Emily Lubitz releases debut solo album

SINGER-songwriter Emily Lubitz is set to release her debut solo album Two Black Horses, offering fans a first listen at the Mullum Roots Festival on July 12 and 13.

The 42-year-old musician, who calls Main Arm home, has been working on the album for over a year. It’s produced by her husband and long-time collaborator, Harry James Angus of The Cat Empire.

Lubitz began writing songs as a teenager and started performing shows with her brother Jesse Lubitz. Their musical partnership eventually led to the formation of Tinpan Orange, the award-winning indie-folk band she toured with for two decades.

Lubitz and Angus, who met while studying a Bachelor of Creative Arts at Melbourne University, had frequently visited Byron Bay during tours. In 2017, they made the move north to raise their family.

Her decision to pursue a solo career came in 2020, prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic’s travel restrictions. She released her debut EP Begin Again in 2022.

Her upcoming album draws deeply from personal experiences and family history.

“It has a bit of a country feel to it,” she said. “After nine years living in the country I thought it was time and some really amazing friends play on it, including Slim Dusty’s bass player and producer Rod Coe.”

 

The title track was inspired by a poignant story from her mother’s childhood: after her father died suddenly, she watched as the hearse carrying his body was led by two black horses.

Another track, Big Time, pays homage to Main Arm. It tells the fictional tale of a small-town girl who dreams of fame and fortune as a singer, but instead finds success performing weekly at her local bar.

“There’s certain descriptions of the landscape of our valley – cattle, banana trees, jacarandas,” Lubitz said.

She’s excited to perform songs from the album at Mullum Roots, which kicks off on Friday July 11, with an opening night party at Mullumbimby Civic Hall. Hosted by local comedian Mandy Nolan, the evening will feature performances by renowned guitarist Jeff Lang, the Biggest Little Town Choir and 10-piece big band Soul’d.

“I’m a great believer in the importance of small grassroots festivals for both the community and artists who may not get booked for huge stages at Bluesfest but can really hold a civic hall,” she said.

Following the album’s official release on July 18, Lubitz will embark on a national tour. Local stops include The Citadel in Murwillumbah on August 28 and Brunswick Picture House on August 29.