After nearly four decades of songwriting, performing, and touring the globe, acclaimed East Coast artist Lennie Gallant is back with his 16th album and this one couldn’t be more timely. “It kind of reflects the world we’re in right now, which is a bit stormy, on several fronts, weather-wise and otherwise,” said Gallant in an interview with CTV Atlantic’s Katie Kelly. Titled “Shelter from the Storms,” the new record was released Friday and a launch show in scheduled for Sunday in Summerside, P.E.I. The album marks Gallant’s first English-language release in seven years and reflects the mood of the times. Despite the title, Gallant says the album offers comfort, not gloom. “People who hear the album say they find it uplifting, very positive and kind of joyous,” said Gallant. “So that makes me feel good.” Gallant will showcase the new material with a full summer tour, which includes 15 shows across the Maritimes and more dates throughout Canada. Audiences can expect an energetic, heartfelt performance from Gallant and his band. “We really do enjoy playing with each other on stage,” said Gallant. “And that translates to the audience. They give it back to us, we give it back to them.” It’s a connection Gallant has cherished since the beginning, when he first picked up a guitar at age 13. “Before I even knew three chords, I was trying to write a song,” said Gallant. “It just felt like that was the thing I was supposed to do.” Decades later, his motivation remains the same — creating music that resonates with people. “I don’t take it for granted when people come out to see our shows,” said Gallant. “It means a ton to me that my music touches people and makes them seek it out.” Shelter from the Storms is available June 9.
