Brian Campeau - Brian Campeau Presents Jo Dellin and the Bone Spurs (2025) [Hi-Res]

Canadian-born, Melbourne-based singer-songwriter Brian Campeau returns with his latest record, Brian Campeau Presents Jo Dellin And The Bone Spurs, out 27 June on all major streaming platforms.

Known for reinventing his sound with each release, Campeau builds on a career defined by adventurous songwriting and genre-melding arrangements. Where 2018’s Old Dog, New Tricks was praised for its lush production, warm optimism and compositional finesse - and 2020’s Ambience Driver offered introspective gems from the cutting room floor - Bone Spurs pushes Campeau’s sound into unchartered territory.

The record’s eclectic palette draws inspiration from country, bluegrass, and even Swiss yodelling, which is woven into Campeau’s signature blend of folk, indie rock, and experimentalism. True to form, the combination is as unexpected as it is compelling.

“This is yet another challenge for me in trying to make music outside of my comfort zone,” explains Campeau. “My music has always been about challenging myself sonically and compositionally-so this fits right in.”

The first single from the release is Ruby (out 18 April) - a lament for a lost lover, built on layered country motifs and impeccable production.

Lyrically, the song is simple - about love potentially found, and definitely lost,” explains Campeau. “Musically, this was an exercise in long-phrase yodelling. At the time of writing, I was used to short country yodelling (think Hank Williams), and this song was a huge stretch for me.”

“I wanted to incorporate this type of yodelling into a much more contemporary sound - rather than something traditional.”

It’s a compelling statement of intent from an artist who continues to defy expectations.

Reflecting on influences, Brian name checks artists like Angel Olsen, Jimmie Rodgers, Melanie Oesch, and Franzl Lang - as well as few more closer to home.

“Lachlan Mitchell (Laneous) continues to challenge me - even if unintentionally. Same with Elana Stone, who will always be a favourite. And I love Tamara Murphy’s fearless musical approach.”

Lyrically, the album navigates themes of heartbreak, melancholy and resilience, offering listeners a window into a tumultuous chapter of Campeau’s life. As ever, this album is an introspective experience, taking listeners on a journey through the psyche.

“Much of the record reflects a rather hard time in my life. A lot of it is contemplation on people’s actions and approaches to social and romantic life-including my own.”

With lush arrangements, unexpected sonic turns, and contributions from Danny Heifetz, Tamara Murphy, Gideon Preiss and Justin Fermino, Bone Spurs marks another profound chapter for one of Australia’s best loved songwriters.