ROO Arcus has a feeling that things are starting to head his way.
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It’s about time too, the Parkesbourne cattle farmer come country music singer has been on the fringes of the industry for some 20 years.
After an eight-year break in 2004 for personal matters, Arcus is now kicking goals and making leeway once again.
“It feels like it’s the first series of doors opening in the industry and that people are starting to take notice,” Arcus told the Post on Wednesday.
The release of his 2012 comeback album, This Here Cowboy, saw two singles hit the Australian number one in consecutive years.
Since then, he has added a few handy accolades to his belt.
He picked up an Independent Country Music Award for Most Popular Video at the Tamworth Country Music Festival earlier this month, played a sold-out album launch in the same week and was awarded Most Popular Male Artist from a Sydney country music radio station.
He’s also up for three Country Music Awards in March; male Australian artist of the year, new Australian artist of the year and Australian artist of the year.
To top it off, Arcus is now releasing his third commercial album, Cowboys and Sunsets, and will play at a hometown launch with some very special guests’ tomorrow night at the Soldiers Club.
Arcus said he was privileged to work with some of the industry’s best in the writing and production of the album including a duet with renowned bluegrass singersongwriter Rhonda Vincent.
The 12-track album is now available in stores, on iTunes and Google Play.
“The last album was recorded in Australia and this one recorded just outside of Nashville,” Arcus explained.
“I wrote three of the songs on my own, co-wrote one with Allan Caswell and the rest are basically from writers in the States, like Jerry Salley who is performing on Saturday night and produced my album.
“He is one of the most respected songwriters in Nashville and I’m wrapped that he is performing here and has helped on the album. He has written for people like Toby Keith, Reba McIntyre and Brad Paisley.”
The album remains true to Arcus’ form – traditional and honest.
“I haven’t strayed too far from the modern, traditional and straight down the line country, which can be tough because everything is heading towards pop-country now,” he said.
“I kind of feel like I’m the only one in Australia doing it at the moment, but the funny thing is I think fans really want to hear it so I’m just going to keep singing songs about everyday people and everyday life.”
Golden Guitar winner Kristy Cox and renowned singersongwriter Jerry Salley will perform alongside Arcus tomorrow night from 8pm.
Tickets are $15 for the show (or $30 for the show and Cowboys and Sunsets album) and available from the Soldiers Club Reception.
For more information call 48 213 300.