Mahone Bay, NS-based Kristen Martell recently released her debut single, “We Learn”. The single is from her forthcoming album set to release in early 2020.
With her breezy guitar playing and soothing voice, Kristen paints a vivid picture of a soul seeking its way out of turmoil. “You push through for their sake,” she sings, her voice full of emotion and conviction. “It leaves you empty in the wake.” While she is unafraid to be brutally honest with herself, the end result is comforting and empowering.
“I wrote this song at a time when I needed to shovel through the hard pan of my unconscious mind,” Kristen explains. “I questioned everything.” And while there are no easy answers in ‘We Learn,’ the song embraces the joy of seeking them. Above all, it is a reminder that no one is alone in their journey.
Check out the single below and find out more about Kristen in our Five Questions With segment.
Care to introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Kristen Martell and I’m a singer-songwriter from the quaint little seaside town of Mahone Bay, NS. I live a simple life on a 200-year-old homestead with my 2 kids and husband. When I’m not writing or playing music, you can usually find me in the garden or on some outdoor adventure.
Tell us a bit about your music and writing style.
I write from a very personal place, often inspired by nature. Although personal, my songs are relatable and open to the listeners interpretation. Writing helps me make sense of the world and it is a form of meditation that brings me back to my center. Songs come to me relatively quickly when I have something nagging at my subconscious. I let the song lead me and I am not always sure where it is going until I’m done. There’s often an ‘aha’ moment when I realize what I’ve been trying to say. It’s very satisfying. And to have others connect to a song fills me with tremendous joy.
Writing, however, is only one part of it. To bring it all together with chords, melody, rhythm and motion to create something new with a common purpose is awesome. I have been fortunate to work with a talented group of musicians to help with my upcoming album, and they have brought new life to my songs that I never could have done alone.
Do you have any upcoming shows? For someone who has yet to see you live, how would you explain your live performance?
Check out my shows at www.kristenmartell.com/shows. At the moment, I’m staying close to home. You can catch me next at the Rolled Oat in Wolfville, NS on Fri. Nov 22nd and at 1860 Kitchen + Public House in Mahone Bay, NS on Sun Nov 24th. I am in the process of planning a Summer 2020 tour, so be sure to follow along on social media for updates.
My performances are intimate and laid back. I enjoy making the audience feel comfortable by sharing the stories and inspirations behind the songs.
If you were asked to suggest only one of your songs for someone to hear, which would it be?
Since this is my debut single you probably should listen to “We Learn”! It is being released to support my upcoming album in early 2020. It’s about finding your voice in a world full of noise.
Canadian Beats is all about Canadian music, so who are your current favourite Canadian bands/ artists?
My current local favourites are Gabrielle Papillon, Rose Cousins, Jenn Grant, and Jennah Barry. I’m also a fan of Amelia Curren and Matt Holubowski, who can sing to me anytime!
Connect with Kristen Martell:
Website
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram