Cooly Goes Country – James Blundell, Jade Holland & Guests
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JAMES BLUNDELL
There are many terms people use when describing James Blundell. Icon. Legend. Controversial. Rebel. The truth is – James Blundell is all of these things. He is unashamedly honest and comfortable in his own skin. He radiates an enthusiasm for everything that life has to offer and it’s this authenticity that makes him one of the most instantly likable and recognisable artists in Australian music.
Acknowledged by many as the act that single-handedly shaped modern Australian country music by infusing his influences of John Mellencamp, The Band and The Angels with the storytelling ethos of Slim Dusty and his lyrical insight, sharp wit and empathy for the average working man. This combined with his handsome good looks and country charm ensured there was no stopping his success across all demographics.
In 2018, Blundell’s music was the focal point of the compilation album, “30 Years of Pride – A Tribute to James Blundell”. The who’s who of Australian music joined with some of today’s most exciting new artists to reimagine some of his biggest and best loved songs. Adam Brand joined Blundell for a new duet of “This Road”, Tania Kernaghan put her unique stamp on “Rain On A Tin Roof” while rising star, Jonny Taylor makes “Amsterdam Breakfast” his own. The album also features artists including Drew McAlister, Bec Lavelle, Brewn, Ben Ransom, Paul Costa, Cameron Daddo, D Henry Fenton, Ingrid Mae and James’ teenage sons, Briar and Travis. There’s also a special group performance of “Way Out West” which was Blundell’s biggest hit in 1992.
James Blundell is one of only a handful of today’s country artists who live the authentic life of a country singer. When he’s not touring – he’s managing his family owned property in Stanthorpe QLD. He is an artist of substance and longevity thanks to his unique perspective showcased through song.
JADE HOLLAND
Regional Queensland based singer and songwriter, Jade Holland, makes a welcome return in 2022 with her brand-new single ‘Summertime, Sunshine and You” due for international release on 18 February 2022.
Following on from the number one Australian Country Radio success of “Fight for it”, the official anthem for the 2021 Walk for Awareness, “Summertime” sees a return to Holland’s country pop roots and is the catchy feel-good song of 2022 that keeps us longing for the beach all year round.
“Living in Queensland, the climate and lifestyle are just so unique and beautiful, it’s like falling in love every day. After so many songs about heart break, I wanted to feel the sweetness of love in a song that puts me right back into summer mode regardless of what time of year it is.” Holland shares.
With her next album due for release in November 2022, “Summertime” builds the bridge for this country girl’s catalogue of songs from heart break right through to love and marks the beginning of a new chapter in her journey in music. “Being unable to travel and tour has led me to a deeper understanding of myself as an artist. The stories that I share about love and life in a small Aussie country town reflect a sentiment that so many people relate to.” Holland adds that ‘Summertime, Sunshine and You’ is the perfect taste of what’s to come from her – musically and
as a female artist.
LAURA FRANK
“An incredible songwriter & vocalist, Laura is a true asset to Australia’s country music scene.” Undercover Artist Festival Director & disability in the arts advocate, Madeleine Little
With two number one songs in the past 12 months, Laura Frank is THE Australian Country Artist to watch. “Simple Girl” was on high rotation on commercial network FLOW FM across Australia and her latest release, The Road, is on high rotation on Australian Country radio and Coles Radio.
About to commence her THE ROAD tour, Frank’s army of fans THE FRANK TRAIN follow her to shows across the country. Powerful vocals, authentic storytelling and a show filled with energy and a packed dance floor, Frank is a force to be reckoned with on the Aussie Country scene.
TYLA RODRIGUES
Pop/Country Singer who is quickly making her mark on the Brisbane music scene. Growing up with the sounds of Soul/R&B and Country, Tyla brings a modern, soulful tone to her country/pop repertoire.
Tyla has made her mark in Brisbane through the 97.3FM Vegas Rayz (Band that Brisbane Built) and has since performed at various higher profile festivals, events and venues, including the Triffid. Outside of the band, Tylas’ style is influenced by the sounds of Stevie Wonder, Whitney Houston, Lauren Hill and leading into Carrie Underwood, Miranda Lambert, Luke Combs and Chris Stapleton. From this, she has created her unique country/pop style that incorporates the twangy love of classic country with soulful R&B.