Best known as a founding member of the Billboard-charting, Juno Award-winning folk trio The Wailin’ Jennys, Moody is touring with her band in support of her latest album, Wanderer. Released in May 2024 to critical acclaim, the album has already taken her across the USA, Canada, Europe and the UK. Now, she’s bringing it home. Wanderer is clearly a person album and is a folk-y treat. Warm, wistful, and made for slow Sunday mornings, it’s best enjoyed with the windows open and a breeze in the air.
We caught up with Ruth to chat about her love for regional shows, her hopes for this tour, and what audiences can expect from her show in Tanja.
The album feels incredible personal. How you describe the inspiration for Wanderer?
In a sense the album is a chronicle of my journey over the last ten years. It wasn’t necessarily intended that way. I took a pause from touring to start a family and raise my son. The songs kept coming, but I had to keep putting them on the back burner. I think it was all meant to be that way. Taking that time, becoming a mother, and making this record gave me a heightened sense of gratitude. I’m more passionate than ever about art – and doing what I can to spread a little joy and peace in the world.
You’ve included some smaller regional spots on your tour, including our humble Tanja. What drew you to these places?
I love playing smaller towns and intimate venues. People really appreciate it when performers stop in their town – you can feel that warmth and enthusiasm in the room. As a performer, it helps me connect more deeply with a place when I venture beyond the big cities.
What do you enjoy most about regional shows?
The connections I’ve made in smaller towns have often been really special. The shows can feel more personal and relaxed. People are proud of where they live – they want to share it with you and make you feel welcome. That sense of hospitality really stays with me.
You’ll be playing in some pretty stunning locations on your tour. Does nature inspire you?
Spending time in nature has become increasingly important to me – it helps me reset and remember what matters. It’s not always easy to find those moments on tour, so when we do get the chance to be somewhere beautiful and grounded, like Tanja, it definitely feeds into the energy of the show.
Have you toured this part of the country before? If not, what are you hoping to see or do while you’re on the Sapphire Coast?
No, this will be my first time and I’m really looking forward to it. I’ve heard the Blue Pool is a must-see, and I’d love to check it out if we can fit it in. I also love hiking, so I think I’d really enjoy Mimosa Rocks National Park. We’ve actually got a day off after the show, so we’ll have some time to explore. I’ll definitely be asking the locals in Tanja for their recommendations!
What can people expect from your show in Tanja?
I’ll be joined by two amazing musicians – Anthony da Costa on guitars and Ben Plotnick on violin, viola, and mandolin. They’re a dream to play with, and we’ll all be singing harmonies as well. I’ll mostly be performing songs from my new record, but I might throw in a couple of Wailin’ Jennys favourites, some older solo tracks, and maybe even a brand new one or two. We’re so excited to come to Tanja!
Ruth will be playing at Navigate Arts @ Old Tanja Church in Tanja on April 27. Head here for more info.
