Stephen Fearing: Someone Else's Shoes
The veteran folk/roots songsmith teases his 13th solo album with a gentle tune that is a timely plea for empathy in this divisive era.
By Kerry Doole
Stephen Fearing - Someone Else's Shoes (Fearing and Loathing): Now in the fourth decade of his career, the highly-respected and prolific folk/roots songsmith releases his 13th solo album, The Unconquerable Past, on Nov. 15. His discography also includes the records he has made as a member of super trio Blackie and The Rodeo Kings and duo offerings with Andy White.
A press release notes that the new full-length "finds Fearing stepping back into the wide-screen world of layered instruments and arrangements in collaboration with Winnipeg-based producer/songwriter Scott Nolan (William Prince, Mary Gauthier, Hayes Carll)," and that's a partnership that certainly heightens anticipation.
This focus track is a gentle tune that is a timely plea for empathy in this divisive era - "no-one is an island - walk in someone else's shoes." The song is delivered via Fearing's warm voice and resonant guitar work (like his comrade Bruce Cockburn, that skill is oft-overlooked). We are keen to hear more.
Links
The Reklaws at Billboard Canada Women in Music in Toronto on Oct. 1, 2025.Door 24