Next Year People

Released in 2015, Next Year People represents a peak in Colin Hay's second act as an acoustic troubadour. Recorded primarily in his home studio in Topanga Canyon, the album strips away the remnants of his 80s pop-rock past in favor of a hybrid of Americana and traditional folk. The title track was inspired by the Dust Bowl and the resilience of farmers, setting a thematic tone of endurance that permeates the record. Critically, the album was praised for its lyrical depth and Hay's increasingly soulful vocal character. While his earlier solo work often leaned into quirky humor, this album is more grounded in existential reflection and narrative storytelling. It features contributions from Larry Goldings and Jeff Babko, though their presence is subtle, ensuring the focus remains on Hay's rhythmic guitar style. It stands as one of his most cohesive and emotionally resonant solo efforts.