Two musicians, separated by more than 2400 kilometres, have teamed up to tour their kindred music styles throughout the South West.
Despite singer-songwriters Tracey Barnett and Tanya Ransom hailing from opposite ends of the state, the pair led parallel lives in 2017 – something they are celebrating in The Sophomore Tour.
Both Barnett and Ransom released albums in 2017, an achievement in itself but the accomplishments didn’t stop there, with both nominated for Best Regional Act at the WAM awards.
Barnett also received a nomination in the awards for Best Blues/Roots Act.
Although neither claimed the title, they have combined forces to celebrate with a dual headline tour, appropriately named for two musicians, two new albums and two nominations.
Their partnership blossomed in Broome, Ransom’s home turf, when Barnett joined her on stage for a gig.
They discovered their music styles complemented each other – both boast the grittiness of soulful blues and sample tastings of alternative-country.
Barnett, who hails from Bridgetown, said after that first musical spark, she was eager to do more shows together and felt this tour was meant to be.
“The timing was perfect,” she said.
“Tanya was heading to my region in the South West, to share her beautiful new album and my schedule had eased since wrapping up the 'Heart, Soul, Feeling' tour - it's like the universe wanted us to work together.”
Besides sharing a musical cohesion, the pair also bonded over their time as travelling regional artists.
Ransom said it was satisfying to be recognised at an industry level.
“There’s plenty of amazing regional musicians in Western Australia, it reaffirms I’m doing something right,” she said.
She added that living remotely didn’t stifle her creativity, she believed it enhanced it.
“Broome has quite a healthy and inspiring music scene which attracts other touring musicians too, which is how I met Tracey,” she said.
“We’ve formed a friendship through sharing our music.”
Tracey Barnett and Tanya Ransom will play The Prince of Wales, Thursday, February 8 from 8pm.