Tom Stephens

Tom Stephens is set to release his debut album, titled ‘What Lies in the Difference’ on September 23, 2016. “It’s written about a friends parents. I tried to best express my observations of what I perceive to be a weathered marriage, only maintained through the sense of duty that comes with building a family and keeping up appearances. ” – Tom Stephens on ‘Down to Rest’. 'What Lies in The Difference' is an album built on the observation of the relationships that surround Tom Stephens. It is an exploration of the depths of decision and consequence held together by intimately glowing instrumentation and an earnest, compelling vocal. ‘Down to Rest’, the second single from the album, radiates with modest guitar, luscious backing vocals and Stephens’ authentically Australian voice. The track was well received by critics, having been awarded high rotation on Unearthed radio and spins on 2Ser, FBi and ABC Radio National. Recorded last year on friend and musical collaborator Julia Jacklin’s farm in the Blue Mountains of NSW, 'What Lies in the Difference' serves as a strong argument for Sydney’s blooming indie/rock community. Stephens is a dynamic performer and integral piece of this community puzzle, playing bass with Sydney four-piece Phantastic Ferniture and drums for a number of Sydney folk/rock songwriters including Julia Jacklin, Georgia Mulligan and Elizabeth Hughes. The record was produced alongside Phantastic Ferniture band mate Ryan K Brennan. Tom Stephens has been consistently honing his songwriting craft since releasing his first EP in late 2012. In 2014, Tom Stephens released his sophomore EP, Embers, which was praised for its tender portrayal of life and place and its resonant but grounded atmosphere. While not betraying the thoughtful lyricism and intimate sound displayed on Embers, 'What Lies in the Difference' marks a maturing into a robust sound that dances between folk and alt-rock.