Horowhenua StarDean Murray – a man of many talents and one of Horowhenua’s best-kept secrets – is playing a gig at Levin Folk Music Hall next Friday night (February 14).
The former freezing worker and school caretaker has worn a few hats … builder, environmentalist, gardener, fisherman, lead-lighter, luthier, jack of all trades, husband, father and grandfather.
As a singer-songwriter he has long been a favourite on the music scene with his authentic songs, many down-to-earth and hearty and born of his surroundings.
Manakau singer-songwriter Dean Murray.
Photo supplied
After a decent listen it’s no surprise to learn he lives in a rammed earth house on a small block of land growing veges, fruit, eggs and meat, and he goes fishing during the summer months on his kayak.
Inheriting his mother’s passion for music he had classical piano lessons as a child, although didn’t own a guitar until his was in his early 20s.
He was shown two chords – E and A – and from there taught himself to play and started busking with a mate from the freezing works, Tura Rata.
They fomed a band called Road Works and played a blend of country, folk, blues and reggae, later travelling the North Island with drummer Brent Gemmell as Gravel Slappers.
Almost 20 years ago Murray released his first album, Yeah Nah, a brilliant compilation of his songs that feature many of his musician friends as guest artists.
Many of them touched on environmental and political themes, songs like Gas is Gone, The Fishing Song, Blink of an Eye and Money God.
On the album he sang, and played acoustic guitar and harmonica. Musicians included Earl Pollard on drums, Ross McDermott (bass), Jan Campbell (drums, bass, keyboard), Moira Howard (bass, backing vocals), Aaron Andis (electric guitars), Colleen Trenwith (strings), Carylann Martin (piano), Bullfrog Rata, and Andrew London (banjos).
He later joined a band called Henpicked with Carylann Martin (keyboards and accordion), Kirsten London (bass) and Anje Glindemann (drums), playing regularly for more than seven years and releasing three albums.
More recently he has joined with supremely talented musicians Carylann Martin, Steve Poulton and Ross McDermott as The Earthen Collective.
The Earthen Collective played original music and would be looking to start a tour later this year after enjoying a summer break.
Dean loved playing and sharing music with others, while also relishing the chance to play some of his old favourites when the chance allowed. He often pops up at Firebird Cafe.
Guest artist for the night on stage next Friday night is Steve Poulton.
“I’m really looking forward to it,” he said.
Who: Dean Murray. Special guest: Steve Poulton.
Where: Horowhenua Scottich Society Hall, Levin
What time: Doors open at 7pm.
How much: $15 (members $10, students $5. No eftpos).
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