Chad Fagg & Melissa Barelmann
No doubt, Just Blue are a thinking person’s duo; they perpetually question relationships and may even give us insights about ourselves. “Speak To Hear” is a testament to what music beyond the mainstream could be. I recommend it to anyone who is willing to accept the challenge of truly inspiring, honest music, without all the fanfare.
— Jamsphere MagazineEver since Woody Guthrie logged his travels in the immortal book “Bound for Glory,” countless artists have felt a kindred calling to understand life for what it is and write about their experiences in real, simple terms. While Guthrie took note of the brokenness of society at large, some have clung more purely to the brokenness of relationships. Such is the spirit of the two-piece band Just Blue.
— Indie Roots MusicThe word “just” is defined in many ways. Among them, “Guided by truth.” And, “Simply. Certainly.”
Just Blue is the Melbourne, Florida-based duo of Melissa Barelmann and Chad Fagg, creating simple, honest music rooted in connection and storytelling.
Moments of serendipity have followed Just Blue since Melissa and Chad met in early 2006, brought together by a shared love of personal songwriting.
A musician since childhood, Chad played in several rock and metal bands before finding his true home behind an acoustic guitar. After mistaking Melissa’s voice for that of Natalie Merchant, he knew those vocals would be the perfect complement.
The duo began playing covers—from Bon Jovi to Coldplay—in local coffeehouses, but quickly turned toward original music. Within months, they had written 20 songs and began recording immediately.
Thirteen of those tracks became their debut album, Below The Damage, blending Melissa’s mellow vocals with Chad’s acoustic guitar. Even the artwork was designed by Chad, extending the album’s authenticity.
After time performing locally, they returned with a broader vision—leading to Speak To Hear, a full-band record mixed by Brian Fechino in Nashville.
The album expands their sound across country, rock, and pop while maintaining their emotional core.
Though only a duo, Just Blue delivers a full, immersive sound—grounded in honesty, simplicity, and connection.