OSM: How long has Darcy Kate been writing songs, and when did you release your first music?
I have been writing since I was thirteen years old. My first song ‘Goodbye’ was inspired by my older sister finishing school and leaving home to go to university. I missed her terribly and I think this was my way of making sense of that experience and connecting with her. The meaning certainly extended beyond that initial inspiration to a more general song for people experiencing relational grief, but it is still a song I started writing for her. She now lives interstate, so it has even more meaning as we see each other a couple of times a year. My first music was released three years ago. My first single was Last Train to Frankston, a true story about a homeless couple searching for a safe place to sleep. I had not intended to record a full album but had so much fun with the first song I couldn’t stop!
OSM: Your debut album, ‘Wanderer’ is out now. What was the songwriting and recording process of the album?
Wanderer is a collection of songs, from my first ever song ‘Goodbye’, with songs throughout my teens and early twenties. My songwriting process is quite fluid- I tend to become inspired, and have an idea and run with it, accompanying myself on guitar. Songs tend to come about quickly particularly when it starts with a phrase or powerful emotion.
OSM: Where was the album recorded and who produced it?
I recorded the album at Yama-Nui Recording Studio on the Sunshine Coast, and my producer is Steve Summers (Stonewax Productions). Steve was an incredible support and I was lucky to have his presence as each component of the album was very intentional and maintained the focus on the stories and my vocals. We had so much fun recording this album- the studio is in a beautiful part of the world and we would have breaks drinking tea and looking at the mountains and trees- honestly blissful. I cannot wait to go back soon!
OSM: .The title-track of the album, ‘Wanderer’ has been released as a single. What is the message of the song and what made you decide to use the title as the album title too?
Wanderer is a story of travelling my own path and openness to love while still pursuing what is important to me. I decided to title the album Wanderer as it is also another name for the Monarch Butterfly. I love butterflies and you’ll notice that they feature on the single covers. My sister drew the cover artwork years ago and I always intended to use it at some stage. The songs demonstrate a journey of growing up and stories from different phases of my life, so it was the perfect fit.
OSM: What is the general theme of the album, is there an overall message?
The overall theme of this album would be “lounge room songs”, as each track brings warmth in various ways and tells a story, with the intention of immersing the listener in my world at various points in my life. My hope is that these songs would be comforting, moving and soothing for listeners.
OSM: What challenges have you faced since launching your career?
I have been very fortunate in that I have people who really support my music. There are certainly issues with financially funding an album and fostering a career as an independent artist, however I think we are getting better at creating opportunities in the music community. Covid has really rocked the community and I felt that with a huge reduction in live shows for a while. Thankfully things are starting to recover.
OSM: What are the plans for the year ahead for yourself?
The next year will entail commencing recording for my next album! My 12 month plans also include booking a tour for Wanderer, playing festivals, and releasing more merch, so it’s looking to be another busy and exciting year ahead.
OSM: If you could change anything about the industry what would it be?
I would provide more opportunities for up-and-coming musicians, and I would see the arts funded more. Covid has taught us that music gives people solace and comfort and should be valued for what it offers communities.
OSM: If you could share the stage with another band or performer who would it be?
I would love to be on stage with Paul Kelly rocking a duet! He is an Australian icon and an incredible poet and songwriter. My parents are huge fans of his too, so his music brings back so many happy memories of road trips with the fam.
OSM: What songs are on your playlist right now, which songs are you into at the moment?
My current playlist includes Ziggy Alberts, Thelma Plum, Lisa Loeb, Cat Stevens and a Sunshine coast folk duo Anna and Jordan. I am loving ‘The Great Divide’ by Ziggy Alberts and Hayley Marsten’s ‘’I’m Fine thanks’- both beautifully expressive musicians with catchy melodies in these tracks.