WHEN laying down his latest album, bluesman C.W. Stoneking felt compelled to go on a "new kick".
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"I relish the simplicity of this (latest effort Gon' Boogaloo), even any mistakes it might have … This is old-fashioned human beings."
Being "old-fashioned" is familiar territory for the singer/songwriter, who now resides "in the sticks" of northwest Victoria.
In the digital age, many artists prefer such technology's ability to correct any mistakes - sometimes to the extent of stripping the music of much of its soul.
Stoneking eschewed such a sentiment while making his latest record, or "rekkid", as he pronounces it in laid-back demeanour.
Gon' Boogaloo was recorded and mixed in two days, live, in a stone building with two microphones capturing single takes.
With the horn section from 2008 ARIA Award-winning album Jungle Blues retired and a new group of back-up singers, the songs were a departure for Stoneking.
The album was "basically a live recording", based on the attitude of "forget the f--king around … Have songs you like and just bang them out".
"Doing it without overdubs, you need everyone there at the same time," he said.
"We had a schedule, so we couldn't dilly-dally.
"I wanted to make something a bit more rock. During my show I had these urges to take it to another place and rock a bit more …
"It was more tricky than I thought, 'cause I don't listen to stuff like that much.
"Listening to things like gospel music … I tried to think about how I would play rock'n'roll guitar that wasn't too typical."
The learning process continued, as Stoneking said he hadn't touched an electric guitar for close to 20 years.
He stashed his afore-favoured vintage National guitar and banjo combo for a shiny gold Fender.
"I got out doing a bit of busking at about 18. I hooked up with older guys, who got me started on the old blues."
Aside from his Australian tour, he also has an extensive European run planned.
CW Stoneking is at Anita's Theatre, Thirroul on February 7