Follow the Sun
Mumford and Sons was on heavy rotation on my smartphone when I wrote this song, and I had this idea about writing a song about explorers and their blind faith in something to keep them going when things looked dire at sea.
The song Six Months in Leaky Boat by Split Enz was in my head when I started writing, and for anyone who is an avid fan (like I am), you may notice some identifiable references in the last verse that seemed to fit the sentiment of the song.
"So we know we’ve had our share of bad luck
And the moon has let us down - we’ll follow the sun"
Peace of Mind
As I have gotten older, I have become more reflective and thought about what I have learned from others in my life, and in particular what brings us peace of mind. This song is about being content and making the best of what life presents you, and is for my Mum.
"If the clouds are clearing there’s a chance of sunshine
Steal a moment, when they least expect it and take charge of your time"
I Know You Know
The very last song written for this album. When a loved one in the family has serious health issues, there is some relief in being able to openly discuss what is happening with them, and give oxygen and energy to making the most of life.
"If all tomorrows find you in peace and wonder
Who knows - what’s beyond this door?"
Second Opinion
Whenever you are dealing with new challenges in life, It is easy to second guess yourself. I try to balance trusting those in the know, but from experience I also trust my gut instinct until I am satisfied I can live without regret.
"Another wise and weary ghost from the past
Igniting my doubt - I’m frozen to the spot"
A Dime a Dozen
The footnote to Second Opinion - remember that everyone has opinions and they are not all equal in value. Wherever you are, you got yourself there, and it ain’t all bad.
"Don’t take me for the fool you are
I’ve found a way to come this far
Opinions are a dime a dozen so put them all away"
A Hundred Years from Now
Hindsight is a wonderful thing - and history can be a harsh judge. Remember smoking not be a risk? Remember asbestos not being a risk?
This is a song advocating for climate science to be taken seriously, even if there is a chance it may be wrong.
Why wouldn't we look to transition to other forms of energy that could be economically viable and make the air cleaner?
Australia was once going to be a leading light and innovator in this space, and now is struggling to follow. Hopefully it's not too late.
I will jump off my soapbox now.
"We’re balanced on the edge of the precipice
But still we’re in denial"
Keep the Rivers Flowing
This is a more abstract environmental song but also a metaphor for being aware of the world and people around you, and doing your best to respect and maintain your values regardless of poor behaviour of others around you.
"Respect the current – what is right in front of you
Learning to respect the past
For the future - is coming at us fast"
The Juggler
A lot of time can be spent at work trying to do the best you can, for causes and outcomes that sometimes can change overnight.
At times I feel like I am juggling many balls at once, and being unfair to myself for dropping one occasionally. This song is my reminder that our self worth is not attached to our jobs, and many things that are important today are barely relevant 6 months later.
"Sometimes its adequate - Sometimes it falls into a heap
Sometimes spectacular - but in the end it often doesn’t matter"
Goldmine
Searching for something others perceive as valuable can lead to high expectations and false hopes.
I had in mind the riches being sought by property investors in the real estate market. If it is a bubble it’s going to make a mighty big noise if it pops, and the gold that everyone thought was there is going to dissolve into gold dust.
"To my surprise I found a goldmine that has no gold"
Too Good to Miss
I met a friend of my father in law at a family function, and was amazed to hear what he had packed into his 84 years of life (and he didn’t look a day over 60).
He had followed opportunities and created many more through his determination to live life fully. For all the bad things that happened to him, he had few regrets and he was proud of his life and looking forward to the next chapter.
"Make hay when the sun lets you shine
When a choice can be made – doesn’t have to be right"