Jamie T says our own Courtney Barnett was a principle inspiration of his latest album, Carry on the Grudge. Speaking in a recent interview, the Wimbledon singer-songwriter professed his admiration for Barnett’s songwriting ability and said his new album is strewn with references to the Aussie’s work.
The critically acclaimed Brit recently talked to Triple J in anticipation of a string of Australian live appearances set for next January, and told them new album track The Prophet was “actually written the day after I’d been at a show the night before from a lady called Courtney Barnett”.
“I heard a few records of hers – someone had given them to me [so] I went down in anticipation to see her and she was great,” explained the 28-year-old songwriter. “It was a great little band and, yeah, it’s just beautiful songs, man.” Jamie T, born Jamie Treays, left the gig with a copy of Barnett’s double EP.
Not only did Barnett’s A Sea of Split Peas inspire Treays, the singer-songwriter wore his fandom on his sleeve. “[I] bought her record and loved it so much and it was a huge inspiration for a lot of the tracks on the record – some of you might be able to spot some of the references,” he told the station.
Jamie T’s 2015 Australian tour kicks off at the Metro Theatre in Sydney on Wednesday, 21st January. Asked if he would be extending an invitation to his Melburnian muse to attend his shows when he arrives, Treays said, “I dunno, I only met her briefly but we’ll have to wait and see. She’s obviously welcome.”
Watch: Jamie T – Zombie
Jamie T 2015 Australian Tour Dates
Wednesday, 21st January 2015
Metro Theatre, Sydney
Tickets: Metro Theatre, Love Police
Friday, 23rd January 2015
Hi Fi Bar And Ballroom, Brisbane
Tickets: The Hi Fi, Love Police
Saturday, 24th January 2015
Forum Theatre, Melbourne
Tickets: Forum Theatre, Love Police
Monday, 26th January 2015
Astor Theatre, Perth
Tickets: Astor Theatre Love Police