As one of Australia’s much-loved country music stars, Troy Cassar-Daley returns to the Port Fairy Folk Festival next month, with a special intimate show at the Hawthorn Arts Centre on Thursday 6th March.
His latest album, Between The Fires, is a tribute to his parents who both died in recent years – originally cut at his late mother Irene’s home.
He will perform songs from his songbook of 33 number one chart singles, along with numerous gold and platinum albums.
Troy Cassar-Daley spoke to The Write Drop for our At The Bar series.
MY CITY
Darwin, Northern Territory. Fell in love with that town in winter 1990, and every time I go back it’s just so welcoming. The people make the place and fishing in the outer areas is always an adventure, and I love that they really love music.
FAVOURITE FOOD MEMORY
The PepperBerry Restaurant Darwin, NT is a standout – they served a 200-gram eye fillet and it was superb.
FAVOURITE BAR
Darwin Railway Club is such a vibe. [It’s also the oldest social club in Darwin]. You used to be able to have a beer and play vinyl records during the day, I love that venue and always have.
DRINK THAT DESCRIBES YOU
Dark and stormy.
OVERSEAS BAR
Robert’s Western World, Nashville Tennessee. Buy a hot dog and a beer, maybe buy a hat or some boots and listen to some great country music all day into the night.
NEXT DESTINATION
Europe.
What makes Port Fairy Festival unique
Firstly the town is a stunning place to visit on its own, the area ( thanks to Shane Howard and family) has always held a special place in my heart, then there is the music, when people sit and listen it makes you want to give much more because they are very invested at the folk festival.
Tell us about your upcoming show at Hawthorn Arts Centre on 6th March 2025
Well as a songwriter, I always feel inclined to take the listener up a few side tracks with some rarely played songs to go with the well-worn songs people come to expect, this excites me and inspires and I hope the audience feel the same.
Three new songs:
Old Road Home – This is such a special song, it was the first one we recorded on the new album and we played it every night of the tour. I can’t wait to share this one.
Windradyne – A song about a warrior that everyone should know in Australian history. A song of courage and truth.
Some Days – It’s a personal song about the loss of my parents. Out of the whole set list last year on tour, this song resonated with so many people and I think it’s a sort of song that will stick around for a long time.
A song that changed your life
Solid Rock by Goanna
An album on high rotation
Jason Isbell Weathervanes.
What you can’t live without
Good coffee.
www.boroondara.vic.gov.au/events/troy-cassar-daley
