Michael James Keane Unveils Single / Video 'Inside' + Announces New Album 'Wandering Bull'

Pōneke-based songwriter Michael James Keane (formerly of So Laid Back Country China) makes a welcome return with new single 'Inside', the first cut revealed from a brand new solo album titled Wandering Bull launching in early 2022. Delving into the timely theme of "being trapped in yourself and your ways" (which is sure to resonate with Tāmaki Makaurau residents right now), 'Inside' is a beautifully crafted reminder that Keane possesses an otherworldly deep voice that will knock you flat. Crooning close to the mic like he's standing right beside the listener, 'Inside' packs an almost uplifting emotional punch, while drawing inspiration from a turbulent personal period for the artist.

Recorded, mixed and produced by James Goldsmith at The Surgery (who also co-arranged the new record), and including contributors Harriet Ferry (So Laid Back Country China), Julia Catherine-Parr (Black City Lights), Callum Gay and Daniel Cuzens (both of Spook the Horses), a large portion of Wandering Bull was written while Keane worked as a trainee stonemason in the Wairarapa. Wearing a robe in the song's darkly majestic video created by Sigrid and Frankie Berge, starring Rupert McCook Weir, Ana Scotney and Sigrid Berge, Michael James Keane opened up about the origins of 'Inside'...

"The words in the songs came mostly from short pieces of writing I had compiled over a year or so. It was a rough year by my standards; getting into trouble with my mental health and drinking, living a bit recklessly... I know The Wandering Bull is me, and I forgive him."

'Inside ' is out now via major streaming services.