CD release concert
Kym Gouchie is hosting a CD release party for “Northern Shining Star Woman,” her 10-song sophomore album.
Gouchie and her band perform tonight at the Riverside Conference Centre (The Days Inn) beginning at 7 p.m. Opening for her will be her daughter Shayna Desjarlais.
“The album features a collaboration of Okanagan musicians. It was recorded, produced and written here in the Okanagan,” she said.
“This album has been a journey. For people who know me, I’ve taken them on the journey of my life, much of what I’ve gone through. The response I’ve been getting so far is that people really love this album. I really wanted 10 songs and I’m extremely happy with it.”
Gouchie wrote or co-wrote all but one song with the other being a traditional.
Released on Valentine’s Day, her busy schedule of dividing time between her new home in Prince George, her old stomping ground in Penticton and on the road have delayed an Okanagan release.
“I’ve been manifesting the perfect vehicle, I can now sleep on the road, if I have to, when I play at the festivals,” she said.
This summer she has shows booked across B.C. including several prominent folk festivals.
“I started out as a country artist,” she said. “I’m definitely more of a folk influence, I’ve been told I sound like Joan Baez. I love playing the festivals because it allows me to meet other musicians and they’re like, ‘would you like to play with me.’ It’s been wonderful.”
In addition to singing she also plays the hand drum and acoustic guitar.
Growing up her musical influences were Anne Murray (who her band member Brian Russell toured with) and Patsy Cline. She also listened to a lot of Hank Williams, George Jones and Merle Haggard because of her father’s influences.
“I don’t own the title: musician. I’m a singersongwriter. Musicians are the people who play on my albums,” she said.
Tonight Gouchie will be backed by Theurein Myint, guitar; Danny Sameshima, drums; Gary Leggott, percussion; Russell, bass; Brigitte Demeter, keyboard and vocals; and Maiya Robbie, guest vocalist.
Tickets for tonight’s show are $25 and available in advance from The Dragon’s Den on Front Street or, pending availability, at the door. The CD sells locally at The Dragon’s Den, Grooveyard and at tonight’s show or from Gouchie’s website.