A Quick Chat with Casey Barnes

You’ve played at so many festivals and venues — what makes country music crowds special?
I think it’s how genuine they are, real, down to earth and open to connecting to great song… plus they always wanna have a good time!

Heartbeat of the Hunter is shaping up to be a big day — what can fans expect from your set on September 27th?
We’re definitely a high energy show so they can expect that for sure. We’ll play a mix of the bigger hits over the last few years plus some new ones too.

Without giving away too many secrets, will you be showcasing any new songs or surprises at the festival?
Absolutely!!! Two brand new songs off the next album.

How do you prepare differently for a festival crowd compared to a more intimate gig?
We like to get pretty fired up, sort of like you’re going out to play a footy final… and maybe a sneaky whiskey beforehand 😔.

You’ve had a huge run lately with new releases and awards — how do you keep that momentum going?
I guess just always trying to make your next show, next single, next album better than the last.

Your music blends country with rock and pop influences — how do you describe your sound to someone coming to see you for the first time?
Yeah that description is pretty bang on. If you’re a fan of Morgan Wallen, Keith Urban, Nate Smith, then you’ll love our show.

What inspires your songwriting these days?
Being as authentic and true to myself as possible.

Heartbeat of the Hunter is a community festival — why should people grab a ticket and come out to Tocal?
I’d say country music as a genre is having a real moment and you’ve got some of the best Aussie artists all coming to play… they’re bound to have a good time!

For fans seeing you live for the first time, what’s the one thing you hope they walk away feeling?
We love making new fans, that’s my fav bit so we definitely hope that happens and they leave with a smile on their face!

Quick one: what’s your must-have on the road — coffee, guitar, or something else?
Definitely good coffee, my guitar and a sneaky beer or two with the boys in my band.

If you weren’t headlining Heartbeat of the Hunter, which other act on the lineup would you be most excited to see?
Honestly, all of them… we’re all great mates, respect them heavily so I’m excited to see them all play!


Heartbeat of the Hunter 2025
Saturday 27 September 2025 – Tocal Agricultural College, Paterson, NSW

Casey Barnes
The Wolfe Brothers
Zac & George
Taylor Moss
Nathan Lamont
Piper Rodrigues

Tickets now on sale