Gateway gig: James Blundell performs with Catherine Britt next month.
ERIN PEARSON
CORIO will become a hub of country music next month when two of Australia’s most-decorated stars perform an array of hits.
Country music veteran James Blundell and 2009 Country Music Female Artist of the Year Catherine Britt have banded together to “rock the house” at Gateway Hotel.
Blundell said their Can’t Find Our Way Home Tour would bridge the gap between country and popular music.
“People are interested in seeing where country music is going and I think Australian country musicians are finally finding their feet and clinging to their own individuality more than ever before,” he said.
“Country music is no longer the country cousin of real music – country artists are selling the most albums in Australia.”
Blundell said the pair was also looking forward to connecting with fans both old and new around the country.
“Catherine’s been far more aware of social media and the way it’s an important part of your public persona, so it’ll be interesting to see what she pulls out of the woodwork in terms of the audience she brings,” he laughed.
“Personally, I love that I get a lot of people in their late teens to early 20s come and say they came to see me when they were eight when their parents dragged them along.
“Country music appeals to so many generations, so it’s quite a compliment.”
Blundell, who’s just released his 10th studio album, has won credit for turning a younger demographic of Australians onto country music
Britt has recorded with Elton John, Shane Nicholson, Kasey Chambers, Paul Kelly and Kenny Chesney.
Blundell said the pair wanted to highlight their songwriting skills.
“Catherine is that very rare creature: a genuine female troubadour,” he said.
“In her few short years on the planet she’s seen the highs and lows of life and music and they flow effortlessly from her as well-crafted, compelling, honest songs.
“These dates together are set to be a lot of fun and, who knows, we might even get a song or two out of it.”
James Blundell and Catherine Britt will be at Gateway Hotel on August 4.
