Following the release of their self-titled debut Album in early 2023, The Distant South bring their unique Country sound to Ringo Barr. The Distant South weave tales from life’s rich tapestry, into melody and harmony-soaked songs, brought to sonic life through a rich blend of guitar, banjo, double bass, lap steel, mandolin, and drums.

2023 was a big year for The Distant South with the release of their debut, self-titled album, recorded with Myles Mumford at Rolling Stock Studios and mastered by Adam Dempsey at Deluxe. This 10-track record is a collection of beautifully captured songs that are incredibly personal - and at the same time immediately familiar to many.

The band's unique sound and authentic storytelling have garnered them a growing fan base and critical acclaim that has seen them play at many of Melbourne and Country Victoria’s favourite independent music venues. In 2023, the band extensively toured their new record as well as providing a glimpse of what’s to come through a growing catalogue of new songs.

Led by singer, songwriter and storyteller Nick Howells, The Distant South’s songs lean heavily on experiences from Nick’s unconventional upbringing - and his struggles as an adult dealing with the contrasting worlds of a career in the corporate world and being a musician at heart. From being born to an engineer and folk singer parents, to living in a series of share farms and communities, going to school in Nimbin in the late 70’s - moving to colonial Hong Kong complete with high rise living and a formal British education - Nick’s childhood was anything but traditional. The seemingly constant juxtaposition in Nick’s childhood and adult life have provided fertile grounds for song writing content - and his lifelong love of acoustic singer/songwriters with a leaning to the alternative side of Country - led to the formation of The Distant South with long-time musical collaborator, Brad Partridge. The band incorporates some of Melbourne’s finest musicians including Renee Bufton, Pete Reno, John Otis and Tim Cav.

Drawing inspiration from artists such as Liz Stringer, Jason Isbell, Kerryn Fields, and Gillian Welch, The Distant South embrace the acoustic nature of their sound while fearlessly exploring more electrified musical territories.