The Old River Knows

A collaboration between Warwick Hadfield and champions of Australian music

If you happen to be plugged into the Australian music scene of the 70s, there’s a good chance you’ve heard Sam See‘s music even if you haven’t heard of Sam See. A successful musician since the 60s, See was a member of legendary Australian bands such as Sherbet, Bon Scott’s Fraternity, country rock pioneers Flying Circus, the ubiquitous Stockley See & Mason and who could ever forget The Zarsoff Brothers.

He’s lent his talents to plenty of other projects too, writing John Farnham’s ‘Reasons’ and producing for Olivia Newton-John, but now he’s extending his gaze to Geelong, teaming up with songwriter and Australia sports broadcaster Warwick Hadfield once again.

Previously working together on an EP, Platonic Ironic , for Hadfield’s former band Dancing With Socrates, Hadfield decided to reconnect with See to help bring his poetic reflections and authentic storytelling to life.

“I was both stunned and thrilled when a musician of Sam’s standing agreed to work with me, and so far we have done an EP, Platonic Ironic, and three other songs, and most recently have begun writing together, my contribution the lyrics,” Hadfield says.

‘The Old River Knows’ pairs Hadfield’s warm and sentimental songwriting with See’s meticulous musicianship, blending rock roots with vibrant country and bluegrass elements that help the spaces resonate with someplace deep down inside.

The song bounces along gently, with See’s rich and warm vocals carrying you through various scenarios; the whole-hearted arrangement perfectly mimics what compassion would sound like if it was put to music.

“This song began with an idea to pay tribute to the people who farm along the Hawkesbury River in New South Wales, one in particular, an old school friend of mine,” Hadfield explains.

Celebrated musicians Lindsay Field and Glyn Mason, who perform together as Field, See & Mason, join See for both the recorded and live version of the song, featuring their unique blend of vocals and inventive guitar work.

‘The Old River Knows’ is out now. Field, See & Mason will perform the song live at Bird’s Basement in Melbourne on Saturday, 4 March.