Bernard Fanning Celebrates ‘Tea & Sympathy’ with New Album Tracks
Bernard Fanning has unveiled two reimagined tracks from the 20th anniversary edition of his album Tea & Sympathy. This special release features covers by The Paper Kites and artists Jem & Troy Cassar-Daley.
The Paper Kites’ Take on “Believe”
The Paper Kites have infused Fanning’s “Believe” with their cinematic folk style, which the Powderfinger frontman likened to a “Jayhawksy” vibe. Sam Bentley, the band’s lead vocalist, shared that this song has resonated with him since childhood, and they aimed to honor its original essence while adding their own flair.
“Bernie is an Australian icon. We’re sincere fans of his, and we were honoured to take part in celebrating 20 years of Tea & Sympathy,” The Paper Kites expressed. “We had so much fun with this song and hope it adds to the legacy of such an adored and celebrated Australian artist.”
Fanning applauded their rendition, emphasizing that “The Paper Kites have brought their typical quiet dignity to this song.” He appreciates how they’ve transformed it into a “Jayhawksy” space while enriching the original with warmth and depth.
Jem & Troy Cassar-Daley’s “Songbird”
The second track features Queensland’s own Troy Cassar-Daley alongside his daughter Jem, who deliver a stripped-back version of “Songbird.” This interpretation slows down the tempo, placing emphasis on the lyrics through Jem’s unique vocal expressiveness.
“I was a young girl when Tea & Sympathy was released, and I can say it went platinum in the Cassar-Daley house alone,” Jem recalled. “Bernard’s songwriting shines on another level in this record, and ‘Songbird’ is, simply put, a perfect song.”
Troy commended the track’s structure, deeming it “an absolute masterpiece” because of its catchy hooks. Fanning reciprocated the admiration, calling Jem “one of the most beautiful and soulful voices in her generation of Australian singers.”
A Celebratory Release
This anniversary edition highlights Tea & Sympathy’s impressive achievements since its initial 2005 release. The album skyrocketed to No. 1 on the ARIA Albums Chart and garnered three ARIA Awards, including Album of the Year. Moreover, Fanning was recognized as APRA’s Songwriter of the Year in 2006.
Notable tracks from the original album include “Wish You Well,” which topped triple j’s Hottest 100 in 2005, along with classics like “Songbird,” “Watch Over Me,” and “Thrill is Gone.” This album solidified Fanning’s status as a solo artist after his time with Powderfinger.
The bonus edition comprises ten tracks, featuring acoustic renditions of standout songs and collaborations with Kasey Chambers and Clare Bowditch on “Watch Over Me.”
Both new covers are available for streaming now, leading up to the full 20th anniversary edition of Tea & Sympathy, set to release through Dew Process / Universal Music Australia on October 31st. Will you be listening to these fresh interpretations? Feel free to share your thoughts!
