Though his solo career is still off to a relatively fresh start, Colin Fowlie has already more than carved his place into the Atlantic music scene—and beyond. The copious years of experience under his belt with live performances and songwriting have rewarded him with a sense of wisdom that shines clearly in his music.
“To Mend”, his latest single, is a prime example. Fowlie wrote the song as an ode to his daughter, though it also acts as a touching reassurance to anyone going through trying times that taking time to heal is nothing to be ashamed of. The pace is soothing, with all the calm wisdom you’d want and expect from a father giving a loving pep talk.
It also couldn’t come at a better time. It’s been roughly a year since the pandemic first swept through Canada, and many are, understandably, feeling weary and broken down. Fowlie takes a verse to show his reverence for medical professionals who pour their hearts and souls into helping others—who are probably among the most beaten-down of us all.
“Why aren’t the gods to whom they’re praying the ones among us healing minds and bodies with just their mortal hands?” Fowlie ponders, with the amount of poignant grace we’ve come to expect from him.
The single is the first off his upcoming album, East of Nowhere, which is set to release this May. Fowlie collaborated with Ariel Posen in the recording and production of this album—a welcome addition, as Posen is a musically beloved figure all across the country, particularly for his acclaimed guitar talents. The collaboration saw Fowlie travelling across the country to record—a big commitment even outside of the need for precaution and self-isolation involved with travelling in during a pandemic.
It was certainly worth it. Without giving too much away, the end result is just as artful and compelling as the single we already have our hands on. Fowlie’s songwriting has only grown more refined as time goes on, and the rest of the album is certainly something to eagerly anticipate.