21 May 2023 // A review by Kev Rowland
Here we have a brand-new partnership from two artists who have already made names for themselves performing solo, and although they are both proud Kiwis, they have each won The Music Victoria Awards. Even though Matt Joe Gow only released his latest album a few months ago, this new partnership is already touring the country performing songs from their catalogues as well as new ones they have been writing and recording, of which this is the first. Acoustic guitars, drums, bass, mandolin, violin and accordion all combine to create an accompaniment which is both wistful and dynamic, laid-back, but with just the right amount of strength to provide the perfect foundation for the singers.

Both Matt and Kerryn are very highly regarded in the world of alt-country, and here they trade verses with each other in a very relaxed manner. Neither has anything to prove, they are comfortable in their own performances, and consequently there are no egos at work as instead they sit back and invite us warmly into their world. When they are both singing then it is the broad baritone of Matt which is the lead, with Kerryn harmonising, but she is the one who starts this song itself, inviting the response from Matt.

Your Heart of Gold is a very easy song to get inside, with a basic drum and bass in simple 4/4, with allowing the other instruments to follow the melody or add nuances, with the violin being allowed to wander where it will, but always bringing us back to the vocals. I feel myself very lucky to catch them in concert the other week, and based on this I can’t wait for the album. For all lovers of country music.

Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆ ( 4 / 5 )

Matt Joe Gow grew up in Dunedin in the South Island of New Zealand, a place with bad weather and good music, meanwhile Kerryn Fields was raised in the North Island with one hand on guitar and the other firmly upon her heart. A kindred connection with their homeland brings an emotive strength to their music and gives their songs a sense of place and purpose.

Newstead Live Music Festival’s Troubadour Artist of the Year (2019), winner of the MLT Songwriting Award (NZ Country Music Awards 2019) and New Zealand’s Best New Broadcaster (at age 19), Kerryn Fields has released a range of celebrated records including debut LP, Rascal (2015) and award-winning, critically acclaimed single, Mamma (2019).

"The combined talents of both these two artists is really a perfect match and the chance to see them performing together should not be missed" - Myles O'Neil-Shaw, PBS FM

Visit the muzic.net.nz Profile for Matt Joe Gow & Kerryn Fields

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