‘An ode to Nova Scotia’: Halifax Indie-folk artist Braden Lam releases debut album

Halifax singer-songwriter Braden Lam is releasing his debut album that’s a love letter to Nova Scotia.

Indie-folk artist Braden Lam from Halifax recently released his debut full-length album, called “The Cloudmaker’s Cry.”

“It’s a cry of joy, a cry of sorrow, of grief, anxiety, protest – all wrapped in there,” said Lam. “But at the core, it’s about connection.”

The 10-track album is named after smokestacks in Dartmouth, N.S.

“It’s an ode to Nova Scotia and the people and places I love,” he said.

Recorded in a converted Toronto church, the record blends warm analog tones from the 1960s and 70s with a modern edge.

“Something that can also stand up in the 21st century and has my own lane and own take on it,” said Lam.

Every track on the record is accompanied by a music video. One that stands out is “The Hold,” filmed at Halifax Forum’s Super Bingo Hall.

“There’s some bingo game involved, of course, and a little bit of like, going into a surreal world where anything’s possible,” said Lam. “It’s a really magical video. It’s kind of like seeing into someone’s subconsciousness.”

Lam will mark the album’s release this Friday with a special performance at Dartmouth’s Sanctuary Arts Centre.

“It’s just going to be a big celebration, and it’s also in a converted church sanctuary, so a beautiful venue space. So, it feels very, like the spot it’s meant to be.”

“The Cloudmaker’s Cry” is available now on all streaming platforms.

“I think people will find a bit of their own life experience in there,” he said. “And hopefully share it with a friend if they love it.”