Sarah Blasko and the Sound of Newtown
By Lucy Pearson
Sarah Blasko’s music is steeped in introspection, cinematic soundscapes, and an ethereal quality that has captivated audiences for decades. But beyond the haunting melodies and poetic lyricism, Blasko’s roots are firmly planted in Sydney’s inner west—particularly Newtown, the suburb that played a pivotal role in shaping her artistic journey. A hub of creativity and counterculture, Newtown provided the backdrop for Blasko’s early musical explorations, from intimate gigs at local venues to the streets lined with record stores and second-hand bookshops that fed her artistic curiosity.
Her new album I Just Need to Conquer This Mountain marks a profound moment in her musical journey—one that bridges her personal growth, her relationship with motherhood, and a deep reflection on grief, goodbyes, and the beauty of new beginnings. Six years in the making, this album is a testament to the changes Blasko has experienced and how time and space have shaped her creative vision.
Her first release in six years, I Just Need to Conquer This Mountain was born out of an unexpected and cathartic period in her life. “A year and a half ago, I was broken, hurt, and confused,” she says. “But a year and a half on, I feel clearer and stronger. I’ve had time to think, time to live, time to work out where I want to go with my music and my life.” The album reflects this inner transformation, a journey that echoes the themes of endings and new beginnings that are central to the record. The process of making the album was both freeing and relaxing for Blasko, as she embraced the creative space without external pressures.
As she recounts, “This album was probably the most relaxed and free-feeling record I’ve made.” She credits this ease to her newfound balance between family life and her career. “Everything feels relaxed and free when I’m working these days,” she adds. “It’s all a walk in the park compared to looking after kids!” The freedom she describes is not just about having control over her time but about embracing her music on her own terms—without the constraints of a record label or anyone telling her what to do.
One of the album’s highlights is “Goodbye!”, a deeply emotional duet with Ryan Downing. Blasko has always been drawn to the power of collaboration, and Downing’s voice complements hers beautifully, adding a timeless, almost cinematic quality to the track. “I started hearing the various lines as responses to one another,” she explains. “Ryan’s voice sounds like it could come from another era… it’s imbued with a drama and timelessness that I love.”
While the album’s music is expansive, Blasko’s personal life in Newtown—her home for many years—also plays a significant role in shaping the authenticity of her work. Newtown, with its eclectic charm and creative energy, has been both a source of inspiration and grounding for the artist. Some of her favourite haunts give a glimpse into her everyday life beyond the stage. One of her go-to spots is Cairo on Enmore Road, a relaxed eatery that serves fantastic Egyptian food. “It’s a ten-minute walk from my house,” Blasko says, “and I often daydream about their dishes. I usually order the charcoal chicken plate and a karkade.”
Another place close to her heart is Uturn Vintage, a recycled fashion store nestled near a vibrant mural. She enjoys the relaxed vibe, where she’s free to explore the racks without the pressure of overzealous salespeople. “There’s a nice, relaxed vibe to it. I hate shops where people try to help you too much!” Blasko’s connection to Newtown is not just about convenience; it’s about a deep sense of belonging in a place where she can unwind, recharge, and find joy in the simplicity of her surroundings.
When it comes to family, Blasko’s relationship with her son Jerry brings an added layer of meaning to her personal life. She often takes him to The Courthouse Hotel for a game of pinball and a drink after school. "I’ve enjoyed The Courthouse since I was in my 20s," she reflects. "Now, in my 40s, I still go there, and I take my son. It's a very different context these days, but I like the neighbourhood feel of the place."
Blasko’s relationship with Newtown is also reflected in her music. The raw, unpolished essence of the area mirrors the candid and honest themes explored in her songs. Whether it’s strolling through Camperdown Memorial Park at sunset or attending a show at the iconic Enmore Theatre, Newtown has offered Blasko a sense of community and connection. She recalls a life-altering performance at Enmore Theatre in 2004 by The Flaming Lips, which left an indelible mark on her. “One of the most special nights of my life was playing my own show at the Enmore,” she shares. “It was a moment of pride and joy, and I’ll never forget the celebration that followed across the street at karaoke.”
As Sarah Blasko prepares to embark on her upcoming tour, her reflections on the journey that led to I Just Need to Conquer This Mountain offer a rich tapestry of emotional depth, personal transformation, and creative liberation. Newtown remains at the heart of this journey—an inspiring yet grounded environment that nurtures her evolution both as an artist and as a person.
With her new album now out, Sarah Blasko stands at the summit of her journey, ready to share her most intimate, cathartic, and hopeful work yet. Her path from Newtown to the stage reflects not just a geographical journey but one of self-discovery, resilience, and the embrace of new beginnings.
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