AssociationM ShedElectric Bear Brewing CompanySt. Peter's HospiceTeenage Cancer TrustMonday ShantiBytown Shanty CollectiveRNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution)FacebookYouTubeTikTokSpotifyPatreonRadio TimesOld CrownSidmouth Folk FestivalWhitby Folk FestivalFalmouth FestivalHigh and Dry 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 © 2026 Port of Bristol Shanty Crew - All Rights Reserved

    Live for International Podcasting Day — shanties, rum, and random socks!

  2. 5 Oct

    Bristol Shanty Shout: Beer Panic, £30k for Charity & the Secrets to a Bangin' Shanty Weekend

    We kick off season two live from the Bristol Shanty Shout, right in the thick of the singing, with loads of live tracks, crew banter and proper behind‑the‑scenes chat about what keeps shanty life ticking. I’m Oggy and we give a quick primer for anyone new — shanties are old maritime work songs, usually sung a cappella to sync the crew and lift the mood, and you’ll hear how they sound when the whole pub (or dockyard) joins in. We’ve got Chilli’s Signaler roundup — all our recent gigs and where we’ll be next — plus extended chats with crews like Stunsels, Beaufort Scale, Missing Tackle and High and Dry, who share tour tales from mine shafts to the SS Great Britain. I also sit down with Phil, the festival organiser, who walks us through the festival’s history, logistics, and the charities we support (yes, proper good causes like RNLI and local prostate support). Expect a lively mix of songs from stages and ships, sticky‑voiced humour, salty anecdotes and a big focus on community — why we do this, who we meet, and how the scene keeps growing. If you love maritime music, or fancy a whistle and a laugh, come sail with us — winds and following seas, and we’ll see you next time. For the music nerds and the curious alike, we serve up a deep-dive into the songs, styles and stages. I narrate our live recordings from the Bristol Shanty Shout — everything from rollicking “South Australia” and “Farewell to Nova Scotia” to more local, Cornwall-flavoured numbers — and explain the basics: shanties are work songs, often call-and-response, designed to set a rhythm for hauling, heaving and other shipboard tasks. You’ll hear the difference between a pub sing (fast, punchy, foot-stompy) and a church-set (slow, harmony-rich, goosebump-inducing). We spotlight crews like Stunsels (rowing roots), Beaufort Scale (close-harmony fellas), High and Dry (who’ve morphed from garden-fete starters into full-on festival regulars), and Missing Tackle (theatre-to-shanty storytellers), each bringing their own flavour to the same old sea-tales. Beyond performances, I chat about arranging a cappella harmonies, how crews adapt songs for different venues (from the echoey Underfall Yard to the cosy Nova Scotia Hotel), and why singing together literally helps with breath and community — yes, it’s wholesome and slightly muscular. We wrap with invites to upcoming gigs, a call for listener feedback (take our survey if you fancy), and a tease for Dean Callan’s new maritime-music segment. If you love music that’s raw, human and full of history — and you like your storytelling served with banter and a beer — this summary’s for you. Links referenced in this episode: www.shipshapepodcast.co.uk/survey 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 © 2026 Port of Bristol Shanty Crew - All Rights Reserved

    Bristol Shanty Shout: Beer Panic, £30k for Charity & the Secrets to a Bangin' Shanty Weekend

  3. 5 Sept

    Drop Anchor and Share Your Feedback for Season Two of Ship Shape!

    Hey there, shipmates! This episode is all about taking a breather and having a little chinwag about what we’ve been doing on *Ship Shape and Bristol Fashion*. We’re hitting pause this month to soak up the summer vibes and get our creative juices flowing for season two. We’re asking you, our loyal listeners, to drop us some feedback—like what floats your boat and what sinks it! Your thoughts are gonna help us steer this ship in the right direction, so head over to our website and fill out a quick survey, will ya? Plus, mark your calendars for September 30th—it’s International Podcasting Day, and we’re gonna celebrate all things pod-tastic! So, sit back, relax, and let’s make this next season even more awesome together!

    Drop Anchor and Share Your Feedback for Season Two of Ship Shape!

  4. 5 Aug

    Shanty Fest Vibes: Singing for a Cause and Having a Blast!

    We're diving into the heart of the summer festival scene, folks! This episode is all about the magic of community and music, as we recount our recent adventures at various shanty festivals, including the unforgettable Woodfest, where we helped raise funds for the Teenage Cancer Trust. We’ve got tales about belting out shanties, wrangling crowds, and the camaraderie that comes with performing together. It’s not just about the tunes; it's about making memories, supporting causes close to our hearts, and sharing some good ol' banter along the way! So grab your grog, settle in, and let’s ride the waves of joy and laughter as we recount our shanty escapades! Takeaways: This episode dives deep into the vibrant world of sea shanties, showcasing how these spirited songs bring people together in an unforgettable way.We learned about the heartwarming connection between the Port of Bristol Shanty Crew and the Teenage Cancer Trust, highlighting the importance of charity in their performances.The crew reminisced about their summer gigs, including the Bristol Harbour Festival, which was packed with laughter, camaraderie, and a ton of singing.Listeners got a sneak peek into the behind-the-scenes of organizing events like Woodfest and how much effort goes into making them successful.Ollie Shanty Boy shared his excitement about performing in Holland, emphasizing the joy of traveling and singing with friends.The episode wrapped up with a promise of more fun adventures to come, reminding everyone to keep their spirits high and enjoy the music. Companies mentioned in this episode: Teenage Cancer TrustPort of Bristol Shanty CrewWoodfestHarbour FestivalFalmouth International Shanty FestivalRNLIDZ BoysKilkenny BayTawny Shanty MenLower DeckersClevelandCassenion 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 © 2026 Port of Bristol Shanty Crew - All Rights Reserved Mentioned in this episode: Nova Scotia

    Shanty Fest Vibes: Singing for a Cause and Having a Blast!

  5. 5 Jul

    Our Epic Adventure at the Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival 2026

    Ahoy, friends! We’re diving into the heart of the Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival, and let me tell you, it’s been a wild ride! This episode is packed tighter than a sailor's sea chest with highlights, interviews, and some seriously catchy tunes from our fellow shanty-loving crews. We're soaking up the vibes and chatting with everyone from seasoned shanty singers to first-time festival-goers, all while basking in the sunny Cornish weather that’s blessed us this year. We’ve got stories of camaraderie, laughter, and maybe a couple of slightly off-key notes, but hey, that’s what makes it all the more fun! So, grab a mug of your favorite grog, kick back, and let’s set sail on this musical journey together! Takeaways: This episode celebrates the vibrant atmosphere of the Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival, showcasing the joy of community singing.We explore how sea shanties have evolved and how they bring people together across cultures and generations.Listeners get an inside look at various shanty crews, highlighting their unique stories and musical styles, which adds to the festival's charm.The crew discusses the importance of embracing diversity in shanty music, making it accessible and relevant for today's audiences.The episode highlights the festival's impact on local businesses and the community, emphasizing the economic benefits of such cultural events.We share some hilarious moments from the festival, reminding everyone that laughter and fun are just as important as the music. Links referenced in this episode: scuttlebuttshantycrew.comfalmouthinternationalseashantyfestival.comportisbshantyfestival.comilfracombeshantyfestival.comarmstrongspadens.comorkneyseashantysociety.com Links referenced in this episode: falmouthinternationalseashantyfestival.comscuttlebuttshantycrew.comilfracombeshantyfestival.comorkneyseashantysociety.comarmstrongspader.nl Companies mentioned in this episode: Falmouth International Sea Shanty FestivalPortal Bristol ShantyRusty TubbsMolly LoggersCatch of the DayScuttlebuttOggy MenThe Longest JohnsBarrel SeagalsSeaweed in the Fruit LockerOrkney Sea Shanty SocietySevern WhalersHay Shanty MenBarnacle Boys85ers 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 © 2026 Port of Bristol Shanty Crew - All Rights Reserved Mentioned in this episode: Nova Scotia

    Our Epic Adventure at the Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival 2026

  6. 5 Jun

    Raise a Pint and Sing a Shanty: Recap of the Real Ale and Shanty Fest!

    We're diving into the good vibes of the Real Ale and Shanty Festival 2026, and let me tell you, it's a blast! From the get-go, we’re all about celebrating the spirit of this wild gathering, where over 500 folks packed in to sip on some brews and belt out shanties like nobody's business. We’ve got our crew—Oggy, Ollie, and the legendary Tom Lewis—sharing their highlights, reflections, and a few cheeky anecdotes from the festival floor. It’s all about the music, the laughter, and those moments where the crowd sings so loud you can’t hear yourself think! So grab a pint, kick back, and join us as we relive the fun, the tunes, and all the shenanigans from this epic weekend! Takeaways: In this episode, we dive into the highlights of the Real Ale and Shanty Festival, showcasing the vibrant atmosphere and incredible talent present at the event.Our crew reflects on the fantastic turnout of over 500 attendees on the first day, highlighting the joy and camaraderie shared among festival-goers and performers.We discuss the importance of the variety of singing styles at the festival, which provides an educational experience for both performers and audience members alike.Tom shares his heartfelt appreciation for the organization and hospitality of the event, emphasizing how well everything was run for a young festival.Listen in as we recount some hilarious moments, including a pint-fueled evening that left us all in high spirits, proving once again that laughter is the best medicine!We also take a moment to appreciate our fellow performers and the unique fusion of music styles that make this shanty festival a truly special gathering for everyone involved. Companies mentioned in this episode: Rusty TubsPort of Bristol Shanty crewReal Ale and Shanty FestivalSir Thomas Rich's Grammar School for BoysSevern Area Rescue AuthorityTeenage Cancer TrustFalmouth International Shanty FestivalScrimshank ShantyBackbeach BoysWurzelsMadison'sThornbury Sailing ClubSnuffy JacksHenry DavisBrynn 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 © 2026 Port of Bristol Shanty Crew - All Rights Reserved Mentioned in this episode: Nova Scotia Chapters

    Raise a Pint and Sing a Shanty: Recap of the Real Ale and Shanty Fest!

  7. 5 May

    From Sailors to Singers: The Maritime Music Journey

    Today, we’re diving into the vibrant world of maritime music with none other than Dean Calin, the man behind the Maritime Music Directory International! This convo is all about how this directory is not just a treasure trove for shanty lovers, but also a lifeline for artists looking to connect with fans and each other. We’ll be sharing some hilarious tales from our gigs, and trust me, you don’t want to miss Dean’s wild stories about how he got into this genre—spoiler alert: it involves a Catholic school and some unexpected sea shanties! Plus, we’ll chat about the upcoming shanty festivals and how you can get involved in the community. So, grab your headphones and get ready to sail through some fun tunes and laughs with us—this episode is sure to blow the cobwebs off your sea legs! Takeaways: In this episode, we dive into the vibrant world of maritime music and the unique culture surrounding shanty crews, exploring how these musical traditions keep the spirit of the sea alive.We chat with Dean Callan, who shares his journey from a private school in Chicago to becoming a key player in the maritime music scene, highlighting the importance of community in this genre.The Maritime Music Directory International aims to connect artists and fans, showcasing the rich history and variety of maritime music with over a thousand groups and 400 venues listed. https://seashanties4all.com/Listeners will discover how the pandemic spurred the growth of maritime music online, making it easier for new fans to engage with shanty culture and fostering a sense of global community.We discuss upcoming events and festivals, including the Real Ale and Shanty Festival, which brings together shanty crews and fans for a weekend of music, fun, and community spirit.Finally, we emphasize the importance of supporting maritime music, whether through attending events, donating to the Maritime Music Directory, or simply sharing the joy of shanty singing with friends. Companies mentioned in this episode: Maritime Music Directory InternationalPort of Bristol Shanty CrewThornbury Action ArtTeenage Cancer TrustFalmouth International Shanty FestivalBristol Harbour FestivalNewport Shanty FestivalNobbyTom LewisAlela DianeBrandyLongest Johns 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 © 2026 Port of Bristol Shanty Crew - All Rights Reserved Mentioned in this episode: Nova Scotia Chapters

    From Sailors to Singers: The Maritime Music Journey

  8. 5 Apr

    Mermaids, Pasties, and Sea Shanties: Dive into Our Latest Episode!

    Yo, folks! We're diving into the deep end of sea shanties and good vibes in this episode, and let me tell ya, the upcoming Real Ale and Sea Shanty Festival happening in Bristol on May 9th and 10th, 2026. We're talking about an epic gathering at Freemasons Hall, where the legendary Porter Bristol Shanty Crew will be belting out tunes alongside special guest Tom Lewis. And don't even get me started on the atmosphere—it's gonna be a blast with powerful harmonies, maritime history, and a selection of real ales and ciders that’ll have you singing all night long! We also hear from people who attended the Bristol Trelawny shout , with Olly the Shanty Boy We’ve also got some heartwarming stories, like our chat with Katherine Collins, who shares her journey of overcoming challenges to perform on stage as a mermaid. Takeaways: The Real Ale and Sea Shanty Festival is coming back to Bristol in May 2026, and it's going to be a blast with tons of shanty singers and good vibes.Singing sea shanties isn't just about music; it's a way to connect with maritime history and celebrate community spirit, which is super cool.Catherine Collins, a member of the shanty crew, shares her inspiring journey overcoming health challenges to perform and even become a mermaid on stage.The shanty scene is all about inclusivity and accessibility, showing that anyone can join in the fun, no matter their background or abilities.Live music, community bonding, and drinking real ales are the perfect recipe for an unforgettable weekend at the shanty festival!Sea shanties are making a serious comeback, riding the wave of popularity thanks to viral hits like 'Wellerman' and bringing people together in harmony. Links referenced in this episode: www.aleandshanty.co.uk Companies mentioned in this episode: Port of Bristol Shanty CrewTom LewiscaskThunderboxBristol GirlsSevern WhalersBoscastle BoysVancouver MermaidRoyal British Legion 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 © 2026 Port of Bristol Shanty Crew - All Rights Reserved

    Mermaids, Pasties, and Sea Shanties: Dive into Our Latest Episode!
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Trailer

5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

Welcome aboard Shipshape and Bristol Fashion — the podcast exploring the people, stories, music and adventures behind the world of sea shanties and maritime music. Hosted by Justin “Oggie” Blackett, we go beyond the songs to discover the characters and stories that make the shanty community so special. From the Port of Bristol Shanty Crew and fellow crews around the country, to musicians, festival organisers, historians and fascinating guests, we meet the people keeping maritime music alive. Expect entertaining conversations, live music, shanties, maritime history, festival stories, behind-the-scenes adventures and plenty of laughter along the way. Whether you're a lifelong shanty enthusiast, a performer, a maritime history fan, or you've simply discovered sea shanties and wondered what all the fuss is about — there's a place for you aboard. So grab a pint, haul on a rope and join us for the next adventure. Shipshape and Bristol Fashion — where the people behind the shanties have a story to tell.

Information

  • Creator
    Justin Blackett
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    35
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Shipshape and Bristol Fashion