Rebecca Lappa
Gig Seeker Pro

Rebecca Lappa

Edmonton, Alberta, Canada | Established. Jan 01, 2016 | INDIE

Edmonton, Alberta, Canada | INDIE
Established on Jan, 2016
Band Pop Singer/Songwriter

Calendar

Music

Press


"Rebecca Lappa Releases New Music Video for "Blue Lips""

REBECCA LAPPA RELEASES NEW MUSIC VIDEO FOR ‘BLUE LIPS’
PUBLISHED ON 24/02/2023BY JOSH ABRAHAM

With a new E.P on the way, ‘Tales Of A Taurus’ that is out later in May, this music video and new single show’s off just how talented Rebecca Lappa is.

She’s been one artist that just knew she’d make music for the rest of her life as she’s been writing music since she was twelve years old. The Canadian singer is taking a leap in a new direction with this music video.

Even after being nominated five times for the Canadian Folk Music Awards, winning young Performer of the Year in 2015, then nominated for three titles at the Edmonton Music Awards, and taking home the win for Singer-Songwriter Recording of the Year, it’s clear to see how special this artist is.

The music video focuses on taking the watcher into a world of frozen hearts and blinding snow with a story all about friends with benefits. It combines heartache and excitement all in one video. It’s one to watch over and over again.

“Taking you into a world of frozen hearts and blinding snow, “Blue Lips” is a uniquely Canadian story about a friends-with-benefits relationship, combining heartache and excitement together like fire and ice. The winter imagery throughout the song brings forward the harsh realities of a situation where one partner is hoping the relationship will turn into more than it is.” – Rebecca Lappa. - Lock Magazine


"Rebecca Lappa - Blue Lips"

Rebecca Lappa – Blue Lips
February 24, 2023 Info@globalmoneyworld.com

Happy Friday!!! Hope everyone had a great week and ready to have an even better weekend. Fridays are always exciting days for music fans everywhere as we get exposed to so much music from established talent, as well as fresh artists all releasing to make their mark on us all. We try our best to sort through it all and showcase music that just shines in its excellence and to start things off we have to bring you Rebecca Lappa’s new song “Blue Lips”.

Rebecca Lappa brings a brilliant indie pop sound to life on the new song “Blue Lips”. The song marvels in many ways with one of its best attributes being the writing. In a time where the importance of words can be lost in the vibe of a record, this one shines in its articulation to bring this movie vision to life. Shining not only lyrically her vocal performance is masterful at conveying the right amount of emotion at every turn to make it all felt that much more, to make a record you can truly connect to in every way.

Rebecca Lappa’s “Blue Lips” is a must hear body of work that does everything right to give us that more that music fans are looking for. You hear the record and can hear the master class of musicianship shine through, while also having music that you can make a true emotional connection with to make it a timeless listen you will want to keep coming back for more for time to come.

Check out Rebecca Lappa “Blue Lips” below and follow her on Instagram. Stay Global my Friends! - The Globe is Yours


"Rebecca Lappa has Frosty Fun on "Blue Lips""

REBECCA LAPPA HAS FROSTY FUN ON “BLUE LIPS”
LARRY MCCLAIN· MARCH 1, 2023
NEWS & TRACK REVIEWS
Remember how surprised we were when Maggie Rogers released Surrender? It put the world on notice that she was a high-energy pop/rock star, even though she had folky roots. The same is true for Rebecca Lappa’s addictive new single “Blue Lips”. It’s fascinating when someone with a folk background finds her Debbie Harry/Liz Phair groove.

Lappa hails from the Canadian city of Edmonton, where you can quickly get blue lips if you’re outdoors too long this time of year. The singer is a five-time nominee for the prestigious Canadian Folk Music Awards, but her new record is buoyant pop from beginning to end. It’s so hooky that I could listen to it until my ears turn blue while ice-fishing in Alberta.

Says Lappa: “Taking you into a world of frozen hearts and blinding snow, “Blue Lips” is a uniquely Canadian story about a friends-with-benefits relationship, combining heartache and excitement together like fire and ice. The winter imagery throughout the song brings forward the harsh realities of a situation where one partner is hoping the relationship will turn into more than it is.”

Lappa’s next EP, Tales of a Taurus, gets released in May, and it just might turbo-charge her pop career. I would definitely risk frostbite to hear more songs like “Blue Lips.”

Watch the video for “Blue Lips” below, or find it on the streamers.


“Blue Lips” is out on Tonic Records with the Tales of a Taurus EP to follow in May. Follow Rebecca Lappa on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. - Beats Per Minute


"Rebecca Lappa -Blue Lips"

Hailing from the Canadian city of Edmonton is singer and songwriter Rebecca Lappa.

Already a prolific musician and five-time nominee of the Canadian Folk Music Awards, Lappa has been steadily growing a loyal fanbase since releasing her first music from the age of only 12.

Lifted from Lappa’s forthcoming ‘Tales of a Taurus’ EP (out May 2023), new single ‘Blue Lips’ draws upon the Canadian winters, and compares nature’s elements (like ice and fire) to the thoughts and emotions that come from being in a ‘situationship’.

“Taking you into a world of frozen hearts and blinding snow, ‘Blue Lips’ is a uniquely Canadian story about a friends-with-benefits relationship, combining heartache and excitement together like fire and ice. The winter imagery throughout the song brings forward the harsh realities of a situation where one partner is hoping the relationship will turn into more than it is.”

Alongside the release of the single, Lappa has also just unveiled a lyric video which can be viewed here.

Rebecca Lappa - Alfitude


"Blue Lips Review"

HOT TRACK | “Blue Lips” by Rebecca Lappa
Born in San Francisco and raised in Edmonton, Alberta (Canada), Rebecca Lappa has been making music since she was a child. Not only a gifted singer, the songstress plays multiple instruments and was inspired to tackle her craft after seeing Taylor Swift opening for country legend Brad Paisley.

She tenaciously released six albums between 2011 and 2016 and was nominated five times for the Canadian Folk Music Awards, winning Young Performer of the Year in 2015. In 2019, Rebecca was nominated for three awards at Edmonton Music Awards and took home the award for Singer-Songwriter Recording of the Year.

Ahead of her May 2023 EP release, Tales of a Taurus on Tonic/Fontana, Rebecca has released the lead single, “Blue Lips”. Which she says this of the of the song,

Taking you into a world of frozen hearts and blinding snow, ‘Blue Lips’ is a uniquely Canadian story about a friends-with-benefits relationship, combining heartache and excitement together like fire and ice. The winter imagery throughout the song brings forward the harsh realities of a situation where one partner is hoping the relationship will turn into more than it is.

There are moments when Rebecca’s vocals give me Serena Ryder vibes, specifically from her Is It O.K. album. There’s a similar quiet, emotional, and longing to her voice that beckons the listener in. Her voice stands out against a field of cookie cutter pop vocals as has depth, emotion, and a power to her voice that a lot in the pop genre do not have.


Like Swift, who inspired her, Rebecca has crafted lyrics that will hit at the heart of the listener and have all singing along because we have all been in that “romantic with a hint of manic”’ relationship.

Watch the lyric video for “Blue Lips” below



SHELIA TAYLOR
FEBRUARY 25, 2023
BLUE LIPS, HOT TRACK, LYRIC VIDEO, MUSIC, REBECCA LAPPA, TALES OF A TAURUS - Amplify the Noise


"Rebecca Lappa"

Rebecca Lappa
24th February 2023

Interview: Amy Bell

Born in San Francisco but raised in Edmonton, Alberta, Rebecca has been singing since childhood and plays multiple instruments. After watching Taylor Swift open for Brad Paisley, she decided “That’s like me. I want to do that.” Rebecca subsequently went on to be nominated five times for the Canadian Folk Music Awards, winning young Performer of the Year in 2015. In 2019, Rebecca was nominated for three titles at the Edmonton Music Awards, taking home the win for Singer-Songwriter Recording of the Year. Among her previous releases are 2016’s Reckless Heart, 2017’s Spirit EP and 2019’s Unfiltered EP.

We chat to Lappa about her brand new single 'Blue Lips' and how excited she is about releasing her upcoming EP 'Tales of a Taurus'.

Thanks so much for talking to ReVamp, you started creating music at the age of 12, tell me a bit about the start of your music journey, and how growing up in Canada influenced your music.

I performed my original music at an open mic for the first time at the age of 12. I started becoming part of the local music community by going to song writing circles, and performing at open mics, events and contests. Growing up in Alberta, Canada a lot of the local original music was folk, country and roots based. As I played shows around Canada I was exposed the pocket of music in each region: pop in Toronto, Indie Rock in British Columbia and the Celtic French music from the East Coast. With a lot of my local mentors (Rhea March, Rob Heath, Bill Bourne) they emphasized on writing stories were authentic to you regardless of the genre and that being a good story teller made you a good songwriter

You did rock/folk, why is this the style you wanted to choose, and who influenced you in the country/folk music industry?

Folk matched my story telling and rock matched my vocals. Some of my early musical influences were Jade Bird, Dixie Chicks, Taylor Swift, Anais Mitchell.

You have a new EP coming out in May, what can we expect from this?

With this EP, I’m leaning into a pop sound while keeping my storytelling at the forefront. I am coming into my own and taking a chance with driving guitars, layered synths, and hooky melodies over my organic backbone.

Your new single from the EP is out on the 24th Feb, ‘Blue Lips’, what is this single about, and why did you decide this song would be the song, you would tease your EP with?

“Taking you into a world of frozen hearts and blinding snow, “Blue Lips” is a uniquely Canadian story about a friends-with-benefits relationship, combining heartache and excitement together like fire and ice. The winter imagery throughout the song brings forward the harsh realities of a situation where one partner is hoping the relationship will turn into more than it is.”

I wanted to tease the EP with Blue Lips because I thought it was the song with the most catchy hook. It had a relatable story that a lot of people have gone through and experienced.


Check out the music video to 'Blue Lips' by Rebecca Lappa.

This EP has moved away from your usual sound, and taken on more of a pop sound, what made you want to change?

This new direction emerged from working with a producer who truly listened to my influences and let me create in a way that was unhampered by my previous work. She let me explore sounds I was interested in with the gentle support and guidance that only a female mentor could provide. She also encouraged me to grow and change and take new risks.

You say that ‘Blue Lips’, is a story about friends with benefits- relationship, heartache, and excitement, all in one, what made you want to create this story in a song?

I wrote it as a reflection of some of my own personal experiences but then opened it up to be more general and relatable to a wider audience. I was inspired by the syncopation of the lyrics in Charlotte Cardin’s song “Daddy” to give my story a more up beat pop flavour.

What was the recording/writing process like?

Writing has always been a source of therapy for me. It allows me to get my thoughts and emotions out on paper and is very cathartic. The recording process for “Blue Lips” was exciting and energizing. Working at 604 studios in Vancouver was like working in the dream factory. Louise encouraged me to experiment with new sounds like driving synths and post punk background vocals. For the rest of the EP the writing process included co-writing a few of the tracks with artists who had similar needs for telling moving stories. This includes one track “Lolita” which I co-wrote with Louise.

You have picked up many awards such as ‘performer of the year, singer/songwriter recording of the year’, every time you achieve something, does it motivate you to create music, and what do you do to celebrate these amazing achievements?

I would be creating and writing songs these songs regardless, as it is a healthy way for me to come to peace with personal experiences. Receiving awards for my music shows me that other people resonate with these stories as well. This motivates me to continue sharing and performing. I celebrate by surrounding myself with supportive friends and family and cuddling with my cat.

How are you gearing up for the release of ‘Tales of a Taurus' EP?

I am working with a core group of female mentors including my manager, Mandy and Kate, from Tonic Records. We are creating videos, updating my website, working with a new band for the live show and applying for festivals and international showcases. I am excited to play Canada Music Week in June and building a tour for the fall. - Revamp Magazine


"Single Review"

Finally for this week is Canadian solo artist, Rebecca Lappa with her tune, ‘Blue Lips’. The singer made her name during the first few years of last decade with several folk-inspired albums, but this tune marks the start of a new, pop-centric chapter of her career. Embodying themes that she calls ‘romantic with a hint of manic’, the tune features captivating instrumentation and ear-worm choruses. - Our Sound Music


"Songs We Loved ! 26 Feb-5 March, 2023"

Rebecca Lappa - Blue Lips
Article photo - SONGS WE LOVED! 26 Feb-5 March 2023


Canadian singer-songwriter Rebecca Lappa's latest single Blue Lips is an enthralling indie-pop anthem that weaves a tale of a complicated romantic relationship. Serving as the first, highly delicious taste of her upcoming EP Tales of a Taurus out on May 2023, Blue Lips overflows with Lappa's shining vocals as she effortlessly navigates the emotional highs and lows of a "friends-with-benefits" situation, with the winter imagery painting a vivid picture of frozen hearts and blinding snow, capturing the harsh reality where one partner is hoping the relationship will turn into more than it is.

Connect With Rebecca Lappa
Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Spotify / Website - MUSICnGEAR


"Behind the Music Interview"

Behind the Music: Interview with Rebecca Lappa

‘Because of my musical journey to date, I can confidently step into my new sound knowing it’s where I’m meant to be.’

Ahead of the arrival of her new single, ‘Blue Lips’ – which is out now – I chatted with Rebecca Lappa to discover how her sound has got to where it is now, what her award winning successes have meant for her development as an artist, and what the rest of her 2023 may look like.

Hi Rebecca, thanks for chatting to us. Please introduce yourself to your future fans.
Hi. I am a pop singer songwriter from Alberta Canada

Describe your music in 5 words.
Alternative pop with folk undertones.

What would you cite as your biggest musical/non musical inspirations?
My musical inspirations are Zella Day, Bishop Briggs and Charlotte Cardin.

Who else is involved in your music and what do they bring to the sound?
My producer Louise Burns played bass, synthesizers, provided backing vocals, and programmed and co-wrote one of the songs on my forthcoming EP ‘Tales of Taurus’ which the new single comes from. Both Alex Glassford and Flavio Cirillo played drums, Max Cunningham played guitar, and Chris Perry did the mixing. In the recording process, they brought experience and creativity, and allowed me to explore new ideas. On the live side, we have my cousin Kristian Mortensen who plays drums and additional tracks.

Turning to your forthcoming single, ‘Blue Lips’, where does the title come from and what does the lyricism we hear mean to you?
The phrase blue lips came from kissing in the cold Canadian winter. All of the metaphors about a one sided relationship come from both my experience out in the beautiful frozen Canadian landscape and my past relationships. It’s ultimately about loving the wrong person.

‘The supportive women around me are making my dream of becoming a successful artist come true.’
The blend of vocals and instrumental elements on the track is simply gorgeous. What can you tell us about the process of creating the final atmosphere of the track?
The recording process for ‘Blue Lips’ was exciting and energizing and I was very passionate about this song being part of the wider project. The syncopation of the lyrics in Charlotte Cardin’s song ‘Daddy’ inspired me to write a song with driving and hooky melodies and an infectious beat. My favourite part of the recording process for ‘Blue Lips’ though was the screamed pop punk background vocals in the bridge. They give that section a sense of urgency and desperation that echoes through the rest of the track and makes it special.

So with ‘Blue Lips’ being released today, how are you feeling about it being out in the world?
I am extremely excited for the world to hear this song and my new sound. This is a chance to introduce myself to an international audience. The journey from writing this song to release day has been a long process with lots of set backs related to COVID, but now with a label behind me I am ready to spread my wings.


Reflecting on your previous releases, it appears you’ve explored a range of pop sub-genres since your debut. How important has this been to you achieving the sound we will hear on your forthcoming EP?
From the time of taking my first song to an open mic until now, all of the genres and parts of myself I have explored through music have helped me gain the experience and insight needed to confidently bare my heart in this track and the ones to come. This comes across as a well crafted story from my years as a folk singer to the driving instrumentation from my experimentation with pop and rock music. Because of this, journey I can confidently step into this modern sound knowing it is where I am meant to be.

You’ve been nominated for and won numerous prestigious music awards. How has this shaped your career to date?
Nominations and awards have encouraged me to produce and perform music for audiences and keep going as they are proof people connect to my music. These awards have opened the doors to better performance opportunities and recording grants. They have allowed me to meet my manager Mandy, my producer Louise, and eventually Kate from Tonic Records. These supportive women are making my dream of becoming a successful artist come true.

If someone was watching a recording session of yours, what would they be most surprised by?
All of the tea I drink and all of the layers of clothes I wear to stay warm. I’m always cold.

‘With a label behind me I am ready to spread my wings.’
What are the blessings/curses of being a multi-instrumentalist as well as a vocalist when it comes to songwriting?
The blessing of being a multi-instrumentalist is that when writing I can find an instrument that matches the song. Also, the instrument can inspire the sonic pallet I create with my song. That said, normally when writing I start with lyrics because voice is my main instrument and my voice is where the stories come from.

Which artists are you listening to right now and what do you love about their music?
I am currently listening to: Fletcher, because I like her honest lyrics, Jordon Davis, because his songs are comforting – like being wrapped in warm blanket, Maisie Peters, because she makes me want to dance, Machine Gun Kelly, because even if I’m having a bad day, listening to his songs lets me know it could be worse and lastly Halestorm, for the aggressive female empowerment energy she brings to her music.

And finally, other than the release of your EP, what does 2023 have in store for you?
In 2023, I will be finishing my music therapy internship, graduating from my degree program and taking my music therapy accreditation exam. I will also be playing shows, showcases, and writing new music. I might even be getting a new Savannah kitten! I’ve also applied to showcases at The Great Escape, Liverpool Sound City, and Focus Wales in the UK. I’m still waiting to hear so fingers crossed! I’m really looking forward to coming to the UK as this will be my first performance outside North America and excited to play my songs for a British audience.

Thanks Rebecca Lappa for chatting with Listen to Discover
Photography Credit: Lorraine Mortensen of Mortensen Photography
Rebecca Lappa’s new single ‘Blue Lips’ is available in all the usual places now. - Listen to Discover


"Undiscovered Gems"

Rebecca Lappa is infectious on her recent Blue Lips. The Canadian breakout buzz artist knows how to write a proper hook. The chorus on Blue Lips is simply fantastic. Initially innocent, the lyrical clues adapt her vibe with innuendo and sneaky surprise. The song has nostalgic under layers that display an affinity for retro pop.

That combination of catchy appeal and retro intention connects with mainstream’s recent 80s pop revival trend. Lappa is more new wave than mainstream, but with a chorus this strong, she just might crossover. An instant for fans of Holly Humberstone and Charlotte Day Wilson.

Dig into Blue Lips now on our Best New Indie Playlist. - The Wild is Coming


"Interview with Canadian Singer-Songwriter Rebecca Lappa"

Born in San Francisco but raised in Edmonton, Alberta, Rebecca has been singing since childhood and plays multiple instruments. After watching Taylor Swift open for Brad Paisley, she decided “That’s like me. I want to do that.” Rebecca subsequently went on to be nominated five times for the Canadian Folk Music Awards, winning young Performer of the Year in 2015.

Follow Rebecca @rebeccalappamusic



Describe yourself in 3 words?

Empathetic, Creative, Direct

We’re sure you have been asked this million times but how did you get in the industry?

I started writing and performing when I was 12.

How has this changed your life?

Writing music has given me an outlet to express my emotions in a safe, non-judgemental space.

Describe your sound in 3 words?

Alternative, Pop, Catchy

Who influenced you and why did you choose to make music?

Seeing Taylor Swift on her first tour in 2008 with Brad Paisley inspired me that I could do this too. I liked writing stories and singing and those two passions came together for me as songwriting and performing.

Do you play any instrument?

Yes I play multiple instruments including singing, piano, guitar, tenor banjo and ukulele.



Tell us about your new single “Blue Lips?”

Taking you into a world of frozen hearts and blinding snow, “Blue Lips” is a uniquely Canadian story about a friends-with-benefits relationship, combining heartache and excitement together like fire and ice. The winter imagery throughout the song brings forward the harsh realities of a situation where one partner is hoping the relationship will turn into more than it is.”

What is the feeling to be nominated five times for the Canadian Folk Music Awards and previous recipient of the Singer-Songwriter of the Year award at the Edmonton Music Awards? That’s amazing!

It was exciting and fulfilling to know that my music was connecting with people in the Canadian music community.

What is the most rewarding part of your work?

The rewarding part is to write songs and share them with an audience.

What would say are the greatest lessons you learned so far?

Count your blessings and walk your own path.

What advice would you give to your younger self and why?

The only person you can rely on is yourself.

How would your best friend describe you?

My best friend describes me as creative, hard working and kind hearted.

What’s next for Rebecca Lappa in 2023?

I will be playing at Canada Music Week and hopefully get into some showcases in the UK and become a certified music therapist and planning a fall tour.

What would be the dream holiday, and who would you go with?

My dream holiday would be to go to Egypt and see the pyramids and spend time in the museums and nerd out over the mythology and history like my six year old self would have liked. I would go with my fiancé as he speaks the language.

Best advice ever given?

The best advice ever given me was from local Blues Musician Bill Bourne and his advice was “Do not let the industry dim your spark.”

Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years from now?

In 5 years I see myself touring and writing songs with and for other artists.

What is you favorite song to belt out in the car/for karaoke?

In the car I like to belt out “Legendary” by Halestorm. For Karaoke I would like to sing “Levitating” by Dua Lipa.

What do you think of Social Media?

It is a great place to connect with fans but you need to be smart about how you use it.

Where we can follow you?

You can follow me at:

rebeccalappa.com

Twitter / Facebook / Instagram / TikTok / Apple / Spotify

Book: The Red Sparrow

Quote: “Without music life would be flat”

Movie: Pride and Prejudice

Tv Series: Brooklyn 99

Favorite Food: Sushi and lasagna

Travel Destination: Egypt

Sports Team: none - Naluda Magazine, Feb 28, 2023


"Rebecca Lappa - "Blue Lips""

Rebecca Lappa - 'Blue Lips'
February 26, 2023 2 min read
Prolific Canadian singer-songwriter Rebecca Lappa returns with new indie-pop anthem ‘Blue Lips’, and announces her new EP ‘Tales of a Taurus’.

Making music since the age of twelve in her native home of Edmonton, Alberta, Rebecca Lappa released six albums in quick succession between 2011 and 2016, winning over fans and critics alike, and has been nominated five times for the prestigious Canadian Folk Music Awards.

Now Rebecca starts a new chapter, departing from the acoustic folk/rock that has distinguished her music so far, and boldly leaning into a new pop sound with her new EP ‘Tales of a Taurus’ (out May 2023). The first glimpse of it is provided with lead single 'Blue Lips' - a captivating look into a ‘romantic with a hint of manic’ relationship, complete with addictive chorus, understated guitars and barely-there synths.

Speaking candidly about the single, Rebecca explained, “Taking you into a world of frozen hearts and blinding snow, 'Blue Lips' is a uniquely Canadian story about a friends-with-benefits relationship, combining heartache and excitement together like fire and ice. The winter imagery throughout the song brings forward the harsh realities of a situation where one partner is hoping the relationship will turn into more than it is.”

Rebecca’s forthcoming six-track EP ‘Tales of a Taurus’ is out this May on the Tonic/Fontana label.



Born in San Francisco but raised in Edmonton, Alberta, Rebecca has been singing since childhood and plays multiple instruments. After watching Taylor Swift open for Brad Paisley, she decided “That’s like me. I want to do that.”

Rebecca subsequently went on to be nominated five times for the Canadian Folk Music Awards, winning young Performer of the Year in 2015. In 2019, Rebecca was nominated for three titles at the Edmonton Music Awards, taking home the win for Singer-Songwriter Recording of the Year. Among her previous releases are 2016’s 'Reckless Heart', 2017’s 'Spirit' EP and 2019’s 'Unfiltered' EP.

Connect with Rebecca Lappa,

Website
Facebook
Instagram
Twitter
Related Blog Posts
LOSER - 'The More I Know' - Broken Records


"Local musicians released a ton of new work in 2020: here's the list"

The ever shifting Rebecca Lappa continued her artistic blossoming with an EP called Taking Flight and a video for first single Lady Godiva, and rapper Mitchell Lawler dropped the Nowhere Fast single. Sonny Lewis brought out the aptly titled Mood Swings in 2020, while Lion Luciano gave us the Covert 19 and Seasons EPs. - Edmonton Journal, Dec 24, 2020, by Tom Murray


"Blue Lips Review"

Rebecca Lappa releases chilling “Blue Lips”
By Christine Sloman Posted in New Music News Posted on February 24, 2023
All it took was a few instruments, a desire to create, and an inspiring performance from Taylor Swift to get Rebecca Lappa started on the flourishing musical path she’s on today. She won Performer of the Year at the 2015 Canadian Folk Music Awards and Singer-Songwriter Recording of the Year at the 2019 Edmonton Music Awards, after multiple nominations for both shows. Fans and critics have clearly been enraptured by her folk rock sound over the years, but after some experimenting, Rebecca is ready to begin a new chapter of her career. In May, she plans to release Tales of a Taurus, which will lean in a more indie pop direction. She gives us an idea of what to expect with its lead single, “Blue Lips,” a chilly nod to icy relationships.

Easily your next winter jam, “Blue Lips” draws on the intensity of a “friends with benefits” relationship while comparing it to a furious snowstorm. Throughout the track, Rebecca creates strong imagery with her lyrics, placing us on “thin ice” or in the middle of snowy “white outs.” Despite the frigid surroundings, we sense that there is a passion and a longing for things to heat up, especially when we get to the bridge. In this burning section, Rebecca sings, “Snow blind shivering, still I keep on hoping / That when we thaw out / Your love won’t have gone to the ground.” You can check it out below.



Telling us more about “Blue Lips,” Rebecca shares,

“Taking you into a world of frozen hearts and blinding snow, ‘Blue Lips’ is a uniquely Canadian story about a friends-with-benefits relationship, combining the heartache and excitement together like fire and ice. The winter imagery throughout the song brings forward the harsh realities of a situation where one partner is hoping the relationship will turn into more than it is.”

You can listen to “Blue Lips” on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music.

Keep up with Rebecca Lappa: Twitter // Facebook // Instagram // TikTok // YouTube // Website - Melodic Magazine


"Blue Lips Review"

Edmonton-based singer-songwriter Rebecca Lappa has just dropped her latest single, Blue Lips, from her upcoming EP Tales of a Taurus, ready to be released later 2023.

Lappa brings her angelic voice and a folksy beat to an ice-cold romance in Blue Lips. The actual fire isn’t in the music as much as it is in the lyrics. Lappa sings, “got me biting down on your cold shoulder,” bringing up those feelings of desperation in a frozen relationship that creates a reckless tunnel vision. She says:

Taking you into a world of frozen hearts and blinding snow, “Blue Lips” is a uniquely Canadian story about a friends-with-benefits relationship, combining heartache and excitement together like fire and ice. The winter imagery throughout the song brings forward the harsh realities of a situation where one partner is hoping the relationship will turn into more than it is.

Coming from a city in Alberta, Canada, that is notoriously chilly, she knows that most of this city’s love stories are styled by thick coats and warm boots. Now those stories have a soundtrack. - Indie is a not a Genre


"Behind the Music: Rebecca Lappa"

Canadian alt-pop artist Rebecca Lappa has released her new single, Blue Lips, ahead of the release of her EP Tales of Taurus this May. We asked her the BIG questions . . .

Making music since the age of 12 in her native home of Edmonton, Alberta, Rebecca released six albums in quick succession between 2011 and 2016 and has been nominated five times for the prestigious Canadian Folk Music Awards.



She embraces a new pop sound with Tales of a Taurus and speaking of Blue Lips, she says: "It's the story of a friend who had been in a 'friends with benefits’ relationship.

"I used the ice and snow imagery to show the lack of care from the one person and how the other is hoping it turns into something more, but deep down knows it’s not.

"One thread through the music I put out has always been about stories that were important to me. That has carried through the different genres and music that I’ve experimented with over the years. Hopefully, people will connect with them, and my music will impact them."

Tell us three things about yourself . . .

I am a singer songwriter from Alberta, Canada. I love cats and feel the most comfortable when I am in the presence of animals. I colour pictures in my spare time as a way to relax and unwind.

How would you describe your music?



I write alternative music with folk undertones through a pop vein. The stories are the most important part of a song to me. You will see a focus on storytelling in my songs.

Who are your musical inspirations?



My musical inspirations are Zella Day, Bishop Briggs, Maisie Peters, Charlotte Cardin, and Fletcher.

What was the first gig you ever went to?

I have been performing at singing contests, open mics and many other places since I was very young. I think my first show where I was making a guaranteed amount of money was in July 2008. I performed at the Edmonton Exhibition K-Days Kids Discovery Zone.

What was the first record you ever bought?

I have never owned any vinyl records, but the first CD I bought was Taylor Swift's first self-titled record in 2006.

What’s your favourite song right now?



My favourite song currently is Legendary by Halestorm.

Favourite lyric of all time?

"But I won't die for love but ever since I met you, you could have my heart and I would break it for you." from 1121 by Halsey.

If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?



If I could listen to one song for the rest of my life, it would be Bloody Valentine by Machine Gun Kelly.

Where can people find your music/more information?

You can find more information about me at my website, Apple Music, Amazon music, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok. - RTE


"Delicious New Music for 3 March 2023"

Rebecca Lappa is back and better than ever with her new indie-pop anthem ‘Blue Lips’, providing listeners with the first taste of her new EP set to be released this May. Departing from her acoustic folk/rock roots, Rebecca boldly leans into a fresh pop sound with ‘Blue Lips’, she takes us on a journey into a “romantic with a hint of manic” relationship, complete with addictive choruses, understated guitars, and barely-there synths.

The song brings forth the harsh realities of a situation where one partner hopes the relationship will turn into more than it is. Rebecca’s raw and emotive vocals perfectly capture the intensity of the lyrics, pulling us in and leaving us wanting more. Furthermore, Rebecca’s production is a testament to her indie roots, with a distinctly lo-fi aesthetic that pairs perfectly with her new pop sound. The combination of stripped-back instrumentation and Rebecca’s vocals creates an intimate atmosphere that draws the listener in, making them feel like they’re right there with her.

‘Blue Lips’ is a perfect example of Rebecca’s evolution as an artist. It’s a brave move to move away from the genre that has defined her music for so long, but it’s clear that Rebecca has found her footing in the pop realm. - Eat This Music


"Blue Lips"

I’m fresh off a seriously awesome nine-day road trip through Quebec, and I’m already looking for ways to return to Canada in mind and spirit. Listening to “Blue Lips” by Rebecca Lappa (a native of Edmonton) is one way to go about that, especially since its lyrics and the corresponding video features imagery of the snowy Canadian landscape that I had the pleasure of skiing, hiking and trudging my way through at various points throughout my travels.

On top of all that, the song is very beautifully sung– Lappa has been singing since her adolescent days, and the results can be heard and appreciated to the fullest at this point– and comes with an indie-pop-friendly blend of guitars and synths that marks a departure from the bare acoustics that have characterized much of her past output. Lyrically, the song describes the sensation of “kissing with blue lips”– a metaphor, the singer says, amounts to a promising but not fully serious love affair. In her words, it’s “a uniquely Canadian story about a friends-with-benefits relationship, combining heartache and excitement together like fire and ice,” while “the winter imagery throughout the song brings forward the harsh realities of a situation where one partner is hoping the relationship will turn into more than it is.”

A song of ice and fire, you say? Sign me up! And thanks for teleporting me back to your wonderfully pretty native country, Rebecca. - At Wood Magazine, by Josh Weiner


"Five Questions with Rebecca Lappa"

Rebecca Lappa – Five Questions WithBy Jenna Melanson on March 1, 2023
Rebecca Lappa

Rebecca Lappa unveils first single, “Blue Lips,” from upcoming EP, Tales of a Taurus
Prolific Alberta-based singer-songwriter Rebecca Lappa returns with her new indie-pop anthem, “Blue Lips.” She also announced her new EP Tales of a Taurus, which will be released on May 5th via Tonic Records/Fontana.

Making music since the age of 12 in her native home of Edmonton, Rebecca released six albums in quick succession between 2011 and 2016, winning over fans and critics alike and being nominated five times for the prestigious Canadian Folk Music Awards. Now Rebecca starts a new chapter, departing from the acoustic folk/rock that has distinguished her music so far and boldly leaning into a new pop sound with her new EP Tales of a Taurus. The first glimpse of it is provided with lead single “Blue Lips” – a captivating look into a ‘romantic with a hint of manic’ relationship, complete with an addictive chorus, understated guitars, and barely there synths.

“I wanted to write a song that used the Canadian winter landscape as a metaphor for a relationship,” says Rebecca. “This song is about loving someone who every time you are with them it feels like falling through the ice and getting hypothermia because they don’t return the same feelings you have. I was inspired to create a hypnotic up tempo track to go with my lyrics.”

Just signed to Tonic Records, Rebecca is excited to release her 6-song EP Tales of a Taurus, produced by acclaimed recording artist Louise Burns, on May 5th. This venture into indie pop reflects Rebecca’s growth as a writer and willingness to take sonic risks. In this new release, she takes the story of the wounded healer to new heights, sharing the pain and struggles of women in their 20s with the courage to find healing within and hope for the future ahead. Born in San Francisco but Canadian to the core, Rebecca is bringing the message back to the music in 2023.

Watch the lyric video for “Blue Lips” below and learn more about Rebecca Lappa via our Five Questions With segment.


Care to introduce yourself to our readers?
I am a singer-songwriter from Alberta who has been writing and performing since I was 12. My new music is taking a bold step into an indie-pop sound. I am a vocalist and multi-instrumentalist who loves cats.

Tell us a bit about your most recent release.
The first single from my Tales of a Taurus EP is “Blue Lips.”

Taking you into a world of frozen hearts and blinding snow, “Blue Lips” is a uniquely Canadian story about a friends-with-benefits relationship, combining heartache and excitement together like fire and ice. The winter imagery throughout the song brings forward the harsh realities of a situation where one partner is hoping the relationship will turn into more than it is.

Where do you tend to pull inspiration from when writing?
My song inspirations come from my experiences, history, books, other artists, and dreams. To me, writing is a very personal experience.

Do you have any upcoming shows you’d like to tell us about?
I have a few gigs booked in Calgary this spring and some in Edmonton this summer.
I am excited to be showcasing at Canada Music Week in June.
Fans can check out my website for more information about my fall tour.

What’s your goal for 2023?
My goals for 2023 are:
To release several more singles and my EP Tales of a Taurus on May 5th.
To finish my internship at the Alberta Children’s Hospital.
To take my accreditation exam to become a Music Therapist.

Connect with Rebecca Lappa:
Website
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
TikTok - Canadian Beats by Jenna Melanson, Mar 1, 2023


"Introducing....Rebecca Lappa"

March 5, 2023

When a folk singer turns to pop for a new era.
After creating music in the acoustic folk rock genre, Canadian artist Rebecca Lappa is moving towards a poppier rock sound with her upcoming releases. Her new single ‘Blue Lips’ straddles modern-day pop with a hint of 80’s pop guitars and a whiff of synthwave hiding in the background. After releasing six albums in the country folk scene in the early 2010s, its always tricky to pivot and bring old fans with you to a new sound but I think this has enough of an understated indie-pop element to it that previous folkier fans might still enjoy the new sound.

‘Blue Lips’ is the first single from Rebecca Lappa’s forthcoming EP ‘Tales of a Taurus’ which is due for release in May 2023. The single speaks of a friends-with-benefits relationship that just wasn’t meant to be and you can enjoy the wintery music video below. For more information on Rebecca Lappa, visit her website.


Support Higher Plain Music
Patreon Banner for Higher Plain Music
Higher Plain Music is part of the Higher Plain Network – a one-man indie media project. If you like what I do, please consider supporting me via Patreon for as little as $1/£1 a month. In return, you’ll receive additional perks for supporting me, such as behind-the-scenes content and free downloads. You can also donate using PayPal. Sharing the website helps too or using the affiliate buy now links on reviews. I receive a few pence per Amazon sale. All your support will enable me to produce better content, more often. I’d love to make this a full-time media network and your support can make that happen. Thank you. - Higher Plain Music by Simon Smith


"Canadian Singer Rebecca Lappa Returns with New Single-Blue Lips"

CANADIAN SINGER REBECCA LAPPA RETURNS WITH NEW SINGLE – BLUE LIPS
March 7, 2023

by Desh Kapur UK-Editor/Photographer






REBECCA LAPPA

‘BLUE LIPS’

NEW SINGLE OUT 24TH FEBRUARY

NEW EP ‘TALES OF A TAURUS’ OUT MAY 2023



Prolific Canadian singer-songwriter Rebecca Lappa returns with new indie-pop anthem ‘Blue Lips’, out 24th February and announces her new EP ‘Tales of a Taurus’ (out May 2023).

Making music since the age of 12 in her native home of Edmonton, Alberta, Rebecca Lappa released six albums in quick succession between 2011 and 2016, winning over fans and critics alike, and has been nominated five times for the prestigious Canadian Folk Music Awards. Now Rebecca starts a new chapter, departing from the acoustic folk/rock that has distinguished her music so far, and boldly leaning into a new pop sound with her new EP ‘Tales of a Taurus’ (out May 2023). The first glimpse of it is provided with lead single ‘Blue Lips‘ – a captivating look into a ‘romantic with a hint of manic’ relationship, complete with addictive chorus, understated guitars and barely-there synths.

Rebecca Lappa: “Taking you into a world of frozen hearts and blinding snow, “Blue Lips” is a uniquely Canadian story about a friends-with-benefits relationship, combining heartache and excitement together like fire and ice. The winter imagery throughout the song brings forward the harsh realities of a situation where one partner is hoping the relationship will turn into more than it is.”







Born in San Francisco but raised in Edmonton, Alberta, Rebecca has been singing since childhood and plays multiple instruments. After watching Taylor Swift open for Brad Paisley, she decided “That’s like me. I want to do that.” Rebecca subsequently went on to be nominated five times for the Canadian Folk Music Awards, winning young Performer of the Year in 2015. In 2019, Rebecca was nominated for three titles at the Edmonton Music Awards, taking home the win for Singer-Songwriter Recording of the Year. Among her previous releases are 2016’s Reckless Heart, 2017’s Spirit EP and 2019’s Unfiltered EP.

Rebecca’s forthcoming 6-track EP ‘Tales of a Taurus’ is out this May on the Tonic/Fontana label.

The first single ‘Blue Lips’ will be released on 24th February. - All Music Magazine by Desh Kaur, Mar 7, 2023


"Rebecca Lappa - Lady Godiva"

We just discovered this amazing song, “Lady Godiva” by Canadian singer and songwriter Rebecca Lappa. This song is one of the best rock songs we have heard in months! We are not sure if we could find the right words to describe how incredible this song is. The lyrics are original and meaningful and Rebecca’s voice is so catchy. Her vocal performance is very professional which definitely shows how talented she is. The production work is smart and polished and the melodies are so beautiful. We have enjoyed listening to her drums and guitars until the last second! Rebecca Lappa is definitely a name we should remember, her music is very unique and sets her apart from the crowd.

Rebecca Lappa is a 23 year old Edmonton based singer songwriter, who delivers alternative music with folk undertones through a pop vein. Her story based compositions filled with catchy melodies, limitless vocal delivery, and clever lyrics captured Lappa three 2019 Edmonton Music Awards nominations, winning Singer Songwriter Recording of the Year. Since winning a Canadian Folk Music Award in 2015, Lappa has demonstrated that she is a star on the rise through electric live performances, 20K social media followers and charting nationally on campus radio. Recenlty, Lappa captured a coveted spot as a top 5 Edmonton finalist in the Jim Beam National Talent Search 2020 and was chosen for the Vancouver International Film Festival AMP Talent Accelerator Program. Touring across Canada since the release of her JSR FACTOR funded full length record “Reckless Heart”, she’s entranced audiences several times at the Edmonton Folk Music Festival (2014, 2018), Calgary Folk Festival (2013, 2015), Canmore Folk Festival (2014) the Ottawa Blues Festival (2016, 2017)Beaumont Blues (2011, 2012, 2103, 2019),Edmonton Rockfest (2019) and Alberta House during two Grey Cup (2010, 2018). Lappa is honoured to have opened for The Crash Test Dummies, Jenn Grant, Digging Roots, Basia Bulat, Buffy Sainte-Marie, Mike Plume, Maria Dunn, Amy Bishop, Reirnwolf, Lissie and Leeroy Stagger and has 3 CD’s available through the Edmonton Public Library Capital City Records. Born in San Francisco but Canadian to the core, Lappa brings fire to every performance with her red hair and red guitar. Her songs crackle with originality, blaze with passion and glow with honest emotions. She delivers a lively show as a soloist, duo or with her band, The Revelry. Edmonton, AB is her hometown but in fall 2020 Lappa relocated to Vancouver, BC to do the Music Therapy Program at Capilano University. - Cheers to the Viking, Oct. 20, 2020


"Rebecca Lappa "Lady Godiva" Premiere"

Rebecca Lappa’s fearless fusion of folk, rock and pop has her cresting the wave of Canada’s best contemporary singer-songwriters and creating a buzz with three 2019 Edmonton Music Award nominations and one win. Her compositions crackle with passion, beautiful melodies and clever lyrics sung in an edgy vocal style all her own. Lappa has toured Canada entrancing audiences at Edmonton Folk Music Festival, Calgary Folkfest, Canmore Folkfest, and Ottawa Blues Festival. She’s opened for Crash Test Dummies, Jenn Grant, Digging Roots, Reignwolf, Basia Bulat, Buffy Sainte-Marie, Mike Plume and Leeroy Stagger.

A Canadian Folk Music Awards and multiple Edmonton Music Awards winner, Lappa was a top 5 regional finalist in CBC Searchlight 2018 and charted nationally on campus radio. Using an Edmonton Arts Council grant, she’s recording new music in 2019/20 with Producer Louise Burns of 604 Records. With her powerful vocals and honest stories, Lappa is an emerging Canadian talent who is clearly “one to watch”. - The Partae.com, Oct 2, 2020


"Rebecca Lappa, Lady Godiva: Exclusive Premiere"

Rebecca Lappa takes a bareback ride into history with her defiantly provocative new single Lady Godiva — premiering exclusively on Tinnitist.

“The song was inspired by the historical figure Lady Godiva, and the concept of doing things that you are passionate about,” the Edmonton singer-songwriter says in a press release. “Not letting other people’s judgment stand in your way.”

Taken from Lappa’s upcoming EP Taking Flight, the bold indie-rock ode to female empowerment was co-written in a Toronto Socan Song Camp session with Guillermo Subauste and recorded with southern Alberta folk-rock poster boy Leeroy Stagger at Rebeltone Ranch Studios.
Taking Flight highlights Lappa’s moody folk roots and mixes them with undertones of desert rock and high-energy indie pop. These songs pull out the passionate experiences of what it means to be human with themes of love and escapism — but stories remain at the forefront of this musical experience. And as always, her compositions crackle with passion, beautiful melodies and clever lyrics sung in an edgy vocal style all her own.

Lappa’s fearless fusion of influences has her cresting the wave of Canada’s best contemporary singer-songwriters. She has toured Canada and entranced audiences at Edmonton Folk Music Festival, Calgary Folkfest, Canmore Folkfest and Ottawa Blues Festival. She’s opened for Crash Test Dummies, Jenn Grant, Digging Roots, Reignwolf, Basia Bulat, Buffy Sainte-Marie, Mike Plume and Leeroy Stagger. She has taken home Canadian Folk Music Awards and multiple Edmonton Music Awards, charted nationally on campus radio and was a top-five regional finalist in Searchlight 2018. With her powerful vocals and honest stories, Lappa is an emerging Canadian talent who is clearly one to watch.

Check out Lady Godiva above, hear more from Rebecca Lappa below, and connect with her via her website, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. - Tinnitist.com, Sept 30, 2020


"Canadian Music Week Announces Dates for the Virtual Jim Beam National Talent Search"

TORONTO, Aug. 12, 2020 /CNW/ - Canadian Music Week (CMW) is pleased to announce the Jim Beam National Talent Search Tour will take place virtually September 26 – October 3, 2020, with 30-minute episodes spotlighting five bands from eight Canadian cities. Hosted by Josie Dye of Indie88, each of the resulting regional webisodes will be streamed via Indies.ca and cmw.net/music plus Vimeo, Facebook Live and YouTube as well as partnering radio stations across the country.


Canadian Music Week is pleased to announce the Jim Beam National Talent Search Tour will take place virtually September 26 – October 3, 2020, with 30-minute episodes spotlighting five bands from eight Canadian cities. (CNW Group/Canadian Music Week)
CMW and the Jim Beam National Talent Search Tour has provided 40 of Canada's best new bands with their own virtual stage, ownership of their own recordings, and starring roles in this musical event that could rewrite the way homegrown independent talent is discovered. Each episode will focus on one city and feature interviews and performances from five local bands. Fans are invited to vote for their favourite band to play live at the Jim Beam INDIES in 2021 at www.indies.ca.

The 40 bands have already began recording the Jim Beam National Talent Search episodes during socially-distanced sessions, which will be edited so each indie artist or group will sound their best and shine online. All 40 artists will also receive a master tape of the multi-track sound recording and the accompanying multi-camera video to be used in any way they wish to promote themselves.

"What, in previous years, would have been a chance for one band to play live at the Jim Beam INDIES in Toronto for a crowd of about 1000, will now be a career calling-card for 40 bands representing priceless international exposure that will serve these artists for years to come," said Canadian Music Week president Neill Dixon. "CMW's national talent search webcast presents a way to preserve an invaluable talent initiative that was already underway when the pandemic shut us all down."

Unfortunately, on the eve of the first showcase, live gatherings were banned across Canada and CMW itself was eventually cancelled for the duration of 2020 due to COVID-19. Canadian Music Week has used this challenging landscape as an opportunity to find new ways of supporting independent artists and industry by providing a safe, online platform for artists to showcase, and for career development with the Virtual Voices (Online Webinar Series).


For the last 37 years, Canadian Music Week is Canada's leading annual entertainment event dedicated to the expression and growth of the country's music, media and entertainment industries. Combining multifaceted information-intensive conferences; a trade exposition; awards shows and the nation's largest new music festival which spans five nights of performances, with hundreds of showcasing bands at more than 40 live music venues in downtown Toronto.

Virtual Jim Beam National Talent Search Tour
September 26 – October 3, 2020
Streaming Nightly at 7pm ET
FREE at www.indies.ca

September 26 – Vancouver
featuring Redwoods / Small Town Artillery / Raincity / Gnarfunkel / Maddie King

September 27 – Calgary
featuring Jon Martin and Lovers / Justine Giles / ROOKS / Youngbloods / Krissy Fenia

September 28 – Edmonton
featuring Rebecca Lappa / Kane Ingocnito / Jacquie Daniels and the Jokers / RIELL / Shawnee

September 29 – Saskatoon
featuring Afterglow / Aurora Bella / Alexandra Beck /
Phoenix and the Silvervoodoos Tumbleweeds / Kaye & Co.

September 30 – Toronto
featuring Dustin Bird / VILIVANT / Goodnight, Sunrise / Parasona / Autumn Kings

October 1 – Ottawa
featuring CZN / Paragon Cause / The Tackies / The Wilderness / The Lionlyls

October 2 – Montreal
featuring December Rose / The Day Dreamers / Brittany Kennell /
Patrick Rock / Cowboy Meets Pirate

October 3 – Halifax
featuring The Blue Lane / Elyse Aeryn / Wheeler / The Collective / Carry The Lost

Live streams via Indies.ca and cmw.net/music
plus Vimeo, Facebook Live and YouTube

SOCIAL:
https://www.facebook.com/canadianmusicweek/
https://twitter.com/CMW_Week
https://www.instagram.com/canadianmusicweek/

SOURCE Canadian Music Week


For further information: Media Contact: Damien Nelson, damien@wantandable.ca - Newswire.ca, Aug 12, 2020


"Starlite Sessions Artist of the Day"

With the current pandemic, the state of the music and touring industry has dramatically changed. Where were you when everything was brought to a halt?

I was just about to fly to Vancouver to finish recording an EP with Louise Burns at 604 studios.

How has that affected your plans for the coming months? Did you have a tour planned, upcoming album release?

I was planning on doing some summer touring and festivals. I was also planning on releasing an EP.

What have you been doing to fill/make the most of your new-found free time at home?

Honestly, I don't have a lot of free time. I was taking some university classes online until the end of June. But I have started an online song series where I post a new cover every Sunday. I have also been cowriting lots, and taking workshops from SAC, and Indie Week online.

What was the first thing you did/place you went to now the country is starting to slowly re-open?

I think the first thing I did was go to the Remedy Cafe on 124th st. I basically live on chai lattes so getting the chance to go get one again made my day haha.

Favourite Starlite Room Moment?

I think my favourite Starlite room moment was when Peter and I opened for Reign Wolf. I don't get stage fright, but that crowd was very intimidating. playing in front of that crowd and not having them throw beer cans at us was a thrilling experience. The crowd really seemed to enjoy themselves when we were playing. Watching Reign Wolf was also super cool. those guys stage presence is incredible. I also met a guy dressed as Santa that night which was pretty funny too.

Do you have a message for everyone at home reading this?

Things change, but that doesn't always mean it is for the worst. When obstacles come your way it gives you the opportunity to grow, and learn something new. - Starlitesessions.com, Aug 10, 2020


"Starlite Room and ESO setting the gold standard for Edmonton pandemic broadcasters"

Recently we looked at some of our standout pandemic broadcasters in Edmonton’s theatre community — hilarious, independent performers like Caroline Stokes, Jesse Gervais and Marielle Elizabeth, whose sudden and ongoing inventiveness on Instagram is truly next level innovation.

This time, switching to music, we’re going to examine the practices of some of the most captivating output the city has been delivering online during the pandemic, and what lessons these institutions might pass on to our festivals, as they move to experiment with broadcasting on their given dates.



To put on a critic hat for a second, I’d say Starlite Room and the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra rose to the top in both production value and ease of access, which is a subtly crucial factor: being able to look at the shows whenever you want, even after a live broadcast.

As novel as it is to watch a live stream online and feel you’re part of a digital audience — and please keep tapping those hearts on Facebook Live, people! — let’s face it: on a sunny dusk it’s easy to blow off or even forget an artist you love was doing a concert on Instagram at 8 p.m. Thursday.


And one bad live connection can sour an experience fast.

This was in fact exactly what happened when the ESO tried out its first streamed show early in the lockdown, as cellist Raphael Hoekman and pianist Jeremy Spurgeon played Tchaikovsky live on Facebook at the Winspear in cooperation with the National Arts Council.

Tested multiple times in advance including that day, when the feed went live it glitched out like mad — sound cutting out, image freezing — though the comments section was supportive of even just the idea of trying to connect.

“There was already 1,000 people watching — people watching from South Africa,” explains the ESO’s Allan Cabral with a laugh. “Troubleshooting on the spot, I thought, ‘Let’s try the good old restart!’ And the second attempt was way better.”

Cabral is in the branding and marketing department of the Winspear-ESO organization, but with the cancellations, his role shifted to in-house filmmaker. “It was a really quick learning curve,” he says.

Note to incoming would-be broadcasters: “You try it and you see what works. If it fails, that’s ok — you just learn from it. You need to be very agile and trust your instincts.”

After the troublesome live feed, Cabral switched to recording performances — often a couple takes — then edits them to include multiple angles, even B-roll of the city. Performances have so far included heart-wrenching violin solos by the incredible Robert Uchida and Virginie Gagne with Sarah Ho on piano, and a Mother’s Day program with Tatiana and Mikolaj Warszynski — violin and piano.


Cabral notes, for him, audio is the most important building block. “This is the Winspear Centre and the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra, so there has to be the highest standard of audio, that really comes first. I won’t start editing the videos unless I have a really good, finalized audio track.”

He talks about the decision to pre-record. “What you hear is the live performance, but, yes, we produce the videos. When we publish them on social media, that really becomes a live party that you can watch with people.”

As festivals strategize, that’s worth noting: you can effectively have a live, interacting audience enjoy a live but pre-recorded show on social media. The musicians wouldn’t be able to hear us clapping, anyway.

That said, the Starlite Room has been doing an amazing job of streaming shows live, including marimba act Bliss Band with Rebecca Lappa, Humble, Jay Gilday, the Dice Cubes, Ayla Brook and the Sound Men, and others.

I was admittedly dubious about these — how could it possibly translate? But watching the bands perform live on the big stage under the lights — even the recorded feed afterwards — was fantastic: our own Austin City Limits.

Find them all at starlitesessions.com/feature-sessions-concerts.



The fact is, you can absolutely feel the love between the performers. Playing a 4/20 show, Mark McGowan of the McGowan Family Band notes, “Yeah, I watched it and it really had that concert feel instead of the quarantine solo feel.


“One of the regulations set up by Alberta Health Services was you have to set up six feet apart. We’re a big band that really does rely on crowd interaction. We feel the energy from the crowd, the dancing — it lifts us up.

“But even just ourselves, the fact we hadn’t seen each other as a complete group for months, we were just feeding of the energy of each other.”

For the streams, Starlite co-owner Tyson Boyd notes the key for the live confidence is to have excellent people on audio and video, sound engineer Jason Borys on the former. “He actually sat in a separate room listening to his headphones, treating it like a live-off-the-floor concert recording.

“And we got Kalli Melenius from Freebird Productions, she’s been broadcasting for rodeos. It’s a lot of expensive gear that takes up floor space, which doesn’t mix so well with a packed show and beers — but with a wide-open floor now we don’t have those concerns. She sets up a couple tripods on the raised platform, there’s a camera up in that old DJ booth, and she just works off a video controller.

“Other than that it’s just hardline Internet. It ended up being great.”

Of course, there’s a matter of making any money off these shows, and the venue has been asking for donations online.

“The monetizing online, that’s the biggest learning curve for us. A couple shows we almost covered cost,” Boyd laughs. “If we build a bit of an audience, maybe with sponsorships, we can really make it work in time.


At a press conference last week hosted by NDP culture critic Nicole Goehring, Boyd noted, “We will be playing a vital role in Alberta’s economic recovery and that needs to be recognized.

“We’re really lucky to have an incredible support group and audience. We hate to ask anything of them, but it would be great to help educate your municipal governments, write your MLA. Help just kind of create some noise for us.”

The next Starlite Session on Facebook is Jake Ian’s album release 7:30 p.m. June 6.

Over at Winspear, a show will see Jeremy Spurgeon playing the David Concert Organ — the 9 a.m. Friday show will be archived online. And 9 a.m. June 21, ESO cellists and married couple Meran Currie-Roberts and Rafael Hoekman will play, accompanied by their son Samuel on piano for Father’s Day.

As far as festivals hoping to broadcast, Boyd is encouraging: aim high. “It’s kind of a brave new world. I myself am interesting in going ambitious, but I’m all for it.

“I’d encourage people to explore more ambitious options rather than just throw Jim Cuddy in a bedroom with a guitar.”

fgriwkowsky@postmedia.com

@fisheyefoto - Edmonton Journal, May 28, 2020


"No Stone Left Alone"

Rebecca Lappa's No Stone Left Alone song opens and closes the special. - Global National, Dawna Friesen, Nov. 11, 2019


"Two Songs Related to Remembrance Day"

As we remember those lost in wars, you might want to take a look/listene to Edmonton-based singer-songwriter Rebecca Lappa who has two songs based on November 11. - A Journal of Musical Things, Nov. 11, 2019


"Music Preview: Indie Star Lissie Stars at the Starlite Room"

Opening for Lissie is a local that has been around the music scene for a lot longer than one would think: Rebecca Lappa. She’s been nominated for a Canadian Folk Music Award a very impressive five times already, and has one win to her name. She’s also won the coveted Adult Alternative Recording of the Year award from the Edmonton Music Awards.

From her home base on her farm in Iowa, Lissie has become an indie sensation.

The Indiana-born country-folk artist seen every one of her first four studio albums grab a spot in the top 15 of the US Folk chart, and the last two have accomplished the same feat on the US Indie chart. Many of her tracks have graced movies and television shows since her very first releases, with notable inclusions in Veronica Mars, House, Grey’s Anatomy, and Californication.

Playing at the Starlite Room on Thursday night, Lissie is known known to have an intense energy onstage, her live gigs having become fairly legendary in many respects, whilst her studio recordings are much more polished, much more refined. So it’s no surprise that for many fans,the two live recordings she’s already released – 2011’s Live At Sheperd’s Bush Empire, and 2016’s Live At Union Chapel – are perhaps even more important to her catalog. Both are tremendously historic venues, with many other artists releasing live recordings from the two sites, including Procol Harum, All About Eve, and Ezio.

For her other fans more enticed by the studio recordings, Lissie went even further this year, releasing a sort-of “best of,” with stripped down versions of various tracks, played with nothing but a piano, in an album she titled When I’m Alone: The Piano Retrospective. It also includes a cover of Dreams by Fleetwood Mac, one of her biggest influences. - Gigcity.ca, Sept11,2019, Michael Senchuk


"Lineups Announced for Annual Party in the Park"

ADJUST
COMMENT
PRINT
Whitecourt and the surrounding communities are gearing up for another fun-filled weekend at the Party in the Park festival.

The event will take place on June 14 and 15 at Rotary Park featuring two days of music, art, food and family fun.

Friday night’s line up contains opening bands such as Uptown and Derina Harvey Band with headliner Coleman Hell.

Saturday will feature headliner Doc Walker with opening bands including Renegade Station, Canadian Coldwater Revival, Rebecca Lappa and many more.

“There’s a little something for everyone,” said Courtney Milford, arts and culture co-ordinator with the Town of Whitecourt. “We’re trying to blend it a little more … we’re not sticking with just country and classic rock days.

STORY CONTINUES BELOW


“We’re trying to make it a bit more fluid so it appeals to a few more people. We were able to hammer out something that we’re proud of and we like … we think people will be really happy with this year’s line up.”

Party in the Park was launched in 2007 and has since become a staple of summer fun in Whitecourt.

“The entire event was launched to bring the community together,” Milford said. “I don’t know of any other free festival (in the area), especially one of this calibre.”

Milford added that the music festival will feature a variety of local talent including Joe Public and Midnite Special.

The event will also have inflatables, face painting, balloon art, a beer garden and artisan market.

A singer/songwriter workshop with Rebecca Lappa instructing is being organized for the morning of June 15 that will have a youth jam afterwards.

“We’re still looking for three or four more kids to participate,” said Milford.

This year, Party in the Park is also looking more towards food trucks rather than tents to create a more engaging and food festival vibe.

“We’re really grateful for the sponsors and the support from Whitecourt/Woodlands Tourism and the Town of Whitecourt,” said Milford.

The festival is still looking for volunteers, artisans and teen performers for in-between the main acts. Anyone wishing to participate can contact Courtney Milford at courtneymilford@whitecourt.ca. - Regina Leader Post, Taryn Brandell, May 15, 2019


"10 Things to Do in Edmonton"

The end of 2018 was a significant time for Edmonton’s own Rebecca Lappa, who teamed up with producer Michael Hanson (of Glass Tiger fame) for her first single on Hanson’s indie label, Radar Love Records. Poison Rose shows Lappa tweaking her folk-rock roots with a gloss of pop-rock and dance beats. The 21-year-old singer-songwriter has been a fixture in town since her early teens, picking up five Canadian Folk Music Award nominations and winning one, for her 2015 album Tattered Rose.

When: Friday, Jan. 4 at 7 p.m.

Where: The Art of Cake, 11811 105 Ave.

Admission: Free

Info: rebeccalappa.com - Edmonton Journal, Tom Murray, Jan. 1, 2019


"It's the Annual Christmas Special with Rebecca Lappa and Tim Chesterton"

2nd Annual Christmas Special of live music - CJSR It Takes a Village, Dec.11/18


""No Stone Left Alone" performance by Spirit of Vimy award winning songwriter"

Rebecca Lappa sings her original song for the No Stone Left Alone ceremony. - Global News Edmonton, Nov.5th, 2018


"Socan Songhouse Inspires Songwriters during Breakout West 2018"

SOCAN SONG HOUSE INSPIRES SONGWRITERS DURING BREAKOUT WEST 2018
Story by Howard Druckman | October 18, 2018

For two days at the 2018 BreakOut West festival and conference in Kelowna, BC, the SOCAN Song House provided 12 member participants the opportunity to develop the craft of writing songs. The session was led by hit songwriter/producer Brian Howes, and organized on-site by SOCAN A&R Representative Racquel Villagante.

The participating songwriters, all from Western Canada, were Rebecca Emms, Brady Frank, Scott Henderson, Zach Kleisinger, Rebecca Lappa, Olivia Lunny, Sam Lynch, Dylan MacDonald (of The Middle Coast), Sammi Morelli, Jacqueline Muzichuk, Aaron Parker, and Tatiana Zagorac (a.k.a.TallTale).

BreakOut West, SOCAN Song House, 2018The first day of the workshop they presented half-written songs and were given individualized feedback and critique by Howes. They re-worked these songs and re-presented them to the group. On the second day, they were partnered up, and co-wrote with each other to come up with new songs that fused their styles and strengths together.

All 12 SOCAN songwriters came away with new co-write connections, new songs for their repertoire, and a more comprehensive understanding of what it takes to write a hit song.

Sammi Morreli left the Song House saying, “I’m still buzzing from an incredible week at the #SOCANSongHouse! Sooo grateful for SOCAN providing songwriters like us with incredible opportunities to grow and connect like this! Huge shout out to Brian Howes for leading the workshop, and Racquel Villagante for making it all happen!”

Tatiana Zagorac, published by Cymba Music Publishing said, “Thank you so so much to SOCAN for including me in your Song House at Breakout West this year. I couldn’t imagine a kinder and cooler group of artists, a more fun and sassy organizer than Racquel Villagante, or a better mentor than Brian Howes. I’m gonna really remember this one.”

Dylan MacDonald said, “I just wanted to say thanks for a great experience this week through the SOCAN workshop. You did such a great job of facilitating a fun, comfortable and creative space. I have returned home feeling very inspired.” - Socan Magazine: Words and Music, Oct. 18, 2018 by Howard Druckman


"Young Artist Brings Musical Fusion to Kelowna"

Songstress Rebecca Lappa will strum her guitar and bring her historically based folk-pop-rock fusion music to Kelowna.

The 21 year-old is touring her EP ‘Spirit’ along with her band who has won awards at The Canadian Folk Music Awards and Edmonton Music Awards writes music that is based in story telling and self exploration.

“In this album I explored different parts of the human spirit, there is a song about the spirit of love, the spirit of adventure and the courage. There are so many aspects to what people do, people wish that they could go on an adventure like Amelia Earhart— a lot of people feel trapped in their own lives and my song ‘Looking for Amelia’ is about finding her sense of adventure within your own life,” Lappa said.

Lappa finds herself drawing more and more inspiration from history and her folk music roots allows her to tell the stories in a modern tone to a “good beat that people can get up and dance to.”

Related: Sister Speak returns to Okanagan roots

“I love history, there are a lot of interesting characters and since I like to write stories in my music, I find it very easy to make these characters come back to life,” Lappa said.

The heavily awarded young artist will preform at Milkcrate Records Wednesday evening with her band, The Revelry, Nick Samoil, Madi Myhre and Peter Joshua - Kelowna Capital News, Sydney Morton, August 27, 2018


"Rebecca Lappa and The Revelry"

Folk-pop-rock artist Rebecca Lappa will be performing at Milkcrate Records on Aug. 29.

Lappa and her band, the Revelry, met at MacEwan University in Edmonton in 2016. They will be stopping in Kelowna on their way back from Rogue Arts Festival, on the Sunshine Coast.

Lappa released her EP ‘Spirit’ at the end of 2017. According to her website, “the songs on the EP reflect the human spirit and highlight courage, adventure, change and love.”

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Music starts at 7. - The Daily Courier, Aug 12, 2018


"Your Edmonton Folk Music Festival Preview"

Your Edmonton Folk Music Festival preview


Festival producer Terry Wickham fills you in on this year's artists to watch for


Katherine Duncan · CBC News · Posted: Jul 31, 2018 2:36 PM MT | Last Updated: July 31

Thousands of music lovers flock to the Edmonton Folk Music Festival every year. (Edmonton Folk Music Festival)
This week, meet Terry Wickham, the producer of the Edmonton Folk Music Festival. This year's edition is happening Aug. 9-12.


'I'm very proud of this festival,' Folk Fest producer Terry Wickham said on the last day of the 2017 festival. (CBC)
You'll hear about who he's chosen to play, how he makes his choices and which Alberta artists will take to the stage of Gallagher Park this summer.

Local performers include:

Rebecca Lappa, whose song Valiant of Vimy has won her several awards
multi-award-winning storyteller in song, Maria Dunn
veteran folk troubadour Scott Cook
folkways researcher and songwriter Dana Wylie
new talents Travis Matthews and St.Arnaud
​​Listen to the Key of A, Saturday 5-6 p.m. on CBC Radio One. - CBC Radio One, Key of A, Katherine Duncan, July 31 2018


"Edmonton Folkfest Line Up"

Edmonton folk fest 2018 lineup includes Buffy, Neko, Franti, Ry Cooder

FISH GRIWKOWSKY, EDMONTON JOURNAL 05.30.2018

Edmonton folk fest 2018 lineup includes Buffy, Neko, Franti, Ry Cooder
Buffy Sainte-Marie is coming to Edmonton Folk Music Festival, which runs Aug. 9 - 12.FISH GRIWKOWSKY / EDMONTON JOURNAL

This year’s Edmonton Folk Music Festival lineup includes a solid number of luminaries, returning faces and fan favourites — including mind-blowing live act Buffy Sainte-Marie; the ever-inventive Neko Case; Flatlander Jimmie Dale Gilmore & Bill Kirchen (just don’t pester the former about The Big Lebowski); superproducer guitarist Ry Cooder; NYC post-rock trio City of the Sun; the crowd-pleasing Michael Franti & Spearhead; Ferron and Her All-Star Band; California indie musician Nick Waterhouse — frequent producer of the Allah-Las; as well as already-announced Regina Spektor, known lately for her Orange is the New Black title song.

Making up for their weather-wary cancelled slots last year are Shakey Graves and the Decemberists. Festival producer Terry Wickham explains, “It took a while before we confirmed both. They needed to line up some routing dates. I didn’t think The Decemberists was going to happen, but then, suddenly, it did.”

North Country Fair superstar Scott Cook will also give the proceedings some of his thoughtful, local musical parables. Wickham also suggests people take a look at Mt. Joy and Tash Sultana.



As far as the ever-evolving infrastructure goes: “A few tweaks to the beer tent. The area inside the beer tent will go all the way to the front of the stage — more room, great seating. We will try to get a small viewing area at the top of the beer tent for Stage 2 … this may or may not work.”


Two video screens will be added to the front of Main Stage as well.

At the press conference Wednesday morning, Wickham noted the festival was ready for marijuana legalization, should it come into effect by then. “We’re going to treat it somewhere between beer and cigarettes. We’re not going to sell it. We’re going to have smoking areas, two signs. One will be a cigarette, one will be like a cigarette, but not quite. The rules aren’t quite out there yet.

“We don’t know even when it’s going to be legalized — we know it’s not going to be July 1.

“I honestly don’t think it’s going to be a big deal. Probably not much change from what’s been going on the last 25 years,” he says with a smile.

The festival runs Thursday, Aug. 9, through Sunday, Aug. 12.

Tickets go on sale at 9 a.m. on June 2 at the EFMF office (10115 97A Ave.), then at 10 a.m. the same day through the various forms of Ticketmaster.

A full breakdown of all the ways in is at edmontonfolkfest.org — including $65 Friday, $75 Saturday and Sunday daily tickets, $189 non-transferrable personal pass and a transferable, $219 four-pack — 11 and under and 80 and up slip through the gates free. Prices bump up in July.

And now, here’s the full artist list — subject to weather, cancellation or plagues of bats:

Alex Cuba

Alice Phoebe Lou

Amos Garrett & the House Band

Anderson East

Breabach

The Bros. Landreth

Buffy Sainte-Marie

Chastity Brown

City of the Sun

DakhaBrakha

David Lindley

The Decemberists

Devon Gilfillian

Don Bryant feat. the Bo-Keys

Ferron and Her All Star Band

Glenn Skuthorpe

Gregory Alan Isakov

Gunning & Cormier

Hurray for the Riff Raff

James Keelaghan

Jayme Stone’s Folklife

Jenn Grant

Jimmie Dale Gilmore & Bill Kirchen

John Craigie

John Reischman & the Jaybirds

Jon and Roy

Jon Brooks

Kaia Kater

Las Cafeteras

Les Poules à Colin

Lord Huron

Máirtín O’Connor Trio with Iarla Ó Lionáird Maria Dunn

Martin Simpson

Michael Franti & Spearhead The Milk Carton Kids

Molly Tuttle

Molsky’s Mountain Drifters Mt. Joy

Neko Case

Nick Mulvey

Nick Waterhouse

Ray Bonneville

Regina Spektor

Rev. Sekou

Robert Francis

Rura

Russell deCarle

Ry Cooder

School of Song (Dana Wylie, Rebecca Lappa, St. Arnaud, Travis Matthews)

Scott Cook and the Second Chances

Shakey Graves

Shakura S’Aida

Sharon Shannon

Sidi Touré

Son Little

Sona Jobarteh

The StepCrew

Steve Poltz

Tash Sultana

This is The Kit

Tinariwen

Trio Da Kali

Twin Bandit

The Wailin’ Jennys

The War and Treaty - Regina Leader-Post, Fish Griwkowsky, May 30, 2018


"What She Said interview and performance"

No text available - 105.9 The Region Radio, April 25, 2018


"Songwriting with a Purpose"

Songwriting with a purpose; Rebecca Lappa
Part way through her cross-country tour which began in her hometown of Edmonton, Alberta, singer/songwriter Rebecca Lappa stopped in at the Song Talk Radio studio to share two original songs. She was accompanied on piano by the talented musician Nick Samoil. We talked about:

releasing your first album at the age of 12
FACTOR grants
Canada’s Music Incubator
metaphor list as a writing tool
co-writes
the story is the thing
a song about a Vimy Ridge hero
1st or 2nd person in a song
Listen to the show - Songtalk.ca, Bruce Harrot, Neel Modi and Phil Emery, March 27, 2018


"Gritty and Intimate Folk Rock Stories"

Edmontonian Rebecca Lappa is one of Canada's brightest new voices. She has won Canadian Folk Music Awards and Edmonton Music Awards. Her music is a blend of folk, pop and rock, and showcases her powerful vocals and thought-provoking lyrics.

In December, Lappa released her new folk-rock EP, Spirit, featuring the song Valiant of Vimy, which won the lieutenant governor of Alberta's Spirit of Vimy contest.

Lappa performs at the Townehouse Tavern, 206 Elgin St., on March 1. Here, she takes some time to answer The Star's 10Q.

1. Describe your sound in seven words

Gritty folk rock stories; intimate to unbridled.

2. Tell us about your first concert.

The first concert I went to was the Dixie Chicks. Great vocals and an all-girl band. It was awesome, inspiring and fun.

3. Why do you gravitate towards folk/roots music? How does it speak to you?

I love telling good stories. While you can tell stories in most genres of music, folk music gives you the most freedom. A good song is more than a hook and rhythm, it should tell the listener something and make them feel it. Even when I venture into more pop rock, I try to bring the storytelling with me.

4. What's your most memorable stage moment?

Bar Lethbridge and telling a joke to Crockpot girl about Millionaire Matchmaker and this drunk guy yells out that's the best joke ever, can I use that.

I got to play a tweener spot on the Edmonton Folk Festival stage. There were thousands of people filling the side of a valley all actively listening to me. It was awesome and humbling and made me want to make music my career. To be able to reach out and touch all of those people with my music was the best high ever.

5. You're heading out on tour. What are you most excited and nervous about? What are you most looking forward to?

This isn't my first tour, but is definitely my longest tour and the farthest I have toured from home. I am excited to see parts of Canada I have never been to before. I am most looking forward to playing for new people and meeting new people. I am most nervous about driving across Canada in the middle of winter. Being from the west, I always think of the east as settled and full of people, then I really looked at the map between Winnipeg and Sudbury and saw all this wilderness.

6. Name an influence that might surprise readers.

One of my favourite artists and influences is Halestorm. She has a great voice and stage presence, plus she tells great stories from unexpected perspectives even though she is a hard rock artist.

7. Share with us your writing process.

My primary instrument is my voice so I start with lyrics and melody first. Sometimes I am inspired by an event or story or something from history. Other times I have an idea first and then gather words and phrases that fit the theme. Then the words and melody start to come together and from them flows the chords and rhythm that match.

8. What are you trying to convey through your music?

Mostly I am just trying to tell good stories, but generally my themes are about people finding themselves or their inner strength. Stories about ordinary people facing their lives and rising to the occasion.

9. What do you hope to achieve in the next year?

I hope to tour more. Work as a musician. Sign with a record label I am talking with. Record a new CD and share my music with as many people as I can.

10. What are you reading right now?

Thorn Queen by Richelle Mead. I like fantasy fiction with women heroes as the main characters. - The Sudbury Star, Feb 22/2018


"Young Singer Catches her Breath as Another Busy Year Starts"

The holiday season is a quiet time for many unless you’re a musician. In that case you might feel as if entertaining other people never stops.

Catching up with rising star Rebecca Lappa on the last day of 2017 found the local folk-pop singer-songwriter just back from a gig at the airport where she was playing solo with her guitar.

“I’ve done a lot of stuff this year,” she admits.

Much of her busy year was spent performing with her band The Revelry. They’re playing Blues On Whyte on Monday and Tuesday, and she’s on stage at several other venues during January.


Lappa is following up on the momentum that comes with a just-released E.P. of new songs called Spirit, her graduation from MacEwan University’s music program last spring, and her first real extended tour of Alberta and Saskatchewan last summer.

She has been writing stories and songs since age nine and has looked for themes beyond her own life for years now. Spirit is an apt name for an eclectic set of tunes that ends with her ode, Alberta, A Love I Can’t Fight.

“When I started to write it, I thought, what if Alberta was a dude?”

Suffice to say, the dude would be flattered. Another aspect of Spirit that inspired Lappa was the story of Amelia Earhart. She and her co-writer Rob Heath did a lot of research on the lost pilot.

“She was such an adventurous person. I guess I was trying to suggest that you might find a little piece of Amelia inside yourself.”

Lately she’s been actively pursuing co-writing opportunities for the “positive learning experience” that comes in collaborating with another brain. The song Work My Prayers is a co-write with Vancouver’s Doug Folkins about travelling,

But the number that really pushes you to stop and reflect is Valiant of Vimy. Lappa’s song won a competition hosted by Alberta’s Lieutenant Governor last year to mark the 100th anniversary of the Canadian victory at Vimy Ridge, a crucial battle that serves as one of Canada’s greatest triumphs despite the many soldiers who were lost. She got a trip to Vimy for her winning song.

“I try to imagine myself in different situations. Obviously I had never been in that situation but I did research people who had won the Victoria Cross at Vimy Ridge, especially the story of Pte. John Pattisson, that was so heartbreaking and heroic. It was very moving to go there and tour the cemeteries, and it was rainy and cold so I got a small taste of the conditions soldiers would have been fighting under. And most of them were 20 years old, which coincidentally, is how old I was.”

The singer credits her time at MacEwan for a lot, especially when it comes to learning about different styles and genres of music, but the overall experience was valuable in a few ways.

“I was singing every day so that helped a lot on its own but it’s also just lots of fun to work and play with other people.”

Finding her band The Revelry – Nick Samoil on keys, Madi Myhre’s bass, Evan Stewart’s drums – was one connection that came out of the program. The experience also left her sound leaning towards more of a rock style, which already came through on Reckless Heart (2016), her last full-length album which found her teaming up with Calgary producer Russell Broom.

“I have stories I want to share that wouldn’t fit so easily into the folk genre like my other stuff and I have other songs I haven’t recorded yet that are more in the pop-rock swing of things. That’s probably the direction I’m heading towards.”

After Reckless Heart, the Spirit E.P. is Lappa’s seventh release overall. In just a year and a half The Revelry have already put in over 100 gigs, a notable accomplishment for an artist still just 20. Her 2015 album Tattered Rose won her the Canadian Folk Music Award after four previous nominations.

And 2018 is looking like another busy year for Lappa. While she’s already pretty marketing savvy for her age, the singer heads down to Toronto in March to participate in a 10-week program geared to the business side of music making, called the Coalition Music Incubator. After that she’s hoping her band will be able to book themselves into an even longer season of summer touring.

In the meantime you can hear Lappa and The Revelry at Blues on Whyte Monday and Tuesday. She’s also playing Art of Cake Friday night, The Billiard Club on Jan. 11, and Cask And Barrel on Jan. 20. - Edmonton Journal, Roger Levesque, Jan 4, 2018


"Social Seen: Big Dreamer Jam"

Photo of Rebecca at the Big Dreamer Jam - Edmonton Journal, Codie McLachlan, Jan6/18


"Rebecca Lappa Releases 7th Album"

Local singer-songwriter Rebecca Lappa has now put out more albums than most artists with decades of experience.

The 20-year-old released album number seven, Spirit, on December 14 at a venue on Whyte Ave.

"It was a lot of fun. I think there was more people at that CD release party than I've ever had at one before," said Lappa.

It's not easy to categorize the music into one genre but that was the goal Lappa had in mind when she entered the studio.

"This album is a little more concise style-wise in the sense that there's not 50 billion different styles going on. We narrowed our focus to something more folk-rock."

Up next for Lappa is a trip to Ontario where she will enroll in the Canada Music Incubator Program learning about everything from the creative to business side of the industry.

Spirit is available on any major music platform.

https://youtu.be/LfW7uVto4NM - Fort Sask Online, Ryan Connop, Dec 31/17


"Rebecca Lappa- Live at the Brick and Whiskey"

What a voice! Well, it didn’t take long to re-connect with Rebecca Lappa, the singer in the background of the Short Story Dispensary GEM. Tonight we caught Rebecca Live at the Brick and Whiskey releasing her latest album Spirit. She’s got that voice that everyone loves, and lyrics that are very mature and deeply poetic at times. No wonder as she has been nominated for a Canadian Folk Music Award and she is a winner of a Edmonton Music Award. I encourage you to buy one of her albums or just familiarize yourself with her. Enjoy the blog video.
https://youtu.be/IiSp6tW92I0 - Daily Gem, December 15, 2017, Jarvis Popovich


"Rebecca Lappa on CJSR"

Rebecca Lappa on It Takes a Village with host Rhea March - CJSR, Dec.12/17, Rhea March


"Rebecca Lappa: Local Ray of Sunshine Releases New EP"

It was hard not to be impressed by the degree of professionalism and heart Edmonton’s folk sweetheart Rebecca Lappa displayed during BeatRoute’s interview with her. She walked in with not only a pile of CDs to reference but an impactful resume highlighting her career achievements, none of which she presented with any illusion of grandeur. Lappa’s earnest approach to her craft is undoubtedly one of the reasons she’s been flown to Vimy Ridge for winning the Spirit of Vimy song writing contest, won a Canadian Folk Music Award (nominated five times total) and shared the stage with several notable artists including Basia Bulat, Scenic Route to Alaska and more.

She has been releasing music since she was in grade eight, ranging from folk to twangier alt country and even a little bit of rock n roll. The constant has always been her passion for songwriting.

“It’s my dream to write songs for other people for a living,” she explains, beaming. “That’s why I went to MacEwan to learn more about the instrumental side of writing. I’ve been writing lyrics since I was nine years old. Since then I’ve noticed my stories have gotten more concise and relatable. I used to write a lot about mythological creatures but now I have more personal experiences to draw from. I’ve always loved telling stories.”

Her upcoming EP Spirit showcases her growth as a songwriter, namely in the first track “Valiant of Vimy,” which is the song that won the Spirit of Vimy contest. Her love of storytelling is supplemented by her approach to researching her subjects and bringing them to life in such deeply emotional ways.

“When I first heard about the contest, I didn’t know much about Vimy,” Lappa reveals. “I knew that it happened and many Canadians lost their lives there. So I started looking for a story to write about. I did some research about the Victoria Cross and learned Private John Pattison’s story. It took me about a week to write that song and then I got to go see the Memorial in France. It was sobering.”

The 20 year old also infuses this degree of passion for storytelling into the other three tracks on the album, drawing inspiration from Amelia Earhart, who was the first female aviator to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean.

“When I was a kid I thought she was a superhero and I used to watch documentaries about her,” Lappa says. “The concept of being brave and trying new things was what I was trying to capture with the song ‘Looking for Amelia.’ Finding those qualities within yourself.”

Once Spirit is officially out, Lappa plans on continuing to seek out opportunities to collaborate with other writers, attend song circles around Edmonton and work on new material. As she’s always quite busy performing around Edmonton, she also hopes to take on a more extensive tour schedule in 2018 to see more of Canada and draw inspiration from more life experience.

“I just want to continue writing, performing and touring,” she says, simply. “If that could be the way I earn a living instead of teaching gymnastics or teaching four-year-olds how to play the piano, that would be really great!”

With a disposition inclined toward positivity and a strong work ethic like Lappa’s, there is little doubt she’s one to watch as she continues on her journey to become a full time artist. - Beatroute, Dec. 6, 2017, Brittany Rudyck


"Rebecca Lappa - "Spirit EP""

Rebecca Lappa’s voice sings with fiery passion on the elegant “Spirit EP”. Lyrics focus upon the great moments in life, the ones that come to truly define a person. Vocals possess a great range, going from soaring into the heavens to more hushed, intimate moments. Throughout it all her uncanny ear for melody allows the country-western spirit to truly grow and expand into beautiful terrain. Instrumentally vibrant, a great deal of color is incorporated throughout, allowing from organs and guitars to intermingle in a glorious way.
Things start off just right with the muscular all-consuming energy of “Alberta, A Love I Can’t Fight”. Easily the highlight of the collection, Rebecca Lappa opts for a commanding presence, letting multiple layers of sound to build up into a virtual rush of sound. Far more low-key, “Looking For Amelia” takes on a reflective approach, allowing everything to unfurl with a simple grace. Keeping a light touch works wonders while Rebecca Lappa allows the track to embody a literal journey through the ups and downs of a life lived to the fullest. Martial drums add to the overall intense atmosphere of the epic scope of “Valiant Of Vimy”. Perfectly ending the collection, the playful quality of “Worth My Prayers” simply stuns. From a dreamy organ swell all else comes into focus lending the piece a heavenly hue.
With the “Spirit EP” Rebecca Lappa is a powerful addition to the fine singer-songwriter tradition, crafting thought-provoking stories that linger in the mind. - Skopemag.com, November 28, 2017, Paul Cushman,


"Valiant of Vimy for Remembrance Day"

To open the Key of A for Remembrance Day, hear Rebecca Lappa's Spirit of Vimy contest-winning song, Valiant of Vimy, inspired by the life and tour of duty of Victoria Cross winning Vimy soldier Private John Pattison.


Then hear about some of the Alberta artists helping to warm up winter at two festivals in Calgary, including Block Heater, set to announce their lineup later today.

Big Winter Classic 2018 invites you to their indoor-outdoor club and patio party in January (gotta love the optimism in that statement!). Alberta artists include Edmonton's Altameda.

Calgary-born Tiyanna Amani Stewart, daughter of former Stampeder Tony Stewart, has released a gorgeous new R&B track, Selfless, under the name Amani.


Treeline Records has released Volume 2 in their Taking it To Heart compilation series, with proceeds to the Heart & Stroke foundation. Edmonton's The Wet Secrets donated a previously unreleased track, Tidal Wave of Hate (baby let's surf), while Calgary's Astral Swans offers up an eerie new song called No Home Left in the Head.

Alex Vissia, who you may remember as one of the Vissia Sisters, has released her first album under her new moniker, VISSIA. It's been streaming on CBC Music for a week ahead of today's release. The album is called Place Holder. You'll hear the story behind that name, along with two of the songs.

Plus, folk trio Lighter than Arrows, and the multiple YYC Music award-winning song Untouchable by King Dylan. Check out the video for the song below.


Listen to the Key of A Saturday, 5-6 p.m. on CBC Radio 1. - Key of A on CBC Radio, Katherine Duncan, Nov.11, 2017


"Musician Pays Tribute to Vimy"

Her music tells the tale of history.

Fort Saskatchewan musician, Rebecca Lappa got to experience life in the trenches first hand after winning an October trip to Vimy Ridge through a social media contest.

Lappa won the Spirit of Vimy Ridge social media contest in the spring for the age group 18-24 years, by submitting a lyric video of a song she wrote about Private John George Pattison of Calgary, who had won the Victoria Cross while fighting at Vimy Ridge.

“Pattison decided he would sign up for World War I at the age of 40 because he wanted to go over and look out for his 16 year old son, Henry, who had enlisted,” Lappa explained.

On April 10, 1917, Pattison was fighting at Vimy Ridge and his group was trying to take out a German gunning position but they were stuck. Patterson decided to run and throw grenades at those in the German gunning position and he single handedly took out that position.

Pattison’s story really resonated with Lappa, who then wrote the song titled, Valiant of Vimy Ridge for the contest. She took the trip to France, valued at $4,000 with Nick Samoil from Oct. 20 to 24.

“Just standing there and looking at the amount of graves.... In the German cemetery, depending on how big the cemetery was, one cross could be for six people,” she said.

Seeing first hand how many people were buried in the cemeteries they visited had a real impact on Lappa.

“A lot of people in the cemeteries were my age, I’m 20. It was inspirational just in the sense of their sacrifice and that they decided they were going to try to do something about (the situation at the time) even if it was scary and that’s important for people my age and others to understand, that even if something is scary, you should go do it.”

Experiencing the under ground tunnels and trenches that soldiers would have used left an impact on Lappa as well.

She described the tunnels as cramped and pitch black. When the tour guide turned off the lights and showed them what it would have been like for soldiers in the tunnels, a very small light could only be seen every six to 12 feet.

Lappa said the trenches were so close together that when you stood in one and another person stood in another trench you could look them in the eye.

“It really brought the story I had written about; to life,” she said about the trip. “It made all the things I imagined more realistic and it made it all a lot more sad and it was also very inspirational as well.”

The trip has also changed Lappa’s view on Remembrance Day itself.

“I, one hundred per cent, definitely have a lot more to think about now on Remembrance Day then I did last year,” said Lappa. “Life is a lot more fragile then most people think it is.”

Lappa will perform her song at the Remembrance Day ceremony at Edmonton’s Butterdome on Nov. 11.

She released her single, Valiant of Vimy Ridge, on Nov. 1 and she has an EP being released at the end of December. The lyric video can be found on YouTube.

ldelong@postmedia.com

twitter.com/LeanneDelong - Fort Saskatchewan Record, Nov. 9, 2017, Leanne Delong


"Rebecca Lappa Recaps Powerful Vimy Ridge Trip"

After winning the Spirit of Vimy Contest this past summer, Rebecca Lappa went on an inspiring trip.

The singer-songwriter travelled to France to see Vimy Ridge for the 100th anniversary.

"It was incredible, you don't actually understand how big the monument is until you go near it," said Lappa.

In the contest, she was required to make a video about the WWI battle, which lead to her song 'Valiant of Vimy Ridge' written about an Albertan soldier.

"My grandfather fought in WWII, so I have some of his mementos and things that he had. I've already been interested in history and storytelling so that was a natural thing to do."

Her trip included seeing all of the monuments, graveyards and some sightseeing in Paris.

"Most of the people in the cemeteries were around 20-years-old which is basically how old I am at this point, so that was pretty scary," added Lappa.

To cap off the amazing trip, she has been invited to perform her touching song at the Edmonton Police Services Remembrance Day Ceremony. - fortsaskonline.com, Nov. 7, 2017, Cody Janzen


"Rebecca Lappa on CJSR"

Rebecca Lappa on It Takes a Village show, hosted by Rhea March on CJSR. - CJSR, Nov. 7, 2017, Rhea March


"Edmonton Singer Songwriter Rebecca Lappa back from Vimy Ridge"

Rebecca is interviewed by Gord Steinke on Global News. - Global News TV, Nov. 6, 2017, Gord Steinke


"Rebecca Lappa, Nick Samoil and Dempsy Bolton on CJSR"

Rebecca Lappa and others perform on It Takes a Village, hosted by Rhea March on CJSR. - CJSR, June 13, 2017, Host Rhea March


"Lappa and The Revelry to make Border City Debut"

Edmonton singer/songwriter Rebecca Lappa and the Revelry will be making their way to the Border City for the first time.

On June 9, Lappa and her band will be hitting the stage at the root: community emporium to showcase her latest album, Reckless Heart.

“(The audience) should expect a lot of interesting stories and some great melodies to go along with them,” said Lappa.

The Revelry includes Nick Samoil, keyboard, Madi Myhre, bass and Evan Stewart, drums.

The folk-rock singer is a Canadian Folk Music Awards recipient and an Edmonton Music Awards winner.

“Everything is based on stories I have written. So, we do a lot of storytelling through our music,” she said.

The writing on the album comes from Lappa’s real life experiences or from others.

“I like a lot of history-based stuff, and poetry. I take stories from all of those places and I turn them into music. So, that’s what our (songs) are based on,” she said.

Reading and history have played a huge role in her songwriting, which can be heard in her original song “The Valiant of Vimy Ridge.”

Lappa garnered a lot of attention with the song, as it won the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta’s Spirit of Vimy Ridge contest. Her song was focused on a man named John Pattison.

“When he got there he single handedly took out a gunning position that was being manned by the Germans at Vimy Ridge … he won a Victoria Cross for that. His story was inspiring, so that’s why I decided to write the song about him,” said Lappa.

Winning the contest means she will now get a free trip to Vimy Ridge.

Lappa has been writing music since she was nine years old, and her sound has since evolved into the folk-rock genre.

“I’ve been playing around Edmonton since I was 12,” she said.

“I’m not really sure I got into the folk-rock genre or it just kind of found me.”

Having played in many places across Canada and the United States, Lappa said that was her favourite part, to be able to travel.

“I just enjoy writing and telling people my stories. I feel like if I wasn’t writing I wouldn’t still be doing this, just because the reason I like to play for people is I feel like I have interesting stories I wanted to share with them,” she said.

Playing intimate spaces is fun, Lappa said, as she gets to experience more audience interactions.

“It’s easier to talk to the audience because you can actually see them,” she said.

At 8 p.m., Lappa and the Revelry will hit the stage at The Root and cover will be $10 at the door. - Lloydminister Meridian Booster, June 5, 2017, Jessica Dempsey


"Best of Spirit of Vimy Ridge Awards"

Rebecca hosted the Best of Spirit of Vimy Ridge Awards at the Armoury in Edmonton. - Shaw TV Edmonton, June 2017


"Edmonton Singer Heading to Vimy Ridge after Song Wins Award"

Edmonton singer heading to Vimy Ridge after song wins award

An up and coming Edmonton singer/songwriter is heading to Vimy Ridge for the 100th anniversary of the battle. Rebecca Lappa won the Spirit of Vimy contest. She joined Gord Steinke in studio to talk about what inspired her and perform her song. - Global News, April 5, 2017, Gord Steinke


"Edmonton Woman wins contest to go to Vimy Ridge"

Edmonton singer-songwriter Rebecca Lappa, 19, will be headed to Vimy Ridge to mark the centennial of the First World War battle after winning a Spirit of Vimy contest hosted by the Government of Alberta.

Lappa earned the top prize in the 18- to 24-year-old category for her song Valiant of Vimy Ridge, a first-person account of Calgary-born soldier John George Pattison, who was awarded the Victoria Cross posthumously, Lappa said Sunday.


John George Pattison, Calgary, Alberta. Was awarded the Victoria Cross. Date: circa 1914-1917Photo: Courtesy, Glenbow Archives — NA-4025-1 GLENBOW ARCHIVES
Pattison enlisted at the age of 40 to look out for his 18-year-old son. The father and son were in the 50th Battalion.

The soldier, “in complete disregard for his own safety, ran up to a German gunning position, threw grenades at soldiers, took over the gunning position and turned it on the Germans,” Lappa said.

“In this case, I wrote the song in first person,” she said in an interview on Sunday. “I wanted to put the listener in the shoes of the character.”

Lappa found the contest online. It was a great fit for her songwriting, which is often based on history. She sang and played guitar on the track and had a friend add mandolin to the song.

She was told she won for her “emotional connection” to her character in the song.

“I think it will drive home the point that people sacrificed themselves for freedom and the livelihood of the country,” she said, adding she will be thinking of her grandfather, a Second World War veteran.

The lieutenant governor stated she hopes all Albertans take time to reflect on April 9 on the battle that has been called the birth of Canada as a nation.


“I’m so impressed with the creativity that came through in the videos and I was moved by the way these bright young citizens connected with the soldiers who fought for Canada a century ago,” said Lt. Gov. Lois E. Mitchell in a news release.

“Their videos remind us that the lessons of the past continue to resonate and we all can learn and draw inspiration from the heroes who built the country we are privileged to enjoy today.”
cgriwkowsky@postmedia.com

Twitter.com/CGriwkowsky - Edmonton Journal, March 26, 2017, Catherine Griwkowsky


"Alberta Teen Brings History of Vimy Ridge to life in Artwork"

Two teens from Edmonton and Calgary won trips to Vimy Ridge as part of an event to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge.

The SPIRIT of Vimy Awards, held at the Federal Building in Edmonton on Saturday, is an initiative of Alberta’s Lt.-Gov. Lois E. Mitchell. This is the first time the event has been held and it is part of a larger program related to history education.


READ MORE: ‘Spirit of Vimy’ in Calgary: Young Albertans pay tribute to Canadian heroes

Young people from across the province were invited to submit artwork, ranging from song to dance to visual art, which would bring the history of Vimy Ridge to life.

Fifteen finalists were selected and a panel of judges chose two winners from two different age categories.

One winner, 19- year-old Rebecca Lappa of Edmonton, is a songwriter whose grandfather was a pilot in the Second World War.


“He flew a plane over the English Channel a bunch of times. When the contest came about, I thought this would be a perfect way to talk about history,” she said.

Lappa wrote a song about the experience of a soldier named Private Pattison.

“Then I created a slideshow of pictures of him and other people that were at Vimy and put the recording to the slideshow,” she said.

“I love history. I’m a songwriter and a musician primarily. I write a lot of stuff based on history. History is very important to me because some of the best stories come from history.”
Lappa understands she has a personal connection to the military but wants to encourage all youth to take a look into Canada’s past.

“I want to remind people that things that have happened in the past are still valued. You can learn things from the past to change the future,” she said.
READ MORE: Cadets from across Alberta mark the 99th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge

The other winner, 16-year-old Lloyd Templeton of Calgary, compiled a slideshow of original watercolour paintings that depicted the Battle at Vimy Ridge and laid a poem overtop.


“I’m really interested in history. I’m really interested in art. So the opportunity to learn more about a battle I didn’t know much about and improve my art skills and make something meaningful was a really good opportunity,” he said.

Templeton said he was shocked as he learned more about the battle and the number of soldiers who gave their lives. He wants other youth to take an interest as well.

“Any Canadian can connect to it, regardless of if they were involved with the military or not,” he said.

“I think anyone can make a personal tie. I think whether you’re a child of a soldier or a grandchild of a soldier or a newcomer to Canada, I think anyone can really connect to the sacrifice they made.”
Col. Kirk Gallinger, the chief of staff for the 3rd Canadian Division, is responsible for all of western Canada. He addressed the crowd Saturday afternoon about the significance of Vimy Ridge.

“It’s recognized as the birth of our nation. Vimy is an example of our nation coming together from coast to coast. It was the first time that the Canadian core – all of our divisions – fought together,” he said.

When asked whether Canadian youth are as interested as they should be in the country’s history, Gallinger said competitions like SPIRIT of Vimy makes him believe they are.

“When you see the level of response we had for this competition and you see the amount of work that went into it, the proof is there – they are engaged.”

Lt.-Gov. Mitchell said the submissions show that young people do understand the impact and importance of historical events such as Vimy Ridge.

“I am so, so proud of our youth. We must never, ever, ever judge what our youth are capable of or their empathy or their understanding,” she said.

It has not yet been decided whether the competition will be held again next year but Janet Resta, communications officer for the Office of the Lieutenant Governor, said there is hope it will continue running.

© 2017 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc. - Global News, March 25/17, Julia Wong


"Alberta Primetime"

TV interview about latest CD, Reckless Heart - CTV, March 9, 2017


"Edmonton Unplugged"

Filmed on Nov. 15/2016,
Aired all of January 2017 - Shaw Studios, Edmonton


"Listen to Rebecca Lappa: Crockpot Girl"

A “Crockpot Girl” is the type who needs to simmer and warm up to the person they’re with. Here’s a rocking number from Rebecca Lappa. - Ride the Tempo, Tianna Feng, Jan.18/17


"Radio interview"

Radio interview on Jan. 13th, 2017 - The Drive, Red Deer


"Co-hosting of It Takes a Village with Rhea March"

Radio interview on Dec.13, 2016 - CJSR


"Nait Radio"

Radio Interview on Nov. 9, 2016 - Edmonton


"Rebecca Lappa-"Reckless Heart" review"

Sung with the utmost passion, Rebecca Lappa’s “Reckless Heart” effortlessly creates a lovely, fully realized kind of folk. Over the course of the album she runs the gamut from the absolute bombastic to the restrained refined sort of sound. By letting such a wide variety of styles permeate the pieces from folk, country, rock, psychedelic, and pop, the songs have a raw live feeling to them. Easily the highlight of the album are Rebecca Lappa’s strong vocals and compassionate lovely lyricism which truly define it.

Opening the album off on a high note is the energetic playfulness of “Crockpot Girl”. This deserves to be played as loud as possible for it is a freewheeling rollicking kind of sound. With a driving rhythm is the deeply felt “Crawl”. On “Yesterday’s Wine” Rebecca Lappa opts for a gentle, intimate sound as the delicate guitar work helps to emphasize the careful narrative she creates. Spacious to its core is compassionate glimmer of “Mary Jo” whose dreamy sound is a swirling sea of gorgeous textures. A sense of tension defines the spirted “Till The King Comes Home”. Sweetness pours out of the airy “Carnival of Love”. Offering a highly detailed account of a failed, hard relationship is the sadness of “Baby Set Me Free”. Quite tenderly it describes how a lack of trust can ruin people. Ending the album is the reflective “Secret Love”.

Rebecca Lappa’ s “Reckless Heart” sounds like a celebration, filled with pure joy. - Skope, Beach Sloth, Nov. 9, 2016


"Mix 107"

Radio Interview on Nov. 4, 2016 - Fort Saskatchewan


"Local singer/songwriter Rebecca Lappa releases more mature Reckless Heart"

With the launch of her sixth album, Reckless Heart, (released Nov. 2nd), 19-year-old singer/songwriter Rebecca Lappa continues to take giant steps forward in her career.

The self-released album highlights her continued musical maturity, adding depth to her patented folk/rock sound. Two days before its official release, Reckless Heart debuted at number one on CJSR’s Edmonton Top 30 chart.

Reckless Heart features eleven tracks and is a grittier representation of Lappa’s sound, while still showcasing her powerful voice and compelling storytelling. She described how continuing growth—both musically and in her personal life—have broadened her sound.

“I’m a little older so I’ve experienced a little more in life. The people I know and hang out with have obviously experienced a little more of what happens in life and what it’s like to be an adult,” she explains. “I guess I’ve been telling their stories based on some of the more mature themes that they’ve had to deal with, or themes that I’ve had to deal with myself more recently.”

Musically, Lappa has experience beyond her years. Having taken music, voice and piano lessons, songwriting since the age of nine, attending Victoria School for the Arts, moving on to Grant MacEwan’s music program while recording five increasingly successful albums in the process.

As she continued to grow musically and produce new material, the music industry began to take notice. She was afforded several grants to help her along the way, including the FACTOR Juried Sound Recording grant that enabled her to record and release Reckless Heart.

In November of 2015, Lappa was recognized with the honour of “Young Performer of the Year” at the Canadian Folk Music Awards (CFMA’s). Heading into the event she wasn’t holding her breath for a victory. Lappa had been nominated five years running and had watched as her peers were selected ahead of her each year. This time would be different.

“It was amazing. I was sitting in the audience at the CFMA’s in 2015 and was like ‘I’m probably not going to win, so I’ll take my shoes off.’ I took the heels off and started getting ready to clap for whoever was going to win and they’re like ‘Rebecca!’ So I was like ‘Uh oh, I’ve gotta put my shoes back on,” she says.

For her latest effort, Lappa teamed up with JUNO Award winning producer Russell Broom (Jann Arden, Chantal Kreviazuk). The two met in May of 2015 at Red Deer’s SongRise Music Conference & Showcase, forming a musical relationship that led to the broadening of her sound.

“Working with him was the first time that I, myself anyway, had to think ‘How would I like this guitar part to sound? What would I want the music around the story to sound like, and not just have somebody decide for me,” the songwriter explained. “It was kinda cool to have my input thought about in the whole process. It was an eye-opening experience.”

This is one of the noticeable changes Lappa has made in her approach to songwriting. In the past, she relied heavily on third-person storytelling that lends itself to a gentler folk sound. Reckless Heart sees her taking a more mainstream approach.

“More recently, since I’ve been doing stuff from a first-person type of perspective, it’s been more like ‘OK, well what are a whole bunch of words or phrases that relate to that topic?’ I’ll brainstorm them and then I’ll pick one of the three instruments that I play (banjo, guitar, piano),” she explained. “I’ll come up with up with a chord progression, and generally the lines and the melodies and progressions come around the same time.”

With the album now completed and released, Lappa looks ahead to the touring and promotion that comes next. She has formed a trio known as Rebecca and the Revelry, featuring fellow MacEwan music students Madi Myhre (bass), and Evan Stewart (drums) to help perform her more mainstream tunes as well as older hits. Rehearsing with the trio has helped influence her “transition and arrangements for the record.”

Lappa plans to tour the record in May 2017, with dates based on where songs chart or are frequently played.

As for now, Lappa is ecstatic to be able to share the album she’s put so much of herself into.

“It’s super fun going up to a friend or a family member, or other people that I know and being like, ‘OK, just sit down for a second and just listen to this,’ and seeing people’s faces light up when they hear the record. Hopefully, it’ll make other people’s faces light up too.”

Thurs., Nov. 10 (5:30 PM)
The Needle, gratuities accepted - Vue Weekly, Lee Butler, Nov. 2/16


"Review - Rebecca Lappa"

Review – Rebecca Lappa

November 15, 2016 Lizzie Sharpe
Album: Reckless Heart
Release Date: November 2, 2016
Download
Genre: Pop, Folk and Rock

Edmonton, Alberta based singer/songwriter Rebecca Lappa, has just released her newest album entitled Reckless Heart on November 2, 2016. Rebecca Lappa started her music career at a young age and is now a five time Canadian Folk Music Award nominee and winner. Rebecca won the Canadian Folk Music Award in 2015 for her album Tattered Rose. She is a very talent artist who released her first album in 2011 and also helped create some songs for musical theatre productions. Rebecca Lappa’s newest album Reckless Heart has some pure emotions put into it with a bit of romance mixed in as well. Rebecca had some guidance from JUNO-winning producer Russell Broom to create the album.



The song that first caught my attention was “Crawl.” It’s the second song on the album and is just a taste of what the whole album sounds like. “Crawl” is a very relatable song that had me wanting to listen to more from this artist. I really like the song, Rebecca’s vocals and talent is shown very strongly through the chorus. The other track that captured my interest was “Breath In The Storm,” which is the seventh song on the album. The song is beautifully written and has a perfect mix of sounds to create one of the best songs on the album to me. Overall, the album was good and is very well put together, creating a mix of eleven songs that were all enjoyable to listen to. I really liked hearing Rebecca’s talent and sheer dedication to her music, which shines through while listening to this release.

If you are looking for something new to listen to, Rebecca Lappa is definitely an artist that I would highly recommend. - Canadian Beats, Lizzie Sharpe, Nov.2, 2016


"Rebecca Lappa's new Reckless Heart a change in direction"

Artist: Rebecca Lappa

Album: Reckless Heart

(Independent)

3 1/2 stars out of 5


After five albums moving toward a pop-folk synthesis, Edmonton singer-songwriter Rebecca Lappa makes a headlong dive outside the world of acoustic folk with her newest release, Reckless Heart.

The lyrical underpinnings of these Russell Broom-produced tracks are still the same, straightforward confessional singer-songwriter musings, though she’s focused more on battlefront reports from the romantic wars with tracks like Crockpot Girl, Crawl (about abusive relationships) and Love in a Killing.

Broom judiciously weds artful sonic touches to the proceedings, adding blurry electro drums to Yesterday’s Wine, Mellotron to Bonnie & Clyde and sweet banjo on Mary Jo. He’s careful not to get in the way of Lappa’s powerful voice, however, giving her plenty of space to wail, especially on full-blown rocker Crockpot Girl.

It’s a slick and confident effort with the feel of a transitional album, pointing toward the new territory where Lappa is heading.

— Tom Murray - Edmonton Journal, Tom Murray, Oct.31, 2016


"Rebecca Lappa and Danielle Deighton"

It Takes a Village Radio Interview on Oct. 27, 2016 with Rhea March. - CJSR, Oct. 27, 2016, hosted by Rhea March


"Music Preview: Local folk teen turns to rock"

Edmonton artist Rebecca Lappa has put a lot of points on the scoreboard of her career so far – two albums, two EPs, three original folk operas, three major awards, and a claim of more than 200 songs written. And she’s only 19 years old.

Are they all good songs? That’s for the fans to judge. Also the critics.

Lappa releases her latest album, Reckless Heart, with a show Sunday night at Have Mercy Southern Table and Bar, a new venue on the Whyte Avenue scene. The record is produced by the amazing Calgary guitarist Russell Broom, who’s played with Jann Arden and Chantal Kreviazuk, and features Lappa in a somewhat rockier tone than her usual forte. She was, don’t forget, the ONLY Edmonton winner at last year’s Canadian Folk Music Awards. But it’s the slow and plaintive songs like Breathe in the Storm and Secret Love that stand out from a fairly conventional set of country-ish folk-rockers dealing mainly with matters of the heart. The singing is the true knock-out here, the passion of Sheryl Crow with the sensitivity of Sarah McLachlan – yet original, truly the makings of a star.

Opening the show at 7 pm is X62 and Soap Box Duo. Tickets are $5 in Advance, $10 at the door - Gigcity.ca, Mike Ross, Oct. 27, 2016


"Picnic in the Park on Monday"

By: Anna Borowiecki

Rebecca Lappa, centre, with Evan Stewart and Madi Myhre set the folk-pop stage afire with tunes from Lappa's new release at Visionary College's inaugural Picnic At the Park on Monday, Aug. 1 at Lions Park.

The long weekend is the best time to decompress and be lazy. On this Heritage Day weekend, an old-fashioned family day picnic is just what the doctor ordered.
Visionary Centre for the Performing Arts, formerly Visionary College, is hosting their inaugural Picnic at the Park on Monday, Aug. 1 at Lions Park.
This free community event features bands, children’s entertainment, roving Disney princesses and action heroes, bouncy castles, a market and food trucks.
Martha Livingstone, creative director for the picnic, explains that the idea was born after staff reminisced about their participation in St. Albert’s 150th anniversary picnic that attracted well over 2,000 people.
“We talked about the picnic idea and decided we wanted to keep it going,” said Livingstone.
Since Visionary College is transitioning and changing its name to Visionary Centre for the Performing Arts, the picnic was also an ideal attraction to showcase its talent – past and present.
Carolina Del Rio, Visionary events and entertainment manager, noted that the college was expanding its curriculum and necessitated a name change.
“We’re adding acting and dance programs and a name change seemed more applicable to those things,” said Del Rio.
The picnic kicks off at 11:30 a.m. with a young children’s showcase that brings together Samantha Wilson, Sammi Davidson, Lyra Padden and Rotary scholarship winners Marija and Sophia Chvojka.
At 12:15 p.m., a cast of costumed Disney princesses – Elsa, Anna, Jasmine and Pocahontas – sing a couple of favourites such as Colours of The Wind and Let It Go before mingling with crowds and creating photo opportunities for families.
Capes and Crowns theatrical production of PAW Patrol, a four-actor production on the Canadian animated television series takes over the stage at 12:30 p.m.
PAW Patrol follows the adventures of a boy named Ryder who leads a pack of dogs on rescue missions across the city.
Starting right at 1 p.m., Livingstone’s own four-piece pop-rock band Marty’s Party kicks it up a notch with their original versions of classic and indie rock.
“We’re very energetic and we have an edgy sound. Marty’s Party is fun, uptempo and it wants to make you move,” Livingstone said adding the repertoire combines everything from Joan Jett and Eurythmics to Adele and Lady Gaga.
Aryn Connell, a Grade 12 student at Victoria School for the Performing Arts, whips up a few songs of smooth jazz before country-rock vocalist Leah Durelle takes command at 2 p.m.
Newly returned after performing with Darcy Stamp at the Calgary Stampede, Durelle comes to the picnic with a set of high-powered vocals and a tight backup band.
At 2:45 p.m. the Rebecca Lappa Trio with Evan Stewart on drums and Madi Myhre on bass complement the variety show with a folk-pop set.
“Rebecca is a prolific singer-songwriter with a unique voice. She has so many different styles of music, that I can’t compare her to anyone. The best I can say is that she tells stories like Joni Mitchell,” said Livingstone.
Lappa just recorded an album with Russell Broom, producer for Jann Arden’s albums. During her 45-minute set she will perform various songs from the 11-track Reckless Heart slated for release in late fall.
Known primarily as a folk artist, Lappa is transitioning to an alt pop rock direction.
“While I attended the MacEwan composition program, my style of writing changed and I’ve grown as a vocalist in belting and other stuff. I started writing to this new music and it changed the sound I created,” Lappa said.
Grade 10 Paul Kane student Taylor Hambly brings her pop essence to the table with a couple of songs she recorded in Los Angeles. And finally Jake Perry, an associate of award-winning Jessy Moss, closes the afternoon at 3:45 p.m. with his low-key Tom Waits style.
Livingstone added, “We hope you can bring the family and spend some time together to celebrate our event. From the response we’ve had, there will be lots of people and we hope to keep it going.”
Bring a lawn chair or blanket, mosquito repellent and pack a picnic lunch or sample the fare from on-site food trucks.
Parking is available in the lot between Lions Park and the curling club. You can access the parking lot at the intersection of Taché Street and Sir Winston Churchill Avenue. - St. Albert Gazette, July 30/2016


"Music with a Poetic Twist"

Edmonton’s Rebecca Lappa will give Stony Plain an evening of music inspired from poetry during the Summer Sessions concert series on July 13.

At 19 years old, Lappa has already released five albums, the latest being Tattered Rose.

“The story I am telling through this record is that life is beautiful and fragile, like a rose,” Lappa explained.

“Once the rose is exposed to the elements, or life, it becomes tattered.”

Lappa is a classically trained singer who finished with Honors in both the Grade 7 vocal and the advanced music rudiments theory exam at the Royal Conservatory of Music.

In fact, Lappa has been writing music since she was nine years old.

“I really enjoy stories and have always loved listening to other people read me stories,” Lappa said.

“So, I started writing songs with stories in them.”

Lappa’s songwriting has won her numerous awards in the past, including the adult alternative recording of the year for her song Queen of the May during the 2015 Edmonton Music Awards.

As well, her album Tattered Rose won young performer of the year during the 2015 Canadian Folk Music Awards and made Earshots National top 10 folk, roots and blues chart.

Lappa draws on her own personal experience, as well as the lives of others around her, when writing her music.

However, her last few records have been based on poems and legends.

“I did a whole album on Tennyson’s poems and I wrote a musical about Camelot,” Lappa said.

Lappa performed her musical at the 2016 NextFest last month in Edmonton.

Currently Lappa is attending Grant MacEwan college to study music and has recently learned how to play the guitar.

During her performance on July 13, Lappa said residents can expect “strong vocals and interesting stories.”

“My drummer, Evan Stewart, is also coming with me, so there will be percussion.”

This will be Lappa’s first time performing during the Summer Sessions concert series, and she is just happy to be able to perform live.

“I will play anywhere people will let me play,” said Lappa.

“At smaller venues I get to know the audience a little better … and that’s a lot of fun.”

For more information about Lappa and her upcoming performances, visit www.rebeccalappa.com.

Residents are encouraged to check the Town’s website or social media for any cancellations due to inclement weather.

As with all concerts during the Summer Sessions series, admittance is free.

ymayne@postmedia.com

Twitter: @YasminMayne - Spruce Grove Examiner/Stony Plain Reporter, Yasmin Mayne, July 8/16


"Rebecca Lappa "Tattered Rose" Review"

Rebecca Lappa "Tattered Rose"
Own label, 2015

Artist Video
www.rebeccalappa.com
Singer/songwriter Rebecca Lappa (vocals, classical guitar, banjo) from Edmonton, Alberta, recorded her fifth album with 7 original songs with Gord Matthews (guitars, mandola, sitar), Maria Dunn (accordion, whistle), Christine Hanson (cello), John Taylor (bass), Keri Lynn Zwicker (Celtic harp) and Jamie Cooper (percussion).
She sings the rhythmic “Anchor tattoo” to the pace of the drums, bass and banjo, whistle, accordion and mandola accompany her hauntingly beautiful singing. The banjo driven folk ballad “Brother John” was inspired by the classic murder poem The cruel brother and is a perfect showcase for her powerful voice. The sitar caresses her words on “Rose coloured lenses” and “Tastes this good” is an up-beat Folk-rock song. For the final “Piece of me” she is joined by Matty McKay on guitar, Justin Kudding on bass and Spencer Cheyne on drums, Lappa sings about her past celebrating the future accompanied by the rocking groove of the guys.
Owing to her beautiful song writing and her breath-taking voice Rebecca Lappa has been nominated and won several Canadian music awards, assure yourself and listen to some samples.
© Adolf „gorhand“ Goriup - Folk World #60, 07/2016


"Nextfest 2016:Camelot Folk"

Camelot Folk

By Rebecca Lappa
Featuring: Rebecca Lappa, Janice Jacobs, Patrick Dunn, Evan Stewart, Madi Myhre, and Jonah Mallett

Remaining shows: June 9 @ 6:00 p.m.; June 10 @ 6:00 p.m.; June 12 @ 4:00 p.m.

Picture a campfire surrounded by people sitting around it, telling each other stories, exchanging gossip, and singing songs. Now picture that campfire in the fictional kingdom of Camelot. But with electric instruments. This is Camelot Folk, presented as part of NextFest 2016.

Camelot Folk takes its name from the idea of folk music being stories told by the… Folk. In this case, it’s the folk of Camelot who are warming themselves by the fire and gossiping and singing songs about the characters we know from the Arthurian legend. The piece is folk mainly in the sense of the folk telling stories, with the musicians and vocalists leaning more towards rock and jazz as opposed to what you might imagine when you hear “folk”. While I didn’t find a clear plot in Camelot Folk (with the songs being more character-based vignettes and only a few lines of banter between the songs), the music and complexity of the lyrics were well-developed and fun to listen to.

Camelot Folk was definitely different from any other show I’ve seen before, but I can see the piece going on to be part of a midevil theme night or even being further developed into a rock musical with more plot between or as part of the songs.

The run time of Camelot Folk is 40 minutes and remaining shows are June 9 and 10 at 6:00 p.m. and June 12 at 4:00 p.m. in the auditorium at Faculté St. Jean (8406 91 street). Tickets are $10 per show, $18 for a day pass or $40 for a festival pass and can be bought online, by phone (780.453.2440), or in-person at Faculté St. Jean 30 minutes before the performance. - After The House Lights Blog by Jenna Marynowski, June 5, 2016


"Four New Musicals Emerge at Edmonton's Nextfest 2016"

It’s an unpredictable sort of festival. Nextfest is what happens when you ask the young and original “what’s next?”.

Starting Thursday for 11 days, Edmonton’s spirited and influential 21-year-old multi- disciplinary “emerging artist” showcase is your chance to check out what the creativity of the next generation of artists looks and feels and sounds like.

Unpredictable? At 20, Nextfest’s creativity was tested by fire, the blaze that destroyed its Roxy headquarters, the cradle of its civilization. The unexpected result? A record number of venues (29) and participants (750).

The 2016 all-South-Side edition gets creative with shows, events, “performance parties” concentrated at three venues — Theatre Network’s Roxy on Gateway, Campus St.-Jean, and a single gallery for visual art at the Bonnie Doon Centre. It has turned out to be The Year of the New Musical.

There are no fewer than four on the Nextfest mainstage, each defining “musical” in an an original way. Here’s a glimpse.

CAMELOT FOLK

Camelot Folk isn’t the first musical that Rebecca Lappa, age 19, has written. Three years ago she startled Nextfest audiences with a folk opera, The Earl, based on a long Tennyson poem. Two Nextfests ago there was a one-woman musical, The Great Edmonton Elephant Stampede of 1926, inspired by a bizarre event in Edmonton history.

Now, there’s a musical culled from the Camelot mythology, and written for three actor/singers (herself included) and a three-piece band. In its first outing, last year as a reading, Lappa had “a Gypsy telling stories about Camelot,” she says. “Now, it’s a couple of travellers, commoners, telling folk tales of what once was.”

The eight songs of the 45-minute piece, Lappa says, live on the folky to jazz spectrum. “We banter between songs, argue back and forth a little” about versions of the oft-told tales, Lancelot and Guinevere, for example. Since graduating from Victoria School of the Arts, she gravitated to MacEwan University’s music program. “All the cast are MacEwan students, and they’ve so great about lending us practise rooms and everything.”

What sparked her interest in Camelot? Lappa, who has always combined music and theatre in an unusually intense way, laughs. “I’ve always been fascinated with hippies.”

lnicholls@postmedia.com - Edmonton Journal, Liz Nicholls, June 1/2016


"A Quick Word With Rebecca Lappa by Tom Murray"

A Quick Word with Rebecca Lappa by Tom Murray
Penguin Eggs: Winter 2015

It’s a strange thing to consider someone to be a veteran performer when they’re only just turned 18, but singer-songwriter Rebecca Lapp can easily make that claim.
The Edmonton resident has been writing songs since she was 10, supplementing these early artistic efforts by picking up gigs in both music and television during her pre-teen years. It wasn’t too long after the multi-instrumentalist (keyboard, guitar, banjo) started writing that she was releasing EP’s of her early work, winning songwriting awards and popping up at Canadian folk festivals. Her first nomination for a Young Performer of the Year award at the Canadian Folk Music Awards came with her debut full length album, 2011’s Not in Nederland, kicking off a run of nominations through the ensuring years.
It seemed as though she might be doomed to staying a perpetual nominee, especially up against a strong field in 2015 that included Coastline, Robbie Bankes and Mira Meikle. She finally pulled down the Penguin Eggs sponsored prize on her fifth try for her latest release, Tattered Rose, which was produced by Edmonton music legends Barry Allen and Gord Matthews. Now studying music at MacEwan University, Lappa is considering her future in the industry and enjoying a much deserved win.

Tom Murray: You’ve been releasing an album a year since 2011’s Not in Neverland: are you already at work on a new one, and do you see it being different from Tattered Rose?

Rebecca: Well, I’ve been working on a project with (Calgary-based producer and guitarist) Russell Broom. It’s a bit more contemporary, we’re thinking it’s probably going to end up maybe in the alt-pop genre which means I can do rock and other things. I do like to try a lot of different stuff.

Tom Murray: Do you feel constrained by being lumped into the folk music genre?

Rebecca: No, I think I would say that, simply because there are so many different types of folk music out there, and it would depend on what type it is that you’re playing.

Tom Murray: I take it that you like exploring different musical areas, though?

Rebecca: Definitely, that’s a lot of fun. I’d like to do more co-writing with lots of different people, write for a living and definitely tour once I’m out of college. I’ve written a few songs with Olivia Wik, before, and I did some co-writing when I went to the SongRise Music Conference in Red Deer earlier this year. I haven’t found that many people to do it with, though basically anybody who wants to co-write songs, I’m down with it.

Tom Murray: You’ve definitely got a distinctive style of songwriting, as evidence by 2014’s Ode to Tennyson, which was based around poems by Alfred, Lord Tennyson.

Rebecca: I’ve always been very into lyrics and vocal melodies; these are the things that I think of. I’m starting to take the music more seriously, though.

Tom Murray: How did it feel to win the Young Performer of the Year award after so many years of being nominated?

Rebecca: It was pretty amazing to finally get it after so many years. I mean, finally! Everybody else in the category this year was amazing, which made it all the more special. To be honest, I really didn’t think I was going to win, so I wasn’t prepared. I was wearing high heels that night, and I had them next to me while I was sitting down. I was getting ready to clap for whoever won, and they were like “Rebecca”. Uh-oh, now I had to put on my shoes to go accept it!

Tom Murray: What are your plans for the next year or so? Will your university studies cut into your budding career?

Rebecca: Well, there’s this recording that I’m working on with Russell. If I get some grants for it and things go well, I may cut my program down form 4 years to 2. It all depends, I haven’t decided yet. The courses have been very helpful for me, though. I’m in a jazz-based program that has things like composition, writing charts and theory, which would help me develop some skills that I’m maybe not so good at, the sort of thinks that will help if I’m talking to a band.

Tom Murray: You’re attempting to round out your skills so that you’re not just depending on being simply a singer-songwriter, I take it?

Rebecca: What I’m trying to do is stick as many fingers into as many pies as I can. From talking to and watching other people in the music business that seems to be the way to go: like Alex Vissia, who is an amazing performer and also a graphic designer on the side. She does things like album artwork. I’m not skilled in that way, but I’m seeing what else I can do in the business to supplement what I really want to so. - Penguin Eggs, Winter 2015


"Edmonton hosted Canadian Folk Music Awards produce one local winner"

Eighteen-year-old singer-songwriter Rebecca Lappa was the lone local artist to take home hardware on Sunday night as Edmonton was host to the Canadian Folk Music Awards for the first time since 2006.

Lappa won the Young Performer of the Year award for her most recent album, Tattered Rose. The MacEwan University student has been nominated four times for her four previous albums, but last night was her first win. She was also the only winner from Alberta.

The Citadel Theatre gala hosted by celebrated musicians Connie Kaldor and Benoit Bourque was dominated by artists from eastern Canada – Ontario, Quebec and the Atlantic Provinces – who took top honours in 17 of the 19 categories.

Among Ontario’s five awards, New York-based, former Torontonian Kiran Ahluwalia won for World Solo Artist of the Year. Two Toronto-based bands, 16-piece Lemon Bucket Orkestra and roots-rockers the Young Novelists, received the World Group of the Year and the New/Emerging Artist of the Year honours respectively.

St. John’s, N.L. was over-represented with five awards in total, including Matthew Byrne’s Traditional Album of the Year win for Hearts & Heroes, and Vocal Group of the Year going to the duo Fortunate Ones.

St. John’s Amelia Curran and Charlottetown’s Catherine MacLellan were the night’s only double-winners. Curran’s alt-country-imbued album They Promised You Mercy won her both the Contemporary Singer of the Year and English Songwriter of the Year awards, while MacLellan claimed the Contemporary Album of the Year and Solo Artist of the Year awards for her intimate, relatively stripped-back effort, The Raven’s Sun.

Married couples also went home winners, but not the duo most people were expecting to do well. British Columbia’s bluegrass band Pharis & Jason Romero went into the awards with the most nominations (four), but came out empty-handed.

The successful husband-and-wife teams were Raven Kanetakta and ShoShona Kish, a.k.a. Digging Roots, from Winneway (Long Point First Nation), Que., who took home the Aboriginal Songwriter of the Year award; and Inverness County, N.S. Scotia fiddlers Natalie MacMaster & Donnell Leahy, who won for Instrumental Group of the year.

Despite not taking home any hardware, the Romeros were among the night’s performers, along with former CFMA winners and nominees such as Jeffery Straker and Tequila Mockingbird Orchestra.
Sunday night’s gala was the culmination of three nights and two days of open-to-the-public workshops and artist showcases in Edmonton.

Here, a full list of the night’s winners:

Ensemble of the Year: Big Little Lions – A Little Frayed, A Little Torn

Young Performer of the Year: Rebecca Lappa – Tattered Rose

Instrumental Solo Artist of the Year: Adrianna Ciccone – The Back of Winter

Pushing the Boundaries: Kevin Breit – Ernesto and Delilah

World Artist of the Year: Kiran Ahluwalia – Sanata: Stillness

World Group of the Year: Lemon Bucket Orkestra – Moorka

New/Emerging Artist of the Year: The Young Novelists – Made Us Strangers

Aboriginal Songwriter of the Year: Digging Roots – For The Light

French Songwriter of the Year: Louis-Jean Cormier – Les grandes artères

Traditional Singer of the Year: Michael Jerome Browne – Sliding Delta

Producer of the Year: Jenn Grant – Compostela

Instrumental Group of the Year: Natalie MacMaster & Donnell Leahy – ONE

Contemporary Singer of the Year: Amelia Curran – They Promised You Mercy

English Songwriter of the Year: Amelia Curran – They Promised You Mercy

Vocal Group of the Year: Fortunate Ones – The Bliss

Traditional Album of the Year: Matthew Byrne – Hearts & Heroes

Children’s Album of the Year: The Swinging Belles – More Sheep, Less Sleep

Contemporary Album of the Year: Catherine MacLellan – The Raven’s Sun

Solo Artist of the Year: Catherine MacLellan – The Raven’s Sun - Edmonton Journal, Julia Leconte, Nov.8, 2015


""Tattered Rose" Review"

ARTIST: REBECCA LAPPA | ALBUM: TATTERED ROSE | RELEASE DATE: JUNE 12, 2015

What do you do when you have to follow up a successful album that earned Edmonton Music Award for Adult Alternative Recording of the Year? You buckle down, enlist award winning producers Barry Allen and Gord Mathews, along with a host of strong musicians from the Edmonton and Calgary area and create something magical. Which is what Rebecca Lappa has done with her new album Tattered Rose. Leaning on her strong writing skills and powerful vocals, Rebecca delivers an amazing, fresh new folk record. Even with just seven songs, Rebecca manages to captivate the listener. Each song tells a story; a history lesson for some brought to life by angelic vocals and inspiring musicianship.

MUST LISTEN TO TRACKS: Anchor Tattoo & Pieces Of Me - #YEG Music Magazine, Nov. 24/2015


"Local Canadian Folk Awards Winner Busts Genres"

The evidence is piling up – that Rebecca Lappa is at the top of the class of great new artists from Edmonton. Now what to call her?

The 18-year-old singer-songwriter was the only local winner at the Canadian Folk Music Awards held in Edmonton on Nov. 8. She was named Young Performer of the Year. Earlier this year, Lappa’s latest album Tattered Rose was judged to be the “Adult Alternative Album of the Year” at the Edmonton Music Awards. Last year she was a finalist in the “Youth at the Blues” contest at the Beaumont Blues Festival. Coming next year is record of more “contemporary stuff,” Lappa says. In short, pop.

“I want to try everything,” she says, every style, every genre, with any co-writer who’s willing. Her topics and lyrics may be unconventional – her last album,Ode to Tennyson, was a collection of original songs based entirely on one poem by the 19thCentury poet – but her songs live in roots music. At the moment, anyway. She’s happy with the proliferation of folky music on the pop charts.

“That’s encouraging to me,” Lappa says, “because then I know I don’t have to be techno to get in pop radio.”

She’s tried electronic music, too, so don’t rule it out.

Lappa’s not so “new,” it turns out. She’s one of these child prodigies blessed with knowing exactly what she wanted to do from an early age. Tattered Rose is her fifth full-length album. She also has two EPs, the first coming out when she was 13. Grants and parents helped with recording expenses, and between finishing high school, Lappa also found the time for extensive vocal instruction, which she now continues at MacEwan University’s music program. She also plays piano, guitar and banjo. Fans rave about her voice: a rich, soft, soulful tone deployed with obvious technical proficiency. She could learn to let loose a little more, get a little grit, but there’s no doubt Lappa would impress the judges on The Voice.

If that’s what she wanted to do.

Being a singer isn’t her first goal. On how she found the time and energy to attain the career output of an artist twice her age, Lappa explains, “I’ve been writing music since around nine years old, and ever since then I’ve been trying to get out there and play. I’ve been working at this for a while. It’s what I love to do. I really enjoy writing music. It’s one of things I’d like to say that that I’m good at, and I enjoy singing. The reason I sing and pay for people is because I have music I want to share. Otherwise I wouldn’t be doing it.”

Record labels and publishers: please commence the bidding war.

Catch Lappa at the Black Dog on Saturday, Dec. 5 at 4 pm. No cover. - GigCity, Nov 17, 2015, Mike Ross


"Rebecca Lappa Among Folk Music Awards Winner"

Rebecca Lappa, 18, was among the recording artists thrilled to join the winners’ circle at the 11th anniversary of the Canadian Folk Music Awards held in Edmonton.

After receiving five nominations over a period of years, Lappa was stunned to scoop up the Young Performer of the Year for her album Tattered Rose.

And for the hometown favourite, the thrill was so sweet.

“I had no idea I would win. I was sitting in my seat. I had taken off my high heels and they were next to me. I was getting ready to clap for the winner whoever that was when they called my name. I said ‘Oh, crap, I’ve got to put on my heels.’ I put on my heels without tripping and went on stage. I still can’t believe it happened,” said Lappa, who attended the gala event last Sunday at the Citadel Theatre.

Nominees in this category are young emerging singer-songwriters who have made significant contributions to the music industry.

Lappa has a piano-led folk pop sound that brings into play elements of jazz, blues and classical music. Reviewers have compared her beautiful and surprisingly powerful voice to Canadian icons Loreena McKennitt and Sarah McLachlan.

In her short professional career, Lappa has released five albums and received airplay on numerous Canadian stations. In addition, the first-year MacEwan University music student composed a folk opera and penned songs for a musical.

Tattered Rose, produced by Barry and St. Albert’s Gord Matthews, brings out the layers of Lappa’s lush voice and is a soulful and insightful achievement that reveals her maturity as a songwriter.

Tattered Rose’s song selections hinge on a simple concept.

“People are fragile like roses. As they go through life, different things happen to them and shape who they become.”

The award-winning singer-songwriter started her career when at the tender age of three years when her parents registered her in Visionary College’s tot classes.

By early elementary, she was taking private lessons. Studies in classical music and piano followed. A quick study, Lappa won the youth category at Futures Fest competitions and at 12 secured a St. Albert Idol title.

As well, she’s flexed her performance muscles in musical theatre, light opera, TV commercials, as a TV extra and in songwriting competitions.

With the dedicated support of family, Lappa’s career has had a steady upward trajectory with shows at major music destinations including Calgary Folkfest, Canmore Folk Festival, Edmonton Folk Festival and Edmonton Fringe Festival.

Although still young, Lappa makes intelligent choices in her musical material that contrasts sharply with the bubble-gum pop sounds of mainstream radio.

Her fourth album, Ode to Tennyson, is an outstanding project that revolves around songs inspired by 19th century British poet Lord Alfred Tennyson’s works. It received a steady stream of accolades.

Internet reviewer Conner Sadler wrote, “ Lappa’s music is energetic and complex, with classical and folk influences dove-tailing into jazzy, Celtic and even Latin territory … The album shines with Lappa’s ability to weave a storyline into her songs with the versatility of her voice.

She would like to model her career after Ed Sheeran, the British singer-songwriter-musician creating a firestorm of interest worldwide.

“He’s a folkie, but he reaches out to a broader audience.”

A second inspiring artist is Vermont-based recording Anaïs Mitchell, creator of Hadestown, a modern folk-rock opera, a variant on the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice.

“I saw her when she performed Hadestown at the Arden Theatre. She was amazing.”

In addition to university, Lappa’s future projects include a new album produced with Juno-winning producer Russell Broom (Jann Arden/George Canyon/Johnny Reid) and a show rebooting Camelot.

The as-of-yet unnamed period piece is about the legends of Arthur and Merlin and how they came to be, said Lappa. She started the project one year ago in November and mounted a workshop version at last June’s NextFest 2015.

She received feedback to the eight-song production, has reworked it and added another song – all to be revealed at NextFest 2016.

“I just have to figure out what I have time for,” she laughed. - St. Albert Gazette, Anna Borowiecki, Nov. 14/2015


"News interview"

Click on the above title to see the video clip - Alberta Primetime, Nov 6, 2015


"CFMA nominee interview"

Click on the above title to view the video clip - CTV Morning, November 5, 2015


"Edmonton Women up for Canadian Folk Music Awards"

Lizzy Hoyt is nominated for Solo Artist of the Year for her fourth album, New Lady on the Prairie.

Laura Vinson (and her band, Free Spirit) is nominated for Aboriginal Songwriter of the year for her 2013 album, Warrior.

She now lives just outside Jasper National Park but lived and worked in Edmonton for 30 years after moving to the city to go to university.

Rebecca Lappa is nominated for Young Performer of the Year. She released her fifth album, Tattered Rose, in June and is currently an undergraduate student at MacEwan University.

Which women making music today inspire you the most?

Vinson: “[Fellow Aboriginal Songwriter of the Year nominee] Buffy Sainte-Marie has been my idol since the inception of my career. So being put in the same group as her is like being put in the same group as God. I’ve heard she’s even singing better than ever.”

Lappa: “Anais Mitchell. Her songs are based on poems, child ballads and other historical events. I enjoy the way she weaves stories into her music.”

Who are your mentors?

Hoyt: “Maria Dunn has been a great supporter of my music, especially when I was first starting out. When there are artists who are willing to share some of their information with you, just to encourage you, it really means a lot.”

Lappa: “Rhea March — I’ve know here since I was about 12 years old. She’s been really helpful mentoring me. Through her, that’s how I got to play the Edmonton Folk Fest in 2014. I’ve also gotten mentorship from Maria Dunn, whom I’ve opened for. She’s played organ on a couple of my recording projects. She’s a really cool lady.”

How would you describe Edmonton’s folk community?

Hoyt: “In general, I think there’s usually room for improvement, when it comes to having women represented, but I think in a generalized sense, the folk community is pretty accepting and wanting to support diverse musicians of various ethnic backgrounds.”

Vinson: “I certainly have gotten some good advice and some direction from Buffy on occasion. Joyce Smith is such a dignified human being ... she was just always very encouraging.”

Lappa: “Folk is a really broad genre, and from my perspective, it’s nice that there’s a place where my style of songwriting, versus the formula-driven kind of mainstream stuff, is accepted. And I’ve gotten to share the stage with the Travelling Mabels ... Ruth Moody and Basia Bulat.”

Who are you bringing to the awards this weekend?

Hoyt: “I’m hoping Mum and Dad are able to come. My grandmother is coming up from Calgary. And I’ve heard rumours that maybe an aunt and uncle might come.

Vinson: “The CD is dedicated to our dear friend Fred LaRose, who passed away from cancer. His wife will be coming with me to the awards. Fred meant so much to so many people.”

Lappa: “I think my mom and dad are coming. I know I’m taking my boyfriend with me. He doesn’t really have an option to come. I’m forcing him.”

This year’s awards gala at the Citadel Theatre on November 8 features performances by Pharis and Jason Romero, Mélisande [Électrotrad], Tequila Mockingbird Orchestra, Trent Severn, Jeffrey Straker and John Wort Hannam. Tickets cost $48.

The Canadian Folk Music Awards also include public showcases, workshops and live radio broadcasts throughout the weekend.

Visit folkawards.ca for a full schedule. - Edmonton Examiner, Madeleine Cummings, Nov. 4/2015


"Canadian Folk Music Awards Come to Edmonton"

It’s time to pay tribute to the folks who make folk music.

For 11 years, the Canadian Folk Music Awards have been working to bring wider attention to that soft-spoken but proud niche known as folk or roots music. But beyond the cliché of an earnest guy or gal singing and strumming a guitar, where is Canada’s folk scene? In an age of digital downloading, what is a folk song or a folk artist anyway?

Performers from across the country will showcase their acts, vying for top honours in 19 categories when the CFMAs convene in Edmonton this weekend.

Top contenders include B.C.’s quirky bluegrass duo Pharis & Jason Romero (four nominations for A Wanderer I’ll Stay), and three acts with three nominations each — Whitehorse (Toronto), Jenn Grant (Nova Scotia), and Catherine MacLellan (P.E.I.).

You can see and hear six of the nominees play the awards gala Sunday night in the Citadel Maclab Theatre, hosted by Connie Kaldor and CBC’s Benoit Bourque.

It’s the first time the CFMAs have been here since 2006, but everyone agrees Edmonton ranks highly among the folk capitals of Canada. It starts with that institution, the Edmonton Folk Music Festival, considered by many to be Canada’s premiere folk event after 36 years. Add several volunteer-run folk clubs, a club scene and house concerts that book events year-round.

There are three public radio stations (CKUA, CJSR, CBC) that air folk. Edmonton is also the headquarters of Penguin Eggs, the folk, roots and world music magazine celebrating its 15th year, founded by Rod Campbell, a co-founder of the CFMAs.

In Edmonton and elsewhere, the CFMAs can inspire creative minds.

Singer-songwriter Rebecca Lappa, just 18, with five albums behind her, says the awards have been a boost to her confidence and public profile. Five consecutive CFMA nominations for her releases include the recent album Tattered Rose, setting her up for Young Performer of the Year.

“It’s an honour to be nominated with all these great artists and it gives me a real sense of accomplishment to know that a jury selected my music out of hundreds of CDs. I’ve been writing stories and performing since I was nine years old, so I’ve been doing this for years but I’m just getting started as an adult performer.”

She’s one of six CFMA nominees playing the first showcase concert Friday, along with long-established artists like Montreal’s Michael Jerome Browne. Another seven nominees hit the stage for the second showcase Saturday night.

Lappa just graduated from high school to start the music program at MacEwan University this fall, but her evolution as a songwriter spells maturity beyond her years. She bucks the tendency of young artists who start off penning first-person confessional love songs.

She defines that enigmatic term “folk” to mean “music of the people” and brings an interest in English and Irish folksongs, noting “it’s important to know where you came from.” A fan of Loreena McKennitt and Serena Ryder, she devoted her fourth album Ode To Tennyson to adaptations of classic poems.

The folk umbrella also covers many talents who would happily set aside their acoustic guitars and thoughtful tunes if a hit song or album led to a pop career. Nothing wrong with that, especially when you consider that some of Canada’s best-loved musicians (Joni Mitchell, Leonard Cohen) started out as “folksingers.”

Bill Werthmann agrees it’s hard to pin down a definition of folk music. Along with his wife Betty Jo, Werthmann co-founded Edmonton’s Northern Lights Folk Club 17 years ago and he’s into his second year on the CFMA board. He’s happy to be part of Canada’s and Alberta’s network of devoted folkies and wants this CFMA weekend to be “the biggest and best yet” in boosting the health of the folk genre.

“If you consider how broad and deep it is, folk is still very much under the radar. A lot of people still have this notion that it’s someone sitting around a campfire singing Kumbaya, but it’s so much more than that.”

He’s encouraged by what he sees in the next generation of folk artists. “When you find the kids who know who Bob Dylan or Gordon Lightfoot or Stan Rogers was you find they have a better appreciation of music in general. Once they see how real folk music can be, they say ‘that’s something I want to be a part of”.”

Much as the Internet has changed the face of music marketing, it has “forced the next generation to become technology-savvy,” he adds. Easier booking of folk club and house concert gigs has made it more feasible for artists to set up tours, while YouTube and social media offer invaluable promotional tools.

British-born, Toronto-based Richard Flohil has worn many hats over four decades in music, including publicist, journalist, Mariposa festival producer, promoter and more. He says the longevity of the CFMAs is bringing greater respect to folk music.

He sees summer festivals as the essential glue of Canada’s folk scene, with events such as those in Edmonton and Winnipeg doubling as outdoor family weekends and sowing the future crop of folk fans. And he adds that the most important element in making folk festivals solvent has been the gradual advent of beer sales. The never-ending lineup to get into the Edmonton Folk Fest beer garden speaks for itself.

After attending all but five of Edmonton’s folk fests, Flohil says it may be Canada’s finest, adding that “we’re all envious of Alberta for having CKUA radio to play this music.”

When it comes to buying music, folkies still lean toward that retro habit of hard-copy discs. “It’s cheaper than ever to make a record in your own living room but the catch is, most folk artists have to depend on CD sales at concerts or festivals to recoup their expenses.”

In the end, Flohil is encouraged at how new folkies keep popping up.

“It’s astonishing how many good artists there are. Of course that makes it a struggle, but the best ones will make it, like the cream that always rises to the top.” - Edmonton Journal, Roger Levesque, Nov. 3/2015


"Artist Profile"

Click on the above title to view the video clip - Shaw TV with Jen MacDonald, November 2, 2015


"MacEwan Student Nominated for Canadian Folk Music Awards"

Rebecca Lappa is a first-year voice major in MacEwan University’s bachelor of music program, and she has recently received her fifth nomination for a Canadian Folk Music Award (CFMA). Her album, Tattered Rose, features a series of modern folk songs intended to produce strong emotional responses in the listener. “The concept for the CD was that roses are very fragile and life is very tattered, and when you put them together, people are like that, and become tattered roses,” Lappa explains.

Born and raised in Edmonton, Lappa has been taking singing and music lessons since she was very young. Listening to country music growing up, she became interested in storytelling through music. Lappa writes all her songs, and has been writing and performing original songs since she was a small child. The stories in her songs have a variety of inspirations, ranging from child ballads, such as “Brother John,” to personal dreams and experiences, as in the song “Anchor Tattoo.” Going to a monthly song circle based in Edmonton, she was introduced to Old English poetry and child ballads, inspiring the usage of folk tales in her music.

“I enjoy lots of different styles of music, and kind of mush them together and see what I come up with,” Lappa explains. Her musical style transitions effortlessly between folk, pop, jazz and blues. She emphasizes her love of music by explaining that she draws influence from almost every genre and creates a unique sound to fit the individual stories told in her songs.

Lappa seems optimistic about balancing her budding music career while also starting university.Lappa seems optimistic about balancing her budding music career while also starting university.
“So far, I get some sleep, but it’s interesting. I’m just kind of getting the hang of what’s going on at MacEwan,” she explains.

It’s clear that the young artist has a busy schedule. Between her nearly weekly live performances throughout Edmonton, preparing for the CFMAs, writing new music, and rushing between classes to complete assignments, it seems as though Lappa wouldn’t have time to breathe. However, the songwriter is applying for grants to record new music. She hopes to write more commercial songs, in order to reach more people with her music and make a career out of songwriting. “They’re both different beasts, but I enjoy doing both, because you learn different things from each,” Lappa explains, describing the difference between live performances and recording in a studio.

“[The CFMAs] are in Edmonton this year. I’m going to be a part of a songwriting workshop . . . it’ll be exciting,” says Lappa. As this is her fifth nomination for the Young Performer of the Year award, Lappa seems at ease with being under the limelight. Although calm, she still humbly mentions her surprise at receiving five back-to-back nominations. The 2015 CFMA weekend takes place Nov. 6-8, and includes public music shows and a gala at the Citadel Theatre. - The Griff, Lydia Fleming, Oct. 13/2015


"Three Edmonton Folkies among Award Nominees"

The nominees for the 11th Annual Canadian Folk Music Awards were announced this afternoon at City Hall and three Edmontonians are among the 73 artists up for 19 different awards.
Local artists Laura Vinson, Lizzy Hoyt and Rebecca Lappa will enjoy hometown support when Edmonton hosts the gala awards show Nov. 8th at the Citadel Theatre...........
Lappa, who's been nominated for a CFMA every year since 2011, is nominated for Young Performer of the Year (artists must be under the age of 19 at the time of recording) off the strength of her recent CD, Tattered Rose........... - Edmonton Journal, Sept. 10/2015


"Music Series Gets an Albertan Send-Off"

Calgary duo Keith and Lana Floen had always admired the musical style of mom-and-daughter act Eva and Suzanne Levesque.

When they weren’t performing, they would take time off to watch the pair on stage.

About a decade ago, Lana and Suzanne struck a friendship. She and her husband flew out to Winnipeg in 2008 when Suzanne was nominated for her bass playing at the Canadian Country Music Awards (CCMA).

During a party there by Royalty Records, all four were invited to jam. “We had never sang together,” Lana remembered.

But what came out of the gig was something very special. “We could feel it. There was a really neat sound especially with the harmonies.”

Soon, the quartet formed to become The Travelling Mabels — named in honour of a blue tick coonhound that Eva had fallen in love with while visiting a friend in the United States.

They put out a self-titled debut CD, toured and opened for the likes of Prairie Oyster, Ian Tyson and Charlie Major and then released another album called Song in a Dream that featured a tune written for them by Tyson.

In 2012, the folk/country ensemble was voted the ACMA Group of the Year and they started to gain a reputation outside of Alberta, mainly in Manitoba and Ontario.

This Saturday, the Mabels will play their first and only B.C. date for the year, in Coquitlam, before branching out into another new territory for them: Saskatchewan.

Lana said the Mabels are looking forward to closing the Music on the Grill series at the Evergreen Cultural Centre and promise a show with “lots of laughter and stories.

“Eva is funny and quite a storyteller and she has a real deep voice like Janis Joplin. The girls complement that with a bit of banter in between.”

Being the only male Mabel in the band is okay with Keith, Lana said of her hubby.

A musician since the age of 18, he is the band leader and keyboard player (he was nominated for a CCMA Keyboard Player of the Year award in 2012). He also produced and co-engineered both the Mabels’ CDs.

“He loves the group,” Lana said. “It’s the ying and yang. It’s that female energy and he is just a gentle — but strong — energy so he balances it all out.”

Still, the veteran musicians will also have a newcomer at their Coquitlam concert.

Edmonton’s Rebecca Lappa will open and, like the Mabels, will be playing professionally for the first time in B.C.

Reached in San Francisco last week, Lappa said she is excited about the gig as she saw the Mabels live in Red Deer two years ago.

A recent high school graduate, Lappa will perform original songs from her fourth and latest CD, Ode to Tennyson.

Lappa, who plans to start her composition degree at MacEwan University in Edmonton next month, said she began writing music and lyrics at the age of nine.

“My music and storytelling just came together and I was like, ‘Oh, I like this. That’s what I want to do for a living.’”

As for her career, Lappa believes she’s versatile enough in blues, jazz and pop genres to compose songs for other musicians.

• Tickets for Music on the Grill on Aug. 8 are $55 for the dinner and concert, or $35 for the show only. It is sponsored by Aaargon Dental Centre and the Evergreen Cultural Centre. Call the box office at 604-927-6555 or visit evergreenculturalcentre.ca.

- See more at: http://www.tricitynews.com/entertainment/music-series-gets-an-albertan-send-off-1.2020538#sthash.fTZdXYsR.dpuf - The Tri-City News, Janis Warren, August 6/2015


"Edmonton Unplugged"

Click on the above title to view the video clip - Shaw Studios, Aug.12/2015


"It Takes a Village with Rhea March"

Click on the above title to hear radio interview - CJSR Radio, July/2015


"Rebeccca Lappa-The Interview"

Click link to hear interview

Although still a teenager, Rebecca Lappa is already a prolific songwriter, having written over 200 songs in her career so far. All four of the albums she has released to date have been nominated for a Canadian Folk Music Award for “Young Performer of the Year”. Her most recent album, 2014’s “Ode to Tennyson” uses as its source material, the collected works of English poet Alfred, Lord Tennyson. Rebecca joined us for an interview and impromptu session at the Folk Music Ontario Conference this past October. Rebecca shows amazing drive for someone so young. It’s a great interview and definitely worth checking out. For more information visit rebeccalappa.com. Music: Rebecca Lappa,”Field of Dishonour” from “Ode to Tennyson” (2104, self), “Anchor Tattoo” (Live), “Queen Of The May” (Live), “The Lotus Eaters” (Live), “Kraken” from “Ode to Tennyson” (2104, self). - Folk Roots Radio, Jan Hall, July 10, 2015


"Maimann: 20 Best Edmonton Songs 2014"

Rebecca Lappa- The Earl (Ode to Tennyson)
Haunting, historical, piano-driven piece from 17-year-old-phenom. - Edmonton Sun


"Rebecca Lappa: "Ode to Tennyson""

Wednesday, December 10, 2014

Rebecca LAPPA: "Ode To Tennyson"

Rating: RRRr
Label: Lappa Music/Socan 2014
Review by: Urban "Wally" Wallstrom

Release the Kraken - Release the Kraken!! Ehem. Excuse me while my brain confuse the classic work of Tennyson with the really dodgy movie phrase of the eighties [Clash Of The Titans and I believe they did a equally dodgy remake recently]. Let's try again as this is the great and already fourth (yes, 4th) full-length album from the mere 17 year old 2014 nominee at Canadian folk music awards.

Rebecca Lappa is her name and extremely classy folk, singer/songwriter, jazzy, art-pop is the nature of her game. The creative blend of several styles of music reflects a mature sound and a much older soul than her actual time spent here on earth. This ain't your typical bubble-gum pop nonsense of the MTV.

The album is obviously inspired by the works of British poet and posh legend of Lord Alfred Tennyson. And yes, there's a song titled "Kraken" and 'the ocean's wide and vast and deep. Beneath its heart untouched a monster sleeps'. Lappa is certainly not afraid to wake up the beast as she unleashes her stunning vocals right at the ugly story. She's blessed with emotional and great set of pipes similar at times to Tori Amos and even Sarah McLachlan with a more sulky twist.

The music on "Ode To Tennyson" follow no strict structure and thus why each and every track is like a brand new story. One minute it's Irish/Celtic rootsy folk music and the next art-pop that harks back to the golden era of Kate Bush, but sounds more like Tori Amos to be completely honest. "Mermaid and Merman" has a loose and fun creative feel with a simple grand piano and Lappa's voice at the centre of attention. "Gypsy" with its violin, aria and 'ohhh-ahhh-ahhh' as chorus part is a nice build up to the darker mood of the "Kraken". Rebecca tickle the ebony and ivory as Tori Amos did in the nineties as the monster appears in the distance. It's all very laid back and there's plenty of violin, cello, accordion, etc. to be found on this fine record. - by Urban "Wally" Wallstrom, RockUnited.com, Dec 10, 2014


"Emerging Edmonton Artists"

An article with the bios of 6 Emerging Edmonton Artists, including Rebecca Lappa. - Edmonton Sun, Dec. 7, 2014


"Ode to Tennyson Review"

Only 17 years old, this young Canadian singer/songwriter presents here already her fourth album, with a high level of maturity showing both talent and the development of her own style. On this album, she sings primarily songs inspired by the famous 19th century English poet Lord Tennyson. The songs sit somewhere between folk and pop, with a slight Celtic perspective, and I found them pleasantly reminiscent of the early works of Katie Melua. The musical arrangements feature guitars and occasional accordion, violin, piano or drums. With that beautiful voice and writing talent she will no doubt make waves, in her homeland and beyond. 
© Michael Moll - by Michael Moll, FolkWorld #55, 11/2014


"Rebecca Lappa's Latest Album Pure Poetry"

by Kevin Maimann
The fact that Rebecca Lappa is releasing her fourth album at age 17 is a pretty clear indicator she’s not your typical high school student.

While her friends are keeping up on the latest pop hits, Rebecca Lappa has been sinking her teeth into world music and brushing up on history.

Saturday night at Roxy Theatre, the folk singer and multi-instrumentalist will release her new CD Ode to Tennyson, a diverse album based on works by 19th Century British poet Lord Alfred Tennyson.

Lappa says Top 40 fare has just never drawn her in the way a good book does.

“I guess I don’t feel like there’s enough story in the music. It’s just the same chorus over and over again. It’s like, ‘Well I heard that part already. Is there going to be something interesting happening in this song, or you’re just going to say you’re at the club?’ ” she says.

“I mean, I haven’t been to a club yet, but lots of people have. I just prefer songs that have stories that actually mean something.”

The album has already earned Lappa a nomination for Young Performer of the Year at the Canadian Folk Music Awards, the latest in a long list of nominations and awards.

Ode to Tennyson starts with Charge of the Light Brigade — a grisly “Irish war song” that builds to an upbeat Celtic-folk charge — and slows right down for The Earl, a sparse and haunting number with vocal inflections reminiscent of Lorde.

Lappa schooled herself on music from across the globe to suit the lyrics for each of the album’s 11 tracks, while also drawing inspiration from Canadian artists like Sarah McLachlan and Loreena McKennitt.

“I wrote the music catering to the stories specifically,” she explains. “I have a song in there that’s about the Roma people, so I’ve been listening to stuff from their culture. I’ve been listening to some Celtic stuff and jazz and Mariachi bands, different things like that, to help create the themes that those specific songs were looking for.”

MATURE AND COMPLEX

The songs on Ode to Tennyson are impressively mature and complex.

A $10,000 RAWLCO Radio Grant helped take Lappa’s arrangements to the next level with a team of veteran musicians including guitarist Gord Matthews — who has worked with k.d. lang and Ian Tyson - and producer Barry Allen, a local rock legend who scored Canadian Top 40 hits in the 1960s. She also got help from Edmonton’s Maria Dunn, who added whistle and accordion, and members of the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra among others.

With a remarkable list of accomplishments that include writing and performing an entire folk opera based on Tennyson’s poem The Sisters, and pulling off a one-woman musical at Nextfest in May called The Great Edmonton Elephant Stampede From 1926, Lappa’s future holds limitless possibilities.

She hopes to get accepted to the songwriting program at Boston’s Berklee College of Music after she graduates, and would love to pen some big hits — but not for herself.

“I want to write for other people for a living, so then I don’t have to be confined to one genre,” she says. “I don’t really need to be on stage with 50,000 people watching me. If somebody else gets to do that with my music, then that’s good. I don’t really like a lot of attention.”

Lappa will perform with a four-piece backing band Saturday. Rocky Mountain House duo The Doll Sisters will open the show and release their new album Off the Edge of the Earth.

Tickets are $14 through the Roxy Theatre Box Office at 780-453-2440.

Maimann: Rebecca Lappa's latest album pure poetry - Edmonton Sun, October 2, 2014


"Podcast at the CCMA's"

25 minute showcase and interview in the lobby of the Westin Hotel in Edmonton, Alberta. - Alberta Music,Sept. 4, 2014


"Gonzo Online"

ODE TO TENNYSON Rebecca Lappa (independent) **** 1/2

This past weekend I was privileged to emcee for a few hours at the Come By The Hills Music Festival in Mistahiya, Alberta. We saw and heard some wondeerful music on Saturday, with nobody perhaps more charming than Rebecca Lappa.

Rebecca's sound is modern celtic/ folk/ pop and this album, just released in June, is an unexpected pleasure. Many of her songs are inspried by history and mythology, as you might expect from someone who enjoys Celtic music, and the poetry of Lord Alfred Tennyson. Her voice is crystal clear, beautiful really, and she doesn't overwhelm the songs on this disc with cluttered arrangements. No, the lyrics wring enough drama and emotion out the songs, thank you very much.

I was lucky enough to meet Rebecca, and privileged to introduce her on stage at the Come By The Hills Festival in Mistayhiya, where she told me that Loreena Mckennitt was one of her heroes, whom she'd had a chance to meet. Though they do have some song subejects and a fascination with ancient traditions in common, Lappa's music is more accessible, more enjoyable and, dare I say, less pretentious than some of McKennitt's stuff that I have heard. What I'm trying to say is, don't let the 'Celtic' label scare you off- Lappa's songs are relaxing, melodic, enjoyable, and amazing company on a rainy afternoon.

Rebecca was also kind enough to autograph my copy of this CD, and her father (and road manager) let me know that they'll be having a CD release party at the movie theater in Wainwright in November- hope I got the right month. And by the way- she's only 17. For more info on this ridiculouysly talented young artist, go to www.rebeccalappa.com

HIGHLIGHTS: Gypsy, Queen Of The May, Fields Of Dishonour - John Kereiff, August 17, 2014


"New Music: Rebecca Lappa"

By Connor Sadler

In her latest album, Edmonton-born Rebecca Lappa blends folk and classical vocals to create Ode to Tennyson, her fourth full-length album. The album is inspired by the works of 19th century British poet laureate Lord Alfred Tennyson.

Lappa’s music is energetic and complex, with classical and folk influences dove-tailing into jazzy, Celtic and even Latin territory.

The opening track, “Mermaid and Merman,” has a serene feeling created by a simple piano and vocal melody. The song picks up and takes on a bubbly atmosphere, but is kept grounded by the drums and bass. The LP takes a serious turn with “Kraken,” which compares the turmoil of love to a kraken sitting just below the surface waiting to swallow ships whole. The rest of the album is varied — “Queen of May” has a smooth jazz sound, whereas “Field of Dishonour” borrows from Latin-American music. “The Light Brigade” has the feel of a Celtic march.

The album’s second last song “Lemon Mine” — which tells the tragic story of two friends who kill each other over a cave of gold — is set to a spirited tune, creating an unsettling contrast between the story and the music.

At first, Ode to Tennyson can seem like another generic folk record. But the album shines with Lappa’s ability to weave a storyline into her songs with the versatility of her voice. Whether she is singing a Celtic poem or a Mexican love song, Lappa’s voice fits perfectly and the variety keeps the album from being repetitive. - The Guantlet, August 7, 2014


"Poet is Inspiration for Edmonton Songwriter"

Poet is inspiration for Edmonton songwriter



Rebecca Lappa, who performs next Tuesday and Thursday (July 15, 17) on Red Deer’s Ross Street Patio, drew on atmospheric poems written by England’s 19th-century poet laureate Lord Alfred Tennyson as inspiration for songs on her latest CD.
red deer
Buy Red Deer Advocate Photos Online
RECOMMEND ON FACEBOOK

By Lana Michelin - Red Deer Advocate
Published: July 12, 2014 2:00 AM
What does Victorian poet Lord Alfred Tennyson have in common with a contemporary Edmonton songwriter?

A romantic sensibility, as it turns out.

Rebecca Lappa, who performs next Tuesday and Thursday (July 15, 17) on Red Deer’s Ross Street Patio, drew on atmospheric poems written by England’s 19th-century poet laureate — including The Charge of the Light Brigade and The Lotus Eaters — as inspiration for songs on her latest CD, which was recorded with a $10,000 Rawlco Radio recording grant.

The soon-to-be Grade 12 student at the Victoria School of the Arts, is something of a natural songwriter — Ode to Tennyson is the fourth album the talented 17-year-old has recorded.

“I’ve been writing songs since the age of nine,” said Lappa, a three-time Canadian Folk Music Awards nominee and a two-time prize winner of the Calgary Folk Festival Songwriting Contest (placing first 2013 and third in 2014 in the Sonic Youth contest).

Lappa usually starts the songwriting process by humming a new melody into a tape recorder.

She pens some lyrics, then decides which of her three instruments — piano, guitar or banjo — would best suit the tune and finishes composing on that instrument.

“I have three large binders full of music,” said Lappa, who pulled her first three albums of songs from these.

Tennyson became the theme of her current album after a songwriting mentor gave Lappa a book of his poems to read.

The bearded author of The Lady of Shallott, Crossing the Bar and Mariana often created poetry with melancholic, discontented characters who linger in isolation. His beautiful heroines frequently inspired works by Pre-Raphaelite artists, including John Everett Millais, William Holman Hunt, and John William Waterhouse.

Lappa believes Tennyson’s poems are really about human nature, so would be relevant in any century.

For instance, her Mermaid and Merman tune was based on his ideas about duality — being one kind of person during the day and someone more secretive at night. The idea of hiding behind a mask of respectability has been a literary theme throughout history, said Lappa.

Tennyson wrote The Lotus Eaters about a Greek myth in which Odysseus meets people who are made listless by their consumption of a narcotic plant.

Lappa interpreted this in her similarly titled song “as the loss of courage, the loss of ability to make decisions” — an inertia that seizes many people at certain points in their lives.

Her Kraken is about unleashing the “monster” that often lurks within even the mildest person. “

Don’t make a woman angry,” said a chuckling Lappa, “There are all kinds of dark secrets inside. . .”

Being inspired by Tennyson’s rich use of language left her wanting to read other literary classics, including tales by Edgar Allan Poe. which will no doubt fuel future songwriting projects.

The teenager, who’s on her school’s cheerleading team and coaches gymnastics when she isn’t songwriting, said she really looks forward to playing on the Ross Street patio.

Whether singing at a coffee shop or folk festival, Lappa said she loves performing for any attentive audience who appreciates her music.

Her shows on the Ross Street Patio are from 11:30 to 1:30 p.m.

lmichelin@reddeeradvocate.com - The Red Deer Advocate, July 12, 2014


"CD Reviews"

Rebecca Lappa "Avant Garden"
Own label; 2013
www.rebeccalappa.com
If Rebecca Lappa’s parents are upset with this album, they can ground her. At 16 years young, she’s not old enough to legally do pretty much anything on her own—at least in my country, directly south of her native Canada. Fortunately, most critics will likely agree with her parents in being quite pleased with this album. Her voice is a pleasure and her songwriting quite accomplished (obviously beyond her years, as what wouldn’t be). OK, Mozart did a lot as well by this age, but this is also her THIRD album. The only critical point I would make is that her garden is not quite as avant as I would like. But this singer songwriter folk rock material is fairly daring at times, not fully toward a Kate Bush, but it is not overly crazy to include that name in the conversation.
© David Hintz - Folk World, #54, 07/2014


"The Great Elephant Stampede of 1926"

THE GREAT EDMONTON ELEPHANT STAMPEDE OF 1926
Wednesday, June 11 at 6pm
Friday, June 13 at 8pm
 at The Living Room Playhouse
created, composed and performed by Rebecca Lappa
In 1926, the Sells Floto Circus parade turned into a full on stampede in down town Edmonton as a herd of elephants escaped from their enclosures. Singer-songwriter Rebecca Lappa returns to the Azimuth stage after last year’s Nextfest hit “The Earl” to perform all nineteen characters in this one-woman folk opera based on a true, local story. - Danielle Metcalfe-Chenail Blog, June 11, 2014


"A Night at Nextfest"

Then I dashed over to Azimuth’s Living Room Playhouse to catch a new piece from Rebecca Lappa, the youthful artist who created major buzz last year with her folk opera The Earl (slated for Nextfest’s closing night next Sunday).With The Great Edmonton Elephant Stampede of 1926, this amazing 17-year-old channels a bizarre event in our civic history through a the eyes of the reporter who covered the story - the night 14 circus elephants escaped their bonds and went exploring through the gardens, graveyards, and retail outlets of the West End.
Lappa fashions the story as a sort of song cycle, as per Jason Robert Brown. And a cast of vivid grotesques steps forward from the sideshow canvas – the strong man, the trapeze artist, Jo-Jo the Dog-Faced Boy among them – to chronicle a night to remember. The storytelling has a picturesque period charm of its own, and the songs are clever. The transition between speech and song is sometimes a bit bumpy; Lappa, who accompanies herself on banjo or guitar or at the keyboard, isn’t nearly as strong a speaker of text as she is a singer. But the piece is a remarkable display of confidence, song-writing dexterity, and enthusiasm for quirky detail. Very impressive, and fun. Liz Nicholls - Edmonton Journal, June 11, 2014


"Nextfest 2014 Podcast"

Podcast interview in the Roxy Theatre foyer with Taylor Chadwick and Chris Cook - What it is Podcast, June 8, 2014


"Nextfest 2014"

interview and performance at CTV with Steve Pirot, director of Nextfest 2014 - CTV Edmonton, June 4, 2014


"A Stampede of Rebecca Lappa Projects"

Teen wonder Rebecca Lappa is performing not one, but two theatrical projects at this year’s Nextfest.
She’s showing off her latest work, The Great Edmonton Elephant Stampede of 1926, on June 6, 11 and 13 at Azimuth Theatre. The one-woman musical was inspired by one of the crazier stories in our city’s history — when 14 circus elephants took off from a downtown train yard.
Lappa, 17, will also close off the festival with a folk opera she debuted last year.
The Earl, slated for June 15 at The Roxy, was inspired by a Tennyson poem, The Sisters. If that wasn’t enough, she’ll be releasing an album, Ode To Tennyson, later this month, and performing at the Folk Fest in August.
Cue feelings of inadequacy … - Edmonton Journal, June 3, 2014


"Schools across Edmonton take a stand against bullying by going pink"

EDMONTON – Many Edmonton schools exuded pink Wednesday, as students and staff joined in a nation-wide initiative, taking a stand against bullying.

“Everybody is doing something to be a part of something bigger than just themselves,” said Rebecca Lappa, a Grade 11 student who took part in Pink Shirt Day at Victoria School of the Arts.

Pink Shirt Day started in Nova Scotia in 2007, after two high school-aged boys witnessed a younger boy being bullied for wearing a pink shirt. The following day, the older students brought pink shirts for dozens of their friends to wear as a show of solidarity for the boy.

And the movement has grown ever since. In a room filled with her peers Wednesday morning, Lappa performed a song she co-wrote based on her own experiences with bullying.

“It was mostly to, I guess, get release from the bullying I’d experienced through junior high,” she explained.

“To be able to express it, she goes from being a victim to a survivor to a thriver,” added the school’s Coordinator of Counselling, Mary Frances-Fitzgerald. “So now she’s an advocate and by her work, she’s being a leader.”

It wasn’t just schools that were turned into a sea of pink; several businesses also had a pink hue about them. On business in Ottawa, Mayor Don Iveson sported a pink tie to show his support.

“Some of my council colleagues were wearing pink today, too. This is just important to raise awareness and talk about how it’s unacceptable in our communities and bullying needs to be tackled, we need to talk about it. And wearing pink today is just one way to promote that conversation.”

Back at home, students and staff at Monsignor Fee Otterson School in southwest Edmonton added their own flare to the day by wearing shirts with ‘We Belong’ printed on the back. While the shirts weren’t pink, students say the message they’re sending is the same.

“Everybody belongs,” said Grade 7 student Jenna Valjak. “We like to keep a positive influence on the day and how we show how we belong to the many groups in the society and how we’re all different.” - Global News, Caley Ramsay, Feb 26, 2014


"Lovely & Talented Local Singer/Songwriter"

For several years now, Rebecca Lappa, a local songstress, has been buying special dresses and outfits at Tattered Rose.....I was also fortunate to have been given a copy of Rebeccas latest album, whick features her on the cover wearing another dress she purchased from us a while back. Later, I listened for the first time to her voice....singing songs she has written. I was mesmerized and in awe of this talented and beautiful 16 year old young lady and you will be too. - Tattered Rose Canada Blog, Oct. 2013


"Two Edmonton Performers Nominated for Canadian Folk Awards: Maria Dunn and Rebecca Lappa in the running"

Edmonton artists in the running are Maria Dunn (Solo Artist of the Year for Piece by Piece) and Rebecca Lappa (Young Performer of the Year for Avant Garden). - Edmonton Journal, Sept. 26, 2013


"The Soul of the City Hour"

Interview at CJSR about my CD and CD release party - CJSR, Sept. 5, 2013


"Avant Garden Review"

Prolific teenage singer, pianist and songwriting sensation, Rebecca Lappa self-released her third album, Avant Garden in June to great local praise. Hailing from Edmonton, Canada, Lappa has been nominated for a Canadian Folk Music Award twice in the last two years and is quickly making quite a name for herself by also gaining airplay on several well-regarded Canadian radio stations. Rebecca’s piano-led folk pop sound incorporates elements of jazz, blues and classical music and her beautiful and surprisingly powerful voice recalls that of Tori Amos and fellow Canadian, Sarah McLachlan. The title for her new album, Avant Garden is a clever play on words that appropriately describes her unique, avant-garde yet accessible art-pop sound. For the recording of her latest album, her musical vision was fleshed out in the studio by producer Alana Levandoski and a host of skillful musicians, including drummer Sandro Dominelli, guitarist Murray Pulver and bassist Michael Lent, among other guests.

In addition to her new album, she has also written and performed in her own folk opera, The Earl, based on the Tennyson poem “The Sisters”, which premiered earlier this year with a successful four-night run during Edmonton’s Nextfest and she has also penned six songs for Alison Neuman’s musical, Searching For Normal.

The lovely, “Soaring Mountain” opens the album with twinkling piano and soaring guitar swells and also provides the perfect introduction to Lappa’s gorgeous, wise-beyond-her-years singing voice. Even though she could put on a clinic with her well-trained and composed voice, she doesn’t sound clinical, as she sings with soul and conviction. Standout track “Porcelain Doll” follows with a stomping, danceable beat that pulses throughout the song along with a playful piano riff and a catchy, sing-along chorus that easily shines through as the album’s most accessible and radio-ready moment. Next, the emotional “Oriana” is built upon a lilting, operatic chorus and features Pulver’s spindly yet melodic extended guitar runs that are reminiscent of Nels Cline’s fancy fretwork with Wilco. “Run Jack Run” is a short little fantasy-filled tune with swirls of cello, hammered piano notes, Lappa’s dark, nursery rhyme-like lyrics and bouncy vocal cadence that perfectly showcases her theatrical sense. The slower, ballad-esque “Let Them Eat Cake” is adorned with close-knit harmonies, aching cello and a lilting, Jewel-like vocal performance on the pretty, Marie Antoinette-inspired track. As her ability as a playwright proves, Lappa is a great storyteller and “Senior Delateau” is further proof, weaving a tragic story of love and regret that has Broadway written all over it. In the same vein, “The Witch” is loosely based on the story of Hansel And Gretel and bolstered by Lappa and producer and singer Alana Levandoski’s gorgeously angelic harmonies on the chorus for another standout Broadway-like moment. On “Welcome To Wayne”, Rebecca adopts a smoky and confident Fiona Apple-like croon that fits in nicely alongside the waltzing, baroque chamber-pop arrangement. The song also won her an award in the Sonic Youth Category at the 2013 Calgary Folkfest Songwriting Contest. The nine-song album closes out on with a pleasing little love song, “I Love You” and its sweet lyrical sentiment and flowing cello melodies that will leave you in a dreamy, love-struck mood.

Rebecca Lappa is an impressive and truly unique young talent, with a beautiful voice and a diverse set of songwriting skills that belies her age. The best part though, is that she is only going to get better with age. To that end, her stellar new album, Avant Garden should help her to gain a wider audience beyond the Canadian border with her sophisticated yet instantly memorable pop-leaning melodies and captivating arrangements.



Artist: Rebecca Lappa
Album: Avant Garden
Reviewed by: Justin Kreitzer
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars - Justin Kreitzer, Fall 2013


"Abbottsfield Music Program to connect children with Instruments"

Photo of Rebecca doing a concert to generate awareness about the Abbottsfield Music Program - Beverly Heights Community News, Fall 2013


"Third Times’s The Charm"

It seems odd to call a 16-year old a veteran song-writer, but in the case of Rebecca Lappa, its suiting. The Edmonton musician has penned more than 100 songs, and will release her 3rd full-length album Avant Garden next week when she plays Jeffreys Cafe and Wine Bar Sept. 12. .......Lappa hasnt just written a lot of songs---shes written a lot of good songs. ...A song from Avant Garden titled Welcome to Wayne--which tells the story of a travelling man who got stuck in the town of Wayne, AB--won the Sonic Youth Category in the 2013 Calgary Folkfest Songwriting Contest, which earned her a performance slot at the festival. The song is typical of Lappas penchant for writing about original stories and historical events, rather than personal and emotional conflict........ - Kevin Maimann, Edmonton Examiner, Sept. 6, 2013


"Festival Guide: Crowds not a problem at Works"

If Toronto put on a street festival that references Henry David Thoreaus dictum is not what you look at that matters, its what you see--the theme of this years Works and Art Design Festival--youd have people clamouring to try to catch a glimpse of Rob Ford smoking crack.
But this is Edmonton, so given the state of the weather on opening day, Thursday June 20, there might have been a lot to see. There just wasnt anyone there to see it.
There were 22 of us in the beer garden (I counted) for the local performer Rebecca Lappa, who looked vaguely like a younger Loreena McKennitt, played songs in a Kate Bush style while singing like Sarah MaLachlan. Her original material, including an a cappella rendition of a tune from her folk opera;The Earl, was skillfully and tastefully executed. She tipped her hand as a native Edmontonian, taking the unseasonable weather and underwhelming crowd in light hearted fashion over the course of her set. Edmontonians deal with the weather lie Oiler fans: hope for the best, then deal with the worst when it invariably arrives. - Gigcity.ca, June 23, 2013


"A Folk Opera? Really? Really."

What the heck is a folk opera? Before I get to the answer to that question, lets reflect for a moment, shall we. We all know what an opera is (note to wife: please dont make me go to one). And weve all heard of rock operas, the most famous of all was probably Tommy, penned by Pete Townshend and The Who. Next in line is probably Jesus Christ Superstar, my wifes favorite by far and one of those movies that when it comes on television shell watch it every single time.

So obviously the rock opera is simply a story told throughout a number of pieces of music, released as a whole, either in album format, or could be or has been performed on stage or on the screen. With, of course, rock music. And apparently its begotten metal operas, and rap operas since.

And apparently folk operas. I hadnt hear of the term before I received an email invitation from local songstress Rebecca Lappa to attend her-The Earl- as part of Nextfest. Id heard good things about Miss Lappa through various sources though, so figures I should attend, because thats what bloggers do. When they can, anyways.

So it was that last night I found myself at Azimuth Theatre in uptown Edmonton and for which apparently I was very lucky it was a brisk June evening, because it can get swelteringly hot in there. Rebecca Lappa started her performance at 8:00 promptly and whisked us through a extraordinarily entertaining 45 minutes of her folk opera--performing solo, just her and her alone.

And I have to say I was very pleasantly surprised. Heres this young teenage girl, attending Grade 10 at our performing arts highschool, and shes written an entire folk opera. I repeat, an entire folk opera. By herself. And it was good. I mean, how amazing is that. You could sort of see where the story was going, but it was still full of suspense, you definitely felt depressed by the meaty topic matter and she shifted gears marvelously throughout the work to keep you on your toes, and not get mired down in any one part of the story. And the end was both Shakespearean and joyous at the same time. And well, she didnt get a standing ovation in the small theatre at the end, but it wouldnt have surprised me, it couldve gone either way. She probably deserved one. Id definitely be back if it ever got a full-blown treatment with all the roles being portrayed by actors, thats for sure.

Theres two more performances at the Azimuth this week, Thursday and then Sunday. Check one of them out if you have the time. Youll be glad you did. - New Music Michael, June 11, 2013


"Teen Crafts Musical Stories"

At the age of 18, Christina Aquilera uncorked Genie In A Bottle, a pop hit about wanting to be rubbed the right way. At 17 Brittany Spears hit us with...Baby One More Time about wanting to get back together with an ex.
At 15, Edmonton composer/pianist/singer Rebecca Lappa wrote a 60 minute folk opera based on a 19th century poem by Alfred Lord Tennyson. Overbearing mothers, rules of nobility, broken hearts, murder and revenge are all part of The Earl: A Folk Opera, which debuts at this years Nextfest.
Ive always liked to write stories, says Lappa, who turned 16 only a few weeks ago. And Ive always liked songs that have a story, that go somewhere, that arent Oh, I love my boyfriend! Oh, I love my boyfriend! Ive always gravitated towards slightly more mature topics--like, I dont know --death;
Not only did she write The Earl, Lappa is the lone performer, playing piano, singing and reciting the monologues of 4 or 5 different characters
I dont know, Id have to check, she says of the number of roles. Yeah, theres four; Not a big deal obviously for the veteran of productions by Edmonton Opera, Walterdale Playhouse, and Mercury Opera.
The grade 10 student at Victoria School of the Arts says she was inspired to write The Earl, after watching another folk opera, Hadestown, at the Arden. She ran the idea by her songwriting mentor, Manitoba songstress Alana Levandoski, who gave Lappa a book of Tennysonn poems ad challenged her young charge to write a song with a complete story arc. I then pitched (The Earl) to Steve Pirot at Nextfest, who set me up with my director, Laura Raboud; says Lappa. Under her guidance, I fleshed out the story with monologues and ...ta da!
Raboud is overjoyed with the results. She says the teen composer is an incredible artis; --- a hard worker and meticulous, yet down to earth and fun.
When I saw her perform the full show at tech rehearsal this last Monday, I was blown away by her incredible stage presence and also impressed that she has successfully created music that switches between different voices, different ages and genders says the director.
She has a beautiful spirit and when she sings, she emanates strength and honesty. I am so proud of Rebecca and grateful to have had the chance to work with her.
Lappa says writing The Earls duets and lyrics about murderous intentions were her biggest challenges, if only because shes never done either. Otherwise, finishing her folk opera was easier than she expected.
Most people say, Oh thats cool, how do you find the time to do that?
Lappa is a master juggler--of time, that is. Shes a member of Vic Coed Cheerleading team and coaches 3-5 year old gymnasts. Prior to The Earl, she released 2 albums, Not in Neverland (2011) and Myths and Monster (2012) and will follow-up with Avant Garden sometime in June.
Her talents are earning her recognition on a national level. She was wild-card contestant on YTVs talent show, Next Star and a nominee for several awards, including the Canadian Folk Music Awards. Her tune, Welcome to Wayne, recently won a songwriting prize sponsered by the Calgary Folk Fest: shell perform at the festival in July.Some of Lappas compositions will appear at another summer-fest_
Edmonton Fringe. She wrote the music for 6 songs in Searching for Normal, a musical about a girl with a debilitating disease, penned by local writer/lyricist Alison Neuman.
Whats next for Lappa? Shes not sure---shes the type who can excel at anything she sets her mind to, so the possibilities are endless. Plus, we cant forget, shes still got 2 more years of highschool to get through.
Its kind of scary, though; she says of the future. Suddenly, Im not going to have to be in school anymore. Where am I going to be?
At her piano, crafting more musical stories, is a safe bet. Sandra Sperounes Edmonton Journal, June 8th, 2013 - Edmonton Journal, June 8th, 2013


"500 Artists set to invade 124th st. Community for 2013 Nextfest"

Among the highschool shows is a unique folk opera performed live by composer, lyricist, playwright and Edmonton musician Rebecca Lappa.
The Earl:A Folk Opera is a musical piece inspired by a poem by Alfred Tennyson, which Pirot describes as a piece that transgresses class lines and ends rather tragically. Lappa has converted the poem into a set of songs that she will perform on an acoustic piano at the Livingroom Playhouse. We are not sure where she is going to go with it after Nextfest, but after her proposal to us we said we would like to give you an opportunity to test drive this new form for you as a solo concert venture says Pirot. Its a little different than most of the other things that will happen in the festival --the singer-songwriters are singer songwriters or the plays are plays, but this is something in between;
Lappa will be performing The Earl: A Folk Opera on Saturday at 8PM, Monday at 8PM, Thursday at 7 PM and Sunday at 4 PM. - Edmonton Examiner, June 5, 2013


"Local Talent up for Edmonton Music Awards"

Dueling with Lowe in the Underage category is Rebecca Lappa, 15, who is acknowledged for Unicorn.

Although an Edmonton resident, Lowe has competed in Futures Fest and sung for the Tim Hortons Brier, the Rainmaker Rodeo and St. Albert Rotary Club. And Lappa, also based in Edmonton, attends Visionary College and won St. Albert Idol and Futures Fest.

Doors for the awards ceremony open at 6 p.m. and show starts at 7:30 p.m. Royal Alberta Museum is located at 12845 – 102 Ave. - St. Albert Gazette, April 27, 2013


"The Soul of the City Hour"

A radio interview about my CFMA nomination and the songs on my CD. - CJSR, Nov. 15, 2012


"Key of A"

Katherine Duncan highlighted my CD and CFMA nomination on her show. CBC Radio ! Oct. 27, 2012 - CBC Radio 1, Oct.27, 2012


"Review of Myths and Monsters"

Rebecca Lappa is no stranger to music. The prodigal young musician, is only a mere 15 years old. But dont let her age fool you...Lappa will strike you as a performer twice her age, as her heartfelt lyrics come straight from her soul. Hailing from Edmonton, Canada, the teen channels the likes of a young Fiona Apple and Tori Amos, which is quite an impressive feat at any age. Lappa has been making waves in Canada for the past couple of years and is ready to share her story with the world, as she received a Young Performer of the Year nomination for her debut, Not in Neverland, at the 2011 Canadian Folk Awards. 2012 already has seen Rebecca as one of the top six finalists of the All-Albertan Song Contest, and she has also received a Songwriting Boot Camp prize in the Sonic Youth category at the Calgary Folk Festival Songwriting Competition, as well as participating in this summers Galaxie Young Performers Program at the Winnipeg Folk Festival. With all of this phenomenal experience in tow, Lappa has just recently released her sophomore effort, Myths and Monsters, a stunning collection of songs that will grab your very heartstrings.

Opening with the mystifying track, “Carpet Factory,” the beauty in Lappas songwriting is already brought to the table. Her haunting and seductive vocals fill the room with a tone that is not only vibrant, but gorgeous. “Unicorn” is as whimsical as the name states, though there is a deeper meaning. “We could all be free,” and “The forest is my refuge,” sings Lappa, as she pours her heart and soul out, while playing an exquisite piano underneath her charming tones. Immediately following is “The Bargain,” a piece so captivating that you will not be able to stop listening. The retro song creates an eerie tone over the record, as Lappas voice is so compelling that it it borders on Operatic.

“DevilsChild,” brings out a bit of unexpected blues influences from Lappa, truly proving that she is a young woman of many hats. The sultry crooning within her voice creates the perfect piece of musical ecstasy. “Pitter Patter,” is an enchanting and playful piece, that has a beautiful simplicity in both the piano tone as well as Lappas soft vocals.

The most standout of the tracks on Myths and Monsters is the incredible and sensational “Soon,” which has the making of a hit. The brightly strummed acoustics, which accompanies a brilliant piano, combine with Lappas amazingly smooth voice to create a bit of roughness around the edges. Her songwriting abilities are beyond impressive, as she accomplishes what most musicians strive for their whole career.

“The Waltz,” is a touching song that blends Rebeccas enthusiastic voice while a brilliantly bright piano is played throughout. A soft string section wanders into the background, but does not go unnoticed. This is a nice contrast in the album as it takes the music to a whole other level. You can literally feel the passion in Lappas vocals as she sings every note with such grace. This is the perfect song to close out the album, as it manages to sum up everything that is beautiful about these pieces. Upon first glance, they may seem to have simplicity to them, but dont let that fool you. They are indeed very complex, and heartwarming to say the least.

Rebecca Lappas Myths and Monsters will surely intrigue you with her astonishing musical abilities that she surely does deliver on. This only the beginning for Lappa, as you should make sure she is a name you watch out for. This impressive sophomore effort is only the beginning of what is to become of Rebecca Lappas musical career. Wise beyond her years, she is already, a seasoned musician that will have no problem grabbing your attention.

Review by Melissa Nastasi
Rating: 5 Stars (out of 5) - Melissa Nastasi, July 2012


"Prevue, Young Folk: Rebecca Lappa"

At only 15, local folk up and comer Rebecca Lappa already boasts an impressive musical resume.
Lappa, who is also an accomplished pianist, began writing songs at age nine and since has gone on to receive a Young Performer of the Year nomination at the 2011 Canadian Folk Music Awards, a Songwriting Bootcamp prize in the Sonic Youth category at the Calgary Folk Music Festival and landed herself a spot in the Galaxie Young Performers Program at this years Winnipeg Folk Festival, to name a few.
The young artists talents can be heard on her latest album Myths and Monsters, a collection of fantasy-laden songs that bring a plethora of characters to life through her story-telling, based songwriting, Lappa says she draws her inspiration from history and literature to craft her intricate lyrics, which delve a little deeper than some of her mainstream contemporaries.
Ive always liked fairy tales, Lappa adds of her inspiration. I also like history because theres a story to that, too;
In addition to literary inspiration, Lappa cites musical influences such as Pat Benatar, Sarah McLachlan and Anais Mitchell for their vocal, instrumental and songwriting abilities. To refine her own craft on her new album, Lappa teamed up with producer and songwriter Alana Levandoski.
She really had lots of ideas for where my songs could go and how to make them better and how to get things precisely right; she adds of the experience. You just have to keep trying and you have to be patient.....not everything works out the first time, or you might have to try a couple of different ideas before you figure out how its going to work......keep trying and persevere. Vue Weekly, June 21-June 27, 2012 - Vue Weekly, June 21-June 27, 2012


". Not to Be Taken Lightly"

Listening to Rebecca Lappas latest album Myths and Monsters, its easy to forget that this local up and coming folk-pop sensation is only 15 years old.
I dont take no for an answer, Lappa says. that happens a lot and its really frustrating but basically if you keep pursuing it and you have the passion for it, youll eventually make it somewhere;
Even as a toddler, Lappas parents recognized her talents. After enrolling in an early childhood program at Visionary College in St. Albert at 2 years old, Lappa never looked back and now performs at various local venues and events including the Heart of the City Festival and Nextfest.
At 10, Lappa combined her musicality with her natural aptitude for storytelling and began writing her own songs. Although it is too early to say for sure where her music will take her, Lappa hopes one day to perform on the main stage at the Edmonton Folk Festival and eventually take her music on the road.
Until then, Lappa is looking forward to participating in the Galaxie Young Performers Program at the Winnipeg Folk Festival, where she will have the opportunity to be mentored by Royal Wood, a Juno-nominated singer who has booked the Edmonton Folk Festival this summer. Edmonton Examiner, June 13, 2012 - Edmonton Examiner, June 13, 2012


"Teen Songwriter Drops Second Disc"

Her second album, to be released on June 17, has solidified her place as a professional singer and songwriter and shows the Edmonton native wont be discouraged by those who discount her because of her age.
Myths and Monsters takes listeners on a journey through seven original tracks inspired by literature and historical events as seen through the eyes of an imaginative and shockingly mature young musician,
Those familiar with her first album, Not in Neverland, will find a more mature and musically developed Lappa on Myths and Monsters. ............. The Edmonton Sun, June 7, 2012 - The Edmonton Sun, June7, 2012


"Every Song Tells a Story"

Imagine opening up a history book or being immersed in your favorite literature. If this is your preferred pastime then you'll love Rebecca Lappa's story songs; which bring fascinating characters to life through well-crafted lyrics and haunting melodies. Unlike typical teen songwriters who seek inspiration from their diary, Rebecca is inspired by history, myths and her imagination.. Some have said her songs are like mini movies, full of rich vocabulary and clever plots. As you listen to her music, let her soulful vocal sweep you away on an amazing journey!
Rebecca is excited to celebrate the release of her latest CD, Myths and Monsters" on June 17th at 7:00 at Cha Island Tea Company. The acclaimed songwriter Alana Levandoski produced this CD and it was recorded at DanLyn Studios and Micheal Lent's 10th St. Studio. Musical collaborators included amazing musicians such as Michael Lent (bass), Sandro Dominelli (percussion), Russel Broom (guitar), Christine Hanson (cello), and Jim Head (guitar). This collection of 7 folk-pop tunes will pave the way to establish Rebecca as one of Canada's most promising young singer-songwritiers. - The Westmount Window, May 2012


"Haunting song of Wayne finalist in the All-Albertan Song Contest"

The intrigue and mystery of the community of Wayne has inspired a young songwriter, who may have penned the quintessential Alberta song. Rebecca Lappa, 14 is entered in the ATB All-Albertan Song Contest. Her song is called Welcome to Wayne and she is among six finalists in the competition. Music fans can vote online at www.wearealberta.ca or on Facebook. She said she was turned on to the contest by her mentors, and inspired by the history of the small community. I was doing research to write a song for this contest. Originally it was going to be about a guy travelling through Alberta, but when I was researching I found Wayne and thought it had a really haunting ode, said Rebecca. I like the folklore of Wayne. Her song is a tragic tale of a poor mining family, back dropped by labour stife and violence. Haunting in its sound and detail. Interestingly, Rebecca has been to Drumheller, but has yet to visit Wayne. While only 14, Rebecca is no newcomer. She has been singing in competitions since she was six and is an accomplished pianist. She has received a number of Music Festival Awards. She began writing songs at the age of 10. In the spring of 2011 she released a full-length album of original compositions. In November I was nominated for Young Performer of the Year for the Canadian Folk Music Awards; she said. The winner of the All-albertan Song Contest will be selected by judges with input from listeners who can vote online. voting is now open until April 25. The winner will be announced on April 28. The prize includes $10, 000 from ATB as well as $2 000 from Alberta Music towards recording the top entry. The winning song will be published on Alberta Musics 2013 showcase CD. For more information go to www.wearealberta.ca. Drumheller Mail, April 19, 2012 - Drumheller Mail, April 19, 2012


"Vote for your favourite song about Alberta"

Edmonton teen Rebecca Lappas haunting piano ode to a former mining town, Welcome to Wayne, is one of six finalists in the second edition of the All-Albertan Song contest. Shes up against the likes of Fort Saskatchewan native Branden Gates................. Edmonton Journal Blog, April 12, 2012 - Edmonton Journal Blog, April 12, 2012


"Awards, Awards, Awards"

Edmonton's Rebecca Lappa is ..Alberta artist nominated for a Canadian Folk Music Awards. Lappa, 14, is vying for Young Performer of the Year. - Edmonton Journal Blog, Oct. 19, 2011


"Youth at the Blues lineup finalized as countdown to festival begins"

We have quite a wide range. Theres rock and theres poppy stuff, some blues and folk he said. Its pretty varied;
Teen singer-songwriter Rebecca Lappa, who touts her style as folk..delivered in a more pop-style; is looking forward to her Beaumont debut.
I wanted to be part of the Beaumont Blues Festival because I had heard good things about the festival and at 14 it can be hard to find opportunities to play in front of an audience of real music lovers she said. I want people to hear my music.
Lappa has been writing songs since she was nine and recently finished her first full length album of original music, Not in Neverland............. La Nouvelle Beaumont News, Aug 12, 2011 - La Nouvelle Beaumont News, Aug. 12, 2011


"Edpod Challenge"

Rebecca did a live interview and had to pitch a song for the audience to upload. - CBC Radio One, June 13, 2011


"Radio Interview on Day Break Alberta"

Rebecca was interviewed by Nola Keeler and 2 of her songs were played - CBC Radio One, June 12, 2011


"Night of Artists Gala"

Rebecca performed an original for Breakfast TV. - Breakfast TV on City TV, May 25, 2011


"Release Me"

Theres no shortage of talented teens in Edmonton, and singer-songwriter Rebecca Lappa is the latest to showcase her skills on CD. The 13 year old sprite will release her first album, Not in Neverland, on Thursday, June 2, at Expressionz Cafe.......... Edmonton Journal, May 24, 2011 - Edmonton Journal, May 24th, 2011


"The Next Star"

Rebecca was filmed performing an original song during the audition for the TV show, The Next Star. The episode was aired in July, 2011 on YTV. - YTV, May 10th and May 11th, 2011


"Undiscovered Season 3"

Rebecca was interviewed and recorded performing at the Celtic Hall - Shaw TV, March 2011


"Annual Arts Festival Returns to Church"

He said there will also be a few musicians performing their own work throughout the day, including 14 year old Rebecca Lappa, who already writes her own songs;.......Fort Saskatchewan The Record, March 31, 2011 - Fort Saskatchewan The Record, March 31, 2011


"Callingwood Library Alive with Young Artist's Music"

The clear voice of Rebecca Lappa carried throughout the library Sunday afternoon at the Lois Hole Library in Southwest Edmonton. An intimate audience of 15 were seated in a circle around her keyboard to listen to the 13 year olds music as she sang and accompanied herself.
The performance was part of a series os music selections the library has been hosting every month.Local artists share their talents during the Music on a Sunday Afternoon program. Lappa heard about the program and wanted to be a part of it. "Me and my parents were searching around for places for me to play and we found that the library has musicians come on Sunday so we called them up."
The afternoons performance included a mix of Lappas own original music as well as some popular songs such as Hit Me With Your Best Shot by Pat Benatar.
Lappa is a natural composer. She wrote her first song at the age of 9. Five years later, Lappa now has over 50 original songs in her repertoire.
The young artist has had her share of performances. She has played at festivals, Heart of the City, Home Fest and various coffee shops around Edmonton.
Lappa belongs to the group U22, a Canadian association dedicated to giving credible performance opportunities to young talent from the age 10-22. The U22 group was responsible for finding her last performance, which was playing out at the Edmonton International Airport. - West Edmonton Local, Mar.11, 2011


"U22 at the Airport"

Rebecca was interviewed and recorded while performing at the Edmonton International Airport - Global TV, Jan.1, 2011


"Rhea March Founder of U22: Woman of Vision"

Images of Rebecca while she was singing were used in this piece filmed at Expressionz - Global TV, Sept. 2010


"Playing an Artful Tune"

photo of Rebecca busking on the streets of St. Albert - Saint City News, Sept.10, 2010


"AT Idol 2009- Rebecca Lappa"

Twelve year old Rebecca Lappa was born to perform and singing and songwriting are her passions. In 2009, she was the winner of the first annual Alternative Trends Idol competition, wowing the audience with her performance of her original composition, Turned Out Wrong.
Rebecca has been involved with music since she was a toddler, taking music classes at Visionary College. Since she was 6, she has sung at various venues, charity events and competitions, including 5 years as a finalist at Capital Exs Northern Star Talent Search. She won the junior division of the St. Albert Idol competition in 2008 and returned in 2009 as a guest performer.
Rebecca is also a budding songwriter. To date she has penned 25 songs, a contemporary mix of pop and folk with a hint of jazz. Rebecca expresses her thought and feelings as she writes;I feel or experience something and when I try to express it, words and melody come out at the same time says Rebecca.
Rebecca has recorded two 5-song EPs. Young Voice, Old Soul; features other local musicians, demonstrating Rebeccas considerable involvement in the arts community. As a regular performer on Sunday nights at Hulberts Songwriting Stage, Rebecca was noticed by Rhea March, who invited her to join U22. U22 has provided Rebecca with valuable mentorship and performance opportunities.
The very talented Rebecca Lappa has stories to tell and the voice to tell them. Alternative Trends magazine, Fall/Winter 2009 - Alternative Trends, Fall/Winter 2009


"Tweens Tune Up for TV Show"

photo of Rebecca for the above article about the Next Star audition, Edmonton - Edmonton Sun, May 20, 2009


"Appreciating the Live New Young Musicians of U22"

featuring: Rebecca Lappa, at the ripe old age of 11, vocalist, pianist, songwriter/composer - The Riverdalian, May 2009


"Pagliacci in the Park"

photo of Rebecca in costume for the Opera - Boyle McCauley News, Sept. 2008


"Local Spotlight: The Winners of St. Albert Idol"

The St. Albert Spring into Spring Lifestyle Expo ... concluded with two new idol winners. Lappa composed, sang and played piano to a country/pop song shed written titled Friends. Its a song of closure dedicated to her best friend.... - St. Albert Gazette, April 2008


"Talent Hunt Looking For a Touch of Temper"

photo and article about Anne of Green Gables movie casting. Edmonton Journal 2007 - Edmonton Journal, July 26, 2007


"Visionary College Student Recognition"

Another one of our students, Rebecca Lappa, will be performing in Edmonton Opera's production of Filumena. It's a Canadian opera based on the true story of Filumena Lassadro, the last women to be hanged in Alberta. The opera runs November 26th, November 29 and /december 3rd at the Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium . Call 429-1000 for ticket information. Congratulations, Rebecca! - The Up Beat, Dec. 2005


Discography

1. Tales of a Taurus, May 2023

2. Taking Flight, Oct 2020

3. Unfiltered, July 2019

4. Spirit, Dec 2017

5. Reckless Heart, November 2016

6. Tattered Rose, June 2015

7. Ode To Tennyson, June 2014

8. Avant Garden, June 2013

9. Myths and Monsters, May 2012

10. Not in Neverland, March 2011


Photos

Bio

Rebecca Lappa is a 25 year old award winning singer songwriter, who delivers alternative music with folk undertones through a pop vein. Just signed to Tonic Records, Lappa is excited to release her new album ”Tales of a Taurus”, funded by her second FACTOR Juried Sound Recording grant, in  May 2023. This venture into Indie Pop reflects Lappa’s growth as a writer and willingness to take sonic risks. In this new release Lappa takes the story of the wounded healer to new heights, sharing the pain and struggles of women in their 20’s with the courage to find healing within and hope for the future ahead. Born in San Francisco but Canadian to the core, Lappa is bringing the message back to the music in 2023. 


Her story based compositions filled with catchy melodies, and clever lyrics captured Lappa three 2019 Edmonton Music Awards nominations, winning Singer Songwriter Recording of the Year.  As a 5 time Canadian Folk Music Awards nominee, Lappa won Young Performer of the Year in 2015. As a prolific songwriter she has won 1st place in the Calgary Folk Festival Songwriting contest in 2018, 2015, 2013 and 3rd place in 2014 and 2019.  In 2017, Lappa won the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta’s Spirit of Vimy contest and a trip to Vimy Ridge with her song “Valiant of Vimy”. In 2018, Lappa was commissioned to write a song for the No Stone Left Alone Memorial Foundation, that honours fallen Canadian soldiers on Remembrance Day. In 2020, Lappa captured a coveted spot as a top 5 Edmonton finalist in the Jim Beam National Talent Search.  In 2021, Lappa wrote a song for the Edmonton Dutch Canadian Club to commemorate the unveiling of an Anne Frank Statue and to celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the Netherland Liberation from the Nazi's occupation. 


Lappa delivers a lively show with a mix of originals and covers from a variety of genres and decades that would be suitable for audiences both young and old.  She’s toured Canada and entranced audiences at the Edmonton Folk Music Festival (2014, 2018), Rogue Arts Festival (2018), Calgary Folk Festival (2013, 2015), Canmore Folk Festival (2014) the Ottawa Blues Festival (2016, 2017), Alberta House during two Grey Cup (2010, 2018), Edmonton Rock Festival (2019) and Seven Music Fest  (2018).   Lappa is honoured to have opened for The Crash Test Dummies, Jenn Grant, Digging Roots, Basia Bulat, Buffy Sainte-Marie, Mike Plume, Maria Dunn, Amy Bishop, Reignwolf, Lissie and Leeroy Stagger. Lappa is a star on the rise, with her electric live performances, 20K social media followers and charting nationally on campus radio.  With powerful vocals and honest stories, Lappa is an emerging Canadian talent who is clearly "one to watch".   


Lappa received a Composition Diploma from MacEwan University in 2017 and in 2018 won the 10K Bell Media Prize to attend Canada's Music Incubator in Toronto.  In 2022, she finished her Music Therapy studies at Capilano University in BC and will complete her Music Therapy Internship at the Alberta Children’s Hospital in Calgary by spring 2023. 


Band Members