Check out the outstanding outlaw sound of ‘Fool’s Gold’, the latest single from Vancouver-based singer-songwriter Elliot C. Way, just released via North Country Collective. The song is driven along by a pulsing rhythm and twanging, authentically Western country guitar. Way’s characterful voice, gruff and gravelly, follows a compelling, urgent melody and soars in the chorus: “I’ve been on this mountain since I was 20 years old // I’ve been looking for diamonds, only finding fool’s gold.” Halfway through, the song slows for an epic-sounding, extended instrumental section featuring swooning, lilting pedal steel from Matt Kelly and rhythmic electric guitar, ranging up and down the frets, from John Sponarski. Shot by Rob Zawistowski and directed by Way himself, the accompanying video is a good-humoured, tongue-in-cheek look at creating a music video. As well as having the vision and directing affairs, Way even built the set himself, creating a ’70s-inspired live TV set by hand in his garage – now, that’s commitment to your art. In the video, the chaotic production and interference from the producer and director reflect the song’s themes and the illusion of glamour in the music industry. The madness in the studio is contrasted with the serenity of the natural landscapes in which we see Way with his trusty guitar.
‘Fool’s Gold’ was originally written and recorded by The Wild North, Way’s former band, and was a fan-favourite in their live sets. Over time, The Wild North became a looser musical collective and creative community, with the band members pursuing a range of projects. This gave Way the musical freedom to focus on his solo work, and he released “All I Know”, his well-received solo debut in 2023. The anthemic ‘Fool’s Gold’ continued to be a much-loved song in Way’s live shows, so he decided the time was right to reunite The Wild North’s original line-up to re-record the song, leaning into the outlaw-style he’s developed as a solo artist. Way’s longtime friend and producer, Erik P.H. Nielsen, led the recording in CBC’s legendary underground Studio 2, as well as delivering bass guitar and percussion.
The final version of ‘Fool’s Gold’ is a triumphant, outlaw anthem—cinematic in sound and scope—about persevering and overcoming adversity and artificiality. It’s dramatic, raw, spirited, soulful, gritty and full of energy. Enjoy.
