the partae

Your new album, “Above the Clouds and On the Ground”, marks a shift from your familiar commercial country sound. What inspired this change in direction?

The biggest inspiration for this change was personal growth. I got sober about five years ago and experienced an immense shift in my approach to life. I got married, became a father, and have a new outlook on what’s important in life. Musically, I wanted to break free of the constraints of writing for radio and instead write music that meant something to me with the hopes that it would move people in the same way.

You’ve had a successful career in Canadian country music, earning national recognition over the past 15 years. What was the biggest challenge in stepping outside that sound for this record?

I think that the biggest challenge was leaving the music that I identified with in the past. It’s very easy to do what you’ve always done, especially when it’s worked for you in the past, so this was a huge leap of faith, but I couldn’t imagine continuing on any other way. It’s been very difficult to be vulnerable in the lyrics, but that is a part of music and songwriting, and it’s important to be truthful in your music because I feel that it shines through.

Chris Burke-Gaffney, known for his work with MacKenzie Porter and Chantal Kreviazuk, produced the album. What was it like working with him, and how did he help shape the new sonic landscape of this project?

Chris and I met back in 2014 when I was selected to showcase at the Americana Music Festival in Nashville. He was one of the industry professionals that was on the panel. Afterwards we chatted because he liked my voice and the songs that I had showcased. I’d never worked with him in the studio but we had written a couple of songs together and had some success with those tracks.

When I approached him about writing this album, he expressed interest in producing it especially when I discussed the content and the approach of a more Americana-style album. Working with him in the studio is like no other. He truly brought all of the songs to the next level. His input on the lyrics, the vocal stylings, the vocal melodies, and the instrument arrangements was second to none. This album would not be what it is without his expertise. We had a vision and a focus, and he dialed it right in.

The album blends Americana, country, folk-rock, and folk-pop influences. Were there any particular artists or albums that inspired this fusion of styles?

The Bros Landreth out of Winnipeg – they had an incredible album they released a couple of years ago and this had a big impact on me. Donovan Woods, another Canadian artist, is a big inspiration both lyrically and musically. And I would be remiss if I didn’t mention Vince Gill who is my all-time favorite artist. He’s a beautiful songwriter and obviously an excellent musician.

Your personal milestones—marriage, fatherhood, and sobriety—played a big role in this album’s creation. How do these experiences come through in your songwriting?

I think I went into the album with my family and my sobriety in mind. I wanted to have a nice mix of songs that included these elements in some capacity. I think if you listen to the album from front to back, you get a sense of what I mean. There are some songs that are sad yes, and some are based off experiences I’ve had with my wife. But the inspiration comes from those tough times, nonetheless. Again, it’s important for me to be truthful in the writing and I believe that will shine through and connect with others.

You’ve performed at major events like the Grey Cup, Canadian Country Music Week, and the Americana Music Festival in Nashville. How do you think your live performances have evolved with this new music?

I think a lot of those performances in the past were based on presenting a product which was the polished music and a polished performance. If I look back, a lot of the performances were based on an image I was trying to uphold. The performances now focus on emotion and the delivery of the songs themselves.

Looking back on your journey in the music industry, what lessons have you learned that influenced the way you approached this album?

Some of the biggest lessons for me were making sure that I was prepared for the album and that I had a plan for it some cohesiveness between the songs. I think for my 2015 album, I was able to get better at that than the previous 2009 album but overall, for this new album, I felt that these songs all make sense together and they are intertwined. Some of the songs on the album are from ten years ago, while others are from two years ago, but they are all close to my heart for one reason or another.

With the shift in sound, do you feel like your audience has changed? Have longtime fans embraced this new direction?

There have been a few longtime fans that have embraced this new sound. I can feel a bit of distance between other fans of my music which, although it’s uncomfortable, it is expected. Simply put, you’re not going to please everyone!

The title Above the Clouds and On the Ground suggests a balance between dreaming big and staying grounded. How does this theme play out across the ten tracks?

I think there’s a nice blend from the first track to the tenth track. There are songs about dreaming big – being up in the clouds madly in love – while other songs bring you back down to the ground and talk about the harsh reality of sobriety and making amends with the people that you love and haven’t been there for.

I’ve tried to maintain cohesiveness with the songs between one another. If you look at the first 3 songs, they are more about that harsh reality and about sobriety, followed by more upbeat pop style songs about love, well the next few songs again bring you back down to ground level about love and loss.

What’s next for you? Will you be touring with this record, and are there any collaborations or projects in the works that fans should keep an eye out for?

I plan to tour around to promote the album, dates are yet to come. The plan is to perform in intimate settings, house parties or coffee shops.

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“Gucci Body” blends hip-hop and pop with sultry vocals—what was the creative process like when bringing this track to life? Did you have a specific vision from the start, or did it evolve naturally?

I wanted to create a song that makes people feel amazing no matter where they are on their journey. In this context, “Gucci” isn’t about luxury—it’s a mindset, a reminder to know your worth, carry yourself with confidence, and put in the work to be your best self. I’ve experienced moments of self-doubt, and I know many struggle with self-worth. Listening to Sexy by Rae Sremmurd and Rude Girl by Bantu, both of which radiate unstoppable confidence, inspired me to capture that energy. Those songs reference luxury brands, but I wanted to shift the focus away from material things defining our worth. Gucci Body is about giving yourself the absolute best—because you deserve it. It’s an anthem for empowerment: walking with your head high and stepping into your main character moment.

The track was produced by Deep Jandu, who has worked with major artists like Karan Aujla and Sidhu Moosewala. What was it like collaborating with him, and how did his production influence the final sound of “Gucci Body”?

I owe a huge shoutout to Deep Jandu for taking a chance on me when I walked into his studio with nothing but raw passion. He was incredibly patient, fun-loving, and downright talented—he really understood the vibe I was going for. I envisioned Gucci Body as a high-energy, sexy track with a pop vibe layered over a deep hip-hop beat, and Deep brought that vision to life with signature touches like a crisp clap before the chorus and an intro piano that really made the song come alive. His production gives the track an infectious energy that has you hyped even before the lyrics kick in.

You use “Gucci” as a metaphor for self-worth and confidence rather than materialism. What inspired this theme, and how does it reflect your personal experiences or journey as an artist?

Great question! For me, “Gucci” symbolizes “good”—it’s a way to express self-worth that goes beyond material things. I wanted the surface to be fun and uplifting, while the deeper message is about self-respect, confidence, and treating yourself with the absolute best care. It’s a reminder that what you wear doesn’t define you—how you feel about yourself is what really matters. It took me a long time to fully appreciate myself and know my worth. I used to act like I had everything figured out—tough, confident, unbothered—but inside, I was insecure, confused, and unsure of who I wanted to be. Gucci Body is symbolic of my personal growth—not just as an artist, but as a woman and a mother.

Growing up in Malvern, a culturally rich and diverse neighborhood, how has your upbringing shaped your musical style and the stories you tell through your songs?

Growing up in Malvern was a formative experience—it’s a neighborhood bursting with culture, energy, and resilience, though not without its challenges. I had to mature quickly and navigate life largely on my own. The incredible diversity there exposed me to a mix of sounds—soca, reggae, hip-hop, pop, R&B—which naturally found its way into my music. More importantly, Malvern taught me to stand strong, trust myself, and push through any doubts. That spirit of self-made confidence is at the heart of everything I create.

You’ve cited Aaliyah, Monica, Britney Spears, and Brandy as inspirations. How have these artists influenced your sound, and do you see their impact on “Gucci Body” or your upcoming projects?

Each of these incredible women has influenced me in her own way. Aaliyah and Brandy with their smooth, effortless vocals, Monica with her raw emotion, Britney with her ability to create timeless, infectious pop music. They taught me that you can be both soft and strong—that your presence can be gentle yet powerful. Their influence shows up in my melodies, storytelling, and song structure. You can hear elements of that in Gucci Body, but even more so in my upcoming single Down, which leans heavily into an R&B vibe reminiscent of the music I grew up loving.

You’ve spent years refining your craft as a songwriter. Can you share a moment or breakthrough that made you realize you were ready to step into the spotlight as an artist?

The turning point came after I wrote Gucci Body and a few other tracks. The lyrics, melody, and vibe were unlike anything I’d created before—I knew I had something special. Listening back, I realized I couldn’t live with myself if I didn’t share my music with the world. It took time to get here, but every step of my journey has shaped me into the songwriter I am today. Gucci Body is the perfect debut—a powerful anthem of confidence, strength, and inner love that marked my leap into the spotlight.

You took the unconventional route of completing two graduate degrees before fully committing to music. How did that journey shape your approach to your career, and what ultimately made you take the leap?

My academic journey taught me discipline, strategy, and how to move with intention. Music is art, but it’s also a business, and my background gave me the mindset to approach it seriously. I learned the power of persistence—nothing happens overnight; you build it step by step. That same mentality drives me in my music. I’m not here for shortcuts; I’m here to make quality music. I had a huge aha moment when I started writing music again. My lyrics, my melodies—something had shifted. I couldn’t just sit on them. I knew I had to take this leap.

As an emerging Canadian pop artist, what are some challenges you’ve faced in the industry, and how do you navigate them while staying true to your artistic vision?

The Canadian music scene is underrated—it’s tough to break through because we don’t have the same resources and opportunities as bigger markets. As a mom of two, a wife, and an artist, finding the time to do shows and establish myself in the scene is nearly impossible. Could I do it? Yes. But at what cost? I love music more than anything, but I also love my kids. Music and being a mom are the two dreams I’ve had for myself, and I don’t want to neglect either of them. Creating music in Canada is also challenging because my style—pop with R&B and hip-hop influences—isn’t as common here. Finding producers, agencies, and industry people with experience in my genre has been tough. Luckily, I’ve crossed paths with some amazing people, and they’ve been a blessing.

With “Gucci Body” marking your debut, what can listeners expect from your upcoming music? Are there any exciting collaborations or projects in the works?

Gucci Body is just the beginning—I have so much more music coming, and I can’t wait to share it. My next two singles will show a completely different side of me. Both are pop, but one leans into an R&B vibe, while the other brings a high-energy dance/EDM feel. I want listeners to really experience my versatility and see that I’m not confined to just one sound. No collaborations in the works at the moment, but this is a big year—I’m just getting started.

What do you want fans to take away from your music, and how do you hope to inspire listeners with your artistry?

I want people—especially the ladies—to feel empowered, confident, and unstoppable when they hear my music. My sound is fun, sexy, and full of energy, and I want that to translate into how my listeners feel. Whether it’s dancing in the mirror, hyping yourself up before a night out, or just needing a reminder of your worth, my music is here to lift your spirits and remind you to own your power. If I can make someone feel even a little bit more confident, then I’ve done my job.

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What inspired this album, and how does it represent your personal journey over the past few years?

All of my albums are inspired by my life experiences.  This album was very reflective for me as I have been focusing on being more OPEN to change, ideas and the world around me.  By disarming myself, I feel like my creativity was able to flourish and it was very inspiring.

You mention wanting to open yourself up to new ideas and perspectives. How has that influenced your music and composition process?

Good question.  I think it has made me approach music from a more natural and relaxed point of view.  Sometimes composing can feel forced and when that happens, the music suffers.  This album came about very organically which I think added depth to the stories.

What was your approach to composing this album? Did you have a particular theme in mind when creating each piece?

My compositions are very “of the moment”, meaning something has to inspire me to write.  By opening myself up and approaching this over a longer period, I think was able to give myself the room with which to create these amazing songs.

The album features a Steinway S Grand Piano—what drew you to this specific piano, and how did it shape the sound of the album?

This is the same piano I have recorded all of my albums on.  I really enjoy the sound of a Steinway in the studio, and the S is a very controllable size piano for me.

Your music falls into the solo piano and new age genres. Are there any artists or composers who have particularly influenced your style?

I have been inspired by a number of pianists like David Lanz, but George Winston is the pianist that caused me to want to play piano.  I taught myself how to play at the age of 12 listening to DECEMBER with a little cassette player and pushing play/rewind until the tape would break!

The tracklist includes titles like Faith, Changes, and Once Upon a Time. Can you share the meaning or inspiration behind one or two of these pieces?

I try not to speak to much on what my songs are about as I really like the listeners to hear the title and the music and make their own stories to them.  I can say that FAITH is exactly what is sounds like and is my hope for a better tomorrow for all of us.

Girl in the Painting is an intriguing title—what’s the story behind this piece?

Ok, I’ll talk about this one.  We have a painting in our house given to us by my wife’s grandfather and it so beautiful and haunting at the same the time, that I wrote that song as the background to what I think the woman’s life would have been like.  It’s difficult to describe, but I write music as though the subject is a film and I can see the story unfold as I write.

You worked with producer Matt Holmes and other creatives like Karla Colahan and Nelson Hill. How did these collaborations shape the final product?

These three are the best and I have done all of my albums with them.  I can compose, but they help bring it all to life and I am eternally grateful for their friendship and talent.

Wild Sound Recording Studio was your choice for recording. What made it the right space for this project?

They are my go-to studio to record. Matt is amazing, and it’s as if I am recording with my brother in my living room.  Very comfortable and very easy.

This album is about self-awareness and inner peace. What do you hope listeners take away from it?

Hopefully people are able to listen and reflect on their lives and the paths they have chosen.  Challenging ourselves to look beyond our comfort zones can be very liberating and hopefully this album challenges people to do that and to find peace in their lives.

How did the collaboration between you two come about? Was this something you had discussed before, or did the opportunity arise organically? 

Lin Gardiner – Julia Sound (JS): This was definitely an organic collaboration. Kinnie and I have worked together a bunch over the last few years, mainly on her solo music, but she also featured on a track from my 2023 album. When I was putting this track together, Kinnie’s was the only voice I could hear on it, so I was thrilled when I asked if she’d be up for another feature, she said yes!

“Cars Crush” blends Julia Sound’s mellow electronica with Kinnie Starr’s chill rap and ethereal vocals. Can you describe your creative process for this track and how you melded your distinct styles together?

JS: Our collaboration is always really easy, which I love. I sent the track to Kinnie asking if she’d be interested in contributing a kind of chill stoner rap, and she responded with what you hear.. I loved it right away! Kinnie is a producer as well as a writer and performer, so she recorded the vocals in her studio, including adding a lot of the effects you hear in the track. It’s so seamless when we collaborate, we’re on the same page creatively which is really cool.

KS: Lin and I have been collaborating for years. We share similar work ethics and enjoy the art of communicating, which makes work easy. I think people rush too much with communication, and when we do that too much, the relationship and work suffers. When Lin and I collaborate, we offer each other time, but also we know that follow up is important. So our work flow is very successful.

Julia, your background spans across video games, TV, and film—how did those experiences influence the production and feel of “Cars Crush”?

JS: I would say they don’t influence this track at all. When creating music for visual media, you are informed by the characters, the story, the setting.. When creating a music track isolated from any other form of media, the canvas is completely blank and I just follow ideas in my mind’s eye, rather than my actual eyes 🙂

Kinnie, you’ve been a major figure in the Canadian indie hip-hop scene for decades. How does collaborating on a project like this challenge or excite you compared to your solo work?

KS:Collaboration makes songs easier. I do most of my production (beats and bass lines and keys and structure) alone, which can get boring. I really prefer throwing it back and forth and Lin is great at that.

The single is described as a taste of Julia Sound’s upcoming album. Can you give us a hint of the direction the full album will take, especially in terms of sound and themes?

JS: The album has a few tracks with this mellower trip hop vibe, but there are also a couple of tracks where I up the tempo quite a bit (by Julia Sound standards anyway!). The opener is going to lean into a bit of a nostalgic 90’s club vibe, and another track has a more edgy, slightly indie style.. Both of those songs also have some exciting featured vocalists. Stay tuned!

How does “Cars Crush” reflect both of your personal journeys as artists, and how do you see it fitting into your broader musical narratives?

JS: I think I have a 90’s trip hop influence at my core (among other genres & time periods), and this track is one of the most reflective of that trip hop vibe. I love rap and hip hop too, and have so much respect for Kinnie’s work, and see this track as showcasing some of the many strings on her bow, from cool chill rap to beautiful melodic phrases.

KS: Oh I don’t know the answer to this one! But I really like this track. It feels like the west coast – blurry.

Kinnie, your versatility in switching from rap to ethereal background vocals is striking on this track. What inspired you to experiment with those different vocal styles on “Cars Crush”?

KS: That’s just how I work. I’m not trained in music so I’m very exploratory. I am always learning. I like breaking my voice up.

Julia, as someone who works across multiple mediums, how do you approach songwriting and production differently when creating music for an album versus for TV or video games?

JS: As mentioned above, writing straight up music tracks is quite free-ing, as I’m not bound by any other influences such as a story or setting for a film or game.

You both have had long careers in the music industry—what do you think makes “Cars Crush” stand out in today’s musical landscape, and what are you hoping listeners will take away from it?

JS: The whole Julia Sound project is 100% female (and non binary) created, which I think gives it a unique story. In terms of the track standing out, how does anyone stand out these days with 1 million uploads per day? All I can hope for is that some people dig it and add it to their playlists (which appears to be happening so that’s cool!). I just love creating music, and collaborating with amazing artists, so for me it’s all about enjoying the process of creating, and then putting it out in the world for people to enjoy, rather than having any grandiose goals or expectations.

KS: Honestly I’m not sure how music reaches people or IF it reaches people. The amount of new songs that are released on Spotify alone daily is staggering. I think it’s important to make the work for the work, not for expansion or for any goal other than to do it well. I have a very small following on Spotify and don’t really have a competitive spirit so it’s been hard for me to understand how to embody that “get it” mentality we are supposed to have in music. I am just grateful to be working.

Finally, with “Cars Crush” as a preview, what can fans expect next from Julia Sound and Kinnie Starr? Are there any exciting plans for live shows or future collaborations on the horizon?

JS: From me, there’s the new Julia Sound album due late Spring, an EP from my electro-punk trio Bae Baracus, as well as some live shows in the summer in BC. Also, I’ll be finishing up co-producing and mixing some tracks for a fantastic new Kinnie Starr release slated for release soon(ish!).

KS: Yes!! We are always working together and actually Lin worked with me on my whole new album, DESTROYER. I think we are in it for the long haul. It’s very important to develop deep working relationships and in particular to hire women and Indigenous people as much as possible to keep populating the industry.

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