‘Armour’ is the newest single from captivating, moving and truly salt of the earth artist Tanya Ransom.
The folk, blues and roots artist showcases her powerful vocals and brooding guitar rumbles throughout the single.
She cleverly takes what could be deemed negatives by the spin doctors/ new-age coaches of the world, and transforms the experience into one hell of a positive in this beautifully crafted song.
You’ve released your new single, ‘Armour’; how does this track showcase your current sound?
The song keeps hold of my love of storytelling through lyrics as to conjure up a strong, visual image for the audience.
When we recorded 'Armour' I had wanted to keep the song a little stripped-back and still create enough dynamic to draw in the listener. I really feel we achieved that and still kept a folk, blues, roots fusion that has become a familiar Tanya Ransom sound.
You’re also working on a new EP release with Dave Mann, due out next year; what can you share from those recordings?
Earlier this year, I spent a few days in Dave’s studio in the beautiful Margaret River and recorded a couple of new songs I’d written at the time, the first being ‘Armour’.
Previously with my albums, I’ve gone in and recorded start to end then and there. It’s a different process this time around and I’m learning to be more patient with myself and mindful of how and when I want to release my music. I’m pumped to get back in the studio with more new tracks to add to the list.
You also have a string of live shows between now and Christmas; do you enjoy the tour life?
I really love tour life. Over time I’ve learnt how to travel light and I really like the freedom that comes with it. I’ve ended up with a nice balance of being home in the Kimberley for half the year and on the road for the rest. There’s challenges that come up too, but they’re always outweighed.
When touring, what are the prime travel essentials you never leave home without?
When I’m touring and living out of my van, my essentials are my little old Engel fridge, cold water and a Soda Stream maker. There’s nothing like bubbly cool drink when you’re driving through 40-degree heat.
The magic of storytelling through music; what first drew you to the art form of music?
Music was a late addition to my life. It wasn’t until I was almost 20 and living in Broome that I was inspired to pick up the guitar and start writing songs. The environment and the people here, along with the amazing musical talent in our little, remote town really inspired me and still does.
When did you know you had a special skill to entertain people via music?
I don’t remember there being a specific 'ahh-haa' moment. Once I picked up the guitar and started writing and performing that was what felt right for me. It was discovering what my passion was and following it through and having that shown back to me when people started listening and connecting to my music.
You will be showcasing at WAMFest; what do you have planned for the show?
I’ll be performing solo for WAMFest, some nice, stripped-back acoustic vibes. I’ll be sharing stories and songs, mostly new tracks and ‘Armour’ is definitely on the set list.
What does it mean to be part of an event like WAMFest?
WAMFest is awesome. I honestly think that we have such a beautiful, supportive music community in WA. It’s a time for me to re-connect with city life and get a dose of good music and skill up at WAMCon.
Who are a couple of other bands also playing WAMFest punters should know about?
That’s a hard one. Lucy Peach, Children Of The Tide, Tracey Barnett; just go see as many bands as you can.
Where is the best place in Perth/ Fremantle to escape the rush of day-to-day life?
I always escape to friends places. But as they may not want me giving out their address, the next best place is chilling out at South Beach in Freo.
When it comes time to procrastinate, how do you usually whittle away time?
I’m a mad-keen gardener. When I’m not playing music you’ll find me growing veggies and pulling weeds. I get a bit edgy when I’ve not got my hands in the dirt after a while, so when I’m touring I make sure to get stuck into someone else’s garden. It’s a win-win situation I reckon.
