The Edmonton music scene is buzzing with fresh sounds as several established artists release compelling new work. Leading the charge is Everett LaRoi with his first solo album in a quarter-century, alongside the powerful debut of AV & The Inner City and the latest from Ricci Paolo.
Everett LaRoi's Profound Return After 25 Years
Stalwart Edmonton musician Everett LaRoi has made a significant comeback with his new album, Morning Stars Mournings Hush. This release marks his first solo project in 25 years, a notable event for fans who have followed his career through bands like the jangly Idyl Tea in the 80s, the crunchy folk-rock of Manraygun in the early 2000s, and the more recent atmospheric, electronics-infused Goldtop.
The new album casts a spotlight squarely on LaRoi's sturdy songwriting abilities. He is joined by a group of musical friends, including drummer Mike Silverman, bassist Tom Murray, and Alice Kos on background vocals and keyboard. Together, they drive the music through steady folk-rock stylings.
Themes of Loss and Renewal
A heavy sense of mortality and reflection hangs over the album's ten tracks. LaRoi himself describes the songs as stories of loss, memory, and renewal based on my own lived experience over this past several years. The title track, 'Morning Stars Mournings Hush,' perfectly sets this introspective mood with mournful guitars crashing against a steady drumbeat. The lyrical content is equally poignant, with LaRoi singing lines like, No one here gets out of here alive.
With a voice that is appropriately weathered by experience, LaRoi explores a desire to drop out of the rat race and offers sage advice, such as forgetting petty feuds. Morning Stars Mournings Hush stands as a well-earned reflection on a life well-lived and is available to stream online now.
AV & The Inner City: A Soulful Debut Born from Community
Another exciting development in the Edmonton music landscape is the release of the self-titled debut EP from AV & The Inner City. This powerful musical project has a unique origin story, born from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The group formed from community sing-alongs on the front porch of Ann Vriend's home. This organic beginning gelled into a formidable all-female gospel and soul power group. They spent two years honing their craft and voices through public performances before finally releasing their first recorded work.
Ricci Paolo Continues to Make Waves
The article also highlights continuing contributions from Ricci Paolo, another key figure in the local music community. While specific details about a new release are not provided in the source material, his inclusion signifies his ongoing activity and importance within the Edmonton music scene, encouraging audiences to seek out his latest work.
These releases from Everett LaRoi, AV & The Inner City, and Ricci Paolo demonstrate the depth and diversity of talent thriving in Edmonton. From deeply personal folk-rock to uplifting soul-powered gospel, there is new music for every listener to discover and support.
