Australian folk songwriter to perform in Swindon

By Amanda Wilkins - 20 May 2025

Arts and CultureAttractions
  •  Ernest Aines. Photo by T. O’Halloran

    Ernest Aines. Photo by T. O’Halloran

Ernest Aines will embark upon his fourth tour of the UK this May and June, and will perform at The Deanery Theatre on May 24.

Aines has also announced his new single, “Just Once”, which arrives on the 23 May. “Just Once” is a song about unseen love – the ache of standing in the background while someone you love is mesmerised by their own reflection. It captures the quiet desperation of wanting to be chosen, just once.

With raw vulnerability, the lyrics explore emotional distance, the longing to feel deeply connected, and the frustration of carrying the weight of love alone. From the haunting line, “You’re an anaesthetist – what a waste without love if I don’t feel it,” to the repeated plea, “I can’t do it all by myself,” this track is a slow-burning confession of invisible devotion and unreciprocated hope.

Ernest Aines, nominated for Australian Artist of the Year at the Folk Alliance Awards in both 2023 and 2024, is an award-winning Melbourne-based indie-folk singer-songwriter whose soulful voice, intricate fingerpicking, and emotive storytelling have drawn comparisons to the likes of Ray LaMontagne, Bon Iver and Nick Drake, while Americana UK likened him to Paul Simon and Jeff Buckley. 

Aines returns to the UK for his fourth tour in just 18 months this spring. Known for his spellbinding voice, intricate guitar work, and emotionally rich songwriting, Ernest has been steadily building a devoted following across the country. This tour will take him to some of the UK’s most atmospheric venues – from churches to concert halls – perfectly suited to his intimate, soul-stirring performances.

A highlight of this tour will be a performance at Cardiff’s beautiful concert hall, as well as returning to Liverpool, where he’s been warmly embraced by local audiences. The BBC has once again invited him to perform live, this time in their own performance space. Following sold-out shows in Sheffield and Oxford on his last visit, Ernest is excited to return with a wave of new music.

For more information and to book tickets, visit: @ErnestAines

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