Australian born Canadian folk singer Ruth Moody is about to land on our shores as part of her “Wanderer” album tour. Born in Queensland, but raised in Canada, ruth has had a long career performing with Skruj MacDukh” “The Wailin Jennys, before embarking on a rewarding solo career, she has an impressive catalogue of some 18 recordings. That is an impressive portfolio for any musician, let alone one so young. “Wanderer” is her latest offering. Here is what she has to say about it
“In a sense the album is a chronicle of my journey over the last ten years,” says Moody. “It wasn’t necessarily intended that way; I took a pause from touring to start a family and raise my son. The songs kept coming and I kept having to put them on the back burner. But I think it was all meant to be that way. Taking that time, becoming a mother, and the experience of making this record have given me a heightened sense of gratitude, and have made me more passionate than ever for art and for doing whatever I can to help spread some joy and peace in the world.”
I had a few more questions to get a more complete picture of what Ruth is all about.
How do you think the mix of Australian and Canadian cultures, their similarities and differences have shaped your songwriting?
“Well, they are both very awe-inspiring countries, in terms of their natural beauty, and my songs have definitely been inspired by my relationship with the natural world. Interestingly, it was a backpacking trip across Australia that I took when I was 19 that ultimately led me to realize that I wanted to pursue music as a career. I come from a musical family and music has always been a big part of my life, but I had never really thought it would become my profession. After a couple of years in university studying French and English, I took a year off and travelled to Australia to spend time with cousins and explore my roots. It was during that year that I realized that singing was my joy-line, my spiritual path, I suppose. I went back to Canada and ran into an old friend who had started a Celtic band, and I joined them soon after as their lead singer. “
What impact has parenthood had on your approach to writing and performing?
“Parenting is at once heart-openingly wonderful and also deeply challenging. It definitely expands your scope, in terms of the experiences and emotions that you find yourself wanting to put into song. One interesting thing I’ve noticed is that my relationship with time has had to change. Before I had a child, I went into creative mode wherever the inspiration struck. Now, I have to take advantage of little windows of time and try and write even if I’m not necessarily feeling inspired, just to keep the creative muscles in shape. It’s not impossible, it just takes a bit more planning and organisation.”
If your child wanted to pursue a career in music , what advice would you give them?
“I think there is a good chance of it – he loves music and definitely has the gift. Most importantly, I just want him to be happy, so I don’t plan to push him. The music industry is so different now than it was when I started. There is so much emphasis on social media, and of course because of streaming, the way musicians earn a living is different, and it is arguably more challenging. It’s not for the faint of heart. That said, I’ve always thought that if you love music so much that you simply can’t imagine doing anything else, then it is probably meant to be your path in some capacity. It’s also such a great way to meet like-minded people and to build community. It’s a very special universal language that connects us all. So, I suppose to answer your question, if he finds that it is his calling, I will encourage him to follow his heart, and to trust his inner voice.”
What is it like working with Mark Knopfler? Do you have any other musicians you would love to work with, either as writing collaborations or performing?
“It was a blast, and of course such an honour. I’m such a fan of his songwriting, so it was a real treat to spend some time with him and his amazing band and crew, and to get a little window into his process. He’s a very generous, gracious and thoughtful person – it’s always nice when people you look up to end up being kind and exemplary humans.”
Your cover of “Dancing in the dark” seems like an unusual choice for a cover song. (excellent work , by the way) . What was it about that song that made you want to cover it?
“It’s such a great song, and I just thought it would be fun to ‘folkify it’. It was fun to turn something around that’s so quintessentially 80s and treat it with acoustic instruments. I also liked the challenge of taking Springsteen’s biggest hit and lending it a female perspective.”
You have recorded a decent amount of material. What is the work you are most proud of, or you feel is the most accurate representation of you as an artist?
“I’m really proud of my latest record, Wanderer. I really wanted to capture the magic of the moment and of the live performance, and with the help of my co-producer and the wonderful musicians involved, I feel like I achieved something very honest and real that reflects where I am at this point in my journey. I suppose it’s often our latest work that feels like the most accurate reflection of where we are. Hopefully it’s a good sign of ongoing growth.”
Tell me a little bit about your current band. How did you all come together?
“I’m bringing two wonderful musicians with me – Anthony da Costa on guitars and Ben Plotnick on violin, viola, and mandolin. They are a dream to play with, and they’ll both be singing harmonies too. Anthony and I have been musical collaborators and close friends for a long time. He is a virtuoso on the guitar and such an intuitive singer. Ben joined me more recently, but I have collaborated and recorded with his string quartet, The Fretless, over the years. He is an amazing player and brings so much to the music.”
Is this your first time in Cairns? What is in store for us ?
“I did get to Cairns when I was 19, and have fond memories of snorkelling and diving and camping! But this will be my first time playing in Cairns. I’m a Queenslander by birth, so I’m particularly excited for this show. I’ll be playing songs from my new record mostly, but will likely play one or two Wailin’ Jennys favourites, as well as some songs from my older records and a couple of brand new songs too.”
Ruth Moody will be performing at ‘The Tanks’ art centre on Thursday, April 24th. Doors open at 8pm, show starts at 6:30. Tickets are available through TicketLink
Noel Keid
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