Lineup 2018
Belia
Halifax, NS
With lyricism heavily steeped in mother nature’s influence, Nova Scotia based alt-folk artist, Belia (formerly Blue Lobelia), creates ethereal soundscapes with waves of looping vocals, singing violins and plucked guitars. Influences of Vashti Bunyan and Andrew Bird can be heard in her unique and earthy blend of classical and indie-folk.
In 2016, Belia released a 9-track album titled Perennial, touring her original work from Niagara to Montreal. Entirely self-produced, her hope was to inspire confidence in other young women to contribute their voices to the industry. Heavily influenced by the diverse Canadian landscape, it interprets a young woman’s journey to self-discovery in the natural world.
Her 2016 DIY album Perennial is an ebb and flow of sound — sometimes a sparkling brook, sometimes a tidal wave of different thoughts and feelings created by her innovative looping strings-and voice technique.” -Coral Andrews, TheRecord.com
Beginning her career in her home province Ontario, she later relocated to the East Coast to complete a Music Therapy Internship and focus more time on her music. In 2017 Belia’s track “Wildflower Lore” made ‘Ride the Tempo’s Weekly Top 10’ and was featured on CBC’s East Coast music hour. She was also commissioned to compose and record a piece for the collection Arctic World, created by Guelph artist, David Caesar. While living in Halifax, she was featured as a violinist on four tracks from Mauno’s album Tuning.
After three extensive cross-province tours, radio play on CHSR campus radio and performances at festivals including Flourish Festival, Living Roots, Fest Forward and Follyfest, Belia is gaining momentum. In 2018, she is completing two Artist Residencies and has been chosen for NSCC’s Artist Development Program. Belia’s evolving sound now showcases jazz influence and a love for experimental improvisation. Keep your ears tuned for the release of a second album early in 2019.