Introducing Steve Smyth

I first met Steve a few years ago. I was walking past a bar in Sydney when I heard him playing from the street, I was drawn in and went in to hear a bit more. I’m glad I did. I have yet to hear such beautiful and raw talent any better than his. He’s got a folky, bluesy, acoustic soundthat is uniquely unforgettable. AMANDA DAVENPORT WRITES.

Image courtesy of Amanda Davenport

Born in NSW, the son of Ministers, he’s been playing the guitar since he was young. For me, his guitar is his supporting instrument – his voice is undoubtedly his finest asset. Imagine the range and soulfulness of a Buckley (Tim or Jeff), mixed it up with a bit of Bob Dylan and the occasional deep gravelly sound of Kurt Cobain and you have something pretty special. Steve is one mighty fine troubadour.

Over the last few years Steve has been travelling around Australia and Europe, touring with the wonderful Angus & Julia Stone, Howling Bells and Ben Harper. He’s now on the road with Kitty, Daisy and Lewis.

A: Let’s start with a little bit of background. Have you always wanted to be a singer/songwriter/musician?

S: Always, there’s never been anything else I’ve wanted to do. When I was younger I did my fair share of time washing dishes, serving coffee, even cleaning and restoring yachts in the Sydney harbour, but music has only been my passion.

A: You’ve been living over in London for the last year or so, what prompted the move?

S: Various things, but largely because I believe change can be good. I like to ramble, I’m a wandering soul. Seeing new places and experiencing different cultures is important to me and London gives me a good base to tour around Europe.

A: Where do you think 2012 will take you, back to London?

S: My life seems to be in a state of perpetual TBA, and I’m happy with that. I’ll probably be moving around a lot, so no fixed abode. I’ll go wherever my music takes me.

A: You’ve been a solo artist for some time, do you ever get lonely?

S: Yes, a little. But all in good time. I’m very happy with my life right now, and loving doing my own thing. Don’t get me wrong, being in a band can have it’s benefits, but it’s a bit like a good song – you need to keep to the same beat. Being solo, you experience things differently and can be more expressive.

A: If you could choose between short-lived fame and a lot of money, or a lifetime of just about making a living from your music, which would you take?

S: I wouldn’t. I’d choose both (he says with a smile). The longevity of my music is what’s truly important to me. I couldn’t ever see myself doing anything else. I love playing at intimate venues, connecting with people in the audience and stumbling upon new artists. Some of my best nights have been in the smallest if places.

A: What’s your style when you’re penning new lyrics?

S: I usually just sit down and start writing. Travel has definitely had an impact on my lyrics. I wrote “Bar Made Blues” when I was living in Cambodia for a month. I was sat at the bar, not feeling like I was getting anywhere in life. Drinking, getting thrown out of bars. I saw some kids playing in the streets with their kite. For a country formerly under Khmer Rouge rule, to today, seeing these kids smiling with such a sense of freedom. Something just clicked inside me. The lyrics just started flowing.

(Steve then apologises for getting a bit deep and meaningful. He’s so polite!)

A: Please don’t apologise Steve – I’m not here for an interview with Britney Spears.

A: Who do you rate today as a great musician?

S: I really like Chilly Gonzales and I admire TV On The Radio. I also think Jack Ladder is amazingly talented and doesn’t get the recognition he deserves.

How do I rate Steve Smyth?

Nothing less than 5 stars. My favourite track is probably “Stay Young” , which is a duet with Juanita Stein.

Do yourself a big favour and see him before he returns to colder climates.

Upcoming local tour dates

Wednesday 25th Jan. The Study @ The Gaelic Hotel. Surry Hills.

Thursday 26th Jan. @ Festival of The Voice The Rocks.

Sunday 29th Jan. @ The Vanguard. Newtown.

Debut Album “Release”