Central Coast Singer-Songwriter Michelle Murrell is set to release her debut single, Flannel Flowers – a haunting composition inspired by the chilling hitch-hiking ghost folklore tale on Wilfred Barret Dr, The Entrance.
The red gum forest, adorned with local flannel flowers in spring and summer, provides the eerie backdrop to a story that has captivated the imagination of Central Coast residents for decades.
Scheduled for release on January 12, the song weaves a musical tapestry around the local legend which dates back to the 1970s.
It recounts the tragic fate of a young girl who, while hitchhiking on Wilfred Barrett Dr, fell victim to a heinous crime.
The story tells of her untimely death from her injuries, with local legend suggesting her resting place is in Noraville Cemetery.
The hitchhiking ghost, as the tale goes, now roams Wilfred Barret Dr, with locals sharing spine-chilling accounts of picking up the spectral figure, only for her to vanish mysteriously from the back seat.
The legend maintains that she is on an eternal quest to find the men who caused her harm.
Despite the lack of concrete evidence supporting the story, it has persisted through the decades among Central Coast locals, becoming an integral part of the area’s folklore.
Murrell, a local herself, found inspiration in the haunting tale, weaving its essence into the fabric of Flannel Flowers.
Crafted in collaboration with husband James Murrell, Flannel Flowers was recorded and produced by Bill Chambers at Chambers Avenue Studio.
“Although I have never witnessed any encounters (with the ghost), every time I play it locally, someone always has a story of someone they know who has,” Murrell said.
Flannel Flowers will be available on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify and Apple Music, from January 12.
Playing in bands throughout High School, Murrell met her husband James, also a musician, in the local band scene in the late ‘90s.
Personal loss in 2019 brought music back to Murrell’s life and song writing and performing proved to be a healing and powerful outlet.
She has a unique and distinctive vocal sound, showcasing a country folk twang mixed with a heavily influenced ‘90s grunge upbringing.
Often joined by husband James on percussion, Murrell’s original mixture of melodic vocals, rhythmic guitar and well-crafted song writing is sure to please.