Briar Summers Shares New Single, “Lipstick”
Briar Summers is a singer-songwriter from Muskoka, now living in Toronto while attending school. A new album, Resonance, produced by Wayne Cochrane (Arkells, Metric, City and Colour), is set for release on June 21. Her genre-bending alternative/pop/rock stylings and strong songwriting and storytelling truly shine on this record, a fitting follow-up of her 2021 debut album, From the Ashes, produced by 3-time Grammy-winner David Bottrill.
Review
Briar Summers’ latest single, “Lipstick” radiates positive energy as it explores the irresistible temptation. Its lively beats and powerful vocals express the protagonist’s inner conflict as they grapple with longing and desire.
With lyrics like “Tasting burning breath and lipstick, they’re gonna be the death of me,” the song vividly captures the allure and danger of succumbing to temptation.
The infectious energy of the song is underscored by its vivid imagery and catchy hooks, inviting listeners to surrender to the irresistible charm of the moment.
Overall, “Lipstick” masterfully combines poignant lyrics with captivating melodies, offering a compelling exploration of emotional depth and personal struggles.
First off, care to introduce yourself to our readers?
I’m originally from Huntsville Ontario, now based in Toronto, while attending school. I’ve just finished my third year at the University of Toronto (Physiology specialist, Human Biology major, and Immunology minor, and I’m scheduled to write the MCAT in August.). I believe that both art and science play an integral role in our overall well-being. This blending of music and medicine caught the attention of some CBC radio hosts who reached out to speak with me on air about it a couple of times. My new album, Resonance, was recorded at Metalworks Studios in Mississauga, under the watchful eye of producer Wayne Cochrane, joined by friends Ben Riley (drums), Jack Gaughan (guitars), Cole Jodouin (bass), Daniel Dennis (cello), Drew Jurecka (violin, viola), with trumpet on one song graciously provided by my former high school music teacher, Louis Tusz.
Your new single “Lipstick” has such vivid and intense lyrics. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind this song and what it means to you?
This song is heavily influenced by entering a new phase of life (moving out of my parents’ house to attend school). Of course, this new-found independence provided me with sudden freedom to make my own decisions, some of which were definitely not the greatest. This song is about treading carefully around temptation while discovering more about myself.
What was the creative process like for “Lipstick”? How did the song come together from the initial idea to the final production?
I wrote this song in bits and pieces as I went through my day-to-day life in Toronto. Most of the time I didn’t have access to a piano or guitar when I got the urge to write (on the subway or in class). So I ended up writing all the lyrics first before putting them to music. I did have an idea of what I wanted it to sound like while writing it though, so when I sat down to make a demo, it went smoothly. While performing the song live with the band, it took on a more “disco” feel which I thought was neat, so that’s the vibe we brought into the studio.
How has your music and songwriting evolved since your 2021 debut album, From the Ashes? Are there any significant changes or developments in your approach?
I’ve definitely grown up a lot since I wrote the songs for From the Ashes. Some of those songs I wrote when I was 14! It just took so long to release due to COVID. I find that my songwriting has matured as well. For this album, I took a more experimental approach while trying to develop my sound. You’ll find that the new album explores many different genres and there’s a track for everyone on it. My lyricism itself has also become much more personal. In From the Ashes, many of the songs were about motivation and the uncertainties that lie ahead in my future. Now that I’ve experienced “that future,” many of my songs are more reflective.
Your new album, Resonance, is set for release on June 21. What themes and stories are you exploring on this record?
The album Resonance is all about navigating change, adapting, and coming into one’s own. The last few years of my life have been a roller coaster, and this bundle of songs is what resulted from me sorting through my thoughts during this time. The theme of dynamic relationships (family, friends, lovers, yourself) is at the forefront. Nothing ever remains static, which is oftentimes overwhelming. However, change is what allows us to develop; and although learning to appreciate that change is hard, it is crucial. The image of the moon appears in the album artwork; as the liner notes explain, this symbol “represents inner feelings, subconscious desires, and the changing heart.”
You’re making your first musical appearance in Europe this July. What are you most excited about for this tour, and how are you preparing for it?
I’m very excited to head across the pond. Performing in Europe has always been on my bucket list. I have a few gigs planned, but I’m mostly there to sightsee! Making my way from England to Turkey, I’ll be joined by family and friends along the way, so at least I’ll have a few fans at every stop! I’m especially excited to explore and talk to new people at cool venues like the Duke of Kendal pub in London and Spiti Art Bar in Athens. The only preparation I’m doing is making sure there’s a piano there because I’m not lugging around my full-size electric keyboard!