Australian singer-songwriter Didirri talks birds, vulnerability, and lessons learned on his debut album “Caught In The Act”
In a world where music often shies away from life’s deeper complexities, Australian singer-songwriter Didirri Peters emerges as a captivating storyteller unafraid to delve into the unexplored depths of the human experience.
With the release of his long-awaited debut album, “Caught In The Act,” Didirri takes listeners on a soul-stirring journey that traverses themes of isolation, reconnection, and the intricacies of human relationships.
“Caught In The Act” is a labour of love that blossomed during lockdown periods in Australia and creative sojourns in London.
Working alongside acclaimed producer Rob Muinos, Didirri pushed the boundaries of his artistry, emerging as a new songwriter, more raw and authentic than ever before.
The album brims with emotional vulnerability, offering poignant reflections that resonate long after the music fades.
As Didirri embarks on a global tour, he plans to return to his homeland for a 10-date headline tour (check out tour dates below) promising an enthralling live experience.
But fans won’t have to wait long to witness his magic. Didirri is set to grace two Melbourne record stores this weekend, Greville Records and Oh! Jean Records, with an intimate performance at Grizzly Adams barber shop in his hometown of Warrnambool on August 10th.
In this exclusive interview, Didirri shares his thoughts on the new album, the inspiration behind his powerful songs, and the excitement of connecting with audiences across different locations.
From finding balance during busy tour schedules to the camaraderie that flourishes among musicians on the road, Didirri gives us an insight into the essence of his artistry and the joy he finds in the simple beauty of birds.
Immerse yourself in our chat with Didirri below and the stunning music video for Numb (filmed in Robs studio) which captures the raw, and emotive essence of “Caught In The Act” to a T.
Happy: What are you up to today?
Didirri: Today I begin rehearsal for the album tour in October. I’m getting my hands on the songs again as it’s been a while since the studio process. I really relish the challenge of recreating the spaces on the record for the stage.
Happy: Tell us about where you are from? What’s the music scene like in your neck of the woods
Didirri: I’m from Warrnambool on the West Coast of Victoria. I grew up playing in cafes and pubs down there, but I actually developed my voice through a community of spiritual collaborators. They often sang in harmony and in choirs on the weekends. Although I’m no longer religious, I really do have so much gratitude for the musical upbringing I was given through those communities.
Happy: What’s an average day for you at the moment?
Didirri: At the moment I’m in album release phase, so lots of little interviews and logistical tasks, but I’m also finding time to meditate in the morning and practice my instruments as much as I can. It really helps my day when I start with good musical intentions. Enjoying hikes occasionally and getting out and seeing the natural world as much as I can, I find it to be a great source of inspiration
Happy: Congrats on the upcoming release of your debut album, “Caught In The Act.” How does it feel to finally share this labour of love with your fans
Didirri: I’m really proud of this record. I’ve never worked this hard on a project. I really dedicated myself to every line on the record and as a result I can stand by it. There’s a really different approach on this record. Very raw, very live.
Happy: “Heaving Chest” carries a powerful emotional weight, and you’ve mentioned it was inspired by a moment during the bushfire season. Can you elaborate on how that experience shaped the song and its themes?
Didirri: During a particularly bad bushfire season in Australia, I was in WA. I’ve struggled most of my life with a steady sleeping cycle. I found myself awake at 2 am with the smell of the bush burning in a kind of haze. I was sick and on medication because of it. The song is really reflection about a single moment, that moment when you wake in the night with a flood of adrenaline and fast breathing. It’s a meditation on that moment.
Happy: Your music has often been described as touching on subjects and themes we’re encouraged to avoid. Can you share some of the main messages or ideas you hope listeners take away from “Caught In The Act”?
Didirri: As it turns out, all of us are going to die. I don’t know why but during this record (I think probably influenced by COVID-19) I brought this fact to the front of my consciousness. The producer, Rob Muinos, and I had constant conversations about the finitude of life.
We only have one shot at this beautiful experience, and I really want to try my hardest to make beautiful things before my time is up. Many of the songs delve into this topic head on. If I had my way, we would all talk about death, sex and money a lot more and I think we would be a much healthier society for it.
Happy: “Caught In The Act” comes after successful EP releases and sold-out tours. How has your songwriting and approach to music evolved during the journey leading up to this album?
Didirri: In all honesty, I just feel an immense gratitude towards my audience. On the days where I don’t feel like I have the motivation to do what I do, I remind myself of my privilege. There are people out there that want to hear what I do and that is an absolute honour. It’s definitely shaped the way that I approach music, not so much stylistically but more so in the attitude that I have towards creation. I really want to do my best.
Happy: You’ve announced a 10-date headline Australian album tour. What can fans expect from your live shows this time around, especially with a band accompanying you?
Didirri: This album was recorded live, so what you get on the record is what you get on stage hopefully. I really want to emphasise the connection that we humans have.
It’s been a while since I’ve been on tour so I’m just eager to connect with musicians and stage and the audience in front of us. I think we’re going to need more face-to-face emotive expression going into this AI generation. It’s vital that we keep these cultural and emotional pillars upright and functional.
Happy: Touring can be both exhilarating and demanding. How do you prepare yourself mentally and physically to embark on a 10-date headline tour?
Didirri: Practice. The more musically prepared I am, the more I can deal with the logistical and emotional challenges that touring presents. Surrounding myself with good people on tour is essential to the whole project. I’m lucky enough to have some really skilled and generous musicians with me on this run.
Happy: “Caught In The Act Tour” will take you to various capital cities and regional towns. What excites you the most about performing in different locations, and how do you connect with the diverse audiences?
Didirri: Music, in its live form, is always about playing to the room and I have a great excitement in me for every space we play in. To me, I don’t really understand why people use backing tracks live, the whole experiment of live music seems to be about things going wrong and overcoming unique moments in the space you’re in.
Every room is different, and every audience is different, so you should treat them as such.
Happy: Touring often involves being on the road for extended periods. How do you maintain a sense of balance and self-care during busy tour schedules?
Didirri: I bring with me a pair of running shoes. And I use them.
Happy: Collaborating with a full band for the tour can bring a different dimension to your music. How did you approach the process of reimagining your songs for a live setting with the band?
Didirri: We have only just started, so I’ll have to let you know after we are through the rehearsal phase, it’s always such a beautiful challenge though.
Touring also means spending time with fellow musicians and crew. How do you foster a sense of camaraderie and teamwork during the tour?
We play cards, have jams, get space from each other, stay up late, swap stories in the van and just generally have a good time. You gotta be generous to each other on the road, otherwise things get out of hand quickly.
Happy: Are there any specific rituals or routines you follow before going on stage, and how do they help you get into the right mindset for performing?
Didirri: To me it’s not so much the rituals before the show as it is the daily rituals, if I’m in a good practice regime and a good meditation space I generally perform a lot better. I try not to have too many preshow rituals. If I couldn’t do them on a specific day, then where would I be?
Happy: As an artist, what do you hope your fans and concert-goers take away from your live performances, and how does touring impact your growth as a musician and performer?
Didirri: Connection! With maybe a pinch of inspiration. Some songs work well in the studio and some songs work well on the stage. I always find it interesting what works and what doesn’t.
Happy: Lastly, what makes you happy?
Didirri: Birds! Yes, I’m one of those people. Once you fall for them, you don’t go back.
