Behind The Creative Process of a Wayfarer
cheynne murphy
Wayfarers Home was inspired by German author Herman Hesse’s autobiographical writings entitled: Wandering – Notes and Sketches (Hesse, 1972). It captured the folk-rock spirit of the music and its inspiration from wanderings in nature, a yearning for the simpler things in life. As the journey of creating "Wayfarer's Home" unfolded, it became a reflection of my own wanderings both physical and spiritual, and with the people I meet and the gifts they share. Through the Byron shire hinterland and the profound peace of the blue pacific. This is an ode of sorts to the wanderer's soul, to those of us who find solace in the embrace of nature, and who seek the mystic.
Early years in Byron in the hills of Possum creek
This was a video of the sunrise at Moonee Creek lookout, Coffs Harbour looking over the pacific that sparked an idea that became Running My Own Race which was later written that night by the fire.
“Standing on the edge of a cliff looking over the water at a sunrise asking for change”
Musically I have a fascination in open guitar tuning inspired by the established Canadian artist, Jeff Martin (The Tea Party), whom I collaborated with on the previous album.
Behind the scenes recording with Jeff Martin and his open tune interpretation of a work in progress
This is one of the first times playing Candles Burning. Jeff Martin handed me this guitar and said see how it talks to you. Custom made luthier guitar in a tuning I had never heard.
Recording in my farmhouse, with the collaboration of talented local musicians and the expert touch of producer-engineer Paul Pilsneniks, we were aiming for an authenticity and warmth that I hope resonates with you and the soul of the songs. Here are a collection of images and video from the project.
Recording Pretty Little Bird in farmhouse in Byron’s hinterland
Recording Wayfarers Home and Running My Own Race with Mate Akurst on drums, Pete Cook Fretless bass and Paul Pilsneniks ad his mobile set up
Laying down bass and drums at the farmhouse for Running My Own Race with Pete Cook onbass and Mate Akehurst brushes
From little things big things grow….there was a cast of 20 that brought this project to light. cannot thank them enough!
As I prepare to share these songs with you, from local market gigs to a regional tour, I am reminded of the power of music to unite, to heal, and to inspire. I invite you to join me on this journey, to find a piece of your own story within these songs, and perhaps to discover a wayfarer's home of your own.
With gratitude and music in my heart, Cheynne Murphy