Vancouver artist Norine Braun has quite a unique sound to her music, with latest release Quest Before Me mixing together elements of the pop, blues, jazz and funk genres, making for something really cool! I really liked Norine’s music when I first heard it – if you’ve not checked her out yet, you can find a full stream at the bottom of this interview!
By Jane Howkins
You recently released a new track called Quest Before Me. What can you tell us about the song?
This first single Quest Before Me is from my upcoming album Journey Toward Wholeness and the song appears early on the album, giving direction as to where the listener is headed. We are all heroes on our own journey and all calls to discovery begin with a process of looking in, leaving the ordinary and opening ourselves to who we really are. The beginning of the album is very chill, but as a concept album, the music changes and develops, becoming something very different.
How has the reception to the track been so far, and where can it be purchased?
The reception has been very positive and very encouraging.
Radio play has been steady and I’ve been getting play on Canadian National shows like Julian Taylor’s Jukebox and college radio too. You can get it on my website, Bandcamp and on all digital platforms, including Spotify.
Do you have any more singles planned for the near future?
The second single Hunting Buffalo is out now too and the third single Ascending Lullaby releases on March 28th.
You have a new album coming out soon, titled Journey Towards Wholeness. What can you tell us about the record and when will it be released?
Journey Toward Wholeness is a reflection of my quest for completeness and the desire to share the discovery of my paternal bloodline, the Red River Metis. The album is a concept album that offers a rich and evocative experience, combining a melodic exploration of identity, heritage, and the universal journey of self-discovery.
With the album release scheduled for May 2024, I hope people will join me on this transformative musical odyssey. The album will resonate with those who have faced the challenges of unknown ancestry, offering insight and inspiration to individuals on their own journeys of self-discovery so they can know they are not alone.
What was the album writing and recording process like for you?
I am grateful that the First Peoples’ Cultural Council in BC awarded me a grant to write and record this album. I had time to reflect on my journey of discovery and made a trip to the area of my paternal ancestors, which was very moving for me. I intended to express that connection in song. Reflecting on my life as an adoptee and my experience is what I drew upon for inspiration. Meeting my paternal biological family and learning about my heritage is also grounds for creativity and expression. As much as it is my ar, it is also my therapy and my voice.
Your music has a unique pop sound. What/who are you most influenced by? What have you been listening to recently?
I love so many, many amazing artists old school and current ones eveything I hear that touches me influences my work. This past year I had a great deal of Khruangbin playing, Tash Sultana, Meltt, Ray La Montagne and recently Iskwe’s new single.
Do you have anything else exciting coming up over the next few months?
The new album is probably the most exciting upcoming thing and of course, all that goes with a new album – new videos and experiences.
You’re from Vancouver. What is the local music scene like at the moment?
Vancouver has a vibrant arts community – sadly the pandemic shuttered a few live venues around the city but new places emerge and morph into something different. Summer is probably the best time for most local artists as the cities in the lower mainland have a plethora of outdoor concerts, festivals and events.
Do you have any tour dates lined up for the UK?
I would love to tour the UK but there are no plans currently. Last year I spoke with some promoters and I think I would be quite welcomed in many circles. My partner and I went on a holiday to the UK and Ireland 4 years ago and absolutely loved it so yes, we’ll be back as musicians at some point! I am fortunate my spouse is also a talented musician – she plays keys and sings and is my accompanist at all my gigs too.
Any last words for the fans?
Last words yes – go out and support your local and online original independent artists, please add us to your playlists, share our music on your socials, send us messages if the music affects you and get our merch, of course. For an indie, the fan support makes all the difference!! Thank you so much for reading and for the opportunity to share my story!