G’day everyone! Rossy here, throwing my two cents into the new music ring this week.
If you’ve been following Unfiltered & Undiscovered, you know I spend my life hunting down real grit, genuine storytelling, and artists who know how to lay down a track without any unnecessary fluff. This week, a track landed on my desk from a bloke out of rural Victoria named Ricky Wood, and mate, it stopped me right in my tracks.
The single is called “The Devil May Care”, and it’s an absolute masterclass in Americana.
A Killer Co-Write & Heavyweights Influences 🎼
Right off the bat, Ricky teamed up with someone who is definitely no stranger to our listeners—the legend Shane Nicholson. When you get those two minds together, you know the songwriting is going to be razor-sharp.
Here’s what really grabbed me about the track:
- Tom Petty Vibes: The Americana roots run deep on this one. There’s a head-nodding, classic Tom Petty feel to the drive and character of the music that immediately hooks you.
- Sparse, Slick Production: The production doesn’t try to overcrowd the room. It’s sparse, incredibly slick, and every instrument has its exact right place to let the song breathe.
- Fire & Brimstone Lyrics: Where the song truly flexes its muscle is in the writing. It’s packed with American-style religious imagery, fire, brimstone, and a sharp, dark humour that strongly reminded me of the great Warren Zevon.
The Roadie’s Stamp of Approval 🎤
Ricky Wood isn’t some overnight flash in the pan; this guy has been putting in the work, gigging, and touring for years and years, and you can hear every mile of that road in his voice and delivery.
And best of all? It comes in under three minutes. You blokes know me—if you can tell a bloody good story, pack a punch, and wrap it all up in under three minutes, you’ve instantly won me over.
It’s a seriously strong piece of work from a hardworking Aussie artist. Do yourself a favour: look up Ricky Wood, crank “The Devil May Care”, and support real independent music!
— Rossy 🎤
Host, Unfiltered & Undiscovered Podcast