Two Tone Pony is a five-piece band with an extensive musical lineage. With Greg Richardson on drums, Graham Puglisi on bass, Ian Rhodes on mandolin, harmonica and guitar, and Glenn Wiley on keys, it was founded by David Kirkpatrick, who was named after his father – who was otherwise known as Slim Dusty. The title of Two Tone Pony’s debut album, Born on the Road, is taken from the song of the same name which describes Kirkpatrick’s own entry into the world, as his phenomenal mother, the late Joy McKean, gave birth while she and Slim were on tour.
Not only was Kirkpatrick born on the road, he grew up on it for the first few years of his life, instilling in him a sense of adventure and a curiosity about the world that would later manifest in his diverse pursuits, from medicine to diving and beyond.
Navigating the Music Industry
Despite his famous lineage, Kirkpatrick’s journey into music was not without its challenges, which we cover in this interview. He recalls facing teasing and even physical altercations from those who didn't understand his parents' unconventional career path. However, this only served to toughen him up, preparing him for the rigors of the music industry.
Embracing Curiosity and Research
Kirkpatrick’s approach to songwriting is deeply rooted in his innate curiosity and desire to get the details right. Drawing inspiration from his mother's meticulous research methods, he ensures that his lyrics are grounded in factual accuracy, whether it's exploring the history of the steam trading route on the Murray-Darling or channelling community spirit during a natural disaster.
The Thrill of Live Performance
As a performer, he embraces the element of risk and danger that comes with live music, a trait he attributes to his upbringing. In our interview he speaks passionately about the exhilaration of a song taking off, the trust and camaraderie within his band, and the importance of valuing the hard work and dedication that goes into creating art.
Born on the Road: The Album
The album Born on the Road serves as a reflection of Kirkpatrick’s life experiences, with themes of movement, adventure, and the human spirit woven throughout the lyrics. Songs like ‘Slow Lane’ and ‘Stormy Weather’ offer glimpses into his personal life and relationships, while tracks like ‘The Flood’ demonstrate his ability to capture the essence of community resilience.
As with the first time I interviewed him, Kirkpatrick is incredibly interesting to chat to – in fact, his family background is only the jumping-off point for a life that has been rich in experiences and human connection, and these are evident in the songs on Born on the Road.
Listen to Born on the Road on Apple Music
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