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“A Bird That Won’t Sing” Comes Straight From The ‘Hart’

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“In The Midnight Sky Alone” is the most recent album by soulful alt-country troubadour Rick Hart of Melbourne, Australia and the single “A Bird That Won’t Sing” is the new single from the album.

Rick Hart’s signature style is a melodically flowing, harmony-laden environment overlaid with the profound grief of his words and visuals. All of Hart’s tracks have the signature Americana and country sounds that make him unique. There is a noticeable amount of Wilco and The Jayhawks influence.

An emotionally charged story on the harsh truth of heartbreak. Everything that was once is gone, and with it comes an unwavering sense of regret and the knowledge that change is inevitable.

“Rick Hart writes and delivers beautiful country songs – they are thoughtful, poignant, heartbreaking and smart,” remarked legendary Australian musician and songwriter Lachlan Bryan of Lachlan Bryan and The Wildes and The Pleasures, who co-produced Hart’s third long play . “I wanted to work on this record because I already believed every word he sings, and after spending weeks in the studio with Rick and his guitar, I now KNOW them all to be true”

Early reviews of the album indicate it’s amazing reach and potential to appear on several year end top ten lists, even though we are not even at the halfway point yet.

Based on Michael George Smith’s review of the album ‘In The Midnight Sky Alone’ in Rhythms Magazine, “the songwriter that the record portrays is a storyteller of the heart.”

“You really should listen to this album in its entirety because, first, if you skip around, you’ll miss out on some of the characters and stories told throughout, and second, if you just listen to a couple of songs, you won’t get nearly the whole experience that this album offers. I get that we live in a singles-based culture, and I’ll admit that there are a number of tracks that would grab my attention if I only listened to the singles, but listening to the entire album has been incredibly rewarding.”
‘In The Midnight Sky Alone’ album review in RAGMAG

“Hart is a refreshing counterpart to the plethora of male singers who have gone awry of country tradition. Hart is a perfect antidote to whatever bro-hangover still looms over us and has the same refreshing appeal that Sam Outlaw’s debut album had”. For The Country Record

“This is impressive songwriting! The melodic aspects perfectly capture the emotional tone of the songs. The classic alt country/R&B musical aspects are brilliant. It’s a genuine pleasure to review this exceptionally high level of songwriting.“ The Great American Songwriting Contest

“With his deeply soulful voice, Rick Hart journeys to the heart of modern Americana-alt-country, where frankness, sadness and songs collide.” Greg Arnold (Things of Stone and Wood)

“I’ve worked with Rick Hart, and he’s a superb songwriter! Rick’s music is a unique combination of roots and country.” – Bill Chambers (Australian Country Music Icon) –

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Jack Nolan Releases New Single “Hold On” Featuring Wynonna Judd

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Sydney-based singer-songwriter Jack Nolan has once again captured the hearts of music lovers with the release of his latest single, “Hold On.” This track is the second single from his highly anticipated album, “Songs For Hemingway,” which is set to be released on October 11th. Recorded in the vibrant music city of Nashville and produced by the talented Justin Weaver, “Hold On” promises to be a standout addition to Nolan’s impressive discography.

The recording of “Songs For Hemingway” in Nashville brings a unique flavor to Nolan’s music. Known for its rich musical heritage, Nashville provided the perfect backdrop for the creation of this album. The city’s influence is evident in the sound and production quality of “Hold On,” which seamlessly blends elements of Americana, folk, and rock.

Justin Weaver, a renowned producer with a knack for bringing out the best in artists, played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of “Songs For Hemingway.” His collaboration with Nolan has resulted in a collection of songs that are both deeply personal and universally relatable. Weaver’s production expertise shines through in “Hold On,” where every instrument and vocal layer is meticulously crafted to create a rich, immersive listening experience.

“Hold On” is a song that resonates with listeners on multiple levels. Its lyrics, penned by Nolan, are a heartfelt plea for perseverance and resilience in the face of life’s challenges. The song’s message is simple yet profound: no matter how tough things get, it’s important to hold on and keep pushing forward.

The track opens with a gentle acoustic guitar riff, setting a contemplative tone that draws the listener in. As the song progresses, layers of instrumentation are added, including a soulful piano melody and a steady drumbeat that provides a sense of momentum. Nolan’s vocals are raw and emotive, conveying a sense of vulnerability that is both touching and inspiring.

One of the standout features of “Hold On” is the inclusion of backing vocals by the legendary Wynonna Judd. Known for her powerful voice and emotive performances, Judd’s contribution adds a layer of depth and richness to the track. Her harmonies blend seamlessly with Nolan’s lead vocals, creating a dynamic interplay that elevates the song to new heights.

Judd’s involvement in the project is a testament to the quality of Nolan’s work and the respect he commands within the music industry. Her backing vocals on “Hold On” are not just a feature; they are an integral part of the song’s emotional impact. The collaboration between Nolan and Judd is a highlight of “Songs For Hemmingway,” and it is sure to be a talking point among fans and critics alike.

“Songs For Hemingway” is shaping up to be one of Jack Nolan’s most ambitious projects to date. The album is a tribute to the literary giant Ernest Hemingway, whose works have long been a source of inspiration for Nolan. Each track on the album is a reflection of Hemingway’s themes of love, loss, and the human condition, interpreted through Nolan’s unique musical lens.

The release of “Hold On” as the second single from the album gives listeners a taste of what to expect from the full project. The song’s introspective lyrics and lush production are indicative of the album’s overall tone and style. Fans of Nolan’s previous work will find much to love in “Songs For Hemingway,” while new listeners will be drawn in by the album’s emotional depth and musical sophistication.

Jack Nolan’s career has been marked by a commitment to musical excellence and a willingness to explore new creative avenues. With a discography that spans multiple albums and countless live performances, Nolan has established himself as a respected figure in the music world. His ability to craft songs that are both deeply personal and widely relatable has earned him a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim.

“Hold On” and “Songs For Hemingway” represent the latest chapter in Nolan’s musical journey. The album’s release is highly anticipated, and it is expected to further cement Nolan’s reputation as a talented and innovative artist. The collaboration with Justin Weaver and Wynonna Judd is a testament to Nolan’s ability to attract top-tier talent and create music that resonates with a wide audience.

As Jack Nolan prepares for the release of “Songs For Hemingway,” fans and critics alike are eagerly awaiting what promises to be a landmark album. “Hold On” is a powerful introduction to the project, showcasing Nolan’s songwriting prowess and the exceptional production quality that defines the album.

With its heartfelt lyrics, rich instrumentation, and the added magic of Wynonna Judd’s backing vocals, “Hold On” is a song that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on listeners. It is a testament to Jack Nolan’s talent and his ability to create music that speaks to the soul.

In conclusion, “Hold On” is more than just a single; it is a glimpse into the heart and soul of Jack Nolan’s upcoming album, “Songs For Hemingway.” Recorded in Nashville and produced by Justin Weaver, the album promises to be a significant addition to Nolan’s body of work. The inclusion of Wynonna Judd’s backing vocals on “Hold On” adds an extra layer of depth and emotion, making it a standout track that is sure to resonate with listeners. As the release date for “Songs For Hemingway” approaches on October 11th, the anticipation continues to build, and fans can look forward to experiencing the full scope of Jack Nolan’s musical vision.

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The Journey Of Jordie Lane

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For years, Nashville-based singer-songwriter Jordie Lane—who was born in Australia—has been a major player in the business. Renowned for his distinctive mix of Americana, folk, and rock, Lane has enthralled listeners all around with his musical ability and narrative skill. With the release of his most recent album “Tropical Depression”, Jordie Lane is at a turning point in his career. After spending some time talking with the artist recently about the creation of “Tropical Depression,” its themes, and the effects it has had on Lane and his listeners, it’s time we shared insights from our interview and our thoughts on the tremendous new album.

Made in Nashville, “Tropical Depression” is a testament of Lane’s artistic development, further supported by his ability to assemble a trifecta of key behind the scenes people who have supported him in pulling this album together the right way. With Grammy nominated producer, engineer and instrumentalist Jon Estes (Kacey Musgraves, Dolly Parton, Rodney Crowell) producing the album, the mixing by iconic engineer Noah Georgeson (The Strokes, Devandra Banhart, Marlon Williams) and mastered by Juno Award winning Phillip Shaw Bova (Feist, Father John Misty, Angel Olsen, Bahamas). While the mixing and engineering from Georgeson and Shaw respectively embrace the artists songs like a hand holding a glass of whiskey, fusing genres and sounds together in a sublime harmony that is this album, it is Estes’s influence in the polished but raw sound of the album, which perfectly complements Lane’s introspective lyrics.

Talking with Jordie Lane on a recent trip back to Australia, he openly discussed that he had difficulties along the way in producing “Tropical Depression”, as the title of the album pays homage to Lane’s personal battles with mental health and his obsession with severe storms, while the tone of the album reflects this duality—between quiet introspection and strong emotional outburst.

Discussing deeply intimate and ideas of mental health during our interview, Lane demonstrates a beautiful resilience, and a sublime human condition, discussing with me how “Tropical Depression” songs invite listeners into his world by their honest and vulnerable quality. Listening to the album after the interview, I immediately start with the eerie rhythm and thoughtful lyrics of the first song on the album, “Back, Out There,” which sets the tone, before songs like “The Changing Weather” and “Empty Room” probe Lane’s experiences with anxiety and depression.

“Friends” a moving meditation on the value of personal connection throughout trying circumstances, is among the album’s best tunes. The straightforward but strong words of the song will surely appeal to listeners and serve as a reminder of the power contained in relationships, whilst “Blame Me If You Want To,” another noteworthy song, highlights Lane’s skill in fusing comedy and sarcasm with a sobering topic. This is the Jordie Lane who I first met several years ago in Nashville and was immediately taken in by his wit and lighthearted take, not just on music, but life in general. It’s fantastic to know that this side of this diverse artist is still as strong as ever.

With influences ranging from Bob Dylan to Neil Young, Lane’s musical approach is a singular mix of Americana, folk, and rock. “Tropical Depression” sees Lane stretching the boundaries of his genre by experimenting with novel sounds and arrangements. Rich vocal harmonies, ambient synths, and deft guitar work abound on the luxuriant and multifaceted record.

The way “Tropical Depression” uses its music to portray a broad spectrum of feelings is among its most arresting features. Songs like “New Normal” and “Been Lucky” are more lively and uplifting; tracks like “It Might Take Our Whole Lives” and “Internal Dialogue” are pensive and sad. This vibrant spectrum is evidence of Lane’s adaptability as a performer and lyricist.

A few weeks since it’s release, both fans and critics have praised “Tropical Depression” extensively since its premiere. The album has drawn compliments for its emotional resonance, musical complexity, and literary profundity, further complimented by the early shows on his current Australian tour, during which time “Tropical Depression” debuted at #1 on the Aria Country Albums chart.

In Lane’s career, “Tropical Depression” represents a turning point both creatively and monetarily. The popularity of the record has opened Lane to new opportunities that have resulted in publicised partnerships and appearances, including securing a label deal from ABC Music/The Orchard for this album (see below for the best signing of a contract ever!). Lane has a devoted following and earns critical praise since he can relate to listeners on a very personal level and that the industry now understands this is further validation, not just for the artist but for the long time supporters of his music.

Apart from its critical and chart triumphs, “Tropical Depression” has significantly affected Lane’s personal life as well. Making the record let Lane face and sort his own mental health issues, which helped him to find fresh clarity and direction. The songs and general tone of the album clearly showcase this personal development since they express hope and resiliency.

Set against rich, evocative soundscapes, Jordie Lane’s “Tropical Depression” is a remarkable investigation of the human psyche. Among Lane’s albums, this one stands out for its reflective lyrics and dramatic range. As Lane develops as an artist, “Tropical Depression” attests to his skill and commitment. The popularity of the album is a testament of Lane’s capacity to establish a connection with his audience by means of his music, therefore influencing his career as well as rewarding his listeners.

Catch Jordie Lane on the final leg of his East Coast Tropical Depression tour this week, before he returns to tour the rest of Australia in Oct/Nov: 

September 5 – Qirkz, Hunter Valley NSW
September 6 – LA LA LA’s, Wollongong NSW
September 7 – The Trocadero Room, Enmore NSW 
September 8 – The Standard Hotel, Fitzroy VIC
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New Single “I’m Only Sad” Fuses Premiere Musicians For The First Time

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The April Family and Michael Carpenter and The Banks Brothers have united for a new single “I’m Only Sad, a classic, (mostly) acoustic country ballad, anchored by the beautiful piano playing of lead guitarist Casey Atkins, with the acoustic guitar and upright bass of Carpenter framing singer Kylie Whitney’s plaintive country soul lead vocal performance. Carpenter also takes a verse, along with singing the harmony, to emphasise two sides of the story in the tale of post breakup longing.

Zane Banks on lead acoustic guitar and Jy-Perry Banks on pedal steel take care of all of the colour throughout the song, weaving in between the melody to fill out the aural story, while AtkinsCarpenter and Zane Banks provide the exquisite backing vocals in the bridge.

Carpenter says of the song, “We’d wanted to do a collaboration between all of us for some time, and while it would have been easy to do a ‘standard uptempo country thing’, we all feel this song gives us a chance to show how sensitive the two ensembles can be in their understanding of musical storytelling.”

The song is also a bittersweet end of chapter for The April Family, with Casey Atkins recently announcing a desire to step aside from the recording band. He will continue to play any live shows possible, and contribute to sessions when he and the band can make it work.

Kylie Whitney says, “We have loved Casey’s contributions through all of our work, and he is always welcome in what we do. He is part of our family. But we look forward to opening ourselves up to fruitful creative times, embracing Michael’s many projects, and maybe even doing some solo projects of my own.”

Sydney based Alt Country combo The April Family continue to carve out a unique place in the Australian country music landscape. With their unique blend of Alt Country rawness, featuring singer Kylie Whitney’s soulful vocal textures and unique writing style, producer/multi-instrumentalist Michael Carpenter’s production expertise and harmony skills and lead guitarist Casey Atkins’ distinct twang and harmony prowess, the ensemble have created a body of work and a loyal fanbase, while pushing themselves creatively in finding their voice.

Formed in 2016, The April Family found it’s feet quickly, establishing a vital live presence in Sydney, and releasing a string of singles in the lead up to their debut album “What We Know Now” released in 2017. The successful album spawned 3 well received singles, with strong airplay and good chart results. The album showcased the combination of West Coast 70’s classic country rock, high production values and the band’s showcase 3 part harmonies.

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