Late Bloomer is the new video from London-based band The Long Version. Fronted by American musician Tricia Davies Nearn, who delivers warm bass guitar and a gorgeously melodic, vulnerable vocal performance, The Long Version have crafted an absorbing country-influenced song that will make you move and sway, much like the couple who dance together in the accompanying video. Directed by Sergio Angot and filmed at The Cavendish Arms, Stockwell, UK, the visual is artfully shot and features Lollo O’Connor and Tara Osman. David Krupski’s fluttering, brushed percussion lightly propels the song forward, while Jon Heal’s guitar work is captivating, especially when he moves up the frets, creating a languid, tuneful solo that emerges out of the song’s melody towards the end.
In the 1980s heyday of the New York music scene, Nearn worked in the music industry for the likes of Arista Records and Frontier Booking International. However, despite learning the ukulele as a child, she didn’t take to the stage herself until the 1990s when she moved back to her hometown of Seattle. After almost thirty years performing in bands like Algae, Pluko, Cowboy Racer and The Tupelos as a bassist and backing singer, Tricia Davies Nearn finally decided to form her own band. Back in March 2024, a big birthday was approaching, and with all her musical experience to assist her, there was a feeling of, “If not now, when?” With a collection of new, original songs ready to record, Nearn approached drummer David Krupski, who was keen to join the project and was soon followed by guitarist Jon Heal.
Late Bloomer is the title track from the band’s brand new album, which was produced by Americana UK-favourite Peter Bruntnell, who also added lap steel guitar flavours to the mix. The result is a compelling collection of songs that blend melody, twang and a love of storytelling. Check it out.
