Canadian singer-songwriter, Caroline Spence, writes and performs music that is progressive folk-rock, with a twist of new wave, a twist of jazz & blues and a twist of pop. The music captures the romance of a bygone era in a modern fusion of styles. The lyrics are poetic, emotive and clever. The vocals are lush, deep and resonant and feature gothic and eclectic multiple harmonies. The set takes the listener on a journey of stories, told in the best folk-fusion style. The vocals go from light and airy to velvet, passionate and powerful. If you are a lover of good music, with eclectic tastes, you will love this band.
"This music instantly brings up images of the Smiths meets the Cowboy Junkies. It is part sixties folk and part twenty-first century rural meets urban adventurism..." - Chris K., Pro Critic Radio
Caroline Spence and her band have consistently entertained audiences and captured their attention and respect by playing music that is lyrically strong and meaningful, with catchy arrangements, put together in an eclectic and interesting mix that has something for every listener. The band has an exciting and passionate stage presence and real rapport with each other. Genuine and vulnerable, their unforgettable live performance will resonate in your soul for a long time after. It is no wonder that this band won the Live Performance of the Year Award at the 2006 Island Music Awards.
"...A prismatic and charismatic performer with many unique and important things to say." - Danica Nolan, Indiemark
Caroline's voice is singular, exciting and breathtaking in its power and resonance. Her vocals need no modification to reach across a crowded theatre and no effects to be resonant and flowing. Her voice is naturally smooth and delicious. She has an incredible talent for vocal improvisation and will amaze you with her power and range, as well as her emotional and honest delivery. Hard to believe, this young woman was told she would never be a singer at a young age. She has risen above the odds to share her stunning gift with others with passionate fire. Adam Basterfield (Pigs, Permanent Frequency) adds his expansive vocal range, bringing matching lush harmonies to the mix that are reminicent of October Project and Kate Bush. Intricate interplay between sweet-toned guitar sounds and dreamy orchestration from a myriad of instruments, create a unique musical tapestry.
"Reminding me of some of the great music that I've heard from the Projekt label...the female vocals/harmonies are especially great...definite ear candy... " - Tim MacAleese, Canadian Rawk Network
Caroline and her band have toured across Canada 3 times and have played numerous festivals. The band have been honoured to share the stage with some of Canada's best folk and independent artists including Ember Swift, Melissa McLelland, Shauna Major, T.Nile, Rae Spoon, Chris Belsito, Carmen Townshend (Shek) and The Gruff. Their music has been played on CBC and college radio. Their 6-song EP, 'hello' was produced by Michael Jack (Jann Arden, Bono, Rush, The Trews) and featured the award winning song, 'Hey Gemini' as the lead track. 'Live at the Glenn Lake Inn', their live cd from 2006, captures an unforgettable early performance of the band. The band underwent a name change in 2008 to become 'Crimson Star'. They were invited to showcase at NewMusicWest, and were the regional winners of the Mazda Music tour, as well as opening for US artist, Melissa Ferrick (Ani diFranco's opening act 2007) at the Rainbow Theatre in Whistler.
"Rusticated soft rock with finely meshed female vocals.. will make listeners think of the tradition- steeped melodies of Kate and Anna McGarrigle and the October Project." - Listen
Caroline has been hard at work writing songs and working on an exciting new music project that will be released world wide in 2010, with a tour to follow. Caroline is also a strong supporter of other independent artists and is involved with a number of projects and collectives to support the independent music scene.
"What a beautiful voice she has. It has depth..." - Pete McDonald, Peer - Garageband
AWARDS & RECOGNITION:
Regional Finalist - Mazda Music Tour 2008
Live Performance of the Year 2006 - Island Music Awards
Canadian Musician Magazine Talent Search Winner
PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS:
Numerous festivals and tours including:
Twestival 2009 & 2010
Tweet-Up Tour 2009
Octofest 2008
Canada Day Festival - Invermere 2008
New Music West 2008 - Showcase
Mazda Music Tour 2008
Whistler WinterPride 2008 - Opening for Melissa Ferrick
Tom Lee Sounds of Summer Showcase 2007
Wyld Lily Gypsy Caravan - National Festival Tour 2007
Invermere Canada Day Festival - Main Stage 2007
Benefit for Animal Rescue - 2007
We are Lost - National Tour 2006
Invermere Mountain Mosaic Festival of the Arts 2006
Whatshan Festival 2006
Fernwood Festival 2006
Elemental Tour - National Tour 2005
Invermere Mountain Mosaic Festival of the Arts 2005
Arts Wells Festival 2005
