Here’s the latest video from Oxford, UK-based indie/alt-country band Steady Habits. ‘Edge of Changing’ begins with thumping drums from Jamie Dawson and tuneful twang from lead guitarist Joe Coombes, before New England-native Sean Duggan’s understated acoustic strum and vocal kick in. Duggan’s striking, clear voice is immediately engaging and is at the heart of this absorbing song. Helping to lift Duggan’s pure singing voice, Cathy Ife’s bass and backing vocals and Kurt Hamilton’s pedal steel deliver layers sound sound, full and rich in this live recording. Later in the song, Duggan adds the plaintive sound of the harmonica to add finish to this excellent example of Americana. The former member of acclaimed Americana duo Loud Mountains fronts an excellent performance here.
After a summer of playing festivals, Duggan says of ‘Edge of Changing’: “Playing out this song in our live shows this year, it was really driven home by our performance at Truck Festival, which had the whole crowd going. ‘Edge of Changing’ was written about transition; shedding a younger skin, learning from mistakes and being able to take responsibility for yourself.”
The video is the first to be released from a series of live recordings that we shall see over the coming year. It was filmed by Under the Apple Tree’s Miles Myerscough-Harris (WBBC, Wholehog Media) at Hill Farm, where Truck Festival takes place each year. As always on such live recordings, it’s a privilege to see talented players at work. The original version of the song appeared on the band’s 2020 EP ‘Hold in Your Breath’, which AUK said, “…showcases an excellent new band with tremendous potential.” Indeed. Check out the EP and get ready for more live videos soon.
