Local talent making their mark

Here are three recent Canadian releases that were sent my way this month.

Toronto’s Five Star Trailer Park recently released their “Dark as the North Atlantic” CD which they are now promoting with a tour of Ontario and Quebec, including stops in Ottawa and Montreal. Their music is modern, multileveled with well crafted and pensive lyrics. The overall feel of their sound puts me in mind of the Barenaked Ladies. Check out their website at www.fivestartrailerpark.com. “Objects in Mirrors” is the latest release for the David Liberty band—also out of Toronto—which showcases the dramatic storytelling of their lead vocalist. I would call this very unique sound theatrical rock, although there are distinctive Celtic and country influences throughout the collection. You can check them out at www.davidliberty.com.

Calgary born, Singer/songwriter, Nadia Kazmi’s recent release “Arrival” includes a variety of moods, insightful lyrics, telling stories, and an edge that puts me in mind of a mix between Sam Brown (Stop, 1989) and a more melodic Yoko Ono from Double Fantasy. Track three, Julian, is haunting and very pretty. Kazmi is interesting, new, and certainly different. Visit www.nadiakazmi.com for further info. * * * * *

Now for some local talent…Whiskey Sour is certainly making its mark in and around Cornwall with their laid-back take on classic and current rock covers from The Eagles to Finger Eleven.

The five piece band formed in 2008 now includes lead vocalist Andre Piette, Scott Reasbeck on lead guitar Gerry MacDonald on bass, Matt Girard, rhythm guitar, and Kirk Wallace on drums. Their mission, they say, is to get people dancing. If you’re in the mood for dancing, check them out at the Bothy Brew in Maxville, on March 13 and Phatty Kats in Cornwall on March 20. Visit them at www.whiskeysourband.com. * * * * *

Another local band, Gypsy, is receiving some attention in B.C. for their Smalltown Fables CD, released last fall. The blues/rock group has made the independent artists’ top 30 chart on CFBX radio in Kamloops. Congrats guys! Gypsy is on Facebook. * * * * *

Local signer songwriter, Nancy Beaudette, celebrated the release of her CD “Honestly” at Café Connectionz on March 7. You can hear a sample of her beautiful voice and moving songs at www.nancybeaudette.com. * * * * *

Coming soon… Shania Twin—a Shania Twain tribute act—will be appearing at the Ramada Inn and Conference Centre on March 27. If you’re a Twain fan, you’ll love Twin. * * * * * If you have music news you’d like featured here, please drop me a line at roxannedelage@sympatico.ca.