In a career that has seen her play stages across the world and front one of Australia’s most beloved indie-folk bands, Elana Stone’s journey comes full circle with the release of her new solo album, ‘Married to the Sound’, a deeply personal and sonically adventurous record.

For the renowned musician, singer, and multi-instrumentalist, the album not only marks a creative milestone but also highlights her growing connection to the Illawarra region and her evolving role as a mother.

A member of the all-female indie-folk group All Our Exes Live in Texas, alongside Georgia Mooney, Katie Wighton, and Hannah Crofts, the band gained significant attention for their intricate harmonies, witty songwriting, and energetic live performances. Their 2017 album ‘When We Fall’ was critically acclaimed, winning an ARIA Award for Best Blues and Roots Album.

Beyond her work with All Our Exes Live in Texas, Stone has been a sought-after collaborator, working with artists like Missy Higgins, Ngaiire, and Passenger, both as a performer and a session musician. Her versatility extends to her skills as an accordionist and pianist, adding a unique texture to the projects she is involved in.

Elana Stone’s latest solo project is a bold and vibrant exploration of identity, emotion, and sound. Known for blending genres with ease—folk, jazz, pop, and even electronica—the new album stands out as a true labour of love.

“This album has come off the back of the pandemic, having kids and becoming a mother”, Stone shares, reflecting on how her life experiences have shaped the album’s themes.

“It’s a bit more about the themes of climate change, social polarisation, parenthood, the changing world and my changing internal world as a response to that.”

The record grapples with change, self-reflection, and motherhood, all against a backdrop of experimental soundscapes.

Perhaps the most significant shift in Stone’s life in recent years has been motherhood. Balancing her career with raising her two children has reshaped not only her day-to-day life but also her approach to making music.

While the demands of being a parent initially posed challenges, Stone has managed to adapt and continue to perform, even taking on national tours with her youngest.

“I’ve definitely had the support of fellow artists and tour managers. To know how to support someone who is a parent, is great but it doesn’t really matter. At the end of the day, there’s a massive lack of sleep that happens regardless of how much support you get and you just gotta get used to it and roll with it and try to accept that maybe you’re not going to be as on top of your game at either parenting or performing. You’re just gonna get the job done as best as you can and then hope that people are okay with it.”

Her candid approach to motherhood has resonated with her audience, many of whom relate to the struggles and triumphs she shares in her songs.

Though she’s traveled far and wide, Stone adopted the Illawarra as home about six years ago. “I’ve come to the Illawarra with a kind of zeal that’s probably slightly annoying,” Stone laughs. The area, with its vibrant creative community and stunning natural landscapes, has always held a special place in her heart. With the Wollongong coastline as her backdrop, she often draws inspiration from the region’s distinct mix of urban life and nature.

The setting of the Illawarra also provides a perfect environment to examine how climate change is impacting the broader world, an issue that is close to Stone’s heart.

“I find the area super interesting because of its connection to the coal mining industry. It’s about looking forward to try to bridge that gap between high carbon and low carbon industries.”

In part, this is why Stone has chosen the Servo at Port Kembla as the location for her ‘Married to the Sound’ album launch tour. Supported by Abbe May, a WA based blues guitarist and singer, the launch will be an unmissable event.

‘Married to the Sound’ is out from 27 October via elanastone.com.au

Album launch – 1 November at the Servo Port Kembla. Grab your tickets here